bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Configuration Tuning of Centrally Extended Non‐Fullerene Acceptors Enabling Organic Solar Cells with Efficiency Approaching 19 %
Authors: Duan Tainan , Feng Wanying , Li Yulu , Li Zhixiang , Zhang Zhe , Liang Huazhe , Chen Hongbin , Zhong Cheng , Jeong Seonghun , Yang Changduk , Chen Shanshan , Lu Shirong , Rakitin Oleg A. , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Kan Bin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2023

In the molecular optimizations of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs), extending the central core can tune the energy levels, reduce nonradiative energy loss, enhance the intramolecular (donor‐acceptor and acceptor‐acceptor) packing, facilitate the charge transport, and improve device performance. In this study, a new strategy was employed to synthesize acceptors featuring conjugation‐extended electron‐deficient cores. Among these, the acceptor CH‐BBQ, embedded with benzobisthiadiazole, exhibited an optimal fibrillar network morphology, enhanced crystallinity, and improved charge generation/transport in blend films, leading to a power conversion efficiency of 18.94 % for CH‐BBQ‐based ternary organic solar cells (OSCs; 18.19 % for binary OSCs) owing to its delicate structure design and electronic configuration tuning. Both experimental and theoretical approaches were used to systematically investigate the influence of the central electron‐deficient core on the properties of the acceptor and device performance. The electron‐deficient core modulation paves a new pathway in the molecular engineering of NFAs, propelling relevant research forward.
Efficient and Direct Functionalization of Allylic sp3 C−H Bonds with Concomitant CO2 Reduction
Authors: Qi Ming‐Yu , Xu Yi‐Jun
Published: August 2023

Solar‐driven CO2 reduction integrated with C−C/C−X bond‐forming organic synthesis represents a substantially untapped opportunity to simultaneously tackle carbon neutrality and create an atom‐/redox‐economical chemical synthesis. Herein, we demonstrate the first cooperative photoredox catalysis of efficient and tunable CO2 reduction to syngas, paired with direct alkylation/arylation of unactivated allylic sp3 C−H bonds for accessing allylic C−C products, over SiO2‐supported single Ni atoms‐decorated CdS quantum dots (QDs). Our protocol not only bypasses additional oxidant/reductant and pre‐functionalization of organic substrates, affording a broad of allylic C−C products with moderate to excellent yields, but also produces syngas with tunable CO/H2 ratios (1 : 2–5 : 1). Such win‐win coupling catalysis highlights the high atom‐, step‐ and redox‐economy, and good durability, illuminating the tantalizing possibility of a renewable sunlight‐driven chemical feedstocks manufacturing industry.
Extraction of rosmarinic acid from Salvia officinalis L. using tunable deep eutectic solvent and its physiochemical properties
Authors: Albalushi Alaa , Chua Bee Lin , Ghanem Nader , Ali Ameena , Tee Lee Hong , Wong Wai Yin
Published: August 2023

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a phenolic compound known for its remarkable antioxidant, antiallergic, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic and anti‐inflammatory properties, making it highly valuable for diverse industrial applications such as medicine formulation, cosmetic production and food additives. This study focused on the green extraction of RA and antioxidants from Salvia officinalis L. using deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Various DESs were prepared using choline chloride (ChCl) as the sole hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) with various hydrogen bond donors (HBDs), including acetic acid (AA), propanoic acid (PA), malonic acid (MA) and ethylene glycol (EG) at different compositions (1:1, 1:2 and 2:1) and water content (0–30%). The resulting clear and homogeneous DESs were characterised by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, density measurements and Nile red assay to investigate their physicochemical properties. Ultrasound‐assisted extraction was performed with the successfully formed DESs at 70°C for 30 min, using a solid‐solvent ratio of 1:30 g/mL to extract RA and antioxidants from S. officinalis L. leaves. Stable DESs (ChCl‐AA, ChCl‐MA, ChCl‐PA and ChCl‐PG) were formed at the molar ratio of 1:2. The formation of hydrogen bonds in the DESs was confirmed by FTIR spectra (3800–3000 cm−1). The DESs densities decreased with increasing temperature and water content. ChCl‐MA DES was the most polar, with the lowest transition energy,
value of 44.672 kcal mol−1. ChCl‐EG DES extract (1:2 molar ratio, 30% water content) yielded the highest RA (49.619 ppm), which is 12.2% higher than the methanol extract. ChCl‐MA DES extract (1:2 molar ratio, 10% water content) showed 11.57% higher antioxidant activity than methanol extract, with an inhibition percentage of 92.663%. Overall, ChCl‐EG (30% water content) and ChCl‐MA (10% water content) at the molar ratio of 1:2 are viable green alternatives to conventional solvents for extracting RA and antioxidants from S. officinalis L., respectively.
Effect of transverse vortex on performance of wave plate demister
Authors: Yang Laishun , Cui Yi , Wang Zhen , Sun Peipei , Cui Weiwei , Wang Cuiping
Published: August 2023

