bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbonylative Self‐Coupling of Aryl Boronic Acids Using a Confined Pd Catalyst within Melamine Dendron and Fibrous Nano‐Silica: A CO Surrogate Approach
Authors: Kolekar Yuvraj A. , Saptal Vitthal B. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: June 2023

Development of heterogeneous catalysts with tunable activity and selectivity has posed a persistent challenge. This study addresses this challenge by fabricating a hybrid environment through the combination of mesoporous silica and N‐rich melamine dendron via covalent grafting, allowing for controllable growth and encapsulation of Pd NPs. This catalyst presented an excellent catalytic activity for the oxidative carbonylative self‐coupling of aryl boronic acids to afford symmetric biaryl ketones using N‐formyl saccharin as a sustainable solid CO source and Cu as a co‐catalyst.
Molecular‐fusion Synthesis of Bright Green Fluorescent Carbon Dots for Cell Imaging
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Liu Zhikang , Guo Huazhang , Chen Changhan , Zeng Zhiming , Xu Jing , Wang Liang
Published: June 2023

Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) with advantages including excellent biocompatibility, low cost, and easy modification make them highly promising for applications in biological imaging. Here, we successfully synthesized dark green fluorescent CDs (g‐CDs) using trinitropyrene as a carbon source and 2,4‐diaminobenzenesulfonic acid as the reactant in one‐pot synthesis. The results revealed that the g‐CDs had an average uniform particle size of 4.93 nm, with a structure similar to graphite. The g‐CDs imparted excellent water‐solubility due to the presence of hydrophilic groups. The g‐CDs exhibited an optimal fluorescence emission wavelength of 512 nm in acetone solvent, with a maximum quantum yield of 38.4%. When transferred into a normal saline solution, the g‐CDs retained their green fluorescence, with the optimal fluorescence emission wavelength shifting to 505 nm. Notably, we observed a significant increase in fluorescence intensity and maximum quantum yield of up to 79.4% when the g‐CDs were dissolved in a polar solvent. Furthermore, in vitro fluorescence imaging experiments demonstrated rapid cell entry, excellent fluorescence performance, high biocompatibility, and universality of the g‐CDs. These findings underscore the high hydrophobicity and biocompatibility of our newly designed g‐CDs, thus highlighting their immense potential as fluorescent probes in bioimaging and disease tracing applications.
Native and non‐native plant regrowth in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area after the 2018 Woolsey Fire
Authors: Stork Nicoletta , Mainzer Amy , Martin Roberta
Published: June 2023

Mediterranean‐type ecosystems are under chronic ecological stress. By assessing changes in plant species and functional groups across the landscape, identifying ecosystem degradation is possible. The Santa Monica Mountains are in close proximity to a densely populated urban area where non‐native species invasions are being driven by changing fire regimes, climate change, and anthropogenic disturbances. Non‐native growth impacts biodiversity levels and vegetation distributions of native plant communities that are critical for ecosystem health. This study uses analyses of line‐point data from the National Park Service Inventory and Monitoring Program to assess ecosystem health in the Santa Monica Mountains from 2014 to 2020 and, in particular, to assess the effects of the 2018 Woolsey Fire on the balance of native and non‐native species in the region. Results of this analysis show an increase in non‐native cover since 2014 and rapid regrowth of non‐native annual grasses and herbaceous cover after the 2018 Woolsey Fire while native communities regrew more slowly. A hotspot of non‐native cover was identified in the Northern Simi Hills region, and rapid regrowth was seen after the Woolsey Fire. The hotspot is dominated by non‐native annual grasses and annual herbaceous species, some of which returned to prefire populations within a year after the Woolsey Fire. These results raise concerns for the future of native vegetation composition and function throughout the park and highlight the damage densely populated non‐native plant communities accumulate in the wake of disturbance events.
Analysis of low‐temperature pumped thermal energy storage systems based on a transcritical CO2 charging process
Authors: Bodner Jonas , Koksharov Josefine , Dammel Frank , Stephan Peter
Published: June 2023

