bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superlattice‐based Plasmonic Catalysis: Concentrating Light at the Nanoscale to Drive Efficient Nitrogen‐to‐Ammonia Fixation at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Boong Siew Kheng , Chong Carice , Lee Jinn‐Kye , Ang Zhi Zhong , Li Haitao , Lee Hiang Kwee
Published: December 2022

Plasmonic catalysis promises green ammonia synthesis but is limited by the need for co‐catalysts and poor performances due to weak electromagnetic field enhancement. Here, we use two‐dimensional plasmonic superlattices with dense electromagnetic hotspots to boost ambient nitrogen‐to‐ammonia photoconversion without needing co‐catalyst. By organizing Ag octahedra into a square superlattice to concentrate light, the ammonia formation is enhanced by ≈15‐fold and 4‐fold over hexagonal superlattice and disorganized array, respectively. Our unique catalyst achieves superior ammonia formation rate and apparent quantum yield up to ≈15‐fold and ≈103‐fold, respectively, better than traditional designs. Mechanistic investigations reveal the abundance of intense plasmonic hotspots is crucial to promote hot electron generation and transfer for nitrogen reduction. Our work offers valuable insights to design electromagnetically hot plasmonic catalysts for diverse chemical and energy applications.
Strain‐Release Driven Epoxidation and Aziridination of Bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes via Palladium Catalyzed σ‐Bond Nucleopalladation
Authors: Wölfl Bernhard , Winter Nils , Li Jiajing , Noble Adam , Aggarwal Varinder K.
Published: December 2022

The development of preparative methods for the synthesis of four‐membered carbocycles is gaining increasing importance due to the widespread utility of cyclic compounds in medicinal chemistry. Herein, we report the development of a new methodology for the production of spirocyclic epoxides and aziridines containing a cyclobutane motif. In a two‐step one‐pot process, a bicyclo[1.1.0]butyl sulfoxide is lithiated and added to a ketone, aldehyde or imine, and the resulting intermediate is cross‐coupled with an aryl triflate through C−C σ‐bond alkoxy‐ or aminopalladation with concomitant epoxide or aziridine formation. After careful optimization, a remarkably efficient reaction was conceived that tolerated a broad variety of both aromatic and aliphatic substrates. Lastly, through several high yielding ring‐opening reactions, we demonstrated the excellent applicability of the products as modular building blocks for the introduction of three‐dimensional structures into target molecules.
Hydroxocobalamin to treat refractory vasoplegia following phaeochromocytoma resection in a child
Authors: Giustini A. J. , Rowe E. V. , Perez F. D. , Mihm F. G.
Published: December 2022

Phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours that often secrete catecholamines, which can cause dramatic swings in blood pressure and end‐organ damage. During surgical resection of these tumours, antihypertensive drug infusions are often required, but after resection patients may become vasoplegic, in part due to cessation of catecholamine secretion by the tumour in the context of pre‐operative α1 adrenoceptor antagonism. Numerous medications have been used to treat vasoplegia in this setting, including noradrenaline, vasopressin and, more recently, angiotensin II. We report the case of a patient who experienced vasoplegia after phaeochromocytoma resection which was refractory to vasopressin and angiotensin II infusions but was successfully treated with high dose hydroxocobalamin.
Accelerated aging of 18 years rejuvenated polylactide bottles by fast scanning calorimetry
Authors: Vashchuk Alina , Missaoui Tasnim , Delpouve Nicolas , Dargent Eric
Published: December 2022

This study focuses on the accelerated physical aging kinetics of rejuvenated polylactide (PLA) that has previously been processed and stored during 18 years under ambient conditions. The finish of a conditioned PLA bottle is subjected to structural relaxation for times varying between 0.001 and 1000.0 min at 45°C, that is, 15°C below its calorimetric glass transition temperature. The recovery of in‐situ aged PLA is monitored by fast scanning calorimetry and it is observed that the thermodynamic equilibrium is reached within the experimental aging time. Moreover, the time evolution of the enthalpy of recovery finds consistency with results obtained for PLA granules which did not undergo additional processing neither prolonged storage nor service life conditions. Thus, it is deduced that both processing and storage do not induce major degradation reactions that could affect the aging kinetics. Therefore, the behavior of a structurally rejuvenated amorphous PLA is depicted through the one of an unaged PLA.
Synergy of MoO2with Pt as Unilateral Dual Cocatalyst for Improving Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution over g‐C3N4
Authors: Su Fengyun , Wang Zhishuai , Tian Mengzhen , Yang Chunxia , Xie Haiquan , Ding Chenghua , Jin Xiaoli , Chen Jiaqi , Ye Liqun
Published: December 2022

