bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwave‐Assisted Rapid Synthesis of MOF‐Based Single‐Atom Ni Catalyst for CO2 Electroreduction at Ampere‐Level Current
Authors: Wen Ming , Sun Nana , Jiao Long , Zang Shuang‐Quan , Jiang Hai‐Long
Published: January 2024

Carbon‐based single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted tremendous interest in heterogeneous catalysis. However, the common electric heating techniques to produce carbon‐based SACs usually suffer from prolonged heating time and tedious operations. Herein, a general and facile microwave‐assisted rapid pyrolysis method is developed to afford carbon‐based SACs within 3 min without inert gas protection. The obtained carbon‐based SACs present high porosity and comparable carbonization degree to those obtained by electric heating techniques. Specifically, the single‐atom Ni implanted N‐doped carbon (Ni1−N−C) derived from a Ni‐doped metal–organic framework (Ni‐ZIF‐8) exhibits remarkable CO Faradaic efficiency (96 %) with a substantial CO partial current density (jCO) up to 1.06 A/cm2 in CO2 electroreduction, far superior to the counterpart obtained by traditional pyrolysis with electric heating. Mechanism investigations reveal that the resulting Ni1−N−C presents abundant defective sites and mesoporous structure, greatly facilitating CO2 adsorption and mass transfer. This work establishes a versatile approach to rapid and large‐scale synthesis of SACs as well as other carbon‐based materials for efficient catalysis.
Multi‐Species Surface Reconstruction for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Nanocrystal Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lu Po , Liu Anqi , Lu Min , Zhang Fujun , Sun Siqi , Liu Mingze , Wu Zhennan , Wang Xue , Dong Weinan , Qin Feisong , Gao Yanbo , Bai Xue , Zhang Yu
Published: January 2024

Although colloidal perovskite nanocrystal (PNC) solution has exhibited near‐unity photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), the luminance would be severely quenched when the PNC solution is assembled into thin films due to the agglomeration and fusion of NCs caused by the exfoliation of surface ligands and non‐radiative Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from small to large particle sizes, which seriously affected the performances of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Here, we used Guanidine thiocyanate (GASCN) and Sodium thiocyanate (NaSCN) to achieve effective CsPbI3 PNC surface reconstruction. Due to the strong coordination ability of these small molecules with the anions and cations on the surface of the PNCs, they can provide strong surface protection against PNC fusion during centrifugal purification process and repair the surface defects of PNCs, so that the original uniform size distribution of PNCs can be maintained and FRET between close‐packed PNC films is effectively suppressed, which allows the emission characteristics of the films to be preserved. As a result, highly oriented, smooth and nearly defect‐free high‐quality PNC thin films are obtained, with PLQY as high as 95.1 %, far exceeding that of the original film, and corresponding LEDs exhibit a maximum external quantum efficiency of 24.5 %.
Supramolecular Chemistry of Sumanene
Authors: Kasprzak Artur
Published: January 2024

Sumanene is a buckybowl molecule that is continuously attracting the attention of the scientific community because of its unique geometrical and physicochemical properties. This Minireview systematically summarizes advances and considerations regarding the applied supramolecular chemistry of sumanene. This work highlights the major fields in which potential or real applications of sumanene molecule have been reported to date, such as the design of sumanene‐containing functional supramolecular materials and architectures, sumanene‐based drug‐delivery systems, or sumanene‐tethered ion‐selective molecular receptors. An assessment of the current status in the applied supramolecular chemistry of sumanene is provided, together with an emphasis on the key advances being made. Discussion on those milestones that are still to be achieved within this emerging field is also provided.
Tuning the Mechanical Properties of 3D‐printed Objects by the RAFT Process: From Chain‐Growth to Step‐Growth
Authors: Pan Xiaofeng , Li Jiajia , Li Zhuang , Li Qing , Pan Xiangqiang , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Jian
Published: January 2024

Photoinduced 3D printing based on the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process has emerged as a robust method for creating diverse functional materials. However, achieving precise control over the mechanical properties of these printed objects remains a critical challenge for practical application. Here, we demonstrated a RAFT step‐growth polymerization of a bifunctional xanthate and bifunctional vinyl acetate. Additionally, we demonstrated photoinduced 3D printing through RAFT step‐growth polymerization with a tetrafunctional xanthate and a bifunctional vinyl acetate. By adjusting the molar ratio of the components in the printing resins, we finely tuned the polymerization mechanism from step‐growth to chain‐growth. This adjustment resulted in a remarkable range of tunable Young's moduli, ranging from 7.6 MPa to 997.1 MPa. Moreover, post‐functionalization and polymer welding of the printed objects with varying mechanical properties opens up a promising way to produce tailor‐made materials with specific and tunable properties.
DNA Framework‐Templated Fabrication of Ultrathin Electroactive Gold Nanosheets
Authors: Li Le , Ding Yawen , Xie Gang , Luo Shihua , Liu Xiaoguo , Wang Lihua , Shi Jiye , Wan Ying , Fan Chunhai , Ouyang Xiangyuan
Published: January 2024

