bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence, In-Hospital and Long-Term Mortality, and Sequelae of Epidermal Necrolysis in Adults
Authors: Bettuzzi Thomas , Lebrun-Vignes Bénédicte , Ingen-Housz-Oro Saskia , Sbidian Emilie
Published: October 2024

Importance

The incidence of epidermal necrolysis (EN), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), varies across studies. While in-hospital mortality rates range from 15% to 20%, contributors to long-term mortality have been rarely evaluated and remain unknown.

Objective

To assess the incidence of and compare factors associated with in-hospital mortality and postdischarge mortality and sequelae among patients with EN.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used French Health System data from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2022, and included all adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with EN identified using International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes combined with a validated algorithm.

Exposure

Epidermal necrolysis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incidence, in-hospital mortality, postdischarge mortality, and sequelae were assessed as main outcomes. Factors associated with mortality were assessed using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 1221 adult patients with EN (median [IQR] age, 66 [49-79] years; 688 females [56.3%]) were included. Incidence was 2.6 (95% CI, 2.5-2.7) cases per million person-years. The in-hospital mortality rate was 19% (95% CI, 17%-21%) and postdischarge mortality rate, 15% (95% CI, 13%-17%) for an overall mortality of 34% (95% CI, 31%-36%). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with in-hospital mortality were age (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.03 per year of age; 95% CI, 1.02-1.04 per year of age), history of cancer (AHR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.53-2.72), dementia (AHR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.12-3.07), liver disease (AHR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.24-2.64), and EN severity (TEN vs SJS: AHR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.49-3.07). Cancer, liver disease, and dementia remained associated with postdischarge mortality (AHR, 3.26 [95% CI, 2.35-4.53], 1.86 [95% CI, 1.11-3.13], and 1.95 [95% CI, 1.11-3.43], respectively). Conversely, EN initial severity was not associated with mortality after hospital discharge (TEN vs SJS: AHR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.60-1.47), but acute complications remained associated (AHR, 2.14 [95% CI, 1.26-3.63] and 2.44 [95% CI, 1.42-4.18] for acute kidney injury and sepsis, respectively). The main sequelae were ophthalmologic and mood disorders.

Conclusion

The findings of this cohort study suggest that although EN is a rare condition, it is associated with high rates of in-hospital and postdischarge mortality among patients who are older and have comorbid conditions. However, in contrast with in-hospital mortality, postdischarge mortality is not associated with EN initial severity but with acute in-hospital complications (eg, acute kidney injury and sepsis). Future studies are needed to construct models to estimate long-term outcomes and sequelae in patients with EN.
Mental Disorders and Suicidality in Transgender and Gender-Diverse People
Authors: Eccles Heidi , Abramovich Alex , Patte Karen A. , Elton-Marshall Tara , Racine Nicole , Ferro Mark A. , Edwards Jordan , Anderson Kelly K. , Afifi Tracie O. , Geoffroy Marie-Claude , Kingsbury Mila , Colman Ian
Published: October 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the prevalence and risk of mental disorders, substance use disorders, and suicidal behaviors among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) and cisgender Canadians.
Synthesis, Microstructural Investigation, and Mechanical Behavior of AA5083/Boron Nitride Nanocomposite
Authors: Ammar Hany R. , Sivasankaran Subbarayan
Published: October 2024

The as‐received aluminum alloy (AA5083) powders (44 μm) and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) nanoparticles (65–75 nm) are used to fabricate AA5083‐BN nanocomposites with varying BN content (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 wt%). A powder metallurgy solid‐state method is employed, involving ball milling for 20 h at 100 rpm with a ball‐to‐powder mass ratio of 10:1. The processed powders are then consolidated through forging–sintering at 550 °C for 30 min, followed by hot forging at 225 MPa. The microstructure is examined using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray, transmission electron microscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction to understand the effect of processing variables. The compaction behavior is investigated both experimentally and empirically, revealing a relative green density exceeding 88% at 500 MPa. The empirical models display coefficients of determination (R2 values) exceeding 99% for predicting the compaction behavior. Compression tests on bulk samples show that BN reinforcement significantly enhances ultimate compressive strength, with values reaching 473.256 ± 5.54, 536.374 ± 2.87, 567.694 ± 4.22, and 601.911 ± 6.54 MPa for TRB‐3, TRB‐6, TRB‐9, and TRB‐12, respectively. The developed composites achieve relative densities greater than 97%, indicating promising applications in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.
Gradual Optimization of Molecular Aggregation and Stacking Enables Over 19% Efficiency in Binary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Qin Jianqiang , Wu Linze , Huang Sihao , Ou Zeping , Wang Xiaowu , Yang Yingguo , Zheng Yujie , Sun Kuan , Zhang Zeyu , Hu Zhiping , Liu Zhengzheng , Leng Yuxin , Du Juan
Published: October 2024

