bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust Decentralized LFC Design in a Restructured Power System
Authors: Shayeghi Hossein , Shayanfar Heidar Ali
Published: December 2006

In this paper, a new approach based on µ-synthesis technique is presented for the robust decentralized load frequency controller design of a restructured multi area power under the possible contracts. In each control area, the connections between this area and the rest of the system and the effects of possible contracts are treated as a set of new disturbance signals to achieve decentralization. It is shown that, subject to a condition based on the structured singular values and H infinity norm, each local area load frequency controller can be designed independently. The stability condition for the overall system can be stated as to achieve a sufficient interaction margin and a sufficient gain and phase margin defined in classical feedback theory during each independent design. The proposed method is tested on a four-area power system with the possible contracts and compared with the PI controller for a wide range of operating conditions and load changes. The resulting controllers are shown to minimize the effects of load disturbances and maintain robust performance in the presence of specified uncertainties and system nonlinearities.
Induction of heme oxygenase-1 and heat shock protein 70 in rat hepatocytes: The role of calcium signaling
Authors: Silomon Malte , Bauer Inge , Bauer Michael , Nolting Julia , Paxian Markus , Rensing Hauke
Published: December 2006

Stress response genes including heat shock proteins are induced under a variety of conditions to confer cellular protection. This study investigated the role of calcium signaling in the induction of two stress response genes, heme oxygenase-1/hsp32 and hsp70, in isolated rat hepatocytes. Both genes were induced by cellular glutathione depletion. This induction could be inhibited by BAPTA-AM. Culturing in a calcium-free medium prevented the induction of hsp70 gene expression after glutathione depletion without affecting heme oxygenase-1 gene expression. Thapsigargin increased the gene expression of heme oxygenase-1 but not that of hsp70. Thapsigargin-induced heme oxygenase-1 induction was completely inhibited by BAPTA-AM. Incubation with the Ca2+-ionophore A23187 augmented heme oxygenase-1 (two-fold) and hsp70 (5.2-fold) mRNA levels. Our data suggests a significant role of Ca2+-dependent pathways in the induction of the two stress genes. An increase in the cytoplasmic Ca2+ activity seems to play a key role in the cascade of signaling leading to the induction of the two genes. However, the source of Ca2+ that fluxes into the cytoplasm seems to be different. Our data provides evidence for a compartmentalization of calcium fluxes, i.e. the Ca2+ flux from intracellular stores (e.g. the endoplasmic reticulum) plays a major role in the induction of heme oxygenase-1. By contrast, Ca2+ flux from the extracellular medium seems to be a mechanism initiating the cellular signaling cascade leading to hsp70 gene induction.
Lung Cancer Diagnoses and Outcomes During the Syrian War, 2011-2018
Authors: Hanafi Ibrahem , Abo Samra Dana , Alsaqqa Rama , Naeem Ahmad , Shebli Baraa , Ajlyakin Ghassan
Published: March 2024

Importance

Protracted wars, which disproportionately affect low-resource countries, exacerbate the challenges faced by cancer care systems, with lung cancer being the most affected as the most fatal oncological condition.

Objective

To characterize the presentation and survival of patients with lung cancer during the decade-long Syrian war.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included patients at a large oncology center in Syria during the first 8 years of the Syrian armed conflict (2011-2018). All patients with a new diagnosis of lung cancer were included. Variables investigated included histological subtypes, TNM classification (tumor, lymph nodes, and metastasis), and staging at diagnosis as well as the yearly follow-ups up to 5 years after presentation.

Exposure

The Syrian war divided the country into temporary regions with different political influences and heterogeneously impacted health care accessibility among these regions.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Change in prevalence of advanced lung cancer cases at presentation; change in overall survival odds.

Results

The study included 5160 patients from all Syrian governorates (mean [SD] age, 59.6 [10.8] years; 4399 men [85.3%]). New diagnoses sharply declined during the first 3 years of the war, with partial recovery afterward. Regardless of their tempo-geographical regions, 60% to 80% of the yearly diagnoses presented with metastases. The 1-year and 5-year survival rates were 13.1% (423 of 3238 patients with follow-up results) and 0.1% (2 of 1853 patients), respectively. Patients who presented from regions more involved in the armed conflicts showed poorer survival rates with odds ranging between 0.51 (95% CI, 0.44-0.59) and 0.61 (95% CI, 0.49-0.74) across follow-ups for up to 2 years in comparison with patients presenting from safer regions. War-related health care inaccessibility explained a greater percentage of the variability in survival (Nagelkerke R2 = 7.5%; P < .001) than both patients’ age and the stage of the disease combined (Nagelkerke R2 = 3.9%; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

The Syrian war has been associated with a marked decline in the management of patients with lung cancer, with limited access to specialized care, delayed diagnoses, and substantial decrease in survival rates correlating with the intensity of armed conflict in the respective regions. The profound repercussions of the prolonged armed conflict on patients with lung cancer in Syria necessitates urgent comprehensive strategies to improve the accessibility and quality of health care services, especially in conflict-ridden zones.
Development and Methodological Validation of a Modified Staging System for de Novo Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Berg Tobias , Jensen Maj-Britt , Rossing Maria , Bechmann Troels , Donskov Frede , Knoop Ann Søegaard , Ejlertsen Bent
Published: March 2024

Importance

Validation of a new method for prognostication of de novo metastatic breast cancer (dnMBC) to better reflect the heterogenecity of the disease.

