bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Thrombolytic Effects of Urokinase Delivered by Normothermic Machine Perfusion or Hypothermic Machine Perfusion in a Pair of Human Kidneys With Microthrombus
Authors: Yu Shuangjin , Wu Guobin , Huang Yang , Chen Haiwei , Chen Tong , Ruan Hehuan , He Xiaoshun , Chen Guodong , Qiu Jiang
Published: December 2024

Extensive glomerular thrombosis can be a reason for the non‐use of donor kidneys, which exacerbates donor shortage. Pre‐transplantation intervention with thrombolytic drugs delivered via hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) can dissolve thrombi in kidneys with thrombosis. However, this method requires a long intervention time to fully eliminate all thrombi. This increases the period of ischemia and limits the improvement of the kidney. We compared the effect of short‐term thrombolysis by urokinase combined with normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) versus HMP in a pair of clinically discarded and pathologically confirmed thrombotic human donor kidneys. During perfusion with urokinase for 1 h, improvement of kidney appearance, perfusion flow, urine production, thrombus break‐down, and plasminogen consumption were all greater with NMP than with HMP. The renal glomerular thrombosis rate in the NMP‐treated kidney decreased from 13.3% (2 in 15) to 8.3% (1 in 12) after 30 min of urokinase administration, accompanied by decreased levels of plasminogen in the renal tubular cells (the positive area decreased from 13.1% to 7.5%). In contrast, both the renal glomerular thrombosis rate and plasminogen level were unchanged during HMP. Furthermore, D‐dimer in the NMP perfusate increased rapidly from 1.55 to 7.33 µg/mL, compared with from 0.33 µg/mL to 0.86 µg/mL in HMP perfusate. Our findings indicate that the effect of urokinase to facilitate rapid thrombolysis before transplantation is greater when administered by NMP than by HMP. NMP can, therefore, improve donor kidney quality more efficiently than HMP.
Pan‐Cancer Analysis of Ezrin: A Comprehensive Examination of Its Prognostic Value and Immunological Implications
Authors: Chen Ruiqi , Xu Hongbiao , Jurat Elfira , Huang Hewang , Yang Shangwu , Han Liang , Wang Fengyun
Published: December 2024

Background

Ezrin, a member of the ERM protein family, has emerged as a pivotal player in the progression of diverse tumor types and exhibits substantial immunomodulatory capabilities in inflammatory disorders and tumor‐associated immune reactions. Studies have validated the antitumor efficacy of ezrin inhibitors. However, a comprehensive pan‐cancer analysis to fully elucidate the functional implications of ezrin has not been performed.

Methods

Herein, we performed a multifaceted database investigation to evaluate ezrin expression patterns in relation to clinical outcomes, immune checkpoint modulators, prognostic indicators, genomic profiles, and immunological features.

Results

Our analysis revealed distinct ezrin expression patterns across various cancers, with a pronounced association between ezrin expression and immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, drug sensitivity assessments using the GDSC and CTRP databases underscored a robust correlation between ezrin expression and responsiveness to anticancer agents, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. Notably, ezrin expression also correlated with patient survival outcomes in the context of anti‐PD1 therapy treatment, suggesting its potential role as a predictive biomarker for immune checkpoint blockade therapies.

Conclusion

Our results indicate ezrin as a promising immunomodulatory target and a valuable diagnostic and prognostic marker for select cancer types. However, the intricate mechanisms underlying ezrin involvement in tumor immune responses necessitate further in‐depth investigation to fully harness its therapeutic and prognostic potential.
Problem Behavior and Depression in Chinese Adolescents: A Moderated Multiple Mediation Model
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhou Jingwen , Wei Ruigang
Published: December 2024

This study explores the complex relationships among emotional and behavioral problems, self‐esteem, subjective well‐being, school satisfaction, and depression in adolescents. We conducted a comprehensive survey of 958 students aged 9–15 using self‐report questionnaires covering emotional and behavioral problems, self‐esteem, subjective well‐being, school satisfaction, and a depression symptom self‐assessment scale. The results reveal significant positive correlations between self‐esteem, subjective well‐being, and school satisfaction, and significant negative correlations between these factors and both emotional and behavioral problems and depression. Further analysis identified self‐esteem as both a parallel and sequential mediator between emotional and behavioral problems and depression, with the multiple mediation effect accounting for 28.23% of the total impact. Additionally, school satisfaction moderates the mediation process by influencing the relationship between self‐esteem and subjective well‐being, thereby mitigating the effect of subjective well‐being on depression. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing self‐esteem, fostering a positive school atmosphere, and improving adolescents' subjective well‐being to reduce the risk of depression.
Registration of ‘Avalon’ winter malt barley
Authors: Brooks Wynse , Griffey Carl , Sabadin Felipe , Vaughn Mark , Liu Limei , Seago John , Thomason Wade , Light Jon , Rucker Elizabeth , Browning Phillip , McMaster Niki , Schmale David , Saville Brooks , Hardiman Thomas , Custis J. Tommy , Jones Karl , Jones Ned , Lillard Gregory , Marshall David , Fountain Myron , Tuong Tan , Lee Michelle , Oakes Joseph , Mott Joshua , Martens Christopher , Walling Jason , Bettenhausen Harmonie , Macleod Aaron , Santantonio Nicholas
Published: December 2024

