bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Animal impact in real‐life: Study protocol for an ecological momentary assessment study on the role of animal characteristics in the relationship between companion animals and mental wellbeing
Authors: Janssens Mayke , Eshuis Jannes , Heilijgers Eline , Jacobs Nele , Hediger Karin , Lataster Johan , Peeters Sanne
Published: November 2023

The contribution of companion animals to human mental wellbeing has received an increasing amount of scientific interest. Research findings concerning the nature of this relationship are however mixed. Variability in behavior and characteristics of the animal might explain this heterogeneity. The main aim of the present study is to investigate the association between companion animals and mental wellbeing in daily life and the role that animal characteristics play in this association, using an ecological momentary assessment approach. The sample will comprise of adult owners of a dog and/or a cat. Participants will start with a baseline assessment including demographic characteristics of the owner and the animal, as well as the C‐BARQ or Fe‐BARQ to assess general behavior of the animal. After the baseline assessment, a signal‐contingent scheme with semi‐random intervals will be used to examine human–animal interaction (HAI) in the natural setting of pet‐owners' daily lives. Participants will complete up to ten short assessments per day over the course of 5 days, reporting on the presence of‐, interaction with‐, and behavior of the companion animal. They also report on stressful activities and events, and on their current positive and negative affect. Multilevel regression analysis will be used to investigate the relationship between HAI, animal characteristics and mental wellbeing. With this study we hope to provide insight into the type of animal, behavior of the animal and specific elements of interaction with an animal, and their potential associations with human wellbeing. The knowledge gathered in this study will add to unraveling mechanisms underlying HAI and help to identify in which contexts and under what conditions HAI can have the greatest impact.
Sparse precision matrix estimation under lower polynomial moment assumption
Authors: Miao Li , Wang Jinru
Published: November 2023

Precision matrix (inverse covariance matrix) estimation is a rising challenge in contemporary applications while dealing with high‐dimensional data. This paper focuses on large‐scale precision matrix of the random vector that only has lower polynomial moments. We mainly investigate upper bounds of the proposed estimator under the spectral norm in terms of the probability and mean estimation respectively. It is shown that the data‐driven estimator is fully adaptive and achieves the same optimal convergence order as under Gaussian assumption on the data. Simulation studies further support our theoretical claims.
Qualitative analysis of variable‐order fractional differential equations with constant delay
Authors: Naveen S. , Parthiban V.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the computational analysis of fractional differential equations of variable‐order delay systems. To the proposed problem, the existence of solutions is derived using Arzela‐Ascoli theorem, and the Banach fixed point theorem is used for uniqueness results. To investigate and address the computational solutions, Adams‐Bashforth‐Moulton technique is established. To demonstrate the method's efficiency, computational simulations of chaotic behaviors in several one‐dimensional delayed systems with distinct variable orders are employed. The numerical solution of the proposed problem gives high precision approximations.
An implicit–explicit time discretization for elastic wave propagation problems in plates
Authors: Methenni Hajer , Imperiale Alexandre , Imperiale Sébastien
Published: November 2023

We propose a new implicit–explicit scheme to address the challenge of modeling wave propagation within thin structures using the time‐domain finite element method. Compared to standard explicit schemes, our approach renders a time marching algorithm with a time step independent of the plate thickness and its associated discretization parameters (mesh step and order of approximation). Relying on the standard three dimensional elastodynamics equations, our strategy can be applied to any type of material, either isotropic or anisotropic, with or without discontinuities in the thickness direction. Upon the assumption of an extruded mesh of the plate‐like geometry, we show that the linear system to be solved at each time step is partially lumped thus efficiently treated. We provide numerical evidence of an adequate convergence behavior, similar to a reference solution obtained using the well‐known leapfrog scheme. Further numerical investigations show significant speed up factors compared to the same reference scheme, proving the efficiency of our approach for the configurations of interest.
Design and preparation of polytetrafluoroethylene/carbon (PTFE/C) composite membrane‐equivalent foam for gravity‐driven emulsion separation
Authors: Guo Xiaoming , Lan Di , Wang Yue
Published: November 2023

Herein, the concept of a membrane‐equivalent foam (MEF) with equivalent characteristics to a separated multilayer membrane is proposed and elaborated to mitigate the conflict between efficiency and selectivity in emulsion separation. Porous polytetrafluoroethylene/carbon (PTFE/C) composite MEF with a two‐level microporous structure (bubble pores and ice‐templated pores) was prepared successfully, derived from a PTFE/glutaraldehyde crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol (PVAG) composite foam green body. The PVAG‐based in situ carbon was analyzed as composed mainly of amorphous carbon. The bubble pores were observed to be interconnected by ice‐templated pores. The porosity of the porous PTFE/C composite MEF reached a remarkable value of 73.35%. Corresponding to m(PTFE)/m(PVA) values of 14/1, 12/1, 10/1 and 8/1, the average pore sizes of the bubble pores were 32.99, 44.31, 47.33 and 48.01 μm, and the average sizes of the ice‐templated pores were about 2.24, 2.77, 3.02 and 3.47 μm, respectively. Meanwhile, the porous PTFE/C composite MEF exhibited near superhydrophobicity in air and superhydrophobicity under oil. In gravity‐driven water−oil emulsion separation tests, the oil flux was up to 3541 L h−1 m−2 and the separation efficiency reached more than 99.52%. After 20 cycles of testing, the oil flux and separation efficiency remained stable. The membrane‐equivalent thickness of the samples from PTFE/C‐m1 to PTFE/C‐m4 were below 3.47, 4.26, 0.58 and 0.30 nm, respectively, which is about 10−7–10−6 times lower than the height of porous PTFE/C composite MEF. It is reasonable to believe that porous PTFE/C composite MEF could effectively mitigate the ‘trade‐off’ effect. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Endobronchial cryptococcosis with bronchial stenosis in a patient with severe asthma treated with inhaled corticosteroids: A case report
Authors: Sasaki Jun , Kinoshita Takashi , Sudou Misa , Horii Takayuki , Takaki Reiko , Mitsuoka Masahiro , Tominaga Masaki , Kawayama Tomotaka , Hoshino Tomoaki
Published: November 2023

