bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complementary effects of pollination and biocontrol services enable ecological intensification in macadamia orchards
Authors: Anders Mina , Westphal Catrin , Linden Valerie M. G. , Weier Sina , Taylor Peter J. , Grass Ingo
Published: October 2024

In many crops, both pollination and biocontrol determine crop yield, whereby the relative importance of the two ecosystem services can be moderated by the landscape context. However, additive and interactive effects of pollination and biocontrol in different landscape contexts are still poorly understood. We examined both ecosystem services in South African macadamia orchards. Combining observations and experiments, we disentangled their relative additive and interactive effects on crop production with variation in orchard design and landscape context (i.e., cover of natural habitat and altitude). Insect pollination increased the nut set on average by 280% (initial nut set) and 525% (final nut set), while biocontrol provided by bats and birds reduced the insect damage on average by 40%. Pollination services increased in orchards where macadamia tree rows were positioned perpendicular to orchard edges facing natural habitat. Biocontrol services decreased with elevation. Pest damage was reduced by higher cover of natural habitat at landscape scale but increased with elevation. Pollination and biocontrol are both important ecosystem services and complementary in providing high macadamia crop yield. Smart orchard design and the retention of natural habitat can simultaneously enhance both services. Conjoint management of ecosystem services can thus enable the ecological intensification of agricultural production.
Performance evaluation of a bifacial floating standalone photovoltaic system with different water bodies: An experimental investigation of 10E analysis
Authors: Pandian Ganesan Rathinavel , Balachandran Gurukarthik Babu , David Prince Winston , Thangaraj Hariharasudhan
Published: October 2024

This study delves into harnessing solar energy potential through innovative floating bifacial solar power generation systems. Employing a comprehensive 10E analysis—encompassing Energy, Exergy, Economic, Environmental, Energo‐economic, Exergo‐economic, Enviro‐economic, Energo‐environmental, Exergo‐environmental, Energy Payback Time, and Embodied Energy factors—the research evaluates energy performance, economic viability, and environmental impact. Among coolants, fresh water exhibited optimal performance, with peak output power (399 W), final yield (371.9351 W), and performance ratio (59.08173655). Capacity utilization factors were comparable (~0.516), with fresh water (0.5165764992) and black water (0.5154933033) excelling. Fresh water also minimized energy loss (−365.639816266105). Exergy efficiency peaked with fresh water (32.10%). Energo‐economic Analysis indicated lower LCOE (3.39 $/MWh) and higher enviro‐economic parameter (243.4965981) for Fresh Water. Exergo‐environmental Analysis showed consistent efficiency across conditions (exergy performance time [EPT]: 37.28410450–37.35602872). The Embodied Energy for panels was 2840.67 kWh/kg. Freshwater emerges as the frontrunner, offering high energy efficiency, minimized energy loss, and environmental sustainability. Embracing freshwater coolant opens avenues for inventive and environmentally conscious solar energy solutions in buoyant applications.
Which Publicly Financed Green Technology R&D Option Most Effectively Drives Carbon Productivity? Instances of Energy Efficiency, Renewables, Nuclear, Hydrogen, and Energy Storage
Authors: Uche Emmanuel , Ngepah Nicholas
Published: October 2024

As a strategy, countries seek ways to improve national income and, at the same time, keep carbon emissions minimal. Such a scenario is captured by the respective economies' carbon productivity (CP) scores. Remarkably, it is expected that technological advancements could be harnessed to achieve CP. Hence, many countries have publicly invested in green technologies R&D, including energy efficiency, renewables, nuclear, hydrogen, and energy storage. However, existing studies did not verify the specific contributions of these technological advances to CP, leaving a notable void in the literature. Hence, the current research verified various green technology R&D contributions to CP. Based on panel data from 2003 to 2022, this study implemented the novel instrumental variable quantile regression technique for updated insights. The study uncovers the heterogeneous contributions of each energy innovation variant to the quantile distributions of CP. The heterogeneous effects underscore each country's changing economic structures and varied energy innovation implementation paths. Hence, policy consistency is key to driving CP and ensuring environmental compatibility. R&D on renewable, nuclear, and energy efficiency technologies contributed most significantly to CP across the distributions. R&D on hydrogen and energy storage technologies contributed the least to CP. Therefore, allocating more funds to all R&Ds that boost energy‐enhancing technologies for overall environmental sustainability is expedient. Such proactive and integrative policies consistent with SDGs 7 and 13 would reduce carbon emissions while escalating national income. Meanwhile, isolated and inconsistent funding should be discouraged for overall environmental progress. A robustness evaluation based on SIVQR produced corroborative evidence.
Evaluation capacity building in theory and practice: Revisiting models from practitioner perspectives
Authors: Goodyear Leslie , Mansori Sophia , Quinlan Kristen , McMahon Tracy , Kyles Candace M.
Published: October 2024

This article seeks to bring practitioner experience to bear on existing models of ECB with a particular focus on the models through the lens of our own ECB practice. We reflect on how our ECB practices align with or challenge these models, and how the insights that come from those reflections can inform future ECB research and frameworks for evaluating ECB initiatives. As is often the case when theory collides with practice, current models may not always reflect and serve the work at hand, and the value and usefulness, as well as accuracy and relevance, of existing models is worth investigating. With this in mind, we offer input to inform future models of ECB that are more inclusive of and relevant for the broad spectrum of current ECB practice and, subsequently, its evaluation.
Application of microalgae as natural colorant for pastry and confectionary products
Authors: Pereira Tatiana , Barroso Sónia , Pinto Filipa R. , Silva Frederica , Teixeira Paula , Mendes Susana , Gil Maria M.
Published: October 2024

