bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glomus tumor of the foot dorsum: A case report of a neglect podiatric entity
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Khlidj Yehya , Jahanzeb Ahmed , Farooq Dawood Azam , Kamran Ateeba , Fakih Nour , Abbas Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Podiatrists and orthopedists should be vigilant for chronically evolving, hyperalgic soft lumps in the foot with vascular radiological features, prompting early detection of glomus tumor, timely mass removal, providing pain relief and improving patient's quality of life.

Glomus tumors refers to a rare group of benign perivascular neoplasms that originate from a neuromyoarterial structure called a glomus body. These tumors are characterized by their painful nature and predominant distribution in the extremities mainly the fingers, the hands and the feet. Nonetheless, the diagnosis is usually made after several years of symptoms experience as the lesions are mostly small, not palpable, and have variable presentations. Radiological workup especially with magnetic resonance imaging is very useful for diagnosing the tumoral process, however, confirmation can only be obtained by histological analysis. The treatment is purely surgical, and it is successful in most cases. Herein, we describe a case of glomus tumor of the foot dorsal side among a middle age male patient.
Physical activity, long‐term fine particulate matter exposure and type 2 diabetes incidence: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Qian , Liu Fangchao , Huang Keyong , Liang Fengchao , Shen Chong , Liao Jian , Li Jianxin , Yuan Chenxi , Yang Xueli , Cao Jie , Chen Shufeng , Hu Dongsheng , Huang Jianfeng , Liu Yang , Lu Xiangfeng , Gu Dongfeng
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite the adverse effects of ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on type 2 diabetes and the beneficial role of physical activity (PA), the influence of PM2.5 on the relationship between PA and type 2 diabetes remains unclear.

Methods

In this prospective study with 71,689 participants, PA was assessed by a questionnaire and was categorized into quartiles for volume and three groups for intensity. Long‐term PM2.5 exposure was calculated using 1‐km resolution satellite‐based PM2.5 estimates. PM2.5 exposure and PA's effect on type 2 diabetes were assessed by cohort‐stratified Cox proportional hazards models, individually and in combination.

Results

In 488,166 person‐years of follow‐up, 5487 incident type 2 diabetes cases were observed. The association between PA and type 2 diabetes was modified by PM2.5. Compared with the lowest quartile of PA volume, the highest quartile was associated with reduced type 2 diabetes risk in low PM2.5 stratification (≤65.02 µg/m3) other than in high PM2.5 stratification (>65.02 µg/m3), with the hazard ratio (HR) of 0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.66–0.85) and 1.10 (95% CI: 0.99–1.22), respectively. Similar results were observed for PA intensity. High PM2.5 exposure combined with the highest PA levels increased the risk of type 2 diabetes the most (HR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.59–2.01 for PA volume; HR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.64–2.02 for PA intensity).

Conclusion

PA could reduce type 2 diabetes risk in low‐pollution areas, but high PM2.5 exposure may weaken or even reverse the protective effects of PA. Safety and health benefits of PA should be thoroughly assessed for long‐term polluted residents.
Thermochromic Vanadium Dioxide Nanostructures for Smart Windows and Radiative Cooling
Authors: Yoon Jongwon , Kim Kwang‐Seok , Hong Woong‐Ki
Published: May 2024

The pursuit of energy‐saving materials and technologies has garnered significant attention for their pivotal role in mitigating both energy consumption and carbon emissions. In particular, thermochromic windows in buildings offer energy‐saving potential by adjusting the transmittance of solar irradiation in response to temperature changes. Radiative cooling (RC), radiating thermal heat from an object surface to the cold outer space, also offers a potential way for cooling without energy consumption. Accordingly, smart window and RC technologies based on thermochromic materials can play a crucial role in improving energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption in buildings in response to the surrounding temperature. Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a promising thermochromic material for energy‐saving smart windows and RC due to its reversible metal‐to‐insulator transition, accompanying large changes in its optical properties. This review provides a brief summary of synthesis methods of VO2 nanostructures based on nanoparticles and thin films. Moreover, this review emphasizes and summarizes modulation strategies focusing on doping, thermal processing, and structure manipulation to improve and regulate the thermochromic and emissivity performance of VO2 for smart window and RC applications. In last, the challenges and recent advances of VO2‐based smart window and RC applications are briefly presented.
Azopyridinium Ionic Photoswitches: Tuning Half‐Lives of Z Isomers from Seconds to Days in Water
Authors: Kumar Gaur Ankit , Gupta Debapriya , Narayanan Nampoothiry Dhanyaj , Velloth Archana , Kaur Ramanpreet , Kaur Navneet , Venkataramani Sugumar
Published: May 2024

Herein, we describe water‐soluble heteroaryl azopyridinium ionic photoswitches (HAPIPs). We aim to combine variations in five‐membered heterocycles, their substitutions, N‐alkyl groups at pyridinium nitrogen, the position of pyridinium center relative to azo group, counterions, and solvents, in achieving better photoswitching. Through these studies, we successfully tuned the half‐life of Z isomers of the resultant HAPIPs between seconds to days in water. Extensive spectroscopic studies and density functional theory (DFT) computations unravelled the factors responsible for thermal relaxation behavior. Considering the versatility of these photoswitches, the tunability of half‐lives and photoswitching in aqueous medium allows the scope of applications in several fields.
A Practical and Modular Method for Direct C−H Functionalization of the BODIPY Core via Thianthrenium Salts
Authors: Dong Xin‐Xin , Liu Jing‐Guo , Zhang Hao‐Xiang , Zhang Bo
Published: May 2024

