bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Postpartum Depression and Associated Factors during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study in a Medium-Sized City, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Mendes Tâmaro C. , Ramos Raíssa L. , Silva Júlia S. B. , Rezende Gustavo M. O. , Faleiro Ingrid Beatriz T. , Souto Larissa R. , Elias Laura Luísa O. , Braga Mariana A. , Carmo Thainara L. , Miranda Hélbio de O. , Lima Camila de , Macedo Rogério F.
Published: January 2025

Aims: To identify the prevalence and the factors associated with postpartum depression (PPD) during the COVID-19 pandemic, in Teófilo Otoni, MG, Brazil.
Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study that included 183 puerperal women aged 18 and 42 years, who were attended at the city's public maternity hospital, between the months of February and August 2021. The cut-off point used was ≥ 11 on the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). The Microsoft Excel program was used to tabulate the data; subsequently, they were transported to the Jamovi program, version 1.6.23.0. Descriptive statistical analysis used measures of central tendency, dispersion and Pearson's chi-square test. The reliability analysis of the EPDS was performed with Cronbach's alpha (α).
Results: The prevalence of PPD was 35.5%. Only education level was the sociodemographic factor that obtained a significant association with PPD (χ2 (2) = 8.72, p = 0.013). Anxiety about giving birth during the pandemic; fear of the child having COVID-19; fear of being infected in the hospital and desire not to be pregnant for fear of acquiring COVID-19 were associated factors with PPD. Multivariate analysis revealed that postpartum women experiencing anxiety during the pandemic had a 50% prevalence of PPD (cutoff ≥ 11), corresponding to a 2.46 times higher risk compared to those without anxiety. The results should be interpreted considering their limitations. As a cross-sectional study, it does not allow for the establishment of causality. Data were collected through a bedside questionnaire, which may have influenced participants' responses due to the fatigue experienced after childbirth.
Conclusion: The significant occurrence of PPD suggests that health providers should take the following measures: monitor the mental health of postpartum women more carefully; increase the number of psychologists working in the maternity hospital studied; and improve the counter-referral of these postpartum women with PPD so that they can be monitored in primary care in their home municipalities. On the other hand, policymakers should recognize the influence of extreme epidemiological events on the mental well-being of postpartum women and need to adopt structural measures to strengthen public education, ensuring that students develop up to university level.
Solution of Inhomogeneous and Homogeneous Heun’s Differential Equations in Nonstandard Analysis
Authors: Morita Tohru
Published: January 2025

Discussions are presented by Morita and Sato on the problem of obtaining the particular solution of an inhomogeneous differential equation with polynomial coefficients in terms of the Green’s function. In succeeding papers, Morita gave discussions of this problem on the basis of nonstandard analysis. It was applied to the hypergeometric, the Hermite, a simple ordinary and a fractional differential equation. In the present paper, this method is applied to the solutions of inhomogeneous and homogeneous Heun’s differential equations.
Prevalence of Multidrug Resistance among Staphylococcus Species Isolated from Clinical Samples
Authors: UDEH Christiana Ezinne , AYANDELE Abiodun Ayanfemi , AMAO John Ayobami
Published: January 2025

Aims: One major thing that promotes antimicrobial resistance among bacteria is their potential to produce enzymes and biofilms, which remain noteworthy elements in their pathogenicity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of multidrug resistance Staphylococcus species isolated from different clinical samples.
Study Design:  The study employed independent measures experimental study design.
Place and Duration of Study: Staphylococcus species originating from clinical samples were obtained from the microbiology laboratory of two teaching hospitals in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, between April and October, 2023.
Methodology: Twenty-six (26) pre-identified (by the hospital Laboratories) Staphylococcus spp. were obtained from the microbiology laboratories of two teaching hospitals in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. The isolates were subjected to microscopic, and biochemical tests to confirm their identities. The testing for antibacterial susceptibility was carried out using the Kirky-Bauer disk diffusion technique. A modified crystal violet biofilm assay was used to determined the ability of the isolates to produce biofilm. Molecular characterization was carried out to identify bacteria with very high resistance to the used antibiotics using 16S rRNA. The isolates were subjected to enzyme production assay like pectinase, protease, keratinase, cellulose and collagenase assay.
Results: All the Staphylococcus species in this study showed varied degrees of prevalence. All the clinical bacterial isolates also showed 100% resistance to Amoxicillin/Clavulanate, Cefuroxime, Cloxicillin Meropenem, and Doxycycline, while the slightest resistance was observed for Gentamicin with 29.17%. The multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) for all the isolates  was between 0.3 to 1.0, which is higher than the safe limit of 0.2, with a high percent (95.8%) of the bacteria being MAR. The result shows that 77.8% of these isolates could produce one or more enzymes.
Conclusion: The biofilm and enzyme production abilities of the clinical bacteria were major factors that led to expanded resistance, as observed in this study.
Enhanced Energy Capture in Dams Using Spiral Water Flow Dynamics: A Novel Approach for Improving Hydropower Efficiency
Authors: Tiwari Utkarsh
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of spiral water flow dynamics and
its implications for energy efficiency in hydropower dam designs. Applying
principles of fluid mechanics, conservation of energy, and rotational dynamics,
Mathematical models are derived that characterize the energy transformations
within the system.
The paper presents theoretical derivations and simulations that characterize the
energy changes within the system and compare the spiral flow dam's performance
with traditional designs. The results show that the novel strategy can greatly
increase hydrodynamic efficiency, providing a workable way to raise the output of renewable energy. This research is supported by experiments performed in the direction of increasing energy efficiency by the spiral flow of water for spiral pumps and turbines.
What to Know About Gonorrhea
Authors: Kurz Sarah , Ressler Adam
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Patient Page describes the signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gonorrhea infection.
Doxycycline Postexposure Prophylaxis and Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Mayer Kenneth H. , Traeger Michael , Marcus Julia L.
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Insights discusses the use of antibiotics for sexually transmitted infection prevention.
Aliphatic and Alicyclic Amines
Authors: Cavender Finis L. , Green Steven M.
Published: September 2023

