bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
derecho de guerra durante la Guerra del Pacífico (1879-1884) ¿guerra justa o guerra de conquista?
Authors: Pérez Godoy Fernando
Published: May 2023

La presente investigación tiene comoobjetivo identificar las opiniones doctrinalesoccidentales sobre el derecho de guerra con las que interactuaron juristas sudamericanospara responder al desafío de justificar o deslegitimar la expansión chilena en contexto deGuerra del Pacífico (1879-1884). La reconstrucción del marco de referencia normativointernacional de la época puede contribuir a descifrar el significado local que adquiere elderecho de guerra en el contexto intelectual andino a fines del siglo XIX. Utilizando literaturaespecializada y documentos histórico-jurídicos, se concluye que la universalización delderecho internacional conllevó a la formulación de discursos locales de justificación de laguerra que respondieron a desafíos institucionales regionales como los conflictos bélicossudamericanos.
Dose and Time Dependent Protective Effects of Apocyanin and Curcumin Against Diclofenac-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Male Rats
Authors: Okwakpam Felicia N. , Igwe Felix U. , Omeodu Stephen I. , Monanu Michael O.
Published: May 2023

This study explored the protective potential of apocyanin and curcumin in diclofenac-induced cardiotoxicity utilizing cardiac enzymes, pro-inflammatory markers, and along with histopathological endpoints. A total of 123 male Wistar rats were used for the study. 43 rats were used for the determination of the median lethal dose (LD50) of apocyanin and curcumin while 80 rats were randomly divided into 8 groups of 10 rats each. Group 1(control) received distilled water while others received orally, per mg/kg body weight of treatments as follows: group 2(1000, apocyanin, group 3(1000, curcumin), group 4(10, diclofenac), group 5(500, apocyanin and 10, diclofenac), group 6(1000, apocyanin and 10, diclofenac), group 7(500, curcumin and 10, diclofenac) and group 8(1000, curcumin and 10, diclofenac). The treatments were administered daily for 14 and 28 days. LD50 up to 5000mg/kg body weight of apocyanin and curcumin did not show any fatality in animals. Administration of diclofenac significantly (p < 0.05) elevated the activities of creatinine kinase-MB, lactate dehydrogenase, levels of troponin-T, and tumor necrosis factor. There was no alteration in the activities of Interleukin- 1β. The histological results also showed cardiac insults such as cardiac muscle having severe fibro collagenous stroma, reduced myocytes density, and thick wall blood vessels. However, pretreatment with 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight of apocyanin or curcumin attenuated all biochemical alterations and histological lesions induced by diclofenac in a dose-dependent manner.  Pretreatments with apocyanin and curcumin inhibitors of NADPH oxidases 2weres effective in ameliorating diclofenac-induced cardiotoxicity suppressing inflammation and restoring normal histological architecture, thus, highlighting the therapeutic potentials of apocyanin and curcumin in the management of diclofenac-mediated cardiotoxicity.
Effect of Soil and Climatic Conditions on Brown Spot Occurrence in Rice Lowland across Four Agro-climatic Zones of Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Adanvé Jean-Fabrice , Koné Brahima , Sikirou Rachidatou , Dossou-Yovo Elliott , Onaga Geoffrey , Sorho Fatogoma
Published: May 2023

Aims: To evaluate interaction of soil pH and acidity with weather on Rice Brown spot (BS) occurrence in rice lowlands.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Four distinct rice lowlands belonging to different climatic zones (forest, transitional and savanna) of Côte d’Ivoire during cropping seasons of 2021.

Methodology: BS characterization were done in different farmer fields where soil samples were also collected during dry and rainy seasons. Soil silicon and acidity were determined in those samples and rice grain yield at harvest time were recorded in different sites. Weather data related to sites and seasons were used to find out correlations.

Results: Occurrence of BS was found in forest zones with scores of 4 and 3 compared to 1 and 2 in savanna and transitional zones, respectively, with seasonal variation. Both rice production and the occurrence of BS were explained by soil parameters in conjunction with climatic parameters. Rainfall (R=0.38) and relative humidity (R=0.64) leaded BS occurrence and decrease of yield. Wind speed (R=0.62) and air maximum temperature (R= 0.63) were the determinant factors affecting rice yields. Si was found to be a component of sustainable soil management that interferes with soil pH in all climatic zones. Combined with Temperature, both soil parameters predicted BS occurrence over 50%.

Conclusion: Temperature decrease BS pathogens occurrence whereas high humidity increases its spread. Those parameters combined with silicon which interferes with pH could leads sustainable solutions in BS control. Furthermore, having a deep understanding with rice varietal considerations can significantly improve strategies related to rice cultivation and protection.
Association between Socio Economic Profile with Knowledge of Respondents towards Improved Banana Cultivation Practices in Vaishali District of Bihar
Authors: Abedin Munam , Bose Dipak Kumar
Published: May 2023

