bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weed Control with Combinations of Selected Fungicides and Herbicides Applied Postmergence to Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Jordan David L. , Culpepper A. Stanley , Grichar W. James , Ducar J. Tredaway , Brecke Barry J. , York Alan C.
Published: April 2010

Experiments were conducted from 1997 through 2001 in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and Texas to evaluate compatibility of selected postemergence herbicides and fungicides applied in tank mixtures. Control of broadleaf signalgrass [Brachiaria platyphylla (Griseb.) Nash], goosegrass [Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.], large crabgrass [Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.], and Texas panicum (Panicum texanum Buckl.) by clethodim applied in tank mixtures with copper-based fungicides, fungicides containing chlorothalonil, azoxystrobin, and iprodione was reduced in 80, 69, 60, and 46% of comparisons, respectively, when compared to clethodim alone. Fluazinam, tebuconazole, and propiconazole did not reduce efficacy of clethodim. Efficacy was reduced more by fungicides when clethodim was applied in 230 L/ha spray volume compared with 94 L/ha. Efficacy of acifluorfen, bentazon, imazethapyr, and 2,4-DB applied with fungicides was also compared. Smooth pigweed (Amaranthus hybridus L.) control by 2,4-DB was reduced in at least two of three experiments when applied with chlorothalonil, copper-based fungicides, tebuconazole, azoxystrobin, and fluazinam. Iprodione did not affect efficacy of 2,4-DB. Control of smooth pigweed by imazethapyr was reduced when applied in combination with copper-based fungicides but not when applied with chlorothalonil, propiconazole, tebuconazole, fluazinam, propiconazole plus flutolanil, or propiconazole plus trifloxystrobin. Smooth pigweed control by acifluorfen was reduced in one of three experiments when applied with tebuconazole. Efficacy of acifluorfen was not affected by chlorothalonil, azoxystrobin, propiconazole, or fluazinam. Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus L.) control by bentazon was reduced by propiconazole plus chlorothalonil, propiconazole plus flutolanil, and copper-based fungicides. With the exception of fluazinam and chlorothalonil applied with 2,4-DB in one experiment, fungicides did not affect peanut injury following application of acifluorfen, clethodim, imazethapyr, or 2,4-DB.
Tolerance of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to Herbicides Applied Postemergence
Authors: Jordan David L. , Spears Janet F. , Wilcut John W.
Published: April 2010

Experiments were conducted from 1999 through 2001 in North Carolina to determine peanut response under weed-free conditions to applications of postemergence herbicides. In one set of experiments, peanut tolerance to acifluorfen plus bentazon or acifluorfen plus bentazon plus 2,4-DB applied alone or with diclosulam, dimethenamid, flumioxazin, or metolachlor 6 to 8 wk after peanut emergence was evaluated. In a second set of experiments, paraquat plus bentazon was applied alone or with diclosulam, dimethenamid, flumioxazin, imazethapyr, or metolachlor 2 wk after peanut emergence. In a third set of experiments, imazapic was applied alone or with diclosulam or flumioxazin 3 to 4 wk after peanut emergence. In the fourth experiment, 2,4-DB was applied approximately 7, 5, or 3 wk before digging and inversion of vines. Flumioxazin applied alone or with aciflurofen plus bentazon (with or without 2,4-DB) injured peanut more than diclosulam, dimethenamid, or metolachlor applied alone or with acifluorfen plus bentazon or aciflurofen plus bentazon plus 2,4-DB. Flumioxazin reduced pod yield 620 kg/ha when compared to non-treated peanut. Additionally, acifluorfen plus bentazon and acifluorfen plus bentazon plus 2,4-DB reduced yield by 200 and 150 kg/ha, respectively, when compared with non-treated peanut. Flumioxazin applied with paraquat plus bentazon was more injurious than diclosulam, dimethenamid, imazethapyr, or metolachlor applied with paraquat plus bentazon. There was no difference in peanut injury when paraquat plus bentazon was applied alone or with diclosulam. Dimethenamid or metolachlor increased injury by paraquat plus bentazon. Although diclosulam did not affect peanut injury from imazapic, injury increased when imazapic was applied with flumioxazin. When pooled over nine sites, 2,4-DB did not adversely affect pod yield, gross economic value, or percent seed germination when applied 7, 5, or 3 wk before vine inversion.
Winter Occurance and Spring Migration of Frankliniella fusca (Hinds) (Thysanoptera: Tripidae) in North Carolina Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Fields
Authors: Garcia L. E. , Brandenburg R. L. , Kennedy G. G. , Bailey J. E. , Bradley J. R.
Published: April 2010