Pt is usually used as cocatalyst for g‐C3N4to produce H2by photocatalytic splitting of water. However, the photocatalytic performance is still limited by the fast recombination of photo‐generated electrons and holes, as well as the poor absorption of visible light. In this work, MoO2/g‐C3N4composites were prepared, in which MoO2synergetic with Pt photo‐deposited during H2evolution reaction worked as unilateral dual cocatalyst to improve the photocatalytic activity. Within 4 hours of irradiation, the hydrogen production rate of MoO2‐Pt dual cocatalyst modified g‐C3N4reached 3804.89 μmol/g/h, which was 120.18 times of that of pure g‐C3N4(GCN, 31.66 μmol/g/h), 10.98 times of that of MoO2modified g‐C3N4(346.39 μmol/g/h), and 9.18 times of that of Pt modified g‐C3N4(413.64 μmol/g/h). Characterization results demonstrate that the deficient MoO2not only promoted visible light absorption of g‐C3N4, but also worked as a “electron pool” to capture and transfer electrons to Pt.
Room‐Temperature ZnBr2‐Catalyzed Regioselective 1,6‐Hydroarylation of Electron‐Rich Arenes to para‐Quinone Methides: Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Triarylmethanes
Authors: Xiong Biquan , Si Lulu , Zhu Longzhi , Wu Rong , Liu Yu , Xu Weifeng , Zhang Fan , Tang Ke‐Wen , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: December 2022

A mild and efficient Zn(II)‐catalyzed regioselective 1,6‐hydroarylation of para‐quinone methides (p‐QMs) with electron‐rich arenes protocol is reported. A variety of electron‐rich arenes and para‐quinone methides are well tolerated under mild conditions, delivering a broad range of triarylmethanes in good to excellent yields. The present method also works well for the hydroarylation of p‐QMs with other nucleophiles, such as aniline, indole and phenol derivatives, offering the corresponding triarylmethanes with good yields under the standard conditions. The possible mechanism for the formation of C(sp3)−C(sp2) bonds in hydroarylation reactions has been explored by step‐by‐step control experiments, and the reaction may follow a second‐order manner in a chemical kinetic study.
Allograft rejection following immune checkpoint inhibitors in solid organ transplant recipients: A safety analysis from a literature review and a pharmacovigilance system
Authors: Cui Xiangli , Yan Cilin , Xu Ye , Li Dandan , Guo Mingxing , Sun Liying , Zhu Zhijun
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to systematically characterize transplant rejection after immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) initiation in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs).

Methods

Data were extracted from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database and case reports in the literature. Disproportionality analysis including information component and reported odds ratio (ROR) was performed to access potential risk signals.

Results

A total of 168 patients with transplant rejection after ICIs usage were identified in the FAERS database, and 89 cases were identified in the literature review. ICIs were significantly associated with transplant rejection (ROR025: 2.2). A strong risk signal was found for combination therapy with pembrolizumab and ipilimumab compared to monotherapy.

Conclusion

Immune checkpoint inhibitors were significantly associated with transplant rejection in SOTRs.
Autosomal recessive cutis laxa type Ib—Successful redo aortic root and arch replacement
Authors: Pees Christiane , Zimpfer Daniel , Radakovic Sonja , Beitzke Dietrich , Michel‐Behnke Ina , Laccone Franco A.
Published: December 2022

We present an adolescent girl with a highly stenotic ascending aortic conduit of her former during infancy corrected giant aneurysm. Genetic testing determined autosomal recessive cutis laxa type‐Ib as the underlying connective tissue disorder. Re‐do valve sparing root and arch replacement gained excellent restoration of the aorta; 1‐year‐follow‐up was uneventful.
A laser‐assisted endoscopic approach to pyriform sinus fistula via fibrin glue cauterization
Authors: Momii Manami , Kawano Toshiaki , Takakura Sonoka , Hirano Takashi , Tateyama Kaori , Suzuki Masashi
Published: December 2022

In the past, the general treatment method for pyriform sinus fistula was its removal by open surgery; however, in recent years, endoscopic surgery has become more common. We report two cases where laser surgery was performed using an endoscope and recurrence was prevented using fibrin glue. Both cases involved 3‐year‐old girls who underwent laser ablation of a pyriform sinus fistula under an endoscope, after which the site was closed with fibrin glue. No recurrence was observed in either case, and the postoperative course was uneventful. This approach is presented as a non‐invasive and effective treatment for pyriform sinus fistula.
Pituitary metastasis as the first manifestation of lung carcinoma
Authors: Amaral Sara , Matias Alexandra , Bouça Bruno , Manique Inês , Palha Ana , Cortez Luísa , Cerqueira Luís , Forte Dalila , Sagarribay Amets , Dutra Eduardo , Cristóvão Miguel , Pontinha Carlos , Mafra Manuela , Silva‐Nunes José
Published: December 2022

Pituitary metastases are rare. Clinical presentation could range from asymptomatic to panhypopituitarism or local symptoms. We present a case report of a 43‐year‐old male patient with a new onset headache, visual disturbances, and panhypopituitarism. The investigation led to the diagnosis of pituitary metastasis as the first manifestation of underlying lung cancer.
First‐Principles Investigation of Charged Germagraphene as a Cathode Material for Dual‐Carbon Batteries
Authors: Yilmaz Burcu , Otani Minoru , Ishihara Tatsumi , Akbay Taner
Published: December 2022