Pumped thermal energy storage (PTES) is a technology for intermediate storage of electrical energy in the form of thermal energy. In this work, PTES systems based on a transcritical CO2 charging process are investigated. A two‐zone water storage tank with a storage temperature of 115°C is used as thermal energy storage. For discharge, an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and, alternatively, a transcritical CO2 heat engine are investigated. The considered concepts are modelled and simulated as stationary processes using the EBSILON Professional software. The scaling is based on an electrical input power of 5 MW. Using an ORC with the working fluid R1234yf for the discharging process results in the highest round‐trip efficiency of 36.8%. The component costs of the different configurations are estimated using cost functions. On the basis of this, the levelized cost of storage (LCOS) is calculated. The configuration with the ORC as the discharging process has the lowest LCOS of 59.2 €cents (kWh)−1. In addition, the technological maturity is determined using the technology readiness level scale. There are no prototypes of the investigated PTES systems yet. Therefore, further investigations must be carried out to implement the technology in the future.
A comprehensive review on tungsten oxide nanostructures‐based electrochromic supercapacitors and machine learning models for design and process parameter optimization
Authors: Thomas Susmi Anna , Cherusseri Jayesh , Khalid Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Electrochromism has received significant research recently due to its unique electrochromic feature for various applications such as smart buildings, smart doors, e‐skins, display devices, and so forth. Transition metal oxides are the major choice as electrode materials for electrochromic devices. Among the various electrochromic oxides available so far, tungsten oxide (WO3) achieves great interest due to its peculiar properties such as high coloration efficiency, low‐cost, high stability, and so forth. WO3 is an example of cathodic electrochromic material in which the material gets color under ion insertion. In this review article, we discuss the recent developments in WO3‐based electrochromic supercapacitors. Initially, the synthesis and characterizations of WO3 are discussed, and later the electrochromic performance evaluation using various electrochemical characterization tools, such as cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling, and so on, was reviewed. Furthermore, various theoretical models that describe the performance of electrochromic supercapacitors are explained in detail. Finally, the future perspectives of WO3‐based electrochromic supercapacitors are discussed. The most recent advances in machine learning (ML) are being utilized to investigate the mechanism and enhance the strategic performance of WO3 in the field of electrochromic. There is ongoing research in developing ML models for predicting the optimal design of electrochromic supercapacitors in terms of both material selection and performance parameters. Such models are essential in the pursuit of next‐generation smart windows, which are integral to the construction of sustainable buildings and the creation of a more environment‐friendly planet.
Discrete practical RF energy harvesting models for wireless communication networks
Authors: Tayel Ahmed F. , Zakariya Ahmed Y. , Rabia Sherif I. , Abd El‐Malek Ahmed H.
Published: June 2023

Optimal resource management in wireless communication networks is usually modeled in discrete state space, for example, using Markov decision process. This requires the energy harvesting (EH) model to be discrete. Since the existing discrete EH models in the literature use simple discrete distributions, for example, Bernoulli and Poisson, with no regard to the properties of the EH circuits, the proposed work handles this dilemma by deriving discrete EH models based on the practical continuous radio frequency to direct current (RF‐to‐DC) power conversion models. General closed‐form expressions are derived for the probability density functions of the harvested energy in the case of linear, piecewise linear, and non‐linear EH models. These general closed‐form expressions are applied to some special fading models, for example, the Nakagami‐ fading model. Simulation results verify the derived models. Moreover, statistical analysis is performed to compare the derived models to other discrete models in the literature. Finally, the derived models are applied to a case study where the effect of the number of discrete EH levels and the importance of the derived models compared to other models in the literature are presented. These comparisons show the deviation in the performance of the discrete models commonly used in the literature from the actual performance when the proposed piecewise linear EH model is used. Based on these comparisons, the proposed models, especially the piecewise linear EH model with an adequate number of segments, are recommended to be used for accurate discrete modeling of the EH process.
Effect of microwave and conventional heat treatment on trypsin inhibitor activity and in vitro digestibility of edamame milk protein
Authors: Olakanmi Sunday , Barbhuiya Rahul I. , Wroblewski Charles , Ramalingam Saipriya , Wang Jin , Nair Gopu R. , Singh Ashutosh
Published: June 2023

Edamame milk is a protein‐dense milk derived from green soybeans harvested before they mature. Being a legume of soy origin, it contains antinutritional factors for example, serine protease inhibitors, which hinder its in vitro digestibility. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of microwave processing techniques in improving the in vitro digestibility (IVPD %) of edamame milk protein by varying processing time and temperature. Conventional and microwave‐assisted processing was employed to investigate the effect on in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD %), using temperatures 70°Ϲ, 85°Ϲ, and 100°Ϲ for 5, 10, and 15 min, respectively. Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) data showed microwave and conventional treatments significantly modified the Amide I region of the edamame milk protein and the extent of modification varied with variation in the treatment temperature. In the FTIR analysis β‐sheet content was observed to change little with an increase in the temperature, suggesting similarity in the surface hydrophobicity of the protein leading to similar IVPD % values for all treatment temperatures. The experiment resulted in increased in vitro digestibility with increasing time and temperature during microwave processing conditions and conventional thermal conditions. It was also observed that the trypsin inhibitor activity decreased with an increase in processing time and temperature.
Single‐cell transcriptome analysis reveals cellular and molecular alterations in small cell lung cancer tumors following chemotherapy
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Zhu Guonian , Li Yangqian , Wang Haoyu , Wang Suyan , Li Chengping , Feng Jiaming , Wang Zhoufeng , Li Weimin
Published: June 2023