Corrugated plate mist eliminators are commonly employed in industrial processes to eliminate liquid droplets from gas flows. Engineering a mist eliminator with excellent separation performance including high removal efficiency and low pressure drop and is a primary consideration in industrial processes. This study focuses on the separation of tiny droplets reinforced by the generation of transverse vortices with the help of curved wings. The Euler–Lagrange model is developed to predict the behavior of droplets in gas streams, and velocity distributions and particle trajectories on the demisters were derived. And the prediction equations of the curved wing structure sizes on the efficiency and pressure drop of the mist eliminator are established. The results demonstrated that the grade separation efficiency of 10~20 μm droplet was significantly improved by 25.7%~66.51%. Moreover, for the total removal efficiency, it could be improved from .8 to .92 at 5.5 m s−1, and the accompanying resistance factor was as low as 2.7. Among the proposed arrangements, the double‐row single‐column array arrangement was characterized by higher demisting efficiency and lower pressure drop. Overall, compared to other optimization methods, this proposed optimization approach by means of transverse vortices yielded a higher demisting efficiency and less pressure drop.
Improved performance of polyvinylidene fluoride membrane blended with modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes by electret treatment
Authors: Shi Yuting , Wang Huashan , Hou Xiurong , Chen Anli , Yue Zhouyao
Published: August 2023

In this paper, electret treatment was used to enhance the electrostatic repulsion between the membrane and bovine serum albumin, so as to improve the anti‐fouling ability and recycling rate of the membrane. The polarization charge is provided by the dipole orientation of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) materials, and the space charge is composed of the interfacial charge between the filler and the matrix and the bulk charge of the hollow structure of the multi‐walled carbon nanotubes. The results showed that after electret treatment, the surface potential of the membrane increased, the PVDF crystal type changed from α to β, and the crystallinity increased. Grafting of N‐vinylpyrrolidone onto multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs‐g‐PVP), which contain a large number of hydrophilic groups after modification, reduces the contact angle of the composite film from 86.9° to 62.7°. The pure water flux and flux recovery rate of MWCNTs‐g‐PVP/PVDF composite membranes after electret treatment was increased from 189.31 L·m−2·h−1 and 90% to 233.55 L·m−2·h−1 and 94.7%, respectively, and the rejection rate increased about 30%. Through the circulation experiment, it can be seen that the anti‐fouling performance and recycling rate of the membrane is improved, which is caused by electrostatic repulsion.
Micro is beautiful. Adoption of eco‐innovations in micro‐firms
Authors: Pronti Andrea , Zecca Emy , Antonioli Davide
Published: August 2023

In Europe, micro‐firms contribute significantly to both the economy and the environmental impact on ecosystems. Helping them become greener and stimulating innovation toward new sustainable and circular solutions could substantially contribute to the European goal of achieving carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability, as promoted by the European Green Deal and Next Generation EU programs. Nevertheless, eco‐innovation (EI) by micro‐firms is studied little in the literature. In this paper, we analyze the main determinants of conventional and EI adoption by micro‐firms. We used an ad‐hoc survey developed for enterprises in Emilia‐Romagna (Italy), an important region in terms of innovation where micro‐firms play a significant role in the economy. The paper analyzes whether human capital, training, R&D activities, collaboration activities to improve learning, and the environmental culture within the firm act as main determinants of innovation adoption, in addition to other standard drivers and barriers to innovation adoption studied in the extant literature. Moreover, we compare innovation adoption strategies between micro‐firms and SMEs. While our results highlight differences in the determinants of EI and conventional innovation adoption, there are important heterogeneities when it comes to innovation adoption strategies.
Management of hormonal induced recurrent ulcerative fibrous epulis with osseous metaplasia: A case report
Authors: Bakr Mahmoud , Al‐Ankily Mahmoud , Khzam Nabil
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Understanding the role of hormones in periodontitis is important. Periodontal microscopic surgery approach in the treatment of fibrous epulis is not indicated. Wider flap access with root planning is indicated to control the lesion in one phase.

We present a case of a 40‐year‐old female who presented with a gingival hyperplastic lesion around the maxillary left permanent central and lateral incisors. Patient's medical history reveals a recent pregnancy, hypothyroidism, ulcerative colitis, and schizoaffective disorder. All medical conditions were controlled by medications. The lesion was excised using a minimally invasive periodontal surgical technique, and the biopsy results confirmed a diagnosis of ulcerative fibrous epulis with osseous metaplasia. No curettage or local debridement was done under the assumption that the patient's oral hygiene was satisfactory and due to aesthetic concerns of gingival recession and creation of black triangles. The lesion recurred after 3 months and was removed using a traditional more invasive surgical technique. The patient was followed up for 2 years, and there was no further recurrence due to the complete excision of the lesion in the second surgery and the disappearance of the hormonal‐related factors post‐pregnancy that could have contributed to the gingival hyperplasia. The unique component of the case we are presenting is the comparison between two different surgical techniques and the conduction versus absence of local periodontal debridement after surgical excision as well as the possible correlation between oral supplements and the calcific nature of the lesion(s) reported. The case we present demonstrates that a more invasive traditional surgical approach together with local periodontal therapy provide an optimum treatment outcome in conjunction with elimination of any associated etiological factors. We also propose that hormones are more important as an etiological factor in developing fibrous epulis lesions than medical conditions and medications.
Conservative management and follow‐up of bilateral condylar fractures in pediatric patients: A case report
Authors: Nourwali Ibrahim , Aljohani Marwan
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Conservative treatment of bilateral condylar fractures, including intermaxillary fixation using arch bars and elastic bands, yields satisfactory results in pediatric patients. Therefore, the conservative approach should be considered the first line of treatment for bilateral condylar mandibular fractures in pediatric patients.

