bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How child inclusive were Australia's responses to COVID‐19?
Authors: Bessell Sharon , Vuckovic Celia
Published: August 2022

From March 2020, Australia introduced a range of policies to respond to COVID‐19, most of which impacted significantly on the lives of children. This article applies a child‐centred framework, developed from rights‐based participatory research with children, to analyse how children have been represented in policy narratives around COVID‐19 and the extent to which policy responses have been child‐inclusive or child‐centred. We argue that, overall, COVID‐19 policy responses have failed to be child‐inclusive or child‐centred. This has important implications not only for understanding the impact of COVID‐19 on children but also in understanding—and potentially rethinking—the place of children in policies as Australia emerges from COVID‐19 restrictions.
Technique of intraoperative ultrasound‐guided excision of impalpable breast lesions
Authors: Khoo Fuquan Jeremy , Wong Jessica , Stephenson James , Bennett Ian
Published: August 2022

The introduction of breast screening programs has led to the increased detection of occult breast lesions requiring diagnostic surgical biopsy or breast‐conserving surgery for early‐stage breast cancer. Excision of impalpable breast lesions can be challenging. Whilst a variety of techniques have now been described including the use of adjuncts such as hook wires, radioactive seeds, magnetic seeds or radiofrequency devices, many of these modalities are expensive and can be logistically problematic. The technique of surgeon‐performed ultrasound‐guided excision is a straightforward technique which is safe, cost‐efficient and avoids a painful preoperative procedure for patients such as hook wire localisation. Whilst the use of intraoperative ultrasound‐guided excision of breast lesions has been widely reported, the actual technique itself has been less well described.
Solution‐Phase Synthesis and Isolation of An Aza‐Triangulene and Its Cation in Crystalline Form
Authors: Wei Haipeng , Hou Xudong , Xu Tingting , Zou Ya , Li Guangwu , Wu Shaofei , Geng Yanhou , Wu Jishan
Published: August 2022

Synthesis of triangulene and its derivatives is challenging due to their intrinsic high spin nature. Herein, we report solution‐phase synthesis and isolation of a nitrogen‐doped triangulene (i.e., aza‐triangulene) (NT) and its cation (NT+) in single‐crystal form. Notably, the cationNT+can be regarded as an isoelectronic structure of the corresponding all‐carbon triangulene. BothNTandNT+show reasonable stability due to kinetic blocking by bulky and electron‐withdrawing aryl substituents, and intramolecular donor‐acceptor interaction. Bond length analysis, magnetic measurements and theoretical calculations reveal that the neutralNThas a doublet ground state with a zwitterionic character, while the cationNT+exhibits a triplet ground state with a singlet‐triplet energy gap of +0.84 kcal mol−1. This study provides a rational strategy to access high‐spin systems by heteroatom doping of pure π‐conjugated polycyclic hydrocarbons.
High‐Strength Plus Reversible Supramolecular Adhesives Achieved by Regulating Intermolecular PtII⋅⋅⋅PtIIInteractions
Authors: Wang Zhao , Huang Kang , Wan Xizi , Liu Mingqian , Chen Yong , Shi Xinghua , Wang Shutao
Published: August 2022

Surface adhesion has a great contradiction in high strength and good reversibility given their mutually exclusive requirements of fixed crosslinked networks and dynamic chain motion. Herein, we demonstrate a supramolecular organoplatinum(II) adhesive system regulated by intermolecular PtII⋅⋅⋅PtIIinteractions that can simultaneously achieve high‐strength and excellent reversible adhesion to various substrates. Upon alternating temperature, the assembly of suitably substituted organoplatinum(II) molecules can switch between well‐ordered and disordered states via tuning PtII⋅⋅⋅PtIIinteractions, resulting in stable reversible adhesion even after 100 cycles with a robust strength of ≈1.25 MPa and a large on‐off ratio of ≈25. Along with the switch of PtII⋅⋅⋅PtIIcontacts, the surface adhesion of organoplatinum(II) adhesives can be monitored by their changes in electrical signals. This study will open up new inspirations for developing high‐performance reversible adhesives.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Assisted Reversible Migratory Coupling of Aminoborane at Magnesium
Authors: Obi Akachukwu D. , Frey Nathan C. , Dickie Diane A. , Webster Charles Edwin , Gilliard Robert J.
Published: August 2022

A combined synthetic and theoretical investigation of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) adducts of magnesium amidoboranes is presented, which involves a rare example of reversible migratory insertion within a normal valent s‐block element. The reaction of (NHC)Mg(N(SiMe3)2)2 (1) and dimethylamine borane yields the tris(amide) adduct (NHC−BN)Mg(NMe2BH3)(N(SiMe3)2) (2; NHC−BN = NHC−BH2NMe2). In addition to Me2N=BH2 capture at the NHCC−Mg bond, mechanistic investigations suggest the likelihood of aminoborane migratory insertion from an RMg(NMe2BH2NMe2BH3) intermediate. To elucidate these processes, the carbene complexes (NHC)Mg(NMe2BH3)2 (8) and (NHC)Mg(NMe2BH2NMe2BH3)2 (9) were synthesized, and a dynamic migration of Me2N=BH2 between Mg−N and NHCC−Mg bonds was observed in 9. This unusual reversible migratory insertion is presumably induced by dissimilar charge localization in the −{NMe2BH2NMe2BH3} anion, as well as the capacity of NHCs to reversibly capture Me2N=BH2 in the presence of Lewis acidic magnesium species.
Rosin natural terpenes as processing aid for polyhydroxyalkanoate: Thermal, mechanical, and viscoelastic properties
Authors: Charon Gaëtan , Peixinho Jorge , Michely Laurent , Guinault Alain , Langlois Valérie
Published: August 2022

