bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a predictive model for patients with bone metastases referred to palliative radiotherapy: Secondary analysis of a multicenter study (the PRAIS trial)
Authors: Rossi Romina , Medici Federica , Habberstad Ragnhild , Klepstad Pal , Cilla Savino , Dall'Agata Monia , Kaasa Stein , Caraceni Augusto Tommaso , Morganti Alessio Giuseppe , Maltoni Marco
Published: October 2024

Background

The decision to administer palliative radiotherapy (RT) to patients with bone metastases (BMs), as well as the selection of treatment protocols (dose, fractionation), requires an accurate assessment of survival expectancy. In this study, we aimed to develop three predictive models (PMs) to estimate short‐, intermediate‐, and long‐term overall survival (OS) for patients in this clinical setting.

Materials and Methods

This study constitutes a sub‐analysis of the PRAIS trial, a longitudinal observational study collecting data from patients referred to participating centers to receive palliative RT for cancer‐induced bone pain. Our analysis encompassed 567 patients from the PRAIS trial database. The primary objectives were to ascertain the correlation between clinical and laboratory parameters with the OS rates at three distinct time points (short: 3 weeks; intermediate: 24 weeks; prolonged: 52 weeks) and to construct PMs for prognosis. We employed machine learning techniques, comprising the following steps: (i) identification of reliable prognostic variables and training; (ii) validation and testing of the model using the selected variables. The selection of variables was accomplished using the LASSO method (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator). The model performance was assessed using receiver operator characteristic curves (ROC) and the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Our analysis demonstrated a significant impact of clinical parameters (primary tumor site, presence of non‐bone metastases, steroids and opioid intake, food intake, and body mass index) and laboratory parameters (interleukin 8 [IL‐8], chloride levels, C‐reactive protein, white blood cell count, and lymphocyte count) on OS. Notably, different factors were associated with the different times for OS with only IL‐8 included both in the PMs for short‐ and long‐term OS. The AUC values for ROC curves for 3‐week, 24‐week, and 52‐week OS were 0.901, 0.767, and 0.806, respectively.

Conclusions

We successfully developed three PMs for OS based on easily accessible clinical and laboratory parameters for patients referred to palliative RT for painful BMs. While our findings are promising, it is important to recognize that this was an exploratory trial. The implementation of these tools into clinical practice warrants further investigation and confirmation through subsequent studies with separate databases.
Pyrene Based Schiff Base for Cascade Fluorescent “On‐Off” Detection of Aluminium(III) and Fluoride Ions and its Applications in Live Cells Imaging
Authors: Bhardwaj Kanishk , Yadav Rashmi , Samanta Animesh , Jangir Ritambhara , Jali Bigyan Ranjan , Kumar SK Ashok , Sahoo Suban K.
Published: October 2024

An easy‐to‐prepare pyrene‐based Schiff base PNZ was synthesized by condensing equimolar amount of 1‐pyrenebutyric hydrazide with 2‐hydroxy‐naphthaldehyde, and employed as a fluorescent chemosensor for in‐situ cascade detection of aluminium (Al3+) and fluoride (F−) ions. In DMSO:H2O (1 : 1, v/v), the weakly emissive PNZ showed a significant fluorescence enhancement at 455 nm selectively upon the addition of Al3+ due to the complexation‐induced formation of a pyrene excimer. Schiff base PNZ and Al3+ formed a complex in 2 : 1 binding ratio with the estimated binding constants of K1:1=9826.01 M−1 and K2:1=3188.49 M−1. The sensing mechanism was explored by performing quantum mechanical calculations and 1H‐NMR titration of PNZ with Al3+. The in‐situ formed PNZ‐Al3+ complex species enabled the fluorescent turn‐off detection of F−. Using PNZ and PNZ‐Al3+, the concentrations of Al3+ and F− ions can be detected down to 2.89×10−7 M and 1.88×10−7 M, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the PNZ and its ability to bioimage Al3+ and F− ions was examined in the human cervical cancer cell line. Finally, the receptor PNZ was applied for the quantification of Al3+ and F− ions in various real samples, such as tap water, river water, rainwater, mouthwash, and toothpaste.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activities Evaluation of Novel Pterostilbene‐Urea Derivatives as Potential Anti‐Inflammatory Agents
Authors: Wang Shouchuan , Huang Shaoling , Peng Feng , Wu Yanchun , Pan Weigao , Huang Yunhou , Luo Peng
Published: October 2024

1. The toxicity of derivatives was removed by the reasonable modification of bioactive skeleton. 2. As potential COX‐2 inhibitor with IC50 values ranging from 39.42 to 179.84 nM/L, compounds (Q4‐Q10, Q20) exhibited superior anti‐inflammatory activity at low micromolar concentrations. 3. Q7 (IC50 (COX‐2)= 61.05 nM/L), Q10 (IC50 (COX‐2)= 54.68 nM/L) and Q20 (IC50 (COX‐2)= 39.42 nM/L) showed stronger COX‐2 inhibitory abilities than Celecoxib (IC50 (COX‐2)= 67.89 nM/L). 4. The strongest anti‐inflammatory agent, Q20 (IC50 NO= 9.96 μM/L, IC50 (COX‐2)= 39.42 nM/L) effectively inhibited the secretion of IL‐1β and TNF‐α, exhibited the IC50 values of 12.30 and 9.07 μM/L respectively. 5. Q20 exerted as anti‐inflammatory actives via targeting COX‐2, down‐regulating iNOS and TLR4 protein, and inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF‐κB signal pathway.
PLGA‐Loaded Nedaplatin (PLGA‐NDP) Inhibits 7,12‐Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) Induced Oral Carcinogenesis via Modulating Notch Signaling Pathway and Induces Apoptosis in Experimental Hamster Model
Authors: Ilanchit Chenni Senkuttuvan , Suresh Kathiresan , Theerthu Azhamuthu , Ahamed Abulkalam A. N. , Pugazhendhi Ravichandran , Vasu Rajeswari
Published: October 2024