Direct structural modification of small‐molecule fluorophores represents a straightforward and appealing strategy for accessing new fluorescent dyes with desired functionalities. We report herein a general and efficient visible‐light‐mediated method for the direct C−H functionalization of BODIPY, an important fluorescent chromophore, using readily accessible and bench‐stable aryl and alkenylthianthrenium salts. This practical approach operates at room temperature with extraordinary site‐selectivity, providing a step‐economical means to construct various valuable aryl‐ and alkenyl‐substituted BODIPY dyes. Remarkably, this protocol encompasses a broad substrate scope and excellent functional‐group tolerance, and allows for the modular synthesis of sophisticated symmetrical and asymmetrical disubstituted BODIPYs by simply employing different combinations of thianthrenium salts. Moreover, the late‐stage BODIPY modification of complex drug molecules further highlights the potential of this novel methodology in the synthesis of fluorophore‐drug conjugates.
Room‐Temperature Afterglow Nanostructures via Block Copolymer Self‐Assembly
Authors: Zhang Yue , Chen Xiuzheng , Wang Tengyue , Mo Zhe , Wang Guangming , Li Haodong , Zhang Kaka
Published: May 2024

Miniaturization of organic afterglow materials has shown promising application in biomedical and other areas. Current technologies, such as nanoprecipitation, mechanical treatment, and emulsion polymerization, lack the capability of facile control on the morphology and dimension of the miniaturized organic afterglow materials. Here we report the fabrication of organic afterglow nanostructures via block copolymer self‐assembly at room temperature. The fabrication is based on two‐component design strategy where hydrophobic luminescent emitters with small rate constants of phosphorescence decay or reverse intersystem crossing are designed as the first component. Amphiphilic block copolymers that can form spherical core‐shell micelles and worm‐like micelles with glassy hydrophobic cores are used as the second component. Upon addition of water into a dimethylformamide solution that contains the two components, the amphiphilic block copolymers self‐assemble into well‐defined nanostructures and accommodate the hydrophobic luminescent emitters in nanostructure's hydrophobic cores. After switching to pure water by dialysis, room‐temperature afterglow nanostructures have been obtained because of the excellent protection of organic triplets by the glassy hydrophobic cores. The afterglow nanostructures exhibit intriguing afterglow mechanism modulated by the types of luminescent emitters, controlled dimensions and morphologies by the structural parameters of the block copolymers.
Non‐targeted metabolite profiling of a fast neutron soybean mutant reveals an increase in sulfur‐containing metabolites
Authors: Islam Nazrul , Krishnan Hari B. , Slovin Janet , Natarajan Savithiry
Published: May 2024

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr] seed is a valuable source of raw materials of protein, oil, and metabolites for food, feed, and pharmaceutical industries. Using global metabolic profiling, we identified 718 non‐redundant metabolites of a fast neutron‐mediated soybean known to have 24 genes deleted and 15% more seed protein compared to wild‐type seed. Among the 554 identified metabolites in leaves and 629 identified in seed, 465 were found in both leaves and seed. Mapping of the deleted genes and identified metabolites indicated a complex perturbation of global metabolism involving glutamine‐arginine, aspartate, aromatic amino acid, glycolytic, and tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) pathways. The mutant seed showed a higher content of sulfur‐containing metabolites such as S‐methylmethionine, methionine, and cysteine compared to wild‐type seed. The gene deletions may alter carbon flow from glycolytic and TCA pathways, resulting in higher protein content and increased abundance of sulfur‐containing metabolites in the mutant seeds. The results provide valuable information for altering metabolic pathways to increase value‐added seed traits in soybeans.
The impact of China's new energy vehicle policies on corporate social responsibility: A textual big data analytics approach
Authors: Cao Chen , Lyu Yongming , Huang Jun , Luo Renjie , Huang Hancheng , Yu Guilan
Published: May 2024

This study combined the Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic model to explore the potential topics of new energy vehicle (NEV) policies and their impacts on the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of new energy vehicle enterprises. The results reveal that financial subsidies, infrastructure development, and environmental protection are the most popular topics. And these three popular topics have significant positive impacts on the CSR of new energy vehicle enterprises, with infrastructure construction having the most significant impact. Additionally, the intensity of the positive impact on large‐scale enterprises is more significant compared with small‐scale enterprises, and the impact on state‐owned enterprises is more remarkable than on private enterprises. Moreover, these three popular topics have more significant impacts on CSR in China's eastern region. Finally, we conclude this study by discussing the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Mechanism of Alkaline Earth Metal Amide Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Challenging Alkenes and Arenes
Authors: Qu Zheng‐Wang , Zhu Hui , Grimme Stefan
Published: May 2024

