bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Optimal First‐Line Therapy for Extensive‐Stage Small‐Cell Lung Cancer Based on Liver Metastasis Status: A Network Meta‐Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Zhang Shu‐Ling , Yu Jing , Tian Yuan , Zhang Jie‐Hui , Sun Li , Huang Le‐Tian , Ma Jie‐Tao , Han Cheng‐Bo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of first‐line regimens based on programmed cell death (or ligand) [PD‐(L)1] blockade in extensive‐stage small‐cell lung cancer (ES‐SCLC) patients with or without liver metastases (LM), and to identify optimal treatment strategies.

Methods

Network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing chemo‐immunotherapy (CIT) and chemotherapy (CT) in ES‐SCLC patients stratified by LM. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were evaluated using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Seven RCTs involving 3658 ES‐SCLC patients (1243 with LM, 2415 without LM) were analyzed. For patients with LM, the combination therapies of anti‐PD‐1 + CT (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.54%–0.82%; p < 0.001) and anti‐PD‐L1 + CT + anti‐angiogenesis (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71%–0.99%; p = 0.042) demonstrated superior efficacy in prolonging OS compared to CT alone. The anti‐PD‐1 + CT regimen had the highest cumulative probability of 91.6% for extending OS in patients with LM. For patients without LM, all CIT regimens resulted in improved OS compared to CT alone, with the regimen of anti‐angiogenesis + anti‐PD‐L1 + CT ranking first and having the highest cumulative probability of 95.5% for prolonging OS.

Conclusions

CIT is effective for ES‐SCLC patients regardless of LM status. For patients with LM, PD‐1 blockade combined with CT is the best option. For patients without LM, the most beneficial regimen is the combination of anti‐angiogenesis, PD‐L1 blockade, and CT.
Redox−Acid/Base Phase Diagrams as an Entry to Computational Redox Chemistry
Authors: Becker Patrick M. , Heinze Katja , Sarkar Biprajit , Kästner Johannes
Published: October 2024

The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the change from conventional energy supply to so‐called sustainable and renewable energy sources have led to a renaissance of electrochemical, photochemical, and photoelectrochemical methods for chemical synthesis. While drastic experimental improvements have been realized in recent years, systematic computational studies of these types of reactions are, however, rather limited caused by a lack of suitable representations. Herein we present a generalized method to investigate and analyze a chemical system with respect to its redox‐ and acid/base‐properties based on Gibbs free‐energy differences. We represent the results in a clear manner by means of redox−acid/base phase diagrams. Motivated by computational needs, the presented method is a direct link between experimentally measurable values and Gibbs free‐energy profiles, connecting experiment and simulation. Thus, it serves as an entry to systematic computational studies of reactions, which involve a combination of electron transfers and acid/base‐chemical reaction steps, because it enables the representation of both thermodynamic and kinetic properties. The presented method is applied to four exemplary systems: Phenol, dicobaltocenium amine as a proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactant, and two porphyrin NiII catalysts for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Influence of Linker Group on Bipolar Redox‐Active Molecule Performance in Non‐Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Macchi Samantha , Staiger Chad L. , Cordova Jesse , Poirier Cassandria , Anderson Travis M.
Published: October 2024

Redox flow batteries (RFBs) are an attractive choice for stationary energy storage of renewables such as solar and wind. Non‐aqueous redox flow batteries (NARFBs) have garnered broad interest due to their high voltage operation compared to their aqueous counterparts. Further, the utilization of bipolar redox‐active molecules (BRMs) is a practical way to alleviate crossover faced by asymmetric RFBs. In this work, ferrocene (Fc) and phthalimide (PI) are covalently linked with various tethering groups which vary in structure and length. The compiled results suggest that the length and steric shielding ability of the linker group can greatly influence the stability and overall performance of Fc‐n‐PI BRM‐based NARFBs. Primary sources of capacity loss are found to be BRM degradation for straight chain spacers <6 carbons and membrane (Nafion) fouling. Fc‐hexyl‐PI provided the most stable battery cycling and coulombic efficiencies of >98 % over 100 cycles (~13 days). NARFB using Fc‐hexyl‐PI as an active material exhibited high working voltage (1.93 V) and maximum capacity (1.28 Ah L−1). Additionally, this work highlights rational strategies to improve cycling stability and optimize NARFB performance.
The Bond Energy of the Carbon Skeleton in Polyaromatic Halohydrocarbon Molecules
Authors: Chan Bun , Karton Amir
Published: October 2024

