bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival Patterns of Human Immunodeficieny Virus-Tuberculosis (HIV-TB) Co-Infected Patients in Selected Counties in Kenya`
Authors: Okemwa Benard Onserio , Kosgei Mathew Kipchumba , Too Robert
Published: June 2023

One nation with a significant burden of tuberculosis and the human immunodeficiency virus is Kenya. Coinfection with tuberculosis and the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome complicates infection control and lowers survival rates. While research on HIV/TB coinfection has been done in Kenya, little is known about the patterns in people's survival with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) and T.B. therapy, particularly regarding the country's many Counties. This study used the Kaplan-Meier function to determine the trends in patient survival for those receiving ART and T.B. treatment in Kenya. A retrospective cohort research design was employed in the investigation. Patients receiving co-therapy for T.B. and ART management who visited the medical institutions between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019, were included in the target population. The National AIDS & STIs Control Program (NASCOP) database (secondary data) records of all HIV-TB co-infected individuals from the chosen counties in Kenya were used to create the study's sample. The survival function was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier estimator. According to the study, the use of ART and T.B. treatment statistically affects the survival of patients co-infected with HIV and T.B. More persons with T.B. and HIV infections who received both ART and T.B. treatment survived longer than those who received only ART up to about the 750th day. The study also discovered that the mortality rates for HIV-TB patients between 2015 and 2019 differed from county to county. The study also showed that throughout five years, there were variations in the distribution of T.B. and HIV mortality among the 47 Counties. The overall number of T.B. and HIV deaths in the 47 countries was 1077 in 2015. This figure fell to 921 in 2016, 391 in 2017, 106 in 2018, and 60 in 2019. Conclusion: Starting treatment later in the course of the disease may have a bigger impact on lowering T.B./HIV-related mortality than focusing interventions in the first few months following ART initiation.
Profile of readmissions in an adult clinical surgical intensive care unit: factors predisponent to reinternation / Perfil de readmissões em uma unidade de terapia intensiva adulto clínica cirúrgica: fatores predisponentes a reinternação
Authors: De Jesus Ferreira Sinfronio Jéssica , Aarão Cruz Severiano Mariana , Bicalho de Almeida Brugger Érika
Published: June 2023

Objetivo: analisar o perfil dos pacientes readmitidos em uma unidade de terapia intensiva clínica/cirúrgica e principais fatores que culminaram neste evento. Método: estudo descritivo, retrospectivo com abordagem quantitativa, baseado no registro de todos os pacientes admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva clínica/cirúrgica entre janeiro e dezembro de 2019. Resultados: a amostra apresenta perfil masculino, idoso, tendo de uma a três comorbidades pré-existentes, admitidos por causas respiratórias, sendo readmitidos por complicações respiratórias, seguidas por infecções, com tempo médio de 5,6 dias. Apresentaram alterações hematológicas e renais, tendo o óbito como principal desfecho. Conclusão: idade avançada, presença de comorbidades, complicações por quadros infecciosos, anemia e declínio da função renal são características pertinentes aos pacientes readmitidos na terapia intensiva.
The Dream of Early Intervention in Narcolepsy
Authors: Eastman Quinn
Published: June 2023

This Medical News article discusses experimental approaches to preserve the neuropeptide hypocretin in patients with new-onset narcolepsy type 1.
A More Diverse and Complete Reference Human Genome Is Poised to Change Medicine
Authors: Madhusoodanan Jyoti
Published: June 2023

This Medical News article discusses the Human Pangenome Project.
Management of Postpartum Left Main Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Krittanawong Chayakrit , Attubato Michael J. , Lay Lori Vales
Published: June 2023

A woman in her early 40s who was 11 weeks post partum presented with acute pleuritic chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea that started several hours after arriving on a flight.
Enhancing Partnerships of Institutions and Journals to Address Concerns About Research Misconduct
Authors: Garfinkel Susan , Alam Sabina , Baskin Patricia , Bennett Christina , Carruthers Bridget , Engler Jeffrey , Flanagin Annette , Garrity Sheila , Graf Chris , Imperiale Michael J. , King Christopher , Kleinert Sabine , Kulp Dan , Mankowski Courtney , Nugent Nicola , Pulvirenti Teodoro , Qualkenbush Lauran , Sobiecki Emily , Wainstock Daniel , Wilfong Erica , Wold Loren , Yucel Jennifer
Published: June 2023

Importance

Institutions and journals strive to promote and protect the integrity of the research record, and both groups are equally committed to ensuring the reliability of all published data.

Observations

Three US universities coordinated a series of virtual meetings from June 2021 to March 2022 for a working group composed of senior, experienced US research integrity officers (RIOs), journal editors, and publishing staff who are familiar with managing issues of research integrity and publication ethics. The goal of the working group was to improve the collaboration and transparency between institutions and journals to ensure that research misconduct and publication ethics are managed properly and efficiently. Recommendations address the following: identifying proper contacts at institutions and journals, specifying information to share between institutions and journals, correcting the research record, reconsideration of some fundamental research misconduct concepts, and journal policy changes. The working group identified 3 key recommendations to be adopted and implemented to change the status quo for better collaboration between institutions and journals: (1) reconsideration and broadening of the interpretation by institutions of the need-to-know criteria in federal regulations (ie, confidential or sensitive information and data are not disclosed unless there is a need for an individual to know the facts to perform specific jobs or functions), (2) uncoupling the evaluation of the accuracy and validity of research data from the determination of culpability and intent of the individuals involved, and (3) initiating a widespread change for the policies of journals and publishers regarding the timing and appropriateness for contacting institutions, either before or concurrently under certain conditions, when contacting the authors.

