bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Microenvironment Modulation Boosts Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Neutral and Alkaline
Authors: Yang Weiwei , Li Mengyuan , Zhang Bikun , Liu Yazi , Zi Jiangzhi , Xiao Han , Liu Xinyang , Lin Jingkai , Zhang Huayang , Chen Jian , Wan Zhengfen , Li Zhen , Li Guisheng , Li Hexing , Lian Zichao
Published: July 2023

The design of highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts in hydrogen evolution reaction over a wide range of pH, especially in neutral or alkaline conditions, is of great significance but remains· challenging. Herein, a family of single‐atoms and clusters inside the N‐doped porous carbon matrix (NDPCM) are encapsulated. Specifically, the single‐atom platinum (PtSA) and cluster platinum (PtC) in NDPCM exhibited ultralow overpotentials of 20 and 14 mV at −10 mA cm−2 under neutral and alkaline conditions, respectively and superior long‐term durability. Theoretical calculations and operando Raman measurements revealed that the coexistence of PtSA and PtC can provide multiple H adsorption sites, contributing to the extremely low |ΔGH*| of H adsorption and constructing a local acidic microenvironment to trigger a unique H3O+‐induced water reduction in neutral and alkaline conditions This unique configuration significantly promotes the catalytic activity and opens a new avenue for the crafted design of electrocatalysts.
A Universal Descriptor in Determining H2 Evolution Activity for Dilute Aqueous Zn Batteries
Authors: Miao Licheng , Xiao Zhe , Shi Dongjie , Wu Mingli , Liu Dongming , Li Yun , Liu Xueping , Sun Yiling , Zhong Shengkui , Qian Zhengfang , Wang Renheng
Published: July 2023

Large‐scale energy storage with aqueous Zn batteries (AZBs) have bright future, but their practical application is impeded by H2 evolution reaction (HER), which results in poor stability of Zn–metal anodes. Here, using linear sweep voltammetry in dilute salt aqueous electrolytes, it is discovered that as the salt concentration decreases, HER is gradually suppressed, which is contrary to prior beliefs. Combining calculations and experiments, it is demonstrated that HER derives predominantly from the sum of Zn2+‐solvated water rather than the average amount of water in the Zn2+‐solvation structural unit or free water without interaction with Zn2+, which answers the puzzle from above. This result, which differs fundamentally from the previous understandings, sheds new light on the mysterious role of water chemistry in controlling HER and contributes to a more rational design of advanced electrolytes for AZBs.
Anti‐Pan‐Rspo Chimeric Protein‐Conjugated Albumin Nanoparticle Provides Promising Opportunities in Cancer Targeted Therapy
Authors: Zheng Shaoqin , Zhang Xi , Pang Zhongqiu , Liu Jidong , Liu Siyu , Sheng Ren
Published: July 2023

Rspos (R‐spondins) belong to a family of secreted proteins that causes various cancers via interacting the corresponding receptors. However, targeted therapeutic approaches against Rspos are largely lacking. In this study, a chimeric protein Rspo‐targeting anticancer chimeric protein (RTAC) is originally designed, engineered, and characterized. RTAC shows satisfactory anticancer effects through inhibition of pan‐Rspo‐mediated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling activation both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a conceptually novel antitumor strategy distinct from traditional drug delivery systems that release drugs inside tumor cells is proposed. A special “firewall” nano‐system is designed to enrich on tumor cell surface and cover the plasma membrane, rather than undergoing endocytosis, to block oncogenic Rspos from binding to receptors. Cyclic RGD (Arg‐Gly‐Asp) peptide‐linked globular cluster serum albumin nanoparticles (SANP) are integrated as a vehicle for conjugating RTAC (SANP‐RTAC/RGD) for tumor tissue targeting. These nanoparticles can adhere to the tumor cell surface and enable RTAC to locally capture free Rspos with high spatial efficiency and selectivity to antagonize cancer progression. Therefore, this approach offers a new nanomedical anticancer route and obtains the “dual‐targeting” capability for effective tumor clearance and low potential toxicity. This study presents a proof‐of‐concept for anti‐pan‐Rspo therapy and a nanoparticle‐integrated paradigm for targeted cancer treatment.
Plasma‐driven CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH over Fe2O3/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: Meng Shengyan , Wu Liang , Liu Miao , Cui Zhaolun , Chen Qian , Li Shangkun , Yan Jiahui , Wang Li , Wang Xinkui , Qian Ji , Guo Hongchen , Niu Jinhai , Bogaerts Annemie , Yi Yanhui
Published: July 2023