We have investigated the thermochemical stability of the carbon skeleton in polycyclic aromatic (halo) hydrocarbons using a systematic collection of molecules (the PAHH343 set). With high‐level quantum chemistry methods such as W1X‐2, we have obtained chemically accurate (i. e.,±~5 kJ mol−1) “normalized carbon skeleton” bond energies. They are calculated by removing the C−H and C−X (X=F, Cl) bond energies from the total atomization energy, and then normalizing on a per‐carbon basis. For species with isomeric halogen‐substitution pattern, the energetic variation is generally small, though larger difference can also be seen due to structural distortion from steric repulsion. The skeleton energy becomes smaller with an increasing number of halogen atoms due to the withdrawal of electron density from the bonding orbitals, mainly through the σ‐bonds. We have further assessed the performance of some low‐cost quantum chemistry methods for the PAHH343 set. The deviations from reference values are largely systematic, and can thus be compensated for, yielding errors that are on average below 10 kJ mol−1. This provides the prospect for the study of an even wider range of PAHH and related systems.
Targeting CD38 with monoclonal antibodies disrupts key survival pathways in paediatric Burkitt's lymphoma malignant B cells
Authors: Kläsener Kathrin , Herrmann Nadja , Håversen Liliana , Sundell Timothy , Sundqvist Martina , Lundqvist Christina , Manna Paul T , Jonsson Charlotte A , Visentini Marcella , Ljung Sass Diana , McGrath Sarah , Grimstad Kristoffer , Aranburu Alaitz , Mellgren Karin , Fogelstrand Linda , Forsman Huamei , Ekwall Olov , Borén Jan , Gjertsson Inger , Reth Michael , Mårtensson Inga‐Lill , Camponeschi Alessandro
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Paediatric Burkitt's lymphoma (pBL) is the most common childhood non‐Hodgkin B‐cell lymphoma. Despite the encouraging survival rates for most children, treating cases with relapse/resistance to current therapies remains challenging. CD38 is a transmembrane protein highly expressed in pBL. This study investigates the effectiveness of CD38‐targeting monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), daratumumab and isatuximab, in impairing crucial cellular processes and survival pathways in pBL malignant cells.

Methods

In silico analyses of patient samples, combined with in vitro experiments using the Ramos cell line, were conducted to assess the impact of daratumumab and isatuximab on cellular proliferation, apoptosis and the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) pathway.

Results

Isatuximab was found to be more effective than daratumumab in disrupting B‐cell receptor signalling, reducing cellular proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Additionally, isatuximab caused a significant impairment of the PI3K pathway and induced metabolic reprogramming in pBL cells. The study also revealed a correlation between CD38 and MYC expression levels in pBL patient samples, suggesting CD38 involvement in key oncogenic processes.

Conclusion

The study emphasises the therapeutic potential of CD38‐targeting mAbs, particularly isatuximab, in pBL.
Structural inequality and temporal brain dynamics across diverse samples
Authors: Baez Sandra , Hernandez Hernan , Moguilner Sebastian , Cuadros Jhosmary , Santamaria‐Garcia Hernando , Medel Vicente , Migeot Joaquín , Cruzat Josephine , Valdes‐Sosa Pedro A. , Lopera Francisco , González‐Hernández Alfredis , Bonilla‐Santos Jasmin , Gonzalez‐Montealegre Rodrigo A. , Aktürk Tuba , Legaz Agustina , Altschuler Florencia , Fittipaldi Sol , Yener Görsev G. , Escudero Javier , Babiloni Claudio , Lopez Susanna , Whelan Robert , Lucas Alberto A Fernández , Huepe David , Soto‐Añari Marcio , Coronel‐Oliveros Carlos , Herrera Eduar , Abasolo Daniel , Clark Ruaridh A. , Güntekin Bahar , Duran‐Aniotz Claudia , Parra Mario A. , Lawlor Brian , Tagliazucchi Enzo , Prado Pavel , Ibanez Agustin
Published: October 2024

Background

Structural income inequality – the uneven income distribution across regions or countries – could affect brain structure and function, beyond individual differences. However, the impact of structural income inequality on the brain dynamics and the roles of demographics and cognition in these associations remains unexplored.

Methods

Here, we assessed the impact of structural income inequality, as measured by the Gini coefficient on multiple EEG metrics, while considering the subject‐level effects of demographic (age, sex, education) and cognitive factors. Resting‐state EEG signals were collected from a diverse sample (countries = 10; healthy individuals = 1394 from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Cuba, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Turkey and United Kingdom). Complexity (fractal dimension, permutation entropy, Wiener entropy, spectral structure variability), power spectral and aperiodic components (1/f slope, knee, offset), as well as graph‐theoretic measures were analysed.

Findings

Despite variability in samples, data collection methods, and EEG acquisition parameters, structural inequality systematically predicted electrophysiological brain dynamics, proving to be a more crucial determinant of brain dynamics than individual‐level factors. Complexity and aperiodic activity metrics captured better the effects of structural inequality on brain function. Following inequality, age and cognition emerged as the most influential predictors. The overall results provided convergent multimodal metrics of biologic embedding of structural income inequality characterised by less complex signals, increased random asynchronous neural activity, and reduced alpha and beta power, particularly over temporoposterior regions.