The present study is designed to evaluate the nanotherapeutic efficacy of prepared PLGA‐loaded Nedaplatin (PLGA‐NDP) against 7,12‐dimethyl benz(a)anthracene (DMBA)‐induced experimental oral carcinogenesis in hamster buccal pouch (HBP) model. The buccal pouch of golden Syrian hamsters was painted with 0.5% DMBA in liquid paraffin three times a week for 14 weeks, ultimately leading to the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Oral administration of PLGA‐NDP (preinitiation) and Cisplatin delivery (5 mg/kg b.wt) started 1 week before the carcinogen exposure and continued on alternative days. Post‐administration of PLGA‐NDP (5 mg/kg b.wt) started 2 days after carcinogen (DMBA) induction until the end of the experiment. After the 14th week, we observed that DMBA‐painted hamsters exhibited tumor formation, morphological alterations, and well‐differentiated OSSC in addition to the responsive molecular proteins during oral carcinogenesis. Furthermore, immunoblotting analysis demonstrated that PLGA‐NDP inhibits Notch signaling, as evidenced by downregulation of Bcl‐Xl, Bcl‐2, p21, PGE2, HGF, and CXCL12 proteins, and upregulation of p53 and Bax. This apoptotic response is crucial for PLGA‐NDP to induce apoptosis. In addition, RT‐PCR results showed that PLGA‐NDP nanoparticles play a downregulatory role in the therapeutic action of the notch signaling gene (Notch1, Notch 2, Hes1, Hey1, and Jagged1) at the mRNA transcription level in HBP carcinoma. Taken together, these data indicate that PLGA‐NDP is a potent inhibitor of oral carcinogenesis and the expansion of cells that specifically target the Notch signaling pathway indicates that obstructing Notch signaling could potentially serve as a new and innovative therapeutic approach for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).
Molecular Architecture @ MOFs: Designing a Multifunctional Catalyst for the Cascade Reaction of Olefins via Epoxides to Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Hemmer Karina , Hegelmann Markus , Fischer Roland A. , Cokoja Mirza
Published: October 2024

Employing enzymatic reaction cascade principles to synthesize artificial materials with multiple autonomously operating active sites is one of the holy grails in modern catalysis research. In this regard, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising host platforms. Yet, applying MOFs as enzyme‐mimicking catalysts is synthetically challenging. Herein, we present a design strategy for the synthesis of porphyrin‐based MOFs for the cascade catalysis of the conversion of olefins to epoxides and their cycloaddition with CO2 to cyclic carbonates. The MOFs feature tunable dual active sites with synthetically controllable metal variations. A clear dependence of the metal combination on the catalytic performance of the MOF catalysts is shown. This work advances the understanding essential for designing sophisticated, multifunctional porphyrin MOFs for efficient one‐pot cascade catalysis.
Trace Amount of Ir Decorated NiFe Phosphide In‐Situ Grown on Carbon Cloth as Cost‐Effective Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Xue , Xia Jiawei , Tong Yuxuan , Zhou Miaoen , He Yuming , Wang Kun , He Guangyu , Chen Haiqun
Published: October 2024

Cost‐effective electrocatalysts is a key constituent to establish the balance of cost and catalytic efficiency for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) via water electrolysis in the area of energy conversion and storage. NiFe phosphide decorated with trace amount of iridium (Ir) species in‐situ grown on carbon cloth was prepared by a facile wet chemistry approach followed by a phosphorization post‐treatment at a relative low temperature. The optimal electrocatalyst, Ir2‐NiFePx/CC, exhibits excellent OER activity, with an low overpotential of 190 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for alkaline OER, and a desirable long‐term durability over 90 h. The outstanding OER performance stems from the structural evolution via phosphorization process, Ir decoration with more high‐valence stated Ir4+ species, and tight connection between individual components of the electrode, which gives rise to the strong activity to the active sites and faster reaction kinetics in the alkaline OER process. Mover, the Ir loading was as low as approximately ~1.7 wt % (0.29 mg cm−2), showing promissing propective in cost‐effective OER.
Unlocking the Chemical and Structural Complexity of Aluminum Hydroxy Acetates: from Commodity Chemicals to Porous Materials
Authors: Achenbach Bastian , Liedtke Lena‐Marie , Näther Christian , Svensson Grape Erik , Ken Inge A. , Stock Norbert
Published: October 2024