Objective

To perform external methodological validation of the Plichta staging system, a novel prognostic system for de novo metastatic breast cancer (dnMBC).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used a multicenter, nationwide, population-based Danish Breast Cancer Group database to validate the new method. Participants were patients with dnMBC diagnosed between 2010 and 2019. Data were analyzed from April to June 2023.

Main outcomes and measures

A recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was performed, as demonstrated by Plichta and colleagues, to group patients with similar overall survival (OS) based on clinical factors. The main outcome was to group patients into 4 prognostic groups based on 3-year OS as stage IVa, greater than 70%; stage IVb, 50% to 70%; stage IVc, 25% to less than 50%; or stage IVd, less than 25%. Bootstrapping was applied for 1000 iterations, with final stage assignments based on the most commonly occurring assignment.

Results

A total of 1859 women were included with a median (IQR) age of 69 (57-77) years. With a median potential follow-up of 89.9 (95% CI, 86.4-95.1) months and a median OS of 31.7 (95% CI, 29.5-34.1) months, the RPA stratified patients into 10 groups, with organ sites, estrogen receptor status, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status as the key clinical factors. Three-year survival rates ranged from 62% (95% CI, 56%-69%) to 8% (95% CI, 3%-21%), which were further combined into 3 stage groups: IVb, 59.4% (95% CI, 56.2%-62.8%); IVc, 39.4% (95% CI, 36.2%-43.0%); and IVd, 15.4% (95% CI, 11.2%-21.3%) (P < .001). Following bootstrapping, an IVa group emerged, resulting in 4 stage groups with separate 3-year OS rates identified as IVa, 75.8% (95% CI, 67.8%-84.7%); IVb, 58.8% (95% CI, 55.5%-62.3%); IVc, 39.2% (95% CI, 35.8%-43.0%); and IVd, 14.4% (95% CI, 10.8%-19.4%) (P < .001).

Conclusions and relevance

These findings provide external and independent validation of the methods applied in the novel Plichta staging system for dnMBC. This could guide future revisions of the current American Joint Committee on Cancer staging guidelines and may be incorporated as a stratification factor in clinical trials.
Anatomic Liver Resection Based on Portal Territory With Margin Priority for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xingru , Cao Jun , Li Jianwei
Published: March 2024

This Surgical Innovation describes the use of anatomic resection of the liver based on portal territory with margin priority for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Electronic Patient-Reported Symptoms After Ambulatory Cancer Surgery
Authors: Cracchiolo Jennifer R. , Tin Amy L. , Assel Melissa , McCready Taylor M. , Stabile Cara , Simon Brett , Carlsson Sigrid V. , Vickers Andrew J. , Laudone Vincent
Published: March 2024

Importance

Complex cancer procedures are now performed in the ambulatory surgery setting. Remote symptom monitoring (RSM) with electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) can identify patients at risk for acute hospital encounters. Defining normal recovery is needed to set patient expectations and optimize clinical team responses to manage evolving problems in real time.

Objective

To describe the patterns of postoperative recovery among patients undergoing ambulatory cancer surgery with RSM using an ePRO platform—the Recovery Tracker.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent 1 of 5 of the most common procedures (prostatectomy, nephrectomy, mastectomy, hysterectomy, or thyroidectomy) at the Josie Robertson Surgery Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center from September 2016 to June 2022. Patients completed the Recovery Tracker, a brief ePRO platform assessing symptoms for 10 days after surgery. Data were analyzed from September 2022 to May 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Symptom severity and interference were estimated by postoperative day and procedure.

Results

A total of 12 433 patients were assigned 110 936 surveys. Of these patients, 7874 (63%) were female, and the median (IQR) age at surgery was 57 (47-65) years. The survey response rate was 87% (10 814 patients responding to at least 1 of 10 daily surveys). Among patients who submitted at least 1 survey, the median (IQR) number of surveys submitted was 7 (4-8), and each assessment took a median (IQR) of 1.7 (1.2-2.5) minutes to complete. Symptom burden was modest in this population, with the highest severity on postoperative days 1 to 3. Pain was moderate initially and steadily improved. Fatigue was reported by 6120 patients (57%) but was rarely severe. Maximum pain and fatigue responses (very severe) were reported by 324 of 10 814 patients (3%) and 106 of 10 814 patients (1%), respectively. The maximum pain severity (severe or very severe) was highest after nephrectomy (92 of 332 [28%]), followed by mastectomy with reconstruction (817 of 3322 [25%]) and prostatectomy (744 of 3543 [21%]). Nausea (occasionally, frequently, or almost constantly) was common and experienced on multiple days by 1485 of 9300 patients (16%), but vomiting was less common (139 of 10 812 [1%]). Temperature higher than 38 °C was reported by 740 of 10 812 (7%). Severe or very severe shortness of breath was reported by 125 of 10 813 (1%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Defining detailed postoperative symptom burden through this analysis provides valuable data to inform further implementation and maintenance of RSM programs in surgical oncology patients. These data can enhance patient education, set expectations, and support research to allow iterative improvement of clinical care based on the patient-reported experience after discharge.
Redox imbalance and metabolic defects in the context of Alzheimer disease
Authors: Di Domenico Fabio , Lanzillotta Chiara , Perluigi Marzia
Published: March 2024