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are considered the leading cause of mortality and morbidity of children and adults in Saudi Arabia. Head injuries and fractures are the most common form of injuries resulting from RTAs, with mandibular fractures being the most common head injury; condylar fractures are the most frequent type of mandibular fracture. A review of the literature reveals diverse opinions about the best approach for treating bilateral condylar fractures in pediatric patients. The findings of the literature review are reported in this study. The case presented here shows the result of adopting a conservative approach to treating a bilateral extracapsular displaced condylar fracture. An elastic band was fixed onto intermaxillary fixation (IMF) screws at the midline upper and lower jaws; the patient was followed up for almost 3 years. The conservative approach yielded excellent results, as both condyles were fully repositioned and healed, without causing any deviation or limitation of the mouth opening. The results of this case support considering the conservative approach as the first line of treatment for bilateral condylar mandibular fractures in pediatric patients.
Decreased epidermal AXL expression and increased infiltration of AXL‐expressing dendritic cells in psoriasis
Authors: Ito Yukiko , Shibata Sayaka , Koyama Asumi , Li Lixin , Sugimoto Eiki , Taira Haruka , Mizuno Yuka , Awaji Kentaro , Sato Shinichi
Published: August 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammatory disease characterized by epidermal proliferation and inflammatory cell infiltration. AXL is a tyrosine kinase receptor that promotes cell proliferation and invasion in cancer cells, and its expression is elevated in multiple tumors. However, less is known about its expression and function in inflammatory diseases.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to examine AXL expression in psoriasis and investigate the biological function of AXL under psoriatic conditions.

Results

AXL mRNA expression was decreased in psoriatic skin compared to healthy skin, and an inverse correlation with neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio was observed. Immunohistochemical staining of psoriatic skin revealed decreased AXL expression of the epidermis and an increased number of AXL‐positive dendritic cells in the dermis. Stimulation of epidermal keratinocytes with antimicrobial peptide LL37, but not with IL‐17A, resulted in decreased AXL expression. Knockdown of AXL in epidermal keratinocytes did not affect cell proliferation or expression of psoriasis‐associated cytokines and chemokines.

Conclusion

Decreased epidermal AXL expression and increased infiltration of AXL‐expressing dendritic cells were revealed in psoriasis.
Safety and efficacy of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in the very elderly (≥80 years old): Insights from the UC San Diego AF Ablation Registry
Authors: Aldaas Omar M. , Darden Douglas , Mylavarapu Praneet S. , Aldaas Amer M. , Han Frederick T. , Hoffmayer Kurt S. , Krummen David , Ho Gordon , Raissi Farshad , Feld Gregory K. , Hsu Jonathan C.
Published: August 2023

Background

Catheter ablation improves outcomes in symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. However, its safety and efficacy in the very elderly (≥80 years old) is not well described.

Hypothesis

Ablation of AF in the very elderly is safe and effective.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all patients who underwent catheter ablation enrolled in the University of California, San Diego AF Ablation Registry. The primary outcome was freedom from atrial arrhythmias on or off antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs).

Results

Of 847 patients, 42 (5.0%) were 80 years of age or greater with a median age of 81.5 (80–82.3) and 805 (95.0%) were less than 80 years of age with a median age of 64.4 (57.6–70.2). Among those who were ≥80 years old, 29 were undergoing de novo ablation (69.0%), whereas in the younger cohort, 518 (64.5%) were undergoing de novo ablation (p = .548). There were no statistically significant differences in fluoroscopy (p = .406) or total procedure times (p = .076), AAD use (p = .611), or procedural complications (p = .500) between groups. After multivariable adjustment, there were no statistically significant differences in recurrence of any atrial arrhythmias on or off AAD (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR]: 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45–1.23; p = .252), all‐cause hospitalizations (AHR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.46–1.60; p = .626), or all‐cause mortality (AHR: 4.48; 95% CI: 0.59–34.07; p = .147) between the very elderly and the younger cohort.

Conclusion

In this registry analysis, catheter ablation of AF appears similarly effective and safe in patients 80 years or older when compared to a younger cohort.
Conformation of actin subunits at the barbed and pointed ends of F‐actin with and without capping proteins
Authors: Barrie Kyle R. , Carman Peter J. , Dominguez Roberto
Published: August 2023

Advances in cryo‐electron microscopy have made possible the determination of structures of the barbed and pointed ends of F‐actin, both in the absence and the presence of capping proteins that block subunit exchange. The conformation of the two exposed protomers at the barbed end resembles the “flat” conformation of protomers in the middle of F‐actin. The barbed end changes little upon binding of CapZ, which in turn undergoes a major conformational change. At the pointed end, however, protomers have the “twisted” conformation characteristic of G‐actin, whereas tropomodulin binding forces a flat conformation upon the second subunit. The structures provide a mechanistic understanding for the asymmetric addition/dissociation of actin subunits at the ends of F‐actin and open the way to future studies of other regulators of filament end dynamics.
Break and accelerator—The mechanics of Tau (and amyloid) toxicity
Authors: Cruz Esteban , Nisbet Rebecca M. , Götz Jürgen
Published: August 2023