Conclusion

These findings might challenge conventional neuroscience approaches that tend to overemphasise the influence of individual‐level factors, while neglecting structural factors. Results pave the way for neuroscience‐informed public policies aimed at tackling structural inequalities in diverse populations.
DNA barcoding and cryptic diversity in fishes from the Ili River Valley in China, Xinjiang
Authors: Zheng Ling‐Ling , Yu Dan , Sun Ning , Wang Cheng , Chen Wen‐Jun , Ding Zu‐Fa , He Shun‐Ping , Yang Lian‐Dong
Published: October 2024

The Ili River Valley, located in the northwest of China, serves as a vital repository for fish genetic resources. Its extensive water network and diverse climate have given rise to a unique fish composition and endemic species. In this study, we collected the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences from 660 fish specimens in the Ili River Valley. The effectiveness of DNA barcoding in identifying fish species in the area was assessed by examining genetic distances, constructing phylogenetic trees, and performing ABGD (Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery) analyses, among other methods. In total, 20 species were identified, including one unidentified species (Silurus sp.). Except for Silurus asotus and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (only one sample), the maximum intraspecific genetic distance among the remaining species was smaller than the minimum interspecific distance, which proves that the species exhibit obvious barcode gaps. In the Neighbor‐Joining trees, 20 species formed separate monophyletic branches. According to ABGD analysis, 660 sequences were categorized into 19 Operational Taxonomic Units, with Silurus sp. and S. asotus grouped into a single OTU. The Silurus in this study exhibits shared haplotypes and significant genetic divergence, suggesting the potential presence of cryptic species. Furthermore, the nucleotide diversity across all species fell below the threshold level, indicating that the local fish population is gradually declining. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the effectiveness of DNA barcoding in identifying fish species in the Ili River Valley, providing valuable data to support the conservation of local fish resources.
Navigating the light and shadow of scientific publishing faced with machine learning and generative AI
Authors: Palmisani Federico , Segelcke Daniel , Vollert Jan
Published: October 2024

Background

The public release of ChatGPT in November 2022 sparked a boom and public interest in generative artificial intelligence (AI) that has led to journals and journal families hastily releasing generative AI policies, ranging from asking authors for acknowledgement or declaration to the outright banning of use.

Results

Here, we briefly discuss the basics of machine learning, generative AI, and how it will affect scientific publishing. We focus especially on potential risks and benefits to the scientific community as a whole and journals specifically.

Conclusion

While the concerns of editors, for example about manufactured studies, are valid, some recently implemented or suggested policies will not be sustainable in the long run. The quality of generated text and code is quickly becoming so high that it will not only be impossible to detect the use of generative AI but would also mean taking a powerful tool away from researchers that can make their life easier every day.

Significance

We discuss the history and current state of AI and highlight its relevance for medical publishing and pain research. We provide guidance on how to act now to increase good scientific practice in the world of ChatGPT and call for a task force focusing on improving publishing pain research with use of generative AI.
Vertically Aligned MoS2 Nanosheets with Increased Interlayer Spacing on Hollow Polypyrrole Nanotubes for Enhanced Lithium and Sodium Storage Performance
Authors: Hu Weihang , Liu Hui , Dong Wanmeng , Munir Hafiz Akif , Tian Xin , Fan Xiuyi , Pang Lingyan
Published: October 2024

MoS2 is the most promising anode material for secondary battery with its unique 2D layered structure. However, the application of MoS2 is restricted by the poor electrical conductivity and sluggish ion diffusion. Herein, hollow nanotubes constructed with highly conductive 1T phase MoS2 nanosheets and polypyrrole (PPy) nanotubes are fabricated and used as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries and sodium‐ion batteries. Remarkably, these hollow nanotubes show a high lithium‐specific capacity of 755.5 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 and excellent sodium‐specific capacity of 503.3 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. The enhanced electrochemical performance can be attributed to the rational design of unique 1D and 2D composite structure. First, the highly conductive 1T phase MoS2 2D nanosheets and hollow 1D PPy nanotube can effectively promote the charge transfer kinetics. However, the increased interlayer spacing of 1T phase MoS2 rapidly improves the insertion/extraction process of metal ions, and the vertical growth of MoS2 nanosheets on the surface of the PPy nanotubes also exposes more energy storage sites. This work provides a new idea for the preparation of MoS2‐based composite materials, and also proposes a reference for its application in the secondary battery.
Efficacy and safety of stiripentol in the prevention and cessation of status epilepticus: A systematic review
Authors: Specchio Nicola , Auvin Stéphane , Strzelczyk Adam , Brigo Francesco , Villanueva Vicente , Trinka Eugen
Published: October 2024

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life‐threatening emergency with high morbidity and mortality. In people with epilepsy, the management of SE is focused on early medical treatment. Stiripentol is a third‐generation antiseizure medication (ASM) approved for refractory generalized tonic–clonic seizures in Dravet syndrome. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of stiripentol in reducing the incidence of SE in patients with Dravet syndrome or any epilepsy characterized by recurrent SE. The PubMed and Cochrane databases were systematically searched, and gray literature was hand‐searched. Search results were screened by title and abstract; studies with data on the effect of stiripentol on SE outcomes, including the cessation of SE, reduction in number of SE episodes, or reduction in hospitalizations, were included. Of 66 records identified, 17 studies were eligible for inclusion, of which 15 were human studies (n = 474; aged 1.1–78 years), and two were animal experiments. Results of retrospective or prospective observational studies showed that stiripentol as add‐on therapy to ASMs such as clobazam or valproate reduced the incidence of SE in patients with Dravet syndrome or other developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). A mean of 68% of patients (range 41%–100%) had a ≥50% reduction in SE episodes from baseline, and 26%–100% of patients (mean 77%) became SE‐free after stiripentol initiation. Moreover, this review found stiripentol, used as acute treatment, may also be effective for the cessation of super‐refractory SE, but data are limited to three retrospective case series. Stiripentol was generally well‐tolerated. In conclusion, stiripentol reduces the incidence of SE episodes in patients with Dravet syndrome and potentially other DEEs, and it promotes cessation of super‐refractory SE in patients with and without a history of seizures.