‘Avalon’ (Reg. no. CV‐383, PI 700308) is the first two‐row, winter malt barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivar developed by the Virginia Agricultural Experimental Station. Avalon was released in May 2020. Prior to being named, Avalon was tested under the experimental designation VA16M‐81. Avalon was evaluated from 2018 to 2023 in the Eastern Malt Barley Trials (EMBT) at one to three locations in three states and in the Winter Malt Barley Trial (WMBT) from 2020 to 2023 in six to 15 states. In the EMBT in Virginia, mean grain yield (5604 kg ha−1) of Avalon was higher to cultivar ‘Violetta’, but lower than those of ‘Flavia’, ‘Calypso’, and ‘Thoroughbred’. Average grain volume weight of Avalon (64.9 kg hL−1) was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher than the check cultivars, except Violetta. Head emergence of Avalon was 3 days earlier than Flavia and Calypso and 1 to 2 days later than Violetta and Thoroughbred, respectively. Avalon was developed primarily as a malt barley cultivar. On the basis of malting evaluations, Avalon has acceptable quality profiles with specific quality traits including high extract, low protein content, and low beta‐glucan for the years tested. Avalon provides malt barley producers and end users in the eastern United States with excellent malt quality and a unique and distinct flavor profile having good to moderate resistance to all diseases prevalent in the eastern United States. It is moderately susceptible to Fusarium head blight but has moderately low deoxynivalenol accumulation in the grain.
Solvent‐Assisted Prototopic Switching of Norharmane Along Hydrogen‐Bonded Network: Assessing the Precise Length of Network
Authors: Paul Suvendu , Dey Nilanjan
Published: December 2024

In this article, the proton transfer dynamics along a stable norharmane•(H2O)n (n = 2–4) hydrogen‐bonded cluster on conversion from the neutral to cationic form of norharmane (NHM) in water medium was demonstrated experimentally and theoretically. The distinct absorption and emission bands of different prototropic forms of NHM are well‐known in the literature. Initially, the conversion from neutral to cationic form of NHM on moving from a polar aprotic (acetonitrile) to a polar protic (water) solvent was ensured by steady‐state absorption and fluorescence studies. The analysis of IR spectra and steady‐state anisotropy data of NHM confirmed the possibility of the formation of a hydrogen‐bonded network in the presence of water. The length of the network was explored and assumed by extensive Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. Then, by time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT), the excited state proton transfer (ESPT) pathway was established interrogating the NHM‐water cluster with different numbers of water molecules. The theoretical analysis assured that the NHM•(H2O)2 cluster was incapable of maintaining the stable hydrogen bonding wire in the course of the ESPT mechanism. Rather, NHM•(H2O)3 and NHM•(H2O)4 clusters were simultaneously involved in operating the ESPT mechanism. The NHM•(H2O)4 cluster was more feasible to carry out the proton transfer than the NHM•(H2O)3 cluster. To the best of our knowledge, this was possibly the first theoretical evidence behind the conversion from neutral to cationic form of NHM via the formation of a hydrogen‐bonded network.
Restoring adapter protein complex 4 function with small molecules: an in silico approach to spastic paraplegia 50
Authors: Francisco Serena , Lamacchia Lorenzo , Turco Attilio , Ermondi Giuseppe , Caron Giulia , Rossi Sebastiano Matteo
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on spastic paraplegia type 50 (SPG50), an adapter protein complex 4 deficiency syndrome caused by mutations in the adapter protein complex 4 subunit mu‐1 (AP4M1) gene, and on the downstream alterations of the AP4M1 protein. We applied a battery of heterogeneous computational resources, encompassing two in‐house tools described here for the first time, to (a) assess the druggability potential of AP4M1, (b) characterize SPG50‐associated mutations and their 3D scenario, (c) identify mutation‐tailored drug candidates for SPG50, and (d) elucidate their mechanisms of action by means of structural considerations on homology models of the adapter protein complex 4 core. Altogether, the collected results indicate R367Q as the mutation with the most promising potential of being corrected by small‐molecule drugs, and the flavonoid rutin as best candidate for this purpose. Rutin shows promise in rescuing the interaction between the AP4M1 and adapter protein complex subunit beta‐1 (AP4B1) subunits by means of a glue‐like mode of action. Overall, this approach offers a framework that could be systematically applied to the investigation of mutation‐wise molecular mechanisms in different hereditary spastic paraplegias, too.
Environmental Sustainability, Food Quality and Convertibility of Bio‐Based Barrier Coatings for Fibre‐Based Food Packaging: A Semisystematic Review
Authors: Vinitskaia Natalia , Lindstad Agnete Jordhøy , Lev Roman , Kvikant Minette , Xu Chunlin , Leminen Ville , Li Kloce Dongfang , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg , Grönman Kaisa
Published: December 2024

The ongoing legislative drive to reduce plastic consumption and promote the circularity of materials in Europe is reshaping food packaging market dynamics and making sustainability a key competitive factor in the sector. Legislation accelerates research and innovation in bio‐based, biodegradable and recyclable alternatives and motivates the industry to adopt sustainable designs while enhancing compliance with environmental standards. Renewable and natural resource‐based materials, such as polysaccharides, nanocellulose, lignin, lipids, phenolic compounds and proteins, have been extensively investigated in the last decade. Their use in dispersion coatings and biopolymer compounds for paper and paperboard barriers is often referred to as a sustainable packaging solution. This semisystematic review compiled available quantitative and qualitative data on the environmental sustainability, food quality and convertibility of novel bio‐based barrier coatings for food packaging. The results highlight a research gap in assessing environmental performance and the overuse of the term ‘sustainable’ and ‘biodegradable’. However, convertibility and film formability issues remain major obstacles that must be overcome before the scaling up of production of such coatings. Although bio‐based coatings demonstrate potential to extend the shelf life of certain fruits and mushrooms compared with uncoated paper or paperboard, numerous studies lack direct comparisons with conventional packaging methods. Further exploration of these aspects will facilitate science‐ and data‐driven innovation and decision‐making in industry, policy and academia in the development of sustainable bio‐based packaging.
Computing the Matching Polynomials and Independence Polynomials of Phenylene Chains
Authors: Chen Hanlin , Gao Xiang
Published: December 2024