Overwintering of Frankliniella fusca (Hinds), tobacco thrips, in North Carolina and their subsequent spring movement into peanut fields were evaluated using two winter sampling techniques and three spring sampling techniques at the Peanut Belt Res. Sta., Lewiston, NC. In the spring of 1992 and 1993, for 14 d following peanut planting, the aerial movement of tobacco thrips was monitored using cylindrical sticky traps, trap plants, and exclusion cages. Frankliniellafusca were trapped significantly more often at 0.2 m and 0.9 m than at 1.8 m and during the afternoons. Thrips catch was significantly influenced by prevailing wind direction. No thrips were caught on sticky traps on days when maximum temperatures did not exceed 18.7 C. Frankliniella fusca began to colonize emerging peanut plants as they cracked the soil surface on days when there were temperatures above 18.7 C and times when there was no precipitation. Aerial F. fusca movement was monitored with sticky traps for three consecutive winters during 1993–96. Tobacco thrips were collected on sticky traps throughout the winter; however, counts were lower in months and years with lower temperatures. Tobacco thrips, caged throughout the winter with peanut plants infected with tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), were analyzed for the presence of a nonstructural protein (NSs) encoded for by the small RNA of TSWV and infectivity by ELISA. A total of eight tobacco thrips were collected, of which one tested positive.
Assessment of Six Peanut Cultivars for Control of Rhizoctonia Pod Rot When Sprayed with Azoxystrobin or Tebuconazole1
Authors: Besler B. A. , Grichar W. J. , Brewer K. D. , Baring M. R.
Published: April 2010

Field studies were established in 1996 and 1997 in Atascosa Co. in south Texas to evaluate the response of six peanut cultivars to Rhizoctonia pod rot when sprayed with the fungicides azoxystrobin and tebuconazole. Compared to unsprayed plots, significant disease reduction occurred when cultivars were sprayed with either fungicide. Disease reductions were similar with both fungicides. Tamrun 96 displayed the lowest disease incidence both years with and without a fungicide application. Yields were significantly enhanced both years when either azoxystrobin or tebuconazole was applied to all six cultivars. Tamrun 96 was the highest yielding cultivar in 1996 when sprayed with azoxystrobin and in 1997 when sprayed with tebuconazole. Both fungicides improved grade (%TSMK) when compared to the unsprayed checks.
Comparison of Fungicide Programs for the Control of Early Leaf Spot and Southern Stem Rot on Selected Peanut Cultivars1
Authors: Hagan A. K. , Rivas-Davila M. E. , Bowen K. L. , Wells L.
Published: April 2010

Azoxystrobin, tebuconazole, pyraclostrobin, chlorothalonil + flutolanil, and chlorothalonil fungicide programs were evaluated on selected peanut cultivars for the control of early leaf spot (ELS) and southern stem rot (SSR) in 2000, 2001, and 2002. A peanut-cotton-peanut rotation was followed and the plots were irrigated as needed. Virugard and Georgia Green were planted in all 3 yr. The late-maturing line Southern Runner was planted only in 2000 and was replaced with Florida C-99R in 2001 and 2002. Since the ranking of fungicide programs for ELS and SSR control and yield response was similar over peanut cultivars, data for each variable in 2000, 2001, and 2002 were pooled. The 0.34-kg ai/ha azoxystrobin and pyraclostrobin programs gave better ELS control than the season-long chlorothalonil standard in 1 yr. However, SSR control and yield response to pyraclostrobin was similar to the chlorothalonil standard. Significant reductions in SSR damage and higher yields were obtained with 0.34-kg ai/ha azoxystrobin program in all 3 yr. When compared to the chlorothalonil standard, the 0.47-kg ai/ha azoxystrobin program gave superior SSR control in 2000 and 2001, but significantly better ELS control and higher yield were obtained only in 2001. Tebuconazole-treated peanuts had similar ELS ratings to those recorded for the chlorothalonil standard and azoxystrobin programs in 2000 and 2001, but the ELS ratings for the former program were significantly higher in 2002. While tebuconazole reduced SSR damage compared with chlorothalonil alone, the azoxystrobin and chlorothalonil + flutolanil programs controlled SSR significantly better than tebuconazole in at least 1 yr. Also, the 0.34-kg ai/ha azoxystrobin program significantly increased yield above that of the chlorothalonil standard more consistently than did tebuconazole. Relatively few differences in disease control or yield response were noted between the two chlorothalonil + flutolanil programs, but both increased yield above that of the chlorothalonil standard. By maturing about 2 wk before Georgia Green, Virugard may have escaped some ELS and SSR damage, which may have contributed to its higher yield. There are indications that the late-maturing Florida C-99R has partial resistance to ELS but not SSR. Georgia Green proved more susceptible to both diseases than Virugard or Florida C-99R but no peanut cultivar produced consistently higher yields.
'Water Systems', Environmental History and the Deconstruction of Nature
Authors: Tvedt Terje
Published: April 2010

Suggesting the concept of 'water systems', or more precisely, of 'open and multifunctional water systems' this article argues in favour of deconstructing the idea of nature as being a useful entity and term in environmental research. This deconstruction has nothing in common with the constructionists' discussion of 'natures'. Its starting point is that the practice of environmental history has shown that it is not possible to empirically examine societies' relations and interdependencies to nature as a whole, since both nature and society are such extensive, complex phenomena. The terms 'nature' (and 'environment') cover such a myriad of variables and aspects of importance to societies that meaningful empirically oriented research or precise discussions become very difficult, if not impossible. The article proposes theoretical and conceptual approaches that are more realistic in their ambitions in examining and understanding society-nature relations and that are of methodological relevance in examinations of how nature impacts social development and human agency changes and impacts nature. The article discusses these issues in relation to arguments regarding the nature/society dichotomy, structure and time in historical narratives put forth by Fernand Braudel, Anthony Giddens, Ulrich Beck and Bruno Latour.
Water, Policy and Governance
Authors: Hukka J.J. , Castro J.E. , Pietilä P.E.
Published: April 2010