Rosin natural terpene (Dertoline) is compounded with a bacterial thermoplastic polyesters polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), specifically here poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer. The compatibility of the blend is examined with differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetry analysis. In the range of concentration of Dertoline, from 5 to 15 wt%, a cold crystallization peak first shifts to slightly higher then lower temperature. Dynamical mechanical analysis and tensile tests confirm that the addition of Dertoline slightly decreases the elastic modulus. The degree of crystallinity again increases then decreases with the content of Dertoline. Polarized light microscopy reveals smaller diameter spherulites for PHB/Dertoline blends and their presence is discussed in relation to tensile tests. Overall, the addition of Dertoline has limited effects on mechanical properties of the blends: the stress at break and the strain at break. In addition, oscillatory rheology at different temperatures provides the activation energies and the parameters of a generalized Maxwell model. The temperature dependence of the rheological properties follows an Arrhenius form. Finally, transient step viscosity measurements are used in order to quantify the PHB thermal degradation.
Effect of diphenyl methyl phosphonate and clay as additives on the mechanical and flame retardancy of crosslinked polyurethane
Authors: Yang Xue , Liu Wenfeng , Liu Jiyan , Liu Xueqing , Xie Xianqi
Published: August 2022

The diphenyl methyl phosphonate (DPMP) as flame retardant additive with or without clay was used for the crosslinking polyurethane (PU) in current study. The effects on the thermal properties, flame retardancy, crystallization and mechanical properties of PU were investigated, using various characterizations including thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectroscopy (TGA‐IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), cone calorimetric test (CCT), X‐ray diffraction analysis and mechanical tests. Results revealed that on the one hand DPMP could enhance flame retardancy of PU and mechanical properties on the other hand. Adding 10 wt% DPMP increases the limiting oxygen index value of PU from 23% to 28.3%. The Young's modulus, elongation at breaking and the tensile strength of PU/10DPMP were 1.37 MPa, 1042% and 13.84 MPa, respectively, while corresponding values for pure PU are 1.17 MPa, 811% and 11.32 MPa, respectively. DSC results showed that DPMP promoted the cold crystallization of PU, thus accounting for the enhancement in the mechanical properties. It was found that DPMP as flame retardant mainly acts in the gas phase and therefore quenches the active radical indicated by CCT results. Moreover, addition of clay further boosted the flame retardancy efficient of DPMP by acting in the condensed phase but depressed the crystallization of PU.
Identifying priority aquatic refuges to sustain freshwater biodiversity in intermittent streams in eastern Australia
Authors: Yu Songyan , Rose Peter M. , Bond Nick R. , Bunn Stuart E. , Kennard Mark J.
Published: August 2022

The hydrological variability of intermittent streams means that the spatial distribution of dry‐season aquatic refuges within river networks and the temporal dynamics of hydrological connectivity between them are critical for the persistence of aquatic biodiversity. Here, a new approach is demonstrated to identify surface water bodies as priority refuges for efficient conservation management of freshwater biodiversity in intermittent stream networks.

Recently developed models of surface water extent and daily streamflow were used to represent spatio‐temporal variations in hydrological connectivity and surface water persistence within river networks of eastern Australia over a 107‐yr period. Using this information, systematic conservation planning was applied to prioritize aquatic areas for conservation of 25 fish species under two scenarios. One scenario identified priority refuges to complement those already occurring in protected areas, whereas the other did not consider protected area status.

The priority networks identified concentrated on the main stems of river catchments where surface water was more likely to be persistent and aquatic refuges were more likely to be connected, but also included headwaters for rare fish species. All three set conservation targets for the 25 fish species can be met in the best solution of priority networks. Although the second scenario achieved the targets with a smaller size of priority network overall, it required more new aquatic refuges and was thus less efficient than the first scenario.

The newly developed datasets are useful for freshwater conservation prioritization because they account for hydrological variability of intermittent streams. The systematic prioritization approach applied is transferable to other regions and freshwater taxa to identify aquatic refuges for biodiversity conservation within intermittent stream systems.
Distinct response of near surface air temperature to clouds in North China
Authors: Jiang Shuyi , Zhao Chuanfeng , Xia Yan
Published: August 2022

Using the daily 2 m maximum temperature (Tmax), 2 m minimum temperature (Tmin) and cloud cover data measured at ground sites of the China Meteorological Administration in North China from 2000 to 2017, this study investigates the influence of clouds on the daily temperature range (DTR) defined as the difference between Tmax and Tmin. As expected, the cloud cover shows the similar averaged spatial distribution and monthly variation with Tmin. Surprisingly, it also shows the similar average spatial distribution and monthly variation with Tmax, suggesting the more important roles of regions (latitude) and seasons associated with the variations of land surface temperature, which is further related to solar radiation absorbed and surface heat capacity. By comparing monthly variations of temperature between cloudy and clear skies, we find that clouds can weaken Tmax and increase Tmin, and thus decrease DTR. As a result, the spatial distribution of DTR is opposite to the cloud cover. The clouds have relatively stronger impact on Tmin and DTR over mountain region, which is most likely caused by the stronger longwave cloud radiative forcing associated with higher cloud tops over the mountain region.
Effects of age on the hippocampus and verbal memory in adults with autism spectrum disorder: Longitudinal versus cross‐sectional findings
Authors: Pagni Broc A. , Walsh Melissa J. M. , Ofori Edward , Chen Kewei , Sullivan Georgia , Alvar Jocelyn , Monahan Leanna , Guerithault Nicolas , Delaney Shanna , Braden B. Blair
Published: August 2022