Conclusions and Relevance

The working group recommends specific changes to the status quo to enable effective communication between institutions and journals. Using confidentiality clauses and agreements to impede sharing does not benefit the scientific community nor the integrity of the research record. However, a careful and informed framework for improving communications and sharing information between institutions and journals can foster better working relationships, trust, transparency, and most importantly, faster resolution to data integrity issues, especially in published literature.
Integrating Data From Motor Vehicle Crash Detection Systems of Smartphones and Wearable Digital Devices—The Future of Trauma Care
Authors: Scquizzato Tommaso , Gamberini Lorenzo , Semeraro Federico
Published: June 2023

This Viewpoint describes potential benefits for trauma care associated with integration of motor vehicle crash detection data from smartphones and wearable digital devices.
Neoantigens in cancer immunotherapy: quantity vs. quality
Authors: Wolf Yochai , Sameuls Yardena
Published: June 2023

Traditional immunotherapies provide clinical benefits to only a few patients with solid tumors, highlighting the urgent need for more effective approaches. Traditional immunotherapies rely on the presentation of cancer antigens, with neoantigens being highly important in this context as they are specific to malignant tissue but not healthy tissue. The quantity of neoantigens is often associated with clinical benefit, but it cannot fully explain or predict patient response. In this Viewpoint, we highlight several qualitative aspects that should be considered in neoantigen‐based therapy. We emphasize the distinction between private and recurrent neoantigens, discuss the importance of neoantigen clonality, and describe new subtypes of neopeptides that further diversify the potential of neoantigens in immunotherapy.
Multicenter, dual fractionation scheme, single core lab comparison of rectal volume dose reduction following injection of two biodegradable perirectal spacers
Authors: Kos Michael , Nurani Rizwan , Costa Paulo , Dabkowski Mateuzs , da Silva Joana Vale Ferreira , Zimberg Shawn , Keane John
Published: June 2023

Purpose

A multicenter, double‐arm, central core lab, retrospective study was performed to compare the rectal dosimetry of patients implanted with two injectable, biodegradable perirectal spacers, in conventional fractionation (CF), as well as ultrahypofractionation (UH) treatment plans.

Methods and materials

Fifty‐nine patients were enrolled into the study in five centers: two centers in Europe, which implanted a biodegradable balloon spacer in a total of 24 subjects and three centers in the US, which implanted the SpaceOAR in 35 subjects. Anonymized CTs (pre and post‐implantation) were reviewed by the central core lab. For VMAT CF plans rectal V50, V60, V70, and V80 were calculated. For UH plans, a corresponding rectal V22.6, V27.1, V31.37, and V36.25 were established representing 62.5%, 75%, 87.5%, and 100% of the 36.25 Gy prescribed dose.

Results

For CF VMAT, a comparison between the balloon spacer and the SpaceOAR revealed a significant difference of 33.4% decrease in mean rectal V50 (71.9% vs. 38.5%, p < 0.001), 27.7% in mean rectal V60 (79.6% vs. 51.9%, p < 0.001), 17.1% difference in mean rectal V70 (84.1% vs. 67.0%, p = 0.001), and a significant difference of 3.0% (p = 0.019) in mean rectal V80 (87.2% vs. 84.2%). With UH analysis, the mean rectal dose reduction for the balloon spacer compared to the SpaceOAR was 79.2% and 53.3% for V27.1 (p < 0.001), 84.1% and 68.1% for V31.71 (p = 0.001), and 89.7% and 84.8% for V36.25 (p = 0.012), respectively.

Conclusion

Rectal dosimetry is more favorable for treatment with the balloon spacer compared with SpaceOAR. Further research, particularly in the context of a prospective randomized clinical trial design, is needed to assess the acute and late toxicity experience as well as physician satisfaction with achieving symmetrical implantation, and ease of use in light of increasing clinical use.
Investigation of LSPR Coupling Effects toward the Rational Design of CsxWO3–δ Based Solar NIR Filtering Coatings
Authors: Daugas Louise , Lahlil Khalid , de Langavant Capucine Cleret , Florea Ileana , Larquet Eric , Henry Hervé , Kim Jongwook , Gacoin Thierry
Published: June 2023

