bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of geopolitics and policy on Latin American biodiversity and water resources
Authors: Dumortier Jerome , Elobeid Amani , Carriquiry Miguel
Published: July 2024

Latin America is a major agricultural producer with important natural resources. Efforts have been made to protect sensitive areas but are hindered by agricultural trade disruptions outside the control of individual countries due to globally integrated crop markets. This analysis assesses the effects of two trade shocks, that is, the war in Ukraine and vehicle decarbonization in the United States (US), on biodiversity and water resources in Latin America. Results show that an increase in maize and wheat exports from the region triggered by the war in Ukraine negatively affects biodiversity in Brazil and leads to cropland expansion into drought‐prone areas in Argentina and Chile. For the case of reduced crop exports from Latin America due to US vehicle decarbonization and the corresponding shift away from US maize ethanol, the pressure on arable land in areas of high biodiversity and water stress is eased. As opposed to agricultural carbon emissions, which have global impacts, biodiversity and water issues have a strong local and regional significance. Regulatory frameworks aiming to protect these regions should be forward looking to detect and shield vulnerable areas from future threats. Other changes affecting global agriculture and trade, for example, sustainable aviation fuels in the US or the European Farm‐to‐Fork policy, need to be anticipated for effective policies in Latin America [EconLit Citations: Q13, Q25, Q34, Q56].
Cardiometabolic multimorbidity, peripheral biomarkers, and dementia in rural older adults: The MIND‐China study
Authors: Liu Cuicui , Liu Rui , Tian Na , Fa Wenxin , Liu Keke , Wang Nan , Zhu Min , Liang Xiaoyan , Ma Yixun , Ren Yifei , Wang Yongxiang , Cong Lin , Tang Shi , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Ngandu Tiia , Kivipelto Miia , Hou Tingting , Du Yifeng , Qiu Chengxuan
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Evidence has emerged that cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) is associated with dementia, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood.

METHODS

This population‐based study included 5704 older adults. Of these, data were available in 1439 persons for plasma amyloid‐β (Aβ), total tau, and neurofilament light chain (NfL) and in 1809 persons for serum cytokines. We defined CMM following two common definitions used in previous studies. Data were analyzed using general linear, logistic, and mediation models.

RESULTS

The presence of CMM was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD) (p < 0.05). CMM was significantly associated with increased plasma Aβ40, Aβ42, and NfL, whereas CMM that included visceral obesity was associated with increased serum cytokines. The mediation analysis suggested that plasma NfL significantly mediated the association of CMM with AD.

DISCUSSION

CMM is associated with dementia, AD, and VaD in older adults. The neurodegenerative pathway is involved in the association of CMM with AD.

Highlights

The presence of CMM was associated with increased likelihoods of dementia, AD, and VaD in older adults.

CMM was associated with increased AD‐related plasma biomarkers and serum inflammatory cytokines.

Neurodegenerative pathway was partly involved in the association of CMM with AD.
Dilute Electrolytes with Fluorine‐Free Ether Solvents for 4.5 V Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yang Yusi , Wang Xiaofang , Zhu Jiacheng , Tan Lulu , Li Nan , Chen Yifan , Wang Linlin , Liu Ziqiang , Yao Xiayin , Wang Xuefeng , Ji Xiao , Zhu Yujie
Published: July 2024

The limited oxidation stability of ether solvents has posed significant challenges for their applications in high‐voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs). To tackle this issue, the prevailing strategy either adopts a high concentration of fluorinated salts or relies on highly fluorinated solvents, which will significantly increase the manufacturing cost and create severe environmental hazards. Herein, an alternative and sustainable salt engineering approach is proposed to enable the utilization of dilute electrolytes consisting of fluorine (F)‐free ethers in high‐voltage LMBs. The proposed 0.8 M electrolyte supports stable lithium plating‐stripping with a high Coulombic efficiency of 99.47 % and effectively mitigates the metal dissolution, phase transition, and gas release issues of the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode upon charging to high voltages. Consequently, the 4.5 V high‐loading Li||NCM 811 cell shows a capacity retention of 75.2 % after 300 cycles. Multimodal experimental characterizations coupled with theoretical investigations demonstrate that the boron‐containing salt plays a pivotal role in forming the passivation layers on both anode and cathode. The present simple and cost‐effective electrolyte design strategy offers a promising and alternative avenue for using commercially mature, environmentally benign, and low‐cost F‐free ethers in high‐voltage LMBs.
Architecture as cause: Outlines for a psychoanalytic approach to atmosphere via film noir
Authors: Uebel Michael
Published: July 2024

This paper offers a series of propositions concerning how our affective sensibilities are shaped and unshaped by architectural space. We will examine the connections between our pre‐reflective sense of atmospheres and other kinds of apprehension, including the psychoanalytic. The potentiality of spaces to influence feelings is what is meant by atmosphere. Our conceptual framework, then, will center on the question of how felt space can give rise to affectivity, thought and, more controversially, action. References to film noir (especially Fritz Lang's psychoanalytic thriller Secret beyond the Door [1948]), the paradigmatic genre of atmosphere, will frame the contention that our disposition to the world comes first, before any cognitive assessment, and, as such, possesses the force to inspire affective states. It will be suggested that the ways we test and evaluate atmospheres through the imagination are potentially the inspiration for violence, an idea echoed by architects such Bernard Tschumi and psychoanalytic thinkers such as Marcuse. The goal here is to present multiple entry points for a rich discussion concerning if, or the extent to which, notions of atmosphere admit psychoanalytic interrogation, and how or whether analytic assumptions shift as a result of such an investigation.
Optimizing group work strategies in virtual dissection
Authors: Evans Lily , Singer Lauren , Zahra Daniel , Agbeja Ifeoluwa , Moyes Siobhan M.
Published: July 2024

