bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2D FeSx Nanosheets by Atomic Layer Deposition: Electrocatalytic Properties for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zazpe Raul , Rodriguez Pereira Jhonatan , Thalluri Sitaramanjaneya M. , Hromadko Ludek , Pavliňák David , Kolíbalová Eva , Kurka Michal , Sopha Hanna , Macak Jan M.
Published: March 2023

2‐dimensional FeSx nanosheets of different sizes are synthesized by applying different numbers of atomic layer deposition (ALD) cycles on TiO2 nanotube layers and graphite sheets as supporting materials and used as an electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The electrochemical results confirm electrocatalytic activity in alkaline media with outstanding long‐term stability (>65 h) and enhanced catalytic activity, reflected by a notable drop in the initial HER overpotential value (up to 26 %). By using a range of characterization techniques, the origin of the enhanced catalytic activity was found to be caused by the synergistic interplay between in situ morphological and compositional changes in the 2D FeSx nanosheets during HER. Under the application of a cathodic potential in alkaline media, the as‐synthesized 2D FeSx nanosheets transformed into iron oxyhydroxide‐iron oxysulfide core‐shell nanoparticles, which exhibited a higher active catalytic surface and newly created Fe‐based HER catalytic sites.
Teachers' experiences of support for curriculum making a new subject, psychology
Authors: Marangio Karen , Heyting Ellen
Published: March 2023

This article reports teachers' experiences of support for curriculum making a new secondary school subject, psychology, as part of major curriculum reform, including the introduction of external examinations. Seven teachers participated in meetings at eight timepoints over two years. Content analysis identified five themes. Participants described support across different sites of curriculum making: (1) Connectedness with teachers at school, (2) Guidance from the curriculum authority, (3) Collegiality with psychology teachers, (4) Student engagement, and (5) Heavy investment of their own time to lead the way. Proactive and reactive support that acknowledged teachers' backgrounds and provided time and space for guidance and dialogue was inadequate at the beginning and tended to remain that way. Opportunities for collaborative curriculum making were less likely for teachers in regional areas, new to science, or the only teacher in the school. The teachers understood curriculum making a new subject as a complex and collective endeavour. The findings of this study emphasise the importance of cultivating supportive structures and processes across school, curriculum authority and curriculum‐broker sites for teachers and valuing the teacher's central role as curriculum makers in establishing a new subject in an externally driven curriculum.
Urban soil quality deteriorates even with low heavy metal levels: An arthropod‐based multi‐indices approach
Authors: Tóth Zsolt , Dombos Miklós , Hornung Elisabeth
Published: March 2023

Urban‐induced habitat conversion drastically changes soil life in a variety of ways. Soil sealing, human disturbance, habitat fragmentation, industrial and vehicular pollution are the main causes of urban soil degradation. Soil arthropods, as one of the most abundant and diverse group of soil fauna, are involved in many soil processes that are of great importance in maintaining soil health and multifunctionality. Nevertheless, soil quality is still mainly characterized by physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. Here, we assessed and compared the biological soil quality in woody (REF: reference forest, REM: remnant forest) and nonwoody (TURF: public turfgrass, and RUD: ruderal habitat) types of urban green spaces along a disturbance and management intensity gradient in the Budapest metropolitan area (Hungary), using community metrics and soil arthropod‐based indicators. Vegetation cover and landscape characteristics of study sites were quantified through vegetation and urbanization indices, respectively. Basic soil properties, total and bioavailable concentrations of the main heavy metals (Cd, Co, Hg, Ni, Zn) were also measured. Acari, Collembola, and Hymenoptera (mainly Formicidae) were the most abundant groups. Litter‐dweller taxa, particularly Protura, proved to be the most sensitive to urban disturbance. Representatives of Hemiptera, Diptera, Symphyla, and Pauropoda were common in low densities. The taxonomic diversity of soil arthropod assemblages in nonwoody and woody habitats was similar. Although the integrated faunal indices showed no differences among soil habitat types, they provided different responses and, consequently, different information. Our findings demonstrated that the biological quality and arthropod community structure of soils were strongly impacted by soil C/N and heavy metal contamination. We found that low and moderate levels of pollution have adverse effects on edaphic fauna, suggesting biological degradation of soils, even below pollution limits. Nevertheless, more disturbed urban green spaces have been shown to play a significant role in maintaining belowground biodiversity, thereby soil functions.
Broad‐scale analysis of fish community data suggests critical need to support regional connectivity of coral reefs
Authors: Cumming Graeme S. , Bellwood David R.
Published: March 2023

Connectivity is vital for the biodiversity and functioning of marine ecosystems. It is known to be important for coral reefs, but the scales at which connectivity effects matter—and, correspondingly, the scales at which management responses are needed—are poorly understood in marine systems. We used 23 years of fish monitoring data collected from ~50 different coral reefs by the Australian Institute of Marine Science, together with a range of geographic data layers (including the Allen Coral Atlas) and additional network analysis, to explore the balance of local and regional influence on fish communities. Variance partitioning indicated that 42% of the variance in fish community composition could be explained by regional effects or their interaction with coarse‐grained local influences (habitat). The variance explained by regional influences was divided evenly between measures that capture location on environmental gradients (e.g., proximity to coastal shelf, latitude) and cross‐scale centrality measures of reef location within a broader reef network. A total of 11% of variance could be directly or indirectly attributed to management. Our results provide clear evidence that management and restoration of reefs across the globe must consider both local and regional influences on reef‐associated organisms and highlight the potential benefits of improving connectivity in human‐dominated coastal seascapes.
An infectious disease outbreak and increased mortality in wild alpine reindeer
Authors: Mysterud Atle , Viljugrein Hildegunn , Andersen Roy , Rauset Geir Rune , Reiten Malin Rokseth , Rolandsen Christer M. , Strand Olav
Published: March 2023

