bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary recovery strategies of low‐molecular‐weight toxins from Crotalus molossus nigrescens and Crotalus atrox using aqueous two‐phase and three‐phase partition systems
Authors: Sánchez‐Trasviña Calef , Melendez‐Martínez David , González‐Castañón Emiliano , Herrera‐Ortuño Armando , Carbajal‐Saucedo Alejandro , Lozano Omar , Rito‐Palomares Marco , Benavides Jorge , Mayolo‐Deloisa Karla
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Rattlesnake venoms are a complex source of different toxin families with biotechnological and biomedical applications. However, the complexity of the sample and the low abundance of some toxins can restrict their study and applications. Toxin isolation usually requires multiple chromatographic steps, implying elevated operative costs and processing times. This raises the need for recovery and enrichment of those proteins and peptides. For that reason, we tested two liquid–liquid separation methods – aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS) and three‐phase partition (TPP) – since these two alternatives have shown great potential for the primary recovery of different toxin families from rattlesnake venoms.

RESULTS

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)–citrate and ionic liquid (IL)–potassium phosphate ATPS and TPP based on t‐butanol and ammonium sulfate were used to partition different toxin families from Crotalus molossus nigrescens and C. atrox venoms. PEG–citrate allowed a selective partition of proteins between both phases. The best enrichment case was observed with a myotoxin band (6.6 kDa) in the PEG‐rich phase from 2% to 41.3% of abundance. In IL–potassium phosphate systems, proteins showed a preference towards the IL‐rich phase with no selective partition. In TPP, proteins were partitioned mainly to the bottom phase and interphase, but serine proteases (29.1 kDa) were enriched from 3.7% to 56.6% in the top phase.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that PEG–citrate ATPS and TPP separation methods can generate a selective partition of some toxin families from rattlesnake venoms. These enrichment methods will facilitate the isolation of toxins, from animal venoms, that are relevant for biotechnological and biomedical applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The effect of intrathecal recombinant arylsulfatase A therapy on structural brain magnetic resonance imaging in children with metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Groeschel Samuel , Beerepoot Shanice , Amedick Lucas Bastian , Krӓgeloh‐Mann Ingeborg , Li Jing , Whiteman David A. H. , Wolf Nicole I. , Port John D.
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of intrathecal (IT) recombinant human arylsulfatase A (rhASA) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐assessed brain tissue changes in children with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD). In total, 510 MRI scans were collected from 12 intravenous (IV) rhASA‐treated children with MLD, 24 IT rhASA‐treated children with MLD, 32 children with untreated MLD, and 156 normally developing children. Linear mixed models were fitted to analyze the time courses of gray matter (GM) volume and fractional anisotropy (FA) in the posterior limb of the internal capsule. Time courses for demyelination load and FA in the centrum semiovale were visualized using locally estimated scatterplot smoothing regression curves. All assessed imaging parameters demonstrated structural evidence of neurological deterioration in children with MLD. GM volume was significantly lower at follow‐up (median duration, 104 weeks) in IV rhASA‐treated versus IT rhASA‐treated children. GM volume decline over time was steeper in children receiving low‐dose (10 or 30 mg) versus high‐dose (100 mg) IT rhASA. Similar effects were observed for demyelination. FA in the posterior limb of the internal capsule showed a higher trend over time in IT rhASA‐treated versus children with untreated MLD, but FA parameters were not different between children receiving the low doses versus those receiving the high dose. GM volume in IT rhASA‐treated children showed a strong positive correlation with 88‐item Gross Motor Function Measure score over time. In some children with MLD, IT administration of high‐dose rhASA may delay neurological deterioration (assessed using MRI), offering potential therapeutic benefit.
Impact of age on hospital outcomes after catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia
Authors: Tan Min Choon , Yeo Yong Hao , Ang Qi Xuan , Kiwan Chrystina , Fatunde Olubadewa , Lee Justin Z. , Tolat Aneesh , Sorajja Dan
Published: February 2024

Background

The real‐world data on the safety profile of ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation among elderly patients is not well‐established. This study aimed to evaluate the procedural outcomes among those aged 18–64 years versus those aged ≥65 years who underwent catheter ablation of VT.

Method

Using the Nationwide Readmissions Database, our study included patients aged ≥18 years who underwent VT catheter ablation between 2017 and 2020. We divided the patients into non‐elderly (18–64 years old) and elderly age groups (≥65 years old). We then analyzed the in‐hospital procedural outcome and 30‐day readmission between these two groups.

Results

Our study included 2075 (49.1%) non‐elderly patients and 2153 (50.9%) elderly patients who underwent VT ablation. Post‐procedurally, elderly patients had significantly higher rates of prolonged index hospitalization (≥7 days; 35.5% vs. 29.3%, p < .01), non‐home discharge (13.4% vs. 6.0%, p < .01), 30‐day readmission (17.0% vs. 11.4%, p < .01), and early mortality (5.5% vs. 2.4%, p < .01). There was no significant difference in the procedural complications between two groups, namely vascular complications, hemopericardium/cardiac tamponade, cerebrovascular accident (CVA), major bleeding requiring blood transfusion, and systemic embolization. Through multivariable analysis, the elderly group was associated with higher odds of early mortality (OR: 7.50; CI 1.86–30.31, p = .01), non‐home discharge (OR: 2.41; CI: 1.93–3.00, p < .01) and 30‐day readmission (OR: 1.58; CI 1.32–1.89, p < .01).

