bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The trajectory of contemporary cryoplanation literature: A bibliometric assessment
Authors: Nyland Kelsey E. , Nelson Frederick E. , Higgins Devin
Published: February 2024

The origin of cryoplanation landforms has long been a subject of controversy in the literature on periglacial geomorphology. Multiple hypotheses have been advanced over the past century, but by the early 1970s only two had survived: geological structure and climate‐driven nivation processes. To determine whether some publications may be playing a “gate‐keeping” role through selective citation, we conducted a co‐citation analysis of the cryoplanation literature for the 1971–2018 period preceding a resurgence of publications by the authors of the present paper. The results indicate that there has been no overt attempt to influence the trajectory of the cryoplanation literature. Although consensus now exists that cryoplanation landforms are erosional phenomena, the roles of structure and nivation and their relative importance are still contested. We suggest that terminological complexity and ambiguity can be reduced by treating “nivation” as a process term and “cryoplanation terrace” as a morphological descriptor.
Total synthesis of antifungal lipopeptide iturin A analogues and evaluation of their bioactivity against F. graminearum
Authors: Karamanis Periklis , Muldoon Jimmy , Murphy Cormac D. , Rubini Marina
Published: February 2024

The pursuit of novel antifungal agents is imperative to tackle the threat of antifungal resistance, which poses major risks to both human health and to food security. Iturin A is a cyclic lipopeptide, produced by Bacillus sp., with pronounced antifungal properties against several pathogens. Its challenging synthesis, mainly due to the laborious synthesis of the β‐amino fatty acid present in its structure, has hindered the study of its mode of action and the development of more potent analogues. In this work, a facile synthesis of bioactive iturin A analogues containing an alkylated cysteine residue is presented. Two analogues with opposite configurations of the alkylated cysteine residue were synthesized, to evaluate the role of the stereochemistry of the newly introduced amino acid on the bioactivity. Antifungal assays, conducted against F. graminearum, showed that the novel analogues are bioactive and can be used as a synthetic model for the design of new analogues and in structure–activity relationship studies. The assays also highlight the importance of the β‐amino acid in the natural structure and the role of the stereochemistry of the amino fatty acid, as the analogue with the D configuration showed stronger antifungal properties than the one with the L configuration.
Saponins as therapeutic candidates for atherosclerosis
Authors: Lv Nuan , Wang Luming , Zeng Miao , Wang Yijing , Yu Bin , Zeng Wenyun , Jiang Xijuan , Suo Yanrong
Published: February 2024

Drug development for atherosclerosis, the underlying pathological state of ischemic cardiovascular diseases, has posed a longstanding challenge. Saponins, classified as steroid or triterpenoid glycosides, have shown promising therapeutic potential in the treatment of atherosclerosis. Through an exhaustive examination of scientific literature spanning from May 2013 to May 2023, we identified 82 references evaluating 37 types of saponins in terms of their prospective impacts on atherosclerosis. These studies suggest that saponins have the potential to ameliorate atherosclerosis by regulating lipid metabolism, inhibiting inflammation, suppressing apoptosis, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, as well as regulating gut microbiota, autophagy, endothelial senescence, and angiogenesis. Notably, ginsenosides exhibit significant potential and manifest essential pharmacological attributes, including lipid‐lowering, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐oxidative stress effects. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the pharmacological attributes of saponins in atherosclerosis, with particular emphasis on their role in the regulation of lipid metabolism regulation and anti‐inflammatory effects. Thus, saponins may warrant further investigation as a potential therapy for atherosclerosis. However, due to various reasons such as low oral bioavailability, the clinical application of saponins in the treatment of atherosclerosis still needs further exploration.
Efficacy of an oral suspension containing xyloglucan and pea proteins on a murine model of gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Ardizzone Alessio , Mannino Deborah , Casili Giovanna , Campolo Michela , Paterniti Irene , Lanza Marika , Filippone Alessia , Repici Alberto , Bova Valentina , Capra Anna Paola , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Esposito Emanuela
Published: February 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common foregut disease, affecting about 20% of the adult population. Esophageal epithelial barrier plays a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of GERD; however, pharmacological therapies mainly aim to reduce the acidity of the gastroesophageal environment rather than to protect esophageal tissue integrity. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an oral solution containing xyloglucan and pea proteins (XP) in reestablishing gastroesophageal tissue integrity and biochemical markers. To induce GERD, C57BL/6 mice were alternatively overfed and fasted for 56 days and then treated with XP, sodium alginate, omeprazole, or omeprazole+XP twice daily for 7 days. Gastric pain and inflammatory markers were evaluated after 3 and 7 days of treatment. After sacrifice, the esophagi and stomachs were surgically removed for macroscopic and histological examination. Gastric pain was significantly reduced at days 3 and 7 by XP, omeprazole, and omeprazole+XP, while alginates were ineffective at day 3. XP was able to diminish gastric macroscopic damage and demonstrated the same efficacy as omeprazole in reducing esophageal damage. XP significantly reduced histological damage, with an efficacy comparable to that of omeprazole, but superior to alginates. Inflammatory markers were significantly reduced by XP, with superior efficacy compared with alginates at day 7. Interestingly, XP was also able to significantly increase gastric pH. This study demonstrated that XP restored gastric homeostasis, improved esophageal integrity, and decreased inflammation and pain with a similar efficacy to omeprazole and greater than alginates.
Pneumonia due to Achromobacter xylosoxidans with a chronic course resembling non‐tuberculous mycobacterial infection
Authors: Kotani Tomoko , Inazaki Toshiaki , Kasai Hajime , Rakuman Shintaro , Suzuki Kenichi , Urushibara Takashi
Published: February 2024

