bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organometallic Mn(I) Complexes in Asymmetric Catalytic (Transfer) Hydrogenation and Related Transformations
Authors: Fu Dexin , Wang Zheng , Liu Qingbin , Prettyman Samuel J. , Solan Gregory A. , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: March 2024

Direct asymmetric hydrogenation (AH) and asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) are among the most efficient approaches to produce chiral building blocks. Recently, these types of transformations have witnessed a shift towards the use of molecular catalysts based on earth‐abundant transition metals due to their ready availability, economic advantage, and novel properties. With particular regard to manganese, catalyst development has seen both the efficiency and substrate scope in AH and ATH greatly improved, with the emergence of a large number of well‐defined Mn‐complexes employed in this field. The reaction scope includes the AH and ATH of C=O bonds, asymmetric reduction of C=N bonds and the asymmetric reductive transformations of C=C bonds. Herein, our survey of the area focuses on the catalytic activity of such complexes, their versatility towards asymmetric transformations and the routes employed to convert substrates to their target molecules. We consider the collected findings of this article will be helpful to the reader by providing an insight into ligand design, thereby aiding future catalyst development. Moreover, this review is aimed at highlighting the remarkable progress made in the last seven years in the development of manganese complexes for enantioselective reduction.
Vicinal Diones and α‐Keto Esters as Electrophiles of Aldolases for Stereoselective Construction of Tertiary Alcohols
Authors: Luo Zhenzhen , Li Qiaoqiao , Yang Huijun , Li Yulian , Liu Yanqiong , Tang Chunping , Liu Jia , Ke Changqiang , Ye Yang , Zhang Rui , Liao Cangsong
Published: March 2024

Aldolases are powerful C−C bond‐forming enzymes with high stereoselectivity and broad substrate scope in biocatalysis, but their ability to stereoselectively construct tertiary alcohols has not been fully explored. Herein, we demonstrate that vicinal diones and α‐keto esters are electrophiles that can be accepted by both natural and computationally designed aldolases via various catalytic mechanisms. This method allows for the efficient asymmetric synthesis of small molecules with tertiary alcohols, including noncanonical amino acids. This study presents the first types of generic nonnatural substrates of aldolases and reveals new opportunities for the use of aldolases in the synthesis of versatile chiral synthons.
Molecular Structure Effects on Ionic Diode Performance in Desalination: Ultrahigh Rectification in Butylated Intrinsically Microporous Polyamine (PIM‐EA‐TB)
Authors: Li Zhongkai , Carta Mariolino , McKeown Neil B. , Agbenyeke Raphael E. , Eloi Jean‐Charles , Fermin David J. , Arotiba Omotayo A. , Marken Frank
Published: March 2024

Ionic diodes are components in ionic circuits for AC‐electricity driven desalination and ion extraction processes. Independent of the ionic diode type/mechanism, achieving ionic current rectification at high ionic strengths is challenging but important, for example in seawater desalination and treatment of brine. Here, the butylation of a molecularly rigid (glassy) polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM‐EA‐TB) is shown to give anionic diodes with ultrahigh rectification effects (associated with interfacial resistivity) even in high ionic strength aqueous 2 M NaCl solution. The effect is rationalised based on polymer structure affecting ion transport.
Ultrahigh thermoelectric properties of p‐type BixSb2−xTe3 thin films with exceptional flexibility for wearable energy harvesting
Authors: Zheng Zhuang‐Hao , Zhong Yi‐Ming , Li Yi‐Liu , Nisar Mohammad , Mansoor Adil , Li Fu , Chen Shuo , Liang Guang‐Xing , Fan Ping , Xu Dongyan , Wei Meng , Chen Yue‐Xing
Published: March 2024

Use of a flexible thermoelectric source is a feasible approach to realizing self‐powered wearable electronics and the Internet of Things. Inorganic thin films are promising candidates for fabricating flexible power supply, but obtaining high‐thermoelectric‐performance thin films remains a big challenge. In the present work, a p‐type BixSb2−xTe3 thin film is designed with a high figure of merit of 1.11 at 393 K and exceptional flexibility (less than 5% increase in resistance after 1000 cycles of bending at a radius of ∼5 mm). The favorable comprehensive performance of the BixSb2−xTe3 flexible thin film is due to its excellent crystallinity, optimized carrier concentration, and low elastic modulus, which have been verified by experiments and theoretical calculations. Further, a flexible device is fabricated using the prepared p‐type BixSb2−xTe3 and n‐type Ag2Se thin films. Consequently, an outstanding power density of ∼1028 μW cm−2 is achieved at a temperature difference of 25 K. This work extends a novel concept to the fabrication of high‐performance flexible thin films and devices for wearable energy harvesting.
Cellular Applications of DNP Solid‐State NMR – State of the Art and a Look to the Future
Authors: Beriashvili David , Zhou Jiaxin , Liu Yangping , Folkers Gert E. , Baldus Marc
Published: March 2024