Generally, two‐dimensional gold nanomaterials have unique properties and functions that offer exciting application prospects. However, the crystal phases of these materials tend to be limited to the thermodynamically stable crystal structure. Herein, we report a DNA framework‐templated approach for the ambient aqueous synthesis of freestanding and microscale amorphous gold nanosheets with ultrathin sub‐nanometer thickness. We observe that extended single‐stranded DNA on DNA nanosheets can induce site‐specific metallization and enable precise modification of the metalized nanostructures at predefined positions. More importantly, the as‐prepared gold nanosheets can serve as an electrocatalyst for glucose oxidase‐catalyzed aerobic oxidation, exhibiting enhanced electrocatalytic activity (~3‐fold) relative to discrete gold nanoclusters owing to a larger electrochemical active area and wider band gap. The proposed DNA framework‐templated metallization strategy is expected to be applicable in a broad range of fields, from catalysis to new energy materials.
Direct, Stereodivergent, and Catalytic Michael Additions of Thioimides to α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes – Total Synthesis of Tapentadol
Authors: Galeote Oriol , Kennington Stuart C. D. , Benedito Gabriela , Fraedrich Lena , Davies‐Howe Evan , Costa Anna M. , Romea Pedro , Urpí Fèlix , Aullón Gabriel , Font‐Bardia Mercè , Puigjaner Cristina
Published: January 2024

Direct and stereodivergent Michael additions of N‐acyl 1,3‐thiazinane‐2‐thiones to α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes catalyzed by chiral nickel(II) complexes are reported. The reactions proceed with a remarkable regio‐, diastereo‐, and enantioselectivity, so access to any of the four potential Michael stereoisomers is granted through the appropriate choice of the chiral ligand of the nickel(II) complex. Simple removal of the heterocyclic scaffold furnishes a wide array of either syn or anti enantiomerically pure derivatives, which can be exploited for the asymmetric synthesis of biologically active compounds, as demonstrated in a new approach to tapentadol. In turn, a mechanism, based on theoretical calculations, is proposed to account for the stereochemical outcome of these transformations.
Analysis of mechanical properties and free vibrational characteristics of novel Grewia optiva/basalt fiber reinforced hybrid polymer composites
Authors: Bijlwan P. P. , Prasad L. , Sharma A.
Published: January 2024

This study emphasize on the fabrication and testing of Grewia optiva/Basalt fiber reinforced polymer composites for use in internal applications of automobiles and aircraft. The study investigates the use of Grewia optiva fiber (local plant based fiber) with Basalt fiber, where chopped Basalt fiber (6, 9, and 12 mm) is reinforced in polyester matrix in combination with Grewia optiva fiber. Composite test specimen are fabricated and analyzed using a smart actuation system to evaluate the free vibrational behavior of the composites experimentally. The impact of various parameters including length of the fiber and its weight percentage on the free vibrational behavior of composites is determined. The percentage of individual reinforced fiber is varied (0, 4, 8, and 12 wt.%) maintaining fiber weight % constant, that is, 12 wt.% of composite. The experimental results help to identify the variations in natural frequencies of Basalt/Grewia optiva fiber based composites. B12/GO0 demonstrate the natural frequency of 67 Hz and 44.71 MPa tensile strength for 12 mm fiber reinforced composites. The finding from this experimental work provide insights into the potential applications of Basalt/Grewia optiva fiber reinforced composites for automobile and air craft industries.
Optimization of microencapsulation of polyaspartic acid ester into UV curable epoxy‐acrylate resin using Taguchi method of experimental design
Authors: Pastarnokienė L. , Potapov E. , Makuška R. , Kochanė T.
Published: January 2024

Due to fast reaction with isocyanates, polyaspartic acid esters (PAAE) can be used for the development of microcapsules for self‐healing coatings. Microcapsules with encapsulated PAAE into shell formed by UV‐cured commercial epoxy‐acrylate resin were produced through oil‐in‐water emulsion polymerization triggered by UV light. The obtained microcapsules were characterized by FTIR, TGA, optical microscopy, and SEM. Various encapsulation parameters, including core to shell ratio, agitation speed, emulsifier type and concentration, solvent type and its concentration in the oil phase, have been selected at four different levels. Microencapsulation was optimized using Taguchi L16 parameter design approach for determination of desired outcome as larger is better (maximal core content) and nominal is better (microcapsule diameter of 50 μm). It was determined that conditions to prepare microcapsules with the highest core content and the microcapsule size close to 50 μm are rather similar requiring core‐to‐shell ratio at about 4:1, low agitation speed of 500–1000 rpm, and the use of two polymeric emulsifiers poly(vinyl alcohol) and Gum Arabic at concentration of about 2%. Primary benefits of UV‐induced shell formation during microencapsulation of active compounds are remarkably shorter time of the process and possibilities to reach high core content and prepare microcapsules of desirable size.
Diverse migratory strategies for a hawksbill sea turtle population
Authors: Maurer Andrew S. , Seminoff Jeffrey A. , Burford Reiskind Martha O. , Stapleton Seth P.
Published: January 2024

Outside of short, infrequent visits to reproductive habitats, sea turtle lifespans are largely spent in foraging areas. Supporting imperilled populations in an era of biodiversity declines and environmental change requires improvements in the understanding of foraging distributions, plus the migratory corridors that connect foraging and reproductive habitats.