Aliphatic and alicyclic amines are a diverse family of chemical substances that touch every aspect of human life. Simple amines are common intermediates used in chemical synthesis and millions of tons are produced annually. Amines are both raw materials needed for bodily function and are prominent waste products. Amines are used in foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. In general, it is far more difficult to find a use that does not include amines than to find one that does. Over time, knowledge of the effect of amines on living systems has been increasing, with the largest increases in‐line with the sensitivity of the use. That is, the more of an impact a substance has on the population, the greater the chance a robust database exists. The European Union REACH program (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals) has been responsible for a large influx of data for amine substances that have significant relevance to society but did not have a potential for significant exposure under proper conditions of use. The open use policy from the European Chemicals Agency has allowed REACH data, which was primarily from industrial manufacturers, to be added to this chapter revision, which previously contained academic sources.
Food Additives
Authors: Zang Yu J. , Kabadi Shruti V.
Published: September 2023

Food additives include substances that are directly added to food with the intention of having a particular technical effect on food (known as “direct food additives”), as well as components of materials used in manufacturing, packing, packaging, transporting, or holding food such that their use is not intended to have a technical effect on food but may result in those components migrating to food (known as “indirect food additives” or “food contact substances”). So far, thousands of food additives have been developed to meet the increasing demand for safe, convenient, and nutritious food. With the widespread use of food additives in the food industry, ensuring the safety of food additives is extremely important to protect public health. This chapter provides an overview of both direct and indirect food additives in terms of their definitions, intended uses, regulatory background, and methods for assessing their safety. Additionally, workplace safety considerations related to the production and handling of food additives in occupational settings are briefly discussed. Furthermore, some examples of both types of food additives are given at the end of the chapter, together with related resources available for further information.
Diacetyl
Authors: Beckett Evan M. , Abelmann Anders , Maier M. Andrew
Published: September 2023

Diacetyl is the simplest diketone. It occurs endogenously in humans, is a natural byproduct of bacterial fermentation and pyrolysis of organic matter, and is present naturally in a number of foods. In its pure form, diacetyl is a greenish‐yellow liquid that is moderately soluble in water and has a very strong buttery, quinone‐like, or chlorine‐like odor. It has been used as a synthetic food additive and flavoring, most notably in microwave popcorn, for its buttery and caramel or toffee notes; however, since the mid‐2000s, its use has declined in favor of substitutes. Diacetyl has also been used as a reactant or starting material in chemical and/or biochemical reactions. Exposure to the general population is ubiquitous, not just from use and consumption of flavored consumer products and foods, but also through naturally occurring diacetyl in various foodstuffs and beverages and direct or secondhand exposure to tobacco smoke. Diacetyl has low toxicity from ingestion and dermal exposure. Its respiratory toxicity potential has been thoroughly evaluated via animal studies. As with most volatile organic compounds, the most sensitive health endpoint is upper airways effects and inflammation. Findings from some epidemiological studies have suggested that, at very high concentrations, diacetyl may cause reduced lung function and even severe restrictive or obstructive lung diseases, including bronchiolitis obliterans. In addition, the weight of the evidence indicates that diacetyl is neither a teratogen, nor a carcinogen. Diacetyl's potential as a sensory irritant and respiratory sensitizer remains equivocal.
Workplace learning for the disadvantaged: Perspectives from adult education and human resource development
Authors: Hwang Jihee , Yoon Seung Won
Published: September 2023

