bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysing Coherence in Policy for Multi‐Functional Landscapes: An Exploratory Framework
Authors: Öhman Frida , Karlsson Mikael
Published: February 2025

To address biodiversity loss and other negative environmental effects of land use, science and policy are increasingly recognising multi‐functional landscape governance. This approach involves place‐based policymaking across multiple governance levels, engaging various stakeholders and balancing multiple landscape values and functions. Due to the complexity involved, calls have been made for additional research addressing institutional challenges, policy coherence and practical tools and frameworks. This article introduces a novel framework for analysing coherence in multi‐functional landscape governance, designed to be useful for both researchers and policymakers in land use contexts. The exploratory framework is inspired by multiple policy frameworks such as the European Landscape Convention and IPBES and draws from the two literatures on multi‐functional landscape governance and policy coherence. By applying this framework, users can systematically analyse trade‐offs and synergies between multiple, interacting policies, with a focus on landscape, multi‐functionality and stakeholders throughout policy processes. The study includes an illustrative application of the framework to the EU Biodiversity Strategy and the Swedish Forest Strategy, revealing a lack of coherence on a series of parameters of relevance for biodiversity protection, including critical policy instruments. The article concludes by identifying areas that warrant further research to advance multi‐functional landscape governance and thereby potentially improve biodiversity protection.
Burst steroid therapy and quality of life in patients with acute heart failure: Insights from the CORTAHF trial
Authors: Pagnesi Matteo , Cotter Gad , Davison Beth A. , Freund Yonathan , Voors Adriaan A. , Edwards Christopher , Novosadova Maria , Takagi Koji , Hayrapetyan Hamlet , Mshetsyan Andranik , Drambyan Mayranush , Cohen‐Solal Alain , ter Maaten Jozine M. , Biegus Jan , Ponikowski Piotr , Filippatos Gerasimos , Chioncel Ovidiu , Sadoune Malha , Simon Tabassome , Mann Douglas L. , Mebazaa Alexandre , Metra Marco
Published: February 2025

Aims

Patients hospitalized with acute heart failure (AHF) treated with a 7 day prednisone course in the CORTAHF pilot trial had a greater improvement in health‐related quality of life (QoL) at Day 7 in both the overall population and in patients with baseline interleukin 6 > 13 pg/mL. This post‐hoc analysis examines the specific QoL domains and the relationship between clinical signs of congestion and QoL.

Methods

In the CORTAHF pilot trial, patients with AHF and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) > 20 mg/L were randomized 1:1 to once‐daily oral 40 mg prednisone for 7 days plus usual care or usual care alone. Patients completed the EQ‐5D‐5L, including the EQ‐VAS, at baseline and Days 7 and 31. We estimated baseline‐adjusted treatment effects on each of the five QoL dimensions and evaluated the interaction between baseline EQ‐VAS and treatment effect on hsCRP change at Day 7 (the primary endpoint). The correlation between changes in signs of congestion and EQ‐VAS were evaluated.

Results

Among 100 randomized patients, the improvement in QoL at Day 7 was driven by significant effects on the EQ‐5D‐5L mobility [win odds 1.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–2.12] and usual activities (win odds 1.50, 95% CI 1.05–2.20) domains. The treatment effect on 7 day hsCRP change was independent of baseline EQ‐VAS (interaction P = 0.13). Decongestion and EQ‐VAS improvement were correlated (r = −0.528, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In patients with AHF and high hsCRP levels, 7 day burst steroid therapy improved QoL mostly by affecting the mobility and usual activities domains. QoL improvement was correlated with decongestion and may therefore not be a direct effect of steroid therapy, but mediated through improvement in HF symptoms and signs. Inflammatory activation was reduced by prednisone irrespective of baseline EQ‐VAS.
A Platinum(0) Complex as π‐Lewis Base Catalyst for Asymmetric Friedel‐Crafts Reaction
Authors: Wang Hao‐Tian , Qin Xin‐Ting , Jiang Bo , Chen Zhi‐Chao , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: February 2025

Here we demonstrate that a Pt0 complex can function as an efficient π‐Lewis base catalyst to increase the nucleophilicity of deactivated heteroarenes upon η2‐coordination and resultant π‐backdonation, thus enabling asymmetric Friedel‐Crafts reaction with electrophiles. A diversity of densely functionalized adducts are produced in high yields with moderate to excellent enantioselectivity. Preliminary frontier molecular orbital (FMO) calculations and in situ 1H NMR analysis support the Pt0 π‐Lewis base catalytic mode.
Recent Advances in Calix[4]arene‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Five‐ and Six‐Membered Oxa‐ and Azacycles
Authors: Wang Meiling , Li Tao , Shi Jing , Sun Xiaoqiang , Yang Ke , Li Zheng‐Yi
Published: February 2025