This study evaluates the migratory strategies and foraging geography of hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the Western Atlantic. The post‐nesting migrations of 22 females were tracked via satellite telemetry from Long Island, Antigua, during 2016–2019, and a state‐space model was utilized to estimate true turtle locations from Argos satellite fixes. Model output was used to characterize migratory routes and home ranges occupied during non‐migratory inter‐nesting and foraging periods.

Hawksbill migrations (N = 19) resulted in displacements to foraging areas ranging 7–2300 km. Foraging geography varied considerably—whereas eight turtles remained in the immediate vicinity of Antigua and Barbuda (<30 km), there were also longer‐distance migrations (>470 km) to locations such as The Bahamas and Nicaragua. Inter‐nesting core home ranges (50% utilization distributions) ranged from 7 to 72 km2, while foraging core areas ranged from 7 to 46 km2.

These results add to evidence suggesting that, broadly, post‐nesting hawksbills forage in neritic habitats throughout the Wider Caribbean, including several high‐use areas. Short displacements to foraging habitats relatively nearby to nesting beaches appear to be the most common migratory behaviour, but individuals in a single population may exhibit various migratory strategies, resulting in basin‐wide connectivity between nesting and foraging sites. Given that a single individual or nesting population may inhabit several management jurisdictions, an idealized scenario for regional hawksbill conservation would entail data sharing between managers at linked nesting areas, foraging habitats and migratory corridors such that policies to protect key habitats and mitigate human impacts are designed and evaluated based on best‐available science.
Inhibitory effect of galantamine and donepezil combination against cholinesterase: An in silico and in vitro study
Authors: Adarvez‐Feresin Camila W. , Ortiz Javier E. , Piñeiro Mauricio D. , Parravicini Oscar , Enriz Ricardo D. , Garro Adriana D. , Feresin Gabriela E.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the in silico and in vitro inhibitory effect of the combined use of galantamine (GAL) and donepezil (DON) against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes. In silico and in vitro cholinesterase analysis were carried out for GAL and DON alone and combined. Molecular modeling studies were carried out (docking analysis, molecular dynamics simulation, and quantum theory of atoms in molecules). Cholinesterase's inhibitory activities by modified Ellman's method and the drug combination effect using the Chou–Talalay method were assayed. GAL/DON combination showed the co‐occupancy of the ligands in both enzymes through in silico studies. Regarding in vitro BuChE inhibition analyses, three of five combinations showed an interaction between GAL and DON at the threshold of additive affect (0.9 < CI < 1.1), with a tendency toward a synergistic effect for higher concentrations. This is the first report showing the efficacy of the GAL/DON combinations inhibiting BuChE, showing the importance of analyzing the behavior of different ligands when co‐occupancy into the active site is possible. These combinations might be a possible therapy to improved efficacy, reduced doses, minor side effects, and high levels of the neurotransmitter in the synaptic space for Alzheimer's disease.
Choosing to End African American Health Disparities in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Liang Matthew H. , Lew Edward R. , Fraser Patricia A. , Flower Cindy , Hennis Edward H. , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Hennis Anselm , Tikly Mohammed , Roberts W. Neal
Published: January 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is three times more common and its manifestations are more severe in African American women compared to women of other races. It is not clear whether this is due to genetic differences or factors related to the physical or social environments, differences in health care, or a combination of these factors. Health disparities in patients with SLE between African American patients and persons of other races have been reported since the 1960s and are correlated with measures of lower socioeconomic status. Risk factors for these disparities have been demonstrated, but whether their mitigation improves outcomes for African American patients has not been tested except in self‐efficacy. In 2002, the first true US population–based study of patients with SLE with death certificate records was conducted, which demonstrated a wide disparity between the number of African American women and White women dying from SLE. Five years ago, another study showed that SLE mortality rates in the United States had improved but that the African American patient mortality disparity persisted. Between 2014 and 2021, one study demonstrated racism's deleterious effects in patients with SLE. Racism may have been the unmeasured confounder, the proverbial “elephant in the room”—unnamed and unstudied. The etymology of “risk factor” has evolved from environmental risk factors to social determinants to now include structural injustice/structural racism. Racism in the United States has a centuries‐long existence and is deeply ingrained in US society, making its detection and resolution difficult. However, racism being man made means Man can choose to change the it. Health disparities in patients with SLE should be addressed by viewing health care as a basic human right. We offer a conceptual framework and goals for both individual and national actions.
Recent Progress on Tumor Microenvironment‐Activated NIR‐II Phototheranostic Agents with Simultaneous Activation for Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Xiao Hao , Wu Gui‐long , Tan Senyou , Tan Xiaofeng , Yang Qinglai
Published: January 2024

