bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Scale Synthesis of FeNi Nanoalloys‐Layered Porous N‐Doped Carbon Nanosheets for Efficient Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Han Meng , Yun Yapei , Yao Aimin , Hu Jiashen , Wang Yan , Zhu Qingtao , Sheng Hongting , Du Yuanxin , Zhu Manzhou
Published: July 2022

Developing non‐noble metal catalysts with high efficiency and stability is critical for the industrial application of electrocatalytic water splitting. Herein, FeNi nanoalloys‐layered porous N‐doped carbon nanosheets (FeNi‐NCS) were large‐scale synthesized by simple formamide pyrolysis method. The framework of FeNi‐NCS was a micro‐flowerlike structure composed of mesoporous N‐doped carbon nanosheets as petals, on which FeNi nanoalloy particles were uniformly dispersed. Benefiting from the unique N doping electronic modification, hierarchically porous structure, and the synergetic effect between Fe and Ni, the FeNi‐NCS exhibited high intrinsic activity and robust structure which can improve catalytic performance significantly. By tuning the pyrolysis temperature and the molar ratio of Fe and Ni, the Fe1Ni1‐NCS‐900 displayed optimal activity and stability for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and required 261 and 310 mV overpotential to achieve 10 mA cm−2 respectively. This work presented a simple and effective way to fabricate high‐performance and stable non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for water splitting.
Fe3C Decorated N, Fe Co‐Doped Hollow Carbon Microspheres as Efficient Air Electrode Catalyst for Zinc‐Air Battery
Authors: Zhang Xiangtai , Hu Shuozhen , Sun Shigang , Zhang Xinsheng
Published: July 2022

Efficient metal‐air batteries need active catalysts with low cost for both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, hollow spherical Fe−M/G/H catalyst was synthesized through a polycondensation/pyrolysis method without template. Polycondensation of melamine, d‐glucose, and hexamethylenetetramine was accomplished to obtain carbon spheres with high nitrogen content. Hollow microspheres containing Fe‐Nx and Fe3C were fabricated by subsequent pyrolysis with Fe catalysts. Hollow microsphere structures not only expose more active sites (doped‐N, Fe‐Nx, and Fe3C), but also promote the mass transfer of O2. Fe−M/G/H possesses superior ORR performance in alkaline media with high limiting current density (5.09 mA cm−2) and half‐wave potential (0.80 V). The OER activity of Fe−M/G/H is superior to commercial Pt/C. Fe−M/G/H assembled zinc‐air battery exhibits high peak power density (90.27 mW cm−2) and long stability. This research provides a new approach to design hollow carbon catalysts with homo‐dispersed Fe‐Nx/Fe3C active sites and high doped‐N concentration.
One‐pot Economic Synthesis to the Functional Copper Mixed‐triazolate MOF Materials Towards an Enhanced Adsorptive Removal of Diclofenac Sodium
Authors: Chen Tianying , Shi Si , Yang Guang , Chen Zhihao , Zhang Wenhua
Published: July 2022

Functional copper mixed‐triazolate MOF materials (CuMtz‐3a and CuMtz‐3b), were designed and successfully prepared via simply stirring 1,2,4‐triazole (tzH) and the starting reactants of CuTz‐1 at room temperature. The obtained CuMtz‐3a and CuMtz‐3b were thoroughly characterized by PXRD, 1H‐NMR, EA, SEM, TG, etc. Furthermore, they were evaluated on the removal of diclofenac sodium (DCF). It was found that CuMtz‐3b, with a tzH doping of 18 %, exhibited a superior activity on the adsorption of DCF in the aqueous solution in comparison to that observed over CuMtz‐3a (10 % doping of tzH) and CuTz‐1. DCF adsorption over CuMtz‐3b are attributed to both anion exchange and hydrogen bonding. Owing to the incorporation of tzH, higher pore width and exposed hydrogen bonding sites (nitrogen sites of tzH) generated in CuMtz‐3b can improve the activity towards the removal of DCF. Furthermore, the regenerated CuMtz‐3b can be used for another three cycles while maintaining its crystallinity and morphology.
Indole‐2‐carboxamides as New Anti‐Mycobacterial Agents: Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling against mmpL3
Authors: Bhakhar Kaushikkumar A. , Vaghela Punit V. , Varakala Saiprasad D. , Chudasma Shrdhhaba J. , Gajjar Normi D. , Nagar Prinsa R. , Sriram Dharmarajan , Dhameliya Tejas M.
Published: July 2022

Tuberculosis (TB), an airborne disease caused byMycobacterium tuberculosis, has infected millions of people and been responsible for their deaths. Toward the anti‐TB endeavor, the synthesis of total twenty‐four indole‐2‐carboxamide derivatives as potent anti‐TB agents have been carried out using CDI‐mediated amidation. The biological evaluation against H37Rv revealed compounds5d,5eand5uwith MICs in the range of 3.125‐12.5 μg/mL using MABA assay. Further, compound5uwas tested against RAW 264.7 cell by MTT assay and showed 32 % growth inhibitions. The structure activity relationship of the indole‐2‐carboxamides has been established for antimycobacterial activity. The physicochemical properties and ADMET parameters of the5d,5eand5uusing pKCSM and SwissADME revealed their suitability as promising drug candidates. Molecular docking studies using AutoDock Vina revealed binding of5uwith the catalytic site of mmpL3 (PDB ID: 6AJG). The MD simulations of the most active compound5uusing GROMACS 2020.1 revealed its stability at the protein active site. Further optimization of indole‐2‐carboxamies may reveal the potentiation of identified anti‐mycobacterial drug candidates.
Plant‐Actuated Micro–Nanorobotics Platforms: Structural Designs, Functional Prospects, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Luthfikasari Rachmi , Patil Tejal V. , Patel Dinesh K. , Dutta Sayan Deb , Ganguly Keya , Espinal Maria Mercedes , Lim Ki‐Taek
Published: July 2022