Heterocyclic compounds are not only ubiquitous in natural products, pharmaceuticals, and organic materials, but also function as essential ligands in both organic and medical chemistry. Among the current synthetic strategies, organocatalysis has garnered considerable attention in recent years owing to its cost‐effectiveness, high catalytic efficiency, and environmental sustainability. In the realm of heterocycle synthesis via organocatalysis, calix[4]arenes have emerged as prominent catalysts. This review aims to highlight significant advancements in the calix[4]arene‐catalyzed synthesis of five‐ and six‐membered heterocyclic compounds using organic small molecules as starting materials over the past decade.
Insight Into Evaluation of Electrical Properties of Li2MSiO4/Li2M0.5N0.5SiO4 (M, N = Mn, Fe Co, Ni) Cathode Materials
Authors: Hassani Samin , Yousefi‐Mashhour Hatef , Lotfi‐Kia Nahid , Kalantarian Mohammad Mahdi
Published: February 2025

A new vision to evaluate rate‐capability and electrical properties of the cathode materials of a particular olivine structured family for Li‐ion batteries is established. These evaluations obtain electrical conductivity, by noble approaches using DFT, which is related to intrinsic/extrinsic bands concepts and electrical rate‐capability. Individual and alloyed transition metals‐containing cathodes are investigated, namely, Li2MSiO4/Li2M0.5N0.5SiO4 (M, N = Mn, Fe Co, Ni). Our analysis focused on the electrical properties, including band‐gap (BG) and rate‐capability, utilizing the GGA(+U)/LSDA(+U) approximations. The electrical properties of the Li2MSiO4/Li2M0.5N0.5SiO4 materials were thoroughly examined by evaluating both the band‐gap and electrical rate‐capability. For band‐gap assessment, we considered two types of band‐gap (ILBG/ELBG); while, two criteria (Delta/CCTB) were employed to evaluate the rate‐capability. The evaluation of band‐gap indicated that all the considered materials exhibited low conductivity. Nonetheless, our findings highlight that the electrical rate‐capability of a cell holds greater practical importance than the band‐gap property. Our approaches provided reliable predictions for the rate‐capability of the alloyed transition metals materials. The theoretically obtained results and conclusions are validated by available experimental data. We conclude that the rate capability approaches are more important than sole band gap. Also, the CCTB approach is more applicable for this electrode family than the Delta. This study can help understanding of behaviors of the alloyed electrode materials. Also, its methodology is worthy to use for other analogous materials.
Thermodynamic Aspects of Short‐Term Storage of High G‐Force in the Human Body
Authors: Mutlu Melis Nur , Özilgen Mustafa
Published: February 2025

The gravitational force (g‐force) of the Earth is referred to as 1G. When pilots, astronauts, and race car drivers get under the effect of higher G‐forces, their blood accumulates in the lower parts of their bodies, although their heart rates increase, and their cardiovascular systems supply less blood to their brains and lungs. When insufficient oxygenation of the brain causes loss of consciousness, incapacitated pilots or drivers may cause accidents resulting in serious injury or death. Pilots receive high‐G training to prevent gravity‐induced loss of consciousness (G‐LOC). Wearing anti‐G suits on flights may help to decrease the G‐LOC. While the maximum G‐Force tolerance of a normal person is approximately 4G, it increases to 9G when a pilot is with equipment. In the experiments at 46.2G, a pilot, John Stapp, managed to barely stay conscious; his retinas were severed, but he got his normal vision back after a day and he showed that position and safety precautions could help the human body withstand high amounts of crash forces. This research helped to develop several safety changes in automobiles. Indycar is America's top single‐seater racing series. The crash recorders installed in their cars have shown that as long as safety systems are in place, the Indycar drivers can tolerate impacts over 100G without serious injuries. This study makes a thermodynamic assessment of the effects of the high G‐force when the race car drivers and the jet pilots are tentatively subject to it but get out of that effect when their task is over.
Temporal Interference Stimulation Boosts Working Memory Performance in the Frontoparietal Network
Authors: Zheng Suwang , Zhang Yufeng , Huang Kun , Zhuang Jie , Lü Jiaojiao , Liu Yu
Published: February 2025

Temporal interference (TI) stimulation is a novel neuromodulation technique that overcomes the depth limitations of traditional transcranial electrical stimulation while avoiding the invasiveness of deep brain stimulation. Our previous behavioral research has demonstrated the effects of multi‐target TI stimulation in enhancing working memory (WM) performance, however, the neural mechanisms of this special form of envelope modulation remain unclear. To address this issue, here we designed this randomized, double‐blind, crossover study, which consisted of a task‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment, to explore how offline TI stimulation modulated brain activity and behavioral performance in healthy adults. We conducted a 2 × 2 within‐subjects design with two factors: stimulation (TI vs. Sham) and time (pre vs. post). Participants received two stimulation protocols in a random order: TI (beat frequency: 6 Hz, targeting middle frontal gyrus [MFG] and inferior parietal lobule [IPL]) and sham stimulation. Neuroimaging data of a WM task with different cognitive loads were acquisited immediately before and after stimulation. We found TI stimulation significantly improved d′ in the high‐demand WM task. Whole‐brain analysis showed the significant time‐by‐stimulation interactions in two main clusters in IPL and precuneus with lower activation after TI stimulation. The generalized psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) analysis revealed a significant interaction in task‐modulated connectivity between MFG and IPL, with improvement observed after TI stimulation. Notably, this increasing functional connectivity induced by TI stimulation was positively correlated with better behavioral performance. Overall, our findings show specific effects of TI stimulation on brain activation and functional connectivity in the frontoparietal network and may contribute to provide new perspectives for future neuromodulation applications.
Highly Efficient Numerical Method for Modeling Mofs Containing Transition Metal Ions
Authors: Raenko D. D. , Tchougreeff A. L.
Published: February 2025