Sensitivity enhanced dynamic nuclear polarization solid‐state NMR is emerging as a powerful technique for probing the structural properties of conformationally homogenous and heterogenous biomolecular species irrespective of size at atomic resolution within their native environments. Herein we detail advancements that have made acquiring such data, specifically within the confines of intact bacterial and eukaryotic cell a reality and further discuss the type of structural information that can presently be garnered by the technique's exploitation. Subsequently, we discuss bottlenecks that have thus far curbed cellular DNP‐ssNMR's broader adoption namely due a lack of sensitivity and spectral resolution. We also explore possible solutions ranging from utilization of new pulse sequences, design of better performing polarizing agents, and application of additional biochemical/ cell biological methodologies.
Production of Fructo‐Oligosaccharides in Membrane Bioreactor Using Rotating Ceramic Membrane Disc
Authors: Fan Rong , Tissen Dennis , Su Xinwei , Schmitz Oliver , Ebrahimi Mehrdad , Maguire Nicolas A. P. , Czermak Peter
Published: March 2024

Fructo‐oligosaccharides (FOS) are often produced via enzymatic conversion in industry. Enzyme membrane bioreactor (EMBR) can enhance the catalytic efficiency by in‐situ product removal. Its major bottleneck is the fouling caused by the deposition of enzyme on membrane surface. An EMBR system with a compact rotating disc device was established for continuous FOS production. This study further investigated the influences of the membrane rotation on the flux control and enzyme activity. The speed of 600 rpm was a good compromise between flux and fouling control, which stabilized the flux at ∼80 L m−2h−1 during the process. Moreover, the rotation led to an increase in the rejection of enzymes by 20 %, compensating the loss of enzyme due to the inhomogeneous distribution of membrane pore size.
Microtubule length correlates with spindle length in C. elegans meiosis
Authors: Zimyanin Vitaly , Redemann Stefanie
Published: March 2024

The accurate segregation of chromosomes during female meiosis relies on the precise assembly and function of the meiotic spindle, a dynamic structure primarily composed of microtubules. Despite the crucial role of microtubule dynamics in this process, the relationship between microtubule length and spindle size remains elusive. Leveraging Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system, we combined electron tomography and live imaging to investigate this correlation. Our analysis revealed significant changes in spindle length throughout meiosis, coupled with alterations in microtubule length. Surprisingly, while spindle size decreases during the initial stages of anaphase, the size of antiparallel microtubule overlap decreased as well. Detailed electron tomography shows a positive correlation between microtubule length and spindle size, indicating a role of microtubule length in determining spindle dimensions. Notably, microtubule numbers displayed no significant association with spindle length, highlighting the dominance of microtubule length regulation in spindle size determination. Depletion of the microtubule depolymerase KLP‐7 led to elongated metaphase spindles with increased microtubule length, supporting the link between microtubule length and spindle size. These findings underscore the pivotal role of regulating microtubule dynamics, and thus microtubule length, in governing spindle rearrangements during meiotic division, shedding light on fundamental mechanisms dictating spindle architecture.
Improving diagnostic yield of pancreatic serous cystadenoma with cyst fluid ancillary testing, adjunct immunohistochemistry, and additional fine‐needle biopsy sampling
Authors: Wang Xi , Zhang Xuchen , Hui Pei , Cai Guoping
Published: March 2024

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) diagnosis of pancreatic serous cystadenoma (SCA) remains challenging. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the roles of cyst fluid ancillary testing and combined fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) in improving the diagnostic yield.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed cytology cases that were histologically confirmed SCAs. Clinical features and FNA cyst fluid biochemical and molecular analysis results along FNB findings were reviewed.

Results

The study cohort included 31 cases from 13 male and 18 female patients with a mean age of 65. The original cytologic diagnoses were nondiagnostic (n = 6, 19%), negative for malignant cells/cyst contents (n = 7, 23%), atypical cells (n = 3, 10%), nonmucinous cyst (n = 11, 35%), and serous cystadenoma (n = 4, 13%). Cyst fluid carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) analysis was performed in 17 cases, all of which showed a low CEA level (<192 ng/mL). All 14 cases with molecular testing showed a wild‐type KRAS. Inhibin immunohistochemistry was retrospectively performed on the FNA cell blocks, inhibin was positive in six of seven cases tested. In 15 cases with concurrent FNA and FNB biopsies, the diagnosis of SCA was seen in only one FNA case (7%) but 13 FNB cases (87%).

Conclusions

This study suggests that FNA diagnosis of SCA remains challenging even with ancillary testing including cyst fluid CEA level and KRAS mutation analysis. Adjunct inhibin immunostaining may help improve the cytologic diagnosis of selective SCA cases. FNB appears superior to FNA for a definite diagnosis of SCA.
Fluorescent carbon quantum dots with controllable physicochemical properties fantastic for emerging applications: A review
Authors: You Wenbo , Zou Wentao , Jiang Siyi , Zhang Jiahao , Ge Yunchen , Lu Gui , Bahnemann Detlef W. , Pan Jia Hong
Published: March 2024

