bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution and relevance of research on Environmental, Social, and Governance factors
Authors: Estevez‐Mendoza Carlos , Infante Juan
Published: October 2024

In the wake of a compelling societal shift and the subsequent widespread response across multiple industries, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have emerged as a pivotal subject in scholarly literature. To gauge the significance of these contributions and facilitate objective exploration in future research, we employ bibliometric techniques. Thus, we identify the relevant authors and journals, and depict the evolution in the themes and pillars of the intellectual framework underpinning the topic. Our analysis covers 594 articles from 2007 to 2022, divided into two distinct periods. In the first period, the pillars are centered on contextualizing theories, the impact in terms of financial‐related performance, and the ethical implications within the domain of corporate social responsibility. In the subsequent period, there is a notable progression towards reinforcing theoretical foundations. The pillars shift towards more practical implications, focusing on challenges associated with investing based on ESG criteria, guiding stakeholders in adapting to this paradigm, and addressing risks tied to its implementation. Financial performance, disclosure in reporting, and socially responsible investments remain crucial matters, and the analysis of the environmental issues outnumber social, and governance ones in both periods. We discuss the potential implications and further lines of research.
Electrocatalytic Hydrogenation and Deuteration of Unsaturated C−N Bonds to Amines with Vacancy‐Rich Cu3P Nanowires as Catalysts in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Fang Zhiyong , Ding Yunxuan , Yuan Song , Wang Linqin , Wang Mei , Li Fusheng , Wu Xiujuan , Sun Licheng , Zhang Peili
Published: October 2024

Renewable energy driven electrochemically hydrogenation of unsaturated C−N bonds with water as a hydrogen source provides an eco‐friendly route for amine production. However, the potential commercial applications of this strategy were limited by the lack of relevant extended research. Here we demonstrate an efficient electrochemical hydrogenation system for the formation of amines from nitriles by a vacancy‐rich copper phosphide catalyst. The catalytic system achieves a yield of 99 % and a Faraday efficiency of 99 % for the hydrogenation of benzonitrile. Mechanism study shows that benzonitrile is spontaneously adsorbed on the electrode surface and the electrogenerated active adsorbed hydrogen is the key reactive intermediate for hydrogenation. Theoretical calculation results show that vacancy‐induced active sites chemisorb the N atom, thus accelerating C≡N bond activation for hydrogenation. Encouragingly, good yields of amines (≥99 %) are obtained when benzonitrile is replaced by a series of aromatic nitriles, heterocyclic nitriles, aliphatic nitriles, and imines. These results show the general applicability of this method for the synthesis of various amines.
Asymmetric Charge Distribution in Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters for Boosted CO2 Reduction Catalysis
Authors: Du Yuanxin , Wang Pei , Fang Yi , Zhu Manzhou
Published: October 2024

Recently, atomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) have been widely applied in CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), achieving exciting activity and selectivity and revealing structure‐performance correlation. However, at present, the efficiency of CO2RR is still unsatisfactory and cannot meet the requirements of practical applications. One of the main reasons is the difficulty in CO2 activation due to the chemical inertness of CO2. Constructing symmetry‐breaking active sites is regarded as an effective strategy to promote CO2 activation by modulating electronic and geometric structure of CO2 molecule. In addition, in the subsequent CO2RR process, asymmetric charge distributed sites can break the charge balance in adjacent adsorbed C1 intermediates and suppress electrostatic repulsion between dipoles, benefiting for C−C coupling to generate C2+ products. Although compared to single atoms, metal nanoparticles, and inorganic materials the research on the construction of asymmetric catalytic sites in metal NCs is in a newly‐developing stage, the precision, adjustability and diversity of metal NCs structure provide many possibilities to build asymmetric sites. This review summarizes several strategies of construction asymmetric charge distribution in metal NCs for boosting CO2RR, concludes the mechanism investigation paradigm of NCs‐based catalysts, and proposes the challenges and opportunities of NCs catalysis.
Taming the Dominator: How to Create Harmony in Team Dynamics
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: October 2024

In every team, there's a delicate balance of personalities and behaviors that can make or break group cohesion. While we all occasionally slip into less‐than‐ideal roles, some behaviors can be particularly disruptive. In this issue, focus on one of the most challenging: the dominator.
Inter‐ and Intraspecific Competition in Invasive Lactuca serriola and Co‐Occurring Weedy Plant Species
Authors: Woo Sohyun , Kim Tae‐Min , Kim Yousuk , Jeong Seorin , Kim Eunsuk
Published: October 2024