Climate changes may lead to tipping points where the epidemiological characteristics of infectious wildlife diseases suddenly change, leading to outbreaks. However, empirically documented cases of the extent to which emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) affect populations of large vertebrates are few, partly because of the limited surveillance of remote wildlife populations. EIDs may potentially lead to higher mortality than mean mortality levels. Here, we quantified the likely impact of digital necrobacillosis on the survival and population dynamics of wild alpine reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) in Hardangervidda National Park (NP), Norway. The outbreak of digital necrobacillosis in 2019 contributed to a decrease in the summer survival rate of juveniles to 51% compared to an average of 88% in 2005–2018 and 77% in 2020. However, since the outbreak mainly reduced juvenile survival, the impact on short‐term population dynamics was moderate, lowering the population growth rate (λ) before harvest from an average value of 1.18 (2005–2018) to 1.08 (2019) before harvest. In 2019, anomalous climate conditions with a high daily mean temperature combined with the highest recorded daily precipitation in late summer were observed. Further studies are required to document the pathological development of digital necrobacillosis across demographic groups and proximate and ultimate causes of mortality.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐HM‐3 and (−)‐HM‐4 Using an Asymmetric Gold‐Catalyzed [3,3]‐Sigmatropic Rearrangement of Sulfonium
Authors: Zhou Weiping , Voituriez Arnaud
Published: March 2023

The asymmetric total synthesis of two sesquiterpenoids, (−)‐HM‐3 and (−)‐HM‐4, isolated from a phytopathogenic fungus, has been developed using a gold‐catalyzed [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement of sulfonium as key step. During this transformation, an excellent chirality transfer was observed between the chiral sulfoxide substrate and the newly formed quaternary stereogenic center with 96 % enantiomeric excess. The implementation of this efficient methodology allowed us to isolate the two natural products in only 7–8 chemical steps with overall yields reaching 12–16 %.
Serum neurofilament light chain in patients with epilepsy and cognitive impairment
Authors: Ueda Masamichi , Suzuki Masashi , Hatanaka Mai , Nakamura Tomohiko , Hirayama Masaaki , Katsuno Masahisa
Published: March 2023

Background

The neurofilament light chain (NfL) is receiving increased attention as a biomarker of neurological diseases, as NfL concentration elevated in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid after neuronal damage. However, few studies have addressed NfL in epilepsy. We aimed to investigate the alteration of serum NfL in adult patients with epilepsy, and the association between this biomarker and cognitive impairment.

Methods

A total of 38 consecutive patients with epilepsy and 24 controls underwent cross‐sectional measurement of serum NfL levels and cognitive testing using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA‐J), the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), the Trail‐Making Test, and the Stroop Color–Word Test. Statistical analysis was performed with Student’s t‐test to compare serum NfL levels between the epilepsy group and the control group, and with Spearman’s correlation and age‐corrected partial correlation analyses to evaluate the association between serum NfL level and cognitive impairment in epilepst patients.

Results

There was no difference in serum NfL levels between the epilepsy and control groups (epilepsy [mean ± SD]: 17.3 ± 13.9 pg/mL; control: 17.7 ± 11.5 pg/mL; p = .92); however, the MoCA‐J scores were lower in the epilepsy group (26.6 ± 3.1 vs. 28.1 ± 1.6; p = .03). The age‐corrected partial correlation analysis showed a correlation between serum NfL level and cognitive test scores in the epilepsy group (MMSE: rs = −.63, p < .01; MoCA‐J: rs = −.54, p < .01; FAB: rs = −.68, p < .01), whereas serum NfL levels were correlated exclusively with MMSE scores in the control group (rs = .44, p = .04).

Significance

In adult epilepsy patients, the serum NfL level was not significantly elevated, but was correlated with cognitive test scores. Our findings suggest that serum NfL concentration could be an indicator of cognitive function in epilepsy patients.
Bilateral tonic–clonic seizure and focal cortical hyperexcitability in familial Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease with E200K mutation of the prion protein
Authors: Kawaguchi Norihiko , Motoda Atsuko , Terada Tatsuhiro , Usui Naotaka , Terada Kiyohito , Matsubara Tomoyasu , Sato Katsuya , Kitamoto Tetsuyuki , Murayama Shigeo , Obi Tomokazu
Published: March 2023

