bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined approach of selective and accelerated cloning for microfluidic chip‐based system increases clone specific productivity
Authors: Desmurget Caroline , Frentzel Julie , Strembitska Anastasiya , Sobkowiak Katarzyna , Perilleux Arnaud , Souquet Jonathan , Borth Nicole , Douet Julien
Published: May 2024

Improving current cell line development workflows can either focus on increasing the specific productivity of the cell lines or shortening timelines to reach the clinic as fast as possible. In this work, using the Beacon platform, we have combined two distinct protocols – early cloning with low‐viability pools, and IgG membrane staining‐, to concomitantly reach both objectives, and generate highly productive CHO clones in shorter timelines. Fast‐sorting approaches using low‐viability pools in combination with the Beacon platform have recently been reported to shorten CLD timelines. However, the low recovery led to a drastic reduction in the clone number obtained postcloning. Here, we report a combined approach of fast‐sorting and fluorescent membrane staining. With this new protocol, the cells reach a correct recovery, allowing to fully exploit the Beacon screening capacities. In addition, by using a fluorescent staining recognizing the secreted IgG, we were able to enrich the fraction of highly secreting cells prior to cloning and we obtained significant increases in the cell's specific productivity. The combination of these two protocols has a synergistic effect, and as they help discarding the dead and nonproducing populations prior to cloning, they increase the throughput power of the Beacon platform and the detection of super productive clones.
Postsynthetic Modification of Hydrogen‐Bonded Frameworks
Authors: Han Zongsu , Wang Mengmeng , Shi Wei
Published: May 2024

Hydrogen‐bonded frameworks have garnered significant attention due to their flexible structures with tailored porosity, making them a promising class of porous framework materials. However, the direct synthesis of hydrogen‐bonded frameworks with specific functions is highly challenging due to the unpredictable formation of hydrogen‐bonded frameworks. In response, postsynthetic modification has emerged as a potent strategy to imbue desired functions into hydrogen‐bonded frameworks. Recent advances have demonstrated the effectiveness of postsynthetic modification in hydrogen‐bonded frameworks for studying their mechanical, luminescent, electrochemical, and chiral properties. In this concept, we comprehensively summarize the methodologies and outcomes of postsynthetic modification to hydrogen‐bonded frameworks, providing a highlight of this exciting research area.
Characterization of Germanium Nanoparticles from Arylgermanium Trihydrides
Authors: Schmid Philipp , Bitschnau Brigitte , Finšgar Matjaž , Letofsky‐Papst Ilse , Rattenberger Johannes , Saf Robert , Uhlig Frank , Torvisco Ana
Published: May 2024

Germanium is a promising basis for nanomaterials due to its low toxicity and valuable optical and electronic properties. However, germanium nanomaterials have seen little research compared to other group 14 elements due to unpredictable chemical behavior and high costs. Here, we report the dehydrocoupling of o‐tolylgermanium trihydride to amorphous nanoparticles. The reaction is facilitated through reflux at 162 °C and can be accelerated with an amine base catalyst. Through cleavage of both H2 and toluene, new Ge−Ge bonds form. This results in nanoparticles consisting of crosslinked germanium with o‐tolyl termination. The particles are 2–6 nm in size and have masses above approximately 3500 Da. The organic substituents are promising for further functionalization. Combined with strong absorption up to 600 nm and moderate solubility and air stability, there are numerous possibilities for future applications.
Who is Who in the Carbene Chemistry of N‐Sulfonyl Hydrazones
Authors: Sivaguru Paramasivam , Pan Yongzhen , Wang Nan , Bi Xihe
Published: May 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Over the past few decades, N‐sulfonyl hydrazones have been recognized as alternative precursors for hazardous diazo compounds in organic synthesis, allowing for diverse innovative and original chemical transformations that were otherwise difficult to achieve. This critical review summarizes the major advancements in the carbene chemistry of N‐sulfonyl hydrazones. The contents of this review are organized based on research conducted by leading scientists who have made significant contributions to this field. The individual carbene transfer reactions and their mechanisms, as well as the potential applications in the synthesis of natural products and complex bioactive molecules, are thoroughly discussed.
Sexual health in adult survivors of childhood cancer: A Project REACH study
Authors: Chevalier Lydia L. , McCormick Katherine , Cooney Tabitha M. , Recklitis Christopher J. , Bober Sharon L.
Published: May 2024

Background

Sexual dysfunction is a significant complication of treatment for many adult‐onset cancers. However, comparatively less is known about sexual dysfunction in adult childhood cancer survivors (CCSs). Research has been limited by the exclusion of specific cancers (e.g., central nervous system [CNS] tumors) and the lack of validated measures, which makes it difficult to understand the nature and prevalence of sexual dysfunction in CCSs.

Methods

A total of 249 adult CCSs (aged 18–65 years) enrolled in Project REACH, a prospective cohort study, and completed measures of physical and mental health, including sexual dysfunction. Participants scoring ≤19 on the Female Sexual Function Index 6 or ≤21 on the International Index of Erectile Function 5 were classified as experiencing sexual dysfunction. Analyses examined the relationships between sexual dysfunction and demographic, disease, treatment, and health variables.

