bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological Profile and Trends in Hospitalizations for Acute Myocardial Infarction in Belém Do Pará (2019-2023): Implications for Public Health
Authors: Lobato Werllison Mateus Silva , Souza Thayse do Socorro Pereira de , Cordeiro Lanna Lorrane Assis , Conceição Roseli Assis da , Ruivo Barbara Alves Ruela de Azevedo , Sousa Bruna Rafaela da Silva , Gomes Rodrigo Silva , Cardoso Geovanna dos Passos , Ramalho Jully Greyce Freitas de Paula , Dergan Marcela Raíssa Asevedo , Sousa Yasmin Martins de
Published: February 2025

Aims: This study aims to analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the municipality of Belém do Pará from 2019 to 2023, focusing on trends, demographic characteristics, and implications for public health strategies.
Study Design: A quantitative, retrospective, descriptive, and ecological study was conducted, utilizing data from the Ministry of Health's Hospital Information System (SIH/DATASUS) through the TABNET platform.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Belém do Pará, Brazil, covering a five-year period from January 2019 to December 2023.
Methodology: Data on hospitalizations for AMI, classified under ICD I21, were collected and analyzed. Key epidemiological variables included the number of hospitalizations per year, nature of care, gender, age group, race/color, and mortality rates. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using absolute and relative frequencies.
Results: This study analyzes hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in Belém do Pará from 2019 to 2023, focusing on trends, demographic characteristics, and implications for public health strategies. We observed a significant increase in AMI hospitalizations, with the highest peak in 2022. The most affected demographic was men of brown race/color in the 60-69 age group, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health interventions aimed at prevention and health education, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The study highlights the importance of implementing robust health policies to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with acute myocardial infarction, ultimately improving the quality of life for the population of Belém do Pará.
Giant Keratoacanthoma Centrifugum Marginatum: A Rare Case Report with Note on Literature Review
Authors: Chhawchharia Stuti , Singh Amar , Rana Amit , Verma Mamta
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Keratoacanthoma Centrifugum Marginatum (KCM) is a rare variant of keratoacanthoma that closely mimics squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), posing significant diagnostic challenges.
Case Report: A 45-year-old male presented with a progressively enlarging hyperkeratotic lesion on the right cheek. Histopathological examination revealed pseudocarcinomatous hyperplasia with a central keratin plug, and MRI confirmed the lesion was confined to subcutaneous tissues without deeper invasion. Surgical excision was advised.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of distinguishing KCM from SCC to prevent overtreatment. Surgical excision remains the preferred treatment, complemented by regular postoperative follow-ups for recurrence monitoring.
Analysis of the Efficiency of Iterative Reconstruction Techniques in Reducing Radiation Dose in Computed Tomography: A Clinical Feasibility Study
Authors: Bonadeo Nathalia Mundt , Silva Adrine Silveira da , Cassol Luísa Vargas , Claus Thiago Victorino , Orengo Gilberto , Paula Valnir de
Published: February 2025

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different interactive reconstruction (IR) techniques between computed tomography (CT) equipment to reduce radiation dose during clinical practice, since CT is considered a valuable medical imaging technique and is widely used in clinical practice.
Study Design: Clinical feasibility study.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out over a semester at a reference clinic in imaging diagnostics located in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Methodology: Methodology: This study describes the efficiency of iterative reconstruction in the three most common examinations in clinical practice, namely: skull, chest and abdomen. Using two 64-detector row CT scanners, one with and one without IR, and to support data interpretation, a literature review on CT equipment, dosage and protocols was performed.
Results: Iterative Reconstruction tends not to result in a significant reduction in radiation dose in all types of examinations. The method varies according to the region of the body, being more significant in the thorax and abdomen and less significant in the skull. However, the application of IR has a smaller standard deviation compared to the conventional technique.
Conclusion: The most favorable results were achieved by the CT scanner that did not use Iterative Reconstruction. Since the equipment with the application of IR recorded higher radiation exposure rates compared to the CT scanner without this functionality. It is worth noting that the lower the radiation dose and the higher the quality of the radiographic image, the greater the patient's safety during the procedure.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Co-Occurrence of Nocturnal Hypertension and Nocturnal Blood Pressure Decreases
Authors: Zhang Neil , Huang Tzu Yu , Cheng Susan , Ebinger Joseph E.
Published: January 2024

This cross-sectional study assesses racial and ethnic disparities in co-occurrence of nocturnal hypertension and blunted nocturnal decreases in blood pressure.
Retinopathy Associated With Coxsackie B Virus Infection
Authors: Hanif Adam , Thanos Aristomenis
Published: January 2024

This case report describes a diagnosis of unilateral retinopathy secondary to coxsackie B virus in a male patient aged 41 years who presented with a central scotoma and blistering rash of the hands, feet, and mouth for 4 days.
Sex or Gender Reporting in Ophthalmology Clinical Trials Among US Food and Drug Administration Approvals, 1995 to 2022
Authors: Xie Jim Shenchu , Kaur Hargun , Tao Brendan , Lee Jordon , Solish Danielle , Kohly Radha , Margolin Edward
Published: January 2024

Importance

As critical determinants of scientific rigor, reproducibility, and equity, sex and gender should be considered in clinical trial design and reporting.