Convulsive epileptic seizures are rare in Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD), and their clinical and EEG features have not been reported in detail. We describe a case of familial CJD with an E200K mutation of the prion protein who presented with bilateral tonic–clonic seizures (BTCS) during long‐term video‐EEG monitoring. Semiologically, BTCS showed focal clinical signs such as head turning and eye deviation to the left. The ictal EEG started with generalized polyspikes. Interictal EEG showed generalized periodic discharges with right fronto‐temporal predominance (larger amplitude and earlier onset compared with other regions). MRI showed high‐intensity signals persistently in the right temporo‐parietal region on diffusion‐weighted images (DWI). Interictal single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) showed hyperperfusion in the same region. Brain pathology revealed typical spongiform changes in CJD without other pathological findings of rapidly progressive dementia. Our case demonstrates that CJD can cause BTCS with generalized EEG changes and focal semiological/imaging abnormalities, suggesting that diffuse and inhomogeneous cortical and subcortical epileptic networks may develop in familial CJD.
National innovation policies and knowledge acquisition in international alliances
Authors: Friedmann Jens‐Christian , Pedersen Torben
Published: March 2023

Research summary

International alliances facilitate learning among firms by providing access to knowledge embedded in different countries, yet we do not know how the partnering firms' distinct national contexts shape their learning in alliances. This study brings together research on learning in alliances and research on national innovation systems to examine how innovation policies in the respective home countries of the focal firms and their partners can increase the effectiveness of knowledge acquisition in alliances. Our analyses indicate that supply‐side innovation policies in the focal firms' home countries and demand‐side policies in their partners' home countries increase the focal firms' knowledge acquisition from their partners.

Managerial summary

Firms engaging in alliances should consider their national innovation system as a strategic resource they can leverage not only to improve their own knowledge sourcing but also to become a more attractive partner in international alliances, potentially opening opportunities for engaging in reciprocal knowledge exchange. Managers can expect more learning opportunities when allying with foreign partners from countries with innovation policies that stimulate public technology purchasing or encourage public–private R&D collaboration. In turn, managers of firms from countries with innovation policies that provide funding and talent for R&D can capitalize on these resources to improve their firms' knowledge acquisition from foreign partners.
Dual Axl/MerTK inhibitor INCB081776 creates a proinflammatory tumor immune microenvironment and enhances anti‐PDL1 efficacy in head and neck cancer
Authors: Kostecki Kourtney L. , Iida Mari , Wiley Anne L. , Kimani Stanley , Mehall Bridget , Tetreault Kaitlin , Alexandridis Roxana , Yu Menggang , Hong Seungpyo , Salgia Ravi , Bruce Justine Y. , Birge Raymond B. , Harari Paul M. , Wheeler Deric L.
Published: March 2023

Background

The tyrosine kinase receptors Axl and MerTK are highly overexpressed in head and neck cancer (HNC) cells, where they are critical drivers of survival, proliferation, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance.

Methods

We investigated the role of Axl and MerTK in creating an immunologically “cold” tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) by targeting both receptors simultaneously with a small molecule inhibitor of Axl and MerTK (INCB081776). Effects of INCB081776 and/or anti‐PDL1 on mouse oral cancer (MOC) cell growth and on the TIME were evaluated.

Results

Targeting Axl and MerTK can reduce M2 and induce M1 macrophage polarization. In vivo, INCB081776 treatment alone or with anti‐PDL1 appears to slow MOC tumor growth, increase proinflammatory immune infiltration, and decrease anti‐inflammatory immune infiltration.

Conclusions

This data indicates that simultaneous targeting of Axl and MerTK with INCB081776, either alone or in combination with anti‐PDL1, slows tumor growth and creates a proinflammatory TIME in mouse models of HNC.
Strengthening health management, leadership, and governance capacities: What are the actual training needs in Tanzania?
Authors: Jiyenze Mwandu K. , Sirili Nathanael , Ngocho James S. , Kikula Amani , Chikoti Beatus , Kapologwe Ntuli , Kengia James T.
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim

Effective management, leadership, and governance (MLG) contribute to improved population health outcomes. However, weak management, leadership, and governance capacity continue to haunt many health systems in low‐ and‐middle‐income countries (LMICs). Capacity strengthening through training of health system managers is among the strategies to address the latter challenge. However, the actual needs for MLG training remain unestablished in many LMICs. The main objective of this study was to assess the training needs for MLG among health managers in Tanzania Mainland.

Methods

We employed a mixed methods approach and convergent mixed methods study design to establish MLG training needs among health managers. In March 2019, quantitative data were collected by administering a questionnaire to a quantitative sample of 156 health managers working in 14 councils and seven regions. We used semi‐structured interviews to collect qualitative data from a qualitative sample of 35 health managers. We used descriptive statistical technique and thematic analysis to analyse quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.

Results

The main findings of this study show that: 152 (97%) health managers and all 35 interviewees said that there was a need for training health managers on MLG; 31 out of the 33 proposed MLG competencies were rated as important by the health managers; and a list of 35 general topics and 19 priority topics were suggested by the health managers for inclusion in future MLG training.