Chemotherapy is the standard therapy for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), but relapse is common and the 2‐year survival rate remains low. Given the contribution of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to cancer development and response to treatment, we analyzed here how chemotherapy alters the TME in SCLC using single‐cell RNA sequencing. The comparison between neuroendocrine cells and other epithelial cells in five chemotherapy‐naive patients identified upregulation of Notch‐inhibiting genes, such as DLL3 and HES6. Analysis of genes differentially expressed between five patients receiving chemotherapy and five treatment‐naive patients in cells in the TME showed that chemotherapy promoted antigen presentation and senescence in neuroendocrine cells, upregulated ID1 to enhance angiogenic activities of stalk‐like endothelial cells and strengthened vascular endothelial growth factor signaling in lymphatic endothelial cells. Chemotherapy also promoted the remodeling of extracellular matrix by fibroblasts and upregulated interferon‐mediated antitumor immune responses by B and T cells. Our single‐cell transcriptome analysis provides insights into how chemotherapy affects the TME in SCLC, which may guide efforts to make therapy more effective.
Cancer incidence among Chernobyl cleanup workers from Estonia: A 34‐year follow‐up
Authors: Rahu Kaja , Rahu Mati , Auvinen Anssi , Zeeb Hajo , Boice John D.
Published: June 2023

From 1986 to 1991, 4831 men from Estonia were sent to clean up radioactively contaminated areas near Chernobyl (Chornobyl). Their cancer incidence during 1986 to 2019 was compared to that of the male population of Estonia. The cohort of cleanup workers was linked to national population and cancer registers based on unique personal identification numbers. Nineteen (0.4%) workers could not be traced. A total of 4812 men contributing 120 770 person‐years of follow‐up were eligible for the analyses. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and adjusted relative risks (ARR, expressed as ratios of SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. A total of 687 incident cancer cases were registered in the cohort (SIR 1.11, 95% CI 1.03‐1.19). Presumptive radiation‐related cancers combined were in excess, but not when smoking‐ and alcohol‐related cancers were excluded (SIR 0.92, 95% CI 0.71‐1.18). For smoking‐related cancers, the SIR was 1.24 (95% CI 1.13‐1.36) and for alcohol‐related cancer the SIR was 1.53 (95% CI 1.31‐1.75). Less educated workers had a higher risk of all cancers (ARR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.02‐1.44) and smoking‐related cancers (ARR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.14‐1.76). An elevated risk of alcohol‐related cancers was evident 15 to 24 years (vs <15 years) after return from the Chernobyl area. This updated register‐based follow‐up of Chernobyl cleanup workers from Estonia revealed an excess of radiation‐related cancer sites combined, but the excess was not apparent after excluding cancers associated with smoking and alcohol.
Validation of single‐photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography and lymphoscintigraphy for sentinel lymph node identification in cervical cancer
Authors: Togami Shinichi , Tokudome Akio , Fukuda Mika , Mizuno Mika , Yanazume Shintaro , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: June 2023

Objective

To compare single‐photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography (SPECT/CT) and lymphoscintigraphy (LSG) for the detection of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in patients with early‐stage cervical cancer.

Methods

This hospital‐based, single‐center, retrospective study included 128 patients with cervical cancer (aged >18 years) treated between 2014 and 2022. Injection of 99 m Technetium‐labeled phytate into the uterine cervix was used to detect pelvic SLNs. SNL identification rates and locations were analyzed for preoperative LSG and SPECT/CT.

Results

Median age and body mass index of patients were 40 years (range, 20–78 years) and 21.7 kg/m2 (range, 16–40 kg/m2), respectively. There was no significant difference in overall identification rates (identification of at least one SLN) of SLNs between SPECT/CT (91%) and LSG (88%). There was no significant difference in bilateral SLN identification rates between SPECT/CT (66%) and LSG (65%). A total of 219 pelvic SLNs (110 right and 109 left hemipelvis) were identified by SPECT/CT; the most frequent locations were the obturator (122 SLNs, 56%) and external iliac (67 SLNs, 30%).

Conclusion

SPECT/CT and LSG showed high SLN identification rates in patients with cervical cancer, and there was no significant difference in overall or bilateral SLN identification rates between the two techniques.
Postpartum contraception: A matter of guidelines
Authors: Grandi Giovanni , Del Savio Maria C. , Tassi Alice , Facchinetti Fabio
Published: June 2023

