bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating the Nature of the External Acid Sites of ZSM‐5 Zeolites Using NMR Probe Molecules
Authors: Bornes Carlos , Stosic Dusan , Geraldes Carlos F. G. C. , Mintova Svetlana , Rocha João , Mafra Luís
Published: August 2022

The identification of acid and nonacid species at the external surface of zeolites remains a major challenge, in contrast to the extensively‐studied internal acid sites. Here, it is shown that the synthesis of zeolite ZSM‐5 samples with distinct particle sizes, combined with solid‐state NMR and computational studies of trimethylphosphine oxide (TMPO) adsorption, provides insight into the chemical species on the external surface of the zeolite crystals. 1H–31P HETCOR NMR spectra of TMPO‐loaded zeolites exhibit a broad correlation peak at δP ∼35–55 ppm and δH ∼5–12 ppm assigned to external SiOH species. Pore‐mouth Brønsted acid sites exhibit 31P and 1H NMR resonances and adsorption energies close to those reported for internal acid sites interacting with TMPO. The presence of an external tricoordinate Al‐Lewis site interacting strongly with TMPO is suggested, resulting in 31P resonances that overlap with the peaks usually ascribed to the interaction of TMPO with Brønsted sites.
B(C6F5)3‐Catalyzed E‐Selective Isomerization of Alkenes
Authors: Kustiana Betty A. , Elsherbeni Salma A. , Linford‐Wood Thomas G. , Melen Rebecca L. , Grayson Matthew N. , Morrill Louis C.
Published: August 2022

Herein, we report the B(C6F5)3‐catalyzed E‐selective isomerization of alkenes. The transition‐metal‐free method is applicable across a diverse array of readily accessible substrates, giving access to a broad range of synthetically useful products containing versatile stereodefined internal alkenes. The reaction mechanism was investigated by using synthetic and computational methods.
Enantiospecific Syntheses of Congested Atropisomers through Chiral Bis(aryne) Synthetic Equivalents
Authors: Dauvergne Guillaume , Naubron Jean‐Valère , Giorgi Michel , Bugaut Xavier , Rodriguez Jean , Carissan Yannick , Coquerel Yoann
Published: August 2022

The synthetic equivalents of the enantiopure binaphthyl bis(aryne) atropisomers derived from BINOL (1,1′‐bi‐2,2′‐naphtol) featuring a stereogenic axis vicinal to the two reactive triple bonds can be generated for the first time in solution in an enantiospecific manner. Using a two‐step sequence based on the bidirectional [4+2] cycloaddition of furan derivatives followed by an aromatizative deoxygenation reaction, several 9,9’‐bianthracenyl‐based atropisomers could be prepared enantiospecifically in high enantiomeric purity. Alternatively, bidirectional reactions with anthracene, 2‐bromostyrene, and perylene as the arynophiles afforded very congested bis(benzotriptycene), bis(tetraphene) and bis(anthra[1,2,3,4‐ghi]perylene) nanocarbon atropisomers in equally high enantiomeric purity. In complement, cross reactions with two different arynophiles revealed possible. The unusual atropisomer prototypes described in this study open the way to enantiopure nanographene atropisomers designed for functions.
The effect of mandatory IFRS adoption on the value of cash: The case of Canada
Authors: Gong Sabrina (Dan) , Huson Mark R. , Wier Heather A.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents evidence that Canada's 2011 adoption of IFRS improved Canadian firms' access to external financing. We use a matched sample of Canadian and US firms and find that the marginal value of cash decreased significantly in Canadian firms following mandatory IFRS adoption in Canada. The post‐IFRS decrease in the marginal value of cash is most evident for firms that have a larger number of similar firms in non‐Canadian IFRS regimes. This is consistent with IFRS creating a uniform set of accounting standards that lowers the information costs of cross‐border financing. We also find larger IFRS‐related decreases in the value of cash for firms with high growth potential and low availability of internal cash.
The Influence of Deuterium Isotope Effects on Structural Rearrangements, Ensemble Equilibria, and Hydrogen Bonding in Protic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Khudozhitkov Alexander E. , Stange Peter , Paschek Dietmar , Stepanov Alexander G. , Kolokolov Daniil I. , Ludwig Ralf
Published: August 2022

We report strong isotope effects for the protic ionic liquid triethylammonium methanesulfonate [TEA][OMs] by means of deuterium solid‐state NMR spectroscopy covering broad temperature ranges from 65 K to 313 K. Both isotopically labelled PILs differ in non‐deuterated and fully deuterated ethyl groups of the triethyl ammonium cations. The N−D bond of both cations is used as sensitive probe for hydrogen bonding and structural ordering. The 2H NMR line shape analysis provides the deuteron quadrupole coupling constants and the characteristics of a broad heterogeneous phase with simultaneously present static and mobile states indicating plastic crystal behavior. The temperatures where both states are equally populated differ by about 80 K for the two PILs, showing that deuteration of the ethyl groups in the trialkylammonium cations tremendously shifts the equilibrium towards the static state. In addition, it leads to a significant less cooperative transition, associated with a significantly reduced standard molar transition entropy.
Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access network optimization with and without relay station for next generation internet access
Authors: Khan Mubeen Ahmed , Kumar Awanit , Bandhu Kailash Chandra
Published: August 2022