Due to its haptic and interactive nature, virtual anatomy provides an opportunity for small‐group learning, enabling students to develop their group work skills before they graduate. However, there is currently little practical guidance supported by pedagogic principles detailing how to incorporate it into curricula. Anatomy educators at the University of Plymouth conducted action research aiming to capture students' overall perceptions of the virtual anatomy platform Anatomage. Questioning the benefits and challenges students face while interacting with Anatomage prompted the creation of evidence‐based interventions to be later evaluated. Although a plethora of themes were identified, this report specifically examines those relating to group work. Thematic analysis of initial focus group data found group size and group dynamics impacted students' experience with the platform. Following the implementation of interventions to resolve these issues, a questionnaire and second series of focus groups were conducted to determine whether they were successful. Additional subthemes found from these data included facilitation, social pressure, peer learning and working with friends. This study contributed to the improvement of small group learning and integration of virtual anatomy into curricula based on student and staff feedback. As such, these data support the development of effective group working skills which are fundamental for healthcare professionals and widely recognized by regulators such as the General Medical Council and Health and Care Professions Council. In this report, the authors provide practical advice informed by pedagogy and principles from management and psychology to provide a multidisciplinary perspective.
Beschleunigungssensoren zur Zustandsüberwachung von Ingenieurbauwerken unter Einfluss von Umweltfaktoren bei tiefen Frequenzen
Authors: Bartels Jan‐Hauke , Gündogdu Berk , Herrmann Ralf , Marx Steffen
Published: July 2024

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) wird zunehmend zur kontinuierlichen Zustandsbewertung von Ingenieurbauwerken eingesetzt. Wichtige Bewertungsparameter sind globale Systemeigenschaften, wie z. B. Eigenfrequenzen, zu deren Bestimmung Beschleunigungssensoren eingesetzt werden. Häufig werden sog. MEMS‐Sensoren (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) verwendet, die jedoch ein hohes Rauschniveau aufweisen. Alternativ können rauschärmere IEPE‐Sensoren (Integrated Electronics Piezo Electric) eingesetzt werden, die auch bei geringster Strukturanregung Schwingungen zuverlässig erfassen. Ferner besteht das Problem, dass Änderungen der Eigenfrequenzen infolge Bauwerksschädigung schwer von Änderungen der Eigenfrequenzen infolge Umwelteinflüssen zu unterscheiden sind. Letztere verändern die Eigenschaften der Struktur und die des Messsystems. Um Umwelteinflüsse auf das Messsystem im Anwendungsgebiet Ingenieurbau zu untersuchen, wurden IEPE‐Beschleunigungsaufnehmer hinsichtlich ihres Übertragungsverhaltens im niederfrequenten Beschleunigungsbereich analysiert. Es zeigt sich, dass das Verhalten nicht nur frequenz‐, sondern auch temperaturabhängig ist, während die Luftfeuchte keinen Einfluss hat. Diese für das Bauwerk unbedenklichen Einflüsse müssen für eine robuste Zustandsüberwachung kompensiert werden. Für die Anwendung im Ingenieurbau werden IEPE‐Sensoren empfohlen, da sie ein hohes Signal‐zu‐Rausch‐Verhältnis aufweisen und niederfrequente Bauwerksschwingungen zuverlässig erfassen.
Aqueous Acidic Pectin‐Based Solution as Electrolyte and Pretreatment Solution for Zinc Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Jang Jooyoung , Lim Won‐Gwang , Jo Changshin
Published: July 2024

While considerable progress has been achieved in aqueous mildly acidic Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs), the development of metallic Zn anodes remains challenging due to dendritic growth and side reactions on the Zn surface in mildly acidic aqueous environments. Herein, we utilize pectin in two ways: firstly, as an additive for the acidic ZnSO4 electrolyte with pectin (referred to as ZSP); and secondly, as a component in the pretreatment solution for Zn electrode. The ZSP electrolyte can prevent the formation of inactive Zn4(OH)6(SO4) ⋅ 5H2O byproduct on Zn electrode and enable stable cycling under challenging conditions at 10 mA h cm−2. Interestingly, the immersion of the Zn foil in the acidic pectin solution resulted in the uniform removal of the bumpy oxides/carbonates layer on the Zn metal surface. The cells with treated Zn electrode in pectin solution exhibited lower overpotentials and effectively inhibited cell failure. Our findings indicate that utilizing an organic‐based acidic ZnSO4 electrolyte shows promise as both an effective electrolyte and a pretreatment solution for the development of stable and cheap aqueous AZIB electrolytes.
Characterization of cellulose nanocrystals from Zhombwe (Neorautanenia brachypus (harms) CA Sm.) bagasse
Authors: Makanda Rumbidzai A. , Chikwambi Zedias , Murungweni Chrispen , Kakwere Hamilton , Mashingaidze Arnold B.
Published: July 2024

