bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of improving the mechanical and barrier properties of poly(lactide)/poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) blends
Authors: Xie Yongjian , Wang Chenxi , Gao Shang , Li Zhen , Cheng Sheng , Yin Haoyan , Zhou Yiyang , Ding Yunsheng
Published: August 2024

Poly(lactide)/poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) blends containing different amounts of polyethylene wax (PEW) were fabricated via melt‐blending, and the effects of PEW on the interfacial morphological evolution and properties of the PLA/PBAT blends were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs show that the compatibility between PLA and PBAT is obviously improved by addition of low contents of PEW. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) results indicate that PEW can simultaneously enhance the crystallization ability of PLA and PBAT. Rheological behavior of the blends indicates that PEW has a significant plasticizing effect and can promote the mobility of polymer chains in the blends. More importantly, it is revealed that PEW can effectively improve the mechanical and barrier properties of the blends. Even with a PEW content of only 1 wt%, the elongation at break and notched impact strength of the blend reach 344.1% and 12.55 kJ/m2, respectively, which are 54% and 140% higher than the blend without PEW. Meanwhile, the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of the films containing 1 wt% PEW are decreased from 87.34 to 67.40 g m−2·24 h−1 and from 118.26 to 80.94 cm3 m−2·24 h−1, respectively, which are 22.8% and 31.5% lower than those of the PLA/PBAT film.
Facile fabrication of carbon nanotubes/zinc oxide decorated poly(vinyl alcohol) electrospun nanofiber membrane and its photocatalytic performance
Authors: Tan Changbin , Luo Xuan , He Haiqing , He Shan , Ren Ruiyang , Xiao Yang , Fu Yuanyuan , Huang Shihong , Cai Yongjiang , Yang Yan
Published: August 2024

The carbon nanotubes/zinc oxide (CNTs/ZnO) nanocomposites were immobilized on the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) membrane for highly reutilization rate in photocatalytic degradation of RhodamineB (RhB) based on the combination of electrospinning and ultrasonication treatment. The results revealed that the CNTs are successfully compounded with ZnO, and the surface of nanofibers was uniformly covered with CNTs/ZnO nanoparticles. Under visible light irradiation, the CNTs/ZnO@PVA nanocomposites displayed excellent photocatalytic activity with 98.4% of RhB degradation rate within 3 h illumination. In comparison with pure PVA, and CNTs/ZnO with equivalent loading capacity on CNTs/ZnO@PVA film suspended in aqueous solution, the synthesized CNTs/ZnO@PVA film degrades RhB dye more efficiently. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activity of CNTs/ZnO@PVA nanocomposites did not change significantly even after five recycles, indicating a certain degree of reusability. The mechanism of enhanced photocatalytic activity was proposed. The as‐prepared flexible CNTs/ZnO@PVA nanocomposites could be employed as a promising material for the practical photocatalytic degradation of wastewater.
Research insight into the change of aggregation structure of BOPP films and its influence on electrical properties under accelerated thermal aging
Authors: Zhang Yunxiao , Zhang Jiarui , Liu Yuhao , Lin Wenxin , Chi Zhengnan , Zhang Tianfeng , Teng Chenyuan
Published: August 2024

Biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film used in pulse film capacitors withstands high temperatures for a long time. This leads to frequent faults in pulse film capacitors, affecting the reliability of the pulse system. In this paper, the thermal aging tests of BOPP films at 100°C for 10–80 days are carried out in this paper, and the physicochemical and electrical properties of the aging materials are characterized. The results show that more deep and shallow traps to BOPP films are introduced during the thermal aging process. With the increase in aging time, the breakdown field strength gradually decreases, and the conductivity decreases first and then increases. Under the action of thermal aging for a long time, the recrystallization of materials and the destruction of molecular chains by thermal aging are the main reasons for the increase of traps and the decrease of breakdown field strength. The former is dominant in the early stage of aging, and the latter is dominant in the late stage of aging. Therefore, the conductivity shows the law of slow decrease first and then rapid increase. The relevant research provides a theoretical foundation for the process improvement and life prediction of BOPP films.
Targeted Prostate Health Checks, a novel system to identify men with prostate cancer—A pilot study
Authors: Langley Stephen , Goad Jeremy , Bell Stephanie , Foster Lee , Hodges Catherine , Laniado Marc , Pietrasik Michele , Rooke Alison , Knight Matthew , Bosonnet Edward , Bott Simon
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to report the pilot phase of the Targeted Prostate Health Check programme that aims to identify men in the Surrey and Sussex region who have prostate cancer and who failed to be detected during the Covid era.

Subjects and methods

Men aged 50 to 70, or 45 to 70 if Black or with a family history of prostate cancer, were identified from participating general practitioner (GP) records. Short message service (SMS) texts invited men to visit www.talkprostate.co.uk for information on prostate cancer and give consent to prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) checks coordinated by a third‐party virtual healthcare provider. Elevated age‐related PSA levels, or levels below age‐related thresholds but at 3 ng/mL or more, triggered referral to a rapid access urology clinic. GPs were informed of the results.

Results

From 1842 text messages inviting 1549 people, 544 men consented to a PSA check. From 500 phlebotomy appointments, 485 (30% of invited men) took the PSA test of whom 68 (14%) were referred with an elevated PSA. After clinical review with multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp‐MRI), 22 patients underwent transperineal biopsies, and prostate cancer was detected in 18 men of whom 17 (95%) had clinically significant cancer.

