bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dispersal potential of endangered plants versus non‐native garden escapees
Authors: Staude Ingmar R.
Published: March 2024

Amidst climate change, enhancing plant dispersal pathways is crucial for adapting ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. In our human‐dominated landscapes, urban and rural green spaces, especially gardens, are promising conduits for plant dispersal. Non‐native plants are known to benefit from these spaces, yet the potential benefits for at‐risk native plants remain unclear.

Here, I synthesized data on dispersal traits, comparing endangered native plants with non‐endangered and non‐native species in Germany. To make my analysis pertinent to understanding the potential role of gardens in aiding the dispersal of at‐risk native plants, I further contrasted the dispersal ecology of garden‐friendly endangered plants with non‐native plants known to escape gardens. I analysed several traits including seed weight, terminal velocity, dispersal distance, germination rate, dispersal mode, seed structures and seedbank type.

Overall, dispersal traits between native and non‐native plants showed minor, but in some cases statistically significant differences. Endangered plants were more often wind‐dispersed and more frequently had seed appendages conducive to a wider range of dispersal vectors. Conversely, non‐native plants leaned more towards non‐assisted local dispersal, heavier seeds and more persistent seed banks. Other traits were largely consistent across groups.

This research shows that endangered native plants possess a dispersal ecology similar to non‐native species, which frequently spread from green spaces like gardens. Thus, integrating endangered flora into our green spaces could help to promote an essential aspect of species survival: dispersal.
Difference Approximation
Authors: Durón Christina , Swansen Bridget , Kravitz Hannah
Published: March 2024

Difference approximations are powerful numerical techniques used to solve differential equations by approximating derivatives with finite differences. After motivating the need for difference approximations, some standard finite difference approximations at equally spaced points are derived for the first and second derivatives. An accompanying example of the forward difference equation is highlighted before concluding with a brief discussion and example of solving ordinary differential equations with finite differences.
Sided Stimulation of Endothelial Cells Modulates Neutrophil Trafficking in an In Vitro Sepsis Model
Authors: Ahmad Danial , Linares Isabelle , Pietropaoli Anthony , Waugh Richard E. , McGrath James L.
Published: March 2024

While the role of dysregulated polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) transmigration in septic mediated tissue damage is well documented, strategies to mitigate aberrant transmigration across endothelium have yet to yield viable therapeutics. Recently, microphysiological systems (MPS) have emerged as novel in vitro mimetics that facilitate the development of human models of disease. With this advancement, aspects of endothelial physiology that are difficult to assess with other models can be directly probed. In this study, the role of endothelial cell (EC) apicobasal polarity on leukocyte trafficking response is evaluated with the µSiM‐MVM (microphysiological system enabled by a silicon membrane – microvascular mimetic). Here, ECs are stimulated either apically or basally with a cytokine cocktail to model a septic‐like challenge before introducing healthy donor PMNs into the device. Basally oriented stimulation generated a stronger PMN transmigratory response versus apical stimulation. Importantly, healthy PMNs are unable to migrate towards a bacterial peptide chemoattractant when ECs are apically stimulated, which mimics the attenuated PMN chemotaxis seen in sepsis. Escalating the apical inflammatory stimulus by a factor of five is necessary to elicit high PMN transmigration levels across endothelium. These results demonstrate that EC apicobasal polarity modulates PMN transmigratory behavior and provides insight into the mechanisms underlying sepsis.
A Sustainable Route to Ruthenium Phosphide (RuP)/Ru Heterostructures with Electron‐Shuttling of Interfacial Ru for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Li Daohao , Cai Rongsheng , Zheng Dongyong , Ren Jun , Dong Chung‐Li , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Haigh Sarah J. , Liu Xien , Gong Feilong , Liu Yiming , Liu Jian , Yang Dongjiang
Published: March 2024

Ruthenium (Ru) is a promising electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), despite suffering from low activity in non‐acidic conditions due to the high kinetic energy barrier of H2O dissociation. Herein, the synthesis of carbon nanosheet‐supported RuP/Ru heterostructures (RuP/Ru@CNS) from a natural polysaccharide is reported and demonstrates its behavior as an effective HER electrocatalyst in non‐acidic conditions. The RuP/Ru@CNS exhibits low overpotential (106 mV at 200 mA·cm−2) in alkaline electrolyte, exceeding most reported Ru‐based electrocatalysts. The electron shuttling between Ru atoms at the RuP/Ru interface results in a lowered energy barrier for H2O dissociation by electron‐deficient Ru atoms in the pure Ru phase, as well as optimized H* adsorption of electron‐gaining Ru atoms in the neighboring RuP. A low H* spillover energy barrier between Ru atoms at the RuP/Ru interface further boosts HER kinetics. This study demonstrates a sustainable method for the fabrication of efficient Ru‐based electrocatalysts and provides a more detailed understanding of interface effects in HER catalysis.
Influence of food physical properties and environmental context on manipulative behaviors highlighted by new methodological approaches in zoo‐housed bonobos (Pan paniscus)
Authors: Gérard Caroline , Bardo Ameline , Guéry Jean Pascal , Pouydebat Emmanuelle , Narat Victor , Simmen Bruno
Published: March 2024

