bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crosslinked polyethyleneimine‐based structures in different morphologies as promising CO2 adsorption systems: A comprehensive study
Authors: Demirci Sahin , Inger Erk , Bhethanabotla Venkat , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: August 2024

Although there are many studies on CO2 adsorption via PEI‐modified carbon particles, metal–organic frameworks, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, and silica‐based porous structures, only a limited number of studies on solely cross‐linked PEI‐based structures. Here, the CO2 adsorption capacities of PEI‐based microgels and cryogels were investigated. The effects of various parameters influencing the CO2 adsorption capacity of PEI‐based structures, for example, crosslinker types, PEI types (branched [bPEI] or linear [lPEI]), adsorbent types (microgel or cryogel), chemical‐modification including their complexes were examined. NaOH‐treated glycerol diglycidyl ether (GDE) crosslinked lPEI microgels exhibited higher CO2 adsorption capacity among other microgels with 0.094 ± 0.006 mmol CO2/g at 900 mm Hg, 25°C with 2‐ and 7.5‐fold increase upon pentaethylenehexamine (PEHA) modification and Ba(II) metal ion complexing, respectively. The CO2 adsorption capacity of bPEI and lPEI‐based cryogels were compared and found that lPEI‐GDE cryogels had higher adsorption capacity than bPEI‐GDE cryogels with 0.188 ± 0.01 mmol CO2/g at 900 mm Hg and 25°C. The reuse studies revealed that NaOH‐treated GDE crosslinked bPEI and lPEI microgels and cryogels showed promising potential, for example, after 10‐times repeated use >50% CO2 adsorption capacity was retained. The results affirmed that PEI‐based microgels and cryogels are encouraging materials for CO2 capture and reuse applications.
Journal recommended guidelines for systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Wilson Adam B. , Bay Boon Huat , Byram Jessica N. , Carroll Melissa A. , Finn Gabrielle M. , Hammer Niels , Hildebrandt Sabine , Krebs Claudia , Wisco Jonathan J. , Organ Jason M.
Published: August 2024

Systematic reviews and meta‐analyses aggregate research findings across studies and populations, making them a valuable form of research evidence. Over the past decade, studies in medical education using these methods have increased by 630%. However, many manuscripts are not publication‐ready due to inadequate planning and insufficient analyses. These guidelines aim to improve the clarity and comprehensiveness of reporting methodologies and outcomes, ensuring high quality and comparability. They align with existing standards like PRISMA, providing examples and best practices. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for publication consideration in Anatomical Sciences Education.
Climate change exposure and the takeover market: A text‐based analysis
Authors: Chindasombatcharoen Pongsapak , Chatjuthamard Pattanaporn , Jiraporn Pornsit , Wongsinhirun Nopparat
Published: August 2024

We examine the impact of takeover vulnerability on firm‐specific climate change exposure using sophisticated text‐based metrics generated from machine learning algorithms and a measure of takeover vulnerability primarily derived from state takeover laws. Based on a large sample of more than 28,000 observations, our findings show that firms more vulnerable to hostile takeovers have higher exposure to physical climate risks, as managers focus on short‐term financial performance over long‐term risk mitigation. These firms also reduce regulatory risk exposure by adopting stringent compliance measures and improving environmental practices to avoid penalties and attract investors. However, they are less likely to invest in new business opportunities related to climate change, prioritizing stability over potential gains in new business opportunities. Propensity score matching and entropy balancing confirm the robustness of these results. Our research provides insights into how hostile takeover threats influence corporate environmental strategies.
Structural and Electronic Factors Controlling the Efficiency and Rate of Intersystem Crossing to the Triplet State in Thiophene Polycyclic Derivatives
Authors: Griffrith Cameron , Krul Sarah E. , Hoehn Sean J. , Phan Tram , Crespo‐Hernández Carlos E.
Published: August 2024

Thiophene polycyclic derivatives are widely used in organic light‐emitting diodes, photovoltaics, and medicinal chemistry applications. Understanding the electronic and structural factors controlling their intersystem crossing rates is paramount for these applications to be successful. This study investigates the photophysical, electronic structure, and excited state dynamics of 1,2‐benzodiphenylene sulfide, benzo[b]naphtho[1,2‐d]thiophene, and benzo[b]naphtho[2,3‐d]thiophene in polar aprotic and non‐polar solvents. Steady‐state absorption and emission spectroscopy, femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy, and DFT and TD‐DFT calculations are employed. Low fluorescence quantum yields of 1.2 to 2.7 % are measured in acetonitrile and cyclohexene, evidencing that the primary relaxation pathways in these thiophene derivatives are nonradiative. Linear interpolation of internal coordinates calculations predict that an S−C bond elongation reaction coordinate facilitates the efficient intersystem crossing to the T1 state. Excitation of 1,2‐benzodiphenylene sulfide and benzo[b]naphtho[1,2‐d]thiophene at 350 nm or benzo[b]naphtho[2,3‐d]thiophene at 365 nm, populates the lowest‐energy 1ππ* state, which relaxes to the 1ππ* minimum in tens of picoseconds or intersystem crosses to the triplet manifold in ca. 500 ps to 1.1 ns depending on the position at which the benzene rings are added. Excitation at 266 nm does not affect the intersystem crossing rates. Laser photodegradation experiments demonstrate that the thiophene polycyclic derivatives are highly photostable.
A Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on TPU/MXene/Carbon for Heart Rate and Tai Chi Posture Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Zhongxing , Cai Jun
Published: August 2024