Employing a group‐function based semiempirical approach, a new program package (seethoo), targeted to modeling of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) containing transition metal ions (TMIs) with open d‐shells is developed. In this proof of concept study it is shown that the package has potential to accurately compute d‐shell low‐spin (LS) —high‐spin (HS) gaps and charge distributions in MOFs in time with reasonable accuracy. The calculations were carried out for a variety of MOFs and MOF‐like systems containing doubly and triply charged Mn, Fe, Co and Ni ions. For Fe‐containing systems, parameters of Mössbauer spectra were also computed. For the test runs, the results reasonably agree with available experimental data up to errors introduced by use of the CNDO parametrization in the test manner.
Effects of a Polarizable Force Field on Membrane Dynamics: Surface Viscosity, Lipid Diffusion, and Peptide Induced Pore Formation
Authors: Venable Richard M. , Pane Anthony J. , Rice Amy , Pastor Richard W.
Published: February 2025

The effects of the newly developed CHARMM polarizable lipid force field (FF), Drude2023, on selected lipid dynamical properties are compared with the additive CHARMM36 (C36), and an extension of C36, termed C36/LJ‐PME, which includes long‐range Lennard–Jones (LJ) interactions. Polarizability and long‐range LJ interactions increase the membrane surface viscosity, which decreases the translational diffusion constants. Simulated diffusion constants for dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) extrapolated to infinite system size agree well with experiment for Drude2023, but overestimate experiment by 60% (on average) and a factor of 2.5 for C36/LJ‐PME and C36, respectively. The relaxation time of lipid wobble is described about equally well by C36/LJ‐PME and Drude2023, as consistent with the hexadecane viscosity for the FF, and both are more accurate than C36. Hence, physical improvements in the FF, which slowed down these dynamic processes led to better agreement with experiment. Lastly, bilayers containing 10 influenza fusion peptides and high fractions of lysolipids (which are known to accelerate pore formation) were simulated with C36 and Drude2023. Pore formation rates were comparable for the two FF for the bilayers with 80% and 90% lysolipid. However, while no pores formed in 24 μs (including a single 20 μs trajectory) in the 70% lysolipid with C36, 4 of 15 replicates formed pores in less than 1 μs with Drude. While the pathway to poration is qualitatively similar for the additive and polarizable FF for the systems studied, Drude2023 should be considered for quantitative studies of pore formation, and, in some cases, will accelerate the process.
Addressing Adverse Community Environments: Participant Recommendations to Foster Community Well‐Being
Authors: Lappan Sara , Boyd Danielle , Files Martez , Coleman Monica
Published: February 2025

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) encompass childhood trauma linked to chronic health issues. Often discussed on a micro‐level, ACEs need a holistic perspective, emphasizing community‐based research and contextual resilience to address systemic barriers effectively. Following the principles of community‐based participatory research, two focus groups, composed of 15 people, were conducted to learn about community members' recommendations on what would be supportive for their communities. The study investigates the built environment, values, and resource accessibility, emphasizing the importance of outdoor access, community spaces, connectedness, and inclusive resource provision. The findings contribute to the literature by comprehensively understanding residents' perspectives on neighborhood well‐being, explicitly highlighting the significance of a well‐designed built environment, shared values, and accessible resources in fostering resilient and vibrant communities.
Recurrent posterior shoulder instability—Long‐term results after arthroscopic posterior bone block with capsular reconstruction
Authors: Karkosch Roman F. , Slapar Juergen , Smith Tomas , Wellmann Mathias , Pastor Marc‐Frederic , Horstmann Hauke
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study reports the long‐term post‐operative clinical outcomes after arthroscopic posterior bone block augmentation with posterior capsular repair.

Methods

Eighteen shoulders (13 patients) with unidirectional posterior shoulder instability were treated with an arthroscopic posterior bone block augmentation and posterior capsular repair in 2011 and 2013 in a single specialized orthopaedic clinic. These patients were invited to participate in a clinical and radiological follow‐up examination to receive long‐term results regarding clinical outcomes, instability, and development of osteoarthritis (OA).