Research on manipulative abilities in nonhuman primates, in the context of hominid evolution, has mostly focused on manual/pedal postures considered as static behaviors. While these behavioral repertoires highlighted the range of manipulative abilities in many species, manipulation is a dynamic process that mostly involves successive types of grips before reaching its goal. The present study aims to investigate the use of manual/pedal postures in zoo‐housed bonobos in diverse dynamic food processing by using an innovative approach: the optimal matching analysis that compares sequences (i.e., succession of grasping postures) with each other. To characterize the manipulative techniques spontaneously employed by bonobos, we performed this sequential analysis of manual/pedal postures during 766 complete feeding sequences of 17 individuals. We analyzed the effectiveness with a score defined by a partial proxy of food intake (i.e., the number of mouthfuls) linked to a handling score measuring both the diversity and changes of manual postures during each sequence. We identified four techniques, used differently depending on the physical substrate on which the individual performed food manipulation and the food physical properties. Our results showed that manipulative techniques were more complex (i.e., higher handling score) for large foods and on substrates with lower stability. But the effectiveness score was not significantly lower for these items since manipulative complexity seemed to be compensated by a greater number of mouthfuls. It appeared that the techniques employed involved a trade‐off between manipulative complexity and the amount of food ingested. This study allowed us to test and validate innovative analysis methods that are applicable to diverse ethological studies involving sequential events. Our results bring new data for a better understanding of the evolution of manual abilities in primates in association with different ecological contexts and both terrestrial and arboreal substrates and suggest that social and individual influences need to be explored further.
Statistical analysis of the substitution of inorganic fibers and fillers with vegetable fibers and fillers in polystyrene composites
Authors: Ponsoni Lara Vasconcellos , de Almeida Marina Kauling , Madeira Kristian , Militão Gustavo Pacheco , Zimmermann Matheus Vinícius Gregory
Published: March 2024

Thermoplastic composites exhibit improved mechanical performance compared to pure matrices, and the fiber is usually the most influential component of the composite. Recently, studies related to the use of vegetable fibers have grown significantly, but few works report the direct comparative between inorganic and vegetable fibers and fillers as reinforcements. In this work, composites were produced with polystyrene (PS) matrix, reinforced with inorganic fibers (glass), vegetal fibers (kapok), particulate inorganic (CaCO3), and vegetal (wood) fillers. The composites were mixed by a twin‐screw co‐rotating extruder and after processed in an injection‐molding machine. Statistical analyses of density, tensile and flexural strength abrasion resistance were made, along with analyzes of thermal deflection temperature, dynamic mechanical analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were performed on the composites. The main results indicate that all reinforcing agents (vegetal and inorganic fibers and fillers) show a regular trend of increasing the mechanical properties proven by statistical comparison, presenting p < 0.01 that proves a significant increase. By dynamic mechanical analysis, vegetable reinforcements showed a higher coefficient of effectiveness when compared to composites produced with inorganic reinforcements.
Space invaders: Reassessing the histology of hyperostosis frontalis interna
Authors: Hogg Russell T. , Smith Timothy D.
Published: March 2024

Hyperostosis frontalis interna (HFI) is a human skeletal lesion characterized by nodules of hyperplastic bone and thickening of the frontal bone's inner surface. Despite its prevalence in the general population and its long history of observation—it is one of the most frequently observed pathologies in gross anatomy laboratories—HFI's etiology and pathogenesis remain poorly understood. This is largely due to the lack of a thorough survey of its histology across the various stages of its development. Our study has three major aims: (1) assess HFI histology from incipient to advanced lesions; (2) elucidate lamellar and trabecular structure in HFI; and (3) clarify impacts/roles of the dura mater in HFI. Sections of nondecalcified bone provide evidence for two different categories of lesions: (1) stratum lesions, characterized by lamellar‐based overall thickening of the internal table, and (2) eruptive lesions, characterized by nodular formations of initially lamellar bone that appear to form the bulk of bone mass in advanced stages. Sections of nondecalcified bone also suggest that for both lesion types, HFI growths begin as deposits of lamellar bone, which are later remodeled into woven bone deposits; our data do not support the hypothesis that lesions begin as a “diploization” of cortical bone as suggested by prior studies. Trichrome‐stained sections provide evidence that growing lesions erode through and engulf the dura mater, effectively destroying this tissue layer as they grow laterally and inwardly. Our results indicate possible avenues of research to better understand the root causes of this disorder.
Post‐COVID‐19 approach to teaching an undergraduate laboratory class focused on experimental design and data interpretation
Authors: King Jessie , Kelly Barnaby , Rhein Nayla , Rosengren Rhonda
Published: March 2024