Recently, bulky alkaline earth (Ae=Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) metal amide complexes AeN“2 (N”=N[Si(iPr)3]2) are shown to be active for catalyzing the hydrogenation of unactivated alkenes and arenes, presumably via the monomer N“AeH as catalyst. In sharp contrast, our extensive DFT calculations disclose that the double Ae−H−Ae bridged dimer (N”AeH)2 is kinetically more favorable in catalytic hydrogenation with H2, although rate‐limited by the initial hydrogenolysis of AeN“2 to form the monomer N”AeH.
Role of ultrashort trapezoidal temporal pulse profile in laser wakefield acceleration in bubble regime
Authors: Kumar Sonu , Singh Dhananjay K. , Malik Hitendra K.
Published: May 2024

A computational study is presented on laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) in bubble regime with the use of ultrashort laser pulse propagating in an under‐dense plasma. The Particle‐In‐Cell simulations are performed to investigate the bubble wakefield acceleration of electrons realized by the incidence of an intense laser beam on cold, under‐dense plasma in two‐dimensional geometry. Different simulations are carried out and the results are compared for the beams with trapezoidal and Gaussian temporal pulse profiles having almost equal but slightly different energy contents. Focus is given to plasma density modulation, wakefield strength, electrons self‐injection, energy spectrum of accelerated electrons, the effect of an external longitudinal magnetic field and the study of pump depletion length and dephasing length in bubble regime with respect to these laser pulse profiles. Two limiting cases of the trapezoidal pulse, that is, triangular and rectangular pulses, are also discussed for better understanding of the role of steepness and plateau region in the laser pulse profile to the bubble wakefield acceleration. Since down ramp density gradient plays a crucial role for the generation of high‐quality electron beam in plasma wakefield acceleration as well as in LWFA, three different adjustments on the down ramp length determining three different density gradients are discussed for uncovering the role of trapezoidal laser pulse in LWFA.
Synthesis of new N‐(5,6‐methylenedioxybenzothiazole‐2‐yl)‐2‐[(substituted)thio/piperazine]acetamide/propanamide derivatives and evaluation of their AChE, BChE, and BACE‐1 inhibitory activities
Authors: Tutuş Beyzanur , Kaya Aybüke Züleyha , Baz Yonca , Evren Asaf Evrim , Sağlik Özkan Begüm Nurpelin , Yurttaş Leyla
Published: May 2024

In this study, the synthesis of N‐(5,6‐methylenedioxybenzothiazole‐2‐yl)‐2‐[(substituted)thio/piperazine]acetamide/propanamide derivatives (3a‐3k) and to investigate their acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and β‐secretase 1 (BACE‐1) inhibition activity were aimed. Mass, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectra were utilized to determine the structure of the synthesized compounds. Compounds 3b, 3c, 3f, and 3j showed AChE inhibitory activity which compound 3c (IC50 = 0.030 ± 0.001 µM) showed AChE inhibitory activity as high as the reference drug donepezil (IC50 = 0.0201 ± 0.0010 µM). Conversely, none of the compounds showed BChE activity. Compounds 3c and 3j showed the highest BACE‐1 inhibitory activity and IC50 value was found as 0.119 ± 0.004 µM for compound 3j whereas IC50 value was 0.110 ± 0.005 µM for donepezil, which is one of the reference substance. Molecular docking studies have been carried out using the data retrieved from the server of the Protein Data Bank (PDBID: 4EY7 and 2ZJM). Using in silico approach behavior active compounds (3c and 3j) and their binding modes clarified.
Coal dilemma: Is in situ clean power plant a way out?
Authors: Nie Baisheng , Jiang Liangliang , Liu Xianfeng , Deng Bozhi , Liu Peng , Zhang Hao , Song Suihong , Yan Ke , Zhang Jiansheng , Liu Ke , Chen Zhangxin , Farouq Ali S. M.
Published: May 2024

The global shift toward cleaner energy sources, driven by carbon neutrality goals and climate change urgency, faces a paradoxical rise in coal consumption despite efforts to expand alternative energies. Economic disparities drive reliance on coal, particularly in underdeveloped regions where affordability and accessibility dictate energy choices. To address this, innovative approaches such as harnessing controlled pulverized coal detonation for in situ clean power plants are proposed. These plants offer compact, efficient, and sustainable energy generation with reduced emissions and minimal environmental impact. In addition, a comparison of costs, efficiency, and environmental impact with conventional methods showcases the potential of this novel technology to transform coal‐based energy into a green and viable solution.
Activitybudget and foraging patterns ofNubian giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis) in Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
Authors: Gitau Consolata G. , Mbau Judith S. , Ngugi Robinson K. , ngumbi Emmanuel , Muneza Arthur B.
Published: May 2024