The present study was conducted to assess the socio-economic profile and association between independent variables with knowledge of the banana growers in Vaishali district, Bihar. The study used purposive sampling to select two blocks, namely Hajipur and Bidupur, and simple random sampling to select three villages from each block. In total, six villages were selected for the study, and a total sample of 120 banana growers was chosen using proportionate simple random sampling technique. The study employed path coefficient analysis to measure the effect of the independent variables on knowledge. There was a significant and positive correlation between the level of knowledge regarding improved banana cultivation practices and the variables of age, annual income, source of information, scientific orientation, risk orientation, mass media exposure at a 0.01 per cent level of probability. On the other hand, extension contact was positive and significant association with the level of knowledge toward improved banana cultivation practices at 0.05 per cent levels of probability. The variables of education, caste, type of family and size of land holding were not significant.
Long-term Safety and Efficacy of Closure of Mesenteric Defects in Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Stenberg Erik , Ottosson Johan , Magnuson Anders , Szabo Eva , Wallén Stefan , Näslund Erik , Thorell Anders , Näslund Ingmar
Published: May 2023

Importance

Short-term and midterm data suggest that mesenteric defects closure during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) surgery reduces the risk of internal herniation with small bowel obstruction (SBO) but may increase risk of kinking of the jejunojejunostomy in the early postoperative period. However, to our knowledge, there are no clinical trials reporting long-term results from this intervention in terms of risk for SBO or opioid use.

Objective

To evaluate long-term safety and efficacy outcomes of closure of mesenteric defects during LRYGB.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial with a 2-arm, parallel, open-label design included patients with severe obesity scheduled for LRYGB bariatric surgery at 12 centers in Sweden from May 1, 2010, through November 14, 2011, with 10 years of follow-up after the intervention.

Interventions

During the operation, patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to closure of mesenteric defects beneath the jejunojejunostomy and at the Petersen space using nonabsorbable running sutures during LRYGB or to nonclosure.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary outcome was reoperation for SBO. New incident, chronic opioid use was a secondary end point as a measure of harm.

Results

A total of 2507 patients (mean [SD] age, 41.7 [10.7] years; 1863 female [74.3%]) were randomly assigned to closure of mesenteric defects (n = 1259) or nonclosure (n = 1248). After censoring for death and emigration, 1193 patients in the closure group (94.8%) and 1198 in the nonclosure group (96.0%) were followed up until the study closed. Over a median follow-up of 10 years (IQR, 10.0-10.0 years), a reoperation for SBO from day 31 to 10 years after surgery was performed in 185 patients with nonclosure (10-year cumulative incidence, 14.9%; 95% CI, 13.0%-16.9%) and in 98 patients with closure (10-year cumulative incidence, 7.8%; 95% CI, 6.4%-9.4%) (subhazard ratio [SHR], 0.42; 95% CI, 0.32-0.55). New incident chronic opioid use was seen among 175 of 863 opioid-naive patients with nonclosure (10-year cumulative incidence, 20.4%; 95% CI, 17.7%-23.0%) and 166 of 895 opioid-naive patients with closure (10-year cumulative incidence, 18.7%; 95% CI, 16.2%-21.3%) (SHR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.73-1.11).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial found long-term reduced risk of SBO after mesenteric defects closure in LRYGB. The findings suggest that routine use of this procedure during LRYGB should be considered.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01137201
Effects of Specialist Palliative Care for Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgery for Cancer
Authors: Shinall Myrick C. , Martin Sara F. , Karlekar Mohana , Hoskins Aimee , Morgan Ellis , Kiehl Amy , Bryant Patsy , Orun Onur M. , Raman Rameela , Tillman Benjamin F. , Hawkins Alexander T. , Brown Alaina J. , Bailey Christina E. , Idrees Kamran , Chang Sam S. , Smith Joseph A. , Tan Marcus C. B. , Magge Deepa , Penson David , Ely E. Wesley
Published: May 2023

Importance

Specialist palliative care benefits patients undergoing medical treatment of cancer; however, data are lacking on whether patients undergoing surgery for cancer similarly benefit from specialist palliative care.

Objective

To determine the effect of a specialist palliative care intervention on patients undergoing surgery for cure or durable control of cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a single-center randomized clinical trial conducted from March 1, 2018, to October 28, 2021. Patients scheduled for specified intra-abdominal cancer operations were recruited from an academic urban referral center in the Southeastern US.

Intervention

Preoperative consultation with palliative care specialists and postoperative inpatient and outpatient palliative care follow-up for 90 days.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The prespecified primary end point was physical and functional quality of life (QoL) at postoperative day (POD) 90, measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General (FACT-G) Trial Outcome Index (TOI), which is scored on a range of 0 to 56 with higher scores representing higher physical and functional QoL. Prespecified secondary end points included overall QoL at POD 90 measured by FACT-G, days alive at home until POD 90, and 1-year overall survival. Multivariable proportional odds logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to test the hypothesis that the intervention improved each of these end points relative to usual care in an intention-to-treat analysis.