To best prepare students for the real‐world research environment, key skills, including experimental design, data analysis, communication of results, and critical thinking, should be key components of undergraduate science courses. Furthermore, the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on in‐person teaching has resulted in a need to develop courses that enable flexible learning. This paper details the laboratory component of a senior‐level toxicology class that was developed to emphasize all these skills and allow for flexible learning. The aim of the laboratory class was for students to determine how curcumin protected against acetaminophen‐induced hepatoxicity. To stimulate critical thinking, students were required to choose a maximum of four experiments from the six on offer. Before conducting an experiment, students stated a hypothesis and selected the appropriate treatment groups. Once an experiment was completed, students were given access to a complete dataset, on which they performed statistical analysis and drew conclusions. Students who were unable to attend the laboratory session in person were able to complete the required pre‐lab work and access the dataset. Following each experiment, students could write a lab summary, and receive thorough feedback. The final assessment was a written manuscript of their findings as well as a chance to respond to reviewer comments. This teaching approach prioritized the critical thinking, analysis, and experimental design aspects of scientific research. Overall, this structure was well received by students and it could easily be adapted for use on other life science courses.
Two Undescribed Germacrane‐Type Sesquiterpenoids from Salvia cavaleriei var. simplicifolia Stib. and Their Anti‐Alzheimer's Disease Activity
Authors: Wu Qian , Liu Li , Lu Yu‐Bin , Guo Le‐Le , Yang Mi‐Na , Li Hui‐Jie , Liu Chun‐Min , Ye Li‐Jia , Zhang Zhan‐Xin , Shao Yong‐Liang , Fei Dong‐Qing
Published: March 2024

Two undescribed germacrane‐type sesquiterpenoids, salcasins A (1) and B (2), together with three known compounds (3–5) were isolated and identified from the whole plant of Salvia cavaleriei var. simplicifolia Stib. The structures of the undescribed compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods, such as HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR data. The relative configurations of 1 and 2 were established by analyzing their NOESY spectra as well as by 13C NMR calculations with DP4+ probability analyses. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by comparing experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Furthermore, the in vivo anti‐Alzheimer's disease activities of 1–5 were evaluated using Caenorhabditis elegans AD pathological model. Among all isolated compounds, salcasin A (1) significantly delayed AD‐like symptoms of worm paralysis, which may be a potential anti‐AD candidate agent.
Taxodin A, a Cytotoxic C30 Terpenoid from Taxodium mucronatum with a Unique Skeleton
Authors: Li Yao , Zhou Zhi‐Ping , Chen Li‐Ting , Zhao Qin‐Shi
Published: March 2024

Taxodin A (1), a unique C30 terpenoid featuring an unprecedented skeleton composed of an abietane‐type diterpene and a menthane‐type monoterpene, was obtained from the leaves and branches of Taxodium mucronatum. The structure and absolute configuration of compound 1 was unequivocally established by the combination of extensive spectroscopic analyses and X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction analysis. Compound 1 exhibited potent cytotoxic activities against A549, SMMC‐7721, MDA‐MB‐231, and SW480 cell lines with IC50 values of 15.35±0.73, 8.49±0.35, 17.53±0.79, 18.93±0.60 μM, respectively.
Diagnosis and treatment of mixed salivary gland tumor previously diagnosed as cutaneous chondroid syringoma proximal to the oral commissure: A case report
Authors: Lee Haeseong , Senehi Navid , Sedghizadeh Parish
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Subcutaneous tumors of the head and neck resembling cutaneous mixed tumors may be misdiagnosed pleomorphic adenomas of salivary gland origin. Physicians should consider salivary mixed tumors in the differential diagnosis for suspected cutaneous tumors.
A woman with eptifibatide (integrilin)‐induced thrombocytopenia following treatment of a clot in her coronary artery: A case report and literature review
Authors: Safi Morteza , Nazari Roozbeh , Senobari Nahid , Taheri Homa , Ebrahimi Pouya
Published: March 2024

Eptifibatide, a GPIIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor, has shown its efficacy and safety in patients with high clot burden in their coronary vessels. It is widely used in patients with this condition. However, this medication use is accompanied by complications in some cases. Thrombocytopenia which is a relatively common condition in patients admitted to the hospital, especially in the acute setting, can be caused by medications. This condition can occur as an antibody or non‐antibody‐mediated process, caused by medications, such as heparin, clopidogrel, and eptifibatide. In this case, we present a woman with acute coronary syndrome and a complex lesion with a clot in her coronary vessel who was treated with eptifibatide. It led to asymptomatic thrombocytopenia. Once detected in laboratory data, the infusion was held, and the platelet count recovered in less than 5 days without additional treatment for this adverse effect. Eptifibatide is a medication used to treat acute coronary syndrome patients with a large thrombus in their coronary vessels. The mechanism of inducing thrombocytopenia by eptifibatide has not been proven yet, but it might be related to IgG antibodies. The severity of the disease can vary significantly, and the treatment is based on this factor. However, the main pillar of the treatment is the cessation of eptifibatide as soon as possible. This case draws the attention of physicians to one of the infrequent adverse effects of a commonly used medication in cardiology patients. Thrombocytopenia and its manifestations should be investigated and considered in patients who receive eptifibatide.
Engineering Tauriopine Dehydrogenase for Efficient Catalytic Synthesis of (R)‐Alpha‐Ethyl‐2‐Oxo‐1‐Pyrrolidineacetic Acid
Authors: Zhen Xin , Feng XiSong , Song Wei , Wei Wanqing , Wu Jing , Wen Jian , Hu Guipeng , Li Xiaomin , Gao Cong , Chen Xiulai , Liu Liming
Published: March 2024

