bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraction of cellulose from halophytic plants for the synthesis of a novel biocomposite
Authors: Ejaz Uroosa , Shafquat Yusra , Sohail Muhammad , Shaikh Aizaz Ahmed , Arain Muhammad Daniyal , Ahmed Tehmees , Alanazi Abdullah K.
Published: May 2024

Cellulose nanofibers, a sustainable and promising material with widespread applications, exhibit appreciable strength and excellent mechanical and physicochemical properties. The preparation of cellulosic nanofibers from food or agricultural residue is not sustainable. Therefore, this study was designed to use three halophytic plants (Cressa cretica, Phragmites karka, andSuaeda fruticosa) to extract cellulose for the subsequent conversion to cellulosic nanofibers composites. The other extracted biomass components including lignin, hemicellulose, and pectin were also utilized to obtain industrially valuable enzymes. The maximum pectinase (31.56 IU mL−1), xylanase (35.21 IU mL−1), and laccase (15.89 IU mL−1) were produced after the fermentation of extracted pectin, hemicellulose, and lignin fromS. fruticosa,P. karka, andC. cretica, respectively. Cellulose was methylated (with a degree of substitution of 2.4) and subsequently converted into a composite using polyvinyl alcohol. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the successful synthesis of the composites. The composites made up of cellulose fromC. creticaandS. fruticosahad a high tensile strength (21.5 and 15.2 MPa) and low biodegradability (47.58% and 44.56%, respectively) after dumping for 3 months in soil, as compared with the composite fromP. karka(98.79% biodegradability and 4.9 MPa tensile strength). Moreover, all the composites exhibited antibacterial activity against gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coliandKlebsiella pneumoniae) and gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Hence, this study emphasizes the possibility for various industrial applications of biomass from halophytic plants.
A rare presentation of BCR‐ABL1 and RUNX1‐MECOM rearrangement in a pediatric patient with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Alamri Ragdah M. , Alanazi Maryam , AlRajeh Rajeh K. , Tashkandi Suha A. , Alswayyed Azizah F. , Samman Manar A. , Peer‐Zada Abdul Ali
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

In a patient with de novo AML, co‐existing BCR::ABL1 p190 isoform and RUNX1::MECOM rearrangement is accompanied by a very poor prognosis including limited response to treatment and no molecular remission. It is essential to develop a consensus on the therapeutic modalities different from the current regimen.

Acquisition of BCR::ABL1 fusion as a primary or secondary event and RUNX1::MECOM fusion independently is reported in de novo and therapy‐related MDS/AML, albeit with low frequency (<0.5%). Coexistence of BCR::ABL1 and MECOM translocation is known to cause leukemogenesis in animal models and progression towards blast crisis CML but not AML. Here we report a unique case of pediatric AML with concomitant BCR::ABL1 and RUNX1::MECOM fusion.Routine diagnostic work‐up included WBC manual differential, immunophenotype, morphology, qPCR, FISH, and NGS‐based CNV analyses. The patient presented with history of fever, dizziness, fatigue, gingival bleeding, and epistaxis associated with ecchymosis in right hand and heavy, prolonged menstrual period. At presentation, her hemoglobin was 5.3 g/dL, WBC 52.1(10*9/L), PLT 10(10*9/L), ESR 5 mm/h and LDH 2658 U/L. Bone marrow was hypercellular with 71% blasts, and flow cytometry showed myeloid markers including CD11c, CD33, CD34, and CD45 among others indicating AML with monocytic differentiation. FISH analyses showed variant t(9;22) (q34.1;q11.1), one additional copy each of chromosome 8 and Runx1 gene, while NGS‐based CNV analyses revealed a terminal and proximal pathogenic gain within 9q34.12q34.3 and 22q11.1q11.23, respectively, and gain of entire chromosome 8 and 12 in mosaic state. qPCR confirmed the presence of p190 and also revealed RUNX1::MECOM fusion. Patient received ADE (cytarabine, daunorubicin, and etoposide) induction regimen but required multiple ICU admissions due to sepsis, cardiac shock, acute myocarditis, and thyroiditis. Coexisting BCR::ABL1 and RUNX1::MECOM fusion is suggestive of poor prognosis, and a need for consensus on the treatment modalities other than the current regimen is warranted.
3D‐cavity‐confined CsPbBr3 quantum dots for visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic C(sp3)–H bond activation
Authors: Gao Yu‐Jie , Jin Handong , Esteban Daniel A. , Weng Bo , Saha Rafikul A. , Yang Min‐Quan , Bals Sara , Steele Julian A. , Huang Haowei , Roeffaers Maarten B. J.
Published: May 2024