Results

A total of 235 eligible patients (median [IQR] age, 65.0 [56.8-71.1] years; 141 male [60.0%]) were randomly assigned to the intervention or usual care group in a 1:1 ratio. Specialist palliative care was received by 114 patients (97%) in the intervention group and 1 patient (1%) in the usual care group. Adjusted median scores on the FACT-G TOI measure of physical and functional QoL did not differ between groups (intervention score, 46.77; 95% CI, 44.18-49.04; usual care score, 46.23; 95% CI, 43.08-48.14; P = .46). Intervention vs usual care group odds ratio (OR) was 1.17 (95% CI, 0.77-1.80). Palliative care did not improve overall QoL measured by the FACT-G score (intervention vs usual care OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.75-1.58), days alive at home (OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.69-1.11), or 1-year overall survival (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.50-1.88).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial showed no evidence that early specialist palliative care improves the QoL of patients undergoing nonpalliative cancer operations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03436290
Broadband Response and a Transformation between Dual‐ and Single‐Wavelength Detection in Coupled Doped‐Well Quantum Cascade Detector
Authors: Chen Jie , Chen Fengwei , Wu Yuyang , Wang Xuemin , Jiang Tao , Li Yang , Li Bicheng , Zhang Jincang , Wu Weidong , Che Renchao
Published: May 2023

As a third‐generation infrared detector, the quantum cascade detector (QCD) exhibits an accurately adjustable wavelength, low noise, and ultrafast response characteristics. By introducing an additional doping layer, QCD also shows excellent application prospects in the broadband response. Herein, a coupled doped‐well QCD with an array structure located at very long‐wave infrared (VLWIR, ≈15 µm) is prepared. Based on the energy levels interaction and carrier distribution, the regulatory mechanism of the applied bias on the response characteristics is explored. At zero bias, the detector exhibits dual‐wavelength detection owing to the splitting of the energy levels, then transforms into single‐wavelength detection with the bias increasing. Simultaneously, the QCD device exhibits a broadband response (≈13–16 µm) from 15 to 300 K and an excellent detectivity of 1.52 × 1012 cm Hz1/2 W−1 at 15 K. A high R0A (>106 Ω cm2) and robust detectivity (>109 cm Hz1/2 W−1) are obtained at room temperature. The results of the response characteristics presented in this work provide a strategy for the flexible application of QCD in infrared detection.
Persistent chylothorax associated with lymphatic malformation type 6 due to biallelic pathogenic variants in PIEZO1
Authors: Kovesi Thomas , Rojas Samantha K. , Boycott Kym M.
Published: May 2023

PIEZO1 is required for lymphatic valve formation, and several lymphatic abnormalities have been reported to be associated with autosomal recessive PIEZO1 pathogenic variants including neonatal hydrops, lymphedema involving various body regions, and chylothorax. Persistent or recurrent chylothorax has been infrequently described in association with pathogenic variants in the PIEZO1 gene. We present a 4‐year‐old female with bilateral pleural effusions detected prenatally, who was diagnosed with bilateral chylothoraces post‐partum. She subsequently had recurrent pleural effusions involving both pleural cavities, which tended to improve with restriction of her fat intake, and, one occasion, subcutaneous octreotide. She also had bilateral calf, and intermittent cheek swelling. Genetic testing revealed two deleterious variants in PIEZO1: c.2330‐2_2330‐1del and c.3860G > A (p.Trp1287*), both of which were classified as likely pathogenic. This supported a diagnosis of Lymphatic Malformation Type 6 (OMIM 616843), also known as Hereditary Lymphedema Type III. Hereditary Lymphedema type III can be associated with persistent chylothorax that can vary in size over time.
Chemical Solutions to the Current Polycrisis
Authors: Gomollón‐Bel Fernando , García‐Martínez Javier
Published: May 2023

In the past 15 years, we've experienced an unprecedented series of crises, including financial (2008), health (2020), and most recently the supply chain disruptions and the energy emergency in Europe, caused by the war in Ukraine (2022). On top of that, climate change still poses a serious threat to our lives and our planet. These interconnected challenges create tremendous societal problems and compromise the viability of the chemical industry in an environment of price volatility and high inflation. Thus, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) has launched a series of actions to tackle this and raise awareness of the role of chemistry in solving our major threats. Since 2019, IUPAC has identified the “Top Ten Emerging Technologies in Chemistry” to connect chemical researchers with industry, bridging the gap between science and innovation, maintaining the current competitiveness of the chemical industry, as well as tackling our most pressing global challenges.
Synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen‐11‐ones using a high‐performance catalyst based on Fe3O4/MCM‐41/covalent organic polymer decorated with gold nanoparticles
Authors: Rahmati Ensiyeh , Rafiee Zahra
Published: May 2023

A novel magnetic nanocomposite, covalent organic polymer (COP)‐modified magnetic mesoporous MCM‐41 decorated gold (Fe3O4/MCM‐41/COP/Au) was fabricated easily via the modification of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles with MCM‐41, attachment of COP on Fe3O4/MCM‐41 surface via a solvothermal approach followed by reaction with HAuCl4. Various physicochemical techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), X‐Ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscope, Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDS), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) were applied to identify Fe3O4/MCM‐41/COP/Au nanocomposite. The resultant nanocomposite was utilized as a novel and robust nanocatalyst for the fabrication of bioactive oxygen‐containing heterocyclic compounds, tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen‐11‐one derivatives via three‐component one‐pot reactions with high yields (88–97%) under mild reaction conditions in ethanol solvent within short time (30 min). Moreover, Fe3O4/MCM‐41/COP/Au can be recovered and applied for six runs with a slight diminution in activity.
Optimization of CeO2 and MgO nano‐particle‐added mango seed biodiesel blends using hybrid deep belief network‐coupled sandpiper optimizer
Authors: Reddy S. Rami , Sarangi Saroj Kumar
Published: May 2023