The synthetic pathway for Etiracetam depends on alpha‐ethyl‐2‐oxo‐1‐pyrrolidineacetic acid (AEOPA) as a crucial intermediate. This paper presents an enzymatic synthesis approach for producing (R)‐AEOPA. Through database mining, we discovered a tauriopine dehydrogenase capable of catalyzing the reaction between γ‐aminobutyric acid and 2‐oxobutyric acid, resulting in the synthesis of (R)‐4‐(carboxypropylamino) butyric acid with a specific activity of 6.74 U/mg. By enhancing substrate affinity and catalytic efficiency of CgTaDH through protein engineering, we achieved a 5.9‐fold increase in enzyme activity compared to the wild type. Further optimization led to a space‐time yield (STY) of 3.95 g/L/h for (R)‐4‐(carboxypropyl amino) butyric acid and a high yield of 73.0 % for the final product, (R)‐AEOPA. This study demonstrates a novel synthesis method for (R)‐AEOPA and highlights the potential of biocatalysis in improving the production of Etiracetam through successful enzymatic processes.
Biomimetic Nanocomposites for Glioma Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Chi Siyu , Wang Caixia , Liu Zhihong
Published: March 2024

Glioma, the most common primary brain tumor, is highly invasive and grows rapidly. As such, the survival of glioma patients is relatively short, highlighting the vital importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of glioma. However, the blood brain barrier (BBB) and the non‐targeting delivery systems of contrast agents and drugs greatly hinder the effective glioma imaging and therapy. Fortunately, in recent years, investigators have constructed various biomimetic delivery platforms utilizing the exceptional advantages of biomimetic nanocomposites, such as immune evasion, homologous targeting ability, and BBB penetrating ability, to achieve efficient and precise delivery of substances to glioma sites for improved diagnosis and treatment. In this concept, we present the application of these biomimetic nanocomposites in fluorescence imaging (FI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and multi‐modal imaging, as well as in chemotherapy, phototherapy, and combined therapy for glioma. Lastly, we provide our perspective on this research field.
Photocontrolled Binding of Styrylnaphthyridine Ligands to Abasic Site‐Containing DNA by Reversible [2+2] Cycloaddition and Cycloreversion
Authors: Schlosser Julika , Ihmels Heiko
Published: March 2024

Five novel styrylnaphthyridine derivatives were synthesized and shown to operate as photoswitchable, selective ligands for abasic site‐containing DNA (AP‐DNA), which is an important therapeutic and diagnostic target. These compounds associate with AP‐DNA with binding constants of 0.5–8.4×104 M−1 as shown by photometric and fluorimetric titrations. Specifically, these ligands bind preferentially to AP‐DNA relative to regularly paired duplex DNA. As a special feature, the association of these ligands with DNA can be controlled by means of a reversible [2+2] photocycloaddition. Upon irradiation at 420 nm the photodimer is formed, which does not bind to AP‐DNA. In turn, the naphthyridine is regained with excitation at 315 nm. Most notably, this photoinduced deactivation and release of the DNA ligand can be performed in situ in the presence of AP‐DNA, thus providing a tool for on‐demand delivery of a DNA binder. Overall, these results provide a promising starting point for the development of functional AP‐DNA ligands whose bioactivity can be modulated by light with local and temporal control.
Parametric Analysis of Donor Activation for Glycosylation Reactions
Authors: Lin Mei‐Huei , Kuo Yan‐Ting , Danglad‐Flores José , Sletten Eric T. , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: March 2024

The chemical synthesis of complex oligosaccharides relies on efficient and highly reproducible glycosylation reactions. The outcome of a glycosylation is contingent upon several environmental factors, such as temperature, acidity, the presence of residual moisture, as well as the steric, electronic, and conformational aspects of the reactants. Each glycosylation proceeds rapidly and with a high yield within a rather narrow temperature range. For better control over glycosylations and to ensure fast and reliable reactions, a systematic analysis of 18 glycosyl donors revealed the effect of reagent concentration, water content, protecting groups, and structure of the glycosyl donors on the activation temperature. With these insights, we parametrize the first step of the glycosylation reaction to be executed reliably and efficiently.
Redox‐Active Organic Molecules Supported by Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane
Authors: Tanaka Ryota , Kitajima Showa , Tohnai Norimitsu , Oka Kouki , Imoto Hiroaki , Naka Kensuke
Published: March 2024

Organic redox molecules have attracted considerable attention because of their abundant availability and excellent design flexibility. For practical applications, these molecules must be anchored onto scaffolds such as polymers to prevent crystallization and elution into the electrolyte. In this study, we explore the use of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) derivatives as scaffolds for anthraquinone (AQ) and hydroquinone. We investigated the cage structure of POSS and the number of redox units incorporated. Notably, a corner‐opened POSS (CO‐POSS) variant with three AQ units exhibited reversible redox behavior under neutral, acidic, and basic conditions. Furthermore, we examined the air‐battery performance of AQ‐modified CO‐POSS as an anode‐active material.
Evolution of Excited‐State Behaviors of Gold Complexes, Nanoclusters and Nanoparticles
Authors: Zeng Linlin , Zhou Meng , Jin Rongchao
Published: March 2024