Achromobacter xylosoxidans is a common bacterium that rarely causes pneumonia. Determining whether A. xylosoxidans is the cause of lung infection in patients suspected of having chronic infectious lung disease is challenging because it can present with colonization. We report a case of a 56‐year‐old immunocompetent woman suspected of having non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection on imaging examination and monitored for 3 years. Sputum examinations revealed A. xylosoxidans several times, and it was determined to be a colonization. A. xylosoxidans was isolated from bronchial lavage fluid and aspirated sputum, but no evidence of NTM was observed. She was diagnosed with A. xylosoxidans infection and given ceftazidime for 2 weeks. Her symptoms and imaging findings improved rapidly after treatment, without recurrences. A. xylosoxidans rarely causes chronic lower respiratory tract infections similar to NTM in immunocompetent patients. A. xylosoxidans may be a target for treatment when detected in lower respiratory tract specimens.
Imaging in pleural amyloidosis: A diagnostic challenge
Authors: Hamakawa Masamitsu , Ishida Tadashi
Published: February 2024

Key message

Pleural amyloidosis does not present with specific imaging findings and is difficult to diagnose unless pleural biopsy is performed. However, distinguishing pleural amyloidosis from malignant disease is important and biopsy should be performed wherever possible to establish a treatment plan as early as possible.
Increased risk of new‐onset cardiovascular disease after COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 14 cohorts
Authors: Sun Mingyao , Yuan Mengyuan , Lai Honghao , Wang Qian , Wang Hengyang , Xing Lina , Tian Jinhui , Zhang Zhigang , Ge Long
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are common in long COVID, yet the associated risk remains uncertain. We aimed to quantify the risk of new‐onset cardiovascular diseases after COVID‐19. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from inception up to October 2022. Cohort studies that provided information on the number, proportion, or relative risks (RR) of cardiovascular diseases after COVID‐19 were included. Paired reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. We performed random‐effects models meta‐analyses to calculate RR and corresponding 95% confidence interval (95%CI), and conducted subgroup analyses and meta‐regression to explore the potential risk factors. Absolute effects were calculated to facilitate interpretation. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was used to assess the certainty of evidence. Outcomes of interest were any CVD, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), arrhythmias, heart failure, myocarditis, and thrombotic events. Fourteen cohort studies with over 25.37 million participants were included. The results showed a 2.42 times higher risk of any CVD (RR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.24–4.71; 51 more per 1000), a 95% higher risk of MACE (RR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.59–2.40; 4 more per 1000), a 61% higher risk of arrhythmias (RR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.42–1.83; 12 more per 1000), a 71% higher risk of heart failure (RR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.33–2.21; 2 more per 1000), a 5 times higher risk of myocarditis (RR = 5.06, 95% CI: 3.78–6.77; 4 more per 1000), and a 2.49 times higher risk of thrombotic events (RR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.22–5.06; 6 more per 1000) associated with COVID‐19. Besides, for thrombotic events, a statistically significant subgroup effect was observed in male participants compared to females (Pinteraction = 0.008). The certainty of evidence was high for myocarditis, but low or very low for other outcomes. The results clearly showed varying degrees of elevated new‐onset CVD risk in post‐COVID‐19 individuals. Additionally, our findings suggest that male patients face a higher risk of thrombotic events. However, the differences in pooled results between studies, and the over‐precision due to the large sample size of the included studies resulted in high heterogeneity of exceeding 90% in most outcomes, which led to low certainty of evidence.
Safety signal detection with control of latent factors
Authors: Tan Xianming , Wang William , Zeng Donglin , Liu Guanghan F. , Diao Guoqing , Jafari Niusha , Alt Ethan M. , Ibrahim Joseph G.
Published: February 2024

Postmarket drug safety database like vaccine adverse event reporting system (VAERS) collect thousands of spontaneous reports annually, with each report recording occurrences of any adverse events (AEs) and use of vaccines. We hope to identify signal vaccine‐AE pairs, for which certain vaccines are statistically associated with certain adverse events (AE), using such data. Thus, the outcomes of interest are multiple AEs, which are binary outcomes and could be correlated because they might share certain latent factors; and the primary covariates are vaccines. Appropriately accounting for the complex correlation among AEs could improve the sensitivity and specificity of identifying signal vaccine‐AE pairs. We propose a two‐step approach in which we first estimate the shared latent factors among AEs using a working multivariate logistic regression model, and then use univariate logistic regression model to examine the vaccine‐AE associations after controlling for the latent factors. Our simulation studies show that this approach outperforms current approaches in terms of sensitivity and specificity. We apply our approach in analyzing VAERS data and report our findings.
Cobalt‐Mediated Defect Engineering Endows High Reversible Amorphous VS4 Anode for Advanced Sodium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Zhang Di , Shao Yachuan , Wang Jian , Li Zhaojin , Wang Qiujun , Sun Huilan , Sun Qujiang , Wang Bo
Published: February 2024

