bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Evaluation of Apical Debris Extrusion from the Root Canal using Hand Files, Continuous Rotary Files and Reciprocating File System: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Singh Gagandeep , Kukreja Navneet , Dhawan Rajan , Thakur Anamika , Kaur Sunpreet , Chhabra Swati
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Root canal preparation is an important step of endodontic therapy. For successful endodontic therapy apical extrusion of debris through the apical foramen into the periradicular region should be minimal to avoid postoperative complication such as flare-ups. Aim: To evaluate in-vitro, extrusion of apical debris from the root canal using continuous rotary files (using multiple files system and single rotary file system), reciprocating file system and hand files. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro research was carried out in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, MM college of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India, from November 2017 to January 2018. A total of 120 human mandibular premolar teeth that were caries free and single-rooted were split into four groups (each group with n=30) Group I: Hand ProTaper, Group II: Protaper Universal, Group III: F360 and Group IV: WaveOne Gold file system. The root canal was instrumented according to manufacturer’s Instructions; and standardised irrigation with distilled water was performed. The Myers and Montgomery’s Model was employed to gather irrigant and debris that had been apically ejected. The analysis of data obtained was done using Post-hoc Bonferroni test, Oneway Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired t-test. Results: The findings indicate that all instrumentation techniques produced significant amount of extruded debris and irrigant. The mean apical debris extrusion using the One-way ANOVA test showed significant difference (p-value<0.001). WaveOne Gold file group showed least (0.0005±0.0001 mg) and Hand ProTaper file showed maximum (0.0017±0.0002) apical debris and irrigant extrusion. Conclusion: Less apical extrusion of irrigant and debris was observed in the engine-driven nickel-titanium systems than manual technique. Reciprocating file system when compared with hand and continuous rotary file system showed less debris extrusion.
A BAN ON THE EXPORT OF EU GOODS TO RUSSIA
Authors: GWARDZIŃSKA Ewa , CHACKIEWICZ Małgorzata
Published: July 2023

This article analyzes the ban on the export of goods from the EU to Russia, with particular emphasis on dual-use goods and export controls. In the current political situation, these controls pose a serious challenge to EU exporters, who have been placed under an additional obligation to reliably verify recipients, intermediaries, and, above all, the type of goods being shipped, in terms of compliance with the regulations governing exports. The catch-all clause is also discussed. On the one hand, this allows a great deal of discretion within the competence of the Member State when deciding whether a given good, its elements, or its ownership rights should be controlled. On the other, the exchange of information on licensing decisions between the licensing and customs authorities of the Member States and the Commission contributes to further harmonization of the practical application of the law by introducing a new dual-use control enforcement coordination mechanism. This is aimed at improving cooperation between law enforcement agencies, and exchanging best practices.
THE US–KENYA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT: A GATEWAY OF CLOSER COMMERCIAL COOPERATION WITH AFRICA
Authors: JUREŃCZYK Łukasz , SZATLACH Maria Ewa
Published: July 2023

The subject of this paper is the legitimacy and purpose of concluding a free trade agreement (FTA) between the USA and Kenya. The main research problem lies in whether the US-Kenya FTA can become a template for strengthening trade cooperation between the US and Africa and strengthening the American economic position on the continent. The main hypothesis is that the successful negotiations leading to the conclusion of an FTA, satisfactory for both the US and Kenya, might motivate other African countries to negotiate with the US in this regard. The US-Kenya FTA could become a model document, helping the US and African countries to negotiate free trade cooperation. It may prove to be a milestone on the road to closer economic cooperation between the United States and Africa.
CHALLENGES DETERMINING THE SUCCESS AND FAILURE OF A STARTUP IN THE OPINION OF REPRESENTATIVES OF GENERATION Z IN POLAND
Authors: NIGBOR-DROŻDŻ Angelika , ŁUKASIŃSKI Wiesław
Published: July 2023

The aim of this article is to identify the challenges faced by startups and determine their impact on the possibility of success or failure. It achieves its goal by reviewing the literature on the subject, conducting a survey, and employing statistical methods. The paper presents research conducted among Generation Z. From the results, it can be concluded that key factors in the success of a startup include the ability to take risks, obtain financing for development, gain a competitive advantage, find a scalable and repeatable business model, and implement effective marketing and promotion activities. According to the respondents, the biggest factor in the failure of a startup is lack of knowledge about the market and customer needs, as well as legal, accounting, and tax issues.
LEVELS OF ROAD SAFETY IN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND ITS SPATIAL DIVERSITY
Authors: ŚLUSARCZYK Bogusław , KOZŁOWSKA Małgorzata A.
Published: July 2023

Road safety is one of the most important global social issues. According to data from the United Nations, every year, around 1.2 million people worldwide die as a result of road accidents; that is, on average, one person dies every 30 seconds. Children and teenagers make up 40% of the fatalities. An additional 30–50 million people are injured as a result of these accidents; some of them become permanently disabled. The main types of accident risks are well documented; they concern a large range of factors, most often related to the behavior of drivers, especially in terms of speed. This article ranks the European Union countries in 2004 and 2018 by their levels of road safety. Four groups of countries are distinguished: very high, moderate, low, and very low levels of road safety.
A Qualitative Study of Managerial Factors Influencing the Performance of Shehia Administration Practice in Urban District Unguja
Authors: Rashid Rahma Juma , Waqif Ruqayyah Mohammed , Abdallah Ahmed Ally , Hamad Abdalla Ussi
Published: July 2023

The main concern of this paper is to explore the managerial factors influencing the performance of Shehia administration practices in Urban District Unguja. The study adopted a case study design. The data was collected through face to face interviews and focus group discussion with the total of 44 respondents selected purposively from the four Shehias of Urban District Unguja. Qualitative Data were analyzed by thematic Analysis.