Volatile solid additive is an effective and simple strategy for morphology control in organic solar cells (OSCs). The development of environmentally friendly new additives which can also be easily removed without high‐temperature thermal annealing treatment is currently a trend, and the working mechanism needs to be further studied. Herein, a highly volatile and non‐halogenated solid additive 1‐benzothiophene (BBT) is reported to regulate molecular aggregation and stacking of active layer components. According to the film‐forming kinetics process, a momentary intermediate phase is formed during spin‐coating, which slows down the film‐forming process and leads to more ordered molecular stacking in the solid film after introducing solid additive BBT. Subsequently, after solvent vapor annealing (SVA) further treatment, the resultant blend films exhibit a tighter and more ordered molecular stacking. Consequently, the synergistic effect of solid additive BBT and SVA treatment can effectively control morphology of active layer and improve carrier transport characteristics, thereby enhancing the performance of OSCs. Finally, in D18‐Cl:N3 system, an impressive power conversion efficiency of 19.53% is achieved. The work demonstrates that the combination of highly volatile solid additives and SVA treatment is an effective morphology control strategy, guiding the development of efficient OSCs.
The interplay of geopolitics and agricultural commodity prices
Authors: Goyal Raghav , Mensah Edouard , Steinbach Sandro
Published: October 2024

This article uses the time‐varying parameter vector autoregressive model to assess the impact of geopolitical risk and shocks on agricultural commodity markets, accounting for demand—exports; supply—input prices; inventory; speculation; and economic fluctuations. The results show that geopolitical risks significantly impact corn and soybean futures prices and market behaviors with context‐specific implications in the short to medium term. In addition, heightened geopolitical risk during the Russia–Ukraine war increased oil prices and indirectly elevated agricultural commodity prices. These insights are crucial for agricultural risk management, informing federal policies and forecasting future price trends in an increasingly uncertain global market environment.
Two‐Dimensional Silver–Isocyanide Frameworks
Authors: Jiang Kaiyue , Yan Pu , Shi Pengfei , Zhang Jichao , Chai Xinyu , Wang Yunfei , Zhu Chenhui , Yang Chongqing , Lu Chenbao , Liu Yi , Cao Kecheng , Zhuang Xiaodong
Published: October 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely studied due to their versatile applications and easily tunable structures. However, heteroatom‐metal coordination dominates the MOFs community, and the rational synthesis of carbon–metal coordination‐based MOFs remains a significant challenge. Herein, two‐dimensional (2D) MOFs based on silver–carbon linkages are synthesized through the coordination between silver(I) salt and isocyanide‐based monomers at ambient condition. The as‐synthesized 2D MOFs possess well‐defined crystalline structures and a staggered AB stacking mode. Most interestingly, these 2D MOFs, without π–π stacking between layers, exhibit narrow band gaps down to 1.42 eV. As electrochemical catalysts for converting CO2 to CO, such 2D MOFs demonstrate Faradaic efficiency over 92 %. Surprisingly, the CO2 reduction catalyzed by these MOFs indicates favorable adsorption of CO2 and *COOH on the active carbon sites of the isocyanide groups rather than on silver sites. This is attributed to the critical σ donor role of isocyanides and the corresponding ligand‐to‐metal charge–transfer effect. This work not only paves the way toward a new family of MOFs based on metal–isocyanide coordination but also offers a rare platform for understanding the electrocatalysis processes on strongly polarized carbon species.
Facile Synthesis of Silver‐Exchanged Phosphotungstic Acid Immobilized on Sn‐Bi Bimetallic Metal–Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Esterification
Authors: Zhang Qiuyun , Li Ting , Li Zhenying , Lei Yanhui , Hong Xingyue , Deng Mei , Cheng Jingsong , Liu Zhengjun , Zhang Yutao
Published: October 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are ideal supports for the synthesis of porous composite catalysts. In the present study, Sn‐Bi bimetallic metal–organic frameworks (Sn‐Bi‐MOFs) supported silver‐doped phosphotungstic acid (AgPW) catalysts (AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC and AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC (NH2)) were successfully synthesized via a simple in situ impregnation method, which was subsequently applied to catalyze esterification for the production of biodiesel from oleic acid (OA). The physico‐chemical properties of the prepared composite catalysts underwent comprehensive analysis through XRD, FTIR, N2 physisorption, SEM, EDX, NH3‐TPD, Py‐FTIR, TG, and XPS techniques, confirming the successful impregnation of AgPW on the Sn‐Bi‐MOFs framework. Among the catalysts tested, AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC (NH2) exhibited the better catalytic activity than that of Sn‐Bi‐BDC, Sn‐Bi‐BDC (NH2), and AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC, reaching 91.6% of OA conversion with the methanol:OA molar ratio of 20:1 and the catalyst quantity of 0.2 g at 130°C for 4 h. The high activity of AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC (NH2) is attributed to the available multiscale pore structure, high acidity, and the synergistic action of the Brønsted and Lewis acidic sites. Additionally, the esterification with AgPW@Sn‐Bi‐BDC (NH2) followed the first‐order reaction kinetic model, with an Ea of 34.5 kJ/mol. Moreover, the recyclability of the composites was also assessed, demonstrating sustained catalytic activity after four reuses. This approach showed a potential for sustainable and efficient energy production through bimetallic MOFs‐based composite catalysts.
Change detection of the Köppen climate zones in Southeastern Europe
Authors: Mimić Gordan , Podraščanin Zorica , Basarin Biljana
Published: October 2024