Along with the rapidly changing social and economic context accompanied by COVID‐19, concerns have been raised for the less‐educated, low‐wage workers who disproportionately experienced disadvantages in accessing workplace learning or training opportunities essential for job placement or career development. In response to the challenges of increasing discrepancies in workplace learning opportunities, this paper suggested workplace learning as an area that needs more attention from multidisciplinary perspectives to support the needs of disadvantaged populations. The authors reviewed research trends on workplace learning from adult education (AE) and human resource development (HRD) disciplines and discussed common areas and research gaps. The paper suggested advancing workplace learning theories and building empirical evidence for disadvantaged populations in various workplace contexts through complementary collaboration between AE and HRD.
Initial experience with an electron FLASH research extension (FLEX) for the Clinac system
Authors: Oh Kyuhak , Gallagher Kyle J. , Hyun Megan , Schott Diane , Wisnoskie Sarah , Lei Yu , Hendley Samuel , Wong Jeffrey , Wang Shuo , Graff Brendan , Jenkins Christopher , Rutar Frank , Ahmed Md , McNeur Joshua , Taylor Jeffrey , Schmidt Marty , Senadheera Lasitha , Smith Wendy , Umstadter Donald , Lele Subodh M. , Dai Ran , Jianghu (James) Dong , Yan Ying , Su‐min Zhou
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Radiotherapy delivered at ultra‐high‐dose‐rates (≥40 Gy/s), that is, FLASH, has the potential to effectively widen the therapeutic window and considerably improve the care of cancer patients. The underlying mechanism of the FLASH effect is not well understood, and commercial systems capable of delivering such dose rates are scarce. The purpose of this study was to perform the initial acceptance and commissioning tests of an electron FLASH research product for preclinical studies.

Methods

A linear accelerator (Clinac 23EX) was modified to include a non‐clinical FLASH research extension (the Clinac‐FLEX system) by Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company (Palo Alto, CA) capable of delivering a 16 MeV electron beam with FLASH and conventional dose rates. The acceptance, commissioning, and dosimetric characterization of the FLEX system was performed using radiochromic film, optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters, and a plane‐parallel ionization chamber. A radiation survey was conducted for which the shielding of the pre‐existing vault was deemed sufficient.

Results

The Clinac‐FLEX system is capable of delivering a 16 MeV electron FLASH beam of approximately 1 Gy/pulse at isocenter and reached a maximum dose rate >3.8 Gy/pulse near the upper accessory mount on the linac gantry. The percent depth dose curves of the 16 MeV FLASH and conventional modes for the 10 × 10 cm2 applicator agreed within 0.5 mm at a range of 50% of the maximum dose. Their respective profiles agreed well in terms of flatness but deviated for field sizes >10 × 10 cm2. The output stability of the FLASH system exhibited a dose deviation of <1%. Preliminary cell studies showed that the FLASH dose rate (180 Gy/s) had much less impact on the cell morphology of 76N breast normal cells compared to the non‐FLASH dose rate (18 Gy/s), which induced large‐size cells.

Conclusion

Our studies characterized the non‐clinical Clinac‐FLEX system as a viable solution to conduct FLASH research that could substantially increase access to ultra‐high‐dose‐rate capabilities for scientists.
Time to bring back the TC: Residential sorely needed
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

The stress on homelessness and addiction has led to a quandary for medication‐focused America: No amount of outpatient methadone and buprenorphine is going to find people a place to live. Nowhere has this been more obvious than San Francisco (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.33786), but the tragedy is spreading throughout the country. This has given rise to a call in many places to bring back the TCs (treatment communities), formerly known as therapeutic communities. Therapeutic Communities of America changed its name to Treatment Communities of America (TCA) in 2010, (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.20260).
NIDA study: 24 mg of buprenorphine better than 16
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

A study published in JAMA Network Open last week that was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that higher doses of buprenorphine are better than lower doses to promote treatment retention.
Topography Optimization for Sustainable Dropwise Condensation: The Critical Role of Correlation Length
Authors: Sarkiris Panagiotis , Constantoudis Vassilios , Ellinas Kosmas , Lam Cheuk Wing Edmond , Milionis Athanasios , Anagnostopoulos John , Poulikakos Dimos , Gogolides Evangelos
Published: September 2023

An effective pathway to enhance the heat transfer process is to induce the formation of highly mobile condensate droplets, employing micro‐nanoengineered superhydrophobic surfaces. However, the design of the topography of these surfaces for sustained high performance constitutes a significant scientific and technological challenge. Herein, the critical role of the correlation length of topography is demonstrated as an important factor when designing superhydrophobic surfaces for heat transfer applications. Specifically, it is shown that a) a high correlation length value corresponds to increased space between surface structures and higher lateral distances between nucleating droplets, which results in lower droplet departure diameter and significantly delayed flooding of the surface and b) correlation length has to surpass a critical value for dropwise condensation (DWC) to be sustained in hierarchical structured surfaces, when the droplets are growing in a partial Cassie state. Following this rationale, droplets are categorized in three different energy and wetting states (Wenzel droplets, Cassie droplets of low kinetic energy and high energy jumping droplets), depending on the correlation length of the topography. Heat transfer experiments demonstrate an increase of 126% in the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) of surfaces exhibiting the maximum correlation length when compared to the flat hydrophobic surface.
Preparation, Properties, and Bioapplications of Block Copolymer Nanopatterns
Authors: Fontelo Raul , Reis Rui L. , Novoa‐Carballal Ramon , Pashkuleva Iva
Published: September 2023

