bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate environmental behavior toward sustainable development: Motivations, benefits, and challenges of ISO 14001 adoption at Japanese subsidiaries in Thailand
Authors: Hirata Reo , Ialnazov Dimiter S.
Published: September 2024

Since the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, ISO 14001 has become an internationally recognized environmental management system that has spread all over the world. The existing literature has examined in detail the motivations, benefits, and challenges of ISO 14001 adoption in developed countries. However, there is a relative lack of studies on the adoption of ISO 14001 by the subsidiaries of multinational corporations (MNCs) in developing countries, and in Thailand in particular. This paper investigates the motivations, benefits, and challenges of ISO 14001 adoption at Japanese subsidiaries in Thailand based on the results of a questionnaire survey of 100 subsidiaries and a semi‐structured interview survey of 11 subsidiaries. We find that the main motivations are pressures by the national and local governments, as well as by the customers. In addition to the tax incentives, the main benefits are gaining competitiveness, enhancing the corporate image, and maintaining efficient management. We also identify the following challenges: the costs of ISO 14001 adoption, and the training and awareness of the employees. Compared with the existing literature, we find some new motivations, benefits, and challenges related to the local context of ISO 14001 adoption. Although our results are valid only for the Japanese subsidiaries in Thailand, the in‐depth understanding of the motivations, benefits, and challenges of ISO 14001 adoption may contribute to the expanding literature about corporate environmental behavior toward sustainable development.
Chemical Profile, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Marine Sponge Species Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analyses: Desmapsamma anchorata, Dysidea etheria and Echinodictyum dendroides
Authors: de Oliveira Souza Geane Gabriele , Gonçalves Castro José Walber , Nascimento Lariza Leisla Leandro , Inácio da Silva Maria , Duarte Leite Débora Odília , Garcia Santos George Joaquim , Janaine Camilo Cicera , Alencar de Menezes Irwin Rose , Martins da Costa José Galberto
Published: September 2024

Marine sponges are valuable sources of bioactive compounds, which have attracted pharmacological interest. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical profile, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of the species Desmapsamma anchorata, Dysidea etheria, and Echinodictyum dendroides. The chemical profile involved identifying and quantifying polyphenols, and antioxidant activity was evaluated using various methods. The antibacterial and modulatory activities were evaluated using microdilution against pathogenic strains. The extracts contained a low amount of polyphenols. In the antioxidant assays, the EACDa and EMDa extracts exhibited better inhibitory results. In the antibacterial evaluation, extracts presented MIC ≥1024 μg mL−1. The modulation of the extracts combined with antibiotics showed significant effects against the multiresistant bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study contributes to the deepening of chemical and biological knowledge of sponge species. It indicates that their extracts can act as good modulators of bacterial resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics, which requires further investigation into their mechanisms of action.
Rational Design of Heterostructured MXene‐Based Nanomaterials in Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Zhao Zhengqiang , Murad Muhammad , Pei Chengang , Park Ho Seok , Yu Xu
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen energy is widely considered the potential energy resource for energy conversion systems owing to its high energy density and pollution‐free nature. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in heterostructured MXenes for hydrogen production. The fundamental properties of MXenes and their unique contribution to catalytic application are addressed, including the synthesis strategies, interlayer modification, and hybridization with other materials to enhance catalytic performance. Comparative analysis highlights the effect of different heterostructured MXenes on enhanced catalytic efficiency by tuning their electronic properties and increasing the surface interactions. We provide the future research direction and challenges of functionalized MXene composites, such as material stability, scalability, and environmental impact. Ultimately, the recent progress underscores the potential of heterostructured MXenes in advancing hydrogen production technologies, offering a path toward cleaner energy solutions.
Revealing the Mechanism of Ketonization of Acetic Acid on HBEA Zeolite via Metadynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Tiesen , Zhao Jiayu , Liu Zihao , Zhu Xinli , Ge Qingfeng
Published: September 2024

Ketonization of biomass‐derived carboxylic acids offers a promising approach to remove oxygen and upgrade into valuable chemicals. However, the mechanism on Brønsted acid site (BAS) confined in micropores of zeolite remains elusive, due to the difficulty to observe the reaction intermediates experimentally and to locate the transition state via static density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Herein, ketonization of acetic acid on HBEA at 673 K was studied by metadynamics simulations based on DFT. The first reaction step was the concerted protonation and dehydroxylation of acetic acid, resulting in an electrophilic acylium cation and H2O (ΔG‡ = 1.53 eV). The subsequent likely steps, including C─C coupling through the nucleophilic attack of acetic acid (path I), ketene (path II), and 1,1‐dihydroxyethene (path III) toward acylium cation were tracked and compared. The high barriers for formation of more nucleophilic intermediates of ketene and 1,1‐dihydroxyethene made the overall path II and III less favorable than the direct coupling between acetic acid and acylium cation (path I, ΔG‡ = 2.15 eV). These results indicate that acylium cation is a key intermediate, and the C─C coupling between acetic acid and acylium cation via nucleophilic attack is the most favorable path on BAS confined in zeolite.
Nutritional Requirements and Fermentation Condition for Acetic Acid Production From Agricultural Fruit Waste
Authors: Selvanathan Yashini , Shamsudin Saleha , Zainol Norazwina , Masngut Nasratun
Published: September 2024