Increased awareness of environmental pollution has changed focus to the use of biodegradable materials because they lack persistence in the environment. This article focused on the production of cellulose nanocrystals from Zhombwe, Neorautanenia brachypus (Harms) CA Sm. bagasse using steam explosion, alkaline treatment, bleaching, purification, and acid hydrolysis. The chemical composition after the treatments was determined using TAPPI standards. Further characterization was done using x‐ray Diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The nanoscale dimensions and morphology of the extracted nanocrystals was determined through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). FTIR spectroscopy and DSC confirmed the removal of noncellulosic compounds. XRD revealed that N. brachypus bagasse contained cellulose type I, which partly endured morphological change to polymorph II after purification and hydrolysis. FE‐SEM revealed elliptical to rod‐shaped structures after acid hydrolysis, which had a mean length and width of 1103 nm and 597 nm respectively. TAPPI tests revealed that successive chemical treatments increased crystallinity by 29.7%, enriched cellulose content by 74.2%, reduced lignin content by 21.7%, and reduced hemicellulose to less than 1%. The semicrystalline nature of the material produced in our work is a promising candidate for swelling hydrogel applications in areas such as wound dressing, heavy metal removal, controlled drug delivery, agriculture, and sanitary products. Future studies may focus on surface modification of nanocrystals to improve their thermal stability and therefore expand their range for potential industrial applications.
Integrating metabolomics and bioinformatics to reveal the mechanism of Epimedium‐induced liver injury
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Cao Yijia , Sun Mo , Zhang Tonghua , Yu Gengyuan , Xu Haoran , Li Tianyi , Zhang Chenning , Sun Yikun
Published: July 2024

Epimedium is a traditional Chinese medicine with a wide range of clinical applications; however, there have been numerous reports of adverse reactions in recent years. The most common side effect of Epimedium is liver injury. In this study, the liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) method has been established to study the components of Epimedium and to identify the components absorbed into the blood of rats. Bioinformatics was used to screen out potential toxic components, and the integrating metabolomics method was used to explore the molecular mechanism of Epimedium‐induced liver injury. The chemical constituents of Epimedium were identified by LC–MS, and 62 compounds were obtained, including 57 flavonoids, four organic acids and one alkaloid. The toxicity network of “Epimedium–component–target–liver injury” was constructed using bioinformatics research methods, and then the key hepatotoxic component icaritin was identified. Integrating metabolomics was used to investigate the changes in the metabolic profile of L‐02 cells with different durations of icaritin administration compared with the control group, and 106 different metabolites were obtained. A total of 14 potential biomarkers significantly associated with cell survival were screened by Pearson correlation analysis combined with the L‐02 cell survival rate. Our study preliminarily revealed the mechanism of hepatotoxicity induced by Epimedium.
Iron‐Sulfur Peptides Mimicking Ferredoxin for an Efficient Electron Transfer to Hydrogenase
Authors: Terranova Umberto
Published: July 2024

In the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, hydrogenase HydA1 converts protons and electrons to H2 at the H‐cluster, which includes a [4Fe−4S] cluster linked to a [2Fe] cluster. The yield of H2 is limited by the electron transfer to HydA1, mediated by the iron‐sulfur unit of a photosynthetic electron transfer ferredoxin (PetF). In this study, I have investigated by molecular dynamics and the hybrid quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics method two canonical iron‐sulfur peptides (PM1 and FBM) that hold potential as PetF replacements. Using a docking approach, I predict that the distance between the two iron‐sulfur clusters in FBM/HydA1 is shorter than in PM1/HydA1, ensuring a greater electron transfer rate. This finding is in line with the reported higher H2 production rates for FBM/HydA1. I also show that the redox potential of these peptides, and therefore their electron transfer properties, can be changed by single‐residue mutations in the secondary coordination sphere of their cluster. In particular, I have designed a PM1 variant that disrupts the hydrogen‐bonding network between water and the cluster, shifting the redox potential negatively compared to PM1. These results will guide experiments aimed at replacing PetF with peptides that can unlock the biotechnological potential of the alga.
Mono‐ADP‐Ribosylation of Peptides: An Overview of Synthetic and Chemoenzymatic Methodologies
Authors: Minnee Hugo , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Filippov Dmitri V.
Published: July 2024

Adenosine diphosphate (ADP)‐ribosylation is a ubiquitous post‐translational modification that regulates vital biological processes like histone reorganization and DNA‐damage repair through the modification of various amino acid residues. Due to advances in mass‐spectrometry, the collection of long‐known ADP‐ribose (ADPr) acceptor sites, e. g. arginine, cysteine and glutamic acid, has been expanded with serine, tyrosine and histidine, among others. Well‐defined ADPr‐peptides are valuable tools for investigating the exact structures, mechanisms of action and interaction partners of the different flavors of this modification. This review provides a comprehensive overview of synthetic and chemoenzymatic methodologies that enabled the construction of peptides mono‐ADP‐ribosylated on various amino acids, and close mimetics thereof.
Paravalvular leak closure after TAVI with plugs: A literature review with a specific focus on arterio‐arterial loop
Authors: Flores‐Umanzor Eduardo , Cepas‐Guillén Pedro , Ruberti Andrea , Regueiro Ander , Sanchis Laura , Gabani Rami , Rodés‐Cabau Josep , Vidal Barbara , Freixa Xavier
Published: July 2024