Conclusion

Our Targeted Prostate Cancer Health Check system identifies men at risk without burdening primary care. Awareness on prostate cancer risk was raised in 1549 invited men, half of whom were further educated via the registration website. One third of invited men were checked in whom clinically significant prostate cancer was found in 3.5%.
A Repurposing Pipeline to Candidate‐Suitable Inhibitors of Tyrosinase: Computational and Bioassay Studies
Authors: Kabiri Maryam , Hajizade Mohammad Soroosh , Zarei Mina , Eskandari Simin , Sakhteman Amirhossein , Khoshneviszadeh Mehdi
Published: August 2024

Tyrosinase, a metalloprotein enzyme, plays a crucial role in melanin synthesis by hydroxylating L‐tyrosine to L‐dopa. However, the accumulation of melanin can lead to hyperpigmented spots, raising aesthetic concerns. In this study, we developed a pipeline to repurpose FDA‐approved drugs as potential tyrosinase inhibitors. A structure‐based screening study was conducted using 1,650 drugs to identify probable inhibitors based on binding energies. From the cluster analysis of binding interaction profiles, 16 compounds were selected as candidates. Montelukast emerged as the final candidate due to its favorable ADME properties. Bioassay evaluation revealed an IC50 value of 14.79±0.87 μM for Montelukast, compared to kojic acid (IC50=31.02±2.01 μM). Molecular dynamics simulation and g_MMPBSA free energy calculation studies were performed for the Tyrosinase‐Montelukast complex. These findings enhance our understanding of Tyrosinase‐Montelukast interactions and underscore Montelukast's potential as a tyrosinase inhibitor. This could have implications in dermatological applications and beyond, suggesting Montelukast as a promising candidate for further development in this regard.
Lamiide and Ipolamiide: A Comprehensive Review of Their Bioactive Properties and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Sobhy Marina , AbouZid Sameh F. , Kirollos Farid N. , El‐Shiekh Riham A. , Abdel‐Sattar Essam
Published: August 2024

There is an increasing interest in using iridoids and secoiridoids as major targets for chemical synthesis and biosynthesis. Iridoids can be found in numerous species of Lamiaceae, Verbenaceae, Scrophulariaceae, and other families. Iridoids possess a chemical structure characterized by a cyclopentane ring with oxidative substituents, forming a six‐membered ring. Various research groups have used these structures as valuable starting materials for regioselective and stereoselective synthesis. This approach has enormous potential for the production of bioactive alkaloids, prostaglandin analogues, and other bioactive natural compounds. Because there is currently no review on lamiide and ipolamiide, this review intends to pique researchers’ interest in this vital topic of natural science for drug discovery from naturally occurring iridoids. Lamiide and ipolamiide have the potential to be useful tools in the pharmaceutical sector, enabling the use of these plant metabolites in a variety of medicinal compositions. Given that these molecules appear to be potential natural substances for treating human ailments, we get light on them as alternative therapeutic approaches using these compounds alone or in combination with other substances which will potentially lead to future (pre)‐clinical investigations.
Heteroaryl Group Containing Trisubstituted Alkenes: Synthesis and Anti‐Tumor Activity
Authors: Li Jiatong , Gu Ao , Li Meng‐Yao
Published: August 2024

Pancreatobililary cancers are fatal solid tumors that pose a significant threat to human life. It is imperative to investigate novel small molecule active compounds for controlling these cancers. Heterocyclic compounds (e. g. gemcitabine) and multi‐substituted alkenes (e. g. resveratrol) are commonly applied in tumor treatment. Researchers have proposed that the synthesis of new trisubstituted alkenes containing heteroaromatic rings by combining these two scaffolds may be a fresh strategy to develop new active molecules. In this study, we utilized alkenyl bromide and heteroaryl boronic acid as substrates, employing Suzuki coupling to generate a series of triarylethylenes featuring nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur atoms. Through in vitro experiments, the results indicated that some compounds exhibited remarkable anti‐tumor efficacy (e. g. IC50[3be, GBC‐SD]=0.13 μM and IC50[3be, PANC‐1]=0.27 μM). The results further demonstrated that the antitumor efficacy of these compounds was dependent on the heteroatom, π‐system, skeleton‐bonding site, and substituent type.
Biotransformation of Glaucic Acid Isolated from the Root of Lindera glauca by the Endophytic Fungi Penicillium Chrysogenum SHJ‐07
Authors: Zou Qinghui , Wei Jinqin , Chen Zelin , Luo Anni , He Jingxin , Long Yongling , Cui Hui , Liu Yena
Published: August 2024

Glaucic acid isolated from the root of Lindera glauca, was investigated by the biotransformation methods via the endophytic fungi, resulting in the production of five new glausesquiterpenes A–E (1–5), along with a known analogue 6. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic methods and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. In the bioassays, glausesquiterpene A (1) showed good inhibitory activity of NO production in LPS‐activated RAW 264.7 macrophages with an IC50 value of 20.1 μM than positive control (Indomethacin, IC50 24.1 μM). Further in vitro studies demonstrated that glausesquiterpene A significantly suppressed the protein expression of iNOS and COX‐2 at the concentration of 25.0 μM.
Adsorption and Distribution of Triplex‐Hybridizing Bioconjugated Gold Nanoclusters Inside Spermatozoa‐ A Study Using Confocal Microscopy and Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
Authors: Gamrad‐Streubel Lisa , Kundu Sangita , Streich Carmen , Ramesh Vaijayanthi , Schielke Andreas , Rehbock Christoph , Cordes‐Blauert Merle , Franzka Steffen , Klein Sabine , Kues Wilfried A. , Rath Detlef , Barcikowski Stephan
Published: August 2024