Studies on agricultural fruit waste fermentation for acetic acid production have focused on understanding its nutrient requirements. The present systematic literature review aimed to assess the potential and additional nutrients necessary for optimised acetic acid production from fruit waste. Fermentation conditions and techniques employed for the alcoholic and acetous fermentation stages were also evaluated to establish their significant effects on acetic acid yield.
Photoelectrochemical Technology for Solar Fuel: Green Hydrogen, Carbon Dioxide Capture, and Ammonia Production
Authors: Minggu Lorna Jeffery , Adris Nur Azlina , Yunus Rozan Mohamad , Arifin Khuzaimah , Mohamed Mohamad Azuwa , Kassim Mohammad B.
Published: September 2024

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) technology is a promising strategy that can directly convert sunlight into chemical energy. Direct solar water splitting through the PEC process is a desirable method for green hydrogen (H2) production. This technology has also the potential to capture CO2 and convert it into fuels using sunlight and water, besides converting N2 and H2O to produce ammonia (NH3), which acts as transportable H2 storage. The cracking of NH3 to produce H2 can also be accomplished using PEC technology. Despite improved PEC performance having been shown, stability, efficiency, and scalability issues still need to be resolved. Even so, PEC technology has much potential as a clean and sustainable solution for addressing global energy and environmental challenges.
Synthesis of (−)‐Cannabidiol (CBD), (−)‐Δ9‐ and (−)‐Δ8‐Tetrahydrocannabinols, Encapsulation of CBD with Nanoparticles for Controlled Delivery and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Moya‐Utrera Federico , Fuentes‐Ríos David , Romero‐Carrasco Antonio , Doña‐Flores Manuel , Cheng‐Sánchez Iván , Díaz‐Morilla Amelia , Soledad Pino‐González María , Martínez‐Ferez Antonio , Moreno Javier , Mesas Cristina , Melguizo Consolación , Prados José , Sarabia Francisco , López‐Romero J. Manuel
Published: September 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD) is garnering increasing interest due to its significant biological activity. This natural compound is one of the major cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa L. In this work, we describe the encapsulation of CBD in solid and hollow pH‐sensitive poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (solid@p4VP and hollow@p4VP) nanoparticles, and temperature‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (solid@pNIPAM and hollow@pNIPAM) nanoparticles for transport and release CBD in a controlled manner. The CBD loading into these smart polymeric systems was effective and their release profiles, solubility and resistance to stomach and intestinal conditions were evaluated, showing satisfactory properties and improved bioavailability with respect to free CBD. Finally, the A549 human lung cancer cell line was used as lung adenocarcinoma epithelial cellular model to carry out preliminary assays of the in vitro activity of the vehiculized CBD. For all these studies, synthetic CBD was employed, for which a new efficient and scalable synthesis of cannabinoids has been developed.
Formation and Stability of Benzylic Amide [2]‐ and [3]Rotaxanes: An Intercomponent Interactions Study
Authors: Orlando Tainára , Weimer Gustavo Henrique , Salbego Paulo Roberto dos Santos , Martinez‐Cuezva Alberto , Berna Jose , Martins Marcos Antonio Pinto
Published: September 2024

One of the most recent focuses in supramolecular chemistry is developing molecules designed to exhibit programmable properties at the molecular level. Rotaxanes, which function as molecular machines with movements controlled by external stimuli, are prime candidates for this purpose. However, the controlled synthesis of rotaxanes, especially amide‐benzylic rotaxanes with more than two components, remains an area ripe for exploration. In this study, we aim to elucidate the formation of amide‐benzylic [3]rotaxanes using a thread that includes a conventional succinamide station and an innovative triazole‐carbonyl station. Including the triazole‐carbonyl station introduces new perspectives into the chemistry of rotaxanes, influencing their conformation and dynamics. The synthesis of two‐station rotaxanes with varying stoppers demonstrated that the macrocycle consistently occupies the succinamide station, providing greater stability as evidenced by NMR and SC‐XRD analyses. The presence of a triazole‐carbonyl station facilitated the formation of a second macrocycle exclusively when a secondary amide was employed as the stopper group, presumably due to decreased steric hindrance. Moreover, the second macrocycle directly forms at the triazole‐carbonyl station. This investigation reveals that slight modifications in the thread structure can dramatically impact the formation, stability, and interactions between components of rotaxanes.
Research on microscale displacement characteristics of supercritical CO2 fracturing in shale oil reservoirs
Authors: Dai Xiaodong
Published: September 2024

The great success of CO2 fracturing in shale oil reservoirs has not only increased the production capacity of shale oil, but also effectively carried out CO2 geological storage. In this paper, focusing on the microscale displacement characteristics of CO2 fracturing in shale oil reservoirs, first, the impact of oil saturation and gas invasion pressure on gas invasion is discussed. Then, the coupling control mode of oil saturation/pressure for various mechanisms of gas invasion is revealed. Results show that: (a) at lower displacement, the rock core has a lower initiation pressure and is fractured in a shorter period of time; (b) at higher displacement, the required fracturing time is longer and the fracturing pressure increases, but the fracturing effect is good and it is easy to form complex fracture networks; and (c) under higher pressure conditions, more complex fractures can be formed, which is beneficial for reservoir transformation and production improvement.
Vulnerability detection based on transformer and high‐quality number embedding
Authors: Cao Yang , Dong Yunwei , Peng Jiajie
Published: September 2024