Conclusion

Elderly patients have worse in‐hospital outcome, early mortality, non‐home discharge, and 30‐day readmission following catheter ablation for VT. There was no significant difference between elderly and non‐elderly groups in the procedural complications.
Comprehensive evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging sequences for signal intensity based assessment of anterior cruciate ligament healing following surgical treatment
Authors: Kaushal Shankar G. , Kim Jin‐Young , Singh Mallika , Han Mo , Flannery Sean W. , Barnes Dominique A. , Ecklund Kirsten , Murray Martha M. , Badger Gary J. , Fleming Braden C. , Kiapour Ata M.
Published: February 2024

Normalized signal intensity (SI) obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to track anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) postoperative remodeling. We aimed to assess the effect of MRI sequence (PD: proton density‐weighted; T2: T2‐weighted; CISS: constructive interference in steady state) on postoperative changes in healing ACLs/grafts. We hypothesized that CISS is better at detecting longitudinal SI and texture changes of the healing ACL/graft compared to the common clinical sequences (PD and T2). MR images of patients who underwent ACL surgery were evaluated and separated into groups based on surgical procedure (Bridge‐Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR; n = 50) versus ACL reconstruction (ACLR; n = 24)). CISS images showed decreasing SI across all timepoints in both the BEAR and ACLR groups (p < 0.01), PD and T2 images showed decreasing SI in the 6‐to‐12‐ and 12‐to‐24‐month postoperative timeframes in the BEAR group (p < 0.02), and PD images additionally showed decreasing SI between 6‐ and 24‐months postoperation in the ACLR group (p = 0.02). CISS images showed texture changes in both the BEAR and ACLR groups, showing increases in energy and decreases in entropy in the 6‐to‐12‐ and 6‐to‐24‐month postoperative timeframes in the BEAR group (p  0.04), and increases in energy, decreases in entropy, and increases in homogeneity between 6 and 24 months postoperation in the ACLR group (p < 0.04). PD images showed increases in energy and decreases in entropy between 6‐ and 24‐months postoperation in the ACLR group (p < 0.008). Finally, CISS was estimated to require a smaller sample size than PD and T2 to detect SI differences related to postoperative remodeling.
Investigation of bias due to selective inclusion of study effect estimates in meta‐analyses of nutrition research
Authors: Kanukula Raju , McKenzie Joanne E. , Bero Lisa , Dai Zhaoli , McDonald Sally , Kroeger Cynthia M. , Korevaar Elizabeth , Forbes Andrew , Page Matthew J.
Published: February 2024

We aimed to explore, in a sample of systematic reviews (SRs) with meta‐analyses of the association between food/diet and health‐related outcomes, whether systematic reviewers selectively included study effect estimates in meta‐analyses when multiple effect estimates were available. We randomly selected SRs of food/diet and health‐related outcomes published between January 2018 and June 2019. We selected the first presented meta‐analysis in each review (index meta‐analysis), and extracted from study reports all study effect estimates that were eligible for inclusion in the meta‐analysis. We calculated the Potential Bias Index (PBI) to quantify and test for evidence of selective inclusion. The PBI ranges from 0 to 1; values above or below 0.5 suggest selective inclusion of effect estimates more or less favourable to the intervention, respectively. We also compared the index meta‐analytic estimate to the median of a randomly constructed distribution of meta‐analytic estimates (i.e., the estimate expected when there is no selective inclusion). Thirty‐nine SRs with 312 studies were included. The estimated PBI was 0.49 (95% CI 0.42–0.55), suggesting that the selection of study effect estimates from those reported was consistent with a process of random selection. In addition, the index meta‐analytic effect estimates were similar, on average, to what we would expect to see in meta‐analyses generated when there was no selective inclusion. Despite this, we recommend that systematic reviewers report the methods used to select effect estimates to include in meta‐analyses, which can help readers understand the risk of selective inclusion bias in the SRs.
Dammed context: Community perspectives on ecosystem service changes following Poland's first dam removal
Authors: Habel Michał , Mechkin Karl , Wagner Iwona , Grabowski Zbigniew , Kaczkowski Zbigniew , Absalon Damian , Szatten Dawid , Matysik Magdalena , Pytel Sławomir , Jurczak Tomasz , Obolewski Krystian
Published: February 2024