Enhancement of network performance is a big challenge today for the emerging technology based on IEEE 802.16. Wireless technology is an alternate solution to wired technology. Network availability all the way is an important challenge in day‐to‐day life. Due to the huge population, the availability of the network is again a big challenge. Also, it becomes more difficult to capture the network if considering rural areas, hilly, lakes, and seashores today. This work proposed relay stations in WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) networks along with various bandwidth allocation algorithms to increase the signal strength over the long distance using retransmission of the original signal by relay station and extend the coverage with a higher data rate and higher user capacity. The availability of WiMAX networks for the channel bandwidth assignment to users for data and service is very important in today's scenario. This paper focuses on evaluating the performance of bandwidth allocation algorithms in light WiMAX networks with and without relay stations. The performance evaluation is done by increasing the number of nodes with various bandwidth allocation techniques with and without relay stations. In this work the round robin and strict priority algorithms are used for channel bandwidth allocation in a light WiMAX network and performance is analyzed through throughput, goodput, and packet drop rate, which will help to implement and configure the suggested optimal parameters in the production environment. This work enhanced the throughput and goodput and reduce the dropout rate, and the user capacity also increased.
Multi‐image flock size estimation with CountEm: A case study with half a million Common Eiders and Greater Snow Geese
Authors: Cruz Marcos , González‐Villa Javier , Lefebvre Josée , Gilliland Scott G. , St‐Pierre Francis , English Matthew , Lepage Christine
Published: August 2022

Many of the methods used for estimating population size from ecological surveys have limitations on precision, cost, and/or applicability. The CountEm method was proposed recently for estimating the number of individuals in large groups from single images. It is simple and efficient, and can be applied to any species. Here we present a case study by applying CountEm to a real ecological survey with 278 images of Greater Snow Geese (Anser caerulescens atlanticus) and Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima) flocks taken from fixed‐wing aircraft in Eastern Canada. First, we evaluated the precision and counting time of CountEm on single images. Second, we developed and tested a new multi‐image version of the CountEm software. We show that flock sizes of N > 35,000 can be estimated on single images in ∼5 min, from counting a sample of ∼200 birds, yielding relative SEs in the 5%−10% range. Processing times increased to 10–20 min when simultaneously processing large numbers of images that contained over half a million birds with only modest increases in relative SE (range: 10%−15%). Our results suggest that CountEm may be used to save time and resources if incorporated into monitoring programs that utilize imagery in the abundance estimates.
Silk Template Enabled Multi‐Hollow Graphene Fibers for Electrochemical Electrode
Authors: Zhou Jiahui , Zhang Yue , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Yufan , Zhang Zhaofa , Zhang Desuo , Xiong Jiaqing , Lin Hong , Chen Yuyue
Published: August 2022

Realizing high‐strength fiber electrodes with hollow/porous structure and high electrochemical activity is important for 1D energy storage devices and wearables. Herein, a graphene fiber with a tunable hollow structure, achieving fiber electrodes with a high surface specific area and electrochemical activity is developed. Specifically, silk is applied as a supporting template to manufacture a core–shell graphene oxide (GO) fiber with silk core by dry spinning technology. Subsequently, the composite fibers are treated with hydroiodic acid to reduce GO and silk is removed to obtain the hollow graphene fibers (HGFs). The multi‐hollow structure of the fibers could be adjusted by controlling the number of silk yarns. Due to the support of the silk template, GO shows lower dependence on the concentration for dry spinning, and improved spinnability and spinning efficiency of GO were demonstrated. Meanwhile, the traction of silk templates could effectively improve the orientation of GO nanosheets, enabling HGFs with enhanced mechanical strength that is tunable by controlling the number of silks. A typical two‐hole HGF exhibited a good electrochemical output with a specific capacity of 357.25 F m−2 at 200 μA, indicating the good potential of HGFs as the electrode material for the energy storage device, such as supercapacitors.
Optimal scheduling of DG and EV parking lots simultaneously with demand response based on self‐adjusted PSO and K‐means clustering
Authors: Abo‐Elyousr Farag K. , Sharaf Adel M. , Darwish Mohamed M. F. , Lehtonen Matti , Mahmoud Karar
Published: August 2022

Recently, the proliferation of distributed generation (DG) has been intensively increased in distribution systems worldwide. In distributed systems, DGs and utility‐owned electric vehicle (EV) to grid aggregators have to be efficiently scaled for cost‐effective network operation. Accordingly, with the penetration of power systems, demand response (DR) is considered an advanced step towards a smart grid. To cope with these advancements, this study aims to develop an innovative solution for the day‐ahead sizing approach of energy storage systems of EVs parking lots and DGs in smart distribution systems complying with DR and minimizing the pertinent costs. The unique feature of the proposed approach is to allow interactive customers to participate effectively in power systems. To accurately solve this optimization model, two probabilistic self‐adjusted modified particle swarm optimization (SAPSO) algorithms are developed and compared for minimizing the total operational costs addressing all constraints of the distribution system, DG units, and energy storage systems of EV parking lots. The K‐means clustering and the Naive Bayes approach are utilized to determine the EVs that are ready to participate efficiently in the DR program. The obtained results on the IEEE‐24 reliability test system are compared to the genetic algorithm and the conventional PSO to verify the effectiveness of the developed algorithms. The results show that the first SAPSO algorithm outperforms the algorithms in terms of minimizing the total running costs. The finding demonstrates that the proposed near‐optimal day‐ahead scheduling approach of DG units and EV energy storage systems in a simultaneous manner can effectively minimize the total operational costs subjected to generation constraints complying with DR.
Developmental Polyethylene Microplastic Fiber Exposure Entails Subtle Reproductive Impacts in Juvenile Japanese Medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: DiBona Elizabeth , Haley Carol , Geist Simon , Seemann Frauke
Published: August 2022