Conclusion

Our research has generated useful empirical evidence indicating the needs for training health managers on MLG in terms of expressed needs, important competencies, and topics. Policymakers and training developers should use the evidence to develop training programs to address identified needs. Future training needs studies on management and leadership should use observational and diary methods to collect data on the competencies of health managers.
Sheehan's syndrome misdiagnosed as encephalitis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Yan , Zheng Yong‐Su , Tuo Jin‐Mei , Zhang Hai‐Qing , Xu Zu‐Cai
Published: March 2023

A 48‐year‐old female patient was hospitalized for 5 days after a cold. Encephalitis was considered after preliminary history and routine examination, but the patient did not show significant improvement after antiviral treatment. At this time, magnetic resonance imaging indicated pituitary atrophy, and the patient's medical history was assessed. She had a history of postpartum bleeding and amenorrhea 15 years ago. The supplementary examination indicated hormonal abnormalities. These suggested that the patient may have had Sheehan's syndrome (SS). After hormone supplementation treatment for 10 days, her condition improved. This case suggested that in female patients with neuropsychiatric disorders with a history of previous postpartum hemorrhage, attention needs to be paid to screening for SS to improve the related diagnosis and treatment rate.
Circular RNA SLTM as a miR‐421‐competing endogenous RNA to mediate HMGB2 expression stimulates apoptosis and inflammation in arthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Zhang Hua , Xiang XiaoBing , Zhou BenGen , Chen JianFa , Sun YouQiang , Zhang ShuangXiao , Li AiHua , Li Jie
Published: March 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common age‐related joint disease characterized by chronic inflammation, progressive articular cartilage destruction, and subchondral sclerosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play key roles in OA, but the function of circSLTM in OA remains greatly unknown. Therefore, this study focused on interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)‐treated primary human chondrocytes as well as a rat model to investigate the expression pattern and functional role of circSLTM in OA in vitro and in vivo. CircSLTM and high mobility group protein B2 (HMGB2) were upregulated in IL‐1β‐induced chondrocytes, whereas miR‐421 was downregulated. Knockdown of circSLTM or overexpression of miR‐421 ameliorated IL‐1β‐induced chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammation. The regulatory relationship between circSLTM and miR‐421, as well as that between miR‐421 and HMGB2, was predicted by bioinformatics and then verified by the RNA immunoprecipitation experiment and dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Furthermore, silencing of circSLTM increased cartilage destruction and decreased cartilage tissue apoptosis rate and inflammation in a rat model of OA. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the fundamental role of circSLTM in OA progression and provide a potential molecular target for OA therapy.
Activation of peroxydisulfate by thermally‐treated natural siderite to degrade sulfamethazine: performance and mechanism
Authors: Sun Fuwei , Wang Hao , Wang Qiang , Chu Ziyang , Liu Haibo , Chen Tianhu , Chen Dong , Zou Xuehua , Shu Daobing , Wang Hanlin
Published: March 2023

Compared with synthetic materials, natural mineral materials have the advantages of low cost and easy availability. In the present study, magnetite was prepared by calcination of natural siderite under an N2 atmosphere and utilized as a heterogeneous material for sulfamethazine (SMT) degradation via peroxydisulfate (PDS) activation. Various characterizations demonstrated that the S600 (siderite calcinated at 600 °C for 1 h) had a high specific surface area (57.18 m2/g) and high electron transfer ability. Under 1 g/L S600 and 1 mM PDS, 99.9% and 50% of SMT (5 mg/L) and TOC were eliminated in 2 h, with a kinetic constant of 0.026 min−1. Increasing the S600 dosage and PDS concentration favored SMT degradation, while inorganic anions and natural organic matter had the opposite effect. Besides this, Electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis and scavenger experiment results demonstrated that hydroxyl radicals (about 62.3%) and sulfate radicals (about 20.2%) played a major role, while Fe(IV) (about 16.5%) played a minor role in SMT degradation. Moreover, various intermediates for SMT degradation were put forward based on the LC–MS/MS results and their toxicity was predicted to decrease. This work provides a vision for water treatment based on natural mineral materials and presents a new idea for the comprehensive utilization of siderite. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Development of medicines for rare diseases and inborn errors of metabolism: Toward novel public–private partnerships
Authors: Rosenberg Noa , Stolwijk Nina N. , van den Berg Sibren , Heus Joris J. , van der Wel Vincent , van Gelder Teun , Bosch Annet M. , de Visser Saco J. , Hollak Carla E. M.
Published: March 2023

Medicine development for rare diseases, including inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) is challenging. Many academic innovations fail to reach the patient, either by stranding in the translational stage or due to suboptimal patient access related to pricing or uncertain effectiveness. Expanding and solidifying the role of the academic in public–private partnerships (PPPs) may present an innovative solution to help overcome these complexities. This narrative review explores the literature on traditional and novel collaborative approaches to medicine development for rare diseases and analyzes examples of PPPs, with a specific focus on IEMs. Several academic institutions have introduced guidelines for socially responsible licensing of innovations for private development. The PPP model offers a more integrative approach toward academic involvement of medicine development. By sharing risks and rewards, failures in the translational stage can be mutually absorbed. If socially responsible terms are not included, however, high pricing can impede patient access. Therefore, we propose a framework for socially responsible PPPs aimed at medicine development for metabolic disorders. This socially responsible PPP framework could stimulate successful and accessible medicine development for IEMs as well as other rare diseases if the establishment of such collaborations includes terms securing joint data ownership and evidence generation, fast access, and socially responsible pricing.
Does minimally invasive surgery have a different impact on recurrence and overall survival in patients with pancreatic head versus body/tail cancer?
Authors: Choi Sung Hoon , Kuchta Kristine , Rojas Aram Eduardo , Paterakos Pierce , Talamonti Mark S. , Hogg Melissa E.
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study sought to investigate the impact of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) on recurrence and overall survival between patients with pancreatic head versus body/tail cancers.