We report a plasma‐assisted CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH over Fe2O3/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts, achieving 12% CO2 conversion and 58% CH3OH selectivity at a temperature of nearly 80°C atm pressure. We investigated the effect of various supports and loadings of the Fe‐based catalysts, as well as optimized reaction conditions. We characterized catalysts by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), hydrogen temperature programmed reduction (H2‐TPR), CO2 and CO temperature programmed desorption (CO2/CO‐TPD), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Mössbauer, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The XPS results show that the enhanced CO2 conversion and CH3OH selectivity are attributed to the chemisorbed oxygen species on Fe2O3/γ‐Al2O3. Furthermore, the diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTs) and TPD results illustrate that the catalysts with stronger CO2 adsorption capacity exhibit a higher reaction performance. In situ DRIFTS gain insight into the specific reaction pathways in the CO2/H2 plasma. This study reveals the role of chemisorbed oxygen species as a key intermediate, and inspires to design highly efficient catalysts and expand the catalytic systems for CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH.
Mapping spatial morbidity patterns for bronchiolitis related to socioeconomic estimators: A spatial epidemiology approach to identify health disparities in Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Authors: Pazos Bruno A. , Morales Arturo L. , Ramallo Virginia , González‐José Rolando , de Azevedo Soledad , Taire Damián L.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To describe the frequency of hospitalizations of infants under 1 year of age with bronchiolitis in Puerto Madryn, Argentina, and to study the spatial distribution of cases throughout the city in relation to socioeconomic indicators. To visualize and better understand the underlying processes behind the local manifestation of the disease by creating a vulnerability map of the city.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of all patients discharged for bronchiolitis from the local public Hospital in 2017, considering length of hospital stay, readmission rate, patient age, home address and socioeconomic indicators (household overcrowding). To understand the local spatial distribution of the disease and its relationship to overcrowding, we used GIS and Moran's global and local spatial autocorrelation indices.

Results

The spatial distribution of bronchiolitis cases was not random, but significantly aggregated. Of the 120 hospitalized children, 100 infants (83.33%) live in areas identified as having at least one unsatisfied basic need (UBN). We found a positive and statistically significant relationship between frequency of cases and percentage of overcrowded housing by census radius.

Conclusions

A clear association was found between bronchiolitis and neighborhoods with UBNs, and overcrowding is likely to be a particularly important explanatory factor in this association. By combining GIS tools, spatial statistics, geo‐referenced epidemiological data, and population‐level information, vulnerability maps can be created to facilitate visualization of priority areas for development and implementation of more effective health interventions. Incorporating the spatial and syndemic perspective into health studies makes important contributions to the understanding of local health‐disease processes.
Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound alleviates doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity via inhibition of S100a8/a9‐mediated cardiac recruitment of neutrophils
Authors: Zhu Hong , He Min , Wang Yong‐Li , Zhang Yuanxin , Dong Jingsong , Chen Bo‐Yan , Li Yu‐Lin , Zhou Lu‐Jun , Du Lin‐Juan , Liu Yuan , Zhang Wu‐Chang , Ta Dean , Duan Sheng‐Zhong
Published: July 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX)‐induced cardiotoxicity limits its broad use as a chemotherapy agent. The development of effective and non‐invasive strategies to prevent DOX‐associated adverse cardiac events is urgently needed. We aimed to examine whether and how low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) plays a protective role in DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity. Male C57BL/6J mice were used to establish models of both acute and chronic DOX‐induced cardiomyopathy. Non‐invasive LIPUS therapy was conducted for four consecutive days after DOX administration. Cardiac contractile function was evaluated by echocardiography. Myocardial apoptosis, oxidative stress, and fibrosis were analyzed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) staining, dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, and picrosirius red staining assays. RNA‐seq analysis was performed to unbiasedly explore the possible downstream regulatory mechanisms. Neutrophil recruitment and infiltration in the heart were analyzed by flow cytometry. The S100a8/a9 inhibitor ABR‐238901 was utilized to identify the effect of S100a8/a9 signaling. We found that LIPUS therapy elicited a great benefit on DOX‐induced heart contractile dysfunction in both acute and chronic DOX models. Chronic DOX administration increased serum creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels, as well as myocardial apoptosis, all of which were significantly mitigated by LIPUS. In addition, LIPUS treatment prevented chronic DOX‐induced cardiac oxidative stress and fibrosis. RNA‐seq analysis revealed that LIPUS treatment partially reversed alterations of gene expression induced by DOX. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the downregulated genes between DOX‐LIPUS and DOX‐Sham groups indicated that inhibition of neutrophil chemotaxis might be involved in the protective effects of LIPUS therapy. Flow cytometry analysis illustrated the inhibitory effects of LIPUS on DOX‐induced neutrophil recruitment and infiltration in the heart. Moreover, S100 calcium binding protein A8/A9 (S100a8/a9) was identified as a potential key target of LIPUS therapy. S100a8/a9 inhibition by ABR‐238901 showed a similar heart protective effect against DOX‐induced cardiomyopathy to LIPUS treatment. LIPUS therapy prevents DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity through inhibition of S100a8/a9‐mediated neutrophil recruitment to the heart, suggesting its potential application in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy with DOX.
Catalytic Ozonation in Pulp and Paper Industry Wastewater Treatment: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Athar Muhammad , Nawaz Muhammad , Nadeem Humayun , Rashid Muhammad Imran , Umer Asim , Iqbal Javed , Aadil Mahboob Ahmed
Published: July 2023