The study exploits the air temperature and precipitation data from ERA5‐Land reanalysis and E‐OBS gridded observations that are freely available from the Copernicus Climate Change Service. The objectives of the study are to analyze the distribution of Köppen climate zones and to detect the changes in the presence and coverage of the specific climate types in Southeastern Europe. The results are shown separately for the following reference periods: 1961–1990, 1971–2000, 1981–2010, and 1991–2020. In the period 1961–1990, the most dominant climate type in Southeastern Europe was fully humid temperate climate with warm summer (Cfb), while fully humid continental climate with warm summer (Dfb) was also highly present there, together with fully humid temperate climate with hot summer (Cfa). In the period 1991–2020, the shift of Köppen climate zones appeared in such a way that the area with Dfb continental climate, that is often called snow or cold climate, is significantly reduced and this type is replaced with Cfb temperate climate. At the same time, Cfa climate type with hot summer is spread across wider area, mainly instead of Cfb with warm summer, now reaching almost the same percentage of coverage as Cfb type.
The link between teacher–student relations and sense of school belonging is not equal for all: The moderating role of immigrant status
Authors: Abdulhamed Rekar , Beattie Marguerite
Published: October 2024

Teachers' support and positive teacher–student bonds are key factors in promoting a sense of school belonging (SB) among adolescents. Previous research shows that immigrant‐origin adolescents (IOA's) report lower SB than their non‐immigrant peers do. This study examines if positive teacher–student bonds are equally beneficial for the SB of immigrant‐origin and non‐immigrant adolescents. Using PISA 2022 data, the moderating role of immigrant status in this relationship was assessed in European countries by multi‐level models (NStudents = 151,211, NSchools = 21,629, NCountries = 19). Country‐level analyses revealed that IOA's benefited less from positive teacher–student relations in 6 out of 19 countries. In Sweden, Belgium, and Portugal this moderation effect was conditional on the moderating role of school diversity promotion.
Photoswitchable Detergents for Light‐Controlled Liposome Lysis and Channel Gating
Authors: Löffler Max , Repp David , Beka Fatime , Wieneke Ralph
Published: October 2024

Modulation of membrane properties via photoswitchable lipids has attracted attention due to the unparalleled spatiotemporal resolution of their functional control. Beside lipids, detergents are another prominent class for selective membrane perturbations owing to their ease of handling and spontaneous insertion in lipid bilayers. Herein, we describe the synthesis and characterization of three classes of visible light‐sensitive surfactants with various azobenzene tail chain lengths. The photoswitchable detergents show water‐solubility and micellization as well as undergo reversible isomerization under blue‐/green light illumination. We demonstrate that the light‐induced structural change of azobenzene can lead to vesicle rupture, making them a tool for controlled cargo release from vehicles. Via spontaneous insertion into the plasma membrane of mammalian cells transiently transfected with MscL, we used the azobenzene‐derived detergents to optically activate the transmembrane mechanosensitive channel. This led to the rapid controlled uptake of membrane‐impermeable molecules. Since detergents are extensively used in biochemistry and biotechnology, we propose that the photoswitchable detergents will be useful tools for the spatiotemporal modulation of membrane properties. Additionally, our work provides a design strategy for new detergents in membrane (protein) research.
Nanoenabled Self‐Assembled Metal‐Organic Algaecides Generated Photosynthetic Inhibition and Oxidative Stress for Sustainable Food Security
Authors: Wang Mingyao , Yang Xiao , Wang Mengyue , He Yunxiang , Huang Tao , Wang Xiaoling , Yang Qichang , Guo Junling
Published: October 2024

Achieving food sustainability is one of the biggest challenges in the new millennium. Plant factory cultivation systems provide an alternative for food sustainability, while they often suffer from algal blooms. The overuse of conventional algaecides has caused significant environmental pollution and concerns about food security. Here, we design a nanoenabled metal‐organic algaecide that is self‐assembled from natural polyphenols and two functional metal ions for providing shading effects and delivering active ingredients synergistically to suppress algal blooms. Black wattle tannin (BWT) and Fe3+ ions are utilized to develop self‐assembled FeBWT nanoalgaecides with significant shading effects for decreasing light transmission (up to 97 %) and effectively inhibiting algal photosynthesis. Further, the FeBWT is functionalized with Cu2+ ions (bimetallic Cu/FeBWT) to target the algal cells and release Cu2+ ions via phenolic‐mediated cell surface interactions, thus enhancing the inhibition efficiency. Importantly, the biosafety of Cu/FeBWT is demonstrated through toxicity tests on zebrafish and NIH3T3 cells. In our real‐world field test, the Cu/FeBWT demonstrates high algal inhibition performance (>95 %, over 30 days), and enhances the accumulation of food nutrients in model plant lettuces. Collectively, the supramolecular metal‐organic nanoalgaecide provides a promise for nanoagrochemical application and promotes food sustainability and security.
Spin Crossover OFF/ON Triggered by Ligand Chemical Doping in an Fe(III) Solid Solution†
Authors: Peng Shuang , Gao Yue , Zhang Zi‐Yi , Xu Guang‐Yan , Zheng Wen‐Jun , Yang Feng‐Lei , Dai Jing‐Wei , Li Zhao‐Yang
Published: October 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Spin crossover (SCO), characterized by distinct high‐spin (HS) and low‐spin (LS) states, has potential applications in memory, electronic, and electroluminescent devices. The OFF/ON switching of SCO is crucial for obtaining bistable magnetic properties. However, there are few strategies for achieving this switching. Herein, based on a ligand chemical doping strategy, we report an Fe(III) solid solution that can be prepared using a ligand chemical doping strategy, enabling not only the OFF/ON switching of SCO but also the fine‐tuning of the spin transition temperature (Tc) within a 45 K range near room temperature. The experimental results show that when the polar ligand doping ratio reaches 20%, SCO behavior is triggered, and the crystal phase transforms significantly, becoming loose and flexible. Furthermore, Tc can be continuously regulated as the ligand‐doping ratio increases. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that solid packing‐induced molecular distortion blocks SCO, whereas loosely flexible packing triggers SCO via fluorinated ligand chemical doping.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Nickel(II)‐Doped Bi2O2CO3 Nanosheets for Efficient Nitric Oxide Removal
Authors: Wei Shuwei , Zhu Qiuhui , Ren Haitao , Li Ximing , Xin Yue , Wang Hui , Wang Chuanyi
Published: October 2024