Metal sulfides are promising anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their structural diversity and high theoretical capacity, but the severe capacity decay and inferior rate capability caused by poor structural stability and sluggish kinetics impede their practical applications. Herein, a cobalt‐doped amorphous VS4 wrapped by reduced graphene oxide (i.e., Co0.5‐VS4/rGO) is developed through a Co‐induced defect engineering strategy to boost the kinetics performances. The as‐prepared Co0.5‐VS4/rGO demonstrates excellent rate capacities over 10 A g−1 and superior cycling stability at 5 A g−1 over 1600 cycles, which is attributed to the defects formed by Co doping, the formed amorphous structure and the robust rGO substrate. The great features of Co0.5‐VS4/rGO anode are further confirmed in sodium‐ion capacitors when the active carbon cathode is used. Additionally, the relationships between metal doping, the derived defects, the amorphous structure, and the sodium storage of VS4 are uncovered. This work provides deep insights into preparing amorphous functional materials and also probes the potential applications of metal sulfide‐based electrode materials for advanced batteries.
Nanosensors Monitor Intracellular GSH Depletion: GSH Triggers Cu(II) for Tumor Imaging and Inhibition
Authors: Wang Yihan , Huang Ke , Wang Tingya , Liu Liu , Yu Fangfang , Sun Wenyu , Yao Wenyan , Xiong Hongjie , Liu Xiaohui , Jiang Hui , Wang Xuemei
Published: February 2024

Glutathione (GSH) is the primary antioxidant in cells, and GSH consumption will break the redox balance in cells. Based on this, a method that uses high concentrations of GSH in the tumor microenvironment to trigger the redox reaction of Cu(II) to generate copper nanoprobes with fluorescence and tumor growth inhibition properties is proposed. The nanoprobe mainly exists in the form of Cu(I) and catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals. At the same time, a simple and controllable carbon micro‐nano electrode is used to construct a single‐cell sensing platform, which enable the detection of glutathione content in single living cells after Cu(II) treatment, providing an excellent example for detecting single‐cell biomolecules.
Unleashing the Power of Osmotic Energy: Metal Hydroxide‐Organic Framework Membranes for Efficient Conversion
Authors: Zeng Huan , Yao Chenling , Wu Caiqin , Wang Di , Ma Wenbo , Wang Jian
Published: February 2024

Osmotic energy, as a renewable clean energy with huge energy density and stable yield, has received widespread attention over the past decades. Reverse electrodialysis (RED) based on ion‐exchange membranes is an important method of obtaining osmotic energy from salinity gradients. The preparation of ion‐exchange membranes with both high ion selectivity and ion permeability is in constant exploration. In this work, metal hydroxide‐organic framework (MHOF) membranes are successfully prepared onto porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes by a facile hydrothermal method to form Ni2(OH)2@AAO composite membranes, used for osmotic energy conversion. The surface is negatively charged with cation selectivity, and the asymmetric structure and extreme hydrophilicity enhance the ionic flux for effective capture of osmotic energy. The maximum output power density of 5.65 W m−2 at a 50‐fold KCl concentration gradient is achieved, which exceeds the commercial benchmark of 5 W m−2. Meanwhile, the composite membrane can also show good performance in different electrolyte solutions and acid–base environments. This work provides a new avenue for the construction and application of MHOF membranes in efficient osmotic energy conversion.
Archetypal representations of dilemmas concerning invasive alien species management—A case of invasive Lantana camara in the protected areas of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India
Authors: Hariharan Thangatur Sukumar , Ganesh Lakshmanasamudram Sriramamurthi , Vijayalakshmi Venkatraman , Sharma Piyush , Potdar Vidyasagar
Published: February 2024

This multi‐site case study on the invasive alien plant Lantana camara in protected areas of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India, addresses the reasons for inadequate institutional responses from stakeholders in managing the species despite the seriousness. The study uses thematic analysis and qualitative systems approach. The themes are converted into a qualitative‐system‐dynamics model and are then abstracted into system archetypes. The study identified three major themes: the dilemma involving stakeholders, the dilemma of alternative and commercial use of Lantana, and the Lantana management conundrum. The study translated these dilemmas into four generalisable archetypes: ‘drifting goals’, ‘modified‐shifting‐the‐burden’, ‘fixes‐that‐fail’ and ‘substitution rebound’. The latest is a novel contribution to the systems literature. Practically, the study helps understand the recurring undesired behavioural patterns in invasive species management and suggests policy and governance changes to tackle them. The study also points towards building stakeholder relationship protocols, focussing on fundamental solutions and having clear Lantana management targets.
Effect of Ladle Shroud Blockage on Flow Dynamics and Cleanliness of Steel in Coupled Ladle–Shroud–Tundish System
Authors: Ocampo Vaca Favio Antonio , Hernández Bocanegra Constantin Alberto , Ramos Banderas José Ángel , Herrera‐Ortega Mario , López Granados Nancy Margarita , Solorio Díaz Gildardo
Published: February 2024