More than mild paravalvular leak (PVL) following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is associated with a twofold increase in all‐cause mortality, heart failure hospitalizations, and the need for reintervention. Successfully addressing PVL in TAVIs is more challenging than in surgical valves. The arterial‐arterial (A‐A) rail technique emerges as a valuable strategy for post‐TAVI PVL closure, enhancing success rates by enabling the effective use of lower‐profile vascular plug devices. When standard approach is ineffective, generating an A‐A loop for post‐TAVI PVL closure is probably the most recommended strategy to ensure procedural success.
The impact of novel scoring balloon and cutting balloon after orbital atherectomy on severely calcified coronary lesion as assessed by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Kachi Daigo , Lee Tetsumin , Terui Mao , Nagase Masashi , Misawa Toru , Miyazaki Ryoichi , Kaneko Masakazu , Nagata Yasutoshi , Nozato Toshihiro , Ashikaga Takashi
Published: July 2024

Background

Debulking devices are often followed by a scoring or cutting balloon in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for severely calcified lesions. However, there are limited data on balloon preparation after orbital atherectomy (OA) assessed using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Aim

We aimed to compare the effects of a novel scoring and cutting balloon on calcified coronary lesions with OCT.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 38 patients (38 lesions) who underwent PCI with a scoring or a cutting balloon after OA. All patients underwent pre‐PCI, preballooning, postballooning, and post‐PCI OCT imaging. We divided the patients into novel scoring‐balloon (group A: n = 22) and cutting‐balloon (group B: n = 16) groups and compared the OCT findings, including minimum lumen area (MLA) and expansion ratio (MLA divided by mean reference lumen area).

Results

The mean patient age was 76.1 ± 8.7 years; 71.5% were male. There were no significant differences in patient background between both groups. Regarding procedural characteristics, the maximum balloon pressure was significantly higher in group A (median 23 atm, interquartile range [IQR] 18–24 vs. 12 atm [IQR: 10–12], p < 0.01). Although a calcium score of 4 was more frequently observed in group A (86.4% vs. 62.5%, p = 0.12), post‐PCI MLA was comparable between both groups (3.95 mm2 [IQR: 3.27–4.41] vs. 3.43 mm2 [IQR: 2.90–4.82], p = 0.63). Furthermore, the expansion ratio was significantly greater in group A (0.83 ± 0.20 vs. 0.68 ± 0.14, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Despite a higher calcium score, a larger expansion ratio was achieved in patients with a novel scoring balloon than in those with a cutting balloon after OA.
A rare association of the absence of left pulmonary artery with ventricular septal defect, pulmonary hypertension, and more interestingly, patent ductus arteriosus in an adult patient: Case report and literature review
Authors: Parsaee Mozhgan , Saedi Sedigheh , Behrooj Soudabeh , Emami Elaheh , Salehi Pegah , Mohammadzadeh Ali
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

In this study, we introduced one of the rarest concomitants of the absence of left pulmonary artery (LPA), which was seen in our patient along with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and ventricular septal defect (VSD).

Unilateral absence of pulmonary artery (UAPA) is a congenital heart disease in association with other abnormalities such as tetralogy of Fallot and septal defects or isolated in 30% of cases and occurs in the right lung in two thirds of cases. Our case is a 33‐year‐old man who was hospitalized with symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis. The echocardiography revealed a large ventricular septal defect, absent left pulmonary artery, and severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) along with patent ductus arteriosus. These findings were confirmed by CT angiography. This association has rarely been found in past studies. Due to PH and pulmonary infection, the patient was treated with intravenous prostaglandin and antibiotics. However, in cases of timely diagnosis and treatment of UAPA, fatal complications such as pulmonary hypertension, morbidity, and mortality are reduced. This case emphasizes the importance of awareness of this abnormality and its associated anomalies to enable early diagnosis and treatment.
Modular Synthesis of High Performance Energetic Biocidal Bicyclic Compounds Derivated from Iodopyrazoles
Authors: Zhao Xinyuan , Zhang Xun , Liu Yan , Pang Siping , He Chunlin
Published: July 2024

Modular synthesis can combine different functional modules to flexibly regulate comprehensive properties and study the diversity of compounds. This study established a modular bicyclic synthesis strategy of combining polynitro energetic module with iodine‐containing biocidal module. Compounds 1–6 with high iodine content (48.72–69.56 %) and high thermal stability (Td: 172–304 °C) were synthesized and exhaustively identified. By modular synthesis, the detonation properties and gas‐production of 3–6 improved greatly expanding their biocidal efficacy and maintained the iodine atomic utilization of iodine‐containing module. Notably, 4,5‐diiodo‐3,4’,5’‐trinitro‐1,3’‐bipyrazole (5) and 3,5‐diiodo‐4,4’,5’‐trinitro‐1,3’‐bipyrazole (6) exhibit high detonation velocities (D: 5903 m s−1, 5769 m s−1, respectively) and highest gas production of 212.85 L mol−1 and 217.66 L mol−1 after decomposition. This study diversifies polyiodio‐nitro compounds, and also inspire the implementation of similar synthesis strategies to provide family‐level synthetic solutions to energetic biocidal materials.
Acid‐catalyzed Transformation of Nitrite to Nitric Oxide on Copper(II)−Cobalt(II) Centers in a Bimetallic Complex
Authors: Biswas Jyotiprokash , Kulbir fnm/> , Bhardwaj Prabhakar , Ghosh Somnath , Chandra Sahoo Subash , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Kumar Pankaj
Published: July 2024