The optical range of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is extended into the infrared region, thanks to the development of highly doped semiconductor nanocrystals. Particularly, the near‐infrared (NIR) range holds a significant interest in managing solar radiation. However, practical applications necessitate the arrangement of particles, which is known to possibly impact their optical properties through LSPR coupling effects. How such coupling modifies the LSPR response in semiconductor hosts remains largely unexplored. In this study, a protocol for producing composite coatings composed of cesium‐doped tungsten bronze nanocrystals embedded in a silica matrix is presented. Achieving individual dispersion of nanocrystals is made possible through careful selection of a surface polyglycerol ligand exchange. This allows to tune the interparticle distance by adjusting the nanocrystal volume fraction in the composite. The findings demonstrate that LSPR coupling effects significantly influence the LSPR intensity of nanocrystals in the composite when the nanocrystal‐to‐nanocrystal distance matches their size. Beyond elucidating the LSPR coupling effect, this study provides insights into the potential use of Cs‐HTB nanocrystals for solar control applications. Through the optimization of morphology and film structure, remarkable selectivity is obtained in terms of maintaining good transparency in the visible range while achieving high absorption in the NIR.
Contactless Interfacial Thin‐Film Breaking Caused Splash‐Like Demulsification of Floating Micron Emulsions via Ionic Wind
Authors: Dai Haoyu , Yang Linfeng , Feng Yaping , Sun Junhan , Chen Fenglin , Luo Xianfeng , He Zengyi , Xu Xuetao , Wang Bing , Liu Xubo , Dong Zhichao , Jiang Lei
Published: June 2023

Emulsified oil leakage onto the bulk water surface causes severe issues on global ecology and health. Developing efficient, rapid, and universal separation methods of emulsions has been a significant topic in scientific studies. However, a contactless and additive‐free strategy to achieve continuous floating emulsion separation and oil collection remains to be discovered. Herein, a universal contactless demulsification, transportation, and collection method to dispose floating emulsions by ionic wind, which contains active charged particles generated by corona discharge is reported. The splash‐like demulsification process of floating emulsions is attributed to the rupture of water film enveloped on oil droplet surface, simultaneously and respectively. The evidence of this process recorded by a high‐speed camera with 20 000 fps has a referential significance for other works. This study may clean up universal floating emulsions discharged on water in real situations such as oil stations, chemical plants, and restaurants, and furthermore increase the potential of remote control in liquid dynamics by corona discharge.
In Situ Precision Cell Electrospinning as an Efficient Stem Cell Delivery Approach for Cutaneous Wound Healing
Authors: Wen Zhengbo , Chen Yuxin , Liao Peilin , Wang Fengyu , Zeng Weiping , Liu Shoupei , Wu Haibing , Wang Ning , Moroni Lorenzo , Zhang Minmin , Duan Yuyou , Chen Honglin
Published: June 2023

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies have been brought forward as a promising treatment modality for cutaneous wound healing. However, current approaches for stem cell delivery have many drawbacks, such as lack of targetability and cell loss, leading to poor efficacy of stem cell therapy. To overcome these problems, in the present study, an in situ cell electrospinning system is developed as an attractive approach for stem cell delivery. MSCs have a high cell viability of over 90% even with a high applied voltage of 15 kV post‐cell electrospinning process. In addition, cell electrospinning does not show any negative effect on the surface marker expression and differentiation capacity of MSCs. In vivo studies demonstrate that in situ cell electrospinning treatment can promote cutaneous wound healing through direct deposition of bioactive fish gelatin fibers and MSCs onto wound sites, leading to a synergic therapeutic effect. The approach enhances extracellular matrix remodeling by increasing collagen deposition, promotes angiogenesis by increasing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and forming small blood vessels, and dramatically reduces the expression of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) during wound healing. The use of in situ cell electrospinning system potentially provides a rapid, no touch, personalized treatment for cutaneous wound healing.
Ultrahigh‐Q Resonance in Bound States in the Continuum–Enabled Plasmonic Terahertz Metasurface
Authors: Islam Md Saiful , Upadhyay Aditi , Ako Rajour Tanyi , Lawrence Nicholas P. , Sultana Jakeya , Ranjan Abhishek , Ng Brian Wai-Him , Tansu Nelson , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath , Abbott Derek
Published: June 2023

The study of optical resonators is of significant importance in terms of their ability to confine light in optical devices. A major drawback of optical resonators is the phenomenon of light emission due to their limited capacity for light confinement. Bound states in the continuum are gaining significant attention in the realization of optical devices due to their unique ability for reducing light scattering via interference mechanisms. This process can potentially suppress scattering, leading to improved optical performance. Using this concept, a metasurface having two elliptical silicon (Si) resonators nonidentically angled to create an out‐of‐plane asymmetry is studied. Various parameters are optimized by employing a genetic algorithm (GA) to subsequently achieve a high‐Q factor at terahertz frequencies. Herein, the device is fabricated using a novel method, and a thick high‐index resonator is achieved. Terahertz measurements are carried out to validate the results. It is indicated in the experimental results that plasmons appear at the top surface of the metasurface and create strong sharp resonances that are sensitive to the external environment. Owing to strong field confinement ability, and high‐Q factor, the metasurface is sensitive to its surrounding environment and can be essentially employed in terahertz sensing applications.
Acidity Control of Interface for Improving Stability of All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Jie , Qiu Huihang , Wen Tianyu , He Zhilong , Zou Can , Shi Yang , Zhu Lei , Chen Chun‐Chao , Liu Gang , Yang Shuang , Liu Feng , Yang Zhibin
Published: June 2023