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as prominent contenders in the realm of luminescent nanomaterials over the past decade owing to their tunable optical properties, robust photostability, versatile surface functionalization and doping potential, low toxicity, and straightforward synthesis utilizing environmentally friendly precursors. In this review, we commence with a concise introduction, presenting both top‐down and bottom‐up strategies for the eco‐friendly synthesis of CQDs. Subsequently, we delve into a comprehensive examination of CQDs' structure and optical characteristics, encompassing their ultraviolet–visible absorption properties, surface confinement effects, and surface state emissions contributing to room‐temperature photoluminescence (PL). This review proceeds to elucidate recent advancements in modification strategies for CQDs, specifically focusing on surface oxidation, passivation, and the incorporation of heteroatoms. These strategies serve to afford control over the physicochemical properties, facilitating the enhancement of PL through the decoration of highly visible‐responsive CQDs. This enhancement is achieved by suppressing the nonradiative recombination of electron‐hole pairs, enabling red/blue shifts in CQDs for the generation of a full‐color emission spectrum, and regulating the band‐gap and surface states to broaden the photoabsorption range. Finally, we offer an overview of the most recent developments in the applications of fluorescent CQDs, emphasizing their utility in biomedicine, fluorescent sensors, lighting, and displays, as well as photocatalysis.
Advances in Naked Metal Clusters for Catalysis
Authors: Luo Zhixun , Shehzad Aamir
Published: March 2024

The properties of sub–nano metal clusters are governed by quantum confinement and their large surface–to–bulk ratios, atomically precise compositions and geometric/electronic structures. Advances in metal clusters lead to new opportunities in diverse aspects of sciences including chemo–sensing, bio–imaging, photochemistry, and catalysis. Naked metal clusters having synergic multiple active sites and coordinative unsaturation and tunable stability/activity enable researchers to design atomically precise metal catalysts with tailored catalysis for different reactions. Here we summarize the progress of ligand–free naked metal clusters for catalytic applications. It is anticipated that this review helps to better understand the chemistry of small metal clusters and facilitates the design and development of new catalysts for potential applications.
Role of Nb2O5 Crystal Phases on the Photocatalytic Conversion of Lignin Model Molecules and Selectivity for Value‐Added Products
Authors: Rojas Susana D. , Rafaela Gabriela , Espinoza‐Villalobos Nicole , Diaz‐Droguett Donovan E. , Salazar‐González Ricardo , Caceres‐Jensen Lizethly , Escalona Néstor , Barrientos Lorena
Published: March 2024

The photocatalytic conversion in aqueous media of phenol and guaiacol as a lignin model compound using Nb2O5 with different crystal phases was studied. Nb2O5 particles were synthesized using hydrothermal methods, where it was observed that changes in the solvent control their morphology and crystal phase. Different photocatalytic behavior of Nb2O5 was observed with the selected model compounds, indicating that its selection directly impacts the resulting conversion and selectivity rates as well as the reaction pathway, highlighting the relevance of model molecule selection. Photocatalytic conversion of phenol showed conversion rate (C%) up to 25 % after 2 h irradiation and high selectivity (S%) to pyrogallol (up to 50 %). Orthorhombic Nb2O5 spheres favored conversion through free hydroxyl radicals while monoclinic rods did not convert phenol. Guaiacol photocatalytic oxidation showed high conversion rate but lower selectivity. Orthorhombic and monoclinic Nb2O5 favored the formation of resorcinol with S % ~0.43 % (C % ~33 %) and ~13 % (C % ~27 %) respectively. The mixture of both phases enhanced the guaiacol conversion rate to ~55 % with ~17 % of selectivity to salicylaldehyde. The use of radical scavengers provided information to elucidate the reaction pathway for these model compounds, showing that different reaction pathways may be obtained for the same photocatalyst if the model compound is changed.
Targeting neutrophils: Mechanism and advances in cancer therapy
Authors: Yang Shuaixi , Jia Jiachi , Wang Fuqi , Wang Yuhang , Fang Yingshuai , Yang Yabing , Zhou Quanbo , Yuan Weitang , Bian Zhilei
Published: March 2024

Background

Cancer is a thorny problem which cannot be conquered by mankind at present and recent researchers have put their focus on tumor microenviroment. Neutrophils, the prominent leukocytes in peripheral blood that accumulate in tumours, serves as frontline cells in response to tumour progression owing to the rapid development of micro biotechnology. Hence, targeted therapy with these neutrophils has made targeting treatment a promising field in cancer therapy.

Main body

We broadly summarise some studies on the phenotypes and functions of tumour‐associated neutrophils as well as the unique web‐like products of neutrophils that play a role in cancer progression—neutrophil extracellular traps—and the interactions between neutrophils and the tumour microenvironment. Moreover, several targeted neutrophils therapeutic studies have made some progress and provided potential strategies for the treatment of cancer.