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of sex and gender reporting and extent of sex- and gender-based analysis in clinical trials associated with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug approvals between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2022.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional study of participants enrolled in FDA ophthalmology trials, the following trial documents were reviewed by pairs of independent reviewers in decreasing order of priority: peer-reviewed publication, ClinicalTrials.gov report, and FDA medical and statistical reviews. Trial protocols and supplementary materials were also reviewed.

Main Outcome and Measures

The proportion of trials that correctly applied sex and gender terminology, reported the method of assessing sex or gender, and conducted sex- or gender-based data analysis; incorrect application of sex and gender terminology was defined as interchangeable use of sex- and gender-related terms without a clear justification.

Results

Between 1995 and 2022, 34 ophthalmic drugs corresponding to 85 trials (34 740 participants) received FDA approval, of which 16 drugs (47.1%) corresponding to 32 trials (18 535 participants [37.6%]) were associated with peer-reviewed publications. Sixteen trials used sex and gender terminology correctly (19.5%). No trial reported how sex and gender were collected nor enrolled participants from sexual and gender identity minority populations. Most trials reported sex- and gender-disaggregated demographic data (96.5%), but few conducted sex- or gender-based analysis for data on dropout (1.2%), primary outcomes (28.2%), secondary outcomes (2.4%), and adverse events (9.4%). Erroneous sex and gender reporting was associated with later publication year (2008.5 vs 2001.0; median difference, 7.5; 95% CI, −6.0 to 11.0; P < .001) and higher journal influence metrics, including 2022 journal impact factor (13.7 vs 5.9; median difference, 7.8; 95% CI, −1.4 to 152.4, P < .001) and 2022 journal citation indicator (4.9 vs 2.1; median difference, 2.9; 95% CI, 0-20.0, P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this observational study, over three-quarters of ophthalmology trials associated with FDA drug approvals conflated sex and gender and over two-thirds lacked sex- and gender-based analyses. More rigorous integration of sex and gender appears warranted for FDA, and presumably other trials, to improve their validity, reproducibility, and equity.
Resting‐state fMRI functional connectome of C9orf72 mutation status
Authors: Stanziano Mario , Fedeli Davide , Manera Umberto , Ferraro Stefania , Medina Carrion Jean P. , Palermo Sara , Sciortino Paola , Cogoni Maurizio , Agosta Federica , Basaia Silvia , Filippi Massimo , Grisoli Marina , Valentini Maria C. , De Mattei Filippo , Canosa Antonio , Calvo Andrea , Bruzzone Maria G. , Chiò Adriano , Nigri Anna , Moglia Cristina
Published: January 2024

Objective

The resting‐state functional connectome has not been extensively investigated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) spectrum disease, in particular in relationship with patients' genetic status.

Methods

Here we studied the network‐to‐network connectivity of 19 ALS patients carrying the C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion (C9orf72+), 19 ALS patients not affected by C9orf72 mutation (C9orf72−), and 19 ALS‐mimic patients (ALSm) well‐matched for demographic and clinical variables.

Results

When compared with ALSm, we observed greater connectivity of the default mode and frontoparietal networks with the visual network for C9orf72+ patients (P = 0.001). Moreover, the whole‐connectome showed greater node degree (P < 0.001), while sensorimotor cortices resulted isolated in C9orf72+.

Interpretation

Our results suggest a crucial involvement of extra‐motor functions in ALS spectrum disease. In particular, alterations of the visual cortex may have a pathogenic role in C9orf72‐related ALS. The prominent feature of these patients would be increased visual system connectivity with the networks responsible of the functional balance between internal and external attention.
Improved maximum correntropy cubature Kalman and information filters with application to target tracking under non‐Gaussian noise
Authors: Lu Tao , Zhou Weidong , Tong Shun
Published: January 2024

The cubature Kalman filter (CKF) based on the maximum correntropy criterion (MCC) has been widely used in the target tracking. However, numerical problems usually occur when there are outliers in the measurement noise. In order to solve the problems of state estimation under the non‐Gaussian measurement noise, a new combined cost function is defined based on the weighted least squares (WLS) method and MCC. In addition, a new method is also used to adaptively adjust the kernel size, then the improved maximum correntropy CKF (PMCCKF) and its corresponding improved maximum correntropy cubature information filter (PMCCIF) are proposed. Compared with the existing algorithms, the new method can not only obtain similar or even better estimation performance, but also avoid numerical problems. Moreover, when the kernel size is infinite, the performance of proposed algorithms will reduce to the standard CKF and corresponding cubature information filter (CIF) respectively, but the classical maximum correntropy CIF (MCCIF) will not, and even the performance is poor in this case. The advantages of the proposed algorithms are verified by four classical nonlinear models.
SnF2‐Induced Multifunctional Interface‐Stabilized Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5‐Based All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wei Chaochao , Liu Chen , Xiao Yujie , Wu Zhongkai , Luo Qiyue , Jiang Ziling , Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Long , Cheng Shijie , Yu Chuang
Published: January 2024