The findings of this study revealed that there are themes of factors that influence the performance of Shehia administration practices in Urban District Unguja such as the, lack of autonomy in decision making process, low co-operation between local government and Shehias, as well as inadequate resources and facilities. Therefore, through this study; the researcher recommends that there should be intervention of government to support Shehias in establishing economic projects. Provision of adequate and modern equipment on the Shehia administration activities; performing ongoing training to the Shehas and establishment of good policy that will allow a competent Shehas to be appointed to the position of Shehas so as to make sure administration activities is being done effectively.
In-situ Rice Residue Management Practices and Its Impact on Climate, Soil Fertility and Crop Productivity: A Review
Authors: Pachauri Roop Kishor , Yadav R. B. , Nath Ashish , Patel Jay Nath , Alam Mohd Shah , Kumar Amit
Published: July 2023

Around two-thirds of all food contributes in India is produced in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP), where rice and wheat are the two main crops. In India, rice is grown on the largest percentage of land (32%) followed by wheat (23%). Reusing rice residues has an impact on the soil's characteristics and crop yield. Rice residues are significant natural resources. With a total yield of 10 to 12 t/ha, a rice-wheat sequence depletes the soil of more than 300 kg N, 30 kg P, and 300 kg K per ha. Residue burning results in nutrient losses of 100% C, 90% N, 60% S, and 25% each of P and K. Air pollution has a negative impact on health, including respiratory conditions, eye and skin irritation, and other conditions. An analysis has been done based on the stated research findings from various researchers. It is necessary to study and update the technology in order to prevent residues from burning in the rice and wheat cropping system. A good alternative for their management is to in-situ incorporate rice wastes with microbial consortia in wheat crops. Increased yield, water productivity, and profitability can be achieved by incorporating microbial consortia, while Phaleris minor weed is reduced, further enhancements to soil quality. Because rice residues are a substantial source of plant nutrients, applying them continuously will improve fertiliser management and reduce air pollution.
Performance of Valeriana jatamansi in Hill Zone of West Bengal Concerning Manure Sources
Authors: Roy Koushik , Tarafder Hriday Kamal , Baskey Sibdas
Published: July 2023

The organic source of nutrients would be a promising practice for Valeriana jatamansi cultivation which maintains its curative value. A set of experiments was conducted at Hill Zone of West Bengal, Kalimpong for two consecutive cycles to standardize organic nutrient management in V. jatamansi for optimum growth and economic yield. Different organic sources of nutrients such as farm yard manure (FYM), bio-fertilizer (BF), and vermicompost (VC) were applied at various doses along with a recommended dose. We applied the treatments as follows: T1= FYM (5 t.ha-1), T2= VC (2 t.ha-1), T3= FYM (5 t.ha-1) + VC (2 t ha-1), T4= FYM (5 t.ha-1) + PSB, T5= VC (2 t.ha-1) + PSB, T6= FYM (5 t.ha-1) + VC (2 t.ha-1) + PSB, T7= Control, T8= RDF through inorganic fertilizers (50:25:25 kg.ha-1 as N, P2O5, and K2O). The use of organic manures and PSB significantly (P<0.05) increased the rhizome yield and soil-available macronutrients in V. jatamansi due to the release of nutrients from the decomposition of organic manures. The addition of T6 resulted in a maximum canopy height (18.28 cm), plant fresh biomass (16.42 t.ha-1), dry biomass (3.19 t.ha-1), rhizome fresh weight (3.16 t.ha-1), and dry weight (1.16 t.ha-1), as well as highest organic carbon content (0.75%), nitrogen (221 kg.ha-1), phosphorus (46.70 kg.ha-1), and potassium (201 kg.ha-1). Applying FYM, vermicompost, and PSB combination would be a promising strategy for growing V. jatamansi.
A Patient in Their 70s With Bright Red Blood in the Pericardiocentesis Catheter
Authors: Tokic Tomislav , Burcar Ivan , Gasparovic Hrvoje
Published: July 2023

This case report discusses a finding of blood in the pericardiocentesis catheter of a patient with a recent history of aortic valve replacement and recurrent postsurgical pericardial and pleural effusions.
Internet Searches for Self-Managed Abortion After Roe v Wade Overturned
Authors: Flores Lidia , Kelani Zeyad , Chandwani Carrie , Young Sean D.
Published: July 2023

This cross-sectional study used search data from Google Trends to estimate public interest in self-managed abortion.
Subacute aphasia recovery is associated with resting‐state connectivity within and beyond the language network
Authors: Stockbridge Melissa D. , Faria Andreia V. , Fridriksson Julius , Rorden Chris , Bonilha Leonardo , Hillis Argye E.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To examine changes to connectivity after aphasia treatment in the first 3 months after stroke.