Redox reactions play a critical role for intracellular processes, including pathways involved in metabolism and signaling. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) act either as second messengers or generators of protein modifications, fundamental mechanisms for signal transduction. Disturbance of redox homeostasis is associated with many disorders. Among these, Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative pathology that presents hallmarks of oxidative damage such as increased ROS production, decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes, oxidative modifications of macromolecules, and changes in mitochondrial homeostasis. Interestingly, alteration of redox homeostasis is closely associated with defects of energy metabolism, involving both carbohydrates and lipids, the major energy fuels for the cell. As the brain relies exclusively on glucose metabolism, defects of glucose utilization represent a harmful event for the brain. During aging, a progressive perturbation of energy metabolism occurs resulting in brain hypometabolism. This condition contributes to increase neuronal cell vulnerability ultimately resulting in cognitive impairment. The current review discusses the crosstalk between alteration of redox homeostasis and brain energy defects that seems to act in concert in promoting Alzheimer's neurodegeneration.
Ultra‐High Temperature Operated Ni‐Rich Cathode Stabilized by Thermal Barrier for High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Dai Zhongsheng , Liu Yun , Lu Xia , Zhao Huiling , Bai Ying
Published: March 2024

The pursuit of high energy density batteries has expedited the fast development of Ni‐rich cathodes. However, the chemo‐mechanical degradation induced by local thermal accumulation and anisotropic lattice strain is posing great obstacles for its wide applications. Herein, a highly‐antioxidative BaZrO3 thermal barrier engineered LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode through an in situ construction strategy is first reported to circumvent the above issues. It is found that the Zr ions are incorporated to Ni‐rich material lattice and influence on the topotactic lithiation as well as enhance the oxygen electronegativity through the rigid Zr─O bonds, which effectively alleviates the lattice strain propagation and decreases the excessive oxidization of lattice oxygen for charge compensation. More importantly, the BaZrO3 thermal barrier with an ultra‐low thermal conductivity validly impedes the fast heat exchange between electrode and electrolyte to mitigate the severe surface side reactions. This helps an ultra‐high mass loading Li‐ion pouch cell deliver a specific energy density of 690 Wh kg−1 at active material level and an excellent capacity retention of 92.5% after 1400 cycles under 1 C at 25 °C. Tested at a high temperature of 55 °C, the pouch type full‐cell also exhibits 88.7% in capacity retention after 1200 cycles.
Origami‐Inspired Reconfigurable Soft Actuators for Soft Robotic Applications
Authors: Feng Yixiong , Yan Weiyu , Song Junjie , Hong Zhaoxi , Qiu Hao , Cui Kaiyue , Song Xiuju , Tan Jianrong
Published: March 2024

Soft pneumatic actuators (SPAs) hold great promise for simple and effective actuation of soft robots. Multi‐degree‐of‐freedom SPAs are highly desired as they enable diverse motion forms and improve possibility for soft robots to navigate challenging environments and perform complex tasks. Herein, this study proposes two novel origami‐based SPAs (O‐SPAs), namely the Flasher origami‐inspired SPA (FO‐SPA) and the Kresling origami‐inspired SPA (KO‐SPA), which are fabricated entirely from soft silicone without any rigid supports. A finite element model is developed to predict the deformation behavior of O‐SPAs and the deformability and dynamic response of O‐SPAs are characterized through performance tests. Simulation experiments are carried out to investigate the impact of different structural parameters on their performance. These O‐SPAs are highly sensitive to low negative pressure, exhibiting 80% of maximum deformation at −4 kPa. Based on the Flasher and Kresling origami pattern, the actuators are capable of generating compound motions including contraction, twisting, and radial motions. These motions can be used as “building blocks” for the rapid reconfiguration of various soft robots. The study has successfully enriched the types of existing SPAs by providing important multiple motions through origami, with great potential to facilitate the rapid and low‐cost design of soft robots.
Catalytic Asymmetric Arylations of Ketimines
Authors: Vlahoviček‐Kahlina Kristina , Marijan Marijan , Matišić Mateja , Gredičak Matija
Published: March 2024

Arylation of ketimines is the most straightforward strategy for constructing chiral α‐tertiary amines, important structural motifs found in natural products and biologically active compounds. This comprehensive review highlights the achievements in the transition metal‐catalyzed and organocatalyzed asymmetric arylations of ketimines from the seminal report published in 2010 till November 2023. The review is divided into three chapters: (1) Arylation of diaryl ketimines, (2) Arylation of aryl‐alkyl and aryl‐acyl ketimines, and (3) Arylation of acyl‐alkyl and dialkyl ketimines. Each chapter is further divided into transition metal‐catalyzed reactions (grouped by individual metals) and organocatalyzed reactions. The covered literature includes emphasis on the advantages of the reported methodology, its scope and limitations, and the description of the transition state (where applicable).
Fabrication of Living Entangled Network Composites Enabled by Mycelium
Authors: Wang Hao , Tao Jie , Wu Zhangyu , Weiland Kathrin , Wang Zuankai , Masania Kunal , Wang Bin
Published: March 2024