Metal halide perovskite (MHP) quantum dots (QDs) offer immense potential for several areas of photonics research due to their easy and low‐cost fabrication and excellent optoelectronic properties. However, practical applications of MHP QDs are limited by their poor stability and, in particular, their tendency to aggregate. Here, we develop a two‐step double‐solvent strategy to grow and confine CsPbBr3 QDs within the three‐dimensional (3D) cavities of a mesoporous SBA‐16 silica scaffold (CsPbBr3@SBA‐16). Strong confinement and separation of the MHP QDs lead to a relatively uniform size distribution, narrow luminescence, and good ambient stability over 2 months. In addition, the CsPbBr3@SBA‐16 presents a high activity and stability for visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic toluene C(sp3)–H bond activation to produce benzaldehyde with ∼730 µmol g−1 h−1 yield rate and near‐unity selectivity. Similarly, the structural stability of CsPbBr3@SBA‐16 QDs is superior to that of both pure CsPbBr3 QDs and those confined in MCM‐41 with 1D channels.
Budget and breakeven prices of winter canola and pennycress production in Tennessee
Authors: Keadle S. B. , Sykes V. R. , Sams C. E. , Yin X. , Larson J. A. , Grant J. F.
Published: May 2024

Canola (Brassica napus) and pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) are winter oilseed crops that can be used to create sustainable aviation fuel. They have been grown successfully in the Upper Midwest and Great Plains and are garnering interest in the Mid‐South. A field study was conducted in Tennessee to determine management practices and average yields expected for the region. From this study, a budget and breakeven analysis was conducted. Budgets were created for tilled and no‐till canola and pennycress systems. Based on average yields obtained and projected oilseeds prices, canola systems are potentially profitable, while pennycress systems are not. However, breakeven prices were highly variable between years, locations, oilseed species, and tillage type. Canola has been relatively established in the region and can be promoted to growers as a profitable crop. Presently, the adoption of pennycress in the Mid‐South is not recommended without further research on best management practices, breeding efforts for higher yielding varieties, and the creation of a viable market for sale.
The Mechanism of Guerbet Reaction by Metal Ligand Cooperation Catalyst Mn‐PCP
Authors: Chen Ruzhao , Zhou Xiaoyu , Yang Fuyi , Zhao Cunyuan , Ke Zhuofeng
Published: May 2024

The Guerbet reaction is important for the synthesis of longer‐chain monoalcohols like isobutanol through catalytic transfer hydrogenation from short‐chain methanol and ethanol. However, the mechanism becomes complicated, especially considering the variations in the different metal‐ligand cooperation (MLC) catalysts used. In order to further understand the Guerbet reaction, DFT studies were performed to figure out the detailed mechanism initiated by the unique Mn‐PCP MLC Catalyst. Our results suggest that even with the assistance of the carbanion site of the PCP ligand, the direct substitution mechanism is less favored than the condensation‐reduction mechanism. The key step of the reaction is the final reduction of the carbonyl, in which the 1,4‐reduction of the unsaturated aldehyde is prior to the 3,4‐reduction or 1,2‐reduction due to the stronger interaction between the catalyst and the substrate. It is found that the production of isobutanol is preferred over n‐butanol because of the lower total free energy barrier and lower relative free energy of the product. Finally, by changing the electronic effect of the carbanion site of the catalyst, we found that the relation between the electronic effect and the highest free energy span was not monotonous and a point with optimal electronic effect exists numerically.
The stereoselective pharmacokinetics of the desmethyl‐phencynonate hydrochloride in beagle dogs
Authors: Li Jinglai , Yin Lan , Li Yuexin , Sun Junying , Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Zhenqing , Xiong Shan
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the chiral inversion and the stereoselective pharmacokinetic profiles of desmethyl‐phencynonate hydrochloride after administration of the single isomer and its racemate to beagle dogs. A liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was established for determination of the stereoisomers on chiral columns in beagle dog plasma, which met all the requirements. The chiral inversion in dogs of the desmethyl‐phencynonate hydrochloride were studied after administration of the single isomer or the racemic modification. The stereoselective pharmacokinetic profiles of the desmethyl‐phencynonate hydrochloride were studied by assays for simultaneous isomers after administration of the racemic modification. The results showed that the absorption of the R­configuration dosed as the single isomer was higher than it dosed as the racemic modification. The AUC(0‐t), AUC(0‐∞), and Cmax of the S­configuration were much higher than those of R­configuration after oral administration of the racemic desmethyl‐phencynonate hydrochloride. The chiral inversion of desmethyl‐phencynonate isomers could not occur in dogs after administration of the R­configuration.
Microbubble‐encapsulated Cobalt Nitrato Complexes for Ultrasound‐triggerable Nitric Oxide Delivery
Authors: Koczera Patrick , Thomas Fabian , Rama Elena , Thoröe‐Boveleth Sven , Kiessling Fabian , Lammers Twan , Herres‐Pawlis Sonja
Published: May 2024