Developing all‐perovskite tandem solar cells has been proved to be an effective approach to boost the efficiency beyond the Shockley–Queisser limit. However, the Sn‐based narrow‐bandgap (NBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) suffer from the relatively low photostability, which limits their further application in all‐perovskite tandem solar cells. In this work, the instability of NBG PSCs is found to come from the commonly used acidic hole transporting material PEDOT:PSS, which reacts with the indispensable basic additive SnF2 in the perovskite layer. By acidity control of PEDOT:PSS via aqueous ammonia, the NBG PSCs yield an efficiency of 22.0% with much improved photostability, which can maintain 91.3% of the initial value after 800 h illumination under AM 1.5G. As an application, the corresponding all‐perovskite tandem cells exhibit a stabilized efficiency of 25.3% with 92% remaining after 560 h illumination. This work reveals an origin of instability of NBG PSCs and provides an effective approach to enhance the device stability, which can promote the development of all‐perovskite tandem solar cells.
Gains in relative cortical area during growth and their relationship to nutrition, body size, and physical activity
Authors: Cowgill Libby , Harrington Lesley , MacKinnon Marla , Kurki Helen K.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

In studies of growth in the past, low percentage of cortical area (%CA) is commonly attributed to poor general health, due to factors including poor nutrition, low socioeconomic status, or other physiological stressors. What constitutes low relative cortical dimensions has not been established across a diverse range of human skeletal samples. This study examines %CA in a large immature skeletal sample to establish typical variation in humans with consideration of both body mass and subsistence strategy.

Materials and Methods

Percentage of cortical area was calculated at the midshaft of the humerus, femur, and tibia in seven skeletal samples. Age at death was estimated from dental development, and body mass from bone dimensions. Patterns of %CA with age and log‐transformed body mass were examined in the pooled sample and compared among samples using LOESS regression, Welch's ANOVA, and Kruskal‐Wallis tests.

Results

Across all samples, %CA displays a generally non‐linear pattern, but variation in %CA with age was high, particularly in samples with lower levels of %CA. There was no relationship between %CA and age‐adjusted body mass.

Discussion

The lack of a relationship between %CA and body mass suggests that %CA should not be used as an indicator of mechanical loading. The variation present across samples implies that appositional bone growth is affected by physiological stress in varying ways. Without a deeper understanding of what is “typical” for long bone development, it is impossible to draw conclusions about individual or population level health.
Frontotemporal dementia: Past, present, and future
Authors: Ulugut Hulya , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L.
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCTION

The history of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is both old and new. This study explores its historical roots, dating back to the 19th century, while recognizes it as a distinct neurological entity only a few decades ago.

METHODS

This qualitative study and literature review provides an overview of FTD's historical background, birth, evolution, and future directions.

RESULTS

Recognition of FTD was hindered by rigid perceptions of dementia, the division between neurology and psychiatry, reliance on IQ‐based assessment, limited neuroimaging capabilities, and lack of pathological proof. Overcoming these barriers involved revisiting early pioneers' approaches, focusing on focal impairment, establishing non‐Alzheimer's disease cohorts, fostering collaboration, and developing diagnostic criteria. Current gaps include the need for biology‐oriented psychiatry education, biological biomarkers, and culturally sensitive, objective clinical instruments predicting underlying pathology.

DISCUSSION

Independent multidisciplinary centers are essential. The future of FTD lies in disease‐modifying therapies, presenting new opportunities for healthcare professionals and researchers.
The Association of the Glymphatic Function with Parkinson's Disease Symptoms: Neuroimaging Evidence from Longitudinal and Cross‐Sectional Studies
Authors: He Peikun , Shi Lin , Li Yanyi , Duan Qingrui , Qiu Yihui , Feng Shujun , Gao Yuyuan , Luo Yishan , Ma Guixian , Zhang Yuhu , Wang Lijuan , Nie Kun
Published: June 2023

Objective

Emerging pathological evidence suggests that there is an association between glymphatic dysfunction and the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the clinical evidence of this association remains lacking.

Methods

In this study, the index for diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (ALPS index) was calculated to evaluate glymphatic function.

Results

Overall, 289 patients with PD were enrolled in the cross‐sectional study. The ALPS index was found to be negatively correlated with age, disease severity, and dyskinesia. In the longitudinal study, the information on a total of 95 PD patients with 5‐year follow‐up examinations was collected from the Parkinson's Progression Marker Initiative, 33 of which were classified into the low ALPS index group, and all others were classified into the mid‐high ALPS index group based on the first tertile of the baseline ALPS index. The results of longitudinal regression indicated that there was a significant main group effect on autonomic dysfunction, as well as on activities of daily living. In addition, the low ALPS index group had faster deterioration in MDS‐UPDRS part III and part II, Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Hopkins Verbal Learning Test. Path analysis showed that ALPS index acted as a significant mediator between tTau/ Aβ1‐42 and cognitive change in the Symbol Digit Modalities Test score at year 4 and year 5.