As part of the concerted effort for development of energy storage technologies, dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) or dual‐carbon batteries (DCBs) are attracting interest, owing primarily to their eco‐friendly active materials. The use of carbon as the active materials of DCBs brings about several challenges involving capacity and stability. This contribution aims to provide an in‐depth understanding of the structural and electronic properties of Ge‐doped graphene (Germagraphene) as a novel cathode material for DCBs. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are combined with the effective screening medium (ESM) method for analyzing the electronic and band structure of PF6−anion‐adsorbed Germagraphene under a potential bias. These theoretical investigations indicate that the use of Ge as a dopant for graphene has a positive impact on the adsorption of the anion on the cathode under both neutral and electrically biased conditions.
Probing the Kinetic Origin of Varying Oxidative Stability of Ethyl‐ vs. Propyl‐spaced Amines for Direct Air Capture
Authors: Li Sichi , Cerón Maira R. , Eshelman Hannah V. , Varni Anthony J. , Maiti Amitesh , Akhade Sneha , Pang Simon H.
Published: December 2022

Amine‐based adsorbents are promising for direct air capture of CO2, yet oxidative degradation remains a key unmitigated risk hindering wide‐scale deployment. Borrowing wisdom from the basic auto‐oxidation scheme, insights are gained into the underlying degradation mechanisms of polyamines by quantum chemical, advanced sampling simulations, adsorbent synthesis, and accelerated degradation experiments. The reaction kinetics of polyamines are contrasted with that of typical aliphatic polymers and they elucidate for the first time the critical role of aminoalkyl hydroperoxide decomposition in the oxidative degradation of amino‐oligomers. The experimentally observed variation in oxidative stability of polyamines with different backbone structures is explained by the relationship between the local chemical structure and the free energy barrier of aminoalkyl hydroperoxide decomposition, suggesting that its energetics can be used as a descriptor to screen and design new polyamines with improved stability. The developed computational capability sheds light on radical‐induced degradation chemistry of other organic functional materials.
Tailored Solvation and Interface Structures by Tetrahydrofuran‐Derived Electrolyte Facilitates Ultralow Temperature Lithium Metal Battery Operations
Authors: Kim Soohwan , Pol Vilas G.
Published: December 2022

Ineffectiveness of Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) in cold climates hinders electronics to work in various conditions including frigid environments, despite high demands. Given that intrinsic properties of LIB materials cause this problem, optimized cell chemistries ultimately are required for low‐temperature usage. In this study, Li‐metal batteries (LMBs) composed of a Li‐metal anode (LMA) stabilized by a localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE) are found to significantly enhance low‐temperature performance. The LHCE allows the LMA to have compact and regular deposition and excellent plating/stripping efficiency at sub‐zero temperatures. The LHCE produces an inorganic‐rich solid‐electrolyte interphase with larger amounts of Li2O/LiF interfaces, dominance of ion aggregates in Li+solvation, and enhanced Li+transport, which can greatly improve the LMA stability. LMB full cells based on LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2cathodes with the tailored electrolyte show high retentions of 75 and 64 % at −20 and −40 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the LMB configuration retains its charge−discharge capability even at −60 °C.
In‐silico generation of high‐dimensional immune response data in patients using a deep neural network
Authors: Fallahzadeh Ramin , Bidoki Neda H. , Stelzer Ina A. , Becker Martin , Marić Ivana , Chang Alan L. , Culos Anthony , Phongpreecha Thanaphong , Xenochristou Maria , De Francesco Davide , Espinosa Camilo , Berson Eloise , Verdonk Franck , Angst Martin S. , Gaudilliere Brice , Aghaeepour Nima
Published: December 2022

Technologies for single‐cell profiling of the immune system have enabled researchers to extract rich interconnected networks of cellular abundance, phenotypical and functional cellular parameters. These studies can power machine learning approaches to understand the role of the immune system in various diseases. However, the performance of these approaches and the generalizability of the findings have been hindered by limited cohort sizes in translational studies, partially due to logistical demands and costs associated with longitudinal data collection in sufficiently large patient cohorts. An evolving challenge is the requirement for ever‐increasing cohort sizes as the dimensionality of datasets grows. We propose a deep learning model derived from a novel pipeline of optimal temporal cell matching and overcomplete autoencoders that uses data from a small subset of patients to learn to forecast an entire patient's immune response in a high dimensional space from one timepoint to another. In our analysis of 1.08 million cells from patients pre‐ and post‐surgical intervention, we demonstrate that the generated patient‐specific data are qualitatively and quantitatively similar to real patient data by demonstrating fidelity, diversity, and usefulness.
Does experimental seaweed cultivation affect benthic communities and shorebirds? Applications for extensive aquaculture
Authors: Martínez‐Curci Natalia S. , Fierro Pablo , Navedo Juan G.
Published: December 2022