Aluminum acetates have been in use for more than a century, but despite their widespread commercial applications, essential scientific knowledge of their synthesis‐structure‐property relationships is lacking. High‐throughput screening, followed by fine tuning and extensive optimization of reaction conditions using Al3+, OH− and CH3COO− ions, has unraveled their complex synthetic chemistry, yielding for the first time the four phase pure products Al(OH)(O2CCH3)2 ⋅ x H2O (x=0, 2) (1A and CAU‐65, 1B), Al3O(HO2CCH3)(O2CCH3)7 (2), and the porous aluminum salt [Al24(OH)56(CH3COO)12](OH)4 (CAU‐55‐OH, 3). Structure determination by electron and X‐ray diffraction was carried out and the data suggested porosity for 1B and 3, which was confirmed by physisorption experiments. Even the scale‐up to the 10 L scale was accomplished for 1A, 1B and 3 with yields of up to 1.1 kg (99 %). This study of a seemingly simple chemical system provides important information on both fundamental inorganic chemistry and porous materials.
Chiral Self‐Sorting Process With C2 Symmetric Bisimidazoline Ligands
Authors: Dussart Caitlyn , Maisse‐François Aline , Bellemin‐Laponnaz Stéphane
Published: October 2024

We have studied the coordination chemistry of chiral imidazoline‐based C2‐symmetric ligands with zinc (II) and copper (II). Two types of bisimidazoline ligands were studied, one with the free amine (BIM‐H) and the other with the amine protected by a toluene sulfonyl group in position 6 (BIM‐Ts). The complexes formed were isolated, purified, and characterized, in particular by X‐ray diffraction studies and CD in the case of the enantiopure complexes. By playing with the choice of ligand system (enantiopure or racemate), we were able to show that the selective formation of homoleptic and heteroleptic metal complexes can be controlled by means of the chiral molecular instruction of bisimidazoline ligands.
Myosin VI Is Associated With the Endoplasmic Reticulum in Regions of Sertoli Cells Containing Tubulobulbar Complexes
Authors: Tretjakov Samuel , Palia Prunveer , Vogl A. Wayne
Published: October 2024

Myosin VI has been reported by others to localize in association with various regions of apical tubulobulbar complexes (TBCs) at sites of attachment between Sertoli cells and late spermatids in the mouse. Tubulobulbar complexes internalize “intact” intercellular junctions during sperm release and during spermatocyte translocation through the blood‐testis barrier. Here, we use super‐resolution (STED—stimulated emission depletion) and electron microscopy of immunolabeled sections of rat testis to clearly define the localization of anti‐myosin VI reactivity both at apical and basal sites in the epithelium. In data stacks collected by STED imaging, staining at TBCs was predominantly associated with bulb regions of the complexes. At apical sites, when data stacks were analyzed with an Imaris software, staining appeared around and extended between adjacent bulbs. At basal sites, in addition to labeling at TBC bulbs, reactive sites appeared concentrated in regions close to but not directly associated with intercellular junctions. At the ultrastructural level, labeling was predominantly associated with cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum associated with the bulbs of TBCs and near to basal junction complexes. We conclude that myosin VI may be associated with specific subdomains of the endoplasmic reticulum related to TBC bulbs and associated basal junction complexes between Sertoli cells.
Carfilzomib‐Induced Thrombotic Microangiopathy—Two Case Reports
Authors: Attucci Irene , Pilerci Sofia , Messeri Maria , Pengue Ludovica , Tomasino Giulia , Caroti Leonardo , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Antonioli Elisabetta
Published: October 2024

Background

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a pathological syndrome characterized by a combination of three key features: microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia, and organ damage, primarily affecting the kidneys. There are several drugs known to have a definite or probable causal association with TMA, and carfilzomib, a second‐generation irreversible proteasome inhibitor (PI), approved for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), is one of them. In the medical literature, there have been a growing number of reports describing this serious adverse event occurring in MM patients. The precise mechanisms underlying the development of PI‐induced TMA are not yet fully understood. Significant improvements in both renal and hematological aspects have been documented following the administration of eculizumab.

Recent Findings

In this report, we present two cases of MM patients who developed TMA while undergoing carfilzomib therapy. These cases were successfully treated at the Haematology Unit, Careggi Hospital in Florence. In our cases as well, the introduction of eculizumab resulted in rapid enhancements in renal function and platelet count, ultimately leading to the discontinuation of hemodialysis after 4 and 2 weeks, respectively.

Discussion and Conclusion

We assessed 91 patients who received carfilzomib‐based therapies at our Haematology Department, during which we identified two cases of DITMA (2.2% incidence). Additionally, we conducted a literature review and discovered a total of 75 documented cases of carfilzomib‐induced TMA. Our experience aligns with the cases reported in literature: this adverse event can manifest at any point during treatment, regardless of the specific drug combinations used alongside carfilzomib. The initial and most crucial step in its management involves discontinuing carfilzomib therapy; therefore, recognizing TMA in a timely manner is of utmost importance. Eculizumab could play a role in improving and expediting the resolution of this potentially fatal adverse event, but further studies are needed.

