bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A room temperature 9CB‐based chemical sensor
Authors: Ramou Efthymia , Palma Susana I. C. J. , Roque Ana Cecília A.
Published: February 2023

The gas sensing potential of the 9CB (4‐cyano‐4′‐nonylbiphenyl) liquid crystal compound at ambient conditions is investigated. The solid at room temperature 9CB is incorporated in a hybrid gel formulation of ionic liquid/liquid crystal droplets immobilized in a gelatin matrix. Several ionic liquids are tested in order to tackle the crystallization of 9CB and also a 9CB‐based mixture with a different smectogen is considered. The resulting formulation demonstrates great analyte responding capabilities and can be considered an alternative format for artificial olfaction purposes.
MIF inhibition alleviates vitiligo progression by suppressing CD8+ T cell activation and proliferation
Authors: Chen Jianru , Guo Weinan , Du Pengran , Cui Tingting , Yang Yuqi , Wang Yinghan , Kang Pan , Zhang Zhe , Wang Qi , Ye Zhubiao , Liu Ling , Jian Zhe , Gao Tianwen , Bian Huijie , Li Shuli , Li Chunying
Published: February 2023

In vitiligo, autoreactive CD8+ T cells have been established as the main culprit considering its pathogenic role in mediating epidermal melanocyte‐specific destruction. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a pleiotropic molecule that plays a central role in various immune processes including the activation and proliferation of T cells; but whether MIF is intertwined in vitiligo development and progression and its involvement in aberrantly activated CD8+ T cells remains ill‐defined. In this study, we found that MIF was overabundant in vitiligo patients and a mouse model for human vitiligo. Additionally, inhibiting MIF ameliorated the disease progression in vitiligo mice, which manifested as less infiltration of CD8+ T cells and more retention of epidermal melanocytes in the tail skin. More importantly, in vitro experiments indicated that MIF‐inhibition suppressed the activation and proliferation of CD8+ T cells from the lymph nodes of vitiligo mice, and the effect extended to CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of vitiligo patients. Finally, CD8+ T cells derived from MIF‐inhibited vitiligo mice also exhibited an impaired capacity for activation and proliferation. Taken together, our results show that MIF might be clinically targetable in vitiligo treatment, and its inhibition might ameliorate vitiligo progression by suppressing autoreactive CD8+ T cell activation and proliferation. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Annual redd counts across two decades are indicators of changing migratory bull trout population sizes in two proximate Montana creeks
Authors: Kaeding Lynn R. , Mogen Jim T.
Published: February 2023

Redd counts are the most widely used method for bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus Suckley) population monitoring. Redd counts are an assumed indicator of population size (N), particularly for female spawners, but previous studies rarely considered the measurement uncertainty of N. The present study of two proximate, migratory bull trout populations across two decades examined statistical correlations between annual redd counts and concurrent N (predominantly fish ages 3–7) that included measurement uncertainty. Results showed that redd counts explained about one‐third of the concurrent N variation and, in one case, portended N 7 years later. But changing spawning distributions across years, as likewise shown here and as a probable effect of ongoing climate change, can confound the use of fixed index reaches for redd counts. Instead, abundance monitoring based on redd counts should be over a bull trout population's or metapopulation's entire spatial extent and have counts in all potential spawning areas. Such total‐annual redd counts may be the most cost‐effective and precise means of bull trout population monitoring.
Biofilm Homeostasis Interference Therapy via 1O2‐Sensitized Hyperthermia and Immune Microenvironment Re‐Rousing for Biofilm‐Associated Infections Elimination
Authors: Li Qianming , Liu Quan , Wang Zhengxi , Zhang Xianzuo , Ma Ruixiang , Hu Xianli , Mei Jiawei , Su Zheng , Zhu Wanbo , Zhu Chen
Published: February 2023

The recurrence of biofilm‐associated infections (BAIs) remains high after implant‐associated surgery. Biofilms on the implant surface reportedly shelter bacteria from antibiotics and evade innate immune defenses. Moreover, little is currently known about eliminating residual bacteria that can induce biofilm reinfection. Herein, novel “interference‐regulation strategy” based on bovine serum albumin–iridium oxide nanoparticles (BIONPs) as biofilm homeostasis interrupter and immunomodulator via singlet oxygen (1O2)‐sensitized mild hyperthermia for combating BAIs is reported. The catalase‐like BIONPs convert abundant H2O2 inside the biofilm‐microenvironment (BME) to sufficient oxygen gas (O2), which can efficiently enhance the generation of 1O2 under near‐infrared irradiation. The 1O2‐induced biofilm homeostasis disturbance (e.g., sigB, groEL, agr‐A, icaD, eDNA) can disrupt the sophisticated defense system of biofilm, further enhancing the sensitivity of biofilms to mild hyperthermia. Moreover, the mild hyperthermia‐induced bacterial membrane disintegration results in protein leakage and 1O2 penetration to kill bacteria inside the biofilm. Subsequently, BIONPs‐induced immunosuppressive microenvironment re‐rousing successfully re‐polarizes macrophages to pro‐inflammatory M1 phenotype in vivo to devour residual biofilm and prevent biofilm reconstruction. Collectively, this 1O2‐sensitized mild hyperthermia can yield great refractory BAIs treatment via biofilm homeostasis interference, mild‐hyperthermia, and immunotherapy, providing a novel and effective anti‐biofilm strategy.
In‐plane stability and shear deformation analysis of the H‐beam hollow arch
Authors: Liu Xuejie , Xiao Tong
Published: February 2023