The ultimate goal of this study is to find a better method for minimizing hazardous emissions from a diesel engine. For this reason, emission parameters such as smoke, nitrogen oxides (NOX), unburned hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide from a single‐cylinder diesel engine were analyzed using various biodiesel blends. The biodiesel was extracted from mango seed oil through trans‐esterification and combined with pure diesel at a 2:8 ratio. The prepared biodiesel (MSME20) was further mixed with 50, 100, and 150 ppm of either cerium oxide (CeO2) or magnesium oxide (MgO) nano‐particles through ultra‐sonication to prepare various fuel blends. The results reported that the addition of nano‐particles significantly lowered CO, HC, and smoke opacity by 25%, 25%, and 28% when compared with diesel. Also, there was a nearly 16% brake thermal efficiency gain from 50 ppm nano‐particle‐added MSME20 than pure MSME20. But for NOX emission, MSME20 fuel produced 106 ppm more NOX than diesel. Later, it was reduced up to 24 ppm while adding 50 ppm nano‐particles into MSME20 fuel. Further, a hybrid deep belief network‐coupled sandpiper optimizer was developed to optimize fuel blends. The proposed algorithm showed 37.5 ppm nano‐particle added 17.5% MSME as an optimal mix for the tested engine while running with 50% load.
Assessment of the nesting population demography of loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) in La Roche Percée: First long‐term monitoring in New Caledonia
Authors: Barbier Maxime , Lafage Dominique , Bourgogne Hugo , Read Tyffen , Attard Marine , Fournière Kevin , Chapuis Kennie , Peyrot Yolanda , Deffois Michèle , Guillaumet Bernard , Sibeaux Adelaide
Published: May 2023

Population monitoring is essential to assess, manage, and protect threatened species. Although the South Pacific loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) subpopulation is classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), monitoring data are scarce.

This study reports the results of the first long‐term monitoring of the nesting population of loggerhead turtle held by Bwärä Tortues Marines on La Roche Percée beach, New Caledonia.

From 2006 to 2020, capture–mark–recapture was used to identify nesting individuals. Time and nesting success were recorded on site.

A total of 452 different females were observed and tagged over 14 years. The number of different nesting individuals observed each year showed a significant increase over the time frame of the study. A remigration interval of 3.34 years was observed, and the overall nesting success was 59.02%. This study also reports the internesting intervals and monthly and hourly variabilities in visits to the nesting site.

The conservation actions led by Bwärä Tortues Marines appear to be correlated with a higher nesting success. This study provides encouraging results and highlights the need to pursue the monitoring and conservation actions implemented by Bwärä Tortues Marines. Further management recommendations are also provided.
The application of hybrid feature based on local mean decomposition for motor imagery electroencephalogram signal classification
Authors: Li LinLin , Chen WanZhong , Li MingYang
Published: May 2023

This paper proposed a hybrid feature extraction algorithm based on local mean decomposition (LMD), which has better solved the existing problems of low classification performance and adaptability limitation. LMD is employed to decompose the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal into multiple components, and then, the hybrid features based on instantaneous energy, fuzzy entropy, and mathematical morphological features are extracted on specific components, and the optimal feature combination is selected by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, the classification result is output by the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier. The results show that the maximum accuracy of the subjects in Data Set III of BCI‐II by the method in this paper is 92.14%, and the maximum mutual information value is 0.8. The number of novel features used in this paper is small, and the complexity of the algorithm is reduced. It can adaptively select effective features according to individual differences and has good robustness.
Cladosporin, A Highly Potent Antimalaria Drug?
Authors: Hou Anwei , Li Bei , Deng Zixin , Xu Min , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: May 2023

Cladosporin, a unique natural product from the fungus Cladosporium cladosporioides, exhibits nanomolar inhibitory activity against Plasmodium falciparum by targeting its cytosolic lysyl‐tRNA synthetase (PfKRS) to inhibit protein biosynthesis. Due to its exquisite selectivity towards pathogenic parasites, cladosporin has become a very promising lead compound for developing antiparasitic drugs to treat drug‐resistant malaria and cryptosporidiosis infections. Here we review the recent research progress of cladosporin covering aspects of the chemical synthesis, biosynthesis, bioactivity, cellular target and structure–activity relationship.
A case of unsuccessful obliteration of percutaneous transhepatic gastric varices using the IMPEDE embolization plug
Authors: Masuda Sakue , Tsukiyama Toshitaka , Makazu Makomo , Jinushi Ryuhei , Koizumi Kazuya , Nishino Takashi , Shionoya Kento , Kimura Karen , Sumida Chihiro , Kubota Jun , Ichita Chikamasa , Sasaki Akiko , Kobayashi Masahiro , Kako Makoto , Uojima Haruki
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Embolization with IMPEDE embolization plug cannot be confirmed on site. Therefore, we propose that the diameter of the device selected be up to 50% larger than the vein diameter to prevent embolization failure and recanalization.