While invasive success of alien plant species is often attributed to their superior competitive abilities, it is also suggested that competitive ability depends on the target species of competition and resource availability. In addition, it remains unclear whether invaders and co‐occurring plants in the introduced area exhibit distinctive inter‐ and intraspecific competitive intensities. This study aimed to evaluate the competitive ability of a successful invader, Lactuca serriola, through a combination of field surveys and a growth chamber experiment. First, we assessed biodiversity and the biomass of co‐occurring plants in both L. serriola‐invaded and uninvaded plots across nine sites in South Korea. Subsequently, a pairwise competition experiment was conducted between L. serriola and three weedy plant species commonly found in the invaded plots, Chenopodium album, Erigeron canadensis, and Oenothera biennis, under differential nutrient levels. Diversity indices of plant communities and the biomass of most co‐occurring plants showed no significant difference between invaded and uninvaded plots. L. serriola and testing weedy plants exhibited mutually negative effects on biomass when grown together in the same pot, with the intensity of interspecific competition being comparable across nutrient treatments. Notably, intraspecific competition of L. serriola was weaker than testing weedy plants, particularly manifest in the high‐nutrient treatment. The results of both field and growth‐chamber studies demonstrated that L. serriola was not a particularly strong competitor compared to its neighboring weedy plants. Its successful invasion can be partially attributed to its weak intraspecific competition intensity, which potentially facilitate successful establishment with high density.
Patterns and drivers of cottonwood mortality in the middle Rio Grande, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Varani Hannah , Margolis Ellis Q. , Muldavin Esteban H. , Pockman William T.
Published: October 2024

Riparian ecosystems are some of the most valuable and vulnerable on the planet. Riparian tree mortality is increasing in the western United States, where altered streamflows are combining with warming climate. Between 2011 and 2013, one third of an extensive stand of Populus deltoides var. wislizeni (Rio Grande cottonwood) died along the middle Rio Grande on the Pueblo of Santa Ana in New Mexico. Mortality coincided with a severe drought that followed a decade of decreasing streamflow, but it was heterogeneous, with adjacent patches of dead and live trees. The goal of this research was to determine the drivers of mortality to provide insights into future risks of die‐off and potential management interventions. We compared tree age, competition, tree‐ring widths, sediment particle size and climate influences between live and dead forest patches in a nested plot design. Live and dead trees had similar age, stand density and particle sizes of shallow sediments. Tree‐ring widths had the highest correlations with July–September streamflow (1932–2013). All trees had declining ring growth since 1992, coinciding with declining late summer streamflow. An accelerated decline in growth began in 2002, corresponding to recent warmer droughts. Trees that died had lower ring growth 3 years prior to death and in the mid‐1900s. Dead trees also had coarser deep sediments 2.4–3.7 m below ground, suggesting that reduced water holding capacity was an important factor for mortality. Water management to increase streamflow during the late summer, especially during times of extended drought, could reduce mortality risk in the face of projected increasingly warm droughts.
Numerical Simulation Study of the Effect of Vegetation Cover on the Flow Characteristics of an Open Channel
Authors: Zhang Shengtang , Zhao Wenhao , Lan Yufen , Zhang Jingzhou
Published: October 2024

Vegetation in rivers has a significant influence on flow characteristics. A numerical simulation was conducted to study the impact of different vegetation coverage on the flow characteristics in open channels, using ANSYS Fluent for a three‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics analysis. The results showed that as vegetation coverage increased, the water resistance effect was enhanced. In experiments with the same vegetation coverage, the group with more vegetation exhibited a more significant flow resistance effect. Additionally, as vegetation coverage increased, the turbulent kinetic energy also increased, with a range of 35.7%–82.5%. In experiments with the same vegetation coverage, the group with more vegetation had higher turbulent kinetic energy, with an increase ranging from 39.8% to 69.8%.
Modification of the Spin Transition Properties in Hetero‐Anionic Iron(II)‐Triazole Complexes
Authors: Kilic Maximilian Seydi , Merchant Isabel Mae , Elliott Erika , Pawlak Justus , Brehme Jules , Sander Arthur , Suzuki Taisei , Shiga Takuya , Nihei Masayuki , Renz Franz
Published: October 2024

The phenomenon which is called spin crossover is known to occur in some coordination compounds with an octahedral ligand field and electron configurations from 3d4 to 3d7. Thereby, a reversible transition between spin states (high spin and low spin state) is possible, through several external stimuli. Iron(II) triazole complexes exhibit this phenomenon at a wide range of temperatures depending on the ligands and anions used. For this reason, they are often considered for several possible practical applications. It is also possible to combine ligands or anions to modify the transition temperature. The latter of which was rarely discussed in the past. In this study we synthesized a series of iron(II)‐4‐Aminotriazole complexes, with different ratios of chloride‐ and tetrafluoroborate‐anions, of the formula [Fe(Atrz)3]Cl2−X(BF4)X. We show that the combination of these anions leads to transition temperatures between those of their corresponding pure anion complexes. We furthermore present that a simple modification of the synthesis leads to a possible easy way of fine‐tuning transitions temperatures.
Advances in Combined Asymmetric Catalysis of Transition Metal/Phase Transfer Catalysts
Authors: Dong Yi‐Fan , Wang Si‐Ru , Han Zhi‐Yong , Wu Xiang
Published: October 2024