Bi2O2CO3 is a typical bismuth‐based semiconductor photocatalyst that has attracted much attention because of layered structure and polarization characteristics. However, the wide bandgap of Bi2O2CO3 limits its practical applications in photocatalysis. In this study, the nickel (II)‐doped Bi2O2CO3 (Ni2+‐Bi2O2CO3) with oxygen vacancies was prepared by adding a controllable amount of nickel ions. The photocatalytic efficiency of the optimized sample for ppb‐grade NO under visible light irradiation is 59.4 %, which is 2.8 times than that of its counterpart, Bi2O2CO3 (21.2 %). Based on experiments and characterizations, Introduction of nickel ions and oxygen vacancies improves the photocatalytic performance of Ni2+‐Bi2O2CO3, which not only lowered the bandgap from 3.25 eV to 2.92 eV, but also reduced the recombination of photogenerated carriers by formation of the impurity level. Furthermore, the adsorption and photocatalytic conversion pathway of NO was explored by in situ DRIFTS, the principal byproducts of photocatalytic oxidation of NO are NO3− and NO2−. This work offers a new perspective to improve the photocatalytic activity by doping mothed for air purification.
Overview of Main Electrolyzer Technologies and Power Electronic Converter Topologies for Enabling Hydrogen Production Through Water Electrolysis
Authors: El Kattel Menaouar Berrehil , Praça Paulo Peixoto , Mayer Robson , Lucio Berrehil el Kattel Cristina do Carmo , Bascopé René Pastor Torrico , Antunes Fernando Luiz Marcelo , de Jesus Cardoso Filho Braz
Published: October 2024

This manuscript offers an in‐depth exploration of electrolysis, focusing on the various types of electrolyzers and providing a detailed analysis of their respective advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, it presents a comprehensive review of DC–DC and AC–DC converters, highlighting their essential roles in green hydrogen production and explaining their functionality and applications in detail. Furthermore, the manuscript examines the diverse power electronic systems used in green hydrogen production, underscoring the crucial importance of converters. The investigation also covers effective strategies for integrating these technologies, with the goal of optimizing the green hydrogen production process. This study aims to significantly advance knowledge in sustainable technologies, emphasizing the pivotal role of power electronics in electrolysis, fostering the generation of renewable energy, and reinforcing the commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.
Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency detection using fluorocytometric assay: Evaluation after 1 year of clinical implementation
Authors: Souissi M. , Bera E. , Boutet C. , Chatellier C. , Conte C. , Brard E. , Boquet C. , Rousseau E. , Pissard S. , Lahary A. , Bobée V.
Published: October 2024

Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common enzymopathy that affects red blood cells (RBCs) and renders them susceptible to oxidative stress. G6PD deficiency can cause hemolytic anemia, especially after exposure to certain drugs or infections. The diagnosis of G6PD deficiency is usually based on spectrophotometric measurement of enzyme activity, but this method has limitations in heterozygous females and in patients with other hematological disorders. In this study, we evaluated the use of flow cytometry as an alternative method for detecting G6PD deficiency in 514 samples (265 females and 249 males) from a clinical laboratory. We compared the results of flow cytometry with those of spectrophotometry and molecular analysis, and assessed the performance of flow cytometry in different subgroups of patients. We found that flow cytometry was able to identify G6PD deficiency in most cases, with high sensitivity and specificity. Flow cytometry also allowed the quantification of the percentage of G6PD‐deficient RBCs, which varied among heterozygous females due to X‐chromosome inactivation. Moreover, flow cytometry detected several cases of G6PD deficiency that were missed by spectrophotometry, especially in heterozygous females with normal or subnormal enzyme activity. However, flow cytometry also showed some false negative results, mainly in patients with sickle cell disease. Therefore, flow cytometry is a reliable and efficient tool for screening G6PD deficiency, but some precautions should be taken in interpreting the results in patients with other hematological conditions.
Quantifying vulnerability to plant invasion across global ecosystems
Authors: Pfadenhauer William G. , Bradley Bethany A.
Published: October 2024