Extensive seaweed aquaculture is a growing industry expected to expand globally due to its relatively low impact and benefits in the form of ecosystem services. However, seaweeds are ecosystem engineers that may alter coastal environments by creating complex habitats on previously bare mudflats. These changes may scale up to top‐consumers, particularly migratory shorebirds, species of conservation concern that regulate trophic webs at these habitats. Understanding how habitats are transformed and how this affects different species is critical to direct ecological applications for commercial seaweed management. We experimentally assessed through a Before‐After Control‐Impact design the potential changes exerted byGracilaria chilensisfarming on bare mudflats on the abundance, biomass, and assemblage structure of benthic macroinvertebrates, and their scaled‐up effects on shorebirds' habitat use and prey consumption. As predicted, experimental cultivation ofG. chilensissignificantly affects different components of biodiversity that scale‐up from lower to upper trophic levels. The total biomass of benthic macroinvertebrates increased with seaweed cultivation and remained high for at least 2 months after harvest, boosted by an increase in the median size of polychaetes, particularly Nereids. Tactile‐foraging shorebirds tracked these changes at the patch level increasing their abundance and spending more time foraging at seaweed cultivated plots. These results suggest that seaweed farming has the potential to impact shorebird populations by favoring tactile‐foraging species which could lead to a competitive disadvantage to species that rely on visual cues. Therefore, the establishment of new seaweed farms in bare mudflats at key sites for shorebirds must be planned warranting habitat heterogeneity (i.e., cultivated and non‐cultivated areas) at the landscape level and based on a previous experimental approach to account for local characteristics. Fostering properly designed extensive seaweed farming over other aquaculture industries with greater negative environmental impacts would provide benefits for human well‐being and for ecosystem functions.
Identification of three Asian otter species (Aonyx cinereus, Lutra sumatrana, and Lutrogale perspicillata) using a novel noninvasive PCR‐RFLP analysis
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Chee‐Yoong Woo , Kannan Adrian , Rama Rao Suganiya , Abdul‐Patah Pazil , Ratnayeke Shyamala
Published: December 2022

Four species of otters occur in tropical Asia, and all face multiple threats to their survival. Studies of distribution and population trends of these otter species in Asia, where they occur sympatrically, are complicated by their elusive nature and difficulties with reliable identification of species in field surveys. In Malaysia, only three species, the smooth‐coated otter, Asian small‐clawed otter, and hairy‐nosed otter have been reliably reported as residents. We designed a replicable and cost‐efficient PCR‐RFLP protocol to identify these three species. Using published reference sequences of mitochondrial regions, we designed and tested three PCR‐RFLP protocols on DNA extracted from reference samples and 33 spraints of wild otters collected along the North Central Selangor Coast of Malaysia. We amplified and sequenced two fragments (450 and 200 bp) of the mt D‐loop region and a 300‐bp fragment of the mt ND4 gene using primer sets TanaD, TanaD‐Mod, and OTR‐ND4, respectively. Amplification products were digested with restriction enzymes to generate species‐specific RFLP profiles. We analyzed the costs of all three protocols and compared these with the costs of sequencing for species identification. Amplification success was highest for the smallest PCR product, with the TanaD‐Mod primer amplifying DNA from all 33 spraints. TanaD and OTR‐ND4 primers amplified DNA from 60.6% and 63.6% spraints, respectively. PCR products of TanaD‐Mod provided the expected species‐specific RFLP profile for 32 (97%) of the spraints. PCR products of OTR‐ND4 provided the expected RFLP profile for all 21 samples that amplified, but TanaD produced spurious bands and inconsistent RFLP profiles. The OTR‐ND4 primer–enzyme protocol was the least expensive (437 USD) for processing 100 samples, followed by TanaD‐Mod (455 USD). We suggest the use of both OTR‐ND4 and TanaD‐Mod protocols that show potential for highly efficient and reliable species identification from noninvasive genetic sampling of three Asian otter species. We expect our novel noninvasive PCR‐RFLP analysis methods to facilitate population monitoring, ecological and behavioral studies on otters in tropical and subtropical Asia.
An environmental DNA metabarcoding approach versus a visual survey for reefs of Koh Pha‐ngan in Thailand
Authors: Gösser Fabian , Schweinsberg Maximilian , Mittelbach Pierre , Schoenig Eike , Tollrian Ralph
Published: December 2022

Information on diversity indices and abundance of individual species is crucial for the assessment of ecosystem health, especially for endangered ecosystems as coral reefs. The application of environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor coral biodiversity is, however, just beginning to come into focus for marine biologists. In this study, an eDNA metabarcoding approach of seawater samples in three different reefs on Koh Pha‐ngan, Thailand, was compared with simultaneously collected visual census data. In addition, differences in read abundance and number of genera detected between daytime and nighttime eDNA samples were examined, and a local coral barcode reference database (n = 23 genera; COI gene) was constructed to improve assignment of eDNA reads to the genus level. As a technical extension of existing assays, two methods for library construction were compared: a commercial kit and in‐house developed fusion primers. Combining eDNA metabarcoding and visual data, 29 different genera of scleractinian corals from 14 families were detected. In addition, a log‐linear correlation was found between the abundance of eDNA reads and visually determined relative coral cover at the genus level, suggesting a predictive relationship between eDNA reads and coral cover. Results also showed diurnal variation between day and night samples in the number of eDNA reads, purported to relate to the activity phases of corals. The use of uniquely labeled fusion primers, gave comparable results to a commercially available library preparation kit. Especially with frequent use, fusion primers can be very cost‐effective, and therefore a consideration for large‐scale studies. Using a custom reference database of 89 sequences from coral tissue samples of 23 different coral genera produced better results than querying against NCBI GenBank, highlighting the importance of locally optimized databases. We consider these results important for establishing eDNA as a complementary tool to visual surveys to track changes in coral diversity and cover.
Post‐induction lymph node delineation in nasopharyngeal cancer: A single‐center experience
Authors: Sari Sezin Yuce , Yigit Ecem , Yazici Gozde , Gullu Ibrahim Halil , Aksoy Sercan , Ozyigit Gokhan , Cengiz Mustafa
Published: December 2022

Background

We routinely delineate the gross tumor volume (GTV) for the lymph nodes (LN) based on post‐induction chemotherapy (IC) MRI in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Herein, we investigated the sufficiency of this method, particularly in high‐risk LNs.