Research studying aging in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is growing, but longitudinal work is needed. Autistic adults have increased risk of dementia, altered hippocampal volumes and fornix integrity, and verbal memory difficulties compared with neurotypical (NT) adults. This study examined longitudinal aging in middle‐age adults with ASD versus a matched NT group, and compared findings with cross‐sectional age effects across a broad adult age range. Participants were 194 adults with (n = 106; 74 male) and without (n = 88; 52 male) ASD, ages 18–71. Participants (n = 45; 40–70 age range) with two visits (2–3 years apart) were included in a longitudinal analysis. Hippocampal volume, fornix fractional anisotropy (FA), and verbal memory were measured via T1‐weighted MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, respectively. Longitudinal mixed models were used for hippocampal system variables and reliable change index categories were used for Auditory Verbal Learning Test analyses. Multivariate regression was used for cross‐sectional analyses. Middle‐age adults with ASD had greater longitudinal hippocampal volume loss and were more likely to show clinically meaningful decline in short‐term memory, compared with NT. In contrast, cross‐sectional associations between increasing age and worsening short‐term memory were identified in NT, but not autistic adults. Reduced fornix FA and long‐term memory in ASD were found across the broad cross‐sectional age range. These preliminary longitudinal findings suggest accelerated hippocampal volume loss in ASD and slightly higher rates of clinically‐meaningful decline in verbal short‐term memory. Contradictory cross‐sectional and longitudinal results underscore the importance of longitudinal aging research in autistic adults.

Lay Summary

Autistic adults have increased risk of dementia, differences in brain memory structures, and difficulty with memory compared with neurotypical (NT) adults. However, there are no publications that follow the same middle‐age autistic adults over time to see how their brain and memory change. Our preliminary findings in a small middle‐age autism sample suggest a key memory brain structure, the hippocampus, may shrink faster over 2–3 years compared with NT, and short‐term memory may become more challenging for some. Across a broad adult range, autistic adults also had reduced integrity of connections to the hippocampus and greater challenges with long‐term memory. In our larger sample across a broad age range, the results did not hint at this aforementioned pattern of accelerated aging. This underscores the importance of more aging research in autism, and especially research where people are followed over time.
Changes in uridine 5′‐diphospho‐glucuronosyltransferase 1A6 expression by histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid
Authors: Sakakibara Yukiko , Kojima Ayaka , Asai Yuki , Nadai Masayuki , Katoh Miki
Published: August 2022

Valproic acid (VPA) is well‐known as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. It has been reported that HDAC inhibitors enhance basal and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand‐induced aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐responsive gene expression. Other studies suggested that HDAC inhibition might significantly activate the NF‐E2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2). Moreover, VPA activates mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs). MAPK pathways regulate Nrf2 transactivation domain activity. Uridine 5′‐diphospho‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A6 is one of the important isoforms to affect drug pharmacokinetics. UGT1A6 gene is regulated transcriptionally by AhR and Nrf2. The present study aimed to investigate whether UGT1A6 expression was changed by VPA and to elucidate the mechanism of the alteration. Following VPA treatment for 72 h in Caco‐2 cells, UGT1A6 mRNA was increased by 7.9‐fold. Moreover, UGT1A6 mRNA was increased by other HDAC inhibitors, suggesting that HDAC inhibition caused the UGT1A6 mRNA induction. AhR and Nrf2 proteins in the nucleus of Caco‐2 cells were increased by 1.5‐ and 1.7‐fold, respectively, following the VPA treatment. However, VPA treatment did not activate the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) pathways in Caco‐2 cells. In conclusion, we observed that VPA induced UGT1A6 mRNA expression via AhR and Nrf2 pathways, but not via the ERK or JNK pathways.
Fabrication of polyaniline/graphene oxide composites for implementation in humidity sensing
Authors: Srivastava Divyanshi , Shukla Rajesh Kumar , Mishra Sheo K. , Gangwar Chinky , Kumar Indresh , Naik Radhey Mohan , Singh Santosh Kumar
Published: August 2022

This work reports the measurement of impedance variations under various humidity conditions at frequency ranges between 100 Hz and 5 MHz. An electrochemical polymerization process has been used in the synthesis including varying the mass ratios of graphene oxide (GO) in polyaniline. An electrochemical deposition method has been used to produce a sample film on an indium tin oxide glass slide. The percentage relative humidity (RH%) of the samples has been estimated to be 20–90%. Impedance and humidity had an inverse relationship, i.e. the impedance value decreased with an increase in humidity. In contrast with platinum capacitive humidity sensors (HS), the GO‐based HS had a sensitivity of 75–99%, which was ~10‐fold more than that of traditional sensors. With three different parameter weight % of GO, the frequency range have been 100 Hz to 5 MHz and RH% has been found to 20–90%. The HS showed a fast response and recovery time. Therefore, GO appears to be a useful material for building HS with high sensitivity for a comprehensive approach.
Combustion‐assisted Ca8.25Na1.5Al6O18:Sm3+ phosphors for solid‐state lighting and WLED applications
Authors: Dhapodkar Toshi S. , Kadam Abhijeet R. , Dhoble Sanjay J.
Published: August 2022