Cobalt complexes exhibit versatile reactivity with nitric oxide (NO), enabling their utilization in applications ranging from homogeneous catalysis to NO‐based modulation of biological processes. However, the coordination geometry around the cobalt center is complex, the therapeutic window of NO is narrow, and controlled NO delivery is difficult. To better understand the complexation of cobalt with NO, we prepared four cobalt nitrato complexes and present a structure‐property relationship for ultrasound‐triggerable NO release. We hypothesized that modulation of the coordination geometry by ligand‐modification would improve responsiveness to mechanical stimuli, like ultrasound. To enable eventual therapeutic testing, we here first demonstrate the in vitro tolerability of [Co(ethylenediamine)2(NO)(NO3)](NO3) in A431 epidermoid carcinoma cells and J774A.1 murine macrophages, and we subsequently show successful encapsulation of the complex in poly(butyl cyanoacrylate) microbubbles. These hybrid Co‐NO‐containing microbubbles may in the future aid in ultrasound imaging‐guided treatment of NO‐responsive vascular pathologies.
Pharmacokinetics and Bioequivalence of Fixed‐Dose Combination of Simvastatin and Ezetimibe Tablets: A Randomized, Crossover, Open‐Label Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Leong Chuei Wuei , Yee Kar Ming , Rani Tracy Ann , Lau Kheng Jinm , Ahmad Shahnun , Amran Atiqah , Mohd Hassan Farah Wahidah , Kumar Naveen
Published: May 2024

The current study aimed to evaluate the bioequivalence of a new generic combination of simvastatin and ezetimibe with the reference formulation. An open‐label, randomized, 3‐period, 3‐sequence, crossover study, including 60 healthy volunteers, was implemented. Participants received the test and reference formulation, each containing 20 mg of simvastatin and 10 mg of ezetimibe as a single‐dose tablet, separated by a minimum of 2‐week washout periods. Blood samples were collected for 20 time points from predose to 72 hours after the dose. The total ezetimibe assay was carried out using a validated liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry, while unconjugated ezetimibe, simvastatin, and simvastatin β‐hydroxy acid determination was done via a validated ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Each assay was preceded by a liquid‐liquid extraction step. The pharmacokinetic parameters were derived using noncompartmental analysis and then compared between the reference and test formulations via a multivariate analysis of variance. No statistical difference was found in under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration and maximum concentration of unconjugated ezetimibe, total ezetimibe, and simvastatin between the reference and test formulations. The 90% confidence intervals of unconjugated ezetimibe, total ezetimibe, and simvastatin natural log‐transformed under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration, and maximum concentration were in the range of 80%‐125% as per the bioequivalence acceptance criteria. Therefore, the test formulation was bioequivalent to the reference formulation.
When Tautomers Matter: UV‐Vis Absorption Spectra of Hypoxanthine in Aqueous Solution from Fully Atomistic Simulations
Authors: Gómez Sara , Cappelli Chiara
Published: May 2024

The UV‐Vis spectrum of the solvated purine derivative Hypoxanthine (HYX) is investigated using the Quantum Mechanics/Fluctuating Charges (QM/FQ) multiscale approach combined with a sampling of configurations through atomistic Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. Keto 1H7H and 1H9H tautomeric forms of HYX are the most stable in aqueous solution and form different stable complexes with the surrounding water molecules, ultimately affecting the electronic absorption spectra. The final simulated spectrum resulting from the combination of the individual spectra of tautomers agrees very well with most of the characteristics in the measured spectrum. The importance of considering the effect of the solute tautomers and, in parallel, the contribution of the different solvent arrangements around the solute when modeling spectral properties, is highlighted. In addition, the high quality of the computed spectra leads to suggesting an alternative way for acquiring tautomeric populations from combined computational/experimental spectra.
Determining the Factors Accounting for Reaction Selectivity: A Relative Energy Gradient – Interacting Quantum Atoms and Natural Bonding Orbitals Study
Authors: Cador Aël , Morell Christophe , Tognetti Vincent , Joubert Laurent , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: May 2024

Identifying the main physicochemical properties accounting for the course of a reaction is of utmost importance to rationalize chemical syntheses. To this aim, the relative energy gradient (REG) method is an appealing approach because it is an unbiased and automatic process to extract the most relevant pieces of energy information. Initially formulated within the interacting quantum atoms (IQA) framework for a single reaction, here we extend the REG method to natural bond orbitals (NBO) analysis and to the case of two competitive processes. This development enables the determination of the driving forces of any chemical selectivity. We illustrate the extended REG method on the case study of ring opening in cyclobutenes, which is an important instance of the so‐called torquoselectivity.
Mechanistic Insight into Heteroatom Removal from Vacuum Gas Oil Blended with PMMA or PET Waste
Authors: Zambrano Naydu , Trueba David , Hita Idoia , Palos Roberto , Azkoiti Josune , Gutiérrez Alazne , Castaño Pedro
Published: May 2024

This work analyzes vacuum gas oil (VGO) and hydrocracking products of this feed blended with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to clarify the oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur removal pathways in these complex mixtures. Hydrocracking reactions are conducted in a semi‐batch reactor with a Pt−Pd/HY bifunctional catalyst at 400 °C and 80 bar for 300 min with 10 wt % waste plastic using 0.1 catalyst/feed weight ratio. The samples are analyzed using various techniques, including high‐resolution mass spectrometry, providing an improved, more detailed analytical representation. The results demonstrate the synergistic effect of cofeeding oxygenated plastics to the VGO, altering the preferential reaction pathways of heteroatom‐containing species in the following order: nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. We assess the nature of the species from the gathered data, establish plausible reaction mechanisms, and evaluate the catalyst's role.
Area–time–energy efficient architecture of CBNS‐based fast Fourier transform
Authors: Das Kaushik , Harshavardhan Reddy Eda , Mandal Arpita , Nath Pradhan Sambhu , Bhattacharjee Abhishek
Published: May 2024