Methods

Twenty people experiencing aphasia within the first 3 months of stroke completed MRI before and immediately following 15 hours of language treatment. They were classified based on their response to treatment on a naming test of nouns as either high responders (10% improvement or more), or low responders (<10% improvement). Groups were similar in age, gender distribution, education, days since stroke, stroke volume, and baseline severity. Resting‐state functional connectivity analysis was limited to the connectivity of the left fusiform gyrus with the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus, supramarginal gyrus, angular gyrus, and superior, middle, and inferior temporal gyrus, based on previous studies showing the importance of left fusiform gyrus in naming performance.

Results

Baseline ipsilateral connectivity between the left fusiform gyrus and the language network was similar between high and low responders to therapy when controlling for stroke volume. Following therapy, change in connectivity was significantly greater among high responders between the left fusiform gyrus and the ipsilateral and contralateral pars triangularis, ipsilateral pars opercularis and superior temporal gyrus, and contralateral angular gyrus when compared with low responders.

Interpretation

An account of these findings incorporates primarily proximal connectivity restoration, but also potentially reflects select contralateral compensatory reorganization. The latter is often associated with chronic recovery, reflecting the transitional nature of the subacute period.
Patterns of Imaging Requests By General Practitioners for People With Musculoskeletal Complaints: An Analysis From a Primary Care Database
Authors: Haas Romi , Gorelik Alexandra , O'Connor Denise A. , Pearce Christopher , Mazza Danielle , Buchbinder Rachelle
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine imaging requested by general practitioners (GPs) for patients with low back, neck, shoulder, and knee complaints over 5 years (2014–2018).

Methods

This analysis from the Australian Population Level Analysis and Reporting database included patients presenting with a diagnosis of low back, neck, shoulder, and/or knee complaints. Eligible imaging requests included low back and neck x‐ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); knee x‐ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound; and shoulder x‐ray, MRI, and ultrasound. We determined number of imaging requests and examined their timing, associated factors, and trends over time. Primary analysis included imaging requests from 2 weeks before diagnosis to 1 year after diagnosis.

Results

There were 133,279 patients (57% low back, 25% knee, 20% shoulder, and 11% neck complaints). Imaging was most common among those with a shoulder (49%) complaint, followed by knee (43%), neck (34%), and low back complaints (26%). Most requests occurred simultaneously with the diagnosis. Imaging modality varied by body region and, to a lesser extent, by gender, socioeconomic status, and primary health network. For low back, there was a 1.3% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.0–1.6) annual increase in proportion of MRI and a concomitant 1.3% (95% CI 0.8–1.8) decrease in CT requests. For neck, there was a 3.0% (95% CI 2.1–3.9) annual increase in proportion of MRI and a concomitant 3.1% (95% CI 2.2–4.0) decrease in x‐ray requests.

Conclusion

GPs commonly request early diagnostic imaging for musculoskeletal complaints at odds with recommended practice. We observed a trend towards more complex imaging for neck and back complaints.
Processing of Ceramics from Polysil(sesquioxane)‐Type Precursors: Coatings, Tapes, Tailored Surfaces, and Porosity Control
Authors: Scheffler Michael
Published: July 2023

Poly(silsesquioxane)‐based polymer‐derived ceramics (PDCs), may be manufactured by a great variety of processes and process combinations leading to ceramic parts seven with high functionality. Advantage of the use of poly(silsesquioxane)s as starting materials with a defined amount of oxygen is that low‐temperature‐processing steps such as shaping and cross‐linking may be carried out in air, and a disadvantage often discussed is a maximum service temperature below 1200 °C. In this article, the focus is set to PDC tapes, coatings, tailored surfaces, and tailored porosity. And, a rough distinction is made between materials pyrolyzed below 1200 °C and far above 1200 °C. The later provides porosity formed by high‐temperature reactions between particulate fillers and the ceramic residue from pyrolysis.
Influence of the Chemical Composition and Topography of the Ti6Al7Nb Surface Etched in Fluorine Plasma on Its Selected Properties
Authors: Jedrzejczak Anna , Paluch Mateusz , Makowka Marcin
Published: July 2023

Herein, a new way of the surface modification of Ti6Al7Nb alloy in fluorine plasma is presented using the mask made of stainless steel and its influence on the selected properties, including chemical composition, topography, and tribological ones. Depending on the etching process parameters, different characteristics of the surfaces are obtained. The higher is the value of the negative bias, the less fluorine concentration on the etched surface and higher etching rates. Etching using the SF6 gas shows bigger etching rates in comparison to the etching using the CF4 gas. Chemical composition of the modified surfaces shows greater impact on tribological characteristics than topography parameters. The lowest wear rate is observed for the sample modified using the CF4 gas.
Mechanical Properties of Highly Deformable Elastomeric Gyroids for Multifunctional Capacitors
Authors: Baker Emilie R. , Ly Khoi , Bosnjak Nikola , O’Neill Maura R. , Miller Rachel , Li Sandra , Shepherd Robert F. , Silberstein Meredith N.
Published: July 2023