Results

A total of 78 participants (32%) experienced clinically significant sexual dysfunction. In univariate analysis, sexual dysfunction was significantly associated with CNS tumor diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 2.56) and surgery (OR, 1.96) as well as with health variables such as fatigue (OR, 3.00), poor sleep (OR, 2.84), pain (OR, 2.04), depression (OR, 2.64), poor physical health (OR, 2.45), and poor mental health (OR, 2.21). Adjusted analyses found that CNS tumor diagnosis (p = .001) and health variables (p = .025) contribute significantly to sexual dysfunction in CCSs.

Conclusions

Approximately one third of adult CCSs report clinically significant sexual dysfunction, which underscores a significant screening and treatment need. However, because available measures were developed for survivors of adult cancers, research to create a sexual health measure specifically for adult CCSs is necessary to better identify the sexual health concerns of this vulnerable population.
Hyperphosphorylated tau in Alzheimer's disease disseminates along pathways predicted by the Structural Model for Cortico‐cortical Connections
Authors: Uceda‐Heras Alicia , Aparicio‐Rodríguez Gonzalo , García‐Cabezas Miguel Ángel
Published: May 2024

In Alzheimer´s disease (AD), hyperphosphorylated tau spreads along the cerebral cortex in a stereotypical pattern that parallels cognitive deterioration. Tau seems to spread transsynaptically along cortico‐cotical pathways that, according to synaptic tract‐tracing studies in nonhuman primates, have specific laminar patterns related to the cortical type of the connected areas. This relation is described in the Structural Model. In the present article, we study the laminar distribution of hyperphosphorylated tau, labeled with the antibody AT8, along temporal cortical types in postmortem human brains with different AD stages to test the predictions of the Structural Model. Brains from donors without dementia had scant AT8‐immunorreactive (AT8‐ir) neurons in allo‐, meso‐, and isocortical types. In early AD stages, the mesocortical dysgranular type, including part of the transentorhinal cortex, had the highest AT8 immunostaining and AT8‐ir neurons density. In advanced AD stages, AT8 immunostaining increased along the isocortical types until reaching the auditory koniocortex. Regarding laminar patterns, in early AD stages there were more AT8‐ir neurons in supragranular layers in each de novo involved neocortical type; in advanced AD stages, AT8‐ir neurons were equally distributed in supra‐ and infragranular layers. These AT8‐ir laminar patterns are compatible with the predictions of the Structural Model. In summary, we show that hyperphosphorylated tau initially accumulates in allo‐, meso‐, and isocortical types, offer a proof of concept for the validity of the Structural Model to predict synaptic pathway organization in the human cerebral cortex, and highlight the relevance of nonhuman primate tract‐tracing studies to understand human neuropathology.
Copper in colorectal cancer: From copper‐related mechanisms to clinical cancer therapies
Authors: Wang Yuhong , Pei Pei , Yang Kai , Guo Lingchuan , Li Yuan
Published: May 2024

Copper, a trace element and vital cofactor, plays a crucial role in the maintenance of biological functions. Recent evidence has established significant correlations between copper levels, cancer development and metastasis. The strong redox‐active properties of copper offer both benefits and disadvantages to cancer cells. The intestinal tract, which is primarily responsible for copper uptake and regulation, may suffer from an imbalance in copper homeostasis. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most prevalent primary cancer of the intestinal tract and is an aggressive malignant disease with limited therapeutic options. Current research is primarily focused on the relationship between copper and CRC. Innovative concepts, such as cuproplasia and cuproptosis, are being explored to understand copper‐related cellular proliferation and death. Cuproplasia is the regulation of cell proliferation that is mediated by both enzymatic and nonenzymatic copper‐modulated activities. Whereas, cuproptosis refers to cell death induced by excess copper via promoting the abnormal oligomerisation of lipoylated proteins within the tricarboxylic acid cycle, as well as by diminishing the levels of iron‐sulphur cluster proteins. A comprehensive understanding of copper‐related cellular proliferation and death mechanisms offers new avenues for CRC treatment. In this review, we summarise the evolving molecular mechanisms, ranging from abnormal intracellular copper concentrations to the copper‐related proteins that are being discovered, and discuss the role of copper in the pathogenesis, progression and potential therapies for CRC. Understanding the relationship between copper and CRC will help provide a comprehensive theoretical foundation for innovative treatment strategies in CRC management.
Juvenile survival increases with dispersal distance and varies across years: 15 years of evidence in a prairie perennial
Authors: Richardson Lea K. , Nordstrom Scott W. , Waananen Amy , Thoen Riley D. , Dykstra Amy B. , Kiefer Gretel , Mullett Drake E. , Eichenberger Erin G. , Shaw Ruth G. , Wagenius Stuart
Published: May 2024