Aggregates of the microtubule‐associated protein Tau define more than a dozen primary tauopathies, and together with amyloid‐β, the secondary tauopathy Alzheimer's disease (AD). Historically, Tau has been viewed as executor of amyloid‐β toxicity, with the two molecules working together as “trigger and bullet.” Given the two protein's opposing roles in protein translation, we wish to introduce another metaphor, borrowing from the mechanics of a car, with amyloid‐β boosting Tau translation, whereas Tau puts a break on global translation. The underlying studies entail an alternative hypothesis regarding Tau's subcellular accumulation in AD, namely its de novo synthesis in the somatodendritic domain rather than the relocalization from the axon upon dissociation from microtubules. We contest that it may be worth (given Tau's 50th birthday) to revisit some entrenched dogmas about Tau's pathophysiology.
Breast screening participation and degree of spread of invasive breast cancer at diagnosis in mental health service users: A population linkage study
Authors: Sara Grant , Lambeth Chris , Burgess Philip , Curtis Jackie , Walton Richard , Currow David
Published: August 2023

Background

Women living with mental health conditions may not have shared in improvements in breast cancer screening and care. No studies have directly examined the link between reduced screening participation and breast cancer spread in women using mental health (MH) services.

Methods

Population‐wide linkage of a population cancer register, BreastScreen register, and mental health service data set in women aged 50 to 74 years in New South Wales, Australia, from 2008 to 2017. Incident invasive breast cancers were identified. Predictors of degree of spread (local, regional, metastatic) at diagnosis were examined using partial proportional odds regression, adjusting for age, socioeconomic status, rurality, and patterns of screening participation.

Results

A total of 29 966 incident cancers were identified and included 686 (2.4%) in women with MH service before cancer diagnoses. More than half of MH service users had regional or metastatic spread at diagnosis (adjusted odds ratio, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.41‐1.89). MH service users had lower screening participation; however, advanced cancer was more common even when adjusting for screening status (adjusted odds ratio, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.32‐1.77). Advanced cancer was more common in women with severe or persistent MH conditions.

Conclusions

Low screening participation rates explain only small part of the risk of more advanced breast cancer in women who use MH services. More study is needed to understand possible mechanisms contributing to more advanced breast cancer in women living with MH conditions. Health systems need strategies to ensure that women living with MH conditions enjoy population gains in breast cancer outcomes.
Review of Studies Evaluating Effectiveness of Risk Minimization Measures Assessed by the European Medicines Agency Between 2016 and 2021
Authors: Grupstra Renske J. , Goedecke Thomas , Scheffers Jet , Strassmann Valerie , Gardarsdottir Helga
Published: August 2023

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) supervises medicines' safe and effective use throughout the product's life cycle by, for example, monitoring the implementation of risk minimization measures (RMMs). Limited information is available on factors associated with effectiveness of RMMs. This study reviews post‐authorization safety studies (PASS) evaluating the effectiveness of RMMs assessed by the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) between 2016 and 2021. PASS assessment reports finalized by PRAC between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2021, were compiled from non‐public EMA databases and PASS characteristics were extracted. Of the 93 PASS included, 62.4% aimed to measure healthcare professionals' awareness, knowledge, and behavior regarding RMMs. There were 67.7% of the 93 PASS that used primary data, 24.7% used secondary data sources, and 7.5% used both. A cross‐sectional study design was most frequently applied (77.4%), followed by a cohort study design (29.0%). Nearly 40% of the included PASS did not render a conclusion on RMM effectiveness. Of the 60% that did render a conclusion, 82.1% were deemed effective. Only minor differences in characteristics were found when stratified by outcome (i.e., effective RMM, ineffective RMM, and no conclusion on RMM effectiveness). To conclude, 4 out of 10 PASS assessing impact of RMMs did not render a conclusion on RMM effectiveness. No clear differences in PASS characteristics were found in relation to their outcomes, indicating that additional research is needed to understand better the underlying reasons for PASS being inconclusive.
Continuous winter wheat response to nitrogen fertilizer rate in long‐term reduced tillage semi‐arid variable yield environments
Authors: Obour Augustine K. , Holman Johnathan D. , Assefa Yared
Published: August 2023

Reduced tillage (RT) increased soil water storage compared with conventional tillage, enabling an associated increase in crop performance. However, information on nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates for RT systems is limited. The objectives of this long‐term study were to determine agronomic and economical optimal N rates for a continuous winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system under RT at different yield environments. This study was conducted at Kansas State University Agricultural Research Center near Hays, KS, from 1971 through 2003. There were six N fertilizer rate treatments (0, 22, 45, 67, 90, and 112 kg N ha−1) arranged in a randomized complete block design with six replications. Over the 33 years, winter wheat yields ranged from a minimum of 370 kg ha−1 to a maximum of 3948 kg ha−1 with mean yield of 2015 kg ha−1 and standard deviation of 669 kg ha−1. Agronomic optimal N rates for wheat varied from 70 in very low yield (VLY) to 79 kg N ha−1 in very high yield (VHY) environment. The economic optimal N rates estimated for continuous wheat ranged from 59 in VLY to 71 kg N ha−1 in VHY environments. However, net profits from fertilizer application ranged from $63 in VLY to $443 ha−1 in VHY environment. We concluded that applying 60–70 kg N ha−1 would optimize dryland continuous RT wheat yields and profitability, but N removal and recovery efficiency (grain N [applied N]−1) are less in lower yielding environments.
Identification and functional characterization of Si4CLL1 controlling the male sterility in the sesame genic male sterile mutant, ms1812
Authors: Guo Qiuyue , Miao Hongmei , Li Chun , Duan Yinghui , Ju Ming , Ma Qin , Wang Huili , Zhang Haiyang
Published: August 2023