Triply periodic minimal surface lattices have mechanical properties that derive from the unit cell geometry and the base material. Through computation software like nTopology and Abaqus, these geometries are used to tune nonlinear stress–strain curves not readily achievable with solid materials alone and to change the compliance by two orders of magnitude compared to the constituent material. In this study, four elastomeric TPMS gyroids undergo large deformation compression and tension testing to investigate the impact of the structure's geometry on the mechanical properties. Among all the samples, the modulus at strain ε varies by over one order of magnitude (7.7–293.4 kPa from FEA under compression). These lattices are promising candidates for designing multifunctional systems that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously by leveraging the geometry's large surface area to volume ratio. For example, the architectural functionality of the lattice to bear loads and store mechanical energy along with the larger surface area for energy storage is combined. A compliant double‐gyroid capacitor that can simultaneously achieve three functions is demonstrated: load bearing, energy storage, and sensing.
Advanced Printing Transfer of Assembled Silver Nanowire Network into Elastomer for Constructing Stretchable Conductors
Authors: Yang Yuanhang , Li Wuwei , Sreenivasan Narayanan Sreenivasan , Wang Xuewei , Zhao Hong
Published: July 2023

Excellent electrical performance of assemblies of 1D silver nanowires (AgNWs) has been demonstrated in the past years. Up to now, however, there are limited approaches to realize simultaneously deterministic assembly with dense arrangement of AgNWs and desired functional layouts. Herein, an assembly strategy from compressed air‐modulated alignment of AgNWs to heterogeneous integration of stretchable sensing devices through printing transfer is proposed. In this process, a convective flow induced by compressed air brings the AgNWs to the air–droplet interface, where the AgNWs are assembled with excellent alignment and packing due to the surface flow, van der Waals, and capillary interactions. Compared with those random AgNWs networks, the oriented, densely packed AgNWs exhibit a lower and uniform electrical sheet resistance. To incorporate the AgNWs to an elastomer substrate, direct ink writing is employed to transfer the assembled AgNW network to the printed silicone elastomer with desirable patterns. Excellent electrical property is demonstrated including a wide electrical response range from 10% to 120% strain, and high electrical repeatability. An antibacterial property is confirmed, notifying additional benefit as wearable sensors. The printing transfer of preassembled AgNW networks to the printed elastomer patterns provides a facile strategy to construct stretchable electronic devices.
Liquid–Solid Triboelectric Probes for Real‐Time Monitoring of Sucrose Fluid Status
Authors: Liu Tao , Mo Wenfeng , Zou Xuelian , Luo Bin , Zhang Song , Liu Yanhua , Cai Chenchen , Chi Mingchao , Wang Jinlong , Wang Shuangfei , Lu Dengjun , Nie Shuangxi
Published: July 2023

Triboelectric probes have rapidly developed as an efficient tool for understanding contact electrification at liquid–solid interfaces. However, the liquid–solid electrification process is susceptible to interference from chemical components in mixed solutions, severely limiting the potential applications of triboelectric probes in various liquid environments. This study for the first time reports a triboelectric probe capable of sucrose solution concentration sensing, finding that the dissolution of sucrose destroys the hydrogen bond network between water molecules and forms sucrose–water hydrogen bonds, which alters the fluid mechanics characteristics of the solution and enhances its conductivity, thereby reducing the droplet size and causing an ion charge shielding effect that significantly affects the electron transfer in liquid–solid contact electrification. Owing to the feedback of the triboelectric probe on the sucrose concentration gradient‐type sensing electrical signals, efficient sensing of sucrose solution was achieved (sensitivity of −0.0038%−1, response time of 90 ms). The triboelectric probe is also used as a wireless smart terminal to enable real‐time detection of sucrose solution. This work contributes to the understanding of the structure–function relationship between micro hydrogen bonding and macro performance, and provides a promising solution for building sustainable intelligent sensors.
Plasmonic Nanoneedle Arrays with Enhanced Hot Electron Photodetection for Near‐IR Imaging
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Huang Binglin , Li Haoyu , Chen Hui , Yu Tong , Zhang Bingchang , Wang Shaojun , Liu Changxu , Luo Yu , Maier Stefan A. , Li Xiaofeng
Published: July 2023

Hot electron photodetection based on metallic nanostructures is attracting significant attention due to its potential to overcome the limitation of the traditional semiconductor bandgap. To enable efficient hot electron photodetection for practical applications, it is necessary to achieve broadband and perfect light absorption within extremely thin plasmonic nanostructures using cost‐effective fabrication techniques. In this study, an ultrahigh optical absorption (up to 97.3% in average across the spectral range of 1200−2400 nm) is demonstrated in the ultrathin plasmonic nanoneedle arrays (NNs) with thickness of 10 nm, based on an all‐wet metal‐assisted chemical etching process. The efficient hot electron generation, transport, and injection at the nanoscale apex of the nanoneedles facilitate the photodetector to achieve a record low noise equivalent power (NEP) of 4.4 × 10−12 W Hz−0.5 at the wavelength of 1300 nm. The hot‐electron generation and injection process are elucidated through a transport model based on a Monte Carlo approach, which quantitatively matches the experimental data. The photodetector is further integrated into a light imaging system, as a demonstration of the exceptional imaging capabilities at the near‐IR regime. The study presents a lithography‐free, scalable, and cost‐effective approach to enhance hot electron photodetection, with promising prospects for future imaging systems.
Biomimetic Artificial Tetrachromatic Photoreceptors Based on Fully Light‐Controlled 2D Transistors
Authors: Wu Rongqi , Liu Xiaochi , Yuan Yahua , Wang Zhongwang , Jing Yumei , Sun Jian
Published: July 2023