Balloon‐occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration and percutaneous transhepatic obliteration (PTO) are performed for treating sporadic gastric varices. IMPEDE embolization plug has been recently developed for these procedures; however, no studies have reported its use. This is the first report on its use in PTO of gastric varices.
PROTOCOL: Health and social care interventions in the 80 years old and over population: An evidence and gap map
Authors: Abbott Rebecca , Thompson Coon Jo , Bethel Alison , Rogers Morwenna , Whear Rebecca , Orr Noreen , Garside Ruth , Goodwin Victoria , Mahmoud Aseel , Lourida Ilianna , Cheeseman Debbie
Published: May 2023

This is the protocol for a Campbell systematic review. The objectives are as follows: identify available systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials on interventions targeting health or social needs of the people aged over 80; identify qualitative studies relating to the experiences of people aged over 80 of interventions that target their health or social needs; identify areas where systematic reviews are needed; identify gaps in evidence where further primary research is needed; assess equity considerations (using the PROGRESS plus criteria) in available systematic reviews, randomised trials and qualitative studies of identified interventions; assess gaps and evidence related to health equity.
A Combined Theoretical and Experimental Approach to Deduce the Role of Dielectric Layer on Interface Trap Density in Single Crystal Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Bhattacharya Arka , Praveen Periyasamy Angamuthu , R. Yashwanth Yeti Rajan , Thangavel Kanagasekaran
Published: May 2023

A detailed understanding of charge transport at the interface is necessary to explore the potential of organic field‐effect transistors. This can be realized by adequately analyzing the trap states at the interface. In the present work, rubrene‐based organic field‐effect transistors have been fabricated with three different interfaces. The device properties are used along with a technology computer‐aided design to deduce the interface trap density quantitatively. The transfer characteristics are simulated using a double Gaussian density of states and fitted with experimental data by adding traps to the semiconductor dielectric interface. A typical transistor with SiO2 interface has shown an interface trap density of about ≈1016 cm−2, and it is reduced to 1014 cm−2 when poly(methyl)methacrylate or polystyrene is coated on SiO2 interface, attributed to the surface passivation. This approach provides a simple and accurate way to estimate the interfacial traps and offers the possibility to tune the device architecture and performance.
Design and implementation of a multi‐port bidirectional converter for electric vehicle applications
Authors: Malik Muhammad Zeeshan , Zhang Shiqing , Ali Amjad , Farooq Ajmal
Published: May 2023

This article proposes a new multi‐port bidirectional DC‐DC converter for electric vehicle (EV) usages. The recommended converter has the ability for step‐up and step‐down operating. The bidirectional power flow makes the proposed converter suitable for EV applications, where a storage unit is charged and discharged. The proposed converter has three ports (VHigh, VLow, and V2), and all of these ports have bidirectional features. In each operation mode (step‐up or step‐down), the output port is loaded by two independent input sources. Also, a high voltage conversion ratio is achieved with low power switches duty cycle and reduced peak voltage over semiconductors. Input current with reduced ripple, low components count, a simple circuit with low cost and volume, and high efficiency are the main advantages of the presented bidirectional topology. In order to demonstrate the performance and effectiveness of the recommended converter, operational and steady‐state analysis in step‐up and step‐down modes, design consideration, efficiency calculation, and comparison with other DC‐DC converters are provided Finally, a prototype with a step‐up power of 120 W and a step‐down power of 30 W is created, and experimental data are shown to validate the numerical investigations.
A cost‐effective switched inductor‐based bridgeless Sepic converter for PQ enrichment in power solutions
Authors: Periyathiruvadi Muthu Thiruvengadam , Jothimani Gnanavadivel , Gajendran Marimuthu
Published: May 2023

Power solutions contribute a remarkable role in all the sectors. In order to develop the sustainable and affodable power solution, the bettered power quality (PQ) based modified bridgeless switched inductor (MBSL) Sepic power factor correction (PFC) converter is introduced in this article. An added feature to an already existing traditional Sepic converter resulted in switched inductor (SL) network that reasonably improves the step‐down voltage gain with low current stress across the output inductors and diodes which restricts the utilization of transformer that ultimately reduces the overall cost of power solution. This introduced structure acts as a good choice of low‐cost power conversion solution in the perspective of improved inline PQ indices, high efficiency and good reliability. Furthermore, the discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) functioning of SL network reveals the innate zero current switching (ZCS) capability with enhanced efficiency. Besides, the effective functionality of the one‐stage PFC converter is tested on hardware prototype of 250 W/48 V, and it also adopts an appropriate control approach to stabilize the output voltage. This study also exposes small signal modeling to prove the stability of the power solution. In addition, the test outcomes reveal that the preferred PFC procure sinusoidal current from the AC mains that confirms the good enshaping attribute and low current harmonic distortions within the stipulated IEC 61000‐3‐2 standard guidelines for both standstill and fluctuating conditions.
Novel Co5 Cluster Based Triazole Bridged Cobalt‐Fluorophosphate: Synthesis, Structure, Magnetic and Heterogeneous Catalytic Epoxidation Studies
Authors: Sen Rupam , De Sudipta , dos Santos Antonio M. , Escobar Lívia B. L. , Brandão Paula Cristina , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Reis Mario S. , Lin Zhi
Published: May 2023