Results

From the initial study group, 13 patients (18 shoulders) could be obtained for a follow‐up examination. The mean follow‐up period was 111 months. At the final follow‐up, two patients (two shoulders) reported recurrent subluxations with a positive apprehension sign. No redislocation was reported. Screw fixation was still in place in seven patients (38.9%). Overall, good clinical outcomes were achieved among Constant–Murley score (77.6 ± 16; p = 0.55), Rowe score (67.5 ± 22.1; p = 0.34), Walch–Duplay score (58.3 ± 28.2) and Western Ontario Shoulder Index (40.4 ± 23.3%; p = 0.96), showing insignificant changes compared with the 2‐year results. Three shoulders developed severe OA (Samilson and Prieto III). No patient required arthroplasty.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic posterior bone block augmentation with posterior capsular repair represents a salvage procedure that can achieve long‐term shoulder stability with overall moderate clinical results. Patients have to be informed about the probable need for implant removal and the high risk of OA development, especially in the presence of pre‐existing cartilage damage, beforehand.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
The magnificent seven: An assembly of educational opportunities within an academic hospital medicine program
Authors: Smith Dustin T. , Ajala Khaalisha , Amin Monee , Hall Mary Ann Kirkconnell , Kim Erin , Kobaidze Ketino , Moussa Mohamad , Hunt Daniel P. , Massart Annie
Published: February 2025

Increasing clinical demands and a reduction in traditional teaching opportunities at academic medical centers threaten the ability of hospitalists to participate in their institution's educational mission. Hospitalists with teaching as part of their career focus benefit from faculty development or the creation of teaching activities to stimulate interest in academic medicine and overcome pre‐existing barriers to education. Our large, multi‐site hospital medicine division sought to engage hospitalists from various practice settings in educational opportunities to expand their skill sets as teachers. An Education Council introduced seven initiatives embedded with educator roles for faculty: clinicopathological conference, clinical vignette competition, Grand Rounds, peer observation of teaching, teaching competition, visiting professorship, and ward teacher workshop. Program opportunities generated directorships, faculty, and peer development roles. Multimodal assessment demonstrated increased attendance, evaluations, recognition, scholarship, and events over time. This innovative heptad of faculty educational opportunities within an academic hospital medicine program is feasible, effective, and scalable.
Genomic Epidemiology of the Main SARS‐CoV‐2 Variants Circulating in Italy During the Omicron Era
Authors: Bergna Annalisa , Lai Alessia , Sagradi Fabio , Menzo Stefano , Mancini Nicasio , Bruzzone Bianca , Rusconi Stefano , Marchegiani Greta , Clementi Nicola , Francisci Daniela , Vicenti Ilaria , Ronchiadin Silvia , Mbissam Harcel Djaya , della Ventura Carla , Lanfranchi Leonardo , Testa Sophie , Caucci Sara , Acciarri Carla , Carioti Luca , Occhionero Alessandro , Novazzi Federica , Genoni Angelo Paolo , Ferrante Francesca Drago , De Pace Vanessa , Ferraris Monica , Ogliastro Matilde , Gabrieli Arianna , De Paschale Massimo , Canavesi Giada , Bellocchi Maria Concetta , Iannetta Marco , Sarmati Loredana , Ceccherini‐Silberstein Francesca , Riva Agostino , Antinori Spinello , Zehender Gianguglielmo ,   SARS‐CoV‐2 ITALIAN RESEARCH ENTERPRISE – collaborative Group
Published: February 2025

Since early 2022 the Omicron variant has rapidly spread worldwide, becoming the dominant variant to date. The study aimed to investigate the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID‐19 patients and reconstruct the genomic epidemiology of main SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron sublineages in Italy in 2022. A total of 8970 SARS‐CoV‐2 samples were studied, and phylogenetic analyses were focused on BA.1, BA.2, and BA.5 subvariants. More than half of subjects received three doses of vaccine and experienced a reinfection. A significant larger proportion of unvaccinated subjects presented reinfection compared with vaccinated. Clusters presented a tMRCA between September–November 2021 (BA.1), November 2021–January 2022 (BA.2), and October 2021–May 2022 (BA.5). Re values showed the highest level between September–October, January–February 2022, and May 2022 for BA.1, BA.2 and BA.5, respectively. Limited number of studied variant sequences are included in clusters. The spread rate of the studied variant exceeded its evolutionary rate. No single sublineage had sufficient time to differentiate into large clusters, but only into small and fragmented groups sharing the same recent ancestor. These analyses dissect the epidemiological dynamics of Omicron sublineages in Italy over a period of great epidemiological changes in the COVID‐19 epidemic.
Inflammatory Burden Index as a Predictor of In‐Hospital Mortality in Patients With Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome
Authors: Yang Zhixian , Wang Luonan , Hong Baoyu , He Zhicheng , Zhang Qixing , Shen Tingting , Shen Junjie , Shen Shichun , Cheng Yan , Gong Chen
Published: February 2025

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an infectious disease caused by a novel bunyavirus that poses a significant threat to human health. The aim of this study was to identify a precise and user‐friendly indicator for predicting the mortality of patients with SFTS. We retrospectively analyzed data from 181 hospitalized patients with SFTS. Inflammatory markers, including the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), C‐reactive protein‐to‐albumin ratio (CAR), and inflammatory burden index (IBI), were compared between the survival group and the nonsurvival group. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of the IBI for the poor prognosis of SFTS patients. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan‒Meier (KM) method. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used to explore factors influencing the prognosis of hospitalized patients with SFTS. The results indicate that patients with high IBI had significantly higher mortality rates than those with low IBI. ROC curve analysis revealed that the IBI had better predictive value than the other indicators did, with an optimal cutoff value of 0.878. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with high IBI had higher mortality rates and shorter survival times. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the IBI was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in patients with SFTS. Therefore, the IBI can be used to help clinicians identify high‐risk individuals and implement timely therapeutic interventions.
Assessment of 5A's of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination: Awareness, Attitude, Apprehension, Action Expected and Acceptability Amongst Health Care Providers, Medical Students, Para‐Medical and Administration Staff in AIIMS Rajkot
Authors: Soni Sweta , Amin Sarjil , Pundhir Ashish , Ramotra Rohini Krishna
Published: February 2025