The pulp and paper industry is one of the most significant industrial water polluters, generating large volumes of wastewater with high levels of organic pollutants, suspended solids, and other contaminants. Catalytic ozonation has emerged as a promising technique for the treatment of pulp and paper industry wastewater. Numerous reviews have presented the research on catalytic ozonation; however, open literature is missing a bibliometric analysis. Therefore, this article presents a bibliometric analysis of the research available on catalytic ozonation in pulp and paper industry wastewater treatment. A total of 578 documents extracted from the Scopus database have been examined via VOSviewer, MS Excel, and Rstudio to identify the research trends, influential authors, and research institutions in the field. The results reveal that the number of publications on the topic has increased significantly in recent years. This study also identified several influential authors, institutions, and highlighted future research directions in the field. Overall, the study provides insights into the state of research on catalytic ozonation in pulp and paper industry wastewater treatment and could help guide future research efforts in this area.
Understanding the link between alcohol dependence and victimisation risk: Is risk explained by peers or alcohol behaviours?
Authors: Wojciechowski Thomas
Published: July 2023

Background

Alcohol dependence is a risk factor for experiencing victimisation, but little is known about how peer and behavioural mechanisms may explain this relationship.

Aims

To test deviant peer association and/or heavy‐episodic drinking frequency as mediators between alcohol dependence and risk for being victimised.

Methods

The Pathways to Desistance data were analysed. Generalised structural equation modelling was used to determine whether either or both of the hypothesised pathways significantly mediated the relationship between alcohol dependence and victimisation.

Results

Alcohol dependence at recruitment (age 14–17) was associated with higher odds of being a victim of some form of violence in Wave 3 (age x–y). This relationship was significantly mediated by deviant peer association but not heavy‐episodic drinking frequency between Waves 2 and 3.

Conclusions

These findings add knowledge about the mechanism of a link between early alcohol dependence and later violent victimisation among young offenders. They suggest that more focus on reducing delinquent peer association, or reducing its impact, is crucial to reducing further harms to these young people, in turn possibly affecting continuing substance use and reoffending risks. Peer mentoring programmes help to provide prosocial modelling and reduce deviant peer ties in some circumstances, and these findings suggest that the next step should be their evaluation specifically among justice‐involved young people with alcohol dependence. Providing additional funding and/or opportunities for involvement in such mentoring programmes may help to reduce the public health and financial costs associated with alcohol dependence in the juvenile justice system.
Papillary muscle rupture after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Farouk Heba , Schöne Dominik , Witt Constantin , Bayyud Hamid , Kandil Mehmet , Kloppe Axel
Published: July 2023

We present a case of posterior papillary muscle rupture associated with severe eccentric mitral regurgitation following transcatheter aortic valve implantation, that was successfully treated with transcatheter edge to edge mitral repair and review similar cases in literature.
Development of EPAT: An assessment tool for pediatric hematology/oncology training programs
Authors: Moreira Daniel C. , Metzger Monika L. , Antillón‐Klussmann Federico , González‐Ramella Oscar , Gao Yijin , Bazzeh Faiha , Middlekauff Janet , Fox Irwin Leeanna , Gonzalez Miriam L. , Chantada Guillermo , Barr Ronald D. , Garrington Timothy , Hastings Caroline , Kutluk Tezer , Saab Raya , Khan Muhammad Saghir , Saha Vaskar , Rodríguez‐Galindo Carlos , Friedrich Paola
Published: July 2023

Purpose

In the absence of a standardized tool to assess the quality of pediatric hematology/oncology training programs, the Education Program Assessment Tool (EPAT) was conceptualized as a user‐friendly and adaptable tool to evaluate and identify areas of opportunity, pinpoint needed modifications, and monitor progress for training programs around the world.

Methods

The development of EPAT consisted of three main phases: operationalization, consensus, and piloting. After each phase, the tool was iteratively modified based on feedback to improve its relevance, usability, and clarity.

Results

The operationalization process led to the development of 10 domains with associated assessment questions. The two‐step consensus phase included an internal consensus phase to validate the domains and a subsequent external consensus phase to refine the domains and overall function of the tool. EPAT domains for programmatic evaluation are hospital infrastructure, patient care, education infrastructure, program basics, clinical exposure, theory, research, evaluation, educational culture, and graduate impact. EPAT was piloted in five training programs in five countries, representing diverse medical training and patient care contexts for proper validation of the tool. Face validity was confirmed by a correlation between the perceived and calculated scores for each domain (r = 0.78, p < .0001).