This article offers an overall synthesis of the contents of a number of selected papers on water governance and policy presented at the 5th IWHA Conference 'Pasts and Futures of Water' that took place in Tampere, Finland, on 13-17 June 2007. Therefore, the authors do not intend to present here their own views on the topics covered, which they have described in more detail elsewhere, but rather seek to capture the key issues emerging from the broad range of perspectives on water governance and policy that informed the papers presented at the Conference. There is growing consensus that the global water crisis is mainly a crisis of 'governance'. In most countries plentiful water resources can no longer be taken for granted. More and more people in an increasing number of countries are experiencing water differently - as a limited resource that must be carefully managed for the benefit of people and the environment, in the present and for the future. The emerging paradigm is one of resource constraints, conservation, and awareness of the fragility of water's life cycle. Yet, it is still open to debate what 'water governance' exactly means. Moreover, simple definitions of water itself have become obsolete and there is a heated global debate on the topic. Water has multiple functions and values, most of which are incommensurable. While in some of its uses water has increasingly become a commodity, in many other functions water takes the form of a social or public good. For many, the hydrosphere is a common good that must be governed and managed as such. Is the access to essential volumes of safe water a human right or not? Does it really matter? Water serves many roles depending on the wider political, economic, social, cultural and environmental context. Perhaps the crucial question is: Is there truly a new paradigm of water governance emerging, or are we simply engaging in delusionary rhetoric? Many signs all over the world suggest that the way water is perceived, governed, and managed is indeed changing, but the direction of this change is highly uncertain. This is reflected in the ongoing contradictions that characterise the global debates about water governance policy, some of which were captured in the papers presented at the IWHA Conference that we summarise here. The focus of this theme paper is on identifying some of the key building elements of water policy and governance, which we identified as a common thread running through the different presentations. The paper also explores the challenges and opportunities facing the international community for living up to the principles of democratic water governance in a context of increasing global uncertainty.
The Variety of Carbon-Metal Bonds inside Cu-ZSM-5 Zeolites: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Yumura Takashi , Hasegawa Saki , Itadani Atsushi , Kobayashi Hisayoshi , Kuroda Yasushige
Published: April 2010

Large-scale density functional theory calculations (DFT) found various types of binding of an unsaturated hydrocarbon (C2H2 and C2H4) to a ZSM-5 zeolite extraframework copper cation. We employed the DFT calculations based on the B3LYP functional to obtain local minima of an unsaturated hydrocarbon adsorbed on one or two copper cations embedded inside ZSM-5, and then compared their stabilization energies. The DFT results show that the stabilization energies are strongly dependent on the copper coordination environment as well as configurations of two copper cations. Consequently, the inner copper-carbon bonds are influenced substantially by a nanometer-scale cavity of ZSM-5.
An Electronic Patient Referral Application: A Case Study from Zambia
Authors: Darcy Niamh , Kelley Chris , Reynolds Eileen , Cressman Gordon , Killam Perry
Published: April 2010

Electronic medical records (EMRs) benefit health systems, especially in low-income developing countries. EMR systems can give medical personnel access to patients’ records and can reduce time needed for data management and record keeping.
The report discusses the design, implementation, and results of an installed electronic perinatal patient-referral system supporting health personnel who referred patients through a closed-network, Web-based system in the Lusaka health district in Zambia. It demonstrates how the patient referral module laid the groundwork for a larger EMR system.
More Night Than Day — Circadian Rhythms in Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: SPIES CORNELIA M. , CUTOLO MAURIZIO , STRAUB RAINER H. , BURMESTER GERD-RÜDIGER , BUTTGEREIT FRANK
Published: April 2010

The circadian rhythm of symptoms in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases is well known. Circadian rhythms could be used to identify targets for time-adapted antiinflammatory therapies, which are administered prior to the flare of cytokine synthesis and inflammatory activity. In recent years, the diurnal variations in rheumatoid arthritis have been described precisely for pain, stiffness, and functional disability, as well as the underlying cyclic variations in hormone levels and cytokine concentrations. This review summarizes the current knowledge on circadian rhythms in other rheumatic diseases, focusing on polymyalgia rheumatica and ankylosing spondylitis.
Metabolic Shifts in Immunity and Inflammation
Authors: Kominsky Douglas J. , Campbell Eric L. , Colgan Sean P.
Published: April 2010

Sites of ongoing inflammation and triggered immune responses are characterized by significant changes in metabolic activity. Recent studies have indicated that such shifts in tissue metabolism result from a combination of profound recruitment of inflammatory cells (neutrophils and monocytes) and high proliferation rates among lymphocyte populations. The resultant shifts in energy supply and demand can result in metabolic acidosis and diminished delivery and/or availability of oxygen, leading to hypoxia extensive enough to trigger transcriptional and translation changes in tissue phenotype. Such phenotypic shifts can imprint fundamental changes to tissue metabolism. In this study, we review recent work addressing metabolic changes and metabolic control of inflammation and immunity.
Preexisting Diabetes and Breast Cancer Treatment Among Low-Income Women
Authors: Bekele Bayu Begashaw , Lian Min , Schmaltz Chester , Greever-Rice Tracy , Shrestha Pratibha , Liu Ying
Published: May 2024

IMPORTANCE

Diabetes is associated with poorer prognosis of patients with breast cancer. The association between diabetes and adjuvant therapies for breast cancer remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To comprehensively examine the associations of preexisting diabetes with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and endocrine therapy in low-income women with breast cancer.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This population-based cohort study included women younger than 65 years diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer from 2007 through 2015, followed up through 2016, continuously enrolled in Medicaid, and identified from the linked Missouri Cancer Registry and Medicaid claims data set. Data were analyzed from January 2022 to October 2023.

