bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic instability of a single exposure to sevoflurane at different concentrations in monitored mice
Authors: Destro Maria Vitória , Silva Mariane A. P. , Grassi Tony F. , de Carvalho Lídia R. , Salvadori Daisy M. F. , Braz Leandro G. , Braz Mariana G.
Published: December 2024

Sevoflurane is an inhalation anesthetic widely used for general anesthesia, but its genotoxic potential is controversial in clinical studies. It is unknown whether the effects are due to surgery or the anesthetic. Thus, for the first time, the present study investigated genotoxicity in peripheral blood cells and in target organs (liver, lung, and kidney) and micronucleus (MN) in the bone marrow of a single exposure to sevoflurane at three different concentrations in monitored mice. Ninety Swiss mice were distributed into the following groups: exposure to sevoflurane at 3.3% (low), 4.5% (intermediate), and 6.0% (high) in 40% oxygen (O2) for 2 h; negative control (no exposure); negative control with O2; and positive control. The exposed animals were heated, monitored for vital signs (temperature, O2 saturation, heart rate/pulse, and respiratory rate), and anesthetized via a modern low‐flow digital system. Mice were euthanized 2 and 24 h after exposure for evaluation by the comet assay and MN test, respectively. No DNA damage occurred in the 3.3% group for any of the organs evaluated, and no genotoxic or mutagenic effects were observed at any sevoflurane concentration in the peripheral blood or liver cells. However, a significant increase in DNA damage was observed at higher concentrations in kidney (4.5%) and lung cells (6.0%) and in the MN frequency (groups 4.5% and 6.0%). No cytotoxicity or histological alterations were observed. In conclusion, high concentrations of sevoflurane induce DNA damage, but concentrations equivalent to those used in clinical practice do not demonstrate genotoxic or mutagenic effects.
Machine learning for surficial geologic mapping
Authors: Johnson Sarah E. , Haneberg William C.
Published: December 2024

Surficial geologic maps contribute to decisions regarding natural hazard mitigation, land‐use planning and infrastructure development. However, geologic maps may not adequately convey the uncertainty inherent in the information shown. In this study, we use machine learning and lidar elevation data to produce surficial geologic maps for parts of two quadrangles in Kentucky. We measured the performance of eight supervised machine learning methods by comparing the overall accuracy and F1 scores for each geologic unit. Surficial geologic units include residuum, colluvium, alluvial and lacustrine terraces, high‐level alluvial deposits and modern alluvium. The importance of 41 moving‐window geomorphic variables, including slope, roughness, residual topography, curvature, topographic wetness index, vertical distance to channel network and topographic flatness, was reduced to 12 variables by ranking the importance of each variable. The gradient‐boosted trees model produced the classifier with the greatest overall accuracy, producing maps with overall accuracies of 87.4% to 90.7% in areas of simple geology and 80.7% to 81.6% in areas with more complex geology. The model produced high F1 scores of up to 96.2% for colluvium but was not as good at distinguishing between units found in the same geomorphic position, such as high‐level alluvium and residuum, both of which are found on ridgelines. Probability values for each geologic unit at each cell are conveyed using gradations of colour and eliminate the need for drawn boundaries between units. Machine learning may be used to create accurate surficial geologic maps in areas of simple geology; in more complex areas, highlight that additional information obtained in the field is necessary to distinguish between units.
Enhancing Switchgrass Growth With Biochar Derived From Mushroom Residue: A Study on Regulating Physicochemical Properties of Acidic Phosphogypsum
Authors: Xiang Yangzhou , Mao Yanting , Liu Ying , Luo Yang , Xue Jianming , He Ji , Shurpali Narasinha J. , Bhattarai Hem Raj , Deepagoda T. K. K. Chamindu , Yao Bin , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Li Yuan
Published: December 2024

Acidity limits plant growth, particularly when the growing medium has a pH below 5, a challenge that is particularly relevant for certain plants like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). Although adding biochar to the growing medium has been shown to improve plant growth by modulating acidity, its specific impact on switchgrass remains largely uninvestigated. Thus, we conducted a pot experiment to assess how different biochar application rates (0%, 1%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%, and 20% w/w), derived from mushroom residue through muffle furnace pyrolysis at 350°C for 2 h, affect the physicochemical attributes of phosphogypsum and subsequent switchgrass growth. Our findings revealed that adding biochar to phosphogypsum significantly alleviated acidity and enhanced moisture, organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, available phosphorus, and available potassium contents. Notably, the 10% biochar treatment had the most positive impacts on germination rates, while the 5% treatment had the greatest improvements in shoot length, tiller number, and total weight compared to the control. Structural equation modeling illustrated that biochar indirectly contributed to switchgrass health by altering the physicochemical properties of phosphogypsum, with pH as the pivotal regulator. Our study demonstrated the potential of mushroom residue biochar as an effective amendment for acidic substrates/matrix (e.g., soil), offering a promising strategy to improve physicochemical conditions and stimulate plant growth.
TransGAN: A Transformer‐CNN Mixed Model for Volumetric CT to MRI Modality Translation and Visualization
Authors: Ma Ji , Xie Yetao , Chen Jinjin
Published: December 2024