Organic polymer‐based composite materials with favorable mechanical performance and functionalities are keystones to various modern industries; however, the environmental pollution stemming from their processing poses a great challenge. In this study, by finding an autonomous phase separating ability of fungal mycelium, a new material fabrication approach is introduced that leverages such biological metabolism‐driven, mycelial growth‐induced phase separation to bypass high‐energy cost and labor‐intensive synthetic methods. The resulting self‐regenerative composites, featuring an entangled network structure of mycelium and assembled organic polymers, exhibit remarkable self‐healing properties, being capable of reversing complete separation and restoring ≈90% of the original strength. These composites further show exceptional mechanical strength, with a high specific strength of 8.15 MPa g.cm−3, and low water absorption properties (≈33% after 15 days of immersion). This approach spearheads the development of state‐of‐the‐art living composites, which directly utilize bioactive materials to “self‐grow” into materials endowed with exceptional mechanical and functional properties.
Two Completely Non‐Fused Ring Acceptors Working in an Alloy‐Like Model for Efficient and Stable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Han Chenyang , Gao Huanhuan , Kan Yuanyuan , Zhang Xu , Jiang Xinyue , Shen Can , Ni Liaohui , Lv Zekun , Zhang Zhan , Wang Lei , Zapien Juan Antonio , Yang Yingguo , Sun Yanna , Gao Ke
Published: March 2024

Simple chemical structure and simplified synthesis process of active layer materials are critical for advancing the practical application of organic solar cells. Herin, two completely non‐fused ring electron acceptors BTZT‐2Cl and BTZT‐4Cl are developed. BTZT‐4Cl exhibits an enhanced absorption band, increases electrostatic potential differences with D18, and improves crystallinity and molecular packing properties. Consequently, the binary device based on BTZT‐4Cl displays a markedly improved efficiency of 14.12%, compared to the BTZT‐2Cl‐based device, which only achieves a moderate efficiency of 11.25%. More importantly, an alloy‐like structure can be formed by incorporating a small amount of high miscibility and compatibility BTZT‐2Cl. The ternary blend exhibits more compact molecular packing, efficient exciton dissociation, and an extended charge carrier lifetime due to the formation of an alloy‐like structure. The ternary device achieves a decent efficiency of 15.41% with superior thermal stability and a high T80 lifetime over 1600 h after being aged at 65 °C. These results establish it as the most efficient among devices based on completely non‐fused ring acceptors with both high efficiency and voltage. This study demonstrates a simple material design strategy and high‐performance device optimization techniques, which are critical for advancing practical applications in the OSC field.
Effectively Inhibiting Charge Injection and Dielectric Loss of High Permittivity Inorganic Materials by Rationally Coating Organic Polymer for Achieving High Output Charge Density
Authors: Wang Jian , Xu Shuyan , Li Gui , Zhang Xuemei , Zhao Qionghua , Wu Huiyuan , Li Kaixian , Fu Shaoke , Shan Chuncai , He Wencong , Hu Chenguo
Published: March 2024

Although high permittivity of inorganic materials (possibly two orders larger than organic polymers) is theoretically considered as ideal triboelectric materials, their high leakage property and low contact potential difference with metal electrodes lead to failure to obtain high triboelectric charge density. Besides, the internal space charge accumulation as a result of their defect levels reduces the output charge density and causes dielectric loss or even dielectric breakdown under charge injection in charge‐excitation triboelectric nanogenerator (CE‐TENG). Herein, this study proposes high permittivity and low dielectric loss inorganic materials as triboelectric layers. In order to prevent charge injection passing through the surface of inorganic materials caused by air breakdown under charge excitation, an organic polymer is coated, which has high permittivity, big polarizability, none charge traps, and large work function difference with metal electrodes. After optimizing the high dielectric inorganic layer and the coated organic polymer layer, the output charge of CE‐TENG based on 1 mm PZT‐5H coated with P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE) achieves 2.83 mC m−2, 6.5 times of CE‐TENG based on 1 mm PZT‐5H, breaking the historical record for inorganic material TENG. This work clarifies the material selection criteria for CE‐TENG and provides a deeper understanding of charge transfer mechanism of inorganic materials.
Justice reinvestment—Local solutions for young people in contact with the criminal justice system, but should more be done?
Authors: Haysom Leigh
Published: March 2024

Justice Reinvestment aims to prevent young people coming into contact with the criminal justice system through place‐based, data‐driven and evidence‐based community solutions developed through community‐based leadership and partnerships. The initiative also advocates for strategic changes to the justice system, with any savings reinvested into successful community programs. This paper will discuss the historical, international and local perspectives of Justice Reinvestment, recent Commonwealth funding opportunities, and how well these initiatives work for young people in New South Wales.
Disability, employment and welfare reform: A comparative analysis of Australia and Denmark
Authors: Hwang Gyu‐Jin , Jensen Natasja Koitzsch , Wadiwel Dinesh
Published: March 2024