Plants are anatomically and physiologically different from humans and animals; however, there are several possibilities to utilize the unique structures and physiological systems of plants and adapt them to new emerging technologies through a strategic biomimetic approach. Moreover, plants provide safe and sustainable results that can potentially solve the problem of mass‐producing practical materials with hazardous and toxic side effects, particularly in the biomedical field, which requires high biocompatibility. In this review, it is investigated how micro–nanostructures available in plants (e.g., nanoparticles, nanofibers and their composites, nanoporous materials, and natural micromotors) are adapted and utilized in the design of suitable materials for a micro–nanorobot platform. How plants’ work on micro‐ and nanoscale systems (e.g., surface roughness, osmotically induced movements such as nastic and tropic, and energy conversion and harvesting) that are unique to plants, can provide functionality on the platform and become further prospective resources are examined. Furthermore, implementation across organisms and fields, which is promising for future practical applications of the plant‐actuated micro–nanorobot platform, especially on biomedical applications, is discussed. Finally, the challenges following its implementation in the micro–nanorobot platform are also presented to provide advanced adaptation in the future.
Robust Hydrogel Adhesion by Harnessing Bioinspired Interfacial Mineralization
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wang Yaya , Zhang Jiajun , Lei Iek Man , Chen Guangda , Xue Yu , Liang Xiangyu , Wang Daozeng , Wang Guigen , He Sisi , Liu Ji
Published: July 2022

Hydrogels have gained intensive interest in biomedical and flexible electronics, and adhesion of hydrogels to substrates or devices is indispensable in these application scenarios. Although numerous hydrogel adhesion strategies have been developed, it is still challenging to achieve a hydrogel with robust adhesion interface through a universal yet simple method. Here, a strategy for establishing strong interfacial adhesion between various hydrogels and a wide variety of substrates (i.e., soft hydrogels and rigid solids, including glass, aluminum, PET, nylon and PDMS) even under wet conditions, is reported. This strong interfacial adhesion is realized by constructing a bioinspired mineralized transition layer through ion diffusion and subsequent mineral deposition. This strategy is not only generally applicable to a broad range of substrates and ionic pairs, but also compatible with various fabrication approaches without compromising their interfacial robustnesses. This strategy is further demonstrated in the application of single‐electrode triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), where a robust interface between the hydrogel and elastomer layers is enabled to ensure a reliable signal generation and output.
Simultaneous Interfacial Modification and Defect Passivation for Wide‐Bandgap Semitransparent Perovskite Solar Cells with 14.4% Power Conversion Efficiency and 38% Average Visible Transmittance
Authors: Shi Hongxi , Zhang Lei , Huang Hao , Wang Xiaoting , Li Ziyu , Xuan Dazhi , Wang Chenyu , Ou Yali , Ni Chaojie , Li Denggao , Chi Dan , Huang Shihua
Published: July 2022

Perovskite materials offer a great potential in the application of semitransparent solar cells, owing to the tunable bandgap, ease of preparation and excellent photovoltaic property. A majority of works exhibit high average visible‐light transmittance (AVT) for semitransparent perovskite solar cells (ST‐PSCs) through decreasing perovskite thickness, leading to sacrificing the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the device. Herein, a wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite of Cs0.2FA0.8Pb(I0.6Br0.4)3 is applied as absorber in ST‐PSCs, which is a tremendous progress to balance both large PCE and high AVT. Moreover, a strategy of simultaneous interfacial modification and defect passivation is provided to enhance the performance of WBG ST‐PSCs. Consequently, an inverted planar structure WBG perovskite solar cell (PSC) achieves 15.06% of PCE with excellent stability by restraining the interfacial energy loss and suppressing the nonradiative recombination. Furthermore, the ST‐PSC obtains high PCE of 14.40% with an AVT of 38% by means of optimizing the transparent electrode. This work provides an efficient and simple method to improve the performance and AVT of ST‐PSCs for the application in building‐integrated photovoltaics.
MAX‐phase Derived Tin Diselenide for 2D/2D Heterostructures with Ultralow Surface/Interface Transport Barriers toward Li‐/Na‐ions Storage
Authors: Mei Jun , Shang Jing , Zhang Chao , Qi Dongchen , Kou Liangzhi , Wijerathne Binodhya , Hu Chunfeng , Liao Ting , MacLeod Jennifer , Sun Ziqi
Published: July 2022

