bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safe and Cost Effective Use of Alteplase for the Clearance of Occluded Central Venous Access Devices
Authors: Timoney J. P. , Malkin M. G. , Leone D. M. , Groeger J. S. , Heaney M. L. , Keefe D. L. , Klang M. , Lucarelli C. D. , Muller R. J. , Eng S. L. , Connor M. , Small T. N. , Brown A. E. , Saltz L. B.
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: To determine whether cryopreserved solutions of the thrombolytic agent alteplase could be used as a safe, effective, and economically reasonable alternative to urokinase in patients presenting with occluded central venous access devices (CVADs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Alteplase has been reported as an efficacious alternative to urokinase for treatment of occluded CVADs. However, the practicality of using alteplase as the thrombolytic of choice for this indication remained conjectural. To make this approach economically feasible, alteplase was diluted to 1 mg/mL and 2.5-mL aliquots were stored at −20°C until use. A need to confirm that the cryopreserving and thawing of the reconstituted solution did not compromise the safety and efficacy reported from prior trials was recognized. A quality assessment initiative was undertaken to concurrently monitor the safety and efficacy of this approach. Patients presenting with occluded CVADs received a sufficient volume of the thawed alteplase solution to fill the occluded catheter(s). Data, including efficacy, adverse reactions, dwell time, and catheter type, were collected over a 5-month period.

RESULTS: One hundred twenty-one patients accounting for 168 attempted clearances were assessable for safety and efficacy. One hundred thirty-six (81%) of the 168 catheter clearance attempts resulted in successful catheter clearance (95% confidence interval, 74% to 86%). No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION: Cryopreserved 1-mg/mL aliquots of alteplase are safe and effective in the clearance of occluded CVADs when stored at −20°C for 30 days. The ability to cryopreserve alteplase aliquots makes it an economically reasonable alternative to urokinase in the setting of CVAD occlusion.
Bodenkunde und Bodenbearbeitung in der griechisch‐römischen Antike
Authors: Preiser-Kapeller Johannes
Published: October 2024

Traditionell wird der Ursprung der modernen Bodenkunde in Europa in den Überlegungen zum Boden bei Autoren der „klassischen“ griechisch‐römischen Antike gesucht. Im Folgenden wird zuerst dieser Bestand an schriftlichen Quellen in griechischer und lateinischer Sprache gesichtet. Dann werden deren Angaben zur Charakterisierung und Bearbeitung von Böden mit der Praxis kontrastiert, soweit sie sich aus Untersuchungen zur vorindustriellen Landwirtschaft im Mittelmeerraum und archäologischen und insbesondere aus neueren geoarchäologischen Befunden zur antiken Landwirtschaft rekonstruieren lässt. Ein besonderes Augenmerk gilt dem immer noch verbreiteten Narrativ einer in der Antike beginnenden und allgemeinen Degradierung der Böden und Landschaft des Mittelmeerraums aufgrund vermeintlicher Über‐ oder Fehlnutzung, das sich aufgrund der neueren Erkenntnisse der Forschung nicht mehr aufrechterhalten lässt.
DCV2I$\text{DCV}^2\text{I}$: Leveraging deep vision models to support geographers' visual interpretation in dune segmentation
Authors: Lu Anqi , Wu Zifeng , Jiang Zheng , Wang Wei , Hasi Eerdun , Wang Yi
Published: October 2024

Visual interpretation is extremely important in human geography as the primary technique for geographers to use photograph data in identifying, classifying, and quantifying geographic and topological objects or regions. However, it is also time‐consuming and requires overwhelming manual effort from professional geographers. This paper describes our interdisciplinary team's efforts in integrating computer vision models with geographers' visual image interpretation process to reduce their workload in interpreting images. Focusing on the dune segmentation task, we proposed an approach called featuring a deep dune segmentation model to identify dunes and label their ranges in an automated way. By developing a tool to connect our model with ArcGIS—one of the most popular workbenches for visual interpretation, geographers can further refine the automatically generated dune segmentation on images without learning any CV or deep learning techniques. Our approach thus realized a noninvasive change to geographers' visual interpretation routines, reducing their manual efforts while incurring minimal interruptions to their work routines and tools they are familiar with. Deployment with a leading Chinese geography research institution demonstrated the potential of in supporting geographers in researching and solving drylands desertification.
Either/or equals death!
Authors: Kent Rob
Published: October 2024

I support all options being made available and allowing individuals to choose their path. The whole approach should be about choice – harm reduction, treatment, and self‐help.
Aptamer‐Directed Bidirectional Modulation of Vascular Niches for Promoted Regeneration of Segmental Trachea Defect
Authors: Cao Runfeng , Chen Zhenying , Ye Qing , Sun Weiyan , Lin Weikang , Tang Hai , Yang Xingseng , Liang Junhao , Chen Yi , Wang Lei , Bai Qingfeng , Pan Ziying , Hu Yulong , Xie Dong , Zhao Deping , Hu Yong , Chen Chang
Published: October 2024