The postpartum period is the perfect time to access family planning services. WHO guidelines contraindicate combined hormonal contraceptives postpartum in breastfeeding patients between 6 weeks and 6 months after delivery (Medical Eligibility Criteria category 3). On the contrary, the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines do not contraindicate their use in women who breastfeed from 6 weeks to 6 months postpartum. New combined hormonal contraceptives with natural estrogens have never been studied in this setting. Guidelines agree on the prescription of the progestin‐only pill postpartum in non‐breastfeeding women (category 1). Differences are found in women who breastfeed. In non‐breastfeeding women, an implant is considered safe (category 1) by all guidelines, without any distinction in time. Regarding postpartum breastfeeding women, the guidelines for implants give quite different indications but are still permissive. Intrauterine devices are viable options for postpartum contraception but guidelines give different indications about the timing of insertion. Postplacental intrauterine device placement can reduce the subsequent unintended pregnancy rate, particularly in settings at greatest risk of not having recommended postpartum controls. However, it has yet to be understood whether this approach can really have an advantage in high‐income countries. Postpartum contraception is not a ‘matter of guidelines’: it is the best customization for each woman, as early as possible but at the ideal timing.
Pleiotropic activities of succinate: The interplay between gut microbiota and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Xu Jing , Yang Yicheng , Li Xin , Ding Shusi , Zheng Lemin , Xiong Changming , Yang Yuejin
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a significant contributor to global mortality, imposing a substantial burden and emphasizing the urgent need for disease control to save lives and prevent disability. With advancements in technology and scientific research, novel mechanisms underlying CVDs have been uncovered, leading to the exploration of promising treatment targets aimed at reducing the global burden of the disease. One of the most intriguing findings is the relationship between CVDs and gut microbiota, challenging the traditional understanding of CVDs mechanisms and introducing the concept of the gut‐heart axis. The gut microbiota, through changes in microbial compositions and functions, plays a crucial role in influencing local and systemic effects on host physiology and disease development, with its metabolites acting as key regulators. In previous studies, we have emphasized the importance of specific metabolites such as betaine, putrescine, trimethylamine oxide, and N,N,N‐trimethyl‐5‐aminovaleric acid in the potential treatment of CVDs. Particularly noteworthy is the gut microbiota‐associated metabolite succinate, which has garnered significant attention due to its involvement in various pathophysiological pathways closely related to CVDs pathogenesis, including immunoinflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism. Furthermore, we have identified succinate as a potential biomarker, highlighting its therapeutic feasibility in managing aortic dissection and aneurysm. This review aims to comprehensively outline the characteristics of succinate, including its biosynthetic process, summarize the current evidence linking it to CVDs causation, and emphasize the host‐microbial crosstalk involved in modulating CVDs. The insights presented here offer a novel paradigm for future management and control of CVDs.
Implications of regulatory policy for building secure agile software in Nigeria: A grounded theory
Authors: Ardo Abdulhamid A. , Bass Julian M. , Gaber Tarek
Published: June 2023

Nigeria is ranked second worldwide, after India, in reported incidences of cyberattacks. Attackers usually exploit vulnerabilities in software which may not have adequately considered security features during the development process. Agile methods have the potential to increase productivity and ensure faster delivery of software, although they tend to neglect non‐functional requirements such as security. The implementation of government policies, such as the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) Act 2019, impacts the security activities carried out by agile teams. Despite its significance, there is a paucity of research on security issues especially in the Agile Software Development (ASD) domain. To address this gap, a grounded theory study was conducted with 15 agile software practitioners in Nigeria. Based on our analysis of the interview transcripts, we developed a grounded theory of the security challenges confronting agile practitioners. The four challenges identified were (a) a lack of collaboration between security and agile teams; (b) the tendency to use foreign software hosting companies; (c) a poor cybersecurity culture; and (d) the high cost of building secure agile software. We used these challenges to identify gaps within the existing secure ASD and found a lack of indigenous software hosting companies in Nigeria. Our study also revealed tensions between the Nigerian regulatory environment and agile software developers' compliance. While practitioners acknowledged the government's efforts, there were concerns about the practicality of implementing such legislation. We recommend government action to increase awareness of local software hosting companies' capabilities, and closer collaboration between agile and security teams. Thus, the novel contribution of this article is the development of the policy adherence challenges (PAC) model.
Research and scholarly methods: The scholarship of teaching and learning
Authors: Cox Wendy , Wettergreen Sara A. , Savage Amanda , Brock Tina
Published: June 2023