2D tin diselenide and its derived 2D heterostructures have delivered promising potentials in various applications ranging from electronics to energy storage devices. The major challenges associated with large‐scale fabrication of SnSe2 crystals, however, have hindered its engineering applications. Herein, a tin‐extraction synthetic method is proposed for producing large‐size SnSe2 bulk crystals. In a typical synthesis, a Sn‐containing MAX phase (V2SnC) and a Se source are heat‐treated under a reducing atmosphere, by which Sn is extracted from the V2SnC phase as a rectified Sn source to form SnSe2 crystals in the cold zone. After the following liquid exfoliation, the obtained 2D SnSe2 nanosheets have a lateral size of a few centimeters and an atomic thickness. Furthermore, by coupling with 2D graphene to form 2D/2D SnSe2/graphene heterostructured electrodes, as validated by theoretical calculation and experimental studies, the superior Li‐/Na‐ion storage performance with ultralow surface/interface ion transport barriers are achieved for rechargeable Li‐/Na‐ion batteries. This innovative synthetic strategy opens a new avenue for the large‐scale synthesis of selenides and offers more options into the practical application of emerging 2D/2D heterostructure for electrochemical energy storage.
Preparation of Dual‐Scale TiC‐Precipitated Bainitic Wear‐Resistant Steel by Solid Solution and Forging Deformation
Authors: Chen Sida , Zhang Tianyi , Zhang Fei , Huang Qinyuan , Li Zulai , Liao Zexin , Shan Quan
Published: July 2022

Introducing a second phase into steel to improve the wear resistance has become an effective approach for the design of wear‐resistant materials in recent years. However, efficient control of the precipitation behavior, morphology, and size of the second phase requires further research. Herein, a micrometer‐submicrometer dual‐scale TiC‐precipitated bainitic steel is prepared by treating titanium‐alloyed bainitic steel with a solid‐solution and forging (SSF) process. By comparing as‐cast sample (NSSFS) and SSF‐treated sample (SSFS) of titanium‐alloyed bainitic steel (HTBS) in terms of microstructure and TiC morphology, the regulation mechanism of the SSF process on the microstructure and the distribution of TiC is verified. The solid‐solution process places the matrix in the supersaturated state of Ti in the low‐temperature deformation zone. Subsequent forging treatment eliminates the grain boundary segregation of eutectic TiC and induces the precipitation of submicrometer TiC. The wear behaviors and mechanical properties of traditional forged ball mill liner steel (BMS) and SSFS samples are compared, and the wear performance strengthening mechanism of dual‐scale TiC is studied. The strength and wear resistance of SSFS are significantly higher than those of BMS, while its elongation and impact toughness do not decrease significantly.
COVID‐19 pandemic, vaccine nationalism and counterfeit products: Discourse and emerging research themes
Authors: Amankwah‐Amoah Joseph , Hinson Robert E.
Published: July 2022

Although “vaccine nationalism” and vaccine diplomacy have thus far typified the COVID‐19 vaccine rollouts around the globe, there remain limited scholarly insights on global vaccine distribution strategies. This research note (RN) examines the global vaccine distribution strategies and implications for public policy and governments. In conceptualizing the global vaccine distribution strategies into three competing perspectives (i.e., “vaccine nationalism,” vaccine diplomacy, and global initiative), this article highlights the divergent effects of different approaches in terms of ushering elements of nationalism and ethnocentrism. By contextualizing the discourse on the COVID‐19 pandemic into the three competing perspectives and highlighting the role of pharmaceutical companies and COVID‐19 vaccine passport, the study also offers pathways for further examination of the subject incorporating the contextual conditions.
Epidemiological study on Ixodid tick infestation and tick borne haemopathogens on cattle in Awi Zone, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Adugna Hailemariam , Tamrat Habtamu
Published: July 2022

Background

Tick and tick borne haemopathogens are the main challenge of livestock production and productivity in Ethiopia particular in northwest Ethiopia due to favourable climate condition.

Objectives

The objectives of this study was to determining the prevalence of Ixodid tick infestation and tick borne haemopathogens on cattle, identifying the existing Ixodid tick species, assessing seasonal variation and major risk factors associated with tick infestation and tick borne haemopathogens.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted from December 2020 to july 2021 on Ixodid tick infestation and tick borne haemopathogens on cattle in the northwest Ethiopia. A toatal of 384 cattle were used for this study. Tick species were identified using morphological identification keys under a stereomicroscope. Thin blood smear examination were conducted to assess tick borne haemopathogens.

Results

The overall prevalence of Ixodid tick infestation and tick borne haemopathogens were 45% and 3%, respectively. Babesia bigemina was the only haemoparasite detected in the present survey. Potential risk factors were investigated for their association with tick infestation and B. bigemina using logistic regression and chi‐square test, respectively. Accordingly, age, body condition, agroecological systems and season were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with tick infestation whereas season and body condition were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with B. bigemina infection. A total seven tick species were identified. Amblyomma varigatum (55%) and Boophilus decoloratus (15.7%) were the predominant Ixodid tick species encountered. A total of 128 blood samples were collected from Jawi district and examined using thin blood smear. Of them, 3% were infected by the B. bigemina

Conclusions

Tick infestation in this study was high and seems to play vital role for the reduction of production, productivity and for the transmission B. bigemina. Therefore, sound and effective tick control and prevention strategies are needed to mitigate the risk factors for tick infestation and B. bigemina infection in Ethiopia.
Open source intelligence extraction for terrorism‐related information: A review
Authors: Chaudhary Megha , Bansal Divya
Published: July 2022