The simultaneous regeneration of avascular cartilage ring and vascular connective tissue in one biomimetic tracheal substitute has remained a remarkable challenge in the clinical breakthrough of tissue‐engineered trachea for repairing segmental trachea defect. Herein, an unprecedented strategy based on bidirectional modulation of vascular niches is developed through tailoring the tissue‐specific scaffolds with programmable functional nucleic acids. Namely, the antiangiogenic characteristic of cartilage‐specific scaffold enables development of an avascular niche, and thereby facilitating the regeneration of biomimetic cartilage. Conversely, the angiogenic capability of connective tissue‐specific scaffold fosters the creation of a vascular niche, and thus enhancing the regeneration of biomimetic connective tissue. Importantly, the steadily immobilized nucleic acids in specific scaffolds enable the seamless integration of angiogenic and antiangiogenic functions without mutual interference. As such, biomimetic tracheas are successfully engineered with the vascular connective tissue scattering between avascular cartilage rings using the assembly of tissue‐specific scaffolds. The results from in vivo trachea regeneration and the in situ trachea reconstruction demonstrate the satisfactory tissue‐specific regeneration of (a)vascular niches along with optimal structural, mechanical, and physiological features. This study represents the first demonstration of trachea regeneration promoted by modulation of tissue‐specific vascular niches, which adds an additional dimension for the clinical trachea reconstruction.
Ranking Magnetic Colloid Performance for Magnetic Particle Imaging and Magnetic Particle Hyperthermia
Authors: Carlton Hayden , Salimi Marzieh , Arepally Nageshwar , Bentolila Gabriela , Sharma Anirudh , Bibic Adnan , Newgren Matt , Goodwill Patrick , Attaluri Anilchandra , Korangath Preethi , Bulte Jeff W.M. , Ivkov Robert
Published: October 2024

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is an emerging modality that can address longstanding technological challenges encountered with magnetic particle hyperthermia (MPH) cancer therapy. MPI is a tracer technology compatible with MPH for which magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) provide signal for MPI and heat for MPH. Identifying whether a specific MNP formulation is suitable for both modalities is essential for clinical implementation. Current models predict that functional requirements of each modality impose conflicting demands on nanoparticle magnetic properties. This objective here is to develop a measurement and ranking scheme based on end‐use performance to streamline evaluation of candidate MNP formulations. The measured MPI point‐spread function (PSF) and specific loss power (SLP) is combined to generate a single numerical value for comparison on a relative ranking scale, or figure of merit (FoM). 12 aqueous iron‐containing formulations are evaluated, including FDA‐approved (parenteral) iron‐containing colloids. MNPs with high (Synomag‐D70: 123.4), medium (Synomag‐D50: 63.2), and low (NanoXact: 0.147) FoM values are selected for in vivo validation of the selection scheme in subcutaneous 4T1 tumors. Results demonstrate that the proposed ranking accurately assessed the relative performance of MNPs for MPI and MPH. Data demonstrated that image quality and tumor temperature rise increased with FoM ranking, validating predictions. It isshown that the MPI signal correlated with MNP concentration in tissue. Computational heat transfer models anchored on tumor MPI data harmonized with experimental results to within an average of 2 °C when MNP content estimated from MPI data is included. Computational studies emphasized the importance of post‐injection MNP quantitation and MPI spatial resolution.
Generation of an Ultra‐Long Transverse Optical Needle Focus Using a Monolayer MoS2 Based Metalens
Authors: Li Zhonglin , Gao Kangyu , Wang Yingying , Bie Ruitong , Yang Dongliang , Yu Tianze , Gao Renxi , Liu Wenjun , Zhong Bo , Sun Linfeng
Published: October 2024

Line‐scan mode enables rapid and high‐throughput imaging through the development of an appropriate optical transverse needle focus. Diffraction gratings allow the generation of a line focus, but they face the challenge of low light power utilization due to multiple high‐order diffractions. In addition, designing the focus requires the selection of functional materials. Atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides with high dielectric constants provide significant phase shifts to incident light by utilizing phase singularity at zero reflection. However, at zero reflection, no light power is available for utilization, necessitating a balance between phase and amplitude modulation. In this work, the aforementioned issues are addressed by designing a monolayer MoS2 based Fresnel strip metalens. An optical needle primary focus with a transverse length of 40 µm (≈80 λ, the longest value reported to date), a sub‐diffraction‐limited lateral spot, and a broad range of working wavelengths are achieved using the metalens. The metalens not only concentrate light power in the primary diffraction order by overcoming the constraint of momentum conservation but also maintains a constant phase modulation between distinct strips. The novel method for optical manipulation present here holds great promise for applications in biology, oncology, nanofabrication, energy harvesting, and optical information processing.
Pharmacophore‐Based Modeling, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Quinazoline/Quinoline Derivatives: Discovery of EGFR Inhibitors with Low Nanomolar Activity
Authors: Evren Asaf Evrim , Sağlik Özkan Begüm Nurpelin , Akalin‐Çiftçi Gülşen , Yurttaş Leyla
Published: October 2024