In a MM patient receiving carfilzomib, presenting with anemia, thrombocytopenia, and impaired renal function, a carfilzomib‐induced TMA should be suspected in order to discontinue the causative agent.
Preparation and Catalytic Properties of Gold Single‐Atom and Cluster Catalysts Utilizing Nanoparticulate Mg‐Al Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Nakayama Akihiro , Yoshida Ayano , Aono Chika , Honma Tetsuo , Sakaguchi Norihito , Taketoshi Ayako , Fujita Takashi , Murayama Toru , Shimada Tetsuya , Takagi Shinsuke , Ishida Tamao
Published: October 2024

Au single atoms and clusters were stabilized on Mg−Al layered double hydroxide nanoparticles (LDH NPs), and the obtained Au@LDH NPs were supported on SiO2 and CeO2. After hydrogen reduction, Au single atoms were found together with Au clusters on LDH/SiO2. In contrast to Au single‐atom catalysts which are deposited in metal vacancies of oxide supports, the LDH NPs stabilize very small Au species despite the absence of metal vacancies. The obtained Au(0)@LDH/SiO2 catalyzed aerobic oxidation of alcohols, and Au single atoms maintained after the reaction. Given that only Au NPs were observed on bulk LDH, the abundant surface OH group of LDH NPs would contribute to stabilize Au, resulting in higher activity than Au/LDH‐bulk. After calcination to transform LDH to mixed metal oxide (MMO), the obtained Au(0)@MMO/SiO2 also exhibited high catalytic activity. Moreover, Au(0)@LDH/CeO2 exhibited higher activity and excellent selectivity for hydrogenation of 4‐nitrostyrene to 4‐aminostyrene than conventional Au catalysts such as Au/CeO2 and Au/TiO2. We demonstrated that Au size can be minimized using LDH NPs, exhibiting high catalytic performance. The basic surface OH groups of LDH would be also beneficial for deprotonation of alcohols and heterolytic dissociation of H2 in the catalytic reactions.
Hydrophilic Ultra‐Fine SiC Nanowires Enhance the Performance of Hydrated Salt Phase‐Change Energy Storage Materials
Authors: Chen Wenchao , Chen Qi , Yu Yajie , Gao Huabo , Ma Bin
Published: October 2024

In this study, ultrafine linear nanostructured SiC with high wettability and large specific surface area were synthesized via the carbothermal reduction method. These nanowires were impregnated with Na2SO4 ⋅ 10H2O, CaCl2 ⋅ 6H2O, MgCl2 ⋅ 6H2O, and CaMg2Cl6 ⋅ 12H2O to obtain composite phase change materials (CPCMs), which demonstrated improved phase separation and significantly reduced supercooling. In particular, the supercooling degree of CaCl2 ⋅ 6H2O was minimized to 0.1 °C. The SiC nanowires effectively prevented issues of dehydration and deliquescence in hydrated salts. The thermal storage capacities of the CPCMs exceeded 90 %, with Na2SO4 ⋅ 10H2O and MgCl2 ⋅ 6H2O reaching 107.10 % and 103.35 %, respectively. Furthermore, the CPCMs exhibited greater sensitivity to changes in temperature compared with the pure hydrated salt phase change materials (PCMs). These results indicate that ultra‐fine SiC nanowires can act as a versatile carrier for hydrated salt PCMs at low and intermediate temperatures.
Corporate hypocrisy and ESG rating divergence
Authors: He Renxiang , Chen Hongtao , Zhu Xiang
Published: October 2024

We draw upon impression management theory and cognitive dissonance theory to examine whether or not corporate hypocrisy triggers substantial environmental, social, and governance (ESG) rating divergence and to further investigate the influence channels of cognitive dissonance and impression management. In addition, our study explores the moderating role of media coverage with different emotional biases in shaping the relationship between corporate hypocrisy and ESG rating divergence. By utilizing a comprehensive dataset comprising 3562 Chinese listed companies and 25,898 firm‐year observations from 2010 to 2022, findings reveal that hypocritical firms exhibit significantly large ESG rating divergence. In particular, these firms induce cognitive dissonance among rating agencies, resulting in rating disparities, which are further magnified when using impression management through the selective disclosure of negative information or symbolic promotion of positive information. Furthermore, positive media coverage weakens the positive association between corporate hypocrisy and ESG rating divergence, whereas negative media coverage strengthens this relationship. Lastly, we find that the impact of corporate hypocrisy on ESG rating divergence is more pronounced for companies with higher average ESG scores, lower long‐term charitable involvement, and lower information opacity. These findings withstand various sensitivity tests utilizing alternative measures for rating divergence and corporate hypocrisy, as well as different sample compositions. Our conclusions remain robust even after addressing endogeneity concerns using a two‐stage least squares regression model.
Aqueous‐Based Assembly of Plant‐Derived Proteins Yields a Crosslinker‐Free Biodegradable Bioplastic Consistent with Green Chemistry Principles
Authors: Sarkar Amit Kumar , Yang Ziyu , Astruc Tal , Amdursky Nadav
Published: October 2024