Phase‐transfer catalysts (PTCs) are chemical agents that facilitate the transfer of molecules or ions between different reaction phases, thereby accelerating heterogeneous reaction processes. Transition metal catalysts are renowned for their versatility in breaking inert chemical bonds and forming new carbon‐carbon bonds. Over the past two decades, integrating metal catalysts with phase‐transfer catalysts has emerged as a highly valuable and adaptable strategy in modern organic synthesis. This combined catalytic approach highlights the enhanced synthetic capabilities and demonstrates the benefits of merging these two catalytic systems. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in asymmetric catalysis that utilize the synergy between metal and phase‐transfer catalysts, focusing on their role in the rapid and efficient synthesis of complex organic molecules with precise stereochemistry.
Optimization of aloe vera‐sodium alginate composite coating using L16 orthogonal design for extension of shelf life of mushroom
Authors: Fatima Sumaiya , Kumar Vivek , Bhadauria Geeta
Published: October 2024

White button mushrooms are highly nutritive, rich in various macro and micro nutrients, however, have a short shelf life with weight loss (WL), enzymatic browning, and loss in firmness as the major quality defects. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of aloe vera‐sodium alginate (AV‐SA) composite coating on the quality attributes of mushroom. The development of coating formulations containing 2% sodium alginate along with varying concentration of aloe vera gel 20%–80% and storage time 4–16 days was planned using a 2‐factor 4‐level orthogonal array (L16) design of Taguchi technique. The influence of both the process parameters on the WL, total soluble solids (TSS), respiration rate (RR), browning index (BI), firmness, electrolyte leakage rate (EL), malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (AA), total phenolic content (TPC), enzymes activity (polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase), and yeast and mold count (YMC) were evaluated and the optimized level of parameters was determined on the basis of the highest S/N ratios of the responses. The results indicated that 60% AV‐SA composite coating could extend the shelf life of white button mushrooms for up to 8 days with retarded loss in weight, firmness, AA, and TPC and reduced increase in TSS, BI, EL, MDA with controlled enzymatic activity, RR, and YMC.
Lactic Acid Bacteria Surface Proteins in the Mechanisms of Cell Adhesion and Immunoregulation
Authors: Meng Ziheng , Huang Xianqing , Qiao Mingwu , Song Lianjun , Liu Yufei , Hai Dan
Published: October 2024

This study delves into the role of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) surface proteins in cell adhesion and immunoregulation. Using fluorescence microscopy, we observed distinct adhesion patterns on various cell types. LAB surface proteins demonstrated concentration‐dependent inhibition of Salmonella adhesion, with LAB69 exhibiting potent antagonistic effects. Genetic expression analysis revealed nuanced responses in key genes (MD2, TLR4, IL‐10, MUC3, MIF) across different cell types, highlighting the diverse immunomodulatory effects of LAB surface proteins. Modulation of pro‐inflammatory (TNF‐α) and anti‐inflammatory (IL‐10) cytokines further emphasized the complex interplay. In conclusion, this study underscores the pivotal role of LAB surface proteins in mediating cell adhesion and immunoregulation, providing a foundation for isolating specific immunomodulatory molecules within LAB surface proteins for potential applications in microbial ecological agents.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: The Role of Healthy and Unhealthy Dietary Patterns—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Vahedi Fard Mohammad , Mohammadhasani Kimia , Dehnavi Zahra , Khorasanchi Zahra
Published: October 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and irreversible disease affecting many people worldwide. Recent evidence suggests that diet and lifestyle play a vital role in COPD progression. We aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the effect of healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns on preventing and treating COPD. For this reason, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PubMed were searched. Based on our findings, it appears that adhering to a healthy dietary pattern rich in vegetables, legumes, fruit, nuts, and whole grains may have advantageous impacts on preventing and treating COPD while following an unhealthy dietary pattern rich in red and processed meat, saturated fats, sweets, and sugary drinks affect COPD negatively. Adhering to Mediterranean, dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH), Prudent, Ketogenic, and High‐protein diet may be related to a lower risk of COPD and improved pulmonary function. Conversely, Western and Ramadan Intermittent Fasting diets may elevate the prevalence of COPD. Proposing a nutritious diet that enhances pulmonary function could potentially be an effective approach to preventing and managing COPD. A comprehensive knowledge of the relationship between dietary factors and COPD can provide healthcare professionals with properly supported approaches to advise patients and empower individuals to make informed lifestyle decisions that are beneficial to improve their pulmonary health.
A Comparative Analysis of Butter, Ghee, and Margarine and Its Implications for Healthier Fat and Oil Group Choices: SWOT Analysis
Authors: Mohammadi‐Nasrabadi F. , Rashidimehr A. , Khoshtinat Kh. , Alhouei B. , Massomian A. , Rashidian M. , Esfarjani F.
Published: October 2024