From the poor‐relief tradition to the social citizenship‐based development of the welfare state, the question of available social supports for people with disability has been one of the central issues of welfare reform agendas. Under the increasing influence of neoliberal rationalities, many welfare states have engaged in the redefinition of capacity and incapacity to work in an attempt to manage the fiscal cost of a growing number of people on disability pension and work incapacity benefits. These reconfigurations of income transfers have significant implications for the social and economic participation of people with disability. This article seeks to build knowledge about the policy implications of these changes by comparing recent disability policies in two very different welfare states—Australia and Denmark—who have contrasting approaches to activation measures concerning people with disability. This article examines how these welfare states have reconfigured the meaning of disability, thereby either restricting further or relaxing the conditions of labour market activation. Through these two cases, we argue that there is a case for labour market participation insofar as rights to work through improved employment opportunities take precedence over punitive regimes that reduce access to income support.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy triggered by frequent psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A case report
Authors: Yomogida Daichi , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Miyakoshi Tatsuya , Mizuta Shiori , Horikawa Shinjiro , Koshida Yoshinao
Published: March 2024

Background

Coexistence of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures has rarely been reported. Herein, we report a case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy triggered by psychogenic nonepileptic seizures.

Case Presentation

A 50‐year‐old woman with a 22‐year history of dissociative and panic disorders and a 7‐year history of seizures increasing in frequency was admitted due to cardiogenic shock. Based on the left ventriculography and electroencephalography findings, she was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Seizures were controlled using antipsychotic agents, resulting in improved cardiac function, and she was discharged. However, she died of cardiopulmonary arrest 9 days after discharge.

Conclusion

Since controlling psychogenic epileptic seizures is difficult, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy triggered by psychogenic nonepileptic seizures may have poor prognosis, requiring careful management and close monitoring.
Large Organic Polar Molecules Tailored Electrode Interfaces for Stable Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Li Zhendong , Chen Zhenlian , Sun Nannan , Wang Deyu , Yao Xiayin , Peng Zhe
Published: March 2024

Lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) are deemed as ones of the most promising energy storage devices for next electrification applications. However, the uneven Li electroplating process caused by the diffusion‐limited Li+ transportation at the Li metal surface inherently promotes the formation of dendritic morphology and instable Li interphase, while the sluggish Li+ transfer kinetic can also cause lithiation‐induced stress on the cathode materials suffering from serious structural stability. Herein, a novel electrolyte designing strategy is proposed to accelerate the Li+ transfer by introducing a trace of large organic polar molecules of lithium phytate (LP) without significantly altering the electrolyte structure. The LP molecules can afford a competitive solvent attraction mechanism against the solvated Li+, enhancing both the bulk and interfacial Li+ transfer kinetic, and creating better anode/cathode interfaces to suppress the side reactions, resulting in much improved cycling efficiency of LMBs. Using LP‐based electrolyte, the performance of LMB pouch cell with a practical capacity of ~1.5 Ah can be improved greatly. This strategy opens up a novel electrolyte designing route for reliable LMBs.
Peroxygenase‐Enabled Reductive Kinetic Resolution for the Enantioenrichment of Organoperoxides
Authors: Shen Qianqian , Yan Juzhang , Han Yuchen , Zhang Zaoxiao , Li Huanhuan , Kong Dulin , Shi Jianjun , Cui Chengsen , Zhang Wuyuan
Published: March 2024

Enantiomerically pure organoperoxides serve as valuable precursors in organic transformations. Herein, we present the first examples of unspecific peroxygenase catalyzed kinetic resolution of racemic organoperoxides through asymmetric reduction. Through meticulous investigation of the reaction conditions, it is shown that the unspecific peroxygenase from Agrocybe aegerita (AaeUPO) exhibits robust catalytic activity in the kinetic resolution reactions of the model substrate with turnover numbers up to 60000 and turnover frequency of 5.6 s−1. Various aralkyl organoperoxides were successfully resolved by AaeUPO, achieving excellent enantioselectivities (e.g., up to 99 % ee for the (S)‐organoperoxide products). Additionally, we screened commercial peroxygenase variants to obtain the organoperoxides with complementary chirality, with one mutant yielding the (R)‐products. While unspecific peroxygenases have been extensively demonstrated as a powerful oxidative catalysts, this study highlights their usefulness in catalyzing the reduction of organoperoxides and providing versatile chiral synthons.
Improving the stability of an unstable lipase by applying different immobilization strategies for the selective hydrolysis of fish oil
Authors: Ahrari Faezeh , Pourmohammadi Lish Mitra , Yousefi Maryam , Mohammadi Mehdi
Published: March 2024

Rhizopus oryzae lipase (ROL) is known to present high selectivity in chemical reactions. However, the poor stability of ROL effectively limits its industrial applications. In this study, several immobilization protocols, such as hydrophobic adsorption, covalent immobilization, multi‐point covalent attachment, ionic adsorption/cross‐linking, and ionic interaction, were applied to improve the stability of ROL. Heterogeneous modification of aspartic and glutamic acid residues on the surface of ROL was carried out by 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) to introduce new amine groups with lower pKb. The highest immobilization yield of 89% was achieved for octyl‐agarose, producing specific activity of 45 U/mg, which is 15 folds higher than the specific activity of the soluble enzyme. Improved stability of ROL was observed, in particular for those derivatives obtained by multi‐point covalent attachment of ROL on glyoxyl‐agarose (Gx‐ROL) and aminated ROL on glyoxyl‐agarose (Gx‐NH2‐ROL) by retaining 28%–36% of their initial activities after 24 h incubation at 60°C. Immobilization also altered the co‐solvent stability profile of the immobilized derivatives producing biocatalysts with varied co‐solvent stabilities. Furthermore, utilization of the immobilized preparations in fish oil hydrolysis revealed the selective release of cis‐5,8,11,14,17‐eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and cis‐4,7,10,13,16,19‐docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in favor of EPA. The highest EPA/DHA selectivity of 33 was observed for the hydrophobically immobilized ROL on octyl‐sepharose.
A “one‐pot” method for synthesizing zinc tryptophan and its derivatives as highly efficient PVC thermal stabilizer with excellent mechanical properties
Authors: Cui Zhixuan , Jiang Pingping , Leng Yan , Zhihao Lyu , Feng Shan , Mei Xue , Chen Shijun , Sheng Xunxun
Published: March 2024