Compared to traditional lithium‐ion batteries with liquid electrolytes, all‐solid‐state lithium batteries have attracted extensive attention due to their heightened safety and energy density. Lithium argyrodite materials are promising solid electrolytes (SE) due to their high ionic conductivity, low grain boundary resistance, and favorable mechanical properties. However, the poor chemical/electrochemical stability of lithium argyrodite electrolytes toward the bare lithium metal anode inhibits their applications in all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs). Here, Li‐SnF2 composite anodeswas used to induce the formation of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) composed of LiCl, LiF, and Li22Sn5 at the Li/SE interface.  The high interface energy barriers for LiF and LiCl induces the uniform deposition of lithium ions, thus hindering the growth of lithium dendrites. Meanwhile, the fast Li‐ion diffusion coefficient of the Li22Sn5 alloy accelerates Li‐ion migration across the interface section. The symmetrical cell exhibits stable cycling performance over long durations over 300 h at 0.5 mA cm−2. Moreover, the LiNbO3@NCM712/Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5/Li‐10%SnF2 battery delivers a high initial discharge capacity of 170.9 mAh g−1 at 0.1C and retains 72.9% of its original capacity after 500 cycles at 0.5C. The facial approach for Li‐SnF2 composite anode enables the production of ASSLMBs with superior electrochemical performance.
The Nanoplasmonic Purcell Effect in Ultrafast and High‐Light‐Yield Perovskite Scintillators
Authors: Ye Wenzheng , Yong Zhihua , Go Michael , Kowal Dominik , Maddalena Francesco , Tjahjana Liliana , Wang Hong , Arramel Arramel , Dujardin Christophe , Birowosuto Muhammad Danang , Wong Liang Jie
Published: January 2024

The development of X‐ray scintillators with ultrahigh light yields and ultrafast response times is a long sought‐after goal. In this work, a fundamental mechanism that pushes the frontiers of ultrafast X‐ray scintillator performance is theoretically predicted and experimentally demonstrated: the use of nanoscale‐confined surface plasmon polariton modes to tailor the scintillator response time via the Purcell effect. By incorporating nanoplasmonic materials in scintillator devices, this work predicts over tenfold enhancement in decay rate and 38% reduction in time resolution even with only a simple planar design. The nanoplasmonic Purcell effect is experimentally demonstrated using perovskite scintillators, enhancing the light yield by over 120% to 88 ± 11 ph/keV, and the decay rate by over 60% to 2.0 ± 0.2 ns for the average decay time, and 0.7 ± 0.1 ns for the ultrafast decay component, in good agreement with the predictions of our theoretical framework. Proof‐of‐concept X‐ray imaging experiments are performed using nanoplasmonic scintillators, demonstrating 182% enhancement in the modulation transfer function at four line pairs per millimeter spatial frequency. This work highlights the enormous potential of nanoplasmonics in optimizing ultrafast scintillator devices for applications including time‐of‐flight X‐ray imaging and photon‐counting computed tomography.
Robust, Sprayable, and Multifunctional Hydrogel Coating through a Polycation Reinforced (PCR) Surface Bridging Strategy
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Xin‐Yi , Qian Hong‐Lin , Wang Xing‐Wang , Wang You‐Xiang , Ren Ke‐Feng , Ji Jian
Published: January 2024

The sprayable hydrogel coatings that can establish robust adhesion onto diverse materials and devices hold enormous potential; however, a significant challenge persists due to monomer hydration, which impedes even coverage during spraying and induces inadequate adhesion post‐gelation. Herein, a polycation‐reinforced (PCR) surface bridging strategy is presented to achieve tough and sprayable hydrogel coatings onto diverse materials. The polycations offer superior wettability and instant electrostatic interactions with plasma‐treated substrates, facilitating an effective spraying application. This PCR‐based hydrogel coatings demonstrate tough adhesion performance to inert PTFE and silicone, including remarkable shear strength (161 ± 49 kPa for PTFE), interfacial toughness (198 ± 27 J m−2 for PTFE), and notable tolerance to cyclic tension (10 000 cycles, 200% strain, silicone). Meanwhile, this method can be applied to various hydrogel formulations, offering diverse functionalities, including underwater adhesion, lubrication, and drug delivery. Furthermore, the PCR concept enables the conformal construction of durable hydrogel coatings onto sophisticated medical devices like cardiovascular stents. Given its simplicity and adaptability, this approach paves an avenue for incorporating hydrogels onto solid surfaces and potentially promotes untapped applications.
Metabolic Bypass Rescues Aberrant S‐nitrosylation‐Induced TCA Cycle Inhibition and Synapse Loss in Alzheimer's Disease Human Neurons
Authors: Andreyev Alexander Y. , Yang Hongmei , Doulias Paschalis‐Thomas , Dolatabadi Nima , Zhang Xu , Luevanos Melissa , Blanco Mayra , Baal Christine , Putra Ivan , Nakamura Tomohiro , Ischiropoulos Harry , Tannenbaum Steven R. , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: January 2024