The study of the interactions between biofunctionalized gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) and spermatozoa is highly relevant to evaluate the potential of Au NCs as imaging probes and transfection agents in reproductive biology. In this work, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to investigate the distribution of Au NCs bioconjugated with peptide (nuclear localisation sequence, NLS) and oligonucleotide (locked nucleic acid, LNA) ligands in bovine spermatozoa. Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) was employed to detect changes in the NC's chemical environment. We observed a pronounced regio‐selective accumulation of the bioconjugates in spermatozoa with high concentration at the equatorial segment. Furthermore, 3D‐CLSM showed successful non‐endosomal cellular uptake of the conjugates by intact sperm cells and the distribution of the bioconjugates was found to be influenced by the ligand types. Interestingly, the FLIM data showed differences in lifetime depending on membrane integrity. Furthermore, ligand‐dependent changes in lifetime between NC bioconjugates carrying peptide and oligonucleotide ligands were found, probably attributed to specific interactions with sperm cell compartments.
Small cell lung cancer associated small bowel obstruction, a diagnostic conundrum: A case report
Authors: Ayoub Mohammad , AbuHaweeleh Mohannad Natheef , Mahmood Nabil , Clelland Colin , Ayoub Malak Mohammad , Saman Harman
Published: August 2024

Key clinical message

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a neuroendocrine aggressive subtype of lung cancer, is associated with paraneoplastic disorders in about 9% of patients. In this report, we describe a middle‐aged man who presented with chronic bowel obstruction caused by chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction (CIPO) due to SCLC.
Study on the Scale and Corrosion Inhibition Effect of Curcumin‐Based Novel Polymers
Authors: Qi Jinwei , Li Jihui , Liu Kaili , Zhang Huixin , Han Jian , Chen Jianxin
Published: August 2024

The curcumin‐malic acid‐aspartic acid polymer (PCMA) as a new water treatment agent was prepared by solid phase synthesis of curcumin, malic acid and aspartic acid. The static scale inhibition experiments showed that PCMA can inhibit CaCO3 and CaSO4 scale formation by 100.0 % and had excellent scale inhibition effect under various experimental conditions. The mechanism of action of PCMA was obtained by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and molecular dynamics simulation. Electrochemical test showed that PCMA is an anodic corrosion inhibitor that achieves 93.1 % corrosion inhibition by forming a protective film on the surface of Q235 carbon steel. Besides, fluorescence spectra proved that PCMA has stable fluorescence intensity.
Correlates of money attitudes among Portuguese people
Authors: Neto Joana , Neto Félix , Furnham Adrian
Published: August 2024

This study examined the psychometric features of the New Money Attitudes Questionnaire (NMAQ) in a Portuguese population and the relations between money attitudes, participant demographics, well‐being, and personality factors. The sample comprised 241 participants aged between 18 and 66 years. They completed the NMAQ and measures of financial well‐being, loneliness, and personality. The results of a CFA displayed a good fit for the five‐factor model of the NMAQ, and adequate reliability. Men scored significantly higher than women in Power and Status, and women scored significantly higher than men in Mindful and Responsible. The effect of age on money attitudes was not significant. Participants with lower educational levels scored significantly greater than those with higher educational level in Power and Status and Financial Literacy Worries. Well‐being and personality factors explained a significant amount of variance regarding money attitudes.
Improving winter survival of interspecific hybrid bermudagrass in the Mid‐Atlantic region through cultural practices
Authors: Doherty Joseph R. , Hutchens Wendell J. , Booth Jordan C. , McCall David S. , Battaglia Michael V. , DeBoer Eric J. , Roberts Joseph A.
Published: August 2024

Winter injury can cause significant loss of hybrid bermudagrasses [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy] in the transition zone. Current research has focused on high‐value, low‐acreage areas like putting greens, but those practices are impractical to implement on golf course fairways. To that end, multi‐year research projects were conducted at three sites across Maryland and Virginia to investigate the influence of annual N fertility [2.0 lb N 1000 ft−2 (early summer application) or 4.0 lb N 1000 ft−2 (split applied early and late summer)] across multiple fall mowing heights (0.5 inches, 0.8 inches, or 1 inch) and to elucidate the effects of wetting agent (fall, fall + winter, or none) and irrigation (0.5 inches irrigation at <15% soil volumetric water content [VWC] or none) applications during dormancy on reducing winter injury of hybrid bermudagrass. Dry‐down experiments were also conducted using plugs collected from field trials to impose an artificial freeze event and elucidate the effects of soil VWC on winter injury. Turfgrass quality and percent green cover were evaluated regularly as the turfgrass entered dormancy and throughout spring green‐up each year. Late‐season N applications helped retain fall green coverage without increasing winter injury and increasing fall mowing height did not impact winter injury. Temporary increase in soil VWC increased bermudagrass survival after a short‐term freeze event and prevented root biomass loss. These studies demonstrate late‐season N applications can help retain green color and increasing soil VWC prior to a short‐term freezing event can greatly reduce winter injury.
Numerical study of gas–solid flow characteristics of cylindrical fluidized beds based on coarse‐grained CFD‐DEM method
Authors: Tang Zhong , Li Zhenzhong , Huang Shanglong , Yang Chen
Published: August 2024