Conclusion

This review aims to offer a holistic perspective on therapeutic interventions targeting neutrophils to further inspire more researches on cancer therapies.
Immune‐related adverse events in non‐small cell lung cancer: Occurrence, mechanisms and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Lin Xuwen , Xie Mei , Yao Jie , Ma Xidong , Qin Lin , Zhang Xu‐Mei , Song Jialin , Bao Xinyu , Zhang Xin , Zhang Yinguang , Liu Yiming , Han Wenya , Liang Yiran , Jing Ying , Xue Xinying
Published: March 2024

The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has heralded a transformative era in the therapeutic landscape of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). While ICIs have demonstrated clinical efficacy in a portion of patients with NSCLC, these treatments concurrently precipitate a spectrum of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs), encompassing mild to severe manifestations, collectively posing a risk of significant organ damage. Consequently, there exists an imperative to augment our comprehension of the pathophysiological underpinnings of irAEs and to formulate more efficacious preventive and ameliorative strategies. In this comprehensive review, we delineate the clinical presentation of organ‐specific irAEs in patients with NSCLC and provide an in‐depth analysis of recent advancements in understanding the mechanisms driving ICI‐induced toxicity. Furthermore, we discuss potential strategies and targets for ameliorating these irAEs. Ultimately, this review aims to furnish valuable insights to guide further research endeavours in the context of irAEs in NSCLC patients.
Ion acceleration from golden mylar film irradiated by visible ns pulsed laser
Authors: Torrisi L. , Silipigni L. , Cutroneo M. , Torrisi A.
Published: March 2024

A Pulsed ns laser operating at 532 nm wavelength with 150 mJ pulse energy was employed to irradiate micrometric thick mylar films, from 1 to 100 μm thick, covered by 0.05 μm Au in the back face. Protons and light ions have been accelerated by the electric field developed in the non‐equilibrium plasma by the laser pulse in a vacuum at an intensity of the order of 1010 W/cm2. Time‐of‐flight technique, obtained using a Faraday cup and a fast storage oscilloscope, is employed to measure the ion velocity, energy, and yield emitted in backward and forward directions. The yield of the emitted plasma photons is also evaluated. Two ion collectors are used in opposite directions to measure the plasma radiations emitted in backward and forward directions. Data analysis is based on the Coulomb‐Boltzmann‐shifted (CBS) distribution function. The target ablation yield is evaluated in the order of 3.5 μm per laser shot.
Soil respiration and controls in warmer winter: A snow manipulation study in postfire and undisturbed black pine forests
Authors: Pacaldo Renato S. , Aydin Mirac , Amarille Randell Keith
Published: March 2024

Climate change impacts drive warmer winters, reduced snowfall, and forest fires. In 2020, a wildfire scorched about 1508 hectares of black pine (Pinus nigra Arnold) forests in Türkiye. Whether the combined effects of lack of snow and forest fires significantly alter winter soil respiration (Rs) and soil temperature remains poorly understood. A field experiment was conducted in the postfire and undisturbed black pine forests during the winter to quantify Rs rates as affected by lack of snow and forest fire. We applied four treatments: snow‐exclusion postfire (SEPF), snow postfire (SPF), snow‐exclusion‐undisturbed forest (SEUF), and snow undisturbed forest (SUF). The SEPF exhibited the significantly lowest mean Rs rates (0.71 μmol m−2 s−1) compared to the SPF (1.02 μmol m−2 s−1), SEUF (1.44 μmol m−2 s−1), and SUF (1.48 μmol m−2 s−1). The Rs also showed significant variations with time (p < .0001). However, treatments and time revealed no statistically significant interaction effects (p = .6801). Total winter Rs (January–March) ranged from 4.47 to 4.59 Mt CO2 ha−1 in the undisturbed forest and 2.20 to 3.16 Mt CO2 ha−2 in the postfire site. The Rs showed a significantly positive relationship (p < .0001) with the soil (0.59) and air (0.46) temperatures and a significantly negative relationship (p = .0017) with the soil moisture (−0.20) at the 5 cm depth. In contrast, the Rs indicated a negative but not statistically significant relationship (p = .0932) with the soil moisture (−0.16) at the 10 cm soil depth. The combined effects of lack of snow and forest fire significantly decreased Rs, thus conserving the soil's organic carbon stocks and reducing the CO2 contribution to the atmosphere. In contrast, a warmer winter significantly increased Rs rates in the undisturbed forest, suggesting an acceleration of soil organic carbon losses and providing positive feedback to climate change.
Season, prey availability, sex, and age explain prey size selection in a large solitary carnivore
Authors: Bates‐Mundell Logan , Williams Sara H. , Sager‐Fradkin Kim , Wittmer Heiko U. , Allen Maximilian L. , Cristescu Bogdan , Wilmers Christopher C. , Elbroch L. Mark
Published: March 2024

Prey selection is a fundamental aspect of ecology that drives evolution and community structure, yet the impact of intraspecific variation on the selection for prey size remains largely unaccounted for in ecological theory. Here, we explored puma (Puma concolor) prey selection across six study sites in North and South America. Our results highlighted the strong influence of season and prey availability on puma prey selection, and the smaller influence of puma age. Pumas in all sites selected smaller prey in warmer seasons following the ungulate birth pulse. Our top models included interaction terms between sex and age, suggesting that males more than females select larger prey as they age, which may reflect experiential learning. When accounting for variable sampling across pumas in our six sites, male and female pumas killed prey of equivalent size, even though males are larger than females, challenging assumptions about this species. Nevertheless, pumas in different study sites selected prey of different sizes, emphasizing that the optimal prey size for pumas is likely context‐dependent and affected by prey availability. The mean prey weight across all sites averaged 1.18 times mean puma weight, which was less than predicted as the optimal prey size by energetics and ecological theory (optimal prey = 1.45 puma weight). Our results help refine our understanding of optimal prey for pumas and other solitary carnivores, as well as corroborate recent research emphasizing that carnivore prey selection is impacted not just by energetics but by the effects of diverse ecology.
Parasitoid species diversity has no effect on protective symbiont diversity in experimental host‐parasitoid populations
Authors: Hafer‐Hahmann Nina , Vorburger Christoph
Published: March 2024

