bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the durability of anion exchange membrane water electrolysis cells via interfacial membrane–ionomer crosslinking
Authors: Lee Yerim , Lee Wooseok , Kim Tae‐Hyun
Published: June 2024

Research into enhancing the performance and durability of anion exchange membrane (AEM)‐based water electrolysis (AEMWE) cells has primarily aimed to facilitate commercialization efforts and improve the chemical stability of AEMs, with anion exchange ionomers (AEIs) playing an increasingly important role. This study aimed to reduce ionomer swelling and enhance AEM–catalyst adhesion via AEM–ionomer crosslinking within a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), using allyl‐ and quaternary ammonium‐functionalized poly(phenylene oxide) (PPO), allyl‐m‐PPO, as both the AEM and AEI. Bis(aryl azide) was added as a crosslinker to an ionomer solution to generate the MEA, which was heated to induce allyl–azide crosslinks at the membrane–ionomer interface. Peel test indicated an increased adhesion at both electrodes for the crosslinked x‐allyl‐0.05‐PPO (5 mol% allyl content relative to the total ion‐conducting head group content). Further, x‐allyl‐0.05‐PPO exhibited a smaller voltage increase due to crosslinking compared to TA‐PPO, signifying a notable improvement in durability.
Greening by digitization? Exploring the effect of enterprise digital transformation on greenwashing
Authors: Wang Shanyong , Lai Yancheng , Zhang Shuainan
Published: June 2024

Greenwashing has become an important strategy for enterprises to cope with the intense pressure on environmental sustainability and to gain environmental legitimacy. Digital transformation has an important impact on enterprise decision‐making and environmental management. Based on panel data of Chinese A‐share listed enterprises from 2011 to 2021, we empirically examine the relationship between digital transformation and greenwashing using a fixed‐effects model. The results show that enterprise digital transformation can significantly inhibit greenwashing behavior. Second, the impact of enterprise digital transformation on greenwashing exhibits heterogeneous effects at the regional, industry, and firm levels. Furthermore, enterprise digital transformation suppresses greenwashing by alleviating financing constraints, improving information transparency, and enhancing internal control. In addition, we also find that there is an effective boundary to the impact of digital transformation on greenwashing. Specifically, digital transformation exerts a mitigating impact on enterprise greenwashing when the digital transformation level is lower than 10.2163 or higher than 15.7763. Our findings provide references for managers and policy makers to understand digital transformation and its impact on greenwashing.
Explainable machine learning predicts survival of retroperitoneal liposarcoma: A study based on theSEERdatabase and external validation in China
Authors: Wang Maoyu , Li Zhizhou , Zeng Shuxiong , Wang Ziwei , Ying Yidie , He Wei , Zhang Zhensheng , Wang Huiqing , Xu Chuanliang
Published: June 2024

Objective

We have developed explainable machine learning models to predict the overall survival (OS) of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLPS) patients. This approach aims to enhance the explainability and transparency of our modeling results.

Methods

We collected clinicopathological information of RLPS patients from The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and allocated them into training and validation sets with a 7:3 ratio. Simultaneously, we obtained an external validation cohort from The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai, China). We performed LASSO regression and multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis to identify relevant risk factors, which were then combined to develop six machine learning (ML) models: Cox proportional hazards model (Coxph), random survival forest (RSF), ranger, gradient boosting with component‐wise linear models (GBM), decision trees, and boosting trees. The predictive performance of these ML models was evaluated using the concordance index (C‐index), the integrated cumulative/dynamic area under the curve (AUC), and the integrated Brier score, as well as the Cox–Snell residual plot. We also used time‐dependent variable importance, analysis of partial dependence survival plots, and the generation of aggregated survival SHapley Additive exPlanations (SurvSHAP) plots to provide a global explanation of the optimal model. Additionally, SurvSHAP (t) and survival local interpretable model‐agnostic explanations (SurvLIME) plots were used to provide a local explanation of the optimal model.

Results

The final ML models are consisted of six factors: patient's age, gender, marital status, surgical history, as well as tumor's histopathological classification, histological grade, and SEER stage. Our prognostic model exhibits significant discriminative ability, particularly with the ranger model performing optimally. In the training set, validation set, and external validation set, the AUC for 1, 3, and 5 year OS are all above 0.83, and the integrated Brier scores are consistently below 0.15. The explainability analysis of the ranger model also indicates that histological grade, histopathological classification, and age are the most influential factors in predicting OS.