Plastics are an indispensable part of modern life. Due to the harmful environmental consequences of petroleum‐based plastic usage, there is an urgent need to replace them with biodegradable bioplastics that meet the sustainability standards required for a low environmental footprint. Here, we use plant‐derived proteins to produce bioplastics. Since most plant‐derived proteins are not water‐soluble, there has always been a need to use acidic or basic solutions or organic solvents with plasticizers and crosslinkers to produce bioplastic. Here, we present a counterintuitive approach for using water‐insoluble plant‐derived soy and pea proteins to manufacture large‐scale bioplastics using only water as a solvent without common plasticizers or crosslinkers. We show that bioplastics can form via a self‐assembly process initiated by a small molecular initiator while maintaining favourable mechanical properties. The lack of crosslinking and the protein nature of the bioplastic leads to a rapid biodegradation process under various conditions. Overall, the approach we present is highly attractive in terms of cost and time, and most importantly, it obeys all the relevant principles of green chemistry in bioplastics production.
Liquid biopsy—A biomarker‐based revolutionising technique in cancer therapy
Authors: Sarkar Subham , Chakraborty Samraggi , Ghosh Soubhagya , Chowdhury Ekanansha Roy , Rajak Jenifer , Mitra Arup Kumar , Kumer Ajoy , Dhara Bikram
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Cancer has grabbed the attention of scientists and medical professionals all over the world much more than any other disease. In the past few decades, the medical field has improved quite a lot but progress in the path to find a solution for cancer is very less. As the popularity of invasive technologies is diminishing in cancer treatment, scientists have come up withminimally invasive or non‐invasive alternatives, among which liquid biopsy, by far is the most suitable.

Methods

Liquid biopsy is used to analyse nucleic acids, subcellular components and circulating tumour cells in various biological fluids for diagnosis of cancer. It can also be used to know the efficacy of cancer drugs in a patient by analysing multiple samples.

Outcomes

Liquid biopsy is becoming standard of care as it allows biopsy of those samples in which solid tumour biopsies are not possible. The diversity of sampling procedures, such as collection of urine for urothelial carcinoma or bladder or prostate cancer and phlebotomy for other types of cancer, make liquid biopsy one of the best methods for diagnosis of cancer.

Conclusion

This review aims in discussing the several techniques used for the detection of cancer biomarkers and some clinical manifestations due to the changes in the biomarkers which are analysed by liquid biopsy.
EphB2, EphB4, and ephrin‐B1 expression and localization in postnatal developing epididymis in mice
Authors: Gofur Md. Royhan , Ogawa Kazushige
Published: October 2024

Background

Eph receptors and ephrin ligands, the transmembrane proteins, function as a mechanism of communication between cells. Therefore, we intended to explore the expression array of EphB2 and EphB4 receptors and ephrin‐B1 ligand in postnatal developing mouse epididymis during 1 day to 8 weeks using RT‐PCR amplification and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

RT‐PCR analysis indicated that the expression levels of EphB2, EphB4, and ephrin‐B1 in the epididymis declined with the advancement of age during the initial phases of postnatal development and stayed relatively near to adult levels until 4 weeks. We discovered that the predominant compartments expressing EphB2/B4 and ephrin‐B1 emerged in the excurrent duct epithelia of postnatal developing epididymis until 3 weeks. Consequently, even before spermatozoa reach the excurrent duct in epididymis, at the age of 3 weeks, the epididymal excurrent duct system exhibits characteristics similar to those of an adult in terms of expression of EphB2/B4 and ephrin‐B1. Moreover, ephrin‐B1 was expressed in epididymal epithelial cells throughout the development and EphB4 was expressed only in early postnatal stages while basal cells expressed EphB4 throughout the postnatal development.

Conclusion

The study represents the first expression analysis of ephrin‐B1, EphB2, and EphB4 in the normal mouse epididymis during the postnatal development.
To breed or not to breed: Territory occupancy is predicted by reproductive performance and habitat heterogeneity
Authors: López‐Peinado Andrés , Singh Navinder J. , Urios Vicente , López‐López Pascual
Published: October 2024

Species life history and anthropogenic influence are important drivers of population performance and viability in human‐dominated ecosystems. How these factors affect habitat selection and occupancy in long‐lived species is an important topic for their conservation. Long‐term datasets are needed for establishing the underlying drivers of this process. In this 22 year‐long study, we conducted annual surveys of Bonelli's eagle in the east of the Iberian Peninsula. During this period, 42.8% of the known territories remained unoccupied. Territories with a higher likelihood of raising two chicks over time were stable, evidenced by a lower coefficient of variation in productivity, and were more likely to remain occupied. Moreover, territories with lower habitat diversity, dominated by coniferous forest or agricultural fields, and those located further away from the coast and at higher altitudes showed lower rates of occupancy (i.e., unoccupied >3 consecutive years). To validate these associations, we monitored space use of 22 individuals equipped with Global Positioning System/Global System for Mobile (GPS/GSM) transmitters, which confirmed that eagles selected for open habitats (mainly scrublands and transitional woodland‐scrubs) intermixed with forest areas within their home ranges. In contrast, individuals avoided areas dominated by agricultural, urban, and continuous forests for breeding in line with the observations for unoccupied territories. Our results highlight the important interplay between natural and anthropogenic factors, which also have important implications for other raptor species. Preservation of the most productive territories and the re‐occupancy of unoccupied territories along with reducing threats in the preferred habitats are fundamental actions that should be taken immediately to sustain viable populations. Potential management actions include enhancing natural prey density through habitat restoration and conservation, mitigating threats and reducing mortality risks due to power lines, fences, poisoning, and maintaining habitat heterogeneity important to eagles' hunting activities.
Are pools created when restoring extracted peatlands biogeochemically similar to natural peatland pools?
Authors: Jolin Émilie , Arsenault Julien , Talbot Julie , Hassan Mahmud , Rochefort Line
Published: October 2024