Cryptococcosis typically manifests as pulmonary lesions, with endobronchial lesions occurring rarely. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) may be a risk factor for cryptococcosis of the larynx but not of the bronchi. Here, we report a case involving a 73‐year‐old Japanese man who developed endobronchial cryptococcosis during ICS treatment for asthma. Chest computed tomography showed right mainstem bronchial stenosis and asthma control worsening when he received adequate asthma treatments. Bronchoscopy revealed multiple elevated lesions with white slough from the trachea to the right mainstem bronchus and the right mainstem bronchus lumen entrance narrowing. Bronchial lavage culture revealed Cryptococcus neoformans. Combination treatment with the antifungal agent, mepolizumab, and bronchodilation surgery successfully controlled cryptococcosis and asthma. Attention should be paid to central airway lesions during ICS treatment for uncontrolled asthma.
Biomimetic Helical Hydrogen Bonded Organic Framework Membranes for Efficient Uranium Recovery from Seawater
Authors: Maurya Ashish , Marvaniya Karan , Dobariya Priyanka , Mane Manoj V. , Tothadi Srinu , Patel Ketan , Kushwaha Shilpi
Published: November 2023

Inspired by the uranyl‐imidazole interactions via nitrogen's (N's) of histidine residues in single helical protein assemblies with open framework geometry that allows through migration/coordination of metal ions. Here, preliminary components of a stable hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) are designed to mimic the stable single helical open framework with imidazole residues available for Uranium (U) binding. The imidazolate‐HOF (CSMCRIHOF2‐S) is synthesized with solvent‐directed H‐bonding in 1D array and tuned hydrophobic CH–π interactions leading to single helix pattern having enhanced hydrolytic stability. De‐solvation led CSMCRIHOF2‐P with porous helical 1D channels are transformed in a freestanding thin film that showcased improved mass transfer and adsorption of uranyl carbonate. CSMCRIHOF2‐P thin film can effectively extract ≈14.8 mg g−1 in 4 weeks period from natural seawater, with > 1.7 U/V (Uranium to Vanadium ratio) selectivity. This strategy can be extended for rational designing of hydrolytically stable, U selective HOFs to realize the massive potential of the blue economy toward sustainable energy.
In Situ Quantitative Study of Single‐Molecule Photoreduction Activities and Kinetics on 1D–1D Heterostructure
Authors: Wu Shuyang , Lee Jinn‐Kye , Tan Joseph Wei En , Chan Jia Xin , Xu Rong , Zhang Zhengyang
Published: November 2023

Understanding the underlying catalytic mechanisms with nanometer resolution is of critical importance to the rational design of 1D heterogeneous catalysts. However, a fundamental investigation of photocatalytic activities and kinetics at their individual sites is still challenging. Herein, in situ single‐molecule fluorescence microscopy is employed to study the site‐specific catalytic activities and dynamics on 1D–1D heterostructure for the first time. For carbon nanotube (CNT)/CdS nanorod composites, it is found that the CdS end with heterojunction exhibits the highest catalytic conversion rate constant of resazurin photoreduction, which is 30%, 7%, and 19% higher than those of the middle segment and the bare end of CdS, and the CNT end with heterojunction, respectively. A similar trend of adsorption abilities is observed in these structures. Such phenomena can be attributed to the different content of defects in these structures. Regarding the dissociation behaviors, the dissociation rate constants of all structures exhibit an opposite trend to those of adsorption and conversion. The direct and indirect dissociation are found to be predominant on CdS and CNT, respectively. Such investigation provides a deep insight into the understanding of site‐specific properties on 1D heterogeneous catalysts and helps construct the “structure‐dynamics” correlations at the nanoscale.
Green, Safe, and Reliable Synthesis of Bimetallic MOF‐808 Nanozymes With Enhanced Aqueous Stability and Reactivity for Biological Applications
Authors: Simms Charlotte , Mullaliu Angelo , de de Azambuja Francisco , Aquilanti Giuliana , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: November 2023