Juvenile survival is critical to population persistence and evolutionary change. However, the survival of juvenile plants from emergence to reproductive maturity is rarely quantified. This is especially true for long‐lived perennials with extended pre‐reproductive periods. Furthermore, studies rarely have the replication necessary to account for variation among populations and cohorts. We estimated juvenile survival and its relationship to population size, density of conspecifics, distance to the maternal plant, age, year, and cohort for Echinacea angustifolia, a long‐lived herbaceous perennial. In 14 remnant prairie populations over seven sampling years, 2007–2013, we identified 886 seedlings. We then monitored these individuals annually until 2021 (8–15 years). Overall, juvenile mortality was very high; for almost all cohorts fewer than 10% of seedlings survived to age 8 or to year 2021. Only two of the seedlings reached reproductive maturity within the study period. Juvenile survival increased with distance from the maternal plant and varied more among the study years than it did by age or cohort. Juvenile survival did not vary with population size or local density of conspecific neighbors. Our results suggest that low juvenile survival could contribute to projected population declines.
Kanamycin−Cu(II) Complex Catalyzed Ullmann Amine Synthesis at Room Temperature: A Tool for Mechanistic Insights into Methylene Blue Degradation
Authors: Basheer Huma , Shamsi Sadia , Qadir Abdul , Sharma Kalicharan , Azad Chandra S. , Kumar Amit , Khan Imran A.
Published: May 2024

This study highlights the significance of the Ullmann coupling reaction in modern organic synthesis and advances catalytic methodologies through the introduction of a kanamycin−copper complex as a highly efficient catalyst for the synthesis of diverse N−aryl compounds. We demonstrate the catalyst's versatility by synthesizing 20 diaryl−amine instances, 21 Ar(het)−N compounds, and 10 miscellaneous examples. NMR, IR, and UV spectroscopy offer insights into the catalyst's behaviour. Additionally, DFT studies support the catalyst's proficiency in generating SO4−⋅ radicals by stabilizing with amino sugar moieties. Ex‐situ NMR experiments confirm a ternary complex‐based mechanism at concentrations below 0.1 μM. Furthermore, we showcase the degradation of methylene blue to its precursor amine under optimized conditions. Overall, this research underscores the potential of Ullmann condensation reactions in contemporary organic synthesis and contributes significantly to the advancement of catalytic methodologies.
Occupational therapy's role in promoting the “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” developmental monitoring program to public health employees
Authors: Barlow Kate , Sullivan Kelsey , Lauren Scott
Published: May 2024

Background

Occupational therapists can play a key role in early identification of delay at the population health level by providing education to public health employees on how to implement developmental monitoring with caregivers of children birth to age 5.

Methods

A pretest posttest design was utilized to assess the online education and training that was provided to Department of Public Health employees (N = 339), including Head Start, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, Home Visiting, and Early Intervention.

Results

Analysis of pretest‐posttest survey data showed significant results for all 12 key learning outcomes. Six out of 12 outcomes were found to have a large effect size (d > 0.8), 4 outcomes indicated a medium effect size (d > 0.5), and 2 outcomes had a small effect size (d > 0.2). Participants gained knowledge of the “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” (LTSAE) developmental monitoring program, the difference between developmental monitoring and screening, the state's referral system and age‐appropriate parental engagement activities through knowledge of child development.

Conclusions

Occupational therapists are child development specialists who can provide education on developmental monitoring and activities for parental engagement. The online course proved to be an effective platform to promote LTSAE within state agencies.
Evaluation of telemedicine medical abortion using a no‐test protocol in the Eastern Europe and Central Asian region: Evidence from Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan
Authors: Tsereteli Tamar , Platais Ingrida , Maru Mahlet , Maystruk Galyna , Kurbanbekova Dilfuza , Rzayeva Gulnara , Winikoff Beverly
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate safety, feasibility, and acceptability of a telemedicine medical abortion service without pre‐treatment in‐person tests in Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan.

Methods

We conducted an open‐label, prospective, observational clinical study at five clinics in the three countries. Interested and eligible participants scheduled a telemedicine consultation with a study provider by phone or video. Medical abortion pills could be obtained by mail or courier or picked up at the study clinic or a pharmacy. Study providers contacted participants 1 week after mifepristone ingestion to assess abortion outcomes based on symptoms, and 3 weeks later to review the result of an at‐home, high‐sensitivity, urine pregnancy test. Participants were referred to in‐person visit based on symptoms, urine pregnancy test results, or initiative by the participant.

Results

In all, 300 women participated in the study. Almost all participants received medical abortion medications the same day as their first contact with the study clinic, and the majority (n = 297, 99.0%) did not experience any problems receiving them. All except two women (0.67%) followed provider instructions on administration of medications. The majority of participants had a complete abortion without a procedure (Ukraine: n = 115, 95.8%; Uzbekistan: n = 127, 97.7%; Azerbaijan: n = 49, 98.0%), few had in‐person visits (Ukraine: n = 30, 25.0%; Uzbekistan: n = 3, 2.3%; Azerbaijan: n = 4, 8.0%), and most were very satisfied or satisfied with the service (Ukraine: n = 116, 96%; Uzbekistan: n = 128, 98%; Azerbaijan: n = 45, 90%). No serious adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

Telemedicine medical abortion using the no‐test protocol is safe, feasible and acceptable for women in Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan.
Construction of bupivacaine‐loaded gelatin‐based hydrogel delivery system for sciatic nerve block in mice
Authors: Zhang Qunfei , Liu Xiang , Liu Hongqiang , Li Shufen , An Zhenping , Feng Zujian
Published: May 2024