Methods

Eighty‐one LNs with a high‐risk of clinical extranodal extension and/or ≥3‐cm diameter in 58 patients were evaluated. A new GTV covering the pre‐IC LN volume was delineated for each LN.

Results

The median volume reduction was 72.5% for the GTV and 53.1% for the planning target volume. After a median 43 months, the overall LN local control rate was 97.5%. The 2‐ and 5‐year LN recurrence‐free survival, overall survival, and disease‐free survival rate was 88.3% and 84.4%, 92.5% and 85.1%, and 86.8% and 79.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

IC yields a significant reduction in nodal target volumes, and post‐IC nodal volume‐based radiotherapy provides excellent LC in NPC, even in high‐risk LNs.
Trigeminal Sensitivity in Patients With Allergic Rhinitis and Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Burghardt Georg Karl Ludwig , Cuevas Mandy , Sekine Rumi , Hummel Thomas
Published: December 2022

Objective

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) are of high importance in otorhinolaryngology. Some of their symptoms are related to changes in the nasal trigeminal sensitivity. The aim of this study was to compare nasal trigeminal sensitivity in patients with AR, CRSwNP, and healthy controls (HC).

Methods

A total of 75 individuals participated (age 19–78 years; 34 AR, 10 CRSwNP and 31 HC). Olfactory function was determined using the extended Sniffin’ Sticks test battery. Trigeminal sensitivity was assessed with CO2 detection thresholds. Trigeminal negative mucosal potentials (NMP) and EEG‐derived event‐related potentials (ERP) were recorded in response to selective olfactory (phenylethyl alcohol) and trigeminal (CO2) stimuli using high‐precision air‐dilution olfactometry.

Results

In comparison to HC, AR patients had lower CO2 thresholds, also reflected in shorter peak latencies in NMP and trigeminal ERP measurements. CRSwNP patients had a decreased sensitivity for trigeminal stimuli, also reflected in prolonged trigeminal ERP latencies, and reduced olfactory function compared to HC.

Conclusion

AR patients seemed to be more sensitive to trigeminal stimuli than CRSwNP patients. Importantly, the differences could be shown on psychophysical and electrophysiological levels. The changes in trigeminal sensitivity appear to be present already at the level of the respiratory epithelium. The differences between the two groups may depend on the specific inflammatory changes accompanying each disorder, the degree of inflammatory activity, or duration of the inflammatory disorder. However, because the sample sizes are relatively small, these results need to be confirmed in the future studies with larger groups.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:654–660, 2023
Carbon Nanotubes Networking in Styrene‐Butadiene Rubber: A Dynamic Mechanical and Dielectric Spectroscopy Study
Authors: García Daniela , Salzano de Luna Martina , Mensitieri Giuseppe , Escobar Mariano , Mansilla Marcela , Baldanza Antonio
Published: December 2022

The study of the reinforcement network in elastomer compounds is one of the most relevant issues for the application of these materials because their properties are strongly dependent on the obtained morphology. To this regard, the viscoelastic and dielectric behavior of vulcanized styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) reinforced with different amounts of carbon nanotubes (CNT) have been investigated and compared with the vulcanized unfilled SBR and the vulcanized SBR samples reinforced with a conventional amount of carbon black (40 phr). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements have been carried out to highlight possible differences of the glass transition temperatures for all the reinforced compounds. The percolation threshold value of the nanocomposite samples has been estimated by dielectric analysis. Finally, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurements have been performed in tensile mode in the temperature range of −60 to 80 °C to obtain bothE′ andE′′. From these experimental data, the master curve for each sample has been estimated by using the time–temperature superposition principle in combination with the vertical shift approach. From the analysis of this latter, the activation energy, associated to the thermal movement of the reinforcement network, has been calculated to better elucidate the reinforcement mechanism in the nanocomposites.
The doubly weighted pseudo‐almost automorphic mild solutions to a class of stochastic dynamic equations
Authors: Zhu Ping
Published: December 2022

This paper first obtains the necessary and sufficient condition between Stepanov‐like doubly weighted pseudo‐almost automorphic stochastic processes and Stepanov‐like asymptotically almost automorphic stochastic processes in a suitable set and, second, establishes the composition theorem based on
‐measurability for nonequivalent weight functions; these new conclusions acquired perfect and extended some pre‐existing related results, which enrich the dynamics of Stepanov‐like doubly weighted pseudo‐almost automorphic stochastic processes. Finally, for a class of nonautonomous stochastic equations with the coefficients of Stepanov‐like doubly weighted pseudo‐almost automorphic stochastic processes that satisfies non‐Lipschitz conditions, we investigate the existence and uniqueness of the doubly weighted pseudo‐almost automorphic mild solutions.
A participatory arts programme – Shared experience for family caregivers and care recipients
Authors: Vaajoki Anne , Turjamaa Riitta , Lakka Timo , Mäkinen Eeva , Välimäki Tarja
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to describe family caregivers of older people's experiences of participatory art interventions, including music, dance and visual arts.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study.

Methods

Thematic interviews were conducted with 12 family caregivers. Qualitative data were analysed with thematic analysis.