Bimetallic metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising nanomaterials whose reactivity towards biomolecules remains challenging due to issues related to synthesis, stability, control over metal oxidation state, phase purity, and atomic level characterization. Here, these shortcomings are rationally addressed through development of a synthesis of mixed metal Zr/Ce‐MOFs in aqueous environment, overcoming significant hurdles in the development of MOF nanozymes, sufficiently stable on biologically relevant conditions. Specifically, a green and safe synthesis of Zr/Ce‐MOF‐808 is reported in water/acetic acid mixture which affords remarkably water‐stable materials with reliable nanozymatic reactivity, including MOFs with a high Ce content previously reported to be unstable in water. The new materials outperform analogous bimetallic MOF nanozymes, showcasing that rational synthesis modifications could impart outstanding improvements. Further, atomic‐level characterization by X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) and X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed superior nanozymes arise from differences in the synthetic method, which results in aqueous stable materials, and Ce incorporation, which perturbs the ligand exchange dynamics of the material, and could ultimately be used to fine tune the intrinsic MOF reactivity. Similar rational strategies which leverage metals in a synergistic manner should enable other water‐stable bimetallic MOF nanozymes able to surpass existing ones, laying the path for varied biotechnological applications.
Fabrication of Zn–Air Battery with High Output Capacity Under Ultra‐Large Current
Authors: Zhang Xiuli , Wu Xueyan , Lv Yan , Guo Jixi , Liang Na , Guo Renhe , Zhu Yingfu , Liu Huibiao , Jia Dianzeng
Published: November 2023

Zn–air battery (ZAB) is advocated as a more viable option in the new‐energy technology. However, the limited‐output capacity at a high current density impedes the driving range in power batteries substantially. Here, a novel heterojunction‐based graphdiyne (GDY) and Ag29Cu7 alloy quantum dots (Ag29Cu7 QDs/GDY) for constructing a high‐performance aqueous ZAB are fabricated. The as‐fabricated ZAB achieves discharge at up to 100 mA cm−2 (the highest value ever reported) along with a remarkable output specific capacity of 786.2 mAh g−1Zn, which is mainly benefitted from the binary‐synergistic effect toward a stable triple‐phase interface for air electrode induced by the Ag29Cu7 QDs and GDY in harsh base, together with the decreasing reaction energy barrier and polarization. The results outperform the superior reports discharging at low current and will bring breakthrough progress toward the practical applications of ZAB on large power supply facilities.
Green Synthesis and Biosafety Assessment of MXene
Authors: Zhang Shengmin , Meng Ling , Hu Ying , Yuan Zihan , Li Jianhua , Liu Hong
Published: November 2023

The rise of MXene‐based materials with fascinating physical and chemical properties has attracted wide attention in the field of biomedicine, because it can be exploited to regulate a variety of biological processes. The biomedical applications of MXene are still in its infancy, nevertheless, the comprehensive evaluation of MXene's biosafety is desperately needed. In this review, the composition and the synthetic methods of MXene materials are first introduced from the view of biosafety. The evaluation of the interaction between MXene and cells, as well as the safety of different forms of MXene applied in vivo are then discussed. This review provides a basic understanding of MXene biosafety and may bring new inspirations to the future applications of MXene‐based materials in biomedicine.
Confinement Effect and 3D Design Endow Unsaturated Single Ni Atoms with Ultrahigh Stability and Selectivity toward CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Ping Dan , Huang Siguang , Wu Shide , Zhang Yifei , Wang Shiwen , Yang Xuzhao , Han Lifeng , Tian Junfeng , Guo Dongjie , Qiu Hua‐Jun , Fang Shaoming
Published: November 2023

Developing single‐atomic catalysts with superior selectivity and outstanding stability for CO2 electroreduction is desperately required but still challenging. Herein, confinement strategy and three‐dimensional (3D) nanoporous structure design strategy are combined to construct unsaturated single Ni sites (Ni‐N3) stabilized by pyridinic N‐rich interconnected carbon nanosheets. The confinement agent chitosan and its strong interaction with g‐C3N4 nanosheet are effective for dispersing Ni and restraining their agglomeration during pyrolysis, resulting in ultrastable Ni single‐atom catalyst. Due to the confinement effect and structure advantage, such designed catalyst exhibits a nearly 100% selectivity and remarkable stability for CO2 electroreduction to CO, exceeding most reported state‐of‐the‐art catalysts. Specifically, the CO Faradaic efficiency (FECO) maintains above 90% over a broad potential range (‐0.55 to ‐0.95 V vs. RHE) and reaches a maximum value of 99.6% at a relatively low potential of ‐0.67 V. More importantly, the FECO is kept above 95% within a long‐term 100 h electrolyzing. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations explain the high selectivity for CO generation is due to the high energy barrier required for hydrogen evolution on the unsaturated Ni‐N3. This work provides a new designing strategy for the construction of ultrastable and highly selective single‐atom catalysts for efficient CO2 conversion.
Crafting Corporate Sustainability Strategy
Authors: Beckmann Markus , Becker Thomas , Zipse Oliver
Published: November 2023

Companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their strategies. The main drivers include changing societal expectations, regulatory policies, financial market pressures, and changing customer behavior. The generic business benefits of sustainability include securing the license to operate, managing risk, reducing costs, and increasing revenues through improved innovation and future market opportunities. How companies realize these generic benefits depends on their specific position and the maturity of their sustainability strategy. Strategies with high maturity do not treat sustainability as a separate add-on, but instead integrate it into how the company creates value. Moreover, sustainability strategies that aim at real life cycle improvements, such as in the case of climate-oriented strategies, need not only to integrate firm operations, but also to consider the entire value chain. This integrated approach to sustainability changes the entire strategy process. Its first step, environmental scanning, needs to consider a richer set of factors and stakeholders. Regarding strategy formulation, the strategy’s effectiveness and credibility depend on reliable target setting, such as in the case of Science-Based Targets for climate action. Strategy implementation requires an integrated approach to management that also engages relevant value chain partners. Finally, strategy evaluation and control must produce reliable data that can inform integrated reporting. Integrating sustainability throughout the full strategy process adds complexity while significantly increasing the potential for long-term sustainability and business benefits.
The Future of Corporate Disclosure
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Adolph Jennifer , Schober Markus , Townend Jonathan , Zipse Oliver
Published: November 2023

The growing interest in a company’s sustainability strategy and performance means that solely providing financial information in corporate disclosures will no longer fulfil stakeholder needs in the future. Traditional financial reporting is primarily targeted at capital providers and therefore provides information on the company’s current and future financial performance. Today, a broader focus on non-financial, sustainability-related aspects is required to meet the information needs of other stakeholders, such as employees, customers, suppliers, government and society. Non-financial information is also increasingly important for investors to assess a firm’s risks and opportunities related to sustainability issues, such as climate change, and to understand how the firm is preparing itself for these future challenges. The transition of non-financial reporting—in particular, sustainability reporting—is evolving from voluntarily applied frameworks to mandatory regulatory requirements by standard-setting institutions. The aim is to provide higher transparency and comparability and to build the basis for linking the former separate financial and sustainability reports of a firm on a concise integrated report. A key challenge is the choice (and clear definition) of appropriate performance indicators to achieve comparability between firms. As a result, new rules and formats for corporate reports and for financial, as well as non-financial, disclosures are already appearing on the horizon and will sustainably change the future of corporate reporting. Adapting to these new regulations while balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders will become a continuous challenge for companies and will require them to engage in comprehensive, integrated thinking.
The Power of Technological Innovation
Authors: Franke Jörg , Wasserscheid Peter , Ihne Thorsten , Lamp Peter , Guldner Jürgen , Zipse Oliver
Published: November 2023

Achieving the urgent need for rapid decarbonization to meet the 1.5 °C target requires disruptive technological change. In the automotive industry, technological progress is closely linked to improved sustainability, and sustainability goals drive the need for technological innovation. However, new technologies in the mobility sector are fraught with uncertainties that challenge both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and their stakeholders, such as suppliers, customers, and policy-makers. Therefore, this chapter focuses on the technical, economic, and environmental evaluation of alternative powertrain concepts and the management of uncertainties associated with emerging technological innovation as part of the broader transition to net zero.

Electric mobility plays a central role in the sustainability transition and is characterized by a high degree of variance. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are expected to dominate private transport in the future due to their greenhouse gas and pollutant-free operation and high efficiency. In addition to charging infrastructure, the technical challenges currently lie primarily in cell chemistry and power electronics. Advances in battery technology and infrastructure electrification will help eliminate the range problem in the future. Another important future fuel is hydrogen. One application is the fuel cell vehicle, which combines the advantages of a chemical energy carrier with high gravimetric energy density with those of an electrical energy converter. Hydrogen also plays an important role as an energy carrier for specific energy supply processes in manufacturing processes and simplifies the transport of regeneratively generated energy. In addition, hybrid vehicles are a transitional technology, and alternative fuel internal combustion engines can contribute to the decarbonization of the existing fleet and to specific applications.

This chapter assesses the performance of alternative powertrains; highlights the interrelationship between powertrain systems, energy ecosystems, and sustainability goals; and identifies future research directions for electric and hydrogen mobility.
The Road to Net Zero and Beyond
Authors: Beckmann Markus , Feige Irene
Published: November 2023