This study aims to comparatively analyze butter, ghee, and margarine fatty acid profiles and their implications for healthier fat and oil group choices. In this cross‐sectional study, 60 samples from best‐selling brands of butter, ghee, and margarine were randomly selected from five food chain stores in Tehran, Iran. Then, all the samples were coded, packed in cool conditions, and sent to the laboratory to determine the fatty acid profiles by using gas chromatography (GC). Based on the authors' experiences and the available literature, a policy dialogue session was held with stakeholders about oil and fat challenges, followed by a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The mean ± SE of total fatty acids in butter, ghee, and margarine was 94.07 ± 0.17, 94.49 ± 0.61, and 99.00 ± 0.18; total saturated fatty acid (TSFA) 66.69 ± 0.39, 64.26 ± 0.63, and 40.36 ± 0.87; trans fatty acid (TFA) 2.43 ± 0.09, 3.60 ± 0.29, and 0.83 ± 0.15 g/100 gfat, respectively. The predominant TFAs in butter and ghee were vaccenic acid (animal source) (2.06 ± 0.07 and 2.41 ± 0.17), while in margarine, it was elaidic acid (plant‐based source) (0.32 ± 0.12 g/100 gfat), respectively. Also, the SWOT findings showed being TFAs in the acceptable range (as the main strength), mismanagement (Weakness), reducing taxes based on lower TFA content (Opportunity), and sanctions (as the main Threat) were the most important criteria affecting fat choices in the Iranian food basket. The results of the study found that butter, ghee, and margarine contain relatively low levels of TFAs; however, butter and ghee were rich in beneficial fatty acids, which have been shown to have health‐protective properties. Policymakers can implicate the proposed strategies and opportunities from the SWOT analysis for healthier fat and oil choices to promote public health.
Virulence genes and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of Escherichia coli isolated from nosocomial urinary tract infections in the northwest of Iran during 2022–2023: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Memar Mohammad Yousef , Vosughi Masoud , Rahbar Saadat Yalda , Ardalan Mohammadreza , Yekani Mina , Niknafs Bahram , Zununi Vahed Sepideh
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prevalent among hospitalized patients, constituting the most frequent health‐care infections. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is leading causative agent of UTIs. The present study was aimed to examine the susceptibility of UPEC isolates obtained from nosocomial cases to antibiotics, as well as their biofilm formation capability and frequency of virulence genes.

Methods

A total of 100 UPEC isolates were collected from nosocomial UTIs at Imam Reza Hospitals in Tabriz, Iran, spanning from April 2022 to January 2023. The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were evaluated using the disk diffusion method, along with the detection of broad‐spectrum β‐lactam enzymes (ESBLs) and carbapenemases. The ability of isolates to form biofilms was assessed using the microtiter‐plate method, while the PCR method was employed to identify the presence of virulence genes.

Results

The highest resistance was observed toward piperacillin (82%), followed by aztreonam and ciprofloxacin (81%), while the lowest resistance was found against piperacillin/tazobactam (12%) and meropenem (9%). ESBLs were detected in 62% of the isolates. The microtiter‐plate results revealed strong, moderate, and weak biofilm formation abilities in 32%, 33%, and 24% of the isolates, respectively. The most prevalent virulence gene was fimA (74%) followed by hlyF (68%), papA (44%), papC (32%), iroN (26%), and cnf (20%).

Conclusion

The elevated levels of resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents, coupled with the co‐presence of virulence genes and biofilm formation abilities, contribute to the persistence of UPEC‐related infections, particularly in hospitalized patients. These findings underscore the necessity of implementing an effective program to control nosocomial UTIs caused by UPEC in the healthcare centers.
Cardiovascular Imaging in the Era of Precision Medicine: Insights from Advanced Technologies – A Narrative Review
Authors: Manoel Poliana Zanotto , Dike Innocent Chijioke , Anis Heeba , Yassin Nour , Wojtara Magda , Uwishema Olivier
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Cardiovascular diseases are responsible for a high mortality rate globally. Precision medicine has emerged as an essential tool for improving cardiovascular disease outcomes. In this context, using advanced imaging exams is fundamental in cardiovascular precision medicine, enabling more accurate diagnoses and customized treatments. This review aims to provide a concise review on how advanced cardiovascular imaging supports precision medicine, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and future directions.

Methods

A literature review was carried out using the Pubmed and Google Scholar databases, using search strategies that combined terms such as precision medicine, cardiovascular diseases, and imaging tests.

Results

More advanced analysis aimed at diagnosing and describing cardiovascular diseases in greater detail is made possible by tests such as cardiac computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and cardiac positron emission tomography. In addition, the aggregation of imaging data with other omics data allows for more personalized treatment and a better description of patient profiles.