How does diversity in nature come about? One factor contributing to this diversity are species interactions; diversity on one trophic level can shape diversity on lower or higher trophic levels. For example, parasite diversity enhances host immune diversity. Insect protective symbionts mediate host resistance and are, therefore, also engaged in reciprocal selection with their host's parasites. Here, we applied experimental evolution in a well‐known symbiont‐aphid‐parasitoid system to study whether parasitoid diversity contributes to maintaining symbiont genetic diversity. We used caged populations of black bean aphids (Aphis fabae), containing uninfected individuals and individuals infected with different strains of the bacterial endosymbiont Hamiltonella defensa, which protects aphids against parasitoids. Over multiple generations, these populations were exposed to three different species of parasitoid wasps (Aphidius colemani, Binodoxys acalephae or Lysiphlebus fabarum), simultaneous or sequential mixtures of these species or no wasps. Surprisingly, we observed little selection for H. defensa in most treatments, even when it clearly provided protection against a fatal parasitoid infection. This seemed to be caused by high induced costs of resistance: aphids surviving parasitoid attacks suffered an extreme reduction in fitness. In marked contrast to previous studies looking at the effect of different genotypes of a single parasitoid species, we found little evidence for a diversifying effect of multiple parasitoid species on symbiont diversity in hosts.
Deceptive pollinator lures benefit from physical and perceptual proximity to flowers
Authors: White Thomas E.
Published: March 2024

Predators often use deception to exploit sensory and cognitive biases in prey. In pollinating insects, these include preferences for conspicuous colours associated with flowers, which predators such as orb‐web spiders display as prey lures. Theory predicts that deceptive signal efficacy should covary with both their perceptual similarity and physical proximity to the resources—here, flowers—whose cues they are imitating. Here I used the colour‐polymorphic jewelled spider Gasteracantha fornicata to test this prediction. I first examined spiders' capture success in the field, and found their visual resemblance and physical proximity to flowers interacted to mediate capture rates, with colour‐similarity becoming increasingly important as the distance between spiders and flowers decreased. I then replicated this interaction experimentally. Spiders adjacent to colour‐matched flowers enjoyed heightened capture success relative to those with nearby but colour‐mismatched flowers. While spiders with flowers placed at a distance (irrespective of colour) recorded the fewest captures. These results support ‘neighbourhood’ effects in aggressive deception as receivers' vulnerability to exploitation is mediated by the local signalling community. More generally, they emphasise the importance of the broader information landscape in the ecology of communication, and suggest misinformation is most effective when physically and perceptually proximate to the truth.
Peat swamp hydrological connectivity and runoff vary by hydrogeomorphic setting: Implications for carbon storage
Authors: McCarter Colin , Kaufman Stephen , Branfireun Brian , Waddington James
Published: March 2024

Despite their importance in carbon cycling and catchment runoff dynamics, the hydrology of temperate peat swamps in response to changing hydrometeorological conditions is largely understudied. We examined the importance of hydrogeomorphic settings in controlling hydrological connectivity and runoff in a temperate peat swamp in southern Ontario, Canada over two consecutive growing seasons with contrasting conditions (dry and wet years). We chose two different small‐scale hydrogeomorphic settings to investigate: (i) a site with strong wetland‐stream interactions (i.e., an unconfined stream channel; unconfined) and (ii) a site with limited wetland‐stream interactions (confined).

During the wet year, the confined site exhibited a consistently gaining stream, maintaining lateral hydrological connectivity and yielding high runoff ratios, while during the dry year, the confined site lost water and experienced low runoff ratios during storm events. Overland flow at the unconfined site maintained a longitudinal hydrological connectivity delivering water to its sub‐catchment outflow, as reinforced by hydrochemical observations. This connectivity was maintained in the wet year but ceased in the dry year despite consistent upstream sub‐catchment water inflow due to high depression storage. Runoff ratios were reduced because of this hydrological disconnection.

We highlight the importance of small‐scale hydrogeomorphic setting on peat swamp carbon storage as facilitated by the variation of within‐site hydrological connectivity and runoff, which also has important implications for downstream water quality. The unconfined site maintained a higher water table position in both years and has much greater peat carbon stocks. We suggest peat swamp channelization either naturally or through drainage decreases carbon stocks.
L‐ascorbyl palmitate and endogenous micronutrients in vegetable oils provide synergistic antioxidant activities: Micronutrient species and concentration
Authors: Zhang Yikang , Zhao Chenwei , Jin Jun , Jin Qingzhe , Wang Xingguo
Published: March 2024

In the present study, antioxidant impacts of L‐ascorbyl palmitate (L‐AP) on 14 kinds of typical vegetable oils were studied, whose ratios of C18:1 to C18:2 ranged from 0.15 to 9.57. Regression analyses between vegetable oils and their micronutrient‐free counterparts revealed that the antioxidant capacity of L‐AP was closely related to concentrations of α‐, γ‐, and δ‐tocopherols instead of fatty acid compositions. Binary mixtures consisting of L‐AP and α‐, γ‐, or δ‐tocopherols exhibited desirable synergistic antioxidant effects in comparison with individual species. The optimal synergistic effects were found at ratios of L‐AP to α‐, γ‐, δ‐tocopherols, being 1:2–1:4. Further EPR spin trapping test figured out that the combined antioxidants reduced the total amount of spin adducts significantly during lipid oxidation, which were contributed by regenerating tocopherols from L‐AP. The results will highlight the application of L‐AP in protecting packed cooking oils after opening and during cooking.