Herein, a numerical simulation of the coupled ladle–shroud–tundish system is developed in the emptying stage of the ladle toward the tundish to analyze the effect of the obstruction of the shroud clogging on the fluid dynamics pattern, the thermal behavior, and the removal of inclusions. The thermal stratification of steel in a 150 ton ladle is analyzed during the holding period; subsequently, the ladle emptying to a two‐stranded tundish is carried out considering the average temperature at the end of the holding time, and two considerations are made: the first with the shroud utterly free of obstruction and the second with the shroud partially clogged. Finally, alumina particles are added into the tundish once the quasistable state is reached, and their trajectories are simulated using the discrete‐phase model. The steel temperature during the emptying process is compared against temperature measurements reported by the industrial process, showing a decrease of 0.5 K min−1. The results show that the clogging has little influence on the fluid dynamics structure in the ladle; however, it completely modifies the fluid dynamics and temperature distribution in the tundish, decreasing its efficiency for removing inclusions by up to ≈25% for particles of 10 μm.
Triammonium Molecular Tripods as Organic Building Blocks for Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Fukui Tomoya , Hofuku Kensuke , Kosaka Atsuko , Minoi Nanaki , Nishikubo Ryosuke , Ishiwari Fumitaka , Sato Hiroyasu , Saeki Akinori , Fukushima Takanori
Published: February 2024

Considerable efforts have been devoted to the development of new organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskites as well as their passivation‐layer materials to improve the performance of solution‐processable thin‐film solar cells for practical applications. For this purpose, monocations, such as monoammonium ions, have been studied extensively as organic building blocks. Herein, a new class of cationic molecules featuring a triptycene framework is introduced, to which three ammonium ions are attached close to each other. Inspired by the previous finding that 1,8,13‐trisubstituted triptycenes have an excellent ability to form 2D assemblies, two derivatives with ammonium ion groups at these positions are synthesized, linked either directly or via methylene spacers. Hybrid perovskites with different dimensionalities in terms of the inorganic octahedral units were prepared by reaction of the triammonium‐appended triptycene tripods with PbI2, however, the optoelectronic properties obtained were unsatisfactory. Even so, the triammonium‐containing triptycene tripod having methylene spacers was shown to serve as a good passivation layer for perovskites solar cells (PSCs), leading to improvements in power conversion efficiency and long‐term stability. Given the large degree of design freedom, triptycene tripods merit further investigation as a new motif in the development of surface‐passivation materials for PSCs.
N6‐Methyladenosine reader HNRNPC‐mediated downregulation of circITCH prevents miR‐224‐3p sequestering and contributes to tumorigenesis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Song Wei , Li Xianhui , Lin Jinyan , Zhu Chuansai , Cao Longhe , Li Wanqing , Lin Sen
Published: February 2024

Background

N6‐Methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation modulators are implicated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) stimulate/inhibit the development of NPC by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs). Herein, m6A modifications affecting the circRNA/miRNA axis in NPC were explored.

Methods

Twenty prognostic m6A RNA methylation regulators were identified from 504 head/neck squamous cell carcinoma and 44 normal samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Differentially expressed miRNAs were screened from the TCGA and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. RNA‐binding protein (RBP)–circRNA and circRNA–miRNA interactive pairs were verified using RBPmap and RNAhybrid, respectively. The RBP/circRNA/miRNA network was constructed using Cytoscape. Furthermore, CircITCH (hsa_circ_00059948), HNRNPC, and miR‐224‐3p expressions were detected by western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The role of circITCH in NPC was examined using apoptosis, scratch wound healing, transwell invasion, and cell counting kit‐8 assays. Finally, CircITCH–miR‐224‐3p and circITCH–HNRNPC interactions were assessed by dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA‐immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, respectively.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed that high pathological grade, late‐stage tumors, and low survival were associated with increased HNRNPC expression. MiR‐224‐3p was upregulated in NPC and sequestered by circITCH. Construction of the RBP/circRNA/miRNA network highlighted the HNRNPC/circITCH/miR‐224‐3p axis. In vitro experiments demonstrated decreased circITCH expression and increased HNRNPC and miR‐224‐3p expressions in NPC. In NPC cells overexpressing circITCH, HNRNPC and miR‐224‐3p expressions were significantly decreased. Dual‐luciferase assays demonstrated a targeting relationship between circITCH and miR‐224‐3p, and RIP assays demonstrated interaction of HNRNPC targets with circITCH.

Conclusion

CircITCH overexpression inhibited NPC progression by sequestering miR‐224‐3p, and HNRNPC reduced circITCH expression through direct interaction.
Clinico‐pathologic profile and outcomes of pediatric endocrine patients managed by endocrine surgeons: Experience over three decades in a tertiary center in India
Authors: Vikram Sharanappa , Mishra Anjali , Bhatia Vijayalakshmi , Mayilvagnan Sabaretnam , Chand Gyan , Agarwal Gaurav , Agarwal Amit , Dabadghao Preeti , Mishra Saroj Kanta
Published: February 2024

Background

Pediatric endocrine disorders requiring surgical intervention are rare and so are experienced surgeons dealing with these. The aim of the current study was to investigate disease profile and perioperative outcome of pediatric patients with surgical endocrine disorders in an endocrine surgery unit.