Peripheral nerve blockade (PNB) is a common treatment to relieve postoperative pain. However, local anesthetics alone have a short duration of action and severe side effects during postoperative analgesia. In order to overcome these limitations, the present study reported an injectable hydrogel with a drug slow‐release profile for regional nerve blockade. The injectable hydrogel was prepared by crosslinking with gelatin and NHS‐PEG‐NHS, which was degradable in the physiological environment and displayed sustainable release of anesthetics locally, thus improving the disadvantage of the high toxicity of local anesthetics. In this regard, we conducted a series of in vitro characterizations and proved that the hydrogel has a porous three‐dimensional mesh structure with high drug loading capability, and sustainable drug release profile. And cytotoxicity experiments confirmed the good biocompatibility of the hydrogel. It was shown that using the animal sciatic nerve block model, the analgesic effect was greatly improved in vivo, and there was no obvious evidence of permanent inflammation or nerve damage in the block site's sections. This locally slow‐release platform, combined with local anesthetics, is therefore a promising contender for long‐acting analgesia.
The impact of emotion regulation and dyadic coping within posttraumatic stress symptoms and risky drinking patterns on relationship distress among trauma‐exposed individuals
Authors: Barden Eileen P. , Mattson Richard E. , Mastroleo Nadine , Balderrama‐Durbin Christina
Published: May 2024

Individuals with posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) often consume alcohol to manage PTSS‐related discomfort, which can negatively impact individual and interpersonal functioning. Processes including emotion regulation and dyadic coping may influence the effects of PTSS and drinking patterns on relationship functioning. The present study examined how PTSS and risky drinking may function through the associations between maladaptive individual and interpersonal coping strategies and relationship distress among trauma‐exposed individuals. Participants were 237 adults in a romantic relationship who endorsed lifetime trauma exposure and alcohol consumption within the past year and completed an online battery of self‐report measures. Path analyses showed mixed support for the hypothesized theoretical causal model. PTSS was associated with maladaptive emotion regulation, β = .537, p = .010, and negative dyadic coping, β = .264, p = .009, whereas risky drinking was only related to negative dyadic coping, β = .193, p = .024. Negative dyadic coping was significant in the pathways between PTSS and relationship distress, β = .021, p = .009, and risky drinking and relationship distress, β = .030, p = .014. Exploratory analyses based on trauma type did not significantly change the overall model; however, a direct path suggested PTSS may have a stronger negative impact on relationship distress among individuals who experienced assault trauma (e.g., physical or sexual assault), β = .340, p = .012. Findings highlight the interrelations among intra‐ and interpersonal regulation and provide clinical targets of maladaptive emotion regulation and dyadic coping strategies for individuals with PTSS and harmful drinking.
Estimating ethanol correction factors for δ13C and δ15N isotopic signatures of freshwater zooplankton from multiple lakes
Authors: Blechinger Tristan , Link Denver , Nelson Jenna K.R. , Hansen Gretchen J.A.
Published: May 2024

In freshwater systems, δ13C and δ15N stable isotopes can be used to differentiate between pelagic and littoral energy sources and to quantify trophic position. In these ecosystems, crustacean zooplankton are frequently used to characterize the pelagic baseline. Zooplankton samples are often preserved prior to processing and analysis, which can affect isotopic signatures. Variability in preservation effects across studies make it difficult to determine if and how to correct for preservation effects. Here, we develop a correction factor for ethanol preservation and present a flexible statistical method that can be updated with additional data to increase its applicability. We collected zooplankton from five lakes in Minnesota, USA encompassing wide isotopic ranges (δ13C from −37.23‰ to −23.96‰; δ15N from 3.07‰ to 14.44‰). Changes in zooplankton δ13C and δ15N signatures were quantified using a Bayesian hierarchical model predicting fresh values from ethanol‐preserved values. Ethanol preservation increased δ13C by a factor of 1.158 (95% CI 0.866–1.441) and had a negligible effect on δ15N (slope = 1.077; 95% CI 0.833–1.359). Lake‐specific values did not differ from the overall relationship. K‐fold and leave‐one‐out cross validation tests verified that both models were accurate; RMSE of predicted δ13C = 0.701 and RMSE of predicted δ15N = 0.590. Our correction factors could be applied to other systems in which baseline δ13C and δ15N values fall within the range of our study, and this approach also enables the inclusion of data from additional lakes to estimate new corrections.
Properties and Mechanism of Friction‐Reducing Silicone Rubber Modified with Hyperbranched Polysiloxane
Authors: Ai Xiaoxue , Wang Xiaoping
Published: May 2024