Phenylene, a significant structural motif in organic chemistry, exhibits remarkable electron delocalization and stability. In this paper, we first present reduction formulas for computing the matching polynomial and the independence polynomial of any phenylene chain using the transfer matrix technique. We then derive computational formulas for the Hosoya index and the Merrifield–Simmons index of phenylene chains. Additionally, we obtain the expected values of the Hosoya index and the Merrifield–Simmons index for a random phenylene chain.
A nanofilm‐based fluorescent sensor for determination and identification of gas‐phase alkylamine
Authors: Hu Jiahui , Liu Xiangquan , Wei Hexi , Huang Rongrong , Zhai Binbin , Luo Yan , Yan Junbao , Peng Lingya , Liu Mei , Fang Yu
Published: December 2024

On‐site and real‐time detection and identification of alkylamines are important, but remain as a challenge. In this work, we report a unique nanofilm and the nanofilm‐based high‐performance fluorescent alkylamine sensor. The nanofilm was prepared at the air/dimethyl sulfoxide interface with 4,4′,4″‐nitrilo‐tribenzohydrazide (TPATH) and 4,7‐diphenylaldehyde‐benzothiadiazole (BT‐2CHO) as the building blocks, and depicted self‐standing, defect‐free, fluorescence active, and superior adhesive properties, enabling fabrication of a robust fluorescence film sensor. The response time of the sensor to the tested alkylamines is within 0.2 s, and the detection limits for butylamine, dimethylamine and triethylamine are 4, 8 and 70 ppm, respectively. Moreover, the profiles of the fluorescence emission spectra of the nanofilm recorded after exposure to alkylamines of primary, secondary, and tertiary structures are different from one to another, enabling discrimination of them. The diversified response behavior and the related identification property of the sensor to the different alkylamines was ascribed to the formation of different complexes between the analytes and the nanofilm. The high performance of the BT‐TPATH nanofilm‐based alkylamine sensor may guarantee its application in disease diagnosis, food spoilage monitoring, environmental monitoring, etc.
Leveraging Remote Sensing for Exploring Climatic and Hydro‐Geomorphic Linkages to Flooding: A Case of Bagmati River in Central Nepal
Authors: Lamichhane Suraj , Karki Nischal , Pandey Vishnu Prasad , Joshi Pradhumna , Dawadi Sarita
Published: December 2024

Rivers are dynamic systems that evolve in response to different geologic, hydrologic, climatic, and anthropogenic factors. This study utilized over three decades of remote sensing imagery to quantify river planform dynamics of the Bagmati River in central Nepal. It maps the spatiotemporal changes in the active river channel extent and lateral migration rates from 1990 to 2022, revealing an alarming decline in total river channel area by about 65% as compared to the historic extent. Lateral migration rates of the river channel varied significantly along the reach ranging between 2 and 40 m per year (m/yr). Intra‐annual analysis of the erosion and accretion areas from river masks before and after the monsoon season revealed a stronger correlation between peak annual flow and accretion area in the study reach. Further exploration of a flood event in July 2019 using Sentinel‐1 radar imagery revealed that the inundated area followed the historic channel extent, and multi‐day precipitation event had a major contribution to triggering floods in the Bagmati. This study highlights the invaluable role of satellite remote sensing in studying river planform dynamics, which helps devise informed approaches for flood mitigation, erosion control, and myriads of other crucial endeavours to safeguard the population in the vicinity.
Boosting C3H8 Oxidation at Low Temperature Over a Highly Dispersed Ir/TiO2 Catalyst
Authors: Camposeco Roberto , Zanella Rodolfo
Published: December 2024

Iridium (Ir) nanoparticles with loadings of 0.6, 1.2, 1.8, and 3 wt % were supported on TiO2 in the anatase phase by the deposition–precipitation with urea (DPU) method and were evaluated as catalysts for the thorough oxidation of propane (C3H8). Ir/TiO2 was active in the total oxidation of C3H8 at low temperatures (150–300 °C). The C3H8 oxidation reaction rate and turnover frequency values were improved with increasing iridium loadings until 1.8 wt %, featuring the following order: 1.8Ir/TiO2 > 3Ir/TiO2 > 1.2Ir/TiO2 > 0.6Ir/TiO2 > TiO2. HAADF–STEM exhibited that iridium was spread over the TiO2 anatase surface, displaying average particle sizes ranging from 1.6 to 1.9 nm. XPS analysis revealed a mixture of Ir0/Ir2+ species deposited on the TiO2 surface, and their ratio was dependent on the treatment gas (air or hydrogen). Pyridine thermo‐desorption revealed high Lewis acidity, which increased with higher iridium loadings, showing different behavior patterns in the thoroughly oxidized C3H8. Characterization of the Ir/TiO2 catalysts conducted by in situ DRIFTS tests unveiled the presence of acetone and aldehyde species as the main reaction intermediates when the samples were treated under hydrogen conditions. Additional ex situ characterizations such as H2‐TPR, BET, and XRD were also carried out and discussed.
Synthetic, Structural, Magnetic, and Electrochemical Studies of Mono‐ and Dinuclear Copper Bulky Aryl Phosphate Complexes
Authors: Prapakaran Tulasi , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: December 2024