Decisions to build or remove dams and other large engineered hydraulic infrastructures are always entangled in social and environmental impacts, which are often evaluated formally through bureaucratic processes. In Europe dam removals are relatively infrequent, even though extensive hydraulic infrastructure has degraded biodiversity and water quality. The Wilkówka dam in southern Poland was required to be removed rapidly, primarily due to engineering failures during its construction. Using survey methods, we examine the local community's perceptions of the net environmental and social impacts of the Wilkówka dam removal. In surveying the opinions of households, 62% of respondents expressed that decisions about the removal were taken without sufficient community consultation, and 92% felt that the dam had been removed despite their opposition. Although the dam had been built recently and had failed to operate at design capacity, respondents reported strong attachments to the services they perceived it to provide, including water supply, flood regulation and cultural significance. In spite of the possibility of an environmental disaster and long‐term environmental degradation, most surveyed households would have preferred it to have been renovated or reconstructed. In short, the removal of the Wilkówka dam was perceived by local households but also by local officials as bringing about a net loss in socially relevant ecosystem services, despite the urgent need for removal perceived by regional and national authorities. The local community's rapid attachment to the dam despite its potential negative impacts on biodiversity and the local environment were primarily attributable to the high expectations as to the hydrological services that the dam was to provide (water supply, flood regulation and its larger symbolic value as an infrastructural investment in the community). This work provides an empirical demonstration of the importance of understanding the social, ecological and technological context within decision‐making processes regarding dam removals, and its implications may improve the planning and implementation of future dam removal projects.
A Journey Through Open Access Publishing in Aquatic Sciences
Authors: Franco‐Santos Rita M.
Published: February 2024

Publishing scientific work is as important as conducting research. The rise of online Open Access (OA) publications that are immediately available to readers everywhere free of charge has transformed the publishing landscape in the past decades. I offer a translation of this article into Brazilian Portuguese as my own attempt to improve access to scientific content (Supplementary Information, SI). In this article, I introduce OA publishing in the context of the aquatic sciences. More specifically, I talk about how OA came to be, the different types of OA publications and copyright licenses, the benefits and pitfalls of OA publishing, and how to pay for gold OA publications.
Sea‐ice loss accelerates carbon cycling and enhances seasonal extremes of acidification in the Arctic Chukchi Sea
Authors: Zhang Yixing , Wu Yingxu , Cai Wei‐Jun , Yi Xiangqi , Gao Xiang , Bi Haibo , Zhuang Yanpei , Chen Liqi , Qi Di
Published: February 2024

The Chukchi Sea shelf (CSS) is a highly productive region in the Arctic Ocean and it is highly efficient for absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide and exporting and retaining carbon in the deep sea. However, with global warming, the carbon retention time in CSS may decrease, leading to less efficient carbon export. Here, we investigate the seasonal variability of carbonate chemistry in CSS using three sets of late‐ vs. early‐summer reoccupations of the same transect. Our findings demonstrate substantially increased and rapid degradation of biologically produced organic matter and therefore acidification over time in the southern CSS due to earlier sea‐ice retreat, resulting in significantly shorter carbon retention time. In sharp contrast, no increased degradation has been observed in the northern CSS where photosynthesis has just commenced. In the future, climate change would further diminish the carbon export capacity and exacerbate seasonal acidification not only within CSS but also across other polar coastal oceans.
High‐Resolution Full‐Color Quantum Dots Patterning for Display Applications Based on Femtosecond Laser‐induced Forward Transfer
Authors: Liang Shu‐Yu , Liu Yue‐Feng , Ji Zhi‐Kun , Xia Hong , Sun Hong‐Bo
Published: February 2024

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have been widely studied in display panels due to their near‐unity fluorescence quantum yield and the ability to tune colors across a wide gamut. However, the challenge persists in creating full‐color QD arrays with the necessary precision for high‐resolution display applications in the next generation. This paper introduces a femtosecond laser‐induced forward transfer (FsLIFT) technology that integrates deposition pattern and alignment in a single transfer step. This development enables the fabrication of high‐resolution full‐color QD films. The ability of FsLIFT to precisely locate red, green, and blue QDs in a designated position allows to obtain arbitrarily shaped full‐color patterns and pixel arrays with a resolution of 1.78 µm. In addition, the potential for optoelectronic devices is ensured by the preserved photophysical properties, high smoothness, and continuity of the transferred QD films. Consequently, the light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are successfully fabricated based on the transferred QD films. This study expects that the introduced straightforward patterning technology, offering high freedom, precision, and repeatability, will contribute to advancing the development of full‐color high‐resolution displays based on QDs.
Visibly Transparent Multifunctional Metascreen for Tunable Infrared Coloration and Microwave Transmission
Authors: Chang Injoong , Nam Juyeong , Lim Joon‐Soo , Woo Haneul , Yook Jong‐Gwan , Cho Hyung Hee
Published: February 2024

Metascreens are remarkable optical materials that have attracted significant research interest owing to their ability to manipulate electromagnetic waves by selectively transmitting, reflecting, and absorbing specific wavelengths. The present study introduces a new metascreen concept called visibly transparent multifunctional metascreen (VTMM), which is capable of simultaneously transmitting visible light, selectively transmitting microwaves, and modulating infrared (IR) emissions, all through a single surface. The VTMM is fabricated by patterning a thin metal film in a square‐loop pattern on a transparent substrate, resulting in frequency‐selective transmission characteristics in the X‐band and visible transparency. Before demonstrating independent control of the visible and IR coloration of the VTMM by varying the metal film thickness and using color backgrounds, the visible and IR coloration characteristics of the ultrathin metal film on glass (MFG) are analyzed. Based on the findings, the VTMM preserves optical images behind the metascreen while reducing the average IR signature from 89.0 to 69.3 W m−2 sr‐1, with up to 23.5% reduction compared to a glass substrate, as the metal film thickness increases from 40 to 100 nm is confirmed. Furthermore, the designed selective transmission characteristics are shown to remain consistent across varying metal film thicknesses.
A new case of sodium‐dependent multivitamin transporter defect occurring as a life‐threatening condition responsive to early vitamin supplementation and literature review
Authors: Van Vyve F.‐X. , Mercier N. , Papadopoulos J. , Heijmans C. , Dessy H. , Monestier O. , Dewulf J. P. , Roland D.
Published: February 2024