The study aims to assess awareness, attitude, apprehension, action expected from policy makers, and acceptability towards HPV vaccination amongst health care providers (HCP), medical students, paramedical staff and administrative personnel. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 501 participants, including HCP, medical students, paramedical and administrative staff. Their awareness, attitudes, apprehensions, actions expected from policymakers, and acceptability towards HPV vaccine were assessed through a Google Form survey. Of the 501 participants, 92.4% were aware of HPV vaccines, 24.6% had a thorough understanding of HPV, but only 5.8% had received the vaccine. Most participants held a positive attitude toward cervical cancer prevention and HPV vaccination, although 46.7% expressed apprehensions. Before viewing educational video, 278 participants (55.8%) were willing to receive the HPV vaccine, while 116 (44.2%) were not. After viewing the educational video, willingness increased to 394 participants (78.6%), and those unwilling decreased to 107 (21.4%). Factors such as age, gender, marital status, education, and professional role did not significantly predict knowledge or apprehension regarding HPV and the HPV vaccine. However, professional role and younger adult (20–39 years) groups were statistically significant predictors of a positive attitude as well as stronger expectations for action from policymakers towards HPV vaccine. The study reveals significant gaps in HPV vaccine awareness and uptake among medical professionals, paramedics, and administrative staff. It highlights the need for broad educational programs to address these knowledge gaps, emphasizing HPV's health impacts and preventive measures. Multimedia educational interventions effectively boost vaccine acceptance among the groups and the general public.
Isolation of Urinary Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) via Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography Using a Nylon‐6 Capillary‐Channeled Polymer (C‐CP) Fiber Column
Authors: Pons William F. , Marcus R. Kenneth
Published: February 2025

Exosomes, a subset of extracellular vesicles (EVs) ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm, are of significant interest for biomedical applications such as diagnostic testing and therapeutics delivery. Biofluids, including urine, blood, and saliva, contain exosomes that carry biomarkers reflective of their host cells. However, isolation of EVs is often a challenge due to their size range, low density, and high hydrophobicity. Isolations can involve long separation times (ultracentrifugation) or result in impure eluates (size exclusion chromatography, polymer‐based precipitation). As an alternative to these methods, this study evaluates the first use of nylon‐6 capillary‐channeled polymer (C‐CP) fiber columns to separate EVs from human urine via a step‐gradient hydrophobic interaction chromatography method. Different from previous efforts using polyester fiber columns for EV separations, nylon‐6 shows potential for increased isolation efficiency, including somewhat higher column loading capacity and more gentle EV elution solvent strength. The efficacy of this approach to EV separation has been determined by scanning electron and transmission microscopy, nanoparticle flow cytometry (NanoFCM), and Bradford protein assays. Electron microscopy showed isolated vesicles of the expected morphology. Nanoparticle flow cytometry determined particle densities of eluates yielding up to 5 × 108 particles mL−1, a typical distribution of vesicle sizes in the eluate (60–100 nm), and immunoconfirmation using fluorescent anti‐CD81 antibodies. Bradford assays confirmed that protein concentrations in the EV eluate were significantly reduced (approx. sevenfold) from raw urine. Overall, this approach provides a low‐cost and time‐efficient (< 20 min) column separation to yield urinary EVs of the high purities required for downstream applications, including diagnostic testing and therapeutics.
Exploring the Role of Land Utilization, Renewable Energy, and ICT to Counter the Environmental Emission: A Panel Study of Selected G20 and OECD Countries
Authors: Alsaggaf Majid Ibrahim
Published: February 2025

Understanding the complex connections between land utilization, economic activity, technological development, and carbon emissions will be essential as the world struggles to address climate change and the resulting environmental problems. For empirical analysis, we have used pooled mean group (PMG) and Method of Moment Quantile Regression (MMQR) to precisely capture the details of these relationships across various quantiles. The study uses a balanced panel dataset from 1980 to 2019 that includes 10 emerging nations which are common in G20 and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and China. The study discovers an environmental Kuznets curve with an inverted U form, highlighting the complex link between economic development and environmental degradation in emerging countries. The study also clarifies how internet use, foreign direct investment, and renewable energy (REN) affect environmental consequences at different quantiles. Moreover, the findings confirm the adverse impact of carbon emission, FDI, and REN on land degradation. The findings have implications for sustainable development policy, highlighting the necessity of customized approaches for the distinct contexts and levels of development of every nation.
Picturing plankton: Complementing net‐based plankton community assessments with optical imaging across diverse marine environments
Authors: Ollevier Anouk , Mortelmans Jonas , Boone Wieter , Deneudt Klaas , De Troch Marleen , Develter Roeland , Goossens Cedric , Meire Lorenz , Möller Klas Ove , Ponsoni Leandro , Hablützel Pascal I.
Published: February 2025