H‐shaped circular arc is a relatively novel type of open‐web steel arch, and currently, no reports have been published concerning its in‐plane stability. In this paper, the elastic and elastic–plastic in‐plane stability of the H‐shaped hollow circular arch is studied by theoretical deduction combined with numerical simulation. First, the overall shear rigidity of the H‐shaped circular arch is calculated, and the elastic buckling load formula of the arch is proposed and verified considering double shear deformation under full‐span radial and uniform loading. The overall elastic buckling load deduced in this paper is reasonable according to the finite element analysis. The results indicate that the influence of shear deformation on the overall elastic buckling load of the arch decreases with the increase of the span length. The arch‐bearing capacity is the largest when the rise‐span ratio is 0.25. Second, the restriction conditions necessary for avoiding local buckling of the chordal web before integral buckling of the H‐shaped steel hollow circular arch are analyzed. Finally, the elastic–plastic failure mechanism of the H‐shaped arch under full‐span radial and uniform loading is examined, and the formula for determining the ultimate bearing capacity that is achievable before failure under full‐span radial and uniform loading is proposed. ANSYS analysis shows that under the radial uniform loading, the chordal bars will yield near 1/4L and 3/4L, and ultimately, the structural failure of the lower chord occurs in the vicinity of 1/4L. The formulas presented in this paper agree well with the results obtained from the finite element analysis and can be used as a reference for engineering applications.
Synthesis and characterization of polyvinyl alcohol/dextran/Zataria wound dressing with superior antibacterial and antioxidant properties
Authors: Mostafavi Esfahani Mahsasadat , Koupaei Narjes , Hassanzadeh‐Tabrizi Seyed Ali
Published: February 2023

The aim of the present research was to synthesize and characterize polyvinyl alcohol/dextran/Zataria essential oil hydrogel wound dressings. For this purpose, dressings were made with different concentrations of polymers (PVA and Dex) and ZMO by solvent casting method. By dissolving PVA and Dextran in de‐ionized water, PVA‐Dex gel was made. The polymeric solution was mixed with glycerol. The pH of PVA‐DEX‐Glycerol solution was adjusted to 3 and glutaraldehyde was used as a cross‐linker. ZMO, as the antibacterial and antioxidant agent, was added to the samples in different percentages (2,5,10%). It was found that both Dex and ZMO significantly influenced the hydrophilicity, gel fraction, and water uptake capacity of hydrogel films. The results showed that by the addition of Dex to PVA, the contact angle decreased from 48.54° ± 0.95 to 45.90 ± 0.73°, whereas by the addition of ZMO, the contact angle increased to 71.1 ± 2.43. SEM investigations revealed that the fabricated films had a uniform structure and the surface roughness increased with the addition of ZMO. The results indicated an increased elongation of 11.5% with the incorporation of ZMO into the films. The antimicrobial evaluation of the produced films showed that the loading of 10% v/v ZMO could broaden the microbicidal activity of PVA/Dex/ZMO film. The investigations on the interactions between synthesized wound dressings and fibroblast cells showed that the addition of ZMO into hydrogel films improved cell viability. The findings showed that PVA/Dex/ZMO films could have considerable use as wound dressing.
Conclusion: Challenging Globalizing Technologies
Authors: Hård Mikael
Published: February 2023

Chapter 10 recaps the argument that people in distinct cultural settings approached, developed, and used technology in regional ways—while maintaining global connections. Illustrating the heterogeneous nature of the world, the microhistories of this book have problematized the notion that the standard global history of technology is one-sided and linear. While “globalization” and “technology transfer” have been important concepts, neither captures the complexities of history. The availability of Western-imported products in the countries of the Global South and East did not necessarily challenge the ways in which people went about their daily lives. Established indigenous skills and techniques often persisted, frequently in fruitful combination with the artifacts of Western “material culture.” Not anonymous forces, but ordinary people have made the world in which we live.
Communicating and Trading in West Africa: Talking Drums and Pack Animals
Authors: Hård Mikael
Published: February 2023

In conventional histories of those parts of the world that were colonized, telegraph lines, railroads, and steamships loom large. Scholars of this “tools-of-empire” tradition have often overlooked the technologies of communication and transportation that existed pre-colonization—and played a decisive role also during colonial rule. For example, in West Africa, talking drums, pack animals, and canoes made up the precolonial “technological landscape”—together with techniques for agriculture, hunting, mineral extraction, and manufacturing. Using the case of French-named Côte d’Ivoire, Chap. 3 illustrates the persistence of the indigenous technological landscape. For decades, colonialists relied on—and even expanded—the extant transportation network of footpaths, caravan routes, and rivers. Telegraph lines and railroad tracks did not form a technological landscape; at most, these technologies were superimposed on an existing, self-contained technological world.
Soziale Innovation durch grenzüberschreitenden Austausch: Marginalisierte Quartiere im Blick
Authors: Guhl Jutta , Janett Sandra , Michon Bruno
Published: February 2023