Software vulnerability detection is an important problem in software security. In recent years, deep learning offers a novel approach for source code vulnerability detection. Due to the similarities between programming languages and natural languages, many natural language processing techniques have been applied to vulnerability detection tasks. However, specific problems within vulnerability detection tasks, such as buffer overflow, involve numerical reasoning. For these problems, the model needs to not only consider long dependencies and multiple relationships between statements of code but also capture the magnitude property of numerical literals in the program through high‐quality number embeddings. Therefore, we propose VDTransformer, a Transformer‐based method that improves source code embedding by integrating word and number embeddings. Furthermore, we employ Transformer encoders to construct a hierarchical neural network that extracts semantic features from the code and enables line‐level vulnerability detection. To evaluate the effectiveness of the method, we construct a dataset named OverflowGen based on templates for buffer overflow. Experimental comparisons on OverflowGen with a well‐known static vulnerability detector and two state‐of‐the‐art deep learning‐based methods confirm the effectiveness of VDTransformer and the importance of high‐quality number embeddings in vulnerability detection tasks involving numerical features.
Inhibition of the Germination of Root Parasitic Plants by Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐8
Authors: Al Saleh Nouf , Alimi Lukman O. , Jamil Muhammad , Qutub Somayah , Berqdar Lamis , Al‐Babili Salim , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: September 2024

Crystalline ZIF‐8 (C‐ZIF‐8) and amorphous ZIF‐8 (Am‐ZIF‐8) were prepared and investigated to control the germination of Striga hermonthica, a root parasitic plant, which threatens cereal crops production particularly in sub‐Saharan Africa. We have demonstrated that Am‐ZIF‐8 shows a better performance than C‐ZIF‐8 in inhibiting Striga seeds germination. This efficient performance of Am‐ZIF‐8 materials can be attributed to the incomplete deprotonation of 2 methylimidazole (2MIM) during amorphization, leading to the presence of unsaturated Zn−N coordination with the uncoordinated ‐NH groups available to undergo hydrogen bonding with the strigolactone analog GR24 forming a more stable Am‐ZIF‐8⋅⋅⋅GR24 hydrogen bonded network. We further established that application of ZIF‐8 materials generally has no adverse effects on the growth and quality of rice crops.
Suicide in China: The Trends and Differentials From 2002 to 2021
Authors: Hu Fei‐Hong , Liu Peng , Jia Yi‐Jie , Ge Meng‐Wei , Shen Lu‐Ting , Xia Xiao‐Peng , Chen Hong‐Lin
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to provide an updated analysis of suicide characteristics in China from 2002 to 2021, with the aim of informing the development of evidence‐based suicide prevention strategies.

Methods

The Ministry of Health‐Vital Registration System (MOH‐VR) provided the data on suicide mortality, which enabled us to examine the average annual percentage change (AAPC) in suicide rates using a Poisson regression model.

Results

Notably, there has been a significant decline in suicide rates observed in both urban and rural areas. In the early years of the study period, higher suicide rates were observed among females compared to males; however, a shift occurred after 2005, with male suicide rates surpassing those of females. Except for 2005, rural areas consistently exhibited higher suicide rates than urban areas. Furthermore, suicide rates exhibited an increasing trend with age, irrespective of gender or region.

Conclusion

These findings highlight a decreasing trend in suicide rates in China over the past two decades, although gender and regional disparities persist. Going forward, sustained efforts in suicide prevention, with a specific focus on mental health, are warranted.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Exposure–Response Analysis of a Fixed‐Dose Combination of Ivermectin and Albendazole in Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Authors: Algorta Jaime , Kepha Stella , Krolewiecki Alejandro , Li Hanbin , Giang Justin , Fleitas Pedro , Mwandawiro Charles , Muñoz José ,   the STOP Consortium
Published: September 2024

Trichuris trichiura is a soil‐transmitted helminth causing intestinal disease. Albendazole is the standard treatment despite its moderate efficacy, which is improved when co‐administered with ivermectin. A fixed‐dose combination adds practical advantages mainly for mass drug administration. The aim of this article is to define the population pharmacokinetic models and exposure–response of an innovative albendazole/ivermectin combination. Data were obtained from a phase I clinical trial in healthy adults and from a phase II trial in children and adolescents infected with T. trichiura. Nonlinear mixed‐effects models were built for albendazole and ivermectin using NONMEM®. Area under the curve was calculated using the empirical Bayes estimates of the pharmacokinetic parameters of each individual and used for evaluation of exposure–response between cure rate and pharmacokinetic exposure. The pharmacokinetics of albendazole was described using a two‐compartmental model with first‐order absorption and the pharmacokinetics of ivermectin was described using a two‐compartmental model with zero‐order followed by first‐order absorption. Clearance and volume of distribution increased with body weight for both albendazole and ivermectin. Day 1 area under the curve of albendazole and ivermectin from the children and adolescents treated with the combination regimens were similar to the healthy adults treated with control drugs. A flat exposure–response relationship was observed between the cure rate and drug exposure. Population pharmacokinetic of a combination of albendazole and ivermectin in children, adolescents, and adults, either healthy or infected by T. trichiura was described. The dosage selected in the phase II trial was appropriate for the subsequent phase III.
Effects of turfgrass canopy shade levels and quantum spectrum on the germination and development of smooth crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum)
Authors: Vuković Vera , Law Quincy D. , Patton Aaron J.
Published: September 2024