Conclusion

The use of advanced imaging tests is essential in cardiovascular precision medicine. Although there are still technical and ethical obstacles, it is essential that there is collaboration between health professionals, as well as investments in technology and education to better disseminate cardiovascular precision medicine and consequently promote improved patient outcomes.
Three consecutive pregnancies in a woman with spastic cerebral palsy being treated with intrathecal baclofen therapy
Authors: Barker Kim D. D. , Murtuza M. Imran , Sloan Ellen V.
Published: October 2024

Baclofen is a commonly used medication for spasticity in patients with an injury to the central nervous system. For some, intrathecal delivery of baclofen provides better treatment with fewer systemic side effects. Baclofen is a category C medication during pregnancy based on animal studies. This narrative review presents the three consecutive pregnancies of a woman with spastic quadriparesis due to cerebral palsy that was being treated with an intrathecal baclofen (ITB) pump. Her spasticity care occurred at a large academic institution. Her prenatal and perinatal care occurred at the adjacent county hospital. There is limited literature on the safety of the use of an ITB pump for the treatment of spasticity in pregnant women, and this patient presentation aims to describe the course for the mother and her infants as she received treatment for her spasticity with an ITB pump.
Alginate‐HEMA Hydrogels as Promising Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Torres M. L. , Cuba A. Hurtado , Oberti T. G. , Fernandez J. M.
Published: October 2024

In the present work, the osteogenic and angiogenic properties of, previously developed, semi‐interpenetrated HEMA‐EGDMA polymeric networks (sIPN) with and without alginate with application in bone tissue engineering (BTE) were studied. In vitro characterization studies were performed using rat bone marrow progenitor cells (BMPCs), EA.hy926 endothelial cells, and rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Based on the in vitro results of both this work and previous ones, the hydrogels were selected to carry out in vivo studies to find out their capacity as a biomaterial using a bone regeneration model. Our results indicate that the incorporation of alginate into the HEMA‐EGDMA polymeric network promotes osteogenic and angiogenic capacity in cell cultures of BMPCs and both EA.hy926 and VSMCs, respectively, and also increases bone formation and vascular structures in in vivo studies, demonstrating its potential use as a biomaterial in BTE.
Assessing small molecule conformational sampling methods in molecular docking
Authors: Xia Qiancheng , Fu Qiuyu , Shen Cheng , Brenk Ruth , Huang Niu
Published: October 2024

Small molecule conformational sampling plays a pivotal role in molecular docking. Recent advancements have led to the emergence of various conformational sampling methods, each employing distinct algorithms. This study investigates the impact of different small molecule conformational sampling methods in molecular docking using UCSF DOCK 3.7. Specifically, six traditional sampling methods (Omega, BCL::Conf, CCDC Conformer Generator, ConfGenX, Conformator, RDKit ETKDGv3) and a deep learning‐based model (Torsional Diffusion) for generating conformational ensembles are evaluated. These ensembles are subsequently docked against the Platinum Diverse Dataset, the PoseBusters dataset and the DUDE‐Z dataset to assess binding pose reproducibility and screening power. Notably, different sampling methods exhibit varying performance due to their unique preferences, such as dihedral angle sampling ranges on rotatable bonds. Combining complementary methods may lead to further improvements in docking performance.
The Impact of SGLT1 Inhibition on Frailty and Sarcopenia: A Mediation Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Huang Bang‐Bang , Zhang Yu‐Jie , Ruan Guang‐Feng , Yu Xing , Liu Qin , Zhang Mei‐Jin , Yu Ming‐Zhong , Chen Ai , Liang Ye‐Bei , Xie Liang‐Di , Luo Li
Published: October 2024

Background

Although pharmacological effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on the development of frailty and sarcopenia were known, the role of SGLT1 remained less clear. The present study investigated the possible effect of SGLT1 inhibition on these conditions and explored potential mediators.

Methods

A two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to assess the effect of SGLT1 inhibition on frailty index (FI) and low grip strength in individuals aged 60 years and older using both the FNIH and EWGSOP criteria. Subsequently, a two‐step MR analysis was conducted to investigate the mediating role of insulin resistance phenotype and identify potential mediators of the effect of SGLT1 inhibition on the FI and low grip strength from 1558 plasma proteins and 1352 metabolites.

Results

Genetically predicted SGLT1 inhibition was associated with decreased FI (β: −0.290 [95% CI: −0.399, −0.181]) and reduced risk of low grip strength in individuals aged 60 years and older under both FNIH (β: −0.796 [95% CI: −1.216, −0.376]) and EWGSOP criteria (β: −0.287 [95% CI: −0.532, −0.041]). The two‐step MR analysis demonstrated the role of insulin resistance phenotype in mediating SGTL1 inhibition on alleviating frailty (mediation proportion = 19.56% [95% CI: 8.42%, 30.70%]). After screening, 24 proteins and 16 metabolites were identified as mediators of the impact of SGLT1 inhibition on FI. Additionally, 13 proteins and 16 metabolites were found to mediate the effect of SGLT1 inhibition on low grip strength according to FNIH criteria while 22 proteins and 6 metabolites were shown to mediate the impact of SGLT1 inhibition on low grip strength under EWGSOP criteria.

Conclusions

SGLT1 inhibition potentially mitigated frailty and sarcopenia through several biological mediators, shedding new light for therapeutic intervention.
Kinematic versus mechanical alignment: A systematic review of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Jamali Amir A. , Shekhar Adithya , Dungy Danton , Stewart Susan L.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to review the currently available systematic reviews and meta‐analyses comparing kinematic alignment (KA) and mechanical alignment (MA).

