bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CFD‐PBM simulation of the column flotation unit of FCMC: Importance of gas–liquid interphase forces models
Authors: Wang Mengdie , Ni Chao , Bu Xiangning , Peng Yaoli , Xie Guangyuan , Tan Zhongchao , Yu Hesheng
Published: January 2023

The cyclonic micro‐bubble flotation column (FCMC) is an efficient flotation device for the separation of fine minerals, but its mechanisms are rarely studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This paper reports the air–water two‐phase computational fluid dynamics‐population balance model (CFD‐PBM) simulations for the column flotation unit of an FCMC. The shear stress transport (SST) k‐ω model with curvature correction (CC) is used to simulate turbulence effects. Then, the interphase forces models considering bubble size distribution are selected according to the experimental data in a bubble column, which is in analogy to the column flotation unit of the FCMC. Finally, the optimal combination of interphase forces models (i.e., the Ishii–Zuber drag force model, the Hosokawa–Frank wall lubrication force model, and the Lopez de Bertodano turbulent dispersion force model) is applied to simulate an FCMC with a superficial gas velocity of 0.0144 m/s. The results show that the CFD‐PBM simulation can achieve a relative error of 9.09% for gas volume fraction and −5.45% for bubble rising velocity, indicating the reliability of the selected combination of interphase forces models.
Talachalasins A—C, Undescribed Cytochalasans with a 16β‐Methyl or 2‐Oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐3‐one unit from the Deep‐Sea‐Derived Fungus Talaromyces muroii sp. SCSIO 40439
Authors: Ding Xuemin , Ye Weixia , Tan Bin , Song Qiaoyun , Chen Yuchan , Liu Wei , Sun Lili , Tang Wei , Qiao Yulei , Zhang Qingbo , Zhang Haibo , Wang Ying , Zhang Weimin , Zhang Changsheng , Zhang Wenjun
Published: January 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Talachalasins A—C (1—3), three new cytochalasans (CYTs), were isolated from deep‐sea‐derived fungus Talaromyces muroii sp. SCSIO 40439. The structures of 1—3, including absolute configurations, were determined based on HRESIMS, NMR spectroscopic data, ECD comparison, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Talachalasins A—C (1—3) represented the first examples of cytochalasans possessing a unique 16β‐methyl group, distinct from >500 reported CYTs. Talachalasin C (3) was an unprecedented 20,21‐seco‐cytochalasans characterized by a 2‐oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐3‐one unit. Talachalasin A (1) displayed moderate cytotoxic activity against four tumor cell lines (IC50 3.40—10.02 μM). Talachalasin B (2) showed comparable anti‐RSV and HSV‐1 activities (IC50 12.5 μM or IC50 20.0 μM).
Radioligand Binding to Quantify Adrenergic Receptor Expression in the Heart
Authors: Grisanti Laurel A.
Published: January 2023

β‐adrenergic receptors regulate cardiac function in both the healthy and failing heart. Their expression is decreased in heart failure due to chronic overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system, contributing to declines in cardiac function and disease progression. Furthermore, therapies that prevent β‐adrenergic receptor downregulation or restore β‐adrenergic receptor levels are beneficial, making the determination of cardiac β‐adrenergic receptor expression in the heart an important consideration. Although quantitative RT‐PCR can provide an indication of β‐adrenergic receptor density and subtype expression, mRNA levels do not always correlate with functional protein levels. Additionally, antibodies to β‐adrenergic receptors lack specificity, making immunoblotting and other antibody‐based techniques unreliable. Radioligand binding assays were developed over 50 years ago and remain the gold standard for quantifying β‐adrenergic receptor densities in biological samples. This technique capitalizes on the binding of high‐affinity, highly specific ligands to receptors and can give quantifiable levels of receptor expression. Furthermore, competition assays using subtype‐selective antagonists generate binding profiles and can differentiate β‐adrenergic receptor subtype expression in cardiac tissue. This article focuses on the quantification of β‐adrenergic receptors in the heart using saturation and competition radioligand binding techniques to quantify β‐adrenergic receptor density and ligand affinities in cardiac membranes. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Radioligand binding to quantify adrenergic receptor expression in the heart
Life Cycle Impact Assessment of Solution Combustion Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles and Its Comparison with More Conventional Strategies
Authors: Rosa Roberto , Paradisi Enrico , Lassinantti Gualtieri Magdalena , Mugoni Consuelo , Cappucci Grazia Maria , Ruini Chiara , Neri Paolo , Ferrari Anna Maria
Published: January 2023