Zinc Tryptophan (Trp‐Zn) and zinc N‐(salicylic) tryptophan (SalTrp‐Zn) were synthesized from tryptophan, zinc acetate, and salicylic aldehyde by one‐pot method, respectively. The structure was analyzed by FT‐IR, 1H NMR, and elemental analysis. PVC samples were prepared by stirring method and solvent film process, and then the thermal properties of PVC samples were studied by thermal aging chamber test, Congo red test, electrical conductivity test, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The thermal stability of Trp‐Zn and SalTrp‐Zn stabilized PVC samples was better than calcium and zinc soaps used in industry. The thermal stability time was up to 80 min, and it was a long‐acting thermal stabilizer. After the addition of CaSt2 and Trp‐Zn stabilizer in different proportions, the thermal stability of PVC was obviously improved, and the initial whiteness of the film was improved after the combination of Trp‐Zn/SalTrp‐Zn. In addition, the tensile test verified that the PVC samples stabilized by Trp‐Zn and SalTrp‐Zn had the highest elongation at break. The addition of Trp‐Zn can reduce the elastic modulus of PVC, effectively improve the mechanical properties of PVC, and make the PVC film have better toughness and elasticity. Through DMA and EDS tests, it can be seen that Trp, SalTrp‐Zn had good compatibility with PVC and DOP. The quantum chemical calculation of Trp‐Zn, SalTrp‐Zn and vinyl chloride models was carried out, and the thermal stability mechanism of thermal stabilizer on PVC was analyzed accurately, mainly the absorption mechanism of HCl and the substitution mechanism of unstable chlorine atoms.
Emerging trends on the anatomy teaching reforms in the last 10 years: Based on VOSviewer and CiteSpace
Authors: Mamat Makliya , Li Lin , Kang Shaofang , Chen Yiyong
Published: March 2024

The study of organism structural composition, known as anatomy, is essential in comprehending the intricate arrangements of life and plays a crucial role in medical education and practice. It bridges foundational and clinical disciplines, shaping medical education, and practice. With evolving technology, medical education faces new challenges necessitating pedagogical innovations. This article explores the changing landscape of anatomical education, encompassing teaching methods, and curricular shifts. Advancements in information technology and bibliometrics shed light on anatomy's evolution, yet research on anatomy teaching reform (ATR) remains scarce. This study employs advanced analytical tools like CiteSpace and VOSviewer to uncover research hotspots and frontiers in ATR. By scrutinizing focal points and emerging directions in ATR, this research provides insights into the future of pedagogical strategies and clinical research in anatomy.
Population‐based surveillance for birth defects potentially related to Zika virus infection including 3‐year mortality and developmental outcomes, and Early Intervention Program service use—New York City, 2016 birth cohort
Authors: McVeigh Katharine H. , Tseyang Tenzin , Vachon Mary‐Elizabeth , Moraes Aurora
Published: March 2024

Background

In response to the 2015–2017 Zika virus outbreak, New York City (NYC) identified and monitored infants with birth defects potentially related to congenital Zika virus.

Methods

Administrative data matches were used to describe the birth characteristics of children born in 2016 meeting screening criteria for birth defects potentially related to congenital Zika virus infection relative to other NYC births and to monitor mortality and Early Intervention Program use through age 2.

Results

Among 120,367 children born in NYC in 2016, 463 met screening criteria and 155 met the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's case definition for birth defects potentially related to congenital Zika virus infection (1.3 per 1000; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–1.5). Post‐neonatal deaths occurred among 7.7% of cases (12) and 5.2% of non‐cases (8). Odds of referral to the Early intervention Program among children who met screening criteria were lower among children of mothers who were married (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.37–0.97) and among children not classified as cases whose mothers were born in Latin America and the Caribbean (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.37–1.09).

Discussion

Prevalence of birth defects potentially related to congenital Zika virus infection was similar to that seen in other jurisdictions without local transmission. Birth defects attributable to congenital Zika virus infection may also have been present among screened children who did not meet the case definition.
Human proinsulin production in the milk of transgenic cattle
Authors: Monzani Paulo S. , Sangalli Juliano R. , Sampaio Rafael V. , Guemra Samuel , Zanin Renato , Adona Paulo R. , Berlingieri Maria A. , Cunha‐Filho Luiz F. C. , Mora‐ Ocampo Irma Y. , Pirovani Carlos P. , Meirelles Flávio V. , Wheeler Matthew B. , Ohashi Otavio M.
Published: March 2024

Background

The worldwide growing demand for human insulin for treating diabetes could be supplied by transgenic animals producing insulin in their milk.