In the last 25 years, several degraded peatlands in eastern Canada have been restored toward their natural structure. Pools are common in natural peatlands and are important habitats for unique flora and fauna. Because of their ecological value, pools have been created in some restored peatland sites. Nevertheless, the biogeochemistry of created pools in a restoration context has seldom been studied. The objective of our study is to characterize the biogeochemistry of created pools from restored peatlands and compare them with natural pools along a chronosequence since their creation. We measured different biogeochemical variables (pH, concentrations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved organic matter (DOM), base cations—calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K)—and dissolved gases—methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O)‐) in 61 pools distributed over seven peatlands in eastern Canada. The sites represent a range of conditions, from natural to restored peatlands with pools ranging from 3 to 22 years old. Created and natural pools had distinctive biogeochemistry, with created pools being generally less acidic (pH >5) and 2.5 times more concentrated in nutrients (N and P) than in natural pools. DOC, N, P, dissolved gases, and base cations concentrations were lower in natural pools than in created pools, and varied between created sites. The oldest created pools (age >17 years) tend to approach the biogeochemical characteristics of natural pools, indicating that created pools may, over time, provide habitats with similar conditions to natural pools. A return of created pools to a natural pool‐like biogeochemistry could thus inform on the success of peatland restoration.
Allometric Growth and Scaling of Body Form of the Spadenose Shark (Scoliodon laticaudus)
Authors: Gayford Joel H. , Waghe Ronak , Sternes Phillip C. , Tyabji Zoya
Published: October 2024

The versatility of the shark body form is suggested to be one of the key factors underlying their evolutionary success and persistence. Nevertheless, sharks exhibit a huge diversity of body forms and morphological adaptations. More subtly, it is increasingly evident that in many species, morphology varies through ontogeny. Multiple competing hypotheses exist explaining both the function of specific morphological structures and the interspecific distribution of these ontogenetic morphological shifts. However, existing studies are restricted to a small number of mostly large‐bodied species. In this study, we report allometric scaling relationships from functionally important morphological structures in the spadenose shark (Scoliodon laticaudus). We find that a mosaic of isometric and allometric growth underlies the scaling trends in this species and that cases of allometry are consistent with an ontogenetic shift in diet. Moreover, our results refute suggestions that small‐bodied sharks grow isometrically. Given the small number of existing studies of ontogenetic morphometry in sharks and the life‐history/ecological characteristics of S. laticaudus, this study is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the adaptive value of ontogenetic morphological shifts in elasmobranchs.
Evaluation, tribological examination, and multi‐objective optimization of aluminum‐fly ash‐egg shell composites for sustainability
Authors: Narendran J. , Nagaraja Santhosh , Karthikeyan T. , Anthoniraj S. , Rudra Naik M.
Published: October 2024

This study addresses the technological challenge of enhancing the mechanical and tribological properties of Al 6082 alloy by incorporating fly ash (FA) and eggshell (ES) as reinforcing materials. The objective is to fabricate hybrid metal matrix composites using sand casting, with varying weight percentages of eggshell and fly ash: 4 wt% eggshell with 6 wt% fly ash, 5 wt% eggshell with 5 wt% fly ash, and 6 wt% eggshell with 4 wt% fly ash. The experimental methodology involved designing experiments with response surface methodology (RSM), considering applied load, sliding velocity, and sliding distance as variables. The outcomes showed that the composite with 6 wt% eggshell and 4 wt% fly ash exhibited superior hardness, tensile strength, and impact resistance compared to pure Al 6082 and other composite variations. Additionally, this composite reduced the coefficient of friction (COF) from 0.489 for the base Al 6082 to 0.265. ANOVA based on RSM identified sliding distance as the most influential factor affecting COF. Optimal conditions for minimizing COF were determined to be a 40 N load, 0.215 m/s sliding velocity, and 800 m sliding distance through confirmatory trials. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the worn surfaces provided further insights into the wear mechanisms. The research reveals that integrating the addition of eggshell and fly ash significantly enhances the mechanical properties and reduces the friction of Al 6082, with sliding distance being a critical factor in tribological performance. This investigation is distinctive due to its innovative use of dual reinforcement with fly ash and eggshell, which are abundant, cost‐effective, and rarely employed together in this context. The research thoroughly investigates various reinforcement ratios, providing vital insights into how they affect the composite's properties, particularly in terms of improving tribological properties. Using RSM and ANOVA makes the findings more precise and reliable. The investigation highlights sliding distance as the key factor affecting the tribological behavior of the composites.
Environmental flows drive sediment and seed supply in regulated rivers
Authors: Greet Joe , McKendrick Scott Alexander , Russell Kathryn , Gower Thom , Vietz Geoff , Webb J. Angus
Published: October 2024