The main aim of this study is to obtain novel molecules that are more selective on cancer cells compared to healthy cells. For this purpose, four hit molecules are identified using 11 new pharmacophore hypotheses followed by scanning the in‐house database. Then, based on those hit molecules, the synthesis and analysis of four different series (three quinazolines and one quinoline series) are carried out, and their anticancer activity is investigated. Finally, by using molecular docking and dynamics simulation methods, binding mode and structure–activity relationship are examined. Among the quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one derivatives, those containing halogen atom are found to be potentially effective, while the best epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibition and apoptosis induction are displayed by compounds containing 4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole moiety. Notably, four compounds (4h, 8d, 8l, and 8m) show EGFR inhibition activity at 5.298 ± 0.164, 5.46 ± 0.221, 2.670 ± 0.124, and 2.191 ± 0.908 × 10−9 m, their inhibitory activity is similar to or stronger than gefitinib (IC50: 4.169 ± 0.156 × 10−9 m). In addition, EGFR inhibitor concentration of 4g, 8e, and 8o is determined as 27588 ± 6.945, 52.41 ± 2.312, and 33657 ± 8.512 × 10−9 m. These findings indicate that generated pharmacophore hypotheses successfully determine new EGFR inhibitors. In conclusion, four novel compounds, more active than gefitinib with fewer side effects, are reached, and the structure–activity relationships are clarified.
Detachable DNA Assembly Module to Dissect Tumor Cells Heterogeneity via RNA Pinpoint Screening
Authors: Liu Wei , Liao Ni , Lei Yanmei , Liang Wenbin , Yang Xia , Yuan Ruo , Yang Chaoyong , Zhuo Ying
Published: October 2024

Differential RNA expression is becoming increasingly valuable in evaluating tumor heterogeneity for a better understanding of malignant tumors and guiding personalized therapy. However, traditional techniques for analyzing cellular RNA are mainly focused on determining the absolute level of RNA, which may lead to inaccuracies in understanding tumor heterogeneity, primarily due to i) the subtle differences in certain RNA types that have similar total concentrations and ii) the existence of variations in RNA expression across different samples. Herein, a detachable DNA assembly module is proposed that is capable not only of quantifying the expression level of target RNA but also of innovatively evaluating its proportion within its RNA family population through a sequential assembly and disassembly route. Using the let‐7 family as an experimental model, a significant difference is discovered in let‐7a proportion between normal mammary epithelial cells and breast cancer cells, a characteristic that is often missed in bulk analysis of traditional techniques. By combining concentration and proportion information, the detachable DNA assembly module demonstrates markedly higher efficiency in discerning among various types of cells compared to traditional techniques. This innovative assembly module is expected to offer a new perspective to highlight tumor heterogeneity and guide personalized therapy.
A Cluster‐Based Deep Learning Model Perceiving Series Correlation for Accurate Prediction of Phonon Spectrum
Authors: Liang Chao , Rouzhahong Yilimiranmu , Yao Shunwei , Liang Junhao , Yu Chunlin , Wang Biao , Li Huashan
Published: October 2024

The spectral properties are the most prevalent continuous representation for characterizing transport phenomena and excitation responses, yet their accurate predictions remain a challenge due to the inability to perceive series correlations by existing machine learning (ML) models. Herein, a ML model named cluster‐based series graph networks (CSGN) is developed based on the dynamical theory of crystal lattices to predict phonon density of states (PDOS) spectrum for crystal materials. The multiple atomic cluster representation is constructed to capture the diverse vibration modes, while the mixture Gaussian process and dynamic time warping mechanism are compiled to project from clusters to PDOS spectrum. Accurate predictions of complicated spectra with multiple or overlapping peaks are achieved. The high performance of CSGN model can be attributed to the pertinent feature extraction and the appropriate similarity evaluation, which enable the natural perception of structure‐property relation and intrinsic series correlations as confirmed in the predictive results. The transferable and interpretable CSGN model advances ML predictions of spectral properties and reveals the potential of designing ML methods based on physical mechanisms.
Trait component analysis of lettuce in response to daily light integrals at two growth stages
Authors: Sheikhi Hossein , Delshad Mojtaba , Aliniaeifard Sasan , Babalar Mesbah , Nasiri Rasool , Shojaei Seyed Habib , Haghbeen Kamahldin
Published: October 2024

Little is known about the relative impact of lighting duration and light intensity on lettuce production, as well as whether daily light integrals (DLIs) play a significant role during different plant growth stages. Four DLIs were tested: 8.64, 11.52, 12.96, and 17.28 mol m−2 day−1 as supplemental lighting, which were obtained from a combination of supplemental light intensities at 200 and 300 µmol m−2 day−1 for 12 and 16 h. Sunlight was used as control. A direct correlation was observed between DLIs and yield, total fresh weight, and total dry weight. Under supplemental lighting, relative growth rate (RGR) increased due to an increase in net assimilation rate (NAR) rather than in leaf area ratio (LAR). Plants in the seedling stage were more sensitive to an elevation in DLI than in the head stage. This was confirmed by a greater increase in NAR compared to their corresponding control under the same DLI. Increasing DLI also improved lettuce quality via reducing nitrate and increasing protein content. Higher DLIs (12.96 and 17.28 mol m−2 day−1) led to a decrease in maximum quantum yield of photosystem II and an increase in performance index. In conclusion, manipulating RGR through NAR adjustments proved to be more effective than changes in LAR, and adjusting supplemental DLI at each stage was necessary to achieve a larger NAR and, consequently, a larger RGR.
Intraoperative redosing of antibiotics for prevention of surgical site infections: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hanai Yuki , Hirai Jun , Kobayashi Masahiro , Matsuo Kazuhiro , Kouzu Keita , Shinkawa Hiroji , Shinji Seiichi , Kobayashi Motomu , Kitagawa Yuichi , Yamashita Chizuru , Mohri Yasuhiko , Nobuhara Hiroshi , Suzuki Katsunori , Shimizu Junzo , Uchino Motoi , Haji Seiji , Yoshida Masahiro , Mizuguchi Toru , Mayumi Toshihiko , Kitagawa Yuko , Ohge Hiroki
Published: October 2024

Background

Appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis is essential for preventing surgical site infections (SSI); however, the clinical benefit of intraoperative redosing remains unclear and controversial owing to insufficient reliable evidence. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotic redosing in lengthy surgical procedures.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Ichushi‐Web databases for articles published until 31 December, 2023. We compared the incidence of SSI between patients receiving and not receiving intraoperative redosing of antibiotics in surgeries lasting ≥3 h. Subgroup analyses were conducted across study characteristics. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the Mantel–Haenszel random effects model. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS‐I.