In recent years, optical imaging has emerged as a promising tool for in situ observations of plankton. In this study, we aimed to compare the plankton community estimates obtained from a Video Plankton Recorder (VPR) imaging device with net‐based approaches. By collecting VPR and net samples in clear waters with large‐sized plankton and eutrophic waters with small‐sized plankton, spatial and temporal patterns in plankton densities and community composition were compared. Furthermore, it allowed the evaluation of the performance of imaging methods under diverse hydrographic conditions. We observed pronounced spatial differences in density estimates. In the eutrophic site, the WP2 net densities consistently surpassed those from a VPR, while in the clear water site the observed densities of the VPR and a MultiNet were more similar. Variations in water column turbidity, plankton body size, plankton nets and their mesh size, and the total sampled water volume were found to likely play a role in the observed inconsistencies between the sampling sites. The results suggested that a VPR is particularly well‐suited for use in clear waters inhabited by large‐sized plankton. The VPR demonstrated potential in enhancing density estimates of fragile (Phaeocystis) and gelatinous taxa (Cnidaria and Ctenophora) in specific environments being non‐invasive. Overall, the VPR and other optical imaging devices show valuable insights into zooplankton ecology and distribution, complementing density estimates of traditional net sampling methods, and enhancing our understanding of the role of zooplankton in marine ecosystems.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, the Endocannabinoid System, and Exogenous Cannabinoids: Current State and Clinical Implications
Authors: Denton Travis T. , Carter Gregory T. , Goddard Megan , Weiss Jeremy , Weeks Douglas L. , Weydt Patrick , Russo Ethan B. , Weiss Michael D.
Published: February 2025

A unifying mechanistic cause for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains uncertain. Multiple pathophysiological processes appear to occur simultaneously. Cannabinoids, including delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and others found in cannabis, and cannabis extracts (CEs), appear to have activity in these pathogenic pathways, which have led to increasing interest in cannabinoids as therapeutic agents for ALS. The use of cannabinoids as a treatment strategy is substantiated by preclinical evidence suggesting a role for the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in ALS and other neurodegenerative disorders. Preclinical data indicate that cannabis and CEs have powerful antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS. The use of CEs in SOD1G93A murine models has been shown to prolong neuronal cell survival, which leads to delayed onset of the disease state, and slows progression of the disease. Although research in humans remains limited, a few studies suggest that cannabis and CBD, in humans, provide benefits for both motor symptoms, including rigidity, cramps, and fasciculations, and non‐motor symptoms including sleep quality, pain, emotional state, quality of life, and depression. There remains a need for further, well‐designed clinical trials to validate further the use of an individual cannabinoid, or a combination of cannabinoids, as a disease‐modifying therapy for ALS.
Evaluating Trends in Medicare Reimbursements Between Male and Female Otolaryngologists From 2013 to 2018
Authors: Pittman Corinne A. , Shan Holly D. , Harish Varsha , Rapoport Sarah K.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Gender‐based pay disparities exist in otolaryngology. Determining whether such patterns have been consistently present could help expose whether, and to what extent, gender‐based inequalities exist within our field.

Study Design

Retrospective, cross‐sectional analysis of publicly available Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) data for otolaryngologists from 2013 to 2018.

Setting

A database study.

Methods

CMS databases were used to evaluate whether gender differences exist within clinical productivity and reimbursement patterns among otolaryngologists over time, and if so, what those trends have been. Outcomes included the number of unique billing codes and charges submitted per physician (clinical productivity) and physician reimbursements. Results were controlled for geography, levels of clinical productivity, and gender.

Results

Male otolaryngologists consistently submitted more charges for reimbursement (median [interquartile range, IQR], 291,539 [154,380‐503,932] vs 196,029 [94,849‐337,224]) and a greater number of unique billing codes (median [IQR], 52.0 [34.0‐72.0] vs 41.0 [27.0‐59.0]) than female otolaryngologists. Male otolaryngologists received greater reimbursements than female otolaryngologists (median [IQR], $114,390 [$61,732‐$184,209] vs $72,679 [$34,855‐$122,473]). Contrast ratios of estimated marginal means for reimbursements between male and female otolaryngologists demonstrated that 75% to 81% (P < .0001) of the estimated payment for physician services were received by male otolaryngologists.