Conclusions

The ranger ML prognostic model exhibits optimal performance and can be utilized to predict the OS of RLPS patients, offering valuable and crucial references for clinical physicians to make informed decisions in advance.
Curcumin‐loaded nanoparticles effectively prevent T4‐induced oxidative stress in rat heart
Authors: Mishra Pallavi , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Mohanty Chandana , Samanta Luna
Published: June 2024

In this study, we report the cardioprotective effect of the glycerol monooleate (GMO) based nanocurcumin in both in vitro and in vivo conditions under a hyperthyroid state. The heart is one of the primary target organs sensitive to the action of thyroid hormone, and slight variations in the thyroid hormone serum concentrations result in measurable changes in cardiac performance. Hyperthyroidism‐induced hypermetabolism is associated with oxidative stress and is an important mechanism responsible for the progression of heart failure. Curcumin has been known to play a protective role against oxidative stress‐related diseases like Alzheimer's, asthma, and aging due to its antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, its potent biological activity has been hindered due to its poor bioavailability. To overcome this drawback, a GMO‐based biodegradable nanoparticle (NP) formulation loaded with curcumin has been developed, and the protective effect of curcumin‐loaded NPs was compared against the native drug. Oxidative stress parameters like reactive oxygen species (ROS) release, change in mitochondrial membrane permeability, lipid peroxidation (LPx), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and the activity and protein expression of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase were evaluated. The results from in vitro showed that curcumin‐loaded NPs showed better DPPH and NO radical scavenging activity than native curcumin in a concentrations range of 2.5–20 µM. It was also observed that the nanoparticulate curcumin was comparatively more effective than native curcumin in protecting against ROS‐induced membrane damage by reducing LPx and LDH leakage at low concentrations of 5–10 µM. Further, curcumin NPs performed better in facilitating the activities of antioxidant enzymes under in vitro and in vivo conditions with respect to time and concentrations, resulting in reduced cellular ROS levels. In this scenario, we anticipate that curcumin‐loaded NPs can serve as a better antioxidant than its native counterpart in protecting the heart from oxidative stress‐related diseases.
Traumatic atlanto‐occipital dislocation with successfully bystander resuscitation after cardiopulmonary arrest: A case report
Authors: Inoue Takayuki , Morimoto Tadatsugu , Yoshihara Tomohito , Tsukamoto Masatsugu , Hirata Hirohito , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case report describes successful bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation after a cardiopulmonary arrest due to a traffic accident, followed by early diagnosis and treatment of a traumatic atlanto‐occipital dislocation, resulting in successful community reintegration.
Fe‐Based Materials for Electrocatalytic Water Splitting: A Mini Review
Authors: Chatterjee Abhishikta , Chakraborty Priyanka , Kumar Bidyapati , Mandal Sourav , Dey Subrata K.
Published: June 2024

In the last few years, the development of effective electrocatalysts hold fascinating importance towards scalable green hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) production has become an appealing area of research. A good number of iron‐based catalysts have been designed and synthesized which can mediate water splitting under mild conditions with minimum energy requirements. In this review, recent progress on iron‐based electrocatalysts focusing on Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER), Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER), and Overall Water Splitting (OWS) are summarized. Tactical designing, targeted synthesis with electronic tuning, efficiency as well as durability are discussed here. The review is comprehensive and our target is to promote the development of highly efficient economical catalysts, to make their way from the laboratory to market by replacing noble metal‐based electrocatalysts.
Advances in the Development of Dual‐Atom Catalysts: Structural Characterization and Diversified Catalytic Applications
Authors: Zhang Liping , Liu Ce , Cui Xinjiang
Published: June 2024

Atomically dispersed metal atoms on supports exhibit distinctive advantages in maximizing atomic utilization, which plays an indispensable role in the fabrication of cost‐effective catalysts. In particular, dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) containing dual active sites not only retain the merits of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), but also introduce diverse interactions between the two adjacent metal atoms, endowing them with superior catalytic performance and a broad range of applications. With the development of DACs, it is important to identify active sites and establish intrinsic catalytic mechanisms relationship. The general characterization methods for DACs are comprehensively summarized here, especially the structural nature of dual active sites is discussed in detail. Subsequently, the representative scientific research efforts in various applications including thermocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis are described, with emphasis on structure‐property relationships. Finally, a summary and some prospects for the future of advanced DACs are presented.
Feasibility of production fired bricks based lateritic soil at very low temperature
Authors: Sontia Metekong Jordan Valdès , Kaze Cyriaque Rodrigue , Kamseu Elie , Chinje Florence Uphie , Tatietse Thomas Tamo
Published: June 2024

The present project deals with the production of lateritic soil based bricks under different curing temperatures (28°C–150°C). A fraction of 10–30 wt% amount alkaline solution was added to improve the reactive phase content. The raw materials and hardened products were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), fourrier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mechanical properties and scanning electron microscope analysis. The results show that the addition of alkaline solution (30%) and the curing temperature (150°C) have a beneficial influence on physical properties (bulk density: 1.77 g/cm3, water absorption: 16.98%, and porosity: 30.13%) and mechanical performances (flexural: 6.61 MPa and compressive: 13.57 MPa). Compared with the code requirements for stabilized earth blocks, the compressive strength was higher than the minimum required. Microstructural investigations were also carried out to confirm the macrostructural properties. The above‐mentioned process appears to be a suitable candidate for engineering applications such as the stabilization of earth roads.
Design of pH‐universal electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Lin Jingwen , Wang Xu , Zhao Zhenyun , Chen Dongliang , Liu Rumin , Ye Zhizhen , Lu Bin , Hou Yang , Lu Jianguo
Published: June 2024