Methods

This retrospective study (Sep 1989–Aug 2019) consisted of pediatric endocrine surgery patients (<18 years) who were managed by a team of pediatric endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons at our center. Patients were divided into three cohorts consisting of a decade each. Clinico‐pathologic variables, perioperative events operative and follow‐up details were recorded.

Results

A total of 332 children were included and their mean age was 14.6 ± 3.9 years (M:F = 1:1.6). Thyroid disorders were most prevalent (59.8%), followed by adrenal (28.2%), parathyroid (10.4%), and pancreas (1.5%). Incidence of benign, malignant, and congenital/developmental disorders were 65.4, 28.1 and 8.3, respectively. Familial association was observed in 8.9% children, which is highest among pheochromocytoma patients. Overall, 201 thyroidectomies + associated procedures, 35 parathyroidectomies, 96 adrenal and paraganglioma resections, and 5 pancreatic procedures were performed. Median hospital stay was 5.6 ± 4.1 days. The number of cases increased significantly over 3 decades. Clinical profile and outcome did not vary except for significant decrease in incidence of malignant pathology (p = 0.04) and increase in VHL cases (p = 0.04) in the last decade though overall increase in familial cases was nonsignificant (p = 0.11). No perioperative mortality was observed except for 3% after adrenalectomy.

Conclusion

A team of dedicated endocrine surgeons and pediatric endocrinologists is effective in management of pediatric endocrine surgery.
Die simulierte Werkzeugmaschine, ein Rückblick
Authors: Pritschow† Günter , Verl Alexander , Röck Sascha , Scheifele Christian
Published: February 2024

Dieser Beitrag zitiert in Teilen eine Veröffentlichung, die im Jahre 2003 auf dem Fertigungstechnischen Kolloquium (FTK) der Gesellschaft für Fertigungstechnik in Stuttgart von Prof. Dr.-Ing. Günter Pritschow et al. präsentiert wurde [1]. Zu dieser Zeit war die durchgängige Simulation von Maschinen und Anlagen eines der Trendthemen im modernen Maschinenbau mit der sich die gesamte Branche auseinandersetzte. Was heute als etablierte Technologie in vielen Entwicklungsbereichen nicht mehr wegzudenken ist, steckte damals noch in den Anfängen und war thematischer Bestandteil in zahlreichen Forschungsprojekten an den produktionstechnischen Instituten deutscher Universitäten.

Dieser Beitrag soll einen Blick in die Vergangenheit werfen und einen Überblick über die Anforderungen an die Simulationstechnik im Produktionsmaschinenbau jener Zeit geben.
Nutzen von Digitalen Zwillingen und Virtueller Inbetriebnahme für den Maschinen- und Anlagenbau
Authors: Kübler Karl , Jaensch Florian , Daniel Christian , Verl Alexander
Published: February 2024

Noch vor der technischen Realisierung der Virtuellen Inbetriebnahme und von Digitalen Zwillingen ist die Betrachtung von deren Nutzen für den industriellen Einsatz im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau von hoher Relevanz. Sobald eine vorausgehende Investition getätigt werden muss, sollte vorab geklärt werden können, wie sich diese bezahlt machen kann. In diesem Beitrag werden dazu die Nutzenpotenziale der Virtuellen Inbetriebnahme und Digitaler Zwillinge für die verschiedenen Rollen entlang der Wertschöpfungsketten im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau dargelegt. Basierend auf dem „Leitfaden Virtuelle Inbetriebnahme“ des VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau e. V.) wird zusammengefasst, welche Rollen in den Wertschöpfungsketten beteiligt sind und wie deren qualitative und quantitative Nutzen durch Einführung der Virtuellen Inbetriebnahme aussehen. Im letzten Abschnitt dieses Beitrages werden Praxisbeispiele eines Anlagenbetreibers für die Automobilfertigung und eines Anlagenbauers für die Holzbearbeitung aus den „Best Practices zur Virtuellen Inbetriebnahme“ des VDMA rezitiert und die Nutzung einer digitalen Austauschplattform betrachtet.
Glucosylceramide in bunyavirus particles is essential for virus binding to host cells
Authors: Uckeley Zina M. , Duboeuf Maëva , Gu Yu , Erny Alexandra , Mazelier Magalie , Lüchtenborg Christian , Winter Sophie L. , Schad Paulina , Mathieu Cyrille , Koch Jana , Boulant Steeve , Chlanda Petr , Maisse Carine , Brügger Britta , Lozach Pierre-Yves
Published: February 2024

Hexosylceramides (HexCer) are implicated in the infection process of various pathogens. However, the molecular and cellular functions of HexCer in infectious cycles are poorly understood. Investigating the enveloped virus Uukuniemi (UUKV), a bunyavirus of the Phenuiviridae family, we performed a lipidomic analysis with mass spectrometry and determined the lipidome of both infected cells and derived virions. We found that UUKV alters the processing of HexCer to glycosphingolipids (GSL) in infected cells. The infection resulted in the overexpression of glucosylceramide (GlcCer) synthase (UGCG) and the specific accumulation of GlcCer and its subsequent incorporation into viral progeny. UUKV and several pathogenic bunyaviruses relied on GlcCer in the viral envelope for binding to various host cell types. Overall, our results indicate that GlcCer is a structural determinant of virions crucial for bunyavirus infectivity. This study also highlights the importance of glycolipids on virions in facilitating interactions with host cell receptors and infectious entry of enveloped viruses.
Analysis of Radon Near-Surface Measurements, Using Co-Located Ozone Data, Radio-Sounding Vertical Profiles, Sensible Heat Flux and Back-Trajectory Calculation
Authors: Pitari Giovanni , Curci Gabriele , Rizi Vincenzo , Iarlori Marco , Tuccella Paolo
Published: February 2024