EXPOSURE

Preexisting diabetes.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) of utilization (yes/no), timely initiation (≤90 days postsurgery), and completion of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as adherence (medication possession ratio ≥80%) and persistence (<90–consecutive day gap) of endocrine therapy in the first year of treatment for women with diabetes compared with women without diabetes. Analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic and tumor factors.

RESULTS

Among 3704 women undergoing definitive surgery, the mean (SD) age was 51.4 (8.6) years, 1038 (28.1%) were non-Hispanic Black, 2598 (70.1%) were non-Hispanic White, 765 (20.7%) had a diabetes history, 2369 (64.0%) received radiotherapy, 2237 (60.4%) had chemotherapy, and 2505 (67.6%) took endocrine therapy. Compared with women without diabetes, women with diabetes were less likely to utilize radiotherapy (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.53-0.86), receive chemotherapy (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.48-0.93), complete chemotherapy (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.50-0.99), and be adherent to endocrine therapy (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.56-0.91). There were no significant associations of diabetes with utilization (OR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.71-1.28) and persistence (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.88-1.36) of endocrine therapy, timely initiation of radiotherapy (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.86-1.38) and chemotherapy (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.77-1.55), or completion of radiotherapy (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.91-1.71).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, preexisting diabetes was associated with subpar adjuvant therapies for breast cancer among low-income women. Improving diabetes management during cancer treatment is particularly important for low-income women with breast cancer who may have been disproportionately affected by diabetes and are likely to experience disparities in cancer treatment and outcomes.
Rapid Initiation of Injection Naltrexone for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Shulman Matisyahu , Greiner Miranda G. , Tafessu Hiwot M. , Opara Onumara , Ohrtman Kaitlyn , Potter Kenzie , Hefner Kathryn , Jelstrom Eve , Rosenthal Richard N. , Wenzel Kevin , Fishman Marc , Rotrosen John , Ghitza Udi E. , Nunes Edward V. , Bisaga Adam
Published: May 2024

Importance

Injectable extended-release (XR)-naltrexone is an effective treatment option for opioid use disorder (OUD), but the need to withdraw patients from opioid treatment prior to initiation is a barrier to implementation.

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of the standard procedure (SP) with the rapid procedure (RP) for XR-naltrexone initiation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Surmounting Withdrawal to Initiate Fast Treatment with Naltrexone study was an optimized stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial conducted at 6 community-based inpatient addiction treatment units. Units using the SP were randomly assigned at 14-week intervals to implement the RP. Participants admitted with OUD received the procedure the unit was delivering at the time of their admission. Participant recruitment took place between March 16, 2021, and July 18, 2022. The last visit was September 21, 2022.

Interventions

Standard procedure, based on the XR-naltrexone package insert (approximately 5-day buprenorphine taper followed by a 7- to 10-day opioid-free period and RP, defined as 1 day of buprenorphine at minimum necessary dose, 1 opioid-free day, and ascending low doses of oral naltrexone and adjunctive medications (eg, clonidine, clonazepam, antiemetics) for opioid withdrawal.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Receipt of XR-naltrexone injection prior to inpatient discharge (primary outcome). Secondary outcomes included opioid withdrawal scores and targeted safety events and serious adverse events. All analyses were intention-to-treat.

Results

A total of 415 participants with OUD were enrolled (mean [SD] age, 33.6 [8.48] years; 205 [49.4%] identified sex as male); 54 [13.0%] individuals identified as Black, 91 [21.9%] as Hispanic, 290 [69.9%] as White, and 22 [5.3%] as multiracial. Rates of successful initiation of XR-naltrexone among the RP group (141 of 225 [62.7%]) were noninferior to those of the SP group (68 of 190 [35.8%]) (odds ratio [OR], 3.60; 95% CI, 2.12-6.10). Withdrawal did not differ significantly between conditions (proportion of days with a moderate or greater maximum Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale score (>12) for RP vs SP: OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.62-2.50). Targeted safety events (RP: 12 [5.3%]; SP: 4 [2.1%]) and serious adverse events (RP: 15 [6.7%]; SP: 3 [1.6%]) were infrequent but occurred more often with RP than SP.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this trial, the RP of XR-naltrexone initiation was noninferior to the standard approach and saved time, although it required more intensive medical management and safety monitoring. The results of this trial suggest that rapid initiation could make XR-naltrexone a more viable treatment for patients with OUD.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04762537
Ion‐Conducting Molecular‐Grafted Sustainable Cellulose Quasi‐Solid Composite Electrolyte for High Stability Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Dong Weiliang , Song Zhennuo , Tan Jiji , Liu Qiang , Mu Kexin , Xu Weijian , Huang Haiyu , Zhang Zhili , Yin Gang , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian , Tian Lei
Published: May 2024