Clinical faculty and preceptors are often asked to teach students and residents in the classroom and on practice‐based experiences. Many have some prior training in instructional methodologies (e.g., as part of a residency program teaching certificate or faculty development workshop) and may know that there are opportunities for scholarship around teaching and learning. However, they may be less certain of the distinctions between scholarly teaching, the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL), and educational research, and how these can contribute to their success. In addition, clinical faculty may struggle with where to start, how to find time, and how to conduct scholarship around teaching and learning. This article summarizes key concepts related to SoTL and provides guidance to clinician educators about best practices in SoTL.
Morin mitigates cadmium‐induced testicular impairment by stimulating testosterone secretion and germ cell proliferation in mice
Authors: Annie Lalrawngbawli , Nicy Vanrohlu , Rempuia Vanlal , Marak Chuckles Ch. , Gurusubramanian Guruswami , Roy Vikas K.
Published: June 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the heavy metal pollutants present in the environment due to human intervention. It is well known that Cd causes toxicological effects on various organs, including the testes. Morin hydrate is a plant‐derived bioflavonoid with antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐stress properties. Thus, the question can be raised as to whether Morin has an effect on Cd‐intoxication‐induced testicular impairment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of Morin on Cd‐mediated disruption of testicular activity. Mice were divided into three groups: group 1 served as the control group, group 2 was given Cd (10 mg/kg) orally for 35 days, and group 3 was given Cd and Morin hydrate (100 mg/kg) for 35 days. To validate the in vivo findings, an in vitro study on testicular explants was also performed. The results of the in vivo study showed that Cd‐intoxicated mice had testicular disorganization, reduced circulating testosterone levels, decreased sperm density, and elevated oxidative stress and sperm abnormality. The expression of the germ cell proliferation marker, germ cell nuclear acidic protein (GCNA), and adipocytokine visfatin were also downregulated. It was observed that Morin hydrate upregulated testicular visfatin and GCNA expression in Cd‐intoxicated mice, along with improvement in circulating testosterone, testicular histology, and sperm parameters. Furthermore, the in vitro study showed that Cd‐mediated downregulation of testicular visfatin and GCNA expression, along with the suppressed secretion of testosterone from testicular explants, was normalized by Morin treatment, whereas visfatin expression was not. Overall, these data indicate that environmental cadmium exposure impairs testicular activity through downregulation of visfatin and GCNA expression, and Morin might play a protective role against Cd‐induced testicular toxicity.
The therapeutic effect of silibinin against 5‐fluorouracil‐induced ovarian toxicity in rats
Authors: Ayazoglu Demir Elif , Mentese Ahmet , Kucuk Hatice , Turkmen Alemdar Nihal , Demir Selim
Published: June 2023

5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) is a fluoropyrimidine group antineoplastic drug with antimetabolite properties and ovotoxicity is one of the most important side effects. Silibinin (SLB) is a natural compound that is used worldwide and stands out with its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of SLB in 5‐FU‐induced ovototoxicity using biochemical and histological analysis. This study was carried out in five main groups containing six rats in each group: control, SLB (5 mg/kg), 5‐FU (100 mg/kg), 5‐FU + SLB (2.5 mg/kg), and 5‐FU + SLB (5 mg/kg). The levels of ovarian malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and caspase‐3 were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Hematoxylin and eosin staining method was employed for histopathological examination. MDA, TOS, 8‐OHdG, TNF‐α, MPO, and caspase‐3 levels in 5‐FU group were significantly increased compared with the control group, while the levels of TAS, SOD, and CAT were decreased (p < 0.05). SLB treatments statistically significantly restored this damage in a dose‐dependent manner (p < 0.05). Although vascular congestion, edema, hemorrhage, follicular degeneration, and leukocyte infiltration were significantly higher in the 5‐FU group compared with the control group, SLB treatments also statistically significantly restored these damages (p < 0.05). In conclusion, SLB has a therapeutic effect on the ovarian damage induced by 5‐FU via decreasing the levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. It may be helpful to consider the usefulness of SLB as an adjuvant therapy to counteract the side effects of chemotherapy.
Zika virus: Critical crosstalk between pathogenesis, cytopathic effects, and macroautophagy
Authors: Bernardo‐Menezes Lucas Coêlho , Agrelli Almerinda , Oliveira Ana Sofia Lima Estevão de , Azevedo Elisa de Almeida Neves , Morais Clarice Neuenschwander Lins de
Published: June 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a re‐emerging positive‐sense RNA arbovirus. Its genome encodes a polyprotein that is cleaved by proteases into three structural proteins (Envelope, pre‐Membrane, and Capsid) and seven nonstructural proteins (NS1, NS2A, NS2B, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, and NS5). These proteins have essential functions in viral replication cycle, cytopathic effects, and host cellular response. When infected by ZIKV, host cells promote macroautophagy, which is believed to favor virus entry. Although several authors have attempted to understand this link between macroautophagy and viral infection, little is known. Herein, we performed a narrative review of the molecular connection between macroautophagy and ZIKV infection while focusing on the roles of the structural and nonstructural proteins. We concluded that ZIKV proteins are major virulence factors that modulate host‐cell machinery to its advantage by disrupting and/or blocking specific cellular systems and organelles' function, such as endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.
The origin, progress, and application of cell‐based cardiac regeneration therapy
Authors: Zhuo Danping , Lei Ienglam , Li Wenjun , Liu Li , Li Lan , Ni Jingyu , Liu Zhihao , Fan Guanwei
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has become a severe threat to human health, with morbidity and mortality increasing yearly and gradually becoming younger. When the disease progresses to the middle and late stages, the loss of a large number of cardiomyocytes is irreparable to the body itself, and clinical drug therapy and mechanical support therapy cannot reverse the development of the disease. To explore the source of regenerated myocardium in model animals with the ability of heart regeneration through lineage tracing and other methods, and develop a new alternative therapy for CVDs, namely cell therapy. It directly compensates for cardiomyocyte proliferation through adult stem cell differentiation or cell reprogramming, which indirectly promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation through non‐cardiomyocyte paracrine, to play a role in heart repair and regeneration. This review comprehensively summarizes the origin of newly generated cardiomyocytes, the research progress of cardiac regeneration based on cell therapy, the opportunity and development of cardiac regeneration in the context of bioengineering, and the clinical application of cell therapy in ischemic diseases.
Anatomical and histochemical characterization of some highly medicinal plants as a tool for quality control
Authors: Dastagir Ghulam , Hussain Farrukh , Uza Noor Ul
Published: June 2023