This paper represents the first attempt to quantitatively and reliably assess the environmental sustainability of solution combustion synthesis (SCS) with respect to other soft chemistry strategies, which are more conventionally employed in the preparation of engineered oxide nanomaterials, namely hydrolytic and non‐hydrolytic sol–gel syntheses (i. e., HSGS and NHSGS). Indeed, although SCS is well known to rely on significant reduction in the energy as well as time required for the obtainment of the desired nanocrystals, its quantitative environmental assessment and a detailed comparison with other existing synthetic pathways represents an absolute novelty of high scientific desirability in order to pursue a more sustainable development in the inorganic chemistry as well as materials science research fields. TiO2 nanoparticles were selected as the material of choice, for the production of which three slightly modified literature procedures were experimentally reproduced and environmentally evaluated by the application of the comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Particularly, SCS was compared from an environmental perspective with sol–gel approaches performed both in water and in benzyl alcohol. The results of the present study were also framed among those recently obtained in a systematic study assessing seven further chemical, physical, and biological routes for the synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles, comprising also flame spray pyrolysis (typically used in industrial productions), highlighting and quantifying the excellent environmental performances of SCS.
In‐depth immunophenotyping reveals significant alteration of lymphocytes in buffalo with brucellosis
Authors: Grandoni Francesco , Signorelli Federica , Martucciello Alessandra , Napolitano Francesco , De Donato Immacolata , Donniacuo Anna , Di Vuolo Gabriele , De Matteis Giovanna , Del Zotto Genny , Davis William C. , De Carlo Esterina
Published: January 2023

Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) has a prominent position in the livestock industry worldwide but still suffers from limited knowledge on the mechanisms regulating the immune against infections, including brucellosis (BRC), one of the most significant neglected zoonotic diseases of livestock. Seventy‐three buffalo were recruited for the study. Thirty‐five were naturally infected withBrucella spp. The aims of the study were to (i) verify the cross‐reactivity of 16 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) developed against human, bovine, and ovine antigens; (ii) evaluate lymphocyte subset alterations in BRC positive buffalo; (iii) evaluate the use of the canonical discriminant analysis (CDA), with flow cytometric data, to discriminate BRC positive from negative animals. A new set of eight mAbs (anti CD3e, CD16, CD18, CD45R0, CD79a; CD172a) were shown to cross‐react with water buffalo orthologous molecules. BRC positive animals presented a significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in the percentage of PBMC (29.5 vs. 40.3), total, T and B lymphocytes (23.0 vs. 35.5, 19.2 vs. 28.9, 2.6 vs. 5.7, respectively). In contrast, they showed an increase in percentage of granulocytes (65.2 vs. 55.1;p < 0.0001) and B lymphocytes CD21neg(22.9 vs. 16.1;p = 0.0067), a higher T/B lymphocyte ratio (10.3 vs. 6.4;p = 0.0011) and CD3+/CD21+(14.7 vs. 8.3;p = 0.0005) ratio. The CDA, applied to 33 different flow cytometric traits, allowed the discrimination of all BRC positive from negative buffalo. Although this is a preliminary study, our results show that flow cytometry can be used in a wide range of applications in livestock diseases, including in support of uncertain BRC diagnoses.
Prevalence and prognosis of frailty in older patients with stage B heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Meng Chen , Chai Ke , Li Ying‐Ying , Luo Yao , Wang Hua , Yang Jie‐Fu
Published: January 2023

Aims

Frailty in older patients with stage B heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has not been fully explored. We evaluated the prevalence and prognostic significance of frailty in older patients diagnosed with stage B HFpEF.

Methods

Our prospective cohort study included inpatients aged ≥65 years who were followed up for 3 years. Stage B HFpEF was defined as cardiac structural or functional abnormalities with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50% without signs or symptoms. Frailty was assessed using the Fried phenotype. The primary outcome was 3‐year all‐cause mortality or readmission.

Results

Overall, 520 older inpatients diagnosed with stage B HFpEF [mean ± standard deviation age: 75.5 ± 6.25 years, male: 222 (42.7%)] were included in the study. Of these, 145 (27.9%) were frail. Frail patients were older (78.5 ± 6.23 vs. 74.3 ± 6.22 years, P < 0.001), with a lower body mass index (24.6 ± 3.60 vs. 25.7 ± 3.27 kg/m2, P = 0.001), higher level of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide [279 (interquartile range: 112.4, 596) vs. 140 (67.1, 266) pg/mL, P < 0.001], longer timed up‐and‐go test result (19.9 ± 9.71 vs. 13.3 ± 5.08 s, P < 0.001), and poorer performance in the short physical performance battery (4.1 ± 3.26 vs. 8.2 ± 2.62, P < 0.001), basic activities of daily living (BADL, 4.7 ± 1.71 vs. 5.7 ± 0.57, P < 0.001), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL, 4.4 ± 2.73 vs. 7.4 ± 1.33, P < 0.001). Frail patients were more likely to have a Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score <24 (55.9% vs. 28.8%, P < 0.001) and take more than five medications (64.1% vs. 47.2%, P = 0.001). Frail patients had a higher incidence of all‐cause mortality or readmission (62.8% vs. 47.7%, P = 0.002), all‐cause readmission (56.6% vs. 45.9%, P = 0.029), and readmission for non‐heart failure (55.2% vs. 41.3%, P = 0.004) during the 3‐year follow‐up, with a 1.53‐fold (95%CI 1.11–2.11, P = 0.009) higher risk of all‐cause mortality or readmission, a 1.52‐fold (95%CI 1.09–2.11, P = 0.014) higher risk of all‐cause readmission, and a 1.70‐fold (95%CI 1.21–2.38, P = 0.002) higher risk of readmission for non‐clinical heart failure, adjusted for sex, age, polypharmacy, Athens Insomnia Scale, MMSE, LVEF, BADL, and IADL.