Background

Biallelic pathogenic variants in SLC5A6 resulting in sodium‐dependent multivitamin transporter (SMVT) defect have recently been described as a vitamin‐responsive inborn error of metabolism mimicking biotinidase deficiency. To our knowledge, only 16 patients have been reported so far with various clinical phenotypes such as neuropathy and other neurologic impairments, gastro‐intestinal dysfunction and failure to thrive, osteopenia, immunodeficiency, metabolic acidosis, hypoglycemia, and recently severe cardiac symptoms.

Methods

We describe a case report of a 5‐month‐old girl presenting two recurrent episodes of metabolic decompensation and massive cardiac failure in the course of an infectious disease. We compare clinical, biological, and genetic findings of this patient to previous literature collected from Pubmed database (keywords: Sodium‐dependent multivitamin transporter (SMVT), SMVT defect/disorder/deficiency, SLC5A6 gene/mutation).

Results

We highlight the life‐threatening presentation of this disease, the stagnation of psychomotor development, the severe and persistent hypogammaglobulinemia, and additionally, the successful clinical response on early vitamin supplementation (biotin 15 mg a day and pantothenic acid 100 mg a day). Metabolic assessment showed a persistent increase of urinary 3‐hydroxyisovaleric acid (3‐HIA) as previously reported in this disease in literature.

Conclusion

SMVT deficiency is a vitamin‐responsive inborn error of metabolism that can lead to a wide range of symptoms. Increased and isolated excretion of urinary 3‐hydroxyisovaleric acid may suggest, in the absence of markedly reduced biotinidase activity, a SMVT deficiency. Prompt supplementation with high doses of biotin and pantothenic acid should be initiated while awaiting results of SLC5A6 sequencing as this condition may be life‐threatening.
Swedish musculoskeletal researchers view on a collaborative network and future research priorities in Swedish healthcare
Authors: Diarbakerli Elias , Thoreson Olof , Björklund Martin , Dahlberg Leif E. , Englund Martin , Gerdhem Paul , Kvist Joanna , Mohaddes Maziar , Peolsson Anneli , Rolfson Ola , Öberg Birgitta , Abbott Allan
Published: February 2024

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSK) are a global burden causing significant suffering and economic impact. Systematic identification and targeting of research questions of highest interest for stakeholders can aid in improving MSK disorder knowledge and management.

Objective

To obtain Swedish MSK researchers' opinions and views on a collaborative Swedish MSK network (SweMSK) and identify future research areas of importance for Swedish MSK research.

Methods

A web‐based survey was conducted July to September 2021 to collect data from 354 Swedish MSK researchers. The survey focused on the need, objectives, and structure of a SweMSK network and identified prioritised areas for future MSK research.

Results

The study included 141 respondents, of which 82 were associate professors or professors. The majority (68%) supported the creation of a new musculoskeletal network. The most supported element was increased collaboration regarding nationwide and multicenter studies. Respondents recommended the creation of a homepage and the establishment of national work groups with different specific interests as the primary elements of a new network.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated a need and desire for increased national research collaboration and the creation of a new musculoskeletal network. The high academic experience and active research participation of the respondents suggest the need for MSK disorder knowledge and management improvement in Sweden. Therefore, the SweMSK network may help facilitate effective collaboration and research efforts that can contribute to the advancement of MSK disorder management and care. This study may provide valuable insights for policymakers, clinicians, and researchers to improve MSK disorder care and management in Sweden.
Precision of four calcified structures for age estimation of Black Carp
Authors: Kroboth P. T. , Herndon A. M. , Broaddus C. L. , Fischer J. R.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus is an emerging invasive species in North America with an expanding population in the Mississippi River basin. Current aging methods use a suite of structures for age estimation, and a single structure is needed to minimize processing time, to maximize consistency of age and growth measurements, and to allow for back-calculation of individual fish length at age.

Methods

In total, 236 Black Carp were collected throughout the year from 2017 to 2019 through incidental captures by commercial fishers and biologists. In a subsample, 119 Black Carp from 429 to 1268 mm total length were compared for the precision of annuli counts by two experienced readers for the two anterior pectoral fin rays, the anterior dorsal fin ray, sectioned vertebrae, and lapilli otoliths based on percent exact agreement (PA), percent agreement within 1 year (PA ± 1), coefficient of variation (CV), and bubble plots. Consensus annuli counts were compared by PA and CV between structures. We applied annuli counts, as opposed to age, as fish were collected during all seasons and structures were examined independently by readers without knowledge of capture date.