Many clinical procedures necessitate the integration of multi‐modality imaging data to facilitate more informed decision‐making. In practice, the cost of scanning and the potential health risks involved often make the scanning of multi‐modality images impractical. It is therefore important to explore the area of modality translation. In recent years, numerous studies have been conducted with the objective of developing methods for translating images between different modalities. Nevertheless, due to the substantial memory requirements and the difficulty in obtaining perfectly paired data, 3D volume modality translation remains a challenging topic. This research proposes a 3D generative adversarial network for the 3D CT‐MRI modality translation task. In order to leverage both low‐level features (pixel‐wise information) and high‐level features (overall image structure), our method introduces both convolutional and transformer structures. Furthermore, our method demonstrates robustness in the presence of imperfectly paired matched CT and MRI volumes from two medical datasets employed in the research. To validate the network performance, qualitative and quantitative comparisons and ablation studies were conducted. The results of the experiments demonstrate that the proposed framework can achieve good results in comparison to four other methods, with improvements of between 10% and 20% in four objective and one subjective evaluation metrics.
Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara Selectively Targets Human Cancer Cells With Low Expression of the Zinc‐Finger Antiviral Protein
Authors: Li Hua , Zhu Junda , Qin Weilan , Wang Zhiying , Xie Shijie , Zhang Zihui , Wang Jing , Song Baifen , Wu Wenxue , Peng Chen
Published: December 2024

Oncolytic viruses are emerging as promising cancer therapeutic agents, with several poxviruses, including vaccinia virus (VACV) and myxoma virus, showing significant potential in preclinical and clinical trials. Modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), a laboratory‐derived VACV strain approved by the FDA for mpox and smallpox vaccination, has been shown to be incapable of replicating in human cells unless zinc finger antiviral protein (ZAP) is repressed. Notably, ZAP deficiency is prevalent in various cancer types. We hypothesized that MVA could selectively target and replicate in ZAP‐deficient cancer cells. Our study examined MVA's replication across multiple cancer cell lines with varying ZAP expression levels, revealing that MVA replicates more efficiently in cells with lower ZAP expression. Additionally, we assessed MVA's oncolytic potential using a xenograft mouse model, where cancer cells were transplanted into immunodeficient mice. The data demonstrated that MVA significantly reduced tumors with lower ZAP expression without causing morbidity in nude mice. These findings suggest that MVA holds promise for further development as a targeted therapy for ZAP‐deficient cancers.
Long‐Lasting Protection and Dose Optimization of MPXV Polyvalent Mpox mRNA Vaccines Against Lethal Vaccinia Virus Challenge in Mice
Authors: Chuai Xia , Ye Tianxi , Zhao Baoxin , Wu Yan , Guo Chen , Li Fangxu , Zhou Jinge , Zhang Kaiyue , Wang Yuping , Liu Yanhui , Xie Yalin , Zhang Jiancun , Chiu Sandra
Published: December 2024

The outbreak of clade II monkeypox virus (MPXV) and the additional outbreak in Central Africa of clade I virus from 2023 have attracted worldwide attention. The development of a scalable and effective vaccine against the ongoing epidemic of mpox is urgently needed. We previously constructed two bivalent MPXV mRNA vaccines, LBA (B6R‐A29L) and LAM (A35R‐M1R), and a quadrivalent mRNA vaccine, LBAAM (B6R‐A35R‐A29L‐M1R). These vaccines at a 20 µg dose could induce potential MPXV antigen‐specific immune responses and provide protection against lethal VACV challenge. Compared with the individual bivalent mRNA vaccines, the two quadrivalent vaccines LBAAM and LBA& LAM displayed superior protective effects. To characterize these vaccines further, we monitored long‐term immunity and protection as long as 28 weeks after initial immunization and optimized the immunization dosages to decrease the cost of production for future clinical use. Our results demonstrated that both the bivalent MPXV mRNA vaccine LAM (A35R‐M1R) and the two tetravalent vaccines LBAAM and LBA& LAM could elicit long‐lasting antigen‐specific IgG antibodies as well as neutralizing antibodies against VACV and MPXV. They all provided complete protection against VACV challenge until 28 weeks post prime immunization. Moreover, the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the two tetravalent vaccines (LBAAM and LBA& LAM) are dose dependent, and even the low‐dose (1 µg) vaccine could provide sufficient protection against lethal VACV challenge. These results provide valuable clues for the further production of MPXV mRNA vaccines for use in humans.
FISPGHAN statement on the global public health impact of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Mitsinikos Tania , Aw Marion M. , Bandsma Robert , Godoy Marcela , Ibrahim Samar H. , Mann Jake P. , Memon Iqbal , Mohan Neelam , Mouane Nezha , Porta Gilda , Verduci Elvira , Xanthakos Stavra
Published: December 2024