The activity budget of giraffe in various African populations has been studied extensively, revealing that it is affected by body size, foraging patterns, and sex. Foraging patterns show an animal's feeding choices in its environment and are influenced by resource availability, competition, and predation risk. The ability of giraffe to survive and reproduce is significantly impacted by the variation in activity budget and foraging across different ecosystems. Our study focused on evaluating the seasonal activity budgets and foraging patterns of Nubian giraffe in Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya. We used the scan sampling method to record the activity budget of giraffe which included foraging, movement, resting, and drinking water. We then evaluated if activities varied with the seasons. A total of 11,280 activities were documented, with 4560 (40.4%) occurring during the dry season and 6720 (59.6%) during the wet season. Foraging accounted for 53% of the time budget during the dry season, but increased to 57% during the wet season. There was a slight drop in records of movement (22%; n = 995 of 4560) and resting (25%; n = 1145 of 4560) from the dry season to the wet season (20%; n = 1375 out of 6720 and 22%; n = 1515 of 6720). During the dry season, females (53%) foraged longer than males (47%), whereas males (44%) had longer resting periods than females (56%). Giraffe frequently fed on Vachellia xanthophloea (67%; n = 4136 of 6215 foraging records), Maytenus senegalensis (19%), and Solanum incanum (9%) over both seasons. Overall, seasons had little impact on giraffe activity time budgets and foraging patterns in Lake Nakuru National Park. A better insight into the behavioural patterns of this subspecies will allow managers to enhance the protection and conservation of the species and its habitat. Heavy foraging on Vachellia by giraffe at LNNP has been associated with a population decline in number, so perhaps planting more of this species in LNNP could promote a rebound in numbers.
Cryptic diversity and speciation in an endemic copepod crustacean Harpacticella inopinata within Lake Baikal
Authors: Kochanova Elena , Mayor Tatyana , Väinölä Risto
Published: May 2024

Ancient lakes are hotspots of species diversity, posing challenges and opportunities for exploration of the dynamics of endemic diversification. Lake Baikal in Siberia, the oldest lake in the world, hosts a particularly rich crustacean fauna, including the largest known species flock of harpacticoid copepods with some 70 species. Here, we focused on exploring the diversity and evolution within a single nominal species, Harpacticella inopinata Sars, 1908, using molecular markers (mitochondrial COI, nuclear ITS1 and 28S rRNA) and a set of qualitative and quantitative morphological traits. Five major mitochondrial lineages were recognized, with model‐corrected COI distances of 0.20–0.37. A concordant pattern was seen in the nuclear data set, and qualitative morphological traits also distinguish a part of the lineages. All this suggests the presence of several hitherto unrecognized cryptic taxa within the baikalian H. inopinata, with long independent histories. The abundances, distributions and inferred demographic histories were different among taxa. Two taxa, H. inopinata CE and H. inopinata CW, were widespread on the eastern and western coasts, respectively, and were largely allopatric. Patterns in mitochondrial variation, that is, shallow star‐like haplotype networks, suggest these taxa have spread through the lake relatively recently. Three other taxa, H. inopinata RE, RW and RW2, instead were rare and had more localized distributions on either coast, but showed deeper intraspecies genealogies, suggesting older regional presence. The rare taxa were often found in sympatry with the others and occasionally introgressed by mtDNA from the common ones. The mitochondrial divergence between and within the H. inopinata lineages is still unexpectedly deep, suggesting an unusually high molecular rate. The recognition of true systematic diversity in the evaluation and management of ecosystems is important in hotspots, as it is everywhere else, while the translation of the diversity into a formal taxonomy remains a challenge.
Denitrative Formal [5+1] Cycloaddition of 1‐(2‐Nitrophenyl)‐2‐Yn‐1‐Ones with Thioacetamide under Transition‐Metal‐Free Conditions: Synthesis of Thiochromen‐4‐Ones
Authors: Xu Yao , Wang Wenjun , Fan Hui , Liao Xiaoming , Yang Zhuoran , Yu Lei , Hong Chan Philip Wai , Zhang Xiaoxiang
Published: May 2024

A new strategy for thiochromen‐4‐one synthesis that relies on the denitrative formal [5+1] cycloaddition of 1‐(2‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐yn‐1‐ones with thioacetamide is described. Achieved under reaction conditions that did not require transition metal catalysis, nor the exclusion of air or moisture, the reaction is suggested to involve exploiting the propensity of thioacetamide to undergo hydrolysis under basic conditions. This is follows by addition of the ensuing sulfide anion to the 1,3‐alkynone and a nucleophilic aromatic substitution and denitrative rearomatization cascade to give the S‐heterocyclic product in yields of 41–99 %.
Research on coal and gangue segmentation based on MFCCM‐Mask R‐CNN
Authors: Cao Zhenguan , Li Zhuoqin , Fang Liao , Li Jinbiao , Yang Haixia , Hui Donggao
Published: May 2024

Intelligent sorting of coal and gangue is of great significance to the intelligent construction of coal mines as well as green development. In this study, we propose a coal and gangue segmentation method with an improved classical segmentation network Mask R‐CNN, denoted as Multichannel Forward‐Linked Confusion Convolution Module (MFCCM)‐Mask R‐CNN. First, we design a MFCCM to construct the feature extraction network by stacking, second, we design a multiscale high‐resolution feature pyramid network structure to realize multipath fusion of feature information to enhance the position and contour information of the target, and finally, we propose a multiscale Mask head to enhance the diversity of information, and capture the more representative and unique features. Training and testing models using self‐built RGB coal and gangue data sets, the accuracy of the improved algorithm reaches 97.38%, which is an improvement of 1.66% compared to the original model. Compared with other segmentation models Unet, Deeplab V3+, Yoloact, Yolov7, and the model after replacing the backbone network, the MFCCM‐Mask R‐CNN has higher precision and recall, and can more accurately realize the efficient segmentation of coal and gangue.
Teasing out the Effects of Natural Stressors at Chemically Contaminated Sites
Authors: Nichols Elizabeth R. , Burton G. Allen , Lavoie Dan , Tortomasi Jon , Cervi Eduardo , Hudson Michelle , Brown Steve
Published: May 2024