Recently, the electronic skin (E‐skin) based on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has exhibited enormous potential in smart sports. However, TENGs device installed on human body usually faces challenges in complex mechanical environments. Here, we proposed a flexible TPU/MXene/carbon conductive electrode and combined with PDMS to prepare triboelectric nanogenerator (PT‐TENG) to harvest mechanical energy. Moreover, to demonstrate the application of PT‐TENG in smart sports, we can use it to monitor the posture changes of human joints during Tai Chi exercise and heart rate. The transfer charge (Qsc) of PT‐TENG can arrive at 104.65 nC, which is superior to the output performance produced by using traditional metal aluminum foil to prepare TENG device. The PT‐TENG can obtain the maximum output power of 132.34 μW under the working frequency 2 Hz. The experimental results show that PT‐TENG installed on the fingers, wrists, and knees of the human body can effectively perceive the bending angle of joints, which is very meaningful for evaluating the posture of movements in Tai Chi training. This research provide an effective path to promote the application of the self‐powered E‐skin based on TENG device on the smart sport field.
Preparation of 2‐Aminoimidazole‐Activated Substrates for the Study of Nonenzymatic Genome Replication
Authors: Robinson James D. , Sammons Scott R. , O'Flaherty Derek K.
Published: August 2024

Nonenzymatic genome replication is thought to be an important process for primitive lifeforms, but this has yet to be demonstrated experimentally. Recent studies on the nonenzymatic primer extension mechanism mediated by nucleoside 5′‐monophosphates (NMPs) activated with 2‐aminoimidazole have revealed that imidazolium‐bridged dinucleotide intermediates (N*N) account for the majority of the chemical copying process. As a result, an efficacious synthetic pathway for producing substrates activated with an imidazoyl moiety is desirable. This article provides a detailed protocol for the standard dehydrative redox reaction between NMPs and 2‐aminoimidazole to produce nucleotide phosphoroimidazolides. In addition, we describe a similar synthetic pathway to produce N*N in high yields for homodimers. Finally, a simple reversed‐phase cation exchange step is described to increase NMP solubility, which significantly increases yields for certain substrates. This approach allows for an efficient and cost‐effective methodology to prepare high‐quality substrates utilized in origins‐of‐life studies. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of 2‐aminoimidazolephosphoroimidazolide‐activated cytidine

Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of 2‐aminoimidazolium‐bridged dicytidyl intermediate

Basic Protocol 3: Cation exchange of guanosine 5′‐monophosphate disodium salt

Alternate Protocol: Synthesis of cytidine 5′‐phosphoroimidazolide or 2‐aminoimidazolium‐bridged dicytidyl from cytidine 5′‐monophosphate disodium salt
Investigation of vaned diffuser endwall contouring technology for improving the stable operating range of a centrifugal compressor with an asymmetric volute
Authors: Cui Qin , Qin Guoliang , Jia Cheng , Wang Yi , Lei Jian , Zhang Yong , Sun Yuying
Published: August 2024

In this study, nonaxisymmetric endwall contouring technology is employed as a passive control strategy to enhance the stable operating range of a centrifugal compressor with an asymmetric volute. The endwall contouring method is applied to the hub‐side wall of the vaned diffuser within a centrifugal compressor stage. Instead of utilizing a flat hub as the baseline diffuser, various diffuser configurations featuring hub‐side contoured endwalls are explored, with adjustments in the peak radial position and peak height of the convex and concave profiles. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the centrifugal compressor stage with both the baseline and contoured vaned diffusers. The investigation explores the underlying flow control mechanisms and establishes the effective endwall contouring guidelines. The findings highlight the effectiveness of endwall contouring in enhancing the stable operating range of centrifugal compressors. Notably, a substantial enhancement of 15.1% in the stable operating range is achieved by employing the contoured diffuser with the peak radial position near the vane leading edge (LE) and the peak height at 20% of the vane height. The endwall contoured diffusers reduce the positive LE incidence angles to direct the fluid toward the suction side (SS), and increase the radial velocity near the SS to suppress the hub‐suction corner separations in the diffuser passages near the volute tongue. These improvements collectively contribute to the enhancement of diffuser flow characteristics. Finally, a set of effective endwall contouring guidelines is proposed to guide the endwall contouring design for enhancing the stable operating range of centrifugal compressors.
IFN‐γ and IL‐10 Immunosensor with Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Interdigitated Electrodes toward Pen‐Side Cattle Paratuberculosis Monitoring
Authors: Ding Shaowei , Brownlee Benjamin J. , Parate Kshama , Pola Cicero C. , Chen Bolin , Hostetter Jesse M. , Jones Douglas , Jackman John , Iverson Brian D. , Claussen Jonathan C.
Published: August 2024