The path to searching for sustainable energy has never stopped since the depletion of fossil fuels can lead to serious environmental pollution and energy shortages. Using water electrolysis to produce hydrogen has been proven to be a prioritized approach for green resource production. It is highly crucial to explore inexpensive and high‐performance electrocatalysts for accelerating hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and apply them to industrial cases on a large scale. Here, we summarize the different mechanisms of HER in different pH settings and review recent advances in non‐noble‐metal‐based electrocatalysts. Then, based on the previous efforts, we discuss several universal strategies for designing pH‐independent catalysts and show directions for the future design of pH‐universal catalysts.
Development of a Neopentyl 211At‐Labeled Activated Ester Providing In Vivo Stable 211At‐Labeled Antibodies for Targeted Alpha Therapy
Authors: Tada Masatoshi , Kaizuka Yuta , Kannaka Kento , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Joho Taiki , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Uehara Tomoya , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

In this study we developed a neopentyl 211At‐labeled activated ester that incorporates a triazole spacer and applied it to the synthesis of an 211At‐labeled cetuximab. The activated ester was synthesized via the nucleophilic 211At‐astatination of a neopentyl sulfonate carrying two long alkyl chains that serve as a lipid tag, which was followed by the hydrolysis of an acetal. Additionally, we developed a novel Resin‐Assisted Purification and Deprotection (RAPD) protocol involving a solid‐phase extraction of the protected 211At‐labeled compound from the mixture of the labeling reaction, hydrolysis of the acetal on the resin, and finally an elution of the 211At‐labeled activator from the resin. This method allows the synthesis of an 211At‐labeled activated ester with high purity through a simplified procedure that circumvents the need for HPLC purification. Using this 211At‐labeled activated ester, we efficiently synthesized 211At‐labeled cetuximab in 27±1 % radiochemical yield with 95 % radiochemical purity. This 211At‐activated ester demonstrated high reactivity, and enabled the completion of the reaction with the antibody within 10 min. In comparative biodistribution studies between 211At‐labeled cetuximab and the corresponding 125I‐labeled cetuximab in normal mice, both the thyroid and stomach showed radioactivity levels that were less than 1.0 % of the injected dose.
Structural Instability of NiFe‐Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets during Water Oxidation Operation
Authors: Meng Xiaoyi , Zhao Xiaohua
Published: June 2024

NiFe‐layered double hydroxide (NiFe‐LDH) stands out as a promising electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), but the structural transformations under OER conditions are not well understood. The structural evolution of highly crystalline NiFe‐LDH on nickel foam during OER testing in 1 M KOH solution was analyzed using IR, Raman, XRD, XPS techniques, and DFT calculations. Instability of interlayer species within the NiFe‐LDH, including protons, anions, and water molecules, was found to cause the crystal structure to undergo expansion or contraction during OER operation, decreasing crystallinity and roughening the LDH surface. This dynamic structural evolution is crucial for determining OER activity, and it was observed that surface structural changes of the LDH, along with Fe content, jointly determined the degree of change in its OER activity. Our findings provide insights into designing active water‐splitting electrocatalysts and highlight the relationship between OER activity and the structure of NiFe‐LDH.
Time‐Dependent Extension of Grimme's Continuous Chirality Measure for Electronic Chirality Flips in Femto‐ and Attosecond Time Domains
Authors: Guo Yanrong , Haase Dietrich , Manz Jörn , Wang Huihui , Yang Yonggang
Published: June 2024

Grimme's Continuous Chirality Measure (
) was developed for comparisons of the chirality of the electronic wave functions of molecules, typically in their ground states. For example,
,
and
for alanine, hydrogen‐peroxide, and for achiral molecules, respectively. Well‐designed laser pulses can excite achiral molecules from the electronic ground state to time‐dependent chiral superposition states, with chirality flips in the femto‐ or even attosecond (fs or as) time domains. Here we provide a time‐dependent extension
of Grimme's
for trailing the electronic chirality flips. As examples, we consider two laser driven electronic wavefunctions which represent flips between opposite electronic enantiomers of oriented NaK within
and
. The corresponding
vary respectively from
or from
to
, and back.
Monohydrides of the Group 13 Elements M=B, Al and Ga: Axial Bi‐Nucleophilicity and the Propensity to Form Both H−M⋅⋅⋅HX and M−H⋅⋅⋅HX Hydrogen Bonds (X=F, Cl, Br, I, CN, CCH, CP)
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Legon Anthony C.
Published: June 2024