Aquatic ecosystems are often impacted by a multitude of stressors, many of which are introduced by a combination of anthropogenic activities such as agricultural development, urbanization, damming, and industrial discharge. Determining the primary stressors responsible for ecological impairments at a site can be complex and challenging; however, it is crucial for making informed management decisions. Improper diagnosis of an impaired system can lead to misguided attempts at remediation, which can be both time consuming and costly. We focused on the development, implementation, and evaluation of methodologies that, in combination, allowed us to identify the primary stressors. These included a four-phase, weight-of-evidence (WOE) assessment including in situ Toxicity Identification and Evaluation (iTIE) testing, physicochemical and macrobenthos characterization, reciprocal sediment transplants, and laboratory and in situ toxicity testing. The contaminants of concern (COCs) at the site were elevated levels of ammonia, chloride, pH, and total dissolved solids in groundwater upwellings into a high-quality waterway. Reciprocal transplants of site sediments and nearby reference sediments and traditional benthic sampling showed impaired benthic indices and multiple stations around a contaminated industrial settling basin. Impaired stations had elevated COCs in groundwaters but exhibited a steep vertical concentration gradient, with concentrations decreasing near the sediment–surface water interface. We describe Phase 4 of the study, which focused on teasing out the role of dissolved oxygen sags in benthic macroinvertebrate responses. Extensive submerged and emergent macrophytes, algae, and cyanobacteria co-occurred at the impaired sites and increased throughout the summer. Laboratory testing suggested that ammonia and pH were possibly toxic at the sites, based on groundwater concentrations. The in situ toxicity testing, however, showed toxicity occurring even at stations with low levels of COCs concurrently with large diurnal fluxes in dissolved oxygen (DO). A final phase using a type of iTIE approach utilized limnocorrals with and without aeration and with in situ toxicity measures using Hyalella azteca. The Phase 4 assessment revealed that low DO levels were primarily responsible for impaired benthic communities, and COC upwellings were diluted at the sediment–water interface to nontoxic levels. These findings will allow for improved management decisions for more efficient and effective restoration activities. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1524–1536. © 2024 SETAC
Following Regulation, Imidacloprid Persists and Flupyradifurone Increases in Nontarget Wildlife
Authors: English Simon G. , Bishop Christine A. , Bieber Matthias , Elliott John E.
Published: May 2024

After regulation of pesticides, determination of their persistence in the environment is an important indicator of effectiveness of these measures. We quantified concentrations of two types of systemic insecticides, neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, acetamiprid, clothianidin, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam) and butenolides (flupyradifurone), in off-crop nontarget media of hummingbird cloacal fluid, honey bee (Apis mellifera) nectar and honey, and wildflowers before and after regulation of imidacloprid on highbush blueberries in Canada in April 2021. We found that mean total pesticide load increased in hummingbird cloacal fluid, nectar, and flower samples following imidacloprid regulation. On average, we did not find evidence of a decrease in imidacloprid concentrations after regulation. However, there were some decreases, some increases, and other cases with no changes in imidacloprid levels depending on the specific media, time point of sampling, and site type. At the same time, we found an overall increase in flupyradifurone, acetamiprid, thiamethoxam, and thiacloprid but no change in clothianidin concentrations. In particular, flupyradifurone concentrations observed in biota sampled near agricultural areas increased twofold in honey bee nectar, sevenfold in hummingbird cloacal fluid, and eightfold in flowers after the 2021 imidacloprid regulation. The highest residue detected was flupyradifurone at 665 ng/mL (parts per billion [ppb]) in honey bee nectar. Mean total pesticide loads were highest in honey samples (84 ± 10 ppb), followed by nectar (56 ± 7 ppb), then hummingbird cloacal fluid (1.8 ± 0.5 ppb), and least, flowers (0.51 ± 0.06 ppb). Our results highlight that limited regulation of imidacloprid does not immediately reduce residue concentrations, while other systemic insecticides, possibly replacement compounds, concurrently increase in wildlife. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1497–1508. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Guidelines for separation of natural extracellular vesicles
Authors: Liang Duo , Li Yu , Li Jiaxuan , Yang Shen , Su Wentao
Published: May 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found everywhere in different biofluids such as blood, saliva, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and breast milk. They have sizes ranging from 20 to 400 nm and contain a wide range of cargo, including membrane proteins, periplasmic proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs possess the remarkable ability to diffuse, traverse the mucus layer, migrate directly to other tissues, and interact with various cells of the host immune system. Consequently, researchers have harnessed their potential as delivery carriers for novel immuno‐drugs or bioactive components. The separation of EVs from food can be considered a safe and effective method for harnessing their beneficial effects. In this guide, we present isolation protocols for natural EVs derived from plants, dairy products, cells, and microbes. This includes steps for raw material processing or culture as well as conditions for separation and purification. Moreover, these protocols can serve as a foundation for preparing and isolating engineered EVs. In summary, the utilization of natural EVs presents a vast array of opportunities in the fields of biotechnology, biomedicine, and food nutrition.
Multi‐factor analysis of the quality of cellar mud of Luzhou‐flavor liquor in Yibin production area
Authors: Han Baolin , Zhou Weitao , Chen Rangfang , Tian Shulin , Gong Hucheng , Wang Yu , Xu Qiang , Bian Minghong
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to conduct a thorough scientific investigation into the similarities and differences in the quality of the cellars of different Luzhou‐flavor liquor wineries in Yibin production area and the reasons for them. This study analyzed cellar mud samples from five wineries in Yibin production area. The analysis of volatile flavor compounds was carried out using headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The bacterial and archaeal community structures and their correlations were analyzed by high‐throughput sequencing. The study indicates that the Distillery A had the highest levels of ammonium nitrogen and effective phosphorus, Distillery F had the highest humus levels, and Distillery I had the highest pH levels. The community structure of the principal bacterial and archaeal communities in the five subterranean clays exhibited similarity, and all samples were dominated by Firmicutes as the primary bacterial group. However, there was variation in bacterial abundance. The cellar mud also has obvious regional differences, and there are three genera of differentially dominant archaea in the archaea. In summary, significant differences were observed in the physicochemical indexes of bacterial and archaeal abundance across all five samples. These differences led to variations in both the content and composition of volatile constituents.
Aqueous extract‐mediated green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles: Potential anti‐tuberculosis agents
Authors: Zamanian Zohreh , Tajbakhsh Elahe , Arbab Soleimani Nazila , Ghasemian AbdolMajid
Published: May 2024