Medicinal plants are richest source of chemical compounds that can be used to evolve novel drugs. According to World Health Organization (WHO), in developing countries more than 3.5 billion people relay on herbal drugs for their primary health care. In the present study, an attempt was carried out to authenticate some selected medicinal plants (Fagonia cretica L., Peganum harmala L., Tribulus terrestris L., Chrozophora tinctoria L. Raf. and Ricinus communis L.) from family Zygophyllaceae and Euphorbiaceae using light and scanning electron macroscopic techniques. Macroscopic evaluation and comparative anatomy (Light Microscopy) of the root and fruits revealed great diversity in macro and microscopic features. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of root powder showed non‐glandular trichomes, stellate trichomes, parenchyma cells and vessels. Fruits SEM exhibited non‐glandular trichomes, glandular trichomes, stellate trichomes, peltate trichomes and mesocarp cells. Both macroscopic and microscopic evaluation plays a crucial role in the correct substantiation and validation of novel sources. These findings can serve as an essential source of information to accomplish the authenticity and to appraise the quality and purity of the herbal drugs in accordance to WHO guidelines. These parameters can be used to distinguish the selected plants from their commonly used adulterants.

Research Highlights

In the current work, five plants (Fagonia cretica L., Peganum harmala L., Tribulus terrestris L., Chrozophora tinctoria L. Raf. and Ricinus communis L.) from Zygophyllaceae and Euphorbiaceae were investigated for macroscopy and microscopy (LM & SEM) for the first time.

Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation disclosed great diversity in morphology and histology. Microscopy is the backbone of standardization process.

Current study helped in correct identification and quality assurance of the plant materials. Their statistical investigation may possess great potency for plant taxonomists to further appraise the vegetative growth and tissue development which is requisite especially for fruit to enhance the yield of herbal drugs and their formulation. Further molecular studies, compounds isolation and characterization are required to deepen the knowledge of these herbal drugs.
Altered Callosal Morphology and Connectivity in Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Liu Xitong , Xu Dan , Zhong Xiaoli , Ren Jinxia , Wang Huan , Yu Minhua , Gao Lei , Xu Haibo
Published: June 2023

Background

Carotid stenosis, even in the clinically asymptomatic stage, causes cognitive impairment, silent lesions, and hemispheric changes. The corpus callosum (CC) is crucial for hemispheric cortical integration and specialization.

Purpose

To examine if CC morphology and connectivity relate to cognitive decline and lesion burden in asymptomatic carotid stenosis (ACS).

Study Type

Retrospective, cross‐sectional.

Population

33 patients with unilaterally severe (70%) ACS and 28 demographically and comorbidity‐matched controls. A publicly available healthy adult lifespan (ages between 18 and 80; n = 483) MRI dataset was also included.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T; T1 MPRAGE and diffusion weighted gradient echo‐planar imaging sequences.

Assessment

Structural MRI and multidomain cognitive data were obtained. Midsagittal CC area, circularity, thickness, integrity, and probabilistic tractography were calculated and correlated with cognitive tests and white matter hyperintensity. Fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity (MD), and radial diffusivity were determined from DTI.

Statistical Tests

Independent two‐sample t‐tests, χ2 tests, Mann–Whitney U, locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) curve fit, and Pearson correlation. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Patients with ACS demonstrated significant reductions in callosal area, circularity, and thickness compared to controls. The callosal atrophy was significantly correlated with white matter hyperintensity size (r = −0.629, P < 0.001). Voxel‐wise analysis of diffusion measures in the volumetric CC showed that ACS patients exhibited significantly lower fractional anisotropy and higher MD and radial diffusivity in the genu and splenium of the CC than controls. Further lifespan trajectory analysis showed that although the midsagittal callosal area, circularity, and thickness exhibited age‐related decreases, the values in the ACS patients were significantly lower in all age groups.

Data Conclusion

Midsagittal callosal atrophy and connectivity reflect the load of silent lesions and the severity of cognitive decline, respectively, suggesting that CC degeneration has potential to serve as an early marker in ACS.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Prevalence and risk factors of long COVID 6–12 months after infection with the Omicron variant among nonhospitalized patients in Hong Kong
Authors: Luo Jingyuan , Zhang Jialing , Tang Hiu To , Wong Hoi Ki , Lyu Aiping , Cheung Chun Hoi , Bian Zhaoxiang
Published: June 2023