Plain Language Summary

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life‐threatening, long‐lasting seizure occurring in patients with/without epilepsy. This article analyzed 15 published studies that investigated the effects and safety of the anti‐seizure medication stiripentol for preventing SE in epilepsy patients (prevention) or stopping an SE episode (cessation), and two animal studies that investigated how stiripentol works. In epilepsy patients, stiripentol halved the number of SE episodes in 41–100% of patients, 26–100% of patients became SE‐free, and stiripentol was considered to be well tolerated. In patients with/without epilepsy, stiripentol may stop the SE episode after other drugs like anesthetics have not worked.
Simultaneously planning of transmission line expansion and energy storage in order to maximize the capacity of wind farms
Authors: Nazeri Milad , Najafi Mojtaba , Hosseinpour Majid , Simab Mohsen
Published: October 2024

The speed of using renewable resources is expanding day by day. Renewable energy systems have many benefits for energy supply that do not include diesel, natural gas, or coal. Despite the many advantages, the use of renewable resources also includes basic challenges. With the presence of these sources, many technical issues must be considered in the network, the most important of which are voltage quality and network losses. The presence of these power plants can reduce fossil fuel costs and help reduce emissions. However, the high‐capacity connection of these types of power plants in the transmission networks despite the uncertainty may cause the congestion of transmission lines, increase losses and decrease voltage quality. Therefore, to reduce the need to build transmission lines, energy storage devices can be installed and energy can be stored and returned to the network in certain hours. The purpose of this paper is to build the maximum capacity of wind power plants in the transmission network in such a way that its profitability is guaranteed. For this purpose, in addition to considering the costs related to the power plant, the costs of storage devices and the construction of possible new lines have been considered. Also, improving the technical conditions of the network and reducing the maximum emission after installing these units is considered as a multiobjective function. The problem tested on the standard IEEE test transmission network and the results show that it is possible to determine the maximum profitable capacity of wind power plants.
Mechanical properties of gypsum mine rock around a strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) cavern under the crude oil seepage condition
Authors: Zhang Nan , Jia Qianjun , Lai Xingping , Zhang Yun , Ji Songtao , Yan Baoxu , Gu Helong
Published: October 2024

As China's demand for imported oil continues to grow, large‐scale oil storage facilities have become increasingly important. Currently, China primarily uses underground salt cavern spaces and newly excavated underground water‐sealed caverns for oil storage, which places high demands on the rock formations. China has abundant and widely distributed gypsum mineral resources, and utilizing abandoned gypsum mines for oil storage could not only turn waste into treasure by controlling underground space but also generate significant economic and social value. This article aims to systematically evaluate the mechanical properties of gypsum rock through long‐term immersion tests in crude oil to assess the impact of crude oil immersion on the mechanical performance of gypsum rock and explore the feasibility of using gypsum mines as long‐term stable oil storage caverns. The results show that oil immersion treatment reduces the uniaxial tensile strength of gypsum samples, but has little effect on their compressive strength and long‐term strength. From a mechanical performance perspective, it is feasible to use gypsum mine voids for crude oil storage.
CFD analysis of the impact of air gap width on Trombe wall performance
Authors: Friji Khaoula , Ghriss Ons , Bouabidi Abdallah , Cuce Erdem , Alshahrani Saad
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been a lot of research and debate on how solar energy can be used instead of conventional sources of heating to power residential heating. In this study, the Trombe wall (TW) technique, based on natural convection and energy storage, was examined to predict mass flow rate, temperature field, and velocity field for the TW system under steady conditions. A numerical simulation model was investigated for further validation using k‐ε turbulence and discrete ordinates (DO) radiation models. Independent grid studies were conducted to ensure that there were no changes after varying the grid numbers. The effect of the air gap was carried out to enhance TW thermal performance. CFD simulation shows good agreement with published data in the literature, and the optimum air gap was set at 0.1 m. The results pave the way for future studies to improve passive solar heating systems, which will eventually help move towards more sustainable residential heating solutions.
Experimental study on characteristics of gas seepage in broken coal and rock
Authors: Hao Dingyi , Tu Shihao , Zhang Lei , Zhao Hongbin , Xu Shikun
Published: October 2024