Nitrite (NO2−) serves as a pool of nitric oxide (NO) in biological systems under hypoxic conditions, and it is transformed to NO by nitrite reductase (NiR) enzyme in the presence of acid (H+ ions). However, NO synthases (NOSs) generate NO via L‐arginine oxidation in normoxic conditions. Previously, acid‐induced NO2− reduction chemistry was modeled on mono‐metallic 3d‐metals, generating metal‐nitrosyls or NO(g) with H2O or H2O2 products. Herein, to understand the relative potency of a bimetallic system, we report the acid‐induced reductive conversion of η2‐bound NO2− to NO on CuII−CoII centers of a hetero‐bimetallic CuII‐nitrito‐CoII complex, [(LN8H)CuII−NO2−−CoII]3+ (CuII−NO2−−CoII, 2) bearing an octadentate N8‐cryptand ligand (LN8H). The CuII−NO2−−CoII generates [CuII(LN8H)CoII]4+ (1) upon reaction with one equiv. acid (HClO4, H+ ions source) with NO(g) via a presumed transient nitrousacid (ONOH) intermediate species. Likewise, this NO2− reduction was found to form H2O, which is believed to be from the decomposition of H2O2, an intermediate species. In addition, complex 2, in the presence of more than one equiv. H+ ions also showed the formation of NO(g) with H2O. Mechanistic investigations, using 15N‐labeled‐15NO2−, 18O‐labeled‐18O14N16O− and 2H‐labeled‐DClO4 (D+ source), revealed that the N‐atom and O‐atom in the 14/15NO and 14N18O gases are derived from NO2− ligand and H‐atom in H2O derived from H+‐source, respectively.
A Well‐Defined Magnesium Complex of C706−
Authors: Lawrence Samuel R. , Demidov Nikita , André Ohlin C. , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Stasch Andreas
Published: July 2024

Controlling and understanding charge state and metal coordination in carbon nanomaterials is crucial to harnessing their unique properties. Here we describe the synthesis of the well‐defined fulleride complex [{(Mesnacnac)Mg}6C70], 2, (Mesnacnac)=HC(MeCNMes)2, Mes=2,4,6‐Me3C6H2, from the reaction of the β‐diketiminate magnesium(I) complex [{(Mesnacnac)Mg}2] with C70 in aromatic solvents. The molecular structure of complex 2 was determined, providing the first high‐quality structural study of a complex with the C706− ion. In combination with solution state NMR spectroscopic and DFT computational studies, the changes in geometry and charge distribution in the various atom and bond types of the fulleride unit were investigated. Additionally, the influence of the (Mesnacnac)Mg+ cations on the global and local fulleride coordination environment was examined.
Applicability of a Spinning Disk Apparatus for the Investigation of Particulate Fouling
Authors: Klinkert Annika , Deponte Hannes , Gottschalk Nathalie , Augustin Wolfgang , Scholl Stephan
Published: July 2024

The applicability of a fluidically heated spinning disk apparatus (SDA) was tested for investigating the influence of the tangential velocity on the deposition of particulate material systems, in particular on latex particles. First, the SDA was characterized for particle fouling investigations with micro glass beads as a model system, then, a first series of tests was carried out with a real material system, a vinyl acetate/Versa 10 copolymer. Experiments were performed for a duration of 1 h and a tangential velocity up to 0.3 m s−1. The fouling process was characterized by the local fouling layer thickness and the calculated local mass‐based fouling resistance. A decrease in fouling resistance along the radius of the rotating disk as a function of the tangential velocity was observed.
Current patterns of care and outcomes for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: An international multi‐institutional collaborative
Authors: Winer Leah K. , Akumuo Rita , Fredette Jordan D. , Deng Mengying , Hasler Jill S. , Greco Stephanie H. , von Mehren Margaret , Bartholomew Alex J. , Blazer Dan G. , Gabrielova Lucie , Adamkova Dagmar , Bernard‐Bedard Ericka , Nessim Carolyn , Kollár Attila , Olariu Radu , Cencelj‐Arnez Romi , Hompes Daphne , Ford Samuel J. , Cardona Kenneth , Sato Kenji , Iwata Shintaro , Farma Jeffrey M. , Villano Anthony M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a cutaneous sarcoma with an infiltrative growth pattern that makes it challenging to clear margins. High quality data regarding DFSP natural history, management, and outcomes are limited.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected for adult DFSP patients who underwent resection at 10 institutions in eight countries. Demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Analysis included 347 patients consisting of young (median, 42 years), White (76.2%), males (54.2%) with truncal lesions (57.3%). The majority (76.8%) were symptomatic at presentation. Preoperative imaging was used in 55.9% of cases. Diagnosis was established with excisional biopsy in 50.9% versus incisional biopsy in 25.0% of cases. Despite planned margins of >1.0 cm in 67.4% of cases, only 69.0% of patients achieved R0 resection. Twenty‐two percent of patients underwent at least one re‐excision. R0 resection was achieved at a second procedure in 80.2% and a third procedure in 86.2%. Ultimately, R0 resection was feasible in 89.5% of all patients. Fibrosarcomatous transformation (FST) was observed in 12.6%. In total, 6.6% (N = 23) recurred (17 local, six distant). Of the six distant recurrences, 50.0% had FST. With a median follow‐up of 47.0 months, disease‐specific survival rate was 98.8%. In multivariable analysis, R0 margins at index resection were associated with wider circumferential margins and non‐FST histology.