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), 2n = 2x = 26, is an important oilseed crop with high heterosis potential. In this study, we explored the histological and genetic characters and causal gene of a male sterile sesame mutant, ms1812 (ms3). The microspore abortion of ms1812 that led to male sterility (MS) occurred at the tetrad stage of microspore development. No normal pollens were formed and observed in anther chambers of ms1812 at the microspore mature stage. With the aid of high‐efficient association mapping and the sesame var. Yuzhi 11 reference genome, we identified the single nucleotide polymorphism 10505640 on SiChr.3 segregating with the MS and the mutated gene, Si4cll1, controlling the recessive MS in sesame. Si4CLL1 encodes a 4‐coumarate‐CoA ligase‐like protein. The 1292th nucleotide (T1292) of Si4CLL1 mutated into A1292, resulting in the amino acid change from Ile239 to Lys239. Si4CLL1 is mainly expressed in young developing buds. Compared with the wild type, the transcript abundance of Si4cll1 in the developing buds of ms1812 reduced significantly, which might affect the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway and finally, the lignin formation of microspore cell wall. These findings provide key new information for deciphering the molecular mechanism underlying MS and hybrid variety breeding assisted by MS in sesame.
Corporate social responsibility: Formal versus informal firms
Authors: Elgin Ceyhun
Published: August 2023

In this article, using both cross‐country data including 73 countries, as well as a novel data from a firm level survey covering 1000 firms in Turkey, I investigate the relationship between informality and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Using the firm‐level data, I ask whether corporate social responsibility scores (CSR) and its relationship with firm's expected performance and profitability are different for firms mainly operating in the formal and informal sector. Cross‐country data reveals a significant negative correlation between CSR and informal sector size. On the other hand, using the firm‐level data, I find that firms that tend to engage in informal economic activities have significantly lower CSR scores. Moreover, CSR scores and firms' expected performance are generally positively correlated and this correlation is much less (and even not significantly different from zero in some cases) for informal firms. I also find some evidence that the main reason behind these results might be that firms mainly operating in the informal sector are spending significantly less to R&D and advertising as the relationship between these variables and the firm's performance and profitability is less pronounced for these firms.
Resolving tsunami wave dynamics: Integrating sedimentology and numerical modelling
Authors: Hill Jon , Rush Graham , Peakall Jeff , Johnson Michael , Hodson Luke , Barlow Natasha L. M. , Bowman Elisabeth T. , Gehrels W. Roland , Hodgson David M. , Kesserwani Georges
Published: August 2023

Tsunamis are a major hazard along many of the world's coastlines. To understand the impact of these events, a sufficiently long record of previous events is needed, which can be provided by their sedimentary deposits. A number of past events have left extensive sedimentary deposits that can be used to understand the hydrodynamics of the tsunami. The ca 8.15 ka Storegga submarine slide was a large, tsunamigenic mass movement off the coast of Norway. The resulting tsunami had estimated run‐up heights of around 10 to 20 m on the Norwegian coast, over 30 m in Shetland and 3 to 6 m on the Scottish mainland coast. New cores were taken from the Ythan Valley in North‐East Scotland, where Storegga tsunami deposits have previously been found. High‐resolution sedimentary analyses of the cores, combined with statistical (changepoint) analysis, shows signatures of multiple waves. Moreover, detailed CT scans of the erosional basal surface reveal sole marks called skim marks. Taken in conjunction with the grain size and sedimentary fabric characteristics of the tsunami deposits, this indicates that the flow exhibited a high‐concentration basal component, with an initial semi‐cohesive phase and that deposition was dominantly capacity driven. A multiple wave hypothesis is tested by creating a high‐resolution numerical model (metre‐scale) of the wave inundation, coupled to a previously published regional model. The inundation model confirms that multiple waves passed over the site in agreement with the sedimentological analysis. The sensitivity of the model to the reconstructed palaeocoastal geomorphology is quantitatively explored. It is concluded that local palaeogeomorphological reconstruction is key to understanding the hydrodynamics of a tsunami wave group in relation to its sedimentary deposit. Combining sedimentological data with high‐resolution inundation modelling is a powerful tool to help interpret the sedimentary record of tsunami events and hence to improve knowledge of their risks.
Timing of the initiation and duration of the Cretaceous extensional regime in South‐east China: Constraints from growth strata in terrigenous basins
Authors: Yu Xinqi , Hu Jun , Li Wei , Liu Kun , Hao Ran
Published: August 2023