The Road to Net Zero is an iterative, rather than a linear journey. This concluding chapter revisits the insights and lessons learned from each preceding chapter, while also looking beyond to reflect on overarching lines of thought. First, the Road to Net Zero calls for both integrative thinking and integrative management. As a moving target, sustainability is a race that cannot be won alone, thereby demanding robust collaboration with multiple stakeholders. Second, the Road to Net Zero is a data-driven journey that requires measurable indicators and targets, and implies digitization to ensure transparency across value chains. Third, sustainability transformation transcends mere decarbonization based on emission pathways and reducing negative impacts. It also involves creating balanced, sustainable business solutions that generate positive societal impacts. Lastly, championing change for sustainability necessitates a multitude of innovations in technology, management, and policy. Catalyzing these innovations calls for the persistent advancement and refinement of innovative, inclusive, and effective platforms for interdisciplinary, cross-sector, and global learning.
Hide and seek: how PDFs can conceal new physics
Authors: Hammou Elie , Kassabov Zahari , Madigan Maeve , Mangano Michelangelo L. , Mantani Luca , Moore James , Alvarado Manuel Morales , Ubiali Maria
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The interpretation of LHC data, and the assessment of possible hints of new physics, require the precise knowledge of the proton structure in terms of parton distribution functions (PDFs). We present a systematic methodology designed to determine whether and how global PDF fits might inadvertently ‘fit away’ signs of new physics in the high-energy tails of the distributions. We showcase a scenario for the High-Luminosity LHC, in which the PDFs may completely absorb such signs of new physics, thus biasing theoretical predictions and interpretations. We discuss strategies to single out the effects in this scenario, and disentangle the inconsistencies that stem from them. Our study brings to light the synergy between the high luminosity programme at the LHC and future low-energy non-LHC measurements of large-x sea quark distributions. The analysis code used in this work is made public so that any users can test the robustness of the signal associated to a given BSM model against absorption by the PDFs.
First-site-metastasis pattern in patients with inoperable stage III NSCLC treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with or without immune check-point inhibition: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Hofstetter Kerstin , Taugner Julian , Käsmann Lukas , Mansoorian Sina , Flörsch Benedikt , Eze Chukwuka , Tufman Amanda , Reinmuth Niels , Duell Thomas , Belka Claus , Manapov Farkhad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate a first-site-metastasis pattern (FSMP) in unresectable stage III NSCLC after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) with or without immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI).

Methods

We defined three patient subgroups according to the year of initial multimodal treatment: A (2011–2014), B (2015–2017) and C (2018–2020). Different treatment-related parameters were analyzed. Observed outcome parameters were brain metastasis-free survival (BMFS), extracranial distant metastasis-free survival (ecDMFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS).

Results

136 patients treated between 2011 and 2020 were included with ≥ 60.0 Gy total dose and concurrent chemotherapy (cCRT); thirty-six (26%) received ICI. Median follow-up was 49.7 (range:0.7–126.1), median OS 31.2 (95% CI:16.4–30.3) months (23.4 for non-ICI vs not reached for ICI patients, p = 0.001).

Median BMFS/ecDMFS/DMFS in subgroups A, B and C was 14.9/16.3/14.7 months, 20.6/12.9/12.7 months and not reached (NR)/NR/36.4 months (p = 0.004/0.001/0.016).

For cCRT+ICI median BMFS was 53.1 vs. 19.1 months for cCRT alone (p = 0.005). Median ecDMFS achieved 55.2 vs. 17.9 (p = 0.003) and median DMFS 29.5 (95% CI: 1.4–57.6) vs 14.93 (95% CI:10.8–19.0) months (p = 0.031), respectively.

Multivariate analysis showed that age over 65 (HR:1.629; p = 0.036), GTV ≥ 78 cc (HR: 2.100; p = 0.002) and V20 ≥ 30 (HR: 2.400; p = 0.002) were negative prognosticators for BMFS and GTV ≥ 78 cc for ecDMFS (HR: 1.739; p = 0.027).

After onset of brain metastasis (BM), patients survived 13.3 (95% CI: 6.4–20.2) months and 8.6 months (95% CI: 1.6–15.5) after extracranial-distant-metastasis (ecDM). Patients with ecDM as FSMP reached significantly worse overall survival of 22.1 (range:14.4–29.8) vs. 40.1 (range:18.7–61.3) months (p = 0.034) in the rest of cohort. In contrast, BM as FSMP had no impact on OS.

Conclusion

This retrospective analysis of inoperable stage III NSCLC patients revealed that age over 65, V20 ≥ 30 and GTV ≥ 78 cc were prognosticators for BMFS and GTV ≥ 78 cc for ecDMFS. ICI treatment led to a significant improvement of BMFS, ecDMFS and DMFS. ecDM as FSMP was associated with significant deterioration of OS, whereas BM as FSMP was not.
Future weakening of southeastern tropical Atlantic Ocean interannual sea surface temperature variability in a global climate model
Authors: Prigent Arthur , Imbol Koungue Rodrigue Anicet , Lübbecke Joke F. , Brandt Peter , Harlaß Jan , Latif Mojib
Published: November 2023

Future changes in the southeastern tropical Atlantic interannual sea surface temperature (SST) variability in response to increasing greenhouse gas concentrations are investigated utilizing the global climate model FOCI. In that model, the Coastal Angola Benguela Area (CABA) is among the regions of the tropical Atlantic that exhibits the largest surface warming. Under the worst-case scenario of the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 5-8.5 (SSP5-8.5), the SST variability in the CABA decreases by about 19% in 2070–2099 relative to 1981–2010 during the model’s peak interannual variability season May–June–July (MJJ). The weakening of the MJJ interannual temperature variability spans the upper 40 m of the ocean along the Angolan and Namibian coasts. The reduction in variability appears to be related to a diminished surface-layer temperature response to thermocline-depth variations, i.e., a weaker thermocline feedback, which is linked to changes in the mean vertical temperature gradient. Despite improvements made by embedding a high-resolution nest in the ocean a significant SST bias remains, which might have implications for the results.
Placental progesterone and its receptor in HIV-infected pre-eclamptic women
Authors: Sewnarain Serisha , Singh Shoohana , Naicker Thajasvarie
Published: November 2023