Highly sensitive vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays (VANTAs) interdigitated electrode (IDE) arrays are developed for electrochemical biosensing of two cytokines (i.e., interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) and interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ)) that are useful for early detection Johne's disease (Bovine Paratuberculosis) in cattle. The high aspect ratio VANTA‐IDEs (50–60 µm in height) are grown through a chemical vapor deposition process from an iron (Fe) catalyst that is lithographically patterned on a silicon wafer with equal finger width and inter‐finger spacing of 25 µm. After functionalization with distinct antibodies the VANTA‐IDEs are capable of selective detection of both IL‐10 and IFN‐γ within an actual biological matrix (i.e., diluted bovine implant supernatant) over concentration ranges of 0.1 to 30 pg mL−1 (limit of detection – LOD: 0.0911 pg mL−1) and 50–500 pg mL−1 (LOD: 24.17 pg mL−1), respectively with a response time of <35 min. Results demonstrate important initial steps for rapid, pen‐side identification of cattle with stage‐I Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infection before physical symptoms of Johne's disease are present. Such a rapid pen‐side diagnostic test can be used on cattle at an auction or before they are introduced to a herd to ensure the larger population does not become infected with Johne's disease.
Venation pattern of eleven species of Tephrosia
Authors: Bhatt R. P. , Tuteja S. K.
Published: August 2024

The venation pattern is studied in eleven species of Tephrosia. The major venation pattern conforms the pinnate camptodromous type. Areoles vary in size and shape. Composite intersecondaries and isolated tracheids are observed. Marginal ultimate venation is looped. Quantitative data regarding venation pattern have been used in grouping related taxa.
Studies on Bupleurum L. (Umbelliferae) in India II. SEM observations of leaf surfaces
Authors: Chakrabarty Chaitali , Mukherjee P. K.
Published: August 2024

Cuticular patterns of leaf surfaces are reported for 15 species of Bupleurum from India. The patterns found are of minor taxonomic significance, lending support only to the delineations of certain species. The adaptive value of the surface patterns in relation to habitats of the species concerned is discussed.
Beitrag zur Kenntnis der Pilzflora der Syrischen Arabischen Republik
Authors: Ali Nawal
Published: August 2024

In der Arbeit werden Fundorte folgender phytoparasitischer Pilze aus der SAR mitgeteilt: Phragmidium tuberculatum J. Müll., Puccinia allii (DC.) Rudolphi, Puccinia graminis Pers., Puccinia sorghi Schweinitz, Uromyces phaseoli (Pers.) Wint., Uromyces viciae‐fabae (Pers.) Schroet.
Über antillanische Symplocaceae
Authors: Mai Dieter H.
Published: August 2024

Von 29 antillanischchen Arten der älteren Literatur hielten nur 18 der Kritik stand. S. strigillosa (Cuba) und S. jamaicensis (Jamaica) wurden in den Rang von Unterarten der weit verbreiteten S. martinicensis versetzt. S. azuensis aus der Dominikanischen Republik wird als neue Art beschrieben. Schwerpunkte der Bearbeitung waren die bisher ungenügend untersuchten Merkmalskomplexe der Steinfrüchte, der Pollen und der Blattskelette. Die suhgenerische Einteilung von Brand (1901) ist für die karibischen Arten im wesentlichen zu bestätigen. Arealgeographische Studien führten zur Ermittlung eines Entwicklungszentrums in der Sierra Maestra von Cuba und eines Reliktzentrums auf Guadeloupe. Der Endemitengrad bei der Gattung in der Karibik ist hoch.
Algunos aspectos fitogeográficos de plantas serpentinícolas cubanas
Authors: Iturralde Rosalina Berazaín
Published: August 2024

Se describen ejemplos de distribución de las plantas serpentinicolas según los fenómenos de endemismo, relaciones, disyunciones y vicarianzas presentes a lo largo de lots núcleos ultrubásicos de la Isla de Cuba. Se discuten las posibles causas de la distribución actual.
Über eine altertümliche Konifere im Jungtertiär und deren Bedeutung für Braunkohlen‐ und Bernsteinbildung
Authors: Mai Dieter H. , Schneider Wilfrid
Published: August 2024

Samen, Zapfen und Zweige aus dem Oberoligozän/Untermiozän von Bitterfeld und der Lausitz gehören zu einer altertümlichen Konifere. die erstmals von Mai (1960) als Cupressospermum saxonicum beschrieben wurde. Disperse Kutikulen vom Typus Enormicutis saxonica Schneider n.fsp. gehören mit größter Wahrscheinlichkeit zur gleichen Art. Nach morphologischen und anatomischen Merkmalen gehört die Konifere zu mesozoischen Gruppen und ist im Jungtertiär Relikt. Ihr wird infolge ihres Harzreichtums große Bedeutung bei der Bernsteinbildung im Bitterfelder Gebiet zugemessen. Die Verteilung der dispersen Kutikulen bezeugl eine insbesondere in den ersten eutrophen torfbildenden Coenosen („K‐Fazies”) im 4. bis 2. miozänen Fiözhorizont teilweise dominierende Rolle dieser Konifere.
Studies in fruit and seed morphology and anatomy in relation to the taxonomy of Telfairia Hooker (Cucurbitaceae)
Authors: Okoli Bosa E.
Published: August 2024