Smooth crabgrass [Digitaria ischaemum (Schreb.) Schreb. ex Muhl.] is one of the most troublesome summer annual weeds in cool‐season turfgrass. Field experiments demonstrated a strong relationship between spring photosynthetic active radiation reaching the soil surface and the resulting smooth crabgrass cover in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) 2/3 months later in summer. Both smooth crabgrass and canopy penetrating light were consistently reduced by higher mowing heights. Follow‐up experiments in controlled environments were initiated to improve our understanding of how light quality and quantity influence smooth crabgrass germination and growth. Smooth crabgrass germination was ≥99% following exposure to blue, red (R), far red (FR), both R and FR light pulses, or complete darkness treatments. A second germination experiment examined six levels of turfgrass canopy shade (0%, 24%, 44%, 77%, 90%, and 100% photosynthetic photon flux density [PPFD] reduction) and found that smooth crabgrass germination was ≥99% for all treatments. These experiments indicate that light quality and quantity do not affect smooth crabgrass germination. A greenhouse experiment examined five levels of turfgrass canopy shade (0%, 44%, 59%, 81%, and 91% PPFD reduction). Smooth crabgrass quantum and PSII (Photosystem II) operating efficiency increased in response to shade, while leaf number and thickness, specific leaf weight, tillering, mass, electron transport rate, and stomatal conductance decreased with increasing shade. Overall, the results demonstrate that smooth crabgrass is able to germinate regardless of canopy density, but seedling growth, development, and plant function are diminished in a dense turfgrass canopy shade.
Fifteen years of findings: Advancements in spring dead spot research from 2009 to 2024
Authors: Hutchens W. J. , Anders J. K. , Butler E. L. , Kerns J. P. , McCall D. S. , Miller G. L. , Walker N. R.
Published: September 2024

Spring dead spot (Ophiosphaerella spp.; SDS) is one of the most detrimental diseases to warm‐season turfgrasses, particularly bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.), growing in climates where cold temperatures induce dormancy. The pathogen can infect the crowns, stolons, rhizomes, and roots of bermudagrass most of the year, but infection in the fall predisposes the turf to winter injury and plant death. Symptoms typically appear the following spring, making management of SDS challenging. Moreover, the biology, epidemiology, and management of SDS are not fully understood. Ample research has been conducted on SDS which was thoroughly summarized before 2009 by Tredway et al. Since then, 18 new research papers have been published over the last 15 years that have further clarified the biology, epidemiology, and management of SDS. This review seeks to compile, update, and summarize research developments on SDS from 2009 to 2024. Research developments over the last 15 years include an increased understanding of the biology and infection mechanisms of the Ophiosphaerella species that cause SDS, a greater knowledge of the epidemiology of the disease and factors that affect its distribution, as well as improved cultural and chemical management practices for SDS.
Enhance the Proportion of Fe3+ in NiFe‐Layered Double Hydroxides by utilizing Citric Acid to Improve the Efficiency and Durability of the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Guoqi , Li Lin , Zhang Jihao , Shan Shiran , Yuan Chunze , Weng Tsu‐Chien
Published: September 2024

NiFe‐layered double hydroxides (NiFe‐LDH) are a type of catalyst known for their exceptional catalytic performance during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this study, citric acid was incorporated into the synthesis process of NiFe‐LDH, resulting in the NiFe‐LDH‐CA catalyst with superior OER performance. The catalytic efficacy was evaluated using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), which demonstrated a significant reduction in the overpotential for OER from 320 mV to 240 mV at a current density of 100 mA cm−2. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) indicate that the distribution of nickel valence states showed no significant difference between two samples. However, the NiFe‐LDH‐CA exhibits a markedly higher proportion of Fe3+ ions in its iron content. In‐situ Raman spectroscopes reveal that Fe3+ broadens the redox potential of nickel and Pourbaix diagrams indicate that higher Fe3+ levels could facilitate the interaction with oxygen active sites. Based on the analysis of test data, we propose a hypothesis that the high proportion of Fe3+ in catalysts may accelerate the oxygen evolution process by modulating the redox potential of nickel and engaging with reactive oxygen species. This provides valuable insights into how to improve the reaction rate of nickel‐based catalysts.
Mn−Fe Dual‐Metal Assemblages on Carbon‐Coated Al2O3 Spheres for Catalytic Ozonation Oxidation: Structure, Performance, and Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Xu Tao , Jiang Meihui , Mo Siyu , Wang Xianhui , Ren Tianlin , Liu Zhichen , Wang Zhicheng , Qiu Yicheng , Gu Lingying , Wang Xu , Mao Xuhui
Published: September 2024