Metal nanomaterials have been extensively investigated owing to their unique properties in contrast to bulk counterparts. Gold nanoparticles (e. g., 3–100 nm) show quasi‐continuous energy bands, while gold nanoclusters (<3 nm) and complexes exhibit discrete energy levels and display entirely different photophysical properties than regular nanoparticles. This review summarizes the electronic dynamics of these three types of gold materials studied by ultrafast spectroscopy. Briefly, for gold nanoparticles, their electronic relaxation is dominated by heat dissipation between the electrons and the lattice. In contrast, gold nanoclusters exhibit single‐electron transitions and relatively long excited‐state lifetimes being analogous to molecules. In gold complexes, the excited‐state dynamics is dominated by intersystem crossing and phosphorescence. A detailed understanding of the photophysical properties of gold nanocluster materials is still missing and thus calls for future efforts. The fundamental insights into the discrete electronic structure and the size‐induced evolution in quantum‐sized nanoclusters will promote the exploration of their applications in various fields.
Construction of the Red‐Green‐Blue Luminescence Conversion System Based on Donor‐Acceptor Dyes Exchange with Diels‐Alder Dynamic Covalent Bonds
Authors: Zheng Haifeng , Zhang Yue , Zhang Xin , Zhang Yongsheng , Han Dandan , Gong Junbo
Published: March 2024

The construction of full‐color fluorescence systems has received widespread attention because of their applications in lighting materials, optoelectronic materials, and fluorescent probes. However, for the full‐color luminescence system based on trichromatic materials, there are no connections between materials of different luminescent colors. Herein, A new donor‐acceptor dye with red fluorescence was synthesized. The dye displays excellent optical properties of short half‐peak width and strong fluorescence emission. An effective energy transfer process from the dansyl donor to the acceptor was observed with a transfer efficiency of 81 %. Further, dyes with green and blue fluorescence were introduced to construct a full‐spectrum fluorescent system. Through exchange reactions of Diels‐Alder dynamic covalent bonds, red, green, and blue luminescence can be converted. This work provides a new idea for the design of full‐color fluorescent materials.
Chloromethylation of Lignin as a Route to Functional Material with Catalytic Properties in Cross‐Coupling and Click Reactions
Authors: Mohan Mahendra K. , Silenko Oleg , Krasnou Illia , Volobujeva Olga , Kulp Maria , Ošeka Maksim , Lukk Tiit , Karpichev Yevgen
Published: March 2024

Invited for this issue's cover are researchers from Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech). The image depicts the lignin chemical evolution route from raw biomass through a greener chloromethylation procedure developed by the research team. It showcases the transformation into lignin‐supported metal nanoparticles, serving as a catalyst for various chemical reactions in both batch and continuous flow conditions. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202301588.
Age‐dependent associations between RSA reactivity, affective and cognitive regulation, and psychopathology risk in young children exposed to varying levels of socioeconomic disadvantage
Authors: Merrill Livia , Lipschutz Rebecca , Li Xinge , Shen Shutian , Ortiz‐Jimenez Andrea , Bick Johanna
Published: March 2024

This study examined autonomic nervous system activity (respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA]) as a biomarker of psychopathology in an ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample (N = 57) of young children ages 4–7 years. RSA was measured at baseline and across four standardized tasks designed to assess self‐regulation in both affective (i.e., “hot”) and cognitive (i.e., “cool”) contexts during early childhood. Our findings reveal that age moderated RSA activity, such that reduced RSA suppression was associated with a heightened risk of externalizing problems among older children during “cool” and “hot” contexts; for younger children, only RSA suppression during “hot” contexts predicted externalizing risk. The influence of socioeconomic disadvantage did not moderate the relationship between RSA and the risk of psychopathology, and there were minimal associations between RSA suppression and internalizing symptoms at this age range. These results suggest that autonomic variability may be a more effective predictor of psychopathology risk in older children, perhaps as they transition into formal schooling and face increasingly complex cognitive and social demands. Findings have implications for the identification of psychopathology in early developmental periods when regulation over emotions becomes essential for academic and social success.
Elevated liver enzymes in the first trimester are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Cui Lingling , Yang Xiaoli , Li Zhiqian , Gao Yuting , Zhang Zhengya , Xu Dongmei , Liu Xinxin
Published: March 2024

Aims

Previous studies have found that a single liver enzyme may predict gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but the results have been inconsistent. This study aimed to explore the associations of liver enzymes in early pregnancy with risk of GDM, as well as to independently rank risk factors.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 1295 women who underwent liver enzyme measurements during early pregnancy and completed GDM assessment in mid‐pregnancy. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between liver enzymes and risk of GDM. Back‐propagation artificial neural network was performed to rank independently risk factors of GDM.

Results

Women diagnosed with GDM exhibited significantly higher levels of liver enzymes than those without GDM (all p < 0.05). The highest quartile of liver enzymes was associated with higher risk of GDM compared with the lowest quartile, with adjusted odds ratio (ORs) ranging from 2.76 to 8.11 (all p < 0.05). Moreover, the ORs of GDM increased linearly with liver enzymes level (all P for overall association <0.001). Furthermore, Back‐propagation artificial neural network identified γ‐gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) as accounting for the highest proportion in the ranking of GDM risk prediction weights (up to 20.8%).