Results

The results illustrated the meaning of art groups, which included a shared feeling of togetherness, empowering and activating peer support and a sense of communality. Art groups also represented a hobby, enhancing caregivers' social and mental well‐being. The art groups could be described as an art‐driven, participatory shared experience. Participatory arts are noteworthy contributors to the well‐being of family caregivers and care recipients, especially from peer support and communality. Further research is needed to find out about participants' preferred art‐based activities and their impact on their well‐being. No patient or public contribution because of inflexibility in the timing of engagement.
Linearized compact difference schemes applied to nonlinear variable coefficient parabolic equations with distributed delay
Authors: Tan Zengqiang , Yan Xiaoqiang , Qian Xu , Song Songhe
Published: December 2022

In this article, combined with the compound trapezoidal formula, two linearized compact difference methods are presented for solving nonlinear variable coefficient parabolic equations with distributed delay. It is proved under some appropriate conditions that these linearized compact schemes are uniquely solvable and convergent of order two in time and order four in space. Finally, with several numerical experiments, the theoretical accuracy and computational effectiveness of the proposed methods are further testified.
NINJ2 deficiency inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and promotes insulin resistance through regulating insulin signaling
Authors: Peng Huixin , Yu Yubing , Wang Pengyun , Yao Yufeng , Wu Xinna , Zheng Qian , Wang Jing , Tian Beijia , Wang Yifan , Ke Tie , Liu Mugen , Tu Xin , Liu Huiying , Wang Qing K. , Xu Chengqi
Published: December 2022

Objective

Genetic variants in ninjurin‐2 (NINJ2; nerve injury‐induced protein 2) confer risk of ischemic strokes and coronary artery disease as well as endothelial activation and inflammation. However, little is known about NINJ2's in vivo functions and underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The phenotypes of NINJ2 knockout mice were analyzed, and mechanisms of NINJ2 that regulate body weight, insulin resistance, and glucose homeostasis and lipogenesis were investigated in vivo and in vitro.

Results

This study found that mice lacking NINJ2 showed impaired adipogenesis, increased insulin resistance, and abnormal glucose homeostasis, all of which are risk factors for strokes and coronary artery disease. Mechanistically, NINJ2 directly interacts with insulin receptor/insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (INSR/IGF1R), and NINJ2 knockdown can block insulin‐induced mitotic clonal expansion during preadipocyte differentiation by inhibiting protein kinase B/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (AKT/ERK) signaling and by decreasing the expression of key adipocyte transcriptional regulators CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein β (C/EBP‐β), C/EBP‐α, and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ). Furthermore, the interaction between NINJ2 and INSR/IGF1R is needed for maintaining insulin sensitivity in adipocytes and muscle via AKT and glucose transporter type 4. Notably, adenovirus‐mediated NINJ2 overexpression can ameliorate diet‐induced insulin resistance in mice.

Conclusions

In conclusion, these findings reveal NINJ2 as an important new facilitator of insulin receptors, and the authors propose a unique regulatory mechanism between insulin signaling, adipogenesis, and insulin resistance.
Anti‐pruritic effect of isothiocyanates: Potential involvement of toll‐like receptor 3 signaling
Authors: Moriyama Masaki , Konno Mitsuhiro , Serizawa Kanako , Yuzawa Natsumi , Majima Yuki , Hayashi Ikuo , Suzuki Tomohiko , Kainoh Mie
Published: December 2022

The innate immune system has an emerging role as a mediator of neuro‐immune communication and a therapeutic target for itch. Toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3) plays an important role in itch, as shown in TLR3 knock‐out mice. In this study, to evaluate effects of TLR3 inhibitors on histamine‐independent itch, we used two kinds of isothiocyanate (ITC). Both phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) and sulforaphane (SFN) inhibited Poly I:C (PIC)‐induced signaling in the RAW264.7 cell line. We then investigated the anti‐pruritic effect of these compounds on PIC‐ and chloroquine (CQ)‐induced scratching behavior. PEITC and SFN both suppressed PIC‐evoked scratching behavior in mice, and PEITC also inhibited CQ‐induced acute itch. Finally, we examined the oxazolone‐induced chronic itch model in mice. Surprisingly, oral dosing of both compounds suppressed scratching behaviors that were observed in mice. Our findings demonstrate that TLR3 is a critical mediator in acute and chronic itch transduction in mice and may be a promising therapeutic target for pruritus in human skin disorders. It is noteworthy that SFN has potential for use as an antipruritic as it is a phytochemical that is used as a supplement.
Uncertainty measurement of a configurable business process
Authors: Saidi Malak , Tissaoui Anis , Benslimane Djamal , Faiz Sami
Published: December 2022

Today, the economic crisis is putting enormous pressure on most organizations. It evolves in a crucial competitive environment with a multiplication of production cycles and implementation on the market. Due to this dynamism, organizations must be scalable and agile by adopting an approach that aims to make the process model of a given organization reusable. Indeed, according to the new paradigm which is called “Design by reuse” the models of configurable processes, gain recently in importance since these models have the capacity to represent explicitly the common parts and variables of identical processes in a customizable model. These configurable process which group several execution choices through a variation point called configurable connector will present an uncertainty related to the execution (or not) of the conditional tasks in a process model. In this paper, we propose a measure based on Shannon's entropy in order to model the uncertainty of the process at design time to guide configurable business process designers and analysts in developing and improving processes to be more predictable, less complex, and more understandable.
Treatment of palpebral squamous cell carcinoma in a cat using strontium‐90 plesiotherapy
Authors: Bailey Kelsey
Published: December 2022