Conclusions

EPAT was developed following a systematic approach, ultimately leading to a relevant tool to evaluate the different core elements of pediatric hematology/oncology training programs across the world. With EPAT, programs will have a tool to quantitatively evaluate their training, allowing for benchmarking with centers at the local, regional, and international level.
Conceptualizing the chromatic experience of environment: Two case studies using the Color Walk method
Authors: Pyykkö Saara
Published: July 2023

Designing the colors of a new neighborhood without a color definition of facades is challenging task. While there is a wealth of research on color perception and architectural color design, tools and methods are needed to understand the chromatic experience of areas. Thus, this case‐study research aims to explore the chromatic experience by introducing a new ethnographic Color Walk method. The participants are professionals in the fields of architecture and color. Two voice‐recorded and transcribed discussions are examined from two perspectives: the suitability of the Color Walk to conceptualize the chromatic experience of neighborhoods and analyzing the main concepts used by professional participants. The analysis shows that the seven main concepts are: (1) material; (2) light; (3) views in/from/into the area; (4) atmosphere; (5) identity; (6) landscape/nature/landscape architecture; and (7) architecture. Architecture includes four subareas: (a) the color scale of the building design, (b) the color scale of the urban design, (c) the history of architecture, and (d) color trends. The results indicate that the Color Walk method allows conceptualizing how environmental colors are experienced. However, several repetitions are needed to confirm all the concepts. Furthermore, complex facade colors are only one element of the chromatic experience. Thus, other aspects should also be emphasized in environmental color design. The results also show that environmental color design is related to urban design and building design. The findings of this study contribute to existing research by expanding the concepts of urban design to environmental color design.
Implementation of deep learning in liver pathology optimizes diagnosis of benign lesions and adenocarcinoma metastasis
Authors: Kriegsmann Mark , Kriegsmann Katharina , Steinbuss Georg , Zgorzelski Christiane , Albrecht Thomas , Heinrich Stefan , Farkas Stefan , Roth Wilfried , Dang Hien , Hausen Anne , Gaida Matthias M.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Differentiation of histologically similar structures in the liver, including anatomical structures, benign bile duct lesions, or common types of liver metastases, can be challenging with conventional histological tissue sections alone. Accurate histopathological classification is paramount for the diagnosis and adequate treatment of the disease. Deep learning algorithms have been proposed for objective and consistent assessment of digital histopathological images.

Materials and methods

In the present study, we trained and evaluated deep learning algorithms based on the EfficientNetV2 and ResNetRS architectures to discriminate between different histopathological classes. For the required dataset, specialized surgical pathologists annotated seven different histological classes, including different non‐neoplastic anatomical structures, benign bile duct lesions, and liver metastases from colorectal and pancreatic adenocarcinoma in a large patient cohort. Annotation resulted in a total of 204.159 image patches, followed by discrimination analysis using our deep learning models. Model performance was evaluated on validation and test data using confusion matrices.

Results

Evaluation of the test set based on tiles and cases revealed overall highly satisfactory prediction capability of our algorithm for the different histological classes, resulting in a tile accuracy of 89% (38 413/43 059) and case accuracy of 94% (198/211). Importantly, the separation of metastasis versus benign lesions was certainly confident on case level, confirming the classification model performed with high diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, the whole curated raw data set is made publically available.

Conclusions

Deep learning is a promising approach in surgical liver pathology supporting decision making in personalized medicine.
The association between prediabetes and bone mineral density: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Runzhou , Ji Hong , Xu Yao , Zhang Yan , Wang Rongrong , Liang Xue , Zhao Yongcai
Published: July 2023

Background

Prediabetes is an intermediate metabolic state between euglycaemia and diabetes, including three different definitions: impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and mildly elevated glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (range 5.7%–6.4%). The effect of prediabetes on bone mineral density (BMD) has not been established. Therefore, we performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the association between prediabetes and BMD.

Methods

We retrieved studies related to prediabetes and BMD from PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from January 1990 to December 2022. All data were analysed using the random effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was tested by I2. Subgroup analysis was performed after each study‐level variable was pre‐defined by meta‐regression.

Results

A total of 17 studies were included involving 45,788 patients. We detected a significant overall association of prediabetes with increased spine BMD (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 0.01, 95% CI [0.00, 0.02], p = 0.005; I2 = 62%), femur neck (FN) BMD (WMD = 0.01, 95% CI [0.00, 0.01], p < 0.001; I2 = 19%), and femur total (FT) BMD (WMD = 0.02, 95% CI [0.01, 0.03], p < 0.001; I2 = 51%). Several variables leading to heterogeneity were defined by meta‐regression, including age, sex, region, study type, dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scanner manufacturer, and prediabetes definition. Subgroup analyses indicated that the association of prediabetes with increased BMD was stronger in men, Asians, and older adults over 60 years of age.

Conclusions

Current evidence shows that prediabetes is strongly associated with increased BMD of the spine, FN, and FT. The association was stronger among males, Asians, and older adults over 60 years of age.
Early left ventricular unloading after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: rationale and design of EARLY‐UNLOAD trial
Authors: Kim Min Chul , Lim Yongwhan , Lee Seung Hun , Shin Yoonmin , Ahn Joon Ho , Hyun Dae Young , Cho Kyung Hoon , Sim Doo Sun , Hong Young Joon , Kim Ju Han , Jeong Myung Ho , Jung Yong Hun , Jeong In‐Seok , Ahn Youngkeun
Published: July 2023

Aims

The clinical benefits of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) for profound cardiogenic shock are well known. However, peripheral VA‐ECMO increases the left ventricular afterload, thus compromising myocardial recovery. Recent studies have revealed the benefit of left ventricular unloading using various methods applied at different times. The EARLY‐UNLOAD trial compares the clinical outcomes of early left ventricular unloading and conventional approach after VA‐ECMO.