Conclusions

Single or total elevations of liver enzymes in early pregnancy could predict the GDM occurrence, in which GGT, alkaline Phosphatase, and aspartate aminotransferase were the three most important independent risk factors.
Is nonrainfall water a likely water source for arid and semiarid biocrusts? A critical perspective
Authors: Kidron Giora J.
Published: March 2024

It is commonly believed that nonrainfall water (NRW) serves as an important and even a central source of water for biocrusts in arid and semiarid regions. Known also as biological soil crusts, they mainly consist of cyanobacteria (that dwell within the upper 2 mm of the soil) and crustose chlorolichens that commonly protrude 1–2 mm above ground. It is commonly assumed that due to the prolonged dry season in deserts, a constant source of water is required for their survival. Overestimated, nonrealistic NRW values, whether due to the use of improper measurement devices or erroneous interpretation of the recorded values as well as instances during which distillation was regarded as dewfall, supported the notion that the amounts of NRW are sufficiently high to allow for biocrust activation. In the current commentary, a short account of the reasons that led scholars to believe that NRW may be utilized by biocrusts is presented, and the findings that led to this belief are critically analysed. It is argued that the amounts of NRW reaching the surface are below the critical thresholds of 0.05 and 0.1 mm required for net photosynthesis by the chlorolichens and cyanobacteria, respectively. Moreover, it is argued that even if these thresholds are seldom reached, their duration is too short to result in net carbon gain. As shown for the dewy Negev and may be applicable for other arid and semiarid regions, biocrusts rely on rainwater for their growth and survival.
Changes in public attitude toward epilepsy in Hungary since 1994. A multicriteria weighting analysis
Authors: Biresaw Mengesha Srahbzu , Vitrai József , Halász Péter , Correa Vivian , Szűcs Anna
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the adult Hungarian population's knowledge about and attitude toward epilepsy and compare the present findings with previous ones in 1994 and 2000.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional survey of the Hungarian adult population from 28th February to 8th March 2023. A non‐probability quota sampling with a random walk method was used. We applied the computer‐assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) method and used a multicriteria weighting procedure to correct for bias along the main sociodemographic variables. To detect changes over time, we used chi‐squared tests, and to analyze the effect of sociodemographic characteristics, we applied multivariate logistic regression.

Results

One thousand participants (53.1% women, mean age 48.1 ± 16.75 years) representing Hungary's population were interviewed yielding a response rate of 80.3%. 26.3% knew someone with epilepsy (55.9% in 1994 and 51.9% in 2000), and 30.8% saw an epileptic seizure (58% in 1994 and 55.3% in 2000). Compared to the young, fewer adults and elderly people knew someone with epilepsy or had seen a seizure. Like in 1994 and 2000, 16.6% reported objection to their children's interaction with people with epilepsy; however, in the present study, significantly fewer people opposed their children marrying or working together with epileptic people, indicating a change in attitude (p < 0.0001). Rural residents had less objection to their children's interaction with people with epilepsy (p < 0.05). People with secondary education objected significantly more often than those with primary education to their children's interaction (p = 0.037), marriage to people with epilepsy (p = 0.043), or their having equal employment (p = 0.008). Higher education people were as “permissive” as those with primary education.

Significance

Certain parameters of familiarity and attitude markers of the Hungarian population toward epilepsy have improved. These tendencies are promising, but work is still needed; our results will hopefully evoke educational programs and campaigns against negative attitudes.

Plain Language Summary

The knowledge of the Hungarian population about epilepsy and their attitude toward people with epilepsy has been improved since 1994. People from rural areas have shown more acceptance for people with epilepsy. Those people who completed secondary education were significantly more prone to stigmatization than those with primary education.
Pelvic lymph node involvement and risk of recurrence in HPV‐associated endocervical adenocarcinoma stage IA2‐IB1 according to Silva's system in two Colombian cancer centers
Authors: Hernández Jairo Alonso , Rodríguez Juliana , Rendón Gabriel , Trujillo Lina Maria , Beltrán María Islena , Mantilla Carolina , Echeverry Carolina , Mendoza María Angélica , Gil Mónica , Núñez Marcela , Hernández Marcela , Peralta Jonathan , Pareja René
Published: March 2024

Objective

To compare the pelvic lymph node involvement and risk of recurrence in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated endocervical adenocarcinoma stage IA2‐IB1 undergoing hysterectomy and/or trachelectomy plus lymphadenectomy, according to Silva's classification system.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed in two Colombian cancer centers. The cases were classified according to the Silva classification system. Clinical, surgical, and histopathological variables were evaluated. Recurrence risk was analyzed by patterns A, B, or C. A logistic regression model was performed for tumor recurrence. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate overall survival and disease‐free survival (DFS). A weighted kappa was performed to determine the degree of concordance between pathologists.