The existing researches lack the comprehensive comparison of the performance of two‐fluid model (TFM) and computational fluid dynamics‐discrete element model (CFD‐DEM) using a cylindrical fluidized bed as a research object. In addition, the applicability of rotational periodic boundary conditions in CFD‐DEM simulations of cylindrical fluidized beds is still unclear. Therefore, taking cylindrical fluidized bed as the object and studying the performance of different simulation methods can provide guidance for the selection of simulation methods in subsequent related studies. In the present study, TFM and coarse‐grained CFD‐DEM were used in simulations of the fluidized bed to evaluate the performance of different numerical methods. Furthermore, the applicability of rotating periodic boundary conditions in CFD‐DEM simulations was investigated. The results show that TFM and coarse‐grained CFD‐DEM perform in general agreement in predicting macro variables (e.g., overall pressure drop and bed height). However, radial void fraction distribution and void fraction probability density function (PDF) distribution of CFD‐DEM agreed better with the experimental data. CFD‐DEM simulations with rotational periodic boundary conditions applied showed lower predicted void fraction PDF peaks at packed bed heights and poorly modelling particle mixing in the central of cylindrical fluidized bed due to changes in the boundary conditions as well as the number of particle parcels. Therefore, both TFM and CFD‐DEM can obtain reasonable macro variables, but CFD‐DEM predicted more accurate gas–solid two‐phase distribution. The CFD‐DEM with rotating periodic boundary conditions could not reasonably predict the pressure drop and gas–solid two‐phase distribution inside the cylindrical fluidized bed.
Cu Nanowires Encapsulated by ZIF67 for Efficient Ammonia Electrosynthesis from Nitrate
Authors: Guo Chengyu , Shen Long‐Yun , Tang Yujun , Ciucci Francesco , Tang Zhenghua
Published: August 2024

Electrochemical NO3− reduction reaction (NO3RR) represents a green and sustainable way to produce valuable NH3 for both NH3 production and nitrate contaminant removal, and developing efficient, durable, highly selective catalyst is the key. Herein, we report a facile method to fabricate a catalyst composed of ultrafine Cu nanowires (Cu NWs) encapsulated by ZIF67, namely, CuNW@ZIF67, for efficient NH3 electrosynthesis from nitrate. The CuNW@ZIF67 catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic performance toward NO3RR in alkaline electrolyte, manifested by a large NH3 Faradaic efficiency of 93.7 % at −0.5 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), a high energy efficiency over 30 % at −0.7 V, and robust long‐term stability. Such intriguing catalytic properties are mainly ascribed to its structural merits and the strong electronic interaction between Cu NWs and ZIF67. DFT calculations revealed that, the Cu site can easily convert NO3− into NO2−, while the Co site plays a critical role in catalyzing the NO2−‐to‐NH3 process. The study can shed light on rational design of efficient, durable, and highly selective catalysts for NO3RR and beyond.
Real‐time bit‐line leakage balance circuit with four‐input low‐offset SA considering threshold voltage for SRAM stability design
Authors: Peng Chunyu , Hu Wei , Zheng Hao , Lu Wenjuan , Dai Chenghu , Wu Xiulong , Lin Zhiting , Chen Junning
Published: August 2024

In an SRAM, threshold voltages of transistors decrease as the CMOS process technology scales down into the nanometer scale, which causes the leakage currents on the bit‐lines. The bit‐line leakage current slows reading operations or even causes reading errors. In this paper, we proposed a new scheme called RTB, which is combined with a four‐input low‐offset sense amplifier with threshold voltage consideration to solve the problem caused by bit‐line leakage current. This scheme adopts 8T cells and two pairs of bit‐lines connected to a four‐input sense amplifier to balance the bit‐line leakage current in real‐time. In this way, the maximum tolerable bit‐line leakage current can be effectively increased and the reading operation can be accelerated. Simulations in the 55 nm CMOS process design kits under different process corners, temperatures, and voltages show that the proposed scheme can increase the maximum tolerable leakage to more than 300 μA.
Shear‐modified ion‐acoustic instability in ionospheric multi‐ion plasmas
Authors: Shahzad K. , Aman‐ur‐Rehman  , Ali S. , Hamza Muhammad Yousaf
Published: August 2024