Der Beitrag widmet sich dem trinationalen und grenzüberschreitenden Forschungs- und Entwicklungsprojekt „MARGE – Einbindung marginalisierter Quartiere in die Oberrheinregion“ und diskutiert, wie sich die Effekte des grenzüberschreitenden Austauschs von Fachpersonen, die im Bereich der Sozialen Stadtentwicklung tätig sind, auf soziale Innovation in benachteiligten Quartieren auswirken. Dabei zeigt sich, dass MARGE die Voraussetzungen dafür geschaffen hat, soziale Innovation durch grenzüberschreitenden Austausch zu ermöglichen.
Ungleiche Quartiere ungleich behandeln?
Authors: Noack Michael
Published: February 2023

In diesem Beitrag wird die Frage diskutiert, wie durch eine sozialplanerisch fundierte Ressourcensteuerung das „Gießkannenprinzip“ bei der Verteilung finanzieller Mittel für die Integration zugewanderter Menschen durch eine bedarfs- und raumbezogene Ressourcenverteilung ergänzt werden kann. Dabei werden Ergebnisse des interdisziplinären Forschungsprojekts „Quartierspezifische Potenziale der Integration“ (QuartPoint) thematisiert. Einleitend wird die theoretische Rahmung des Forschungsprojekts vorgestellt. Dabei handelt es sich um das Integrationsmodell von Ager und Strang (Journal of Refugee Studies 21:166–191, 2008). Anschließend werden Forschungsergebnisse Bezug nehmend auf dieses Integrationsmodell diskutiert. Der Beitrag endet mit Überlegungen, wie sich quartierspezifische Integrationspotenziale sozialplanerisch fundiert ermitteln und entwickeln lassen.
Einleitung
Authors: Rolffs Matthias
Published: February 2023

In dieser Arbeit verfolge ich das Ziel, eine weit verbreitete Position in der Philosophie des Geistes gegen einen einflussreichen Einwand zu verteidigen. Die Position, die ich verteidigen möchte, ist der nicht-reduktive Physikalismus. Der Einwand, gegen den ich diese Position verteidigen möchte, ist der Vorwurf des Epiphänomenalismus. Meine Erwiderung auf den Vorwurf des Epiphänomenalismus beruht auf einer eingängigen Beschäftigung mit der Metaphysik der Kausalität. Meines Erachtens liegt der Schlüssel zur Zurückweisung des Vorwurfs des Epiphänomenalismus in einer Unterscheidung zwischen verschiedenen Begriffen der Kausalität.
Seed Quality: Variety Development to Planting—An Overview
Authors: Sundareswaran S. , Ray Choudhury P. , Vanitha C. , Yadava Devendra K.
Published: February 2023

The importance of availability of quality seed of high-yielding varieties in achieving food security has been recognized globally. The chapter presents an overview of the activities and requirements of seed production system globally, with an emphasis on quality, and highlights the linkages between variety development and seed production programmes. The seed development in angiosperm through the process of fertilization has been briefly touched and understanding the processes underlying pollination, fertilization, seed development, and maturation, which are vital for production of quality seed, has been highlighted. System of variety development and release, maintenance of variety purity during seed multiplication, and their importance have been enumerated to benefit those associated with any seed programme. Seed quality parameters including physical and genetic purity, physiological quality, seed vigour, and health, along with factors determining seed quality, have been presented in a holistic manner. Regulatory mechanism for seed quality assurance including steps in seed certification, seed testing and various field and seed standards has been outlined comparing the Indian system with other major international systems working globally. Procedures for seed health testing and application of advanced molecular marker technologies for varietal identity, genetic purity of seed and detection of seed-borne pathogens, which are becoming increasingly relevant in the present seed scenario, have been discussed. Fundamentals of seed processing for quality upgradation, and improvement of seed quality through enhancement technologies, have been explained. The chapter presents an overview of the importance of seed quality, its indicators, regulations, systems of development of varieties and their maintenance and use of modern tools and techniques for assurance and enhancement of seed quality.
Role of Seed Certification in Quality Assurance
Authors: Misra Manjit K. , Harries Adelaide , Dadlani Malavika
Published: February 2023

High-quality seed is a “sine qua non” condition to achieve maximum crop productivity and good returns. The national seed sector, composed of the public and private players, plays a key role in making available high-quality seed in sufficient quantity by following its regulatory framework and adhering to the quality standards stipulated in it. The seed laws of different countries operate on the basic philosophy of encouraging breeding and variety development to meet the demand for quality seeds of many superior varieties of different crops suitable for various agro-ecologies and discourage unscrupulous practices in the seed supply system. However, the mechanism of applying the laws, operating procedures, classification, and quality standards is formulated keeping in view the seed scenario, availability of infrastructure, and trained human resources to handle the seed system. At the same time, given the fast-expanding global seed trade, it is desired for all participating countries to harmonize their national regulations with the international conventions and treaties that provide a regulatory framework to guide and oversee the interests of breeders, seed producers, and consumers globally. It is equally important that the said national regulatory frameworks facilitate farmers’ access to seeds of the best quality of superior/improved varieties while promoting competitive seed markets with only the essential checks and lesser barriers to seed trade.
Molecular Techniques for Testing Genetic Purity and Seed Health
Authors: V. Santhy , Sandra Nagamani , Ravishankar Kundapura V. , Chidambara Bhavya
Published: February 2023