Simultaneous and co-located observations of near-surface Radon-222, ozone and meteorological parameters in a central Italy observation site operated by the University of L’Aquila (Italy), are used to study the physical drivers of the radon abundance during night-time hours. The knowledge of the potential temperature vertical gradient in the surface layer of nocturnal thermal inversion is made possible using co-located radio-sounding vertical profiles of pressure and temperature, thus making possible to indirectly infer the local surface flux of atmospheric radon (16 ± 6 mBq m−2 s−1). The dynamical removal due to turbulent convective motions is found to be the dominant controlling process, determining large differences in the near-surface radon abundance between stable and unstable conditions of the nocturnal Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL). Usual unstable PBL conditions during daytime hours induce an effective dynamical vertical dilution of surface radon, which rapidly reaches a quasi-steady-state abundance during mid-day and afternoon hours, with very low concentration values (5.1 ± 2.0 Bq m−3). Using back-trajectory reanalyses, estimates of local radon fluxes and vertical mixing efficiencies inside the PBL along the air mass latitudinal-longitudinal path and finally the irreversible radon loss due to radioactive decay, we have explored the fraction of daytime radon attributable to long-range advection in the continental near-mountain measurement site of L’Aquila (44 ± 18%).
Non-target screening in water analysis: recent trends of data evaluation, quality assurance, and their future perspectives
Authors: Vosough Maryam , Schmidt Torsten C. , Renner Gerrit
Published: February 2024

This trend article provides an overview of recent advancements in Non-Target Screening (NTS) for water quality assessment, focusing on new methods in data evaluation, qualification, quantification, and quality assurance (QA/QC). It highlights the evolution in NTS data processing, where open-source platforms address challenges in result comparability and data complexity. Advanced chemometrics and machine learning (ML) are pivotal for trend identification and correlation analysis, with a growing emphasis on automated workflows and robust classification models. The article also discusses the rigorous QA/QC measures essential in NTS, such as internal standards, batch effect monitoring, and matrix effect assessment. It examines the progress in quantitative NTS (qNTS), noting advancements in ionization efficiency-based quantification and predictive modeling despite challenges in sample variability and analytical standards. Selected studies illustrate NTS’s role in water analysis, combining high-resolution mass spectrometry with chromatographic techniques for enhanced chemical exposure assessment. The article addresses chemical identification and prioritization challenges, highlighting the integration of database searches and computational tools for efficiency. Finally, the article outlines the future research needs in NTS, including establishing comprehensive guidelines, improving QA/QC measures, and reporting results. It underscores the potential to integrate multivariate chemometrics, AI/ML tools, and multi-way methods into NTS workflows and combine various data sources to understand ecosystem health and protection comprehensively.
Temperature Adaptation of Aquatic Bacterial Community Growth Is Faster in Response to Rising than to Falling Temperature
Authors: Bååth Erland , Kritzberg Emma S.
Published: February 2024

Bacteria are key organisms in energy and nutrient cycles, and predicting the effects of temperature change on bacterial activity is important in assessing global change effects. A changing in situ temperature will affect the temperature adaptation of bacterial growth in lake water, both long term in response to global change, and short term in response to seasonal variations. The rate of adaptation may, however, depend on whether temperature is increasing or decreasing, since bacterial growth and turnover scale with temperature. Temperature adaptation was studied for winter (in situ temperature 2.5 °C) and summer communities (16.5 °C) from a temperate lake in Southern Sweden by exposing them to a temperature treatment gradient between 0 and 30 °C in ~ 5 °C increments. This resulted mainly in a temperature increase for the winter and a decrease for the summer community. Temperature adaptation of bacterial community growth was estimated as leucine incorporation using a temperature Sensitivity Index (SI, log growth at 35 °C/4 °C), where higher values indicate adaptation to higher temperatures. High treatment temperatures resulted in higher SI within days for the winter community, resulting in an expected level of community adaptation within 2 weeks. Adaptation for the summer community was also correlated to treatment temperature, but the rate of adaption was slower. Even after 5 weeks, the bacterial community had not fully adapted to the lowest temperature conditions. Thus, during periods of increasing temperature, the bacterial community will rapidly adapt to function optimally, while decreasing temperature may result in long periods of non-optimal functioning.
Rerouting phytosterol degradation pathway for directed androst-1,4-diene-3,17-dione microbial bioconversion
Authors: Ke Xia , Cui Jia-Hao , Ren Qi-Jie , Zheng Tong , Wang Xin-Xin , Liu Zhi-Qiang , Zheng Yu-Guo
Published: February 2024