Conclusions

Frailty is common in elderly patients with stage B HFpEF. Physical frailty, particularly low physical activity, can independently predict the long‐term prognosis in these patients.
The Search for Enhanced σ‐Donor Ligands to Stabilize Boron‐Boron Multiple Bonds
Authors: Trujillo‐González Daniel E. , González‐García Gerardo , Hamlin Trevor A. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Braunschweig Holger , Jiménez‐Halla J. Oscar C. , Solà Miquel
Published: January 2023

Boron‐boron multiple bonds, such as those found in diborenes and diborynes, are typically stabilized by σ‐donor ligands that furnish electron density to these otherwise electron‐deficient species. These compounds are not only of fundamental importance in the study of chemical bonding, but can also activate small molecules in a chemistry reminiscent of that carried out by transition metals. In the pursuit of designing new and improved σ‐donor ligands to stabilize diborenes and diborynes suitable to activate small molecules, we performed density functional calculations to evaluate the Lewis basicity of a series of σ‐donor ligands. For this evaluation, we analysed the interaction between the boranes and the σ‐donor ligands in model systems L→BX3 (X=F and Me) using energy decomposition analyses. We found that electronic bond energies of the L→BX3 adducts correlate well with the ionization energies of the ligands and that ligands with high or medium basicity stabilize diborynes better than ligands with low basicity. We also learnt that beryllium‐based ligands are promising since they are able to stabilize L→B≡B←L diborynes without significantly reducing the triple bond character of the B≡B bond.
Developing an industry‐inspired and engaging interdisciplinary unit for undergraduate engineering students: A depiction of the operations management unit at the University of Manchester
Authors: Yunusa‐Kaltungo Akilu , Jungudo Rukaiyatu Mohammed
Published: January 2023

Engineering students hardly allocate equal level of engagement to their management units, even when such units are very complex or whether the teacher is from within or outside engineering disciplines, which often reduces student engagement as well as the accomplishments of the entire cohort. Although it is well‐established that the structure, format, and content of units' assessments play vital roles in how much university students interact with their units, there are compelling evidence for and against the efficacy of different assessment methods deployable by educators that teach management units. Therefore, the focus of this study is to ascertain the reason(s) for the subpar interest in management units by engineering students. Data was gathered using Fishbone diagrams (FBDs) that depicted possible root causes of the research question. In addition to data generation, the use of FBDs also enabled deeper understanding of continuous improvement and increased the response rates. Responses showed that “perception of engineering” and “nature of contents” were the most prominent root cause groups. Further observations depicted that the perception of engineering among the students is that of an entirely technical discipline, thereby making science, engineering, technology, and mathematics units the most important. Furthermore, several respondents underrated the contents of management units, due to insufficient alignment with emerging engineering concepts as well as their inadequate academic challenge. To examine the influence of the implemented changes to assessment method on students' achievements, the performance indicators of five different cohorts were compared, and the outcomes of the comparison depicted a consistent pattern of students' attainment. Furthermore, a students' scores match of >95% was observed between cohorts, which so far indicates consistency.
Hierarchical Nanoflower‐like MoO2@C Composites as Anode for Stable Li‐Ion Storage
Authors: Dang Man , Yue Chuang , Lang Wenshuai , Hu Fang , Liu Zhiming , Shu Jie
Published: January 2023

High theoretical specific capacity of transition metal oxide electrodes of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) generally causes a large volume collapse during cycling, which would eventually result in the reduced cyclability of the battery. Herein, a nanoflower‐like MoO2@C composite (NF‐MOCC) electrode is successfully synthesized and impressively displays enhanced electrochemical performance when used as anode for Li‐ion storage. The introduction of the C content and the obtained hierarchical nanostructures with excellent buffering effect are favorable to alleviate the volume change of the MoO2 host material, thus bringing superior cycle life. Moreover, the in/ex situ X‐ray diffraction and the postmorphology analysis are used to reveal the Li‐ion storage mechanism during cycling. A full battery of NF‐MOCC||LiCoO2 is also assembled and displays remarkable cyclability, which again verifies the positive effect of the as‐optimized MoO2 electrode. It is believed that the developed nanoflower‐like MoO2@C composites with superb structure stability can be a promising anode for LIBs in the future.
Linking soil health and ecological resilience to achieve agricultural sustainability
Authors: Davis Alexandra G , Huggins David R , Reganold John P
Published: January 2023

Healthy soil is critical for global food security and other essential ecosystem services but is threatened by processes of soil degradation, with at least 33% of global croplands estimated to be moderately or highly degraded. Current soil health assessments provide insight into soil functional performance but often lack diagnostic criteria that assess management effects on soil function over time. We propose integrating soil health assessments with ecological resilience theory, which includes attributes of latitude, resistance, and precariousness, to provide a conceptual framework for understanding management impacts on soil function and agricultural sustainability. Here we explore this conceptual framework using the Palouse River watershed of the US Pacific Northwest as a working example, as the soil degradation problems of erosion, organic matter loss, and acidification experienced in this region have worldwide relevance. We demonstrate how increasing agroecological management options, or adaptive capacity, can help reverse soil degradation and minimize the effects of climate change.
Cancer stem cell‐immune cell collusion in immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Wen‐Da , Sun Zhi‐Jun
Published: January 2023