Catalysts with high catalytic activity and low production cost are important for industrial application of heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO). In this study, we designed a carbon‐coated aluminum oxide carrier (C‐Al2O3) and reinforced it with Mn−Fe bimetal assemblages to prepare a high‐performance catalyst Mn−Fe/C‐Al2O3. The results showed that the carbon embedding significantly improved the abundance of surface oxygen functional groups, conductivity, and adsorption capacity of γ‐Al2O3, while preserving its exceptional mechanical strength as a carrier. The prepared Mn−Fe/C‐Al2O3 catalyst exhibited satisfactory catalytic ozonation activity and stability in the degradation of p‐nitrophenol (PNP). Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and quenching experiments reveal that radical ( ⋅ OH and ⋅ O2 ⋅ ) and nonradical oxidation (1O2) dominated the PNP degradation process. Theoretical calculations corroborated that the anchored atomic Fe and Mn sites regulated the local electronic structure of the catalyst. This modulation effectively promoted the activation of O3 molecules, resulting in the generation of atomic oxygen species (AOS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The economic analysis on Mn−Fe/C‐Al2O3 revealed that it was a cost‐competitive catalyst for HCO. This study not only deepens the understanding on the reaction mechanism of HCO with transition metal/carbon composite catalysts, also provides a high‐performance and cost‐competitive ozone catalyst for prospective application.
Four‐port dual CP MIMO antenna with enhanced isolation for 5G applications
Authors: Koçer Mustafa , Günel Tayfun
Published: September 2024

In this paper, a 4 × 4 MIMO (multiple‐input multiple‐output) antenna with metasurface (MS), which is composed of dual circularly polarized (CP) patch antennas, is proposed for 5G (sub‐6 GHz) applications. The MIMO antenna consists of four microstrip patch antennas. In order to improve the isolation of the MIMO antenna, parasitic elements are placed on the MS and layer of patch antennas. In addition, a substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW) structure is used at the center of the MIMO antenna for this purpose. The proposed MIMO antenna is fabricated for validation tests. The antenna has overall dimensions of 115 mm × 115 mm × 3.2 mm (1.219 × 1.219 × 0.033, where is the free space wavelength at the lowest operating frequency in 10‐dB impedance bandwidth). The MIMO antenna has 10‐dB impedance bandwidth (IBW) from 3.3 to 3.8 GHz (14.08%), 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) from 3.42 to 3.69 GHz (7.59%), and 6.36‐dBi peak gain. The isolation is greater than 28.14 dB in the n78 frequency band (3.3–3.8 GHz).
Image J as the quantification tool in endosonography strain elastography may be reflected in the disturbance of endocrine pancreatic dysfunction
Authors: Nakamura Ken , Futagami Seiji , Agawa Shuhei , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Tanabe Tomohide , Onda Takeshi , Habiro Mayu , Kawawa Rie , Kirita Kumiko , Ueki Nobue , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Pancreatic fibrosis is one of the main pathological features of chronic pancreatitis (CP), suggesting a strong relationship between CP and pancreatic ductal cancer. There was no available data about pancreatic fibrosis and pancreatic dysfunction in the early CP (ECP) using endosonography (EUS).

Methods

Asymptomatic patients with pancreatic enzyme abnormalities (AP‐P; n = 56) and patients with ECP (n = 21) were determined by the absence of abnormal findings on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, abdominal ultrasonography, and abdominal computed tomography. An Olympus EUS (GF‐UCT 260; Olympus) was used to perform EUS. Open software “Image J”, developed by NIH, was used to measure the surface area fraction of the designated elastic blue region. The maximum value among the pancreatic head, pancreatic body, and pancreatic tail was defined as the ELST‐blue score. The exocrine and endocrine pancreatic functions were evaluated using the N‐benzoyl‐l‐tyrosyl‐p‐aminobenzoic acid (BT‐PABA) test and homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function (HOMA‐β) value, respectively.

Results

EUS score, lobularity, and hyperechoic foci/strands in patients with ECP were significantly (p < 0.001) higher than those in patients with AP‐P. In addition, there were no significant differences in the BT‐PABA test (73.1 ± 25.5, 68.5 ± 15.6) and HOMA‐β (93.1 ± 67.4, 73.5 ± 139.7) between patients with ECP and AP‐P. The ELST‐blue score measured by image J as the quantification tool in EUS strain elastography in patients with ECP was significantly higher (p = 0.002) than that in patients with AP‐P. Interestingly, the ELST‐blue score was significantly associated with HOMA‐β in patients with ECP.

Conclusions

The ELST‐blue score may be a useful tool for the evaluation of endocrine pancreatic dysfunction in the ECP.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection for hypopharyngeal cancer simultaneous with immunotherapy for renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Hirao Tatsuro , Kikuchi Daisuke , Yamashita Satoshi , Takeda Hidehiko , Watanabe Kenta , Miura Yuji , Hoteya Shu
Published: September 2024

We report a case of a man who was diagnosed with superficial hypopharyngeal cancer and recurrence of renal cell carcinoma in the duodenum, liver, and gluteus medius muscle simultaneously. He underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection for hypopharyngeal cancer in parallel with systemic immunotherapy for recurrent renal cell carcinoma, resulting in completely overcoming both malignancies. Endoscopic submucosal dissection is less invasive and can be performed in a shorter duration for treating superficial hypopharyngeal cancer compared with other treatment options, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. Additionally, endoscopic submucosal carcinoma is adequately effective in controlling local lesions and has a satisfactorily good prognosis.
Global change experiments in mountain ecosystems: A systematic review
Authors: Dainese Matteo , Crepaz Harald , Bottarin Roberta , Fontana Veronika , Guariento Elia , Hilpold Andreas , Obojes Nikolaus , Paniccia Chiara , Scotti Alberto , Seeber Julia , Steinwandter Michael , Tappeiner Ulrike , Niedrist Georg
Published: September 2024