Stericallyencumbered 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl phenyl phosphate (dtbppH2) has been employed to synthesize mononuclear and dinuclear complexes, [Cu(bpy) (dtbppH)2(dtbppH2)]·2MeOH (1) and [Cu(phen)(dtbppH)(NO3)]2·2MeOH (2), respectively. Both compounds have been characterized using analytical and spectroscopic methods, including EPR spectral and magnetic measurements. Complexes 1 and 2 revealed weak antiferromagnetic interactions due to intermolecular interactions in the lattice and intradimeric exchange interactions mediated by the O─P─O phosphate bridges, respectively. Complex 1 exhibited an EPR spectrum with hyperfine splitting, while complex 2 exhibited a triplet spectrum. The electrocatalytic activity of 1 and 2 adsorbed on glassy carbon electrodes has been explored for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in PBS.
Quantitative Measurement of Interfacial Adhesion of CVD Grown Bilayer WS2 on Various Substrates
Authors: Chandran Yadu , Moya Juan , Ye Zhijiang , Gosvami Nitya Nand , Balakrishnan Viswanath
Published: December 2024

The interfacial adhesion between transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and the growth substrate significantly influences the employment of flakes in various applications. Most previous studies have focused on MoS2 and graphene, particularly their interaction with SiO2/Si substrates. In this work, the adhesion strength of CVD‐grown bilayer WS2 is directly measured using the nano scratch technique on three different substrates—Sapphire, SiO2/Si, and fused quartz. The scratch test is performed using a Berkovich tip of ≈100 nm radius, mounted to a 2D transducer, capable of measuring normal and lateral forces simultaneously. The critical load is calculated from the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) images. The critical load for delamination is lowest for the Sapphire substrate (10 µN) and highest for the SiO2/Si substrate (29 µN). MD simulation has also been performed, and the results agree with experimental observations. The pull‐off force, an essential indicator for the easy removal and transfer of 2D materials, shows the least pull‐off force of 2.56 nN for WS2 on sapphire and the highest, 2.83 nN, for WS2 on SiO2/Si.
Higher Tumor/Organ Accumulation Ratio of Porous Dual Infinite Coordination Polymer Nanocomposites for Efficient Tumor Photothermal‐Starvation‐Dual Hypoxia Chemo Synergistic Therapy
Authors: Luo Siyuan , Zhao Chenyu , Wang Rong , Chang Zepu , Di Jingran , Wang Ya , Gan Zhenhai , Wu Daocheng
Published: December 2024

To enhance tumor comprehensive therapeutic effect of nanomedicines, an efficient strategy that integrates polydopamine and IR780 photothermal therapy, glucose oxidase (GOx) starvation therapy, Banoxantrone (AQ4N) and Tirapazamine (TPZ) dual hypoxia chemotherapy is developed in chronological order. Higher tumor accumulation of porous dual infinite coordination polymer nanocomposites are designed and prepared to implement this strategy, in which fluorescent dye IR780 doped hypoxic prodrugs AQ4N and TPZ coordinated with Cu(II) as the core, this core is encapsulated by GOx‐loaded porous polydopamine coordinated with Fe(III) (Fe‐MPDA). These nanocomposites exhibit a particle dimension of 118.5 ± 21.7 nm with pore size of 20.1 nm (pore volume 0.012 cm3 g−1 nm−1), facilitating easy accumulation in tumor tissues. Particularly, their ratio of the area under the curve (AUC) of the tumor/organ drug concentration versus time (AUCtumor/AUCorgans) is 1.28. Upon reaching the tumor, the nanocomposites release GOx and Fe‐MPDA in initial stage to execute photothermal and starvation therapy, simultaneously enhance the hypoxic level at the tumor site. Then AQ4N and TPZ undergo synergistic chemotherapy in the enhanced hypoxic environment. Animal experiments show a tumor inhibition rate of 100% and a tumor recurrence rate of 0% after 60 d, demonstrating their great potential application for tumor treatment.
Microstructure‐Dependent Stress Relaxation Property of 2000 MPa Grade Valve Spring Steels
Authors: Tu Tianquan , Wang Jun , Lu Jianning , Xing Xianqiang , Wu Huaiqiang , Li Yizhuang , Luo Zhichao
Published: December 2024

Stress relaxation is key to the ultrahigh strength valve springs but has received little attention. In this work, three 55SiCr spring steels with an identical tensile strength of 2000 MPa are prepared by tailoring the wire speed in an industrial production line. The high wire speed results in the presence of undissolved Fe3C carbides and the formation of dislocation martensite in S1 steel with fine prior austenite grains, while the low wire speed and sufficient austenitization time result in the formation of carbide‐free twinned martensite in S3 steel with coarse prior austenite grain. Relaxation experiment in 373 and 473 K demonstrates that the S3 steel has the lowest stress relaxation rate among the three steels. It demonstrates that the carbide‐free twin martensite has the best stress relaxation resistance due to its strong barrier against the thermal activation activities of dislocations.
Unveiling the Hybrid‐Channel (poly‐Si/IGO) Structure for 3D NAND Flash Memory for Improving the Cell Current and GIDL‐Assisted Erase Operation
Authors: Choi Su‐Hwan , Sim Jae‐Min , Shin Jeongmin , Ryu Seong‐Hwan , Hwang Taewon , Lim So Young , Oh Hye‐Jin , Kwag Jae‐Hyeok , Lee Jun‐Yeoub , Song Ki‐Cheol , Lee Yeonhee , Song Minju , Kim Junghwan , Park Chang‐Kyun , Song Yun‐Heub , Park Jin‐Seong
Published: December 2024