The emergence of drug‐resistant strains in tuberculosis treatment underscores the urgency for novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the anti‐tuberculosis activity of green‐synthesized copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) using garlic and astragalus extracts. The physicochemical characterization of the nanoparticles confirms successful synthesis, followed by assessment of their antibacterial properties and safety profile. Rats infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis are treated with nanocomposites derived from garlic extract at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight. Evaluation includes the analysis of Early secreted antigenic target of 6 kDa (ESAT‐6) expression and confirmation of antibodies through molecular assays. Administration of garlic and nanocomposites demonstrates significant inhibitory effects on tuberculosis progression in rats, validated by safety assessments and antibacterial efficacy. Notably, the 100 mg/kg dosage exhibits pronounced mitigation of tuberculosis‐induced oxidative stress and lung damage. In conclusion, the combined administration of garlic extracts and green‐synthesized nanocomposites shows promising efficacy in reducing tuberculosis infection, highlighting a potential avenue for anti‐tuberculosis interventions.
Cervical cancer: Challenges and prevention strategies: A narrative review
Authors: Tsige Abate Wondesen , Beyene Dessale Abate
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections that continue to exist are the main cause of cervical cancer (CC), two‐thirds of CC occurrences worldwide are caused by HPV 16 and HPV 18, and 99.7% of CC tumors are linked to oncogenic HPV infection. To identify challenges of CC and its prevention and treatment modalities.

Methods

This review examined the epidemiology, predisposing factors, genetic factors, clinical assessment methods, current treatment options, and prevention approaches for CC. We had perform a narrative data synthesis rather than a pooled analysis. A thorough literature search in pertinent databases related to CC was done with the inclusion of data that were published in the English language.

Results

Early detection of CC is of utmost importance to detect precancerous lesions at an early stage. Therefore, all responsible agencies concerned with health should make all women aware of the benefits of CC screening and educate the general public. HPV vaccination coverage is very low in resource‐limited settings.

Conclusion

To achieve the goal of eliminating CC as a public health problem in 2030, the World Health Organization will pay special attention to increasing HPV vaccination coverage throughout the world. To further improve HPV vaccine acceptability among parents and their children, safety‐related aspects of the HPV vaccine should be further investigated through post‐marketing surveillance and multicentre randomized clinical trials.
Direct, Quantitative, and Base‐Resolution Sequencing of DNA and RNA Modifications
Authors: Xu Haiqi , Song Chun‐Xiao
Published: May 2024

Cellular DNA and RNA are decorated with diverse chemical modifications, which add new layers to gene regulation and play crucial roles across development and disease progression. Interest in understanding the functions of DNA and RNA modifications, as well as the related molecular mechanisms, has been growing, driving progress in developing chemical and biochemical tools to detect specific modifications. New technologies are important not only for uncovering biological functions, but also for driving conceptual revolutions. In this review, we highlighted our recent advances in developing new chemical tools to detect DNA and RNA modifications in a direct, quantitative, and base‐resolution manner. These includes a novel borane reduction chemistry for DNA methylation sequencing; new cytosine modificaiton oxdation chemistry for enhanced DNA hydroxymethylation sequencing; and a novel bromoacrylamide cyclization chemistry for RNA pseudouridylation sequencing. We present a mechanistic overview of these tools and their applications in epigenetic and epitranscriptomic research.
Bidirectional longitudinal associations between parental self‐efficacy and child rule‐breaking behaviours: A random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel study
Authors: Remondi Chiara , Gerbino Maria , Cirimele Flavia , Thartori Eriona , Bacchini Dario , Di Giunta Laura , Lansford Jennifer E. , Dodge Kenneth A. , Pastorelli Concetta
Published: May 2024