Result

Vertebrae and dorsal rays had the highest PA between readers. Dorsal ray had the lowest CV and higher PA ± 1. Pectoral rays and lapilli otoliths had the lowest PA. Between-structure consensus annuli counts indicated that pectoral rays and the dorsal ray annuli counts were the most similar (PA >70% and CV <12) and lapilli otoliths were the most dissimilar (PA >35% and CV >24). Reader-reported confidence was highest for vertebrae, then in decreasing order, dorsal ray, pectoral rays, and lapilli otoliths. Lumens were present in all fin rays with only minor effects observed on annuli counts, aside from the anterior-most pectoral fin ray, in which lumens obscured the presence of one or more potential annuli in 61% of structures.

Conclusion

The dorsal ray had the highest agreement between readers, with agreement with ±1 year at 98%; the structure can be efficiently extracted and processed, and the structure's morphology and growth pattern are conducive to aging older fish. Vertebrae had high agreement between readers, but a systematic pattern of double bands in vertebrae increased the between-reader variation in older fish as the interannual growth pattern compressed the viewable area; this was identified by readers based on aging criteria and highlights the need for training novice readers. Validation of annual growth in the tested suite of structures is still needed.
Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of silver‐coated hollow glass microsphere‐graded short carbon fiber epoxy composite
Authors: Thomas Bebito , Parameswarreddy Gandluri , Sarathi Ramanujam , Arunachalam Kavitha , Suematsue Hisayuki , Verma Rishi , Sharma Archana
Published: February 2024

The present study is investigating the use of short carbon fiber (SCF) and silver‐coated hollow glass microsphere (Ag@HGM) reinforced epoxy light‐weight composites for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications in the X‐band frequency range (i.e., 8–12 GHz). The study found that Ag@HGM along with SCF significantly improved the dielectric properties of the composites and enhanced the EMI shielding effectiveness of 34.6 dB. Thermal analysis indicates that the sample shows a high rate of heat dissipation and good thermal conductivity. The dynamic mechanical analysis has indicated that the composite has improved storage modulus, glass transition temperature, and activation energy.

Highlights

SCF and Ag@HGM epoxy composite is fabricated for EMI shielding application.

Two steps: etching and electroless coating of HGM are used for silver coating.

The addition of Ag@HGM has enhanced total SE from 27.4 to 34.6 dB.

EM wave gets scattered, experiences internal reflections view SCF and Ag@HGM.

Additionally, enhancement of thermal and mechanical properties is observed.
Highly lubricating and wear‐resistant Ti3C2Tx@SiO2/PI composites based on the action of transfer film at the friction surface
Authors: Chen Guojing , Ma Zhenqian , Jiang Shuai , Wang Xinrui , Huang Yufei , Chai Chunpeng
Published: February 2024

Polyimide (PI) is a special engineering plastic, widely involved in mechanical components, instruments, and petrochemicals. However, single PI material is inevitably subject to wear and tear in practice, which leads to weakened material properties. In this work, Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 was prepared to enhance the wear resistance and lubrication properties of PI by intercalating SiO2 into the interlayer of Ti3C2Tx sheets. Ti3C2Tx@SiO2/PI composites were fabricated in two steps to test the tribological performances. SiO2 particles change the form of interfacial friction from sliding to rolling, thus relieving direct friction between material and steel ball. So, the composites have a minimum COF (COF = 0.33) when the content of Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 is 0.80 wt%. Moreover, the average value of wear rate was 0.24 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m) when Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 content was 1.60 wt%, which was 91.0% lower compared to the PI matrix. During the friction process, the abrasive chips of the material migrate to the surface of the steel ball to form a transfer film, which protects the material and thus reduces the wear rate. Therefore, the hybrids Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 are effective and important wear‐resistant agents and solid lubricants to improve the wear resistance and lubricity of PI or other polymer materials.

Highlights

SiO2 insert Ti3C2Tx is a key factor in changing sliding friction into rolling friction, effectively reducing the COF.

The average wear rate was 91.0% lower than that of the polyimide matrix when Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 content was 1.60 wt%.

The minimum COF of Ti3C2Tx@SiO2/PI composites reached 0.33 when the content of Ti3C2Tx@SiO2 was 0.80 wt%.

The transfer film effectively reduces further wear of the material during friction.
Kinetics of nanoconfined benzyl methacrylate radical polymerization
Authors: Zhai Chunhao , Koh Yung P. , Vogt Bryan D. , Simon Sindee L.
Published: February 2024

The effect of nanoconfinement on the kinetics of benzyl methacrylate radical polymerization is investigated using differential scanning calorimetry. Controlled pore glass (CPG), ordered mesoporous carbons, and mesoporous silica are used as confinement media with pore sizes from 2 to 8 nm. The initial polymerization rate in CPG and mesoporous silica increases relative to the bulk and increases linearly with reciprocal pore size; whereas, the rate in the carbon mesopores decreases linearly with reciprocal pore size; the changes are consistent with the rate being related to the ratio of the pore surface area to pore volume. Induction times are longer for nanoconfined polymerizations, and in the case of CPG and carbon mesopores, autoacceleration occurs earlier, presumably due to the limited diffusivity and lower termination rates for the confined polymer chains. The molecular weight of the polymer synthesized in the nanopores is generally higher than that obtained in the bulk except at the lowest temperatures investigated. The equilibrium conversion under nanoconfinement decreases with decreasing temperature and with confinement size, exhibiting what appears to be a floor temperature at low temperatures.
A case study: Assessing the efficacy of the revised dosage regimen via prediction model for recurrent event rate using biomarker data
Authors: Youn Ahrim , Chi Jiarui , Cui Yue , Quan Hui
Published: February 2024