Artificial photoreceptors offer a promising solution for developing biomimetic vision systems that incorporate in‐sensor processing, which can greatly reduce power consumption and operation latency compared to traditional machine vision systems. This work presents a tetrachromatic optical synaptic device based on a 2D tungsten diselenide optoelectronic p‐type transistor with a unique UV light‐activated surface electron doping layer. Fully light‐controlled bidirectional synaptic excitation and inhibition are demonstrated with visible and UV light stimuli, respectively, with a reasonable power density of <10 mW cm−2 that matches the imaging condition of a biological vision. The weight updates of up to 64 states, high dynamic range, and low nonlinearity are demonstrated for long‐term potentiation and depression behaviors. This artificial tetrachromatic photoreceptor can mimic the alert and foraging behaviors of a reindeer with low power consumption and enhanced signal contrast. Furthermore, it can be employed as an intelligent collision detection solution with in‐sensor processing capabilities. This bioinspired tetrachromatic photoreceptor offers a low‐cost, energy‐efficient, and low‐latency solution for future artificial machines.
Enhancing Photocatalytic‐Transfer Semi‐Hydrogenation of Alkynes Over Pd/C3N4 Through Dual Regulation of Nitrogen Defects and the Mott–Schottky Effect
Authors: Hu Yaning , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Zedong , Zhou Hexin , Li Bing , Sun Zhiyi , Hu Xuemin , Yang Wenxiu , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Yu , Liu Shuhu , Wang Dingsheng , Lin Jie , Chen Wenxing , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2023

The selective hydrogenation of alkynes is an important reaction; however, the catalytic activity and selectivity in this reaction are generally conflicting. In this study, ultrafine Pd nanoparticles (NPs) loaded on a graphite‐like C3N4 structure with nitrogen defects (Pd/DCN) are synthesized. The resulting Pd/DCN exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance in the transfer hydrogenation of alkynes with ammonia borane. The reaction rate and selectivity of Pd/DCN are superior to those of Pd/BCN (bulk C3N4 without nitrogen defects) under visible‐light irradiation. The characterization results and density functional theory calculations show that the Mott–Schottky effect in Pd/DCN can change the electronic density of the Pd NPs, and thus enhances the hydrogenation selectivity toward phenylacetylene. After 1 h, the hydrogenation selectivity of Pd/DCN reaches 95%, surpassing that of Pd/BCN (83%). Meanwhile, nitrogen defects in the supports improve the visible‐light response and accelerate the transfer and separation of photogenerated charges to enhance the catalytic activity of Pd/DCN. Therefore, Pd/DCN exhibits higher efficiency under visible light, with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 2002 min−1. This TOF is five times that of Pd/DCN under dark conditions and 1.5 times that of Pd/BCN. This study provides new insights into the rational design of high‐performance photocatalytic transfer hydrogenation catalysts.
Synthesis of 2‐Perfluoroalkylazuleno[2,1‐d]pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones via Brønsted Acid‐Mediated Intramolecular Cyclization and Transformation into Pyrimidines
Authors: Shoji Taku , Ariga Yukino , Sakata Naoko , Ando Daichi , Mori Shigeki , Okujima Tetsuo , Sekiguchi Ryuta , Ito Shunji
Published: July 2023

Brønsted acid‐mediated intramolecular cyclization of 2‐amidoazulene derivatives, prepared by the reaction of 1‐cyano‐2‐aminoazulene derivatives with perfluoroalkyl acid anhydrides, resulted in the formation of 2‐perfluoroalkylazuleno[2,1‐d]pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones. Heating of these products in phosphoryl chloride led to 4‐chloro‐2‐perfluoroalkylazuleno[2,1‐d]pyrimidines. We also evaluated the reactivity of these pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones and pyrimidine derivatives toward the electrophilic and nucleophilic substitution reactions, revealing that a variety of functional groups can be incorporated into these derivatives. The NMR studies, NICS calculations, and single‐crystal X‐ray structure analyses revealed structural features including the bond‐length alternation of the azuleno[2,1‐d]pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones and pyrimidine derivatives.
Fluorescent poly[N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide] nanogel by dispersion polymerization as a contrast agent for live‐cell imaging
Authors: Šálek Petr , Zbořilová Daniela , Pavlova Ewa , Kočková Olga , Konefał Rafał , Morávková Zuzana , Janoušková Olga
Published: July 2023