Block copolymer (BCP) self‐assembly has emerged as a feasible method for large‐scale fabrication with remarkable precision – features that are not common for most of the nanofabrication techniques. In this review, recent advancements in the molecular design of BCP along with state‐of‐the‐art processing methodologies based on microphase separation alone or its combination with different lithography methods are presented. Furthermore, the bioapplications of the generated nanopatterns in the development of protein arrays, cell‐selective surfaces, and antibacterial coatings are explored. Finally, the current challenges in the field are outlined and the potential breakthroughs that can be achieved by adopting BCP approaches already applied in the fabrication of electronic devices are discussed.
Geometric Phase in Twisted Topological Complementary Pair
Authors: Zhang Kun , Li Xiao , Dong Daxing , Xue Ming , You Wen‐Long , Liu Youwen , Gao Lei , Jiang Jian‐Hua , Chen Huanyang , Xu Yadong , Fu Yangyang
Published: September 2023

Geometric phase enabled by spin‐orbit coupling has attracted enormous interest in optics over the past few decades. However, it is only applicable to circularly‐polarized light and encounters substantial challenges when applied to wave fields lacking the intrinsic spin degree of freedom. Here, a new paradigm is presented for achieving geometric phase by elucidating the concept of topological complementary pair (TCP), which arises from the combination of two compact phase elements possessing opposite intrinsic topological charge. Twisting the TCP leads to the generation of a linearly‐varying geometric phase of arbitrary order, which is quantified by the intrinsic topological charge. Notably distinct from the conventional spin‐orbit coupling‐based theories, the proposed geometric phase is the direct result of the cyclic evolution of orbital‐angular‐momentum transformation in mode space, thereby exhibiting universality across classical wave systems. As a proof of concept, the existence of this geometric phase is experimentally demonstrated using scalar acoustic waves, showcasing the remarkable ability in the precise manipulation of acoustic waves at subwavelength scales. These findings engender a fresh understanding of wave‐matter interaction in compact structures and establish a promising platform for exploring geometric phase, offering significant opportunities for diverse applications in wave systems.
Inhibition of Corrosion in Alkaline Silicon–Air Batteries with Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: Schalinski Richard , Mörstedt Paula , Schweizer Stefan L. , Wehrspohn Ralf. B.
Published: September 2023

Silicon–air batteries (SABs) are attracting significant attention for their potential as high‐energy‐density electrochemical storage devices. One of the main limitations for the commercial use of alkaline SABs is the high corrosion, which results in a low conversion efficiency. Herein, the aim is to examine the influence of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the conversion efficiency of SABs, shedding light on key factors affecting their performance. SABs using KOH as electrolyte at two concentrations, 0.5 and 2.0 mol L−1, are investigated. The results show that replacing part of the water in the alkaline electrolyte with PEG changes the etching behavior from anisotropic to polishing and increases the specific energy density by 53% and 123% in 0.5 and 2 mol L−1 KOH electrolytes, respectively.
Albumin‐indocyanine green evaluation of future liver remnant predicts liver failure after anatomical hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma: A dual‐center retrospective study
Authors: Nagaoka Tomoyuki , Ogawa Kohei , Sakamoto Katsunori , Nakamura Taro , Imai Yoshinori , Nishi Yusuke , Honjo Masahiko , Tamura Kei , Funamizu Naotake , Takada Yasutsugu
Published: September 2023

Aim

The albumin‐indocyanine green evaluation (ALICE) score is a useful predictor of post‐hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF); however, its usefulness in combination with future liver remnant (FLR), measured by 3‐D volumetry, has not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the ALICE of the FLR (ALICE‐FLR) score and severe PHLF.

Methods

The clinical data of 215 patients who underwent anatomical hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma without portal vein embolization at two institutes between January 2010 and December 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. PHLF occurrence and severity were determined according to the International Study Group of Liver Surgery's definition. Grades B and C PHLF were defined as severe PHLF. The ALICE‐FLR, ALICE scores, and indocyanine green clearance of FLR (ICGK‐FLR) were evaluated for severe PHLF prediction.

Results

Severe PHLF was observed in 40 patients (18.6%). The areas under the curve (AUCs) for the ALICE‐FLR, ALICE scores, ICGK‐FLR, and FLR were 0.76, 0.64, 0.73, and 0.69, respectively. The AUC of the ALICE‐FLR score was significantly higher than that of the ALICE score. The ALICE‐FLR score was identified as an independent predictor of severe PHLF (the odds ratio for every 0.01 increment in the ALICE‐FLR score was 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.070–1.453; p = 0.004). Among patients with severe PHLF, the ALICE‐FLR score was significantly higher in the grade C than in the grade B PHLF group.

Conclusion

The combination of liver function models, including indocyanine green, albumin, and FLR is considered compatible for predicting severe PHLF.
PCB Soldering Defect Inspection Using Multitask Learning under Low Data Regimes
Authors: Tsang Sik-Ho , Suo Zhaoqing , Chan Tom Tak-Lam , Nguyen Huu-Thanh , Lun Daniel Pak-Kong
Published: September 2023