Given the high prevalence of HIV infection and pre-eclampsia (PE) in South Africa, this study evaluated and compared the placental immunostaining of progesterone (P) and progesterone receptors (PR) in the synergy of HIV-infected PE compared to normotensive pregnant women using immunohistochemistry interfaced with morphometric image analysis. Progesterone immunostaining was expressed widely across exchange and conducting villi within mesenchymal, endothelial, and trophoblast cells. In contrast, PR was expressed within syncytiotrophoblasts and was absent within endothelial cells. In exchange villi, P and PR immuno-expression was significantly lower in PE compared to the normotensive group (p = < 0.0001 and p = < 0.0001, respectively) and within the early-onset pre-eclampsia (EOPE) compared to the late-onset pre-eclampsia (LOPE) group (p = < 0.0001 and p = < 0.0001, respectively). Progesterone immuno-expression was significantly lower in the HIV+ compared to the HIV− group (p = < 0.0001), whilst PR was non-significant. In conducting villi, P and PR immuno-expression was significantly lower in the EOPE compared to the LOPE group (p = < 0.0001 and p = < 0.0001, respectively) and in the HIV+ compared to the HIV− group (p = < 0.0001 and p = 0.0009, respectively). Progesterone immuno-expression was slightly higher in the PE compared to normotensive group, and PR immuno-expression was non-significant. There was a significant difference between P and PR within exchange versus conducting villi regardless of pregnancy type, with villi type accounting for 34.47% and 15.28% of total variance for P and PR, respectively. Placental P and PR immuno-expression is downregulated in the duality of PE and HIV+ infection. The use of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) may result in defective P synthesis, which causes insufficient binding to its receptors. Consequently, PI3K/AKT, JAK-STAT, and MAPK signalling pathways are affected, impairing trophoblast invasion and leading to pre-eclampsia development. Notably, the decrease in P and PR immuno-expression in EOPE validates their effect on placentation.
Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS) values in presumed healthy European infants aged 6–12 months: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jankiewicz Mateusz , Ahmed Fatme , Bajerova Katerina , Carvajal Roca Maria Eva , Dupont Christophe , Huysentruyt Koen , Kuitunen Mikael , Meyer Rosan , Pancheva Rouzha , Koninckx Carmen Ribes , Salvatore Silvia , Shamir Raanan , Staiano Annamaria , Vandenplas Yvan , Szajewska Hania
Published: November 2023

The Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS) is an awareness tool for evaluating cow’s milk-related symptoms. Previous studies have focused on providing CoMiSS values for healthy and symptomatic infants aged 0–6 months. However, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning CoMiSS values for infants older than 6 months. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine CoMiSS values in presumed healthy infants who have completed 6 months and are up to 12 months old, hereafter referred to as 6 to 12 months old. Physicians from six European countries prospectively determined CoMiSS values in infants attending well-child clinics. Exclusion criteria included preterm delivery, acute or chronic disease, and the consumption of a therapeutic formula, dietary supplements (except vitamins), or medication. The following information was collected: gestational age, gender, age, type of feed (breast milk or infant formula), and complementary feeding. Descriptive statistics were summarized with mean and standard deviation for normally distributed continuous variables, median and IQR for non-normally distributed variables, and differences in CoMiSS values were analyzed with appropriate tests. Data from 609 infants were obtained. The overall median (Q1–Q3) CoMiSS values were 3 (1–5). Significant differences were found across age groups (p < 0.001), but not across groups based on gender (p = 0.551) or feeding type (p = 0.880).

   Conclusions: This study provided CoMiSS values in presumed healthy infants aged 6–12 months. Additional studies should be conducted to establish the use of CoMiSS to assess cow’s milk-related symptoms in infants 6 months and older.

What is Known:• The Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS) is an awareness tool for evaluating symptoms related to cow’s milk.• CoMiSS values for presumed healthy infants aged 0-6 months infants are already available.

What is New:• CoMiSS values in European infants aged 6-12 months are provided.• These CoMiSS values differed across various age groups but not across groups based on gender or feeding type.
Preparing for the future offspring: European perch (Perca fluviatilis) biosynthesis of physiologically required fatty acids for the gonads happens already in the autumn
Authors: Rigaud Cyril , Kahilainen Kimmo K. , Calderini Marco L. , Pilecky Matthias , Kainz Martin J. , Tiirola Marja , Taipale Sami J.
Published: November 2023