Scanning electron microscopy and routine morphological and anatomical studies in the fruits and seeds of Telfairia pedata and T. occidentalis have shown that several differences which may be exploited for taxonomic purposes exist between the two species that make up this genus. Significant differences were observed in the gross morphology of fruits and seeds, types and sizes of stomata on the fruits and type and amount of pigmentation in the testa. Variations were also observed in the germination behaviour and seedling characteristics of the two species.
On the probable function and taxonomic value of calcium oxalate crystals in Cucurbitaceae
Authors: Okoli Bosa E.
Published: August 2024

Petiolar, ovarian and mature fruit tissues in ten species of Cucurbitaceae were examined for their crystal content using light and polarizing microscopy.

Histochemical tests were used to confirm that in nine out of the ten species studied, crystals were present in the calyx. With the exception of the two species of Lagenaria, all other species had crystals in their ovarian tissues, though in varying amounts. The distribution in the petiolar tissues was similar except that Cucurbita moschata and two Lagenaría species showed an absence of crystals. Mature fruits and senescing petioles contained fewer or no crystals compared with young ones. These results and the concentration of crystals mainly in the epidermal and hypodermal regions indicate that the functions of oxalate crystals in these genera include a protective one. The size, location and distribution pattern of crystals may be exploited for taxonomic purposes.
Tyloses of the root wood of Cassia fistula L.
Authors: Ranjani K. , Krishnamurthy K. V.
Published: August 2024

In Cassia fistula, during heartwood formation in root woods, some of the vessels showed the development of tyloses, while others got occluded with phenolic deposits. Some vessels showed both these. The tyloses remained either thin walled or developed secondary wall and looked like brachysclereids in transections. Both these often showed abundant crystals of calcium oxalate. Crystal containing tyloses were recorded here for the first time in Caesalpiniaceae. Although tyloses seemed to developed from ray parenchyma, the development of crystals in tyloses is enigmatic since the ray tissue (so also the axial parenchyma) did not contain crystals.
Taxonomy of the endemic African genus Clappertonia Meisner (Tiliaceae)
Authors: Nyananyo Bio Louis
Published: August 2024

Clappertonia Meisner (syn. Honckenya Willdenow) is a genus endemic to Africa, and though it is the source of a fibre comparable to jute in many respects, particularly in strength and could be a source for paper pulp, the number of species delimited for it have been problematic. Also, the taxonomy of this genus is lacking in the literature. The generic limits of and a contribution to the taxonomy of this genus is evaluated on the basis of comparative palynology, seed coat ornamentation, and leaf epidermal morphology. A key to the two species, Clappertonia ficifolia (Willdenow) Decainse (syn. C. polyandra (Schumann) Becherer) and C. minor (Baillon) Becherer now recognized for the genus is provided.
Natural settling of arboreal hemianemochores1
Authors: Udra I. F.
Published: August 2024

The paper deals with a problem of natural dispersal of important representatives of broad‐leaved forests, so‐called hemianemochores (species of genus Acer, Carpinus, Fraxinus, Tilia).

We consider, that reliable data on dispersal distance of these species could be obtained by investigation of distribution character of self‐sowing and sprouting around maternal individuals.

Presented data demonstrate not large distance of hemianemochore seeds distribution and, consequently, slow rates of their migration. Dessimination of plants of investigated group is realized at the distance of 25 m from the maternal specimen. Arboreal hemianemochores dispersal within the boundaries of 100 m from maternal specimen less probably.

According to the data received, the speed of migration of this group species, defined according to the given formular are rather low and comprise approximately 5 m a year.
Preadolescents' executive functions and resilience development: A cascade model of resilience resources and resilient functioning
Authors: Zhou Yanlin , Yu Nancy Xiaonan , Liang Zhanhong , Feng Shanshan , Zhang Qiong
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Executive functions (EF), encompassing inhibition, updating, and shifting, are widely acknowledged as cognitive factors that promote resilience. However, prior research examining the association between EF and resilience has been hampered by inconsistent conceptualizations of resilience and an overreliance on cross‐sectional designs. We embraced a process‐oriented conceptualization of resilience and employed a longitudinal approach to investigate how EF components interplay with the dynamic processes of resilience resources and resilient functioning.

Methods

A total of 144 Chinese preadolescents (aged 10–12, 53.5% male) completed computer‐based EF assessments at baseline and self‐reported their resilience at three intervals during 2019–2020. The resilience evaluations encompassed resilience resources at individual, familial, and social levels, as measured by the Resilience Scale for Chinese Adolescents, and resilient functioning, operationalized as the residuals of socioemotional difficulties after accounting for stressful life events.

Results

The findings emphasized the dynamic nature of resilience, unveiling a developmental cascade from resilience resources to resilient functioning and back to resilience resources. Furthermore, distinct effects of EF components on resilience development were found. Specifically, inhibition was associated with both concurrent and long‐term resilience resources and functioning, while updating predicted long‐term resilience resources, and shifting predicted long‐term resilient functioning.