Modern consumers demand the replacement of synthetic colorants with natural alternatives. Microalgae can serve as an alternative source for these colorants since they hold significant amounts of pigments. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of using microalgae biomass and extracts as natural colorants for pastry and confectionary products. The application of different biomass and levels of Chlorella vulgaris (White, Honey, and a mixture of both) was evaluated in brioche‐type breads as egg substitute to confer the typical yellow coloration to the product. A mixture of 1% Chlorella vulgaris (White: Honey [1:1]) showed potential as egg substitute, having minimal impact on the physical–chemical, microbiological, nutritional, and sensory characteristics of the products. Hydroalcoholic Tetraselmis chuii extracts were applied in fondant at a concentration of 0.05%, providing a green coloration with minimal impact on the quality of the product. This study supported the potential of using microalgae, biomass, and extracts, as alternative natural colorants in pastry and confectionary products.
Molecular profiling of invertebrate glia
Authors: Purice Maria D. , Lago‐Baldaia Inês , Fernandes Vilaiwan M. , Singhvi Aakanksha
Published: October 2024

Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster are powerful experimental models for uncovering fundamental tenets of nervous system organization and function. Findings over the last two decades show that molecular and cellular features are broadly conserved between invertebrates and vertebrates, indicating that insights derived from invertebrate models can broadly inform our understanding of glial operating principles across diverse species. In recent years, these model systems have led to exciting discoveries in glial biology and mechanisms of glia–neuron interactions. Here, we summarize studies that have applied current state‐of‐the‐art “‐omics” techniques to C. elegans and D. melanogaster glia. Coupled with the remarkable acceleration in the pace of mechanistic studies of glia biology in recent years, these indicate that invertebrate glia also exhibit striking molecular complexity, specificity, and heterogeneity. We provide an overview of these studies and discuss their implications as well as emerging questions where C. elegans and D. melanogaster are well‐poised to fill critical knowledge gaps in our understanding of glial biology.
Heat transfer and pressure drop comparison for corrugated tube and different numbers of copper foam cylindrical inserts in laminar flow
Authors: Flayh Ayser Muneer
Published: October 2024

The chief objective of the present investigation is to study experimentally the hydraulic and thermal performance of a corrugated tube with copper foam cylindrical inserts (MFCIs) containing a new type of inserts with the purpose to improve the procedure of heat transfer, which gives an elevated thermal enhancement factor more than that of smooth tube beneath the similar operating circumstances. Also, in this paper, the study of the effect on the number of cylindrical inserts was made from metal foam (10 PPI and porosity 0.9) on the Nusselt number and Nusselt number ratio as a double heat exchanger furnished with the suggested MFCI with various values of Reynolds numbers ranges from 1600 to 4000 via using water as the test fluid. The investigational outcomes revealed an enhancement in heat transfer as well as the thermal performance of the corrugated tube with MFCI, which being significantly augmented in comparison to those for the smooth tube. Additionally, the average rise in the value of heat transfer is within 225% and 400% at the test range, relying upon the number of cylindrical inserts as well as the Reynolds number, whereas the maximum thermal performance is obtained to be around 2.4 for utilizing the corrugated tube having (four) cylindrical inserts at low Reynolds number (1820). Furthermore, the outcome of the loss of pressure manifested that the corrugated tube's mean friction factor is between 96% and 97% more than the smooth tube.
A critical assessment of geological weighing lysimeters: Part 2—Modelling field scale soil moisture storage and hydrological fluxes
Authors: Braaten Morgan , Ireson Andrew , Clark Martyn
Published: October 2024

Land surface models (LSMs) are used to simulate the terrestrial component of water, energy, and biogeochemical cycles. These simulations are useful for water resources management, drought and flood prediction, and numerical climate/weather prediction. However, the usefulness of LSMs are dependent by their ability to reproduce states and fluxes realistically. Accurate measurements of water storage are useful to calibrate and validate LSMs outputs. Geological weighing lysimeters (GWLs) are instruments that can provide field‐scale estimates of integrated total water storage within a soil profile. We use field estimates of total water storage and subsurface storage to critically evaluate two different land surface models: the Modélisation Environnementale communautaire—Surface Hydrology (MESH) which uses the Canadian Land Surface Scheme (CLASS), and the Structure for Unifying Multiple Modeling Alternatives: (SUMMA). These models have differences in how the processes and properties of the land surface are represented. We attempted to parameterize each model in an equivalent manner, to minimize model differences. Both models were able to reproduce observations of total water storage and subsurface storage reasonably well. However, there were inconsistencies in the simulated timing of snowmelt; depth of soil freezing; total evapotranspiration; partitioning of evaporation between soil evaporation and evaporation of intercepted water; and soil drainage. No one model emerged as better overall, though each model had specific strengths and weaknesses that we describe. Insights from this study can be used to improve model physics and performance.
Therapy adherence after interdisciplinary tumour board discussion is associated with improved outcome in soft tissue sarcoma: A Charité Comprehensive Cancer Centre analysis
Authors: Strönisch Annika , Rau Daniel , Wittenberg Silvan , Kaul David , Koulaxouzidis Georgios , Öllinger Robert , von Laffert Maximilian , Jarosch Armin , Schäfer Frederik , Keilholz Ulrich , Bullinger Lars , Märdian Sven , Striefler Jana , Flörcken Anne
Published: October 2024

