bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outcome of patients with relapsed or refractory nonrhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcomas enrolled in phase 2 cooperative group clinical trials: A report from the Children’s Oncology Group
Authors: Oberoi Sapna , Qumseya Amira , Xue Wei , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Weiss Aaron R. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to estimate the event‐free survival (EFS) of children and young adults with relapsed or refractory nonrhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS) treated in nonrandomized phase 2 studies conducted by the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) and predecessor groups to establish a benchmark EFS for future phase 2 NRSTS trials evaluating the activity of novel agents.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patients with recurrent or refractory NRSTS prospectively enrolled in nonrandomized phase 2 COG and predecessor group trials between 1994 and 2015 was conducted. EFS was defined as disease progression/relapse or death and calculated via the Kaplan–Meier method. The log‐rank test and relative risk regression were used to compare EFS distribution by age at enrollment, sex, race, NRSTS histology, prior lines of therapy, calendar year of trial, and type of radiographic response.ResultsIn total, 137 patients were enrolled in 13 phase 2 trials. All trials used radiographic response rate as a primary outcome, and none of the agents used were considered active on the basis of trial‐specified thresholds. The estimated median EFS and 6‐month EFS of the entire study cohort was 1.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–1.8 months) and 19.4% (95% CI, 12.7%–26%), respectively. No difference in EFS was observed by age at enrollment, sex, race, NRSTS histology subtype, prior lines of therapies, and trial initiation year. EFS significantly differed by radiographic response.ConclusionsThe EFS for children and young adults with relapsed or refractory NRSTS remains suboptimal. Established EFS can be referenced as a benchmark for future single‐agent phase 2 trials incorporating potentially active novel agents in this population.
Identification of QTLs and validation of molecular markers associated with reaction to Fusarium wilt in the common bean cultivar BRS FP403
Authors: Torres Mário Henrique Rodrigues Mendes , Vianello Rosana Pereira , de Souza Thiago Lívio Pessoa Oliveira , Melo Leonardo Cunha , Martins Saulo Muniz , Gomes‐Messias Lucas Matias , Pereira Helton Santos 
Published: March 2024

AbstractFusarium wilt, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli, is one of the most prevalent diseases in the common bean crop (Phaseolus vulgaris). However, there is little information regarding the genetics of reaction to this disease. Thus, the aims of this study were to estimate genetic parameters, identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with reaction to Fusarium wilt, and validate the markers identified. A total of 165 progenies of the population BRS FP403 × BRS Horizonte were evaluated. Evaluation was made in 2016 and 2017 in field trials in an area infested with the pathogen in Santo Antônio de Goiás, Brazil. Genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphism and SilicoDArT, where DArT is Diversity Arrays Technology, markers using the DArTseq technology was performed in the F2 generation. Analyses of the phenotypic data indicated the presence of variability among the progenies and the possibility of success from selection, with high estimates of heritability (90%) and gain from selection (37%). A genetic map was obtained with 702 markers and spanned 3069 cM. Five QTLs associated with reaction to Fusarium wilt were identified on five chromosomes. There was interaction between the QTLs and years. Through joint analysis, four QTLs were identified on chromosomes Pv01, Pv02, Pv03, and Pv04, explaining 5.8%–40.5% of the variation. The QTL FOP2.3403H explained 40.5% of phenotypic variation and was stable over the 2 years. From this QTL, two hydrolysis probes were developed for genotyping in a panel of lines for validation. Selection efficiency was over 92%, indicating considerable potential for use in marker‐assisted selection.
Recent Advances in Ammonia Synthesis: From Haber‐Bosch Process to External Field Driven Strategies
Authors: Li Jiayang , Xiong Qingchuan , Mu Xiaowei , Li Lu 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAmmonia, a pivotal chemical feedstock and a potential hydrogen energy carrier, demands efficient synthesis as a key step in its utilization. The traditional Haber‐Bosch process, known for its high energy consumption, has spurred researchers to seek ammonia synthesis under milder conditions. Advances in surface science and characterization technologies have deepened our understanding of the microscopic reaction mechanisms of ammonia synthesis. This article concentrates on gas‐solid phase ammonia synthesis, initially exploring the latest breakthroughs and improvements in thermal catalytic synthesis. Building on this, it especially focuses on emerging external field‐driven alternatives, such as photocatalysis, photothermal catalysis, and low‐temperature plasma catalysis strategies. The paper concludes by discussing the future prospects and objectives of nitrogen fixation technologies. This comprehensive review is intended to provide profound insights for overcoming the inherent thermodynamic and kinetic constraints in traditional ammonia synthesis, thereby fostering a shift towards “green ammonia” production and significantly reducing the energy footprint.
A Porphyrinic Metal‐Organic Framework with Cooperative Adsorption Domains for PFAS Removal from Water
Authors: Zhang Ying , Kong Ke , Wu Qiao , Ma Tiantian , Liang Jun , Wang Ruihu 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe removal of toxic poly‐ and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as persistent pollutants from wastewater is imperative but challenging for water remediation. Many adsorbents including activated carbon, biochar, and clay minerals have been investigated for PFAS removal, but most of these materials are faced with high cost or/and low efficiency. The use of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) as sorbents is attractive for efficient removal of PFAS due to their tailor‐made structures and high surface areas. Herein, we synthesized, characterized a water stable Zr‐based porphyrinic MOF (PCN‐224) with cooperative adsorption domains, and demonstrated its excellent capture performance toward perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) and perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS). PCN‐224 has maximum uptake capacities of 963, 517, and 395 mg g−1 for PFOS, PFHxS, and PFBS, respectively, which are much higher than that of granular activated carbon. Moreover, coexistent anions (Cl−, SO42−) and humic acid have negligible effects on PFOS adsorption. The excellent adsorption performance of PCN‐224 toward PFOS is due to the orthogonal cationic channel pores with a diameter of 1.9 nm, the hydrophobic porphyrin units, and the Zr6 clusters with acidic sites. PCN‐224 can be readily regenerated and reused. This work highlights the potential of MOFs with multiple adsorption domains for water remediation.
Untangling biodiversity interactions: A meta network on pollination in Earth's most diverse tropical savanna
Authors: Aguiar Ludmilla M. S. , Diniz Ugo M. , Bueno‐Rocha Igor D. , Filomeno Laura R. A. , Aguiar‐Machado Luísa S. , Gomes Priscilla A. , Togni Pedro H. B. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPollination is vital for ecosystem functioning, especially in biodiversity‐rich regions like the Brazilian Cerrado. Our research establishes a comprehensive meta network of pollinator–plant interactions within this biome. We quantified the importance of different pollinator groups, identifying keystone species. We examined potential biases in sampling effort and the spatial behavior of interactions within the heterogeneous Cerrado plant physiognomies. Our investigation uncovered 1499 interactions among 293 plant species and 386 visitor species, with legitimate pollination accounting for 42.4% of the interactions. The network exhibited modularity, driven by bees and insects, with vertebrates bridging diurnal and nocturnal modules. While a generalized pattern emerged, high specialization existed within modules due to habitat diversity. Bees, particularly Apis mellifera (exotic) and Trigona spinipes (native), played central roles as network hubs. Hummingbirds and bats, engaged in specialized interactions showing strong connectivity within and between modules. Interestingly, invertebrate–vertebrate modules were more prevalent than expected in the meta network. However, a bias was evident, primarily within specific biogeographical districts with fragmented landscapes and intrusion from other biomes. Variations in plant species and endemism rates influenced pollinator occurrence and the Cerrado network topology. Our study offers valuable insights into pollinator–plant interactions within the Cerrado, encompassing both invertebrates and vertebrates. The modeled network represents a significant step in understanding the structural complexity of pollination networks, integrating partial networks from diverse pollination systems within heterogeneous habitats. Nevertheless, a biogeographical bias could limit a comprehensive understanding of network functionality across the Cerrado.
Comparing cost, effort, and performance of environmental DNA sampling and trapping for detecting an elusive freshwater turtle
Authors: Sternhagen Elizabeth C. , Davis Mark A. , Larson Eric R. , Pearce Sarah E. , Ecrement Stephen M. , Katz Aron D. , Sperry Jinelle H. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractEnvironmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is an effective and non‐invasive technique for surveying and monitoring rare, threatened, or endangered (RTE) species. Compared to conventional capture‐based sampling, eDNA analysis may offer a more cost‐effective approach for surveying RTE species, yet few studies have compared their cost‐efficiency—a critical consideration for conservation planning. We compared the costs, effort, and relative performance of aquatic eDNA sampling and conventional trapping for detecting the Alligator Snapping Turtle, Macrochelys temminckii Troost, 1835, in southwest Louisiana, United States. Environmental DNA was sampled quarterly over 1 year (2018–2019) at 19 streams, including three streams where M. temminckii presence had been previously confirmed via conventional trapping efforts (2012–2013). Water samples from each stream were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to assess M. temminckii eDNA presence/absence. Time and costs (i.e., labor, travel, wages, and supplies) per detection via eDNA analysis and trapping were calculated and compared. Environmental DNA analysis documented the presence of M. temminckii DNA at two of the three streams where individuals had previously been trapped and yielded detections (qPCR amplifications) at 16 additional streams not previously sampled, expanding M. temminckii's documented distribution at our study sites by 84%. Environmental DNA analysis returned a detection rate (per site) 5.55 times higher than conventional trapping and was 18.7% less expensive. Our results provide evidence that strategically deployed eDNA surveys may be an effective and cost‐efficient approach for detecting freshwater RTE species. With eDNA analysis, additional resources can be invested toward expanding survey coverage and increasing sampling frequency, allowing managers to more effectively target subsequent intensive monitoring efforts.
A centered limited finite volume approximation of the momentum convection operator for low‐order nonconforming face‐centered discretizations
Authors: Brunel A. , Herbin R. , Latché J.‐C. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe propose in this article a discretization of the momentum convection operator for fluid flow simulations on quadrangular or generalized hexahedral meshes. The space discretization is performed by the low‐order nonconforming Rannacher–Turek finite element: the scalar unknowns are associated with the cells of the mesh while the velocities unknowns are associated with the edges or faces. The momentum convection operator is of finite volume type, and its expression is derived, as in MUSCL schemes, by a two‐step technique: computation of a tentative flux, here, with a centered approximation of the velocity, and limitation of this flux using monotonicity arguments. The limitation procedure is of algebraic type, in the sense that its does not invoke any slope reconstruction, and is independent from the geometry of the cells. The derived discrete convection operator applies both to constant or variable density flows and may thus be implemented in a scheme for incompressible or compressible flows. To achieve this goal, we derive a discrete analogue of the computation (with the velocity, one of its component, the density, and assuming that the mass balance holds) and discuss two applications of this result: first, we obtain stability results for a semi‐implicit in time scheme for incompressible and barotropic compressible flows; second, we build a consistent, semi‐implicit in time scheme that is based on the discretization of the internal energy balance rather than the total energy. The performance of the proposed discrete convection operator is assessed by numerical tests on the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations, the barotropic and the full compressible Navier–Stokes equations and the compressible Euler equations.
The protective role of carnosine against type 2 diabetes‐induced cognitive impairment
Authors: Wang Qian , Tripodi Nicholas , Valiukas Zachary , Bell Simon M. , Majid Arshad , de Courten Barbora , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Feehan Jack 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe morbidity and mortality associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have grown exponentially over the last 30 years. Together with its associated complications, the mortality rates have increased. One important complication in those living with T2DM is the acceleration of age‐related cognitive decline. T2DM‐induced cognitive impairment seriously affects memory, executive function, and quality of life. However, there is a lack of effective treatment for both diabetes and cognitive decline. Thus, finding novel treatments which are cheap, effective in both diabetes and cognitive impairment, are easily accessible, are needed to reduce impact on patients with diabetes and health‐care systems. Carnosine, a histidine containing dipeptide, plays a protective role in cognitive diseases due to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammation, and anti‐glycation properties, all of which may slow the development of neurodegenerative diseases and ischemic injury. Furthermore, carnosine is also involved in regulating glucose and insulin in diabetes. Herein, we discuss the neuroprotective role of carnosine and its mechanisms in T2DM‐induced cognitive impairment, which may provide a theoretical basis and evidence base to evaluate whether carnosine has therapeutic effects in alleviating cognitive dysfunction in T2DM patients.
Exploring the interplay of frailty, physical function, physical activity, nutritional status, and their association with quality of life and depressive symptoms in older adults with the frailty phenotype
Authors: Casals Cristina , Corral‐Pérez Juan , Ávila‐Cabeza‐de‐Vaca Laura , González‐Mariscal Andrea , Carrión‐Velasco Yolanda , Rodríguez‐Martínez María Carmen , Jiménez‐Cebrián Ana María , Vázquez‐Sánchez María Ángeles 
Published: March 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the interplay between frailty, physical function, physical activity, nutritional status, and their impact on the quality of life and depressive status in older adults with frailty.MethodsA cross‐sectional study involving 235 pre‐frail/frail older adults residing in Spanish communities was conducted. Frailty was assessed using Fried's criteria, physical function was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery, and physical activity levels were measured via wrist‐worn accelerometers. Nutritional status was determined using the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment alongside anthropometric measurements. Quality of life was gauged using the EuroQoL 5‐Dimension 5‐Level, while depressive status was assessed using the Yesavage 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale. Multivariate linear regression and logistic regression analyses were employed to elucidate the associations of these factors with quality of life and depression.ResultsOur findings revealed significant correlations between various factors and quality of life. Notably, reported fatigue (β = −0.276, p = 0.002), performance in the 4‐m gait test (β = −0.242, p = 0.001), the score on the short version of the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment (β = 0.312, p = 0.002), and engagement in light physical activity (β = 0.180, p = 0.023) were all found to be associated with quality of life. In terms of depressive symptoms, the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment score emerged as a protective factor (Odds ratio, OR: 0.812, p < 0.001), as did participation in moderate physical activity (OR: 0.988, p = 0.028). Conversely, fatigue (OR: 3.277, p = 0.003) and a slow gait speed (OR: 1.136, p = 0.045) were identified as risk factors for depressive symptoms.ConclusionsThis study underscores the detrimental association of fatigue and slow gait speed on both quality of life and depressive status among older adults with frailty. In contrast, engaging in physical activity and addressing malnutrition risk emerge as critical protective factors for enhancing quality of life and ameliorating depressive symptoms in this population.Clinical trial registrationThis is a study that uses cross‐sectional data from a trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05610605).
Modulating the Acceptor Preference of His‐C‐Geranyltransferase LimF
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Goto Yuki , Suga Hiroaki 
Published: March 2024

AbstractLipidation stands as a pivotal strategy for enhancing the metabolic stability of target peptides. Prenyltransferases in cyanobactin biosynthesis have garnered significant attention as potential peptide lipidation biocatalysts because of their exceptional regio‐ and chemoselectivity. However, these enzymes often exhibit a biased preference for certain acceptor substrates, requiring specific amino acids adjacent to the modifying residue. In this study, we demonstrate the structure‐guided engineering of LimF, a His‐C‐geranyltransferase, to broaden its peptide substrate tolerance. By altering key residues in the peptide‐binding pocket, we created a LimF variant capable of modifying sequence motifs previously inaccessible to the wildtype enzyme. The variant successfully modified some previously unfavored sequence motifs in artificial peptide substrates and bioactive peptide agents, validating the engineered substrate scope. With the discovery of novel peptide prenyltransferases, this approach would lead to a more comprehensive toolbox of peptide prenylation biocatalysts.
The mechanism of room‐temperature oxidation of a HF‐etched Ti3C2TxMXene determined via environmental transmission electron microscopy and molecular dynamics
Authors: Liu Yuying , Shi Zhihao , Liang Tingbin , Zheng Dehui , Yang Zhichao , Wang Zhen , Zhou Jian , Wang Shuangbao 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe oxidation chemistry of two‐dimensional transition metal carbide MXenes has brought new research significance to their protection and application. However, the oxidation behavior and degradation mechanism of MXenes, in particular with time under oxygen conditions at room temperature, remain largely unexplored. Here, several experimental and theoretical techniques are used to determine a very early stage of the oxidation mechanism of HF‐etched Ti3C2Tx (a major member of MXenes and Tx = surface functional groups) in an oxygen environment at room temperature. Aberration‐corrected environmental transmission electron microscopy coupled with reactive molecular dynamics simulations show that the crystal plane‐dependent oxidation rate of Ti3C2Tx and oxide expansion are attributed to differences in the coordination and charge of superficial Ti atoms, and the existence of the channels between neighboring MXene layers on the different crystal planes. The complementary x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy analyses indicate that the anatase and a tiny fraction of brookite TiO2 successively precipitate from the amorphous region of oxidized Ti3C2Tx, grow irregularly and transform to rutile TiO2. Our study reveals the early‐stage structural evolution of MXenes in the presence of oxygen and facilitates further tailoring of the MXene performance employing oxidation strategy.
Exploration of the Clinical Effect of Different Autotransfusion Methods on Patients With Femoral Shaft Fracture Surgery
Authors: Wang Yujia , Wang Huan , Xu Jiaming , Wang Jinhuo , You Laiwei , Bai Yu , Guo Jianrong 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo explore the clinical effect of predeposit, salvage, and hemodilution autotransfusion on patients with femoral shaft fracture (FSF) surgery.MethodsSelected patients with FSF were randomly divided into three groups: intraoperative blood salvage autotransfusion, preoperative hemodilution autohemotransfusion, and predeposit autotransfusion. Five days after the operation, the body temperature, heart rate, blood platelet (PLT), and hemoglobin (Hb) of patients were determined. The concentrations of EPO and GM‐CSF in the three groups were calculated by ELISA. The content of CD14+ monocytes was calculated by FCM assay. The growth time and condition of the patient's callus were determined at the 30th, 45th, and 60th day after operation. Cox regression analysis was used to analyze the correlation between EPO, GM‐CSF, CD14+ mononuclear content, callus growth, and autotransfusion methods.ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences in body temperature and heart rate between the three groups (p > 0.05). PLT and Hb in the Predeposit group were markedly increased compared with that in the Salvage and Hemodilution groups. The concentrations of EPO and GM‐CSF in the Predeposit group were markedly increased compared with that in the Salvage and Hemodilution groups. The content of CD14+ monocytes in the Predeposit group was significantly higher than that in the Salvage and Hemodilution groups. Predeposit autotransfusion promotes callus growth more quickly.ConclusionPredeposit autotransfusion promoted the recovery of patients with FSF after the operation more quickly than salvage autotransfusion and hemodilution autotransfusion.