In Alzheimer's disease (AD), dysfunctional mitochondrial metabolism is associated with synaptic loss, the major pathological correlate of cognitive decline. Mechanistic insight for this relationship, however, is still lacking. Here, comparing isogenic wild‐type and AD mutant human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived cerebrocortical neurons (hiN), evidence is found for compromised mitochondrial energy in AD using the Seahorse platform to analyze glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Isotope‐labeled metabolic flux experiments revealed a major block in activity in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle at the α‐ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (αKGDH)/succinyl coenzyme‐A synthetase step, metabolizing α‐ketoglutarate to succinate. Associated with this block, aberrant protein S‐nitrosylation of αKGDH subunits inhibited their enzyme function. This aberrant S‐nitrosylation is documented not only in AD‐hiN but also in postmortem human AD brains versus controls, as assessed by two separate unbiased mass spectrometry platforms using both SNOTRAP identification of S‐nitrosothiols and chemoselective‐enrichment of S‐nitrosoproteins. Treatment with dimethyl succinate, a cell‐permeable derivative of a TCA substrate downstream to the block, resulted in partial rescue of mitochondrial bioenergetic function as well as reversal of synapse loss in AD‐hiN. These findings have therapeutic implications that rescue of mitochondrial energy metabolism can ameliorate synaptic loss in hiPSC‐based models of AD.
Product Peroxidation Inhibition in Methane Photooxidation into Methanol
Authors: Cao Yuehan , Huang Zeai , Han Chunqiu , Zhou Ying
Published: January 2024

Methane photooxidation into methanol offers a practical approach for the generation of high‐value chemicals and the efficient storage of solar energy. However, the propensity for C─H bonds in the desired products to cleave more easily than those in methane molecules results in a continuous dehydrogenation process, inevitably leading to methanol peroxidation. Consequently, inhibiting methanol peroxidation is perceived as one of the most formidable challenges in the field of direct conversion of methane to methanol. This review offers a thorough overview of the typical mechanisms involved radical mechanism and active site mechanism and the regulatory methods employed to inhibit product peroxidation in methane photooxidation. Additionally, several perspectives on the future research direction of this crucial field are proposed.
Ferroptosis in Osteocytes as a Target for Protection Against Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Jiang Zengxin , Qi Guobin , He Xuecheng , Yu Yifan , Cao Yuting , Zhang Changqing , Zou Weiguo , Yuan Hengfeng
Published: January 2024

Ferroptosis is a necrotic form of iron‐dependent regulatory cell death. Estrogen withdrawal can interfere with iron metabolism, which is responsible for the pathogenesis of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). Here, it is demonstrated that estrogen withdrawal induces iron accumulation in the skeleton and the ferroptosis of osteocytes, leading to reduced bone mineral density. Furthermore, the facilitatory effect of ferroptosis of osteocytes is verified in the occurrence and development of postmenopausal osteoporosis is associated with over activated osteoclastogenesis using a direct osteocyte/osteoclast coculture system and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) knockout ovariectomized mice. In addition, the nuclear factor erythroid derived 2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway is confirmed to be a crucial factor in the ferroptosis of osteocytic cells. Nrf2 regulates the expression of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANKL) by regulating the DNA methylation level of the RANKL promoter mediated by DNA methyltransferase 3a (Dnmt3a), which is as an important mechanism in osteocytic ferroptosis‐mediated osteoclastogenesis. Taken together, this data suggests that osteocytic ferroptosis is involved in PMOP and can be targeted to tune bone homeostasis.
Complex balanced intrachromosomal rearrangement involving PITX2 identified as a cause of Axenfeld‐Rieger Syndrome
Authors: Farris Joseph , Khanna Cheryl , Smadbeck James B. , Johnson Sarah H. , Bothun Erick , Kaplan Tyler , Hoffman Francis , Polonis Katarzyna , Oliver Gavin , Reis Linda M. , Semina Elena V. , Rust Laura , Hoppman Nicole L. , Vasmatzis George , Marcou Cherisse A. , Schimmenti Lisa A. , Klee Eric W.
Published: January 2024

Axenfeld‐Rieger Syndrome (ARS) type 1 is a rare autosomal dominant condition characterized by anterior chamber anomalies, umbilical defects, dental hypoplasia, and craniofacial anomalies, with Meckel's diverticulum in some individuals. Here, we describe a clinically ascertained female of childbearing age with ARS for whom clinical targeted sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis followed by clinical exome and genome sequencing resulted in no pathogenic variants or variants of unknown significance in PITX2 or FOXC1. Advanced bioinformatic analysis of the genome data identified a complex, balanced rearrangement disrupting PITX2. This case is the first reported intrachromosomal rearrangement leading to ARS, illustrating that for patients with compelling clinical phenotypes but negative genomic testing, additional bioinformatic analysis are essential to identify subtle genomic abnormalities in target genes.
Rapid and Bifunctional Chemoselective Metabolome Analysis of Liver Disease Plasma Using the Reagent 4‐Nitrophenyl‐2H‐azirine
Authors: Lin Weifeng , Gerullat Lars , Braadland Peder R. , Fournier Anaïs , Hov Johannes R. , Globisch Daniel
Published: January 2024

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bile ducts that has been associated with diverse metabolic carboxylic acids. Mass spectrometric techniques are the method of choice for their analysis. However, the broad investigation of this metabolite class remains challenging. Derivatization of carboxylic acids represents a strategy to overcome these limitations but available methods suffer from diverse analytical challenges. Herein, we have designed a novel strategy introducing 4‐nitrophenyl‐2H‐azirine as a new chemoselective moiety for the first time for carboxylic acid metabolites. This moiety was selected as it rapidly forms a stable amide bond and also generates a new ketone, which can be analyzed by our recently developed quant‐SCHEMA method specific for carbonyl metabolites. Optimization of this new method revealed a high reproducibility and robustness, which was utilized to validate 102 metabolic carboxylic acids using authentic synthetic standard conjugates in human plasma samples including nine metabolites that were newly detected. Using this sequential analysis of the carbonyl‐ and carboxylic acid‐metabolomes revealed alterations of the ketogenesis pathway, which demonstrates the vast benefit of our unique methodology. We anticipate that the developed azirine moiety with rapid functional group transformation will find broad application in diverse chemical biology research fields.
Evaluation of fresh state, rheological properties, and compressive strength performance of cementitious system with grinding aids
Authors: Kaya Yahya , Kobya Veysel , Mardani Ali
Published: January 2024