Equilibrium dissociation energies De of the hydrogen‐bonded complexes HAl⋅⋅⋅HX and HGa⋅⋅⋅HX (X=F, Cl, Br, I, CN, CCH, and CP) were calculated ab initio at the CCSD(T)‐(F12c)/cc‐pVDZ−F12 level of theory. The gradients of graphs of De versus the electrophilicity EHX of the Lewis acids HX yielded the nucleophilicities NM−X of the Group 13 atoms M in these diatomic molecules. Molecular electrostatic surfaces potentials reveal that H−Al and H−Ga are bi‐nucleophilic and that the H ends of these H−M molecules are more nucleophilic than the M ends for M=Al and Ga, but not when M=boron. Therefore, the complexes M−H⋅⋅⋅HX were investigated using the same approach. It was concluded for M=Al and Ga that, for a given X, the M−H⋅⋅⋅HX complexes were more strongly bound than the corresponding H−M⋅⋅⋅HX complexes for both M=Al and Ga but the reverse order applies for M = boron. The effects of substituting the H atoms in the M−H molecules by F atoms and by methyl groups were investigated to measure the −I and +I inductive effects relative to H, respectively, on the nucleophilicities of the molecules M−H when M is acting as hydrogen‐bond acceptor in complexes H−M⋅⋅⋅H−X.
Examining the Past Injustices Suffered by Those in Corrections and the General Public: A New Therapeutic Approach May Be Necessary
Authors: Song Jacqueline Y. , Yu Lifan , Bonete Saray , Molinero Clara , Baskin Thomas W. , Huneke Daniel F. , Enright Robert D.
Published: June 2024

One under‐researched area within corrections is the connection among (a) past adverse events, particularly in the form of injustices against those who now are incarcerated, (b) crimes committed and then (c) healing from the effects of that past adversity of injustice. Might those who have experienced severe injustices against them develop an anger or a hatred that then is displaced onto others, leading to arrest, conviction and imprisonment? This is not to imply that societies condone illegal behaviour but instead to assist in the healing from the adversity so that future crime is reduced. As a first step in this sequence, the study here examined in detail the kinds of injustices suffered by men in a maximum‐security correctional institution (N = 103) compared with men in a medium‐security environment (N = 37) and in the general public (N = 96). Findings indicated differences between those in the general public and those in the two correctional contexts. The latter two groups had (a) a higher severity of injustices against them (rated by a panel of researchers), (b) a more negative current impact that past injustices are having on them (also rated by a panel of researchers), (c) more reports that the injustices contributed to their choices to harm others, (d) more serious types of hurt (such as sexual abuse), (e) a stronger degree of self‐reported hurt and (f) more injustices from family members. Implications for correctional rehabilitation to reduce the negative psychological effects caused by the injustices of others are discussed.
The Still Elusive Role of Lightweight Doping in Carbon‐Based Electrocatalysts for the Selective Oxygen Reduction Reaction to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Tuci Giulia , Rossin Andrea , Saki Zeinab , Caporaso Lucia , Liu Yuefeng , Centi Gabriele , Giambastiani Giuliano
Published: June 2024

The two‐electron electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a valuable alternative to the more conventional and energy‐intensive anthraquinone process. From a circularity viewpoint, metal‐free catalysts constitute a sustainable alternative for the process. In particular, lightweight hetero‐doped C‐materials are cost‐effective and easily scalable samples that replace ‐ more and more frequently – the use of critical raw elements in the preparation of highly performing (electro)catalysts. Anyhow, their large‐scale exploitation in industrial processes still suffers from technical limits of samples upscale and reproducibility other than a still moderate comprehension of their action mechanism in the process. This concept article offers a comprehensive and exhaustive “journey” through the most representative lightweight hetero‐doped C‐based electrocatalysts and their performance in the 2e− ORR process. It provides an interpretation of phenomena at the triple‐phase interface of solid catalyst, liquid electrolyte and gaseous oxygen based on the doping‐driven generation of ideal electronic microenvironments at the catalyst surface.
A performance comparison of current controllers for grid‐tied photovoltaic microinverters
Authors: Jung Felipe , Pereira Thiago A. , Rech Thiago Fonseca , Coelho Roberto F. , Kirsten André Luís
Published: June 2024

The quality of the grid current injected by photovoltaic (PV) microinverters must comply with international standards. Hence, the controller and the converter must be designed to comply with grid current standards. Regarding the current control techniques, many control strategies can be applied to fulfill the quality requisites of a PV microinverter operation. Although more complex strategies may improve current, they require more computational effort and memory. This paper presents the design and implementation of five different discrete controllers of a grid‐tied microinverter. Experimental results of a comparison between the grid's current quality and the computational effort of the implemented control law are provided.
Deciphering the aging process through single‐cell cytometric technologies
Authors: Tam Lok Ming , Bushnell Timothy
Published: June 2024