As rates of obesity rise worldwide, incidence of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly referred to as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is increasing, worsening the burden of healthcare systems. The council of the Federation of International Societies for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (FISPGHAN) identified the topic of MASLD epidemiology, treatment, and prevention as a global priority issue to be addressed by an expert team, with the goal to describe feasible and evidence‐based actions that may contribute to reducing MASLD risk. The FISPGHAN member societies nominated experts in the field. The FISPGHAN council selected and appointed members of the expert team and a chair. The subtopics included in this manuscript were chosen through a consensus of the experts involved. We review the epidemiology, natural history, and screening and management. We further expand to relevant public health measures aimed at MASLD prevention, including identifying interventions that could reduce risk factors (environmental and iatrogenic), optimize maternal and newborn health, and support healthier lifestyles for older children and adolescents on a local, national, and international scale. While recognizing that various aspects of population health and public policy can shape MASLD risk, we also review what we can do on an individual level to support our patients to reduce the significant burden of this ever rising disease in pediatrics.
High‐resolution analysis of sediments from Eighteen Mile Swamp (eastern Australia) records its transition from a fluctuating coastal lagoon to stable freshwater swamp
Authors: Marshall Jonathan C. , Tibby John , Moss Patrick , Martin Hailey , Gontz Allen , Lau Annie , Jacobsen Geraldine E. , Cadd Haidee , Gadd Patricia S. , Negus Peter , Mcgregor GLENN B. , Hofmann Harald , Schulz Cameron , Barr Cameron , Maizma Sabika , Hotchkis Mike , Cloutier Nicole
Published: December 2024

This research documents the paleoenvironmental evolution of Eighteen Mile Swamp on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Australia, from oscillating coastal lagoon into stable freshwater swamp over the last ca. 1600 years. We analyzed multiple sediment cores via physical description, acid sulfate soil assays, particle size analysis, diatom and pollen assemblages, photosynthetic pigment content, and Itrax XRF spectrometry, alongside ground‐penetrating radar cross‐sections. This provided a detailed ecological, geochemical and chronological framework, derived from radiocarbon, Pu and 210Pb dating, for the wetland's evolution. Results indicate spatial complexity in the timing of a pronounced shift in sedimentary conditions between ca. 300 and 1000 years ago, from estuarine mud to freshwater peat, marked by abrupt chemical and ecological changes. Unexpectedly, there were at least three and potentially many periods of dominant freshwater influence within the primarily estuarine phase, suggesting episodic estuarine closure and freshening by groundwater influx. Results provide critical insights into the complex response of subtropical wetland systems to environmental change, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding both sedimentologic and geomorphic responses in coastal wetlands, and their potential vulnerability to future climate change. The study of Eighteen Mile Swamp is significant as it provides a detailed paleoenvironmental reconstruction that documents the wetland's evolving nature over the past two millennia. This research highlights the importance of understanding historical responses of wetlands to environmental changes, which helps inform their current and future management, conservation and restoration efforts, particularly in the context of climate change and human impacts. This study also serves as a tribute to the late Lynda Petherick, acknowledging her contributions in this field.
Rapid Identification of Candida auris by Raman Spectroscopy Combined With Deep Learning
Authors: Koya S. Kiran , Brusatori Michelle A. , Yurgelevic Sally , Huang Changhe , DeMeulemeester Jake , Percefull Danielle , Salimnia Hossein , Auner Gregory W.
Published: December 2024

Candida auris is a multidrug‐resistant yeast that can lead to outbreaks in healthcare facilities, even with strict infection prevention and control measures. Candida auris detection is challenging using standard laboratory methods. Advancements in identification methods, such as matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and polymerase chain reaction, have improved detection, though these methodologies can be costly and impractical in resource‐limited settings. This study presents a practical, portable, and reagentless platform known as Counter‐Propagating Gaussian Beam Raman Spectroscopy (CPGB‐RS), integrated with deep learning spectral analysis for the rapid and accurate identification of C. auris. This method has shown a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 99% in differentiating C. auris from other highly prevalent pathogenic species, such as Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Candida tropicalis. The differentiation between species is based on unique variations in their Raman spectra, influenced by differences in cell wall composition (including β‐glucan, chitin, and mannoprotein), cell membrane components (like ergosterol), and cellular energy states (mitochondrial cytochromes b and c). This platform allows for automated molecular screening, generating diagnostic results within 2 min, making it highly practical for clinical applications. Furthermore, this technology has the potential to evaluate the effectiveness of antifungal agents, which could significantly improve patient outcomes.
Salvianolic acid B influences the ferritin function in iron(II)/iron(III) transformation and iron chelation
Authors: Xie Yufeng , Zhang Zhe , Liu Zhishui , Zhao Zizhu , Yang Rui
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Ferritin is a cage‐like iron storage protein and can regulate the iron balance of life. It can be developed as a new type of iron supplement, while its function may be influenced by certain food bioactive components. To evaluate the effects of the typical food biomolecules, such as phenolic acid, on the physicochemical property of ferritin are of great importance to clarify the ferritin function in maintaining iron balance.

RESULTS

In this study, the interaction mechanism of ferritin with iron ions and salvianolic acid B (SalB) was investigated. The complex formed by SalB and iron ions can interact with the ferritin mainly through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. Compared with ascorbic acid, SalB effectively promoted the initial iron oxidation of ferritin, but showed a lower iron release rate. In addition, SalB exhibited a stronger iron chelating ability and a higher free radical scavenging ability during iron release of ferritin than ascorbic acid.