Aluminate‐based phosphors have been the most investigated luminescent phosphors over decades due to their outstanding optical properties. In the proposed work, a series of Sm3+‐doped Ca8.25Na1.5Al6O18 (CNAO) phosphor sample was prepared using a simple combustion technique with the help of two fuels i.e., urea–glycine. The purity of phase and structural analysis of the CNAO phosphors were confirmed using X‐ray diffraction analysis. Vibrational features of this phosphors confirmed were via Fourier transform infrared analysis. A photoluminescence study of this phosphor showed a doublet emission at 568 and 576 nm in the yellow region attributable to the 4G5/2→6H5/2 transition of Sm3+ ions, whereas a doublet peak noticed in red region ranged from 600 to 620 nm and was attributable to the 4G5/2→6H7/2 transition of Sm3+ ions. Moreover, Commission Internationale de l'éclairage colour coordinates were also located in the yellowish‐red region and confirmed the potential of this phosphor as a yellowish‐red component for white light‐emitting diodes and display devices applications.
Non‐siliceous ordered mesoporous materials via nanocasting for small molecule conversion electrocatalysis
Authors: Baek Du San , Joo Sang Hoon
Published: August 2022

Since the pioneering work of Ryoo and co‐workers in 1999 on the synthesis of ordered mesoporous carbons via nanocasting, the nanocasting pathway has endured the test of time and has established itself as a robust and versatile method for preparing ordered mesoporous materials (OMMs). This method enables the generation of a remarkably wide range of non‐siliceous OMMs, some of which are otherwise inaccessible. In this account, we present our decade‐long efforts toward the function‐oriented design of non‐siliceous OMM‐based electrocatalysts for promoting small molecule conversion reactions relevant to renewable energy conversion and commodity chemical production, including hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, and selective oxygen reduction reaction. We also discuss the extension of the nanocasting concept to a silica‐coating‐mediated synthesis for preparing new catalytic materials. We conclude the account by suggesting the remaining challenges and outlook for the future development of advanced OMMs.
Digitalization and sustainable development: How could digital economy development improve green innovation in China?
Authors: Luo Shiyue , Yimamu Nafisa , Li Yueran , Wu Haitao , Irfan Muhammad , Hao Yu
Published: August 2022

In the context of sustainable development, countries around the world shed more light on green innovation in their environmental policies, and the digital economy may take a vital part in improving green innovation. Predicted on the panel data of 278 cities in China from 2011 to 2019, this research administrates the principal component analysis (PCA) to evaluate the advancement level of the urban digital economy and employs the number of urban green patent applications to represent green innovation level. Through the benchmark regression model, the mediating effect model, the spatial Durbin model, the dynamic threshold panel model, and the gradual difference‐in‐difference model, this paper explores the direct effect, indirect effect, spatial effect, nonlinear relationship, and policy effect of that digital economy has on green innovation. The development of the digital economy can improve green innovation levels in indirect ways, such as by boosting the degree of economic openness, optimizing the industrial structure, and expanding the market potential, and as economic openness, industrial structure, and market potential advance, the promotion intensity of digital economy on green innovation is becoming lower and lower. The development of green innovation has an obvious spatial spillover effect. Still, the enhancement of green innovation in more developed regions may inhibit green innovation in less developed regions due to talent flow and industrial transfer. Finally, the gradual difference‐in‐difference model founded on the ‘Broadband China’ pilot policy supplementarily verifies that digital economy enhancement can substantially advance urban green innovation.
Real‐life second‐line epirubicin–paclitaxel regimen as treatment of relapsed small‐cell lung cancer: EpiTax study
Authors: Annic Josselin , Babey Hélène , Corre Romain , Descourt Renaud , Quéré Gilles , Renaud Emmanuelle , Lambert Mickaël , Le Noac'h Pierre , Dhamelincourt Estelle , Nguyen Jessica , Vu Alicia , Bourbonne Vincent , Robinet Gilles , Geier Margaux
Published: August 2022

Background

Few therapeutic options are approved as second‐line treatment after failure of platinum‐based chemotherapy for patients with extensive‐stage small‐cell lung cancer (ES‐SCLC). Topotecan widespread use remains challenged by the risk of severe toxicities in a pretreated population. Little is known about the efficacy and safety of epirubicin–paclitaxel doublet in second‐line and beyond and especially cerebral outcomes.

Methods

EpiTax is a retrospective multicenter observational real‐life study. We evaluated the efficacy of epirubicin 90 mg/m2 combined with paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 every 3 weeks in SCLC patients after failure of at least one line of platinum‐based chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), intracranial control rate (ICR), and safety.