A new approach for implementing the fast Fourier transform (FFT) using complex binary number system (CBNS) is presented in this paper. The advantage of using CBNS is that instead of processing the real and imaginary parts of a complex number separately, we can process both as a single entity. A total of four FFT architectures have been developed, which are 16‐, 64‐, 256‐, and 1024‐point FFT architectures. The proposed FFT is designed using Verilog‐HDL and implemented using a Virtex‐7 field‐programmable gate array (FPGA). The maximum clock rate achieved by the proposed FPGA‐based design is 376.1 MHz. The FPGA resource utilization of the FFT is less than the state‐of‐the‐art FFT designs. An application‐specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for the FFT is also designed. The normalized energy per FFT of the proposed ASIC is 0.14 nJ, and the normalized area per FFT of the ASIC is 1.08 mm2 which is less than other existing designs.
First SOLPS‐ITER simulations of ASDEX Upgrade partially detached H‐mode with boron impurity: The missing radiation at the outer strike‐point region
Authors: Makarov S. O. , Coster D. P. , Gleiter T. , Brida D. , Muraca M. , Dux R. , David P. , Kurzan B. , Bonnin X. , O'Mullane M. ,   ASDEX Upgrade Team
Published: May 2024

Partially detached H‐modes are the baseline regime for the future ITER operation. The ASDEX Upgrade partially detached H‐mode is modeled using the SOLPS‐ITER code with drifts enabled and compared with experimental data. For the first time, boron (B) impurity is simulated in the Scrape‐off layer (SOL) and divertor. A comparison between divertor diagnostics and discrepancies between Langmuir probe and Divertor Thomson scattering/Stark broadening diagnostic are discussed. In the modeling, experimental target profiles are reproduced if the experimental level of radiation in the SOL and divertor is achieved using nitrogen (N) impurity seeding. Bolometry measurements detect substantial radiation from the partially detached outer strike point. With B radiation, this maximum in bolometry data is reproduced in the modeling, which is not possible with N alone.
Significance of QRS scoring system in left ventricular function recovery after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: A XIN , Dan Qing , Li Muding , Qian Geng , Shi Yajun , Chen Yundai
Published: May 2024

Aims

The Selvester scoring system has been derived from ECG parameters for estimating infarct size. However, there is still a lack of evidence for Selvester score as an alternative to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) myocardial injury makers for risk stratification and prediction of left ventricular function (LVF) recovery among patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods and results

This multicentre observational study enrolled 328 STEMI patients (88.4% men, 57.3 ± 10.6 years of age) undergoing CMR examination 1 week post‐reperfusion therapy. Patients with baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% underwent a follow‐up CMR 6 months later, categorized into baseline normal LVF (ejection fraction [EF] ≥ 50% at baseline, n = 155); recovered LVF (EF < 50% at baseline and ≥50% after 6 months, n = 69); and reduced LVF (EF < 50% at baseline and after 6 months, n = 104). The median follow‐up was 4 (3–4) years for all patients, with 61 patients experiencing major adverse cardiovascular event (MACEs). Patients with reduced LVF had a higher risk of MACEs than those with baseline normal LVF (P = 0.01), while the recovered LVF group had no significant difference (P > 0.05). A Selvester score >10 doubled the risk of MACEs in patients with systolic dysfunction (1.91 [1.02 to 3.58], P = 0.04). Additionally, Selvester score, baseline LVEF, transmural infarction, and peak CK‐MB were independent predictors of recovered LVF, with Selvester score providing incremental predictive value to peak CK‐MB in predicting recovered LVF (∆AUC = 0.07, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The Selvester score improves risk stratification among STEMI patients beyond LVEF and provide independent and incremental information to clinical parameters in predicting recovered LVF.
Tubarial gland sparing with intensity modulated radiation therapy for oropharyngeal cancers: A pilot study of dosimetric feasibility
Authors: Yarlagadda Sreenija , McAllister Nicole , Rzepczynski Amy E. , Kutuk Tugce , Kalman Noah S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Tubarial glands are a new organ at risk for head and neck cancer radiation therapy (RT). We aimed to study the feasibility of sparing them using intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

Methods

Tubarial glands were delineated for 17 patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma receiving definitive RT, and treatment plans were re‐optimized to spare dose to the tubarial glands while maintaining target coverage. A paired t test was performed to compare the mean dose of tubarial glands and target coverage.