Microplastic pollution has been recognized as a potential threat to environmental and human health. Recent studies have shown that microplastics reside in all ecosystems and contaminate human food/water sources. Microplastic exposure has been shown to result in adverse effects related to endocrine disruption; however, data are limited regarding how exposure to current environmental levels of microplastics during development may impact reproductive health. To determine the impact of environmentally relevant, chronic, low-dose microplastic fibers on fish reproductive health, juvenile Japanese medaka were exposed to five concentrations of polyethylene fibers for 21 days, and reproductive maturity was examined to assess the later life consequences. Fecundity, fertility, and hatching rate were evaluated to determine the organismal level impacts. Gonadal tissue integrity and stage were assessed to provide insights into potential tissue level changes. Expression of key reproductive genes in male and female gonads provided a molecular level assessment. A significant delay in hatching was observed, indicating cross-generational and organismal level impacts. A significant decrease in 11-beta-dehydrogenase isozyme 2 (HSD11β2) gene expression in male medaka indicated adverse effects at the molecular level. A decrease in male expression of HSD11β2 could have an impact on sperm quality because this enzyme is crucial for conversion of testosterone into the androgen 11-ketotestosterone. Our study is one of the first to demonstrate subtle impacts of virgin microplastic exposure during development on later life reproductive health. The results suggest a possible risk of polyethylene fiber exposure for wild fish during reproductive development, and populations should be monitored closely, specifically in spawning and nursery regions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2848–2858. © 2022 SETAC
Enhanced hair growth effects through low‐level vortex beams radiation: An experimental animal study
Authors: Zhou Ning , Huang Ziling , Xu Zhenyu , Yin Yue , He Yancong , Huang Lingxiao , Dai Linmao , Li Xiaochun , Fu Siqi , Huang Huihui
Published: August 2022

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is a non‐invasive and pain‐less treatment for hair loss. Researches on PBMT rarely considered the impact of different light structures. In this study, we irradiated shaven rats with both 650 nm, m = 32 vortex beams and ordinary Gaussian beams. The laser treatment was performed at 24‐hour intervals for 20 days. The energy density was set to 4.25 J/cm2. The results indicated that low‐level vortex beam irradiation led to better stimulation of hair growth than the Gaussian beams, which might be related to deeper penetration. The underlying biological mechanisms are discussed in terms of the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin/sonic hedgehog pathway. Our results suggest that low‐level vortex beam irradiation is advantageous to the treatment of hair loss because it is technically feasible, convenient and effective.
The potency of common proinflammatory cytokines measurement for revealing the risk and severity of anxiety and depression in psoriasis patients
Authors: Tong Nannan , Zhang Yu , Yang Anping , Dai Xiaoli , Hao Siyu
Published: August 2022

Objective

Proinflammatory cytokines mediate anxiety and depression in various ways, such as immunity, inflammation, and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. This study intended to further explore the linkage of common proinflammatory cytokine levels with anxiety and depression in psoriasis patients.

Methods

Totally, 150 psoriasis patients and 50 healthy controls (HCs) were included; the serum samples were collected, then common proinflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was assessed.

Results

HADS‐anxiety (HADS‐A) score, HADS‐depression (HADS‐D) score, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐12, IL‐17A, and IL‐23 were all increased in psoriasis patients compared to HCs (allp < 0.05). In psoriasis patients, TNF‐α (p = 0.001), IL‐12 (p = 0.035), and IL‐17A (p < 0.001), but not IL‐1β (p = 0.255), IL‐6 (p = 0.248), and IL‐23 (p = 0.216), were positively linked to HADS‐A score. Meanwhile, TNF‐α (p = 0.007) and IL‐17A (p = 0.007) were enhanced in psoriasis patients with anxiety in contrast to those without anxiety; whereas IL‐1β (p = 0.178), IL‐6 (p = 0.360), IL‐12 (p = 0.239), and IL‐23 (p = 0.450) were not different. TNF‐α (p < 0.001), IL‐1β (p = 0.013), Il‐17A (p < 0.001), and IL‐23 (p = 0.023), but not IL‐6 (p = 0.143) and IL‐12 (p = 0.158), were positively linked to HADS‐D score. Concurrently, TNF‐α (p = 0.015), IL‐17A (p < 0.001), and IL‐23 (p = 0.017) were climbed in psoriasis patients with depression by comparison to those without depression; whereas IL‐1β (p = 0.113), IL‐6 (p = 0.237), IL‐12 (p = 0.660) did not differ.