The linear properties of the low‐frequency ion‐acoustic (IA) waves are studied in a collisionless magnetoplasma using both fluid and kinetic descriptions in the presence of particle shear flows and field‐aligned currents. Two different compositions of plasmas such as and are analyzed under the drift approximation and plan wave solution. Calculating a generalized linear dispersion function, shear‐modified IA waves are investigated with various limiting cases. In contrast, relying on the kinetic treatment, a generalized dielectric response function is also solved to study the real frequency and growth rate of the shear‐modified IA waves. Numerically, it is shown that a small concentration of negative hydrogen ions in the oxygen ionospheric plasma may lead to an increase in the growth rate and real frequency of the IA waves. The growth rate of negative hydrogen ion plasma is relatively found larger than that of positive hydrogen ion plasma. It is also noted that growth rate increases significantly with field‐aligned flow of lighter species as compared with heavier ones. The magnitudes of the wave frequency and growth rate become larger when plasma species stream in the same direction as compared with counter‐streaming of plasma species. Additionally, the shear flow modifies the profiles of wave instability and IA oscillations are greatly influenced by the same and opposite sides' particle shear flows. The growth rate increases as the shear flow increases, resulting in wider curves. The present findings are important for understanding the low‐frequency electrostatic excitations in upper ionospheric plasma, where particle shear flows are common.
Section 504 enforcement in the new era of administrative law
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: August 2024

Recent Supreme Court decisions have revolutionized administrative law by (1) shifting power from administrative agencies to courts to interpret ambiguous statutes, (2) shifting power from administrative agencies to juries to impose financial penalties for violating those statutes, and (3) limiting agency authority to issue regulations involving so‐called major questions.
New studies publish findings related to autism interventions
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2024

Two new research studies shed light on the effectiveness of interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder. The first study concludes that that increased autism interventions might not always lead to better outcomes. (https://bit.ly/4foNHbj). The second study finds that certain lifestyle and environmental interventions can reduce autism symptoms.
Persistent inner tepals and wings protect developing seeds of Rheum nanum from insect herbivory in Central Asian cold deserts
Authors: Li Yuting , Mamut Jannathan , Xie Kaiqing , Zhao Jing , Tan Dunyan
Published: August 2024

Although the postdispersal functions of diaspore (fruit and its appendages) have been reported, little is known about their protective/defensive functions. In this context, diaspores with appendages (persistent inner tepals and/or fruit wings) that experienced predispersal herbivory by insects in natural populations of Rheum nanum were investigated, and the seed abortion percentage, seed and embryo masses, and germination of seeds from diaspores with different categories of insect herbivory were measured and compared. Predispersal insect herbivory of R. nanum diaspores was prevalent in the four investigated populations, but the percentage of diaspores with appendages (persistent inner tepals and and/or fruit wings) damaged by insects was significantly higher than that of diaspores with the pericarp damaged by insects. Seeds from diaspores with gnawed appendages experienced significantly less damage than those with gnawed pericarps. Importantly, we conclude that fruit appendages of R. nanum help to mechanically protect developing seeds from predispersal insect herbivory.
Peat profile database from peatlands in Canada
Authors: Bauer Ilka E. , Davies Marissa A. , Bona Kelly A. , Hararuk Oleksandra , Shaw Cindy H. , Thompson Daniel K. , Kurz Werner A. , Webster Kara L. , Garneau Michelle , McLaughlin Jim W. , Packalen Maara S. , Prystupa Emily , Sanderson Nicole K. , Tarnocai Charles
Published: August 2024

Peatlands cover approximately 12% of the Canadian landscape and play an important role in the carbon cycle through their centennial‐ to millennial‐scale storage of carbon under waterlogged and anoxic conditions. In recognizing the potential of these ecosystems as natural climate solutions and therefore the need to include them in national greenhouse gas inventories, the Canadian Model for Peatlands module (CaMP v. 2.0) was developed by the Canadian Forest Service. Model parameterization included compiling peat profiles across Canada to calibrate peat decomposition rates from different peatland types, to define typical bulk density profiles, and to describe the hydrological (i.e., water table) response of peatlands to climatic changes. A total of 1217 sites were included in the dataset from published and unpublished sources. The CORESITES table contains site location and summary data for each profile, as well as an estimate of total carbon mass per unit area (in megagrams of C per hectare). Total carbon mass per unit area at each location was calculated using bulk density and carbon content through each profile. The PROFILES table contains data for depth (in centimeters), bulk density (in grams per cubic meter), ash and carbon content (in percentage), and material descriptions for contiguous samples through each peat profile. Data gaps for bulk density and C content were filled using interpolation, regression trees, and assigned values based on material description and/or soil classification to allow for the estimation of total carbon mass per unit area. A subset of the sites (N = 374) also have pH and pore water trace‐elemental geochemistry data and are found in the WATER table. The REFERENCES table contains the full citation of each source of the data and is linked to each core location through the SOURCEDATA table. The LOOKUP table defines codes in the database that required more space that what was sufficient in the metadata tables. The data can be accessed on Open Government Canada and will be useful for future work on carbon stock mapping and ecosystem modeling. All metadata and data are provided © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, 2023 and information contained in this publication may be reproduced for personal or public noncommercial purposes with attribution, whereas commercial reproduction and distribution are prohibited except with written permission from NRCan; complete details are noted in the Supporting Information file Metadata (see Class III.B.3: Copyright restrictions).
Efficacy of Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter‐2 Inhibitors in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Ahmed Mushood , Jain Hritvik , Javaid Hira , Ahsan Areeba , Szilagyi Szabolcs , Ahmad Adeel , Ahmed Raheel
Published: August 2024

Background

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve cardiovascular (CV) outcomes in patients with or without Type 2 diabetes and heart failure (HF). However, studies have shown conflicting evidence regarding their efficacy in patients following acute myocardial infarction (MI). We conducted a pilot systematic review and meta‐analysis to synthesise the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors in MI.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and Embase databases to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared clinical outcomes of SGLT2 inhibitors with placebo following MI. We conducted the statistical analysis using RevMan, version 5.4 and pooled risk ratios (RRs) along the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for all outcomes.