Methods

A literature search was performed to obtain all systematic review and meta‐analyses comparing KA to MA that included one or more randomised controlled trials. A total of 18 studies were obtained, three of which were systematic reviews without meta‐analysis. Studies were evaluated based on their meta‐analysis methodology, appropriate inclusion criteria, the use of correct definitions of each alignment technique, and risk of bias.

Results

These 18 studies included between 3 and 14 RCTs in each study. From the perspective of study design, the majority of papers had low risk of bias. In contrast, most of these reviews had technical issues pertaining to study inclusion in their meta‐analyses that would potentially compromise their conclusions. These included mixing time points in the analysis, duplicate inclusion of patients in a meta‐analysis, inclusion of studies with incorrect definitions of KA, inclusion of studies performed with restricted kinematic alignment with the KA group, and inappropriate combination of studies with bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with studies with unilateral TKA.

Conclusions

The current literature is inadequate to determine if there is any advantage to KA compared to MA in TKA. Claims made in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses on the subject must be carefully scrutinised based not only on risk of bias but also on the included study populations, the surgical methodology of each underlying study, and the authors' understanding of the definitions of each alignment technique.

Level of Evidence

Level 1 based on this study being a systematic review with the inclusion of only systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of randomised controlled trials.
Personalized delayed anticoagulation therapy alleviates postoperative bleeding in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients
Authors: Luo Xuefeng , Wang Dehua , Xu Wei , Zou Jing , Kang Runxing , Zhang Tao , Liang Xi , Liao Junyi , Huang Wei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Ecchymosis is one of the most common complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), which is closely related to postoperative bleeding. However, it is still controversial whether anticoagulation treatment should be continued for postoperative ecchymosis patients. We suppose that personalized delayed anticoagulation therapy could be beneficial for decreasing postoperative bleeding.

Methods

A total of 201 TKA patients were retrospectively included in this study, among whom ecchymosis patients received drug anticoagulation treatment 1–2 days later than usual, while nonecchymosis patients received regular drug anticoagulation treatment. The perioperative blood loss, coagulation state, fibrinolytic state and complications were collected and analyzed.

Results

Eighty‐nine patients (44.3%) developed ecchymosis within 3 days after TKA. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. In the ecchymosis group, higher K values and lower calculated coagulation index values were observed in thromboelastography, along with greater total blood loss and a more significant decrease in haemoglobin levels on postoperative Day 1 (POD1) compared to the nonecchymosis group. Additionally, the ecchymosis patients exhibited higher levels of fibrinogen degradation products and D‐dimer (D‐D) on POD1, with no differences noted on POD3, indicating that patients with ecchymosis are in a relatively hypocoagulable and hyperfibrinolytic state compared to those without ecchymosis. Therefore, the delayed anticoagulation treatment proved beneficial for correcting these postoperative conditions. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in postoperative complications, demonstrating that delayed anticoagulation treatment is safe.

Conclusion

Patients with ecchymosis exhibited a relatively hypocoagulable and hyperfibrinolytic state with a stronger tendency for postoperative bleeding. Delayed anticoagulation in ecchymosis patients could effectively prevent further exacerbation of postoperative bleeding by avoiding sustained hypocoagulable and hyperfibrinolysis states. Personalized delayed anticoagulation therapy could be beneficial for managing postoperative ecchymosis for TKA patients.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Green Construction of Novel 3‐(Benzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐1,8‐naphthyridin‐2‐yl)amino)quinazoline‐2,4(1H,3H)‐dione and Phenyl‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a][1,8]naphthyridine and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Reddy Sontireddy Surender , Shireesha Kavati , Jella Kumara Swamy
Published: October 2024

A straightforward and an efficient green synthetic method has been outlined for the construction of 3‐(benzo[d][1, 3] dioxol‐5‐yl)‐1,8‐naphthyridine derivatives in the presence of glacial acetic acid and Cu(OAc)2 catalyst accomplished excellent yields in short reaction time. The reaction proceeds efficiently by using a greener way under microwave conditions to elevate the quantity of pure products. The purity of all the synthesized compounds was confirmed by IR, 1H and 13CNMR, LC–MS data and also from the elemental analyses studies. The synthesized compounds 7d and 7f performed strongest antibacterial activity against pathogenic cell lines Bacillus subtilis (17.5, 20.5 mm), Escherichia coli (28.5, 30 mm), and antifungal cell lines Candida albicans (18, 22.5 mm), and Aspergillus Niger (28.5, 40.5 mm) which are compared with clinical drugs Penicillin, Grieseofulvin. We scrutinized the remaining molecules and found that their activity ranged from modest to exceptional.
Copper‐Catalyzed Carboamination of Unactivated Alkenes to Synthesize β‐Lactams with Trichloroacetonitrile
Authors: Wang Xiaoya , Cui Jing , Zeng Runsheng
Published: October 2024

β‐Lactams, as nitrogen‐containing heterocycles with distinctive biological activities, have made significant contributions to the treatment of infectious diseases. This study which used inexpensive copper salts as catalysts, trichloroacetonitrile as a radical precursor, and potassium carbonate as base offers a concise route for the synthesis of β‐lactam compounds substituted with potentially pharmacologically active dichloroacetyl moieties. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate that unactivated alkenes undergo sequential intermolecular radical addition and intramolecular amidation reactions. The copper salts undergo catalytic cycles involving Cu(I)/Cu(II)/Cu(III) species.
Using implementation science to encourage Serious Illness Conversations on general medicine inpatient services: An interrupted time series
Authors: Serna Myrna Katalina , Yoon Catherine , Fiskio Julie , Lakin Joshua R. , Dalal Anuj K. , Schnipper Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2024

Background

Serious Illness Conversations (SICs) are not consistently integrated into existing inpatient workflows.