Centralising soft tissue sarcoma (STS) treatment in expert centres and implementing comprehensive therapy concepts through interdisciplinary tumour boards (ITB) has led to significant treatment progress. However, our knowledge on the implementation of the ITB recommendations and its impact on patient outcome is limited. In this retrospective analysis, we examined a cohort of 222 adult patients (pts) with primary STS who were presented to the ITB of the Charité Comprehensive Cancer Centre between 2015 and 2020. In localised disease (n = 188), resection was recommended in 71% (n = 134) of pts. The treatment modalities chemotherapy with or without regional deep hyperthermia, and radiotherapy were recommended in 37% (n = 69), 26% (n = 48) and 52% (n = 97), respectively. Complex multidisciplinary concepts were established in 29% (n = 54) including ≥3 treatment modalities. Only partial adherence, either by choice of patient or treating physician, was associated with a higher risk of both progression (HR 4.0 95%‐CI 1.6–9.7 p < .01) and mortality (HR 5.3 95%‐CI 1.7–16.4 p < .01). Pts inable to follow the ITB recommendations due to complications or rapid progression showed a high‐risk profile with increased mortality and progression rates (HR 18.1 95%‐CI 8.5–38.2 p < .001; HR 21.5 95%‐CI 8.5–54.7 p < .001). To our knowledge, this represents the first German Comprehensive Cancer Centre analysis of therapy adherence in STS. It provides further real‐world evidence that full adherence to ITB recommendations and the ability to adhere to them are of prognostic value for patient outcome and underlines the importance of interdisciplinary decision‐making and treatment planning for STS patients.
TP53 mutations and survival in ovarian carcinoma patients receiving first‐line chemotherapy plus bevacizumab: Results of the MITO16A/MaNGO OV‐2 study
Authors: Bignotti Eliana , Simeon Vittorio , Ardighieri Laura , Kuhn Elisabetta , Marchini Sergio , Califano Daniela , Cecere Sabrina Chiara , Bugatti Mattia , Spina Anna , Scognamiglio Giosuè , Paracchini Lara , Russo Daniela , Arenare Laura , Tognon Germana , Lorusso Domenica , Beltrame Luca , D'Incalci Maurizio , Sartori Enrico , De Censi Andrea , Odicino Franco , Perrone Francesco , Chiodini Paolo , Pignata Sandro
Published: October 2024

To date, there are no biomarkers that define a patient subpopulation responsive to bevacizumab (BEV), an effective treatment option for advanced ovarian carcinoma (OC). In the context of the MITO16A/MaNGO OV‐2 trial, a Phase IV study of chemotherapy combined with BEV in first‐line treatment of advanced OC, we evaluated TP53 mutations by next‐generation sequencing and p53 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on 202 and 311 cases, respectively. We further correlated TP53 mutations in terms of type, function, and site, and IHC data with patients' clinicopathological characteristics and survival. TP53 missense mutations of unknown function (named unclassified) represented the majority of variants in our population (44.4%) and were associated with a significantly improved overall survival (OS) both in univariable (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.20–0.92, p = .03) and multivariable analysis (HR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.18–0.86, p = .02). Concordance between TP53 mutational analysis and IHC was 91%. We observed an HR of 0.70 for OS in patients with p53 IHC overexpression compared to p53 wild‐type, which however did not reach statistical significance (p = .31, 95% CI = 0.36–1.38). Our results indicate that the presence of unclassified TP53 mutations has favorable prognostic significance in patients with OC receiving upfront BEV plus chemotherapy. In particular, unclassified missense TP53 mutations characterize a subpopulation of patients with a significant survival advantage, independently of clinicopathological characteristics. Our findings warrant future investigations to confirm the prognostic impact of TP53 mutations in BEV‐treated OC patients and deserve to be assessed for their potential predictive role in future randomized clinical studies.
Bioprospecting of culturable marine biofilm bacteria for novel antimicrobial peptides
Authors: Fan Shen , Qin Peng , Lu Jie , Wang Shuaitao , Zhang Jie , Wang Yan , Cheng Aifang , Cao Yan , Ding Wei , Zhang Weipeng
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have become a viable source of novel antibiotics that are effective against human pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we construct a bank of culturable marine biofilm bacteria constituting 713 strains and their nearly complete genomes and predict AMPs using ribosome profiling and deep learning. Compared with previous approaches, ribosome profiling has improved the identification and validation of small open reading frames (sORFs) for AMP prediction. Among the 80,430 expressed sORFs, 341 are identified as candidate AMPs with high probability. Most potential AMPs have less than 40% similarity in their amino acid sequence compared to those listed in public databases. Furthermore, these AMPs are associated with bacterial groups that are not previously known to produce AMPs. Therefore, our deep learning model has acquired characteristics of unfamiliar AMPs. Chemical synthesis of 60 potential AMP sequences yields 54 compounds with antimicrobial activity, including potent inhibitory effects on various drug‐resistant human pathogens. This study extends the range of AMP compounds by investigating marine biofilm microbiomes using a novel approach, accelerating AMP discovery.
Gut microbial 3α‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase promotes depression in males via degrading testosterone
Authors: Li Di , Cheng Jingru , Zhang Wei , Cheng Pengfei , He Yuan , Jia Jinghan , Wang Chao , Liu Zhongchun , Sun Zhou , Wang Jinxi
Published: October 2024