Conclusion

TNF‐α, IL‐17A, and IL‐23 increments reflect anabatic anxiety and depression in psoriasis patients, uncovering the potency of proinflammatory cytokines measurement for monitoring or even preventing psoriasis patients' anxiety and depression.
Study of the Association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Candidate Genes With Sevoflurane
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Huang Shiqian , Zhong Qi , Han Linlin , Wang Yafeng , Xu Feng , Ma Lulin , Ding Yuanyuan , Xia Leiming , Chen Xiangdong
Published: August 2022

The susceptibility of different individuals to anesthetics varies widely, and sevoflurane is no exception. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in genes involved in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may explain this variation. A total of 151 individuals undergoing otorhinolaryngology surgery were included. The influence of genetic polymorphisms on sevoflurane sensitivity were investigated through SNaPshot technology. Individuals carrying KCNK2 rs6686529 G > C, MTRR rs3733784 TT, rs2307116 GG, or rs1801394 AA polymorphisms had a higher sensitivity to the sedative effect of sevoflurane than those without those polymorphisms. The univariate linear regression analysis indicated that MTRR rs3733784 TT, rs2307116 GG, and rs1801394 AA were potentially significant predictors of higher sensitivity to the sedative effect of sevoflurane. Moreover, CYP2E1 rs3813867 G > C and rs2031920 C > T, GABRG1 rs279858 T > C, KCNK3 rs1275988 CC, GRIN2B rs1806201 GG, MTRR rs2307116 G > A, and rs1801394 A > G were associated with a higher sensitivity to the cardiovascular effect of sevoflurane. Our results suggested that 9 single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes involved in metabolizing enzymes, transport proteins, target proteins of sevoflurane and folate metabolism may help to explain individual differences in the susceptibility to the sedative or cardiovascular effect of sevoflurane.
Using time‐weighted average change from baseline of SARS‐CoV‐2 viral load to assess impact of hydroxychloroquine as postexposure prophylaxis and early treatment for COVID‐19
Authors: Kumbhakar Raaka , Neradilek Moni , Barnabas Ruanne V. , Stewart Jenell , Stankiewicz Karita Helen C. , Landovitz Raphael J. , Kissinger Patricia J. , Jerome Keith R. , Paasche‐Orlow Michael K. , Bershteyn Anna , Chu Helen Y. , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Greninger Alexander L. , Luk Alfred , Wald Anna , Brown Elizabeth R. , Johnston Christine
Published: August 2022

Two randomized controlled trials demonstrated no clinical benefit of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for either postexposure prophylaxis or early treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Using data from these studies, we calculated the time‐weighted average change from baseline SARS‐CoV‐2 viral load and demonstrated that HCQ did not affect viral clearance.
Clinical utility of circulating calprotectin to assist prediction and monitoring of COVID‐19 severity: An Italian study
Authors: Infantino Maria , Manfredi Mariangela , Alessio Maria Grazia , Previtali Giulia , Grossi Valentina , Benucci Maurizio , Faraone Antonio , Fortini Alberto , Grifoni Elisa , Masotti Luca , Russo Edda , Amedei Amedeo , FitzGerald Emily , Albesa Roger , Norman Gary L. , Mahler Michael
Published: August 2022

Background

Calprotectin (S100A8/A9) has been identified as a biomarker that can aid in predicting the severity of disease in COVID‐19 patients. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between levels of circulating calprotectin (cCP) and the severity of COVID‐19.

Methods

Sera from 245 COVID‐19 patients and 110 apparently healthy individuals were tested for calprotectin levels using a chemiluminescent immunoassay (Inova Diagnostics). Intensive care unit (ICU) admission and type of respiratory support administered were used as indicators of disease severity, and their correlation with calprotectin levels was assessed.

Results

Samples from patients in the ICU had a median calprotectin concentration of 11.6 µg/ml as compared to 3.5 µg/ml from COVID‐19 patients who were not in the ICU. The median calprotectin concentration in a cohort of healthy individuals collected before the COVID‐19 pandemic was 3.0 µg/ml (95% CI: 2.820–2.969 µg/ml). Patients requiring a Venturi mask, continuous positive airway pressure, or orotracheal intubation all had significantly higher values of calprotectin than controls, with the increase of cCP levels proportional to the increasing need of respiratory support.

Conclusion

Calprotectin levels in serum correlate well with disease severity and represent a promising serological biomarker for the risk assessment of COVID‐19 patients.
Epidemiological and sociodemographic transitions of severe periodontitis incidence, prevalence, and disability‐adjusted life years for 21 world regions and globally from 1990 to 2019: An age‐period‐cohort analysis
Authors: Cui Yiran , Tian Gang , Li Ri , Shi Yan , Zhou Tong , Yan Yan
Published: August 2022

Background

Severe periodontitis is one of the most prevalent diseases and a global public health problem due to its high incidence and prevalence. However, there are few studies on the burden of periodontitis in different regions of the world.

Methods

We extracted data on the incidence, prevalence, and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) from the Global Burden of Disease study as severe periodontitis burden measures. We also explored the global burden of severe periodontitis according to 21 world regions and Socio‐Demographic Index (SDI) quintiles. The joinpoint model was used to analyze temporal trends of major regions from 1990 to 2019, and the age‐period‐cohort model was used to estimate age, period, and cohort trends in severe periodontitis.

Results

Globally, the age‐standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age‐standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) rate increased from 1990 to 2019 (percentage change: 5.77%, 7.78%, and 8.01%, respectively), with average annual percent changes of 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.3%, respectively. The region with the highest DALY rate was western sub‐Saharan Africa with a value of 142.5 (95% uncertainty interval: 56.3, 303.7) per 100,000 in 2019. For the ASIR, ASPR, and DALY, the age effect of severe periodontitis showed an increase followed by a decrease, the period effect showed an upward trend, the cohort effect showed an overall decreasing trend, and the cohort relative risk for incidence for some SDI quintiles showed a slight increase in recent years.