Methods and results

The EARLY‐UNLOAD trial is a single‐centre, open‐label, randomized trial that recruited 116 patients with cardiogenic shock undergoing VA‐ECMO. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to two groups: routine left ventricular unloading via intracardiac echocardiography‐guided transseptal left atrial cannulation within 12 h of VA‐ECMO initiation or conventional approach that indicates rescue left ventricular unloading if clinical signs of an increased left ventricular afterload are present. The primary endpoint is the cumulative incidence of all‐cause death within 30 days, and patients will be followed‐up for 12 months. A key secondary endpoint is a composite measure of all‐cause death and rescue transseptal left atrial cannulation in the conventional group (suggestive of VA‐ECMO treatment failure) within 30 days. The enrolment of patients was finished in September 2022.

Conclusions

The EARLY‐UNLOAD trial is the first randomized controlled trial to compare early left ventricular unloading and conventional approach after VA‐ECMO using the same unloading modality. The results could impact clinical practice to overcome the haemodynamic issues associated with VA‐ECMO.
Echocardiographic pressure–strain loop‐derived stroke work of the right ventricle: validation against the gold standard
Authors: Richter Manuel J. , Douschan Philipp , Fortuni Federico , Gall Henning , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Keranov Stanislav , Kremer Nils , Kriechbaum Steffen D. , Rako Zvonimir A. , Rieth Andreas J. , da Rocha Bruno Brito , Seeger Werner , Zedler Daniel , Yildiz Selin , Yogeswaran Athiththan , Tello Khodr
Published: July 2023

Aims

Commercially available integrated software for echocardiographic measurement of stroke work (SW) is increasingly used for the right ventricle, despite a lack of validation. We sought to assess the validity of this method [echo‐based myocardial work (MW) module] vs. gold‐standard invasive right ventricular (RV) pressure–volume (PV) loops.

Methods and results

From the prospectively recruiting EXERTION study (NCT04663217), we included 42 patients [34 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and 8 patients with absence of cardiopulmonary disease] with RV echocardiography and invasive PV catheterization. Echocardiographic SW was assessed as RV global work index (RVGWI) generated via the integrated pressure–strain MW software. Invasive SW was calculated as the area bounded by the PV loop. An additional parameter derived from the MW module, RV global wasted work (RVGWW), was correlated with PV loop measures. RVGWI significantly correlated with invasive PV loop‐derived RV SW in the overall cohort [rho = 0.546 (P < 0.001)] and the PAH/CTEPH subgroup [rho = 0.568 (P < 0.001)]. Overall, RVGWW correlated with invasive measures of arterial elastance (Ea), the ratio of end‐systolic elastance (Ees)/Ea, and end‐diastolic elastance (Eed) significantly.

Conclusions

Integrated echo measurement of pressure–strain loop‐derived SW correlates with PV loop‐based assessment of RV SW. Wasted work correlates with invasive measures of load‐independent RV function. Given the methodological and anatomical challenges of RV work assessment, evolution of this approach by incorporating more elaborated echo analysis data and an RV reference curve might improve its reliability to mirror invasively assessed RV SW.
Numerical dynamic characterisation of concrete bridge stays
Authors: Orgnoni Andrea , Pinho Rui , Calvi Gian Michele , Moratti Matteo , Scattarreggia Nicola
Published: July 2023

Following the recent collapse of a cable‐stayed bridge in Genoa, Italy, an interest has arisen to understand if it would have been possible for unknown localised material deterioration and/or decrease in prestress levels to introduce noticeable changes in the dynamic behaviour of RC stays. As such, in this study we start by reviewing past research work, experimental and analytical, on the effects that prestress level may or may not have on the dynamic response of RC beam elements. We then review also available analytical formulations used to determine the natural frequency of vibration of prestressed beams, and, subsequently, complete the preliminary investigation on the effects of prestress levels, and local damage, through the analysis of finite element models of prestressed beams and stays. The comparison of analytical and numerical estimations with results obtained from an in‐situ dynamic characterisation campaign on a RC bridge stay is also undertaken. In the second part of the study, we explicitly consider the Morandi bridge case‐study, for which finite element models of the stays alone, as well as of the full bridge, are developed and analysed. The obtained results are then also compared with the observations made in pre‐collapse in situ dynamic characterisation endeavours. All results obtained and discussed lead to the conclusion that, most regrettably, dynamic characterisation endeavours do not have the capability of providing insight on possible localised material deterioration or partial reduction of the average state of compression in this type of structural elements.
Super‐heating degree responsive control strategy of variable refrigerant flow air conditioning system for energy saving and stable operation
Authors: Tu Qiu , Zhang Lina , Yuan Xiaoyuan , Jiang Jianjun , Ye Fangming
Published: July 2023