Methods and Results

Pseudo‐lentivirus containing the bovine β‐casein promoter and human insulin sequences was used to produce modified adult fibroblasts, and the cells were used for nuclear transfer. Transgenic embryos were transferred to recipient cows, and one pregnancy was produced. Recombinant protein in milk was evaluated using western blotting and mass spectrometry. One transgenic cow was generated, and in milk analysis, two bands were observed in western blotting with a molecular mass corresponding to the proinsulin and insulin. The mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of human insulin more than proinsulin in the milk, and it identified proteases in the transgenic milk that could convert proinsulin into insulin and insulin‐degrading enzyme that could degrade the recombinant protein.

Conclusion

The methodologies used for generating the transgenic cow allowed the detection of the production of recombinant protein in the milk at low relative expression compared to milk proteins, using mass spectrometry, which was efficient for detecting recombinant protein with low expression in milk. Milk proteases could act on protein processing converting recombinant protein to functional protein. On the other hand, some milk proteases could act in degrading the recombinant protein.
Measurement and control of foam generation in a mammalian cell culture
Authors: Flynn James , Breen Laura , Narayanan Shankara , Butler Michael
Published: March 2024

Foam is generated in mammalian cell cultures by excessive agitation or gas sparging. This occurs particularly in cultures that generate recombinant proteins at high cell concentrations. Three antifoam agents were tested for their compatibility with antibody‐producing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. One agent (antifoam 204) was completely inhibitory to growth at a concentration of 10 ppm, one agent (antifoam C) showed partial inhibition and a third (antifoam SE‐15) showed no inhibition at this concentration. A novel foam image analyzer (LabCam) was used to evaluate two antifoams (C and SE‐15) for their ability to dissipate foam generated in cell culture media by enhanced agitation. The presence of antifoam in the media reduced significantly the foam layer that was generated and this was shown to be rapidly dissipated in the presence of 10 ppm SE‐15. The antifoams were also tested for foam dissipation in cultures of CHO cells at >106 cells/mL. Supplementation of the cultures with SE‐15 resulted in dissipation of foam generated by excessive gas sparging within 2 min. Under equivalent conditions 75% of foam dissipated in the presence of antifoam C, within 2 min but there was a residual foam layer up to 25 min. This study showed the value of an optical monitoring system (LabCam) for measuring foam generation and dissipation in a bioreactor to assess the efficiency of antifoam agents to reduce foam in a bioreactor. This has the potential for use as a control system that could be designed for continuous monitoring and foam control in a mammalian cell bioprocess.
The position, orientation, and relative size of the fibularis longus tubercle in normal patients: A weightbearing CT assessment
Authors: Ardakani Amir Gahanbani , Rudran Branavan , Stringer Howard , Welck Matthew , Mason Lyndon , Malhotra Karan
Published: March 2024

The fibularis longus attaches to the base of the first metatarsal at the fibularis/peroneus longus tubercle (FLT/PLT). Theoretically, differences in FLT morphology may reflect changes in the function of the fibularis longus. This study defines the normal limits of the FLT position, orientation, and size in patients with morphologically normal foot anatomy. A retrospective analysis of 131 feet without deformity in 72 patients undergoing weightbearing CT (WBCT) at a single center was conducted. The position and morphology of the FLT was assessed with novel measurements including tubercle‐floor distance, tubercle‐metatarsal angle, and the angle between the floor and a line bisecting the FLT (bisecting angle). Roundness of the FLT was compared to a triangle limiting its shape (triangular ratio), with lower values indicating increasing roundness. We also report relative size of the FLT to the first metatarsal (X/Y ratio), and relative size of the first metatarsal and FLT to the second metatarsal (XY/Z ratio). There were no significant side to side differences for any measurement (p > 0.05). Mean values were: tubercle‐floor distance 28.02 ± 2.63 mm, tubercle‐metatarsal angle 32.7 ± 6.32 degrees, bisecting angle 65.58 ± 6.27 degrees, triangular ratio 0.69 ± 0.04, X/Y ratio 1.13 ± 0.20, and XY/Z ratio 3.44 ± −0.72. Bisecting angle strongly correlated with tubercle‐metatarsal angle (Pearson correlation 0.840, p < 0.001) suggesting FLT rotation occurred independent of foot position. ICC was >0.943 for all measurements. This study reports the morphology of the FLT in individuals with normal feet. This normative data may be used in future studies examining differences between groups of patients with foot pathology, helping us better understand the role of fibularis longus in the development and treatment of foot disorders.
Brain metastases in patients with salivary duct carcinoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Fushimi Chihiro , Takahashi Hideaki , Kawakita Daisuke , Kano Satoshi , Tsukahara Kiyoaki , Ozawa Hiroyuki , Okami Kenji , Sakai Akihiro , Yamazaki Keisuke , Okada Takuro , Hanazawa Toyoyuki , Sato Yuichiro , Imanishi Yorihisa , Shimizu Akira , Matsuki Takashi , Nagao Toshitaka , Tada Yuichiro
Published: March 2024

Background

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is a high‐grade adenocarcinoma with a 5‐year survival rate of 40%. Although drug therapy has improved patients' prognosis, the impact of brain metastasis (BM) remains poorly understood. We aimed to retrospectively examine the incidence of BM in patients with SDC (n = 464) and develop a tool to estimate their prognoses.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 464 patients with SDC enrolled in a multicenter study. We investigated the incidence of BM, overall survival (OS) rates, and factors affecting prognosis in patients with BM. We also developed an SDC‐graded prognostic assessment (GPA) score for disease prognostication.