Malignant tumors seriously threaten human life and well‐being. Emerging Near‐infrared II (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) phototheranostic nanotechnology integrates diagnostic and treatment modalities, offering merits including improved tissue penetration and enhanced spatiotemporal resolution. This remarkable progress has opened promising avenues for advancing tumor theranostic research. The tumor microenvironment (TME) differs from normal tissues, exhibiting distinct attributes such as hypoxia, acidosis, overexpressed hydrogen peroxide, excess glutathione, and other factors. Capitalizing on these attributes, researchers have developed TME‐activatable NIR‐II phototheranostic agents with diagnostic and therapeutic attributes concurrently. Therefore, developing TME‐activatable NIR‐II phototheranostic agents with diagnostic and therapeutic activation holds significant research importance. Currently, research on TME‐activatable NIR‐II phototheranostic agents is still in its preliminary stages. This review examines the recent advances in developing dual‐functional NIR‐II activatable phototheranostic agents over the past years. It systematically presents NIR‐II phototheranostic agents activated by various TME factors such as acidity (pH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), glutathione (GSH), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), enzymes, and their hybrid. This encompasses NIR‐II fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging diagnostics, along with therapeutic modalities, including photothermal, photodynamic, chemodynamic, and gas therapies triggered by these TME factors. Lastly, the difficulties and opportunities confronting NIR‐II activatable phototheranostic agents in the simultaneous diagnosis and treatment field are highlighted.
Schnelleres Bauen im Bestand – Herausforderungen und Chancen
Authors: von Weschpfennig Dieter , Müller Matthias , Richter Carl
Published: January 2024

Die Bilanz des Bundesministeriums aus dem Jahr 2022 zeigt auf, dass im Netz der Bundesfernstraßen ca. 11.000 Teilbauwerke zu modernisieren sind. Ziel bei der Modernisierungsmaßname Ersatzneubau ist es, den Rück‐ und Neubau mit einem Minimum an Verkehrseinschränkungen auszuführen. Daher ist es erforderlich, alle Möglichkeiten für ein schnelleres Bauen im Bestand auszuschöpfen. 81 % der Teilbauwerke im Modernisierungsnetz der Autobahn liegen im Längenbereich zwischen 2 m und 30 m. Damit wird deutlich das Standardisierungspotenzial bei Ersatzneubauten aufgezeigt. Die Aspekte Regelwerke und Rückbau von Bestandsbrücken werden beleuchtet. Vorgestellt werden Forschungsprojekte, die Wege zum innovativen, modularen und damit auch nachhaltigen Ersatzneubau aufzeigen. Ergänzend werden Ergebnisse aus dem Forschungsvorhaben „Fertigteile aus hochfestem Beton“ vorgestellt, mit denen der Einsatzbereich von Fertigteilen im Brückenbau deutlich erweitert wird. Abschließend wird auf die Themen Digitalisierung und Vertragsgestaltung eingegangen, die ebenfalls Potenzial für ein schnelleres Bauen aufweisen. Bei allen Stakeholdern sind große Anstrengungen erforderlich, damit die immense Aufgabe erfüllt werden kann.
Young children's right to be heard on the quality of their education: Addressing potential misunderstandings in the context of early childhood education
Authors: Lundy Laura , Murray Colette , Smith Kylie , Ward Carmel
Published: January 2024

In early childhood education many researchers and professionals across the world have embraced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child's requirement to include young children in decision‐making. In the context of ongoing discussion about young children's capacity to share their views and opinions about matters affecting them, there is often a focus on demonstrating ‘evidence’ that young children can participate in decision‐making as capable meaning‐makers in their own lives, defying traditional paternalistic approaches and assumptions. While acknowledging the important work that has been undertaken to support children's participatory rights, this article seeks to raise questions about whether understanding the right of young children to be heard, particularly in relation to the quality of their education, may have been subject to a form of ‘rights inflation’ that has extended the scope of the application of the right beyond the parameters of the legal framework and/or promoted an interpretation which exceeds what the text of the Convention can bear. In this article, we explore three possible misrepresentations relating to young children's participation in decision‐making related to the quality of education: (1) that all children can, should and want to have opportunities to share views on all matters affecting them; (2) that young children should always be allowed to learn and play freely; and (3) that children aretheexperts in their worlds. We do this to open up a conversation about the limits and partiality of young children's participation when viewed through the lens of children's human rights, highlighting, inter alia, the ongoing need to underscore the role of parents/guardians and professionals in enabling young children to enjoy all of their human rights, including the right to a quality education, fully.
Untersuchungen zur Streuung der Betondruckfestigkeit beim Neubau aktueller Brückenbauwerke
Authors: Kainz Christian , Braml Thomas
Published: January 2024

Bei der Bemessung neuer Bauwerke sowie bei der Nachrechnung bestehender Bauwerke werden streuende Größen wie Materialeigenschaften oder Bauteilabmessungen durch Rechenwerte abgebildet. Bei der Betondruckfestigkeit handelt es sich um eine streuende Größe. Kleinere Streuungen ermöglichen den Ansatz von günstigeren Materialkennwerten, da dadurch Unsicherheiten verringert werden. Vor rund 50 Jahren wurden diese Streueigenschaften grundlegend erforscht und die Ergebnisse sind daraufhin in die nationale und internationale Normung angewandt worden. Viele am Bau Beteiligte berichten von deutlichen Steigerungen der tatsächlichen Betonfestigkeiten sowie konstanteren Eigenschaften in den letzten Jahrzehnten. Vor dem Hintergrund der verbesserten Produktionsbedingungen sowie der dringenden Notwendigkeit zur Ressourceneinsparung wird im vorliegenden Beitrag anhand von mehreren aktuellen Brückenbaumaßnahmen im süddeutschen Raum untersucht, in welchem Maße sich die Streuung der Betondruckfestigkeit gegenüber den bisherigen Annahmen verändert hat. Dazu werden die Ergebnisse der Druckfestigkeitsprüfungen von knapp 600 Prüfkörpern statistisch ausgewertet. Die Analyse zeigt für aktuelle Neubaumaßnahmen von Brücken eine wesentlich kleinere Streuung als bisher angenommen. Abschließend wird dieses Ergebnis in den historischen Kontext eingeordnet und mögliche Ursachen erläutert.
The adverse characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma in the non‐cirrhotic liver disproportionately disadvantage Black patients
Authors: Shaltiel Tali , Sarpel Umut , Branch Andrea D.
Published: January 2024

Background

Black patients have higher hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)‐related mortality than White patients and more often develop HCC in non‐cirrhotic liver. HCC surveillance is primarily directed toward cirrhotic patients. We aimed to characterize HCC in non‐cirrhotic patients and to identify factors associated with HCC beyond Milan criteria.