Results

Overall, seven observational studies involving 4,671 patients were included. Intraoperative antibiotic redosing significantly reduced the risk of SSI compared with non‐redosing (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45–0.94, p = 0.02). Subgroup analyses showed that intraoperative redosing decreased SSI risk in studies with a minimum 4‐h operative time, no postoperative antibiotic continuation, and a moderate risk of bias. However, the statistical heterogeneity of the analyses was high among the studies.

Conclusions

Intraoperative redosing with prophylactic antibiotics during lengthy surgeries may be associated with a lower risk of SSI than non‐redosing. Therefore, we recommend intraoperative redosing for surgeries lasting beyond 3–4 h to reduce the risk of infection. Further research is required to clarify the optimal redosing interval, which should be prioritized in future studies.
Dual Ion Co‐Insertion Induced Spontaneous and Reversible Phase Conversion Chemistry for Unprecedented Zn2+ Storage
Authors: Zhang Xikun , Zhang Junwei , Yu Haoxiang , Madanu Thomas L. , Xia Maoting , Xing Pengcheng , Vlad Alexandru , Shu Jie , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: October 2024

Prussian blue analogues are highly promising electrode materials due to their versatile electrochemical activity and low cost. However, they often suffer from severe structural damage caused by the Jahn–Teller distortion and dissolution of high‐spin outer metal ions, resulting in poor cycle life. Material modification and electrolyte regulation have been the common approaches to address this issue, albeit with very limited success. We report here a novel and efficient strategy to preserve structural stability by co‐inserting Co2+ and Zn2+ ions in KCo[Fe(CN)6]. This co‐insertion induced a spontaneous and reversible phase conversion by the replacement of low‐spin inner ion (Fe3+), which efficiently relieves structural damage caused by Jahn–Teller distortion and metal‐ion dissolution, leading to an outstanding Zn2+ storage capacity and an exceptional improvement of cycle life with a capacity retention of 97.7 % over 4400 cycles at 40 C. We also demonstrated the enhancement of co‐intercalation on ion migration using a combined approach of experimental and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This work provides an important progress to solve the cycle stability of Prussian blue analogues towards their practical application as electrode materials for aqueous batteries.
A Critical View on the Use of DNA Hydrogels in Cell‐Free Protein Synthesis
Authors: Moench Svenja , Lemke Phillip , Hansen Abbey , Bickmann Christoph , Peng Martin , Rabe Kersten S. , Domínguez Carmen M. , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: October 2024

Numerous studies have reported in the past that the use of protein‐encoding DNA hydrogels as templates for cell‐free protein synthesis (CFPS) leads to better yields than the use of conventional templates such as plasmids or PCR fragments. Systematic investigation of different types of bulk materials from pure DNA hydrogels and DNA hydrogel composites using a commercially available CFPS kit showed no evidence of improved expression efficiency. However, protein‐coding DNA hydrogels were advantageously used in microfluidic reactors as immobilized templates for repetitive protein production, suggesting that DNA‐based materials offer potential for future developments in high‐throughput profiling or rapid in situ characterization of proteins.
Dynamically Confined Active Silver Nanoclusters with Ultrawide Operating Temperature Window in CO oxidation
Authors: Li Rongtan , Mu Rentao , Li Kun , Fan Yamei , Liu Conghui , Ning Yanxiao , Li Mingrun , Fu Qiang , Bao Xinhe
Published: October 2024

Supported metal nanoclusters are often highly active in many catalytic reactions but less stable particularly under harsh reaction conditions. Here, we demonstrate that this activity‐stability trade‐off can be efficiently broken through rational design of surrounding microenvironment of the supported nanocatalyst including gas adsorbate overlayer and underneath support surface chemistry. Our studies reveal that chemisorbed oxygen species on Ag surface and surface hydroxyl groups on oxide support, which are dynamically consumed during reaction but sustained by reaction environment (O2 and H2O vapor), drive spontaneous redispersion of Ag particles and stabilization of highly active Ag nanoclusters. Such a dynamic confinement effect from gas‐catalyst‐support interaction enables the Ag nanoclusters to exhibit complete catalytic oxidation of CO over a wide temperature window of 25‐500 °C under dry conditions and 200‐800 °C under wet conditions as well as remarkable stability at 300 °C over 1000 h.
Hydroxyl Radical Mediated Heterogeneous Photocatalytic Baeyer–Villiger Oxidation over Covalent Triazine/Heptazine‐Based Frameworks
Authors: Tang Juntao , Jiang Zhiwei , Gao Zhu , Xie Qiujian , Gu Shuai , Chen Anqi , Yuan Jiayin , Li Wen , Tang Ruiren , Yu Guipeng
Published: October 2024