CONCLUSION

This study clarifies the structure and property of ferritin influenced by SalB, and reveals the interaction mechanism of ferritin–SalB–iron system. The finding helps elucidate the role of phenolic acid and benefits the non‐heme iron–ferritin for potential food applications such as iron supplementation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of Soil Compaction Under Short‐Duration Loading on Aggregate Stability and Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity in a Chinese Mollisol
Authors: Chen Xuewen , Niu Shuang , Zhang Xingyi
Published: December 2024

Soil compaction has been found to deform soil structures and alter water flows. Although previous studies have suggested that a load exceeding the critical stress, determined by static load application, can be applied for a short duration without causing substantial damage to the soil structure, the immediate consequences of short loading times on structural integrity and the subsequent influence on soil water flow remain relatively underexplored. The principal objective of this research was to explore the effects of loading intervals, ranging from 0.1 to 2.5 s, commonly used by vehicles and machinery in the agricultural sector, on the changes in water‐stable aggregates and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) associated with soil compaction, thereby enhancing our understanding of how transient external forces could affect the soil properties. Four distinct soils with varying soil organic matter (SOM) contents (13, 43, 77, and 123 g/kg) were collected from a typical Mollisol area in Northeast China, each characterized by different initial gravimetric soil water contents of 11%, 15%, 19%, and 24%, respectively. Under an applied load of 4.0 kg/cm2, the short loading time resulted in an increase in small macroaggregates (SMAs) and a decrease in microaggregates within the distribution of water‐stable aggregates, whereas it did not affect aggregate stability. Ksat decreased significantly (p < 0.05) as the loading time increased from 0.1 to 2.5 s. The effects of loading time and SOM on water‐stable aggregates with particle sizes exceeding 0.25 mm, mean weight diameter, geometric mean diameter, and Ksat were identified as statistically significant or highly significant (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Notably, the initial soil water content remained unchanged during the short compaction period. A significant negative correlation was identified between SMAs and Ksat for each soil, with the loading time and initial soil water content (correlation coefficients ranging from −0.834 to −0.622). The results, combined with the structural equation modeling analysis, indicated that both a short loading time and SOM could directly increase SMA and decrease Ksat, with both factors influencing Ksat through SMA during the soil compaction process. This suggests that the loading time and SOM during a short duration under the same external force, rather than initial soil water content, can determine the potential degradation of the soil.
Rejected papers in academic publishing: Turning negatives into positives to maximize paper acceptance
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Nazarovets Maryna
Published: December 2024

There are ample reasons why papers might get rejected by peer‐reviewed journals, and the experience can be, especially for those who have had little experience, sobering. When papers get rejected a number of times, that may signal that there are problems with the paper (e.g., weak methodology or lack of robust analyses), that it is insufficiently developed, is poorly written, or that it is too topic‐specific and needs to find an appropriate niche journal. In the case of a single or multiple rejections, whenever there is feedback from a journal, as well as reasons for rejection, this provides a useful signal for improving the paper before it is resubmitted to another journal. This article examines literature related to the rejection of papers in academic journals, encompassing the opinions and experiences offered by authors, as well as advice suggested by editors, allowing readers and authors who experience rejections to reflect on the possible reasons that may have led to that outcome. Many papers related to this topic were published as editorials or opinions, offering advice on how to improve aspects of a submitted paper in order to increase its chances of acceptance.
Remarkable Energy Transfer Efficiency in Spatially Separated 2D Heterostructure via Establishing Entangled States by Bloch‐Surface Plasmon Polariton
Authors: Zhao Le‐Yi , Xiao Jia‐Min , Yang Jin‐Yu , Song Zi‐Xuan , Zhang Yu‐Peng , Wang Yi , Wang Hai , Wang Wen‐Xin , Wang Hai‐Yu
Published: December 2024

Establishing quantum mechanically entangled states between spatially separated 2D heterostructure offers a way to tailor novel energy transfer mechanisms at the precision of atomic level. Here, strongly coupled systems formed by monolayer WS2, spatially separated monolayer MoS2, and Ag nanoholes (Ag‐NHs) with square lattice are investigated by using an ultrafast pump‐probe approach. From transient absorption spectra of the prototypical Ag‐NHs/WS2/SiO2 (10 nm)/MoS2 heterostructures, a Rabi splitting up to 80 meV is observed, which is almost 21/2 times larger than that of each individual component. The result is as expected since Rabi splitting depends on the square root of the layer number involved, thus suggesting that the A exciton of WS2 and spatially separated B exciton of MoS2 are entangled by the Bloch‐surface plasmon polariton mode. Additionally, whether the donor or the acceptor is excited, the bleaching signals in the heterostructures all appear instantaneously and exhibit exactly the same dynamic process, further clearly highlighting the presence of quantum mechanically entangled states. From another perspective, such entangled states assist remarkably efficient energy transfer, which is also demonstrated by significantly enhanced fluorescence emission from MoS2, with an enhancement factor of 25. This research establishes the scientific foundation for developing related heterostructure optoelectronic devices.
Ultra‐Low‐Loss and Athermalized Lithium‐Niobate‐on‐Insulator Photonic Chip for Next‐Generation PONs
Authors: He Jianghao , Liu Dajian , Zhang Ming , Liu Hongxuan , Bao Yaoxin , Li Chenlei , Zhao Weike , Pan Bingcheng , Huang Yishu , Yu Zejie , Liu Liu , Shi Yaocheng , Dai Daoxin
Published: December 2024