Results

A total of 29 patients were included. The median of previous systemic therapy lines was 2 (1–4). Eleven patients received the treatment in the second line. Characteristics of patients were a median age of 60 years (45–77), 65.5% of males with 72.4% of PS 0–1. Fifteen patients had a history of brain metastases. Median PFS and OS achieved 11.0 (95% CI, 8.1–16.3) and 23 (95% CI, 14.1–29.6) weeks, respectively. ORR was 34.5% and DCR was 55.2%. ICR was 3/15 (20%). Grade 3–4 adverse events were mainly hematological and concerned 7 patients. No case of febrile neutropenia or toxic death was reported.

Conclusion

Epirubicin–paclitaxel association highlighted promising efficacy with PFS and OS of 11 and 23 weeks, respectively, ORR of 34.5%, and a tolerable safety profile. This doublet could represent another valuable therapeutic option for ES‐SCLC patients treated in the second line and beyond.
Marine Based Natural Products: Exploring the Recent Developments in the Identification of Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Krishna M. S. Ajay , Mohan Sangeetha , Ashitha K. T. , Chandramouli Manasa , Kumaran Alaganandam , Ningaiah Srikantamurthy , Babu K. Suresh , Somappa Sasidhar B.
Published: August 2022

The marine ecosystem is the less explored, biologically diverse, and vastest resource to discover novel antimicrobial agents. In recent decades’ antimicrobial drugs are losing their effectiveness due to the growing resistance among pathogens, which causes diseases to have considerable death rates across the globe. Therefore, there is a need for the discovery of new antibacterials that can reach the market. There is a gradual growth of compounds from marine sources which are entering the clinical trials. Thus, the prominence of marine natural products in the field of drug design and discovery across the academia and pharmaceutical industry is gaining attention. Herein, the present review covers nearly 200 marine based antimicrobial agents of 11 structural classes discovered from the year 2010 to 2022. All the discussed compounds have exhibited medium to high antimicrobial activity in inhibiting various microorganisms.
Inoperable poorly differentiated SCC to vertex of scalp progressing into sagittal sinus treated with palliative Cemiplimab
Authors: Grounds Katie , Emmanuel O
Published: August 2022

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common non‐melanoma skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma, characterized by the malignant proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. We report a case of an inoperable cSCC of the scalp extending into the sagittal sinus, now responding well to the monoclonal antibody Cemiplimab.
Re‐expansion pulmonary edema after chest tube drainage of malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Inada Sachiho , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Nakata Kyosuke
Published: August 2022

A 62‐year‐old man presented with a 3‐day history of dyspnea. Chest X‐ray revealed a pleural effusion. We performed chest tube drainage, and then the patient experienced re‐expansion pulmonary edema. His respiratory distress improved after the treatment of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation and intravenous methylprednisolone.
Hernia formation after single‐stage umbilical vein marsupialization in three Percheron foals diagnosed with septic omphalophlebitis
Authors: Klein Chelsea , Caston Stephanie , Troy Jarrod
Published: August 2022

Septic omphalophlebitis is a common disease process with a variety of morbidities and possible mortality. Affected umbilical remnant resection is highly successful but may not always be possible. Umbilical marsupialization can be implemented when total resection cannot be accomplished with minimally reported complications. Umbilical vein marsupialization was performed on three Percheron foals with extensive septic omphalophlebitis using the one‐stage paramedian translocation technique and prolonged postoperative antimicrobial therapy. Long‐term follow‐up revealed herniation at the marsupialization site in all foals. Two foals were subsequently treated with herniorrhaphy at the prior marsupialization site. One foal died due to septic peritonitis with hernia formation 3 months after marsupialization. This case series highlights hernia formation as a potential complication following one‐stage umbilical vein marsupialization in foals diagnosed with septic omphalophlebitis and should be considered as a possible postoperative complication.
Selective leaching of lithium ions from LiFePO4 powders using hydrochloric acid and sodium hypochlorite system
Authors: Liu Wei , Li Kang , Wang Wei , Hu Yulei , Ren Zhongqi , Zhou Zhiyong
Published: August 2022

High‐efficiency and selective leaching of lithium ions from spent lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries is currently an urgent problem to be solved. Hydrochloric acid and sodium hypochlorite were used as acidic media and oxidant for recycling LiFePO4 powders based on the stoichiometric ratio. The effect of operation conditions on leaching performance was investigated. The leaching yield of Li and Fe were higher than 95% and lower than 0.1% within 20 min at 15°C. In addition, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and laser particle size analysis characterizations were applied for revealing the selective leaching mechanism, the results of which indicated that the crystal structure of powders remained basically unchanged during the leaching process. Finally, an efficient and cost‐effective recycling process for LiFePO4 powders was proposed, and lithium carbonate products with purity higher than 99.7% were obtained. The proposed recycling process shows strong industrial application potential for LiFePO4 powders.
Mesoporous Polydopamine‐Based Nanovehicles as a Versatile Drug Loading Platform to Enable Tumor‐Sufficient Synergistic Therapy
Authors: Jiang Suhua , Zhu Fukai , Ji Xiaoxuan , Li Jiaqi , Tian Haina , Wang Bingli , Lu Luanmei , Wang Peiyuan
Published: August 2022