The characteristics of gas seepage in broken coal and rock composed of different particle sizes and grades were investigated in this study. On the basis of Darcy's law and non‐Darcy seepage theory, equations of gas permeability in the nonlinear seepage of broken coal and rock, as well as the porosity of broken coal and rock, under triaxial compression were determined. The stress loading path of gas seepage in broken coal and rock was developed. The characteristics of gas seepage in broken coal and rock composed of different particle sizes and grades were analyzed, and the results showed that the gas permeability after compression was proportional to the particle size of the broken coal and rock. Under triaxial compression, the gas permeability of the broken coal and rock composed of graded‐particle sizes was lower than that of the broken coal and rock composed of different single‐particle sizes. The gas permeability of the broken coal was lower than that of the broken rock mass, and the gas permeability and porosity of the broken coal and rock can be described by the exponential decay function. At a constant porosity, the gas permeability of the broken coal and rock was proportional to the size grading index under triaxial compression. The coefficient of viscosity and gravity of the flow are key factors influencing the flow permeability in broken coal and rock. This study provides a reference for on‐site practice such as the efficient extraction of gas in goafs.
Eco‐friendly ultrasonic‐assisted appraisal of herbal‐based yellow natural colorant for silk dyeing
Authors: Habib Noman , Adeel Shahid , Ibrahim Muhammad , Rehman Fazal‐ur , Naveed Muhammad , Ali Aamir , Mia Rony , Mansour Rym
Published: October 2024

The global recognition of eco‐friendly products like plant‐based dyes is escalating, driven by their exceptional biological and Ayurvedic attributes. This study isolates colorants from mango turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) using ultrasonic irradiation, supplemented with bio‐mordants to enhance color retention. Through the utilization of Response Surface Methodology and Central Composite Design, a technique that was optimized was completed to maximize coloring variables using statistical analysis. Results from 32 experimental runs reveal that optimal color depth (K/S = 19.399) was achieved with ultrasonic‐treated silk fabric (20 min exposure) using 65 mL of irradiated aqueous extract (20 min) with a pH of 5, supplemented with 1.5 g/100 mL salt of sodium chloride, maintained the temperature 75°C for the 45 min. Precoloring treatment with acacia, pomegranate, and pistachio extracts at specified concentrations enhanced colorfastness. Postdyeing, alterations in the concentrations of these extracts led to further improvements in colorfastness. Notably, adding Al+3 and Fe+2 salts, alongside tannic acid, exhibited notable effects in both pre‐ and postdyeing stages. While the colorfastness properties of unmordated silk fabric was lower than mordanted dyed silk fabric. Irradiation with ultrasonic waves significantly boosted the amount of dye that could be extracted from rhizomes of mango turmeric. Moreover, the application of bio and synthetic mordants in a strategic manner led to colorfastness ratings on silk fabric that ranged from excellent to satisfactory. This research underscores ultrasonic technologies and bio‐mordants' efficacy in sustainable dyeing processes, offering insights for developing eco‐friendly textile coloration methods.
Environmental impact assessment of alternative technologies for production of biofuels from spent coffee grounds
Authors: Kisiga Wilberforce , Chetty Manimagalay , Rathilal Sudesh
Published: October 2024

In the strategy to combat climate change that has been caused by the world's overdependence on fossil fuels, current research is focusing on the decarbonisation of the energy sector through the production of renewable cleaner energy, such as biofuels. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs), the waste stream of the coffee brewing industry, are a potential feedstock for the production of valuable products, including biofuels. However, the environmental implications for the valorisation of this valuable waste need to be investigated. This study assesses the environmental impacts of six biomass‐to‐fuel processing technologies using SCGs as a feedstock, with the aim of identifying the most environmentally friendly technology. A cradle‐to‐gate life‐cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted on fast pyrolysis, fermentation, anaerobic digestion (AD), hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL), gasification, and biodiesel production. The mass and energy balances obtained from Aspen Plus simulations served as the life‐cycle inventory data. Using the ReCiPe 2016 midpoint (H) and Eco‐Indicator 99 as the assessment methods, potential environmental impacts were calculated in OpenLCA software. Electricity generation and carbon dioxide emissions were the biggest contributors of environmental impacts. For each category, the maximum result was set to 100% and the results of the other variants were displayed in relation to this result. AD, with the smallest total weighted score (160), was the most environmentally friendly biomass‐to‐fuel processing route, while HTL, with the biggest total weighted score (893), was the worst. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the environmental performance of biofuel production from SCGs was highly influenced by energy input flows and the source of energy generation.
A Multifrequency Data Fusion Deep Learning Model for Carbon Price Prediction
Authors: Xiao Canran , Liu Yongmei
Published: October 2024

In response to the global need for effective management of carbon emissions and alignment with sustainable development goals, predicting carbon trading prices accurately is critical. This study introduces a multifrequency data fusion carbon price prediction model (MFF‐CPPM), addressing the nonlinear characteristics of carbon trading prices and inconsistent feature factor frequencies. The MFF‐CPPM consists of a feature‐extraction frontend, a multifrequency data fusion transformer, and a fusion regression layer, offering a novel methodological approach in forecasting studies. The model's validity was tested in Guangdong, China's largest carbon trading pilot market. The results demonstrated that the MFF‐CPPM outperformed baseline models in terms of carbon price‐prediction accuracy and trend forecasting. Additional trials conducted in Hubei and Beijing confirmed the model's robustness and generalization capabilities, providing valuable evidence of its effectiveness and reliability across varying market contexts. This study presents a novel predictive model for carbon trading prices, with a unique capability to harness data at differing frequencies. The MFF‐CPPM not only enhances forecasting accuracy but also offers an innovative approach to effectively incorporate multifrequency information. This advancement paves the way for flexible forecasting models in any scenario where data arrive at differing frequencies.
How organizations and leaders can nurture employee job crafting: Modeling the antecedents of job crafting
Authors: Chen Yuan‐Ling , Chen Shyh‐Jer , Nguyen Tuan‐Duong
Published: October 2024