With the globalization of seed trade and transgenic variety development, the application of molecular technologies for seed quality gained more significance in both the internal and international markets. Besides germination, genetic purity and seed health are the two most important seed quality parameters that determine the planting value of a seed lot. Compared to the conventional methods of testing, molecular marker technologies are more efficient for quality analysis as these are more accurate, robust, abundant, and faster. Among the various markers, simple sequence repeats (SSRs), due to their genome-wide presence, reproducibility, multi-allelic nature, and co-dominant inheritance, have emerged as the best markers, for establishing varietal distinctness, identity, and variety/hybrid seed purity testing. With the advent of the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers also became widely popular, and the closest to being an ideal marker besides SSRs, in seed genetic purity testing. With large-scale GM crop cultivation, testing for the adventitious presence and trait purity are two added components of seed quality testing. The methods of GM seed quality testing include DNA-based (conventional and real-time PCR), protein-based (lateral flow test and ELISA), and bioassay-based technologies. DNA-based methods including PCR/real-time PCR assays have been successfully employed to detect the adventitious presence of transgenic seeds in seed trade especially at international level, as well as in the national gene banks for germplasm conservation. ISTA plays a prominent role in international harmonization and providing universal guidelines on use of different methods to detect GM seeds. The BMT group of UPOV and the Working Group on DNA Methods of the Variety Committee of ISTA, work in tandem to standardize suitable molecular techniques for establishing variety identity and purity testing, respectively. In the area of seed health testing also, molecular detection assays such as, PCR (nested PCR, multiplex PCR, real-time PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and DNA microarray with many advantages over the conventional assays have been proven highly useful. However, there is a need to validate the usefulness of molecular markers through stringent multi-laboratory tests for their reproducibility before recommending them in routine seed purity and health testing.
Insights into the metamorphic history and origin of flake graphite mineralization at the Graphite Creek graphite deposit, Seward Peninsula, Alaska, USA
Authors: Case George N. D. , Karl Susan M. , Regan Sean P. , Johnson Craig A. , Ellison Eric T. , Caine Jonathan Saul , Holm-Denoma Christopher S. , Pianowski Laura S. , Marsh Jeffrey H.
Published: February 2023

Graphite Creek is an unusual flake graphite deposit located on the Seward Peninsula, Alaska, USA. We present field observations, uranium-lead (U–Pb) monazite and titanite geochronology, carbon (C) and sulfur (S) stable isotope geochemistry, and graphite Raman spectroscopy data from this deposit that support a new model of flake graphite ore genesis in high-grade metamorphic environments. The Graphite Creek deposit is within the second sillimanite metamorphic zone of the Kigluaik Mountains gneiss dome. Flake graphite, hosted in sillimanite-gneiss and quartz-biotite paragneiss, occurs as disseminations and in sets of very high grade (up to 50 wt.% graphite), semi-massive to massive graphite lenses 0.2 to 1 m wide containing quartz, sillimanite, inclusions of garnet porphyroblasts, K-feldspar, and tourmaline. Restitic garnet, sillimanite, graphite, and biotite accumulations indicate a high degree of anatexis and melt loss. Strong yttrium depletion in monazite, high europium ratios (Eu/Eu*), and excursions of high strontium and thorium concentrations are consistent with biotite dehydration melting. Monazite and titanite U–Pb ages record peak metamorphism from ~ 97 to 92 million years ago (Ma) and a retrograde event at ~ 85 Ma. Raman spectroscopy confirms the presence of carbonaceous material and highly ordered, crystalline graphite. Graphite δ13CVPDB values of − 30 to − 12‰ and pyrrhotite δ34SVCDT values of − 14 to 10‰ are consistent with derivation from organic carbon and sulfur in sedimentary rocks, respectively. These data collectively suggest that formation of massive graphite lenses occurred approximately synchronously with high-temperature metamorphism and anatexis of a highly carbonaceous pelitic protolith. Melt extraction and fluid release associated with anatexis were likely crucial for concentrating graphite. High-temperature, graphitic migmatite sequences within high-strain shear zones may be favorable for the occurrence of high-grade flake graphite deposits.
Empfehlung für Fragebögen zur Untersuchung der Fuß- und Sprunggelenkfunktion vom Research-Komitee der AGA
Authors: Ackermann Jakob , Günther Daniel , Laky Brenda , Mathis Dominic , Deichsel Adrian , Akgün Doruk , Schüttler Karl Friedrich , Wafaisade Arasch , Eggeling Lena , Kopf Sebastian , Herbst Elmar
Published: February 2023