The advent of single‐cell cytometric technologies, in conjunction with advances in single‐cell biology, has significantly propelled forward the field of geroscience, enhancing our comprehension of the mechanisms underlying age‐related diseases. Given that aging is a primary risk factor for numerous chronic health conditions, investigating the dynamic changes within the physiological landscape at the granularity of single cells is crucial for elucidating the molecular foundations of biological aging. Utilizing hallmarks of aging as a conceptual framework, we review current literature to delineate the progression of single‐cell cytometric techniques and their pivotal applications in the exploration of molecular alterations associated with aging. We next discuss recent advancements in single‐cell cytometry in terms of the development in instrument, software, and reagents, highlighting its promising and critical role in driving future breakthrough discoveries in aging research.
Design and Optimization of Dual Port Dielectric Resonator Based Frequency Tunable MIMO Antenna with Machine Learning Approach for 5G New Radio Application
Authors: Rai Jayant Kumar , Ranjan Pinku , Chowdhury Rakesh , Jamaluddin Mohd Haizal
Published: June 2024

In this article, a dual port Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) cylindrical Dielectric Resonator (DR)‐based frequency tunable antenna with a machine learning (ML) approach for a 5G New Radio (NR) application is presented. According to the author's best knowledge, it is the first time‐frequency tunable MIMO hybrid DR with ML is reported. A dual port MIMO DRA is placed in the orthogonal configuration with the connected ground to obtain higher isolation
in the entire frequency range. The proposed dual port antenna provides a total spectrum (TS) and tuning range (TR) of 98.99% and 80.93%, respectively. The different MIMO parameters, Envelope Correlation Coefficient (ECC), Total Active Reflection Coefficient (TARC), and Diversity Gain (DG) are investigated and found within the acceptable limits. The optimization of the proposed dual port tunable antenna is done through the various ML algorithms, including Artificial Neural Network (ANN), K‐Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB). The KNN ML algorithm provides more than 98% accuracy for predicting the S‐parameters in all configurations. Hence, the proposed antenna is suitable for 5G NR applications.
Vedolizumab in the treatment of Crohn's disease: A promising therapeutic approach
Authors: Zargar Abrar Ahmad
Published: June 2024

Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic and debilitating inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Despite the availability of various treatment options, a significant number of patients do not achieve remission or experience adverse effects with conventional therapies. Vedolizumab, a novel therapeutic agent, has emerged as a promising approach in the management of CD. Despite improvements in treatment choices, there is still a demand for medicines that are efficient and well‐tolerated. Vedolizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting α4β7 integrin, has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of CD. The review aims to provide a summary of vedolizumab, current treatment options, impact of vedolizumab on the patient's quality of life, mechanism of action, clinical effectiveness, safety and efficacy of vedolizumab, potential side effects or risks associated with vedolizumab therapy, and potential predictors. Furthermore, we investigate limitations and challenges associated with vedolizumab and possible future developments and medical implications. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the present data supporting vedolizumab as a possible treatment option for CD, highlighting its benefits and outlining prospective directions for future study and clinical practice improvement.
Revealing hidden biodiversity: Novel insights on reptile and amphibian distribution in western Ecuador
Authors: Cruz‐García Keyko , Zapata‐Salvatierra Natalia , Sánchez‐Nivicela Juan C. , Chauca Nadia , Matecki Sascha , Perez‐Correa Julian
Published: June 2024

We present notable distributional updates for 14 species from western Ecuador (seven amphibians and seven reptiles). Our findings include the northernmost confirmed sighting of Pristimantis kuri and the southernmost documented record of Imantodes inornatus and Lepidoblepharis buchwaldi. Additionally, we document new records and notes on the distribution range of Agalychnis spurrelli, Hyloscirtus alytolylax, Engystomops montubio, Pristimantis muricatus, Pristimantis nyctophylax, Pristimantis walkeri, Chironius flavopictus, Chironius grandisquamis, Dendrophidion graciliverpa, Ninia schmidti, and Urotheca fulviceps. These observations significantly contribute to filling information gaps in our understanding of these species' distributions. The data, derived from samples collected across diverse forested areas in the western region of Ecuador (provinces of Bolívar, Cañar, Guayas, El Oro, and Los Ríos), provide valuable insights into the ecology and conservation of these species.
Variations in the phenological patterns of a caddisfly inhabiting the same mountain massifs: Life‐history differences in different altitudinal zones
Authors: Suzuki Hirohisa , Takenaka Masaki , Tojo Koji
Published: June 2024

Organisms inhabiting mountainous regions can experience large vertical environmental changes, and show different ecological characteristics between altitudes, thus facilitating allopatric fragmentation even in geographically close populations. This study compared the life‐history patterns of a species of limnephilid caddisfly, Asynarchus sachalinensis, in several genetically differentiated populations between alpine and sub‐alpine zones in a temperate mountainous region. We showed that in the sub‐alpine populations, larval development started earlier with increasing water temperature in spring, and adult emergence was also earlier. The occurrence of adults was extremely low in mid‐summer, probably due to summer diapause, followed by a larger number of ovary‐developed females in autumn. On the other hand, in the alpine zone, increasing water temperature was delayed compared to the sub‐alpine zone, and larval development occurred from early to mid‐summer. Adult emergence and ovary‐developed individuals were concentrated in mid‐summer. Hence, summer diapause was not observed. These results indicated life‐history differences between genetically differentiated populations at different altitudes. As the timing of adult occurrence and ovarian developmental patterns differ between populations at different altitudes, it is possible that reproductive isolation is facilitated or maintained between populations.
Insulin Inertia Among People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Qatar: The INERT‐Q Study
Authors: Bashir Mohammed , Thani Noora Al , Khalid Abeer , Khalil Obada , Alamer Zaina , Hamad Mohammed Khair , Karuppasamy Gowri , Abufaeid Mohammed , Elbidairi Mutwakil , Al‐Mohnnadi Dhabia , Elhadd Tarik , Zirie Mahmoud
Published: June 2024

Background

Achieving and maintaining adequate glycaemic control is critical to reduce diabetes‐related complications. Therapeutic inertia is one of the leading causes of suboptimal glycaemic control.