Conclusions

In this international, multicenter collaborative, DFSP practice patterns were heterogeneous but achieved favorable recurrence rates and survival. Multiple excisions to clear margins remain commonplace and can inform future efforts to optimize margin selection.
Clinical outcomes of liposomal irinotecan in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer previously treated with conventional irinotecan: A meta‐analysis of real‐world evidence
Authors: Gupta Amol , De Jesus‐Acosta Ana , Le Dung , Pishvaian Michael , Zaidi Neeha , Zheng Lei , Laheru Daniel
Published: July 2024

Background

Pivotal clinical trials supported survival benefits of liposomal irinotecan (nal‐IRI) plus fluorouracil/leucovorin in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) who previously received gemcitabine‐based therapy. There are concerns about the benefits of nal‐IRI in patients who received FOLFIRINOX (combined fluorouracil, leucovorin, IRI, and oxaliplatin) because of potential cross‐resistance to IRI. The objective of this meta‐analysis was to characterize the impact of the previous receipt of IRI on the outcomes of nal‐IRI regimens in patients with advanced PDAC.

Methods

Real‐world studies evaluating the outcomes of nal‐IRI in patients who had prior IRI exposure published up to April 2023 were searched using electronic databases. The meta‐analysis was conducted using a random effects model to estimate pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Eight studies (n = 1368 patients) were included. The pooled median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 2.02 months (95% CI, 1.43–2.57 months), and the median overall survival (OS) was 4.26 months (95% CI, 3.03–5.39 months). Patients with prior IRI exposure had PFS (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.94–1.47; p = .17) and OS (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.95–1.42; p = .16) comparable to patients without prior IRI exposure. Likewise, patients who had progressive disease on conventional IRI had PFS (HR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.73–3.08; p = .24) and OS (HR, 1.70; 95% CI, 0.68–4.27; p = .26) with nal‐IRI comparable to patients who had no progressive disease.

Conclusions

Prior IRI exposure does not affect the survival outcomes of nal‐IRI regimens in patients who have advanced PDAC. The selection of later lines of chemotherapy regimens should be based on the differential safety profile, patient status, the cost of treatment, and health‐related quality of life.
Effect of dispersive electrode position (anterior vs. posterior) in epicardial radiofrequency ablation of ventricular wall: A computer simulation study
Authors: Irastorza Ramiro M. , Hadid Claudio , Berjano Enrique
Published: July 2024

An epicardial approach is often used in radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation to ablate ventricular tachycardia when an endocardial approach fails. Our objective was to analyze the effect of the position of the dispersive patch (DP) on lesion size using computer modeling during epicardial approach. We compared the posterior position (patient's back), commonly used in clinical practice, to the anterior position (patient's chest). The model considered ventricular wall thicknesses between 4 and 8 mm, and electrode insertion depths between .3 and .7 mm. RF pulses were simulated with 20 W of power for 30 s duration. Statistically significant differences (P < .001) were found between both DP positions in terms of baseline impedance, RF current (at 15 s) and thermal lesion size. The anterior position involved lower impedance (130.8 ± 4.7 vs. 146.2 ± 4.9 Ω) and a higher current (401.5 ± 5.6 vs. 377.5 ± 5.1 mA). The anterior position created lesion sizes larger than the posterior position: 8.9 ± 0.4 vs. 8.4 ± 0.4 mm in maximum width, 8.6 ± 0.4 vs. 8.1 ± 0.4 mm in surface width, and 4.5 ± 0.4 vs. 4.3 ± 0.4 mm in depth. Our results suggest that: (1) the redirection of the RF currents due to repositioning the PD has little impact on lesion size and only affects baseline impedance, and (2) the differences in lesion size are only 0.5 mm wider and 0.2 mm deeper for the anterior position, which does not seem to have a clinical impact in the context of VT ablation.
Rapid Colorimetric Detection of Ca(II) Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance Absorbances of 5‐PBA@AuNPs Sensor
Authors: Ma Jingyi , Li Guona , Duan Xueqi , Xue Jin‐Peng , Li Xing , Li Yun
Published: July 2024

Calcium ions (Ca2+) are essential for a myriad of physiological functions, including excitability, neurotransmitter release, gene transcription, cell proliferation, synaptic plasticity, and hormone secretion. Consequently, the detection of Ca2+ concentrations in water is of fundamental and practical significance. In this study, a novel method for the simple, visual, and rapid colorimetric detection of Ca2+ is introduced, leveraging the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorbances of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified with 5‐Pyrimidinylboronic acid (5‐PBA). A color change from wine‐red to gray‐blue was observed with increasing concentrations of Ca2+, indicative of the agglomeration of AuNPs. This agglomeration displayed favorable anti‐interference properties and selectivity. The limits of detection (LOD) were determined to be 0.08 mM by the unaided eye and 3.29 μM by UV‐visible spectroscopy. Moreover, an excellent linear relationship (R2=0.9879) was maintained within the Ca2+ concentration range of 0.0 to 0.5 mM. These results suggest that AuNPs modified with 5‐PBA are suitable for the quantitative determination of Ca2+. Subsequent testing on actual samples confirmed that this new method could be effectively applied to the monitoring of Ca2+ in water.
Invasive sorghum aphid: A decade of research on deciphering plant resistance mechanisms and novel approaches in breeding for sorghum resistance to aphids
Authors: Thudi Mahendar , Reddy M. S. Sai , Naik Yogesh Dashrath , Cheruku Varun Kumar Reddy , Sangireddy Manoj Kumar Reddy , Cuevas Hugo E. , Knoll Joseph E. , Louis Joe , Kousik Chandrasekar S. , Toews Michael D. , Ni Xinzhi , Punnuri Somashekhar M.
Published: July 2024