Oxide semiconductors (OSs) are promising materials for NAND flash memory, offering the advantages of high field‐effect mobility and superior large‐area uniformity but suffering from low thermal stability, trade‐off between mobility and stability, and the impossibility of the erase operation. To address these drawbacks, herein a hybrid‐channel structure comprising heterostacked poly‐Si and In–Ga–O (IGO) is developed. IGO is used as the main channel to achieve thermal stability above 800 °C, and the fabrication process is optimized to achieve superior electrical properties (μFE = 103.66 cm2 V−1 s−1, subtreshold swing = 96 mV decade−1) and reliability (0.07 V positive shift during the positive bias temperature stress of 3 MV cm−1 at 100 °C for almost 3 h). Poly‐Si is used to generate the gate‐induced drain leakage current and enable the erase operation. The developed structure is used to fabricate 2D planar and three‐layer stacked 3D NAND flash memories. The superior electrical properties (μFE = 116.08 cm2 V−1 s−1, Ion = 4.73 μA μm−1) and deviations of the hybrid‐channel NAND memory are comparable with those of its OS‐channel counterpart. The use of the hybrid‐channel structure in the NAND memories enables the realization of the erase operation with a large memory window (≈3.60 V).
The Trajectory of an Agreement: Tracing Objectivated Knowledge Across a Series of Mundane Encounters
Authors: Hitzler Sarah , Kramer Jonas
Published: December 2024

This article adds to the sociological study of time and temporality in everyday life by building on recent longitudinal developments within conversation analysis. It investigates members' methods to bring about change within their shared (life) world. It examines how, as part of an extended project of action, one agreement made early on is continually re‐evoked, used for accounting purposes, and serves to prepare specific actions. This “item of objectivated knowledge” ties together a series of situations. Thereby, members create shared expectations which serve as resources to solve local action problems and which can be revoked once those problems no longer exist.
Evaluation of Nickel Cobalt Tungstate Nanocomposites and Their Potential Photocatalytic Studies Using Acid Green and Acid Red Dyes
Authors: Sengodan Prabhu , Ravichandran Siranjeevi , Ravichandran Susmitha , Saravanan Anbalagan , Vickram Sundaram
Published: December 2024

Nickel cobalt tungstate (Ni(1‐X)CoXWO4) nanocomposites with varying amounts of cobalt (X = 0.0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0) are the focus of this investigation into photocatalytic effectiveness. Finding ways to improve these nanocomposites for use in photocatalysis is the primary goal of the study. Several methods were used to analyze the nanocomposites, such as field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV‐Vis, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. Using nanocomposites of nickel cobalt tungstate (Ni(1‐X)CoXWO4), the adsorption and photodegradation of acid red (AR) and acid green (AG) from a solution including water were accomplished with success. When exposed to visible light, the nickel cobalt tungstate nanocomposite shows increased rates of adsorption and photodegradation compared to its behavior when no light is present. With an impressive rate of 89.54% AG removal and 87.16% AR removal in less than 60 min, the compound nickel cobalt tungstate showed great potential. When it comes to fighting AG and AR in visible light, photodegradation outperforms adsorption. This work presents a unique approach to evaluating the photocatalytic performance of nickel cobalt tungstate (Ni(1‐X)CoXWO4) nanocomposites with varying amounts of cobalt. The results may shed light on how to improve these materials for use in energy and environmental protection. Contributing important information for the creation of more efficient and personalized photocatalytic materials, the research analyzes the influence of cobalt content on photocatalytic performance in a novel way.
Advancements in Bioremediation: Harnessing Nanomaterials and Microorganisms for Environmental Restoration by Degradation of Pollutants
Authors: Hasan Azimul , Elumalai Anand , Kumar Arun
Published: December 2024