A novel triazole bridged cobalt fluorophosphate coordination polymer with the formula {Co5(1,2,4‐triazole)2(OH)2(PO3F)4}n has been synthesized. Single crystal X‐ray studies reveal that the compound comprises of Co5 clusters which ultimately build the whole framework, here all cobalt centers are in octahedral geometry established from continuous shape analysis. All the cobalt centers are in Co(II) oxidation state and the results are supported by the bond valence sum (BVS) calculation. The sample has been characterized by single crystal X‐ray, powder X‐ray, FTIR and TGA analysis. The compound was tested for olefin catalysis performance and magnetism. Magnetization measurements reveal overall antiferromagnetic interactions among the Co(II) ions. The compound is very active in the catalytic transformation of olefins to their corresponding epoxides. Catalytic epoxidation studies reveal that cyclohexene and styrene can be converted up to 97 % with almost 65 % selectivity of products with higher TON numbers.
Mesoporous silica/organosilica nanoparticles for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Theivendran Shevanuja , Lazarev Sergei , Yu Chengzhong
Published: May 2023

Cancer is one of the fatal diseases in the history of humankind. In this regard, cancer immunotherapeutic strategies have revolutionized the traditional mode of cancer treatment. Silica based nano‐platforms have been extensively applied in nanomedicine including cancer immunotherapy. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) and mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (MON) are attractive candidates due to the ease in controlling the structural parameters as needed for the targeted immunotherapeutic applications. Especially, the MON provide an additional advantage of controlling the composition and modulating the biological functions to actively synergize with other immunotherapeutic strategies. In this review, the applications of MSN, MON, and metal‐doped MSN/MON in the field of cancer immunotherapy and tumor microenvironment regulation are comprehensively summarized by highlighting the structural and compositional attributes of the silica‐based nanoplatforms.
Vascular permeability in HPV+ oropharyngeal cancers aids in fluorescent image‐guided transoral robotic surgery using indocyanine green
Authors: Khurana Nitish , Babajanian Eric , McCrary Hilary , Pulsipher Abigail , Ghandehari Hamidreza , Alt Jeremiah A. , Cannon Richard B.
Published: May 2023

Background

Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent image (FI)‐guided surgery has demonstrated success in improving intraoperative visualization and tumor resections. The objectives were to evaluate the use of IGC in FI‐guided transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCCa) patient (n = 10) undergoing TORS were enrolled in this prospective study. Participants received intravenous ICG. Excised tissues were evaluated for ICG accumulation, tumor demarcation, and pathological characteristics using In‐vivo imaging system (IVIS), histology, and RNA sequencing.

Results

ICG accumulation was significantly increased in primary tumor and pathological lymph nodes compared with normal tissues (p < 0.001). IVIS was 91.3% accurate in identifying OPSCCa in excised tissues; the correlation between IVIS‐ and histologically determined tumor tissues was significant (R2 = 0.8301; p = 0.001). Genes associated with vascular and angiogenic signaling pathways were significantly upregulated in OPSCCa tissues.

Conclusion

ICG effectively demarcates tumor margins in OPSCCa, due to the increased upregulation of genes associated with vascular permeability.
Defining hippocampal area CA2 in the fox (Vulpes vulpes) brain
Authors: Dudek Serena M. , Phoenix Ashley N. , Scappini Erica , Shepeleva Darya V. , Herbeck Yury E. , Trut Lyudmila N. , Farris Shannon , Kukekova Anna V.
Published: May 2023

Since 1959, the Russian Farm‐Fox study has bred foxes to be either tame or, more recently, aggressive, and scientists have used them to gain insight into the brain structures associated with these behavioral features. In mice, hippocampal area CA2 has emerged as one of the essential regulators of social aggression, and so to eventually determine whether we could identify differences in CA2 between tame and aggressive foxes, we first sought to identify CA2 in foxes (Vulpes vulpes). As no clearly defined area of CA2 has been described in species such as cats, dogs, or pigs, it was not at all clear whether CA2 could be identified in foxes. In this study, we cut sections of temporal lobes from male and female red foxes, perpendicular to the long axis of the hippocampus, and stained them with markers of CA2 pyramidal cells commonly used in tissue from rats and mice. We observed that antibodies against Purkinje cell protein 4 best stained the pyramidal cells in the area spanning the end of the mossy fibers and the beginning of the pyramidal cells lacking mossy fibers, resembling the pattern seen in rats and mice. Our findings indicate that foxes do have a “molecularly defined” CA2, and further, they suggest that other carnivores like dogs and cats might as well. With this being the case, these foxes could be useful in future studies looking at CA2 as it relates to aggression.
Association of kidney function with cancer incidence and its influence on cancer risk of smoking: The Japan Multi‐Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study
Authors: Kurasawa Shimon , Imaizumi Takahiro , Maruyama Shoichi , Tanaka Keitaro , Kubo Yoko , Nagayoshi Mako , Ikezaki Hiroaki , Suzuki Sadao , Koyama Teruhide , Koriyama Chihaya , Kadota Aya , Katsuura‐Kamano Sakurako , Kuriki Kiyonori , Wakai Kenji , Matsuo Keitaro
Published: May 2023