Grinding aids (GA) affect the fresh and hardened state properties of cement systems in addition to the economic and ecological advantages they provide. Nevertheless, there is not enough information in the literature regarding the effect of GA utilization on the rheological properties of cementitious systems. In this study, the effect of different types of GA utilization on the grinding efficiency, setting time, and physical properties of cement and rheological properties of cement paste was investigated. Besides, adsorption of the water‐reducing admixture (polycarboxylate ether [PCE]) to the cement containing GA was investigated by total organic carbon analysis. According to the results, regardless of the type of GA, while the grinding efficiency was positively affected by GA utilization in cement, the adsorption degree of PCE, some fresh and rheological properties of the mixtures were negatively affected. With the use of GA, an increase was observed in the early age compressive strength of mortar mixtures. Consequently, the properties of cementitious systems containing GA should be taken into consideration to assess GA performance in addition to the grinding efficiency.
Poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene glycol) blends with compatibilizers
Authors: Lee Hayeong , Lee Tae‐Hee , Kim Hyungsu , Jang Keon‐Soo
Published: January 2024

Polymer blend systems offer a versatile approach for tailoring the properties of polymer materials for specific applications. In this study, we investigated the compatibility of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) blends processed using a twin‐screw extruder, with the aim of enhancing their compatibility. Phthalic anhydride (PAn) and phthalic acid (PAc) were used as potential compatibilizers at different concentrations to improve interfacial interactions between PBT and PEG. Blend morphologies were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, which revealed improved interfacial compatibility and reduced phase separation with the incorporation of small amounts of PAn and PAc. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicated changes in the melting temperature (Tm) and glass transition temperature (Tg) of the blends owing to the compatibilizing effects of PAn and PAc. Dynamic mechanical analysis further corroborated the influence of the compatibilizers on the Tg and viscoelastic behavior. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced thermal stability with the addition of either PAn or PAc. Rheological measurements indicated an increase in complex viscosity with increasing compatibilizer content, indicating improved compatibility. The degradation point (Td) of PBT/PEG blend increased from 158 to 200 and 319°C with the incorporation of 5 phr PAn and 2 phr PAc, respectively. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength, Young's modulus, and Izod impact strength, were evaluated. For instance, the tensile strength of PBT/PEG blend was enhanced from 43.5 to 48.7 and 49.7 MPa by incorporating 5 phr PAn and 2 phr PAc, respectively. However, the impact strength of PBT/PEG blend increased from 3.0 to 4.3 and 4.2 kJ/m2 with the addition of 1 phr PAn and 1 phr PAc, respectively. The findings demonstrated that adding 5 phr PAn or 2 phr PAc to the PBT/PEG blends was advantageous, achieving a harmony of performance benefits and compromises. Rheological observations contributed significantly to the mechanical and thermal properties. Overall, the study highlights the significance of utilizing PAn and PAc as effective compatibilizers for enhancing the properties of PBT/PEG blends, making them potential candidates for various applications.
Toward an open‐source 3D‐printable laboratory
Authors: McNair Mason C. , Cocioba Sebastian C. , Pietrzyk Peter , Rife Trevor W.
Published: January 2024

Premise

Low‐cost, repairable lab equipment is rare within the biological sciences. By lowering the costs of entry using 3D printing and open‐source hardware, our goal is to empower both amateur and professional scientists to conduct research.

Methods

We developed a modular system of 3D‐printable designs called COBLE (Collection of Bespoke Laboratory Equipment), including novel and remixed 3D‐printable lab equipment that can be inexpensively printed, assembled, and repaired for a fraction of the cost of retail equivalents.

Results

Here we present novel tools that utilize 3D printing to enable a wide range of scientific experiments. We include additional resources for scientists and labs that are interested in utilizing 3D printing for their research.

Discussion

By describing the broad potential that 3D‐printed designs can have in the biological sciences, we hope to inspire others to implement and improve upon these designs, improving accessibility and enabling science for all.
Strategic planning and optimal tactical management of regional bioethanol supply‐chain system with high spatial resolution and uncertainties
Authors: Wang Mengmeng , Ji Ling , Xie Yulei
Published: January 2024