Abnormal gut microbiota is associated with the occurrence of depression, but the specific pathophysiological role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of depression is still unknown. We found that the levels of serum steroid hormone testosterone in male patients with depression were lower than in healthy controls. Using testosterone as the only carbon source, the testosterone‐degrading bacteria Arthrobacter koreensis was isolated from fecal of low testosterone male patients with depression. We found that A. koreensis administration in mice led to reduced serum testosterone levels and depression‐like behaviors, which were improved by antibiotic treatment. Using whole genome sequencing, the gene mediating testosterone degradation in A. koreensis was identified and annotated as 3α‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α‐HSD). Escherichia coli heterologously expressing 3α‐HSD obtained the capacity to degrade testosterone, causing depression‐like behaviors after gavage to mice. Testosterone supplementation improves depression‐like behavior in mice induced by gavage of Escherichia coli heterologously expressing 3α‐HSD. Finally, the universality of 3α‐HSD in gut of male patients with depression was higher than that of healthy controls. Overall, our results revealed a new pathway that potentially links testosterone degradation by gut microbes harboring 3α‐HSD enzymes to the pathogenesis of depression. Gut microbial 3α‐HSD can induce depression in mice via testosterone degradation. This means that 3α‐HSD expressed by gut bacteria may be a potential target for depression in men.
Genetic variations in NER pathway gene polymorphisms and Wilms tumor risk: A six‐center case–control study in East China
Authors: Zhan Xueli , Zhou Haixia , Deng Changmi , Hua Rui‐Xi , Pan Lingling , Zhang Shouhua , Lu Hongting , He Shaohua , Wang Yizhen , Ruan Jichen , Zhou Chunlei , He Jing
Published: October 2024

The nucleotide excision repair (NER) system is one of the main ways to protect organisms from DNA damage caused by endogenous and exogenous carcinogens. NER deficiency increases genome mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and cancer viability. However, the genetic association between Wilms tumor and NER pathway gene polymorphisms needs to be further validated. We assessed the associations between 19 NER gene polymorphisms and Wilms tumor susceptibility in 416 cases and 936 controls from East China via the TaqMan method. We found that xeroderma pigmentosum group D (XPD) rs238406 and rs13181 significantly decreased the risk of Wilms tumor [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.46–0.75, p <.0001; adjusted OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.44–0.89, p = .009, respectively]. Furthermore, the rs751402 and rs2296147 polymorphisms in the xeroderma pigmentosum group G (XPG) gene were significantly correlated with an increased risk for Wilms tumor (adjusted OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.03–2.09, p = .034; adjusted OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.29–3.56, p = .003, respectively). Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis revealed that these four polymorphisms may affect the expression of genes that are adjacent to XPD and XPG. Our study provides evidence that XPD and XPG gene polymorphisms are associated with Wilms tumor risk. Nonetheless, these findings should be confirmed in a larger sample size.
Coexisting bacterial aminoacyl‐tRNAsynthetase paralogs exhibit distinct phylogenetic backgrounds and functional compatibility withEscherichia coli
Authors: Radecki Alexander A. , Fantasia‐Davis Ariana , Maldonado Juan S. , Mann Joshua W. , Sepulveda‐Camacho Stephanie , Morosky Pearl , Douglas Jordan , Vargas‐Rodriguez Oscar
Published: October 2024

Aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) are universally essential enzymes that synthesize aminoacyl‐tRNA substrates for protein synthesis. Although most organisms require a single aaRS gene for each proteinogenic amino acid to translate their genetic information, numerous species encode multiple gene copies of an aaRS. Growing evidence indicates that organisms acquire extra aaRS genes to sustain or adapt to their unique lifestyle. However, predicting and defining the function of repeated aaRS genes remains challenging due to their potentially unique physiological role in the host organism and the inconsistent annotation of repeated aaRS genes in the literature. Here, we carried out comparative, phylogenetic, and functional studies to determine the activity of coexisting paralogs of tryptophanyl‐, tyrosyl‐, seryl‐, and prolyl‐tRNA synthetases encoded in several human pathogenic bacteria. Our analyses revealed that, with a few exceptions, repeated aaRSs involve paralogous genes with distinct phylogenetic backgrounds. Using a collection ofEscherichia colistrains that enabled the facile characterization of aaRS activity in vivo, we found that, in almost all cases, one aaRS displayed transfer RNA (tRNA) aminoacylation activity, whereas the other was not compatible withE.coli. Together, this work illustrates the challenges of identifying, classifying, and predicting the function of aaRS paralogs and highlights the complexity of aaRS evolution. Moreover, these results provide new insights into the potential role of aaRS paralogs in the biology of several human pathogens and foundational knowledge for the investigation of the physiological role of repeated aaRS paralogs across bacteria.
Role of Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Peripheral Nerve Pathologies: A Study of 200 Cases
Authors: Kachare Manohar B. , Gamanagatti Shanta A. , Satish Patil , Umesh Joshi
Published: October 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to ascertain the role of ultrasonography in appraising the structural intricacies of peripheral nerve pathologies.