The association between kidney function and cancer incidence is inconsistent among previous reports, and data on the Japanese population are lacking. It is unknown whether kidney function modifies the cancer risk of other factors. We aimed to evaluate the association of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) with cancer incidence and mortality in 55 242 participants (median age, 57 years; 55% women) from the Japan Multi‐Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study. We also investigated differences in cancer risk factors between individuals with and without kidney dysfunction. During a median 9.3‐year follow‐up period, 4278 (7.7%) subjects developed cancer. Moderately low and high eGFRs were associated with higher cancer incidence; compared with eGFR of 60‐74 ml/min/1.73 m2, the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) for eGFRs of ≥90, 75‐89, 45‐59, 30‐44 and 10‐29 ml/min/1.73 m2 were 1.18 (1.07‐1.29), 1.09 (1.01‐1.17), 0.93 (0.83‐1.04), 1.36 (1.00‐1.84) and 1.12 (0.55‐2.26), respectively. High eGFR was associated with higher cancer mortality, while low eGFR was not; the adjusted subdistribution HRs (95% CIs) for eGFRs of ≥90 and 75‐89 ml/min/1.73 m2 were 1.58 (1.29‐1.94) and 1.27 (1.08‐1.50), respectively. Subgroup analyses of participants with eGFRs ≥60 and <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 revealed elevated cancer risks of smoking and family history of cancer in those with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2, with significant interactions. Our findings suggest that the relationship between eGFR and cancer incidence was U‐shaped. Only high eGFR was associated with cancer mortality. Kidney dysfunction enhanced cancer risk from smoking.
Richard Lerner's Bioinspiration: Biomolecular Visualization and Modeling at Scripps Research
Authors: Olson Arthur J. , Sanner Michel F. , Goodsell David S. , Forli Stefano
Published: May 2023

In thinking back on Richard Lerner's impact on our lab's trajectory at Scripps Research, we see his fingerprints on all the efforts we have undertaken over the last 40 years. Immunology and virology have been a continuing driving focus in our software development and application within the Molecular Graphics Lab (now the Center for Computational Structural Biology – CCSB), spurred on by the marriage of chemistry with biology that Richard enabled at Scripps. Many of our earliest and continuing computational docking targets have been focused on HIV with collaborations with Chi‐Huey Wong and Barry Sharpless. Along with subsequent computational work with Jeff Kelly, Reza Ghadiri, Udi Keinan and Ben Cravatt we have been able to sustain continuous efforts in developing and applying docking and other computational technologies to structural chemistry problems. In this remembrance, we give our reflections of Richard Lerner's character, vision, and his inspiration in our scientific lives and in the environment that he created at Scripps Research.
Educational strategies in oral healthcare for the disabled and their effects on dental students’ training
Authors: Silva Fernanda Luiza , Tavares Sandro Junio de Oliveira , Silveira Flávia Maia , Assaf Andréa Videira
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of didactic and clinical training of dental students in treating Persons with Disabilities (PwD) on their self‐perceptions about treating PWD.

Methods

A pre‐and postevaluation of a didactic‐clinical educational strategy targeting oral health care of PwD was conducted among fourth‐year undergraduate dental students at a Brazilian dental school. Semi‐structured questionnaires were used to assess the following work environment parameters: technical, organizational, social, ethical, and managerial acumen. Data were analyzed using Fisher's exact and chi‐square tests, with a significance level of 5% (p < 0.05), to verify possible associations between the quantitative variables. A qualitative analysis was conducted through collective subject discourse.

Results

Significant differences were found in the self‐perception of students’ knowledge and abilities in providing low‐complexity care for PwD before and after the training program (p = 0.025). Students were more confident about managing and organizing the work environment (p = 0.007) and providing humanized care to PwD (p = 0.042) posttraining program. Additionally, a decrease in the feeling of insecurity (p = 0.014) and feelings of pity, fear, or prejudice toward PwD (p < 0.001) were observed posttraining program.

Conclusions

Didactic and clinical training interventions for treating PwD improved the work environment of undergraduate dental students in technical, managerial, organizational, and ethical/social dimensions.
Improved selectivity of molecularly imprinted polymers based on the synergistic action of hydrogen bond and electrostatic interaction
Authors: Hu Ting , Zhao Qianghong , Wang Ming , Zhou Kai , Xia Zhining , Huang Yike
Published: May 2023