Environmental flows are commonly provided in regulated rivers to maintain and restore riverine environments, including riverbank vegetation. Given the expense and political sensitivity of providing water for the environment, greater certainty regarding the expected benefits of environmental flows is required. We assessed the role of managed flows (for both environmental and consumptive purposes) in delivering sediment and plant propagules to facilitate riverbank recovery. Using artificial turf mats, we determined sediment and seed deposition from 11 flow events over 3 years of varying magnitudes, durations and timing in a heavily regulated lowland river in south‐east Australia. At three sites on the Goulburn River, Victoria, mats were placed on different geomorphic features along an elevation gradient (bars, benches, banks and ledges) before a flow event, and the sediment deposited during the event was analysed and assessed for seedling emergence. A total of 401 kg of sediment and 110 980 seeds were sampled. Mats that were inundated via managed flow releases had an order of magnitude more sediment, and around twice the richness of seed taxa, than mats that were not inundated. More sediment and seed taxa were deposited on low‐lying bars than on more elevated features, while seed composition but not abundance varied across features. A longer duration of inundation was associated with the deposition of more sediment, but not seed taxa or abundance. Unexpectedly, there was no evidence that managed flows delivered less sediment and seeds compared with unregulated tributary inflows. Our findings suggest that in regulated rivers, environmental flows are likely to be critical for providing the sediment and seed necessary to restore geomorphic conditions and promote plant recruitment. Longer flow durations are likely to provide more sediment, while high‐flow events may be particularly important for promoting diverse native riparian plant communities across the full range of in‐channel geomorphic features.
Optimization and Application Analysis of Phase Correction Method Based on Improved Image Registration in Ultrasonic Image Detection
Authors: Lu Nannan , Shu Hongyan
Published: October 2024

In order to prevent and detect a wide range of disorders, including those of the brain, thoracic, digestive, urogenital, and cardiovascular systems, ultrasound technology is essential for assessing physiological data and tissue morphology. Its capacity to deliver real‐time, high‐frequency scans makes it a handy and non‐invasive diagnostic tool. However, issues like patient movements and probe jitter from human error can provide a large amount of interference, resulting in inaccurate test findings. Techniques for image registration can assist in locating and eliminating unwanted interference while maintaining crucial data. Even though there has been research on improving these techniques in Matlab, there are no specialized systems for interference removal, and the procedure is still time‐consuming, particularly when working with huge quantities of ultrasound images. The phase correlation technique, which converts images into the frequency domain and makes noise suppression easier, is one of the most efficient algorithms now in use since it can tolerate noise with resilience. Nevertheless, little research has been done on using this technique to identify displacement in blood vessel wall ultrasound images. To address these gaps, this work presents an image registration system that uses the phase correlation algorithm. The system provides rotation, zoom registration, picture translation, and displacement detection of the vessel wall in addition to interference removal. Furthermore, batch processing is included to increase the effectiveness of registering multiple ultrasound pictures. Through efficient interference management and streamlined registration, this method offers a workable way to improve the precision and efficacy of ultrasonic diagnostics.
Enhancing Cross‐Domain Book Classification Through Caching‐Enabled Networks and Transformer Technology
Authors: Li Qiang , Zheng Huaiyuan , Bao Yulai , Liu Side
Published: October 2024

Book classification is a crucial task for libraries and a fundamental aspect of their service offerings. Cross‐domain book classification, in particular, presents significant challenges due to the diversity and complexity of content across different genres and subjects. To tackle these challenges, a user‐oriented strategy employing Transformer network (TN) is developed to fulfill the need for superior content quality and classification. Our proposed method leverages the self‐attention mechanism of TN for precise feature extraction and classification, combining it with principal component analysis to ensure a comprehensive understanding of book content. This integration represents a technical innovation that enhances the model's ability to handle diverse datasets with improved accuracy and robustness. Our approach merges TN with caching‐enabled networks (CEN) to enhance accuracy and robustness. Driven by the necessity for improved cross‐domain classification, our strategy aims to standardize book classifications, thus improving user satisfaction. The primary actions encompass improved classification management, feedback systems, and evaluation frameworks. This work highlights the innovative fusion of TN and CEN, showcasing how these advanced techniques can significantly elevate the performance of library classification systems. Our work demonstrates that high‐quality book classification can significantly improve library services and user experience. Furthermore, it aligns with the broader applications of CEN in emerging networking technologies, showing the potential for cutting‐edge techniques to revolutionize library services.
Laser Aggregometry Assessment of Blood Microrheology in a Slit Fluidic Channel Covered With Endothelial Cells
Authors: Semenov Alexey N. , Lugovtsov Andrei E. , Ermolinskiy Petr B. , Priezzhev Alexander V.
Published: October 2024

The blood rheology in vitro in glass or plastic microfluidic chips is different from that in vivo in blood vessels with similar geometry. Absence of vascular endothelium is suggested to cause these discrepancies. This work aims to perform in vitro measurements of blood microrheologic parameters in a slit microfluidic channel covered with endothelial cells (HUVEC). The laser aggregometry was employed to measure the intensity of laser light, backscattered from the blood flow, as a function of shear stress to evaluate the hydrodynamic strength of red blood cells (RBC) aggregates in terms of critical shear stress (CSS). The results demonstrated a decrease in CSS accompanied by an increase in the accuracy of its measurement at similar shear stresses when endothelial cells were present in the channel. The findings hold valuable implications for advanced approaches for endothelization of microfluidic devices, facilitating the study of blood flow dynamics in physiologically more relevant environment.
Pesticide exposure and oxidative stress generation are linked to poor prognosis outcomes in breast cancer women carrying the allelic variant rs7438135 in the UGT2B7 gene
Authors: Vacario Beatriz Geovana Leite , da Silva Isabely Mayara , Machado Murilo Galvani , Orrutéa Julia Fernandes Gois , Campos Aline Graciele Henriques , Matos Rafaela Oliveira , Federige Ana Carolina Lopes , Koizumi Bruna Yukie , Leite Maikely Bruna , Komori Isabela Mitsu Suo , dos Santos Jaques Hellen , Rech Daniel , Guembarovski Roberta Losi , Amarante Marla Karine , Serpeloni Juliana Mara , Panis Carolina
Published: October 2024