In recently conducted phase III trials in a rare disease area, patients received monthly treatment at a high dose of the drug, which targets to lower a specific biomarker level, closely associated with the efficacy endpoint, to around 10% across patients. Although this high dose demonstrated strong efficacy, treatments were withheld due to the reports of serious adverse events. Dosing in these studies were later resumed at a reduced dosage which targets to lower the biomarker level to 15%–35% across patients. Two questions arose after this disruption. The first is whether the efficacy of this revised regimen as measured by the reduction in annualized event rate is adequate to support the continuation of the development and the second is whether the potential bias due to the loss of patients during this dosing gap process can be gauged. To address these questions, we built a prediction model that quantitatively characterizes biomarker vs. endpoint relationship and predicts efficacy at the 15%–35% range of the biomarker level using the available data from the original high dose. This model predicts favorable event rate in the target biomarker level and shows that the bias due to the loss of patients is limited. These results support the continued development of the revised regimen, however, given the limitation of the data available, this prediction is planned to be validated further when data under the revised regimen become available.
Are cities ready for low‐carbon inclusive strategies? Household energy management under heterogeneous socioeconomic conditions
Authors: Verma Pramit , Chodkowska‐Miszczuk Justyna , Raghubanshi Akhilesh Singh
Published: February 2024

Energy is an indispensable resource for economic development and the well‐being of society. Due to heterogeneity in socioeconomic conditions, households consume direct energy and produce emissions differently. Analysing energy emissions from heterogeneous socioeconomic groups helps to identify foci for intervention and create policies for sustainable cities. This study aimed to measure household emissions in Varanasi city and investigate the impact of heterogeneous socioeconomic variables on household emissions. Varanasi represents a million‐plus rapidly urbanising city. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and non‐parametric regression revealed the relationship between end‐use energy emissions and socioeconomic variables for five income classes. Biomass‐based fuels constituted a significant proportion of energy (about 16%–20%) in low‐ to middle‐income groups, however, electricity consumption dominated in upper‐middle‐ and high‐income groups. A fuel‐stacking pattern was found, particularly in cooking activities. LPG was critical to replace solid biomass‐based fuels. To meet the present needs and absorb the impact of a growing population, energy policies and infrastructure should focus on accessibility and efficiency. An inclusive low‐carbon policy with a specialised focus on socioeconomic differences is needed for energy sustainability.
Plant protein flavor chemistry fundamentals and techniques to mitigate undesirable flavors
Authors: Vatansever Serap , Chen Bingcan , Hall Clifford
Published: February 2024

Many plant protein ingredients have unpleasant flavor (e.g., green, beany, bitterness) characteristics. Isolation of the protein fraction will reduce the intensity of the undesirable flavors but in most cases the flavor issue is not eliminated. The objective of this review is to provide information about undesirable flavors associated with plant proteins and approaches to mitigate these flavors. The focus of the review will be on flavor associated with plant proteins from pulses, soybean, and oilseeds (e.g., hempseed, flaxseed). While other plant proteins exist, they will not be covered extensively in this limited review. The undesirable flavors are defined as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and non‐volatile organic compounds (non‐VOCs). Example VOCs include aldehydes, ketones, and isobutyl pyrazines whereas saponins, bitter peptides, and phenolics are among the most common non‐VOCs. The raw material used as the source for the protein dictates the undesirable flavors remaining in the protein ingredient. The intensity of the binding of the VOCs and non‐VOCs to protein serves as the basis for the detection and difficulty in removing these compounds from the protein. A discussion about flavor binding and processing methods to mitigate unwanted flavors in protein ingredients will be provided. Methods presented will focus on extraction and thermal treatment. Although flavor masking is an approach to minimize undesirable, this topic will not be covered. Understanding the compounds responsible for the flavor issues and methods to minimize their impacts on sensory characteristic of protein ingredients can provide manufacturers with solutions to addressing flavor issues inherent to plant proteins.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum-Like Lesions in the Setting of IgA Cutaneous Vasculitis: Favourable Response to Adalimumab
Authors: Sugino Hitomi , Kawahara Hikaru , Yamamoto Kayo , Okada Etsuko , Sawada Yu
Published: February 2024