Objectives

(1) To scrutinize the anatomy of both normal and abnormal peripheral nerves. (2) Assess different parameters like continuity of the nerve, echotexture, vascularity, cross‐sectional area, and thickness of the nerve in various pathologies.

Methods and Materials

In a prospective observational study conducted at the Department of Radio Diagnosis, Tertiary Care Centre, the study design focused on the examination of 200 cases utilizing a high‐resolution 9–14 Mhz and 17 Mhz linear array transducer, integrated into the Aplio 400 Canon Ultrasound System.

Results

Among the total cases, 62 were identified as traumatic neuropathy cases, 52 as entrapment neuropathy cases, 14 as infective neuropathy cases, 54 as thermal neuropathy cases, 14 as metabolic neuropathy cases, and 4 as nerve‐tumor cases.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this investigation illuminates the dynamic role of ultrasonography as an invaluable diagnostic instrument in appraising peripheral nerve pathologies. The noninvasive attributes, widespread availability, and economic viability of ultrasonography render it a pragmatic choice for clinicians. This inquiry buttresses the escalating significance of ultrasonography within neurology, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the terrain of peripheral nerve pathology assessment.
The prognostic impact of C‐reactive protein and albumin in patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Skar Espen Talseth , Wendelbo Øystein , Reikvam Håkon
Published: October 2024

Background

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is an aggressive and heterogeneous malignant disease. Patient age, comorbidities and disease‐specific genetic abnormalities are recognized as primary determinants of treatment response. Recent years have elucidated the significance of nutritional status and inflammation across various malignancies, including AML, in influencing treatment outcomes.

Aims

To assess the prognostic value of the C‐reactive protein‐albumin ratio (CAR) and the Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) in predicting overall survival (OS) rates among patients diagnosed with AML.

Material and methods

189 AML patients receiving standard cytarabine and anthracycline‐based induction treatment were included. Baseline demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected, and treatment outcomes and survival were registered for all patients.

Results

No significant association between CAR and prognosis among AML patients was found, even in subgroup analyses. Hypoalbuminemia was an independent predictor of poor survival among all patients (OS 28 vs. 16 months; p < 0.02). Patients with a GPS of 0 or 1 demonstrated superior OS compared to those with a GPS of 2 (median OS 28 vs. 16 months, respectively; p = 0.015). Results remained consistent among patients ≥ 60 years (median OS 15 vs. 6 months; p = 0.020).

Conclusion

Heightened inflammation and suboptimal nutritional status correlate with unfavourable prognoses in AML patients. Such insights hold the potential for guiding clinical decision‐making, offering easily accessible prognostic information for the induction treatment of eligible AML patients.
Advances in the Synthesis of 3‐Acyl‐2‐Pyridones: Strategies and Methods for Accessing the Versatile Scaffold
Authors: Rani Reena , Devi Sheetu , Yadav Neelam , Sangwan Sarita , Dhanda Vidhi , Kumar Vipan , Chauhan Sonu , Duhan Anil , Kumar Ravi
Published: October 2024

The syntheses and bioevaluation of 3‐acyl‐2‐pyridones have garnered significant interest in recent years as a novel class of compounds with diverse biological activities. The bioactivities cover a wide range of therapeutic areas including antimicrobial, antitumor, anti‐inflammatory, antifungal, antibiotic, neuritogenic, cytotoxic, and antiviral activities. Therefore, 3‐acyl‐2‐pyridone scaffold offers a versatile platform for the development of new molecules with potential applications in medicinal chemistry. The recent exploration on synthesis and bioevaluation of 3‐acyl‐2‐pyridones has yielded promising results, making them attractive targets for further optimization and development of new therapeutic agents. This review summarizes the available information on total synthesis of 3‐acyl‐2‐pyridone containing natural products, and the other synthetic strategies developed for accessing the 3‐acyl pyridones such as multicomponent synthesis, condensation reaction, microwave‐assisted synthesis, catalytic hydrogenation reactions, metalation reaction, Michael addition, and formylation reactions. The presented information may serve as a valuable resource for researchers working in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, stimulating further exploration and development of this intriguing scaffold.
The Influence of the Isosteric Exchange of Benzene by Thiophene‐Core of Phthalocyanine: The Synthesis, Structure and Opto‐Electronic Behavior of π‐Conjugated Unit Blocks in Materials
Authors: Kendrová Dominika , Gašparová Marcela , Andicsová‐Eckstein Anita , Váry Tomáš , Tokár Kamil , Tokárová Zita
Published: October 2024