Conclusion

These results underscored the pivotal role of EF as a cognitive foundation in comprehending the dynamic resilience processes during preadolescence.
From sweat to hope: The role of exercise‐induced extracellular vesicles in cancer prevention and treatment
Authors: Llorente Alicia , Brokāne Agnese , Mlynska Agata , Puurand Marju , Sagini Krizia , Folkmane Signe , Hjorth Marit , Martin‐Gracia Beatriz , Romero Silvana , Skorinkina Diana , Čampa Mārtiņš , Cešeiko Rūdolfs , Romanchikova Nadezhda , Kļaviņa Aija , Käämbre Tuuli , Linē Aija
Published: August 2024

The benefits of regular physical exercise on cancer prevention, as well as reducing fatigue, treatment side effects and recurrence, and improving quality of life and overall survival of cancer patients, are increasingly recognised. Initial studies showed that the concentration of extracellular vesicles (EVs) increases during physical activity and that EVs carry biologically active cargo. These EVs are released by blood cells, skeletal muscle and other organs involved in exercise, thus suggesting that EVs may mediate tissue crosstalk during exercise. This possibility triggered a great interest in the study of the roles of EVs in systemic adaptation to exercise and in their potential applications in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer. This review presents studies exploring the concentration and molecular cargo of EVs released during exercise. Furthermore, we discuss putative stimuli that may trigger EV release from various cell types, the biological functions and the impact of exercise‐induced EVs on cancer development and progression. Understanding the interplay between exercise, EVs, and cancer biology may offer insights into novel therapeutic strategies and preventive measures for cancer.
Effects of a 4‐week free‐sugar avoidance during periodontal therapy: An explorative randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Pappe Christina L. , Peters Beeke , Pivovarova‐Ramich Olga , Schremmer Robert , Adam Aysegül , Vach Kirstin , Dommisch Henrik , Woelber Johan P.
Published: August 2024

Background

This study investigated the effect of a 4‐week free‐sugar avoidance on periodontal parameters during periodontal therapy.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with untreated periodontitis and daily free‐sugar intake were allocated to a sugar avoidance group (SAG) and a control group (CG). The SAG received a 45‐min dietary consultation and was instructed to avoid free sugars during the following 4 weeks after subgingival instrumentation, while the CG continued with their regular diet. Bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque control record, body weight (BW), visceral fat (FATv), and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) were collected at baseline (T1), 4 weeks (T2), and 8 weeks (T3) after subgingival instrumentation.

Results

The main outcome parameter BOP was significantly reduced at T2 by 40.3% ± 15.54 in the SAG and 34% ± 12.47 in the CG (intra‐p value both <0.001, inter‐p value 0.361). A linear regression analysis of changes at patient level adjusted for age and FATv revealed a significant group difference for BOP (regression coefficient = –6.8; p = 0.019). Significant reductions were observed in BW, FATv and mean daily intake of free sugars (–14.4 g/day), and a significant increase of vitamin C derived from fruits (75.89 mg/day) at T2 in the SAG only.

Conclusion

This study may indicate additional beneficial effects of a sugar avoidance on periodontal and metabolic parameters, and nutritional intake during periodontal therapy.

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00026699).

Plain Language Summary

The current widespread free‐sugar consumption is linked to an increasing incidence of chronic non‐communicable diseases. Data indicate a relationship between sugar intake and a higher prevalence of periodontitis and increased gingival inflammation.

This study showed that free‐sugar avoidance after periodontal therapy had additional beneficial effects on periodontal and metabolic parameters in 10 test and 11 control patients. After 4 weeks of avoiding free sugars like sweets, processed white flour, juice, and so forth, periodontal bleeding was significantly reduced in both groups (–40.3% test group, –34% control group). Further regression analysis revealed a significant difference between groups favoring the intervention. Additionally, body weight and visceral fat were significantly reduced in the intervention group, only. To avoid sugar, patients were allowed to replace it with whole fruit, which led to increased levels of micronutrients such as vitamin C. Therefore, free‐sugar avoidance may be of therapeutic benefit in addition to periodontal therapy. Further research is needed to investigate this effect in larger cohorts.
Long‐term intraperitoneal access with description of a new access catheter
Authors: Pedro Villarejo Campos , Edward Bruce‐White , Mariano García Arranz , Qian Siyuan , Antonio Pedro , Cascales Campos , Damián García Olmo , Alberto Martínez Albalat
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy can be administered as a single dose associated with hyperthermia (HIPEC) or in successive doses under normothermic conditions, such as early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC) or normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (NIPEC or NIPEC‐LT). Repetitive administration of intraperitoneal chemotherapy over a prolonged period may be associated with catheter‐related complications, which are the primary cause of treatment interruption. This study aims to introduce and evaluate an innovative catheter system designed to mitigate these issues.

Methods

Using a porcine experimental model, we tested a new catheter for long‐term intraperitoneal access. Sixteen animals underwent catheter implantation followed by normothermic recirculation of peritoneal dialysis solution. Catheter functionality and any complications were monitored throughout successive treatment cycles.