The widely referenced “tens rule” in invasion ecology suggests that approximately 10% of established, non‐native species will become invasive. However, the accuracy of this estimate has been questioned, as the original analysis focused on small groups of plant species in Great Britain and Australia. Using a novel database of 9501 established plants and 2924 invasive plants, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of the tens rule and the first empirical analysis of how invasion rates vary across spatial scales, islands/mainlands, and climate zones. We found that invasion rates (the percentage of established species with negative impacts) are highly variable across the globe. Well‐sampled environments (those with at least 2000 total non‐native species recorded) had invasion rates that ranged from 7.2% to 33.8%. Invasion rates were strongly scale‐dependent, averaging 17% at the country scale and 25% at the continental scale. We found significantly higher invasion rates on islands when compared with mainlands, regardless of scale. Tropical ecosystems are often considered to be resistant to invasion; however, our results showed significantly higher invasion rates on both tropical islands and mainlands, suggesting unexpectedly high vulnerability of these species‐rich ecosystems. We conclude that the tens rule is a poor general estimate of invasion rates for plants, as calculated invasion rates vary widely and are frequently much higher than 10%. Most locations would be better served by using invasion rates that vary based on the recipient environment. Our updated estimates of invasion rates should be highly relevant for invasive species management strategies, including weed risk assessments, which can be adjusted to identify more species as high‐risk in areas where invasion rates are higher. Assuming that 10% of established species will become invasive is likely to substantially underestimate invasion rates in most geographies.
Topographic heterogeneity triggers complementary cascades that enhance ecosystem multifunctionality
Authors: Fairchild Tom P. , Walter Bettina , Mutter Joshua J. , Griffin John N.
Published: October 2024

Topographic heterogeneity sets the stage for community assembly, but its effects on ecosystem functioning remain poorly understood. Here, we test the hypothesis that topographic heterogeneity underpins multiple cascading species interactions and functional pathways that indirectly control multifunctionality. To do so, we combined experimental manipulation of a form of topographic heterogeneity on rocky shores (holes of various sizes) with a comprehensive assessment of naturally assembled communities and multifunctionality. Structural equation modeling indicated that heterogeneity: (1) enhanced biodiversity by supporting filter feeder richness; (2) triggered a facilitation cascade via reef‐forming (polychaete) and biomass‐dominant (macroalga) foundation species, which in turn broadly supported functionally diverse epibiotic and understory assemblages; and (3) inhibited a key consumer (limpet). The model supported that these mechanisms exerted complementary positive effects on individual functions (e.g., water filtration, ecosystem metabolism, nutrient uptake) and, in turn, collectively enhanced multifunctionality. Topographic heterogeneity may therefore serve as a cornerstone physical attribute by initiating multiple cascades that propagate through ecological communities via foundation species, ultimately manifesting disproportionate effects on ecosystem multifunctionality.
Electrochemical Domino Sulfonylation/Dearomative ipso‐Annulation of 2‐Alkynyl Biaryls to Access Spiro(indenyl)cyclohexadienones
Authors: Raji Reddy Chada , Nair Karna , Vinaya Puthiya Purayil , Ajaykumar Uprety , Grée René
Published: October 2024

Herein, we present an efficient strategy for the synthesis of spiro(indenyl)cyclohexadienones through radical‐promoted reaction of 2‐alkynyl biaryls with sodium sulfinates under electrochemical conditions. The reaction involves sulfonylation and dearomative ipso‐cyclisation in a domino fashion. This approach features the use of readily accessible precursors, wide functional group tolerance and external oxidant‐free reaction conditions. The practicality of the method was also illustrated by scale‐up reaction and further diversification of the product.
Phytochemical and metagenomic insights into the antioxidant and anticancer properties of Elaeagnus pyriformis wine
Authors: Banerjee Swarnendra , Islam Shehnaz , Kar Pallab , Sarkar Indrani , Chattopadhyay Ansuman , Sen Arnab
Published: October 2024

The luscious fruit‐bearing plant Elaeagnus pyriformis (Hook. f.), sometimes called oleaster or silverberry, is found in northeastern India. Natives from this region consume fruit because it is believed to be nutritious and to offer protection against various diseases. This study aimed to prepare wine from Elaeagnus fruits and assess its nutritional content and antioxidant and anticancer properties in cancer cell lines. GC‒MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) was utilized to determine the active phytocompounds in the wine, which were then docked against cancer‐related proteins. Simultaneously, 16S rRNA metagenomic analysis was conducted to identify the diverse bacterial species present in the wine samples. The results revealed significant amounts of free fatty acids, free amino acids, total sugars, total protein, macroelements, and microelements in Elaeagnus wine (oleaster wine). Oleaster wine exhibited high antioxidant activity, indicating its significant medicinal importance. Eleven putative phytocompounds were identified through GC‒MS analysis and a molecular docking study of these compounds revealed favorable interactions with the studied cancer‐related proteins. A cell line study revealed that the wine possessed noteworthy anticancer activity, supporting its potential medicinal and biological benefits, as demonstrated by the in silico results. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis of the 16S rRNA V3–V4 region revealed that the wine sample and microbial population contained diverse bacterial species, which play a vital role in the anticancer properties. Considering all the in vitro, in silico, and metagenomic data, it can be concluded that the wine offers therapeutic and health benefits.
Does prior success influence risk‐taking in foreign location decisions? A prospect theory perspective
Authors: Schwaiger Kathrin , Hennrich Petra , Fisch Jan Hendrik
Published: October 2024