Here, we report a novel dispersion polymerization for the preparation of cross‐linked poly[N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide] (PHPMA)‐based nanogels in water/2‐methoxyethanol mixture (H2O/MetCel), initiated with potassium persulfate (KPS), and stabilized with poly(vinyl alcohol) 25/140 (PVA) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Obtained nanogels were characterized using transmission (TEM) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation (A4F), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and Raman spectroscopy methods in terms of size, particle size distribution, morphology, and structure. N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (HPMA) was copolymerized with 20 wt% ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA) resulting in 138 nm poly[N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate] (PHPMA‐EDMA) nanogel dispersion with irregular shape and core‐shell type structure. Next, we copolymerized HPMA with 20 wt% EDMA and 10 wt% propargyl methacrylate (PMA) to incorporate reactive functionality into the final core‐shell type 120 nm poly[N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate‐co‐propargyl methacrylate] (PHPMA‐EDMA‐PMA) nanogel dispersion. Then, the biocompatibility of PHPMA‐EDMA‐PMA nanogel was proved using rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSC), and human foreskin fibroblasts (BJ). PHPMA‐EDMA‐PMA nanogel was fluorescently labeled with sulfo‐cyanine3 azide resulting in 131 nm nanogel. We performed in vitro uptake studies with fluorescently labeled PHPMA‐EDMA‐PMA nanogel using rMSC showing that the fluorescently labeled PHPMA‐EDMA‐PMA nanogel was well‐distributed in the cytosol and taken up into lysosomes.
Enhancing high‐temperature breakdown strength of polyetherimide dielectric nanocomposites with MgO nanosheets by inhibiting charge migration
Authors: Li Hongye , Du Mingyue , Yang Xuelin , Liu Xiaolin
Published: July 2023

Polymer‐based dielectric nanocomposites with excellent high‐temperature energy storage performance are highly desirable in advanced electronic and power systems, but it remains a challenge to achieve superior breakdown strength at elevated temperatures. In this work, two‐dimensional (2D) magnesium oxide nanosheets (MgO NSs) are prepared by a hydrothermal method and used as fillers to fabricate MgO NSs/polyetherimide (PEI) dielectric nanocomposites. The effect of MgO NSs addition (1–4 wt%) on breakdown strength of MgO NSs/PEI nanocomposites is studied from 25 to 150°C. As a result, the nanocomposites containing 3 wt% MgO NSs obtain maximum breakdown strength of 538 kV mm−1 at 150°C, which is 25% higher than that of pure PEI and remains 92% of the room‐temperature value, accompany with an excellent discharged energy density of 3.66 J cm−3. The enhancement of breakdown strength could be attributed to the 2D structure and wide band gap (~7.8 eV) of MgO NSs, which act as barriers to suppress the electrical tree growth and create deep traps to capture charge, thus inhibiting the migration of charge carriers and suppressing electrical conduction. This work provides an effective approach for developing high‐temperature polymer‐based dielectric nanocomposites with high breakdown strength and discharged energy density.
Dual asynchronous control for T‐S fuzzy semi‐Markov jump systems: A finite‐time design
Authors: Fu Hang , Zhou Cheng , Ma Chao
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the control problem of Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy semi‐Markov jump systems (TFSMJSs) under the finite‐time analysis and synthesis framework. Due to the commonly used networked communication structure, the semi‐Markovian jumping modes and fuzzy premise variables cannot always perfectly match for system and controller among the whole system operation. More precisely, both asynchronous phenomena in fuzzy membership and jumping mode are taken into account, and then, mode‐dependent finite‐time controllers are developed with these features. By utilizing stochastic analysis and Lyapunov–Krasovskii stability theory, sufficient criteria are first established for the closed‐loop system in the context of mean‐square sense. Furthermore, feedback controller gains are captured by the matrix technique and parallel distributed compensation (PDC)‐related arguments. Eventually, a simulation example of an unmanned marine vehicle (UMV) is utilized to demonstrate the validity of the developed results.
An integrated fecal metabolomic based on 1H‐NMR and UPLC‐QTOF‐MS revealed the preventive mechanism of Gushudan on glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporotic rats
Authors: Xin Ling , Liu Shuo , Lou Yanwei , Zhang Jing , Lu Qing , Zhao Longshan , Wei Xiuyan , Xiong Zhili
Published: July 2023

Gushudan (GSD) has the effect of strengthening bones and nourishing kidneys. However, its specific intervention mechanism still remains unclear. In this study, to investigate the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIOP) and the preventive mechanism of GSD on GIOP, fecal metabolomics based on 1H‐NMR and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry method was established. The changes in endogenous metabolites and the relevant metabolic pathways in the control group, model group, and GSD treatment group were investigated via multivariate statistical analysis. As a result, a total of 39 differential metabolites were identified. Of these, 22 metabolites, such as L‐methionine, guanine, and sphingosine, were newly discovered as differential metabolites of GIOP. Amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, intestinal flora metabolism, and lipid metabolism were significantly changed in the fecal profiles of GIOP rats, and GSD could play an anti‐osteoporosis role by regulating these metabolic pathways. Finally, compared with our previous study of the GSD to prevent kidney yang deficiency syndrome, this study suggested that there were some identical differential metabolites and metabolic pathways. It showed that there was some correlation among the metabolic profiles of the intestine, kidney, and bone in GIOP rats. Therefore, this study offered new insights into the in‐depth understanding of the pathogenesis of GIOP and the intervention mechanism of GSD.
HMMR alleviates endoplasmic reticulum stress by promoting autophagolysosomal activity during endoplasmic reticulum stress‐driven hepatocellular carcinoma progression
Authors: He Lin , Li Hao , Li Can , Liu Ze‐Kun , Lu Meng , Zhang Ren‐Yu , Wu Dong , Wei Ding , Shao Jie , Liu Man , Wei Hao‐Lin , Zhang Cong , Wang Zhe , Kong Ling‐Min , Chen Zhi‐Nan , Bian Huijie
Published: July 2023

Background

The mechanism of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐induced carcinogenesis remains an area of interest. The accumulation of hepatitis B surface antigen in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of hepatocytes stimulates persistent ER stress. Activity of the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway of ER stress may play an important role in inflammatory cancer transformation. How the protective UPR pathway is hijacked by cells as a tool for malignant transformation in HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unclear. Here, we aimed to define the key molecule hyaluronan‐mediated motility receptor (HMMR) in this process and explore its role under ER stress in HCC development.