Based on the synergistic action of hydrogen bond and electrostatic interaction, provided by methacrylic acid and 2‐aminoethyl ester hydrochloride (FM2), respectively, novel molecularly imprinted polymers (SA‐MIPs) were designed to improve its selective recognition ability. Diclofenac sodium (DFC) was chosen as the template molecule of this study. The interaction and their recognition sites between two functional monomers and templates were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy. Because of the synergistic action of hydrogen bond and electrostatic interaction, the imprinting factor (IF) of SA‐MIPs (IF = 2.26) is superior to the corresponding monofunctional monomer imprinting materials (IF = 1.52, 1.20) and the materials using two functional monomers with an only single type of interaction (IF = 1.54, 1.75). The results of selective adsorption experiments indicate that the selective recognition ability of SA‐MIPs is significantly better than that of the other four MIPs, and the difference in selectivity coefficient for methyl orange is the largest between SA‐MIPs and the MIPs only using FM2, which is about 70 times. In addition, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to verify the interaction between SA‐MIPs and the template. This work and its explanation of the interaction mechanism at the molecular level will be helpful for the rational design of novel MIPs with higher selectivity. Besides, SA‐MIPs have good adsorption performance (37.75 mg/g) for DFC in aqueous solutions, which could be used as potential adsorption materials for the effective removal of DFC in the aquatic environment.
Atmospheric patterns and winter precipitation over north‐western South Asia
Authors: Dar Junaid , Dar Abdul Qayoom , Nayak Munir Ahmad
Published: May 2023

Mid‐latitude storms act as crucial atmospheric bridges between global teleconnection patterns and regional precipitation distribution during boreal winter over South Asia. In this work, we study the spatio‐temporal variability of seasonal precipitation over South Asia over the last four decades, which reveals distinct regional precipitation patterns across seasons. For the winter region of South Asia (WRSA), the second Empirical orthogonal function (EOF2) of 500 hPa geopotential heights shows a significant positive correlation with precipitation. Furthermore, using regression analysis, we estimate that the first six EOFs explain most of the interannual variability in winter precipitation during the positive phase of AMO. The results show that six standard climate indices influence winter precipitation over WRSA. We observed a decadal variability in the relationship between ENSO and winter precipitation over WRSA that is modulated by Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). The positive phase of AMO strengthens the positive relationship between ENSO and winter precipitation over WRSA. The model results also show that two other oscialltions, DMI and AAO, significantly explain the variability of winter precipitation over WRSA. The atmospheric patterns extracted in this study significantly improve winter precipitation forecasting skill of linear regression models compared to those based on standard climate indices, especially during positive AMO winters. The results from this study can be used to improve seasonal predictability of winter precipitation over WRSA.
Study on the phenolic composition and antioxidant properties of white‑, yellow‑, and black‐corn (Zea mays L.) foodstuffs
Authors: Blanch Gracia Patricia , de Pascual‐Teresa Sonia , Ruiz del Castillo María Luisa
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Black corn possesses potent antioxidants, but these are mostly lost during processing. In this study we evaluated the antioxidant content of two different black (‘Millo Corvo’) corn‐based products (i.e. tortillas and cookies) subject to moderate processing. A parallel study on white and yellow corns was carried out for comparison.

RESULTS

Raw ‘Millo Corvo’ flour exhibited higher contents of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and particularly anthocyanins than white and yellow flours did. Phenolic acids decreased in cookies but did not in tortillas; flavonoids did not exhibit a clear tendency, and anthocyanins were always preserved. Antioxidant activity (AA) obtained for ‘Millo Corvo’ samples was twice as high as the value measured in white and yellow corns in terms of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity. The difference in AA was even more remarkable in terms of photochemiluminiscence antiradical activity. The conditions used during the cookie‐making process enabled the natural antioxidant characteristics of ‘Millo Corvo’ to be preserved. However, the conditions applied to prepare tortillas resulted in major losses.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial phenolics, in particular anthocyanins, and AA of ‘Millo Corvo’ flour can be maintained during processing as long as the conditions applied are 183 °C for 20 min in the absence of a high water content. Millo corvo products possess improved antioxidant characteristics compared with those from white and yellow corns. Millo corvo is a promising black corn type to prepare health‐promoting corn‐based foodstuffs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Slipped capital femoral epiphyses: A major on‐target adverse event associated with FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in pediatric patients
Authors: Farouk Sait Sameer , Fischer Cheryl , Antal Zoltan , Spatz Krisoula , Prince Daniel E. , Ibanez Katarzyna , Behr Gerald G. , Dunkel Ira J. , Karajannis Matthias A.
Published: May 2023

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are increasingly being used off label in pediatrics. Long‐term safety data are limited, and serious toxicities unique to pediatrics may emerge. In a retrospective analysis of patients less than 18 years of age with recurrent/refractory FGFR altered gliomas treated with FGFR TKIs at MSKCC (n = 7), we observed slipped capital femoral epiphyses in three of seven patients along with increased linear growth velocity. Clinicians should closely monitor bone health and have a low index of suspicion for serious orthopedic complications including slipped capital femoral epiphyses and inform patients of related risks as part of consent when treating with FGFR TKIs.
Introduction to the COG Diagnostic Imaging Committee/SPR Oncology Committee White Papers: Rationale and methods
Authors: Tang Elizabeth R. , Alazraki Adina L. , Thacker Paul G. , McCarville M. Beth , Towbin Alexander J.
Published: May 2023

Pediatric cancer is a rare disease. Because of this, many sites do not have experience providing imaging for specific tumor types. The Children's Oncology Group Diagnostic Imaging Committee and the Society for Pediatric Radiology Oncology Committee are comprised of radiologists with expertise in pediatric cancer imaging. Recently, this group endeavored to create a series of 23 White Papers designed to provide evidence‐based imaging recommendations and minimum achievable imaging protocols. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the methods employed in authoring the White Paper series.