Das standardisierte Erheben von Behandlungsergebnissen findet immer mehr Einzug in die moderne Medizin. Hierbei ist vor allem das subjektive Ergebnis aus Patientensicht und die damit häufig einhergehende Zufriedenheit mit der medizinischen Behandlung in den Fokus gerückt. Dies hat in den letzten Jahren nicht nur in der akademischen Landschaft, sondern auch auf gesundheitspolitischer Ebene deutlich an Bedeutung gewonnen. Dies bedeutet, dass das Behandlungsergebnis immer mehr Einfluss auf die Vergütung der Leistungserbringer erhält, auch „value-based healthcare“ genannt. Insbesondere in der Orthopädie und Traumatologie gibt es dabei zahlreiche gelenkspezifische Messinstrumente (Fragebögen, Scores oder „patient-reported outcome measures“ [PROMs]), wobei in der Fuß- und Sprunggelenkchirurgie hierfür eine Vielzahl an Fragebögen verfügbar ist, die sich jedoch häufig sehr heterogen und selten pathologiespezifisch darstellen. In Anbetracht der derzeitigen Mannigfaltigkeit an PROMs in der aktuellen Literatur ist es deshalb von Interesse, die wissenschaftliche Qualität zu prüfen und gleichzeitig die Forschungskommunikation zu vereinheitlichen, indem etablierte und gemäß akademischen Gütekriterien ausgewählte Fragebögen zum Einsatz kommen. Ziel ist es, valide, verlässliche und möglichst repräsentative Daten zu gewinnen, um eine akkurate Darstellung der tatsächlichen Ergebnisse zu erreichen. Dies bedingt neben qualitativen Kriterien auch immer kompakte und leicht verständliche Fragenkataloge, um so eine möglichst hohe Rücklaufquote zu generieren. Schließlich sollte auch immer eine Einschätzung der klinischen Relevanz der erhaltenen Ergebnisse stattfinden. Hierfür hat sich der kleinste vom Patienten als klinische Veränderung wahrgenommene Wert des jeweiligen PROM („minimal clinically important difference“, MCID) durchgesetzt. Für den Fuß- und Sprunggelenkbereich werden dabei vom Research Komitee der AGA unter Berücksichtigung dieser Kriterien folgende Messinstrumente empfohlen: FAOS (Foot and Ankle Outcome Score) zur Beurteilung der allgemeinen Schmerzsymptomatik und Funktion sowie der EQ-5D-Fragebogen zur Beurteilung der Lebensqualität. Zwar kann aufgrund fehlender Datenlage keine pathologiespezifische Empfehlung abgegeben werden, jedoch ist der FAOS für eine Vielzahl von Fuß- und Sprunggelenkpathologien validiert und liegt zudem in deutscher Sprache vor.
Making multidisciplinary optimization fit for practical usage in car body development
Authors: Büttner Jana , Schumacher Axel , Bäck Thomas , Schwarz Stefan , Krause Peter
Published: February 2023

The vehicle structure is a highly complex system as it is subject to different requirements of many engineering disciplines. Multidisciplinary optimization (MDO) is a simulation-based approach for capturing this complexity and achieving the best possible compromise by integrating all relevant CAE-based disciplines. However, to enable operative application of MDO even under consideration of crash, various adjustments to reduce the high numerical resource requirements and to integrate all disciplines in a target way must be carried out. They can be grouped as follows: The use of efficient optimization strategies, the identification of relevant load cases and sensitive variables as well as the reduction of CAE calculation time of costly crash load cases by so-called finite element (FE) submodels. By assembling these components in a clever way, a novel, adaptively controllable MDO process based on metamodels is developed. There are essentially three special features presented within the scope of this paper: First, a module named global sensitivity matrix which helps with targeted planning and implementation of a MDO by structuring the multitude of variables and disciplines. Second, a local, heuristic and thus on all metamodel types computable prediction uncertainty measure that is further used in the definition of the optimization problem. And third, a module called adaptive complexity control which progressively reduces the complexity and dimensionality of the optimization problem. The reduction of resource requirements and the increase in the quality of results are significant, compared to the standard MDO procedure. This statement is confirmed by providing results for a FE full vehicle example in six load cases (five crash load cases and one frequency analysis).
Quantitation of guanidine derivatives as representative persistent and mobile organic compounds in water: method development
Authors: Ichihara Makiko , Asakawa Daichi , Yamamoto Atsushi , Sudo Miki
Published: February 2023

Persistent and mobile organic compounds (PMOCs) are highly soluble in water, thereby posing a threat to water resource quality. Currently, there are no methods that can accurately quantify guanidine derivative PMOCs, other than 1,3-diphenylguanidine (DPG) and cyanoguanidine (CG), in aqueous media. In this study, we developed a quantitation method that combines solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography (LC)-tandem mass spectrometry to detect seven guanidine derivatives in aquatic environments and applied it to environmental water samples. Five LC columns were examined, and among them, a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography column was chosen owing to its suitable instrument detection limit and retention factor. Method precision was assessed using seven replicate analyses of river water. The corresponding analyte recoveries ranged from 73 to 137% (coefficient of variation = 2.1–5.8%). DPG and CG were detected in ultrapure water samples at levels up to 0.69 and 150 ng L−1, respectively; DPG and CG levels up to 44 and 2600 ng L−1, respectively, were detected in lake water, river water, sewage effluent, and tap water sampled in Western Japan. This is the first reported detection of DPG in the surface water of Japan, revealing that DPG and CG are ubiquitous compounds in aquatic environments. Moreover, this is the first study to detect 1-(o-tolyl)biguanide and N,N′′′-1,6-hexanediylbis(N′-cyanoguanidine) in water. This study provides a foundation for further research on the distribution, fate, and emission source of these pollutants, which is critical to maintain high water quality and to determine regulatory limits for these pollutants.

Graphical Abstract
Demographic overview of pilonidal sinus carcinoma: updated insights into the incidence
Authors: Safadi Mhd Firas , Dettmer Marius , Berger Matthias , Degiannis Konstantinos , Wilhelm Dirk , Doll Dietrich
Published: February 2023

Purpose

There are only rough estimates of the worldwide incidence of pilonidal sinus carcinoma. The purpose of the study is to explore the demographic characteristics of this disease and to provide more precise information about its incidence.

Methods

The study included questioning the surgeons and pathologists in Germany in addition to a literature research. The literature investigation included all published articles about pilonidal carcinoma in all languages. The questionnaire included 1050 pathologists and all 834 hospitals with a surgical division in Germany. The outcome measures included the total number of cases, the language of publication, gender, age, country of origin, interval until the diagnosis of carcinoma, and reported incidence based on local studies.