The combination of photothermal therapy and chemotherapy are developing as a promising clinical strategy but it urgently needs the high exploration of intelligent multifunctional drug delivery nanovectors. In this paper, we used a versatile method to construct mesoporous polydopamine nanovehicles (MPDA) with the dendritic mesopores loaded with a clinical chemotherapeutic drug, Doxorubicin (MPDA@DOX). The monodisperse nanoagents are spherical with a size of ∼160 nm and pore size of approximately 10 nm. MPDA could efficiently delivery DOX with π‐π stacking interaction and acts as the potent photothermal agents. Importantly, MPDA@DOX are preferentially internalized by cancerous cells, then bursting drug release and local hyperthermia generation were observed in conditions representative of the cytoplasm in tumor cells that highly synergistic cell killing effect were found under 808 nm laser irradiation. The fluorescent imaging results of human breast tumor bearing murine model evidenced that MPDA delivery platform have excellent tumor precise targeting effect and in vivo tumor ablation experiment further revealed that MPDA@DOX showed markedly eradicated tumor growth capability under laser exposure. Therefore, this work provided a fascinating strategy based on biocompatible MPDA based drug delivery system for malignant tumors eradication via synergistic therapy.
Analysis of recent advancements in support vector machine
Authors: Bist Uttam Singh , Singh Nanhay
Published: August 2022

The current researches are primarily focused on optimizing the available classification methods in support vector machines (SVMs). The basic idea of this article to highlight the fundamentals of the proposed SVM variants and their optimization techniques. In this article, we have collectively identified the major issues in different variations of SVMs. This article has discussed a detailed explanation of the optimization and advancement of SVM and its kernel variants. The study elaborates on certain SVM optimization issues like model selection, novelty detection and so forth. In contrast, it discussed the identification of problems raises after every optimization and advancement of SVM. This is the first novel attempt to explain the optimization raises for SVMs. This article is about the majority of the necessary advancements in the optimization and cost‐effectiveness of computational algorithms of SVM with their detailed computational analysis. The approaches of such study helps to understand the optimization challenges in SVM.
Hollow Nanowire Constructed by NiCo Doped RuO2 Nanoparticles for Robust Hydrogen Evolution at High‐Current‐Density
Authors: Yi Hao , Zhang Xian , Ai Zhong , Song Shaoxian , An Qing
Published: August 2022

Large‐current‐density electrocatalytic water splitting is essential for industrial hydrogen production, but it is currently hindered by lacking active and robust hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts. Herein, a novel electrode of hollow nanowire arrays constructed by NiCo modified RuO2 nanoparticles on Ni foam (NiCo@RuO2 HNAs/NF) for high‐performance HER was reported. Such efficient electrode was fabricated by ion exchange with NF‐supported Ni modified cobalt carbonate hydroxide nanowire arrays template (Ni@CoCH NAs/NF). The formed NiCo@RuO2 HNAs/NF only needed overpotentials of 148.5 and 236.1 mV to deliver 500 and 1000 mA cm−2, respectively, along with excellent stability at the high‐current‐density for 300 h. Such remarkable HER performance was mainly attributed to the hollow structure with high surface area, hydrophilic feature, and NiCo@RuO2 with optimized hydrogen evolution kinetics. After coupling with anodic Ni@CoCH NAs/NF, our electrolyzer outperformed Pt/C–IrO2 and most other Ru‐based electrolyzers. This work provides a promising Pt alternative catalyst for profitable H2 production.
Deletion of ATAD3A inhibits osteogenesis by impairing mitochondria structure and function in pre‐osteoblast
Authors: Lee Hyeri , Kim Dae‐Won
Published: August 2022

Background

ATPase family AAA‐domain containing protein 3A (ATAD3A) is a nuclear encoded mitochondrial membrane protein that spans inner and outer membrane, and it has been shown to regulate mitochondrial dynamics and cholesterol metabolism. Since the mitochondrial functions have been implicated for osteogenic differentiation, a role of ATAD3A in skeletal development has been investigated.

Results

Mesenchyme‐specific ATAD3 knockout mice displayed severe defects in skeletal development. Additionally, osteoblast‐specific deletion of ATAD3 in mice caused significant reduction in bone mass, while cartilage‐specific ATAD3 knockout mice did not show any significant phenotypes. Consistent with these in vivo findings, ATAD3A knockdown impaired mitochondrial morphology and function in calvarial pre‐osteoblast cultures, which, in turn, suppressed osteogenic differentiation in vitro.

Conclusions

The current findings suggest that ATAD3A plays a crucial role in mitochondria homeostasis, which is required for osteogenic differentiation during skeletal development.
Legume germination is delayed in dry soils and in sterile soils devoid of microbial mutualists: Species‐specific implications for upward range expansions
Authors: Keeler Andrea M. , Rafferty Nicole E.
Published: August 2022

Climate change is affecting species and their mutualists and can lead to the weakening or loss of important interspecific interactions. Through independent shifts in partner phenology and distribution, climatic stress can separate mutualists temporally or spatially, leading to alterations in partner functional traits and fitness. Here, we explored the effects of the loss of microbial mutualists on legume germination success and phenology. In particular, we assessed the effects of mutualism loss via soil sterilization, increased drought, and introduction to novel soils found beyond the current distributions of two focal legume species in subalpine environments. Through common garden experiments in controlled environments, we found evidence that soil sterilization (and consequent microbial absence) and dry soils caused species‐specific phenological delays of 2–5 weeks in germination, likely as a result of interaction loss between legumes and specialized germination‐promoting soil microbes, such as mutualistic rhizobia. Delays in germination caused by a mismatch between legumes and beneficial microbes could negatively affect legume fitness through increased plant–plant competition later in the season. Additionally, we found evidence of the presence of beneficial microbes beyond the current elevational range of one of our focal legumes, which may allow for expansion of the leading edge, although harsh abiotic factors in the alpine may hinder this. Alterations in the strength of soil microbe‐legume mutualisms may lead to reduced fitness and altered demography for both soil microbes and legumes.
Density‐dependent changes of mating system and family structure in Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii)
Authors: Batsuren Erdenetuya , Zhang Xin , Song Mingjing , Wan Xinru , Li Guoliang , Liu Jing , Huang Shuli , Zhang Zhibin
Published: August 2022