Conclusions

Oral health varies significantly across regions, and it is essential to address inequalities in oral health between countries. Effective measures to prevent severe periodontitis risk factors should also be taken in regions with low SDI.
How fine wine producers can make the best of counterfeiting
Authors: Grolleau Gilles , Evon Juliette , Qian Yi
Published: August 2022

Given that counterfeiting cannot be easily eliminated, we develop four approaches by which luxury wine producers can leverage the opportunities of being counterfeited. Counterfeit wines can increase brand exposure and awareness and serve as gateways for their genuine counterparts. Genuine producers can exploit the existence of counterfeit wines to develop innovative wine‐based experiences that cannot be counterfeited and boost innovation strategies.
Conversion of drylands to paddy fields on former wetlands restores soil organic carbon by accumulating labile carbon fractions in the Sanjiang Plain, northeast China
Authors: Chen Hui‐Min , Shi Fu‐Xi , Wang Xian‐Wei , Zhang Xin‐Hou , Mao Rong
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Since the 1990s, drylands have been extensively converted to rice paddy fields on the former wetlands in the Sanjiang Plain of northeast China. However, the influence of this successiveland‐use change from native wetlands to drylands to rice paddy fields on soil organic carbon (C) dynamics remains unexplored. Here, we compared the difference in soil organic C stock among native wetlands, drylands, and paddy fields, and then used a two‐step acid hydrolysis approach to examine the effect of this land‐use change on labile C I (LPI‐C), labile C II (LPII‐C), and recalcitrant C (RP‐C) fractions at depths of 0–15 cm, 15–30 cm, and 30–50 cm.

RESULTS

Soil organic C stock at a depth of 0–50 cm was reduced by 79% after the conversion of wetlands to drylands but increased by 24% when drylands were converted to paddy fields. Compared with wetlands, paddy fields had 74% lower soil organic C stock at a depth of 0–50 cm. The conversion of wetlands to drylands reduced the concentrations of LPI‐C, LPII‐C, and RP‐C fractions at each soil depth. However, land‐use change from drylands to paddy fields only increased the concentrations of LPI‐C and LPII‐C fractions at the 0–15 cm and 30–50 cm depths.

CONCLUSION

The conversion of drylands to paddy lands on former wetlands enhances the soil organic C stock by promoting labile C fraction accumulation, and labile C fractions are more sensitive to this successive land‐use change than recalcitrant C fractions in the Sanjiang Plain of northeast China. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Resection of retroperitoneal tumors with inferior vena cava involvement without caval reconstruction
Authors: Palacios Arnold R. , Schmeusser Benjamin N. , Midenberg Eric , Patil Dattatraya , Xie Lillian , Nabavizadeh Reza , Ogan Kenneth , Cardona Kenneth , Maithel Shishir K. , Master Viraj A.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

Retroperitoneal tumors with involvement of the inferior vena cava (IVC) often require resection of the IVC to achieve complete tumor removal. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of IVC ligation without caval reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent IVC ligation (IVC‐Ligation) and IVC resection with reconstruction (IVC‐Reconstruction) at our institution between May 2004 and April 2021 was performed. Outcomes from the two surgical techniques were compared via univariate analysis using the Kruskal–Wallis test for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test for categorical variables.

Results

Forty‐nine IVC‐Ligation and six IVC‐Reconstruction surgeries were identified. There were no differences in baseline demographics, tumor characteristics, complication rates, postoperative morbidity, or overall 5‐year survival between groups. IVC‐Reconstruction patients were more likely to require intensive care unit admission (83% vs. 33%; p = 0.0257) and the IVC‐Ligation cohort had a tendency to present with nondebilitating postoperative lymphedema (35% vs. 0%; p = 0.1615), which resolved for most patients.

Conclusions

IVC‐Ligation is a viable surgical option for select patients presenting with retroperitoneal tumors with IVC involvement and provides acceptable short‐ and medium‐term outcomes.
Bilirubin metabolism andUDP‐glucuronosyltransferase1A1variants in Asians: Pathogenic implications and therapeutic response
Authors: Huang May‐Jen , Chen Pei‐Lain , Huang Ching‐Shan
Published: August 2022

In the Asian general population, at least six single‐nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1gene have been identified:−3279T>G,−53A(TA)6TAA>A(TA)7TAA, 211G>A, 686C>A, 1091C>T, and 1456T>G. Each of these six SNVs was observed in at least four ethnic groups of the 12 Asian populations studied. In East Asian populations, the descending frequency of these six SNVs was as follows:−3279G>[−53A(TA)7TAA, 211A]>(686A, 1091T)>1456G. Because of the presence of linkage disequilibrium and the expulsion phenomenon, when the SNVs−3279G,−53A(TA)7TAA, 211A, and 686A were simultaneously involved, 15 instead of the estimated 81 genotypes were observed. Those carrying 686AA or 1456GG developed Gilbert's syndrome or Crigler–Najjar syndrome type 2. Both−53A(TA)7TAA/A(TA)7TAA and 211AA are the main causes of Gilbert's syndrome in East Asian populations. In East Asian populations, the 211AA genotype is the main cause of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, whereas−53A(TA)7TAA/A(TA)7TAA exerts a protective effect on hyperbilirubinemia development in neonates fed with breast milk. Both 211A and−53A(TA)7TAA are significantly associated with adverse drug reactions induced by irinotecan (one of the most widely used anticancer agents) in Asians. However, at least three common SNVs (−3279G,−53A(TA)7TAA, and 211A) should be comprehensively analyzed. This study investigated the clinical significance of these six SNVs and demonstrated that examiningUGT1A1variants in Asian populations is considerably challenging.
Gray Matter Volume Loss in Proposed Brain‐First and Body‐First Parkinson's Disease Subtypes
Authors: Banwinkler Magdalena , Dzialas Verena ,   The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative, Hoenig Merle C. , van Eimeren Thilo
Published: August 2022

Background

α‐Synuclein pathology is associated with neuronal degeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD) and considered to sequentially spread across the brain (Braak stages). According to a new hypothesis of distinct α‐synuclein spreading directions based on the initial site of pathology, the “brain‐first” spreading subtype would be associated with a more asymmetric cerebral and nigrostriatal pathology than the “body‐first” subtype.