To increase the reliability of the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing process, automated optical inspection is often employed for soldering defect detection. However, traditional approaches built on handcrafted features, predefined rules, or thresholds are often susceptible to the variation of the acquired images’ quality and give unstable performances. To solve this problem, a deep learning‐based soldering defect detection method is developed in this article. Like many real‐life deep learning applications, the number of available training samples is often limited. This creates a challenging low‐data scenario, as deep learning typically requires massive data to perform well. To address this issue, a multitask learning model is proposed, namely, PCBMTL, that can simultaneously learn the classification and segmentation tasks under low‐data regimes. By acquiring the segmentation knowledge, classification performance is substantially improved with few samples. To facilitate the study, a soldering defect image dataset, namely, PCBSPDefect, is built. It focuses on the dual in‐line packages (DIP) at the PCB back side, DIP at the PCB front side, and flat flexible cables. Experimental results show that the proposed PCBMTL outperforms the best existing approaches by over 5–17% of average accuracy for different datasets.
Detecting Tumor Infiltration in Diffuse Gliomas with Deep Learning
Authors: Prathaban Karthik , Wu Bingcheng , Tan Char Loo , Huang Zhiwei
Published: September 2023

Glioblastoma tumor recurrences often occur in brain tissue areas harboring infiltrating tumor cells, resembling healthy tissue in brain imaging. Demarcating infiltrative regions for aggressive resections is critical for improving prognostic outcomes but is challenging in neurosurgery. Herein, a multilayer sigmoid‐activated convolutional neural network (MLS‐CNN) is developed for rapidly distinguishing glioma tumor infiltration in brain tissue histology. Unlike conventional multiclass classifiers, the MLS‐CNN employs sigmoidal activation to accommodate coexisting classes within patch images. 59 811 image patches (25 807 infiltrating edge, 15 178 normal brain, 18 826 cellular tumor) from 73 brain tissue samples are extracted to train the classifier. The model achieves an accuracy of 91.70% (sensitivity: 91.62%; specificity: 91.78%) and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.964 in distinguishing infiltrating edges, outperforming the current state‐of‐the‐art Vision Transformer (ViT) (accuracy: 89.45; AUC: 0.947). The MLS‐CNN is computationally efficient, generating predictions within 11.5 s in comparison to 81.4 s for ViT. The predictions strongly correlate with In Situ Hybridization expression intensities, validating the utility of the MLS‐CNN model in spatial genomics investigations in gliomas. The robust model can therefore serve as an automatic and accurate classifier to help pathologists identify infiltrative glioma for better diagnosis and patient outcomes in brain oncology.
Arbitrator Disclosure: What Happened after Monster Energy?
Authors: Ahn Ju Hee
Published: September 2023

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals four years ago generated buzz throughout the legal community and among arbitration practitioners about the levels of disclosure to be made by arbitrators when it issued Monster Energy Co. v. City Beverages LLC, 940 F.3d 1130, 1135 (9th Cir. 2019) (available at bit.ly/43HZ5Ic).
Bis‐peri‐dinaphtho‐rylenes: Facile Synthesis via Radical‐Mediated Coupling Reactions and their Distinctive Electronic Structures
Authors: Shen Tong , Zou Ya , Hou Xudong , Wei Haipeng , Ren Longbin , Jiao Liuying , Wu Jishan
Published: September 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with a one‐dimensional (1D), ribbon‐like structure have the potential to serve as both model compounds for corresponding graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) and as materials for optoelectronics applications. However, synthesizing molecules of this type with extended π‐conjugation presents a significant challenge. In this study, we present a straightforward synthetic method for a series of bis‐peri‐dinaphtho‐rylene molecules, wherein the peri‐positions of perylene, quaterrylene, and hexarylene are fused with naphtho‐units. These molecules were efficiently synthesized primarily through intramolecular or intermolecular radical coupling of in situ generated organic radical species. Their structures were confirmed using X‐ray crystallographic analysis, which also revealed a slightly bent geometry due to the incorporation of a cyclopentadiene ring at the bay regions of the rylene backbones. Bond lengh analysis and theoretical calculations indicate that their electronic structures resemble pyrenacenes more than quinoidal rylenes. That is, the aromatic sextets are predominantly localized along the long axis of the skeletones. As the chain length increases, these molecules exhibit enhanced electronic absorption with a bathochromic shift, and multiple amphoteric redox waves. This study introduces a novel synthetic approach for generating 1D extended PAHs and GNRs, along with their structure‐dependent electronic properties.
DNA Nanostructures: Self‐Adjuvant Carriers for Highly Efficient Subunit Vaccines
Authors: Shen Fengyun , Wang Haihan , Liu Zhuang , Sun Lele
Published: September 2023

Subunit vaccines based on antigen proteins or epitopes of pathogens or tumors show advantages in immunological precision and high safety, but are often limited by their low immunogenicity. Adjuvants can boost immune responses by stimulating immune cells or promoting antigen uptake by antigen presenting cells (APCs), yet existing clinical adjuvants struggle in simultaneously achieving these dual functions. Additionally, the spatial organization of antigens might be crucial to their immunogenicity. Hence, superior adjuvants should potently stimulate the immune system, precisely arrange antigens, and effectively deliver antigens to APCs. Recently, precisely organizing and delivering antigens with the unique editability of DNA nanostructures has been proposed, presenting unique abilities in significantly improving the immunogenicity of antigens. In this minireview, we will discuss the principles behind using DNA nanostructures as self‐adjuvant carriers and review the latest advancements in this field. The potential and challenges associated with self‐adjuvant DNA nanostructures will also be discussed.
Photocatalytic Free Radical‐Controlled Synthesis of High‐Performance Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Chen Xiang , Guan Shuhui , Zhou Jianjiang , Shang Hengjun , Zhang Jingyuan , Lv Fujian , Yu Han , Li Hexing , Bian Zhenfeng
Published: September 2023