Bioremediation is a diverse process of utilizing living organisms, such as microorganisms, plants, or enzymes, to remove or neutralize contaminants from soil, water, or air. It is a sustainable and ecofriendly proposal to clean up polluted sites and restore ecosystem health. Bioremediation has emerged as a promising approach to address the natural capabilities of microorganisms (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Trichoderma spp.) and plants to remove or degrade a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals (HMs) and organic contaminants. Advancements in this field have led to innovative techniques, such as nanobioremediation, which leverage nanofillers’ unique properties to enhance pollutant removal efficiency by using nanoparticles synthesized by microorganisms and plants. Microorganisms play a crucial role in bioremediation, with various species capable of degrading or sequestering a wide range of pollutants. Integrating microbial interactions and nanoparticle‐based technologies has further expanded bioremediation capabilities, allowing for the targeted and effective removal of even the most recalcitrant contaminants. This study provides an overview of the current state of bioremediation, highlighting the advancements in nanobioremediation, the role of microbes in pollutant degradation, and the impact of HMs and pollutants on human health. The article focuses on the advancements of bioremediation, specifically, nanobioremediation, in enhancing pollutant degradation. This study is the application of nanomaterials synthesized by microorganisms and plants to enhance efficiency in pollutant removal in the environmental restoration process.
Tolerance and Biodegradation of High Concentration of Phenol by a Bacterial Consortium Enriched From the Hurricane Ida Sediment
Authors: Hebert Ivy , Wayment Darcey , Raje Himanshu , Boopathy Raj
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to measure the efficiency of a bacterial consortium's ability to degrade high concentrations of phenol. The consortium was obtained from sediment that was deposited on the residential properties in southeastern Louisiana after Hurricane Ida in August 2021. A bacterial consortium was developed through an enrichment technique that used phenol as the sole carbon source. Phenol degradation followed a concentration gradient. The consortium was able to remove more than 95% of phenol within 14 days when the phenol concentration was 100 mg/L. However, phenol degradation efficiency decreased when the phenol concentration was increased in the culture medium. The consortium removed 30% of phenol at the highest concentration tested, 1000 mg/L, within 14 days. However, when the incubation time was extended to 70 days, 98% phenol removal was observed in the highest concentration of phenol tested of 1000 mg/L. The consortium was dominated by three distinct phyla and nine distinct genera. The dominant phylum was represented by proteobacteria, and the dominant genus in the consortium was Shigella. The consortium removed phenol via the β‐ketoadipate pathway with the production of the following metabolites: cis, cis‐muconic acid, succinate, and fumarate. The novelty of this study was the high tolerance of phenol concentration of 1000 mg/L by the bacterial consortium and its ability to degrade phenol without a lag phase. This is one of the highest phenol concentrations reported in the literature. This consortium may be useful in the removal of high concentrations of phenol from the environment.
Discovery and clinical translation of ceperognastat, an O‐GlcNAcase (OGA) inhibitor, for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kielbasa William , Goldsmith Paul , Donnelly Kevin B. , Nuthall Hugh N. , Shcherbinin Sergey , Fleisher Adam S. , Hendle Jörg , DuBois Susan L. , Lowe Stephen L. , Zhang Feiyu Fred , Woerly Eric M. , Dreyfus Nicolas J.‐F. , Evans David , Gilmore Jeremy , Mancini Michele , Constantinescu Cristian C. , Gunn Roger N. , Russell David S. , Collins Emily C. , Brys Miroslaw , Hutton Michael L. , Mergott Dustin J.
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

The aggregation and spread of hyperphosphorylated, pathological tau in the human brain is hypothesized to play a key role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) as well as other neurogenerative tauopathies. O‐GlcNAcylation, an important post‐translational modification of tau and many other proteins, is significantly decreased in brain tissue of AD patients relative to healthy controls. Increased tau O‐GlcNAcylation has been shown to reduce tau pathology in mouse in vivo tauopathy models. O‐GlcNAcase (OGA) catalyzes the removal of O‐GlcNAc from tau thereby driving interest in OGA inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach to reduce tau pathology and slow the progression of AD.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary approach was used to identify ceperognastat (LY3372689) as a potent OGA inhibitor, including an extensive discovery effort with synthetic chemistry, structure‐based drug design, and in vivo OGA enzyme occupancy studies. Preclinical studies assessed the target engagement, inhibition of OGA enzyme activity, OGA enzyme occupancy, and changes in tau O‐GlcNAc. Four clinical Phase 1 studies of ceperognastat in healthy participants were performed to assess clinical safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and enzyme occupancy.

RESULTS

Ceperognastat is a potent, central nervous system (CNS)‐penetrant, low‐dose inhibitor of OGA, which can achieve > 95% OGA enzyme occupancy in animal and human brain. Overall, ceperognastat had an acceptable safety profile in Phase 1 clinical studies with no serious adverse events reported following single and multiple dosing. The PK, enzyme occupancy, and safety profile supported Phase 2 development of ceperognastat.

DISCUSSION

Ceperognastat is an orally available, highly potent, CNS‐penetrant OGA inhibitor that achieved high (> 80%) OGA enzyme occupancy and increased brain O‐GlcNAc‐tau preclinically. Ceperognastat demonstrated > 95% OGA enzyme occupancy in Phase 1 trials. These occupancy data informed the dose selection for the Phase 2 clinical program.

Highlights

Ceperognastat is a highly potent, CNS‐penetrant OGA inhibitor.

Ceperognastat is both orally available and CNS‐penetrant even when given at low doses.

Ceperognastat can achieve > 95% OGA enzyme occupancy in the animal and human brain.

Ceperognastat had an acceptable safety profile in Phase 1 clinical studies.
Does a Restrictive Diagnostic Work‐up for Thyroid Nodules Lead to a Different Papillary Thyroid Cancer Patient Population? A Comparison Between Dutch and U.S. T1‐T3 Patient Population
Authors: ten Hoor Maaike B. C. , Lin Jia F. , Metman Madelon J. H. , Rodriguez Schaap Pedro M. , Links Thera P. , Altena Renske , van Ginhoven Tessa M. , Zandee Wouter T. , Engelsman Anton F. , Kruijff Schelto
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The 2015 American Thyroid Association guidelines recommend de‐escalating surgical treatment for papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). We hypothesize that the Dutch PTC population might differ due to a restrictive diagnostic policy that mainly selects symptomatic and palpable thyroid nodules for further diagnostics, potentially selecting relatively more aggressive tumors. We aimed to describe the Dutch PTC population because differences in populations can have consequences for the adoption of foreign guidelines.

Methods

From the Dutch national cancer registry, patients diagnosed with pT1–T3 PTC between 2005 and 2015 were included. Baseline characteristics, disease‐free interval, and overall survival were compared between low‐risk and non‐low risk PTC. Furthermore, the TNM stage of the Dutch and U.S. cohorts were compared via literature search.