Cellulose‐based solid electrolyte possesses the characteristics of low cost, high strength, and sustainability, and has great potential in the field of solid‐state lithium metal batteries. However, the large hydrogen bonds between cellulose molecules make the molecular chains tightly arranged, and hinder the ion conduction, seriously limiting its further development. Herein, an ion‐conducting molecular grafting strategy is proposed for the fabrication of cellulose acetate quasi‐solid composite electrolyte (CLA‐CN‐LATP QCE) with a superior ionic conductivity of 1.25 × 10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature. Benefited from grafted functional molecules, the assembled symmetrical battery exhibits low polarization voltage and highly stable lithium stripping/plating cycling of more than 1200 h at 0.1 mA cm−2 current density. Moreover, it endows LFP|CLA‐CN‐LATP QCE|Li battery with excellent long‐cycle stability of 1500 cycles at 0.5 C and 25 °C and superior capacity retention of 92.1%. Importantly, this work provides an effective strategy for further opening the ion transport channel between cellulose molecular chains and improving the interface properties of electrolytes and electrodes.
Tailorable Multi‐Modular Pore‐Space‐Partitioned Vanadium Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Gas Separation
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Yichong , Feng Pingyun , Bu Xianhui
Published: May 2024

Currently, few porous vanadium metal‐organic frameworks (V‐MOFs) are known and even fewer are obtainable as single crystals, resulting in limited information on their structures and properties. Here this work demonstrates remarkable promise of V‐MOFs by presenting an extensible family of V‐MOFs with tailorable pore geometry and properties. The synthesis leverages inter‐modular synergy on a tri‐modular pore‐partitioned platform. New V‐MOFs show a broad range of structural features and sorption properties suitable for gas storage and separation applications for C2H2/CO2, C2H6/C2H4, and C3H8/C3H6. The c/a ratio of the hexagonal cell, a measure of pore shape, is tunable from 0.612 to 1.258. Other tunable properties include pore size from 5.0 to 10.9 Å and surface area from 820 to 2964 m2 g−1. With C2H2/CO2 selectivity from 3.3 to 11 and high uptake capacity for C2H2 from 65.2 to 182 cm3 g−1 (298K, 1 bar), an efficient separation is confirmed by breakthrough experiments. The near‐record high uptake for C2H6 (166.8 cm3 g−1) contributes to the promise for C2H6‐selective separation of C2H6/C2H4. The multi‐module pore expansion enables transition from C3H6‐selective to more desirable C3H8‐selective separation with extraordinarily high C3H8 uptake (254.9 cm3 g−1) and high separation potential (1.25 mmol g−1) for C3H8/C3H6 (50:50 v/v) mixture.
Physical‐Entanglements‐Supported Polymeric Form Stable Phase Change Materials with Ultrahigh Melting Enthalpy
Authors: Wang Zefan , Liu Shuxian , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of new energy and the upgrading of electronic devices, structurally stable phase change materials (PCMs) have attracted widespread attentions from both academia and industries. Traditional cross‐linking, composites, or microencapsulation methods for preparation of form stable PCMs usually sacrifice part of the phase change enthalpy and recyclability. Based on the basic polymer viscoelasticity and crystallization theories, here, a kind of novel recyclable polymeric PCM is developed by simple solution mixing ultrahigh molecular weight of polyethylene oxide (UHMWPEO) with its chemical identical oligomer polyethylene glycol (PEG). Rheological and leakage‐proof experiments confirm that, even containing 90% of phase change fraction PEG oligomers, long‐term of structure stability of PCMs can be achieved when the molecular weight of UHMWPEO is higher than 7000 kg mol−1 due to their ultralong terminal relaxation time and large number of entanglements per chain. Furthermore, because of the reduced overall entanglement concentration, phase change enthalpy of PCMs can be greatly promoted, even reaching to ≈185 J g−1, which is larger than any PEG‐based form stable PCMs in literatures. This work provides a new strategy and mechanism for designing physical‐entanglements‐supported form stable PCMs with ultrahigh phase change enthalpies.
Helically Chiral π‐Expanded Azocines Through Regioselective Beckmann Rearrangement and Their Charged States
Authors: Borstelmann Jan , Schneider Lars , Rominger Frank , Deschler Felix , Kivala Milan
Published: May 2024

We report a synthetic approach to π‐expanded [6]helicenes incorporating tropone and azocine units in combination with a 5‐membered ring, which exhibit intriguing structural, electronic, and chiroptical properties. The regioselective Beckmann rearrangement allows the isolation of helical scaffolds containing 8‐membered lactam, azocine, and amine units. As shown by X‐ray crystallographic analysis, the incorporation of tropone or azocine units leads to highly distorted [6]helicene moieties, with distinct packing motifs in the solid state. The compounds exhibit promising optoelectronic properties with considerable photoluminescence quantum yields and tunable emission wavelengths depending on the relative position of the nitrogen center within the polycyclic framework. Separation of the enantiomers by chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) allowed characterization of their chiroptical properties by circular dichroism (CD) and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) spectroscopy. The azocine compounds feature manifold redox chemistry, allowing for the characterization of the corresponding radical anions and cations as well as the dications and dianions, with near‐infrared (NIR) absorption bands extending beyond 3000 nm. Detailed theoretical studies provided insights into the aromaticity evolution upon reduction and oxidation, suggesting that the steric strain prevents the azocine unit from undergoing aromatization, while the indene moiety dominates the observed redox chemistry.
Paper‐in‐Tip Bipolar Electrospray Mass Spectrometry for Real‐Time Chemical Reaction Monitoring
Authors: Li Yun , Zhu Lixuan , Wu Xiaomeng , Zhang Zhiming , Pu Ruijin , Zheng Yajun , Zhang Zhiping
Published: May 2024