In this contemporary era, where a large part of the world population is deluged by extensive use of the internet and social media, terrorists have found it a potential opportunity to execute their vicious plans. They have got a befitting medium to reach out to their targets to spread propaganda, disseminate training content, operate virtually, and further their goals. To restrain such activities, information over the internet in context of terrorism needs to be analyzed to channel it to appropriate measures in combating terrorism. Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) accounts for a felicitous solution to this problem, which is an emerging discipline of leveraging publicly accessible sources of information over the internet by effectively utilizing it to extract intelligence. The process of OSINT extraction is broadly observed to be in three phases (i) Data Acquisition, (ii) Data Enrichment, and (iii) Knowledge Inference. In the context of terrorism, researchers have given noticeable contributions in compliance with these three phases. However, a comprehensive review that delineates these research contributions into an integrated workflow of intelligence extraction has not been found. The paper presents the most current review in OSINT, reflecting how the various state‐of‐the‐art tools and techniques can be applied in extracting terrorism‐related textual information from publicly accessible sources. Various data mining and text analysis‐based techniques, that is, natural language processing, machine learning, and deep learning have been reviewed to extract and evaluate textual data. Additionally, towards the end of the paper, we discuss challenges and gaps observed in different phases of OSINT extraction.

This article is categorized under:

Application Areas > Government and Public Sector

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Social Considerations

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Motivation and Emergence of Data Mining
Parliamentary Politics and Polarisation Around Gender: Tackling Inequalities in Political Groups in the European Parliament
Authors: Kantola Johanna
Published: July 2022

Gender equality has become strongly contested in contemporary European politics. The European Parliament (EP) is not insulated from these developments. This chapter analyses the internal functioning of the parliament’s political groups from the perspective of gender equality. Rather than focusing on policies and policy-making processes, the chapter analyses the ways in which the political groups are perceived as gendered actors by MEPs and staff. This involves examining both remaining gender inequalities, and the practices for advancing gender equality at the political group level. The chapter draws on a large qualitative dataset of 135 interviews with MEPs and political staff conducted in 2018–2021. The findings show that despite differences between the political groups, gendered inequalities are persistent across the political spectrum. The chapter discusses how the political groups show different levels of commitment to gender equality and employ different practices in advancing it with potential for democratic representation and political work.
Turbulent Times for the European Parliament’s Political Groups? Lessons on Continuity and Change
Authors: Elomäki Anna , Ahrens Petra , Kantola Johanna
Published: July 2022

Against the background of the European Parliament (EP) operating in a polycrisis, we review the chapters of the edited volume and their innovative inroads into studying EP’s political groups and their multiple functions, powers and practices. In this concluding chapter, we pay specific attention to the role of Euroscepticism, political groups as democratic actors and the formal and informal institutions of the political groups. By comparing the book chapters, we draw overarching lessons on continuity and change in the policy- and decision-making between and within the political groups. This chapter closes by discussing political groups in the broader context of European integration and the new research avenues that can be pursued to further deepen our understanding of the political groups.
Eurosceptic Contestation and Legislative Behaviour in the European Parliament
Authors: Börzel Tanja A. , Hartlapp Miriam
Published: July 2022

Eurosceptic political parties have gained substantial support in democratic elections. Scholars have widely studied their programmatic positions. We know much less about the behaviour of Eurosceptics within legislatures. How does Eurosceptic contestation translate into voting behaviour? How do members of Eurosceptic parties engage in plenary debates? Do they stick to their peers when they vote and debate or do they form an untidy opposition? We expect Eurosceptic contestation to be weaker in policy fields that are less structured along the new cultural cleavage and are dominated by left-right ideologies or national interests. Our chapter develops this argument and offers an empirical study of Eurosceptic polarisation and Eurosceptic cohesion in the European Parliament (EP). We present an analysis of roll-call votes in the 7th and 8th legislative term of the EP (2009–2019). Six case studied then zoom into selected legislative processes in three policy fields to explore how contestation materialises in committee work and parliamentary debates in different policy fields. Our findings on cross-sectoral differences allow for a more differentiated understanding of Eurosceptic contestation becoming a vital feature of democratic practices rather than undermining EU policy-making, and European integration more broadly.
When Words Do Not Follow Deeds: An Analysis of Party Competition Between Centre-Right and Eurosceptic Radical-Right Parties in the European Parliament
Authors: Ripoll Servent Ariadna
Published: July 2022

The rise in Eurosceptic and populist parties has put pressure on mainstream centre-right parties and often leads to difficult choices between staying in the centre and moving farther to the right. Given the second-order nature of European Parliament (EP) elections, these shifts have direct consequences for the balance of power on the right of the political spectrum. Increased levels of polarisation in the past legislative periods have put the European People’s Party (EPP) under pressure and led to more ideological diversity. With a content analysis of legislative amendments from two files—the Eurodac Regulation (2016/0132/COD) and the Qualifications Regulation (2016/0223/COD)—the chapter examines whether and under which conditions the positions of the EPP can be clearly delimited from those of far-right Eurosceptic and populist parties. These two files compare dynamics of cooperation and competition in the area of migration, a classical bone of contention between radical- and centre-right parties.
Shaping the EU’s Future? Europarties, European Parliament’s Political Groups and the Conference on the Future of Europe
Authors: Johansson Karl Magnus , Raunio Tapio
Published: July 2022