Mountain ecosystems play an important role globally as centers of biodiversity and in providing ecosystem services to lowland populations, but are influenced by multiple global change drivers such as climate change, nitrogen deposition, or altered disturbance regimes. As global change is accelerating and the consequences for humans and nature are intensifying, there is an increasing demand for understanding and predicting the impacts and implications of global change on mountain ecosystems. Manipulation experiments are one of the major tools for testing the causal impacts of global change and establishing a mechanistic understanding of how these changes may transform the global biota from single organisms to entire ecosystems. Over the past three decades, hundreds of such experiments have been conducted in mountainous regions worldwide. To strengthen the experimental evidence for the possible ecological consequences of global change, we systematically reviewed the literature on global change experiments in mountains. We first investigated the spread of manipulation experiments to test the effects of different global change drivers on key biological and ecological processes from the organism to the ecosystem level. We then examined and discussed the balance of evidence regarding the impact of these global change drivers on biological and ecological processes, and outlined the possible consequences for mountain ecosystems. Finally, we identified research gaps and proposed future directions for global change research in mountain environments. Among the major drivers, temperature was manipulated most frequently, generally showing consistent strong impacts between biological and ecosystem processes, functional groups, and habitat types. There is also strong evidence suggesting that changes in water and nutrient availability have a direct impact on the life history and functioning of mountain organisms. Despite these important findings, there are several gaps that require urgent attention. These include experiments testing adult trees in tropical and boreal regions, assessing animal responses and biotic interactions, and investigating aquatic environments and soil systems more extensively. A broader approach that integrates experimental data with field observations and relies on international collaboration through coordinated experiments could help address these gaps and provide a more consistent and robust picture of the impacts of global change on mountain ecosystems.
Chiral 1D Cyanide‐Bridged Bimetallic Compounds Build With Enantiomorphic Pentagonal Bipyrimidal M(II) Units
Authors: Martinez Dylan , Pichon Céline , Duhayon Carine , Béreau Virginie , Yamaguchi Hironori , Sutter Jean‐Pascal
Published: September 2024

Chiral 1D coordination compounds formed by association of either of the enantiomers of [ML(MeOH)Cl]Cl (with M=MnII or FeII; L stands for either R or S enantiomer of a pentadentate macrocycle) and NBu4[FeIII(bpb)(CN)2], namely: 1D‐[{FeIII(bpb)(CN)2}{MII(LR)}](PF6) and 1D‐[{FeIII(bpb)(CN)2}{MII(LS)}](PF6) with M=Mn (2R, 2S) and Fe (3R, 3S). The bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium salt of the metallo‐ligand, PNP[FeIII(bpb)(CN)2]⋅2H2O, 1 b, is also described. Their preparations, crystal structures, optical and magnetic properties are reported. Mössbauer spectroscopy confirmed the oxidation state in the [FeII−FeIII] chain, for which AC susceptibility suggests SCM behavior, but for very low T.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Glycosylation Mediated by Trifluoromethyl Thianthrenium Triflate with Thioglycoside Donors
Authors: Liu Ruina , Zou Fei , Zhang Tianyu , Fan Zefei , Wu Yandan , Zhao Yihua , Ni Guanghui
Published: September 2024

An efficient photoredox‐catalyzed glycosylation using a p‐tolyl thioglycoside donor in the presence of trifluoromethyl thianthrenium triflate (TT‐CF3+TfO−) has been investigated. This approach involves generating a trifluoromethyl radical via single electron transfer between TT‐CF3+TfO− and the photocatalyst Rose Bengal, thereby activating thioglycosides and facilitating glycosylation. This method operates under mild reaction conditions and tolerates a variety of functional groups.
Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z)‐β‐Thioenamide from (Z)‐Enamide‐Iodines and Thiols under Mild Conditions
Authors: Liang Hong , Yang Xue‐Xue , Chen Lian‐Mei , Chen Xing‐Yu , Guo Xiao‐Qiang , Kang Tai‐Ran
Published: September 2024

The (Z)‐β‐thioenamides is a valuable motif in many drugs. However, it's stereoselective synthesis is still facing challenge. Herein, we firstly reported a general and efficient approach for highly stereoselective synthesis of them by using (Z)‐enamide‐iodines with thiols under transition metal‐free conditions.
The feasibility of using national‐scale datasets for classifying wetlands in Arizona with machine learning
Authors: Soulard Christopher E. , Walker Jessica J. , Smith Britt W. , Kreitler Jason
Published: September 2024