Results

Five RCTs reporting data for 11,211 patients were included in our study. The mean follow‐up duration was 43.8 weeks. Our pooled analysis showed that SGLT2 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of hospitalisations for heart failure (HHF) (RR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.61–0.88, p = 0.001) in patients with MI. However, the risk of all‐cause mortality (RR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.78–1.41, p = 0.76), CV mortality (RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.84–1.29, p = 0.73) and all‐cause hospitalisations (RR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.96–1.17, p = 0.25) remained comparable across the two groups.

Conclusion

SGLT2 inhibitors reduce HHF without affecting all‐cause mortality, CV mortality and all‐cause hospitalisations. However, further evidence is required to reach a definitive conclusion.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and heart failure: A comprehensive bioinformatics and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zhang Yayun , Feng Lu , Guan Xin , Zhu Zixiong , He Yubin , Li Xuewen
Published: August 2024

Aims

Heart failure (HF) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are significant global health issues with a complex interrelationship. This study investigates their shared biomarkers and causal relationships using bioinformatics and Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches.

Methods

We analysed NAFLD and HF datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The GSE126848 dataset included 57 liver biopsy samples [14 healthy individuals, 12 obese subjects, 15 NAFL patients and 16 non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) patients]. The GSE24807 dataset comprised 12 NASH samples and 5 healthy controls. The GSE57338 dataset included 313 cardiac muscle samples [177 HF patients (95 ischaemic heart disease patients and 82 idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy patients) and 136 healthy controls]. The GSE84796 dataset consisted of 10 end‐stage HF patients and 7 healthy hearts procured from organ donors. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and constructed a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. Functional pathways were elucidated through enrichment analyses using Gene Ontology (GO), the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and GeneMANIA annotation. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data for HF and NAFLD were sourced from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). The HF dataset included 486 160 samples (14 262 experimental and 471 898 control), and the NAFLD dataset comprised 377 988 samples (4761 experimental and 373 227 control). MR analysis investigates the causal interrelations.

Results

Our analysis revealed 4032 DEGs from GSE126848 and 286 DEGs from GSE57338. The top 10 hub genes (CD163, VSIG4, CXCL10, FCER1G, FPR1, C1QB, CCR1, C1orf162, MRC1 and CD38) were significantly enriched in immune response, calcium ion concentration regulation and positive regulation of monocyte chemotaxis. CIBERSORT analysis indicated associations between these hub genes and natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages. Transcription factor (TF) target prediction for CD38, CXCL10 and CCR1 highlighted related TFs. A two‐sample MR analysis confirmed a bidirectional causal relationship between NAFLD and HF. The main method [inverse variance weighted (IVW)] demonstrated a significant positive causal relationship between NAFLD and HF [P = 0.037; odds ratio (OR) = 1.024; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.001 to 1.048]. Similarly, HF was associated with an increase in the risk of NAFLD (P < 0.001; OR = 1.117; 95% CI: 1.053 to 1.185).

Conclusions

Our findings reveal novel molecular signatures common to NAFLD and HF and confirm their bidirectional causality, highlighting the potential for targeted therapeutic interventions and prompting further investigation into their intricate relationship.
Comprehensive effects of ammonia substitution rate, compression ratio, and ignition timing on knock, NOx emissions and indicated thermal efficiency in a hydrogen fuel engine
Authors: Li Junquan , Zhao Chengfei , Tu Zhangjun , Cheng Shanxu , Xu Yuanli
Published: August 2024

To reduce knock and keeping low NOx emissions and high indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) in a hydrogen fuel engine, the comprehensive effects of ammonia substitution rate (ASR), compression ratio (CR), and ignition timing (IT) on its combustion and its NOx emissions were studied numerically. Based on a four‐cylinder gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine, it was modified into an ammonia/hydrogen dual‐fuel (AHDF) spark ignition (SI) engine. The simulation was conducted by GT‐Power software, and simulation data were validated through experiments. 2500 rpm_50% load was selected for the research. ASR, CR and IT vary from 0% to 20%, 10.5 to 8.5, and −24 to 0°CA ATDC, respectively. The findings indicate that increasing ASR decreases the maximum pressure rise rate (MPRR) and the knock index (KI), improving the ITE, but increasing NOx emissions. Based on 20% ASR, CR was optimized. The findings indicate that decreasing CR reduces the MPRR and KI, but increasing NOx emissions and decreasing the ITE. Finally, based on CR of 9, IT was optimized. The findings indicate that delaying IT reduces the MPRR and KI, but also has a certain impact on NOx emissions and ITE. After compromise consideration, the optimal IT in this study was selected as −9°CA ATDC.
Long‐term forecasting of maritime economics index using time‐series decomposition and two‐stage attention
Authors: Kim Dohee , Lee Eunju , Kamal Imam Mustafa , Bae Hyerim
Published: August 2024