Results

The difference in mean doses was 4.9 and 7.0 Gy for the ipsilateral and contralateral tubarial glands, respectively (p < 0.01). The mean dose to tubarial gland was ≤39 Gy in 35% versus 47% (ipsilateral) and 70% versus 100% (contralateral) in clinical and re‐optimized plans, respectively. Re‐optimized ipsilateral tubarial gland mean ≤39 Gy was achieved more commonly in patients with base of tongue versus tonsil primaries (86% vs. 20%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

This pilot study demonstrates the dosimetric feasibility of tubarial gland sparing with IMRT. Dosimetric constraints need to be determined with larger studies.
Uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of a travel‐time distribution‐based stream water electrical conductivity model
Authors: Riazi Zahra , Western Andrew W.
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we analyse the uncertainty and parameter sensitivity of a conceptual water quality model, based on a travel time distribution (TTD) approach, simulating electrical conductivity (EC) in the Duck River, Northwest Tasmania, Australia for a 2‐year period. Dynamic TTDs of stream water were estimated using the StorAge Selection (SAS) approach, which was coupled with two alternate methods to model stream water EC: (1) a solute‐balance approach and (2) a water age‐based approach. Uncertainty analysis using the Differential Evaluation Adoptive Metropolis (DREAM) algorithm showed that: 1. parameter uncertainty was a small contribution to the overall uncertainty; 2. most uncertainty was related to input data uncertainty and model structure; 3. slightly lower total error was obtained in the water age‐based model than the solute‐balance model; 4. using time‐variant SAS functions reduced the model uncertainty markedly, which likely reflects the effect of dynamic hydrological conditions over the year affecting the relative importance of different flow pathways over time. Model parameter sensitivity analysis using the Variogram Analysis of Response Surfaces (VARS‐TOOL) framework found that parameters directly related to the EC concentration were most sensitive. In the solute‐balance model, the rainfall concentration Crain and in the age‐based model, the parameter controlling the rate of change of EC with age (λ) were the most sensitive parameter. Model parameters controlling the age mixes of both evapotranspiration and streamflow water fluxes (i.e., the SAS function parameters) were influential for the solute‐balance model. Little change in parameter sensitivity over time was found for the age‐based concentration relationship; however, the parameter sensitivity was quite dynamic over time for the solute‐balance approach. The overarching outcomes provide water quality modellers, engineers and managers greater insight into catchment functioning and its dependence on hydrological conditions.
Market supervisor monetary penalties for non‐compliance with informational requirements: Do investors care?
Authors: Kurek Bartosz , Górowski Ireneusz
Published: May 2024

This study measures and differentiates investors' responses to market supervisors' monetary penalties for non‐compliance with informational requirements for the capital market in Poland, broken down by the type of distorted information and the form of a breach. An event study was conducted to measure the information content of monetary penalties. We used a market model and tested the significance of abnormal daily returns using both parametric and non‐parametric tests. Cross‐sectional analyses were conducted to measure the determinants of market reactions. We employed two novel classifications of non‐compliance: by the type of distorted information (financial reporting information and other information) and by the form of a breach (failing to provide information and providing erroneous information). We contribute to the literature by finding that investors react negatively to monetary penalties imposed on companies for non‐compliance with financial reporting information requirements, whereas they do not react to such penalties for non‐compliance with other information requirements. We incorporate original variables that explain the magnitude of the market reaction and find that (i) the longer the distance between the breach and penalty imposition, the weaker the market reaction, and (ii) the greater the monetary penalty, the stronger the market reaction. We also find that both forms of breach lead to similar negative market reactions.
Low rectal resection for low rectal endometriosis and rectal adenocarcinoma: Are we discussing the same risks?
Authors: Volodarsky‐Perel Alexander , Roman Horace , Francois Marc Olivier , Jehaes Constance , Dennis Thomas , Kade Sandesh , Forestier Damien , Assenat Vincent , Merlot Benjamin , Denost Quentin
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the rate and risk factors for anastomosis leakage in patients undergoing colorectal resection with low anastomosis for rectal endometriosis and rectal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study evaluating prospectively collected data was conducted. Patients undergoing colorectal resection for rectal endometriosis and rectal adenocarcinoma with low anastomosis (<7 cm from the anal verge [AV]) from September 2018 to January 2023 were included in the analysis. The main outcome was the rate of anastomosis leakage. A multivariate logistic regression was conducted to evaluate risk factors for anastomosis leakage in both groups.

Results

A total of 159 patients underwent colorectal resection with low anastomosis due to rectal endometriosis (n = 99) and rectal adenocarcinoma (n = 60). Patients with endometriosis were significantly younger than those with adenocarcinoma (35.7 ± 5.1 vs 63.7 ± 12.6; P = 0.001). The leakage rate was similar between the endometriosis (n = 12, 12.1%) and adenocarcinoma (n = 9, 15.0%) patients (P = 0.621). The anastomosis height less than 5 cm from the AV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 12.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.24–23.54) was significantly associated with the anastomosis leakage. Protective stoma was associated with the decrease of the leakage risk (aOR 0.12, 95% CI 0.01–0.72). The type of disease (rectal endometriosis or adenocarcinoma) was not associated with the anastomosis leakage (aOR 2.87, 95% CI 0.34–21.23).