Steroid-based drugs are now mainly produced by the microbial transformation of phytosterol, and a two-step bioprocess is adopted to reach high space–time yields, but byproducts are frequently observed during the bioprocessing. In this study, the catabolic switch between the C19- and C22-steroidal subpathways was investigated in resting cells of Mycobacterium neoaurum NRRL B-3805, and a dose-dependent transcriptional response toward the induction of phytosterol with increased concentrations was found in the putative node enzymes including ChoM2, KstD1, OpccR, Sal, and Hsd4A. Aldolase Sal presented a dominant role in the C22 steroidal side-chain cleavage, and the byproduct was eliminated after sequential deletion of opccR and sal. Meanwhile, the molar yield of androst-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD) was increased from 59.4 to 71.3%. With the regard of insufficient activity of rate-limiting enzymes may also cause byproduct accumulation, a chromosomal integration platform for target gene overexpression was established supported by a strong promoter L2 combined with site-specific recombination in the engineered cell. Rate-limiting steps of ADD bioconversion were further characterized and overcome. Overexpression of the kstD1 gene further strengthened the bioconversion from AD to ADD. After subsequential optimization of the bioconversion system, the directed biotransformation route was developed and allowed up to 82.0% molar yield with a space–time yield of 4.22 g·L−1·day−1. The catabolic diversion elements and the genetic overexpression tools as confirmed and developed in present study offer new ideas of M. neoaurum cell factory development for directed biotransformation for C19- and C22-steroidal drug intermediates from phytosterol.

Key points

• Resting cells exhibited a catabolic switch between the C19- and C22-steroidal subpathways.

• The C22-steroidal byproduct was eliminated after sequential deletion of opccR and sal.

• Rate-limiting steps were overcome by promoter engineering and chromosomal integration.
Jetting bubbles observed by x-ray holography at a free-electron laser: internal structure and the effect of non-axisymmetric boundary conditions
Authors: Rosselló Juan M. , Hoeppe Hannes P. , Koch Max , Lechner Christiane , Osterhoff Markus , Vassholz Malte , Hagemann Johannes , Möller Johannes , Scholz Markus , Boesenberg Ulrike , Hallmann Jörg , Kim Chan , Zozulya Alexey , Lu Wei , Shayduk Roman , Madsen Anders , Salditt Tim , Mettin Robert
Published: February 2024

In this work, we study the jetting dynamics of individual cavitation bubbles using x-ray holographic imaging and high-speed optical shadowgraphy. The bubbles are induced by a focused infrared laser pulse in water near the surface of a flat, circular glass plate, and later probed with ultrashort x-ray pulses produced by an x-ray free-electron laser (XFEL). The holographic imaging can reveal essential information of the bubble interior that would otherwise not be accessible in the optical regime due to obscuration or diffraction. The influence of asymmetric boundary conditions on the jet’s characteristics is analysed for cases where the axial symmetry is perturbed and curved liquid filaments can form inside the cavity. The x-ray images demonstrate that when oblique jets impact the rigid boundary, they produce a non-axisymmetric splash which grows from a moving stagnation point. Additionally, the images reveal the formation of complex gas/liquid structures inside the jetting bubbles that are invisible to standard optical microscopy. The experimental results are analysed with the assistance of full three-dimensional numerical simulations of the Navier–Stokes equations in their compressible formulation, which allow a deeper understanding of the distinctive features observed in the x-ray holographic images. In particular, the effects of varying the dimensionless stand-off distances measured from the initial bubble location to the surface of the solid plate and also to its nearest edge are addressed using both experiments and simulations. A relation between the jet tilting angle and the dimensionless bubble position asymmetry is derived. The present study provides new insights into bubble jetting and demonstrates the potential of x-ray holography for future investigations in this field.
A complicated Chiari type 1 malformation and holocord syrinx as a likely cause for heel pain
Authors: Henderson Robert , Lakshmanan Rahul , McLaughlin Aden , Bangash Omar , Saha Snigdha , Carey-Smith Richard
Published: February 2024

Background

Chiari malformations are a rare group of rhomboencephalic abnormalities involving the brain, craniocervical junction and spine. They may manifest in a variety of clinical presentations which relate to the variable involvement of the cerebellum, brainstem, lower cranial nerves, spinal cord and altered CSF flow dynamics.

Method

We report an unusual case of incidental diagnosis of a type I Chiari malformation with secondary cystic cerebellar tonsillar encephalomalacia and holocord syrinx following investigation of a 5YO girl presenting with heel swelling related to progressive neuropathic osteoarthropathy of the posterior calcaneal body and apophysis.

Result

The child was treated with decompressive suboccipital craniectomy and C1 laminectomy and tonsillar resection. Cerebellar tonsillar gliosis and cystic degeneration were confirmed on histopathology. Referral for ongoing engagement with occupational and physical therapy.