Results

Of the 3368 pT1‐T3 patients included, 1813 (53.8%) had a low‐risk PTC, and 1555 (46.2%) had a non‐low‐risk PTC. In the Dutch PTC population, pT1 tumors occurred in 45.8%, pT2 and pT3 tumors occurred in 34.9% and 19.3% of the patients, respectively. Of all patients, 10.2% had central lymph node metastases and 16.6% had lateral lymph node metastasis. Distant metastasis only occurred in 18 (0.5%) of the patients. The 10‐year overall survival was 89.6%, with rates of 91.6% for low‐risk and 87.3% for non‐low‐risk patients (p = < 0.001). During the follow‐up period, 257 patients (7.6%) had a recurrence.

Discussion

The higher frequency of advanced tumors among the Dutch PTC population in contrast to the U.S. emphasizes the need for careful national data analyses before the adoption of surgical intervention de‐escalation protocols from other countries.
Reality of Zuckerkandl tubercle and relationship with other anatomical variations
Authors: Unlu Mehmet Taner , Aygun Nurcihan , Ektiren Mehmet , Caliskan Ozan , Sengul Zerin , Kostek Mehmet , Adnan Isgor , Uludag Mehmet
Published: December 2024

Aim

The tubercle of Zuckerkandl (TZ) is considered to be the fusion point of the ultimabranchial body and the median thyroid body. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of TZ and its relationship with other anatomical variations and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) paralysis.

Material And Methods

Data regarding the thyroid lobe and RLN of patients with thyroidectomy between June 2016 and December 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. TZ is classified according to its dimensions as follows: category 0; invisible, category 1; thickening only the lateral to thyroid lobe, category 2; ≤1 cm, and category 3; >1 cm. Categories 2 and 3 were accepted as TZ.

Results

In 627 patients, 1011 necks and thyroid lobes were evaluated. TZ was found as 58.9% in categories 0 and 1, 18.7% in category 2%, and 22.4% in category 3. In the presence of TZ, the RLN was located posteromedially in 95.2% and laterally in 4.8%. RLN entrapment in the Berry ligament region was significantly higher in categories 2 and 3 compared to category 1 (25.4% vs. 28% vs. 17.3% and p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in RLN paralysis based on the presence and size of TZ or the relationship between RLN and TZ.

Conclusion

TZ is not rare and can be observed in 41.1% of thyroid lobes. It should be noted that the likelihood of RLN entrapment in the Berry region is higher in categories 2 and 3. Therefore, performing TZ dissection without applying traction to the thyroid lobe and mapping RLN could contribute to better RLN preservation.
The dorsal approach to the middle hepatic vein from the hilar plate in laparoscopic hemihepatectomy (with video)
Authors: Kim Ji Hoon
Published: December 2024

Background

Although laparoscopic hemihepatectomy has gained prominence, one of the critical challenges in this procedure is the approach to the middle hepatic vein (MHV). The MHV, which runs in the midplane of the liver, is situated above the hilar plate and serves as an anatomical landmark in hemihepatectomy. We have introduced dorsal approach to the MHV from the hilar plate in laparoscopic hemihepatectomy under the laparoscopic caudo‐dorsal view.

Methods

The liver parenchyma was divided along the midplane, which was identified as a surface ischemic line caused by selective inflow control of the right or left hemiliver. The MHV is dissected from the main root from the hilar plate toward the peripheral branches. The liver parenchyma was divided from the dorsal toward the ventral side, and the transection plane was tailored according to the particular type of hemihepatectomy.

Results

This approach was utilized in 28 patients with 9 undergoing right hepatectomy and 19 undergoing left hepatectomy. The median duration of the surgery was 260 min (range, 140–360 min), whereas median estimated blood loss was 80 mL (range, 40–400 mL). One patient (3.6%) has experienced postoperative major complications. The median length of postoperative hospitalization was 7 days (range, 5–20 days).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the dorsal approach to the MHV from the hilar plate in laparoscopic hemihepatectomy represents a significant advancement in the surgical technique. This approach offers enhanced visualization and precise dissection, which are critical for minimizing complications and improving surgical outcomes.
Mathematical and physical aspects of the solution to the Cauchy problem for a nonlocal model of viscoelasticity
Authors: Gawinecki Jerzy August Piotr , Rafa Józef , Łazuka Jarosław
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to present a new system of equations describing a nonlocal model of viscoelasticity theory. In order to obtain the model we used a new approach to the constitutive relations for the internal energy and stress tensor. Using the modified Cagniard‐de Hoop method we constructed the fundamental solution to this system of equations in the three‐dimensional space. Basing on the derived fundamental solutions, explicit formulae for the solution to the Cauchy problem for this system of equations were presented. For the obtained solution, its mechanical and mathematical aspects and properties have been analyzed for the considered viscoelastic medium.
Future Cities and Their Transitions Ahead
Authors: Moglia Magnus , Frantzeskaki Niki , Newton Peter , Pineda Pinto Melissa , Prasad Deo
Published: December 2024