The strategy of isosteric replacement of the benzene ring with a thiophene core was applied in the design of phthalocyanine 1 with the aim for reaching an effective organic chromophore as employable content in organic photovoltaic devices. The formation of the desired product was not achieved but the approach created organic small‐molecules 2 and 3. These, representing the reactive intermediates, were converted to novel hemiphthalocyanine 4. Although undesired, all exhibit absorbance in the visible region (λmax ~ 400 nm) and proximity of the HOMO/LUMO band edge (Eg: 2.0–3.5 eV), suggesting that compounds 2–4 behaves as an effective π‐conjugated linkers in donor‐π‐acceptor type dyes for dye sensitized solar cells and related high performing energetic devices.
A Review of Melanoma Subtypes: Genetic and Treatment Considerations
Authors: Druskovich Christina , Kelley Jesse , Aubrey Jason , Palladino Leah , Wright G. Paul
Published: October 2024

Melanoma affects over one million people in the United States. This review explores genetic mutations and markers of all seven subtypes. Current treatment options and prognosis of each subtype are also discussed. For lentigo maligna, spitzoid, and nodular subtypes, BRAF was the most common mutation reported. For superficial spreading, TP53 was the most common. Acral lentiginous demonstrated CCDN1 and desmoplastic NF1 most frequently. No mutations have been identified in the nevoid subtype. Nodular melanoma is the deadliest subtype. Evidence suggests that the subtypes differ in regard to genetic markers/mutations, treatment and prognosis. Therefore, subtype should be considered when treating a melanoma patient.
Impact of Adjuvant Interferon Therapy on Survival Outcomes for Cutaneous Melanoma With Parotid Involvement
Authors: Kim Erin , Raven Sarah A. , Lenze Nicholas R. , Farlow Janice L. , McLean Scott A.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To determine the relative 5‐year overall survival (OS) and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival (RFS) outcomes for adjuvant interferon therapy in the treatment of head and neck cutaneous melanoma (HNCM) with parotid gland involvement.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single tertiary care institution to analyze patients undergoing parotidectomy for cutaneous head and neck melanoma involving the parotid gland from 2000 to 2014. Time‐to‐event analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier curves with log‐rank p‐values and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

The sample consisted of 82 patients who underwent surgical resection of stage III HNCM with parotid involvement. The mean follow‐up was 67.8 months (SD 65) after diagnosis. Twenty‐one patients received adjuvant interferon therapy, 12 patients received adjuvant radiation therapy, and 49 patients received no adjuvant therapy. Crude 5‐year OS rates were 95.0% for interferon therapy, 33.3% for adjuvant RT, and 40.4% for no adjuvant therapy. Crude 5‐year RFS rates were 75.2%, 19.5%, and 40.8% respectively. In the fully adjusted model, adjuvant interferon therapy was associated with improved 5‐year OS compared to adjuvant RT (HR 0.10, 95% CI 0.011–0.837; p = 0.034). There was no significant association between adjuvant interferon therapy and 5‐year RFS in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusion

Adjuvant interferon therapy for surgically resected stage III cutaneous melanoma with parotid gland involvement may be associated with improved survival outcomes. These findings support the growing evidence for the use of immunotherapy in melanoma, and potentially a unique role for when melanoma involves the lymphatic‐rich parotid gland.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 135:1098–1104, 2025
Dam Inundation Modulates the Effect of Plant Diversity on Soil Multifunctionality in the Riparian Zone of the Three Gorges Reservoir
Authors: Zheng Jie , Arif Muhammad , Cao Wenqiu , Li Changxiao
Published: October 2024

Understanding the biodiversity–ecosystem multifunctionality relationship is critical for predicting the consequences of species loss on the sustainable provision of ecosystem services. Both theoretical and empirical studies generally demonstrate a positive biodiversity–ecosystem multifunctionality relationship. However, the underlying mechanisms linking soil multifunctionality (SMF) to plant diversity remain unclear, particularly in dynamic riparian habitats. In this study, we investigated the plant community, 10 soil functions, and their drivers within the riparian zone regulated by the Three Gorges Dam in China. Our results showed that taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity affect SMF at alpha and beta scales in both positive and negative ways. Notably, most diversity metrics are negatively correlated with SMF, especially at lower elevations and in areas near the dam. Alpha and beta diversity contribute equally to SMF, whereas functional diversity explains SMF better than taxonomic or phylogenetic diversity. Furthermore, abiotic variables explain 24% of the variance in SMF, significantly exceeding the 3% explained by biotic variables. Dam inundation has both direct effects on SMF and indirect effects mediated by soil pH, bulk density, and functional dispersion, all of which are critical variables in elucidating SMF changes. Our findings indicate that dam inundation modulates the effect of plant diversity on SMF and underscore the roles of biotic factors and functional diversity in mediating this effect. This study challenges the prevalent notion that biodiversity universally positively affects ecosystem multifunctionality and broadens our understanding of the linkages between plant diversity and SMF, as well as its drivers under dam‐induced hydrological changes.
Plasmonic Nanocavity to Boost Single Photon Emission From Defects in Thin Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Authors: Dowran Mohammadjavad , Kilic Ufuk , Lamichhane Suvechhya , Erickson Adam , Barker Joshua , Schubert Mathias , Liou Sy‐Hwang , Argyropoulos Christos , Laraoui Abdelghani
Published: October 2024