Conclusion

Most type I Chiari malformations in the paediatric population are incidental and asymptomatic. Neurological symptoms are typically mild and relate to altered CSF flow dynamics; however, we present a complex case of type I Chiari malformation with an unusual constellation of associated complications.
Spatial variability in stable isotopes from Lesotho surface waters: insights into regional moisture transport
Authors: Fitchett Jennifer M. , Holmes Jonathan A. , Dahms-Verster Simoné , Curtis Christopher J. , Mackay Anson W.
Published: February 2024

Precipitation in Lesotho is highly spatially variable, a feature of the high altitude and rugged topography. The hydroclimate dynamics, despite being critical to the water security of Lesotho and adjacent South Africa, are poorly understood. Ratios of oxygen and hydrogen isotopes in meteoric water are excellent tracers of hydroclimatic processes. This study presents the first analysis of stable isotopes from surface waters in Lesotho, and an investigation into the moisture sources. Our results demonstrate considerable variability in isotope values. There are statistically significant relationships between both oxygen and hydrogen isotopes and the altitude of the site and source of rivers sampled, and with hydrogen isotopes and longitude. The meteoric water line for the Lesotho samples is most closely aligned with that of the Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation (GNIP) station at Harare, in Zimbabwe. The meteoric water line for Windhoek is more closely aligned to the Lesotho samples than the more proximate Cape Town or Pretoria meteoric water lines, which would more closely represent the South African winter- and summer-rainfall zones respectively. HYSPLIT back-trajectory air parcel analysis supports these findings, demonstrating a frequent continental anticyclonic track through southern Zimbabwe. Deuterium excess values vary widely, although are most likely related to processes during moisture transport rather than differences in moisture source. These findings are of particular importance in the context of the future water security of both Lesotho and South Africa, especially as the poleward displacement of the westerly moisture corridor has raised concerns for winter precipitation in the region.
AMO modulation of interdecadal background of persistent heavy rainfall in summer over the Huaihe River Basin
Authors: Yu Jingwen , Li Qingquan , Ding Yihui , Wen Zhiping , Gong Zhiqiang , Sun Xiaoting , Shen Xinyong , Dong Lili
Published: February 2024

This study used observed rainfall, ERA5 reanalysis, and CMIP6 model datasets to investigate the interdecadal variation and underlying mechanism of persistent heavy rainfall (PHR) over the Huaihe River Basin (HRB) in China during July–August, and to examine the role of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) in modulating such rainfall. The results indicate that PHR over the HRB exhibited a marked interdecadal variation. The interdecadal increase in PHR was found attributable primarily to interdecadal enhancement of ascending motion, which might have been due to external forcing by the AMO. The AMO can trigger upper-tropospheric mid–high-latitude Rossby wave trains that can lead to an upper-tropospheric anticyclone and a lower-tropospheric cyclone configuration over the HRB. Increased warm advection and greater transport of water vapor from lower latitudes, caused by enhanced southerlies in the middle–lower troposphere over the HRB, can also lead to enhanced ascending motion over the HRB. Meanwhile, an anomalous cyclone over northeastern China triggered by AMO can transport cold air from higher latitudes to the HRB, boosting convection and promoting the development and duration of PHR. By affecting sea surface temperature in the western North Pacific Ocean, the AMO can also indirectly cause a meridional teleconnection pattern in the lower troposphere, which increases the transport of water vapor to the HRB. Numerical model experiments can reproduce both the interdecadal variations in PHR and the mechanisms of the influence of the AMO on PHR, providing a reliable foundation for understanding and forecasting PHR over the HRB.
Effects of vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Chang Jing , Liu Minhui , Liu Chang , Zhou Shiyu , Jiao Yuchen , Sun Hongyu , Ji Yan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been studied extensively as safe and manageable nutrient interventions for mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The purpose of the current meta-analysis was to examine the effects of vitamins and PUFAs on cognition and to compare the effects of single and multiple nutrient subgroups in patients with MCI.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) written in English and Chinese were retrieved from eight databases, namely, PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, SinoMed, CNKI, and Wanfang Data, from their respective dates of inception until 16 July 2023. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0. Meta-analyses were performed to determine the standardized mean differences (SMDs) in global cognitive function, memory function, attention, visuospatial skills, executive function, and processing speed between the supplement and control groups using 95% confidence intervals (CI) and I2. Prospero registration number: CRD42021292360.

Results

Sixteen RCTs that studied different types of vitamins and PUFAs were included. The meta-analysis revealed that vitamins affected global cognitive function (SMD = 0.58, 95% CI = [0.20, 0.96], P = 0.003), memory function (SMD = 2.55, 95% CI = [1.01, 4.09], P = 0.001), and attention (SMD = 3.14, 95% CI = [1.00, 5.28], P = 0.004) in patients with MCI, and PUFAs showed effects on memory function (SMD = 0.65, 95% CI = [0.32, 0.99], P < 0.001) and attention (SMD = 2.98, 95% CI = [2.11, 3.84], P < 0.001). Single vitamin B (folic acid [FA]: SMD = 1.21, 95% CI = [0.87, 1.55]) supplementation may be more effective than multiple nutrients (FA and vitamin B12: SMD = 0.71, 95% CI = [0.41, 1.01]; and FA combined with docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]: SMD = 0.58, 95% CI = [0.34, 0.83]) in global cognitive function.

Conclusions

FA, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and vitamin D may improve global cognitive function, memory function, and attention in patients with MCI. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA may improve memory function and attention. We also noted that FA may exert a greater effect than a vitamin B combination (FA and vitamin B12) or the combination of FA and DHA. However, because of the low evidence-based intensity, further trials are necessary to confirm these findings.