During the utilization of silicone rubber, excessive friction can cause damage to the contact surface and the material itself. Therefore, friction‐reducing modification of silicone rubber has attracted much attention. In this paper, hyperbranched polysiloxanes with different structures is synthesized for friction‐reducing modification of silicone rubber. Infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and amine titration tests reveal that hyperbranched polysiloxanes are successfully synthesized by the hydrolytic condensation of 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane and their Michael addition with four acrylates with different alkyl chains. The friction coefficients and mechanical properties of silicone rubber are evaluated. Hyperbranched polysiloxanes significantly reduces friction and maintained excellent mechanical properties of silicone rubber. Silicone rubber with butyl‐ester‐secondary‐amino hyperbranched polysiloxane displays the best overall performance, with static and dynamic friction coefficients decreasing by 33.99% and 43.16% compared with that of pure silicone rubber, respectively, and a tensile strength of 10.80 MPa. The friction‐reducing mechanism of hyperbranched polysiloxanes on silicone rubber is investigated by contact angle test and dynamic mechanical analysis. Hyperbranched polysiloxanes migrates to the surface due to the incompatibility of alkyl chains with silicone rubber matrix. Consequently, the shielding effect produced by hyperbranched polysiloxanes on the surface depresses the adsorption activity of silicone rubber surface thereby reducing friction.
Recent Developments in Antimicrobial and Antiviral Agents Based on Natural/Synthetic Polymers and Dendrimers: Design and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Abd‐El‐Aziz Ahmad , Fouda Moustafa M.G. , Sharaby Carmen M. , Xiao Ouyang , Zhang Xinyue , Alzahrany Yahya A. , Ahmed Saleh A. , Ma Ning , Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S.
Published: May 2024

This review article explores the recent innovations in the field of antimicrobial and antiviral macromolecules. With the rising challenge of antibiotic resistance, as well as the overuse of antibiotics, there is a growing demand for efficient solutions to combat microbial and viral infections. The development of new effective antimicrobial and antiviral agents is highlighted. This review is designed to give a comprehensive view of the literature focusing on a few examples of combating microbial and viral infections in each section. A brief description of naturally occurring organic‐based materials that exhibit antimicrobial and/or antiviral activities is presented, focusing on polysaccharides, peptides, and proteins. Synthetic organic‐based materials are divided into subsections including polymers, dendrimers, and nanomaterials. The synthesis and applications of inorganic materials such as polyphosphazenes and polysiloxanes, as well as tin‐, germanium‐ and gallium‐based materials are emphasized in this review. Organometallic macromolecules are also described, and their antimicrobial and antiviral activities are examined. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the design of antimicrobial and antiviral macromolecules, offering valuable insights into their potential applications in biomedical research and combating drug‐resistant microorganisms and viruses.
Identifying protective factors related to burnout, moral injury, and resilience of registered nurses: An exploratory analysis
Authors: Hubbell Sara L. , Young Susan E. , Duea Stephanie R. , Prentice Christopher R.
Published: May 2024

Nursing leadership continue to grapple with the pre‐existing social, physical, spiritual, and emotional toll experienced by the nursing workforce, further exacerbated by the pandemic. The three‐fold purpose of this current quantitative study was to measure the impact of the pandemic on nurses’ levels of burnout, moral injury, and resilience; measure levels of compassion satisfaction, and secondary traumatic stress; and identify protective factors against burnout and moral injury that could bolster resilience. An electronic survey was created using three validated instruments and sent to nurses in one US state. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Survey response rate was 5.5%. Respondents reported high levels of burnout and moral injury, and reduced levels of resilience. Protective factors included age, experience, education, and religion, with the older, more experienced, and educated nurse who identified as Christian being found to represent the most protected group. Multipronged strategies are needed to support, sustain, and recover nurses’ mental health across demographics to meet current and future workforce needs.
Association between insulin sensitivity and lean mass loss during weight loss
Authors: Bartholomew Ciera L. , Martins Catia , Gower Barbara
Published: May 2024

Objective

The study objective was to assess the relationship between insulin sensitivity and changes in total lean mass (LM) and appendicular LM (ALM) during weight loss.

Methods

Individuals were randomly assigned to either a standard or a moderately reduced carbohydrate diet for 16 weeks. Body composition was assessed using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry and insulin sensitivity index (SI) using an intravenous glucose tolerance test. Multiple linear regression was used to determine whether baseline SI was predictive of changes in total LM and ALM.

Results

Participants (n = 57; baseline BMI 32.1 ± 3.8 kg/m2) lost an average of 6.8 ± 3.2 kg of body weight (p < 0.001), with 1.5 ± 2.6 kg coming from LM (p < 0.05) and 0.5 ± 0.73 kg from ALM (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that SI was inversely associated with changes in total LM (kilograms; β = 0.481, p < 0.001), after adjusting for baseline LM, fat mass, acute insulin response to glucose, and weight loss. Similar results were seen when assessing ALM loss (β = 0.359, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Identifying individuals with low insulin sensitivity prior to weight loss interventions may allow for a personalized approach aiming at minimizing LM loss.
Machine learning provides insights for spatially explicit pest management strategies by integrating information on population connectivity and habitat use in a key agricultural pest
Authors: Li Jinyu , Zhang Bang , Jiang Jia , Mao Yi , Li Kai , Liu Fengjing
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Insect pests have garnered increasing interest because of anthropogenic global change, and their sustainable management requires knowledge of population habitat use and spread patterns. To enhance this knowledge for the prevalent tea pest Empoasca onukii, we utilized a random forest algorithm and a bivariate map to develop and integrate models of its habitat suitability and genetic connectivity across China.