During the last decade, the sorghum aphid (Melanaphis sorghi), previously identified as sugarcane aphid (Melanaphis sacchari), became a serious pest of sorghum, spreading to all sorghum‐producing regions in the United States, Mexico, and South America, where crop losses of 50%–100% have been reported. Developing sorghum cultivars with resistance to this insect is the most sustainable strategy for long‐term pest management. To design cultivars with aphid resistance, comprehensively understanding the mechanisms underlying aphid survival, host plant resistance, and aphid–sorghum interactions is critical. In this review, we summarize the comprehensive efforts to characterize the aphid populations as well as their interaction with sorghum plants via hormonal pathways that trigger various genes including leucine rich repeats, WRKY transcription factors, lipoxygenases, calmodulins, and others. We discuss efforts made during the last decade to identify specific genomic regions and candidate genes that confer aphid resistance, as well as describe recent successes and potential challenges in breeding for aphid resistance. Furthermore, we discuss the use of disruptive technologies like high‐throughput phenotyping, artificial intelligence, or machine learning for developing aphid resistant sorghum cultivars. Integration of these new technologies has the potential to accelerate the development and design of novel traits that confer durable aphid resistance in new sorghum cultivars to defend sorghum against new aphid genotype development.
A bibliometric analysis of B Corps and sustainable business ecosystems
Authors: Alonso‐Martínez Daniel , González‐Álvarez Nuria
Published: July 2024

Comprehending the state of the art of certified B Corps and sustainable business ecosystems (SBE) is crucial to affirming the role of B Corps in SBE development. The aim of this paper is to systematise the scientific knowledge related to both concepts and explore the role and contributions of these enterprises in the SBE. To date, no study has jointly carried out a bibliometric analysis and discussed the state of the art of B Corps and SBEs in management literature. A sample of 696 research documents from 2006 to 2024, extracted from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, has been analysed. The results show a strong relationship with the stakeholder and circular economy theories and a weaker relationship with the institutional theory, among others. The SBE literature is closely connected to sustainable and innovation business models, social entrepreneurship, and it is especially associated with social and environmental impact.
Empowering change: The role of gender diversity in steering ESG integration into executive compensation
Authors: Ahmed Ammad , Tessema Abiot , Hussain Atia
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the influence of boardroom gender diversity (BGD) on the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics in executive compensation, a concept emerging from the stakeholderism debate. Prior research has focused on the impact of BGD on traditional compensation metrics, but the role of BGD in ESG‐linked compensation remains underexplored. Our research fills this gap by examining whether BGD contributes to the incorporation of ESG considerations in executive pay structures. Additionally, we analyze how board members' external affiliations might moderate this relationship, considering that these affiliations can provide diverse perspectives and insights into ESG issues. Using data from 14 countries, our findings reveal a positive and significant association between BGD and ESG metrics in executive compensation, suggesting that women directors significantly influence the integration of sustainability and ethical considerations in corporate strategic planning. Moreover, the impact of BGD on ESG‐linked compensation is found to be more pronounced with higher levels of board members' affiliations. Our results are robust to alternate estimation techniques such as propensity score matching (PSM) and generalized methods of moments (GMM). Our study contributes to the existing literature on gender diversity, corporate governance, and sustainability, offering insights for policymakers and corporate boards on aligning corporate strategies with ESG goals.
Continuous and changing stakeholder engagement for organisational sustainability: Proposing the stakeholder engagement flow model
Authors: Fobbe Lea , Niss Camilla , Hilletofth Per
Published: July 2024

Stakeholder engagement has been at the forefront of the organisational sustainability debate, particularly focusing on operational sustainability practices (OSP). While sustainability literature increasingly focuses on sustainable business models (SBMs) and the relationship to OSP, research on stakeholder engagement in SBMs and how this relates to engagement in OSP has been scarce. Based on case study research, this paper contributes to the debate by first providing empirical evidence on engagement practices for implementing SBMs. Second, this paper proposes the stakeholder engagement flow model, highlighting how stakeholder engagement for implementing SBMs need to be adapted in relation to stakeholder engagement in OSP. While stakeholder engagement is often continuous for a broad range of stakeholders, successfully implementing SBMs may also require changing engagement practices both in terms of engagement approach and role of stakeholders. The results advance the theoretical debate on stakeholder engagement for organisational sustainability and support practitioners to rethink and evaluate their stakeholder engagement efforts when aiming to implement OSP and SBMs.
One‐Pot Conversion of Xylose to 1,2‐Pentanediol Catalyzed by an Organic Acid‐Assisted Pt/NC in Aqueous Phase
Authors: Wang Quan , Shao Yongjie , Zhang Tianyu , Liu Chun‐Ling , Dong Wen‐Sheng
Published: July 2024