Europarties and the European Parliament (EP) political groups have decades of experience from constitutional reform processes. These partisan actors have influenced EU Treaty amendments while also proving inventive in designing new practices that have over time found their way into the Treaties. Drawing on interviews and parliamentary and party documents, this chapter explores the different avenues and strategies the three largest Europarties—European People’s Party, Party of European Socialists, Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe—and their EP groups utilised for shaping the agenda of the Conference on the Future of Europe. It examines the distribution of power between Europarties and the EP groups and pays particular attention to dynamics inside the EP political groups, arguing that the agenda-setting stage of the Conference was strongly influenced by group leaders and other more senior, individual MEPs, many of whom are seasoned veterans of inter-institutional bargaining and EU constitutional development.
General Introduction
Authors: Friend Michèle Indira
Published: July 2022

This book is primarily aimed at people occupying the rank of policy maker, policy advisor or decision maker: those in charge of an institution such as a bank, a shop, a company, a university, a government, members of a decision committee or an international organisation. It is not meant to serve as a course textbook. Rather, it is meant as a handbook, used by anyone who finds making decisions difficult. Since the readership is diverse in background and expertise the reader should read chapters and parts selectively, as and when questions or concerns surface. More guidance about the parts of the book is found in this chapter. The crux of the book is the method outlined in Chap. 5.
Case-Study II: Report on Product Label Project
Authors: Friend Michèle Indira
Published: July 2022

The idea of using the compass as a product label is a good way of introducing compass concepts to non-experts. It’s an idea that is easily recognised by people living in modern economies.
The Three Qualities Again
Authors: Friend Michèle Indira
Published: July 2022

To construct an institutional compass, it will be important to thoroughly understand the three qualities: what they are and how to think about them.
Constructing an Institutional Compass: Methodology
Authors: Friend Michèle Indira
Published: July 2022

We can divide the methodology into six parts. One is to construct a wish compass. This is a meditative, philosophical exercise. The second is the collection and analysis of data. The third is to represent the whole of the data on the compass. The fourth is to use the compass and data table to make policy recommendations. We can do this based on one compass, but it is more interesting and more informative if we have several. In the fifth part, we make the exercise more participative. We invite members of the institution or people affected by the institution to suggest data or help with the analysis. The last part is to declare one’s ideological orientation. This last step is important for several reasons. We shall discuss them in due course.
Merging the Compass with Systems Science
Authors: Friend Michèle Indira
Published: July 2022

Consider a system’s approach to identifying the vulnerable, strong and influential parts of a system. An institution can be thought of as a system. It might be explicitly organised with rules or it might be self-organising. It has an effect: internal and external to the institution/ system. Actions are performed within, by, and on, a system. It is composed of nodes roughly thought of as objects or positions, and relations between them. The characteristic of a system in the sense of systems science is that: To make a systems analysis, we identify nodes in a system and the relations between them. Nodes might be roles, particular people, sub-organisations, projects, items, cells, places, traditions and so on. A systems scientist tries to take a neutral role, and maps the system using a diagram. He, or she, invites members of the system to suggest the nodes and the relations. See Fig. 6.1.
Proof of a three-loop relation between the Regge limits of four-point amplitudes in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM and $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 8 supergravity
Authors: Naculich Stephen G. , Wecker Theodore W.
Published: July 2022

Abstract

A previously proposed all-loop-orders relation between the Regge limits of four-point amplitudes of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory and $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 8 supergravity is established at the three-loop level. We show that the Regge limit of known expressions for the amplitudes obtained using generalized unitarity simplifies in both cases to a (modified) sum over three-loop ladder and crossed-ladder scalar diagrams. This in turn is consistent with the result obtained using the eikonal representation of the four-point gravity amplitude. A possible exact three-loop relation between four-point amplitudes is also considered.
Critical quenches, OTOCs and early-time chaos
Authors: Das Suchetan , Ezhuthachan Bobby , Kundu Arnab , Porey Somnath , Roy Baishali
Published: July 2022

Abstract

In this article, we explore dynamical aspects of Out-of-Time-Order correlators (OTOCs) for critical quenches, in which an initial non-trivial state evolves with a CFT-Hamiltonian. At sufficiently large time, global critical quenches exhibit a universal thermal-behavior in terms of low-point correlators. We demonstrate that, under such a quench, OTOCs demarcate chaotic CFTs from integrable CFTs by exhibiting a characteristic exponential Lyapunov growth for the former. Upon perturbatively introducing inhomogeneity to the global quench, we further argue and demonstrate with examples that, such a perturbation parameter can induce a parametrically large scrambling time, even for a CFT with an order one central charge. This feature may be relevant in designing measurement protocols for non-trivial OTOCs, in general. Both our global and inhomogeneous quench results bode well for an upper bound on the corresponding Lyapunov exponent, that may hold outside thermal equilibrium.
Hard Lefschetz Property for Isometric Flows
Authors: Royo Prieto José Ignacio , Saralegi-Aranguren Martintxo , Wolak Robert
Published: July 2022

The hard Lefschetz property (HLP) is an important property which has been studied in several categories of the symplectic world. For Sasakian manifolds, this duality is satisfied by the basic cohomology (so, it is a transverse property), but a new version of the HLP has been recently given in terms of duality of the cohomology of the manifold itself in [1]. Both properties were proved to be equivalent (see [2]) in the case of K-contact flows. In this paper, we extend both versions of the HLP (transverse and not) to the more general category of isometric flows, and show that they are equivalent. We also give some explicit examples which illustrate the categories where the HLP could be considered.
High salt diet does not impact the development of acute myeloid leukemia in mice
Authors: Janakiraman Mathangi , Salei Natallia , Krishnamoorthy Gurumoorthy
Published: July 2022