The advent of machine learning techniques has led to a proliferation of landscape classification products. These approaches can fill gaps in wetland inventories across the United States (U.S.) provided that large reference datasets are available to develop accurate models. In this study, we tested the feasibility of expediting the classification process by sourcing requisite training and testing data from existing national‐scale land cover maps instead of customized sample sets. We created a single map of water and wetland presence by intersecting water and wetland classes from available land cover products (National Wetland Inventory, Gap Analysis Project, National Land Cover Database and Dynamic Surface Water Extent) across the U.S. state of Arizona, which has fewer wetland‐specific mapping products than other parts of the U.S. We derived classified samples for four wetland classes from the combined map: open water, herbaceous wetlands, wooded wetlands and non‐wetland cover. In Google Earth Engine, we developed a random forest model that combined the training data with spatial predictor variables, including vegetation greenness indices, wetness indices, seasonal index variation, topographic parameters and vegetation height metrics. Results show that the final model separates the four classes with an overall accuracy of 86.2%. The accuracy suggests that existing datasets can be effectively used to compile machine learning training samples to map wetlands in arid landscapes in the U.S. These methods hold promise for the generation of wetland inventories at more frequent intervals, which could allow more nuanced investigations of wetland change over time in response to anthropogenic and climatic drivers.
Predicting Lung Cancer in Korean Never‐Smokers With Polygenic Risk Scores
Authors: Kim Juyeon , Park Young Sik , Kim Jin Hee , Hong Yun‐Chul , Kim Young‐Chul , Oh In‐Jae , Jee Sun Ha , Ahn Myung‐Ju , Kim Jong‐Won , Yim Jae‐Joon , Won Sungho
Published: September 2024

In the last few decades, genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) with more than 10,000 subjects have identified several loci associated with lung cancer and these loci have been used to develop novel risk prediction tools for cancer. The present study aimed to establish a lung cancer prediction model for Korean never‐smokers using polygenic risk scores (PRSs); PRSs were calculated using a pruning‐thresholding‐based approach based on 11 genome‐wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Overall, the odds ratios tended to increase as PRSs were larger, with the odds ratio of the top 5% PRSs being 1.71 (95% confidence interval: 1.31–2.23) using the 40%–60% percentile group as the reference, and the area under the curve (AUC) of the prediction model being of 0.76 (95% confidence interval: 0.747–0.774). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the prediction model with and without PRSs as covariates were compared using DeLong's test, and a significant difference was observed. Our results suggest that PRSs can be valuable tools for predicting the risk of lung cancer.
Exploring and Accounting for Genetically Driven Effect Heterogeneity in Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Jaitner Annika , Tsaneva‐Atanasova Krasimira , Freathy Rachel M. , Bowden Jack
Published: September 2024

Mendelian randomization (MR) is a framework to estimate the causal effect of a modifiable health exposure, drug target or pharmaceutical intervention on a downstream outcome by using genetic variants as instrumental variables. A crucial assumption allowing estimation of the average causal effect in MR, termed homogeneity, is that the causal effect does not vary across levels of any instrument used in the analysis. In contrast, the science of pharmacogenetics seeks to actively uncover and exploit genetically driven effect heterogeneity for the purposes of precision medicine. In this study, we consider a recently proposed method for performing pharmacogenetic analysis on observational data—the Triangulation WIthin a STudy (TWIST) framework—and explore how it can be combined with traditional MR approaches to properly characterise average causal effects and genetically driven effect heterogeneity. We propose two new methods which not only estimate the genetically driven effect heterogeneity but also enable the estimation of a causal effect in the genetic group with and without the risk allele separately. Both methods utilise homogeneity‐respecting and homogeneity‐violating genetic variants and rely on a different set of assumptions. Using data from the ALSPAC study, we apply our new methods to estimate the causal effect of smoking before and during pregnancy on offspring birth weight in mothers whose genetics mean they find it (relatively) easier or harder to quit smoking.
Comparative effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of endoscopic nasopharyngectomy versus intensity‐modulated radiotherapy in the treatment of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A microsimulation analysis
Authors: Rui Mingjun , Wang Yingcheng
Published: September 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a significant health concern in southern China, like Guangdong and Hong Kong. This study aims to predict the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of two prevalent NPC treatments, intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and endoscopic nasopharyngectomy (ENPG).

Methods

A microsimulation model was developed to project the long‐term outcomes of IMRT and ENPG, simulating 5000 patients with hypothetical locally recurrent NPC for each treatment option. The tumors of patients confined to the nasopharyngeal cavity, the post‐naris or nasal septum, the superficial parapharyngeal space, or the base wall of the sphenoid sinus. Analyses were performed from the healthcare system perspectives of Mainland China and the healthcare provider perspective of Hong Kong, with input parameters sourced from the existing literature and databases. The robustness of findings was evaluated through one‐way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Results

For DFS, ENPG showed a 29% reduction in risk with an HR of 0.71 (95% CI: 0.64–0.77) compared to IMRT. ENPG demonstrated a significant survival benefit in OS with an HR of 0.59 (95% CI: 0.54–0.65), equating to a 41% reduction in mortality risk. In Hong Kong, IMRT and ENPG yielded QALY gains of 4.59 and 6.29, respectively, with ENPG exhibiting an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICUR) of USD 13 057 per QALY. For Mainland China, ENPG denominated the IMRT and the ICUR was USD −1450 QALY. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed a 100% probability of ENPG being cost‐effective at the willingness‐to‐pay thresholds of USD 130 490 per QALY in Hong Kong and USD 12 741 per QALY in Mainland China.