Methods

The risk factors associated with recurrence and long‐term outcomes were analyzed according to tumor location and operative modality.

Results

A total of 288 and 87 patients underwent surgical resection for pancreatic head cancer and body/tail cancer, respectively. The perioperative outcomes and histopathologic results were comparable in open and MIS approach in both head and body/tail groups. There was no difference in local or systemic recurrence patterns and disease‐free and overall survival rates according to primary tumor location and surgical modality. During subgroup analysis by stage; however, patients with stage III pancreatic head cancer in the MIS group had a decreased disease‐free survival compared with those in the open surgery group (p = 0.020). On multivariate analysis, MIS was not a risk factor of total or local recurrences.

Conclusions

Recurrence patterns and overall survival rates of patients did not differ according to tumor location and surgical approach. However, patients with stage III pancreatic head cancer in the MIS group showed inferior disease‐free survival relative to patients who underwent open surgery.
Mechanisms of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury in endoscopic thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid carcinoma: A large data from China
Authors: Xu Wei , Teng Changsheng , Ding Guoqian , Zhao Ning
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To investigate the mechanisms of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury during endoscopic thyroidectomy via breast approach (ET‐BA) in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

The records of 416 PTC patients who underwent ET‐BA with intraoperative neural monitoring (IONM) from May 2015 to May 2021 in Beijing Friendship Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

All patients were women. Mean age was 37.80 (7.87) years. The ET‐BA was performed in 416 patients. Overall incidence of RLN injury was 4.3% (18 patients). Injury was transient in 13 patients (3.1%) and permanent in five (1.2%). Macroscopic physical changes were apparent in the injured nerve in five patients (27.8%) and postoperative hoarseness or cough after drinking water were present in 11 (61.1%). Two RLN injuries occurred during nerve identification at the RLN laryngeal entry point into the surgical field, 15 during early nerve dissection somewhere between the first 0.5 and 2 cm of the nerve's course through the surgical field, and one occurred distal to 2 cm. The percentage of patients with separation, transection, traction and thermal mechanisms of injury was 27.8%, 22.2%, 22.2%, and 16.7%, respectively. The mechanism of injury was unknown in 11.1%.

Conclusions

RLN injury may still occur during ET‐BA despite endoscopic magnification and early nerve identification even when IONM is used. Separation, transection, and traction injuries were the most frequent causes of injury.
Vector‐valued singular integral operators with rough kernels
Authors: Lai Xudong
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we establish a weak‐type (1,1) boundedness criterion for vector‐valued singular integral operators with rough kernels. As applications, we obtain weak‐type (1,1) bounds for the convolution singular integral operator taking value in the Banach space Y with a rough kernel, the maximal operator taking vector value in Y with a rough kernel and several square functions with rough kernels. Here, is a complex interpolation space between a Hilbert space H and a UMD space X.
A comprehensive and systemic review of ginseng‐based nanomaterials: Synthesis, targeted delivery, and biomedical applications
Authors: Balusamy Sri Renukadevi , Perumalsamy Haribalan , Huq Md. Amdadul , Yoon Tae Hyun , Mijakovic Ivan , Thangavelu Lakshmi , Yang Deok Chun , Rahimi Shadi
Published: March 2023

Among 17 Panax species identified across the world, Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng), Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), and Panax notoginseng (Chinese ginseng) are highly recognized for the presence of bioactive compound, ginsenosides and their pharmacological effects. P. ginseng is widely used for synthesis of different types of nanoparticles compared to P. quinquefolius and P. notoginseng. The use of nano‐ginseng could increase the oral bioavailability, membrane permeability, and thus provide effective delivery of ginsenosides to the target sites through transport system. In this review, we explore the synthesis of ginseng nanoparticles using plant extracts from various organs, microbes, and polymers, as well as their biomedical applications. Furthermore, we highlight transporters involved in transport of ginsenoside nanoparticles to the target sites. Size, zeta potential, temperature, and pH are also discussed as the critical parameters affecting the quality of ginseng nanoparticles synthesis.
Gain stability improvement of a wideband antenna using an artificial magnetic conductor
Authors: Chenaoui Safia , Mouffok Lila , Hebib Sami , Fattouche Amina , Allane Dahmane , Tedjini Smail
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a novel artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) reflector is proposed for gain stability enhancement of a low‐profile wideband bowtie antenna (operates at C‐band). Two AMC reflectors are investigated: the first one is based on a standard square patch cell while the second one is based on a novel cell geometry called modified cross shape (MCS). The two units' cell geometries are studied and optimized to achieve the desirable performances, namely; low‐profile, wide impedance bandwidth, and gain stability. The proposed antenna structure with 5 × 8 MCS unit cells is fabricated and measured. The results show a significant steady gain compared to similar work in the literature. The fabricated structure presents a low thickness of 0.084 λL (λL is the guided wavelength at the lowest frequency, i.e., 3.94 GHz) with 0.85 dB of gain variation over a wide impedance bandwidth of about 50% (3.94–6.61 GHz).
Optimization and modeling of PEGylated, hydrocortisone‐17‐butryate‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres
Authors: Myers Nathaniel M. , Comolli Noelle K.
Published: March 2023