A high‐capacity lithium‐niobate‐on‐insulator (LNOI) optical transmitter for next‐generation passive optical‐networks (PONs) is proposed and demonstrated with ultra‐low temperature‐dependence for the first time by simultaneously introducing Z‐ and Y‐propagation LNOI photonic waveguides. There are five wavelength‐division‐multiplexed channels involved with the center wavelengths of 1270/1300/1342/1537/1577 nm, and the photonic filters are realized by integrating amplitude‐apodized multimode waveguide gratings (MWGs) and mode (de)multiplexers designed with Z‐propagation LNOI photonic waveguides, which are found to be with a low thermo‐optic coefficient and thus enable the athermalization. Meanwhile, high‐speed optical modulators connected at the add ports of the photonic filters for the 1342/1577 nm channels are developed with Y‐propagation LNOI photonic waveguides with the maximal electro‐optic effect. For the fabricated on‐chip optical transmitter, box‐like spectral responses are achieved with ultra‐low excess losses of <0.5 dB and low inter‐channel crosstalk of < −26 dB for all the channels whose bandwidths are respectively ∼16/20/4/15/5 nm as expected. The present LNOI photonic chip is nearly athermal, exhibiting very low temperature‐dependence less than 8.7 pm/°C in the full wavelength range of >300 nm. Finally, high‐capacity data transmissions of 50/100 Gbps on‐off‐keying signals and 100/200 Gbps four‐level‐pulse‐amplitude‐modulated signals are demonstrated, providing a promising solution for next‐generation PONs.
Self‐Assembled Supramolecular Materials for Substrate Transport by External Stimuli
Authors: Li Xue , Kobayashi Yuichiro , Harada Akira , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu
Published: December 2024

Substrate transport within biological tissues is diverse, with the most fundamental process being transport across cell membranes, which plays a crucial role in sustaining life. In this study, an artificial substrate transport system based on hydrogels by utilizing molecular recognition and stimuli‐responsive substrates is developed. α‐ and β‐Cyclodextrins are selected as host molecules, while adamantane serves as the guest molecule, enabling the adhesion of two hydrogels through self‐assembly. Under light stimulation, the light‐responsive dye, azobenzene derivative, is transported between the two hydrogels. This research provides new insights into the development of light‐controlled substance transport systems, which can be applied to biological substance delivery and the creation of smart materials.
Building a Co‐Salen‐Immobilized Porous Organic Polymer Catalyst for CO2 Cycloaddition
Authors: Gu Shuai , Li Lei , Hu Lingling , Guo Shuyu , Feng Yi , Zhang Huicong , Yu Guipeng , Tang Juntao
Published: December 2024

The CO2‐epoxide addition to cyclic carbonate is of great significance but usually requires high temperatures and CO2 pressures. Herein, a spirobifluorene‐based porous organic polymer catalyst is designed with a Co‐salen complex immobilized on the backbone (ST‐CoSalen‐POP) to enable CO2 fixation under mild conditions. ST‐CoSalen‐POP possesses a high Co‐loading content (9.35 wt%), a large pore volume, and high CO2 adsorption capacity. This catalyst achieves a 96% yield in the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides at 25 °C and 0.1 MPa CO2 pressures. Moreover, ST‐CoSalen‐POP also offers the advantages of wide adaptability over epoxide substrates and high structural stability for three consecutive cycles. This study presents a novel catalytic approach for promoting CO2 fixation, offering a significant advancement in the efficient synthesis of fine chemicals.
The Intramolecular Self‐Assembly of Statistical Copolymers in Aqueous Solution to Form Anisotropic Single‐Chain Nanoparticles with Tunable Aspect Ratio
Authors: Neal Thomas J. , Stone Rebecca E. , György Csilla , Tzokov Svetomir B. , Spain Sebastian G. , Mykhaylyk Oleksandr O.
Published: December 2024

Natural single‐chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) such as proteins have inspired research into the formation and application of synthetic SCNPs. Although the latter can mimic general aspects of the self‐assembly behavior of their biological counterparts, these systems remain relatively understudied. In this respect, a systematic series of amphiphilic statistical copolymers (ASC) of different molecular weights, with a hydrophilic comonomer (methacrylic acid) and varying hydrophobic comonomer to encompass methacrylates of different hydrophobicity, are synthesized. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering studies confirmed that SCNPs are achieved for each copolymer series when dispersed in basified water at 1% w/w. When the aggregation number of the ASC nanoparticles is close to unity the particle shape elongates resulting in a larger particle surface area to volume ratio, allowing more hydrophilic groups to locate on the particle surface tending to keep the particle surface charge density (PSC) constant. Thus, within a series, particle elongation increases with copolymer molecular weight. Structural parameters of SCNPs formed by ASCs composed of hydrophobic components with low partition coefficients are well consistent with predictions obtained from the PSC model. These results highlight the main parameters, namely molecular weight and acid content, responsible for the SCNP formation and provide insight into how specific particle morphology can be targeted.
Organization Capital and Corporate Financialization: Evidence From China
Authors: Qin Yingying , Zhang Yishan , Lin Yu‐en , Hu Jingbo
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the impact of organization capital on corporate financialization. Based on the data of Chinese A‐share listed firms from 2014 to 2020, we find that organization capital is positively related to corporate financialization. After a series of robustness tests and endogeneity tests, the conclusion still holds. We further find that agency theory is the potential channel driving our findings. Precautionary savings theory, executive overconfidence theory and resource‐based theory do not hold in our study. Furthermore, we find that the positive effect of organization capital on corporate financialization is stronger when firms are hit by severe external natural disasters shocks.
Application of Causal Forest Model to Examine Treatment Effect Heterogeneity in Substance Use Disorder Psychosocial Treatments
Authors: Susukida Ryoko , Amin‐Esmaeili Masoumeh , Badillo‐Goicoechea Elena , Nguyen Trang Q. , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Rosenblum Michael , Dunn Kelly E. , Mojtabai Ramin
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Heterogeneity of treatment effect (HTE) is a concern in substance use disorder (SUD) treatments but has not been rigorously examined. This exploratory study applied a causal forest approach to examine HTE in psychosocial SUD treatments, considering multiple covariates simultaneously.