Methods

Demographic, imaging, laboratory, and pathology data of HCC patients at our institution, 2003–2018, were reviewed, retrospectively. Race/ethnicity were self‐reported. Cirrhosis was defined as a Fibrosis‐4 score ≥3.25.

Results

Compared to 1146 cirrhotic patients, 411 non‐cirrhotic patients had larger tumors (median 4.7 cm vs. 3.1 cm, p < 0.01) and were less likely to be within Milan criteria (42.6% vs. 57.7%, p < 0.01). Among non‐cirrhotic patients, Black patients had larger tumors (4.9 cm vs. 4.3 cm, p < 0.01) and a higher percentage of poorly differentiated tumors (39.4% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.02). Among cirrhotic patients, Black patients had larger tumors (3.3 cm vs. 3.0 cm, p = 0.03) and were less likely to be within Milan criteria (52.3% vs. 83.2%, p < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, lack of commercial insurance (OR 1.45 [CI 95% 1.19–1.83], p < 0.01), male sex (OR 1.34 [CI 95% 1.05–1.70], p < 0.01), absence of cirrhosis (OR 1.58 [CI 95% 1.27–1.98], p < 0.01) and Black race/ethnicity (OR 1.34 [CI 95% 1.09–1.66], p = 0.01) were associated with HCC beyond Milan criteria. Black patients had lower survival rates than other patients (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Non‐cirrhotic patients had more advanced HCC than cirrhotic patients. Black patients (with or without cirrhosis) had more advanced HCC than comparable non‐Black patients and higher mortality rates. Improved access to healthcare (commercial insurance) may increase early diagnosis (within Milan criteria) and reduce disparities.
Phenotype analysis of families with TP53 germline variants at the Center for Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Cologne
Authors: Kast K. , Rhiem K. , Larsen M. , Wappenschmidt B. , Schmutzler R.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Tumor protein p53 (TP53) pathogenic variant (PV) carriers are identified during genetic testing for hereditary causes of cancer. PVs in TP53 are associated with the Li‐Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), and thus, surveillance and preventive measures are important for TP53 PV carriers. However, the penetrance of TP53 PVs can be low if the Chompret criteria are not fulfilled. In this study, we compared the phenotypic characteristics of families that did and did not fulfill the LFS criteria according to Chompret.

Methods

The German Consortium for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (GC‐HBOC) database was used to identify index patients with a likely pathogenic/pathogenic TP53 variant and their family members. The study investigated the type of variant, pedigree, age of onset, number of primary tumors, and histological type of BC.

Results

TP53 PV were present in the index cases of 35 families, 57% (20/35) of which fulfilled the Chompret criteria. The median age of onset at first BC diagnosis was lower in families that fulfilled the Chompret criteria compared to those who did not. Four of all diseased individuals were minors (4%; 4/105) when malignancy was first diagnosed. Sarcomas and brain tumors occurred in 10% (10/105) and in 7% (7/105) of all diseased persons, respectively. BC was the most frequently occurring first tumor (60%; 62/105) and additional malignancy (45%; 20/44) in this cohort. Subsequent malignancies developed in 31% (20/65) of the individuals who fulfilled the Chompret criteria compared with 15% (6/40) of those who did not.

Conclusion

The tumor spectrum and age of onset found in this study showed that tumors other than BC had low disease penetrance in TP53 PV carriers identified using the GC‐HBOC criteria for genetic testing.
Biomarkers of peripheral blood neutrophil extracellular traps in the diagnosis and progression of malignant tumors
Authors: Wang Min , Lv Xiaoyan , Wang Ying , Li Yao , Li Honghong , Shen Zhongjun , Zhao Liyan
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

The mortality rate associated with malignant tumors remains high and there is a lack of effective diagnostic and tumor progression markers. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can promote tumor‐associated thrombosis, invasive metastasis, and inflammatory responses, but there is a lack of research on the value of measuring NETs in the peripheral blood of patients with malignancies.

Methods

We included 263 patients with malignancies (55 gliomas, 101 ovarian, 64 colorectal, and 43 lung cancers) and 75 healthy controls in this study. We compared the levels of citrullinated histone H3 (citH3), cell‐free DNA (cfDNA), and systemic inflammation‐related parameters, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, platelets, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, systemic immune inflammation index, and systemic inflammation response index. We assessed the value of changes in NETs in peripheral blood to determine the diagnosis, venous thromboembolism, clinical staging, and systemic inflammatory response in patients with malignancy.