The direct synthesis of 1,2‐pentanediol (1,2‐PeD) from renewable xylose and its derivatives derived from hemicellulose is appealing yet challenging due to its low selectivity for the target product. In this study, one‐pot catalytic conversion of xylose to 1,2‐PeD was performed by using nitrogen‐doped carbon (NC) supported Pt catalysts with the assistance of organic acids. A remarkable yield of 49.3 % for 1,2‐PeD was achieved by reacting 0.1869 g xylose in 30 mL water at 200 °C under a hydrogen pressure of 3 MPa for 8 h in the presence of 0.1 g of 2.5Pt/NC600 catalyst and 0.1869 g propanoic acid co‐catalyst. The presence of vicinal Pt‐acid pair sites on the surface of the 2.5Pt/NC600 catalyst exhibited a synergistic effect in promoting the hydrogenation of furfural (FF) to furfuryl alcohol (FFA) intermediate and subsequent hydrogenation and ring‐opening reactions leading to the formation of 1,2‐PeD. The addition of organic acids, may serve as both acid catalyst for dehydration of xylose and hydrogen donor for hydrogenation of FF and FFA, thereby promoting the one‐pot conversion of xylose to 1,2‐PeD. Remarkably, the 2.5Pt/NC600 catalyst demonstrated outstanding catalytic performance and good reusability over five consecutive cycles without significant deactivation.
A Chemically Robust 2D Ni‐MOF as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for One‐Pot Synthesis of Therapeutic and Bioactive 2‐Amino‐3‐Cyano‐4H‐Pyran Derivatives
Authors: Mondal Supriya , Pramanik Bikram , Sahoo Rupam , Das Madhab C.
Published: July 2024

Despite possessing numerous catalytic advantages of MOFs, developing 2D frameworks having excellent chemical stability along with new catalytic properties remains a grand challenge. Herein, by employing a mixed ligand synthetic approach, we have constructed a 2D Ni‐MOF, IITKGP‐52, which exhibits excellent framework robustness in open air, water, as well as over a wide range of aqueous pH solutions (2–12). Benefitting from its robustness and abundant Lewis acidic open metal sites (OMSs), IITKGP‐52 is explored in catalyzing the heterogeneous three‐component condensation reaction for the tandem synthesis of bioactive 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐pyran derivatives with low catalytic loading, greater compatibility for a wide range of substrates, excellent recyclability and superior catalytic efficiency than the previously employed homo and heterogeneous systems. IITKGP‐52 inaugurates the employment of MOF‐based catalysts for one‐pot synthesis of therapeutic and bioactive 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐pyran derivatives.
Research on driving technology of radio‐over‐fiber (ROF) compact optical transmitter module
Authors: Wang Chong , Zhang Zhiyi , Fan Tingting , Hou Tiankai , Zhou Jiashen
Published: July 2024

In response to the problems of communication capacity and spectrum resource constraints, radio over fiber (ROF) technology has gained widespread adoption, and the quality and performance of the optical transmitter module also directly affect the transmission of the link. This paper presents the design of a direct modulation optical transmitter module in the frequency band ranging from 2.6 kHz to 206.8 MHz using OPA690 broadband voltage feedback op‐amp. The module features a tunable bias voltage range from 0 to 5 V to accommodate different threshold voltages for modulation power supply. It offers a gain of 12 dB and a signal‐to‐noise ratio exceeding 50 dB while demonstrating excellent stability, high signal purity, good spectral response characteristics, and compact size advantages. Based on this design, we further optimized the system circuit by adding a fourth‐order Butterworth filter structure, reducing the lower cut‐off frequency to about 500 Hz, increasing the gain by 6 dB, reducing the return loss to −26.91 dB, and the module's signal‐to‐noise ratio exceeding 90 dB. This optimization scheme improves the stability and signal purity of the optical transmitter module and improves the spectral response characteristics. In this paper, Multisim is used to analyze and verify the proposed optical transmitter circuit. In addition, a complete link experiment was carried out using an optical receiving module designed in the same laboratory to verify the feasibility of our proposed module.
Study of biological quality of lake waters based on phycocyanin using tree‐based methodologies
Authors: Kheimi Marwan , Almadani Mohammad , Ramezani‐Charmahineh Abdollah , Zounemat‐Kermani Mohammad
Published: July 2024

The provision of drinking water, agricultural, and industrial applications by reservoirs has made lake exploration and monitoring unavoidable. The features of the ecosystem, particularly physical and chemical elements, influence the evaluation of the quality of water resources. Lakes undergo extensive qualitative changes due to their vast amount of water. In general, these bodies of water represent geological conditions as well as water contamination produced by natural and human activities. In the present research, the prediction of the amount of phycocyanin (fPC) in the water of Lake Michigan has been implemented employing four tree‐based machine learning techniques based on seasonality factors. Phycocyanin has significant effects on quality parameters such as turbidity, chlorophyll concentration, algal bloom, and dissolved oxygen in water by affecting the photosynthesis process of algae. Therefore, in this study, the prediction of the amount of phycocyanin dissolved in the lake water using the mentioned variables, along with the temperature of the water, specific conductance, and pH, has been able to interpret the quality of the water and the occurrence of phenomena such as algal blooms. The results of the models in predicting fPCs equal to 0.44 and 0.55 μg/L were consistent with the natural conditions of the lake, and it seems that ensemble tree–based models, along with the biological index of fPC, formed the right combination of input and output parameters in modeling and obtained the lowest prediction error (root‐mean‐square error [RMSE] boosted trees = 0.0140 and RMSE random forests = 0.0141 μg/L).