The Baeyer–Villiger (B–V) oxidation of ketones to the corresponding lactones/esters is a classic and essential reaction in the chemical industry. However, this oxidation process has not yet been achieved in ambient conditions with the aid of oxygen and heterogeneous photocatalysts. In this study, we developed an organic photocatalytic system using covalent triazine/heptazine‐based frameworks (CTF‐TB/CHF‐TB) to enable the B–V oxidation reaction under mild conditions through a cascade reaction pathway. Experimental data and theoretical calculations showed that heptazine/triazine units can “chelate” and decompose the in situ generated H2O2 into hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH). Compared to conventional methods that primarily involve metal‐activated benzaldehyde at elevated temperatures (e.g., 60 °C), the ⋅OH generated in our study can readily cleave the C−H bond of benzaldehyde, forming an active intermediate that drives subsequent sequential processes: O2→H2O2→⋅OH→Ph‐CO⋅→Ph‐COOO⋅. By employing this photocatalytic process, a yield of 91 % and a selectivity of over 99 % were obtained in the oxidation of cyclohexanone to caprolactone at room temperature. This performance is comparable to the state‐of‐the‐art catalysts, and our CHF‐TB catalyst demonstrates impressive reusability, maintaining a high yield after 5 consecutive runs. This work presents a straightforward approach for C−H cleavage by organocatalysts to produce ϵ‐caprolactone in a mild manner by B–V oxidation.
Metabolic Syndrome, Adipokines, and Response to Advanced Therapies in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Baker Joshua F. , Reed George , Mikuls Ted R. , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Pappas Dimitrios A. , Charles‐Schoeman Christina , Guma Monica , Harrold Leslie R. , Curtis Jeffrey R. , Kremer Joel M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

We determined if metabolic syndrome, its components, and adipokines (adiponectin, leptin, and fibroblast growth factor‐21) were associated with response to advanced therapies among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

This study included participants with RA initiating either tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) or non‐TNFi biologic therapies from the Comparative Effectiveness Registry to study Therapies for Arthritis and Inflammatory Conditions (CERTAIN) cohort within the CorEvitas registry. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III definition. Adipokines were assessed on stored samples from a subsample of responders and nonresponders (n = 200). The primary outcome was the achievement of a change as large as the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) at 6 months.

Results

Among 2,368 participants, 687 (29%) had metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome was associated with lower odds of achieving CDAI MCID (odds ratio [OR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56–0.86, P = 0.001) with a dose‐dependent decrease in response rate according to the number of components present. Model fit was superior for metabolic syndrome compared with body mass index. Associations between metabolic syndrome and MCID achievement were similar between patients receiving TNFi (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.49–0.87, P = 0.003) versus non‐TNF therapies (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.55–1.04, P = 0.08 [P for interaction = 0.49]). Adipokines were not associated with MCID achievement.

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome is associated with lower response rates with the initiation of an advanced therapy in RA, with similar effects for both TNFi and non‐TNFi agents. Adipokines were strongly associated with metabolic syndrome but were not associated with clinical response.
Enhancing the production and immobilization of cell‐bound lipase from yeast‐like fungus Magnusiomyces capitatusA4C for sustainable biodiesel production in a packed bed reactor
Authors: Baloch Khurshid Ahmed , Upaichit Apichat , Cheirsilp Benjamas , Fibriana Fidia
Published: October 2024

Magnusiomyces capitatus A4C, a mycelium‐forming and lipase‐producing yeast‐like fungus, was employed in a five‐level factorial design to optimize the collective and interactive influences of carbon, nitrogen and emulsifying sources and their possible effects on cell‐bound lipase (CBL) and cell biomass production. The cell culture of M. capitatus A4C was incubated along with biomass support particles (BSPs) to immobilize the enzyme while anchoring CBL on their surfaces. Among the BSPs tested, CBL immobilized on loofah sponge under optimized conditions showed a substantial hydrolytic activity of 12.7 U mL−1 and a cell‐loading capacity of 0.61 g g−1 of BSPs. Immobilized CBL was applied for biodiesel production via transesterification and esterification. The conversion percentage of triacylglycerides was approximately 100% at 24 h with the addition of water at 1:1 (v/v). The conversion of oleic acid into biodiesel via esterification was 100% at 48 h in the presence of 15% (v/v) isooctane. Further, biodiesel production was scaled up using a packed bed reactor. The batch production of biodiesel in a packed bed reactor through transesterification was 96.2%, with a circulation flow rate of 5.5 mL min−1 for 18 h. On the other hand, oleic acid conversion into biodiesel via esterification was 99.5%, with a circulation flow rate of 5.5 mL min−1 for 24 h. Further investigation revealed that the immobilized biocatalyst exhibited higher stability with esterification (85.3% fatty acid methyl ester) after ten repeated cycles.
Environmental entrepreneurship orientation and duality of goals: The moderating roles of public and private knowledge
Authors: Labella‐Fernández Ana , Martínez‐del‐Río Javier , Vázquez‐Brust Diego A. , Céspedes‐Lorente Jose J.
Published: October 2024