Objective

Here, we tested if proposed markers of brain‐first PD (ie, higher dopamine transporter [DaT] asymmetry; absence of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder [RBD]) are associated with a greater or more asymmetric reduction in gray matter volume (GMV) in comparison to body‐first PD.

Methods

Data of 255 de novo PD patients and 110 healthy controls (HCs) were retrieved from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative. Structural magnetic resonance images were preprocessed, and GMVs and their hemispherical asymmetry were obtained for each of the neuropathologically defined Braak stages. Group and correlation comparisons were performed to assess differences in GMV and GMV asymmetry between PD subtypes.

Results

PD patients demonstrated significantly smaller bilateral GMVs compared to HCs, in a pattern denoting stage‐dependent disease‐related brain atrophy. However, the degree of putaminal DaT asymmetry was not associated with reduced GMV or higher GMV asymmetry. Furthermore, RBD‐negative and RBD‐positive patients did not demonstrate a significant difference in GMV or GMV asymmetry.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that putative brain‐first and body‐first patients do not present diverging brain atrophy patterns. Although certainly not disproving the brain‐first/body‐first spreading hypothesis, this study fails to provide evidence in support of it. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Single‐slice microwave imaging of breast cancer by reverse time migration
Authors: Bilgin Egemen , Çayören Mehmet , Joof Sulayman , Cansiz Gökhan , Yilmaz Tuba , Akduman Ibrahim
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Microwave imaging of breast cancer is considered and a new microwave imaging prototype including the imaging algorithm, the antenna array, and the measurement configuration is presented. The prototype aims to project the geometrical features of the anomalies inside the breast to a single‐slice image at the coronal plane depending on the complex dielectric permittivity variation among the tissues to aid the diagnosis.

Methods

The imaging prototype uses a solid cylindrical dielectric platform, where a total of 24 optimized Vivaldi antennas are embedded inside to form a uniform circular antenna array. The center of the platform is carved to create a hollow part for placement of the breast and the multistatic, microwave scattering parameters are collected with the antenna array around the hollow center. The dielectric platform further enhances the microwave impedance matching against the breast fat tissue and preserves the vertical polarization during the measurements. In the imaging phase, a computationally efficient inverse electromagnetic scattering method—reverse time migration (RTM)—is considered and adapted in terms of scattering parameters to comply with the actual measurements.

Results

The prototype system is experimentally tested against tissue‐mimicking breast phantoms with realistic dielectric permittivity profiles. The reconstructed single‐slice images accurately determined the locations and the geometrical extents of the tumor phantoms. These experiments not only verified the microwave imaging prototype but also provided the first experimental results of the imaging algorithm.

Conclusions

The presented prototype system implementing the RTM method is capable of reconstructing single‐slice, nonanatomical images, where the hotspots correspond to the geometrical projections of the anomalies inside the breast.
Immunolocalization of melatonin receptor type 1 in the sheep ovary and involvement of the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway in the effects of melatonin on survival and in vitro activation of primordial follicles
Authors: Barberino Ricássio S. , Macedo Taís J. S. , Lins Thae Lanne B. G. , Menezes Vanúzia G. , Silva Regina L. S. , Monte Alane P. O. , Palheta Raimundo C. , Smitz Johan E. J. , Matos Maria Helena T.
Published: August 2022

This study characterized the expression of melatonin receptor type 1 (MT1) protein in sheep ovaries, evaluated melatonin effects on primordial follicle survival and development after in vitro culture of ovarian tissue and verified the possible involvement of the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/protein kinase B/forkhead box O3a (PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a) pathway in the melatonin actions. Ovine ovarian fragments were cultured in α‐modified minimum essential medium alone (α‐MEM+) or supplemented with 100, 500, or 1000 pg/ml melatonin for 7 days. PI3K inhibition was performed through pretreatment of ovarian fragments with LY294002. Thereafter, immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of cleaved caspase‐3, Akt, phosphorylated‐Akt, and phosphorylated‐FOXO3a (p‐FOXO3a). The immunohistochemical localization of the MT1 receptor protein was documented in sheep preantral and antral follicles. After in vitro culture, 100 pg/ml melatonin showed higher follicular survival and activation than α‐MEM+ and other melatonin concentrations. After PI3K inhibition, there was an increase in cleaved caspase‐3‐positive follicles, and a decrease in the primordial follicle activation, Akt phosphorylation, and nuclear exclusion of p‐FOXO3a. In conclusion, MT1 receptor protein is present in the sheep ovary. Furthermore, 100 pg/ml melatonin maintains survival and stimulates activation of primordial follicles through the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway after in vitro culture of sheep ovarian tissue.
Closed‐form formulation of vertical dynamic response of single floating piles in homogeneous viscoelastic soil
Authors: Zheng Changjie , Kouretzis George , Ding Xuanming , Luan Lubao
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a mathematical model for the elastic analysis of single floating piles subjected to axial dynamic loads, that is based on treating the soil surrounding the pile as a Tajimi‐type viscoelastic continuum. The pile and the soil column underlying the pile tip are modelled using one‐dimensional rod theory, and this allows obtaining an elegant solution that requires solving a system of linear equations, instead of complicated integral equations. Closed‐form expressions are derived for the dynamic stiffness at the pile head, and the frictional resistance along the pile shaft. The presentation concludes with a discussion on the main mechanisms that govern the inertial response of floating piles, and an investigation on the sensitivity of the dynamic stiffness and of the frictional resistance to the main geometrical and material problem parameters.
Hydrophobic association copolymer as viscosifier for high‐temperature high‐pressure anti‐sedimentation performance of water‐based drilling fluid
Authors: Wang Hao , Li Ming , Qin Xiaoliang , Sun Kun , Zhang Chunhua
Published: August 2022