Results

The new catheter system demonstrated optimal recirculation and maintained its functionality throughout successive treatments, without complications. Catheter replacement with a guidewire was successful, ensuring continued efficacy.

Conclusions

The innovative catheter system shows promise in reducing complications and improving compliance in successive intraperitoneal chemotherapy doses, justifying further clinical trials to confirm its efficacy in patients.
Plasmon‐Enhanced Fluorescence of NIR‐Emitting CdxHg1‐xTe Quantum Dots by Ag Nanoprisms
Authors: Decker Helena , Metzkow Nadia , Lesnyak Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Near‐infrared (NIR)‐emitting colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) draw a lot of attention due to various fields of their potential application, such as bio‐imaging, photovoltaics, photodetectors, light‐emitting diodes, and optical amplifiers for telecommunication. Since they typically suffer from the partial loss of their fluorescence in a solid state, strategies to increase their quantum yields are of outstanding importance. One of the means to improve it is their coupling with structures exhibiting localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). As demonstrated for the visible range of light, plasmon‐exciton interactions can enhance the photoluminescence (PL) of CdSe and CdTe NCs. In this work, the influence of the electromagnetic field of plasmonic silver NCs on the PL of CdxHg1–xTe NCs in the NIR region with a special emphasis on tuning the distance between these particle species is studied. In a series of samples prepared by a layer‐by‐layer deposition through polyelectrolytes, a 1.4‐fold PL enhancement at a distance of 9–11 nm between the two layers is observed, while at any other separation emission quenching is a dominating effect. These findings corroborate well with theoretical predictions of an emission increase at these specific distances and can be applied to other types of plasmonic and emitting materials.
Exploring the landscape of system dynamics archetypes: A systematic review
Authors: Sánchez Marisa A.
Published: August 2024

System dynamic archetypes reflect common problematic behaviours that occur in the real world. The high level of abstraction embodied in these archetypes is both promising and daunting. Identifying relevant archetypes for real‐world problems is not a straightforward task. In this work, we aim to provide a comprehensive background for understanding current knowledge on the application of system archetypes. The methodology is based on a systematic literature review. Most of the works contribute with prescriptive models that address problems in specific areas. These models generally tackle complex problems where social, environmental and political issues converge. The unit of analysis encompasses geographical units, organizations and artefacts. The steps followed in the development are described with different level of detail. Stakeholders' participation is typically integrated into the development process. Some reported problems are that archetypes could induce a hypothesis that does not include all relevant factors; some participants may have difficulty in understanding the models; confidence in results, difficulty of having data to configure all the variables; and the cost burden for small enterprises.
Fazit: Einfluss- und Machtstrukturen der inneren und äußeren Übersetzungsgeschichte
Authors: Mueller Nicole Marion
Published: August 2024

Die in den Vorkapiteln entwickelten Profile der Texte und der Übersetzenden werden im Schlusskapitel unterschiedlichen Teilgruppen bzw. Generationen zugeordnet, die einen Überblick über die Hauptströmungen der japanischen Tonio Kröger-Retranslation in ihrer historischen Komplexität bieten. Das besondere Augenmerk liegt hierbei auf dem Zusammenhang zwischen Macht, Einfluss und Übersetzen. Anschließend werden die Möglichkeiten und Grenzen des digital gestützten Übersetzungsvergleichs noch einmal zusammenfassend reflektiert und Anknüpfungsmöglichkeiten für weiterführende Forschung benannt.
New Ramsey Multiplicity Bounds and Search Heuristics
Authors: Parczyk Olaf , Pokutta Sebastian , Spiegel Christoph , Szabó Tibor
Published: August 2024

We study two related problems concerning the number of homogeneous subsets of given size in graphs that go back to questions of Erdős. Most notably, we improve the upper bounds on the Ramsey multiplicity of $$K_4$$

K
4

and $$K_5$$

K
5

and settle the minimum number of independent sets of size 4 in graphs with clique number at most 4. Motivated by the elusiveness of the symmetric Ramsey multiplicity problem, we also introduce an off-diagonal variant and obtain tight results when counting monochromatic $$K_4$$

K
4

or $$K_5$$

K
5

in only one of the colors and triangles in the other. The extremal constructions for each problem turn out to be blow-ups of a graph of constant size and were found through search heuristics. They are complemented by lower bounds established using flag algebras, resulting in a fully computer-assisted approach. For some of our theorems we can also derive that the extremal construction is stable in a very strong sense. More broadly, these problems lead us to the study of the region of possible pairs of clique and independent set densities that can be realized as the limit of some sequence of graphs.
Areal differences in the rate of operative care for cancer of the head and neck within one hospital district in Northern Finland
Authors: Molnár Krisztina , Käkilehto Sanni-Mari , Nurkkala Juho , Lahtinen Sanna Liisa , Koivunen Petri , Raatiniemi Lasse , Pohjola Mari , Liisanantti Janne
Published: August 2024

Aim

The relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and cancers of the head and neck has been described previously. The present study investigated areal differences in the rate of operative care of cancers of the head and neck in terms of SES and rural–urban areas.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included operations performed in Northern Finland between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2019. SES and the rurality of the residence was determined using postal codes.