The diagnosis, treatment and outcome of palpebral squamous cell carcinoma in a 7‐year‐old, male, neutered domestic shorthair cat is reported, after a 2‐year history of progressive ocular discharge and dermatitis. On presentation, there were multifocal ulcerations and eschars beginning just dorsal to the medial canthus, and extending along the medial canthus to just temporal of the middle of the lower eyelid. A biopsy sample was obtained and consistent with squamous cell carcinoma with mild to moderate chronic, lymphoplasmacytic and mastocytic dermatitis. The cat underwent one session of strontium‐90 plesiotherapy. There were no signs of squamous cell carcinoma recurrence at the time of the last follow‐up examination 4 months after strontium‐90 plesiotherapy. However, alopecia and mild epiphora were still present. This patient had an excellent ocular outcome after strontium‐90 plesiotherapy.
Restrictions on Data Transfers and the WTO
Authors: Naef Tobias
Published: December 2022

The WTO is not well-known for being an institution that regulates the free flow of personal data across borders. The trade agreements under the auspices of the WTO either predate or coincide with the invention and early development of the internet. When the WTO was created in 1994, its members agreed to create rules for trade in services. Tim Wu observed that as a consequence, and almost by accident, “the WTO has put itself in an oversight position for most of the national laws and practices that regulate the Internet.” Wu (Chicago J Int Law 7(1), 264, 2006). Over a quarter century later, the internet has become indispensable for trade in services, facilitating not only communication and payment between parties involved in any transaction, but also as a platform for the transmission of the services themselves, and the driving technology for the creation of new services. The first section of this chapter shows how cross-border flows of personal data (on the internet) have become intertwined with the supply of many digital services (Sect. 4.1). The second section describes how the rules of the WTO on trade in services are relevant for the regulation of cross-border flows of personal data (Sect. 4.2). These multilateral trade rules can be used as proxies to distinguish between legitimate regulatory concerns and protectionism. Regarding the regulation of cross-border flows of personal data, these rules allow for the legal assessment of the line between data protection and data protectionism. The third section of this chapter analyzes whether the EU’s fundamental rights-based regulation of data transfers interferes with the rules of the WTO on trade in services (Sect. 4.3). The fourth section assesses whether the interferences that have been identified can be justified under the relevant exceptions to the rules of the WTO on trade in services (Sect. 4.4).
Genome-wide identification of Fagus sylvatica aquaporins and their comparative spring and summer expression profiles
Authors: Israel David , Durand Maxime , Salmon Yann , Zwiazek Janusz Jerzy , Robson Thomas Matthew
Published: December 2022

Key message

A total of 45 aquaporins was identified in Fagus sylvatica, 35 of which were differentially expressed in spring and summer in the leaves, phloem and xylem of 11-year-old trees.

European beech (Fagus sylvatica) has been widely studied in terms of its water relations and local adaptation. However, to date, the underlying basis conferring adaptation to differences in water availability are unknown. Therefore, we examined the expression of aquaporins in trees of four different beech provenances representing the southern and northern range margins, as well as core populations, grown in a common garden. We sampled their xylem, phloem and leaf tissue, when leaves had fully expanded, and in late summer. A total of 45 aquaporin isoforms were identified in the beech genome, of which 35 were detected across all sampled tissues. In our phylogenetic analysis, beech aquaporins clustered into the five subfamilies found in other woody species. Members of the plasma membrane intrinsic protein subfamily generally displayed the highest levels of expression, followed by tonoplast intrinsic proteins. Isoforms of the remaining subfamilies, Noduline-26-like intrinsic proteins, small basic intrinsic proteins and uncharacterised intrinsic proteins, were expressed at very low to moderate levels. The expression of most isoforms was stable or declined from spring to summer. Leaves followed a different expression profile from that of vascular tissues, whereas both phloem and xylem were found to express the same FsMIPs. Tissue-specific aquaporin expression was very similar amongst the four beech provenances, indicating that there is no inherent difference in the capability of these provenances to regulate aquaporin activity. The general decrease in FsMIP expression toward the end of the growing period indicates that aquaporins are involved in tree water relations and growth.
Dreiphasiger Netzsimulator mit virtueller Ausgangsimpedanz
Authors: Jonke Peter , Makoschitz Markus , Ertl Hans
Published: December 2022

Für das Testen, Prüfen und Validieren von netzgekoppelten Komponenten wie z. B. PV-Wechselrichtern oder Batteriespeichersystemen kommen in der Regel Netzsimulatoren/AC-Simulatoren zum Einsatz, um deren Verhalten bei unterschiedlichen Spannungs- oder Frequenzprofilen zu untersuchen. Bei derartigen Versuchsaufbauten ist auch eine definierte Netzimpedanz vorgeschrieben, welche üblicherweise durch passive ohmsch-induktive RL-Impedanznetzwerke emuliert nachgebildet wird. Als Alternative dazu wird im Rahmen dieser Publikation ein auf virtueller Netzimpedanzemulation basierendes Netzsimulationssystem präsentiert, wodurch auf die genannten Leistungs-Impedanznetzwerke verzichtet werden kann und ein flexiblerer, programmierbarer Testbetrieb möglich ist.
Suitability of electroencephalography in brain death determination: a monocentric, 10-year retrospective, observational investigation of 428 cases
Authors: Rossi Simone , Mazza Gionathan , Del Testa Massimiliano , Giannotta Alessandro , Bartalini Sabina , Testani Elisa , Savelli Laura , Gabbrielli Mario , Vatti Giampaolo , Scolletta Sabino
Published: December 2022

Background

We aimed to verify the usefulness of electroencephalographic (EEG) activity recording (that is mandatory according to the Italian law), in addition to two clinical evaluations spaced 6 h, among the procedures of brain death determination (BDD) in adult individuals.