Methods

An HBV‐transgenic mouse model was used to characterize the pathological changes during the tumor progression. Proteomics and transcriptomics analyses were performed to identify the potential key molecule, screen the E3 ligase, and define the activation pathway. Quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting were conducted to detect the expression of genes in tissues and cell lines. Luciferase reporter assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation, coimmunoprecipitation, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence were employed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of HMMR under ER stress. Immunohistochemistry was used to clarify the expression patterns of HMMR and related molecules in human tissues.

Results

We found sustained activation of ER stress in the HBV‐transgenic mouse model of hepatitis‐fibrosis‐HCC. HMMR was transcribed by c/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and degraded by tripartite motif containing 29 (TRIM29) after ubiquitination under ER stress, which caused the inconsistent expression of mRNA and protein. Dynamic expression of TRIM29 in the HCC progression regulated the dynamic expression of HMMR. HMMR could alleviate ER stress by increasing autophagic lysosome activity. The negative correlation between HMMR and ER stress, positive correlation between HMMR and autophagy, and negative correlation between ER stress and autophagy were verified in human tissues.

Conclusions

This study identified the complicated role of HMMR in autophagy and ER stress, that HMMR controls the intensity of ER stress by regulating autophagy in HCC progression, which could be a novel explanation for HBV‐related carcinogenesis.
Effectiveness, safety, and impact on quality of life of eribulin‐based therapy in heavily pretreated patients with metastatic breast cancer: A real‐world analysis
Authors: Gui Xinyu , Liang Xu , Li Huiping
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Eribulin is currently recommended for the treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) pre‐treated with taxanes and anthracyclines. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of eribulin and its impact on health‐related quality of life in heavily pre‐treated patients with MBC.

Methods

Data from MBC patients who had received eribulin‐based therapy at Beijing Cancer Hospital between January 2020 and July 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), adverse effects (AEs) and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed.

Results

Data from 118 patients who had received eribulin to treat MBC were included. Median PFS was 4.2 months and median OS had not been reached. The ORR was 13.6% (16/118) and DCR was 75.4% (89/118). The median PFS in patients who received eribulin in second‐line (26/118), third‐line (29/118), or fourth‐line or later (63/118) was 4.5, 4.2, and 3.9 months, respectively. The median OS in patients who received eribulin in third‐ or later line (n = 92) was 14.1 months. Patients who received eribulin combination therapy had a significantly longer median PFS compared with those who received eribulin monotherapy (4.5 vs. 3.4 months, p = 0.007) and there was a trend towards a longer median OS (not reached vs. 12.1 months). The most common grade 3–4 adverse events were neutropenia (22.9%), leukocytopenia (13.6%) and asthenia/fatigue (8.5%), without significant differences in safety between eribulin monotherapy and combination therapy. Quality of life was similar in patients who received eribulin monotherapy and combination therapy, except for cognitive function and nausea and vomiting symptoms, which were better with combination therapy.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that eribulin‐based therapy is an effective treatment option and well tolerated for heavily pre‐treated patients with MBC. Eribulin combination therapy might improve PFS and HRQoL compared with eribulin monotherapy.
Lobe‐specific analysis of perioperative chemotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Lei Xi , Li Tong , Mao Fuling , Ren Fan , Tang Quanying , Cao Weibo , Zu Lingling , Xu Song
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Perioperative cisplatin‐based chemotherapy decreases the risk of death over surgery alone and is a standard of care. Here, we examined perioperative chemotherapy indications for stage IB‐III non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients according to lobe‐specific analysis.

Methods

Resectable NSCLC patients with stage IB–III who received perioperative chemotherapy with and without radiotherapy after lung resection were identified from the SEER database. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed to reduce the inherent bias of retrospective studies. The Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank tests were used to assess the differences in overall survival (OS).

Results

The study enrolled 23,844 patients before PSM. The perioperative chemotherapy group had better OS than the nonperioperative chemotherapy group in stage IB–III NSCLC patients before and after PSM. However, subgroup analysis according to stage demonstrated that perioperative chemotherapy did not markedly benefit patients with stage IB. Furthermore, lobar subgroup analysis did not show survival advantages in primary tumors located in either the right middle lobe in stages II and III NSCLC or the right lower lobe in stage III NSCLC.