Results

Patients from the low-income areas were older and had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification than patients from middle- and high-income areas. The number of operated thyroid and parotid gland tumours was higher in the high-income areas (n = 36 [33.0%] vs n = 21 [18.8%] and n = 330 [28.6%], p = 0.049). Patients living in low- or median-income areas were more likely to live in rural areas than patients living in high-income areas (n = 55 [49.1%] and n = 62 [59.0%] vs n = 44 [40.4%], p = 0.024). The age-weighted rate of operations was higher in low-income areas than in high-income areas (29.3 [23.9–29.3] vs 17.9 [14.5–21.2]), and the age-weighted rate of free-flap surgery was highest in the low-income areas (16.8 [12.4–21.2] vs 8.2 [5.7–10.6] and 9.6 [7.0–12.1] /100,000 inhabitants/year).

Conclusion

There are significant areal differences in the rate of ablative head and neck surgery. Significantly higher rates were found in low-income areas and in rural areas.
Chasing a Phantom Dysfunction: A Position Paper on Current Methods in Exercise Addiction Research
Authors: Szabo Attila
Published: August 2024

Exercise addiction has been investigated for almost half a decade in well over 1000 published papers. Studies adopt different terminologies like exercise addiction, overexercise, exercise dependence, compulsive exercise, obligatory exercise, and the like to refer to the same concept while creating conceptual confusion and rendering cross-study comparability challenging. The paradox is that fewer than ten research articles cover cases of clinical significance, yielding an extremely high ratio of publications to problematic cases. While there is evidence that significantly more clinically attention-meriting cases might exist, they surface in clinical practice rather than research settings. It is also peculiar that scholars search for a common path or shared etiology for exercise addiction, while each case, like those in substance use disorder, is unique, as also predicted by clinical models. Furthermore, the survey method uses scales yielding risk scores without diagnostic value. Most research in this direction, therefore, seems to be futile. Thus, it is not surprising that more than 10 years ago, the panel editing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) found insufficient evidence for exercise addiction being a mental dysfunction. As a result, exercise addiction has no clinical diagnostic criteria. This position paper aims to identify conceptual and methodological research barriers that hinder progress in this field, ultimately calling for a paradigm shift toward more productive research. In conclusion, the position of this paper is that most currently used research methodologies on exercise addiction are unsatisfactory and, consequently, a paradigm shift is urgently needed.
Generative AI in innovation and marketing processes: A roadmap of research opportunities
Authors: Cillo Paola , Rubera Gaia
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, we are witnessing the exponential growth of Generative AI (GenAI), a group of AI models designed to produce new content. This technology is poised to revolutionize marketing research and practice. Since the marketing literature about GenAI is still in its infancy, we offer a technical overview of how GenAI models are trained and how they produce content. Following this, we construct a roadmap for future research on GenAI in marketing, divided into two main domains. The first domain focuses on how firms can harness the potential of GenAI throughout the innovation process. We begin by discussing how GenAI changes consumer behavior and propose research questions at the consumer level. We then connect these emerging consumer insights with corresponding firm marketing strategies, presenting research questions at the firm level. The second set of research questions examines the likely consequences of using GenAI to analyze: (1) the relationship between market-based assets and firm value, and (2) consumer skills, preferences, and role in marketing processes.
Students’ use of generative artificial intelligence for proving mathematical statements
Authors: Yoon Hyunkyoung , Hwang Jihye , Lee Kyungwon , Roh Kyeong Hah , Kwon Oh Nam
Published: August 2024

In this exploratory study, we investigate undergraduate students’ engagement with generative Artificial Intelligence (genAI) in proving mathematical statements. We selected six mathematical statements to conduct interviews with three students. We present the emergent framework, Students’ Interactive Proving Experience with AI (SIPE-AI), which explains the processes of students’ use of genAI in their proving and the factors influencing these processes. Our findings identify three factors that shape students’ use of genAI: conceptions of proof, conceptions of genAI, and ethical considerations. The results suggest a need to guide undergraduate students in critically engaging with genAI tools, rather than passively accepting their outputs. We also discuss the implications of these findings for enhancing undergraduate mathematics education by fostering informed and critical use of genAI in mathematical proving.
Diabetes, frailty and burden of comorbidities among older Malaysians with stroke
Authors: Wong W. J. , Tan K. M. , Harrison C. , Ng C. C. , Lim W. C. , Nguyen T. N.
Published: August 2024

Background

Stroke is a global health challenge. The increasing prevalence of diabetes and the ageing population further add to the complexities of stroke care.

Objective

This study aims to (1) describe the prevalence of diabetes in older patients with stroke and (2) compare the burden of comorbidities among patients with diabetes and frailty compared to those without these conditions.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study in older patients aged ≥ 65 years with stroke. Comorbidities were assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Frailty assessments were done using the Clinical Frailty Scale. Participants were classified into four groups: Group 1, frail and diabetic; Group 2, non-frail and diabetic; Group 3, frail and non-diabetic; and Group 4, non-frail and non-diabetic.