Conclusions

Despite the different pathogenesis, the risk of anastomotic leakage was found to be similar between patients with low rectal endometriosis and those with rectal adenocarcinoma. These results must be considered by the gynecologist and colorectal surgeon to deliver proper information before rectal surgery for endometriosis.
Measuring Generativity among Emerging Adults: Advancements and Applications
Authors: Sunderman Hannah M. , Hastings Lindsay J. , Sellon Addison
Published: May 2024

Despite being seen as a midlife construct, generativity (i.e., care and concern for the next generation) has significant utilization among emerging adults. However, the measures developed and recommended by seminal scholars to research generativity have had challenges when applied to the emerging adult population. Therefore, the current article outlines the history of generativity measurement, generativity measurement among emerging adults, recommendations for utilizing generativity measures in practice, and future research directions for generativity measurement among emerging adults.
Four weeks of off‐treatment follow‐up is sufficient to determine virologic responses at off‐treatment week 12 in patients with hepatitis C virus infection receiving fixed‐dose pangenotypic direct‐acting antivirals
Authors: Liu Chen‐Hua , Chang Yu‐Ping , Lee Ji‐Yuh , Chen Chi‐Yi , Kao Wei‐Yu , Lin Chih‐Lin , Yang Sheng‐Shun , Shih Yu‐Lueng , Peng Cheng‐Yuan , Lee Fu‐Jen , Tsai Ming‐Chang , Huang Shang‐Chin , Su Tung‐Hung , Tseng Tai‐Chung , Liu Chun‐Jen , Chen Pei‐Jer , Kao Jia‐Horng
Published: May 2024

Early confirmation of sustained virologic response (SVR) or viral relapse after direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is essential based on public health perspectives, particularly for patients with high risk of nonadherence to posttreatment follow‐ups. A total of 1011 patients who achieved end‐of‐treatment virologic response, including 526 receiving fixed‐dose pangenotypic DAAs, and 485 receiving other types of DAAs, who had available off‐treatment weeks 4 and 12 serum HCV RNA data to confirm SVR at off‐treatment week 12 (SVR12) or viral relapse were included. The positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of SVR4 to predict patients with SVR12 or viral relapse were reported. Furthermore, we analyzed the proportion of concordance between SVR12 and SVR24 in 943 patients with available SVR24 data. The PPV and NPV of SVR4 to predict SVR12 were 98.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 98.0–98.9) and 100% (95% CI: 66.4–100) in the entire population. The PPV of SVR4 to predict SVR12 in patients receiving fixed‐dose pangenotypic DAAs was higher than those receiving other types of DAAs (99.8% [95% CI: 98.9–100] vs. 97.1% [95% CI: 96.2–97.8], p < 0.001). The NPVs of SVR4 to predict viral relapse were 100%, regardless of the type of DAAs. Moreover, the concordance between SVR12 and SVR24 was 100%. In conclusion, an off‐treatment week 4 serum HCV RNA testing is sufficient to provide an excellent prediction power of SVR or viral relapse at off‐treatment week 12 among patients with HCV who are treated with fixed‐dose pangenotypic DAAs.
Automated Scoring of Scientific Creativity in German
Authors: Goecke Benjamin , DiStefano Paul V. , Aschauer Wolfgang , Haim Kurt , Beaty Roger , Forthmann Boris
Published: May 2024

Automated scoring is a current hot topic in creativity research. However, most research has focused on the English language and popular verbal creative thinking tasks, such as the alternate uses task. Therefore, in this study, we present a large language model approach for automated scoring of a scientific creative thinking task that assesses divergent ideation in experimental tasks in the German language. Participants are required to generate alternative explanations for an empirical observation. This work analyzed a total of 13,423 unique responses. To predict human ratings of originality, we used XLM‐RoBERTa (Cross‐lingual Language Model‐RoBERTa), a large, multilingual model. The prediction model was trained on 9,400 responses. Results showed a strong correlation between model predictions and human ratings in a held‐out test set (n = 2,682; r = 0.80; CI‐95% [0.79, 0.81]). These promising findings underscore the potential of large language models for automated scoring of scientific creative thinking in the German language. We encourage researchers to further investigate automated scoring of other domain‐specific creative thinking tasks.
The impact of continuity correction methods in Cochrane reviews with single‐zero trials with rare events: A meta‐epidemiological study
Authors: Tsujimoto Yasushi , Tsutsumi Yusuke , Kataoka Yuki , Shiroshita Akihiro , Efthimiou Orestis , Furukawa Toshi A.
Published: May 2024

Meta‐analyses examining dichotomous outcomes often include single‐zero studies, where no events occur in intervention or control groups. These pose challenges, and several methods have been proposed to address them. A fixed continuity correction method has been shown to bias estimates, but it is frequently used because sometimes software (e.g., RevMan software in Cochrane reviews) uses it as a default. We aimed to empirically compare results using the continuity correction with those using alternative models that do not require correction. To this aim, we reanalyzed the original data from 885 meta‐analyses in Cochrane reviews using the following methods: (i) Mantel–Haenszel model with a fixed continuity correction, (ii) random effects inverse variance model with a fixed continuity correction, (iii) Peto method (the three models available in RevMan), (iv) random effects inverse variance model with the treatment arm continuity correction, (v) Mantel–Haenszel model without correction, (vi) logistic regression, and (vii) a Bayesian random effects model with binominal likelihood. For each meta‐analysis we calculated ratios of odds ratios between all methods, to assess how the choice of method may impact results. Ratios of odds ratios <0.8 or <1.25 were seen in ~30% of the existing meta‐analyses when comparing results between Mantel–Haenszel model with a fixed continuity correction and either Mantel–Haenszel model without correction or logistic regression. We concluded that injudicious use of the fixed continuity correction in existing Cochrane reviews may have substantially influenced effect estimates in some cases. Future updates of RevMan should incorporate less biased statistical methods.
Zein/fucoidan‐coated phytol nanoliposome: preparation, characterization, physicochemical stability, in vitro release, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Chen Yadan , Wang Yanbin , He Liang , Wang Liling , Zhao Jianchen , Yang Zhenya , Li Qin , Shi Rui
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