Change is needed in how cities are designed, built, and managed to meet the grand challenges of the twenty-first century. In this book, we invited authors to report on their visions for cities, using a missions-oriented perspective on transformative innovations that support more liveable, sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and just futures. The resulting chapters have proposed a set of distinctive missions, providing what we think can provide the primary focus for future urban research and sustainability efforts. However, the chapters provide a mosaic rather than a single unified vision. To weave them together, this introductory chapter provides a conceptual framework for connecting and operationalising the mission-oriented approach for urban development research as a nexus of imaginaries, missions, pathways, and transformative urban innovations. This allows for orienting and bringing together contributions that represent a forward-looking collection for missions to guide and inform future city-making. In this chapter, we identify the pathways, game changers, and positive tipping points that can reshape future cities. This requires conceiving and activating multiple mission-scale programmes of intervention capable of step-change urban transitions.
Transitioning to a Circular Economy: Understanding the Circular Economy Ecosystem in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Iyer-Raniga Usha , Ho Oanh Thi-Kieu , Gajanayake Akvan
Published: December 2024

Australia’s journey towards a circular economy is in its initial stage. Demand for resources is putting pressure on Australia’s urban environments, which house over 75% of the country’s population and account for over 80% of national GDP. Until 2018, recyclable waste was largely exported to other countries for processing. This has now changed and has led to national and state-based discussions on more effective reprocessing of waste resources.

This chapter aims to present findings based on research conducted to understand the current circular economy ecosystem in the state of Victoria (Australia) to support its plans for waste reduction and transition to a circular economy. A mixed-methods approach was taken, comprising desktop research, interviews with key actors, and a survey targeting a wide range of businesses. It was found that there was no consistent or systemic understanding of the concept of the circular economy; rather, the narrative revolved around waste management and recycling. For transitioning to a circular economy, a systematic shift is needed, supported by a clear policy directive, financial outlay, technical know-how, education, awareness, engagement, and collaboration across traditional isolated sectors.
Remaking Cities: Applying New Urban-Transition Concepts and Processes to Regenerate Greyfield Suburbia
Authors: Newton Peter W. , Glackin Stephen
Published: December 2024

The mission of remaking cities to become more sustainable, productive, liveable, resilient, and inclusive is a twenty-first-century grand challenge. This chapter reports on the application of urban transition frameworks and processes in the development and implementation of a new planning model for regenerating and re-urbanising Australia’s low-density, car-dependent greyfield suburbs: the established, ageing, but well-located middle-ring suburbs built in the post-war era on larger lots. Most housing in these areas has now reached the end of its service life and is prime for redevelopment. Since greyfields comprise most residentially zoned land in cities, this positions them as the critical entry points for regenerative, medium-density, compact city redevelopment. But the wrong planning models are being used. Most infill redevelopment in greyfields is fragmented, piecemeal, small-lot subdivision, delivering a low yield of new housing, significant loss of greenspace, and no added services, infrastructure, or residential amenity.

This chapter introduces greyfield precinct regeneration (GPR), the product of a set of innovative, transition-oriented planning concepts, models, tools, and processes capable of regenerating established, ageing precincts in occupied greyfields: a mission-scale challenge. It provides a blueprint for mainstreaming GPR, illustrated with a case study from a middle-suburban municipality in Melbourne that charts the urban transition from concept to implementation.
Regenerative Urban Development Paradigms in a Time of Climate Change and Ecological Crisis
Authors: Pineda Pinto Melissa , Steele Wendy
Published: December 2024

In this chapter, we draw attention to the need for, and yet radical nature of, embracing regenerative urban futures in the context of the climate and biodiversity crisis. This is a mission-oriented vision that recognises the need to fundamentally reconceptualise cities and urban regions as living entities that must be supported by more regenerative ways of imagining the role of urban nature cultures and multispecies justice. This is an emphasis on the “livingness” of cities and the urgent need to shift away from extraction, devaluation, and displacement practices that affect both humans and non-humans. Genuinely addressing a regenerative future vision demands that cities are co-designed with, and for, the flourishing of more-than-human communities. The chapter draws on the Three Horizons approach to put forward a paradigm shift to regenerative futures, which is framed as alternative ways of governing our cities, and illustrates this shift with examples of regenerative practices in Australia. The need for urban regeneration as a transformative mission within the Australian context is highlighted.
Cooperation by harvester ant queens brings direct energetic benefits during colony founding
Authors: Clark Rebecca M. , Fox Trevor P. , Fewell Jennifer H. , Harrison Jon F.
Published: December 2024

Cooperative behavior by nonrelatives is an evolutionary puzzle, because costs of cooperation are often strong while selective factors favoring cooperative groups remain unclear. In some populations of the seed harvester ant Pogonomyrmex californicus, unrelated queens form groups at colony founding (pleometrosis), whereas in other populations, colonies are initiated by single queens (haplometrosis). We tested the hypothesis that energetic savings of grouping contribute a benefit that may enhance queen success during colony founding and early growth for pleometrotic colonies. We measured metabolic rates and locomotor activity of individuals or pairs of freshly collected, newly mated P. californicus queens from pleometrotic and haplometrotic populations. Population source did not significantly affect metabolic rates, but paired queens from both populations had mass-specific metabolic rates only 86% of those of individual queens. The metabolic effect of grouping was not explained by differences in locomotion. To test whether this degree of energetic saving could be biologically significant, we assessed metabolic rate, body mass, and egg production for pleometrotic pairs at four time points of colony founding and compared the energetic content of stored lipid to energy use up to the point of worker emergence. Metabolic rates dropped over time for queens, as did body mass, and gas exchange switched from continuous to discontinuous, suggestive of metabolic suppression. Total joules required for queens to reach the worker emergence stage were 1.5 times the energy content of stored lipids, consistent with the need for foraging for these queens, and supporting the hypothesis that energetic savings of grouping can be beneficial by extending energetic stores and reducing the need for risky foraging.