Interpretation

The ALPS index, an neuroimaging marker of glymphatic function, is correlated with PD disease severity, motor symptoms, and autonomic function, and is predictive of faster deterioration in motor symptoms and cognitive function. Additionally, glymphatic function may mediate the pathological role of toxic protein in cognitive decline. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:672–683
Facile Synthesis of Linear and Cyclic Poly(diphenylacetylene)s by Molybdenum and Tungsten Catalysis
Authors: Miyairi Mami , Taniguchi Tsuyoshi , Nishimura Tatsuya , Maeda Katsuhiro
Published: June 2023

Improved methods for the synthesis of linear and cyclic poly(diphenylacetylene)s by polymerization of the corresponding diphenylacetylenes using MoCl5‐ and WCl4‐based catalytic systems have been developed. MoCl5 induces migratory insertion polymerization of diphenylacetylenes in the presence of arylation reagents such as Ph4Sn and ArSnnBu3 to produce cis‐stereoregular linear poly(diphenylacetyelene)s with high molecular weights (number‐average molar mass (Mn)=30,000–3,200,000) in good yields (up to 98 %). On the other hand, WCl4 induces ring expansion polymerization of diphenylacetylenes in the presence of Ph4Sn or reducing reagents to produce cis‐stereoregular cyclic poly(diphenylacetylene)s with high molecular weights (Mn=20,000–250,000) in moderate to good yields (up to 90 %). Both catalytic systems are applicable to the polymerization of various diphenylacetylenes having polar functional groups such as esters that are not efficiently polymerized by conventional methods using WCl6‐Ph4Sn and TaCl5‐nBu4Sn systems.
Rechargeable Potassium‐Ion Full Cells Operating at −40 °C
Authors: Chen Jiangchun , An Dong , Wang Sicong , Wang Han , Wang Yingyu , Zhu Qiaonan , Yu Dandan , Tang Mengyao , Guo Lin , Wang Hua
Published: June 2023

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) are promising for cryogenic energy storage. However, current researches on low‐temperature PIBs are limited to half cells utilizing potassium metal as an anode, and realizing rechargeable full cells is challenged by lacking viable anode materials and compatible electrolytes. Herein, a hard carbon (HC)‐based low‐temperature potassium‐ion full cell is successfully fabricated for the first time. Experimental evidence and theoretical analysis revealed that potassium storage behaviors of HC anodes in the matched low‐temperature electrolyte involve defect adsorption, interlayer co‐intercalation, and nanopore filling. Notably, these unique potassiation processes exhibited low interfacial resistances and small reaction activation energies, enabling an excellent cycling performance of HC with a capacity of 175 mAh g−1 at −40 °C (68 % of its room‐temperature capacity). Consequently, the HC‐based full cells demonstrated impressive rechargeability and high energy density above 100 Wh kg−1cathode at −40 °C, representing a significant advancement in the development of PIBs.
Cu Single‐Atom Catalysts for High‐Selectivity Electrocatalytic Acetylene Semihydrogenation
Authors: Jiang Xiaoli , Tang Lei , Dong Lei , Sheng Xuedi , Zhang Wenfei , Liu Zhen , Shen Jianhua , Jiang Hongliang , Li Chunzhong
Published: June 2023

The site isolation strategy has been employed in thermal catalytic acetylene semihydrogenation to inhibit overhydrogenation and C−C coupling. However, there is a dearth of analogous investigations in electrocatalytic systems. In this work, density functional theory (DFT) simulations demonstrate that isolated Cu metal sites have higher energy barriers on overhydrogenation and C−C coupling. Following this result, we develop Cu single‐atom catalysts highly dispersed on nitrogen‐doped carbon matrix, which exhibit high ethylene selectivity (>80 % Faradaic efficiency for ethylene, <1 % Faradaic efficiency for C4, and no ethane) at high concentrations of acetylene. The superior performance observed in the electrocatalytic selective hydrogenation of acetylene can be attributed to the weak adsorption of ethylene intermediates and highly energy barriers on C−C coupling at isolated sites, as confirmed by both DFT calculations and experimental results. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the isolated sites inhibiting the side reactions of electrocatalytic acetylene semihydrogenation.
Isothermal anionic polymerization of ε‐caprolactam to polyamide‐6: Kinetic modeling and application for production process
Authors: Kurt Samet , Bratzdrum Thomas , Chaloupka Alexander , Horn Siegfried , Moosburger‐Will Judith
Published: June 2023

The in‐situ anionic polymerization of ε‐caprolactam (ε‐CL) to polyamide‐6 enables the production of large, near net shape fiber reinforced composites by thermoplastic resin transfer molding. For the propagation of the flow front as well as for the progress of the solidification, the simultaneous processes of polymerization and crystallization and the corresponding reaction kinetics play a central role. To investigate these processes, preparation of reactive mixtures consisting of ε‐CL, activator, and initiator was carried out under inert atmosphere. A solvent‐based activator and initiator were used, which hardly have been studied in the literature so far. In analogy to the resin transfer molding process, quasi‐isothermal differential scanning calorimetry measurements were performed at various temperatures and the released enthalpy and the degree of crystallization were determined. From these isothermal measurements, a two‐stage semi‐empirical kinetic model was established for a solvent‐based system for the first time, which reproduces the experimental data with high precision. To apply the obtained kinetic model to a thermoplastic resin transfer molding process it was finally correlated to dielectric sensor data, allowing real‐time prediction of the total conversion.
Ruthenium‐Manganese Solid Solution Oxide with Enhanced Performance for Acidic and Alkaline Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Sun Wen , Fang Ying , Sun Gaoming , Dai Congfu , Liu Yana , Zhang Jiguang , Zhu Yunfeng , Wang Jun
Published: June 2023