Aim

To assess the degree of inertia in insulin initiation and intensification in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM‐2).

Methods

We performed a retrospective longitudinal cohort study and followed DM‐2 2 years before and 2 years after the start of insulin. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who achieved glycaemic targets (HBA1c ≤ 7.5%) at 6th month, 1st year and 2nd year.

Results

We included 374 predominantly male subjects (62%). The mean age was 55.3 ± 11.3 years, the mean duration of DM‐2 was 12.0 ± 7.3 years, 64.4% were obese, 47.6% had a microvascular disease, and 24.3% had a macrovascular disease. The mean HBA1c at −2nd year and −1st year was 9.2 ± 2.1% and 9.3 ± 2.0%, respectively. The mean HbA1C at the time of insulin initiation was 10.4 ± 2.1%. The mean HBA1c at 6th month, 12th month and 2nd year was 8.5 ± 1.8%, 8.4 ± 1.8% and 8.5 ± 1.7%, respectively. The proportion of subjects who achieved HBA1c targets at 6th month, 12th month and 2nd year was 32.9%, 31.0% and 32.9%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that achieving HBA1c targets at 6th month and 1st year increases the odds of achieving HBA1c targets at 2nd year (OR 4.87 [2.4–9.6] p < 0.001) and (OR 6.2 [3.2–12.0], p < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

In people with DM‐2, there was an alarming delay in starting and titrating insulin. The reduction in HBA1c plateaued at 6th month. Earlier initiation and intensification of insulin therapy are critical to achieving glycaemic targets. More studies are needed to examine the causes of therapeutic inertia from physicians', patients' and systems' points of view.
Decoding cardiogenic shock: assessing shock index and its variants as prognostic indicators for in‐hospital mortality
Authors: Colarusso Luigi , Brahmbhatt Darshan H. , Scolari Fernando L. , Keon Kristine A. , Shin Emily , De Pellegrin Overgaard Ava I. , Nisar Mahrukh , Fung Nicole , Ibrahimova Narmin , Billia Filio , Overgaard Christopher B. , Luk Adriana C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with high in‐hospital mortality. Objective assessment of its severity and prognosis is paramount for timely therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the shock index (SI) and its variants as prognostic indicators for in‐hospital mortality.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 1282 CS patients were evaluated. Baseline patient characteristics, clinical trajectory, hospital outcomes, and shock indices were collected and analysed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were employed to determine the predictive accuracy of shock indices in predicting in‐hospital mortality.

Results

Of those evaluated, 866 (67.6%) survived until discharge. Non‐survivors were older (66.0 ± 13.7 vs. 57.4 ± 16.2, P < 0.001), had a higher incidence of cardiac risk factors, and were more likely to present with acute coronary syndrome (33.4% vs. 16.1%, P < 0.001) and out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (11.3% vs. 5.3%, P < 0.001). All mean shock indices were significantly higher in non‐survivors compared with survivors. ROC curves demonstrated that adjusted shock index (ASI), age‐modified shock index (AMSI), and shock index‐C (SIC) had the highest predictive accuracy for in‐hospital mortality, with AUC values of 0.654, 0.667, and 0.659, respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that SIC had good predictive ability in patients with STEMI (AUC: 0.714) and ACS (AUC: 0.696) while AMSI and ASI were notably predictive in the OHCA group (AUC: 0.707 and 0.701, respectively).

Conclusions

Shock index and its variants, especially ASI, AMSI, and SIC, may be helpful in predicting in‐hospital mortality in CS patients. Their application could guide clinicians in upfront risk stratification. SIC, ASI, and AMSI show potential in predicting in‐hospital mortality in specific CS subsets (STEMI and OHCA). This is the first study to evaluate SI and its variants in CS patients.
Global warming impacts on rockfall frequency and magnitude due to changing frost distribution and frost cracking effectiveness
Authors: Birien Tom , Gauthier Francis , Meloche Francis
Published: June 2024