Although bioethanol is viewed as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels, its commercialization is hindered by high production costs and uncertain policies. This study proposes a novel integrated framework to support decision making in the bioethanol supply‐chain system under complex uncertainties. By considering various geographical, economic, and environmental factors, potentially suitable sites are identified using a geographic information systems‐based (GIS‐based) multi‐criteria decision‐making approach. Then, a two‐stage stochastic, fuzzy, chance‐constrained programming model is developed to determine investment decisions (i.e. site and size of biorefineries) and operational strategies (i.e. production schedule, biomass supply network, etc.) in the face of uncertainties. The proposed research framework is tailored for a case study in Henan Province, China, which suggests the installation of six biorefineries with a total capacity of 679.11 million liters to reduce local carbon emissions by 1.54 million tons. Decision makers with different risk preferences can use this method to find optimal tradeoff strategies between system cost and risk under uncertainties. Sensitivity analysis also reveals that increasing the proportion of bioethanol blending targets is the key exogenous variable to promote the use of local biomass resources.
Problematising teachers' accounts of privilege in elite high schools
Authors: Pinto‐Dror Ilanit , Shoshana Avihu
Published: January 2024

The research question at the core of this paper concerns how teachers in elite Israeli high schools explain their educational work in this context, given its central role in establishing and perpetuating privilege in the current polarised era. To answer this question, we conducted 28 interviews with teachers from three elite high schools in Israel. The findings reveal three ways teachers justified their educational work in elite schools: cultivating the ‘serving elite’, helping shape elite students' leftist political orientation and future voting behaviour (emphasising the idea that political leftism serves as a mitigating force against the excesses of plutocracy) and fulfilling elite children's right to a level of education commensurate with their ability. The discussion problematises these justifications by highlighting their features, which, in turn, contribute to a complex understanding of how privilege functions and how advantages and inequality are produced and perpetuated in exclusive and exclusionary elite spaces.
Plasma antioxidant potential measured by total radical trapping antioxidant parameter in a cohort of multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Kartau Marge , Kartau Joonas , Pohja Marjatta , Verkkoniemi‐Ahola Auli
Published: January 2024

Background

Oxidative injury has been implicated as a mediator of demyelination, axonal damage, and neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is a high demand for oxidative injury biomarkers. The aim of the study was to evaluate MS patients’ plasma antioxidant potential using the total radical trapping parameter (TRAP) assay and examine its usefulness as an MS disease biomarker.

Methods

A total number of 112 MS patients underwent an analysis of TRAP. In addition, plasma uric acid (UA) levels were analyzed. The neurological and radiological data were collected from patient records from Helsinki University Hospital during 2012–2013 when first‐line injectables of moderate‐efficacy, natalizumab (NTZ), and fingolimod (FTY) of high efficacy disease modifying therapies and in some cases azathioprine (AZT) were used to treat MS.

Results

TRAP values were negatively associated with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score with p‐value .052, β = −28. There was also a negative association in TRAP values between patients with no medication (n = 22, TRAP mean 1255 μmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI] 1136–1374)) and patients who received NTZ, p‐value .020 (n = 19, TRAP mean was 991 μmol/L (95% CI 849–1133) or FTY treatment, p‐value .030 (n = 5, TRAP mean 982 μmol/L (95% CI 55–1909). Due to a small sample size, these results were not significant after applying a false discovery rate correction at a 0.05 significance level but are worth highlighting. Men in the study had higher TRAP values, p‐value = .001 (TRAP mean 1320 ± 293 μmol/L) than women (TRAP mean 1082 ± 288 μmol/L). UA was positively associated with TRAP values, p‐value <.001 and UA levels in men (UA mean 334.5 ± 62.6 μmol/L) were higher compared to women (UA mean 240 ± 55.8 μmol/L), t‐test p‐value <.001. The significant difference in TRAP levels between genders, with men showing higher TRAP values than women, may be attributed to the variation in UA levels.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that lower plasma antioxidant potential is linked to more severe disability measured by EDSS scores. Patients treated with NTZ and FTY had reduced antioxidant power, which might be influenced by the active MS disease rather than the treatments themselves. The study reveals a strong positive correlation between UA levels and TRAP, particularly among women. However, men on average had better antioxidant potential than women. Neither the disease type nor the duration influences TRAP levels. While serving as a marker of antioxidant potential, plasma TRAP in MS patients does not reliably reflect overall oxidative stress (OS) and should not be solely used as an indicator of OS.
Racial differences in treatment and survival among older patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Wang Rong , Neparidze Natalia , Ma Xiaomei , Colditz Graham A. , Chang Su‐Hsin , Wang Shi‐Yi
Published: January 2024

Background

Treatments for multiple myeloma (MM) have evolved over time and improved MM survival. While racial differences in MM treatment and prognosis between non‐Hispanic African American (NHAA) and non‐Hispanic White (NHW) patients are well‐established, it is unclear whether they have persisted after the introduction of novel agents.

Methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare linked database, our study investigated racial difference in the receipt of treatment within 1 year following diagnosis and assessed survival outcomes among Medicare beneficiaries (≥66 years) diagnosed with MM from 2007 to 2017. We applied multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the association between race and survival and presented hazard ratios (HRs).

Results

Of 2094 NHAA and 11,983 NHW older patients with MM, 59.5% and 64.8% received treatment during the first year, respectively. Discrepancy in the proportion of patients receiving treatment between the two groups increased from 2.9% in 2007 to 2009 to 6.9% in 2014–2017. After controlling for relevant factors, patients who received treatment within the first year had lower mortality than those who did not (HR = 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.86–0.94). NHAA patients had a lower probability to receive treatments during the first year than NHW patients (HR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.85–0.97) but had lower mortality (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.88–1.00). The lower mortality was only observed among patients who received no treatment (HR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.77–0.93); NHAA and NHW patients who received treatment had similar survival (p = 0.63).