Research Summary

Research suggests that foreign direct investment decisions can be biased and deviate from economic theory. This study deploys prospect theory to analyze the impact of the success of previous investments on risk‐taking in subsequent investment decisions. Our theorizing suggests that prior success influences foreign investors' decisions to take host‐country risk, and that this moderating influence on the risk‐investment relation is specific to the type of risk. The results of an event‐history study of 1259 location decisions support the notion that the success of previous investments encourages investors to enter host countries with high negative or positive risk, whereas it discourages them from entering locations with high mixed risk. The effects are stronger for investment locations that are similar than for those that are dissimilar.

Managerial Summary

Regarding the varying risks that investors face in foreign countries, investment decisions may sometimes appear rather confident and sometimes rather cautious. Our study relates these decisions to the success that investors had with similar investments in the past, since research suggests that experiencing gains or losses can influence decision behavior. The results suggest that prior success affects risk‐taking in foreign direct investment decisions and comes in contrary forms, depending on the type of risk: prior success leads to overconfident investment decisions in the case of negative and positive risk, whereas it induces overcautious investment decisions in the case of mixed risk. Being aware of these behavioral tendencies can prevent managers from making biased investment decisions.
Creditors' treatment under the new Italian “Concordato Preventivo” and directive (EU) 2019/1023: A comparison with chapter 11
Authors: Pappalettera Federico
Published: October 2024

This article compares the treatment of creditors in Italy under the “new” judicial composition with creditors (CWC) (“concordato preventivo”) procedure (as recently amended by the new Italian Business Crisis and Insolvency Code of 2022) with Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code, focusing on two main issues. The first issue analyses the impact of the Directive (EU) 2019/1023, which aims to remove barriers to fundamental freedoms and promote market efficiency by introducing, among others, preventive restructuring frameworks (PRFs). The Directive's guidelines on the treatment of creditors, including the requirement to allocate restructuring proceeds on the basis of the “relative priority rule (RPR)”, are examined. The second issue discusses Italy's new Business Crisis and Insolvency Code of 2022, which introduces several innovations to judicial CWC proceedings. These include facilitations for CWC on a going concern basis, a mandatory division of creditors into classes, a new voting and cramdown system, and significant changes to the distribution of restructuring proceeds, also to comply with Directive (EU) 2019/1023.
Municipalities at the crossroads: Deciphering the nexus between municipal insolvencies and international investment mandates
Authors: Ren Qiang , Du Jing
Published: October 2024

Navigating the convergence of domestic governance and international investment law presents multifaceted challenges in an ever‐globalizing world. The recent bankruptcy of the Birmingham City Council in September 2023, burdened by substantial debt from equal pay claims, serves as a poignant example, illustrating the potential widespread effects of local financial crises on international investment protections and obligations. The discourse explores the complexities arising from municipal insolvencies and the implications of such local fiscal policies on international investment obligations. The lens of international arbitral tribunals sheds light on the dilemmas faced when local realities vie with global responsibilities, especially concerning investor protections and Bilateral Investment Treaties. Decentralized states add another layer of intricacy, balancing regional policies with overarching international commitments. As the landscape of international investment law transforms, both state entities and investors must understand and adapt to the evolving interplay. The synthesis of these two realms is crucial in today's globalized era. Through proactive policy‐making, stakeholder dialogues, and a keen understanding of both local and global dynamics, a harmonious fusion of domestic objectives and international obligations can be achieved.
Ordinal regression models made easy: A tutorial on parameter interpretation, data simulation and power analysis
Authors: Gambarota Filippo , Altoè Gianmarco
Published: October 2024

Ordinal data such as Likert items, ratings or generic ordered variables are widespread in psychology. These variables are usually analysed using metric models (e.g., standard linear regression) with important drawbacks in terms of statistical inference (reduced power and increased type‐1 error) and prediction. One possible reason for not using ordinal regression models could be difficulty in understanding parameters or conducting a power analysis. The tutorial aims to present ordinal regression models using a simulation‐based approach. Firstly, we introduced the general model highlighting crucial components and assumptions. Then, we explained how to interpret parameters for a logit and probit model. Then we proposed two ways for simulating data as a function of predictors showing a 2 × 2 interaction with categorical predictors and the interaction between a numeric and categorical predictor. Finally, we showed an example of power analysis using simulations that can be easily extended to complex models with multiple predictors. The tutorial is supported by a collection of custom R functions developed to simulate and understand ordinal regression models. The code to reproduce the proposed simulation, the custom R functions and additional examples of ordinal regression models can be found on the online Open Science Framework repository (
https://osf.io/93h5j).
Social validity of digital social incentives in the treatment of substance use disorders
Authors: Ives Lindsey A. , Serel Mathew , Diaz A. J. , LeBlanc Linda , Dallery Jesse
Published: October 2024