The distribution of freezing and thawing within rock masses is time varying (day to day or season to season) and controls the effectiveness of the frost cracking processes from the surface until various depths. These processes are major contributors to the development of rock instabilities. By altering the thermal regime of rockwalls, global warming could have a major impact on rockfall dynamic by the end of the 21st century. This study seeks to improve our understanding of the influence of this warming on (i) the distribution of freezing and thawing within rock masses, (ii) the effectiveness of frost cracking and (iii) the frequency and magnitude of rockfalls. Thermistor sensors inserted in a 5.5‐m horizontal borehole and a weather station were installed on a vertical rockwall located in the northern Gaspé Peninsula (Canada). This instrumentation was used to calculate the surface energy balance of the rockwall and to measure and model its thermal regime at depth over a period of 28 months. Combining locally recorded historical air temperature data with simulated future data (scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) made it possible to extend the rockwall thermal regime model over the period 1950–2100. The effectiveness of frost cracking over this 150‐year period has been quantified using a thermomechanical model. Depending on the scenario, warming of 3.3°C to 6.2°C is expected on the northern Gaspé Peninsula by the end of the 21st century. This rapid warming is likely to decrease the maximum depth reaches by the seasonal frost by 1–2 m and shorten its duration by 1–3 months. The frequency of freeze–thaw cycles could increase twelvefold in January. Frost cracking effectiveness should intensify around 70 cm in depth and disappear beyond that (RCP4.5) or diminish starting at 10 cm in depth (RCP8.5). In areas subject to seasonal freeze–thaw cycles, decimetric rockfall frequency could grow considerably in winter but be significantly reduced in fall and spring. Furthermore, frost cracking would cease contributing to the development of larger magnitude instabilities.
Identification of characteristic volatiles of Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar using HS‐SPME‐GC/MS coupled with multivariate analysis
Authors: Li Zhihua , Fang Wenbing , Wang Siwen , Shi Jiyong , Zou Xiaobo , Huang Xiaowei
Published: June 2024

This study employed headspace solid phase micro‐extraction gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME‐GC–MS) coupled with multivariate statistical analysis to identify volatile markers in various levels of Zhenjiang Aromatic Vinegar (ZAV). A full range of 40 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified and categorized into acids, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, ketones, heterocyclic compounds and others. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) demonstrated a clear clustering effect among different levels of ZAV, indicating distinct volatile characteristics at the relative content level. Furthermore, using Orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS‐DA), 20 significant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified as markers for distinguishing between the various levels of ZAV. To differentiate among the levels of ZAV, two volatile compounds, acetic acid and n‐hexanol, were identified as characteristic volatile compounds using a combination of Venn diagram, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and boxplot analysis. The results showed notable variations in VOCs among ZAV samples of different grades. Acetic acid and n‐hexanol can serve as reliable markers for grade distinction, providing valuable technical and theoretical support for the production and quality control of ZAV.
Polyphenols improve non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease via gut microbiota: A comprehensive review
Authors: Mohammadhasani Kimia , Vahedi Fard Mohammad , Mottaghi Moghaddam Shahri Ali , Khorasanchi Zahra
Published: June 2024

Polyphenols, natural micronutrients derived from plants, are valued for their anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The escalating global prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) underscores its status as a chronic progressive liver condition. Furthermore, the dysregulation of gut microbiota (GM) is implicated in the onset and progression of NAFLD through the actions of metabolites such as bile acids (BAs), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), choline, and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Additionally, GM may influence the integrity of the intestinal barrier. This review aims to evaluate the potential effects of polyphenols on GM and intestinal barrier function, and their subsequent impact on NAFLD. We searched through a wide range of databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus to gather information for our non‐systematic review of English literature. GM functions and composition can be regulated by polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, curcumin, green tea catechins, naringenin, quercetin, resveratrol, and sulforaphane. Regulating GM composition improves NAFLD by alleviating inflammation, liver fat accumulation, and liver enzymes. Furthermore, it improves serum lipid profile and gut barrier integrity. All of these components affect NAFLD through the metabolites of GM, including SCFAs, choline, LPS, and BAs. Current evidence indicates that chlorogenic acid, resveratrol, quercetin, and curcumin can modulate GM, improving intestinal barrier integrity and positively impacting NAFLD. More studies are necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of naringenin, sulforaphane, and catechin.
Free fibula mandible reconstruction for osteoradionecrosis is more challenging than for primary cancer
Authors: Lee Z‐Hye , Shuck John W. , Largo Rene D. , Chang Edward I. , Hanasono Matthew M. , Yu Peirong , Garvey Patrick B.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the mandible is an unfortunate potential sequela of radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. In advanced cases of ORN, mandibulectomy, and free fibula flap reconstruction are required. We hypothesized that patients undergoing fibula free flap reconstruction and mandibulectomy for ORN pose unique challenges and experience more complications than patients undergoing fibula free flaps after oncologic mandibulectomy.

Methods

After IRB approval, we created a database of all free fibula flaps for mandible reconstruction from April 2005 through February 2019. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for patient and surgical characteristics and postoperative outcomes.