Organizations must constantly reinvent and improve their competitiveness to remain viable in ever‐changing environments. In the domain of human resources development, this can be achieved through employee job crafting. Drawing on the self‐determination theory, we propose a novel framework for self‐determination processes by showing that high‐performance work systems (HPWSs), transformational leadership (TFL), and a proactive work climate can strengthen employees' sense of personal competence, autonomy, and relatedness, which, in turn, can promote employee job crafting. Specifically, we tested a moderated‐mediation model in which HPWSs function as organizational antecedents that drive employee job crafting through TFL in a proactive work climate. Using a sample of 45 supervisors and 240 employees from several industries in Taiwan, we found that HPWSs (the distal organizational predictor) and TFL (the proximal social predictor) drive employees to engage in job crafting behaviors. We also found that a proactive work climate not only served as a boundary condition shaping the nurturing effect of TFL on employee job crafting, but also enhanced the indirect effect of HPWSs on employee job crafting via TFL.
Integrating sustainable finance into energy policies: A comprehensive study on the influence of green investments on energy performance in OECD nations
Authors: Tekin Bilgehan , Dirir Sadik Aden , Aden Kadir
Published: October 2024

This research investigates the interplay between sustainable finance, energy policies, and environmental outcomes in OECD countries from 2005 to 2018. Recognising the pivotal role of OECD countries in global sustainability efforts, this study focuses on Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Japan, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Within this framework, the key independent variables are climate finance, renewable energy, financial inclusion, energy intensity, and economic growth, and the load capacity factor and CO2 emissions are dependent variables. The current analysis was carried out by employing econometric techniques, such as the panel mean group autoregressive distributed lag (PMG‐ARDL) model, the Arellano‐Bond test, random effects modelling, and ordinary least squares (OLS) modelling, due to the panel sample format of the data. The empirical results from the initial model focusing on the load capacity factor indicate that economic growth, energy intensity, financial inclusion, and renewable energy consumption positively contribute to the load capacity factor in OECD countries. Notably, climate finance was observed to diminish the load capacity factor within this model. In the subsequent model, examining CO2 emissions as the dependent variable, the findings reveal that all variables, except renewable energy consumption, exhibit a positive and statistically significant influence on CO2 emissions.
Examining the relationship between parents’ self‐reported mindfulness and observed language use in attachment‐relevant communication
Authors: Risi Alixandra , Bird Amy L. , McNamara Josephine , Herbert Jane S. , Sparrow Kerry , Pickard Judy A.
Published: October 2024

Parents’ language use is an important context for early socialization. We examined the relationship between parents’ self‐reported mindfulness and observed language use in two forms of attachment‐relevant communication. Sixty‐three parents of 6–18‐month‐old infants from Australia (n = 32) and New Zealand (n = 31) completed the five facets of mindfulness‐short form (FFMQ‐SF) questionnaire, the adult attachment interview (AAI), and a 10‐min play session with their infant. We examined parents’ frequency of word usage within the categories of the linguistic inquiry word count (LIWC) text analysis program to explore the relationship between mindfulness and language use. Mindfulness was associated with cognitive, affective, perceptual, and time orientation language use in the AAI. However, fewer associations were identified between mindfulness and language use in the parent‐infant play session. Results are discussed in terms of their relevance to mindfulness and attachment.
The rheumatoid arthritis gut microbial biobank reveals core microbial species that associate and effect on host inflammation and autoimmune responses
Authors: Huang Hao‐Jie , Liu Chang , Sun Xin‐Wei , Wei Rui‐Qi , Liu Ling‐Wei , Chen Hao‐Yu , Abdugheni Rashidin , Wang Chang‐Yu , Wang Xiao‐Meng , Jiang He , Niu Han‐Yu , Feng Li‐Juan , He Jia‐Hui , Jiang Yu , Zhao Yan , Wang Yu‐Lin , Shu Qiang , Bi Ming‐Xia , Zhang Lei , Liu Bin , Liu Shuang‐Jiang
Published: October 2024

Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been implicated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and influences disease progression. Although molecular and culture‐independent studies revealed RA patients harbored a core microbiome and had characteristic bacterial species, the lack of cultured bacterial strains had limited investigations on their functions. This study aimed to establish an RA‐originated gut microbial biobank (RAGMB) that covers and further to correlates and validates core microbial species on clinically used and diagnostic inflammation and immune indices. We obtained 3200 bacterial isolates from fecal samples of 20 RA patients with seven improved and 11 traditional bacterial cultivation methods. These isolates were phylogenetically identified and selected for RAGMB. The RAGMB harbored 601 bacterial strains that represented 280 species (including 43 novel species) of seven bacterial phyla. The RAGMB covered 93.2% at species level of medium‐ and high‐abundant (relative abundances ≥0.2%) RA gut microbes, and included four rare species of the phylum Synergistota. The RA core gut microbiome was defined and composed of 20 bacterial species. Among these, Mediterraneibacter tenuis and Eubacterium rectale were two species that statistically and significantly correlated with clinically used diagnostic indices such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and IL‐10. Thus, M. tenuis and E. rectale were selected for experimental validation using DSS‐treated and not DSS‐treated mice model. Results demonstrated both M. tenuis and E. rectale exacerbated host inflammatory responses, including shortened colon length and increased spleen weight, decreased IL‐10 and increased IL‐17A levels in plasma. Overall, we established the RAGMB, defined the RA core microbiome, correlated and demonstrated core microbial species effected on host inflammatory and immune responses. This work provides diverse gut microbial resources for future studies on RA etiology and potential new targets for new biomedical practices.
High‐performance visible and near‐infrared dual‐band photodetector based on anisotropic 2D NbS3 with perpendicularly reversed polarization behaviors
Authors: Liu Jidong , Gan Haibo , Hao Qiaoyan , Zeng Yonghong , Gong Youning , Zhu Jiaqi , Huang Jiarui , Liu Fei , Zhang Wenjing
Published: October 2024