In this study, a new type of amphiphilic copolymer SPXFJ, with amide and sulfonate functional groups, was synthesized via the free radical polymerization method. And the chemical structure and properties of this new polymer were characterized by elemental analysis (EA), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), intrinsic viscosity tests, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The hydrophobic association and thermo‐thickening properties of SPXFJ copolymer were investigated through viscometer, contact angle tester, high‐resolution scanning electron microscope analysis, and X‐ray laser static scattering (XLSS) test. The test results indicated that SPXFJ copolymer showed superior amphiphilic properties, especially in the solution condition. Furthermore, a thermo‐associative behavior was found in the solution that aged at 180°C. Thus, SPXFJ‐based drilling fluid showed a higher temperature resistance. The test results, in both high‐temperature aging tests and high‐temperature high‐pressure (HTHP) downhole simulation tests, showed that the water‐based drilling fluid showed excellent anti‐sedimentation properties with the use of SPXFJ polymer and can be improved significantly, especially in the high‐pressure condition. The water‐based drilling fluid of 2.0 g/cm3 showed no sedimentation of barite powders at 180°C/100 MPa, of which the density deviation just reached approximately 0.06 g/cm3.
Efficient fluorescence‐based localization technique for real‐time tracking endophytes route in host‐plants colonization
Authors: Ondzighi‐Assoume Christine A. , Bhusal Bandana , Traore Adam M. , Ouma Wilson K. , Mmbaga Margaret T. , Swiggart Ethan M.
Published: August 2022

Bacterial isolates that enhance plant growth and suppress plant pathogens growth are essential tools for reducing pesticide applications in plant production systems. The objectives of this study were to develop a reliable fluorescence‐based technique for labeling bacterial isolates selected as biological control agents (BCAs) to allow their direct tracking in the host‐plant interactions, understand the BCA localization within their host plants, and the route of plant colonization. Objectives were achieved by developing competent BCAs transformed with two plasmids, pBSU101 and pANIC‐10A, containing reporter genes eGFP and pporRFP, respectively. Our results revealed that the plasmid‐mediated transformation efficiencies of antibiotic‐resistant competent BCAs identified as PSL, IMC8, and PS were up 84%. Fluorescent BCA‐tagged reporter genes were associated with roots and hypocotyls but not with leaves or stems and were confirmed by fluoresence microscopy and PCR analyses in colonized Arabidopsis and sorghum. This fluorescence‐based technique's high resolution and reproducibility make it a platform‐independent system that allows tracking of BCAs spatially within plant tissues, enabling assessment of the movement and niches of BCAs within colonized plants. Steps for producing and transforming competent fluorescent BCAs, as well as the inoculation of plants with transformed BCAs, localization, and confirmation of fluorescent BCAs through fluorescence imaging and PCR, are provided in this manuscript. This study features host‐plant interactions and subsequently biological and physiological mechanisms implicated in these interactions. The maximum time to complete all the steps of this protocol is approximately 3 months.
Diroximel fumarate – a new twist for MS agent best seller
Authors: Gaber Tarek
Published: August 2022

Fast track appraisal (FTA) was adopted by NICE in 2017. This faster and more simplified process is mainly used for novel pharmaceutical agents that are considered bioequivalent to an already recommended drug with added advantages or reduced costs. In June 2022 NICE used FTA to recommend diroximel fumarate (Vumerity) for the management of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). This short article explores the potential role the drug may play within the pantheon of disease modifying treatment for RRMS.
Twin filicide: a tragedy of postpartum depression with suicidal ideation
Authors: Shaifzadeh Narges , Farhoudi Fateme , Saghebi Ali
Published: August 2022

Filicide‐suicide is the killing of a child older than 12 months, followed by parental complete or incomplete suicide. In most cases, the motive of maternal filicide‐suicide is altruistic. This article reports a case of twin filicide by a depressed mother and also highlights the risk of filicide in depressed multiple birth older mothers.
NIR‐triggered hydrogel with dynamic stiffness via ion chelation to modulate macrophage phenotypes
Authors: Yuan Peiqi , Luo Yilun , Ma Lie
Published: August 2022