Immunotherapy has pioneered a new era of tumor treatment, in which the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) exerts significant superiority in overcoming tumor immune escape. However, the formation of an immune‐suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and the lack of effective activation of the immune response have become major obstacles limiting its development. Emerging reports indicate that cancer stem cells (CSCs) potentially play important roles in treatment resistance and progressive relapse, while current research is usually focused on CSCs themselves. In this review, we mainly emphasize the collusions between CSCs and tumor‐infiltrating immune cells. We focus on the summary of CSC‐immune cell crosstalk signaling pathways in ICB resistance and highlight the application of targeted drugs to improve the ICB response.
Development of a 3’3’‐Cyclic GMP‐AMP Enzyme Linked Immunoassay Reveals Phage Infection Reduces DncV Activity
Authors: Wilburn Kaylee M. , Blaylock Julianna B. , Metcalfe Kerry C. , Hsueh Brian Y. , Tew Daniel J. , Waters Christopher M.
Published: January 2023

East Lansing, MI 48824 Cyclic di‐nucleotides (CDNs) are central signaling molecules in organisms spanning the tree of life. In bacteria, CDNs mediate many important physiological functions such as biofilm formation, motility, and virulence. CDNs are also implicated in activation of cellular biological defense systems in both bacteria and eukaryotes. In bacteria, the CDN 3’3’‐cyclic GMP‐AMP (3’3’‐cGAMP) activates a putative phage defense system in Vibrio cholerae and controls central physiological processes in Geobacter sulfurreducens and Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus. Therefore, access to a rapid, accurate 3’3’‐cGAMP quantification assay would enable further studies of this signaling molecule. Here, we describe validation of a novel 3’3’‐cGAMP enzyme linked immunoassay (ELISA) developed by Cayman Chemicals. We demonstrate that the concentrations of 3’3’‐cGAMP determined by this ELISA strongly correlate with those obtained using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Furthermore, during these studies we show that the V. cholerae 3’3’‐cGAMP synthase, DncV, when expressed by itself in Escherichia coli, is not activated by phage infection.
Activity‐Based Protein Profiling – Enabling Phenotyping of Host‐Associated and Environmental Microbiomes
Authors: Wright Aaron T. , Hudson LaRae A. , Garcia Whitney L.
Published: January 2023

Host‐associated and environmental microbiomes play central roles in human health, biogeochemical cycling, response to ecosystem change, and agriculture. Scientific approaches that can reveal the functional activities that contribute to observed phenotypes are needed in microbiome research. Broad characterization of the functional activity of microbes within microbiomes is currently hampered by approaches that rely on inference of function from metagenomes or indirect measurements. Activity‐based protein profiling is uniquely positioned to overcome these challenges and reveal the protein‐level mechanisms associated with microbiome phenotypes. In this review we describe the progress made to date using ABPP in gut microbiome, plant‐microbe interaction, and soil microbiome research, and suggest how ABPP data can be coupled with advanced computational methods to enable phenotype prediction and bioengineering of microbiomes for applied purposes.
The impact of justified corporate governance changes against exchange rate exposure in North Cyprus
Authors: Avcın Mustafa
Published: January 2023

This study seeks to use the legally required governance reforms of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act of 2002, the Financial Reporting Council 2012–2018 and the EU COM 2012–2014 to investigate the relationship between corporate governance performance, exchange rate exposure and hedging by using two governance indexes based on a more comprehensive model previously constructed. The paper is one of the first to adopt the measures that state the importance of internal (corporate culture) and external (corporate legality) governance qualities that help prevent exchange rate exposure and improve trade and hedging. The examination is conducted by using the ARCH and ARMA models as well as a two‐factor and a multiple‐factor model to capture the variations that significantly account for variations in the exchange rate exposure, net trade, and stock market returns. Empirical results revealed that an improvement in corporate governance indexes is associated with a greater reduction in exchange rate exposure, an increase in net trade, and more hedging at the firm level. In addition, adoption of the corporate legality measures has a greater impact on exchange rate exposure and hedging than corporate culture measures.
What type of central banker dampens the political business cycle? The case of Africa
Authors: Strong Christine
Published: January 2023

This article investigates the extent to which central bank independence can help to reduce political business cycles in Africa. Like previous studies, we find evidence of political cycles in our sample of 34 African countries for the period 1980–2018, but our findings show that politicians' ability to manipulate both fiscal and monetary policy depends on the degree of alliance between the fiscal authority and the monetary authority. Indeed, our analysis reveals that the political business cycle worsens when the central banker is an ally whereas a non‐ally central banker is associated with a decrease in the ability of the incumbent government to induce opportunistic political cycles, and this result holds, regardless of whether an African country is classified as a democracy or a dictatorship. In addition to that, despite the theoretical argument that political business cycles are unlikely to exist in dictatorships, we find evidence that both political budget and monetary cycles are prevalent in African dictatorships.
Dynamic responsiveness of self‐assembling peptide‐based nano‐drug systems
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Zhan Jie , Huang Jinyan , Wang Xing , Chen Zehong , Yang Zhimou , Li Jie
Published: January 2023