Results

The levels of citH3 and cfDNA in peripheral blood can distinguish between healthy controls and tumor patients. The levels of citH3 and cfDNA before clinical intervention did not predict the risk of combined venous thromboembolism in oncology patients in the short‐term after clinical intervention. The levels of citH3, cfDNA, and systemic inflammation‐related parameters in the peripheral blood of tumor patients increased with the clinical stage. There was a correlation between cfDNA levels in peripheral blood and systemic inflammation‐related parameters in tumor patients, and this correlation was more significant in patients with advanced tumors.

Conclusions

Changes in NETs in the peripheral blood differ between healthy controls and patients with malignant tumors. NETs may be involved in tumor‐induced systemic inflammatory responses through interaction with circulating inflammatory cells, thus promoting tumor progression. NETs may be used as markers to assist in the diagnosis and progression of tumor malignancy.
In silico Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine Derivatives for Cancer Therapy – A Preliminary Study on the Inhibitory Potential towards ATR Kinase Domain and PIKK Family
Authors: Sirakanyan Samvel N. , Dilip Haritha , Geronikaki Athina , Spinelli Domenico , Kirubakaran Sivapriya , Petrou Anthi , Hakobyan Elmira K. , Kartsev Victor G. , Paronikyan Ervand G. , Yegoryan Hasmik A. , Yermalovyan Lilit V. , Hovakimyan Anush A.
Published: January 2024

Continuing our studies in the field of new heterocyclic compounds with biological interest, herein we report the synthesis and anticancer activity of new N‐ and S‐substituted derivatives of tetracyclic pyrido[3′,2′ : 4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidines. In this regard, starting from the thieno[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carboxylates, the corresponding 8(9)‐aminopyrido[3′,2′ : 4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidin‐7(8)‐ones, as well as chloro derivatives were obtained. Based on the latter, amino, hydrazino and S‐alkyl derivatives of pyrido[3′,2′ : 4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidines were synthesized subsequently. The current study focuses on identifying the potential of thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine derivatives primarily towards ATR kinase inhibition, through computational predictions, followed by synthesis and cancer cell viability studies, along with an aim to develop the core as PIKK inhibitors for cancer therapy.
Upper gastrointestinal tract immune‐related adverse events: Two cases of obstructive complications occurred in immune consolidation therapy after sequential chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for refractory/relapsed diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Chunrui , Cao Yang , Wang Na , Huang Liang , Shang Zhen , Wang Jue , Huang Lifang , Xu Jinhuan , Xiao Min , Chen Liting , Zhu Xiaojian , Zhang Yicheng , Xiao Yi
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a very popular method of treating malignant tumors. But its side effects cannot be ignored. This study revealed obstructive complications during immune consolidation therapy following sequential chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in two patients with diffuse large b cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Both our patients had the same symptoms of vomiting and inability to eat due to pyloric obstruction, it should be highlighted that this is a relatively rare and irreversible complication of upper gastrointestinal caused by immune consolidation therapy.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become the standard therapy for many malignant tumors.However, ICIs are associated with unique immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) caused by dysregulated immune activation and associated complications have been observed in patients. Here, we report two cases of patients with pyloric obstruction and duodenal ulcers induced by the use of sintilimab, which provides some guidance for the widely used anti‐programmed death‐1 therapy. During the entire treatment progression for such patients, the correct differential diagnosis of adverse effects and the use of immunosuppressive agents such as glucocorticoids are essential to facilitate early prevention and intervention of irAEs.
Misdiagnosed gastric diverticulum as a left adrenal lesion on imaging
Authors: Zhang Jing‐Yan , Qian Chenchen , Pan Chun‐Wu
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Gastric diverticulum in the posterior wall of the stomach is very rare, and it is easy to be misdiagnosed as a left adrenal mass on imaging. Therefore, we must consider the possibility of gastric diverticulum when diagnosing a left adrenal mass.

This paper reports a case of gastric diverticulum that was misdiagnosed as a left adrenal mass on abdominal enhanced CT. The patient underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy, but there was no mass in the left adrenal found during surgery. After the incision of the retroperitoneum, a cystic mass was found adjacent to the posterior gastric wall which turned out to be gastric diverticulum. This case suggests that gastric diverticulum, a rare disease, may be interpreted as an adrenal mass on imaging. Therefore, as a urologist, the gastric diverticulum must be excluded when CT suggests a mass in the left adrenal region.
Radiographic and serologic response in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma receiving systemic antineoplastic treatments: A trial‐level analysis
Authors: Colloca Giuseppe A. , Venturino Antonella
Published: January 2024

Background

In a disease like unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, overall survival is an inadequate outcome measure for evaluating the effectiveness of treatments given the high risk of death from liver failure. There is an unmet need for reliable alternative end points for clinical trials and daily clinical practice. To evaluate treatment response in patients with unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (mHCC), imaging‐related end points are often used, whereas serologic end points have been developed for patients with serum alpha‐fetoprotein levels >20 ng/mL. The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical trials that report concomitant assessment of radiographic and serologic response in patients with mHCC.