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare inflammatory skin disease classified within the group of neutrophilic dermatoses, and clinically characterised by painful, rapidly evolving cutaneous ulcers with undermined, irregular, erythematous-violaceous edges. Underlying diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, haematopoietic malignancy, and aortitis syndrome. However, there was a limited number of cases of concomitant pyoderma gangrenosum and IgA vasculitis. Herein, we report a case presenting persistent large skin wounds as a diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum in the setting of IgA cutaneous vasculitis, which was successfully treated by a TNF-α inhibitor. A 67-year-old obese female presented palpable purpura on her lower extremities. A skin biopsy taken from the purpuric eruption showed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with IgA and C3 depositions in the vessel walls of the upper dermis, leading to the diagnosis of IgA vasculitis. Small skin ulcers rapidly expanded in several days, eventually developing perforating skin ulcers with irregular erythematous and violaceous edges on both lower extremities following the tapered oral prednisolone at a dose of 25 mg per day. Based on the clinical manifestation and histological analysis, we diagnosed her skin wound as pyoderma gangrenosum. After the adalimumab administration, the spreading ulceration was dampened, leading to the acceleration of wound epithelialisation.
High‐Index NiO Particle Synthesis in Alkali Chloride Salts: Nonclassical Crystallization Pathways and Thermally‐Induced Surface Restructuring
Authors: Susman Mariano D. , Pham Hien N. , West David , Chinta Sivadinarayana , Datye Abhaya K. , Rimer Jeffrey D.
Published: February 2024

The formation mechanism(s) of high‐index facets in metal oxides is not widely understood but remains a topic of interest owing to the challenges of stabilizing high‐energy surfaces. These metal oxide crystal surfaces are expected to provide unique physicochemical characteristics; therefore, understanding crystallization pathways may enable the rational design of materials with controlled properties. Here the crystallization of NiO via thermal decomposition of a nickel source in excess of alkali chlorides is examined, focusing on KCl, which produces trapezohedral NiO (311) particles that are difficult to achieve through alternative methods. Trapezohedral NiO crystals are confirmed to grow via a molten eutectic where NiO nucleation is followed by nonclassical crystallization through processes resembling colloidal assembly. Aggregates comprised of NiO nanocrystals form mesostructures that ripen with heating time and exhibit fewer grain boundaries as they transition into single‐crystalline particles. At temperatures higher than those of NiO crystallization, there is a restructuring of (311) facets into microfacets exposing (111) and (100) surfaces. These findings illustrate the complex crystallization processes taking place during molten salt synthesis. The ability to generate metal oxide particles with high‐index facets has the potential to be a more generalized approach to unlock the physicochemical properties of materials for diverse applications.
Metasurface Glass for Wireless Communication and Energy Saving
Authors: Zheng Jiangshan , Zheng Huaibin , Pang Yongqiang , Qu Bingyue , Xu Zhuo
Published: February 2024

With the growing global energy demand and environmental issues, energy saving technologies are becoming increasingly important in the building sector. Conventional windows lack energy saving and thermal insulation capabilities, while Low emissivity glass (Low‐e glass) attenuates mobile communication signals while reflecting infrared. Therefore, this paper aims to design a type of windows for the “Sub 6GHz” frequency band of 5G. These windows combine the inherent transparency of traditional glass windows with the energy saving properties of Low‐e glass, while also ensuring optimal communication performance within the 5G (Sub 6G) band. The metasurface glass is fabricated and subjected to simulation‐guided experiments to evaluate their reliability and practicality. The metasurface glass is rigorously assessed in terms of microwave transmission performance, infrared low emissivity performance, and energy saving and thermal insulation capabilities.
Verbesserte Restlebensdauerberechnung von stählernen Eisenbahnbrücken – Grundsatzstudie zur Eignung von Schadensäquivalenzfaktoren λ
Authors: Unterweger Harald , Derler Christoph
Published: February 2024

Dieser Beitrag widmet sich dem Konzept der Schadensäquivalenzfaktoren
zur Beurteilung der Restlebensdauer von stählernen Eisenbahnbrücken, wie dies auch in den einschlägigen nationalen Richtlinien für Bestandstragwerke verankert ist. Betrachtet wird hierbei jedoch nicht die Eignung von länderspezifisch festgelegten Verkehrsmischungen, sondern die Auswirkungen der implizit getroffenen Rechenannahmen dieses Konzepts auf die Prognoseergebnisse der Ermüdungsschädigung und damit in weiterer Folge auf die Restlebensdauer von Bestandstragwerken. Einerseits wird analysiert, inwiefern die
‐Faktoren – deren Ermittlung stets auf der Einflusslinienform für Biegebeanspruchung eines Einfeldbalkens in Feldmitte basiert – auch bei anderen baupraktischen Einflusslinienformen (z. B. für Bauteile offener Fahrbahnen oder Einzelstäbe von Fachwerkhauptträgern) zutreffende Ergebnisse liefern. Andererseits wird jener Sachverhalt aufgezeigt, dass die tatsächliche Ermüdungsfestigkeit
des Bestandstragwerks, die nicht in die
‐Faktoren mit einfließt bzw. in der Regel höher ist als implizit in den
‐Faktoren angenommen, mitunter zu sehr konservativen Beurteilungsergebnissen führen kann und daher Potenzial zu einer demgegenüber alternativen, verbesserten Restlebensdauerberechnung bietet.
Butterfly Pea Flower Anthocyanin Immobilized pH Sensitive Intelligent Nanocomposite Films of Starch/Chitin with Improved Thermal and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Mary Siji K. , Koshy Rekha Rose , Pillai Prasanth Kumar S. , Reghunadhan Arunima , Pothen Laly A.
Published: February 2024