Conclusions

The increasing racial disparity in treatment utilization over time is concerning. Efforts are needed to eliminate the barriers of receiving treatment.
Biocatalytic Regioselective O‐acylation of Sesquiterpene Lactones from Chicory: A Pathway to Novel Ester Derivatives
Authors: Mosheim J. Rodriguez , Ruggieri F. , Humeau C. , Hance P. , Willand N. , Hilbert J. L. , Heuson E. , Froidevaux R.
Published: January 2024

We report the first biocatalytic modification of sesquiterpene lactones (STLs) found in the chicory plants, specifically lactucin (Lc), 11β,13‐dihydrolactucin (DHLc), lactucopicrin (Lp), and 11β,13‐dihydrolactucopicrin (DHLp). The selective O‐acylation of their primary alcohol group was carried out by the lipase B from Candida antarctica (CAL‐B) using various aliphatic vinyl esters as acyl donors. Perillyl alcohol, a simpler monoterpenoid, served as a model to set up the desired O‐acetylation reaction by comparing the use of acetic acid and vinyl acetate as acyl donors. Similar conditions were then applied to DHLc, where five novel ester chains were selectively introduced onto the primary alcohol group, with conversions going from >99 % (acetate and propionate) to 69 % (octanoate). The synthesis of the corresponding O‐acetyl esters of Lc, Lp, and DHLp was also successfully achieved with near‐quantitative conversion. Molecular docking simulations were then performed to elucidate the preferred enzyme‐substrate binding modes in the acylation reactions with STLs, as well as to understand their interactions with crucial amino acid residues at the active site. Our methodology enables the selective O‐acylation of the primary alcohol group in four different STLs, offering possibilities for synthesizing novel derivatives with significant potential applications in pharmaceuticals or as biocontrol agents.
Pd/fMC−NiO Synergistic, Promotional Effect and Cooperation Induced Electrocatalysis towards Ethylene Glycol Electrooxidation: Experimental Approach and DFT Calculations
Authors: Matthews Thabo , Dolla Tarekegn H. , Mbokazi Siyabonga P. , Chabalala Makhaokane P. , Gallenberger Julia , Hofmann Jan P. , Muriithi Kiarii E. , Govender Penny P. , Maxakato Nobanathi W.
Published: January 2024

Direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs) face several challenges such as carbon support corrosion, poor kinetics, and long‐term stability, requiring improved electrocatalyst support development. We synthesized 5 %Pd/fMC−NiO using a microwave‐assisted sodium borohydride‐enhanced polyol method. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope, and X‐ray diffractometry probed the material's surface composition, morphology, and structure. ICP‐OES is employed to quantify palladium loading. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy mapped the functional groups. Cyclic voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and chronoamperometry show that the 5 %Pd/fMC−NiO has the lowest activation energy, and with that, the best electroactivity, which is ~16 times higher compared to commercial Pd/C; additionally, the catalyst shows anti‐poisoning properties, and long‐term durability. This is merited to the cooperation and promotional effect of Pd/fMC−NiO. The electrocatalysts’ electroactivity improved via enhanced electron movement instigated by NiO. This study introduced the parallelism effect concept borrowed from the graphite structure for controlled electron channeling the 5 % Pd/fMC−NiO electrocatalyst. The theoretical calculations corroborated the experimental findings that our approach favors anchoring and dispersing Pd NPs uniformly, demonstrating NiO′s cooperative and promotional effects. Thus, opening new opportunities for the development of electrocatalysts for high‐performance DAFCs.
Efficient Solid‐State Ultraviolet Emission of 2′,5′‐Dioxy‐p‐terphenyls
Authors: Shimizu Masaki , Nishimura Kenta , Okusa Aoi , Sakurai Tsuneaki
Published: January 2024

Organic fluorophores that efficiently emit ultraviolet (UV) light in the solid state are expected to accelerate the development of potentially attractive UV‐OLEDs. Herein, we demonstrate that 2′,5′‐dialkoxy‐, 2′,5′‐bis(siloxy)‐, and 2′‐(alkoxy)‐5′‐(siloxy)‐p‐terphenyls and 2,5‐dioxy‐1,4‐(1‐naphthyl)benzenes are efficient UV‐emitting solid fluorophores. The teraryls were prepared by a Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction of readily available 2,5‐dialkoxy‐1,4‐diiodobenzenes with phenyl‐ and (1‐naphthyl)boronic acid, followed by dealkylation–silylation. The dioxy‐p‐teraryls are thermally stable, with some having glass transition temperatures ranging from −8 to 47 °C. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis of 2′,5′‐bis(triphenylsiloxy)‐ and 2′‐(hexyloxy)‐5′‐(triphenylsiloxy)‐p‐terphenyls revealed that the terphenyl moieties adopted twisted conformations, and there were no intramolecular π–π interactions in the crystal packing. The terphenyls in CH2Cl2 fluoresced at 370–386 nm with quantum yields of 0.30–0.44. Efficient UV emission (362–391 nm) of the teraryls was observed in the solid state, with quantum yields of 0.20–0.46. Density functional calculations suggest that the optical excitation of the terphenyls involves intramolecular charge transfer from the ethereal oxygen, with the moieties accepting the charge transfer depending on the substituents on the ethereal oxygen atoms.
Efficient task scheduling in cloud networks using ANN for green computing
Authors: Zavieh Hadi , Javadpour Amir , Sangaiah Arun Kumar
Published: January 2024