A mating system is an important life history for animals dealing with changing environments. Population density affects the plasticity of a mating system and subsequently the family structure of animals, but its impacts on mating systems and social structures are rarely investigated by using molecular markers in field conditions. In this study, using microsatellite genetic markers, we examined the changes in the social and genetic mating system and family structure of Brandt's voles in the grassland of Inner Mongolia, China, under low‐, medium‐, and high‐density enclosures (each enclosure 0.48‐ha with 4 replicates.) We found, with the increase in population density of the founder voles introduced into the enclosure in early spring, both sexes increased their number of genetic mating partners, while males increased their social partners, resulting in a more promiscuous mating system. The number of genetic fathers and mothers per family, the number of social offspring per founder male or female, and the proportion of extra‐group offspring increased with increased density, indicating that the response of the family structure to density change, which is consistent with the change in mating system observed in our study. Both male and female voles had multiple mates, but males had a larger number of social and genetic mates, the number of social and genetic offspring, and the number of social and genetic families. Our study highlights the significance of density‐dependent plasticity of a mating system and family structure in affecting the population change of small mammals.
Assisted dispersal and reproductive success in an ant species with matchmaking
Authors: Vidal Mathilde , Heinze Jürgen
Published: August 2022

Workers of the ant Cardiocondyla elegans drop female sexuals into the nest entrance of other colonies to promote outbreeding with unrelated, wingless males. Corroborating the results from previous years, we document that carrier and carried female sexuals are typically related and that the transfer initially occurs mostly from their joint natal colonies to unrelated colonies. Female sexuals mate multiply with up to seven genetically distinguishable males. Contrary to our expectation, the colony growth rate of multiple‐mated and outbred female sexuals was lower than that of inbred or single‐mated females, leading to the question of why female sexuals mate multiply at all. Despite the obvious costs, multiple mating might be a way for female sexuals to “pay rent” for hibernation in an alien nest. We argue that in addition to evade inbreeding depression from regular sibling mating over many generations, assisted dispersal might also be a strategy for minimizing the risk of losing all reproductive investment when nests are flooded in winter.
The performance of field sampling for parasite detection in a wild passerine
Authors: Abdu Salamatu , Chimento Michael , Alarcón‐Nieto Gustavo , Zúñiga Daniel , Aplin Lucy M. , Farine Damien R. , Brandl Hanja B.
Published: August 2022

Parasites can impact the behavior of animals and alter the interplay with ecological factors in their environment. Studying the effects that parasites have on animals thus requires accurate estimates of infections in individuals. However, quantifying parasites can be challenging due to several factors. Laboratory techniques, physiological fluctuations, methodological constraints, and environmental influences can introduce measurement errors, in particular when screening individuals in the wild. These issues are pervasive in ecological studies where it is common to sample study subjects only once. Such factors should be carefully considered when choosing a sampling strategy, yet presently there is little guidance covering the major sources of error. In this study, we estimate the reliability and sensitivity of different sampling practices at detecting two internal parasites—Serratospiculoides amaculata and Isospora sp.—in a model organism, the great tit Parus major. We combine field and captive sampling to assess whether individual parasite infection status and load can be estimated from single field samples, using different laboratory techniques—McMaster and mini‐FLOTAC. We test whether they vary in their performance, and quantify how sample processing affects parasite detection rates. We found that single field samples had elevated rates of false negatives. By contrast, samples collected from captivity over 24 h were highly reliable (few false negatives) and accurate (repeatable in the intensity of infection). In terms of methods, we found that the McMaster technique provided more repeatable estimates than the mini‐FLOTAC for S. amaculata eggs, and both techniques were largely equally suitable for Isospora oocysts. Our study shows that field samples are likely to be unreliable in accurately detecting the presence of parasites and, in particular, for estimating parasite loads in songbirds. We highlight important considerations for those designing host–parasite studies in captive or wild systems giving guidance that can help select suitable methods, minimize biases, and acknowledge possible limitations.
Variability of hydraulic conductivity and water repellency of soils with fire severity in pine forests and reforested areas under Mediterranean conditions
Authors: Lucas‐Borja Manuel Esteban , Fernández Cristina , Plaza‐Alvarez Pedro Antonio , Zema Demetrio Antonio
Published: August 2022