Conclusion

There appears to be a consistent, general trend that the female gender is associated with decreased clinical productivity and lower CMS payments among otolaryngologists. These disparities persist even among highly productive female otolaryngologists. To better address gender pay disparities within otolaryngology, billing patterns among female otolaryngologists should be more closely assessed to help optimize reimbursement patterns for equivalent services provided by male otolaryngologists.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Redefining phenotypic intratumor heterogeneity of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: a bottom‐up approach
Authors: Hilmi Marc , Delecourt Flore , Raffenne Jérôme , Bourega Taib , Dusetti Nelson , Iovanna Juan , Blum Yuna , Richard Magali , Neuzillet Cindy , Couvelard Anne , Tihy Matthieu , de Mestier Louis , Rebours Vinciane , Nicolle Rémy , Cros Jérôme
Published: February 2025

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor interpatient heterogeneity has been well described with two major prognostic subtypes (classical and basal‐like). An important intrapatient heterogeneity has been reported but has not yet been studied extensively due to the lack of standardized, reproducible, and easily accessible high‐throughput methods. We built an immunohistochemical (IHC) tool capable of differentiating RNA‐defined classical and basal‐like tumors by selecting relevant antibodies using a multistep process. The successive stages of (i) an in silico selection from a literature review and a bulk transcriptome analysis of 309 PDACs, (ii) a tumor‐specific selection from 30 patient‐derived xenografts and single‐cell data, followed by (iii) the validation on tissue microarrays in 50 PDAC were conducted. We used our final IHC panel on two independent cohorts of resected PDAC (n = 95, whole‐slide, n = 148, tissue microarrays) for external validation. After digitization and registration of pathology slides, we performed a tile‐based analysis in tumor areas to identify relevant marker combinations. Sequential marker selection led to the following panel: GATA6, CLDN18, TFF1, MUC16, S100A2, KRT17, PanBasal. Four different phenotypes were identified: one classical, one intermediate (KRT17+), and two basal‐like (MUC16+ versus S100A2+) with specific biological properties. The presence of a minor basal contingent drastically reduced overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.90, p = 0.03], even in classical predominant PDACs. Analysis of preneoplastic lesions suggested that pancreatic carcinogenesis might follow a progressive evolution from classical toward a basal through an early intermediate phenotype. In conclusion, our IHC panel redefined and easily assessed the high degree of intra‐ and intertumoral heterogeneity of PDAC. © 2025 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
African Hospital‐Based Paediatric Palliative Oncology Care Independent of Economic Indicators: An International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Global Mapping Programme Survey
Authors: Mauree Angidi , Myezo Khumo , Ranasinghe Neil , Challinor Julia , Bandini Rossella , Burns Kathryn , Eyal Katherine , Downing Julia , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Bouffet Eric , Geel Jennifer
Published: February 2025

Background

Paediatric palliative care (PPC) is considered an essential component of the management of children and adolescents with cancer. The International Society of Paediatric Oncology Global Mapping Programme (SIOP GMP) surveyed hospital‐based paediatric oncology facilities across Africa from 2018 to 2020 to document PPC and provision of PPC services. We aimed to assess possible correlations between existing PPC services across Africa with economic indicators.

Procedure

An electronic and paper survey was widely distributed to elicit the presence of components of PPC: PPC teams, bereavement counselling services, patient support groups, and spiritual and religious support. Results were correlated with the countries’ Gini coefficient, World Bank income status indicators and Human Development Index.

Results

Hospital‐based paediatric oncology facilities in 16/54 African countries reported having all four PPC services, while those in 12 countries reported having none of the four PPC services. No clear correlations were found between provision of such services and selected economic factors.

Conclusions

This study assesses components of PPC through four binary questions and demonstrates that hospital‐based paediatric oncology facilities with limited resources caring for children and adolescents can provide PPC. Adoption of the World Health Organization's conceptual framework for palliative care and knowledge transfer between African facilities on the integration of PPC into paediatric oncology care, would benefit the increasing numbers of children and adolescents with cancer across the continent.
Synthesis of nonlinear heteroaromatic donor–acceptor conjugated polymers: Structural, theoretical, electrochemical, and optical properties
Authors: Sunitha M. S. , Naik Praveen , Vishnumurthy K. A. , Adhikari Airody Vasudeva
Published: February 2025

This study presents a new class of donor–acceptor (D–A) type NLO‐active polymeric materials (P1–4), bearing 3,4‐disubstituted thiophene as electron donor and 1,3,4‐oxadiazole as electron acceptor units, along with various aromatic spacers, namely: phenylenevinylene (P1), 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene‐EDOT (P2), naphthalene (P3), and biphenyl group (P4). Their optical and electrochemical behavior was thoroughly examined using cyclic voltammetry, UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, and Z‐scan technique for nonlinear optical assessments. Additionally, Density Functional Theory analysis and Molecular Electrostatic Potential mapping were carried out to understand the charge distribution and electronic structure in the repeating units of polymers. The influence of the incorporated conjugated π‐linkers on their molecular geometry and optoelectronic properties was analyzed to reveal the relationship between molecular structures and optoelectronic characteristics. Interestingly, P1–4 exhibited distinctive electrochemical band gaps, and noteworthy optical limiting behavior attributed to efficient two‐photon absorption, demonstrating their potential for optoelectronic and photonic applications. Among the new polymers P1–4, P2 displayed the highest two‐photon absorption coefficient.

Highlights

A class of D–A type polymers with varied aromatic π‐spacers were synthesized.

New polymers were characterized as potential optical limiting materials.

Electronic and charge distribution properties were studied by DFT and MESP.