There has been no consensus yet regarding the precise initial timing and duration of the late Mesozoic extensional tectonics in the South‐eastern China Block. This work focusses on the growth strata of the Early Cretaceous red beds in the South‐eastern China Block to determine the late Mesozoic tectonics and the precise timing of the initiation and duration of extensional tectonics in this area. Field observation of several terrigenous basins shows that the dip angles of the Cretaceous red beds have varied from moderate to gentle from basin edges to interiors (or centres). The visible and estimated thickness within a single bed increases slightly downwards from the upper to the lower part. These characteristics indicate that the sedimentary area of these beds has undergone an extensional process with expansion and deepening of the sedimentary basins. Rotation of the border surfaces (limbs) and downward warping of the hanging walls or retreat of the footwalls of listric normal faults causes three types of extensional growth (or syntectonic) strata in the deposits of different basins. Dating of the volcanic rocks related to the growth beds reveals that the sedimentary basins were enlarged and deepened when the Early Cretaceous strata were deposited in the South‐eastern China Block from ca 140 to 137 Ma. Regionally, under the influence of Palaeo‐Pacific plate rollback since ca 140 Ma, the South‐eastern China Block stress field has led to lithospheric uplift and pull‐apart structures near the surface, causing the half‐graben basins to receive sedimentation. Although the extensional event was interrupted by a short compressional event during 120 to 105 Ma, with the oceanward retreat of the trench, the area of extension gradually enlarged and rejuvenated south‐eastwards until the end of the Cretaceous. This Cretaceous extension event of the South‐eastern China Block must belong to a worldwide geological event with global significance.
Record of palaeoclimate across theCretaceous–Palaeogeneboundary from palaeosols in the west‐central San Juan Basin, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Tanner Lawrence H. , Lucas Spencer G.
Published: August 2023

The mass extinction at the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary is widely attributed to sudden and severe climate changes forced by bolide impact and/or flood basalt volcanism. In terrestrial depositional settings, these changes may potentially be recorded by palaeosols. To test the ability of pedogenic features to record both long‐term climate and shorter‐term changes preceding and following the Cretaceous–Palaeogene extinction event, palaeosols in the Upper Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) Naashoibito Member of the Ojo Alamo Formation and the lower Palaeocene (Danian) Nacimiento Formation in the San Juan Basin of north‐western New Mexico, USA, were examined, including data from previous studies. The fine‐grained facies of the Naashoibito Member comprises grey to greenish‐grey and red‐banded mudstones displaying pedogenic features including colour mottling, root traces, cutans, ped fabrics, pedogenic slickensides and calcareous nodules. Aside from a high‐chroma horizon at the formation base, palaeosols in the lower Nacimiento Formation are broadly similar to those observed in the Naashoibito Member. Lateral and vertical variability of the pedogenic features between correlated sections suggest that soil hydrology varied spatially and temporally from very saturated to seasonally well‐drained, with temporal variations controlled by basin sedimentation rates. Abrupt and/or catastrophic climate events precisely at the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary are not recorded due to an unconformity at the top of the Naashoibito Member. However, the presence of kaolinite in the clay mineral assemblage of the Nacimiento Formation, particularly near the formation base, but not in the Naashoibito Member, indicates episodic warmth and short (104 years) intervals of more intense weathering conditions during the very early Danian as compared to the late Maastrichtian. Aside from short warm intervals, the overall palaeoclimate during deposition of both formations was warm and consistently subhumid to humid and seasonal, suggesting no substantial long‐term (105–106) climate change took place across the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary in the San Juan Basin.
Early treatment with dipeptidyl‐peptidase 4 inhibitors reduces glycaemic variability and delays insulin initiation in type 2 diabetes: A propensity score‐matched cohort study
Authors: Cheung Johnny T. K. , Yang Aimin , Wu Hongjiang , Lau Eric S. H. , Kong Alice P. S. , Ma Ronald C. W. , Luk Andrea O. Y. , Chan Juliana C. N. , Chow Elaine
Published: August 2023

Aims

To examine whether early treatment intensification using dipeptidyl‐peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i) delays insulin initiation in Chinese patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for less than 5 years.

Materials and Methods

In a territory‐wide prospective cohort study, patients with type 2 diabetes initiating DPP4i at diabetes duration <2 years (early intensification) and 3–5 years (late intensification) were matched using 1:1 propensity‐score matching (n = 908 in each arm). We used Cox regression to compare the risk of insulin initiation between the two groups. We explored the interactive and mediation effects of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) variability score (HVS), defined as the percentage of HbA1c varying by ≥0.5% compared with preceding values.