The control strategy is important for variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air conditioning system to realize energy saving and stable operation. In this work, the super‐heating degree (SHD) responsive control strategy was developed to dynamically adjust the respective SHD target value (ΔTe,tar) of indoor units so as to adapt to the variable cooling load. The capacity code (Ecode) is introduced into the control model to quantify the reference target value of SHD. To responsively adapt to variable cooling load, the correction target values of SHD based on discharge temperature and deviation of the outlet air temperature are introduced in the SHD model for operation protection of the compressor and the consistency of refrigerant distribution. The enthalpy difference analogy method is developed to estimate the performance of the VRF system including cooling capacity, electric power, and energy efficiency ratio (EER). The performance was tested under the conditions of different ΔTe,tar. Experimental results demonstrate that the ΔTe,tar is an important factor to determine the operation frequency, which affects cooling capacity, power, EER, and operation status of the system. The cooling capacity and electric power at the ΔTe,tar of 9°C was about 55.2% and 63.5% lower than those at the ΔTe,tar of 1°C, and the corresponding EER was improved by 22.6%. To further verify the SHD control strategy, the VRF system was tested by the responsive control model under the condition that Ecode and ΔTe,tar were constantly automatically adjusted and changed with the actual indoor ambient temperature. Experimental results demonstrate that the VRF system can achieve a good and uniform cooling effect and realize energy saving and stable operation according to the responsive super‐heating degree control.
The Comet Assay, a Sensitive Biomarker of Water Quality Improvement Following Adoption of Beneficial Agricultural Practices?
Authors: Gendron Andrée D. , Lacaze Émilie , Taranu Zofia E. , Gouge Rebecca , Larbi-Youcef Yasmina , Houde Magali , André Chantale , Gagné François , Triffault-Bouchet Gaëlle , Giroux Isabelle
Published: July 2023

Numerous actions have been undertaken by farmers to attenuate the impact of agricultural activities on aquatic ecosystems. The identification of biomarkers that respond quickly to water quality improvement could facilitate the assessment of adopted alternative practices and help maintain mobilization among stakeholders. We evaluated the potential of the comet assay, a biomarker of genotoxic effects, using a freshwater mussel, Elliptio complanata, as a model animal. The frequency of DNA damage was assessed in hemocytes of mussels collected from a pristine habitat and caged for 8 weeks in the Pot au Beurre River, a tributary of the fluvial Lake St.-Pierre (Quebec, Canada) impacted by agricultural activities. We found that the level of DNA damage naturally induced in mussel hemocytes was low and showed very limited variations over time. Compared with these baseline levels and to laboratory controls, we observed a doubling in DNA alterations in mussels exposed to agricultural runoff in the third branch of the Pot au Beurre River. The genotoxic response was significantly lower in mussels caged in the first branch of the Pot au Beurre River, where longer stretches of shoreline have been restored as buffer strips. Glyphosate, mesotrione, imazethapyr, and metolachlor were the main discriminant pesticides between these two branches. Metolachlor was found in sufficient concentrations to induce DNA damage, but it is more likely that the observed genotoxicity was the result of a “cocktail effect,” that is, the cumulative contribution of coexisting genotoxicants including the above-mentioned herbicides and ingredients in their formulation. Our findings suggest that the comet assay is a sensitive tool for the early detection of changes in water toxicity following the adoption of agricultural beneficial practices. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2201–2214. © 2023 Crown copyright and The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. This article is published with the permission of the Controller of HMSO and the King's Printer for Scotland.
Anomalous pollen cones in Pseudotaxus chienii (Taxaceae): A further support for the pseudanthial origin of the Taxus pollen cone
Authors: Dörken Veit Martin , Nimsch Hubertus
Published: July 2023

Pseudotaxus pollen cones are compound inflorescences. Wild type and anomalous shaped pollen cones were studied. It is suggested that each perisporangiate microsporangiophore represents a strongly reduced flower (lateral pollen cone) and not a peltate microsporophyll. This explains their position in the axil of a scaly pherophyll. In the wild type, the axis of the flowers is so strongly reduced that it is no longer visible and the primordia of all inserted hyposporangiate microsporangiophores get in contact and fuse to a radial synangium. In some cases, the perisporangiate microsporangiophores/flowers were reduced to a single hyposporangiate microsporangiophore. This shows that the perisporangiate microsporangiophores of Pseudotaxus are not sporophylls, but strongly reduced lateral flowers, each consisting of several lateral hyposporangiate microsporangiophores, which fuse to a radial unit. By a reduction of all pherophylls in the Pseudotaxus inflorescence, the flower‐like Taxus pollen cone structure is formed, which however represents an inflorescences with flowers reduced to perisporangiate microsporangiophores. If in Taxus pollen cones the lateral flowers get reduced to a single hyposporangiate microsporangiophore, the Torreya pollen cone is formed. In this case, the lateral hyposporangiate microsporangiophores of Torreya correspond to strongly reduced flowers and not to dorsiventral sporophylls.
Dietary inflammatory index and elevated serum C‐reactive protein: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Salman , Hosseinikia Mahboobe , Ghaffarian‐Bahraman Ali , Clark Cain C. T. , Davies Ian G , Yousefi Rad Esmaeil , Saboori Somayeh
Published: July 2023