Methods

Data from 12 randomized controlled trials of nine psychosocial treatments were obtained from the National Institute on Drug Abuse Clinical Trials Network. Using causal forests, we estimated the conditional average treatment effect (CATE) on drug abstinence. To assess HTE, we compared CATE variance against total outcome variability, conducted an omnibus test, and applied the Rank‐Weighted Average Treatment Effect (RATE).

Results

Across nine interventions, CATE variance was lower than total outcome variability, indicating lack of strong evidence of HTE with respect to the baseline covariates considered. The omnibus test and RATE analysis generally support this finding. However, the RATE analysis identified potential HTE in a motivational interviewing trial; this could be a false positive given the multiple analyses; replication is needed to confirm this.

Conclusions

While causal forests show utility in exploring HTE in SUD interventions, limited baseline assessments in most trials suggest a cautious interpretation. The RATE findings for motivational interviewing highlight potential subgroup‐specific treatment benefits, warranting further research.
Moving Beyond the Bladder Diary: Does New Technology Now Allow Us to Take Investigation of LUTS Into the Community? ICI‐RS 2024
Authors: Drinnan Michael , Abrams Paul , Arlandis Salvador , Drake Marcus J. , Gammie Andrew , Harding Chris , Rantell Angela , Valentini Françoise
Published: December 2024

Context

Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) are defined by their distressing effect on patients' day‐to‐day life. Given the pressures on secondary care resources, LUTS may be overlooked or inadequately assessed and therefore patients may be burdened for an extended period before treatment.

Methods

In a debate held at the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) meeting in Bristol in June 2024, we considered how new technologies might contribute to an expedited, dignified and effective investigation of LUTS.

Results

We describe three broad areas where technology has a role to play: streamlining of existing investigations through mobile and miniaturized technology; entirely new investigations made possible by the technology; and advanced analytics to provide better insights from the data available.

Conclusion

We describe key research questions that will signpost us toward answering the question raised in the title.
Selective Synthesis of Tetrahydroisoquinoline and Piperidine Scaffolds by Oxidative Ring Opening/Ring Closing Protocols of Substituted Indenes and Cyclopentenes
Authors: Semghouli Anas , Drahos László , Han Jianlin , Kiss Loránd , Nonn Melinda
Published: December 2024

Novel tetrahydroisoquinoline and piperidine derivatives were selectively synthesized from substituted indenes or cyclopentenes. The process starts with an oxidative cleavage of the ring olefin bond, which gives reactive diformyl intermediates. By a ring‐closing step using chiral (R) or (S) α‐methylbenzylamine under a reductive amination protocol facilitated ring formation with ring expansion of the corresponding nitrogen‐containing heterocycles. The stereocontrolled methodology enabled accurate control of the stereochemistry of the final products. Additionally, the synthesized amino acid derivatives possessing an aryl moiety in their structure may be relevant building blocks for foldamer chemistry.
Study on ballistic penetration behavior of unidirectional UHMWPE/carbon fiber composites: Experiments and numerical modeling
Authors: Tai Jieyu , Wu Chaoyang , Han Guanyu , Sun Dawei , Zhao Guizhe , Chen Qihui , Liu Yaqing
Published: December 2024

Hybrid fiber reinforced composites leverage the advantages of various material properties to enhance ballistic protection efficiency. This paper investigates the ballistic penetration behavior of UHMWPE and UHMWPE/carbon fiber reinforced composites. By conducting ballistic experiments and finite element simulations, the failure behaviors of bulletproof composites are analyzed. Continuum models and mesoscale models were established to predict the V‐50 and impact damage of composites. The mesoscale model includes the geometric shapes of fibers and matrix, fiber volume fraction and failure behavior. Compared with experimental results, the mesoscale model predicted the V‐50 with a minimum deviation of 3%. The main damage patterns, including fiber breakage, matrix cracking and delamination, are displayed in the post‐impact morphology and models of bulletproof composites. Mesoscale models are used to describe energy dissipation and microstructure behavior, while homogenized continuum models are employed to observe macroscopic damage. Both simulations and experiments indicated that the overall structure and inherent properties affect stress transfer, damage mode and energy dissipation mechanisms during bullet impact processes. The combination of both two models deepens the understanding of the ballistic performance and damage evolution of fiber composites, providing novel insights for improving ballistic performance in fiber composites.