Results

From 1900 to 2022, we found 140 cases of pilonidal sinus carcinoma in 103 articles. The investigation revealed two additional unpublished cases from Germany. The male-to-female ratio was 7.75:1. The countries with the most cases were the USA (35 cases, 25.0%), Spain (13 cases, 9.3%), and Turkey (11 cases, 7.6%). The average age was 54.0 ± 11.8 years and the interval between the diagnosis of the disease and the development of carcinoma was 20.1 ± 14.1 years. There was a parallel increase in reported cases of pilonidal sinus disease and pilonidal carcinoma over the last century. The reported incidence varied from 0.03% to 5.56%. The worldwide calculated incidence equaled 0.17%.

Conclusion

Due to underreporting and other causes, the incidence of carcinoma emerging on the background of pilonidal sinus disease is higher than reported.
Long-term dietary nitrate supplementation slows the progression of established atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice fed a high fat diet
Authors: Liu Yang , Croft Kevin D. , Mori Trevor A. , Gaspari Tracey A. , Kemp-Harper Barbara K. , Ward Natalie C.
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

Atherosclerosis is associated with a reduction in the bioavailability and/or bioactivity of endogenous nitric oxide (NO). Dietary nitrate has been proposed as an alternate source when endogenous NO production is reduced. Our previous study demonstrated a protective effect of dietary nitrate on the development of atherosclerosis in the apoE−/− mouse model. However most patients do not present clinically until well after the disease is established. The aims of this study were to determine whether chronic dietary nitrate supplementation can prevent or reverse the progression of atherosclerosis after disease is already established, as well as to explore the underlying mechanism of these cardiovascular protective effects.

Methods

60 apoE−/− mice were given a high fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks to allow for the development of atherosclerosis. The mice were then randomized to (i) control group (HFD + 1 mmol/kg/day NaCl), (ii) moderate-dose group (HFD +1 mmol/kg/day NaNO3), or (iii) high-dose group (HFD + 10 mmol/kg/day NaNO3) (20/group) for a further 12 weeks. A group of apoE−/− mice (n = 20) consumed a normal laboratory chow diet for 24 weeks and were included as a reference group.

Results

Long-term supplementation with high dose nitrate resulted in ~ 50% reduction in plaque lesion area. Collagen expression and smooth muscle accumulation were increased, and lipid deposition and macrophage accumulation were reduced within atherosclerotic plaques of mice supplemented with high dose nitrate. These changes were associated with an increase in nitrite reductase as well as activation of the endogenous eNOS-NO pathway.

Conclusion

Long-term high dose nitrate significantly attenuated the progression of established atherosclerosis in the apoE−/− mice fed a HFD. This appears to be mediated in part through a XOR-dependent reduction of nitrate to NO, as well as enhanced eNOS activation via increased Akt and eNOS phosphorylation.
Decrements of mobility and power in recreationally active septuagenarians is related to loss of force, but not slowing of the muscle: a 5-year longitudinal study
Authors: Cameron James , McPhee Jamie S. , Jones David A. , Degens Hans
Published: February 2023

A lesser 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and timed up-and-go (TUG) in old compared with young adults was previously linked to slowing of muscle contractile properties. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether any further reductions in 6MWD and TUG over a 5-year period in septuagenarians are associated with further slowing of muscle contractile properties. We measured muscle function by a countermovement jump, isometric maximal knee extensor strength (MVC) on a dynamometer and quadriceps muscle size by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 17 older women (71.1 ± 2.8 y) and 17 older men (71.3 ± 4.1y). Performance in TUG and 6MWD were reduced over the 5-year period, irrespective of sex (P < 0.001), and both were correlated with power at both baseline and follow-up (R ≥ 0.53; P ≤ 0.001). Jump take-off velocity (VCMJ) was slower at follow-up (P < 0.01) and correlated with 6MWD and TUG at both baseline and follow-up in both sexes (R ≥ 0.54; P ≤ 0.001). However, the relationship between ‘body mass: maximal muscle force ratio’ with VCMJ was not significantly changed, indicating that the lower VCMJ was attributable to muscles working at a higher relative load, hence a lower part of the force–velocity relationship, due to a reduction in MVC (body mass had not changed significantly), rather than slowing of the muscle. The lower VCMJ in women than men (P < 0.001) was likewise attributable to a lower MVC rather than slower contractile properties in women. In conclusion, the decrement in 6MWD and TUG in septuagenarians is due to a loss of muscle mass, rather than further loss of muscle quality.
Spinal tumours: recommendations of the Polish Society of Spine Surgery, the Polish Society of Oncology, the Polish Society of Neurosurgeons, the Polish Society of Oncologic Surgery, the Polish Society of Oncologic Radiotherapy, and the Polish Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
Authors: Maciejczak A. , Gasik R. , Kotrych D. , Rutkowski P. , Antoniak K. , Derenda M. , Dobiecki K. , Górski R. , Grzelak L. , Guzik G. , Harat M. , Janusz W. , Jarmużek P. , Łątka D. , Maciejczyk A. , Mandat T. , Potaczek T. , Rocławski M. , Trembecki Ł. , Załuski R.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of these recommendations is to spread the available evidence for evaluating and managing spinal tumours among clinicians who encounter such entities.