Objective

We assessed the implementation of multiple interventions aimed at encouraging SICs with hospitalized patients.

Methods

We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to identify determinants for conducting SICs by interviewing providers and the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change to develop a list of interventions. Adult patient encounters with a Readmission Risk Score (RRS) > 28% admitted to a general medicine service from January 2019 to October 2021 and without standardized SIC documentation in the prior year were included. A multivariable segmented logistic regression model, suitable for an interrupted time series analysis, was used to assess changes in the odds of standardized SIC documentation.

Results

Barriers included those associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic, such as extreme census. Facilitators included the presence of the Speaking About Goals and Expectations program and palliative care consultations. Key interventions included patient identification via the existing Quality and Safety Dashboard (QSD), weekly emails, in‐person outreach, and training for faculty and trainees. There was no significant change in the odds of standardized SIC documentation despite interventions (change in temporal trend odds ratio (OR) 1.16, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.98–1.39).

Conclusion

The lack of significant change in standardized SIC documentation may be attributed to insufficient or ineffective interventions and COVID‐19‐related challenges. Although patient identification is a known barrier to SICs, this issue was minimized with the use of the QSD and RRS. Further research is needed to enhance the implementation of SICs in inpatient settings.
3D Bioprinting Strategies for Melatonin‐Loaded Polymers in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Aykora Damla , Oral Ayhan , Aydeğer Cemre , Uzun Metehan
Published: October 2024

Bone pathologies are still among the most challenging issues for orthopedics. Over the past decade, different methods are developed for bone repair. In addition to advanced surgical and graft techniques, polymer‐based biomaterials, bioactive glass, chitosan, hydrogels, nanoparticles, and cell‐derived exosomes are used for bone healing strategies. Owing to their variation and promising advantages, most of these methods are not translated into clinical practice. Three dimensonal (3D) bioprinting is an additive manufacturing technique that has become a next‐generation biomaterial technique adapted for anatomic modeling, artificial tissue or organs, grafting, and bridging tissues. Polymer‐based biomaterials are mostly used for the controlled release of various drugs, therapeutic agents, mesenchymal stem cells, ions, and growth factors. Polymers are now among the most preferable materials for 3D bioprinting. Melatonin is a well‐known antioxidant with many osteoinductive properties and is one of the key hormones in the brain–bone axis. 3D bioprinted melatonin‐loaded polymers with unique lipophilic, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteoinductive properties for filling large bone gaps following fractures or congenital bone deformities may be developed in the future. This study summarized the benefits of 3D bioprinted and polymeric materials integrated with melatonin for sustained release in bone regeneration approaches.
Revealing membrane integrity and cell size from diffusion kurtosis time dependence
Authors: Lee Hong‐Hsi , Novikov Dmitry S. , Fieremans Els , Huang Susie Y.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The nonmonotonic dependence of diffusion kurtosis on diffusion time has been observed in biological tissues, yet its relation to membrane integrity and cellular geometry remains to be clarified. Here we establish and explain the characteristic asymmetric shape of the kurtosis peak. We also derive the relation between the peak time , when kurtosis reaches its maximum, and tissue parameters.

Methods

The peak shape and its position qualitatively follow from the adiabatic extension of the Kärger model onto the case of intra‐cellular diffusivity time‐dependence. This intuition is corroborated by the effective medium theory‐based calculation, as well as by Monte Carlo simulations of diffusion and exchange in randomly and densely packed spheres for various values of permeability, cell fractions and sizes, and intrinsic diffusivity.

Results

We establish that is proportional to the geometric mean of two characteristic time scales: extra‐cellular correlation time (determined by cell size) and intra‐cellular residence time (determined by membrane permeability). When exchange is barrier‐limited, the peak shape approaches a universal scaling form determined by the ratio .