Optical and electrochemical studies showed suitability for nonlinear optics.

TPA values are comparable to those typically found in top‐tier NLO materials.
Planting and replanting: Continuity and change over four decades of forest restoration in Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Fleischman Forrest , Rana Pushpendra , Fischer Harry , Guleria Vijay , Rana Rajesh , Ramprasad Vijay
Published: February 2025

Societal Impact Statement

India has a long history of planting trees to restore ecosystem services providing an opportunity to evaluate long‐term ecosystem restoration processes. We show that these programs have shifted over time in response to public demands as well as through changes in the government's vision for forests. These shifts point towards opportunities and limits for political responsiveness in the design and implementation of restoration programs. Independent evaluations have shown that the tree planting programs we study often fail to achieve their goals, raising questions about their benefits, and risks from positioning tree planting as a panacea for social and environmental problems.

Aims: Interest in forest restoration has increased in recent years with the goal of increasing carbon storage, protecting biodiversity, and improving the delivery of ecosystem services to aid rural livelihoods. However, there is little systematic analysis of how this trend relates to broader histories of landscape interventions.

Methods: We analyze a dataset comprising 36 years of government plantation records from the forest department of the Indian Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh.

Findings: Restoration‐oriented tree planting peaked in the 1980s and 1990s with heavy domestic funding. Counter to dominant policy narratives, most plantation programs did not formally involve the participation of local people and were not funded by donors or carbon markets. Over time, planting shifted away from commercial timber species towards a more diverse set of native broadleaf species, reflecting local preferences for the production of firewood, fodder, and other non‐timber forest products and ecosystem services as well as changing conceptions by government agencies about what and who a forest is meant to serve. Over time, the number of programs sponsoring tree planting has proliferated, reflecting the ways that tree planting has been framed as the solution to a growing number of problems, ranging from poverty alleviation to climate adaptation.

Conclusion: The current global focus on forest restoration and nature‐based climate solutions represents a reframing of long‐existing policies and programs in this region. As with past policy changes, restoration practices are likely to be influenced by long‐term histories, entrenched practices, and local political influences.
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Model to Predict Target Occupancy by Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Patients With B‐Cell Malignancies
Authors: Demin Oleg , Ou Ying , Kolesova Galina , Shchelokov Dmitry , Stepanov Alexander , Musatova Veronika , Sahasranaman Sri , Zhao Yating , Liu Xiangyu , Tang Zhiyu , Hanley William D.
Published: February 2025

The effectiveness of Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors is influenced by the level of BTK occupancy in target tissues. In randomized phase 3 studies, progression‐free survival (PFS) with zanubrutinib was superior to ibrutinib, whereas acalabrutinib was noninferior to ibrutinib in previously treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. To establish a link between numerical differences in BTK occupancy and differentiated efficacy profiles among three covalent BTK inhibitors, quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling was employed. The model was developed to describe available clinical BTK occupancy data in patients with B‐cell malignancies. Simulations of BTK occupancy were conducted for various clinical scenarios (e.g., dose interruption) and for bone marrow (BM), for which routine measurements are difficult. This model describes pharmacokinetics of BTK inhibitors; intracellular concentration of BTK inhibitors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), BM, and lymph nodes (LNs); binding of BTK inhibitors with BTK; and BTK turnover rate. The model was validated using available clinical BTK occupancy data. Consistent with observed clinical data, the model predicted that zanubrutinib 160 mg twice daily resulted in higher median trough BTK occupancy in PBMCs, LNs, and BM compared with ibrutinib and acalabrutinib. Although the BTK occupancy differences at trough were relatively small between the BTK inhibitors, the differences were more pronounced after dose interruption. The current work underscores the importance of maintaining high BTK occupancy at steady‐state trough and during treatment interruption to ensure maximal efficacy and provides an example of combining in vitro and clinical data to model receptor occupancy in tissues where measurements are challenging.
Effect of Structural Changes Induced by Annealing Atmospheres on Luminescence of Eu2+‐ and Eu3+‐Doped AlN Thin Films
Authors: Miyano Kazuto , Qian Yingda , Kaku Shinichiro , Zhao Xinwei , Murayama Mariko
Published: February 2025

Europium (Eu)‐doped aluminum nitride (AlN) thin films can exhibit white light emission, which consists of the green and red emissions from the different valence states of Eu ions (Eu2+ and Eu3+) and the blue luminescence from vacancies formed in AlN. Thus, controlling the valence state of Eu ions makes them potential applications in white light‐emitting diodes. This study investigates the effects of annealing in/at the different atmospheres, O2, or N2/temperatures on the valence state and luminescence properties of Eu‐doped AlN. X‐Ray absorption fine structure and photoluminescence (PL) results suggest that high‐temperature annealing in an N2 atmosphere increases the presence of Eu2+, whereas in an O2 atmosphere, the concentration of Eu3+ increases with rising temperature. PL results indicate that this change is attributable to the reduction of N ions and/or alterations in the bonding atoms surrounding Eu ions. Consequently, the adjustment of annealing atmosphere and temperature is crucial for controlling the ratio of Eu2+ to Eu3+.