The gut microbiota has not only been implicated in the development of some cancers but has also been shown to modulate the efficacy of cancer therapeutics. Although the microbiota is an attractive target in cancer therapy, there is limited data available regarding the relevance of microbiota and dietary interventions in the various types of tumors. Recently, a high salt diet (HSD) has attracted attention in cancer development owing to its profound effects on modulating microbiota and immune responses. Here, we investigated the impact of HSD on microbiota, immune responses, and the development of acute myeloid leukemia using two syngeneic transplantation models. HSD significantly changes the microbiota composition, TH17 responses, and NK cells. However, we found no influence of HSD on tumor development. The kinetics and characteristics of tumor development were similar despite varying the number of injected tumor cells. Our data show that the effects of the microbiome and dietary interventions can be tumor-specific and may not apply to all types of cancers.
Tadalafil monotherapy in management of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial
Authors: Tawfik Ahmed M. , Radwan Mohammed H. , Abdulmonem Mohammed , Abo-Elenen Mohammed , Elgamal Samir A. , Aboufarha Mohammed O.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

In this placebo-controlled trial, we aimed to evaluate the clinical results of using PDE-5 inhibitor, tadalafil 5 mg OD, for management of CP/CPPS.

Patients and methods

140 patients ≤ 45 years old with moderate/severe CP/CPPS associated with ED (IIEF-5 < 22) were randomly divided and received either tadalafil 5 mg OD (tadalafil-group) or placebo (control-group) for 6 weeks. Post-treatment CPSI scores were compared to baseline and to placebo. Clinically significant responders (≥ 25% reduction from baseline score) were calculated. Tadalafil-induced changes in IIE-5 were evaluated in correlation to that of CPSI scores.

Results

By the 6th week, 59 and 56 patients were available in both groups respectively. Compared to baseline, tadalafil-group patients showed significant improvement in total, pain, urinary and Qol domains of CPSI (19.1 ± 5.26, 10.42 ± 3.55, 4.2 ± 1.72 and 4.47 ± 1.64 vs. 24.21 ± 5.05, 12.14 ± 3.57, 6.08 ± 1.53 and 6.22 ± 1.76), p < 0.5. When compared to placebo, all 6th week CPSI domains scores, except for pain, were significantly better in tadalafil-group (p < 0.05). Post-treatment pain score didn't significantly differ between both groups (10.42 ± 3.55, vs. 11.71 ± 3.9, p > 0.05). Clinically significant responders were 30 patients (50.8%) in tadalafil-group vs. 3 patients (5.4%) in control. Tadalafil-induced changes in IIEF-5 score had weak but significant correlation to Qol domain (r = − 0.28, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Tadalafil 5 mg OD can significantly improve all CPSI domains as compared to baseline. Post-treatment CPSI scores, except for pain, were better than placebo. About 50.8% of patients can develop ≥ 25% reduction in their total CPSI scores after treatment. Apart from Qol domain, these changes are not significantly correlated to tadalafil-induced IIEF-5 scores changes.
Surgical explantation of failed transcatheter heart valves: indications and results
Authors: Muensterer Andrea , Puluca Nazan , Ruge Hendrik , Vitanova Keti , Lange Ruediger
Published: July 2022

Given the recent surge in transcatheter heart valve replacement (THVR), cardiac surgeons will surely face the challenge of eventual explantation. The aim of this study was to determine indications for reoperation, while exploring pertinent technical aspects and survival after THV explantation in a cohort originally deemed high risk or even inoperable. Between February 2008 and March 2019, 31 patients with failed transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) underwent surgical explantations at our facility. Data were prospectively collected for retrospective analysis of procedural indications, technical issues, and postoperative survival. The major reason for TAVR removal was bioprosthetic valve failure (BVF) due to infective endocarditis (IE: 16/31 [51.6%]), non-structural (NSVD: 14/31 [45.2%]) and structural (SVD: 1/31 [3.2%]) valve deterioration accounting for the rest. Mean age at THV explantation was 76.3 ± 8.3 years, and median time from TAVR to explantation was 153 days (0 days–56.6 months). Median ICU and hospital stay were 6 days (1–44 days) and 23 days (8–62 days), respectively. Thirty-day and 1-year survival rates were 74.2% and 67.2%, respectively. Median follow-up interval after explantation was 364 days (3 days–80 months). Mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 124.6 ± 46.8 min, and mean aortic cross-clamp time was 84.3 ± 32.9 min. There was no need for unplanned aortic root repair owing to tissue damage during dissection of the TAVR from surrounding tissue. The most common reason for THV explantation was (a) BVF for IE and (b) BVF secondary to NSVD. Although 30-day and 1-year mortality rates in this multimorbid cohort were predictably high, no procedural mortalities occurred.
Males and females with first episode psychosis present distinct profiles of social cognition and metacognition
Authors: Ferrer-Quintero M. , Fernández D. , López-Carrilero R. , Birulés I. , Barajas A. , Lorente-Rovira E. , Luengo A. , Díaz-Cutraro L. , Verdaguer M. , García-Mieres H. , Gutiérrez-Zotes A. , Grasa E. , Pousa E. , Huerta-Ramos E. , Pélaez T. , Barrigón M. L. , Gómez-Benito J. , González-Higueras F. , Ruiz-Delgado I. , Cid J. , Moritz S. , Sevilla-Llewellyn-Jones J. ,   Spanish Metacognition Group, Acevedo A. , Anglès J. , Argany M. A. , Barajas A. , Barrigón M. L. , Beltrán M. , Birulés I. , Bogas J. L. , Cabezas A. , Camprubí N. , Carbonero M. , Carrasco E. , Casañas R. , Cid J. , Conesa E. , Corripio I. , Cortes P. , Crosas J. M. , de Apraiz A. , Delgado M. , Domínguez L. , Escartí M. J. , Escudero A. , Pinos I. Esteban , Franco C. , García C. , Gil V. , Gonzalez-Casares R. , González Higueras F. , González-Montoro M. L. , González E. , Grasa E. , Guasp A.. , Gutierrez-Zotes A. , Huerta-Ramos M. E. , Huertas P. , Jiménez-Díaz A. , Lalucat L. L. , LLacer B. , López-Carrilero R. , Lorente E. , Luengo A. , Mantecón N. , Mas-Expósito L. , Montes M. , Moritz S. , Murgui E. , Nuñez M. , Ochoa S. , Palomer E. , Paniego E. , Peláez T. , Pérez V. , Planell K. , Planellas C. , Pleguezuelo-Garrote P. , Pousa E. , Rabella M. , Renovell M. , Rubio R. , Ruiz-Delgado I. , San Emeterio M. , Sánchez E. , Sanjuán J. , Sans B. , Schilling L. , Sió H. , Teixidó M. , Torres P. , Vila M. A. , Vila-Badia R. , Villegas F. , Villellas R. , Ochoa S.
Published: July 2022