To improve phytol bioavailability, a novel method of magnetic stirring and high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) combination was used to prepare zein/fucoidan‐coated phytol nanoliposomes (P‐NL‐ZF). The characterization, the simulated in vitro digestion, and the antioxidant activity of these phytol nanoliposomes from the different processes have been studied.

RESULTS

Based on the results of dynamic light scattering (DLS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC–MS) analysis, P‐NL‐ZF prepared through the combination of magnetic stirring and HPH exhibited superior encapsulation efficiency at 76.19% and demonstrated exceptional physicochemical stability under a series of conditions, including storage, pH, and ionic in comparison to single method. It was further confirmed that P‐NL‐ZF by magnetic stirring and HPH displayed a uniform distribution and regular shape through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed that electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the primary driving forces for the formation of composite nanoliposomes. Additionally, an in vitro digestion study revealed that multilayer composite nanoliposomes displayed significant and favorable slow‐release properties (58.21%) under gastrointestinal conditions compared with traditional nanoliposomes (82.36%) and free phytol (89.73%). The assessments of chemical and cell‐based antioxidant activities demonstrated that the coating of zein/fucoidan on phytol nanoliposomes resulted in enhanced effectiveness in scavenging activity of ABTS free radical and hydroxyl radical and mitigating oxidative damage to HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Based on our studies, the promising delivery carrier of zein/fucoidan‐coated nanoliposomes is contributed to the encapsulation of hydrophobic natural products and enhancement of their biological activity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Accurate tibial tunnel position in transtibial pullout repair for medial meniscus posterior root tears delays the progression of medial joint space narrowing
Authors: Kawada Koki , Okazaki Yuki , Tamura Masanori , Yokoyama Yusuke , Ozaki Toshifumi , Furumatsu Takayuki
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the association between the progression of medial joint space (MJS) narrowing, medial meniscus extrusion (MME) and clinical scores and the tibial tunnel position in pullout repairs for medial meniscus posterior root tears (MMPRTs).

Methods

This retrospective study examined 54 patients. Changes in MJS (ΔMJS), MME (ΔMME) and clinical scores and their relationship with the tibial tunnel position were evaluated using correlation coefficients. The distance from the anatomical to technical attachment position in the tibial tunnel position was measured in the anterior and medial directions, and the direct distance was measured using the Pythagorean theorem.

Results

The mean ΔMJS and ΔMME were 0.6 ± 0.8 and 1.3 ± 1.3 mm, respectively, and the mean anterior, medial and direct distances were 1.4 ± 2.3, 2.2 ± 1.7 and 3.4 ± 1.7 mm, respectively. ΔMJS had a significant positive correlation with the medial (r = 0.580, p < 0.001) and direct (r = 0.559, p < 0.001) distances, while ΔMME had a significant positive correlation with direct distance (r = 0.295, p = 0.030). Several clinical scores were significantly negatively correlated with these distances.

Conclusion

In transtibial pullout repair for MMPRTs, accurate tibial tunnel position delayed the progression of MJS narrowing and MME, leading to improved clinical outcomes. The progression of MJS narrowing was associated with the mediolateral direction of the tibial tunnel position, while the clinical scores were associated with the anteroposterior direction of the tibial tunnel position. These findings indicate the need to orient the tip of the guide in a more posterolateral direction when creating the tibial tunnel.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
The presence of a deep lateral femoral notch sign in ACL‐injured patients is associated with a 2.7° steeper posterior tibial slope and a 19% higher frequency of lateral meniscal injuries
Authors: Braz José N. P. da Silva Vilhena , Alves Luís F. T. G. , Ferreira Fábio A. L. , Barros António S. , de Sousa António M. S. N. , Gutierres Manuel A. P.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to study the relationship between the presence of a deep lateral femoral notch sign (DLFNS) in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)‐injured patients and a higher posterior lateral tibial slope (LPTS), a reduced meniscal bone angle (MBA), a higher LPTS/MBA ratio and a higher incidence of concomitant injuries in primary ACL tears.

Methods

A retrospective case‐control study was performed in patients submitted to primary ACL reconstruction with an available preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Patients with ACL tears and a femoral impactation with a depth ≥2 mm were assorted to the DLFNS group and patients with ACL tear and without a DLFNS to the control group. LPTS and MBA were measured in MRI. The presence of concomitant injuries (meniscal, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament and bone injuries) was assessed in MRI. Quantitative data are presented in the median ± interquartile range (IQR).