Conclusion

The analysis confirms that ENPG is more effective and cost‐effective than IMRT for treating recurrent NPC in both Hong Kong and Mainland China.
Role of TREM1 in the sevoflurane‐induced inflammatory activation of microglia in vitro
Authors: Tang Chunchun , Zhu Yuhang , Liu Dexing , Zheng Xue , Jiang Junli , Yu Wanqiu , Zhang Yinan , Chen Dongqin , Zhu Zhaoqiong
Published: September 2024

Perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PNDs) are one of the most common complications in perioperative patients, and neuroinflammatory reaction mediated by microglia plays a key role in their formation, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Given that the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM1) is a key regulator of inflammation, this study aimed to observe the role of TREM1 on the sevoflurane‐induced inflammatory activation in microglia. BV2 microglia were subjected to varying sevoflurane concentrations and durations to assess their viability using CCK8 and the expression of TREM1, iNOS, and ARG using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Additionally, TREM1 knockdown lentivirus was employed to examine its impacts on microglia response to sevoflurane and altered expression of inflammatory markers, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, TGF‐β, IL‐10, iNOS, and ARG, as detected using qRT‐PCR and immunofluorescence for INOS/Iba‐1 and ARG/Iba‐1. Our findings underscore the potent inflammatory activation induced by prolonged, high‐concentration sevoflurane exposure on microglia. We highlight the potential role of TREM1 as a modulator of microglial polarization and a potential target for the treatment and prevention of sevoflurane‐induced PNDs.
Circulating tryptophan–kynurenine pathway metabolites are associated with all‐cause mortality among patients with stage I–III colorectal cancer
Authors: Damerell Victoria , Klaassen‐Dekker Niels , Brezina Stefanie , Ose Jennifer , Ulvik Arve , van Roekel Eline H. , Holowatyj Andreana N. , Baierl Andreas , Böhm Jürgen , Bours Martijn J. L. , Brenner Hermann , de Wilt Johannes H. W. , Grady William M. , Habermann Nina , Hoffmeister Michael , Keski‐Rahkonen Pekka , Lin Tengda , Schirmacher Peter , Schrotz‐King Petra , Ulrich Alexis B. , van Duijnhoven Fränzel J. B. , Warby Christy A. , Shibata David , Toriola Adetunji T. , Figueiredo Jane C. , Siegel Erin M. , Li Christopher I. , Gsur Andrea , Kampman Ellen , Schneider Martin , Ueland Per M. , Weijenberg Matty P. , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Kok Dieuwertje E. , Gigic Biljana ,   FOCUS Consortium
Published: September 2024

Alterations within the tryptophan–kynurenine metabolic pathway have been linked to the etiology of colorectal cancer (CRC), but the relevance of this pathway for prognostic outcomes in CRC patients needs further elucidation. Therefore, we investigated associations between circulating concentrations of tryptophan–kynurenine pathway metabolites and all‐cause mortality among CRC patients. This study utilizes data from 2102 stage I–III CRC patients participating in six prospective cohorts involved in the international FOCUS Consortium. Preoperative circulating concentrations of tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid (KA), 3‐hydroxykynurenine (HK), xanthurenic acid (XA), 3‐hydroxyanthranilic acid (HAA), anthranilic acid (AA), picolinic acid (PA), and quinolinic acid (QA) were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Using Cox proportional hazards regression, we examined associations of above‐mentioned metabolites with all‐cause mortality, adjusted for potential confounders. During a median follow‐up of 3.2 years (interquartile range: 2.2–4.9), 290 patients (13.8%) deceased. Higher blood concentrations of tryptophan, XA, and PA were associated with a lower risk of all‐cause mortality (per doubling in concentrations: tryptophan: HR = 0.56; 95%CI:0.41,0.76, XA: HR = 0.74; 95%CI:0.64,0.85, PA: HR = 0.76; 95%CI:0.64,0.92), while higher concentrations of HK and QA were associated with an increased risk of death (per doubling in concentrations: HK: HR = 1.80; 95%CI:1.47,2.21, QA: HR = 1.31; 95%CI:1.05,1.63). A higher kynurenine‐to‐tryptophan ratio, a marker of cell‐mediated immune activation, was associated with an increased risk of death (per doubling: HR = 2.07; 95%CI:1.52,2.83). In conclusion, tryptophan–kynurenine pathway metabolites may be prognostic markers of survival in CRC patients.
Efficacy of pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib as first‐line treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma with multiple brain metastases
Authors: Matsumoto Daisuke , Naiki Taku , Naiki‐Ito Aya , Aoki Maria , Kato Shinji , Morikawa Toshiharu , Shimizu Nobuhiko , Gonda Masakazu , Umemoto Yukihiro , Yasui Takahiro
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma have a poor prognosis and its specific pathogenesis remains unelucidated.

Case presentation

At 78 years of age, a Japanese male patient was diagnosed with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (cT3N2M1 stage) and multiple brain metastases that were responsive to stereotactic radiation therapy followed by systemic combination induction therapy of pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib. Adverse events, including grade 3 hypertension, grade 2 eruption, and elevated grade 2 fever, were controlled by a dose reduction or suspension of drugs. The patient eventually showed a tolerance for continuing with 8 mg lenvatinib. Fourteen months after the initiation of treatment, and on 8 mg lenvatinib, this patient showed no sign of disease progression at the last follow‐up.

Conclusion

We detail the absence of disease progression in a metastatic renal cell carcinoma case with multiple brain metastases more than 1 year after stereotactic radiation therapy followed by first‐line pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib.