bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untersuchungen der dynamischen Eigenschaften von Molekülschwingungen in Flüssigkeiten, gemessen mit Pikosekunden‐Lichtimpulsen
Authors: Laubereau A.
Published: October 2023

Mit ultrakurzen Lichtimpulsen lassen sich einzelne Molekülschwingungen in Flüssigkeiten gezielt anregen und das dynamische Verhalten zeitaufgelöst und quantitativ untersuchen. Spezielle Meßmethoden wurden entwickelt, um verschiedene Relaxationszeiten zu messen, die einzelne Normalschwingungen charakterisieren. In unseren Verfahren werden definierte Normalschwingungen mittels des stimulierten Ramaneffektes weit über den thermodynamischen Gleichgewichtswert angeregt. Durch kohärente bzw. inkohärente Anti‐Stokes‐Ramanstreuung werden der Phasenverlust der Schwingung bzw. die Energielebensdauer (Besetzungslebensdauer) der Normalschwingung ermittelt. Die Messung der Energielebensdauer ist von besonderem Interesse, da es für die flüssige Phase keine andere Möglichkeit zur Bestimmung dieser wichtigen physikalischen Größe gibt. Als Anwendung dieses Verfahrens konnten wir die Übertragung von Schwingungsenergie in Flüssigkeiten beobachten. So konnte, zum Beispiel, in einer Mischung von CH3CCl3–CD3OD zunächst eine CH3‐Valenzschwingung etwa 3000 cm−1) angeregt werden und mit einer deutlichen zeitlichen Verzögerung die Anregung der CD3‐Schwingung der CD3OD‐Moleküle beobachtet werden. Dieses Experiment gibt einen direkten Beweis für die intermolekulare Energieubertragüng in Flüssigkeiten.
Ultrafast Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Müller Alexander , Willenbring G. R.
Published: October 2023

The experimental scheme of flashspectroscopy can be employed to investigate extremely fast photophysical and photochemical processes of organic molecules. Essential changes in the method most be made, however, with regard to sample excitation and detection of absorption changes, if the processes to be investigated have characteristic times in the picosecond range.

We have developed an instrument in which the sample is excited by pulses of a passively mode‐locked ruby laser followed by a ruby amplifier, while the probing light is provided by a xenon flash of a few microseconds duration. A new technique had to be developed for synchronizing the probing flash with the laser pulse train After passing through the sample cell the probing light is dispersed by a transmission grating and recorded by a streak camera having high time resolution. The method produces time‐resolved absorption spectra of the excited sample. We report details of the method and first results with an organic dye.
FIR Fourier Spectroscopic Studies of Organic Molecules—Torsional Vibrations in Alkyl Esters of Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Knözinger Erich
Published: October 2023

The far infrared (FIR) spectra of various aliphatie esters of carboxylic acids were studied using a new FIR Fourier spectrophotometer. Raman spectroscopic measurements were also made and helped in the interpretation of the far infrared spectra. As a result an assignment of torsional modes observed between 340 and 40 cm−1 was obtained.
Ein einfaches Verfahren zur Bestimmung der Dispersion des Brechungsindexes
Authors: Kerl K.
Published: October 2023

Es wird ein Gittermonochromatorals Beleuchtungsquelle für ein Interferometer verwendet. Durch Drehen des Gitters kann die Dispersion des (komplexen) Brechungsindexes einer optisch teildurchlassigen Probe in kurzer Zeit im gesamten zugängigen Wellenzahlbereich kontinuierlich und genau bestimmt werden. Das Verfahren wurde zunächst im sichtbaren Spektralbereich (0,4μ–0,7μ) an Gasen getestet.

Die Bedeutung von Dispersionsmessungen wird kurz diskutiert und die Wirkungsweise des Verfahrens heschrieben. An einem Beispiel wird die einfache Auswertung der Messungen gezeigt.
Matrix‐Isolationsspektroskopie an H2O und D2O im Infrarot‐ und fernen Infrarotgebiet
Authors: Mann B. , Neikes T. , Schmidt E. , Luck W. A. P.
Published: October 2023

Die Matrix‐Isolationstechnik gestattet spektroskopische Untersuchungen von Molekülen in einer inerten Umgebung bei tiefen Temperaturen. Es wurden bei verschiedenen Konzentrationen Spektren von H2O in festem Argon im Bereich von 4000 cm−1 bis 450 cm−1 und von H2O und D2O in festem Argon und Stickstoff im Bereich von 450 cm−1 bis 50 cm−1 aufgenommen. Aus den Spektren im OH‐Grundschwingungsgebiet läßt sich eine neue Zuordnung der Absorptionsbanden zu verschieden großen Aggregaten des Wassers ableiten, wobei aus der Frequenzverschiebung der einzelnen Schwingungen auf die Existenz von zyklischen Aggregaten geschlossen wird. Im Bereich von 1000 cm−1 bis 450 cm−1 wird eine breite Librationsbande von Wasser in großen Aggregaten gefunden. Die FIR‐Spektren zeigen bei hohen Konzentrationen Absorptionen, die einer durch die H‐Brücke behinderten Translation zweier Moleküle zugeordnet werden können. Bei niedrigeren Konzentrationen tauchen in einer Ar‐Matrix zusätzliche Absorptionsbanden auf. Ein Teil dieser Banden wird der Libration eines Moleküls in zyklischen Dimeren zugeordnet, die in einer N2‐Matrix nicht aktiviert werden kann.
Schwingungsspektren von ketten‐ und ringförmigen Silanen
Authors: Höfler F.
Published: October 2023

Einige Schwingungs‐ und Strukturprobleme von Oligosilanen SimX2m+2 und Sim SiX2m werden auf der Basis von Normalkoordinatenanalysen und Kraftkonstanten diskutiert. Das Schwingungsspektrum von Si3 Br8 wird erstmals mitgeteilt und zugeordnet. Intensive, polarisierte Banden aus den Raman‐Spektren der Ketten und Ringe können als “Leitfrequenzen” eine analytische Verwendung finden.
NMR Studies of Reorientational Motion in Ethanol and Ethanol Glycerol Mixtures
Authors: Versmold H.
Published: October 2023

Deuteron nuclear magnetic relaxation rates 1/T1 have been measured as a function of temperature for the three labelled ethanols CH3CH2OD, CH3CD2OH and CD3CH2OH. In the supercooled region relaxation rate maxima for the different species were found. The data are discussed in terms of a rotational diffusion model for the overall and the internal reorientations. The slowest motion is performed by the hydroxyl group. Faster reorientation occurs for the ethyl group which behaves as a rather rigid entity in pure ethanol. The internal reorientation of the methyl group has further been studied in ethanol glycerol mixtures. With increasing glycerol content the motion of the ethanol skeleton is slowed down but the internal motion of the CD3 group about its C3 symmetry axis maintains its rate. This leads to two relaxation rate steps for the deuterons of the methyl group in these mixtures. The first due to the reorientational motion of the symmetry axis of the CD3 group occurs in the same temperature range as the relaxation rate maximum of the methylene group. The second step was found at lower temperatures. It belongs to the spinning of the methyl group about its symmetry axis.
Bildung und Photolyse von Äthylen‐Sauerstoff EDA‐Komplexen in flüssigem Argon bei T = 87 K
Authors: Buschmann H. W.
Published: October 2023

In flüssigen C2H4 – O2 – Ar‐Mischungen bei T = 87 K wird die Bildung eines Elektronen‐Donator‐Acceptor‐Komplexes zwischen Äthylen und Sauerstoff beobachtet. Die Bestrahlung mit Licht der Wellenlänge 2062 Å führt zur Bildung von O‐Atomen, die mit Sauerstoff unter Ozonbildung und mit Äthylen unter Bildung von Oxidationsprodukten abreagieren.
Excited State Behavior of Aromatic Amines in Solution: Dihydrophenazine Derivatives
Authors: Morris J. V. , Brühlmann U. , Serafimov O. , Huber J. Robert
Published: October 2023

Absorption and emission spectra as well as emission quantum yields and lifetimes of 5,10‐dimethylphenazine (DMP), 5‐methyl‐10‐phenylphenazine, and 5,10‐diphenylphenazine were measured in 3‐methylpentane at room temperature and 77°K. By means of relative polarization measurements in conjunction with CNDO/2‐CI calculations, the excited states were assigned. The long natural lifetime of the fluorescence (τf0 (DMP) ∼ 210 ns), together with the results of the calculation, reveals that the first transition is a symmetry forbidden 1A1 → 1A2 transition in a C2v geometry bent along the N‐N axis. This transition has an oscillator strength f0 ∼ 0.006 for all three compounds as determined from the fluorescence data. We propose that it acquires most of its intensity through a vibronic interaction with S2(1B1) (Herzberg‐Teller coupling). Since intersystem crossing between S1(1A2) and T1(3A2) is also orbitally forbidden, we suggest, in accordance with the phosphorescence polarization, an electronic spin‐orbit coupling between S2 and T1. Replacement of the methyl substituents by phenyl groups increases kisc and enhances the temperature dependent behavior of this parameter. Non‐radiative transitions occuring from the lowest triplet state account for nearly 40% of the absorbed quanta.
Collaborative technologies and project performance in manufacturing in the industry 4.0 environment: Mediating effect of individual, organizational, sociotechnical factors
Authors: Turi Jamshid Ali , Razzak Mohammad Rezaur , Bhuiyan Abul Bashar , Alam Mohammad Nurul , Al‐Kharusi Sami
Published: October 2023

The use of collaborative technologies (CT) in the industry 4.0 environment has become ubiquitous. While industry practitioners acknowledge the positive influence of CT on operations and projects of their organizations, yet there seem to be insufficient scholarly insights into the link between CT and project performance (PP). Hence, this study deploys the resource dependence theory to posit the influence of CT on PP, along with mediating roles of the individual factors (IF), organizational factors (OF), and sociotechnical factors (STF) in the above relationship. A set of hypotheses is developed and tested through cross‐sectional survey data collected from 392 employees in managerial and supervisory roles, in manufacturing organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The analysis conducted through structural equation modeling using SmartPLS indicates that CT positively influences PP. Moreover, the study found that IF, OF, and STF are all significant mediators in the relationships between CT and perceived project performance (PPP). This study contributes to the extant literature and industry practice by providing, nuanced insights into the role of pertinent mediators in the link between CT and PP.
Prediction algorithm for gastric cancer in a general population: A validation study
Authors: Wong Martin C. S. , Leung Eman Yee‐man , Yau Sarah T. Y. , Chan Sze Chai , Xie Shaohua , Xu Wanghong , Huang Junjie
Published: October 2023

Background

Worldwide, gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality. This study aims to devise and validate a scoring system based on readily available clinical data to predict the risk of gastric cancer in a large Chinese population.

Methods

We included a total of 6,209,697 subjects aged between 18 and 70 years who have received upper digestive endoscopy in Hong Kong from 1997 to 2018. A binary logistic regression model was constructed to examine the predictors of gastric cancer in a derivation cohort (n = 4,347,224), followed by model evaluation in a validation cohort (n = 1,862,473). The algorithm's discriminatory ability was evaluated as the area under the curve (AUC) of the mathematically constructed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Age, male gender, history of Helicobacter pylori infection, use of proton pump inhibitors, non‐use of aspirin, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and statins were significantly associated with gastric cancer. A scoring of ≤8 was designated as “average risk (AR)”. Scores at 9 or above were assigned as “high risk (HR)”. The prevalence of gastric cancer was 1.81% and 0.096%, respectively, for the HR and LR groups. The AUC for the risk score in the validation cohort was 0.834, implying an excellent fit of the model.

Conclusions

This study has validated a simple, accurate, and easy‐to‐use scoring algorithm which has a high discriminatory capability to predict gastric cancer. The score could be adopted to risk stratify subjects suspected as having gastric cancer, thus allowing prioritized upper digestive tract investigation.
Dissection of MKK6 and p38 Signaling Using Light‐Activated Protein Kinases
Authors: Rahman Shah Md. Toufiqur , Zhou Wenyuan , Deiters Alexander , Haugh Jason M.
Published: October 2023

Stress‐activated signaling pathways orchestrate cellular behaviors and fates. Studying the precise role(s) of stress‐activated protein kinases is challenging, because stress conditions induce adaptation and impose selection pressure. To meet this challenge, we have applied an optogenetic system with a single plasmid to express light‐activated p38α or its upstream activator, MKK6, in conjunction with live‐cell fluorescence microscopy. In starved cells, decaging of constitutively active p38α or MKK6 by brief exposure to UV light elicits rapid p38‐mediated signaling, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and apoptosis with different kinetics. In parallel, light activation of p38α also suppresses autophagosome formation, similarly to stimulation with growth factors that activate PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 signaling. Active MKK6 negatively regulates serum‐induced ERK activity, which is p38‐independent as previously reported. Here, we reproduce that result with the one plasmid system and show that although decaging active p38α does not reduce basal ERK activity in our cells, it can block growth factor‐stimulated ERK signaling in serum‐starved cells. These results clarify the roles of MKK6 and p38α in dynamic signaling programs, which act in concert to actuate apoptotic death while suppressing cell survival mechanisms.
Silencing geranylgeranyltransferase I inhibits the migration and invasion of salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma through RhoA/ROCK1/MLC signaling and suppresses proliferation through cell cycle regulation
Authors: Chi Zengpeng , Wang Qimin , Tong Lei , Qiu Jing , Yang Fang , Guo Qingyuan , Li Wenjian , Zheng Jiawei , Chen Zhenggang
Published: October 2023

Geranylgeranyltransferase type I (GGTase‐I) significantly affects Rho proteins, such that the malignant progression of several cancers may be induced. Nevertheless, the effect and underlying mechanism of GGTase‐I in the malignant progression of salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) remain unclear. This study primarily aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of GGTase‐I in mediating the malignant progression of SACC. The level of GGTase‐I gene in cells was stably knocked down by short hairpin RNA‐EGFP‐lentivirus. The effects of GGTase‐I silencing on the migration, invasion, and spread of cells were examined, the messenger RNA levels of GGTase‐I and RhoA genes of SACC cells after GGTase‐I knockdown were determined, and the protein levels of RhoA and RhoA membrane of SACC cells were analyzed. Moreover, the potential underlying mechanism of silencing GGTase‐I on the above‐mentioned aspects in SACC cells was assessed by examining the protein expression of ROCK1, MLC, p‐MLC, E‐cadherin, Vimentin, MMP2, and MMP9. Furthermore, the underlying mechanism of SACC cells proliferation was investigated through the analysis of the expression of cyclinD1, MYC, E2F1, and p21CIP1/WAF1. Besides, the change of RhoA level in SACC tissues compared with normal paracancer tissues was demonstrated through quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot experiments. Next, the effect after GGTase‐I silencing was assessed through the subcutaneous tumorigenicity assay. As indicated by the result of this study, the silencing of GGTase‐I significantly reduced the malignant progression of tumors in vivo while decreasing the migration, invasion, and proliferation of SACC cells and RhoA membrane, Vimentin, ROCK1, p‐MLC, MMP2, MMP9, MYC, E2F1, and CyclinD1 expression. However, the protein expression of E‐cadherin and p21CIP1/WAF1 was notably upregulated. Subsequently, no significant transform of RhoA and MLC proteins was identified. Furthermore, RhoA expression in SACC tissues was significantly higher than that in paracancerous tissues. As revealed by the results of this study, GGTase‐I shows a correlation with the proliferation of SACC through the regulation of cell cycle and may take on vital significance in the migration and invasion of SACC by regulating RhoA/ROCK1/MLC signaling pathway. GGTase‐I is expected to serve as a novel exploration site of SACC.
Increased prescription dose for large vessel intravascular brachytherapy
Authors: Wallner Kent , Kearney Kathleen E. , Tiwana Jasleen , Pristera Nicole , Kim Edward Y. , Azzalini Lorenzo , Sandison George , Lombardi William L. , Don Creighton , Kim Minsun
Published: October 2023

Background

Most randomized studies testing the effectiveness of IVBT were limited to vessels less than 4 mm diameter. In fact, it is now common to treat vessels larger than 4 mm. Accordingly, the authors instituted a prescription dose increase to 34 Gy at 2 mm from source center for vessels greater than 4.0 mm. The increase in prescription dose to 34 Gy at 2 mm from center is substantial, being 50% higher than the conventional maximum of 23 Gy.

Aim

To take a close look at group of patients treated to 34 Gy, and for whom follow‐up angiograms are available.

Methods

Ten patients treated for ISR with a prescription dose of 34 Gy and for whom follow‐up angiograms were available were studied. Beta‐radiation brachytherapy was performed with a Novoste Beta‐Cath System using a strontium‐90 (beta) source (Best Vascular, Springfield, VA). Source lengths of 40 or 60 mm were used. A dose of 34 Gy was prescribed at 2 mm from the source center.

Results

Patients were re‐catheterized from 2 to 21 months (median: 16 months) following IVBT, all for symptoms suggested of restenosis. All patients had some degree of ISR of the target vessel, but no IVBT‐treated vascular segment showed angiographic signs of degeneration, dissection or aneurysm.

Conclusion

The authors' clinical impression, along with detailed review of the 10 cases, suggest that using a 34 Gy prescription dose at 2 mm from source center does not result in increased toxicity.
Successful closure of transcatheter aortic valve replacement‐induced Gerbode defect with valve‐in‐valve technique: A case report
Authors: Skalidis Ioannis , Hamilos Michalis , Petousis Stylianos , Kochiadakis George , Skalidis Emmanouil
Published: October 2023

We present the first documented case of a successful closure of a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)‐induced Gerbode defect using a valve‐in‐valve approach. A 90‐year‐old female with severe aortic stenosis underwent TAVR. Following post‐dilatation, the patient experienced hemodynamic deterioration and collapse due to tamponade and sub‐annular rupture leading to hemodynamic deterioration and the development of a Gerbode defect with communication between the left ventricle and right atrium. Hemodynamic stabilization was achieved through pericardiocentesis, followed by the low implantation of a second valve, effectively sealing the rupture. This case showcases a valuable alternative for managing rare challenging complications during TAVR procedures.
Impact of prolonged drug‐coated balloon inflation on residual stenosis and clinical outcomes in coronary artery disease patients: A propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Ueda Hiroshi , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Nishida Yusuke , Maenaka Motoyoshi , Yoshimura Kojiro , Oshida Yuki , Matsuhisa Seiji , Yoshida Naohiro , Yoshitani Hidetoshi , Kuga Yukiko , Ueda Kazuya , Nishida Yasunori
Published: October 2023

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the optimal duration of drug‐coated balloon (DCB) inflation for coronary lesions. We sought to explore the effect of DCB angioplasty with versus without long inflation time on residual stenosis and clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods

This study included 314 consecutive patients with 445 lesions undergoing paclitaxel DCB angioplasty using different inflation time, divided according to whether the total inflation time of the DCB was ≥180 s (prolonged group) or <180 s (standard group). The primary clinical endpoint, defined as a composite of all‐cause death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or target lesion revascularization, was examined in 92 propensity score matched pairs.

Results

In the matched cohort, the median clinical follow‐up period was 947 days. Postprocedural angiographic diameter stenosis was smaller in the prolonged group than in the standard group (30.0% [22.0–37.0] vs. 33.5% [25.5–40.5]; p = 0.042). Intravascular ultrasound measurements revealed that longer DCB inflation time resulted in smaller area stenosis (66.6 ± 7.8% vs. 69.4 ± 7.0%; p = 0.044) and a less mean increase in percent atheroma volume (−11.2 ± 7.1% vs. −7.4 ± 5.9%; p = 0.004) after angioplasty. The rate of the primary endpoint was lower in the prolonged group than in the standard group (log‐rank p = 0.025). The efficacy of prolonged DCB inflation was prominent in patients with in‐stent restenosis and longer lesions.

Conclusion

Prolonged DCB inflation was associated with reduced residual stenosis and improved clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Prospective randomized trials are warranted to validate the benefits of DCB angioplasty with long inflation time.
Debulking the tricuspid valve with FlowTriever aspiration: A case series
Authors: Brown Brian
Published: October 2023

Intracardiac masses adhering to the tricuspid valve can occur as a result of right‐sided infective endocarditis, malignancy, clot formation in the right atrium, or clots‐in‐transit passing through the right atrium. Early surgical intervention is recommended for tricuspid valve vegetation in some patients, although open heart surgery is not always an option. Treatment options for right heart thrombi include anticoagulation, thrombolysis, surgical embolectomy, or mechanical aspiration. We present a case series of tricuspid valve debulking using aspiration with the FlowTriever System.
Scalable Unseparated Bioelectrochemical Reactors by Using a Carbon Fiber Brush as Stirrer and Working Electrode
Authors: Hengsbach Jan‐Niklas , Engel Mareike , Cwienczek Marcel , Stiefelmaier Judith , Tippkötter Nils , Holtmann Dirk , Ulber Roland
Published: October 2023

The concept of energy conversion into platform chemicals using bioelectrochemical systems (BES) has gained increasing attention in recent years, as the technology simultaneously provides an opportunity for sustainable chemical production and tackles the challenge of Power‐to‐X technologies. There are many approaches to realize the industrial scale of BES. One concept is to equip standard bioreactors with static electrodes. However, large installations resulted in a negative influence on various reactor parameters. In this study, we present a new single‐chamber BES based on a stirred tank reactor in which the stirrer was replaced by a carbon fiber brush, performing the functions of the working electrode and the stirrer. The reactor is characterized in abiotic studies and electro‐fermentations with Clostridium acetobutylicum. Compared to standard reactors an increase in butanol production of 20.14±3.66 % shows that the new BES can be efficiently used for bioelectrochemical processes.
Generation of Bioactivity‐Tailored FK506/FK520 Analogs by CRISPR Editing in Streptomyces tsukubaensis
Authors: Buntin Kathrin , Mrak Peter , Pivk Lukančič Petra , Wollbrett Séverine , Drčar Tjasa , Krastel Philipp , Thibaut Christian , Salcius Michael , Gao Xiaolin , Wang Shaowen , Weber Eric , Koplan Eva , Regenass Hugo
Published: October 2023

For a potential application of FK506 in the treatment of acute kidney failure only the FKBP12 binding capability of the compound is required, while the immunosuppressive activity via calcineurin binding is considered as a likely risk to the patients. The methoxy groups at C13 and C15 are thought to have significant influence on the immunosuppressive activity of the molecule. Consequently, FK506 analogs with different functionalities at C13 and C15 were generated by targeted CRISPR editing of the AT domains in module 7 and 8 of the biosynthetic assembly line in Streptomyces tsukubaensis. In addition, the corresponding FK520 (C21 ethyl derivative of FK506) analogs could be obtained by media adjustments. The compounds were tested for their bioactivity in regards to FKBP12 binding, BMP potentiation and calcineurin sparing. 15‐desmethoxy FK506 was superior to the other tested analogs as it did not inhibit calcineurin but retained high potency towards FKBP12 binding and BMP potentiation.
Single Atom Stabilization of Phosphinate Ester‐Containing Rhodamines Yields Cell Permeable Probes for Turn‐On Photoacoustic Imaging**
Authors: Brøndsted Frederik , Fang Yuan , Li Lin , Zhou Xinqi , Grant Steven , Stains Cliff I.
Published: October 2023

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is an emerging imaging technique that uses pulsed laser excitation with near‐infrared (NIR) light to elicit local temperature increases through non‐radiative relaxation events, ultimately leading to the production of ultrasound waves. The classical xanthene dye scaffold has found numerous applications in fluorescence imaging, however, xanthenes are rarely utilized for PAI since they do not typically display NIR absorbance. Herein, we report the ability of Nebraska Red (NR) xanthene dyes to produce photoacoustic (PA) signal and provide a rational design approach to reduce the hydrolysis rate of ester containing dyes, affording cell permeable probes. To demonstrate the utility of this approach, we construct the first cell permeable rhodamine‐based, turn‐on PAI imaging probe for hypochlorous acid (HOCl) with maximal absorbance within the range of commercial PA instrumentation. This probe, termed SNR700‐HOCl, is capable of detecting exogenous HOCl in mice. This work provides a new set of rhodamine‐based PAI agents as well as a rational design approach to stabilize esterified versions of NR dyes with desirable properties for PAI. In the long term, the reagents described herein could be utilized to enable non‐invasive imaging of HOCl in disease‐relevant model systems.
Local rates of heat transfer and pressure losses in the vicinity of annular orifices
Authors: Williams P. S. , Knudsen J. G.
Published: October 2023

A study was made of local rates of heat transfer and pressure losses in the vicinity of annular orifices. Various airflow rates and tube‐to‐orifice clearances were considered. Correlations were obtained for the value of the heat transfer coefficient at the orifice centre and the location and value of the maximum heat transfer coefficient downstream from the orifice. The marked effect of an upstream orifice on the coefficient at a downstream baffle is shown. Orifice pressure drop is correlated with a dimensionless pressure drop function, and results agree with those of previous workers.
Ultra‐wideband microwave imaging for breast tumor screening using step recovery diode‐based pulse generator
Authors: Liu Guancong , Xiao Xia , Lu Min , Zang Xuhui , Zhang Xiaofeng , Kikkawa Takamaro
Published: October 2023

The feasibility of a multistatic imaging system built on step recovery diode (SRD)‐based pulse generator for microwave breast cancer detection is investigated to develop a low‐cost and portable non‐invasive screening device in the future. The system consists of a pulse generator, an antenna array, and a sampling oscilloscope, in which the pulse generator generates monocycle pulse with a frequency bandwidth from 510 MHz to 6.1 GHz. Experiments are performed on a breast phantom made up of a breast model using 3D printing technology and soybean oil as internal filler, without the usage of any coupling medium. Four identical omnidirectional antennas sequentially transmit ultra‐wideband (UWB) signal and collect signals scattered inside the breast phantom, and then, the interior image of the phantom is reconstructed by background subtraction method and delay and sum (DAS) imaging algorithm. The system can successfully detect and distinguish a variety of test scenarios including cancerous breast phantom containing target with different size and different depth made by iron ball and bacon and healthy breast phantom. The smallest detectable target is 3 mm bacon, with signal to clutter ratio (SCR) and signal to mean ratio (SMR) metrics of 1.63 and 7.79 dB, respectively, and positioning error and relative error of 2.2 mm and 1.7%, respectively. It proves that the proposed time‐domain imaging system is promising for scaling up the detection range of early breast cancer.
Loss of species and genetic diversity during colonization: Insights from acanthocephalan parasites in northern European seals
Authors: Sromek Ludmila , Ylinen Eeva , Kunnasranta Mervi , Maduna Simo N. , Sinisalo Tuula , Michell Craig T. , Kovacs Kit M. , Lydersen Christian , Ieshko Evgeny , Andrievskaya Elena , Alexeev Vyacheslav , Leidenberger Sonja , Hagen Snorre B. , Nyman Tommi
Published: October 2023

Studies on host–parasite systems that have experienced distributional shifts, range fragmentation, and population declines in the past can provide information regarding how parasite community richness and genetic diversity will change as a result of anthropogenic environmental changes in the future. Here, we studied how sequential postglacial colonization, shifts in habitat, and reduced host population sizes have influenced species richness and genetic diversity of Corynosoma (Acanthocephala: Polymorphidae) parasites in northern European marine, brackish, and freshwater seal populations. We collected Corynosoma population samples from Arctic, Baltic, Ladoga, and Saimaa ringed seal subspecies and Baltic gray seals, and then applied COI barcoding and triple‐enzyme restriction‐site associated DNA (3RAD) sequencing to delimit species, clarify their distributions and community structures, and elucidate patterns of intraspecific gene flow and genetic diversity. Our results showed that Corynosoma species diversity reflected host colonization histories and population sizes, with four species being present in the Arctic, three in the Baltic Sea, two in Lake Ladoga, and only one in Lake Saimaa. We found statistically significant population‐genetic differentiation within all three Corynosoma species that occur in more than one seal (sub)species. Genetic diversity tended to be high in Corynosoma populations originating from Arctic ringed seals and low in the landlocked populations. Our results indicate that acanthocephalan communities in landlocked seal populations are impoverished with respect to both species and intraspecific genetic diversity. Interestingly, the loss of genetic diversity within Corynosoma species seems to have been less drastic than in their seal hosts, possibly due to their large local effective population sizes resulting from high infection intensities and effective intra‐host population mixing. Our study highlights the utility of genomic methods in investigations of community composition and genetic diversity of understudied parasites.
Niche partitioning and the storage effect facilitate coexistence in an amphibian community
Authors: Brooks George C. , Caruso Nicholas M. , Chandler Houston C. , Haas Carola A.
Published: October 2023

Virtually all natural community assemblages are dominated by a handful of common species. Dominant species can exert negative impacts on biodiversity through competitive exclusion, and thus there is a strong incentive to understand imbalances in community composition, changes in dominance hierarchies through time, and mechanisms of coexistence. Pond‐breeding amphibians that utilize ephemeral wetlands provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate theoretical predictions of community composition in stochastic environments. One of the most striking features of pond‐breeding amphibians is the marked stochastic fluctuations in abundance across years. Given strong theoretical and empirical links between evenness and biomass, one would expect community evenness to change from year to year. Moreover, if different species exhibit different boom‐and‐bust reproductive cycles, then a storage effect may help to explain why one species does not outcompete all others. Here, we explore the interplay between biotic and abiotic conditions in shaping amphibian communities at two ephemeral wetlands on Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. We document consistent community composition over 6 years of monitoring, resulting from a lack of species turnover and similar responses of all community members to environmental conditions. The similar dynamics of species argues against a storage effect as the sole mechanism for coexistence and instead points to niche partitioning as a more important factor. In support of this conclusion, we show that the degree of synchrony in breeding migrations only correlates with environmental conditions within species, not between species. The lack of pattern seen between species implies that individuals are somewhat constrained in the timing of breeding migrations, perhaps owing in part to competition with other community members. We hope that our work reinvigorates interest in amphibian communities and highlights ephemeral wetlands as model systems to study community dynamics in stochastic environments.
The response of stream ecosystem properties to two size classes of herbivorous minnow species
Authors: Martin Erika C.
Published: October 2023

Losses in freshwater fish diversity might produce a loss in important ecological services provided by fishes in particular habitats. An important gap in our understanding of ecosystem services by fishes is the influence of individuals from different size classes, which is predicted based on known ontogenetic shifts in metabolic demand and diet. I used 20 experimental stream mesocosms located at Konza Prairie Biological Station (KPBS), KS, USA, to assess the influence of fish size on ecosystem properties. Mesocosms included two macrohabitats: one riffle upstream from one pool filled with consistent pebble and gravel substrate. There were four experimental and one control treatment, each replicated four times (N = 20). I used two size classes of central stonerollers (Campostoma anomalum) and southern redbelly dace (Chrosomus erythrogaster). Five ecosystem properties were assessed: algal filament length (cm), benthic chlorophyll a (μg/cm2), benthic organic matter (g/m2), macroinvertebrate biomass (g/m2), and stream metabolism (g O2/m2/day−1). Size structure of fish populations affected some, but not all, ecosystem properties, and these effects were dependent upon species identity. Size structure of both species had effects on algal filament lengths where stonerollers of both size classes reduced algal filaments, but only small redbelly dace kept filaments short. A better understanding of the relationship between these prairie stream minnows and their small stream habitats could be useful to both predict changes in stream properties if species are lost (redbelly dace are a Species In Need of Conservation) or size structure shifts.
Aberrant neutrophil degranulation in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 partially remains for 6 months
Authors: Hafkamp Florianne M.J. , Taanman‐Kueter Esther W. M. , van Capel Toni M. M. , Wynberg Elke , van Willigen Hugo D. G. , Verveen Anouk , Kootstra Neeltje A. , Nieuwkerk Pythia , de Jong Menno D. , de Bree Godelieve J. , Prins Maria ,   RECoVERED study group, Hazenberg Mette D. , Groot Kormelink Tom , de Jong Esther C.
Published: October 2023

Neutrophils are important players in COVID‐19, contributing to tissue damage by release of inflammatory mediators, including ROS and neutrophil elastase. Longitudinal studies on the effects of COVID‐19 on neutrophil phenotype and function are scarce. Here, we longitudinally investigated the phenotype and degranulation of neutrophils in COVID‐19 patients (28 nonhospitalized and 35 hospitalized patients) compared with 17 healthy donors (HDs). We assessed phenotype, degranulation, CXCL8 (IL‐8) release, and ROS generation within 8 days, at one or 6 month(s) after COVID‐19 diagnosis. For degranulation and ROS production, we stimulated neutrophils, either with ssRNA and TNF or granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and N‐Formylmethionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine. During active COVID‐19, neutrophils from hospitalized patients were more immature than from HDs and were impaired in degranulation and ROS generation, while neutrophils from nonhospitalized patients only demonstrated reduced CD66b+ granule release and ROS production. Baseline CD63 expression, indicative of primary granule release, and CXCL8 production by neutrophils from hospitalized patients were elevated for up to 6 months. These findings show that patients hospitalized due to COVID‐19, but not nonhospitalized patients, demonstrated an aberrant neutrophil phenotype, degranulation, CXCL8 release, and ROS generation that partially persists up to 6 months after infection.
Vehicular social aspects in data dissemination of urban critical events with QoS and QoE for supporting emergency response
Authors: Yury Alisson , Andrade Everaldo , Santos Aldri , Matos Fernando
Published: October 2023

Critical urban events impact the city agenda, like sustainable urban mobility, safe transportation, and efficient governance, thus leading many times to social disturbance, environmental degradation, and economic and human losses. Such events demand efficient dissemination of their data to the authorities to take rapid and effective actions to minimize their effects. The Social Internet of Vehicles (SIoV) paradigm can aid in monitoring such events in time and space. Vehicles are suitable for monitoring random events in space and time due to their ubiquity. Simultaneously, social relationships between vehicle users establish local communities where social intelligence can help disseminate data collected by VANET to support public management in event recognition. Thus, this article proposes a distributed and robust QoS/QoE aware, social‐based data dissemination solution for critical urban events and investigates how social parameters influence the quality of data dissemination. The impact of social influence, social activity, and friendship strategies was analyzed by simulation. The results show the gains in QoS when using social activity and in QoE subjective metrics when employing social influence.
Microstructural changes in nickel‐ceria fuel electrodes at elevated temperature
Authors: Liu Yanting , Wankmüller Florian , Lehnert Tibor Peter , Juckel Martin , Menzler Norbert H. , Weber André
Published: October 2023

Durability testing of low temperature solid oxide cells is challenging as degradation phenomena related to microstructural changes like nickel‐agglomeration are slow. In the present study, a nickel/gadolinia doped ceria (GDC) fuel electrode with a porous GDC‐interlayer towards the zirconia electrolyte was investigated. The electrode, designed for operating temperatures of 600°C, was tested at an elevated temperature of 900°C for up to 1100 h to accelerate aging. Contrary to every expectation, the electrodes showed continuous improvement in electrochemical performance. Impedance spectroscopy, the distribution of relaxation times analysis, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope were applied to correlate electrochemical and microstructural changes. Structural analysis showed a significant Ni agglomeration accompanied by a decrease in triple phase boundary density. Furthermore, a minor particle growth in the GDC‐phase decreased the volume‐specific double phase boundary GDC/pore. Considering these microstructural changes, the decrease in active reaction sites should have increased the polarization resistance, but a decrease of about 32% was observed. The discrepancy between polarization resistance improvement and microstructural degradation might be attributed to an activation of the GDC‐surfaces in the electrode and the porous GDC‐interlayer.
Revisiting deficits in threat and safety appraisal in obsessive‐compulsive disorder
Authors: Hearne Luke J. , Breakspear Michael , Harrison Ben J. , Hall Caitlin V. , Savage Hannah S. , Robinson Conor , Sonkusare Saurabh , Savage Emma , Nott Zoie , Marcus Leo , Naze Sebastien , Burgher Bjorn , Zalesky Andrew , Cocchi Luca
Published: October 2023

Current behavioural treatment of obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is informed by fear conditioning and involves iteratively re‐evaluating previously threatening stimuli as safe. However, there is limited research investigating the neurobiological response to conditioning and reversal of threatening stimuli in individuals with OCD. A clinical sample of individuals with OCD (N = 45) and matched healthy controls (N = 45) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging. While in the scanner, participants completed a well‐validated fear reversal task and a resting‐state scan. We found no evidence for group differences in task‐evoked brain activation or functional connectivity in OCD. Multivariate analyses encompassing all participants in the clinical and control groups suggested that subjective appraisal of threatening and safe stimuli were associated with a larger difference in brain activity than the contribution of OCD symptoms. In particular, we observed a brain‐behaviour continuum whereby heightened affective appraisal was related to increased bilateral insula activation during the task (r = 0.39, pFWE = .001). These findings suggest that changes in conditioned threat‐related processes may not be a core neurobiological feature of OCD and encourage further research on the role of subjective experience in fear conditioning.
An unexpected complication of hypoglossal schwannoma surgery: Cerebrospinal fluid leakage—A case report and literature review
Authors: Asya Orhan , Kuyumcu Ömer Faruk , Gündoğdu Yavuz
Published: October 2023

Background

Extracranial hypoglossal schwannoma is a rare tumor primarily treated with surgical excision. This article aims to highlight the potential for unexpected complications intraoperatively, such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage from skullbase to neck.

Methods

A previously healthy 23‐year‐old male presented with tongue numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 17 × 20 mm nodular lesion adjacent to the cervical segment of the internal carotid artery. Surgical excision was scheduled due to suspicion of a neurogenic tumor.

Results

Intraoperatively, despite careful handling, cerebrospinal fluid leakage was observed. Manipulation of the mass caused detachment of proximal nerve fibers, potentially indicating avulsion of the hypoglossal nerve from the brainstem or nearby. Clear fluid leakage from the skull base was also noted.

Conclusion

Thorough preoperative evaluation and patient education regarding potential complications are crucial. This article presents an unexpected complication encountered during surgical excision of extracranial hypoglossal schwannoma, emphasizing the need for awareness and preparedness in such cases.
Analyzing the emerging patterns of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron subvariants for the development of next‐gen vaccine: An observational study
Authors: Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Mishra Snehasish , Kandi Venkataramana , Branda Francesco , Ansari Azaj , Rabaan Ali A. , Kudrat‐E‐Zahan Md.
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim

Understanding the prevalence and impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants has assumed paramount importance. This study statistically analyzed to effectively track the emergence and spread of the variants and highlights the importance of such investigations in developing potential next‐gen vaccine to combat the continuously emerging Omicron subvariants.

Methods

Transmission fitness advantage and effective reproductive number (Re) of epidemiologically relevant SARS‐CoV‐2 sublineages through time during the study period based on the GISAID data were estimated.

Results

The analyses covered the period from January to June 2023 around an array of sequenced samples. The dominance of the XBB variant strain, accounting for approximately 57.63% of the cases, was identified during the timeframe. XBB.1.5 exhibited 37.95% prevalence rate from March to June 2023. Multiple variants showed considerable global influence throughout the study, as sporadically documented. Notably, the XBB variant demonstrated an estimated relative 28% weekly growth advantage compared with others. Numerous variants were resistant to the over‐the‐counter vaccines and breakthrough infections were reported. Similarly, the efficacy of mAB‐based therapy appeared limited. However, it's important to underscore the perceived benefits of these preventive and therapeutic measures were restricted to specific variants.

Conclusion

Given the observed trends, a comprehensive next‐gen vaccine coupled with an advanced vaccination strategy could be a potential panacea in the fight against the pandemic. The findings suggest that targeted vaccine development could be an effective strategy to prevent infections. The study also highlights the need of global collaborations to rapidly develop and distribute the vaccines to ensure global human health.
From cave to spring: Understanding transport of suspended sediment particles in a fully phreatic karst conduit using particle analysis and geochemical methods
Authors: Mueller Yanina K. , Goldscheider Nico , Eiche Elisabeth , Emberger Hanna , Goeppert Nadine
Published: October 2023

Karst aquifers are vulnerable to contamination, especially in the context of heavy rainfall events. Contamination is often associated with turbidity that can originate from the soil zone, infiltrating surface waters or resuspension of previously deposited sediments within the aquifer. While turbidity events can be well monitored at karst springs, related information about the sediment origin and the spatiotemporal input function usually remain unknown. Thus, the mobility and attenuation of the particulate matter and associated pollutants can hardly be determined quantitatively. A tracer test with suspended cave sediments and solute tracers for comparison has hence been performed in a karst aquifer at the Blue Spring (Blautopf) in Southern Germany. The tracers were injected in the cave system, at the beginning of a fully phreatic karst conduit, and monitored at the spring after a travel distance of 1250 m. The particle‐size distribution was monitored using a particle counter and sediment samples were filtered with 0.45‐μm cellulose acetate filters. Particles on the filter were analysed for major and trace elements as well as rare earth elements (REE) by ICP‐MS after acid digestion. Results show that (1) sediment particles were transported faster than solutes, which was interpreted as a transport in the main flow path of the conduit, whereas conservative tracers tend to diffuse into smaller fissures as well. (2) All measured particles sizes were transported at similar flow velocities. (3) A transport associated to sediment particles could be shown for all measured elements. This study presents a methodological improvement of comparative sediment tracer tests as well as deeper insights into particle and element transport processes in karst aquifers, originating from previously deposited cave sediment. Results provide deeper knowledge into transport processes of sediment‐associated contaminants, such as heavy metals which may strongly be affected by the particle size. This knowledge contributes to a better management of karst water resources in the context of turbidity events.
MultiPrime: A reliable and efficient tool for targeted next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Xia Han , Zhang Zhe , Luo Chen , Wei Kangfei , Li Xuming , Mu Xiyu , Duan Meilin , Zhu Chuanlong , Jin Luyi , He Xiaoqing , Tang Lingjie , Hu Long , Guan Yuanlin , Lam David C. C. , Yang Junbo
Published: October 2023

We present multiPrime, a novel tool that automatically designs minimal primer sets for targeted next‐generation sequencing, tailored to specific microbiomes or genes. MultiPrime enhances primer coverage by designing primers with mismatch tolerance and ensures both high compatibility and specificity. We evaluated the performance of multiPrime using a data set of 43,016 sequences from eight viruses. Our results demonstrated that multiPrime outperformed conventional tools, and the primer set designed by multiPrime successfully amplified the target amplicons. Furthermore, we expanded the application of multiPrime to 30 types of viruses and validated the work efficacy of multiPrime‐designed primers in 80 clinical specimens. The subsequent sequencing outcomes from these primers indicated a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 89%.