Results

There were 384 participants (mean age 81.11 ± 6.37). Diabetes was present in 45.1%. The mean CCI was highest for the frail and diabetic group (6.97 ± 1.97), followed by non-frail and diabetic (6.00 ± 2.02), frail and non-diabetic (5.49 ± 1.79) and non-frail and non-diabetic (4.74 ± 1.68), p < 0.001. The non-frail and diabetic group had a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (96.9%) and ischaemic heart disease (34.4%) compared to the other three groups.

Conclusions

There was a high prevalence of diabetes among older patients with stroke. While the frail and diabetic group had the highest overall burden of comorbidities, the non-frail and diabetic group had the most significant cardiovascular disease burden. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated and personalized management approaches to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for older stroke survivors with diabetes.
Fuel provisioning for pollen collection by solitary bee, Andrena taraxaci orienticola
Authors: Harano Ken-ichi , Sasaki Tetsuhiko
Published: August 2024

Female solitary bees collect pollen for their brood at the expense of using sugars in the nectar as fuel for flight. When flowers provide both pollen and nectar, solitary bees can refuel from the flowers to sustain pollen foraging. However, not all flowers provide both pollen and nectar. This study investigates how females of the solitary bee Andrena taraxaci orienticola secure fuel to sustain pollen foraging when flowers provide scarce nectar. By using DNA barcoding, we identified the Japanese dandelion Taraxacum platycarpum as their primary food source. This dandelion produces almost no nectar in the early morning when female bees collect almost no nectar but collect substantial amounts of pollen. We also found that these bees leave the nest with significantly more nectar at the first flight of the day than at later flights. When we restricted their fuel load by preventing nectar feeding, significantly more females failed to collect pollen on the first flight of the following day. These results suggest females hold back some part of the nectar collected at the end of a day’s foraging and use it the following morning as fuel to sustain pollen foraging from flowers providing little nectar.
Disseminated fusariosis after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: case report
Authors: Gantner A. , Hagemann J. B. , Grüner B. , Walther G. , Neagoie A. , Wais V. , Döhner H. , Sala E.
Published: August 2024

In allogenic stem cell recipients, invasive fungal disease is a common yet dreaded complication with high mortality. Among these, fusariosis is especially complex to treat due to high intrinsic resistance and few antimycotic options, requiring close cooperation of all involved departments. We here report an instructive case of disseminated fusariosis after allogenic stem cell transplantation with fatal outcome despite maximum treatment.
A Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis of Mothers’ Experiences of Parenting Autistic Women and Girls
Authors: Oliver Michelle , Poysden Zoe , Gillespie-Smith Karri
Published: August 2024

This review systematically explores qualitative evidence of the lived experience of mothers’ parenting autistic women and girls. A SPIDER search strategy was conducted on five databases and in the grey literature. Backward, forward and relevant journal scanning was also carried out. Twenty-two qualitative or mixed-method studies were included and quality appraised using CASP, encompassing over 150 mothers. A thematic synthesis highlighted five super-ordinate themes; ‘The diagnosis process and getting support’, ‘Mother’s role as all consuming’, ‘Experiences of family wellbeing’, ‘Mother as an expert observer’ and ‘The hopes and fears of mothers’. The review highlights areas of motivation to socialise, masking and menstruation needs as key differences in the autistic female presentation from a mothers’ perspective. Implications for practice are discussed.
Effect of docosahexaenoic acid as an anti-inflammatory for Caco-2 cells and modulating agent for gut microbiota in children with obesity (the DAMOCLE study)
Authors: Lammi C. , Ottaviano E. , Fiore G. , Bollati C. , d’Adduzio L. , Fanzaga M. , Ceccarani C. , Vizzuso S. , Zuccotti G. , Borghi E. , Verduci E.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. We investigated the dual health ability of DHA to modulate gut microbiota in children with obesity and to exert anti-inflammatory activity on human intestinal Caco-2 cells.

Methods

In a pilot study involving 18 obese children (8–14 years), participants received a daily DHA supplement (500 mg/day) and dietary intervention from baseline (T0) to 4 months (T1), followed by dietary intervention alone from 4 months (T1) to 8 months (T2). Fecal samples, anthropometry, biochemicals and dietary assessment were collected at each timepoint. At preclinical level, we evaluated DHA’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on Caco-2 cells stimulated with Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Lipopolysaccharides (LPS), by measuring also Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels and cytokines, respectively.

Results

Ten children were included in final analysis. No major changes were observed for anthropometric and biochemical parameters, and participants showed a low dietary compliance at T1 and T2. DHA supplementation restored the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio that was conserved also after the DHA discontinuation at T2. DHA supplementation drove a depletion in Ruminococcaceae and Dialisteraceae, and enrichment in Bacteroidaceae, Oscillospiraceae, and Akkermansiaceae. At genus level, Allisonella was the most decreased by DHA supplementation. In Caco-2 cells, DHA decreased H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production via iNOS pathway modulation. Additionally, DHA modulated proinflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokine production in LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells.

Conclusion

An improvement in gut dysbiosis of children with obesity seems to be triggered by DHA and to continue after discontinuation. The ability to modulate gut microbiota, matches also with an anti-inflammatory effect of DHA on Caco-2 cells.

Graphical abstract