Dynamic‐responsive self‐assembly is the process of ordered supramolecular structure formation or reversible decomposition from building blocks. This process is driven by non‐covalent interactions based on complex stimulus‐responsive systems comprising different components within a microenvironment. Furthermore, stimuli‐responsive assembly‐disassembly is an intrinsic interaction process in organisms, indispensable in maintaining life activities and functions. However, the dynamic interactions between dynamically responsive nano‐drug systems (DRNSs) and biological systems remain unpredictable, which are a challenge for the precisely targeted therapy and controlled drug release of DRNSs in vivo. This review highlights novel self‐assembling peptide‐based nano‐drug systems and their biological interactions. By precisely controlling the shape and size of self‐assembled peptide nanomaterials, biologically simulated components with diverse biological functions and precise transport at the subcellular level can be achieved. We have also summarized the limitations and challenges of responsive self‐assembling peptide nanomaterials in clinical translation. Additionally, we have discussed the future perspectives of supramolecular therapeutics using signaling molecule gradient concentrations and efficiencies and highlighted the direction for developing clinically translatable smart nanomedicines.
Clinical applications of non‐invasive multi and hyperspectral imaging of cell and tissue autofluorescence beyond oncology
Authors: Campbell Jared M. , Mahbub Saabah B. , Habibalahi Abbas , Agha Adnan , Handley Shannon , Anwer Ayad G. , Goldys Ewa M.
Published: January 2023

Hyperspectral and multispectral imaging of cell and tissue autofluorescence employs fluorescence imaging, without exogenous fluorophores, across multiple excitation/emission combinations (spectral channels). This produces an image stack where each pixel (matched by location) contains unique information about the sample's spectral properties. Analysis of this data enables access to a rich, molecularly specific data set from a broad range of cell‐native fluorophores (autofluorophores) directly reflective of biochemical status, without use of fixation or stains. This non‐invasive, non‐destructive technology has great potential to spare the collection of biopsies from sensitive regions. As both staining and biopsy may be impossible, or undesirable, depending on the context, this technology great diagnostic potential for clinical decision making. The main research focus has been on the identification of neoplastic tissues. However, advances have been made in diverse applications—including ophthalmology, cardiovascular health, neurology, infection, assisted reproduction technology and organ transplantation.
Positive effects of low‐dose photodynamic therapy with aminolevulinic acid or its methyl ester in skin rejuvenation and wound healing: An update
Authors: Zhang YuWei , Liu Wei , Wang Qian
Published: January 2023

In dermatology, photodynamic therapy (PDT) is widely used in skin tumors, infections, etc., because of the killing effect triggered by toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the ROS concentration is determined by various photosensitizer concentrations and formulations, as well as various irradiation parameters. Low‐dose PDT leads to sufficiently low ROS level, which results in biological effects that are the exact opposite of the killing potency. Therefore, in recent years, low‐dose PDT has been exploited in improving aging and wound. Low‐dose ALA/MAL PDT might improve aging through promoting the proliferation of fibroblasts, blocking DNA damage, counteracting oxidative stress, inhibiting melanogenesis, and remodeling lymphatic vessels in aged skin. Promoting fibroblasts and epidermal stem cells proliferation and migration, promoting granulation tissue formation and angiogenesis and regulating the inflammatory process might be the mechanisms of low‐dose ALA/MAL PDT in wound healing. Nevertheless, the positive effects of low‐dose PDT have not been thoroughly investigated in dermatology, and high‐quality studies are still needed to fill the relevant vacancy.
On the atomistic origin of the polymorphism and the dielectric physical properties of beryllium oxide
Authors: Reitz Linda S. , Müller Peter C. , Schnieders David , Dronskowski Richard , Choi Woon Ih , Son Won‐Joon , Jang Inkook , Kim Dae Sin
Published: January 2023

Polymorphic beryllium oxide has been theoretically investigated from first principles as regards orbital occupancies, chemical bonding, polarization, as well as dielectric properties. By means of Crystal‐Orbital Bond Index (COBI) analysis, the important role of the 2p orbitals on beryllium has been elucidated, in particular in terms of the correlation between polarization and beryllium‐atom displacement, including the impact of the latter on the covalency of the BeO bond. In addition, several structural possibilities for a BexMg1−xO solid solution have been investigated for a Be content between 6% and 22%; for those, dynamically stable structures have been found, displaying large polarization values, more covalent BeO bonds, and a tendency for tetrahedral Be coordination. The dynamically unstable structures, however, resemble rock‐salt BeO in their local structural properties around the Be atom. High dielectric constants and band gaps indicating insulating behavior have been found for those.
Force‐dependent motion reversal in quantum rocking ratchets
Authors: Rozenbaum Viktor M. , Shapochkina Irina V. , Teranishi Yoshiaki , Witek Henryk A. , Trakhtenberg Leonid I.
Published: January 2023