Efficient and compact single photon emission platforms operating at room temperature with ultrafast speed and high brightness will be fundamental components of the emerging quantum communications and computing fields. However, so far, it is very challenging to design practical deterministic single photon emitters based on nanoscale solid‐state materials that meet the fast emission rate and strong brightness demands. Here, a solution is provided to this longstanding problem by using metallic nanocavities integrated with hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) flakes with defects acting as nanoscale single photon emitters (SPEs) at room temperature. The presented hybrid nanophotonic structure creates a rapid speedup and large enhancement in single photon emission at room temperature. Hence, the nonclassical light emission performance is substantially improved compared to plain hBN flakes and hBN on gold‐layered structures without nanocavity. Extensive theoretical calculations are also performed to accurately model the new hybrid nanophotonic system and prove that the incorporation of plasmonic nanocavity is key to efficient SPE performance. The proposed quantum nanocavity single photon source is expected to be an element of paramount importance to the envisioned room‐temperature integrated quantum photonic networks.
NMR Coupling Constants, Karplus Equations, and Adjusted MD Statistics: Detecting Diagnostic Torsion Angles for the Solution Geometry of 6‐[α‐d‐Mannopyranosyl]‐d‐Mannopyranose (Mannobiose)
Authors: Franz Andreas H. , Bromley Kendall S. , Aung Ei T. , Do Stephen Q. L. , Rosenblatt Hana M. , Watson Amelia J.
Published: October 2024

The quantitative solution conformations of 2‐(hydroxymethyl)‐tetrahydropyran, α‐methyl‐d‐mannopyranoside, and 6‐[α‐d‐mannopyranosyl]‐d‐mannopyranose (mannobiose) are described. Parametrized Karplus equations for redundant spin pairs across the terminal ω‐torsion and the glycosidic ω‐torsion for mannobiose are developed, including ω/θ‐hypersurfaces for the terminal hydroxymethylene group. Experimental NMR data, algorithmic spectral simulation (clustered Hamiltonian method), molecular dynamics (MD) simulations (GLYCAM06), energy minimizations by DFT, and adjusted torsion angle populations weighted over the Karplus‐type equations are used. We demonstrate that spectral simulation is a powerful tool in the refinement of initial J values obtained from static GAIO DFT calculations. We also show that only as few as one of multiple redundant torsions can be diagnostic for conformational analysis of the disaccharide.
An 8Tx/32Rx head‐neck coil at 7T by combining 2Tx/32Rx Nova coil with 6Tx shielded coaxial cable elements
Authors: Güler Sadri , Povaz̆an Michal , Zhurbenko Vitaliy , Zivkovic Irena
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Standard head coils used at 7T MRI suffer from high signal loss at lower brain regions and neck. This study aimed to increase the field of view (FOV) of a birdcage coil to image the lower brain regions and neck with a straightforward approach of using add‐on transmit shielded coaxial cable coil (SCC) elements.

Methods

A new head‐neck coil was modeled as a combination of the 2Tx/32Rx Nova head coil and 6Tx SCC elements. The add‐on transmit SCC elements have been produced. The full wave electromagnetic simulations were performed to analyze the coil geometry and estimate the local specific absorption ratio (SAR). The field maps and structural images were acquired in a phantom and in vivo on a 7T scanner.

Results

The computed SAR histogram revealed a peak of 4.08 W/kg. The simulated and measured maps are in good agreement. The manufactured coil's S‐parameters are below 10 dB. The field measurements on a subject presented the increase in the FOV. The T1‐weighted structural images of three subjects acquired with the head‐neck coil showed increased coverage compared to the head coil only.

Conclusion

Combining the 2Tx/32Rx Nova head coil and 6Tx SCC elements allowed imaging of the whole brain with an increased FOV down to the C4 spine. The coil stayed fully functional when different subjects were scanned. We conclude that the SCC transmit‐only coils are a robust adjunct to conventional coil designs and can meaningfully enhance and expand their field of view.
Partial‐differential‐algebraic equations of nonlinear dynamics by physics‐informed neural‐network: (I) Operator splitting and framework assessment
Authors: Vu‐Quoc Loc , Humer Alexander
Published: October 2024

Several forms for constructing novel physics‐informed neural‐networks (PINNs) for the solution of partial‐differential‐algebraic equations (PDAEs) based on derivative operator splitting are proposed, using the nonlinear Kirchhoff rod as a prototype for demonstration. The present work is a natural extension of our review paper (Vu‐Quoc and Humer, CMES‐Comput Modeling Eng Sci, 137(2):1069–1343, 2023) aiming at both experts and first‐time learners of both deep learning and PINN frameworks, among which the open‐source DeepXDE (DDE; SIAM Rev, 63(1):208–228, 2021) is likely the most well documented framework with many examples. Yet, we encountered some pathological problems (time shift, amplification, static solutions) and proposed novel methods to resolve them. Among these novel methods are the PDE forms, which evolve from the lower‐level form with fewer unknown dependent variables (e.g., displacements, slope, finite extension) to higher‐level form with more dependent variables (e.g., forces, moments, momenta), in addition to those from lower‐level forms. Traditionally, the highest‐level form, the balance‐of‐momenta form, is the starting point for (hand) deriving the lowest‐level form through a tedious (and error prone) process of successive substitutions. The next step in a finite element method is to discretize the lowest‐level form upon forming a weak form and linearization with appropriate interpolation functions, followed by their implementation in a code and testing. The time‐consuming tedium in all of these steps could be bypassed by applying the proposed novel PINN directly to the highest‐level form. We also developed a script based on JAX, the High Performance Array Computing library. For the axial motion of elastic bar, while our JAX script did not show the pathological problems of DDE‐T (DDE with TensorFlow backend), it is slower than DDE‐T. Moreover, that DDE‐T itself being more efficient in higher‐level form than in lower‐level form makes working directly with higher‐level form even more attractive in addition to the advantages mentioned further above. Since coming up with an appropriate learning‐rate schedule for a good solution is more art than science, we systematically codified in detail our experience running optimization (network training) through a normalization/standardization of the network‐training process so readers can reproduce our results.
Multicomponent Synthesis of C(8)‐Substituted Purine Building Blocks of Peptide Nucleic Acids from Prebiotic Compounds
Authors: Mancin Eleonora , Capecchi Eliana , Botta Lorenzo , Bizzarri Bruno Mattia
Published: October 2024