The immune system plays a central role in tissue repair and regeneration. Macrophages have emerged as a primary target because of their critical roles in regulating multiple phases of tissue repair through their unique plasticity and ability to rapidly shift phenotypes. Smart biomaterials, which able to harness macrophage phenotypes on demand during the healing process, have become a promising strategy. Here, a novel integrated hydrogel with near‐infrared (NIR) responsive dynamic stiffness was conducted, and found sequentially polarizing bone marrow‐derived macrophages from pro‐inflammatory to anti‐inflammatory phenotype in situ. Under NIR irradiation, ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid released from the IR780‐mixed phase change material into the hydrogel, resulting in the decrease of hydrogel stiffness in situ by chelating the calcium ion (Ca2+) in the calcium alginate hydrogel. The up‐regulation of arginase‐1 and interleukin‐10 were quantified by immunostaining and enzyme‐linked immune sorbent assay, respectively. The result indicated the transformation of macrophage from the pro‐inflammatory to anti‐inflammatory phenotype by dynamic stiffness drop. The modulation of macrophage phenotypes by stiffness‐degradation without the stimuli of cytokines offers an effective and noninvasive strategy to manipulate inflammatory or tissue‐regenerative immune responses to achieve optimized healing or therapeutical outcomes.
Temperature Dependence of Water Absorption in the Biological Windows and Its Impact on the Performance of Ag2S Luminescent Nanothermometers
Authors: Muñoz‐Ortiz Tamara , Abiven Lise , Marin Riccardo , Hu Jie , Ortgies Dirk H. , Benayas Antonio , Gazeau Florence , Castaing Victor , Viana Bruno , Chanéac Corinne , Jaque Daniel , Maturi Fernando E. , Carlos Luís D. , Martín Rodríguez Emma , García Solé José
Published: August 2022

The application of nanoparticles in the biological context generally requires their dispersion in aqueous media. In this sense, luminescent nanoparticles are an excellent choice for minimally invasive imaging and local temperature sensing (nanothermometry). For these applications, nanoparticles must operate in the physiological temperature range (25–50 °C) but also in the near‐infrared spectral range (750–1800 nm), which comprises the three biological windows of maximal tissue transparency to photons. In this range, water displays several absorption bands that can strongly affect the optical properties of the nanoparticles. Therefore, a full understanding of the temperature dependence of water absorption in biological windows is of paramount importance for applications based on these optical properties. Herein, the absorption spectrum of water in the biological windows over the 25–65 °C temperature range is systematically analyzed, and its temperature dependence considering the coexistence of two states of water is interpreted. Additionally, to illustrate the importance of state‐of‐the‐art applications, the effects of the absorption of water on the emission spectrum of Ag2S nanoparticles, the most sensitive luminescent nanothermometers for in vivo applications to date, are presented. The spectral shape of the nanoparticles’ emission is drastically affected by the water absorption, impacting their thermometric performance.
Reversible and Irreversible HAuCl4 Binding to DNA for Seeded Gold Nanoparticle Growth and Opposite DNA and Aptamers Colorimetric Sensing Outcomes
Authors: Lu Chang , Zandieh Mohamad , Zheng Jinkai , Liu Juewen
Published: August 2022

DNA‐directed seeded growth of gold nanoparticles has been used for the development of aptamer‐based biosensors with the assumption that target analytes can modulate the adsorption of aptamers to the gold seeds and thus affect the growth reaction. To understand the reaction, the effect of single‐ and double‐stranded DNA is first examined, and it is found that they have a similar promotion effect of anisotropic growth, suggesting that DNA cannot be detected using this method. By studying the interaction between HAuCl4 and DNA, both weak reversible binding and strong irreversible binding are identified, with the latter becoming dominating with a longer incubation time. Single‐ and double‐stranded DNA have similar weak binding to HAuCl4, and this weak binding is more important for the growth reaction. Then three aptamers are tested, where only cortisol appeared to modulate its aptamer adsorption and the growth reaction reflected aptamer binding. Hg2+ shows no advantage for its aptamer, and quinine induced aggregation of AuNPs cannot be detected by this reaction either. Therefore, each aptamer target needs to be individually studied to test if this method is applicable. It is also noted that DNA and aptamers have opposite outcomes for the target‐dependent growth reactions.
Application of CD and Eu3+ Dual Emission MOF Colorimetric Fluorescent Probe Based on Neural Network in Fe3+ Detection
Authors: Zheng Yuewei , Wang Xuan , Guan Zhihao , Deng Junjie , Liu Xinghai , Li Houbin , Zhao Pingping
Published: August 2022

A new highly fluorescent hybrid material (CD@Eu‐MOF) is synthesized by encapsulating carbon dots (CD) prepared from citric acid and ethylenediamine on the basis of a metal‐organic framework (MOF) prepared from Eu3+ and 1,2,4‐benzenetricarboxylic acid. The prepared composite not only maintains the excellent fluorescence properties of CD and Eu3+, respectively, but also forms a dual‐emission fluorescence system, and the system has good stability in an aqueous solution. It is further used as a novel fluorescent probe for the detection of Fe3+, which can effectively exclude the interference of other metal ions from the detection, and the intensity ratio of IEu/ICD of CD@Eu‐MOF material has a good linear relationship with Fe3+ in the range of 1–200 µm. In this study, computer vision and backpropagation (BP) neural networks are used to train and fit the sample data, and it is verified that the actual fluorescence color of CD has a good linear relationship with Fe3+ concentration. In addition, the BP neural network also verifies that the fluorescence spectrum data of CD@Eu‐MOF also have a good linear relationship with Fe3+ concentration. This study provides a new method for the fabrication of ratio and colorimetric Fe3+ fluorescence sensors.