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are critical for reproduction and thermal adaptation. Year-round variability in the expression of fads2 (fatty acid desaturase 2) in the liver of European perch (Perca fluviatilis) in a boreal lake was tested in relation to individual variation in size, sex, and maturity, together with stable isotopes values as well as fatty acids (FA) content in different tissues and prey items. ARA and DHA primary production was restricted to the summer months, however, perch required larger amounts of these PUFA during winter, as their ARA and DHA muscle content was higher compared to summer. The expression of fads2 in perch liver increased during winter and was higher in mature females. Mature females stored DHA in their gonads already in late summer and autumn, long before the upcoming spring spawning period in May. Lower δ13CDHA values in the gonads in September suggest that these females actively synthesized DHA as part of this reproductive investment. Lower δ13CARA values in the liver of all individuals during winter suggest that perch were synthesizing essential FA to help cope with over-wintering conditions. Perch seem able to modulate its biosynthesis of physiologically required PUFA in situations of stress (fasting or cold temperatures) or in situations of high energetic demand (gonadal development). Biosynthesis of physiologically required PUFA may be an important part of survival and reproduction in aquatic food webs with long cold periods.
Rerouting in vascular access infections using a biosynthetic vascular graft (Omniflow® II)
Authors: Müller Daniel , Kohler Corinne , Weiss Salome , Widmer Matthias K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Surgical treatment of infected arteriovenous grafts (AVG) while preserving the hemodialysis access remains a challenge. Partial graft excision (PGE) directly followed by interposition grafting (IG) is an established method but is associated with a high rate of local reinfection. This retrospective study investigated the technique of rerouting using a biosynthetic vascular graft (Omniflow® II).

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of all patients at a tertiary referral center undergoing surgical treatment for AVG infections using PGE and IG with the rerouting technique using Omniflow® II between January 2009 and December 2018. Follow-up data were collected until May 2021.

Results

Fifteen patients (53% male, median age 62 years [range 49-81]) were identified for further analysis, thereof twelve received an Omniflow® II vascular graft. Eleven patients had positive local microbial cultures, withStaphylococcus aureusbeing the most frequently identified pathogen (9 cases). Mortality and reoperation rates within 30 days were both 0%. Median follow-up was 32 months (range 2–101 months) with a median follow-up index of 0.92 (range 0.18–1). During follow-up a surgical intervention for reinfection was necessary in 3 patients with Omniflow® II at a median of 304 days (range 298–485 days).

Conclusion

Partial graft excision and direct interposition grafting using a biosynthetic Omniflow® II vascular graft is a valid treatment option in selected patients with AVG infections when total graft excision can be avoided. Using a careful rerouting technique, while preserving clinically noninfected graft sections the risk of early reinfection can be minimized and the dialysis access maintained.
The breeding ecology of the Agulhas Long-billed Lark: an endemic bird dependent on the remnant Renosterveld of the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Rose Sanjo , Thomson Robert Leslie , Lee Alan Tristam Kenneth , Ryan Peter Geoffrey
Published: November 2023

The Agulhas Long-billed Lark Certhilauda brevirostris is restricted to the Agulhas Plain, South Africa, a region extensively transformed for crop production and sheep grazing. We present data on nest and egg characteristics, clutch and brood size, parental care and breeding success previously undescribed for this species. During field surveys in 2020 and 2021, 29 nests were located. Of these, 16 were monitored by camera traps. Laying started in late winter (July) and continued until early summer (late November). Most nests (66%) were in Renosterveld, a unique vegetation component of the Fynbos Biome, with the remainder in human-modified landscapes. Female larks were responsible for nest construction and incubation. Both sexes provisioned nestlings, with provisioning rate related to nestling age and time of day but not brood size. Breeding success was low, with only 14% of nests fledging any young. Only one repeat nesting attempt following a predation event was observed, but the attempt was abandoned. Nest predation was the main cause of nest failure, with eight species of nest predators identified. An apparent preference for nesting in Renosterveld highlights the need for protection of this endangered habitat type. As a ground-nesting species in an agriculturally transformed landscape, this lark faces numerous threats associated with habitat loss, altered predation pressure, exposure to pesticides and disturbance at nest sites.
The long non-coding RNA OTX2-AS1 promotes tumor growth and predicts response to BCL-2 inhibition in medulloblastoma
Authors: Qin Nan , Paisana Eunice , Picard Daniel , Leprivier Gabriel , Langini Maike , Custódia Carlos , Cascão Rita , Conrad Catleen , Peitzsch Mirko , Stefanski Anja , Stühler Kai , Fischer Ute , Faria Claudia C. , Dietrich Sascha , Reifenberger Guido , Remke Marc
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Primary brain tumors are a leading cause of cancer-related death in children, and medulloblastoma is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. The current molecular characterization of medulloblastoma is mainly based on protein-coding genes, while little is known about the involvement of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). This study aimed to elucidate the role of the lncRNA OTX2-AS1 in medulloblastoma.

Methods

Analyses of DNA copy number alterations, methylation profiles, and gene expression data were used to characterize molecular alterations of OTX2-AS1 in medulloblastoma tissue samples. In vitro analyses of medulloblastoma cell models and orthotopic in vivo experiments were carried out for functional characterization of OTX2-AS1. High-throughput drug screening was employed to identify pharmacological inhibitors, while proteomics and metabolomics analyses were performed to address potential mechanisms of drug action.