It is well known that at low temperatures, the direction of motion for a quantum rocking ratchet in an asymmetric periodic potential (with a period and an energy barrier ), driven by an external fluctuating force (), can be opposite to the direction for the analogous classical ratchet operating at high temperature (Reimann et al, Phys. Rev. Lett. 1997, 79, 10). In the present work, within the semiclassical approximation and taking into account zero‐point fluctuations of a quantum particle in the minima of a sawtooth potential of an arbitrary asymmetry at the temperature of absolute zero, we obtain analytical expressions for the tunneling current in the rocking ratchet. These expressions allowed us to obtain the dependencies of the ratio , at which the motion direction is reversed, on the asymmetry parameter and other parameters of the system. Similar results are obtained for a particle in a two‐sinusoidal potential.
Need for closure and ethnic identification: The varied roles of cultural intelligence in a multiethnic group society
Authors: Olonisakin Tosin Tunrayo
Published: January 2023

Multiethnic group countries are distinctive in that ethnic identification/loyalty and national identification/loyalty sometimes contend. In addition, the different ethnic groups that make up these countries though interdependent compete for relevance. Such a mode of social relationship creates uncertainty and heightens the consciousness of group survival. These characteristics make African countries rich sites for the investigation of intergroup relations. Given this context, the need for closure and cultural intelligence were examined in relation to ethnic identification. Data were collected via the use of questionnaires from a sample of undergraduate students drawn from different ethnic groups. Findings show that the need for closure and cultural intelligence are directly related to ethnic identification. Also, cultural intelligence was a significant moderator of the relationship between need for closure and ethnic identification. Findings suggest that cultural intelligence may encourage an open‐mindedness which could help promote successful social interactions in multigroup countries. In addition, the results of this study support theoretical and empirical positions that have advanced group interdependence as a potent tool for intergroup cooperation.
ICAM‐1‐mediated osteoblast‐T lymphocyte direct interaction increases mineralization through TGF‐β1 suppression
Authors: Singhatanadgit Weerachai , Olsen Irwin , Young Anne
Published: January 2023

Modulation of osteoblast functions by T lymphocytes is important in inflammation‐associated mineralized tissue diseases. The study aimed to determine whether direct interaction between these two cell types affects osteoblast functions and mineralization. The results showed that direct contact between the two cell types was evident by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Under osteogenic induction, higher hydroxyapatite precipitation was observed in cocultures with direct contact with T lymphocytes compared with that by osteoblasts cultured alone. Cocultures without direct cell contact caused a decrease in mineralization. Direct cell contact also upregulated intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1 and simultaneously downregulated transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 in osteoblasts. However, the downregulation of TGF‐β1 was reversed by ICAM‐1 blocking. Exogenously added TGF‐β1 in cocultures with direct cell contact suppressed mineralization. In conclusion, studies are consistent with ICAM‐1‐mediated direct contact between osteoblasts and T lymphocytes increasing mineralization via downregulation of TGF‐β1 in osteoblasts in vitro. This suggests a possible unexpected, but crucial, role of T lymphocytes in enhancing matrix mineralization during the repair process in vivo. The study identifies ICAM‐1/TGF‐β1 as possible novel therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of inflammation‐associated mineralized tissue diseases.
Itacitinib Population Pharmacokinetics and Exposure‐Response in Patients With Acute Graft‐Versus‐Host Disease
Authors: Chen Xuejun , Xun Zhiyin , Yuska Brad , McGee Ryan , Yeleswaram Swamy
Published: January 2023

This article presents the population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) analysis and exposure‐response analyses for the primary efficacy end point—acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) day 28 response—and select safety measures (incidence of thrombocytopenia, hypertriglyceridemia, and cytomegalovirus infection) from a phase 3 randomized, double‐blind study comparing itacitinib plus corticosteroids versus placebo plus corticosteroids for the treatment of aGVHD. The PopPK data set contained sparse data from patients with aGVHD and select enriched data from healthy volunteers. The structural model was a 2‐compartment model with first‐order elimination and dose‐dependent nonlinear absorption with dual first‐order absorption pathways with lag times. Strong cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A inhibitor coadministration, moderate renal impairment, and participant population (healthy volunteers vs patients with aGVHD) were covariates on apparent clearance. Participant population was also a covariate on apparent intercompartmental clearance and lag time of the secondary absorption compartment. Apparent clearance decreased 42% with coadministration of strong CYP3A inhibitors. Simulations supported the following dose reductions with concomitant use of a strong CYP3A inhibitor: 300 mg once daily to 200 mg once daily, 400 mg once daily to 300 mg once daily, and 600 mg once daily to 400 mg once daily. No dose adjustment is recommended for any other covariate based on the magnitude of impact when they were retained in the model. The exposure‐response relationship was characterized between itacitinib exposure and probability of aGVHD day 28 response using a linear logistic regression model. Both itacitinib exposure and aGVHD risk status were significant predictors of response. There was no relationship between itacitinib exposure and thrombocytopenia, hypertriglyceridemia, or cytomegalovirus infection.
Rachlin's extended self: Influences on a Brazilian research group
Authors: Bernardy João Lucas , Santiago Jéssica B. , Siqueira José Oliveira , Silveira Paulo Sergio Panse , de Souza Altay , Benvenuti Marcelo Frota
Published: January 2023