Methods

The recommendations were developed by members of the Development Recommendations Group representing seven stakeholder scientific societies and organizations of specialists involved in various forms of care for patients with spinal tumours in Poland. The recommendations are based on data yielded from systematic reviews of the literature identified through electronic database searches. The strength of the recommendations was graded according to the North American Spine Society’s grades of recommendation for summaries or reviews of studies.

Results

The recommendation group developed 89 level A-C recommendations and a supplementary list of institutions able to manage primary malignant spinal tumours, namely, spinal sarcomas, at the expert level. This list, further called an appendix, helps clinicians who encounter spinal tumours refer patients with suspected spinal sarcoma or chordoma for pathological diagnosis, surgery and radiosurgery. The list constitutes a basis of the network of expertise for the management of primary malignant spinal tumours and should be understood as a communication network of specialists involved in the care of primary spinal malignancies.

Conclusion

The developed recommendations together with the national network of expertise should optimize the management of patients with spinal tumours, especially rare malignancies, and optimize their referral and allocation within the Polish national health service system.
Chronic exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid alters cerebral brain metabolism and causes long-lasting behavioral deficits in adult mice
Authors: Bouter Caroline , Ott Frederik Wilhelm , Günther Daniel , Weig Lukas , Schmitz-Peiffer Fabian , Rozyyeva Mahriban , Beindorff Nicola , Bouter Yvonne
Published: February 2023

In recent years, there has been growing evidence that cannabinoids have promising medicinal and pharmacological effects. However, the growing interest in medical cannabis highlights the need to better understand brain alterations linking phytocannabinoids or synthetic cannabinoids to clinical and behavioral phenotypes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-term WIN 55,212-2 treatment—with and without prolonged abstinence—on cerebral metabolism and memory function in healthy wildtype mice. Adult C57BI/6J mice were divided into two treatment groups to study the acute effects of WIN 55,212-2 treatment as well the effects of WIN 55,212-2 treatment after an extended washout phase. We could demonstrate that 3 mg/kg WIN 55,212-2 treatment in early adulthood leads to a hypometabolism in several brain regions including the hippocampus, cerebellum, amygdala and midbrain, even after prolonged abstinence. Furthermore, prolonged acute WIN 55,212-2 treatment in 6-months-old mice reduced the glucose metabolism in the hippocampus and midbrain. In addition, Win 55,212-2 treatment during adulthood lead to spatial memory and recognition memory deficits without affecting anxiety behavior. Overall we could demonstrate that treatment with the synthetic CB1/CB2 receptor aganist Win 55,212-2 during adulthood causes persistent memory deficits, especially when mice were treated in early adulthood. Our findings highlight the risks of prolonged WIN 55,212-2 use and provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the effects of chronic cannabinoid exposure on the brain and behavior.
Linking ecosystem services provisioning with demand for animal-sourced food: an integrated modeling study for Tanzania
Authors: Enahoro Dolapo , Kozicka Marta , Pfeifer Catherine , Jones Sarah K. , Tran Nhuong , Chan Chin Yee , Sulser Timothy B. , Gotor Elisabetta , Rich Karl M.
Published: February 2023

Standard tools that can quantitatively track the impacts of higher global demand for animal-sourced food to their local environmental effects in developing countries are largely missing. This paper presents a novel integrated assessment framework that links a model of the global agricultural and food system, a landscape-level environmental impact assessment model, and an ecosystem services simulation model. For Tanzania, this integrated assessment showed that a projected increase in the demand and production of foods of livestock origin with optimistic economic growth between 2010 and 2030 leads to an improvement in food security. However, resulting transitions in land use impact negatively on the future provisioning of ecosystem services, increasing phosphorus, nitrogen, and sediment in runoff and reducing water quality in areas downstream of the agricultural expansion. Losses in ecosystem services are lowest when diversified farming practices are adopted in areas of agricultural land expansion. The role of land management in the environmental impacts of expanded livestock production is highlighted, as is the need for a new generation of analytical tools to inform policy recommendations.
Prevalence, Pattern, and Outcome of Congenital Anomalies Admitted to a Neonatal Unit in a Low-Income Country—a Ten-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Anane-Fenin Betty , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Chauke Lawrence
Published: February 2023

Objective

The incidence of congenital abnormalities is highest in low-and-middle-income countries. However, the prevalence, spectrum, trends of neonatal congenital anomalies and their admission outcomes have not been well explored. This study was a 10 year retrospective hospital-based research in a low-income country to address the above.

Methods

All infants hospitalized in the Special Care Baby Unit at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana, between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2019, had their demographic, obstetric, and clinical data recorded.

Results

Over the decade, 236 neonates with congenital abnormalities were admitted to the unit, accounting for 2.8% of total neonatal admissions and 8.6 per 1000 births. Mortality occurred in 33.2% of neonates with congenital abnormalities, corresponding to 4.6% of all neonatal deaths. Mortality was significantly associated with place of delivery and gravidity of more than five. The commonest anomalies were in the nervous system, particularly neural tube defects, followed by suspected chromosomal abnormalities and then cardiac defects. Neonates with cardiac defects had a higher chance of dying.Health center/clinic delivery proffered a better survival than hospital delivery, but this should be interpreted with caution.