Proton exchange membrane water electrolysers and alkaline exchange membrane water electrolysers for hydrogen production suffer from sluggish kinetics and the limited durability of the electrocatalyst toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, a rutile Ru0.75Mn0.25O2−δ solid solution oxide featured with a hierarchical porous structure has been developed as an efficient OER electrocatalyst in both acidic and alkaline electrolyte. Specifically, compared with commercial RuO2, the catalyst displays a superior reaction kinetics with small Tafel slope of 54.6 mV dec−1 in 0.5 M H2SO4, thus allowing a low overpotential of 237 and 327 mV to achieve the current density of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, which is attributed to the enhanced electrochemically active surface area from the porous structure and the increased intrinsic activity owing to the regulated Ru>4+ proportion with Mn incorporation. Additionally, the sacrificial dissolution of Mn relieves the leaching of active Ru species, leading to the extended OER durability. Besides, the Ru0.75Mn0.25O2−δ catalyst also shows a highly improved OER performance in alkaline electrolyte, rendering it a versatile catalyst for water splitting.
Economic comparison of decentralized versus centralized processing of sugarcane to fructooligosaccharides and ethanol
Authors: Klaver Monique , Petersen Abdul M. , Görgens Johann F.
Published: June 2023

The global sugarcane industry is under threat due to low international prices and oversupply. This requires new revenue opportunities through a diversification strategy. The economic competitiveness of small‐scale, decentralized biorefineries to produce short‐chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) and/or ethanol, both valuable products with growing market applications, in comparison to large‐scale, centralized facilities annexed to existing sugarcane mills, was therefore considered. The economic feasibility of three potential scenarios was investigated using AspenPlus process simulations of small‐ and large‐scale facilities. In Scenario 1 only scFOS was produced. In Scenario 2 only ethanol was produced, and in Scenario 3 scFOS and ethanol were co‐produced. The small‐scale implementation of Scenarios 1 and 3 was economically feasible, with minimum selling prices (MSPs) below market prices. However, in all scenarios the large‐scale implementation of technologies in facilities annexed to an existing sugar mill improved economic viability, despite efforts to minimize the disadvantages of small‐scale facilities and their capital costs through the selection of simplified process technologies and decentralized processing. Despite this, the small‐scale production of scFOS is the preferred investment option for scFOS production due to the very high scFOS production rates of the large‐scale scenarios, which could flood the market. Processing of freshly harvested sugarcane in decentralized, small‐scale facilities increased the feedstock cost per unit of sugar, in comparison with the use of molasses obtained by annexation to an existing sugar mill. Simplified sugarcane processing to ethanol also lowered the product yield and increased capital costs. Further improvements in process technology design and performance for small‐scale facilities are required to make these financially competitive with large‐scale facilities.
The imperative of communication signals in boosting business strategies of the bioplastic packaging industry
Authors: Baskoro M. Lahandi , Tjahjono Benny , Beltran Macarena , Bogush Anna , Wang Yichuan
Published: June 2023

Despite the rapid growth of sustainable innovations in bioplastics for packaging industries, their diffusion into established markets has so far been hampered by ambiguous and asymmetrical communication between bioplastics producers and consumers (both businesses and end consumers), particularly related to bioplastics materials and their waste disposal procedures. This study looks into the communication processes, identifies barriers and investigates business strategies that can be adopted by bioplastic packaging industries to influence consumer adoption and proper disposal behaviour of bioplastic packaging. Based on a systematic review of 68 journal articles and guided by the signalling theory, the study found that connections with various signallers at the end‐of‐life of bioplastic packaging materials are required beyond the purview of the industrial sectors utilising the packaging. The paper proposes a conceptual framework incorporating new signal constructs specific to consumer‐facing sustainable innovation. The framework extends the signalling theory to be used as part of the bioplastic packaging industry's business strategy. The paper also emphasises the importance of altering the communication mechanisms in order to boost bioplastics industrial practices, which will subsequently contribute to the reduction of the detrimental impacts of fossil‐based plastics on the environment.
Financial risk under the shock of global warming: Evidence from China
Authors: Gao Zhiyuan , Li Lianqing , Hao Yu
Published: June 2023