Pesticide exposure is a risk factor for the development of several diseases, including breast cancer (BC). The enzyme UGT2B7 participate in detoxification of pesticides and the presence rs7438135 (G > A) variant in your gene increases its glucuronidation potential, contributing to oxidative stress metabolites neutralization. Here we investigated the impact of occupational pesticide exposure on the systemic oxidative stress generation from 228 women with BC depending on their UGT2B7 rs7438135 (G > A) status. q‐PCR investigated the presence of the rs7438135 variant, and oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation levels, total antioxidant capacity—TRAP, and nitric oxide metabolites—NOx) were measured in plasma. Pesticide exposure induced significant augment in the systemic lipid peroxidation in the presence of the variant for several clinicopathological conditions, including tumors with high proliferation index (ki67) and with high aggressiveness. NOx was augmented in high ki67, positive progesterone receptors, high‐grade and triple‐negative/Luminal B tumors, and low‐risk stratified patients. TRAP was depleted in young patients at menopause and those with triple‐negative/Luminal B tumors, as well as those stratified as at low risk for death and recurrence. These findings showed that the presence of the variant was not able to protect from pesticide‐induced oxidative stress generation in BC patients.
Body Composition and Progression of Biopsy‐Proven Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Patients With Obesity
Authors: Wan Qianyi , Liu Xingzhu , Xu Jinghao , Zhao Rui , Yang Shiqin , Feng Jianrong , Cao Zhan , Li Jingru , He Xiaopeng , Chen Haiou , Ye Jinbao , Chen Haiyang , Chen Yi
Published: October 2024

Background

Obesity is a significant risk factor for the progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, a convenient and efficacious non‐invasive test for monitoring NAFLD progression in patients with obesity is currently lacking. This study aims to investigate the associations between CT‐based body composition and the progression of biopsy‐proven NAFLD in patients with obesity.

Methods

Liver biopsy was conducted in patients with obesity, and the progression of NAFLD was evaluated by the NAFLD activity score (NAS). Body composition was assessed through abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans.

Results

A total of 602 patients with an average age of 31.65 (±9.33) years old were included, comprising 217 male patients and 385 female patients. The wall skeletal muscle index (SMI), total SMI, and visceral fat index (VFI) were positively correlated with NAS in both male and female patients. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between high liver steatosis and wall SMI (HR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.12 to 2.30), total SMI (HR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.08), VSI (HR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.48 to 3.14), visceral fat to muscle ratio (HR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.05 to 2.18), and visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio (HR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.07 to 2.12). Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was significantly associated with wall SMI (HR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.06 to 2.19) and VSI (HR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.17). Liver fibrosis ≥ F2 was significantly associated with psoas muscle index (HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.93) and psoas skeletal muscle density (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41 to 0.89).

Conclusions

Our study suggested that certain CT‐based body composition indicators, notably high VFI, were significantly associated with the progression of NAFLD in patients with obesity. Great attentions and timely managements should be given to these patients with body composition characteristics associated with the risk of NAFLD progression.
Ni phosphide catalysts on Al2O3‐zeolite prepared by phosphidation for methyl palmitate hydroconversion
Authors: Shamanaev Ivan V , Vlasova Evgenia N , Tsaplin Dmitriy E , Danilova Irina G , Pakharukova Vera P , Gerasimov Evgeny Yu , Yakovlev Ilya V , Fedorov Alexey Yu , Maximov Anton L , Bukhtiyarova Galina A
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

One‐stage hydroconversion of fatty‐acid based feedstocks is a promising way to obtain high‐quality fuels. This process is based on hydrodeoxygenation, isomerization and hydrocracking reactions. In this work, Ni2P/Al2O3‐zeolite catalysts were synthesized and tested in hydroconversion of a model compound – methyl palmitate.

RESULTS

Ni2P catalysts were prepared by in situ phosphidation of metallic Ni/Al2O3‐zeolite precursors by PPh3. Mixtures of zeolite (30 wt%) and boehmite were peptized and extruded to obtain the support granules. SAPO‐11, ZSM‐5, ZSM‐22, ZSM‐23 and ZSM‐12 were used as a zeolite component. The catalysts and supports were characterized by a range of physicochemical methods: chemical analysis (ICP‐AES), low‐temperature N2 adsorption, H2‐temperature programmed reduction, NH3‐temperature programmed desorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of adsorbed CO, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and 27Al and 31P magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance. The catalysts were studied in methyl palmitate hydroconversion (one‐stage hydrodeoxygenation‐isomerization‐hydrocracking) in a continuous‐flow fixed bed reactor at 290–340 °C, 2 MPa, H2/feed = 600 Ncm3/cm3 and LHSV = 5.3 h−1. SAPO‐11 containing sample showed high selectivity to C15 and C16 iso‐alkanes (63%, at 340 °C), and all ZSM‐containing samples showed high selectivity to cracked C5–C9 products (55–100%, at 340 °C) with varying amounts of iso‐alkanes (31–57%, at 340 °C).

CONCLUSION

The results show that by choosing the zeolite component of the catalyst it is possible to finely tune product quality in the range from low‐temperature diesel fuel to jet fuel or gasoline. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).