Substance use disorders (SUDs) affect millions and have substantial negative consequences for individuals and society. Social incentives that leverage social networks for reinforcement or feedback have been used to improve health behaviors such as physical activity. This study investigated the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of a novel digital social incentive system embedded into a web‐ and smartphone‐based platform for SUD recovery. The system leveraged a preexisting care team to deliver social incentives following notifications on recovery‐related goal completion and abstinence to members undergoing SUD treatment. In total, 243 notifications were sent to care‐team members, resulting in 117 social incentives, nearly all of which (99.15%) were coded as positive. Treatment members and care‐team members provided favorable endorsements on acceptability and usability measures. Some areas of improvement were identified, such as increasing personalization and transparency. This digital social incentive system was feasible, acceptable, and usable as an adjunct treatment component for SUD recovery.
Recent research on response disequilibrium theory: A concise review
Authors: King Hunter , Falligant John Michael , Jacobs Kenneth W.
Published: October 2024

A resurgence in research on response disequilibrium theory has prompted a concise review of the literature from the past 5 years. Response disequilibrium, also known as response deprivation, attributes reinforcement and punishment effects to constraints on free‐operant baseline levels of behavior. By describing clinically relevant behaviors in terms of instrumental and contingent activities, researchers and practitioners can predict intervention outcomes with a disequilibrium model. We summarize the empirical outcomes of disequilibrium‐informed interventions across six articles and discuss areas of future research.
Calculation of continuous reference intervals for biological parameters exhibiting strong age‐dependent level changes: Its application to glycosaminoglycans and sialic acid in urine
Authors: Rodríguez Carlos Emilio , Diswall Mette , Olsson Anders , Jonsson Torleif , Johansson Eva , Blomqvist Maria
Published: October 2024

Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and sialic acid (total and free) assays are used as first‐line screening tests for the diagnosis of mucopolysaccharidoses and glycoproteinoses, respectively. There is a pronounced age‐dependent variation in the urinary concentrations of these metabolites in the normal population, and the stratification of the reference values into discrete age ranges may lead to an undesirably high number of false‐positive or false‐negative results. The aim of this study was to design a method for calculating continuous reference intervals as a function of age and its application to the analysis of GAGs and sialic acid (total, free, and conjugated) in urine. In the postpubertal period, concentrations of urinary GAGs and sialic acid have reached a plateau, so a traditional calculation of the reference range in this specific age group was considered appropriate. In the prepubertal period, a nonlinear regression performed with the Excel add‐in Solver was used to fit the logarithmized concentrations of the controls to a curve that represents the mean values as a function of age. A uniform distribution of the residuals was obtained, which allowed the calculation of the reference intervals by adding the values of their 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles to the independent variable of the regression curve to calculate the upper and lower reference curves. The main advantages of the developed method are (1) a reduction in the number of control samples needed to obtain adequate reference intervals and (2) an improvement in the reliability of diagnostic screening by reducing the uncertainty generated by the gaps in the traditional age‐stratified method.
Perception of job security and professional self‐esteem of teachers: A mixed method research
Authors: Özmen Kenan , Dönmez İsmail , Gülen Salih
Published: October 2024

Professional self‐esteem and job security perceptions of teachers are considered to be factors that increase their teaching performance and overall teaching quality. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between teachers' professional self‐esteem and job security perceptions in Turkey and to determine the impact of demographic characteristics on this relationship. In the study, the nested embedded mixed research method was preferred. For quantitative data, the professional self‐esteem and job security level of 660 respondent teachers were compared in terms of demographic characteristics (gender, marital status, education level, union membership, staff type, age, and years of service). For qualitative data, a structured interview form was utilized to examine the views of 54 participants about their profession. Our study reveals the intricate dynamics between teachers' professional self‐esteem and job security, emphasizing the role of gender, union membership, and career stage. The findings of the study revealed that female teachers demonstrated higher professional self‐esteem, likely due to their emotional intelligence and communication skills. Un‐ionized teachers reported greater professional self‐esteem, suggesting the positive influence of unions in safeguarding teachers' rights. Contract teachers, aware of job insecurity, exhibited elevated professional self‐esteem, indicating a drive for continuous skill development. Younger teachers (aged 21–30) displayed higher professional self‐esteem, emphasizing their enthusiasm and adaptability. These findings underscore the complex interplay between self‐esteem, job security, and external factors, with significant implications for teacher support and policymaking.
Theoretical Investigation of Energetic Materials Based on Imidazole Framework Featuring Azido/Nitro/Nitrato/Fluoro Groups
Authors: Sharma Anjali , Singh Kshetrimayum Dhruba , Guin Mridula
Published: October 2024