Methods

After a systematic review, studies that evaluated response according to radiographic and serologic criteria were selected. A correlation between progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was performed, and a linear regression of each response‐related outcome measure with OS was reported. Finally, the effect of eight baseline variables on OS and response‐related measures was evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐six studies were included, including 16 first‐line studies and 10 second‐line studies. PFS and response rates demonstrated a significant relationship with OS, whereas disease control rates did not. The responses were correlated with OS, particularly in the first‐line setting, after targeted therapy, and whenever assessment was early. Among the baseline variables, only performance status had a prognostic role, whereas hepatitis B virus‐related liver disease was associated with higher radiographic response rates.

Conclusions

PFS and radiographic and serologic response rates appear to be reliable intermediate end points in patients with mHCC who are undergoing systemic antineoplastic therapy. However, the serologic response is available earlier.
SMAD4 inhibits glycolysis in ovarian cancer through PI3K/AKT/HK2 signaling pathway by activating ARHGAP10
Authors: Wu Kui , Gong Wei , Sun Huanmei , Li Wenjiao , Chen Li , Duan Yingchun , Zhu Jianlong , Zhang Hu , Ke Huihui
Published: January 2024

Background

ARHGAP10 is a tumor‐suppressor gene related to ovarian cancer (OC) progression; however, its specific mechanism is unclear.

Aims

To investigate the effect of ARHGAP10 on OC cell migration, invasion, and glycolysis.

Methods and Results

Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) quantified mRNA and protein expressions of AKT, p‐AKT, HK2, and SMAD4 were tested by Western blot. EdU, Wound healing, and Transwell assay were utilized to evaluate OC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. We used a Seahorse XF24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer to monitor cellular oxygen consumption rates (OCR) and extracellular acidification rates (ECAR). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) was used to analyze the transcriptional regulation of ARHGAP10 by SMAD4. ARHGAP10 expression in OC tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed that ARHGAP10 expression was negatively related to lactate levels in human OC tissues. ARHGAP10 overexpression can inhibit the migration, proliferation, and invasion of OC cells, and this function can be blocked by 2‐Deoxy‐D‐glucose. Moreover, we found that ARHGAP10 expression can be rescued with the AKT inhibitor LY294002.

Conclusions

This study revealed that the antitumor effects of ARHGAP10 in vivo and in vitro possibly suppress oncogenic glycolysis through the PI3K/AKT/HK2‐regulated glycolysis metabolism pathway.
Intravenous Ganaxolone: Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Safety, and Tolerability in Healthy Adults
Authors: Gasior Maciej , Husain Aatif , Barra Megan E. , Raja Shruti M. , MacLeod David , Guptill Jeffrey T. , Vaitkevicius Henrikas , Rybak Eva
Published: January 2024

Ganaxolone, a neuroactive steroid anticonvulsant that modulates both synaptic and extrasynaptic γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors, is in development for treatment of status epilepticus (SE) and rare epileptic disorders, and has been approved in the United States for treatment of seizures associated with cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 deficiency disorder in patients ≥2 years old. This phase 1 study in 36 healthy volunteers evaluated the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of intravenous ganaxolone administered as a (i) single bolus, (ii) infusion, and (iii) bolus followed by continuous infusion. After a single bolus over 2 minutes (20 mg) or 5 minutes (10 or 30 mg), ganaxolone was detected in plasma with a median Tmax of 5 minutes, whereas a 60‐minute infusion (10 or 30 mg) or a bolus (6 mg over 5 minutes) followed by infusion (20 mg/h) for 4 hours achieved a median Tmax of approximately 1 and 3 hours, respectively. Cmax was dose and administration‐time dependent, ranging from 73.8 ng/mL (10 mg over 5 minutes) to 1240 ng/mL (30 mg over 5 minutes). Bolus doses above 10 mg of ganaxolone markedly influenced the bispectral index score with a rapid decline; smaller changes occurred on the Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scale and in quantitative electroencephalogram. Most adverse events were of mild severity, with 2 events of moderate severity; none were reported as serious. No effects on systemic hemodynamics or respiratory functions were reported. Overall, ganaxolone was generally well tolerated at the doses studied and demonstrated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties suitable to treat SE.
In situ synthesis of AgI on the nanosilica surface for potential application as a cloud seeding material
Authors: Nosach Liudmyla , Bodnar Yankovych Halyna , Skwarek Ewa , Melnyk Inna
Published: January 2024

A series of nanosilica/AgI composites was synthesized by in situ reactions between silver nitrate and ammonium iodide deposited on the nanosilica surface using the gas‐phase solvate‐stimulated mechanosorption modification (GSSMSM) under both dry and wet conditions. The characterization of the synthesized materials was performed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy‐Energy Dispersive X‐ray), thermogravimetric (TGA) and gas sorption methods. As a result of the mechanosorption modification of nanosilica, the bulk density of the samples synthesized in the dry and wet medium increases from 45 g/l for initial nanosilica to 249 g/l and 296 g/l for the modified samples, respectively. The specific surface area of the composites decreased in compared to the nanosilica precursor. The SEM data showed a denser aggregate structure of the nanocomposites compared to the initial nanosilica. The XRD, SEM/EDX and TEM/EDX data indicated the formation of AgI clusters. The AgI particle size was in the range of 6–45 nm. The ice‐forming activity of the AgI‐containing samples was examined as well. The sample with a smaller size of silver iodide on the surface exhibited superior ice‐forming properties, and considering the quantity of utilized AgI, the prepared samples hold promise for application in this field.
Quantitative Model‐Based Assessment of Multiple Sickle Cell Disease Therapeutic Approaches Alone and in Combination
Authors: Moody Amy T. , Narula Jatin , Maurer Tristan S.
Published: January 2024