Practical applications: Vegetable oils packaged in 4–5 L bottles are one of the most important forms for home cooking. Although deoxygenation techniques are applied to increase their shelf life during storage, they will experience a more violent oxidation reaction after opening. The oils are typically oxidized to rancidity before ending up in consumption. L‐AP was therefore involved into the vegetable oils to prevent them from oxidation during uses. The results of study can help companies to select the optimal L‐AP addition amount according to different endogenous tocopherol types and contents in the target oil in order to extend the use life of the vegetable oil.
Veterans with chronic pain: Examining gender differences in pain type, overlap, and the impact of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Hadlandsmyth Katherine , Driscoll Mary A. , Johnson Nicole L. , Mares Jasmine G. , Mengeling Michelle A. , Thomas Emily B. K. , Norman Sonya B. , Lund Brian C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Women are more likely to experience multiple overlapping pain conditions (MOPCs) relative to men. Post‐traumatic stress disorder can negatively impact the severity and trajectory of chronic pain and its treatment. Specific associations between gender, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and MOPCs require further examination.

Methods

A cohort of all Veterans in 2021 who met criteria for one or more of 12 chronic pain types was created using national Veterans Health Administration administrative data. MOPCs were defined as the number of pain types for which each patient met criteria. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated gender differences in frequency for each of the 12 pain subtypes, after controlling for demographics and comorbidities. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate gender differences in the count of MOPCs and to explore moderation effects between gender and PTSD.

Results

The cohort included 1,936,859 Veterans with chronic pain in 2021, which included 12.5% women. Among those with chronic pain, women Veterans had higher rates of MOPCs (mean = 2.3) relative to men (mean = 1.9): aIRR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.30–1.32. PTSD also served as an independent risk factor for MOPCs in adjusted analysis (aIRR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.23–1.24). The interaction term between gender and PTSD was not significant (p = 0.87). Independent of PTSD, depressive disorders also served as a strong risk factor for MOPCs (aIRR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.36–1.37).

Conclusions

Individuals with MOPCs and PTSD may have complex treatment needs. They may benefit from highly coordinated trauma‐sensitive care and integrated interventions that simultaneously address pain and PTSD.

Significance

Women were significantly more likely than men to experience MOPCs. PTSD was also significantly, independently, associated with MOPCs. Patients, particularly women, may benefit from tailored interventions that address both trauma and MOPCs.
Approximate inner solvers for block preconditioning of the incompressible Navier–Stokes problems discretized by isogeometric analysis
Authors: Egermaier Jiří , Horníková Hana
Published: March 2024

We deal with efficient numerical solution of the steady incompressible Navier–Stokes equations (NSE) using our in‐house solver based on the isogeometric analysis (IgA) approach. We are interested in the solution of the arising saddle‐point linear systems using preconditioned Krylov subspace methods. Based on our comparison of ideal versions of several state‐of‐the‐art block preconditioners for linear systems arising from the IgA discretization of the incompressible NSE, suitable candidates have been selected. In the present paper, we focus on selecting efficient approximate solvers for solving subsystems within these preconditioning methods. We investigate the impact on the convergence of the outer solver and aim to identify an effective combination. For this purpose, we compare convergence properties of the selected solution approaches for problems with different viscosity values, mesh refinement levels and discretization bases.
Neuronal deletion of Gtf2i results in developmental microglial alterations in a mouse model related to Williams syndrome
Authors: Bar Ela , Fischer Inbar , Rokach May , Elad‐Sfadia Galit , Shirenova Sophie , Ophir Omer , Trangle Sari Schokoroy , Okun Eitan , Barak Boaz
Published: March 2024