Development of new high‐energy materials (HEMs) is one of the thrust areas of research. These compounds are important for various applications such as propellants, gas generations, explosives in mining, construction, civil and military applications, and safety equipment for national security and defense. HEMs based on imidazole frameworks are currently getting research spotlight due to their exceptional detonation performance with optimum sensitivity. This study reports five imidazole derivatives containing azido/nitro/nitrato/fluoro functional groups. These groups are viable options to design promising explosives with moderate sensitivity. Density functional theory (DFT) method is adopted to determine the geometries, thermodynamic properties, detonation properties, and impact sensitivity of the designed molecules. All the compounds have high density in the range of 1.89–2.03 g/cm3 along with high heat of formation. These compounds aid in new strategy to design HEMs with optimum sensitivity.
Interim analysis, a tool to enhance efficiency of pharmacokinetic studies: Pharmacokinetics of rifampicin in lactating mother–infant pairs
Authors: Kawuma Aida N. , Ojara Francis Williams , Buzibye Allan , Castelnuovo Barbara , Tabwenda Jovia C. , Kyeyune Jacqueline , Turyahabwe Christine , Asiimwe Simon Peter , Magoola Johnson , Wiesner Lubbe , Nakijoba Ritah , Waitt Catriona
Published: October 2024

Pharmacokinetic studies are important for understanding drug disposition in the human body. However, pregnant and lactating women are often excluded from primary pharmacokinetic studies and as such there is often limited dosing information regarding drug use in pregnant and/or lactating women. The objectives of this interim analysis were to define the transfer of rifampicin to a breastfed infant and to determine the area under the concentration–time curve of rifampicin in maternal plasma, breastmilk and infant plasma. Performing this interim analysis enabled us to substantiate whether prior assumptions we made on several study design issues including patient sample size and pharmacokinetic sampling times held and whether we needed to amend our protocol or not. We enrolled lactating mothers on treatment for tuberculosis with their breastfeeding infants (below 12 months of age), performed intensive pharmacokinetic sampling (0–24 h post‐dose) on plasma samples from both the mother, infant(s) and breastmilk samples from the mother on two separate occasions (once during the initiation phase and another during the continuation phase of tuberculosis treatment). The initial study design, including sampling times, was informed by a stochastic simulation and estimation exercise, with very limited prior breastmilk data. An interim analysis after recruiting 6 mother–infant pairs ascertained that our initial assumptions were ideal for achieving our study objectives and no amendments to the sampling times were necessary. Initial data from 6 mother–infant pairs show that rifampicin penetrates breastmilk with an approximate milk‐to‐plasma ratio of 0.169 and 0.189 on two separate visits. However, it was undetectable in most infants.
Drop Test Simulation of Packaging for Dangerous Goods: An Investigation of Appropriate Drop Height Adjustment in Case of Deviating Packaging Gross Mass
Authors: Lengas Nikolaos , Müller Karsten , Schlick‐Hasper Eva , Neitsch Marcel , Johann Sergej , Zehn Manfred W.
Published: October 2024

In the approval process of dangerous goods packagings, drop tests onto a flat, essentially unyielding surface are used to assess resistance against mechanical damage. International adopted regulations like ADR and RID define filling good dependent drop heights and filling degrees whilst the user needs to define the maximum gross mass to be tested and approved. Maximum packaging gross mass is defined conservatively and not reached in practice. To meet the defined gross mass in testing, using additives is permitted. However, in some cases, additives are not desirable due to packaging design or filling substance properties. This leads to deviations from the initial gross mass definition. Hence, a certain drop height adjustment is necessary to achieve the required impact loading. Laboratories frequently adjust drop height assuming a perfectly elastic collision that is inaccurate. Appropriate adjustment is not trivial due to energy conversion processes, for example, plastic deformation. In this work, a test stand is developed for measuring the change in kinetic energy of different packaging designs and filling substances in regulative drop tests. The experimental results are used to validate finite‐element (FE) models so that packaging properties can be varied in simulated drop test scenarios. The findings intend to describe the appropriate drop height adjustment of the respective packaging with same design but deviating gross mass to produce comparable mechanical response. The results are highly beneficial for testing laboratories, approval issuing authorities and packaging institutes confronted with the problem of testing packages with gross masses other than those to be approved.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Nanocarrier‐Mediated Inhalable Gene Transfection for Lung Cancer
Authors: Sarkar Poulami , Sardar Manami , Sen Olivia , Das Stabak , Manna Sreejan
Published: October 2024

Lung cancer is now the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality, eclipsing all other cancer forms, and of all lung malignancies, non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) makes up around 85%. Recently, the use of vectors in gene therapy besides chemotherapy to treat malignancies brought on by gene mutations has gained prominence. Therapeutic molecule inhalation is a direct approach to lung‐targeted medication delivery with low nonspecific toxicity and limited drug exposure. Treatment for lung cancer with chemotherapy and immunotherapy can be aided by inhalable nanomedicine through advanced mechanisms. Viral and nonviral vectors, such as lipid‐based nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles, have all drawn a lot of interest for their ability to increase effects and decrease side effects. Nanocarriers have a significant impact on targeted gene delivery, bioavailability, stability, and residence in target areas. The inhaled pulmonary gene delivery approach, when combined with nanomedicine, will offer a noninvasive and successful way to treat lung cancer by taking use of the physiological properties of the lung. The authors have majorly used data from PubMed and Google Scholar to obtain the relevant information required for the article. In general, this review concentrates on the usage of various inhalable nanocarriers, which might serve as an inspiration for the creation and deployment of more potent genetic therapy for the treatment of lung cancer.