RESULTS

Our modeling revealed heterogeneous spatial patterns in suitability and connectivity despite the common key environmental predictor of isothermality. Analyses indicated that tea cultivation in areas surrounding the Tibetan Plateau and the southern tip of China may be at low risk of population outbreaks because of their predicted low suitability and connectivity. However, regions along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River should consider the high abundance and high recolonization potential of E. onukii, and thus the importance of control measures. Our results also emphasized the need to prevent dispersal from outside regions in the areas north of the Yangtze River and highlighted the effectiveness of internal management efforts in southwestern China and along the southeastern coast. Further projections under future conditions suggested the potential for increased abundance and spread in regions north of the Yangtze River and the southern tip of China, and indicated the importance of long‐term monitoring efforts in these areas.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlighted the significance of combining information on habitat use and spread patterns for spatially explicit pest management planning. In addition, the approaches we used have potential applications in the management of other pest systems and the conservation of endangered biological resources. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Investigation of Three‐Channel Heterostructure and High‐Electron‐Mobility Transistor with Quaternary In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N Barrier
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Chong , He Yunlong , Zhang Wentao , Zheng Xuefeng , Ma Xiaohua , Liu Kai , Hao Yue
Published: May 2024

Herein, a high‐quality In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N/GaN three‐channel (TC) heterostructure and the high‐electron‐mobility transistor (HEMT) based on it are proposed and investigated. The quaternary nitrides offer additional flexibility in adjusting the lattice constant and bandgap, enabling the achievement of a nearly strain‐free high‐Al‐content barrier. By stacking three In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N/GaN heterostructures, a high 2D electron gas density of 2.59 × 1013 cm−2 and a high electron mobility of 1707 cm2 V−1 s−1 are achieved. As compared with the AlGaN/GaN TC heterostructure, the In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N/GaN TC heterostructure reduces the sheet resistance by 39%, resulting in a 40 % reduction in the on‐resistance of the TC HEMT. Additionally, the inverse piezoelectric effect of the In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N/GaN TC‐HEMT is investigated by negative‐gate voltage bias step‐stress experiments. During the stress experiments, no irreversible degradation is observed in the In0.1Al0.5Ga0.4N/GaN TC‐HEMT, while the AlGaN/GaN TC‐HEMT exhibits a significant deterioration beyond the critical voltage. The reliability related to the inverse piezoelectric effect of the devices can be further improved due to the lower stress in the lattice‐matched quaternary barrier.
Two cases of respiratory infection due to Pasteurella multocida: Acute and chronic form
Authors: Onizuka Hironoshin , Hara Akihiro , Shiratori Kotaro , Yamamoto Akito , Shirai Toshihiro
Published: May 2024

We present two cases of Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) respiratory infection. The first case involves a 62‐year‐old female with abnormal chest shadows, a history of bronchial asthma, and colorectal cancer. Endobronchial ultrasound with a guide sheath (EBUS‐GS) revealed granulomatous changes, and P. multocida was cultured. The second case is a 64‐year‐old female presenting to the emergency department with progressively worsening chest pain and dyspnea, with P. multocida detected from her sputum culture. Treatment with penicillin antibiotics resulted in symptom improvement and normalization of CT findings. These cases indicate the importance of considering P. multocida in respiratory infections, given the patients' history of pet ownership and the nonspecific imaging findings and symptoms. This highlights the necessity for accurate diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, particularly in cases where animal traumatic exposure is not detected.
Engineering Reversible Lattice Structure for High‐Capacity Co‐Free Li‐Rich Cathodes with Negligible Capacity Degradation
Authors: Zhao Guangxue , Zhang Tianran , Wang Ruoyu , Zhang Nian , Zheng Lirong , Ma Xiaobai , Yang Jinbo , Liu Xiangfeng
Published: May 2024

Co‐free Li‐rich Mn‐based cathode materials are garnering great interest because of high capacity and low cost. However, their practical application is seriously hampered by the irreversible oxygen escape and the poor cycling stability. Herein, a reversible lattice adjustment strategy is proposed by integrating O vacancies and B doping. B incorporation increases TM─O (TM: transition metal) bonding orbitals whereas decreases the antibonding orbitals. Moreover, B doping and O vacancies synergistically increase the crystal orbital bond index values enhancing the overall covalent bonding strength, which makes TM─O octahedron more resistant to damage and enables the lattice to better accommodate the deformation and reaction without irreversible fracture. Furthermore, Mott–Hubbard splitting energy is decreased due to O vacancies, facilitating electron leaps, and enhancing the lattice reactivity and capacity. Such a reversible lattice, more amenable to deformation and forestalling fracturing, markedly improves the reversibility of lattice reactions and mitigates TM migration and the irreversible oxygen redox which enables the high cycling stability and high rate capability. The modified cathode demonstrates a specific capacity of 200 mAh g−1 at 1C, amazingly sustaining the capacity for 200 cycles without capacity degradation. This finding presents a promising avenue for solving the long‐term cycling issue of Li‐rich cathode.
Disordered Ballistic Bismuth Nano‐waveguides for Highly Efficient Thermoelectric Energy Conversion
Authors: Li Ping'an , Selzer Yoram
Published: May 2024