Methods

The study is a monocentric, retrospective analysis of all BDDs performed in the last 10 years at Policlinico Le Scotte in Siena (Italy).

Results

Of the 428 cases revised (mean age 67.6 ± 15.03 years; range 24–92 years), 225 were males and 203 females. In total, 212 out of 428 patients (49.5%) were donors. None of the BDD procedures were interrupted due to the reappearance of EEG activity (neither for clinical reasons) at any sampling time, with the exception of one case that was considered a false negative at critical reinspection of the EEG. In 6/428 cases (1.4%), a cardiac arrest occurred during the 6 h between the first and second evaluation, thus missing the opportunity to take organs from these patients because the BDD procedure was not completed.

Conclusions

Once the initial clinical examination before convening the BDD Commission has ascertained the absence of brainstem reflexes and of spontaneous breathing, and these clinical findings are supported by a flat EEG recording, the repetition of a 30-min EEG twice over a 6 h period seems not to add additional useful information to clinical findings. Current data, if confirmed in other centers and possibly in prospective studies, may help to promote a scientific and bioethical debate in Italy, as well as in other countries where the EEG is still mandatory, for eventually updating the procedures of BDD.
Can the cropping systems of the Nile basin be adapted to climate change?
Authors: Nkwasa Albert , Waha Katharina , Griensven Ann van
Published: December 2022

Climate change poses a fundamental threat to agriculture within the Nile basin due to the magnitude of projected impacts and low adaptive capacity. So far, climate change impacts on agriculture for the basin have mostly been assessed for single-cropping systems, which may bias the results considering that the basin is dominated by different cropping systems, with about one-third of the crop area under double cropping. In this study, we simulate single- and double-cropping systems in the Nile basin and assess the climate change impacts on different cropping systems under two scenarios, i.e. “no adaptation” and “adaptation to a late-maturing cultivar”. We find that the mean crop yields of maize, soybean and wheat decrease with future warming without cultivar adaptation. We attribute this to the shortening of the growing season due to increased temperature. The decrease is stronger in all single-cropping systems (12.6–45.5%) than in double-cropping systems (5.9–26.6%). The relative magnitude of yield reduction varies spatially with the greatest reduction in the northern part of the basin experiencing the strongest warming. In a scenario with cultivar adaptation, mean crop yields show a stronger increase in double-cropping systems (14.4–35.2%) than single-cropping systems (8.3–13.7%). In this scenario, farmers could possibly benefit from increasing cropping intensities while adapting to late-maturing cultivars. This study underscores the importance of accounting for multiple-cropping systems in agricultural assessments under climate change within the Nile basin.
Evaluating the efficiency and determinants of mass tourism in Spain: a tourist area perspective
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Francisca J. , Sánchez-Sánchez Ana M.
Published: December 2022

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing economic sectors. This has piqued increasing interest in the evaluation of the performance of the sector. This paper joins this line of research by providing a potential framework for measuring efficiency in the context of a country such as Spain, where sun-and-sand tourism, usually associated with mass tourism, predominates. Tourist areas located on the coast provide the units of reference. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is applied to determine the efficiency score and a Tobit-type model is employed to analyse the factors that determine efficiency. The results show that the impact of mass tourism on labour efficiency is geographically unequal, with the most efficient of the tourist areas located on the peninsular archipelagos. The analysis of the contribution of each input to the efficiency score reveals the pre-eminent role of tourism infrastructure as a lure for sun-and-sand tourism.
Formal verification confirms the role of p53 protein in cell fate decision mechanism
Authors: Mahmoud Eman Abdelaziz , Herajy Mostafa , Ziedan Ibrahim E. , Shehata Hazem I.
Published: December 2022

The bio-cell cycle is controlled by a complex biochemical network of signaling pathways. Modeling such challenging networks accurately is imperative for the understanding of their detailed dynamical behavior. In this paper, we construct, analyze, and verify a hybrid Petri net (HPN) model of a complex biochemical network that captures the role of an important protein (namely p53) in deciding the fate of the cell. We model the behavior of the cell nucleus and cytoplasm as two stochastic and continuous Petri nets, respectively, combined together into a single HPN. We use simulative model checking to verify three different properties that capture the dynamical behavior of p53 protein with respect to the intensity of the ionizing radiation (IR) to which the cell is exposed. For each IR dose, 1000 simulation runs are carried out to verify each property. Our verification results showed that the fluctuations in p53, which relies on IR intensity, are compatible with the findings of the preceding simulation studies that have previously examined the role of p53 in cell fate decision.