Results

There were 206 patients included in the study, with 46 patients assorted to the DLFNS group and 160 patients to the control group. In the DLFNS group, the median LPTS was 6.7° (IQR: 4.0–8.2) versus 4.0° in the control group (IQR: 2.2–6.5) (p = 0.003). The LPTS/MBA ratio was significantly higher in the DLFNS group, with a median of 0.32 (IQR: 0.19–0.44), in comparison to the control group, with a median of 0.19 (IQR: 0.11–0.31) (p < 0.001). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the LPTS is an independent risk factor to having a DLFNS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.161; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.042–1.293, p = 0.007). There was a higher incidence of concomitant lateral meniscal injuries in the DLFNS group (67% vs. 48%, p = 0.017).

Conclusions

In patients with ACL tears, the presence of a DLFNS is associated with a steeper lateral posterior tibial slope, as well as a higher incidence of concomitant lateral meniscal injuries.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Ameliorating saline‐sodic soils: A global meta‐analysis of field studies on the influence of exogenous amendments on crop yield
Authors: Wang Xiao , Ding Jianli , Wang Jinjie , Han Lijing , Tan Jiao , Ge Xiangyu
Published: May 2024

As the demand for food continues to rise, soil salinization and sodification pose an increasingly pressing challenge. Currently, there is a knowledge gap regarding how to effectively improve saline‐sodic soils to support sustainable agricultural production, especially the lack of systematic analysis on the effects of different amendments at a global scale. To address this gap, this study aims to explore the feasibility of using exogenous amendments to ameliorate saline‐sodic soils, conducting a global‐scale meta‐analysis based on 685 data pairs from 70 published studies. Our results showed that applying amendments to saline‐sodic soils significantly reduced electrical conductivity of saturated paste extract (ECe) by 33.0% and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) by 44.6%, while simultaneously increasing crop yield by 50.7%. Heterogeneity analysis further unveiled significant variations (p < 0.05) in the overall effect size, driven by factors such as initial soil properties (salinity and ESP levels), amendment type, climate and practical management conditions (application dose and experimental duration). The categorical variable analysis showed that, compared to soils with other salinization levels, the application of amendments in severe salinization soils was most effective in reducing soil ECe and enhancing crop yield. Considering the goals of mitigating soil salinity, sodicity, and increasing crop yield, the study suggests the application of mixed‐type amendments in practical settings. It is noteworthy that while extremely high doses (greater than 40 t ha−1) effectively increased crop yield, they also posed a risk of salt accumulation. In conclusion, this research offers critical insights for sustainable agriculture, guiding future work on soil health and food security in the context of global environmental challenges.
The windbreak effects of organic fence made from branches of Salix psammophila in Hobq Desert
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Wanjiao , Cui Jian , Wang Peng , Tian Xiaoning , Dai Yuchen , Gao Yong , Qiu Guo Yu
Published: May 2024

Salix sand barriers have been widely used in arid and semi‐arid regions of northern China as an environmentally friendly approach to control wind erosion. However, the inherent variability in length and thickness of Salix branches complicates achieving the desired fence porosity, typically resulting in an error of approximately 10% or more. This defect affects the fence's wind protection, thereby limiting their broader application. To address these challenges, we conducted a field experiment in the Hobq Desert, where we established Salix fences with porosities of 23%, 37%, and 44%, and measured the airflow velocities around these fences. The results indicated that the fence with 37% porosity exhibited the most effective sheltering effect, providing a protection distance up to 7.14 times of the fence height. A total of 44% porosity fences are also reasonably effective for practical purposes. On the other end of the spectrum, fences with 23% porosity demonstrated a better sediment interception than its high porosity peers, achieving an interception rate of 81.46%. Therefore, we conclude that organic fences made from Salix branches can serve as efficient windbreaks. Our findings provide foundational data for the application of organic fences in arid and semi‐arid regions of northern China, and potentially similar environments globally.
Deep Learning‐Driven Robust Glucose Sensing and Fruit Brix Estimation Using a Single Microwave Split Ring Resonator
Authors: Lee Seokho , Kim Kyungtae , Yang Younghwan , Seong Junhwa , Jung Chunghwan , Lee Hee‐Jo , Rho Junsuk
Published: May 2024

Extracting the desired information from sensor data with various internal and external effects is a significant challenge in sensor applications. Difficult‐to‐control factors such as temperature, humidity, and sample position can significantly affect the stability and reliability of sensor data. In this paper, a deep learning‐based glucose sensing method that is robust to variations in sample position is proposed. It is shown that the variations in sample position affect the sensor data measured by the designed split ring resonator‐based microwave sensor. Then, artificial neural network and 1D convolutional neural network (CNN) models are evaluated for extracting glucose concentration information from the sensor data measured at random sample positions. The concentration of the glucose solution ranged from 1% to 23% (2% increments). The 1D CNN with all frequencies (0.5–18 GHz) of the and datasets outperformed the other model, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.695% and a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.876 evaluated via cross‐validation. The study demonstrated that the sensor system can be applied in real life by performing fruit Brix estimation based on transfer learning of the previous 1D CNN network, and the MAE and MSE are 0.450% and 0.305, respectively.