We have explored the reaction of a three‐components mixture of aminomalononitrile, urea and α‐amino acid methyl esters for the multicomponent synthesis substituted purines resembling PNA's building blocks. 2,6‐diamino‐purines, 6‐amino‐3,9‐dihydro‐2H‐purin‐2‐one (iso‐guanines), and 3,9‐dihydro‐6H‐purin‐6‐one derivatives, selectively decorated at C(8)‐position of the purine ring with different amino acid residues, were obtained from acceptable to good yields. The regio‐selectivity of the transformation was controlled by the use of urea in the ternary mixture and by the annulation agent involved in the ring‐closure of amino‐imidazole carbonitrile intermediates. Solvent free conditions, microwave irradiation and simple one‐carbon containing reagents further satisfied the major requirement of atom economy and sustainable chemistry. Due to the prebiotic nature of the three‐components mixture and of annulation agents, it also embodies the possibility for the synthesis of novel PNAs bearing purine nucleobases decorated at C(8)‐position of the imidazole ring as alternative RNA analogues in molecular evolution.
Trading baguettes for arepas: How hardcore French hip‐hop artists are using Medellin and Colombia to imitate/emulate the violent hypermasculine tropes of Pablo Escobar in order to exude toughness in rap videos
Authors: Pégram Scooter
Published: October 2024

Few places on Earth have seen a more remarkable turnaround than the Colombian city of Medellin. Once dangerous, Medellin is now innovative. Yet, stereotypes remain. Thanks to films and online streaming series, Colombia struggles to remove imagery of its violent past. In recent years, hardcore rap artists from France have increasingly chosen Medellin to film videos despite having no links to Colombia. This association helps these rappers construct a violent narrative that is unavailable to them in France. This paper analyzes how French hip‐hop artists imitate Pablo Escobar by using Colombia as a visual tool to augment street cred.
Sustainable polyelectrolyte complexes of pectin and chitosan as adsorbents for heavy metal ions from surface water
Authors: Boughanmi Rahma , Oelmann Marina , Steinbach Christine , Schwarz Simona
Published: October 2024

Polysaccharides like starch, chitosan, and pectin are attractive for removing heavy metal ions from water. Chitosan (n+) is mixed with pectin (n−) to enhance ion adsorption from aqueous media. This study involves two parts. First, 1 g/L stock solutions of pectin and chitosan at pH 5 are prepared and used to create polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) with varying molar charge ratios (n−/n+). Pectin is added to stirred chitosan solutions to form PECs, relying on ionic interactions between chitosan's amino groups and pectin's carboxyl groups. However, the resultant PEC concentration is insufficient for effective heavy metal ion removal. In response, the second part of the study focuses on a specific PEC with n−/n+ of 0.84. The stock solution concentration is increased to 5 and 10 g/L at pH 5, enhancing efficiency and forming a gel. The gel dispersion is freeze‐dried, and the resultant PECs are used for adsorption experiments with Cd2+, Ni2+, Fe2+/3+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ sulfate solutions. Adsorption rates are in the order Cu2+ > Fe2+/3+ > Cd2+ > Ni2+ > Mn2+ for a 20 mg/L salt concentration, indicating high PEC affinity for heavy metal ions.
Effects of soft segment molecular weight on the properties of recyclable polyurethanes with low‐temperature multiple shape memory
Authors: Wang Hairui , Li Yongxu , Zhang Hongyu , Lang Xiurui , Wang Xiaolei , Cao Lan , Zong Chengzhong
Published: October 2024

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with shape memory characteristics exhibits excellent comprehensive performance and structural design flexibility, wherein the composition and structure of the soft segment play a crucial role. We synthesized four linear‐structured polyurethanes (PUs) using 4,4′‐methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMG), and 1,4‐butanediol (BDO) in identical molar ratios and systematically investigated the impact of soft segment molecular weight on hydrogen bonding, thermal properties, microphase separation, and mechanical performance of TPU. The results show that an increase in soft segment molecular weight leads to a reduction in hydrogen bonding, microphase separation, and modulus, while the tensile strength initially increases and then decreases. PU650 exhibits the highest hydrogen bonding index of 5.17 and the maximum microphase separation. Additionally, all TPU materials exhibit low‐temperature multiple shape memory behavior and excellent recyclability. This work provides valuable insights into the structural design and performance optimization of recyclable PU materials.