Results

We detected amplification and consecutive overexpression of OTX2 and OTX2-AS1 in a subset of medulloblastomas. In addition, OTX2-AS1 promoter methylation was linked to OTX2-AS1 expression. OTX2-AS1 knockout reduced medulloblastoma cell viability and cell migration in vitro and prolonged survival in the D283 orthotopic medulloblastoma mouse xenograft model. Pharmacological inhibition of BCL-2 suppressed the growth of OTX2-AS1 overexpressing medulloblastoma cells in vitro.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a pro-tumorigenic role of OTX2-AS1 in medulloblastoma and identified BCL-2 inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach to target OTX2-AS1 overexpressing medulloblastoma cells.
Highlights of three metabolites HDL and reduction in blood pressure values after dietary fiber supplementation in overweight and obese normotensive women: a metabolomic study
Authors: da Silva Cássia Surama Oliveira , Monteiro Mussara Gomes Cavalcanti Alves , Fechine Carla Patricia Novaes dos Santos , Tavares Josean Fechine , Souto Augusto Lopes , Luna Rafaella Cristhine Pordeus , Pimenta Flávia Cristina Fernandes , e Silva Ana Herminia Andrade , da Silva Diniz Alcides , da Silva Júnior Celso Costa , Alverga Caio César Ferreira , dos Santos Sócrates Golzio , Persuhn Darlene Camati , de Carvalho Costa Maria José
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The prevalence of hypertension and obesity are a worldwide concern.

Objetives

Assess the metabolites profile after intervention with mixed dietary fiber in overweight and obese normotensive women.

Methods

This is a randomized double blind placebo-controlled study. Through a simple randomization process, two groups were allocated, with eleven women (group 1) receiving 12 g of mixed dietary fiber and thirteen women (group 2) receiving 12 g of placebo (corn starch) for eight weeks. Anthropometric and biochemical tests and lifestyle were analyzed. As for evaluation metabolomics, used a 1H NMR. The data matrix generated 96 samples and 225 variables, which was exported in the ASCII format for the “The Unscrumbler” statistics software (version 9.7, CAMO Process).

Results

After the intervention with mixed dietary fiber, significant differences were observed between the main types of metabolites, referring to the increase in the relative peak areas of in three HDL metabolites 4.94 ppm (0.0086*), HDL 1.28 ppm (0 .0337*), HDL 0.88 ppm (0.0224*) and an α-glucose metabolite 4.90 ppm (0.0106) and the reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (0.0292*) of 7 mmHg in the reference range and in the placebo group there was a reduction in SBP (0.0118*) of 4 mmHg and of a choline metabolite 3.65 ppm (0.0266*), which does not call into question the validity of these results in the literature.

Conclusion

The synergism of the functions of these statistically highlighted metabolites contributed to prevention the increase in SBP after fiber intervention in overweight and obese normotensive women.
On a group extension involving the Suzuki group Sz(8)
Authors: Basheer Ayoub B. M.
Published: November 2023

The Suzuki simple group Sz(8) has an automorphism group 3. Using the electronic Atlas [22], the group Sz(8) : 3 has an absolutely irreducible module of dimension 12 over $${\mathbb {F}}_{2}.$$

F
2

.

Therefore a split extension group of the form $$2^{12}{:}(Sz(8){:}3):= {\overline{G}}$$

2
12

:

(
S
z

(
8
)

:
3
)

:
=

G
¯

exists. In this paper we study this group, where we determine its conjugacy classes and character table using the coset analysis technique together with Clifford-Fischer Theory. We determined the inertia factor groups of $${\overline{G}}$$

G
¯

by analysing the maximal subgroups of Sz(8) : 3 and maximal of the maximal subgroups of Sz(8) : 3 together with various other information. It turns out that the character table of $${\overline{G}}$$

G
¯

is a $$43 \times 43$$

43
×
43

complex valued matrix, while the Fischer matrices are all integer valued matrices with sizes ranging from 1 to 7.
Evaluation of a new topical cream to psoriasis treatment: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Benites Elizabeth , Carrillo Esmeralda , Heras Martha , Bourne Doménica
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study is to develop a new topical cream for psoriasis and to test its results. Experimental clinical trial. Phase I: hypersensitivity test in 100 healthy volunteers. Phase II: 120 patients, prospective, analytical differential study in hospital. In phase I, 99% health persons did not show any reaction. In phase II, the 120 patients selected in two groups, group A-new cream and group B-corticosteroid, the paired samples calculated T-value in group A was: 19.144 for erythema, 6.725 in infiltrate, 12.475 in desquamation and in pruritus 10.863, PASI 14.662 and BSA 19.083 which are higher than 1.96 the result was 0.000 less than P 0.05 highly significant after treatment group B control group, showed the T values, erythema 7.590, infiltrate 10.573, desquamation 7.311, pruritus 3.615, PASI 2.631, BSA 4.411. The T-values which are higher than 1.96 were 0.000 less than P 0.05 highly significant after treatment. In the Pearson correlation for cases and controls, association values were observed for SBA 0.042 before treatment and 0.008, after treatment, in PASI 0.021, before treatment and 0.008 after treatment. The results examined by hypotheses and cross-tabulations are highly significant in groups A and B separately, and when group A is tested against group B by means of cross-tabulations, they show differences after treatment. In the logarithmic regression for the associated risk factors, the odds ratio values of BMI 1.113>OR 1 and urea 1.439>OR 1. The elevation of these two parameters may affect the exposed group. When comparing the group, A and group B, the symptoms of erythema, infiltrate, desquamation, pruritus, PASI index and SBA were found to decrease with the group A/new cream after treatment. Further studies in larger populations are suggested, the new cream has been shown to reduce the clinical symptoms of psoriasis.