Deficits in social cognition and metacognition impact the course of psychosis. Sex differences in social cognition and metacognition could explain heterogeneity in psychosis. 174 (58 females) patients with first-episode psychosis completed a clinical, neuropsychological, social cognitive, and metacognitive assessment. Subsequent latent profile analysis split by sex yielded two clusters common to both sexes (a Homogeneous group, 53% and 79.3%, and an Indecisive group, 18.3% and 8.6% of males and females, respectively), a specific male profile characterized by presenting jumping to conclusions (28.7%) and a specific female profile characterized by cognitive biases (12.1%). Males and females in the homogeneous profile seem to have a more benign course of illness. Males with jumping to conclusions had more clinical symptoms and more neuropsychological deficits. Females with cognitive biases were younger and had lower self-esteem. These results suggest that males and females may benefit from specific targeted treatment and highlights the need to consider sex when planning interventions.
Racial-ethnic diversity in ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in children with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Pagi Reut , Yadin Ora , Wesseling-Perry Katherine , Norris Keith , Laster Marciana Lee
Published: July 2022

Background

Black adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have higher rates of hypertension as compared to White adults with CKD. Little is known of how race and ethnicity associate with the prevalence of hypertension in pediatric CKD patients. The aim was to compare ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) results for patients with CKD enrolled in the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) study across racial-ethnic groups.

Methods

Patients from the CKiD study who identified as non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, or Hispanic were included to analyze differences in ABPM results across these racial-ethnic groups. The outcomes were fitted using 3 progressively adjusted models.

Results

This study included 501 CKiD participants with at least one successful ABPM study. Compared to White participants, Black participants had 4.2 mmHg higher mean sleep systolic blood pressure and 2.7 mmHg higher mean sleep diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.001 andp = 0.004, respectively). Additionally, Black participants had higher odds of abnormal wake systolic load (OR1.88, 1.21–2.91,p = 0.005), wake diastolic load (OR1.68, 1.03–2.73,p = 0.04), sleep systolic load (OR2.19, 1.36–3.5,p = 0.001), sleep diastolic load (OR2.01, 1.28–3.15,p = 0.002), systolic non-dipping (OR2.02, 1.31–3.10,p = 0.001), and diastolic non-dipping (OR2.69, 1.60–4.51,p < 0.001). Compared to White participants, Hispanic participants demonstrated only a lower sleep diastolic load (OR0.54, 0.31–0.95,p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Black children with CKD have higher absolute nocturnal blood pressures and higher rates of abnormal dipping. Further studies are needed to determine the etiology of these differences and the clinical implications of racial-ethnic differences in ABPM outcomes within the pediatric CKD population.

Graphical abstract

A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information
Unique underlying principles shaping copper homeostasis networks
Authors: Novoa-Aponte Lorena , Argüello José M.
Published: July 2022

Copper is essential in cells as a cofactor for key redox enzymes. Bacteria have acquired molecular components that sense, uptake, distribute, and expel copper ensuring that cuproenzymes are metallated and steady-state metal levels are maintained. Toward preventing deleterious reactions, proteins bind copper ions with high affinities and transfer the metal via ligand exchange, warranting that copper ions are always complexed. Consequently, the directional copper distribution within cell compartments and across cell membranes requires specific dynamic interactions and metal exchange between cognate holo-apo protein partners. These metal exchange reactions are determined by thermodynamic and kinetics parameters and influenced by mass action. Then, copper distribution can be conceptualized as a molecular system of singular interacting elements that maintain a physiological copper homeostasis. This review focuses on the impact of copper high-affinity binding and exchange reactions on the homeostatic mechanisms, the conceptual models to describe the cell as a homeostatic system, the various molecule functions that contribute to copper homeostasis, and the alternative system architectures responsible for copper homeostasis in model bacteria.