Expanding dynamic capability theory, we propose environmental entrepreneurship orientation (EEO) as a dynamic capability to achieve a duality of goals—the simultaneous and synergistic realization of environmental and economic performance. We conceptualize a moderating effect of a company's knowledge base (public or private) on the relationship between EEO and the duality of goals. We test our hypothesis in Spanish companies by applying partial least squares modeling. We find that: a) EEO relates positively to both environmental and economic performance, b) public knowledge enhances the relation between EEO and environmental performance, and c) private knowledge strengthens the relation between EEO and economic performance. The implication of our findings is that firms need to simultaneously access public and private knowledge to optimize the influence of EEO on attaining this duality of goals.
The Underrepresented Quinolinone Alkaloids in Genera Penicillium and Aspergillus: Structure, Biology, and Biosynthetic Machinery
Authors: Moussa Ashaimaa Y. , Albelbisy Muhammad A. K. , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: October 2024

Quinolone alkaloids are N‐heterocycles with extensive structural diversity, mainly derived from in fungi from anthranilic acid and amino acids as precursors with a wide range of biological activities as antifungal, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and insecticidal activities. The quinolone basic skeleton comprised of either 2‐quinolones or 4‐quinolones generated more than one hundred compounds. Several reviews discussed quinolones; particularly, the fluoroquinolones, yet few studies tackled natural quinolones. Many of these quinolones were not assayed for their antimicrobial potential despite their unique stereospecificity, which can supersede synthetic quinolones if their discovery is coupled with OMICS techniques, biochemical and molecular strategies as heterologous expression to maximize their yield. Herein, we conducted a comprehensive review of the quinolone's family in Aspergillus and Penicillium species, the exclusive producers of quinolones whether they are soil, endophytic or marine derived highlighting their isolation, chemical structures, pharmacological effects, structure activity relationships if any, and biosynthetic machinery. We believe that our initiative will pave the way for further development of natural quinolones as future antimicrobial agents.
Chemical Engineering View on the Silicone Oil Utilization in the Treatment of Retinal Detachment
Authors: Reháčková Monika , Veith Miroslav , Stavárek Petr , Zedniková Maria , Orvalho Sandra , Pěnkavová Věra , Jaklová Natalie , Maliková Sara , Klusoň Petr
Published: October 2024

Retinal detachment is an acute condition in ophthalmology that needs an immediate surgical management. The treatment requires a replacement of the vitreous with a temporary substitute, usually based on a silicone oil. A certain number of patients experience adverse events during the treatment. It seems this phenomenon is related to the formation of emulsions in the affected eye. These appear macroscopically as heterogeneities resembling small droplets with a patchy occurrence in the vitreous substitute. Their existence represents a major complication that may lead to loss of vision. The heterogeneities are transported to regions of the eye in which they cause irreversible damage. The current state of knowledge describes the phenomenon and recommends certain intervention procedures. Here, specific attention is paid to the chemical engineering aspects of the utilization of silicone oils for the treatment of the retinal detachment. It is very likely that the process of tiny droplet formation leading to the development of emulsions is substantially controlled by the hydrodynamic conditions in the eye. The complexity of this statement is examined in this review text.
CoFe2O4 with the In‐Situ Formed Oxygen Vacancies and Co Particles as an Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Rechargeable Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Ren Zhenghua , Zhang Tianhao , Jiang Sujie , Su Keke , Liu Wenfeng , Niu Fuquan , Shi Zhenpu , Lu Zhansheng , Cui Yuantao , Yang Shuting , Yin Yanhong
Published: October 2024

Rechargeable zinc‐air batteries (RZABs) are considered as one of the most promising clean energy device due to their abundant resources, low cost and environmental friendliness. However, their energy efficiency and cycle life are far from satisfactory due to the poor activity and stability of bi‐functional electrocatalyst in air cathode. In this work, an efficient bi‐functional catalyst (rGO‐CoFe2O4/Co) was derived from its precursor (rGO‐CoFe2O4) through a simple annealing process. Electrochemical measurements prove that rGO‐CoFe2O4/Co with the in‐situ formed Co nano particles and rich oxygen vacancies appears excellent oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction catalytic activity compared to its counterpart. Its half‐wave potential is 0.81 V (vs RHE) and the OER overpotential is only 310 mV (vs RHE). In addition, rechargeable zinc‐air batteries assembled with rGO‐CoFe2O4/Co show the highest peak power density (128.9 mW cm−2) and cycling stability compared to rGO‐CoFe2O4 and commercial Pt/C‐RuO2 catalysts. This work provides a simple strategy for the design of advanced bifunctional catalysts.
Mo‐Doped α‐MnO2 for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Chen Ying , Yang Shujiao , Wang Ting , Li Sisi , Liu Xiaohan , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui
Published: October 2024