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as crucial players in catalysis research, prompting extensive investigation and application. The precise control of metal atom nucleation and growth has garnered significant attention. In this study, we present a straightforward approach for preparing SACs utilizing a photocatalytic radical control strategy. Notably, we demonstrate for the first time that radicals generated during the photochemical process effectively hinder the aggregation of individual atoms. By leveraging the cooperative anchoring of nitrogen atoms and crystal lattice oxygen on the support, we successfully stabilize the single atom. Our Pd1/TiO2 catalysts exhibit remarkable catalytic activity and stability in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction, which was 43 times higher than Pd/C. Furthermore, we successfully depose Pd atoms onto various substrates, including TiO2, CeO2, and WO3. The photocatalytic radical control strategy can be extended to other single‐atom catalysts, such as Ir, Pt, Rh, and Ru, underscoring its broad applicability.
Photoredox Cascade Catalyst for Efficient Hydrogen Production with Biomass Photoreforming
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi
Published: September 2023

Biomass photoreforming is a promising method to provide both a clean energy resource in the form of hydrogen (H2) and valuable chemicals as the results of water reduction and biomass oxidation. To overcome the poor contact between heterogeneous photocatalysts and biomass substrates, we fabricated a new photoredox cascade catalyst by combining a homogeneous catalyst, 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine 1‐oxyl (TEMPO), and a heterogeneous dual‐dye sensitized photocatalyst (DDSP) composed of two Ru(II)‐polypyridine photosensitizers (RuP6 and RuCP6) and Pt‐loaded TiO2 nanoparticles. During blue‐light irradiation (λ=460±15 nm; 80 mW), the DDSP photocatalytically reduced aqueous protons to form H2 and simultaneously oxidized TEMPO• radicals to generate catalytically active TEMPO+. It oxidized biomass substrates (water‐soluble glycerol and insoluble cellulose) to regenerate TEMPO•. In the presence of N‐methyl imidazole as a proton transfer mediator, the photocatalytic H2 production activities for glycerol and cellulose reforming reached 2670 and 1590 μmol H2 (gTiO2)−1 h−1, respectively, which were comparable to those of state‐of‐the‐art heterogeneous photocatalysts.
Cytochrome P450 Mediated Cyclization in Eunicellane Derived Diterpenoid Biosynthesis**
Authors: Wang Zengyuan , Yang Qian , He Jingyi , Li Haixin , Pan Xingming , Li Zining , Xu Hui‐Min , Rudolf Jeffrey D. , Tantillo Dean J. , Dong Liao‐Bin
Published: September 2023

Terpene cyclization, one of the most complex chemical reactions in nature, is generally catalyzed by two classes of terpene cyclases (TCs). Cytochrome P450s that act as unexpected TC‐like enzymes are known but are very rare. In this study, we genome‐mined a cryptic bacterial terpenoid gene cluster, named ari, from the thermophilic actinomycete strain Amycolatopsis arida. By employing a heterologous production system, we isolated and characterized three highly oxidized eunicellane derived diterpenoids, aridacins A−C (1–3), that possess a 6/7/5‐fused tricyclic scaffold. In vivo and in vitro experiments systematically established a noncanonical two‐step biosynthetic pathway for diterpene skeleton formation. First, a class I TC (AriE) cyclizes geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP) into a 6/10‐fused bicyclic cis‐eunicellane skeleton. Next, a cytochrome P450 (AriF) catalyzes cyclization of the eunicellane skeleton into the 6/7/5‐fused tricyclic scaffold through C2−C6 bond formation. Based on the results of quantum chemical computations, hydrogen abstraction followed by electron transfer coupled to barrierless carbocation ring closure is shown to be a viable mechanism for AriF‐mediated cyclization. The biosynthetic logic of skeleton construction in the aridacins is unprecedented, expanding the catalytic capacity and diversity of P450s and setting the stage to investigate the inherent principles of carbocation generation by P450s in the biosynthesis of terpenoids.
Effect of dynamic vulcanization time on the performance of thermoplastic vulcanizates based on hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber/thermoplastic polyester elastomer
Authors: Cui Ziwen , Wang Jinlong , Wei Liping , Liu Yingjun , Du Aihua
Published: September 2023