Highlights

Uniform continuous model and the mesoscale model were combined to explore the impact damage.

Analysis of the energy consumption of each component in a ballistic impact.

Effect of hybrid construction on impact performance.
Thermal decomposition analysis and combustion mechanism investigation of biomass‐based polyurethane
Authors: Xu Zhirong , Zhan Jing , Xu Zihui
Published: December 2024

Starch phosphate carbamate was synthesized via a one‐pot method using phosphoric acid, urea and starch, and it was added into polyurethane (PU) to replace some polyol. The fire retardancy and thermal stability of the resulting PU system were evaluated by the results of vertical burning test (UL‐94), limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimeter (CONE) test and thermogravimetric analysis. Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to analyze the char layer after the CONE test, and the thermogravimetric–infrared test was used to analyze the gas products at the maximum rate of thermal decomposition. The introduction of 13.7 wt% starch phosphate carbamate (PU‐15) in PU enables the system to pass the V‐0 rating, with LOI reaching 22.8%. The peak heat release rate of PU‐15 decreased by 36.54% compared to PU, and the total heat release of PU‐15 was only 27.87 MJ m−2. Starch phosphate carbamate reduces the generation of combustible small molecules during the combustion of the system, producing a more protective char layer. Raman results indicate that starch phosphate carbamate can increase the stability of the char layer. Integrating the results from various tests, the combustion mechanism of PU with starch phosphate carbamate was explored. Starch phosphate carbamate provides a new approach for preparing high‐performance PU. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rapid and Deep Prostate‐Specific Antigen Decline is a Prognostic Marker in Metastatic Hormone‐Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Real‐World Multi‐Intuitional Analysis
Authors: Suzuki Kotaro , Hara Takuto , Watanabe Hiromitsu , Nakane Keita , Takahara Kiyoshi , Naiki Taku , Yasui Takahiro , Shiroki Ryoichi , Koie Takuya , Miyake Hideaki
Published: December 2024

Background

Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) kinetics has been investigated as a prognostic marker in post hoc analyses of clinical trials. This study validated the prognostic value of rapid and deep PSA decline in metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) using real‐world data.

Methods

In total, 1296 patients with mHSPC were retrospectively reviewed. We assessed the prognostic value of a PSA decline to ≤ 0.2 ng/mL after 12 weeks of treatment and investigated several potential risk factors for a poor PSA response.

Results

Of 1296 patients, 714 (cohort 1: 55.1%) were treated with conventional hormonal therapy, while 582 (cohort 2: 44.9%) received androgen signaling inhibitors. There were significant differences in progression‐free survival and overall survival between patients with PSA decline to ≤ 0.2 ng/mL by 12 weeks of treatment and others (p < 0.001 for each). In addition, patients with an initial PSA ≥ 200 ng/mL, Clinical T4 and Grade Group 5 were less likely to achieve PSA decline to ≤ 0.2 ng/mL by 12 weeks of treatment, with odds ratios of 0.31 (p < 0.001), 0.67 (p = 0.039) and 0.70 (p = 0.043), respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that PSA decline to ≤ 0.2 ng/mL by 12 weeks of treatment may be a useful prognostic biomarker for mHSPC in the real‐world setting. The prognostic value of this should be further investigated in a prospective cohort, and identification of an optimal cutoff value is necessary for its application in clinical trial design or clinical practice.
QSP Modeling Shows Pathological Synergism Between Insulin Resistance and Amyloid‐Beta Exposure in Upregulating VCAM1 Expression at the BBB Endothelium
Authors: Wang Zengtao , Veerareddy Vaishnavi , Tang Xiaojiao , Thompson Kevin J. , Krishnan Sunil , Kalari Krishna R. , Kandimalla Karunya K.
Published: December 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), characterized by insulin resistance, is closely associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Cerebrovascular dysfunction is manifested in both T2DM and AD, and is often considered as a pathological link between the two diseases. Insulin signaling regulates critical functions of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and endothelial insulin resistance could lead to BBB dysfunction, aggravating AD pathology. However, insulin signaling is intrinsically dynamic and involves interactions among numerous molecular mediators. Hence, a mechanistic systems biology model is needed to understand how insulin regulates BBB physiology and the consequences of its impairment in T2DM and AD. In this study, we investigated the pharmacodynamic effect of insulin on the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), a marker of cerebrovascular inflammation. Intriguingly, normal insulin concentrations selectively activated the PI3K‐AKT pathway, leading to decreased VCAM1 expression. However, exposure to supraphysiological insulin levels, which is present in insulin resistance, activated both PI3K‐AKT and MEK–ERK pathways, and increased VCAM1 expression. We developed a mathematical model that adequately described the dynamics of various insulin signaling nodes and VCAM1 expression. Further, the model was integrated with in vitro proteomics and transcriptomics data from AD patients to simulate VCAM1 expression under pathological conditions. This approach allowed us to establish a quantitative systems pharmacology framework to investigate BBB dysfunction in AD and metabolic syndrome, thereby offering opportunities to identify specific disruptions in molecular networks that will enable us to identify novel therapeutic targets.
From Agri‐Waste to Sustainable Use: A Case Study of Straw Management Reform in Northeast China
Authors: Yu Zhiwei , Li Fan , Si Wei , Zhang Weifeng
Published: December 2024