Williams syndrome (WS) is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a heterozygous microdeletion, characterized by hypersociability and unique neurocognitive abnormalities. Of the deleted genes, GTF2I has been linked to hypersociability in WS. We have recently shown that Gtf2i deletion from forebrain excitatory neurons, referred to as Gtf2i conditional knockout (cKO) mice leads to multi‐faceted myelination deficits associated with the social behaviors affected in WS. These deficits were potentially mediated also by microglia, as they present a close relationship with oligodendrocytes. To study the impact of altered myelination, we characterized these mice in terms of microglia over the course of development. In postnatal day 30 (P30) Gtf2i cKO mice, cortical microglia displayed a more ramified state, as compared with wild type (controls). However, postnatal day 4 (P4) microglia exhibited high proliferation rates and an elevated activation state, demonstrating altered properties related to activation and inflammation in Gtf2i cKO mice compared with control. Intriguingly, P4 Gtf2i cKO‐derived microglial cells exhibited significantly elevated myelin phagocytosis in vitro compared to control mice. Lastly, systemic injection of clemastine to P4 Gtf2i cKO and control mice until P30, led to a significant interaction between genotypes and treatments on the expression levels of the phagocytic marker CD68, and a significant reduction of the macrophage/microglial marker Iba1 transcript levels in the cortex of the Gtf2i cKO treated mice. Our data thus implicate microglia as important players in WS, and that early postnatal manipulation of microglia might be beneficial in treating inflammatory and myelin‐related pathologies.
Acceptance of peer physical examination in medical students in Wuhan, China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Khadour Younes A. , Khadour Ahmad M. , Ebrahem Bashar M. , Khadour Fater A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Peer physical examination (PPE) is an essential part of the education of medical students. This study aimed to assess the acceptance level of PPE in Chinese society as well as other related factors. While there have been numerous studies on PPE acceptance in Western societies, there have been relatively few studies on this topic in China.

Methods

A questionnaire was distributed via social media to clinical‐year medical students in China. With 1890 students participating overall, the response rate was 86.9%. The questionnaire collected demographic information and previous experience with PPE, and utilized a 5‐point Likert scale to assess acceptance of PPE and factors influencing it.

Results

One thousand six hundred and forty‐four percent of Chinese medical students accepted PPE, with 13% rejecting it and 19% neutral. Males were more accepting of PPE than females, and females were less accepting of being examined by someone of the opposite gender. The groin/thigh and breast areas were the most rejected for examination. There were no significant differences in acceptance rates between universities or academic performance groups. However, society had a significant impact on the acceptance of PPE.

Conclusions

With a 67% acceptance rate of PPE among Chinese medical students, it could be considered a viable alternative to absent life models in Chinses universities. However, implementing PPE may come with its own set of difficulties, so it is recommended that a supervisor is present and that single‐gender groups are formed, with friends paired together if possible.
Efficacy and tolerability of Helicobacter pylori eradication regimes in South Kivu, Eastern of the Democratic Republic of Congo: A single center observational study
Authors: Shindano Tony A. , Masimango Manix I. , Kishabongo Antoine S.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Treating Helicobacter pylori infections has become a major challenge due to increased antibiotic resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of the main standard regimens recommended for H. pylori eradication in Bukavu, Eastern of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Methods

The study enrolled patients with evidence of H. pylori infection in histological examination or serology testing combined with a positive fecal antigen test. As first‐line treatment, patients were randomized to either a 10‐days (OAC‐10) or a 14‐days (OAC‐14) regimen, employing a combination of omeprazole 20 mg, amoxicillin 1 g, and clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily. In case of failure, a second line regimen was evaluated and included two others protocols: OAC‐10 regimen + levofloxacin 500 mg (OAC‐10+) and the bismuth‐based therapy (pantoprazole + bismuth salt + metronidazole + tetracycline) during 10 days. Our primary endpoint was H. pylori eradication and secondarily, the compliance and adverse effects were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 179 patients were enrolled. The eradication rate was 79.2% and 80.5% with the OAC‐10 and OAC‐14 regimen, respectively (p = 0.796). Adverse effects were significant higher in the OAC‐14 group than in the OAC‐10 group (36.5% vs. 57.8%; p < 0.001). On the other hand, the compliance rate was slightly higher in the OAC‐10 group (97.9% vs. 91.6%, p = 0.052) while clinical improvement was almost similar in both groups. Regarding the second line regimen, the bismuth‐based therapy (n = 18) seemed to show a better response with 100% of eradication rate and 100% of clinical improvement.

Conclusion

The classic 10‐days triple therapy seems to be as effective as the 14‐days regimen while having in addition a good tolerance. Apart from cost issues, the bismuth‐based therapy seems to be a very good alternative in case of first‐line treatment failure.
Does the duration of diabetes increase the risk of cancer? A nationwide population‐based cohort of patients with new‐onset diabetes and a matched reference cohort
Authors: Lohi Petrus , Auvinen Anssi , Niskanen Leo , Partonen Timo , Haukka Jari
Published: March 2024

Diabetes mellitus and cancer are both common health issues, but the correlation between these two diseases remains unclear. We investigated the association of cumulative exposure of diabetes mellitus as an indication of hyperglycemia in terms of disease duration on multiple cancer types. We hypothesized that the risk of cancer would increase over time after the onset of diabetes. The study population consisted of a population‐based cohort of 398,708 people and it was constructed from the Finnish CARING project. The Diabetes group consisted of 185,258 individuals, and the non‐diabetic reference group comprised 187,921 individuals. Over 4.1 million person‐years were accumulated, and the median follow‐up time was 10.55 years. In the diabetes group, 25,899 cancer cases were observed compared with 23,900 cancers in the non‐diabetic group. We did not find a clear relationship between the duration of diabetes mellitus and most cancer types examined. However, for cancers of the pancreas, prostate gland, bronchus, and lungs, a temporal relationship was found. Furthermore, even within the cancer types where the relationship was detected, it did not change over time. These findings indicate that diabetes does not independently increase the risk of cancer. Instead, the development of diabetes may be attributed to shared risk factors with cancer, such as obesity and/or insulin resistance accompanied by hyperinsulinemia. Thus, it is likely that the clock for increased cancer risk starts ticking already before onset of diabetes and hyperglycemia.
Directors' and officers' liability insurance and minority shareholders' participation in corporate governance
Authors: Zhang Ruigang , Yang Runze , Huo Hanwen
Published: March 2024