Long COVID has been reported among patients with COVID‐19, but little is known about the prevalence and risk factors associated with long COVID 6–12 months after infection with the Omicron variant. This is a large‐scale retrospective study. A total of 6242 out of 12 950 nonhospitalized subjects of all ages with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (confirmed by polymerase chain reaction/rapid antigen test) during the Omicron dominant outbreak (December 31, 2021–May 6, 2022) in Hong Kong were included. Prevalence of long COVID, frequencies of symptoms, and risk factors were analyzed. Three thousand four hundred and thirty (55.0%) subjects reported at least one long COVID symptom. The most reported symptom was fatigue (1241, 36.2%). Female gender, middle age, obesity, comorbidities, vaccination after infection, having more symptoms, and presenting fatigue/chest tightness/headache/diarrhea in the acute stage of illness were identified as associated risk factors for long COVID. Patients who had received three or more doses of vaccine were not associated with a lower risk of long COVID (adjusted odds ratio 1.105, 95% confidence interval 0.985–1.239, p = 0.088). Among patients with at least three doses of vaccine, there was no significant difference in the risk of long COVID between the CoronaVac vaccine and BNT162b2 vaccine (p > 0.05). Omicron infection can lead to long COVID in a significant proportion of nonhospitalized patients 6–12 months after infection. Further investigation is needed to uncover the mechanisms underlying the development of long COVID and determine the impact of various risk factors such as vaccines.
The role of root size and root efficiency in grain production, and water‐and nitrogen‐use efficiency in wheat
Authors: Yan Minfei , Lian Huida , Zhang Cong , Chen Yinglong , Cai Huanjie , Zhang Suiqi
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

The root system is the major plant organ involved in water and nutrient acquisition, influencing plant growth and productivity. However, the relative importance of root size and uptake efficiency remains undetermined. A pot experiment was conducted using two wheat varieties with different root sizes to evaluate their capacity for water and nitrogen (N) uptake and their effects on grain production, water‐use efficiency (WUE), and N‐use efficiency (NUE) under two water treatments combined with three N levels.

RESULTS

The leaf water potential and root exudates of changhan58 (CH, small root variety) were higher or similar to those of changwu134 (CW, large root variety) under water/N treatment combinations, indicating that small roots can transport enough water to above the ground. The addition of N improved plant growth, photosynthetic traits, and WUE significantly. There were no significant differences in WUE or grain production between the two cultivars under well‐watered conditions. However, they were significantly higher in CH than in CW under water deficit stress. Nitrogen uptake per unit root dry weight, glutaminase, and nitrate reductase activities were significantly higher in CH than in CW, regardless of moisture conditions. Root biomass was positively correlated with evapotranspiration, while the root/shoot ratio was negatively correlated with WUE (P < 0.05) but not with NUE.

CONCLUSION

In a pot experiment, water and N uptake were more strongly associated with resource uptake availability than root size. This may provide guidance in wheat breeding programs for drought‐prone regions. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of the breaking points in the global care pathway of patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Saint-Aroman Markéta , Carballido Fabienne , Jean‐Decoster Catherine , Agaësse Angela
Published: June 2023

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic pruritic skin disease with flare‐ups. All age groups can be affected. The quality of life of AD patients can be altered if their medical follow‐up is not optimal.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to identify the breakpoints in the care pathway for patients with atopic dermatitis.

Methods

We carried out an analysis of care pathways based on responses from healthcare professionals and patients with AD using anonymized questionnaires designed by a steering committee of expert patients and health care professionals.

Results

At the end of this survey, we collected 260 responses to the questionnaires from the patients and 57 responses from the healthcare professionals. Three break points were identified. Firstly, a large majority of patients admitted to not having enough social support and especially paramedical support. The second breaking point is patient compliance with treatment. 20% of patients discontinue their treatment, and a vast majority express a lack of information about their disease. The last point of rupture between patients and healthcare professionals is the appointment for their initial consultation; delays are underestimated or under‐reported by practitioners.

Conclusions

This study shows that some points need to be improved in the patient care process on both sides, patients, and health professional. A dialogue between the two parts should be open to focus on solutions to improve the care pathway of patients with AD.
Janus Composite Particles and Interfacial Catalysis Thereby
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Linlin , Wang Na , Sun Dayin , Yang Zhenzhong
Published: June 2023

Janus composite particles (JPs) with distinct compartmentalization of varied components thus performances and anisotropic shape display a variety of properties and have demonstrated great potentials in diversify practical applications. Especially, the catalytic JPs are advantageous for multi‐phase catalysis with much easier separation of products and recycling the catalysts. In the first section of this review, typical methods to synthesize the JPs with varied morphologies are briefly surveyed in the category of polymeric, inorganic and polymer/inorganic composite. In the main section, recent progresses of the JPs in emulsion interfacial catalysis are summarized covering organic synthesis, hydrogenation, dye degradation, and environmental chemistry. The review will end by calling more efforts toward precision synthesis of catalytic JPs at large scale to meet the stringent requirements in practical applications such as catalytic diagnosis and therapy by the functional JPs.
Despite telehealth growth, disparities persist in care access
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2023

Although telehealth services have expanded rapidly during the COVID‐19 pandemic, disparities in access to care continue, according to RAND Corporation researchers who investigated the correlations between four state policies and telehealth availability at outpatient mental health facilities throughout the U.S.
Maternal High‐Fat Diet Results in Long‐Term Sex‐Specific Alterations to Metabolic and Gut Microbial Diurnal Oscillations in Adult Offspring
Authors: Ding Lu , Liu Jieying , Zhou Liyuan , Zhang Qian , Yu Miao , Xiao Xinhua
Published: June 2023

Scope: Circadian rhythms profoundly impact metabolism and the gut microbiota. A maternal high‐fat diet (HFD) exerts effects on the metabolic syndrome of adult offspring in a sex‐specific manner, the underlying mechanisms, however, remain unclear.