The economic and financial risks of global warming have become a hot issue of academic interest. This article analyzes global warming, financial risk, and the economic statistics of 30 provinces in China from 2010 to 2020 as a sample to assess the influence of the severity of global warming on financial risk. Global warming is found to affect financial risk and to have a substantial favorable influence on the amount of financial risk. Global warming also has significant effects on households, enterprises, financial institutions, and governments. There is heterogeneity in the effects of climate variation on financial risk. Global warming will cause a greater accumulation of financial risk in economically developed regions. Additionally, it will lead to financial risks by causing a decline in the incomes of residents, a decline in the profits of enterprises, growth in the number of loans that financial institutions consider to be nonperforming, and a widening of the gap between government revenue and expenditures. All of these effects will have an adverse domino effect on the economy. To reduce the financial risks caused by global warming, countermeasures are being offered to ensure social cohesion, conduct risk stress testing, create risk mitigation instruments, and encourage environmentally responsible development. This paper discusses policies and provides policymakers with recommendations on how to cope with the systematic financial risks induced by climate variation.
What's in a name? Is an anatomical term only a name?
Authors: Neumann Paul E.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of a standard terminology is to facilitate communication. Thus, changing the name of an anatomical structure or the meaning of an anatomical term undermines that aspiration and cuts connections with anatomy's long history. Two types of anatomical terms are the most vulnerable to logical arguments for revision—ones that are descriptive, but viewed, at least by some, as inaccurate, and ones that contain words that are polysemic or vague. A half dozen examples of each type are discussed, including ductus deferens, glandula seminalis, articulationes costochondrales, vulva and fascia. In general, traditional terms should be preserved, but judgments about which terms are traditional should be based on five centuries of modern anatomy, not just the past several decades.
The role of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ in lipid metabolism and inflammation in atherosclerosis
Authors: Yang Xue‐feng , Shang De‐jing
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular disease events are the result of functional and structural abnormalities in the arteries and heart. Atherosclerosis is the main cause and pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial disease associated with dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress, among which dyslipidemia and chronic inflammation occur in all processes. Under the influence of lipoproteins, the arterial intima causes inflammation, necrosis, fibrosis, and calcification, leading to plaque formation in specific parts of the artery, which further develops into plaque rupture and secondary thrombosis. Foam cell formation from macrophages is an early event in the development of atherosclerosis. Lipid uptake causes a vascular inflammatory response, and persistent inflammatory infiltration in the lesion area further promotes the development of the disease. Inhibition of macrophage differentiation into foam cell and reduction of the level of proinflammatory factors in macrophages can effectively alleviate the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a ligand‐activated nuclear receptor that plays an important antiatherosclerotic role by regulating triglyceride metabolism, lipid uptake, cholesterol efflux, macrophage polarity, and inhibiting inflammatory signaling pathways. In addition, PPARγ shifts its binding to ligands and co‐activators or co‐repressors of transcription of target genes through posttranslational modification, thereby affecting the regulation of its downstream target genes. Many ligand agonists have also been developed targeting PPARγ. In this review, we summarized the role of PPARγ in lipid metabolism and inflammation in development of atherosclerosis, the posttranslational regulatory mechanism of PPARγ, and further discusses the value of PPARγ as an antiatherosclerosis target.
Hydrogen Evolution Reaction on AuNi Surface Alloy Formed on Single Crystal Au Electrodes
Authors: Tanaka Syunnosuke , Hoshi Nagahiro , Nakamura Masashi
Published: June 2023

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on Au with high chemical stability is activated by alloying it with Ni. We evaluated the HER activity of the AuNi surface alloy prepared at different alloying temperatures on single‐crystal Au electrodes in 0.05 M H2SO4. The potential cycle, including the region of Ni oxidative dissolution, further enhanced the HER activity by dealloying Ni, and the activity depended on the surface structure of the Au substrate in the following order: AuNi/Au(100)<AuNi/Au(111)<AuNi/Au(110). The surface structure and atomic composition were investigated using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and surface X‐ray diffraction. Surface structural analysis revealed that the dissolution of Ni from the AuNi surface‐alloy layer resulted in a decrease in the atomic occupancy of the topmost surface layer. Ni dealloying creates low‐coordination Au sites on the AuNi surface alloy, which activates the HER.
Re‐Thinking Dimer Design Principles with Indolonaphthyridine Intramolecular Singlet Fission
Authors: Purdy Michael , Budden Peter , Fallon Kealan , Gannett Cara N. , Abruña Héctor D. , Zeng Weixuan , Friend Richard , Musser Andrew J. , Bronstein Hugo
Published: June 2023

Singlet fission is a phenomenon that could significantly improve the efficiency of photovoltaic devices. Indolonaphthyridine thiophene (INDT) is a photostable singlet fission material that could potentially be utilised in singlet fission‐based photovoltaic devices. This study investigates the intramolecular singlet fission (i‐SF) mechanism of INDT dimers linked via para‐phenyl, meta‐phenyl and fluorene bridging groups. Using ultra‐fast spectroscopy the highest rate of singlet fission is found in the para‐phenyl linked dimer. Quantum calculations show the para‐phenyl linker encourages enhanced monomer electronic coupling. Increased rates of singlet fission were also observed in the higher polarity o‐dichlorobenzene, relative to toluene, indicating that charge‐transfer states have a role in mediating the process. The mechanistic picture of polarisable singlet fission materials, such as INDT, extends beyond the traditional mechanistic landscape.
Ru(II) Complexes with Protic‐ and Anionic‐Naked‐NHC Ligands for Cooperative Activation of Small Molecules**
Authors: Nath Shambhu , Yadav Ekta , Raghuvanshi Abhinav , Singh Amrendra K.
Published: June 2023

A set of ruthenium(II)‐protic‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes, [Ru(NNCH)(PPh3)2(X)]Cl (1, X=Cl and2, X=H) and their deprotonated forms [Ru(NNC)(PPh3)2(X)] (1’, X=Cl and2’, X=H), in which NNC is a new unsymmetrical pincer ligand, are reported. The four complexes are interconvertible by simple acid‐base chemistry. The combined theoretical and spectroscopic investigations indicate charge segregation in anionic‐NHC complexes (1’ and2’) and can be described from a Lewis pair perspective. The chemical reactivity of deprotonated complex1’ shows cooperative small molecule activation. Complex1’ activates H−H bond of hydrogen, C(sp3)‐I bond of iodomethane, and C(sp)‐H bond of phenylacetylene. The activation of CO2using anionic NHC complex1’ at moderate temperature and ambient pressure and subsequent conversion to formate is also described. All the new compounds have been characterized using ESI‐MS,1H,13C, and31P NMR spectroscopy. Molecular structures of1,2, and2’ have also been determined with single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The cooperative small molecule activation perspective broadens the scope of potential applications of anionic‐NHC complexes in small molecule activation, including the conversion of carbon dioxide to formate, a much sought after reaction in the renewable energy and sustainable development domains.
Walnuss = Maggi + Haferflocken?
Authors: Steinhaus Martin
Published: June 2023