Results

Sixty‐five (14%) patients had BM. The median OS (mOS) was 13.1 months. On univariate and multivariate analyses, factors such as Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status >1, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‐negative status, and locoregional uncontrolled disease were associated with poor OS. SDC‐GPA scores according to the prognostic factors were 0, 1, 2, and 3 points, and mOS estimates were 50.5, 16.1, 3.9, and 1.2 months, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The SDC‐GPA score emerged as a useful prognostication tool for patients with BM.
Modern Cyclopropanation via Non‐Traditional Building Blocks
Authors: Kelly Christopher B. , Thai‐Savard Léa , Hu Jiefeng , Marder Todd B. , Molander Gary A. , Charette André B.
Published: March 2024

Small, strained carbocyclic systems have fascinated organic chemists from both a theoretical and synthetic standpoint. These systems often challenge conventional wisdom when it comes to molecular structure and tactics for chemical construction. The cyclopropyl motif is one such ring system that remains at the forefront of method development in the modern era. With the advent of an array of non‐traditional building blocks, a range of new cyclopropanation processes using one‐ and two‐electron strategies have been developed that not only overcome the synthetic shortcomings of classical approaches but also provide entry into a wide range of new classes of cyclopropanes. This review discusses recent advances in this area with an emphasis on their mechanistic underpinnings and potential applications. Additionally, a concise overview of the properties of and traditional approaches to cyclopropanes is provided.
Non‐Fully Conjugated Photovoltaic Materials with Y‐Series Acceptor Backbone for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells†
Authors: Bai Hairui , Fan Qunping , Ma Ruijie , Guo Xia , Ma Wei , Zhang Maojie
Published: March 2024

Comprehensive Summary

In the last few years, organic solar cells (OSCs) have made significant progress in photovoltaic performance, mainly due to the innovative development of active layer materials, especially Y‐series and related derivatives as acceptors which have become the key factor that boosts the power conversion efficiency. Recently, to achieve high‐performance OSCs, an emerging molecular design strategy of applying flexible alkyl units as linkers to construct non‐fully conjugated acceptors has been developed and addressed great attention. This review highlights the non‐fully conjugated photovoltaic materials with Y‐series backbone that enable high‐performance OSCs. Impressive OSCs have been achieved by some representative non‐fully conjugated material systems. The related molecular design strategies are discussed in detail. Finally, a brief summary and future prospect are provided in advancing the non‐fully conjugated photovoltaic materials with Y‐series backbone towards the brighter future.

Key Scientists
Classification of new germplasm into existing heterotic groups of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]
Authors: Papanna Rakshith , Goud I. Shanker , Vemula Anilkumar , Tembhurene B. V. , Meena M. K. , Gupta Shashi Kumar
Published: March 2024

The study assigned new germplasm, which includes populations and inbreds, to established heterotic groups using various approaches to broaden the existing genetic base while maintaining the heterotic pattern in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]. It utilized 13 pearl millet populations of African and Asian origins and 24 new inbred parents from ICRISAT's breeding program. Testers, both inbred and composite, were employed to categorize these materials into heterotic groups. Different sets of line × tester crosses were generated and evaluated during the rainy season at multiple locations in India. The pearl millet populations were assigned to heterotic group B (seed parental groups) (HGB1 and HGB2) and heterotic group R (pollinator parental groups) (HGR1 and HGR2) based on general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability effects. Composite testers were found to be more effective for the heterotic grouping of pearl millet populations. New inbred lines were classified into HGB and HGR based on GCA and hybrid performance using opposite heterotic group testers and also using genetic similarity obtained from genotype‐by‐sequencing data.The new germplasm classified into heterotic groups will help enhance the genetic gain for the long‐term success of pearl millet hybrid breeding programs.
Model predictive control of LC filter integrated quasi‐Z‐source indirect matrix converter
Authors: Liu Yushan , Feng Xiangkai , Li Xiao , Ge Baoming , Guo Mingzhu
Published: March 2024

The LC filter integrated quasi‐Z source indirect matrix converter (QZS‐IMC) filters the input voltages and currents while highly expanding voltage boost ratio through the combined QZS network, avoiding the additional input filter while maintaining full‐silicon solution. The traditional proportional‐integral (PI) control method of IMC is realized through the PI regulators with pulse width modulation (PWM), which is complicated due to elaborated vectors computation and duty cycle composition of IMC and extra control loops design is mandatory. This paper proposes a model predictive control (MPC) for the LC filter integrated QZS‐IMC. Based on the established discrete models of circuit voltages and currents, the proposed control method measures the present circuit variables and predicts the variables in the next sampling period. Then, a predefined cost function is evaluated with the predictions and references at each active switching states of the IMC. An optimal switching state that ensures the smallest value of the cost function is applied to the power devices at the beginning of next sampling time. Simulation and experiment are carried out to demonstrate effectiveness of the proposed MPC for the LC filter integrated QZS‐IMC.