Dual‐band photodetectors exhibit considerable advantages in target discrimination and navigation compared to single‐band devices in complex circumstances. However, it remains a major challenge to overcome the limitations of traditional devices in terms of their integration with multiple light‐absorbing layers and complicated optical components. In this study, a visible and near‐infrared (NIR) dual‐band polarimetric photodetector with a single light‐absorbing layer is constructed by utilizing the distinctive conversion of linear dichroism (LD) polarity in two‐dimensional niobium trisulfide (NbS3). The NbS3 photodetector exhibits selective detection behaviors in the visible and NIR bands, in which by switching the polarization angle of the incident light from 0° to 90°, photocurrent decreases in the visible region, and increases in the NIR region. Specifically, the degrees of linear polarization of photocurrent are 0.59 at 450 nm and −0.47 at 1300 nm, respectively. The opposite photoresponse in the visible and NIR bands of the photodetector significantly enhances the dual‐band information recognition. Therefore, clear visible and NIR dual‐band polarimetric imaging is accurately realized based on the NbS3 photodetector taking advantage of its fast response speed of 28 μs. Such anisotropic materials, with unique LD conversion features, can facilitate selective modulation between the visible and NIR spectral ranges and promote the development of next‐generation multi‐dimensional photodetection for various applications, including com/puter vision, surveillance, and biomedical imaging.

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Evaluating Bacterial Viability in Faecal Microbiota Transplantation: A Comparative Analysis of In Vitro Cultivation and Membrane Integrity Methods
Authors: Cibulková Ivana , Řehořová Veronika , Wilhelm Marek , Soukupová Hana , Hajer Jan , Duška František , Daňková Helena , Cahová Monika
Published: October 2024

Background

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a developing therapy for disorders related to gut dysbiosis. Despite its growing application, standardised protocols for FMT filtrate preparation and quality assessment remain undeveloped. The viability of bacteria in the filtrate is crucial for FMT's efficacy and for validating protocol execution. We compared two methods—in vitro cultivation and membrane integrity assessment—for their accuracy, reproducibility and clinical applicability in measuring bacterial viability in frozen FMT stool filtrate.

Methods

Bacterial viability in stool filtrate was evaluated using (i) membrane integrity through fluorescent DNA staining with SYTO9 and propidium iodide, followed by flow cytometry and (ii) culturable bacteria counts (colony‐forming units, CFU) under aerobic or anaerobic conditions.

Results

Using different types of samples (pure bacterial culture, stool of germ‐free and conventionally bred mice, native and heat‐treated human stool), we refined the bacterial DNA staining protocol integrated with flow cytometry for assessment of bacterial viability in frozen human stool samples. Both the membrane integrity‐based and cultivation‐based methods exhibited significant variability in bacterial viability across different FMT filtrates, without correlation. The cultivation‐based method showed a mean coefficient of variance of 30.3%, ranging from 7.4% to 60.1%. Conversely, the membrane integrity approach yielded more reproducible results, with a mean coefficient of variance for viable cells of 6.4% ranging from 0.2% to 18.2%.

Conclusion

Bacterial viability assessment in stool filtrate using the membrane integrity method offers robust and precise data, making it a suitable option for faecal material evaluation in FMT. In contrast, the cultivation‐dependent methods produce inconsistent outcomes.
Morphological structure of salivary glands, alimentary canal, and Malpighian tubules in adult Eurydema spectabilisHorváth, 1882 (Heteroptera, Pentatomidae)
Authors: Arslan Hicret , Candan Selami
Published: October 2024

Eurydema spectabilis (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) has a piercing‐sucking mouth type and feeds on plant sap. In this study, the morphological structure of the salivary glands, alimentary canal, and Malpighian tubules of E. spectabilis was examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. Salivary glands consist of the principal and accessory salivary glands. In E. spectabilis, digestion begins in the mouth and ends in the anus. Alimentary canal is divided into three parts: foregut, midgut, and hindgut. The foregut consists of pharynx, esophagus, and proventriculus. The esophagus connects to the proventriculus and resembles a narrow tube. The wall of the proventriculus has a recessed structure and is surrounded by a single cylindrical layer of epithelium and muscle. The midgut is divided into three regions: the first, second, and third ventricles (V1‐V3). V1 and V2 consist of single‐layered cylindrical epithelium. V3 contains a single layer of cuboidal epithelium. Gastric caeca were found in the midgut. The hindgut consisted of a pylorus followed by a well‐developed rectum. The wall of the rectum consists of a single‐layer cuboidal epithelium and muscle. Its lumen contains numerous bacteria and uric acid crystals. The pylorus consists of a single‐layered cylindrical epithelium. It is also the origin of Malpighian tubules. Malpighian tubules consist of two regions: proximal and distal. The morphological structure of the salivary glands, alimentary canal, and Malpighian tubules of E. spectabilis, which has not been studied before, was examined and discussed in comparison with other orders. It is also aimed to contribute to future studies.