Der Walnussbaum (Juglans regia) ist vermutlich schon seit mehr als 2000 Jahren in Kultur. Dabei erfordert er einen langen Atem, denn er trägt frühestens ab einem Alter von 15 Jahren Früchte. Die Geduld wird belohnt mit wohlschmeckenden Samen, die nicht nur zu Nikolaus Konjunktur haben, sondern das ganze Jahr über als Zutat zu Knabbermischungen, Backwaren und Konfekt beliebt sind. Bei der Suche nach dem molekularen Hintergrund des unverwechselbaren Walnussaromas rückten kürzlich zwei Substanzen in den Fokus, die in der Walnuss bisher unentdeckt geblieben waren. In anderen Lebensmitteln sind beide als Geruchsstoffe jedoch alles andere als Unbekannte – allerdings treten sie dort nicht als Paar, sondern einzeln auf.
Understanding new colors in urban environments: Deciphering colors as semiotic resources
Authors: Yu Beichen
Published: June 2023

Since the start of the new millennium, more diverse color expressions have appeared in the design of urban environments, especially in global cities. In this article, the notion of “new colors” refers to the emergence of saturated colors and new ways of using them in urban environments globally. With the impact of globalization and the disengagement of color from local materials, existing color approaches seem to be insufficient to explain the dynamic changes in color design. To understand the emerging “new colors”, this article proposes viewing environmental color as a social semiotic resource. Adapted from Gunther Kress and Theo van Leeuwen's social semiotic model of color, a model is developed to identify and explain “grammars of color” in environmental color design. With a particular focus on urban and landscape designs completed between 2000 and 2019, five main color practices of saturated colors were identified: branding and communication, urban interventions, sports and recreation, traffic environments, and historical and post‐industrial sites. The analysis of these main color practices and semiotic resources suggests that the saturated color's role in social communication is emphasized in the urban space nowadays. Furthermore, the emergence of saturated colors and the growth of new expressions of color in the urban environment may be driven by the needs and interests of different sociocultural groups.
Existence of constant mean curvature 2‐Spheres in Riemannian 3‐spheres
Authors: Cheng Da Rong , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2023

We prove the existence of branched immersed constant mean curvature (CMC) 2‐spheres in an arbitrary Riemannian 3‐sphere for almost every prescribed mean curvature, and moreover for all prescribed mean curvatures when the 3‐sphere is positively curved. To achieve this, we develop a min‐max scheme for a weighted Dirichlet energy functional. There are three main ingredients in our approach: a bi‐harmonic approximation procedure to obtain compactness of the new functional, a derivative estimate of the min‐max values to gain energy upper bounds for min‐max sequences for almost every choice of mean curvature, and a Morse index estimate to obtain another uniform energy bound required to reach the remaining constant mean curvatures in the presence of positive curvature.
Understanding Statin‐Roxadustat Drug–Drug‐Disease Interaction Using Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling
Authors: Dong Jin , Prieto Garcia Luna , Huang Yingbo , Tang Weifeng , Lundahl Anna , Elebring Marie , Ahlström Christine , Vildhede Anna , Sjögren Erik , Någård Mats
Published: June 2023

A different drug–drug interaction (DDI) scenario may exist in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared with healthy volunteers (HVs), depending on the interplay between drug–drug and disease (drug‐drug‐disease interaction (DDDI)). Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, in lieu of a clinical trial, is a promising tool for evaluating these complex DDDIs in patients. However, the prediction confidence of PBPK modeling in the severe CKD population is still low when nonrenal pathways are involved. More mechanistic virtual disease population and robust validation cases are needed. To this end, we aimed to: (i) understand the implications of severe CKD on statins (atorvastatin, simvastatin, and rosuvastatin) pharmacokinetics (PK) and DDI; and (ii) predict untested clinical scenarios of statin‐roxadustat DDI risks in patients to guide suitable dose regimens. A novel virtual severe CKD population was developed incorporating the disease effect on both renal and nonrenal pathways. Drug and disease PBPK models underwent a four‐way validation. The verified PBPK models successfully predicted the altered PKs in patients for substrates and inhibitors and recovered the observed statin‐rifampicin DDIs in patients and the statin‐roxadustat DDIs in HVs within 1.25‐ and 2‐fold error. Further sensitivity analysis revealed that the severe CKD effect on statins PK is mainly mediated by hepatic BCRP for rosuvastatin and OATP1B1/3 for atorvastatin. The magnitude of statin‐roxadustat DDI in patients with severe CKD was predicted to be similar to that in HVs. PBPK‐guided suitable dose regimens were identified to minimize the risk of side effects or therapeutic failure of statins when co‐administered with roxadustat.