Capturing short‐lived intermediates at the molecular level is key to understanding the mechanism and dynamics of chemical reactions. Here, we have developed a paper‐in‐tip bipolar electrolytic electrospray mass spectrometry platform, in which a piece of triangular conductive paper incorporated into a plastic pipette tip serves not only as an electrospray emitter but also as a bipolar electrode (BPE), thus triggering both electrospray and electrolysis simultaneously upon application of a high voltage. The bipolar electrolysis induces a pair of redox reactions on both sides of BPE, enabling both electro‐oxidation and electro‐reduction processes regardless of the positive or negative ion mode, thus facilitating access to complementary structural information for mechanism elucidation. Our method enables real‐time monitoring of transient intermediates (such as N,N‐dimethylaniline radical cation, dopamine o‐quinone (DAQ) and sulfenic acid with half‐lives ranging from microseconds to minutes) and transient processes (such as DAQ cyclization with a rate constant of 0.15 s−1). This platform also provides key insights into electrocatalytic reactions such as Fe (III)‐catalyzed dopamine oxidation to quinone species at physiological pH for neuromelanin formation.
Ultrafast Formation of Charge Transfer Trions at Molecular‐Functionalized 2D MoS2 Interfaces
Authors: Jing Yuancheng , Liang Kangkai , Muir Nicole S. , Zhou Hao , Li Zhehao , Palasz Joseph M. , Sorbie Jonathan , Wang Chenglai , Cushing Scott K , Kubiak Clifford P. , Sofer Zdeněk , Li Shaowei , Xiong Wei
Published: May 2024

In this work, we investigate trion dynamics occurring at the heterojunction between organometallic molecules and a monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) with transient electronic sum frequency generation (tr‐ESFG) spectroscopy. By pumping at 2.4 eV with laser pulses, we have observed an ultrafast hole transfer, succeeded by the emergence of charge‐transfer trions. This observation is facilitated by the cancellation of ground state bleach and stimulated emission signals due to their opposite phases, making tr‐ESFG especially sensitive to the trion formation dynamics. The presence of charge‐transfer trion at molecular functionalized TMD monolayers suggests the potential for engineering the local electronic structures and dynamics of specific locations on TMDs and offers a potential for transferring unique electronic attributes of TMD to the molecular layers.
Diabetes‐related clinical and microstructural white matter changes in patients with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Sumbul‐Sekerci Betul , Velioglu Halil Aziz , Sekerci Abdusselam
Published: May 2024

Aim

Although there exists substantial epidemiological evidence indicating an elevated risk of dementia in individuals with diabetes, our understanding of the neuropathological underpinnings of the association between Type‐2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unclear. This study aims to unveil the microstructural brain changes associated with T2DM in AD and identify the clinical variables contributing to these changes.

Methods

In this retrospective study involving 64 patients with AD, 31 individuals had concurrent T2DM. The study involved a comparative analysis of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) images and clinical features between patients with and without T2DM. The FSL FMRIB software library was used for comprehensive preprocessing and tractography analysis of DTI data. After eddy current correction, the “bedpost” model was utilized to model diffusion parameters. Linear regression analysis with a stepwise method was used to predict the clinical variables that could lead to microstructural white matter changes.

Results

We observed a significant impairment in the left superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) among patients with AD who also had T2DM. This impairment in patients with AD and T2DM was associated with an elevation in creatine levels.

Conclusion

The white matter microstructure in the left SLF appears to be sensitive to the impairment of kidney function associated with T2DM in patients with AD. The emergence of AD in association with T2DM may be driven by mechanisms distinct from the typical AD pathology. Compromised renal function in AD could potentially contribute to impaired white matter integrity.
Junior and senior students possess differential preferences towards multimodal digital anatomy resources
Authors: Adnan Sharmeen , Michael Patrick , Benson Amanda C. , Xiao Junhua
Published: May 2024