Parental self‐efficacy (PSE) is a pivotal determinant of change in children's adjustment. However, not only has previous research shown that PSE plays a protective role for children's rule‐breaking (RB) behaviours (i.e., parent‐driven process), but RB also can reduce parents' PSE over‐time (i.e., child‐driven process). This study examined the bidirectional longitudinal associations between PSE and RB behaviours by disentangling maternal from paternal influences and between‐ from within‐person effects. In the present seven‐wave longitudinal study involving 200 Italian children (T1: Mage = 9.80, SD = 0.65; 50.5% girls), their mothers (N = 200) and fathers (N = 190), two random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel models (one for mothers and one for fathers) were used to explore whether: (a) stable parts of PSE and RB were related to each other, (b) higher levels of PSE were associated with lower levels of RB at a given time point, and (c) higher levels of PSE at a given time point were associated with future lower levels of RB. Results provided evidence both for a parent‐ and a child‐driven process between mothers' PSE and children's RB behaviours. However, these results were not replicated for fathers. Implications are discussed.
Everything you wanted to know about ChatGPT: Components, capabilities, applications, and opportunities
Authors: Heidari Arash , Navimipour Nima Jafari , Zeadally Sherali , Chamola Vinay
Published: May 2024

Conversational Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing have advanced significantly with the creation of a Generative Pre‐trained Transformer (ChatGPT) by OpenAI. ChatGPT uses deep learning techniques like transformer architecture and self‐attention mechanisms to replicate human speech and provide coherent and appropriate replies to the situation. The model mainly depends on the patterns discovered in the training data, which might result in incorrect or illogical conclusions. In the context of open‐domain chats, we investigate the components, capabilities constraints, and potential applications of ChatGPT along with future opportunities. We begin by describing the components of ChatGPT followed by a definition of chatbots. We present a new taxonomy to classify them. Our taxonomy includes rule‐based chatbots, retrieval‐based chatbots, generative chatbots, and hybrid chatbots. Next, we describe the capabilities and constraints of ChatGPT. Finally, we present potential applications of ChatGPT and future research opportunities. The results showed that ChatGPT, a transformer‐based chatbot model, utilizes encoders to produce coherent responses.
A review on manufacturing processes of cobalt‐chromium alloy implants and its impact on corrosion resistance and biocompatibility
Authors: Mani Gopinath , Porter Deanna , Collins Shell , Schatz Tim , Ornberg Andreas , Shulfer Robert
Published: May 2024

Cobalt‐Chromium (CoCr) alloys are currently used for various cardiovascular, orthopedic, fracture fixation, and dental implants. A variety of processes such as casting, forging, wrought processing, hot isostatic pressing, metal injection molding, milling, selective laser melting, and electron beam melting are used in the manufacture of CoCr alloy implants. The microstructure and precipitates (carbides, nitrides, carbonitrides, and intermetallic compounds) formed within the alloy are primarily determined by the type of manufacturing process employed. Although the effects of microstructure and precipitates on the physical and mechanical properties of CoCr alloys are well reviewed and documented in the literature, the effects on corrosion resistance and biocompatibility are not comprehensively reviewed. This article reviews the various processes used to manufacture CoCr alloy implants and discusses the effects of manufacturing processes on corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. This review concludes that the microstructure and precipitates formed in the alloy are unique to the manufacturing process employed and have a significant impact on the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of CoCr alloys. Additionally, a historical and scientific overview of corrosion and biocompatibility for metallic implants is included in this review. Specifically, the failure of CoCr alloys when used in metal‐on‐metal bearing surfaces of total hip replacements is highlighted. It is recommended that the type of implant/application (orthopedic, dental, cardiovascular, etc.) should be the first and foremost factor to be considered when selecting biomaterials for medical device development.
A practical guide to the implementation of AI in orthopaedic research, Part 6: How to evaluate the performance of AI research?
Authors: Oettl Felix C. , Pareek Ayoosh , Winkler Philipp W. , Zsidai Bálint , Pruneski James A. , Senorski Eric Hamrin , Kopf Sebastian , Ley Christophe , Herbst Elmar , Oeding Jacob F. , Grassi Alberto , Hirschmann Michael T. , Musahl Volker , Samuelsson Kristian , Tischer Thomas , Feldt Robert ,   ESSKA Artificial Intelligence Working Group
Published: May 2024

Artificial intelligence's (AI) accelerating progress demands rigorous evaluation standards to ensure safe, effective integration into healthcare's high‐stakes decisions. As AI increasingly enables prediction, analysis and judgement capabilities relevant to medicine, proper evaluation and interpretation are indispensable. Erroneous AI could endanger patients; thus, developing, validating and deploying medical AI demands adhering to strict, transparent standards centred on safety, ethics and responsible oversight. Core considerations include assessing performance on diverse real‐world data, collaborating with domain experts, confirming model reliability and limitations, and advancing interpretability. Thoughtful selection of evaluation metrics suited to the clinical context along with testing on diverse data sets representing different populations improves generalisability. Partnering software engineers, data scientists and medical practitioners ground assessment in real needs. Journals must uphold reporting standards matching AI's societal impacts. With rigorous, holistic evaluation frameworks, AI can progress towards expanding healthcare access and quality.