Three sickle cell disease (SCD) treatment strategies, stabilizing oxygenated hemoglobin (oxyHb), lowering 2,3‐BPG, and inducing fetal hemoglobin (HbF) expression aim to prevent red blood cell (RBC) sickling by reducing tense‐state sickle hemoglobin that contributes to polymer formation. Induction of 30% HbF is seen as the gold standard because 30% endogenous expression is associated with a lack of symptoms. However, the level of intervention required to achieve equivalent polymerization protection by the other strategies is uncertain, and there is little understanding of how these approaches could work in combination. We sought to develop an oxygen saturation model that could assess polymerization protection of all three approaches alone or in combination by extending the Monod‐Wymann‐Changeux model to include additional mechanisms. Applying the model to monotherapies suggests 51% sickle hemoglobin (HbS) occupancy with an oxyHb stabilizer or lowering RBC 2,3 BPG concentrations to 1.8 mM would produce comparable polymerization protection as 30% HbF. The model predictions are consistent with observed clinical response to the oxyHb stabilizer voxelotor and the 2,3‐BPG reducer etavopivat. The model also suggests combination therapy will have added benefit in the case of dose limitations, as is the case for voxelotor, which the model predicts could be combined with 20% HbF or 2,3‐BPG reduction to 3.75 mM to reach equivalent protection as 30% HbF. The proposed model represents a unified framework that is useful in supporting decisions in preclinical and early clinical development and capable of evolving with clinical experience to gain new and increasingly confident insights into treatment strategies for SCD.
Biomass partitioning reveals the adaptability of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) in an arid ecosystem in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Tan Jin , Wu Xiuqin , He Yuxin , Li Yaning , Li Xu , Yu Xiaomeng
Published: January 2024

Tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.) have been widely cultivated as a bioenergy crop in northern China. The value of tubers is receiving special attention, but the lack of information on how organs of tiger nuts coordinate resources to adapt to arid environments has limited the potential tuber production and diverse use. To address this knowledge gap, we experimented in the Ulan Buh Desert, Inner Mongolia (106° 33′ 28″ E, 40° 27′ 32″ N). Three fertilizer treatments were applied: zero fertilizer (N:P = 0:0), traditional fertilizer (N:P = 15:15), and additional nitrogen fertilizer (N:P = 60:15). Investigations were conducted at seedling, rhizome production, tuber formation, and tuber maturation stages. The results showed that under zero fertilizer, tiger nuts allocated biomass predominantly to propagative organs, namely rhizomes and tubers. However, an increase in leaf area or root surface area would necessitate more investment in leaf or root dry mass, resulting in diminishing returns. For biomass allocation, tiger nut responded the same way to traditional fertilizer treatment and zero fertilizer treatment, but the tuber number and yield increase under traditional fertilizer application. Additional nitrogen fertilizer stimulated shoot production through accelerated rhizome production aided by leaf area increasing. Fertilizer application can significantly increase both the number of tiger nuts and tuber yield. Nitrogen addition positively influenced aboveground biomass and enhanced rhizome tillering. Strong adaptability of tiger nuts makes the plant a suitable pioneer crop for developing marginal lands. The robust aboveground growth after nitrogen application enhances suitability for pasture utilization.
The impact of the environmental, social and governance dimensions of sustainability on firm risk in the hospitality and tourism industry
Authors: García C. José , Herrero Begoña , Morillas‐Jurado Francisco
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the relationship between adherence to corporate social responsibility goals and firm financial risk. Data on an international sample of 209 firms were collected for the period 2002 to 2022. Firm risk was proxied using stock return volatility and probability of default. The results show that the environmental performance of hospitality and tourism firms unequivocally influences firm risk, whether this risk is quantified as probability of default or volatility of stock market returns. This finding confirms that the adoption of environmentally sustainable and responsible practices is crucial not only for the environment but also for the stability of hospitality and tourism firms.
Molecular Symmetry of Small‐Molecule Passivating Agents Improves Crystal Quality of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Jialing , He Jingwen , Wu Wenjun
Published: January 2024

Direct interaction with the defect sites of perovskite, functional groups have become the focal point of attention as passivating agents. However, the molecular parent nucleus determines the overall physical properties of the molecule, including the push‐pull electronic characteristics of the functional groups, which poses significant challenges in terms of selectivity. Here, we discovered that the binary acid structure based on thiophene as the parent nucleus, due to changes in molecular symmetry, caused significant changes in the molecular dipole moment, resulting in significant changes in the passivation effects on under‐coordinated Pb2+ in perovskite solar cells. For the axially symmetric thiophen‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid (TPDC), the high dipole moment formed a concentrated surface negative potential on the carboxyl group, showing significant superiority over the centrally symmetric thieno[3,2‐b] thiophene‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid (TTDC) in forming high‐quality perovskite crystals, suppressing charge recombination, enhancing effective charge transport, and raising internal electric fields. The power conversion efficiencies of the fully printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells based on TPDC and TTDC were 17.15 % and 14.79 %, respectively, exhibiting important research value in the field of small molecule passivation mechanism research.