Results

A total of 100 patients were identified, 33% pattern A, 29% pattern B, and 38% pattern C. The median follow‐up time was 42.5 months. No evidence of lymph node involvement was found in patients classified as A and B, while in the C pattern was observed in 15.8% (n = 6) of cases (P < 0.01). There were 7% of cases with recurrent disease, of which 71.5% corresponded to type C pattern. Patients with Silva pattern B and C had 1.22‐ and 4.46‐fold increased risk of relapse, respectively, compared with pattern A. The 5‐year DFS values by group were 100%, 96.1%, and 80.3% for patterns A, B, and C, respectively.

Conclusion

For patients with early‐stage HPV‐associated endocervical adenocarcinoma, the type C pattern presented more lymph node involvement and risk of recurrence compared to the A and B patterns. The concordance in diagnosis of different Silva's patterns by independents pathologists were good.
Endangered beach mouse resistance to a Category 5 hurricane is mediated by elevation and dune habitat
Authors: Cove Michael V. , Dietz Samantha L. , Anderson Chad T. , Jenkins Amy M. , Hooker Katie R. , Kaeser Melanie J.
Published: March 2024

Coastal ecosystems and their endemic taxa are under threat from hurricanes that are increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change—leading to a need to better understand factors associated with species' resistance (capacity to withstand) and resilience (capacity to rebound) to these storms. The beach mouse species complex (Peromyscus polionotus spp.) is a representative endangered group of rodents tightly associated with such coastal habitats. We examined track‐tube monitoring data of beach mice from Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, USA, before and after the 2018 strike of Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 hurricane, and again before and after the 2020 strike of Hurricane Sally, a Category 2 hurricane. We applied dynamic occupancy models to track‐tube survey data to assess environmental factors associated with beach mouse initial occupancy and local extinction following Hurricane Michael. Beach mice exhibited high probabilities of detection and initial occupancy across most sites and all representative habitats before Hurricane Michael. Dynamic models revealed that local extinction probabilities of beach mice decreased with increasing elevation and dune habitat, followed by grassland, and scrub—highlighting high elevation dune as the primary driver of beach mouse resistance to storms. Extinction probability was not related to other factors like plant species percent cover or proximity to storm strike. Beach mice occurred at 100% of track‐tubes before and after Hurricane Sally. Beach mice are adapted to persist in dynamic coastal environments with regular hurricane strikes, as evidenced by their resistance and resilience following Hurricane Michael to reach 100% occupancy with high resistance to the weaker Hurricane Sally. However, as hurricanes become stronger and more frequent with global change, isolated populations of beach mice may be more susceptible to local extinction with the corresponding loss of elevation and dunes. High elevation, particularly in dune habitats, is an important mediator of resistance and resilience to hurricane impacts and should be considered in habitat restoration and reintroduction strategies, especially if relative elevation decreases with sea‐level rise.
Bibliometric analysis of global climate change and agricultural production: Trends, gaps and future directions
Authors: Pius Awhari Dauda , Jamal Mohamad Hidayat Bin , Muhammad Mohd Khairul Idlan , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: March 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat to global food security, and a comprehensive understanding of its impact on agricultural production is needed. We analysed the Scopus data set between 1993 and 2023. China occupies the leading position in terms of climate change production, and the United States occupies the comprehensive strength position with the largest citation strength output. Notably, a substantial 29% annual publication increase between 2000 and 2015 was noted. Despite prevailing research on specific facets, a pronounced gap exists in global‐scale studies focusing on the direct impact of climate change on agricultural production and yield, with a predominant concentration in regional analyses. Collaboration in this area continues to occur within developed nations, but the rate of growth at the international level is relatively low. In addition, the frequency of co‐occurrence analysis of keywords revealed that climate change and sustainability are the focal keywords, but yield, food security, irrigation and rice production have yet to be identified. The results of this research will help in designing a policy for water resource management for irrigation planning and an adaptative food security management strategy and provide a feature research guide.
Estimating the price elasticity of gasoline demand in correlated random coefficient models with endogeneity
Authors: Bates Michael , Kim Seolah
Published: March 2024

We propose a per‐cluster instrumental variable (PCIV) approach for estimating linear correlated random coefficient models in the presence of contemporaneous endogeneity and two‐way fixed effects. This approach estimates heterogeneous effects and aggregates them to population averages. We demonstrate consistency, showing robustness over standard estimators, and provide analytic standard errors for robust inference. In Monte Carlo simulation, PCIV performs relatively well in finite samples in either dimension. We apply PCIV in estimating the price elasticity of gasoline demand using state fuel taxes as instrumental variables. We find significant elasticity heterogeneity and more elastic gasoline demand on average than with standard estimators.
A study of scarless wound healing through programmed inflammation, proliferation and maturation using a redox balancing nanogel
Authors: Das Monojit , Mondal Susmita , Ghosh Ria , Darbar Soumendra , Roy Lopamudra , Das Anjan Kumar , Pal Debasish , Bhattacharya Siddhartha Sankar , Mallick Asim Kumar , Kundu Jayanta Kumar , Pal Samir Kumar
Published: March 2024