Research Highlights

In E. spectabilis, the salivary glands are divided into principal and accessory salivary glands.

Microvilli and numerous secretory granules were found in Malpighian tubules.

Numerous uric acid crystals and bacteria were found in the rectum lumen.
The COVID‐19 pandemic caused gender‐specific declines in knee surgery rates in Sweden from 2020 to 2021
Authors: Axenhus Michael , Magnéli Martin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Changes in knee surgery incidence are important factors for stakeholders and healthcare providers. The aim of this study was to examine trends and patterns in knee surgeries in Sweden from 2010 to 2022. The study focuses on gender‐specific and overall rates of knee surgeries.

Methods

The analysis is based on a data set sourced from national healthcare records. The data was stratified based on surgical rates and categorized by gender, year and the specific knee arthroplasty technique used. We tracked year‐to‐year changes in surgical rates to identify overarching patterns. We used Poisson regression to predict future trends. Comparisons were made between various surgical subcategories, such as those with and without cement in knee arthroplasty surgeries.

Results

In 2010, the rate of knee surgeries per 100,000 person‐years was 518.7 for males and 448.0 for females. These rates exhibited fluctuations over time, reaching their lowest point in 2020, attributed to the pandemic's disruption of elective procedures, with 386.4 surgeries per 100,000 males and 386.3 surgeries per 100,000 females. A resurgence was observed in 2022. The rates of primary knee arthroplasty increased, with a male rate of 106.2 and a female rate of 150.7 surgeries per 100,000 inhabitants in 2010, rising to 126.8 for males and 166.2 for females in 2022.

Conclusion

This comprehensive nationwide open‐source data analysis of knee surgeries in Sweden shows that the COVID‐19 pandemic significantly impacted knee surgery rates in Sweden, causing a notable decline in 2020, followed by a resurgence in 2022. Furthermore, while men had higher surgery rates than women, they experienced a larger decline in the incidence of knee surgeries compared to women. Understanding these trends is crucial for stakeholders and healthcare providers to improve resource allocation, address gender disparities, and maintain the resilience of surgical services in the face of disruptions.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Can China's aid promote the position upgrading of recipient countries in the global value chains
Authors: Sun Churen , Xu Jinqiang , Jiang Hui
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the effect of China's aid on the position upgrading of recipient countries in the global value chains (GVCs). It is found that China's aid can significantly promote the position upgrading of recipient countries in the GVCs. Mechanism tests have shown that China's aid has ultimately contributed to upgrading the recipient countries' position in the GVC through the three channels of upgrading their technological level, improving their infrastructure, and promoting their level of industrialization. The findings of this paper contribute to promoting research on the effectiveness of foreign aid in the development of recipient countries.
The antimicrobial protein RNase 7 directly restricts herpes simplex virus infection of human keratinocytes
Authors: Zeitvogel Jana , Döhner Katinka , Klug Ilona , Rademacher Franziska , Gläser Regine , Sodeik Beate , Harder Jürgen , Werfel Thomas
Published: October 2024

Approximately 22% of moderately to severely affected atopic dermatitis (AD) patients have a history of eczema herpeticum, a disseminated rash primarily caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1). Reduced activity of antimicrobial peptides may contribute to the increased susceptibility of AD patients to HSV‐1. We previously demonstrated that the antimicrobial protein RNase 7 limits HSV‐1 infection of human keratinocytes by promoting self‐DNA sensing. Here, we addressed whether RNase 7 has any effect on HSV‐1 infection when infecting keratinocytes without exogenously added costimulatory DNA, and which step(s) of the infection cycle RNase 7 interferes with. We quantified viral gene expression by RT‐qPCR and flow cytometry, viral genome replication by qPCR, virucidal effects by plaque titration, and plaque formation and the subcellular localization of incoming HSV‐1 particles by microscopy. Recombinant RNase 7 restricted HSV‐1 gene expression, genome replication, and plaque formation in human keratinocytes. It decreased HSV‐1 immediate‐early transcripts independently of the induction of interferon‐stimulated genes. Its main effect was on intracellular infection processes and not on extracellular virions or virus binding to cells. RNase 7 reduced the amount of cell‐associated capsids and the HSV‐1 envelope glycoprotein D at 3 but not at 0.5 h postinfection. Our data show that RNase 7 directly restricts HSV‐1 infection of human keratinocytes, possibly by promoting the degradation of incoming HSV‐1 particles. This suggests that RNase 7 may limit HSV‐1 spread in the skin and that mechanisms that reduce its activity in the lesional skin of AD patients may increase their susceptibility to eczema herpeticum.