Forecasting the maritime economics index, including container volume and Baltic Panamax Index, is essential for long‐term planning and decision‐making in the shipping industry. However, studies on container volume prediction are not sufficient, and the bulk freight index has highly fluctuating characteristics, which pose a challenge in long‐term prediction. This study proposes a new hybrid framework for the long‐term prediction of the maritime economics index. The framework consists of time‐series decomposition to break down a time‐series into several components (trend, seasonality, and residual), a two‐stage attention mechanism that prioritizes important variables to increase long‐term prediction accuracy and a long short‐term memory network that predicts and combines all components to derive the final predictive outcome. Extensive experiments are conducted using the container volume data, bulk freight index data, and various external variables. The proposed framework achieved a better predictive performance than existing time‐series methods, including conventional machine learning and deep learning‐based models, in the long‐term prediction of container volume and the Baltic Panamax Index. Hence, the proposed method can help in decision‐making through accurate long‐term predictions of the maritime economics index.
Plant exosomes‐like nano‐vesicles: Characterization, functional food potential, and emerging therapeutic applications as a nano medicine
Authors: Matloob Anam , Gu Xinya , Rehman Sheikh Arooj , Javed Miral , Fang Zhongxiang , Luo Zisheng
Published: August 2024

Plant cells release exosome‐like nanovesicles (PENVs), which are small, membrane‐bound vesicles secreted by cells for intercellular interactions. These vesicles, rich in biologically active substances, are crucial for information transmission, intercellular interaction, and organism homeostasis conservation. They can also be used for treating diseases as large‐scale drug carriers due to their vesicular architecture. This study explores the isolation, potential of nanovesicles in creating bio‐therapeutic and drug‐delivery nano‐platforms to address clinical challenges. The bio‐therapeutic roles of PENVs, include immunomodulation, antitumor, regenerative impacts, wound healing, anti‐fibrosis, whitening effects, and treatment of intestinal flora disorders. This study also deliberates the potential for designing these nanovesicles into effective, safe, and non‐immunogenic nano‐vectors to carry drugs. PENVs may offer a cutting‐edge platform for the creation of functional foods and nutraceuticals. They might be employed to encapsulate certain bioactive substances produced from plants, offering tailored health privileges. It also elucidates the potential for the development of therapeutic and provision nano‐platforms based on PENVs in clinical applications.
Examining timing of periorbital interventions in patients with upper division facial paralysis
Authors: Doty Samuel , Goslawski Amanda , Cabrera Claudia I. , Tranchito Eve , Fowler Nicole , Li Shawn , Thuener Jason E. , Teknos Theodoros N. , Rezaee Rod P. , Rabbani Cyrus C. , Tamaki Akina
Published: August 2024

Background

Facial paralysis is a life‐altering condition that may arise from various etiologies, ranging from trauma to malignancy. Permanent facial paralysis may occur secondary to facial nerve sacrifice or irreversible damage to the nerve. In these particularly devastating cases, protection and maintaining function of the eye is paramount. There are many effective lagophthalmos corrective surgical procedures available for these patients. While placement of eyelid weights and lid tightening surgeries are the cornerstone of eyelid rehabilitation, limited information exists on whether the timing of eyelid interventions in the setting of permanent facial paralysis impact outcomes, including need for revision surgery.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective chart review was performed for patients with irreversible facial paralysis treated with an upper eyelid weight between 2013 to 2022. Electronic health records were acquired to obtain facial paralysis etiology, associated clinical characteristics, the type of intervention, and the timing of intervention. Patients were classified as immediate if the eyelid weight operation occurred within 29 days of the initial facial paralysis and delayed if the surgery occurred 30 days or more after initial presentation. Outcomes were assessed in terms of revision procedures and surgical complications.

Results

There were 70 patients in total, with 35 patients in the immediate category and 35 patients in the delayed category. The most common etiology related to parotid gland pathology, and 58.6% of patients had facial paralysis from cancer‐related surgeries. There were no significant differences in revision rates (p < 0.208) or in the types of procedures (p = 0.077) between the two groups. The complication rates also did not differ significantly between groups; however, there were only complications in the delayed intervention group.

Conclusions

These findings suggest there is no difference in postoperative complications between groups, including the need for revision surgeries when comparing groups with immediate or delayed intervention. Thus, treatment plans should be customized based on patient and provider preferences.
Presence of postlaryngectomy pseudodiverticulum on barium swallow does not affect early dietary progression
Authors: Ananthapadmanabhan Saikrishna , Wong Eugene , Natsis Lydia , Suruliraj Anand , Sritharan Niranjan , Smith Mark , Palme Carsten E. , Riffat Faruque
Published: August 2024

Background

The presence of a pseudodiverticulum of the anterior pharyngeal wall, or prominent “pharyngeal bar,” is a well‐known phenomenon that occurs following total laryngectomy, which can be visualized by nasolaryngoscopy or videofluoroscopy. Among the different techniques of pharyngeal reconstruction, there is higher incidence following primary vertical multilayered closure. It has been postulated to cause dysphagia and lack of dietary progression despite a paucity of data. However, the direct impact of pseudodiverticulum is less clear and anecdotally its presence and severity does not necessarily correlate with dysphagia.

Methods

A retrospective case series was performed of all consecutive patients who underwent total laryngectomy or laryngopharyngectomy between 2015 and 2022 at two tertiary head and neck institutions. All patients underwent routine videofluoroscopy postoperatively for swallow assessment. The presence of pseudodiverticulum on postoperative contrast swallow study was recorded to investigate the relationship with patient's ability to tolerate oral intake at 3 months discharge from the hospital.