Methods and results: Female mice are fed an HFD and raise their offspring on a standard chow diet until 24 weeks. The glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and diurnal rhythms of serum metabolic profiles are assessed in male and female adult offspring. Simultaneously, 16S rRNA is applied to characterize gut microbiota diurnal rhythms. The study finds that maternal HFD tends to deteriorate glucose tolerance and impairs insulin sensitivity in male offspring, but not female offspring, which can be associated with the circadian alterations of serum metabolic profiles in male offspring. As expected, maternal HFD sex‐specifically alters diurnal rhythms of the gut microbiota, which exhibits putative associations with metabolic profiles in males.

Conclusions: The present study identifies the critical role of gut microbiota diurnal rhythms in triggering sex‐biased metabolic diurnal rhythms in response to maternal HFD, at least in part. As early life may be a critical window for preventing metabolic diseases, these findings provide the basis for developing chronobiology applications targeting the gut microbiota to combat early metabolic alterations, especially in males.
Rapid detection of dissolved acetylene in oil based on T‐type photoacoustic cell
Authors: Wang Guangzhen , Fu Dehui , Yuan Shuai , Li Chenxi , Han Xiao , Du Jinchao , Du Fei , Chen Ke
Published: June 2023

Aiming at the need of rapid and sensitive detection of acetylene dissolved in oil, a small‐volume T‐type photoacoustic (PA) cell was proposed. By optimizing the design parameters, the volume of the T‐type cell was reduced to 30 mL, which resulted in a significant reduction in the sampling amount of the transformer oil. A laser PA spectroscopy system for dissolved gas analysis was built combined with the headspace degassing method. A near‐infrared tunable laser with wavelength modulation spectroscopy was employed to detect the escaped acetylene gas from oil. Test results show that the detection limit of dissolved acetylene reaches 0.2 μL/L when the sampled oil volume is 50 mL. In addition, the degassing balance time can be shortened to 270 s. This scheme has the superiority of small oil extraction volume, high accuracy, and short response time, providing a new method for analyzing the dissolved characteristic gases in oil.
Compact dual‐frequency patch antenna with large beamwidth diversity at flexible frequency ratio
Authors: Li Mei , Zhang Chun‐Li , Tang Ming‐Chun , Zhu Lei
Published: June 2023

A compact, single‐layer, dual‐frequency patch antenna with large beamwidth diversity, that is, broad beamwidth in the lower frequency and high‐gain radiation in the higher frequency is presented and analyzed in this paper. The antenna is in general composed of a square driven patch and two T‐shaped top‐loaded monopoles that are loaded beside the two radiating edges of the driven patch. Herein, the patch antenna to be operated in the fundamental TM01mode intrinsically provides a pair of in‐phase magnetic currents and meanwhile, the top‐loaded monopoles produce a pair of out‐of‐phase vertical electric currents. In analysis, consistent broad beamwidth and high‐gain radiation pattern are, respectively, well maintained at the lower and higher frequencies, even with a frequency ratio as small as 1.02. Moreover, the antenna preserves simple geometry and high efficiency of a typical patch antenna. For verification, a prototype is in final fabricated and measured, which has experimentally confirmed its simulated radiation results.
An E‐plane horn antenna fed with E‐plane Tee junction conceptualized by SIW technology
Authors: Choudhury Suvadeep , Mohan Akhilesh
Published: June 2023

A novel E‐plane horn antenna fed with E‐plane Tee junction, conceptualized using the substrateintegrated waveguide (SIW) technology is introduced and investigated. Conventional SIW‐inspired horn designs are mostly limited to H‐plane sectoral horns, portraying confined radiation along the H‐plane while unconfined, fan‐beam‐shaped radiation along the principal E‐plane. Such radiation characteristics restrict its usage to designs requiring an electric field parallel to the structure and ultimately narrow confined radiation along the principal E‐plane of the embodiment. The proposed design provides a glue‐less solution to designing an E‐plane horn fed by an E‐plane Tee junction, both conceptualized by the SIW technology, having relative ease of fabrication on dual copper clad Printed Circuit Boards. Such a design operates from 17.15 to 18.8 GHz (~9.2% operating bandwidth) with a realized gain greater than 10.5 dBi, making it suitable for applications requiring light‐weighted high‐gain E‐plane sectoral horn antennas.