Thin films with pH sensitivity have been a trendsetter in the current research scenario. Edible films for packaging are comparatively newer ones, where the study uses conventional food materials as a source or precursor to fabricate the films. Starch(S) is one such material that is not much exploited in packaging and pH sensing. Here, the study presents the preparation of a new type of sensitive, intelligent film from starch‐chitin(CHN) composites and adds the anthocyanin pigment extracted from the Butterfly Pea flower (BPE). The combination films are much more sensitive to ammonia and formalin and thus suggested for the detection of adulteration in fish. All the films (S, S/BPE, S/CHN, and S/BPE/CHN) are fabricated by the solution casting method. The addition of 10 wt% CHN results in the enhancement of the thermal and mechanical properties of pH indicator films. Owing to the presence of anthocyanin pigment, the films can change their color changes in pH. The developed starch‐based intelligent films display wide color differences from bright red to green over the 1–12 pH range, which is discriminated by the naked eye.
Clinical and diagnostic features of a paraprostatic cyst of a true uterus masculinus in a male cat presented with tenesmus
Authors: Doeven Laura , Yaffy Dylan , Jones Coleen , Rossanese Matteo
Published: February 2024

A 5‐year 11‐month‐old, male, neutered, Bengal cross cat was examined for a 5‐week history of tenesmus. Positive contrast urethrocystography and computed tomography scan demonstrated a fluid‐filled structure occupying the pelvic canal. Midline coeliotomy and symphysiotomy revealed a large cystic structure dorsal to the urethra in the area of the prostate. This structure was communicating with the urethra via a duct and both vas deferens were inserting in it. The duct was ligated and partial ablation and omentalisation of the structure was performed. Histopathological examination identified features consistent with a true uterus masculinus. Bacteriology of the cystic fluid cultured Escherichia coli and Bacteroides fragilis. The cat recovered uneventfully and with no ongoing clinical issues.
Association between fibrosis around the tumor and postoperative infectious complication in patients with esophageal cancer who underwent preoperative therapy
Authors: Gakuhara Atsushi , Yamashita Kotaro , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Adachi Kei , Momose Kota , Saito Takuro , Tanaka Koji , Makino Tomoki , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Kurokawa Yukinori , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: February 2024

Background

Multidisciplinary treatment combining chemotherapy, chemo radiation therapy (CRT), and surgery has been utilized for advanced esophageal cancer. However, preoperative treatment could cause postoperative inflammation and complications. We hypothesized that fibrosis surrounding tumor tissue caused by preoperative treatment could induce postoperative systemic inflammation and influence postoperative complications.

Methods

Surgical specimens from patients with thoracic esophageal cancer who underwent preoperative CRT (38 cases) or chemotherapy (77 cases) and those who received no preoperative treatment (49 cases) were evaluated to measure the fibrotic area adjacent to the tumor (10 mm from the tumor edge) by applying Azan staining. Pleural effusion and peripheral blood serum interleukin‐6 levels were analyzed to evaluate local and systemic postoperative inflammation in 37 patients.

Results

The fibrotic areas around the tumors were significantly larger in patients who underwent preoperative CRT than in patients who underwent chemotherapy (p < 0.001) or who had received no preoperative therapy (p < 0.001). Infectious complications were higher in patients who underwent preoperative CRT than chemotherapy (p = 0.047) or surgery alone (p < 0.001). The patients with larger fibrotic areas had more infectious complications (p = 0.028). Multivariate analysis showed that both a large fibrotic area and preoperative CRT were correlated with infectious complications, but not significantly. Pleural effusion interleukin‐6 was significantly higher in patients who underwent preoperative CRT than in patients who received no preoperative therapy (p = 0.013).

Conclusions

A large fibrotic peritumoral esophageal tissue area after preoperative treatment could cause postoperative inflammatory response and infectious complications.
Micropore structure and fractal characteristics of shale in Midwest China
Authors: Shen Rui , Zhang Xiaoyi , Yang Hang , Ren Huichen , Guo Hekun , Zhou Hongtao
Published: February 2024

To further clarify the optimal target layer in the horizontal section of Wufeng–Longmaxi shale, we selected 126 shale samples from the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formations (Long111 to Long114 and Long12 submember) as the primary study objects from the perspective of the microscopic pore structure. We conducted this experimental study on the pore structure of shale samples according to various methods, including low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and carbon dioxide adsorption experiments, atomic force microscopy, and nano-computed tomography scanning. We calculated the fractal dimensions of samples at different horizons through the study of the characteristics of adsorption–desorption isotherms using the Frenkel–Halsey–Hill model. These results indicated that the shale samples had a complex pore structure (with a higher fractal dimension). The fractal dimensions were positively correlated with the specific surface area and total organic carbon content of the shale samples, weakly positively correlated with the micropore pore volume, and negatively correlated with the average pore radius. The samples from the Wufeng Formation and the Long111 and Long112 submembers had large fractal dimensions, whereas the samples from Long12 had the smallest fractal dimension. The pores of the shale samples generally were type H2/3, which were characterized by wedge, tabular, and ink-bottle shapes. Only three H3-type pore samples corresponded to the three smallest fractal dimension values. The Wufeng Formation’s Long 111 and Long 112 layers should be the target layers for horizontal wells. In this study, we identified the optimal target layer of the horizontal shale profile of Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation, which holds great significance for shale oil and gas development in this formation.