Diet can affect the inflammatory state of the body. Accordingly, the dietary inflammatory index (DII) has been developed to quantify the inflammatory properties of food items. This study sought to investigate the association between dietary inflammation index (DII) and the odds ratio of elevated CRP (E‐CRP) through a systematic review and meta‐analysis study. The International electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus were searched until May 2023 to find related articles. From 719 studies found in the initial search, 14 studies, with a total sample size of 59,941 individuals, were included in the meta‐analysis. The calculated pooled odds ratio (OR) of E‐CRP in the highest DII category was 1.39 (95% CI: 1.06, 1.14, test for heterogeneity: p = .63, and I2 = .0%) in comparison with the lowest DII category. Also, the results of this study showed that each unit increase in DII as a continuous variable generally elicited a 10% increase in the odds of E‐CRP (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.06, 1.14, test for heterogeneity: p = .63, and I2 = .0%). Subgroup meta‐analyses showed that there is a higher E‐CRP odds ratio for the articles that reported energy‐adjusted DII (E‐DII) instead of DII, the studies that measured CRP instead of hs‐CRP, and the studies that used 24‐h recall instead of FFQ as the instrument of dietary intake data collection. Individuals with a higher DII were estimated to have higher chances of developing elevated serum CRP. This value was influenced by factors such as the participants' nationality, instruments of data collection, methods used to measure inflammatory biomarkers, study design, and data adjustments. However, future well‐designed studies can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the inflammatory properties of diet and inflammatory serum biomarkers.
Comparison of ohmic heating‐ and microwave‐assisted extraction techniques for avocado leaves valorization: Optimization and impact on the phenolic compounds and bioactivities
Authors: Gumustepe Lale , Kurt Nevriye , Aydın Ebru , Ozkan Gulcan
Published: July 2023

Avocado tree pruning activities generate a substantial amount of residual biomass, which includes different parts of the plant, such as leaves, twigs, branches, and small fruits. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different green extraction methods of microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) and ohmic heating‐assisted extraction (OHAE) for the phenolic extraction of avocado leaves based on a statistical approach, central composite design (CCD), and response surface methodology (RSM). Water was preferred using as an environmentally and health‐friendly solvent for both methods. The phenolic composition, antioxidant activity, and antidiabetic potential of the extracts were identified and comparatively assessed. The developed models exhibited a high degree of reliability with optimal conditions for OHAE and MAE, which were determined as 9.38 V/cm voltage gradient, 6 min extraction time, at 60°C, 5 min, and 1 g dried leaf/100 mL water. Epicatechin was identified as the primary phenolic compound in OHAE extracts, while chlorogenic acid was the dominant compound in MAE extracts. The extracts obtained from OHAE and MAE were tested for their ability to inhibit α‐glucosidase activity, with IC50(mg/mL) values of 0.85 and 1.14, respectively. The DPPH radicals scavenging activity (IC50mg/L) of OHAE and MAE were detected as 2.96 and 3.41, respectively. In conclusion, both methods yielded extracts rich in polyphenols that displayed high antioxidant activity, but OHAE was found to be superior to MAE in terms of TPC, DPPH, and antidiabetic activities. The results of this study have the potential to make significant contributions toward promoting the principles of a circular economy by facilitating the valorization of the avocado pruning waste.
Country‐Specific Participation Patterns in Transnational Governance Initiatives on Sustainability: Preliminary Insights and Research Agenda
Authors: Tosun Jale , Saad Emiliano Levario , Glückler Johannes , Irigoyen Rios Alejandra , Lehmann Rosa
Published: July 2023

Transnational public–private governance initiatives (TGIs) have become key elements in global governance, especially in the governance of sustainability. Pertinent research has concentrated on why TGIs have emerged as well as on their impacts on political outcomes and questions related to their legitimacy. This instructive literature has predominantly focused on TGIs as entities in their own right. This explorative study contributes to the literature by advocating a complementary analytical perspective that pays attention to domestic‐level patterns of participation in TGIs and national factors that determine which types of organizations (public, business, or civil society) participate in TGIs. It is shown for six Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru) that there exists cross‐country variation in the composition patterns in 29 TGIs on sustainability, suggesting that national conditions matter for how organizations participate in them. By improving the knowledge of the national conditions, a more complete analysis of participation and the effectiveness of TGIs can be provided in global sustainability governance. In this spirit, in a last step, an agenda is developed for guiding future research on this topic.
Using predictive validity to compare associations between brain damage and behavior
Authors: Magnotti John F. , Patterson Jaclyn S. , Schnur Tatiana T.
Published: July 2023