Conclusions

Lobe‐specific perioperative chemotherapy is recommended in NSCLC patients. For stage IB NSCLC, right middle lobe NSCLC from stage IB‐III and right lower lobe NSCLC from stage III, perioperative chemotherapy might not confer survival benefits.
Quantitative Analysis of The High‐Yield Hydrolysis of Kelp by Laminarinase and Alginate Lyase
Authors: Takasuka Taichi E. , Kim Hoon , Deng Kai , Bianchetti Christopher M. , Yamashita Kaho , Beebe Emily T. , Bergeman Lai F. , Vander Meulen Kirk A. , Deutsch Samuel , Ralph John , Adams Paul D. , Northen Trent R. , Fox Brian G.
Published: July 2023

Kelp is an abundant, farmable biomass‐containing laminarin and alginate as major polysaccharides, providing an excellent model substrate to study their deconstruction by simple enzyme mixtures. Our previous study showed strong reactivity of the glycoside hydrolase family 55 during hydrolysis of purified laminarin, raising the question of its reactivity with intact kelp. In this study, we determined that a combination of a single glycoside hydrolase family 55 β‐1,3‐exoglucanase with a broad‐specificity alginate lyase from the polysaccharide lyase family 18 gives efficient hydrolysis of untreated kelp to a mixture of simple sugars, that is, glucose, gentiobiose, mannitol‐end glucose, and mannuronic and guluronic acids and their soluble oligomers. Quantitative assignments from nanostructure initiator mass spectrometry (NIMS) and 2D HSQC NMR spectroscopy and analysis of the reaction time‐course are provided. The data suggest that binary combinations of enzymes targeted to the unique polysaccharide composition of marine biomass are sufficient to deconstruct kelp into soluble sugars for microbial fermentation.
Tailored Porous Transport Layers for Optimal Oxygen Transport in Water Electrolyzers: Combined Stochastic Reconstruction and Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Liu Jiang , Li Min , Yang Yingying , Schlüter Nicolas , Mimic Dajan , Schröder Daniel
Published: July 2023

The porous transport layer (PTL) plays an integral role for the mass transport in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. In this work, a stochastic reconstruction method of titanium felt‐based PTLs is applied and combined with the Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). The aim is to parametrically investigate the impact of different PTL structures on the transport of oxygen. The structural characteristics of a reconstructed PTL agree well with experimental investigations. Moreover, the impact of PTL porosity, fiber radius, and anisotropy parameter on the structural characteristics of PTLs are analyzed, and their impact on oxygen transport are elucidated by LBM. Eventually, a customized graded PTL is reconstructed, exhibiting almost optimal mass transport performance for the removal of oxygen. The results show that a higher porosity, larger fiber radius, and smaller anisotropy parameter facilitate the formation of oxygen propagation pathways. By tailoring the fiber characteristics and thus optimizing the PTLs, guidelines for the optimal design and manufacturing can be obtained for large‐scale PTLs for electrolyzers.
Designing research strategy and technology innovation for sustainability by adopting “imaginary future generations”—A case study using metallurgy
Authors: Hara Keishiro , Miura Iori , Suzuki Masanori , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: July 2023

To mobilize science and technology for sustainability, it is essential to develop a method for explicitly considering the needs and preferences of future generations in designing research strategies and technology innovations. In this study, we conducted a participatory deliberation experiment on research strategy design of hydrothermal reactions and slag, to analyze whether the adoption of imaginary future generations (IFGs), which is a social system that has been proven to be effective for overcoming shortsightedness and activating futurability of people and society in pursuit of sustainability, could change the direction of research and development (R&D) and thereby innovation. A questionnaire survey was administered to the participants after each deliberation session to verify whether treatments, such as analyzing past R&D initiatives and adopting IFGs in deliberations, would change participants’ perceptions about criteria related to designing R&D programs. The results of the deliberation experiment showed that the contents and ideas of research strategies, such as research visions, methodologies and anticipated benefits, were changed by the adoption of IFGs. The criteria used for designing R&D also altered according to changes in research strategy. The findings showed that adopting IFGs and examining issues from the viewpoint of “futurability” could shift the direction of research agendas and technological innovation. Furthermore, the findings could provide insights into how to design R&D strategies and generate innovations in pursuit of sustainability by reflecting upon the needs of and benefits to future generations.
2023—A Pivotal Year in Climate Risk Disclosure and ESG Fund Requirements
Authors: South David W.
Published: July 2023

In 2022, disclosure and reporting requirements were proposed in both the European Union and the United States for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) metrics, but primarily for greenhouse gas (GHG) and climate‐related risks. Since the release of these proposals, many industry, non‐governmental organization (NGO), and public and governmental positions and interventions have surfaced to promote or counter these proposals. The primary concerns surrounding these proposals focus on the intent and cost of disclosure together with the availability, accuracy, and duplication of Scope 3 data. The schedule to finalize these proposals will make 2023 a pivotal year regarding climate risk disclosure and ESG fund requirements.
Clinicopathological profile of sclerosing polycystic adenoma/adenosis: A systematic review
Authors: de Carvalho Kimura Talita , de Lima‐Souza Reydson Alcides , Scarini João Figueira , Lavareze Luccas , Egal Erika Said Abu , Altemani Albina , Mariano Fernanda Viviane
Published: July 2023

In this systematic review, we aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological profile of sclerosing polycystic adenoma (SPA). PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Lilacs, Web of Science, and gray literature were searched to access cases of SPA in salivary glands. One hundred and thirty cases of SPA were found across 61 selected articles. SPA affected mainly the parotid gland of adults with a mean age of 44.6 years old, with a slight preference for females. The lesion was usually presented as a painless firm mass with a long period of evolution. Histologically, they are well‐delimitated lesions composed of acinar and ductal elements with a variety of cytomorphologic features surrounded by a densely collagenized stroma. PI3K was the most common gene mutation related to SPA. SPA is a benign condition that mainly affects the parotid gland of female patients and it is usually treated by surgical resection with a good prognosis.