Results

Four‐hundred seventy‐nine patients met the inclusion criteria (168 ORN vs. 311 non‐ORN patients). Propensity‐matching was performed based on age, BMI, smoking status, preoperative chemotherapy, and virtual surgery planning use, which yielded 159 patients in each group. ORN patients received more double‐skin‐island fibula flaps than non‐OR patients (20.8% vs. 5.7%, p < 0.001). Recipient artery other than the facial artery was utilized more commonly in ORN patients (42.1% vs. 17.0%, p < 0.001). In the unmatched cohort, ORN patients had higher rates of delayed wound healing (26.2% vs. 16.8%, p = 0.01) and surgical site infections (21.4% vs. 13.2%, p = 0.02). Rates of flap loss, return to the operating room, hematoma, operative time, and length of stay were similar between the groups. On logistic regression analysis, osteoradionecrosis was an independent risk factor for delayed wound healing.

Conclusion

Based on these data, mandibular reconstruction with fibula flaps for osteoradionecrosis appears more complicated than mandible reconstruction following de novo cancer resection. Surgeons should anticipate employing two skin islands for intraoral and extraoral resurfacing, utilizing unconventional recipient vessels, and managing the delayed wound healing that ensues more commonly than non‐ORN patients.
The impact of a compressed workweek on shareholder value: An event study analysis of Belgium's 4‐day workweek legislation
Authors: Dutordoir Marie , Struyfs Kristof
Published: June 2024

While the compressed workweek (CWW) has gained traction in recent years, its impact on firms' financial performance is not well understood. This study addresses this gap in the literature by examining the effect of the CWW on shareholder value. Drawing on social exchange theory and its norm of reciprocity, we introduce a conceptual model on the main effect of the CWW on shareholder value, and the moderating roles of the anticipated type and degree of employee reciprocation. To test the model's predictions, we exploit the announcement of Belgium's mandatory adoption of a CWW in February 2022 as the setting for a policy event study analysis. We find positive average stock price reactions of Belgian listed firms to the CWW's announcement, consistent with investors expecting the CWW to result in favorable employee reciprocation. Stock price reactions are more positive for firms with a lower ex ante employee productivity, suggesting employees are predicted to reciprocate with higher efforts. Stock price reactions are also more positive for firms with a higher reliance on knowledge workers, consistent with these employees deriving a greater utility from flexible working arrangements. Robustness tests, including a placebo analysis and an event study of international firms with Belgian subsidiaries, corroborate our results. Our study offers several theoretical contributions and has practical implications for HR managers and policymakers.
Viscous dissipative transient MHD nonlinear convective slip flow of second‐order with Newtonian heating on a stretching sheet
Authors: Balamurugan R.
Published: June 2024

The current study explores the transient magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow with the interaction of quadratic convection, slip of second‐order momentum, viscous dissipation, and Newtonian heating. In this setup, the governing equations become highly nonlinear. The numerical solutions are attained by utilizing an implicit type of the Crank–Nicolson technique. The primary aim of the exploration is to figure out the consequence of MHD nonlinear convection and momentum slip of second‐order on the overall behavior of the system. The robust agreement is evinced by numerical computations verified against existing research. Skin friction and Nusselt number decreases for second‐order slips, , and −16. And for and the temporal coefficients of friction and heat transmission attain a steady state at time t = 29.88. It is significant that nonlinear convection predominates over viscous dissipation and that nonlinear convection is influenced by magnetic fields. The results are described using plots and tables.
Surface engineering of highly ordered Bi2S3 film with open channels toward high‐performance broadband photodetection
Authors: Rong Ping , Gao Shiyong , Li Lin , He Wen , Zhang Mingyi , Ren Shuai , Han Yajie , Jiao Shujie , Chen Qing , Wang Jinzhong
Published: June 2024

The highly ordered film assembled by regularly 1D nanostructures has potential prospects in electronic, photoelectronic and other fields because of its excellent light‐trapping effect and electronic transport property. However, the controlled growth of highly ordered film remains a great challenge. Herein, large‐area and highly ordered Bi2S3 film is synthesized on fluorophlogopite mica substrate by chemical vapor deposition method. The Bi2S3 film features hollowed‐out crosslinked network structure, assembled by 1D nanobelts that regularly distribute in three orientations, which agrees well with the first principles calculations. Based on the as‐grown Bi2S3 film, the broadband photodetector with a response range from 365 to 940 nm is fabricated, exhibiting a maximum responsivity up to 98.51 mA W–1, specific detectivity of 2.03 × 1010 Jones and fast response time of 35.19 ms. The stable instantaneous on/off behavior for 500 cycles and reliable photoresponse characteristics of the Bi2S3 photodetector after storage in air for 6 months confirm its excellent long‐term stability and air stability. Significantly, as sensing pixel and signal receiving terminal, the device successfully achieves high‐resolution imaging of characters of “H”, “I” and “T”, and secure transmission of confidential information. This work shows a great potential of the large‐area and highly ordered Bi2S3 film toward the development of future multiple functional photoelectronic applications.

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Engendering critical development through Hip Hop texts
Authors: Patel Viraj
Published: June 2024

A review of the 2023 book Teaching with Hip Hop in the 7–12 grade classroom: A guide to students' critical development through popular texts by Lauren Leigh Kelly.