We pay tribute to Rachlin's work stating that researching and writing for posterity is an act of self‐control and altruism. We show how Rachlin's work influenced a series of seminars at the University of São Paulo (Brazil) based on his book from 1989,Judgment, Decision, and Choice. This influence is illustrated through two empirical exercises conducted during our seminars, where students were actively involved in data collection and analysis. The first exercise is about judgment of randomness involving coin tossing. The second is a replication of a procedure by Jones and Rachlin (2006) about social discounting of monetary quantities. We use these empirical examples to highlight some of Rachlin's major contributions to the science of behavior and their implications to our seminars and to ourselves as researchers.
Single‐molecule localization microscopy goes quantitative
Authors: Scalisi Silvia , Pisignano Dario , Cella Zanacchi Francesca
Published: January 2023

In the last few years, single‐molecule localization (SMLM) techniques have been used to address biological questions in different research fields. More recently, super‐resolution has also been proposed as a quantitative tool for quantifying protein copy numbers at the nanoscale level. In this scenario, quantitative approaches, mainly based on stepwise photobleaching and quantitative SMLM assisted by calibration standards, offer an exquisite tool for investigating protein complexes. This primer focuses on the basic concepts behind quantitative super‐resolution microscopy, also providing strategies to overcome the technical hurdles that could limit their application.
Estrogen receptor beta expression in colitis‐associated carcinoma in comparison with sporadic colonic tumor: An immunohistochemical study
Authors: Matsuno Takahisa , Mikami Tetuo , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Funahashi Kimihiko , Okazumi Shinichi , Hiruta Nobuyuki , Shibuya Kazutoshi , Igarashi Yoshinori
Published: January 2023

Background and Aim

The rate of ulcerative colitis (UC)‐related colorectal cancer (colitis‐associated carcinoma) is increasing. Estrogen receptor (ER) beta expression has been studied separately in patients with sporadic colorectal cancer and those with colitis‐associated carcinoma. However, no study has compared the expression in both of these cancer types. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between colitis‐associated carcinoma and ERs and assess whether the expression of ER beta influences cell proliferation.

Methods

This study included 45 surgically operated colitis‐associated carcinomas, 43 high‐grade dysplasias, 34 low‐grade dysplasias, 36 sporadic colorectal cancers, 44 high‐grade adenomas, and 34 low‐grade adenomas. ER beta expression was evaluated with immunohistochemistry.

Results

Colitis‐associated carcinoma showed significantly lower ER beta immunoexpression than sporadic colorectal lesions and high‐ and low‐grade dysplasia. In seven colitis‐associated carcinoma harboring both intensity score 3 (strong immunoexpression) and score 1 (weak immunoexpression) areas, the correlation among ER beta intensity, Ki‐67, and p21 labeling index was assessed; an area with an ER beta intensity score of 3 showed a higher Ki‐67 labeling index than that with score 1. In four out of the seven lesions, p21 labeling index was higher in the area of ER beta score 1 than in that of ER beta score 3.

Conclusions

The data suggest that ER beta expression is an accelerating factor in colorectal tumors. This association may be lower in colitis‐associated carcinoma than in sporadic colorectal cancer.
Clinical and pathological characterization of ophthalmic disease in a canine model of mucopolysaccharidosis type I
Authors: Nenninger Ariel , Ben‐Shlomo Gil , Allbaugh Rachel , Valentine Bethann , Snella Elizabeth , Jens Jackie , Ellinwood N. Matthew , Smith Jodi
Published: January 2023

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a rare lysosomal storage disease caused by α‐L‐iduronidase enzyme deficiency, resulting in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation in various cell types, including ocular tissues. Ocular manifestations in humans are common with significant pathological changes including corneal opacification, retinopathy, optic nerve swelling and atrophy, and glaucoma. Available treatments for MPS I are suboptimal and there is limited to no effect in treating the ocular disease. The goal of this study was to characterize the clinical and pathological features of ocular disease in a line of MPS I affected dogs, including changes not previously reported. A total of 22 dogs were studied; 12 MPS I were affected and 10 were unaffected. A subset of each underwent complete ophthalmic examination including slit lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, rebound tonometry, and ultrasonic pachymetry. Globes were evaluated microscopically for morphological changes and GAG accumulation. Clinical corneal abnormalities in affected dogs included edema, neovascularization, fibrosis, and marked stromal thickening. Intraocular pressures were within reference interval for affected and unaffected dogs. Microscopically, vacuolated cells containing alcian blue positive inclusions were detected within the corneal stroma, iris, ciliary body, sclera, and optic nerve meninges of affected dogs. Ganglioside accumulation was identified by luxol fast blue staining in rare retinal ganglion cells. Increased lysosomal integral membrane protein‐2 expression was demonstrated within the retina of affected animals when compared to unaffected controls. Results of this study further characterize ocular pathology in the canine model of MPS I and provide foundational data for future therapeutic efficacy studies.
Androgen receptors in the forebrain: A study in adult male cats
Authors: Coolen Rosa L. , Cambier Jacqueline C. , van Asselt Els , Blok Bertil F. M.
Published: January 2023