We propose by surface functionalizing poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres we can increase bioavailability and therapeutic duration of hydrocortisone‐17‐butyrate delivery for an intra‐articular injection. In this paper, we look at the proof of concept of the design of the microspheres by optimizing a single‐stage oil/water emulsion. Surface‐modified corticosteroid‐loaded PLGA microspheres (MSs) were synthesized via an avidin/biotin system and were characterized via microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The optimized PLGA MSs were an average of 1.22 µm ± 0.0132 µm with a zeta potential of −23.17 ± 0.97 mV. Hydrocortisone 17‐butyrate was loaded as a model corticosteroid (entrapment efficiency of 71.98%), and release was evaluated for 3 weeks and compared to a bi‐phasic diffusional model. PEGylation was found to significantly alter the biphasic release by reducing the fractional surface desorption (burst release) and maximizing Fickian diffusion controlled extended release. Unmodified homologs showed 2.34 times more surface desorbed drug as compared to their PEGylated form. These studies show that we can develop a corticosteroid loaded MS that is closer to a large nano‐size, with extended release for 3 weeks. The addition of the PEGlyation to the surface also further increases controlled release, therefore, mitigating harmful concentration spikes post‐administration.
Scyllo‐inositol: Transverse relaxation time constant at 3 T and concentration changes associated with aging and alcohol use
Authors: Deelchand Dinesh K. , Eberly Lynn E. , McCarten J. Riley , Hemmy Laura S. , Auerbach Edward J. , Marjańska Małgorzata
Published: March 2023

The goals of this study were to measure the apparent transverse relaxation time constant, T2, of scyllo‐inositol (sIns) in young and older healthy adults' brains and to investigate the effect of alcohol usage on sIns in young and older healthy adults' brains, using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) at 3 T. Twenty‐nine young adults (age 21 ± 1 years) and 24 older adults (age 74 ± 3 years) participated in this study. MRS data were acquired from two brain regions (the occipital cortex and posterior cingulate cortex) at 3 T. The T2 of sIns was measured using a localization by adiabatic selective refocusing (LASER) sequence at various echo times, while the sIns concentrations were measured using a short‐echo‐time stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) sequence. A trend towards lower T2 relaxation values of sIns in older adults was observed, although these were not significant. sIns concentration was higher with age in both brain regions and was significantly higher in the young when considering alcohol consumption of more than two drinks per week. This study shows that differences in sIns can be found in two distinct regions of the brain across two age groups, potentially reflecting normal aging. In addition, it is important to take into account alcohol consumption when reporting the sIns level in the brain.
Dual‐frequency resonant coil design for low‐γ X‐nuclear and proton magnetic resonance imaging at ultrahigh fields
Authors: Zhang Guangle , Zhu Wei , Li Xin , Zhu Xiao‐Hong , Chen Wei
Published: March 2023

Low‐γ X‐nuclear MRS and imaging have played a key role in studying metabolism and physiopathology, especially at ultrahigh fields. We design and demonstrate a novel and simple dual‐frequency RF resonant coil that can operate at both low‐γ X‐nuclear and proton frequencies. The dual‐frequency resonant coil comprises an LC coil loop and a tuning‐matching circuit bridged by two short wires of the desired length to generate two resonant modes: one for proton MRI and the other for low‐γ X‐nuclear MRS imaging with a large difference in their Larmor frequencies at ultrahigh fields. The coil parameters for the desired coil size and resonant frequencies can be determined via numerical simulations based on LC circuit theory. We designed, constructed, and evaluated several prototype surface coils and quadrature array coils for 1H and 2H or 17O imaging, with small‐sized (diameter ≤ 5 cm) coils evaluated using a 16.4 T animal scanner, and a large‐sized (15 cm diameter) coil on a 7 T human scanner. All coils could be tuned/matched and driven in the single coil or array coil mode to the resonant frequencies of 1H (698 and 298 MHz), 2H (107 and 45.8 MHz), or 17O (94.7 and 40.4 MHz) for imaging measurements and evaluation at 16.4 and 7 T, respectively. The dual‐frequency resonant coil or array provides adequate detection sensitivity for 1H MRI and excellent performance for low‐γ X‐nuclear MRS imaging applications, and excellent coil decoupling efficiency between the array coils at both resonant frequencies with an optimal geometric overlap. It provides a simple, cost‐effective dual‐frequency RF coil solution to perform low‐γ X‐nuclear MRS imaging for preclinical and human applications, especially at ultrahigh fields.
Time perspective optimization promotes reflection and collaboration
Authors: Kuan Tat‐Yeung James
Published: March 2023

The present study demonstrated that an educational course designed to optimize the time perspective profile led to a significant increase in the adaptive judicial and external thinking style scores for the secondary school students in the experimental group compared with those in the control group.
δ13C as a tool for iron and phosphorus deficiency prediction in crops
Authors: Trevisan Fabio , Tiziani Raphael , Hall Robert D. , Cesco Stefano , Mimmo Tanja
Published: March 2023