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) are obtained by dynamic vulcanization (DV). Time is a crucial processing parameter. This work aims to develop heat‐ and oil‐resistant TPVs with hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) and thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE). It focuses on the effect of DV time on the morphology and properties of the resulting TPVs. The investigation demonstrates that as the DV time increases from 2 to 6 min, the rubber network progressively reinforces and the HNBR domain size decreases under more adequate shearing action, resulting in a more homogeneous morphology. This leads to a significant improvement in tensile properties, elasticity, rheological properties, thermal stability, and oil resistance of the TPV. A further extension in DV time (over 8 min) results in a slight deterioration in elasticity and thermal stability of the TPV because of excessive degradation of the TPEE. Accordingly, an appropriate DV time for HNBR/TPEE‐TPV preparation is between 6 and 8 min under the specified DV conditions.
Healable, degradable polyurethane elastomers with excellent mechanical properties based on multiple hydrogen bonds
Authors: Gao Chuanhui , Sun Luyang , Wang Sikai , Cao Shuting , Liu Hongzhen , Chen Picheng , Wang Yanqing
Published: September 2023

Due to its comprehensive properties, polyurethane elastomer (PU) plays a vital role in ships, construction, transportation facilities, and other fields. However, it is challenging to design polyurethane elastomer materials with good mechanical properties, self‐healing ability, and degradable ability. Herein, a kind of polyurethane elastomer based on multiple hydrogen bond crosslinking was successfully synthesized by using polycaprolactone with substantial crystallization as a soft chain segment and introducing adipic dihydrazide (ADH) and U2‐diol (a ureido‐pyrimidinone with two hydroxyl groups at the end) to achieve ordered hydrogen bond assembly design and control. The elastomer has good tensile strength, healability, degradability, and solubility. The maximum tensile strength and toughness of the prepared polyurethane elastomer (PUAD) were 46.34 MPa and 687.66 MJ/m3, respectively. With the increase of U2‐diol content, the self‐repair efficiency was greatly enhanced. After seven repair cycles, the self‐repair efficiency can still reach 66.88%. In addition, the bacterial degradation test using Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a strain showed that PUAD film had excellent degradability. The dissolution test with N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) as solvent showed that the tensile strength was almost unchanged after three dissolutions.
Dental abnormalities in rare genetic bone diseases: Literature review
Authors: Iwata Eiji , Sah Shyam Kishor , Chen I‐Ping , Reichenberger Ernst
Published: September 2023

Currently, over 500 rare genetic bone disorders are identified. These diseases are often accompanied by dental abnormalities, which are sometimes the first clue for an early diagnosis. However, not many dentists are sufficiently familiar with phenotypic abnormalities and treatment approaches when they encounter patients with rare diseases. Such patients often need dental treatment but have difficulties in finding a dentist who can treat them appropriately. Herein we focus on major dental phenotypes and summarize their potential causes and mechanisms, if known. We discuss representative diseases, dental treatments, and their effect on the oral health of patients and on oral health‐related quality of life. This review can serve as a starting point for dentists to contribute to early diagnosis and further investigate the best treatment options for patients with rare disorders, with the goal of optimizing treatment outcomes.
Disparity in survival benefits of pembrolizumab between Asian and non‐Asian patients with advanced cancers: A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Peng Shang‐Hsuan , Lin Ching‐Hung , Chen I‐Chun , Shen Ying‐Chun , Chang Dwan‐Ying , Chen Tom Wei‐Wu , Huang Shu‐Min , Hu Fu‐Chang , Lu Yen‐Shen
Published: September 2023

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of malignancies. However, disproportionate enrollment among races and ethnicities places the generalizability of global trial results in doubt.

Methods

In this systematic review, phase 3 randomized controlled trials investigating pembrolizumab in advanced cancers and providing subgroup analyses of Asian and non‐Asian participants were included. The primary and secondary effect measures were the mean differences (MDs) in the natural logarithms of the hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) between these two subgroups, respectively. We used random‐effects meta‐analysis to calculate the pooled ratios of HRs (i.e., exp(MD)) and implemented a meta‐regression analysis to identify significant covariates.

Results

A total of 17 and 11 trials were included in the meta‐analyses of OS and PFS, respectively. These trials included 2732 (25.49%) Asian and 7000 (65.32%) non‐Asian participants in the OS analysis and 1438 (22.5%) Asian and 4129 (64.61%) non‐Asian participants in the PFS analysis. The pooled ratio of HRs for OS was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.76–0.99; p = 0.0391), favoring Asian participants, but no significant difference was found in PFS (pooled ratio of HRs: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.82–1.07; p = 0.2391). Both linear meta‐regression analyses revealed an open‐label design as a crucial covariate, which indicated more benefits for non‐Asian participants.

Conclusions

Compared with non‐Asian patients, Asian patients with advanced cancers may derive superior OS benefits from pembrolizumab. Although the results warrant further exploration, this meta‐analysis provides insight into clinical research design.
Valuing the contribution of ultra‐light buyers
Authors: Hossain Afsana , Anesbury Zachary William , Driesener Carl , Trinh Giang
Published: September 2023