Manganese is a key metal involved in the catalysis of natural photosynthesis. Thus, the investigation of Mn‐based electrocatalysts for water oxidation is of high importance. This work reports the doping of Mo into α‐MnO2 nanorods to improve the water oxidation performance. The doping of Mo can transform the microstructure of α‐MnO2 from nanorods into nanosphere superstructures. As a dopant, Mo expands the α‐MnO2 lattice to result in a decrease in the average oxidation state of Mn and the generation of oxygen vacancies, which are beneficial to water oxidation catalysis. Under optimized doping, the overpotential of 2.34 wt.% Mo/α‐MnO2 is reduced by 80 mV (at 10 mA/cm2) compared with pure α‐MnO2.
Hierarchically Structured Catalysts Toward Sustainable Hydrogen Economy: Electro‐ and Thermo‐Chemical Pathways
Authors: Deng Chenxin , Zhao Binchao , Gao Pu‐Xian
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen, as an important clean energy source, plays a more and more crucial role in decarbonizing the planet and meeting the global climate challenge due to its high energy density and zero‐emission. The demand for sustainable hydrogen is increasing drastically worldwide as driven by the global shift towards low‐carbon energy solutions. Thermochemical catalysis process dominates hydrogen production at scale given its relatively mature technology and commercialization status, as well as the established manufacturing infrastructure. While due to its environmentally friendly nature and growing abundant sources of renewable electricity, the electrochemical path for hydrogen production is rising as a major alternative to the thermochemical means. Nevertheless, hierarchically structured catalysts and devices have gradually taken the center stage toward replacing the traditional counterparts, especially with the rapid advancement of the design and manufacture of such ordered nanostructure assemblies toward high activity, efficient mass transport, and superb stability. In this review, the latest progress of the hierarchically structured catalysts for hydrogen production have been surveyed on electro‐ and thermo‐ chemical pathways comparatively. It covers the structure designs of atomic dispersion, nanoscale surfaces and interfaces for achieving highly active and durable catalysts, components, and devices. Both electrochemical and thermochemical approaches are reviewed in terms of the vast design details, engineered benefits, and understandings of various Pt‐group metal (PGM) and non‐PGM based transition metal catalysts for hydrogen production. As the growing trend, brief discussions are also presented toward the high‐level assembly and manufacture of complexly structured components and devices at scale in the electrochemical and thermochemical energy systems.
Biological Characteristics of the Glacier Lantern Fish Benthosema glaciale (Myctophidae) in Icelandic Waters and the Irminger Sea During Summer
Authors: Matthews Charlotte S. , Kennedy James , Ólafsdóttir Anna H. , Pampoulie Christophe
Published: October 2024

Myctophids are one of the most diverse and abundant fish families in the mesopelagic zone, making them a key component in the marine pelagic community. In the North Atlantic, Benthosema glaciale (glacier lantern fish) is considered the most abundant myctophid north of 35° N, yet some regions within its extensive range lack information on its basic biological parameters. We investigated the growth and described the distribution of B. glaciale in Icelandic waters, including the southern continental shelf, Iceland Basin, and Irminger Sea. Length distribution, growth, relative body condition, age, and otolith‐fish size relationships were analyzed from samples collected opportunistically with pelagic trawls during the International Ecosystem Summer Survey in the Nordic Seas (IESSNS) in July 2020. In total, 1374 individuals were caught, and only a subset of 225 were measured fresh at sea and 89 were frozen and dissected on land. Total lengths of fresh fish ranged from 38 to 85 mm, while dissected individuals ranged from 40 to 74 mm and were 2 to 6 years old. Located over the Reykjanes Ridge in the Iceland Basin region, individuals had a significantly higher mean standard length and mean age, and a lower mean body condition. We reported length–weight relationships for both fresh and frozen samples, indicating evidence that preserving of the specimens through freezing affected relationships. The von Bertalanffy growth curve was calculated along with significant otolith‐fish size relationships where r2 values ranged between 0.87 and 0.92. Our research highlights the importance of cross‐regional studies and provides baseline biology for B. glaciale in Icelandic waters, specifically in the southern continental slope and Reykjanes Ridge.
Relationship Between Genetic and Phenotypic Variations in Natural Populations of Perennial and Biennial Sagebrush
Authors: Oyundelger Khurelpurev , Großmann Lisa , Herklotz Veit , Harpke Dörte , Batlai Oyuntsetseg , Wesche Karsten , Ritz Christiane M.
Published: October 2024

Plant responses to environmental heterogeneity depend on life‐history traits, which could relate to phenotypical and genetic characteristics. To elucidate this relationship, we examined the variation in population genetics and functional traits of short‐ and long‐lived Artemisia species that are co‐occurring in the steppes of Mongolia. Mongolian steppes represent stressful and water‐limited habitats, demanding phenotypic modifications in the short term and/or genetic adaptation in the long term. However, detailed knowledge is missing about both plant phenotypic and genetic differentiation, and their interrelationships in temperate grasslands. Here, we investigated 21 populations of the widely distributed subshrub Artemisia frigida and the herbaceous biennial Artemisia scoparia. Genetic variation was assessed with newly developed simple sequence repeats (SSRs) markers. Functional trait data were collected from each individual, and data on environmental variables was collected for each population. We detected significantly higher genetic diversity in the biennial species (HE = 0.86) compared with the perennial (HE = 0.79). For both species, the largest share of genetic variation was partitioned within populations (96%). Population genetic structure in the biennial A. scoparia was weak, while the perennial A. frigida showed some spatial genetic structure, which was impacted by geographical factors, soil nutrients, and precipitation amount. Morphology‐related functional traits (i.e., plant height) were predominantly associated with environmental variables rather than with genetic variation, whereas physiology‐related trait (i.e., specific leaf area [SLA]) was partly genetically determined.
Toward a Functional Trait Approach to Bee Ecology
Authors: Ostwald Madeleine M. , Gonzalez Victor H. , Chang Carrie , Vitale Nydia , Lucia Mariano , Seltmann Katja C.
Published: October 2024