Androgens and their receptors are present throughout the body. Various structures such as muscles, genitals, and prostate express androgen receptors. The central nervous system also expresses androgen receptors. Androgens cross the blood–brain barrier to reach these central areas. In the central nervous system, androgens are involved in multiple functions. The current study investigated in which forebrain areas androgens are expressed in the male cat. Androgen receptor immunoreactive (AR‐IR) nuclei were plotted and the results were quantified with a Heidelberg Topaz II + scanner and Linocolor 5.0 software. The density and intensity of the labeled cells were the main outcomes of interest. The analysis revealed a dense distribution of AR‐IR nuclei in the preoptic area, periventricular complex of the hypothalamus, posterior hypothalamic area, ventromedial hypothalamic, parvocellular hypothalamic, infundibular, and supramammillary nucleus. Numerous AR‐IR cells were also observed in the dorsal division of the anterior olfactory nucleus, lateral septal nucleus, medial and lateral divisions of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, lateral olfactory tract nucleus, anterior amygdaloid area, and the central and medial amygdaloid nuclei. AR‐IR nuclei were predominantly observed in areas involved in autonomic and neuroendocrinergic responses which are important for many physiological processes and behaviors.
Probing the pyrolysis of ethyl formate in the dilute gas phase by synchrotron radiation and theory
Authors: Lowe Bethany , Cardona Alejandro L. , Salas Juana , Bodi Andras , Mayer Paul M. , Burgos Paci Maxi A.
Published: January 2023

The thermal decomposition of the atmospheric constituent ethyl formate was studied by coupling flash pyrolysis with imaging photoelectron photoion coincidence (iPEPICO) spectroscopy using synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation at the Swiss Light Source (SLS). iPEPICO allows photoion mass‐selected threshold photoelectron spectra (ms‐TPES) to be obtained for pyrolysis products. By threshold photoionization and ion imaging, parent ions of neutral pyrolysis products and dissociative photoionization products could be distinguished, and multiple spectral carriers could be identified in several ms‐TPES. The TPES and mass‐selected TPES for ethyl formate are reported for the first time and appear to correspond to ionization of the lowest energy conformer having a cis (eclipsed) configuration of the O=C(H)–O–C(H2)–CH3 and trans (staggered) configuration of the O=C(H)–O–C(H2)–CH3 dihedral angles. We observed the following ethyl formate pyrolysis products: CH3CH2OH, CH3CHO, C2H6, C2H4, HC(O)OH, CH2O, CO2, and CO, with HC(O)OH and C2H4 pyrolyzing further, forming CO + H2O and C2H2 + H2. The reaction paths and energetics leading to these products, together with the products of two homolytic bond cleavage reactions, CH3CH2O + CHO and CH3CH2 + HC(O)O, were studied computationally at the M06‐2X‐GD3/aug‐cc‐pVTZ and SVECV‐f12 levels of theory, complemented by further theoretical methods for comparison. The calculated reaction pathways were used to derive Arrhenius parameters for each reaction. The reaction rate constants and branching ratios are discussed in terms of the residence time and newly suggest carbon monoxide as a competitive primary fragmentation product at high temperatures.
Projected changes in precipitation characteristics over the Drakensberg Mountain Range
Authors: Takong Ridick Roland , Abiodun Babatunde J.
Published: January 2023

This study examines the potential impacts of climate change on the characteristics of precipitation over the Drakensberg Mountain Range (DMR) at different global warming levels (GWLs: 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0°C) under the Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) scenario, using dynamical and statistical downscaled datasets. The dynamical datasets consist of 19 multi‐model simulations datasets from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX), whereas the statistical downscaled datasets comprise 19 multi‐model simulations from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Earth Exchange (NEX) Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX‐GDDP, hereafter NEX). The capacity of the CORDEX and NEX datasets to represent past characteristics of extreme precipitation over the DMR was evaluated against eight observation datasets. The precipitation characteristics were represented by eight precipitation indices. Both CORDEX and NEX realistically capture the characteristics of extreme precipitation over the Drakensberg and, in most cases, their biases lie within the observation uncertainty. However, NEX performs better than CORDEX in reproducing most of the precipitation characteristics, except in simulating the threshold of extreme rainfall. The ensemble means of CORDEX and NEX agree on a future increase in the intensity of normal precipitation, in the frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation, as well as an increase in widespread extreme events, with a decrease in the number of precipitation days and continuous wet days. However, they disagree on the projected changes of annual precipitation, for which CORDEX projects an increase over most parts of the DMR, whereas NEX indicates a decrease. The self‐organizing‐map analysis, which reveals diversity in the projection patterns hidden in the ensemble means, shows the most probable combinations of projected changes in the annual precipitation and extreme precipitation events (in terms of intensity and frequency): (a) increase in both annual precipitation and extreme precipitation events; (b) decrease in both annual precipitation and extreme precipitation events; (c) decrease in annual precipitation but increase in extreme precipitation events. The results of this study can thus provide a basis for developing climate change adaptation and mitigating strategies over the DMR.