Conclusion

Neural tube defects were the most predominant anomalies; hence, intensification of preconception and antenatal folic acid supplementation is pivotal towards their reduction. Making prenatal screening for early detection of fetal anomalies an integral part of routine antenatal care is also essential. This research was conducted in a single center and did not include stillbirths and abortions so cannot give an accurate estimation of the number of congenital abnormalities in the population. A national registry of congenital anomalies is recommended.
Cannabidiol and Cannabis Sativa as a potential treatment in vitro prostate cancer cells silenced with RBBp6 and PC3 xenograft
Authors: Motadi Lesetja R. , Jantjies Zodwa E. , Moleya Boitumelo
Published: February 2023

Background

Prostate cancer is the second most frequently occurring carcinoma in males worldwide and one of the leading causes of death in men around the world. Recent studies estimate that over 1.4 million males are diagnosed with prostate cancer on an annual basis, with approximately 375,000 succumbing to the disease annually. With current treatments continuing to show severe side effects, there is a need for new treatments. In this study we looked at the effect of cannabis sativa extract, cannabidiol and cisplatin on prostate cancer cells, PC3.

Methods

In addressing the above questions, we employed the MTT assay to measure the antiproliferative effect on PC3 cells following treatment with varying concentrations of Cannabis sativa extract, cisplatin and cannabidiol. xCELLigence was also used to confirm the IC50 activity in which cells were grown in a 16 well plate coated with gold and monitor cell attachment. Caspase 3/7 activity was also measured using 96 well-plate following treatment. Western-blot and qRT-PCR was also used to measure the gene expression of tumour suppressor genes, p53, Bax and Bcl2. Animal studies were employed to measure the growth of PC3-mouse derived cancer to evaluate the effect of compounds in vivo.

Results

From the treatment with varying concentrations of Cannabis sativa extract, cannabidiol and cisplatin, we have observed that the three compounds induced antiproliferation of PC3 cancer cell lines through the activation of caspase 3/7 activity. We also observed induction of apoptosis in these cells following silencing of retinoblastoma binding protein 6 (RBBP6), with upregulation of p53 and bax mRNA expression, and a reduction in Bcl2 gene expression. The growth of tumours in the mouse models were reduced following treatment with cisplatin and cannabidiol.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that cannabidiol is a viable therapy to treat prostate cancer cells, in combination with silencing of RBBP6. This suggests that cannabidiol rather Cannabis sativa extract may play an important role in reducing cancer progression.
Outcomes of intraventricular 131-I-omburtamab and external beam radiotherapy in patients with recurrent medulloblastoma and ependymoma
Authors: Tringale Kathryn R. , Wolden Suzanne L. , Karajannis Matthias , Haque Sofia , Pasquini Luca , Yildirim Onur , Rosenblum Marc , Benhamida Jamal K. , Cheung Nai-Kong , Souweidane Mark , Basu Ellen M. , Pandit-Taskar Neeta , Zanzonico Pat B. , Humm John L. , Kramer Kim
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Intraventricular compartmental radioimmunotherapy (cRIT) with 131-I-omburtamab is a potential therapy for recurrent primary brain tumors that can seed the thecal space. These patients often previously received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) to a portion or full craniospinal axis (CSI) as part of upfront therapy. Little is known regarding outcomes after re-irradiation as part of multimodality therapy including cRIT. This study evaluates predictors of response, patterns of failure, and radiologic events after cRIT.

Methods

Patients with recurrent medulloblastoma or ependymoma who received 131-I-omburtamab on a prospective clinical trial were included. Extent of disease at cRIT initiation (no evidence of disease [NED] vs measurable disease [MD]) was assessed as associated with progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) by Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

All 27 patients (20 medulloblastoma, 7 ependymoma) had EBRT preceding cRIT: most (22, 81%) included CSI (median dose 2340 cGy, boost to 5400 cGy). Twelve (44%) also received EBRT at relapse as bridging to cRIT. There were no cases of radionecrosis. At cRIT initiation, 11 (55%) medulloblastoma and 3 (43%) ependymoma patients were NED, associated with improved PFS (p = 0.002) and OS (p = 0.048) in medulloblastoma. Most relapses were multifocal. With medium follow-up of 3.0 years (95% confidence interval, 1.8–7.4), 6 patients remain alive with NED.

Conclusion

For patients with medulloblastoma, remission at time of cRIT was associated with significantly improved survival outcomes. Relapses are often multifocal, particularly in the setting of measurable disease at cRIT initiation. EBRT is a promising tool to achieve NED status at cRIT initiation, with no cases of radiation necrosis.
Business As Usual Versus Climate-responsive, Optimised Crop Plans – A Predictive Model for Irrigated Agriculture in Australia in 2060
Authors: Lewis Andrew , Montgomery James , Lewis Max , Randall Marcus , Schiller Karin
Published: February 2023

Climate change is impacting people’s lives, with management of water resources and food security being major concerns for the future of many countries. In this paper, future water availability, crop water needs, yields, market costs and returns of current crops in a case study area in Australia are evaluated under future climatic conditions. The predictive methods on which the work is based have the advantage of being robust—they are able to simultaneously consider many climate change models—giving greater confidence in determining what the future will hold in this regard. The results indicate business as usual, in terms of the quantity and types of crops that can be grown presently, will not be sustainable in the medium and long term future. Instead, modelling indicates that changes in production and land use to maximise revenue per megalitre of water will be needed to adapt to future conditions and deliver climate-smart agriculture.