Recently, there has been a growing emphasis on reducingenergy consumption in cloud networks and achieving green computing practices toaddress environmental concerns and optimize resource utilization. In thiscontext, efficient task scheduling minimizes energy usage and enhances overallsystem performance. To tackle the challenge ofenergy‐efficient task allocation, we propose a novel approach that harnessesthe power of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Our Artificial neural network Dynamic Balancing (ANNDB) method is designed toachieve green computing in cloud environments. ANNDB leverages the feed‐forwardnetwork architecture and a multi‐layer perceptron, effectively allocatingrequests to higher‐power and higher‐quality virtual machines, resulting inoptimized energy utilization. Through extensive simulations, wedemonstrate the superiority of ANNDB over existing methods, including WPEG,IRMBBC, and BEMEC, in terms of energy and power efficiency. Specifically, ourproposed ANNDB method exhibits substantial improvements of 13.81%, 8.62%, and9.74% in the Energy criterion compared to WPEG, IRMBBC, and BEMEC,respectively. Additionally, in the Power criterion, the method achievesperformance enhancements of 3.93%, 4.84%, and 4.19% over the mentioned methods.The findings from this research hold significant promise for organizations seekingto optimize their cloud computing environments while reducing energyconsumption and promoting sustainable computing practices. By adopting theANNDB approach for efficient task scheduling, businesses and institutions cancontribute to green computing efforts, reduce operational costs, and make moreenvironmentally friendly choices without compromising task allocationperformance.
Eyespot variation and field temperature in the Meadow Brown butterfly
Authors: Mowbray Sophie , Bennie Jonathan , Rhodes Marcus W. , Smith David A. S. , ffrench‐Constant Richard H.
Published: January 2024

Since the classic work of E.B. Ford, explanations for eyespot variation in the Meadow Brown butterfly have focused on the role of genetic polymorphism. The potential role of thermal plasticity in this classic example of natural selection has therefore been overlooked. Here, we use large daily field collections of butterflies from three sites, over multiple years, to examine whether field temperature is correlated with eyespot variation, using the same presence/absence scoring as Ford. We show that higher developmental temperature in the field leads to the disappearance of the spots visible while the butterfly is at rest, explaining the historical observation that hindwing spotting declines across the season. Strikingly, females developing at 11°C have a median of six spots and those developing at 15°C only have three. In contrast, the large forewing eyespot is always present and scales with forewing length. Furthermore, in contrast to the smaller spots, the size of the large forewing spot is best explained by calendar date (days since 1st March) rather than the temperature at pupation. As this large forewing spot is involved in startling predators and/or sexual selection, its constant presence is therefore likely required for defence, whereas the disappearance of the smaller spots over the season may help with female crypsis. We model annual total spot variation with phenological data from the UK and derive predictions as to how spot patterns will continue to change, predicting that female spotting will decrease year on year as our climate warms.
Ecosystem functions of plant diversity: Comparisons from a large‐scale marsh restoration experiment in California, USA
Authors: Shikuzawa Jenna , Watson Elizabeth B. , Tanner Karen , Wilburn Brittany , Fork Susanne K. , Larson Sophia , Fountain Monique C. , Thomsen Alexandra , Wasson Kerstin
Published: January 2024

Although the promotion of biodiversity has been recognized as an important conservation goal, salt marsh restoration typically focuses on reestablishing dominant foundation species. Salt marsh restoration projects that add or remove sediment to optimize marsh elevation often result in a bare landscape following construction. Restoration managers must decide whether to plant and, if so, which species. This decision can be difficult because few studies have examined the ecological functions of individual species, especially those that are less abundant. Within a major salt marsh restoration project in Elkhorn Slough, California, where 17,000 plants of five high marsh species were planted, we investigated how rarer species and the naturally recruiting dominant (Salicornia pacifica) differ in ecosystem function. We evaluated 31 different metrics related to blue carbon, plant productivity, environmental effects, and community interactions. No single species had the greatest ecological function across this suite of metrics, and measured effects were mainly independent, with only 16 of 435 pairwise comparisons revealing a strong correlation. We found significant differences among species for 18 metrics, revealing key contrasts in ecosystem function, with significant effects of marsh elevation and interaction between effects of species and elevation on some of these functions. S. pacifica scored highest for metrics such as recruitment and canopy height but other species outperformed Salicornia in other metrics. Frankenia salina had the greatest ecological function in the highest number of metrics, including cover and belowground biomass carbon content, but other species had higher rates of photosynthesis and harbored fewer individuals of invasive arthropods. We recommend planting a suite of less common species at restoration sites to provide more diverse functions across the landscape. F. salina in particular is recommended for its tolerance of hypersalinity and low moisture conditions. Our demonstration of the value of complementing restoration of the dominant foundation species with restoration of less common species is applicable to restoration of other ecosystems beyond salt marshes. The approach we implemented, evaluating a large suite of functions for multiple species across a restored landscape, can serve as a model for investigations of the importance of biodiversity for enhancing multifunctionality in other restored ecosystems.