Junctions based on electronic ballistic waveguides, such as semiconductor nanowires or nanoribbons with transverse structural variations in the order of a large fraction of their Fermi wavelength, are suggested as highly efficient thermoelectric (TE) devices. Full harnessing of their potential requires a capability to either deterministically induce structural variations that tailor their transmission properties at the Fermi level or alternatively to form waveguides that are disordered (chaotic) but can be structurally modified continuously until favorable TE properties are achieved. Well‐established methods to realize either of these routes do not exist. Here, disordered bismuth (Bi) waveguides are reported, which are both formed and structurally tuned by electromigration until their efficiency as TE devices is maximized. In accordance with theory, the conductance of the most efficient TE waveguides is in the sub quantum of conductance regime. The stability of these structures is found to be substantially higher than other actively studied devices such as single molecule junctions.
Extrapolative Machine Learning for Accurate Efficiency Prediction in Non‐Fullerene Ternary Organic Solar Cells: Leveraging Computable Molecular Descriptors in High‐Throughput Virtual Screening
Authors: Liao Jian‐Ming , Tsai Hui‐Hsu Gavin
Published: May 2024

Adding a third component to binary organic solar cells (OSCs) enhances ternary OSCs, boosting power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, developing and optimizing appropriate donors, acceptors, and ternary materials remains a complex and demanding task. This study presents four machine‐learning (ML) predictive models using XGBoost and ANN approaches, utilizing both experimental and DFT‐derived HOMO and LUMO levels for efficient high‐throughput virtual screening (HTVS) of top candidates based on PCE. Two distinct latent databases were employed for HTVS: one consisting of 429 413 uniquely recombined ternary OSC systems from experimentally available data, and another comprising ≈2.3 million unique donor molecules from the Harvard Clean Energy Project database (CEPDB). The four ML models demonstrated notable predictive accuracy for PCE on a test dataset containing molecules closely aligned with the training set (interpolation). However, the XGBoost model showed constrained extrapolative ability for molecules significantly divergent from those in the training dataset. In contrast, the ANN models displayed a robust extrapolative capacity in HTVS, successfully predicting new potential ternary OSC systems and leading donors with PCE values exceeding 20%. Our ML models use HOMO and LUMO inputs for donors, acceptors, and ternaries, facilitating efficient optimization via rapid HTVS of high‐performance ternary materials.
Sonographic localisation of neck lymph nodes using surgical neck level classifications
Authors: Fenech Michelle , Connolly Jessica , Clarke Chelsea
Published: May 2024

Sonographic imaging of the lymph nodes (LNs) of the neck is used to differentiate between those that are benign or suspicious of malignancy. The size, number and location of suspicious appearing LNs must be documented and reported. Cervical LN location should be described in terms of surgical neck levels. Knowledge of the sonographic differentiation between benign and suspicious appearances of LNs, and surgical neck levels is required, including sonographic landmarks that can be used to correctly locate LNs to a specific neck level.
Carbide Precipitation Behavior of High‐Alloy Steel During Solidification and Cooling Process
Authors: He Shuai , Li Zhi‐Feng , Liu Xin , Liu Xu‐Ming , Zhang Chi , Wang Jun‐Sheng
Published: May 2024

The precipitation, growth, and transformation of carbides rich in Cr and Mo during solidification and cooling process of high‐alloy steel for cold working dies are investigated. The Fe–C pseudobinary phase diagram of high‐alloy steel is calculated by Thermo‐Calc software to ascertain the critical phase transformation temperatures. The temperatures of phase transformation during the solidification process are determined by a differential scanning calorimeter. Then the microstructure of the samples at these characteristic temperatures is observed in situ by high‐temperature confocal microscope. The results show that the characteristic temperatures for phase transformation and carbide precipitation are 1380, 1315, 1140, and 980 °C, respectively. At 1315 °C, thick rod‐like or island‐like M7C3 carbides enriched in Cr and Fe are formed. At 1140 °C, secondary M7C3, adhering to the primary eutectic M7C3, grows rapidly in a rod‐like morphology and maintains a similar composition. The secondary M6C carbides of segregated Mo elements precipitate in fan‐shaped clusters near M7C3 through the dissolution of M7C3 and the conversion of M2C. Thermodynamic calculation further indicates that the eutectic Cr7C3 precipitates at 1213 °C, and secondary Cr7C3 remains under conditions favorable for precipitation below the solidus, preceding the precipitation of secondary carbides Cr23C6 and Mo2C.
30 Jahre prophylaktische Thyreoidektomie beim hereditären medullären Schilddrüsenkarzinom
Authors: Dralle Henning , Weber Frank , Lorenz Kerstin , Machens Andreas
Published: May 2024