Level of Evidence

Level V.
PFAS fate using lysimeters during degraded soil reclamation using biosolids
Authors: Peter Lynda , Modiri‐Gharehveran Mahsa , Alvarez‐Campos Odiney , Evanylo Gregory K. , Lee Linda S.
Published: May 2024

Carbon‐ and nutrient‐rich biosolids are used in agriculture and land reclamation. However, per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) typically present in biosolids raise concerns of PFAS leaching to groundwater and plant uptake. Here, we investigated PFAS persistence and leaching from biosolids applied to a site constructed artificially to mimic degraded soils. Treatments included biosolids and biosolids blended with mulch applied at different rates to attain either one and five times the agronomic N rate for vegetable crops and a control treatment with synthetic urea and triple superphosphate fertilizer. Leachates were collected for a 2‐year period from 15‐cm depth zero‐tension drainage lysimeters. Soils were analyzed post biosolids application. PFAS were quantified using isotope‐dilution, solid‐phase extraction and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Leachate profiles exemplified an initial high total PFAS concentration, followed by a sharp decline and subsequent small fluctuations attributed to pre‐existing soil conditions and rainfall patterns. Quantifiable PFAS in leachate were proportional to biosolids application rates. Short‐chain perfluoroalkyl acids (CF2 < 6) were dominant in leachate, while the percentage of longer chains homologues was higher in soils. A 43% biosolids blend with mulch resulted in 21% lower PFAS leachate concentrations even with the blend application rate being 1.5 times higher than biosolids due to the blend's lower N‐content. The blending effect was more pronounced for long‐chain perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids that have a greater retention by soils and the air–water interface. Biosolids blending as a pragmatic strategy for reducing PFAS leachate concentrations may aid in the sustainable beneficial reuse of biosolids.
Free‐Breathing Functional Pulmonary Proton MRI: A Novel Approach Using Voxel‐Wise Lung Ventilation (VOLVE) Assessment in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Peggs Zachary J.T. , Brooke Jonathan P. , Bolton Charlotte E. , Hall Ian P. , Francis Susan T. , Gowland Penny A.
Published: May 2024

Background

In respiratory medicine, there is a need for sensitive measures of regional lung function that can be performed using standard imaging technology, without the need for inhaled or intravenous contrast agents.

Purpose

To describe VOxel‐wise Lung VEntilation (VOLVE), a new method for quantifying regional lung ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q) using free‐breathing proton MRI, and to evaluate VOLVE in healthy never‐smokers, healthy people with smoking history, and people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Study Type

Prospective pilot.

Population

Twelve healthy never‐smoker participants (age 30.3 ± 12.5 years, five male), four healthy participants with smoking history (>10 pack‐years) (age 42.5 ± 18.3 years, one male), and 12 participants with COPD (age 62.8 ± 11.1 years, seven male).

Field Strength/Sequence

Single‐slice free‐breathing two‐dimensional fast field echo sequence at 3 T.

Assessment

A novel postprocessing was developed to evaluate the MR signal changes in the lung parenchyma using a linear regression‐based approach, which makes use of all the data in the time series for maximum sensitivity. V/Q‐weighted maps were produced by computing the cross‐correlation, lag and gradient between the respiratory/cardiac phase time course and lung parenchyma signal time courses. A comparison of histogram median and skewness values and spirometry was performed.

Statistical Tests

Kruskal–Wallis tests with Dunn's multiple comparison tests to compare VOLVE metrics between groups; Spearman correlation to assess the correlation between MRI and spirometry‐derived parameters; and Bland–Altman analysis and coefficient of variation to evaluate repeatability were used. A P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Significant differences between the groups were found for ventilation between healthy never‐smoker and COPD groups (median XCCV, LagV, and GradV) and perfusion (median XCCQ, LagQ, and GradQ). Minimal bias and no significant differences between intravisit scans were found (P range = 0.12–0.97).

Data Conclusion

This preliminary study showed that VOLVE has potential to provide metrics of function quantification.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Long‐term antiviral therapy is associated with changes in the profile of transcriptionally active HBV integration in the livers of patients with CHB
Authors: Wen Xiajie , Wu Xiaoning , Sun Yameng , Zhou Jialing , Guan Guiwen , Chen Shuyan , Shan Shan , Ma Hong , Zhao Xinyan , Wang Yu , Ou Xiaojuan , You Hong , Guo Ju‐Tao , Lu Fengmin , Jia Jidong
Published: May 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) integration exists throughout the clinical course of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). This study investigated the effects of long‐term antiviral therapy on the level and profiles of transcriptionally active HBV integration. Serial liver biopsies and paired blood samples were obtained from 16, 16, and 22 patients with CHB at baseline, 78, and 260 weeks of entecavir monotherapy or combined with pegylated interferon alfa, respectively. Serum HBV biomarkers were longitudinally assessed. RNA‐seq and HIVID2 program was used to identify HBV‐host chimeric RNAs transcribed from integrated DNA. The counts of HBV integration reads were positively related to both serum HBV DNA levels (r = 0.695, p = 0.004) and HBeAg titers (r = 0.724, p = 0.021) at baseline, but the positive correlation exited only to the serum HBsAg levels after 260 weeks of antiviral therapy (r = 0.662, p = 0.001). After 78 weeks of antiviral therapy, the levels of HBV integration expression decreased by 12.25 folds from baseline. The viral junction points were enriched at the S and HBx genes after the long‐term antiviral therapy. HBs‐FN1 became one of the main transcripts, with the mean proportion of HBs‐FN1 in all integrated expression increased from 2.79% at baseline to 10.54% at Week 260 of antiviral treatment. Antiviral therapy may reduce but not eliminate the HBV integration events and integration expression. Certain integration events, such as HBs‐FN1 can persist in long‐term antiviral treatment.