Results

Of 50 laryngectomized patients (mean age 63.8 ± 10.0, 86% male), the main closure techniques were primary vertical (n = 9, 18%), primary T‐closure (n = 14, 28%), and flap reconstruction (n = 27, 54%). Pseudodiverticulum was identified in 19 cases (38%). 43 patients underwent primary surgery and 30 had adjuvant radiotherapy. The presence of pseudodiverticulum was significantly associated with vertical primary closure versus non‐vertical (T‐closure or flap reconstruction) techniques (χ2 (df 1) = 7.4, p = 0.007, OR = 5.7, 95% CI 1.3–24.7). Pseudodiverticulum was not associated with an increased inability to tolerate solid intake or full diet compared to patients without pseudodiverticulum. 26.3% of patients with pseudodiverticulum were on full diet compared to 25.8% of patients without. The vertical closure technique showed no difference in ability to maintain solid intake compared with non‐vertical closure; however, no patients were on full diet. Only one patient in the pseudodiverticulum group required surgical management during the study period for retention.

Conclusion

The presence of a pseudodiverticulum does not appear to be significantly associated with a need for postoperative dietary modification. The authors postulate that postlaryngectomy dysphagia is multifactorial with sensorimotor aperistalsis of the pharynx and cricopharyngeal stenosis. While a pseudodiverticulum is a common phenomenon, patients did not require modification of diet at higher rates than those without, and they seldom require intervention.
Identification of epigenetic modifiers essential for growth and survival of AML1/ETO‐positive leukemia
Authors: Duque‐Afonso Jesús , Veratti Pia , Rehman Usama‐Ur , Herzog Heike , Mitschke Jan , Greve Gabriele , Eble Julian , Berberich Bettina , Thomas Johanna , Pantic Milena , Waterhouse Miguel , Gentile Gaia , Heidenreich Olaf , Miething Cornelius , Lübbert Michael
Published: August 2024

Aberrant gene expression patterns in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with balanced chromosomal translocations are often associated with dysregulation of epigenetic modifiers. The AML1/ETO (RUNX1/MTG8) fusion protein, caused by the translocation (8;21)(q22;q22), leads to the epigenetic repression of its target genes. We aimed in this work to identify critical epigenetic modifiers, on which AML1/ETO‐positive AML cells depend on for proliferation and survival using shRNA library screens and global transcriptomics approaches. Using shRNA library screens, we identified 41 commonly depleted genes in two AML1/ETO‐positive cell lines Kasumi‐1 and SKNO‐1. We validated, genetically and pharmacologically, DNMT1 and ATR using several AML1/ETO‐positive and negative cell lines. We also demonstrated in vivo differentiation of myeloblasts after treatment with the DNMT1 inhibitor decitabine in a patient with an AML1/ETO‐positive AML. Bioinformatic analysis of global transcriptomics after AML1/ETO induction in 9/14/18‐U937 cells identified 973 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Three genes (PARP2, PRKCD, and SMARCA4) were both downregulated after AML1/ETO induction, and identified in shRNA screens. In conclusion, using unbiased shRNA library screens and global transcriptomics, we have identified several driver epigenetic regulators for proliferation in AML1/ETO‐positive AML. DNMT1 and ATR were validated and are susceptible to pharmacological inhibition by small molecules showing promising preclinical and clinical efficacy.
Stemness and hybrid epithelial‐mesenchymal profiles guide peritoneal dissemination of malignant mesothelioma and pseudomyxoma peritonei
Authors: Lazzari Nayana , Rigotto Giulia , Montini Barbara , Del Bianco Paola , Moretto Elena , Palladino Federica , Cappellesso Rocco , Tonello Marco , Cenzi Carola , Scapinello Antonio , Piano Maria Assunta , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Dalerba Piero , Pilati Pierluigi , Sommariva Antonio , Calabrò Maria Luisa
Published: August 2024

Intrabdominal dissemination of malignant mesothelioma (MM) and pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is poorly characterized with respect to the stemness window which malignant cells activate during their reshaping on the epithelial‐mesenchymal (E/M) axis. To gain insights into stemness properties and their prognostic significance in these rarer forms of peritoneal metastases (PM), primary tumor cultures from 55 patients selected for cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy were analyzed for cancer stem cells (CSC) by aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) and spheroid formation assays, and for expression of a set of plasticity‐related genes to measure E/M transition (EMT) score. Intratumor heterogeneity was also analyzed. Samples from PM of colorectal cancer were included for comparison. Molecular data were confirmed using principal component and cluster analyses. Associations with survival were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression models. The activity of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), a stemness modifier, was tested in five cultures. Significantly increased amounts of ALDH1bright‐cells identified high‐grade PMP, and discriminated solid masses from ascitic/mucin‐embedded tumor cells in both forms of PM. Epithelial/early hybrid EMT scores and an early hybrid expression pattern correlated with pluripotency factors were significantly associated with early peritoneal progression (p = .0343 and p = .0339, respectively, log‐rank test) in multivariable models. ASA impaired spheroid formation and increased cisplatin sensitivity in all five cultures. These data suggest that CSC subpopulations and hybrid E/M states may guide peritoneal spread of MM and PMP. Stemness could be exploited as targetable vulnerability to increase chemosensitivity and improve patient outcomes. Additional research is needed to confirm these preliminary data.