Graphical Abstract
The putative role of trigemino-vascular system in brain perfusion homeostasis and the significance of the migraine attack
Authors: De Simone Roberto , Sansone Mattia , Russo Cinzia , Miele Angelo , Stornaiuolo Antonio , Braca Simone
Published: July 2022

Besides representing the place where a migraine attack generates, what is the physiological role of peptidergic control of arteriolar caliber within the trigemino-vascular system? Considering that the shared goal of most human CGRP-based neurosensory systems is the protection from an acute threat, especially if hypoxic, what is the end meaning of a migraine attack? In this paper, we have reviewed available evidence on the possible role of the trigemino-vascular system in maintaining cerebral perfusion pressure homeostasis, despite the large physiological fluctuations in intracranial pressure occurring in daily life activities. In this perspective, the migraine attack is presented as the response to a cerebral hypoxic threat consequent to a deranged intracranial pressure control aimed at generating a temporary withdrawal from the environment with limitation of physical activity, a condition required to promote the restoration of cerebral fluids dynamic balance.
Suggestions for marine protected area management in Australia: a review of temperature trends and management plans
Authors: Tan Jia Sheng Danny , Fischer Andrew M.
Published: July 2022

Climate change and related ocean warming have affected marine ecological and socioeconomic systems worldwide. Therefore, it is critically important to assess the performance of conservation mechanisms, particularly marine protected areas (MPAs) to moderate the risks of climate-related impacts. In this study, sea surface temperature trends of Australian Commonwealth MPAs are assessed against climate change management criteria, as defined in Adapting to Climate Change: Guidance for Protected Area Managers and Planners. Monthly sea surface temperature trends between 1993 and 2017 were statistically assessed using the Mann–Kendall trend test and management plans were subject to a thematic analysis. Temperature trends showed variable SST changes among the regions, with the northern reserves all showing statistically significant increases in temperature, and the Southwest Network having the least number of reserves with statistically significant increases in temperature. The thematic analysis shows that management plans address approximately half of the climate change adaptation criteria. Several management strategies, such as dynamic MPAs, replication, and translocations, are currently absent and have been suggested as necessary tools in supporting the climate readiness of Australian MPAs. This study is significant because it helps to identify and synthesize regions most vulnerable to the impacts of ocean warming and provides management suggestions make MPAs “climate ready.”
First-in-human study of IM156, a novel potent biguanide oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Janku Filip , Beom Seung-Hoon , Moon Yong Wha , Kim Tae Won , Shin Young G. , Yim Dong-Seok , Kim Gun Min , Kim Hyo Song , Kim Sun Young , Cheong Jae-Ho , Lee Young Woo , Geiger Barb , Yoo Sanghee , Thurston Archie , Welsch Dean , Rudoltz Marc S. , Rha Sun Young
Published: July 2022

Preclinical models suggest anticancer activity of IM156, a novel biguanide mitochondrial protein complex 1 inhibitor of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). This first-in-human dose-escalation study enrolled patients with refractory advanced solid tumors to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) or recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). Eligible patients received oral IM156 every other day (QOD) or daily (QD) and were assessed for safety, dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), pharmacokinetics, and preliminary signals of efficacy. 22 patients with advanced cancers (gastric, n = 8; colorectal, n = 3; ovarian, n = 3; other, n = 8) received IM156 100 to 1,200 mg either QOD or QD. There were no DLTs. However, 1,200 mg QD was not well tolerated due to nausea; 800 mg QD was determined as the RP2D. The most frequent treatment-related AEs (TRAEs) were nausea (n = 15; 68%), diarrhea (n = 10; 46%), emesis (n = 9; 41%), fatigue (n = 4; 18%) and abdominal pain, constipation, and blood lactate increased (n = 2 each; 9%). Grade 3 nausea (n = 3; 14%) was the only grade ≥ 3 TRAE. Plasma exposures increased dose proportionally; mean Day 27 area under the curve (AUC0-24) values were higher following QD administration compared to the respective QOD regimen. Stable disease (SD), observed in 7 (32%) patients (confirmed in 2 [9%]), was the best response. To our knowledge, this is the first phase 1 study of an OXPHOS inhibitor that established a RP2D for further clinical development in cancer. Observed AEs of IM156 were manageable and SD was the best response.
Basic Values Transform Political Interest into Diverse Political Values, Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Stattin Håkan , Amnå Erik
Published: July 2022

Since politically interested adolescents do not necessarily present humanistic, environmental and democratic values, this study addresses the hitherto ignored role that how these basic human values play in politically interested adolescents’ political values, attitudes and behaviors. A cluster analysis of 857 Swedish upper-secondary students (50.8% girls, Mage = 16.62, SD = 0.71) identified politically interested adolescents who attached high levels of importance to others’ welfare and politically interested adolescents who attached low levels of importance. They differed on most comparative measures: environmental values, inclusive attitudes towards immigrants, support of democratic principles, trust in social movements, and readiness to step in if something jeopardizes the welfare of others. The conclusion is that the value of attaching high importance to others’ welfare or not transforms youth’s political interest into diverse attitudes and behaviors. The cluster group of politically interested adolescents who attached low importance to others’ welfare largely consisted of males.