Ultra‐light buyers, those who, on average, buy a brand once a year or less, are important by number and their contribution to brand purchase occasions. The initial research, however, was limited in scope and did not measure the contribution of these buyers to sales volume or value. By examining over 850 brands in almost 60 categories, we identify that ultra‐lights make up 62% of a brand's buyer base over 5 years and contribute 32% of purchase occasions and 31% of sales volume and value. In line with previous findings that brands with higher loyalty exhibit more repeat purchases and thus fewer ultra‐light buyers and private label brands often exhibit higher than expected loyalty for their market share—we find the prevalence of ultra‐light buyers is higher for national brands than private labels, likely reflecting the higher loyalty often observed for private labels. We also find no difference in ultra‐light buyers' contribution between high and low‐price brands, indicating that price is not a significant factor affecting the contribution of ultra‐light buyers. Finally, we find that both growing and declining brands have fewer ultra‐lights than stable brands. As growth occurs via increasing penetration and loyalty, for growing brands, new buyers may be more ‘light’ than ‘ultra‐light’ in terms of their loyalty; while for declines, these findings imply that there are not enough ultra‐light buyers to maintain brand sales. A failure to recruit ultra‐light buyers may be very dangerous for brand health.
PRIME score for prediction of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Barrett Christopher D. , Nickel Andrew , Rosenberg Michael A. , Ream Karen , Tzou Wendy S. , Aleong Ryan , Tumolo Alexis , Garg Lohit , Zipse Matthew , West John J. , Varosy Paul , Sandhu Amneet
Published: September 2023

Objectives

We sought to produce a simple scoring system that can be applied at clinical visits before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) to stratify the risk of permanent pacemaker (PPM) after the procedure.

Background

Atrioventricular block is a known complication of TAVR. Current models for predicting the risk of PPM after TAVR are not designed to be applied clinically to assist with preprocedural planning.

Methods

Patients undergoing TAVR at the University of Colorado were split into a training cohort for the development of a predictive model, and a testing cohort for model validation. Stepwise and binary logistic regressions were performed on the training cohort to produce a predictive model. Beta coefficients from the binary logistic regression were used to create a simple scoring system for predicting the need for PPM implantation. Scores were then applied to the validation cohort to assess predictive accuracy.

Results

Patients undergoing TAVR from 2013 to 2019 were analyzed: with 483 included in the training cohort and 123 included in the validation cohort. The need for a pacemaker was associated with five preprocedure variables in the training cohort: PR interval > 200 ms, Right bundle branch block, valve‐In‐valve procedure, prior Myocardial infarction, and self‐Expandable valve. The PRIME score was developed using these clinical features, and was highly accurate for predicting PPM in both the training and model validation cohorts (area under the curve 0.804 and 0.830 in the model training and validation cohorts, respectively).

Conclusions

The PRIME score is a simple and accurate preprocedural tool for predicting the need for PPM implantation after TAVR.
Autocatalysis and CO2: Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) Meets Natural Processes
Authors: Gastelu Gabriela , Saha Pritha , Dyson Paul J. , Hulla Martin , Uranga Jorge G.
Published: September 2023

Autocatalytic reactions were proposed to play a key role at the beginning of life starting from the first reduction of CO2 to formate, acetate and C1−C4 hydrocarbons. In carbon capture and utilization (CCU) processes, the same reactions were demonstrated to be autocatalytic and, in some cases, promoted by catalysts of the same composition. Through evolution, CO2 reduction then turned into complex autocatalytic networks such as photosynthesis, where CCU chemists found inspiration for the development of more advanced systems for the synthesis of value‐added chemicals. Less evolved systems than photosynthesis, however, may be easier to emulate and provide valuable inspiration into CO2 reduction chemistry for CCU. Other synthetic systems were also demonstrated to be autocatalytic demonstrating that CO2 reactions and autocatalysis are closely connected. In this concept article, the relationship between natural, artificial and bio‐inspired autocatalytic CO2 reduction processes is summarized and discussed. The accomplishments resulting from the integration of autocatalysis and CCU strategies, along with their inherent benefits and future prospectives are also outlined.
Control and Transferability of Magnetic Interactions in Supramolecular Structures: Trimers of {Cr7Ni} Antiferromagnetic Rings
Authors: Lockyer Selena J. , Asthana Deepak , Whitehead George F. S. , Vitorica‐Yrezabal Inigo J. , Timco Grigore. A. , McInnes Eric J. L. , Winpenny Richard E. P.
Published: September 2023

A synthetic strategy is demonstrated to prepare two distinct trimers of antiferromagnetically coupled {Cr7Ni} rings, substantially varying the magnetic interactions between the spin centres. The interactions were studied using multi‐frequency cw EPR: in a trimer linked via non‐covalent H‐bonding interactions no measurable interaction between rings was seen, while in a trimer linked via iso‐nicotinate groups isotropic and anisotropic exchange interactions of +0.42 and −0.8 GHz, respectively, were observed. The latter are the same as those for a simpler hetero‐dimer system, showing how the spin‐spin interactions can be built in a predictable and modular manner in these systems.
Decoding a drawing: The stained‐glass color scheme of the altar of Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Fátima
Authors: Palmeirim Simão
Published: September 2023

In the process of cataloging the estate of modernist artist Almada Negreiros, many preparatory drawings for several of the author's public artworks are currently being identified. The volume and complexity of his prolific work imply that sometimes it is hard to connect specific documents and artworks of research and preparation to their respective final works. Recently, one particular drawing proved to be the key for understanding several other documents, simultaneously contributing to clarify the artist's methodology when preparing for the large‐scale stained glass behind the altar of Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Fátima. This article presents these new advances.