The effects of fire on soil hydraulic conductivity (K) and soil water repellency (SWR) have been mainly studied by field experiments in forest areas burned by wildfires with a given severity, while the variability of K and SWR with the fire severities has been less investigated. To fill this gap, the changes in the K and SWR with fire severity and soil depth (1 and 5 cm below the ground surface) have been evaluated in two forest ecosystems (natural stand of pine and reforested areas) of Central Eastern Spain. A significant influence of the fire severity on the infiltration rates was found, and this influence was different between the natural stand of pine and the reforested areas. Compared to the unburned soils, the highest reduction of the K (80% to 90%) and SWR levels were found for the fires with low and intermediate severities at the soil surface. At the lower soil depth, the reduction of K and the SWR level due to fire were proportional to its severity. Moreover, the K of the soil surface layer was often higher compared to the water infiltration in the deeper layer. In the reforested areas, also low fire severities can noticeably reduce the surface K, despite the limited SWR, while the natural forests are less exposed to hydrophobicity in their surface soil layer. This study indicates the need to reduce the risk of flooding and erosion linked to a reduction in water infiltration and increase of soil repellency.
Clinical characteristics and 1‐year outcomes in hospitalized patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: results from the China Cardiovascular Association Database‐Heart Failure Center Registry
Authors: Cai Anping , Qiu Weida , Zhou Yingling , Feng Yingqing , Chen Jiyan , Xia Shuang , Li Weimin , Liao Yuhua , Li Xinli , Zhou Jingmin , Wang Hua , Jin Wei , Zhang Qing , Sun Zhijun , Chen Mulei , Wang Jiang , Kong Hong , Zhang Yao , Dong Wei , Bai Ling , Xu Dongjie , Yuan Jing , Liu Chen , Jiang Meng , Xu Yamei , Li Liwen , Dong Yugang , Yang Jiefu
Published: August 2022

Aim

We aimed to evaluate clinical characteristics and 1‐year outcomes in hospitalized patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) from China. Factors associated with outcomes (hospitalization for HF [HHF] and cardiovascular [CV] death) were assessed.

Method and results

Data were from the China Cardiovascular Association (CCA) Database‐HF Center Registry. Between January 2017 and June 2021, 41 708 hospitalized HFpEF patients with 1‐year follow‐up from 481 CCA Database‐HF Center certified secondary and tertiary hospitals across overall 31 provinces of mainland China were included in this study. Of study participants (mean age 72.2 years, 49.3% female), 18.2% had HHF in prior 1 year and 55.8% had New York Heart Association class III/IV. Median left ventricular ejection fraction was 59%. Ischaemia (26.6%), infection (14.4%) and arrhythmia (10.5%) were the three most common precipitating factors for index HHF. Nearly 67.4% had ≥3 comorbidities. Hypertension (65.2%), coronary heart disease (60.3%) and atrial fibrillation (41.2%) were the three most common comorbidities. Device and medication therapy non‐compliance with current HF guideline recommendation was observed. The 1‐year rate of clinical outcomes was 16.4%, the 1‐year rate of HHF was 13.6% and CV death was 3.1%. Factors associated with clinical outcomes included HHF in prior 1 year, serum level of sodium <135 mmol/L and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide >1800 pg/ml.

Conclusion

Patients with HFpEF from China were characterized by high comorbid burden and high 1‐year risk of HHF and CV death. Immediate efforts are needed to improve HFpEF management in China.
Effects of remote haemodynamic‐guided heart failure management in patients with different subtypes of pulmonary hypertension: insights from the MEMS‐HF study
Authors: Assmus Birgit , Angermann Christiane E. , Alkhlout Basil , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Schnupp Steffen , Brugts Jasper J. , Nordbeck Peter , Zhou Qian , Brett Marie‐Elena , Ginn Greg , Adamson Philip B. , Böhm Michael , Rosenkranz Stephan
Published: August 2022

Aim

The CardioMEMS European Monitoring Study for Heart Failure (MEMS‐HF) investigated safety and efficacy of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP)‐guided remote patient management (RPM) in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III outpatients with at least one heart failure hospitalization (HFH) during the previous 12 months. This pre‐specified subgroup analysis investigated whether RPM effects depended on presence and subtype of pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Methods and results

In 106/234 MEMS‐HF participants, Swan–Ganz catheter tracings obtained during sensor implant were available for off‐line manual analysis jointly performed by two experts. Patients were classified into subgroups according to current PH definitions. Isolated post‐capillary PH (IpcPH) and combined post‐ and pre‐capillary PH (CpcPH) were present in 38 and 36 patients, respectively, whereas 31 patients had no PH. Clinical characteristics were comparable between subgroups, but among patients with PH pulmonary vascular resistance was higher (p = 0.029) and pulmonary artery compliance lower (p = 0.003) in patients with CpcPH. During 12 months of PAP‐guided RPM, all PAPs declined in IpcPH and CpcPH subgroups (all p < 0.05), whereas only mean and diastolic PAP decreased in patients without PH (both p < 0.05). Improvements in post‐ versus pre‐implant HFH rates were similar in CpcPH (0.639 events/patient‐year; hazard ratio [HR] 0.37) and IpcPH (0.72 events/patient‐year; HR 0.45) patients. Participants without PH benefited most (0.26 events/patient‐year; HR 0.17, p = 0.04 vs. IpcPH/CpcPH patients). Quality of life and NYHA class improved significantly in all subgroups.

Conclusions

Outpatients with NYHA class III symptoms with at least one HFH during 1 year pre‐implant benefitted significantly from PAP‐guided RPM during post‐implant follow‐up irrespective of presence or subtype of PH at baseline.