Conclusion

Numerical simulations and theory provide an interpretation of a specific feature of kurtosis time‐dependence, offering a potential biomarker for in vivo evaluation of pathology by disentangling the functional (permeability) and structural (cell size) integrity in tissues. This is relevant as the time‐dependent diffusion cumulants are sensitive to pathological changes in membrane integrity and cellular structure in diseases, such as ischemic stroke, tumors, and Alzheimer's disease.
Modeling Brittle Failure in Rock Slopes Using Semi‐Lagrangian Nonlocal General Particle Dynamics
Authors: Yin Peng , Zhou Xiao‐Ping , Pan Jinhu
Published: October 2024

The nonlocal general particle dynamics (NGPD) has been successfully developed to model crack propagation and large deformation problems. In this paper, the semi‐Lagrangian nonlocal general particle dynamics (SL‐NGPD) is proposed to solve brittle failure in rock slopes. In SL‐NGPD, the interaction between particles due to deformation is calculated in the initial configuration, while the friction contact interaction from discontinuities is calculated in the current configuration. The Van der Waals force model is utilized for friction contact. The bond‐level energy‐based failure criterion is developed to predict tensile/compressive‐shear mix‐mode cracks. The artificial viscosity and damage correction are used to enhance the numerical stability and accuracy when modeling brittle failure. The SL‐NGPD paradigm is numerically implemented through adaptive dynamic relaxation and predictor–corrector schemes for stable numerical solutions. The stability and accuracy of SL‐NGPD are verified by simulating compression tests. Thereafter, the crack coalescence patterns of double‐flaw specimens are investigated to understand the triggering failure mechanism of jointed rock slopes. Finally, the progressive failure process of the rock slope with step‐path joints is simulated to demonstrate its validity and robustness in modeling brittle failure in rockslides. The numerical results illustrate that the proposed SL‐NGPD is promising and performant for analyzing brittle failure problems in geotechnical engineering.
Saturation transfer (CEST and MT) MRI for characterization of U‐87 MG glioma in the rat
Authors: Lam Wilfred W. , Chudzik Agata , Lehman Natalia , Łazorczyk Artur , Kozioł Paulina , Niedziałek Anna , Gananathan Athavan , Orzyłowska Anna , Rola Radosław , Stanisz Greg J.
Published: October 2024

The focus of this work was to identify the optimal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast between orthotopic U‐87 MG tumours and normal appearing brain with the eventual goal of treatment response monitoring. U‐87 MG human glioblastoma cells were injected into the brain of RNU nude rats (n = 9). The rats were imaged at 7 T at three timepoints for all animals: 3–5, 7–9, and 11–13 days after implantation. Whole‐brain T1‐weighted (before and after gadolinium contrast agent injection), diffusion, and fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery scans were performed. In addition, single‐slice saturation‐transfer‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST), magnetization transfer (MT), and water saturation shift referencing (WASSR) contrast Z‐spectra and T1 and T2 maps were also acquired. The MT and WASSR Z‐spectra and T1 map were fitted to a two‐pool quantitative MT model to estimate the T2 of the free and macromolecular‐bound water molecules, the relative macromolecular pool size (M0, MT), and the magnetization exchange rate from the macromolecular pool to the free pool (RMT). The T1‐corrected apparent exchange‐dependent relaxation (AREX) metric to isolate the CEST contributions was also calculated. The lesion on M0, MT and AREX maps with a B1 of 2 μT best matched the hyperintensity on the post‐contrast T1‐weighted image. There was also good separation in Z‐spectra between the lesion and contralateral cortex in the 2‐μT CEST and 3‐ and 5‐μT MT Z‐spectra at all time points. A pairwise Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests with Holm–Bonferroni adjustment on MRI parameters was performed and the differences between enhancing lesion and contralateral cortex for the MT ratio with 2 μT saturation at 3.6 ppm frequency offset (corresponding to the amide chemical group) and M0, MT were both strongly significant (p < 0.001) at all time points. This work has identified that differences between enhancing lesion and contralateral cortex are strongest in MTR with B1 = 2 μT at 3.6 ppm and relative macromolecular pool size (M0, MT) images over entire period of 3–13 days after cancer cell implantation.
A Multi‐Trip Vehicle Routing Problem With Release Dates and Interrelated Periods
Authors: Bernardino Raquel , Janela João , Martins Carlos , Mourão Maria Cândida , Pinto Leonor Santiago , Rodrigues Filipe
Published: October 2024

This article proposes a new multi‐trip vehicle routing problem variant, originally motivated by a practical application, namely a car components distribution to repair centers (warehouses). The problem is named the multi‐trip vehicle routing with release dates and interrelated periods (MTVRP‐RDIP). The routes may start at different pre‐defined periods, called departure periods, and may have different durations. Thus, two routes that start at different periods may be active at the same period, leading to the so‐called interrelated periods. Moreover, a route may only start at a period if a vehicle is available, and the availability of the vehicle depends not only on the existing vehicles but also on the active routes at that time period. The clients are classified according to their importance and represent warehouses that require car components that are made available throughout the time horizon, thus leading to the consideration of release dates. Delays in satisfying client orders and not serving orders in the time horizon result in penalty costs that must be minimized. The objective to minimize also includes routing costs and vehicle utilization costs. Two metrics are defined to compute an order's delay, each leading to a different mixed integer linear model. Computational results showed that one model clearly outperforms the other and even this one is only suited to address the smallest instances. A matheuristic based on a rolling‐horizon process that iteratively solves the better‐performing model with fewer periods was designed to tackle the largest instances. The matheuristic can provide feasible solutions for all test instances in an efficient manner that are, on average, better than the ones provided by the model in most of the compared key performance indicators.