Digital technologies are changing how anatomy is taught tremendously. However, little is known about the effective integration of multimodal digital resources when concurrently provided in an anatomy course. To address this question, an array of digital anatomy resources including Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) anatomy resources were concurrently trialed by a total of 326 undergraduate and postgraduate students across three undergraduate (systemic anatomy, neuroanatomy, and regional anatomy) and one postgraduate anatomy (applied musculoskeletal anatomy) curricula in 2022. A five‐point Likert scale learning and teaching survey was conducted to evaluate students' experiences, preferences, and perceptions. Most undergraduate (81% systemic anatomy, 76% neuroanatomy, and 87% regional anatomy) and postgraduate (97%) participants across the four cohorts felt confident in studying anatomy using digital resources and the majority (>80% undergraduate and >90% postgraduate) found the multimodal digital anatomy resources interactive and stimulating. The response showed that undergraduate (77% systemic anatomy, 81% neuroanatomy, and 97% regional anatomy) and postgraduate students (92%) consistently enjoyed their experience of using multimodal digital anatomy resources and thought that these resources enhanced their interest in studying anatomy. However, there are significant differences in ratings of specific digital resources among the junior (first‐year undergraduates) and senior (third‐year undergraduates and postgraduates) students. The virtual dissection table was uniformly preferred by the four cohorts of students across the board. Interestingly, however, VR anatomy and radiographic‐based digital anatomy resources received diverse ratings. VR anatomy was valued most by junior undergraduate students (84%) who studied systemic anatomy compared to their senior counterparts (73%) who studied regional anatomy, whereas radiographic‐based digital anatomy resources were more valued by the postgraduate students (93%) compared to undergraduates (65% systemic anatomy, 73% neuroanatomy, and 48% regional anatomy). This study identifies that while students uniformly appreciate the value of multimodal digital anatomy teaching, there is a clear difference in their perceptions towards individual resources, likely in a course‐specific manner. We conclude that the selection and adoption of digital anatomy tools must be tailored as part of course design and that digital anatomy tools should be used in combination to provide an effective learning experience for students.
Nivolumab plus chemotherapy or ipilimumab versus chemotherapy in patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (CheckMate 648): 29‐month follow‐up from a randomized, open‐label, phase III trial
Authors: Kato Ken , Doki Yuichiro , Chau Ian , Xu Jianming , Wyrwicz Lucjan , Motoyama Satoru , Ogata Takashi , Kawakami Hisato , Hsu Chih‐Hung , Adenis Antoine , El Hajbi Farid , Di Bartolomeo Maria , Braghiroli Maria Ignez , Holtved Eva , Makino Tomoki , Blum Murphy Mariela , Amaya‐Chanaga Carlos , Patel Apurva , Hu Nan , Matsumura Yasuhiro , Kitagawa Yuko , Ajani Jaffer
Published: May 2024

Background

First‐line nivolumab plus chemotherapy and nivolumab plus ipilimumab both demonstrated significant overall survival (OS) benefit versus chemotherapy in previously untreated patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in the CheckMate 648 trial, leading to approvals of both nivolumab‐containing regimens in many countries. We report longer‐term follow‐up data.

Methods

This open‐label, phase III trial (NCT03143153) enrolled adults with previously untreated, unresectable, advanced, recurrent, or metastatic ESCC. Patients were randomized 1:1:1 to nivolumab plus chemotherapy, nivolumab plus ipilimumab, or chemotherapy. Primary endpoints were OS and progression‐free survival (PFS) by blinded independent central review. Hierarchical testing was performed first in patients with tumor cell programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression of ≥1% and then in the overall population.

Results

A total of 970 patients were randomly assigned. After 29 months of minimum follow‐up, nivolumab plus chemotherapy continued to demonstrate improvement in OS versus chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.59 [95% CI: 0.46–0.76]) in patients with tumor cell PD‐L1 expression of ≥1% and in the overall population (HR = 0.78 [95% CI: 0.65–0.93]) and with nivolumab plus ipilimumab versus chemotherapy (HR = 0.62 [95% CI: 0.48–0.80]) in patients with tumor cell PD‐L1 expression of ≥1% and in the overall population (HR = 0.77 [95% CI: 0.65–0.92]). In patients with tumor cell PD‐L1 expression of ≥1%, nivolumab plus chemotherapy demonstrated PFS benefit versus chemotherapy (HR = 0.67 [95% CI: 0.51–0.89]); PFS benefit was not observed with nivolumab plus ipilimumab versus chemotherapy (HR = 1.04 [95% CI: 0.79–1.36]). Among all treated patients (n = 936), Grade 3–4 treatment‐related adverse events were reported in 151 (49%, nivolumab plus chemotherapy), 105 (32%, nivolumab plus ipilimumab), and 110 (36%, chemotherapy) patients.

Conclusions

Nivolumab plus chemotherapy and nivolumab plus ipilimumab continued to demonstrate clinically meaningful OS benefit versus chemotherapy with no new safety signals identified with longer follow‐up, further supporting use as first‐line standard treatment options for patients with advanced ESCC.
Phosphatidylserine and Tyro3‐Axl‐Mertk Receptor Tyrosine Kinase level detection in plasma and on plasma‐derived extracellular vesicle surface in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Bay Meltem , Seval Guldane Cengiz , Coskun Oznur , Gurman Gunhan , Erdas Nesrin Ozsoy.
Published: May 2024

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a chronic lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by monoclonal B cell proliferation. Studies carried out in recent years suggest that extracellular vesicles (EVs) may be a potential biomarker in cancer. Tyro3‐Axl‐Mertk (TAM) Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) and Phosphatidylserine (PS) have crucial roles in macrophage‐mediated immune response under normal conditions. In the tumor microenvironment, these molecules contribute to immunosuppressive signals and prevent the formation of local and systemic antitumor immune responses. Based on this, we aimed to evaluate the amount of PS and TAM RTK in plasma and on the surface of EVs in CLL patients and healthy volunteers in this study. In this study, 25 CLL (11 F/14 M) patients in the Rai (O‐I) stage, newly diagnosed or followed up without treatment, and 15 healthy volunteers (11 F/4 M) as a control group were included. For all samples, PS and TAM RTK levels were examined first in the plasma and then in the EVs obtained from the plasma. We detected a significant decrease in plasma PS, and TAM RTK levels in CLL patients compared to the control. Besides, we determined a significant increase in TAM RTK levels on the EV surface in CLL, except for PS. In conclusion, these receptor levels measured by ELISA in plasma may not be effective for the preliminary detection of CLL. However, especially TAM RTKs on the surface of EVs may be good biomarkers and potential targets for CLL therapies.
A fortunate bitten tongue—Hypothyroidism despite repeatedly normal plasma thyrotropin levels
Authors: Djukic Marija , Gossner Johannes , Larsen Jörg , König Fatima Barbara , Schildhaus Hans‐Ulrich , Rohde Veit , Nau Roland
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Hypophyseal dysfunction may be overlooked by the currently generally accepted laboratory routine for the differential diagnosis in patients suffering from symptoms of depression or dementia.