Functional traits offer an informative framework for understanding ecosystem functioning and responses to global change. Trait data are abundant in the literature, yet many communities of practice lack data standards for trait measurement and data sharing, hindering data reuse that could reveal large‐scale patterns in functional and evolutionary ecology. Here, we present a roadmap toward community data standards for trait‐based research on bees, including a protocol for effective trait data sharing. We also review the state of bee functional trait research, highlighting common measurement approaches and knowledge gaps. These studies were overwhelmingly situated in agroecosystems and focused predominantly on morphological and behavioral traits, while phenological and physiological traits were infrequently measured. Studies investigating climate change effects were also uncommon. Along with our review, we present an aggregated morphological trait dataset compiled from our focal studies, representing more than 1600 bee species globally and serving as a template for standardized bee trait data presentation. We highlight obstacles to harmonizing this trait data, especially ambiguity in trait classes, methodology, and sampling metadata. Our framework for trait data sharing leverages common data standards to resolve these ambiguities and ensure interoperability between datasets, promoting accessibility and usability of trait data to advance bee ecological research.
Microvascular obstruction in cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Netti Lucrezia , Ioannou Adam , Martinez‐Naharro Ana , Razvi Yousuf , Porcari Aldostefano , Venneri Lucia , Maestrini Viviana , Knight Dan , Virsinskaite Ruta , Rauf Muhammad U. , Kotecha Tushar , Patel Rishi K. , Wechelakar Ashutosh , Lachmann Helen , Kellman Peter , Manisty Charlotte , Moon James , Hawkins Philip N. , Gillmore Julian D. , Fontana Marianna
Published: October 2024

Aims

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is characterized by deposition of amyloid fibrils within the extracellular space, causing disarray of the myocardial structure and capillary architecture. This study aims to characterize the prevalence of microvascular obstruction (MVO) in patients with CA and to assess the association between MVO and prognosis.

Methods and results

The study population comprised 800 patients, of which 400 had light‐chain CA (AL‐CA) and 400 had transthyretin CA (ATTR‐CA). MVO was present in 221 (27.6%) patients, and more common in ATTR‐CA than AL‐CA (124 [56.1%] vs. 97 [43.9%], p = 0.033). Patients with MVO had a more severe cardiac phenotype evidenced by higher N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (3516 ng/L [1944–6247] vs. 2508 ng/L [1203–5752], p < 0.001), worse global longitudinal strain (−10.5% [−12.6; −7.9] vs. −12.0% [−16.0; −8.9], p < 0.001), and higher extracellular volume (56% [51–61] vs. 50% [45–57], p < 0.001). Patients with AL‐CA and MVO had a higher serum troponin (86 ng/L [47–148] vs. 59 ng/L [44–78], p < 0.001), and higher T2 (53 ms [50–56] vs. 50 ms [48–52], p < 0.001), but lower extracellular volume (55% [50–60] vs. 58% [53–61], p = 0.008) and lower indexed myocyte cell volume (48.6 g/m2 [41.1–59.8] vs. 55.7 g/m2 [47.5–68.4], p < 0.001) than patients with ATTR‐CA and MVO. MVO was associated with an increased risk of mortality in the overall population (hazard ratio [HR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.59, p = 0.025), and the subgroup with AL‐CA (HR 1.59, 95% CI 1.17–2.17, p = 0.003) but not ATTR‐CA (HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.77–1.40, p = 0.814).

Conclusions

Microvascular obstruction is common in CA and is related to markers of amyloid infiltration. MVO is associated with an increased risk of mortality in AL‐CA, but not in ATTR‐CA. This reflects the intrinsic differences in disease biology between these two forms of CA, with MVO likely related to multiple myocardial processes, amyloid infiltration, oedema and myocyte death.
Coal‐wall spalling prevention mechanism using advance‐grooving pressure relief in the large‐mining‐height working face of a shallow coal seam
Authors: Hongwei Wang , Li Feng , Zhouyan Zhao , Yanjun Li , Peipei Cao , Jianqiang Jiao , Baolin Jiang , Yong Liu
Published: October 2024

In mining, the roof structure of a working face with a large mining height in a shallow‐buried coal seam is prone to cutting instability in front of the support, which causes support crushing and coal‐wall spalling. This study analyzes 2201 working faces with large mining heights in the Haiwan No. 3 Mine by investigating the mechanical response law of coal walls under the transient excitation of roof structure instability. A mechanical model of coal walls under dynamic and static load coupling is established, revealing the formation mechanism of coal wall spalling and its main influencing factors. Prevention and control technologies of advanced grooving and pressure relief are proposed, and grooving parameters are determined. The results show that: During the mining process of large mining height working face in shallow buried coal seam, the step change of static response of coal wall is induced by the transient instability of roof structure, and the high abutment pressure is formed on the coal wall. At the same time, the strain energy and gravitational potential energy of roof cutting instability are released to form a dynamic load. Under the action of dynamic and static load, the plastic failure dissipation power of the coal wall is greater than the critical power, and the coal wall spalling occurs. The main influencing factors are mining load, mining height, and internal friction angle of the coal wall. The method of advanced grooving pressure relief can change the roof structure and coal force mechanism, by cutting off the connection between the coal wall and immediate roof, reducing the height of the coal wall force, effectively controlling the position of the roof cut off break line, reducing the static load effect of the roof on the coal, and transferring the position of the dynamic load response to the depth of the coal wall. When the grooving height‐depth ratio k is 0.75, the peak value of the abutment pressure moves 5.57 m to the front of the working face, and the pressure relief effect is the best. The above research results provide an effective active protection method for controlling coal wall spalling in fully mechanised working face with large mining height.