In the study, we have shown the efficacy of an indigenously developed redox balancing chitosan gel with impregnated citrate capped Mn3O4 nanoparticles (nanogel). Application of the nanogel on a wound of preclinical mice model shows role of various signaling molecules and growth factors, and involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at every stage, namely hemostasis, inflammation, and proliferation leading to complete maturation for the scarless wound healing. While in vitro characterization of nanogel using SEM, EDAX, and optical spectroscopy reveals pH regulated redox buffering capacity, in vivo preclinical studies on Swiss albino involving IL‐12, IFN‐γ, and α‐SMA signaling molecules and detailed histopathological investigation and angiogenesis on every stage elucidate role of redox buffering for the complete wound healing process.
Montreal cognitive assessment in Brazilian adults with sickle cell disease: The burdens of poor sociocultural background
Authors: Junqueira Fleury Silva Pedro , Martins Silva Caroline , Machado de Campos Brunno , de Melo Campos Paula , de Souza Medina Samuel , Lamonica Andreza , Coimbra Trindade José Vitor , Cendes Fernando , Costa Fernando Ferreira , Olalla Saad Sara Teresinha , Deltreggia Benites Bruno
Published: March 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) patients are at higher risk of developing silent cerebral infarcts and overt stroke, which may reflect cognitive impairment, functional limitations, and worse quality of life. The cognitive function of Brazilian adult SCD patients (n = 124; 19–70 years; 56 men; 79 SS, 28 SC, 10 S/β0, 7 S/β+) was screened through Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and correlated the results with possible predictive factors for test performance, including sociocultural, clinical, laboratory data and brain imaging. The Median MoCA score was 23 (8–30); 70% had a 25‐or‐less score, suggesting some level of cognitive impairment. There were no significant associations between MoCA results and any clinical or laboratory data in SS and SC patients; however, a significant correlation (P = 0.03) with stroke was found in HbS/β‐thalassemic patients. Correlations were further detected according to sociodemographic conditions, such as age (r = −0.316; P < 0.001), age at first job (r = 0.221; P = 0.018), personal (r = 0.23; P = 0.012) and per capita familiar incomes (r = 0.303; P = 0.001), personal (r = 0.61; P = 0), maternal (r = 0.536; P = 0), and paternal educational status (r = 0.441; P = 0). We further sought independent predictors of performance using multivariable regressions and increased education was an independent predictor of better scores in MoCA (0.8099, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.509–1.111). Brain imaging analysis showed significant and progressive atrophy in important cerebral areas related to memory, learning, and executive function. These data point to the high prevalence and impact of cognitive decline in adult SCD patients, mirrored in brain atrophic areas. It is also possible to observe the influence of sociodemographic conditions on patients’ cognitive performances and the need for creating focused therapeutic plans that address these deficiencies. Moreover, the absence of a significant correlation of MoCA values with stroke in the SS and SC groups may be related to the worst sociocultural and economic conditions of the Brazilian African descent population, in which the impact of low educational stimulation on cognitive function can outweigh even the anatomical damage caused by the disease.
Clinical Significance of HMGB1 and Autophagy‐Related Genes in Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Zi Jiajia , Wei Zhaoxia , Wang Lin , Yan Xudong , Zhang Shengnan , Zhao Lijuan , Li Danyang , Dong Zihui , Yu Longgang , Jiang Yan
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Sinonasal inverted papilloma (SNIP) is a noncancerous tumor that develops in the mucous membrane of the nasal sinuses. Many malignancies are tightly linked to autophagy, an intracellular self‐degradation mechanism. HMGB1 has demonstrated its ability to modulate autophagy in many pathological conditions. This work investigates how HMGB1 and other genes involved in autophagy contribute to SNIP.

Material and Methods

The study included 45 patients with SNIP and a control group consisting of 28 individuals. In each group, qPCR was employed to examine the mRNA expression levels of genes correlated with autophagy and HMGB1. HMGB1 and genes associated with autophagy were examined for protein expression levels via Western Blot and immunohistochemical staining assays. At the same time, the association between HMGB1 and genes involved in autophagy was discovered through correlation analysis. Furthermore, Krouse staging was utilized for investigating the expression levels of HMGB1 and other autophagy‐related genes at various stages in clinically staged SNIP patients.

Results

LC3B, ATG5, and Beclin1 autophagy‐related genes and HMGB1 were substantially expressed in SNIP. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between HMGB1 and these genes. During various phases of SNIP, the levels of HMGB1 expression and autophagy‐related genes were notably elevated at stage T4 compared with stage T2.

Conclusion

Clinical staging in SNIP is correlated with HMGB1 expression in conjunction with autophagy‐related genes LC3B, ATG5, and Beclin1, suggesting the possibility of novel prognostic indicators.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3941–3946, 2024
Endpoint estimates for harmonic analysis operators associated with Laguerre polynomial expansions
Authors: Betancor Jorge J. , Dalmasso Estefanía , Quijano Pablo , Scotto Roberto
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we give a criterion to prove boundedness results for several operators from the Hardy‐type space to and also from to the space of functions of bounded mean oscillation , with respect to the probability measure on when is a multi‐index in . We shall apply it to establish endpoint estimates for Riesz transforms, maximal operators, Littlewood–Paley functions, multipliers of the Laplace transform type, fractional integrals, and variation operators in the Laguerre setting.