Das medulläre Schilddrüsenkarzinom (MTC) ist die häufigste das onkologische Outcome bestimmende Manifestation der multiplen endokrinen Neoplasie (MEN) Typ 2. Vor 30 Jahren konnten die Keimbahnmutationen im RET(REarranged-during-Transfection)-Protoonkogen, einem Tumorsuppressorgen auf Chromosom 10q11.2, als Ursache der MEN2 identifiziert und 1993 und 1994 erstveröffentlicht werden. Hieraus entwickelte sich das Konzept der prophylaktischen Thyreoidektomie für asymptomatische Genmutationsträger, das seither Therapiestandard ist. Klinisch-genetische Untersuchungen zeigten hinsichtlich der individuellen Genmutation eine Genotyp-Phänotyp-Korrelation sowohl hinsichtlich der Penetranz und des Entstehungszeitraums des MTC und in geringerem Ausmaß auch hinsichtlich der anderen MEN2-Komponenten Phäochromozytom und primärer Hyperparathyreoidismus. Daraus konnte eine klinisch relevante Risikostratifizierung abgeleitet werden. Die allein genotypbasierte, aber nicht hinreichend genaue Altersempfehlung für den besten Zeitpunkt der prophylaktischen Thyreoidektomie wurde in der Folgezeit durch Kombination des RET-Genotyps mit dem Kalzitoninwert präzisiert, der mutations- und altersunabhängig erst bei Überschreiten des oberen Kalzitoninnormwertes das Risiko einer Lymphknotenmetastasierung anzeigt. Die routinemäßige Kalzitoninbestimmung bei Knotenstrumen, das Familienscreening bei MEN2-Indexpatienten und die karzinompräventive prophylaktische Thyreoidektomie bei normokalzitoninämischen Genmutationsträgern haben dazu geführt, dass heute, 30 Jahre nach der Erstbeschreibung der krankheitsverursachenden Genmutationen, das lebensbedrohende hereditäre MTC heilbar geworden ist: ein leuchtendes Beispiel für den Erfolg translational transnationaler medizinischer Forschung zum Wohl der Betroffenen.
Nierenbeteiligung bei Systemerkrankungen
Authors: Kain Renate
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Erkrankungen des nicht-neoplastischen Nierenparenchyms können im Rahmen aller, den Organismus systemisch betreffenden Erkrankungen auftreten und stellen so eine Differenzialdiagnose für immunologisch bedingte Nierenerkrankungen dar.

Fragestellung

Zwei häufige autoimmunologische Erkrankungen der Niere – antineutrophile Zytoplasmaantikörper (ANCA)-assoziierte Vaskulitis (AAV) und systemischer Lupus erythematosus (SLE) – werden im Kontext des breiten Erkrankungsfelds der Nieren und deren diagnostische und mögliche therapeutische Ansätze dargestellt.

Material und Methoden

Es wird eine Übersicht über die Krankheitsbilder mit Review aktueller Literatur gegeben.
Increased epicardial adipose tissue is associated with left atrial mechanical dysfunction in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Lobeek M. , Gorter T. M. , Westenbrink B. D. , Van Veldhuisen D. J. , Rienstra M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) is often accompanied by atrial dysfunction. It has been suggested that specific ectopic fat depots, such as epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), may directly influence the myocardial cells and, therefore, be involved in the pathophysiology of atrial mechanical dysfunction. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between EAT and left atrial (LA) mechanical dysfunction.

Methods and results

In total, 82 patients with symptomatic HF and left ventricular ejection fraction > 40% were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent CMR while in sinus rhythm. LA mechanical dysfunction was defined as the presence of LA end-systolic volume index > 52 mL/m2 and LA reservoir strain < 23%. EAT volume was indexed for body surface area. Mean age was 69 ± 10 years, 42 (51%) were women and mean body mass index (BMI) was 29 ± 6 kg/m2. Mean LVEF was 55 ± 9% and 34 (41%) patients had LA mechanical dysfunction. In patients with LA mechanical dysfunction, the EAT volume was significantly higher than in patients without LA mechanical dysfunction (90 vs 105 mL/m2, p = 0.02) while BMI was similar. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, increased EAT remained significantly associated with LA mechanical dysfunction (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.03–1.66, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Increased EAT was associated with LA mechanical dysfunction in patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF. Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms that underlie this association.
Advancing carbon capture in hard-to-abate industries: technology, cost, and policy insights
Authors: Zhang Tongyao , Zhang Mengshu , Jin Ling , Xu Mao , Li Jia
Published: May 2024

Industrial emissions are significant and need to be addressed in the fight against climate change. To achieve carbon emission reduction targets in line with climate change policies while maintaining the competitiveness of the industry, hard-to-abate sectors are exploring efficient carbon reduction technologies and striving to reduce associated costs. Carbon capture technology presents a large-scale CO2 reduction solution with immense potential. In promoting the application of carbon capture in hard-to-abate industries, it is essential to comprehensively analyze the feasibility and economics of carbon capture technology. This paper conducts a review of the technical feasibility and economics of carbon capture technologies in several industrial sectors, namely iron and steel, cement, and coal chemical industries. A vast amount of data on the costs of industrial carbon capture technologies has been gathered for comparison. This study also specifically addresses policy incentives that have been discussed and are currently being implemented to cut costs and promote industrial carbon capture projects.

Graphical abstract
Optimality conditions for differentiable linearly constrained pseudoconvex programs
Authors: Cambini Riccardo , Riccardi Rossana
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to study optimality conditions for differentiable linearly constrained pseudoconvex programs. The stated results are based on new transversality conditions which can be used instead of complementarity ones. Necessary and sufficient optimality conditions are stated under suitable generalized convexity properties. Moreover, two different pairs of dual problems are proposed and weak and strong duality results proved. Finally, it is shown how transversality conditions can be applied to characterize optimality of convex quadratic problems and to efficiently solve a particular class of Max-Min problems