Sustainable agri‐waste utilization is a crucial stage in transforming agricultural production into low‐carbon. Straws, as the primary agricultural waste, are not effectively reused by farmers in developing countries. Burning straws can be widely observed and it is one of the main sources of CO2 and PM2.5 emissions from the agricultural sector. Since 2013, China has reformed its agri‐waste governance to promote sustainable use of straws. However, few studies have analyzed the structural change and field operation of its agri‐waste policies, and limited evidence has been drawn on the effectiveness of these policies. The objective of our article is to investigate the reform of China's straw governance and examine the effectiveness of such reform with a specific focus on farmers in the Northeast China. We used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to investigate how China's straw governance reform was designed and implemented, and how effectiveness of such reforms in addressing the field straw‐burning issue in Northeast China. Field observation shows that the reforms were designed and implemented with two hybrid policy instruments: (a) a command‐and‐control (C&C) measures that used satellite‐based straw‐burning data to evaluate the straw‐burning monitoring performance of local governments and village committees and (b) a market‐based instruments (MBIs) that provide subsidies to the industries and cooperatives for sustainable straw use. The empirical results show that reform significantly decreased farmers' straw burning behavior and increased their straw field returning and straw bailing for power generation.
Direct Hydroxylation of Benzene to Phenols via VOx@HZSM‐5 Catalysts
Authors: Li Guixian , Li Jinlian , Shao Tingna , Zhang Xiaohui , Tian Junying , Zhao Yu , Zhao Xinhong , Dong Peng
Published: December 2024

The production of phenol through the direct hydroxylation of benzene has been widely adopted as a green and sustainable chemical process. However, the challenging stabilization of benzene rings and deep oxidation of phenol in this system have always posed significant research obstacles. At the same time, the conventional catalyst, which involves the loading of vanadium metal on a carrier, suffers from the issue of catalyst activity center loss. Therefore, the strategy of encapsulating vanadium nanoparticles into HZSM‐5 zeolite was adopted to prepare the VOx@HZSM‐5 catalyst. This approach takes advantage of the rigid and stable structure of the zeolite crystal, as well as the electrostatic interaction between the added cationic polymer and the anionic vanadium metal, to successfully introduce vanadium nanoparticles into the zeolite crystal. Additionally, the catalyst was successfully synthesized using the low‐flow steam assisted method, resulting in a benzene conversion rate of 38.7% and a phenol selectivity of 99.8%.
An Adhesive Composite Material from Magnetite and a Methacrylate Copolymer with Epoxy and PEG Side Groups
Authors: Görür Mesut , Özel Şahin , Olgun Asim , Tiritoğlu Mehmet
Published: December 2024

This article reports the synthesis, characterization, and adhesive application of poly(GMA‐co‐mPEGMA) copolymers with different monomer feed ratios. 4,4′‐Methylenedianiline (MDA) was used as the hardener. The effects of the presence of mPEG side units in the epoxy copolymer and magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of single‐lap steel joints were investigated in detail. The presence and the percent ratio of oxygen‐rich mPEG side groups in the copolymers promoted the shear Young's moduli and the ultimate strength of their cured counterparts to some extent. On the other hand, the higher ratios of mPEGMA monomer residues compromised the crosslinking density of the cured polymeric networks and, therefore, their shear moduli values. Besides, the ductility of the crosslinked polymers was greatly enhanced with the increasing ratio of mPEGMA in their structures. The optimum ratio of magnetite nanoparticles was found to be 2% (out of the mass of organic solid material). The presence of magnetite nanoparticles markedly increased both the ultimate shear strength and the displacement values of the cured polymers. Besides, they exhibited strain‐induced hardening due to the formation of more ordered structures during the plastic deformation process.
Research Progress in the Preparation and Application of BiOBr‐Based Z‐scheme Heterojunction Composite Photocatalysts
Authors: Chen Shaohua , Zhang Jinhua , Hu Qiangfei , Liu Hui , Chen Xia
Published: December 2024

Bismuth bromide oxide (BiOBr) photocatalysts suffer from the defects of low light energy utilization, low efficiency, and easy deactivation, which limit their wide applications. BiOBr‐based Z‐scheme heterojunctions have strong redox capabilities due to their unique structure that can improve the separation efficiency of photogenerated electrons and holes. This paper describes the preparation of BiOBr‐based Z‐scheme heterojunctions and analyzes the morphology and structural features of the photocatalytic materials obtained by different preparation methods. The applications of BiOBr‐based Z‐scheme heterojunction composite photocatalysts are discussed, including photocatalytic preparation of hydrogen, degradation of pollutants in wastewater, and carbon dioxide reduction, as well as the analysis of the catalyst's mechanism of action in each degradation process and the calculation of charge transfer paths of the relevant materials by DFT. The results show that the photocatalytic activity of such photocatalyst materials can be improved by constructing BiOBr‐based Z‐scheme heterojunctions to increase the photocarrier separation efficiency and transport capacity. But the photocatalytic mechanism, such as the separation efficiency of interfacial carriers and the transport pathways, needs to be further explored.