Results

Of 1816 patients (60.7% men, mean age 54.4 ± 11.9 years), 92.4% and 71.9% were treated with metformin and sulphonylureas respectively at DPP4i initiation. Early DPP4i intensification [hazard ratio (HR) 0.71, (95% CI 0.58–0.68)] and low HVS (<50%) (HR = 0.40, 0.33–0.50) were associated with delayed insulin initiation during a median 4.08 years of follow‐up. Early intensification with low HVS had the lowest risk versus late intensification with high HVS (HR = 0.30, 0.22–0.40) (pinteraction = 0.013). HVS mediated 19.5% of the total effect of early DPP4i intensification on delaying insulin initiation. The late and early intensification groups had similar HbA1c at month 0 (8.4 ± 1.3% vs. 8.4 ± 1.5%) and month 3 (7.6 ± 1.2% vs. 7.6 ± 1.3%) after DPP4i initiation. By month 12, HbA1c in the late intensification group deteriorated (7.9 ± 1.4%) but remained stable in the early intensification group (7.6 ± 1.4%, p = 0.001) with persistent between‐group difference over 72 months (8.2 ± 1.7% vs. 7.7 ± 1.6%, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

In type 2 diabetes, early DPP4i intensification delayed insulin initiation, partially explained by reduced glycaemic variability.
Developing evaluation method for peripheral sensitization in cultured sensory neurons
Authors: Miyahara Yuki , Shimba Kenta , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: August 2023

Peripheral sensitization, decrease in pain threshold in sensory neurons, can cause chronic pain. Little is known about how peripheral sensitization led to chronic pain. Here, we aimed to develop a method for evaluating peripheral sensitization in cultured sensory neurons with electrical recording. Sensory neurons from rat dorsal root ganglion were cultured on high‐density microelectrode arrays (HD‐MEA), and their activity was evoked by capsaicin stimulation with or without substance P. Fluorescent imaging‐based electrode selection effectively selected five times as many capsaicin‐sensitive sensory neurons as the existing method. Peripheral sensitization by substance P was detected from 31.9% of selected sensory neurons, and majority of these neurons co‐expressed capsaicin and substance P receptors. These results indicate that our method is suitable for evaluating peripheral sensitization by substance P in cultured sensory neurons.
The role of seasonal migration in spatial population synchrony
Authors: Martin Ellen C. , Hansen Brage Bremset , Herfindal Ivar , Lee Aline Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Spatially synchronized population dynamics are common in nature, and understanding their causes is key for predicting species persistence. A main driver of synchrony between populations of the same species is shared environmental conditions, which cause populations closer together in space to be more synchronized than populations further from one another. Most theoretical and empirical understanding of this driver considers resident species. For migratory species, however, the degree of spatial autocorrelation in the environment may change across seasons and vary by their geographic location along the migratory route or on a nonbreeding ground, complicating the synchronizing effect of the environment. Migratory species show a variety of different strategies in how they disperse to and aggregate on nonbreeding grounds, ranging from completely shared nonbreeding grounds to multiple different ones. Depending on the sensitivity to environmental conditions off the breeding grounds, we can expect that migration and overwintering strategies will impact the extent and spatial pattern of population synchrony on the breeding grounds. Here, we use spatial population‐dynamic modeling and simulations to investigate the relationship between seasonal environmental autocorrelation and migration characteristics. Our model shows that the effects of environmental autocorrelation experienced off the breeding ground on population synchrony depend on the number and size of nonbreeding grounds, and how populations migrate in relation to neighboring populations. When populations migrated to multiple nonbreeding grounds, spatial population synchrony increased with increasing environmental autocorrelation between nonbreeding grounds. Populations that migrated to the same place as near neighbors had higher synchrony at short distances than populations that migrated randomly. However, synchrony declined less across increasing distances for the random migration strategy. The differences in synchrony between migration strategies were most pronounced when the environmental autocorrelation between nonbreeding grounds was low. These results show the importance of considering migration when studying spatial population synchrony and predicting patterns of synchrony and population viability under global environmental change. Climate change and habitat loss and fragmentation may cause range shifts and changes in migratory strategies, as well as changes in the mean and spatial autocorrelation of the environment, which can alter the scale and patterns observed in spatial population synchrony.
Detection of environmental DNA from amphibians in Northern Europe applied in citizen science
Authors: Knudsen Steen Wilhelm , Hesselsøe Martin , Rytter Maria , Lillemark Marie Rathcke , Tøttrup Anders P. , Rahbek Carsten , Sheard Julie Koch , Thomsen Philip Francis , Agersnap Sune , Mortensen Peter B. , Møller Peter Rask
Published: August 2023

Many species of amphibians in Northern Europe are threatened and the local distributions are rarely described in detail. Application of modern molecular methods provides an important supplementary tool for monitoring the distribution and diversity of amphibians. For this purpose, we designed, tested, validated, and optimized 14 species‐specific assays on genomic DNA extracted from tissue samples to use for quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) setups targeting mitochondrial DNA from amphibians in freshwater samples. The tests confirmed species specificity for all assays. Considering a systematic definition of the limit of detection for each of the assays, the presented qPCR assays are unlikely to return false positive detection from any co‐occurring species in northern Europe. For field validation, the qPCR assays were applied in a large‐scale nationwide citizen science project in which sampling and qPCR analysis was carried out by high school students. Data from the citizen science project returned the expected results when compared to the known regional distribution of the target species and confirmed the presence of nine out of 14 Danish species of amphibians in the collected freshwater samples. Four out of 2550 qPCR test sets carried out by the high school students required a professional reanalysis in multiple replicates due to initial unexpected results. This emphasizes that efforts from citizen science may generate large amounts of valuable data, as long as the results are carefully scrutinized by experts.
Importance of the ‘area under the curve’ from serial NT‐proBNP measurements during treatment with sacubitril/valsartan
Authors: Mohebi Reza , Liu Yuxi , Butler Javed , Felker G. Michael , Ward Jonathan H. , Prescott Margaret F. , Piña Ileana L. , Solomon Scott D. , Januzzi James L.
Published: August 2023

Aims

Serial assessment of natriuretic peptides is widely utilized in heart failure clinics. Uncertainty exists regarding the value of multiple natriuretic peptide measurements and how they might be best interpreted.