Many studies proposed the use of stable carbon isotope ratio (δ13C) as a predictor of abiotic stresses in plants, considering only drought and nitrogen deficiency without further investigating the impact of other nutrient deficiencies, that is, phosphorus (P) and/or iron (Fe) deficiencies. To fill this knowledge gap, we assessed the δ13C of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), maize (Zea mays L.), and tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) plants suffering from P, Fe, and combined P/Fe deficiencies during a two‐week period using an isotope‐ratio mass spectrometer. Simultaneously, plant physiological status was monitored with an infra‐red gas analyzer. Results show clear contrasting time‐, treatment‐, species‐, and tissue‐specific variations. Furthermore, physiological parameters showed limited correlation with δ13C shifts, highlighting that the plants' δ13C, does not depend solely on photosynthetic carbon isotope fractionation/discrimination (Δ). Hence, the use of δ13C as a predictor is highly discouraged due to its inability to detect and discern different nutrient stresses, especially when combined stresses are present.
Adverse metabolic consequences of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on Asian patients with prostate cancer: Primary results from the real‐life experience of ADT in Asia (READT) study
Authors: Wong Chris H. M. , Xu Ning , Lim Jasmine , Feng Kuo‐kang , Chan Wayne K. W. , Chan Marco T. Y. , Leung Steven Ch , Chen Dong‐ning , Lin Yun‐zhi , Chiu Peter K. F. , Yee Chi Hang , Teoh Jeremy Y. C. , Huang Chiu‐yuen , Yeoh Wei‐sien , Ong Teng‐aik , Wei Yong , Ng Chi‐fai
Published: March 2023

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) use in prostate cancer (PCa) has seen a rising trend. We investigated the relationship between ADT and adverse changes in metabolic parameters in an Asian population.

Methods

This is an international prospective multicenter single‐arm cohort yielded from the real‐life experience of ADT in Asia (READT) registry. Consecutive ADT‐naïve patients diagnosed of PCa and started on ADT were prospectively recruited from 2016 and analyzed. Baseline patient characteristics, PCa disease status, and metabolic parameters were documented. Patients were followed up at 6‐month interval for up to 5 years. Metabolic parameters including body weight, lipid profiles, and glycemic profiles were recorded and analyzed.

Results

589 patients were eligible for analysis. ADT was associated with adverse glycemic profiles, being notable at 6 months upon ADT initiation and persisted beyond 1 year. Comparing to baseline, fasting glucose level and hemoglobin A1c level increased by 4.8% (p < 0.001) and 2.7% (p < 0.001), respectively. Triglycerides level was also elevated by 16.1% at 6th month and by 20.6% at 12th month compared to baseline (p < 0.001). Mean body weight was 1.09 kg above baseline at 18th month (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

ADT was associated with adverse metabolic parameters in terms of glycemic profiles, lipid profiles, and body weight in the Asian population. These changes developed early in the treatment and can persist beyond the first year. Regular monitoring of the biochemical profiles during treatment is paramount in safeguarding the patients' metabolic health.
Antimalarial activity and sensitization of chrysosplenetin against artemisinin‐resistant genotype Plasmodium bergheiK173 potentially via dual‐mechanism of maintaining host P‐glycoprotein homeostasis mediated by NF‐κB p52 or PXR/CAR signaling pathways and regulating heme/haemozoin metabolism
Authors: Wang Lirong , Ji Hongyan , Ni Shanhong , Xu Jinjing , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhao Xuesong , Wu Xiuli , Tian Jingxuan , Chen Jing
Published: March 2023

This study investigated antimalarial efficacy and sensitization of chrysosplenetin against artemisinin‐resistant Plasmodium berghei K173 and potential molecular mechanism. Our data indicated a risk of artemisinin resistance because a higher parasitaemia% and lower inhibition% under artemisinin treatment against resistant parasites than those in the sensitive groups were observed. Two non‐antimalarial components, verapamil and chrysosplentin, being P‐gp inhibitors, possessed a strong efficacy against resistant parasites but it was not the case for Bcrp inhibitor novobiocin. Artemisinin‐chrysosplenetin combination improved artemisinin susceptibility of resistant P. berghei. Artemisinin activated intestinal P‐gp and Abcb1/Abcg2 expressions and suppressed Bcrp whereas chrysosplenetin reversed them. Resistant parasite infection led to a decreased haemozoin in organs or an increased heme in peripheral bloods compared with the sensitives; however, that in Abcb1‐deficient knockout (KO)‐resistant mice reversely got increased or decreased versus wild type (WT)‐resistant animals. Chrysosplenetin as well as rifampin (nuclear receptor agonist) increased the transcription levels of PXR/CAR while showed a versatile regulation on hepatic and enternal PXR/CAR in WT‐ or KO‐sensitive or ‐resistant parasites. Oppositely, hepatic and enteric NF‐κB p52 mRNA decreased conformably in WT but increased in KO‐resistant mice. NF‐κB pathway potentially involved in the mechanism of chrysosplenetin on inhibiting P‐gp expressions while PXR/CAR play a more complicated role in this mechanism.
The effects of soft total quality management on the sustainable development of SMEs
Authors: Lepistö Kari , Saunila Minna , Ukko Juhani
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the soft total quality management (soft TQM) dimensions that affect the environmental and social sustainability of Finnish small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), considering the company‘s business, size, and possible certificates as control variables. Sustainable business has been found to be key to the success of companies, so investing in it is essential for companies. With the help of extensive literature research, the TQM dimensions covering the entire business activity were determined, from which detailed issues were identified. To ascertain the level of implementation of detailed issues, the survey was constructed and sent to 6889 randomly selected CEOs in autumn 2020. A total of 271 responses were received. Based on prior literature and studies, 10 hypotheses were proposed. The collected data were analyzed using regression analysis. The results reveal that two practices—business management systems and human resources (HR) practices—were related to environmental sustainability, while only business management system was related to social sustainability. None of the control variables affected environmental sustainability; however, the industrial sector influenced social sustainability. The study presents recommendations for company managers and the government to support sustainable development, especially in Finnish SMEs. As a practical contribution, the study demonstrates the importance of designing and implementing business management systems for enhanced sustainability. Management should also appreciate that sustainability will not automatically be set at a high level upon certification; thus, the performance of operations and processes should be monitored.
Interface Density Engineering on Heterogeneous Molybdenum Dichalcogenides Enabling Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Catalysis and Sodium Ion Storage
Authors: Huang Senchuan , Cao Yangfei , Yao Fen , Zhang Daliang , Yang Jing , Ye Siyang , Yao Deqiang , Liu Yan , Li Jiade , Lei Danni , Wang Xuxu , Huang Haitao , Wu Mingmei
Published: March 2023