Lesion‐behavior mapping (LBM) provides a statistical map of the association between voxel‐wise brain damage and individual differences in behavior. To understand whether two behaviors are mediated by damage to distinct regions, researchers often compare LBM weight outputs by either the Overlap method or the Correlation method. However, these methods lack statistical criteria to determine whether two LBM are distinct versus the same and are disconnected from a major goal of LBMs: predicting behavior from brain damage. Without such criteria, researchers may draw conclusions from numeric differences between LBMs that are irrelevant to predicting behavior. We developed and validated a predictive validity comparison method (PVC) that establishes a statistical criterion for comparing two LBMs using predictive accuracy: two LBMs are distinct if and only if they provide unique predictive power for the behaviors being assessed. We applied PVC to two lesion‐behavior stroke data sets, demonstrating its utility for determining when behaviors arise from the same versus different lesion patterns. Using region‐of‐interest‐based simulations derived from proportion damage from a large data set (n = 131), PVC accurately detected when behaviors were mediated by different regions (high sensitivity) versus the same region (high specificity). Both the Overlap method and Correlation method performed poorly on the simulated data. By objectively determining whether two behavioral deficits can be explained by single versus distinct patterns of brain damage, PVC provides a critical advance in establishing the brain bases of behavior. We have developed and released a GUI‐driven web app to encourage widespread adoption.
The incidence trends of oral cancers worldwide from 1988 to 2012 and the prediction up to 2030
Authors: Lu Dong‐Ning , Zhang Wan‐Chen , Lin Yan‐Ze , Zhang Yi‐Ning , Shao Cheng‐Ying , Zheng Chuan‐Ming , Ge Ming‐Hua , Xu Jia‐Jie
Published: July 2023

Background

This paper aims to analyze the time trend of OCs incidence in 43 countries (1988–2012) and predict the incidence trend of OCs (2012–2030).

Methods

In the database for Cancer Incidence in Five Continents, the annual data on OCs incidence grouped by age and gender were obtained from 108 cancer registries in 43 countries. The age‐standardized incidence rates were calculated, and the Bayesian age‐period‐cohort model was used to predict the incidence in 2030.

Results

South Asia and Oceania had the highest ASR in 1988 (9.24/100 000) and 2012 (6.74/100 000). It was predicted that India, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Japan would be the countries with an increased incidence of OCs in 2030.

Conclusion

Regional custom is an important factor affecting the incidence of OCs. According to our predictions., it is necessary to control risk factors according to local conditions and enhance screening and education.
Risk factors of early thyroid dysfunction after definitive radiotherapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients
Authors: Lian Chen‐Lu , Zhuo Ren‐Gong , Zhou Rui , Yu Yi‐Feng , Zhou Ping , Lin Qin , Wu San‐Gang
Published: July 2023

Background

To explore the patterns and risk factors of early thyroid dysfunction in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients within 1 year after intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

Methods

Patients with NPC who received definitive IMRT between April 2016 and April 2020 were included. All patients had normal thyroid function before definitive IMRT. The chi‐square test, Student's T‐test, Mann–Whitney U test, Kaplan–Meier method, receiver operating characteristics curve, and Cox proportional hazard analysis were used for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 132 NPC patients were identified. Of these patients, 56 (42.4%) had hypothyroidism and 17 (12.9%) had hyperthyroidism. The median time to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism was 9 months (range, 1–12 months) and 1 month (range, 1–6 months) after definitive IMRT, respectively. In patients with hypothyroidism, 41 (73.2%) had subclinical hypothyroidism and 15 (26.8%) had clinical hypothyroidism. In those with hyperthyroidism, 12 patients (70.6%) had subclinical hyperthyroidism, and five patients (29.4%) had clinical hyperthyroidism. Age, clinical stage, thyroid volume, and V45 were independent risk factors for early radiation‐induced hypothyroidism within 1 year after IMRT. Patients aged <47 years, stage III/IV disease, or pre‐irradiation thyroid volume < 14 cm3 had higher risks of developing hypothyroidism.

Conclusion

Primary subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common subtype of early thyroid dysfunction in NPC patients within 1 year after IMRT. Age, clinical stage, thyroid volume, and V45 were independent risk factors for early radiation‐induced hypothyroidism in NPC patients.
Prolonged second stage of labor: Predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in a sub‐Saharan setting
Authors: Hyredin Tofike , Urgie Tadesse , Sium Abraham Fessehaye
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine the predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes among parturients with prolonged second stage of labor.

Methods

This study is a cross‐sectional study of women with prolonged second stage of labor from January 1 to June 30, 2021, in four tertiary hospitals in Ethiopia. Data were collected prospectively using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze baseline characteristics. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to determine predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Results

A total of 406 women were included in the study. More than half (25/46, 54%) of the women with a prolonged second stage of 4 h or longer had vaginal delivery, which was lower than the 73% (140/190) of women who had a second stage of 2–3 h and the 63.4% (64/101) of women with a second stage duration of 3–4 h. Duration of second stage of labor was not a predictor of composite adverse maternal outcomes nor was it a predictor of adverse perinatal outcome. Operative vaginal delivery (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 6.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.41–14.9) and nulliparity (aOR 4.1, 95% CI 1.58–10.41) were predictors of adverse maternal outcome, but nulliparity (aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.05–3.04) and duration of rupture of membranes greater than 18 h (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.21–4.93) were predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Under strict fetal and maternal well‐being monitoring, women with a prolonged second stage of labor can labor for an additional 2 h (up to a total of 4 h) without increasing adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.