Methods and results

Six hundred thirty‐two patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (<40%) and complete biomarker data were enrolled to receive sacubitril/valsartan. Patients underwent periodic study visits during 1‐year follow‐ups. Echocardiographic data and cardiac biomarkers, including N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were collected during study visits. Patients were categorized into three groups based on tertiles of baseline NT‐proBNP levels. The area under the curve (AUC) of NT‐proBNP measurements across study visits was calculated. Compared with patients with higher AUC (and thus higher concentrations over a longer period of time), those with lower AUC were younger, had a lower prevalence of chronic kidney disease, prior coronary artery bypass graft, atrial fibrillation, and higher body‐mass index. A significant interaction existed between baseline NT‐proBNP and subsequent AUC for predicting LVEF change across visits (P‐value < 0.001): among those with lower baseline NT‐proBNP, similar improvements in left ventricular (LV) volumes LV ejection fraction, and LV mass index were observed across subsequent AUC (P‐value > 0.1). However, among those with higher baseline NT‐proBNP, those with lower subsequent AUC had a greater improvement in cardiac remodelling indices (P‐value < 0.05).

Conclusions

Serial NT‐proBNP monitoring (integrating the totality of measurements as an AUC) during treatment with sacubitril/valsartan informs unique information regarding the future changes in cardiac remodelling indices, especially among those with higher NT‐proBNP levels at baseline.
Repetitive levosimendan infusions for patients with advanced chronic heart failure in the vulnerable post‐discharge period: The multinational randomized LeoDOR trial
Authors: Pölzl Gerhard , Altenberger Johann , Comín‐Colet Josep , Delgado Juan F. , Fedele Francesco , García‐González Martín Jesús , Gustafsson Finn , Masip Josep , Papp Zoltán , Störk Stefan , Ulmer Hanno , Maier Sarah , Vrtovec Bojan , Wikström Gerhard , Zima Endre , Bauer Axel ,   for the LeoDOR Investigators
Published: August 2023

Aim

The LeoDOR trial explored the efficacy and safety of intermittent levosimendan therapy in the vulnerable phase following a hospitalization for acute heart failure (HF).

Methods and results

In this prospective multicentre, double‐blind, two‐armed trial, patients with advanced HF were randomized 2:1 at the end of an index hospitalization for acute HF to intermittent levosimendan therapy or matching placebo for 12 weeks. All patients had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤30% during index hospitalization. Levosimendan was administered according to centre preference either as 6 h infusion at a rate of 0.2 μg/kg/min every 2 weeks, or as 24 h infusion at a rate of 0.1 μg/kg/min every 3 weeks. The primary efficacy assessment after 14 weeks was based on a global rank score consisting of three hierarchical groups. Secondary clinical endpoints included the composite risk of tiers 1 and 2 at 14 and 26 weeks, respectively. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the planned number of patients could not be recruited. The final modified intention‐to‐treat analysis included 145 patients (93 in the combined levosimendan arm, 52 in the placebo arm), which reduced the statistical power to detect a 20% risk reduction in the primary endpoint to 60%. Compared with placebo, intermittent levosimendan had no significant effect on the primary endpoint: the mean rank score was 72.55 for the levosimendan group versus 73.81 for the placebo group (p = 0.863). However, there was a signal towards a higher incidence of the individual clinical components of the primary endpoint in the levosimendan group versus the placebo group both after 14 weeks (hazard ratio [HR] 2.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–7.68; p = 0.021) and 26 weeks (HR 1.64, 95% CI 0.87–3.11; p = 0.122).

Conclusions

Among patients recently hospitalized with HF and reduced LVEF, intermittent levosimendan therapy did not improve post‐hospitalization clinical stability.
Correlating Structure and KA2 Catalytic Activity of ZnII Hydrazone Complexes
Authors: Adejumo Temiloluwa T. , Danopoulou Marianna , Zorba Leandros P. , Pevec Andrej , Zlatar Matija , Radanović Dušanka , Savić Milica , Gruden Maja , Anđelković Katarina K. , Turel Iztok , Čobeljić Božidar , Vougioukalakis Georgios C.
Published: August 2023

Two new Zn(II) complexes bearing tridentate hydrazone‐based ligands with NNO or NNS donor atoms were synthesised and characterised by elemental analysis, infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction methods. These complexes, together with four previously synthesised analogues, having hydrazone ligands with a NNO donor set of atoms, were successfully employed as catalysts in the ketone‐amine‐alkyne (KA2) coupling reaction, furnishing tetrasubstituted propargylamines, compounds with unique applications in organic chemistry. DFT calculations at the CAM‐B3LYP/TZP level of theory were performed to elucidate the electronic structure of the investigated Zn(II) complexes, excellently correlating the structure of the complexes to their catalytic reactivity.