Constructing active heterointerfaces is powerful to enhance the electrochemical performances of transition metal dichalcogenides, but the interface density regulation remains a huge challenge. Herein, MoO2/MoS2 heterogeneous nanorods are encapsulated in nitrogen and sulfur co‐doped carbon matrix (MoO2/MoS2@NSC) by controllable sulfidation. MoO2 and MoS2 are coupled intimately at atomic level, forming the MoO2/MoS2 heterointerfaces with different distribution density. Strong electronic interactions are triggered at these MoO2/MoS2 heterointerfaces for enhancing electron transfer. In alkaline media, the optimal material exhibits outstanding hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performances that significantly surpass carbon‐covered MoS2 nanorods counterpart (η10: 156 mV vs 232 mV) and most of the MoS2‐based heterostructures reported recently. First‐principles calculation deciphers that MoO2/MoS2 heterointerfaces greatly promote water dissociation and hydrogen atom adsorption via the O–Mo–S electronic bridges during HER process. Moreover, benefited from the high pseudocapacitance contribution, abundant “ion reservoir”‐like channels, and low Na+ diffusion barrier appended by high‐density MoO2/MoS2 heterointerfaces, the material delivers high specific capacity of 888 mAh g−1, remarkable rate capability and cycling stability of 390 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 as the anode of sodium ion battery. This work will undoubtedly light the way of interface density engineering for high‐performance electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems.
Moiré Enhanced Potentials in Twisted Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Trilayers Homostructures
Authors: Zheng Haihong , Wu Biao , Wang Chang‐Tian , Li Shaofei , He Jun , Liu Zongwen , Wang Jian‐Tao , Duan Ji‐an , Liu Yanping
Published: March 2023

The exploration of moiré superlatticesholds promising potential to uncover novel quantum phenomena emerging from the interplay of atomic structure and electronic correlation . However, the impact of the moiré potential modulation on the number of twisted layers has yet to be experimentally explored. Here, this work synthesizes a twisted WSe2 homotrilayer using a dry‐transfer method and investigates the enhancement of the moiré potential with increasing number of twisted layers. The results of the study reveal the presence of multiple exciton resonances with positive or negative circularly polarized emission in the WSe2 homostructure with small twist angles, which are attributed to the excitonic ground and excited states confined to the moiré potential. The distinct g‐factor observed in the magneto‐optical spectroscopy is also shown to be a result of the confinement of the exciton in the moiré potential. The moiré potential depths of the twisted bilayer and trilayer homostructures are found to be 111 and 212 meV, respectively, an increase of 91% from the bilayer structure. These findings demonstrate that the depth of the moiré potential can be manipulated by adjusting the number of stacked layers, providing a promising avenue for exploration into highly correlated quantum phenomena.
Triazole‐bearing oligo(ethylene glycol)‐strapped zinc porphyrins as dual mode ion‐binding receptors
Authors: Lee Jeong Heon , Hong Kyeong‐Im , Choi Woo Hyeok , Kim Younghun , Jang Woo‐Dong
Published: March 2023

A series of triazole‐bearing oligo(ethylene glycol)‐strapped zinc porphyrins (PZn4EG and PZn5EG) have been prepared as artificial ion‐binding receptors. Both PZn4EG and PZn5EG exhibit UV/Vis absorption changes in a solvent‐dependent manner upon titration with halides and alkali metal ions. In tetrahydrofuran, both PZn4EG and PZn5EG exhibit spectral shifts upon the addition of halide ions through axial coordination, whereas the absorption does not change upon the addition of alkali metal ions. On the other hand, in 10% MeCN/CHCl3, the UV/Vis absorption spectra of both PZn4EG and PZn5EG do not change upon the addition of an excess amount of halide ions; however, PZn4EG and PZn5EG show selective alkali metal ion‐binding properties in this solvent. PZn4EG and PZn5EG display dramatic color changes and spectral shifts upon the addition of Li+ and K+, respectively. Because of the dramatic color changes that occurred upon binding, the determination of alkali metal ions would be possible.