Hypothyroidism is an important cause of depression and potentially reversible cognitive impairment. Whereas the determination of the plasma concentration of thyrotropin (TSH) is generally considered part of the laboratory screening tests for dementia, the measurement of total or free triiodothyronine (T3, FT3), thyroxine (T4, FT4) and cortisol in plasma does not belong to the routine diagnostic workup in patients with depression or suspected dementia. In an 87‐year‐old lady suffering from increasingly poor general health, decreased fluid and food intake, mood depression and lack of energy, three measurements of plasma TSH produced normal values. A cranial computed tomography (cCT) 2 days prior to hospital admission had been assessed as apparently normal. A second cCT performed following a loss of consciousness complicated by tongue bite showed a hypophyseal tumor. Then, low plasma levels of FT3, FT4 and cortisol were found. Following hormone replacement and transsphenoidal tumor resection, the patient recovered rapidly. The present case report illustrates the pitfalls of measuring merely the TSH level in the detection of thyroid and hypophyseal dysfunction.
Disseminated tuberculosis after Polatuzumab‐Vedotin based chemoimmunotherapy in a patient with Burkitt's lymphoma
Authors: Elkourashy Sarah A. , Benkhadra Maria , Shafei Laila , Abujarir Sulieman , Ghasoub Rola
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

This report highlights the risk of latent tuberculosis (TB) reactivation after treatment with Polatuzumab Vedotin (PV), Rituximab, and Bendamustine (PBR protocol) despite appropriate chemoprophylaxis. A 48‐year‐old male with refractory Burkitt's lymphoma (BKL) was treated with PBR protocol. At baseline, the patient had a negative QuantiFERON test result, which turned out to be positive prior to starting PBR. He received chemoprophylaxis for 9 months and was compliant with treatment. One year later, he was admitted with COVID‐19 pneumonia and was treated according to the protocol. His symptoms persisted for 1 month. Investigations yielded disseminated TB‐infiltrated bone marrow and pleura. Downstream B‐cell and T‐cell depletion secondary to CD20 and CD79b antagonism may potentially explain the increased risk of TB reactivation associated with the combination of PV and rituximab. Further research is necessary to monitor the risk of TB reactivation among patients receiving a combination of PV and rituximab, especially in endemic areas with high prevalence and incidence of TB.
A case report of anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis in a 23‐year‐old female with acute psychiatric symptoms
Authors: Khatrawi Elham Mohammed , Prajjwal Priyadarshi , Marsool Mohammed Dheyaa Marsool , Das Arpan , Nagre Abhijit , Inban Pugazhendi , Marsool Ali Dheyaa Marsool , Hussin Omniat Amir
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Prompt identification and management of anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis in young patients with acute psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and neurological deficits are crucial. Timely immunomodulatory therapy is essential for positive outcomes and minimizing long‐term complications. High suspicion for this rare disorder is necessary for timely diagnosis and optimal care.

Anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is characterized by the presence of antibodies against the NMDA receptor, a crucial component of synaptic signaling. This autoimmune disorder often manifests with psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and neurological deficits. Early diagnosis is essential, as delayed treatment can result in severe complications. In this case, the patient received corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), leading to a successful recovery with no lingering neurological abnormalities. The prompt initiation of treatment highlights the importance of recognizing this condition early. Anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis is a rare autoimmune disorder that presents with a range of neurological symptoms. In this case report, we highlight the significance of early recognition and treatment by discussing the emergency room visit of a 23‐year‐old woman who presented with acute‐onset agitation, disorientation, and seizures. A 23‐year‐old woman, presented to the emergency room with acute‐onset agitation, disorientation, and seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans revealed temporal lobe signal alterations and electroencephalogram (EEG) showed widespread activity slowing. Importantly, anti‐NMDA receptor antibodies were detected in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid, confirming the diagnosis of anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis. This case report underscores the significance of understanding the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis. Timely recognition and intervention are crucial for achieving favorable outcomes in patients with this rare but clinically important autoimmune disorder. Increased awareness among healthcare professionals is essential to ensure early diagnosis and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment strategies.
The role of sociocultural factors in rare medical conditions: The first case report of pseudocyesis in an Ethiopian woman with major depressive disorder
Authors: Kassim Faiz Mohammed , Wasihun Muluken Tesfaye , Jimma Meskerem Abebe , Megersa Surafel Worku
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Our case report highlights pseudocyesis, a rare medical condition in a 40‐year‐old woman with comorbid major depressive disorder. Cultural influences on experiences, and the need for understanding sociocultural factors in mental health, are emphasized in low‐resource settings.