This study empirically investigates the influence of directors' and officers' liability insurance (D&O insurance) on minority shareholders' participation in corporate governance. Using a sample from Chinese A‐share listed companies between 2011 and 2018, we find that D&O insurance can significantly decrease the participation of minority shareholders, and this conclusion remains valid after robustness checks. The mechanism analysis demonstrates that D&O insurance plays a positive role in diminishing minority shareholders' participation through the enhancement of firm performance. Further analyses suggest that the negative association between D&O insurance and minority shareholders' participation is more pronounced in firms with weaker corporate governance practices. These findings provide evidence for the supervisory governance role of D&O insurance, suggesting China should consider encouraging listed companies to purchase D&O insurance for the protection of minority shareholders.
Prostate brachytherapy seed migration to the right renal artery due to right‐to‐left shunting across a patent foramen ovale
Authors: Nakiri Makoto , Ueda Kosuke , Hoshino Ryuji , Ito Naoki , Kurose Hirofumi , Nohara Shoichiro , Muraki Koichiro , Hattori Chikayuki , Ogo Etsuyo , Igawa Tsukasa
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The seeds used in brachytherapy for prostate cancer may migrate through the surrounding venous plexus to other sites in the body, most commonly to the pulmonary vasculature.

Case presentation

A 78‐year‐old Japanese man received iodine‐125 low‐dose‐rate prostate brachytherapy. Computed tomography revealed that one seed had migrated to the right kidney. No seed was observed in the ureter upon ureteroscopy. Transesophageal echocardiography confirmed a right‐to‐left shunt due to a patent foramen ovale, suggesting that the seed had migrated into the right renal artery. Three years after treatment, no recurrence of prostate cancer and no adverse events due to seed migration or due to the patent foramen ovale occurred.

Conclusion

Arteriovenous malformations and a right‐to‐left shunt should be suspected if a brachytherapy seed has migrated to an artery of the systemic circulatory system.
Diagnostic approaches for monkeypox virus
Authors: Fan Guohao , Kuang Jiahua , Zhang Shengjie , Yang Yang , Liu Yingxia , Lu Hongzhou
Published: March 2024

Mpox (formerly Monkeypox) is a zoonotic infection caused by Monkeypox virus (MPXV). Since 2022, Mpox epidemics have occurred in many non‐endemic countries and regions, leading the World Health Organization to declare a public health emergency of international concern. With the persistent transmission and evolution of MPXV, symptoms of Mpox have become milder, with some infections being asymptomatic. In addition, MPXV has become more contagious. Therefore, rapid and accurate diagnosis and screening of MPXV is vital to prevent and control MPXV epidemics. Here, we review and summarize the technical details, application scenarios, and the advantages and disadvantages of MPXV‐specific diagnostic methods.
Biophysical characteristics, distribution and conservation challenges of critically endangered Bhutan poppy (Papaver bhutanicum) in Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan
Authors: Dendup Pema , Kuenzang Pema , Dorji Tandin , Wangchuk Wangchuk
Published: March 2024

The occurrence of certain rare plant species in specific ecological habitats is intricately linked to a myriad of environmental conditions, encompassing both biotic and abiotic factors. The prioritisation of monitoring efforts becomes more impactful when conservationists possess a comprehensive understanding of the ecology and distribution of rare species within their designated habitats and across the entire range of the species. In September 2023, a study was conducted in Jigme Dorji National Park to assess the ecology, distribution and threats to the critically endangered Bhutan poppy. This survey, employing random sampling, covered approximately 87 ha across Tshophu, Tshophu base and Jichudrakey base in Soe Gewog and analysed 202 2 × 2 m plots. The survey revealed 57 plant species from 24 families, with Asteraceae (17.5%) and Papaveraceae (12.3%) dominating. Notably, 46% of families comprised a single species, and significant species richness differences were observed between Tshophu, Tshophu base and Jichudrakey base. Correlations between species richness and environmental variables, including slope, rock cover (%), bare soil cover (%) and herb cover (%), were identified as significant. The Bhutan poppy was positively and significantly associated with the southwest aspect, occupying 59% of surveyed plots. Species distribution modelling predicted a distribution area of approximately 37.29 square kilometres within the national park. However, future climate scenarios indicated a significant shift in the distribution of the Bhutan poppy. By 2041–2060, there is an anticipated decrease of 33% in its distribution area, with a shift towards the northeast. In the period from 2061 to 2080, the distribution is expected to increase by 8% from its current range, maintaining the northeast shift. The study identified three primary threats: grazing, trampling and harvesting, with livestock activities prevalent in 92% of plots and signs of harvesting in 45%. These findings provide crucial insights into the ecological dynamics, distribution patterns and potential conservation challenges facing the Bhutan poppy in Jigme Dorji National Park's alpine habitats, emphasising the need for informed conservation strategies amidst changing environmental conditions.