bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of C‐Aryl Glycosides by C−H Functionalization
Authors: Gou Xue‐Ya , Zhu Xin‐Yu , Zhang Bo‐Sheng , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the synthesis of C‐aryl glycosides hrough C−H functionalization has attracted extensive attention of organic synthesis chemists due to its steps and atomic economy. In this concept, we systematically summarizes the synthesis of C‐aryl glycosides with diverse regioselectivity and diastereoselectivity from the perspective of C−H arylation of glycosides and C−H glycosylation of arenes. It can be found that a series of recently developed C−H glycosylation reactions have higher site‐selectivity and diastereomeric selectivity than Friedel–Crafts glycosylation reaction. The reaction conditions are milder, which can be compatible with acid‐sensitive protective groups, such as acetals or ketals, and the deprotection is more convenient. It can be seen that there are few reports on remote C−H glycosylation of aromatic hydrocarbons, which is a new field and needs further research. In addition, C−H glycosylation has a lot of shortcomings, which need to be further explored: a) the precise regulation of stereoselectivity in the reaction process also needs further optimization; b) the research on the reaction mechanism is almost limited to DFT calculation, and there is no exact experimental evidence. For key parts, such as the specific reaction mechanism between cyclo‐metal intermediates and glycosyl donors in ortho‐CAr−H glycosylation is still unclear; c) due to the fact that aryl glycoside compounds contain bare hydroxyl groups in practical applications, it is an urgent problem to realize the compatibility of glycoside substrates containing naked hydroxyl groups or to remove the protective groups on hydroxyl groups by a mild and efficient method after the reaction; d) In this rapidly developing field, we need to study a greener, more economical and more practical C−H glycosylation of arenes in the future, which will be conducive to the synthesis of C‐aryl glycosides with more biological application significance.
Synthesis and Crystallographic Characterization of Helical Hairpin Oligourea Foldamers
Authors: Pendem Nagendar , Nelli Yella‐Reddy , Cussol Léonie , Didierjean Claude , Kauffmann Brice , Dolain Christel , Guichard Gilles
Published: March 2023

Oligomers designed to form a helix‐turn‐helix super‐secondary structure have been prepared by covalently bridging aliphatic oligourea foldamer helices with either rigid aromatic or more flexible aliphatic spacers. The relative helix orientation in these dimers was investigated at high resolution using X‐ray diffraction analysis. In several cases, racemic crystallography was used to facilitate crystallization and structure determination. All structures were solved by direct methods. Well‐defined parallel helical hairpin motifs were observed in all cases when 4,4′‐methylene diphenyl diisocyanate was employed as a dimerizing agent, irrespective of primary sequence and chain length.
A Plasmon Resonance Enhanced Photo‐Electrode to Promote NH3 Yield in Sustainable N2 Conversion
Authors: Wang Haonan , Cheng Chuanqi , Du Kun , Xu Zongwei , Zhao Erling , Lan Ning , Yin Peng‐Fei , Ling Tao
Published: March 2023

A key challenge for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reactions (NRR) is the difficulty for conventional catalysts to achieve high currents at low H* coverage to produce appreciable NH3. Herein, we specially designed an Au nanoparticle‐embedded ZnSe photo‐electrode to solve the problem. As‐designed photo‐electrode achieves excellent NRR performance with a high NH3 yield (12.2 μg cm−2 h−1) and Faradaic efficiency (27.3 %). Our work reveals that the unique plasmon resonance effect of embedded Au nanoparticles plays a key role in increasing catalytic current when the H* coverage is decreased. Moreover, we successfully established a correlation between H* coverage and NRR performance based on theoretical calculations and experimental observations. This work paves the path for the future design of catalytic materials to overcome the selectivity and yield challenge of sustainable NH3 production.
Chalcogen Bonding (ChB) as a Robust Supramolecular Recognition Motif of Benzisothiazolinone Antibacterials
Authors: Pizzi Andrea , Daolio Andrea , Beccaria Roberta , Demitri Nicola , Viani Fiorenza , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

1,2‐benzisothiazol‐3(2H)‐one derivatives are highly active against a broad spectrum of fungi as well as Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. For this reason they are extensively used, for example, as additives in detergents, leather products, paper coatings, and antifouling paintings. In this paper experimental findings are reported proving that the sulfur atom of benzisothiazolinones have a remarkable tendency to form short and directional chalcogen bondings on the extension of the covalent N−S bond and, to a lesser extent, of the C−S bond. Analyses of the Cambridge Structural Database confirm the interaction as a primary recognition motif of these systems. The electrophilicity of sulfur is crucial in the chemical reactions initiating the cascade of events resulting in the biopharmacological activities of benzisothiazolinones. The reported results suggest that the electrophility of sulfur may play a role also at earlier stages than the reactive ones, namely it may pin the compounds at the active site of target enzymes via chalcogen bondings that preorganize the system in the conformation required for the bonds formation/cleavage determining the biopharmacological activity
Asymmetric synthesis of aryl‐substituted pyrrolidines by using CFAM ligand–AgOAc chiral system via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction
Authors: Beksultanova Nurzhan , Doğan Özdemir
Published: March 2023

We have prepared a ligand library based on a ferrocenyl aziridinyl methanol core unit (simply called FAM) having a phenyl group, a cyclohexyl group, and a naphthyl group to be used in 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition (1,3‐DC) reactions for the synthesis of chiral pyrrolidines. These chiral ligands were used with AgOAc in 1,3‐DC reactions taking place between the aryl‐substituted azomethine ylides and N‐methylmaleimide as the dipolarophile. In each case, the expected aryl‐substituted pyrrolidines were obtained in good to excellent yields with acceptable enantioselectivities favoring only the endo product. The chiral catalyst system CFAM4–AgOAc was also used in 1,3‐DC reaction with different dipolarophiles such as dimethyl maleate, tert‐butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate, trans‐chalcone, and vinyl sulfone. In each case, the cycloadducts were obtained in acceptable yields albeit with low ee. Fortunately, it was possible to increase the ee up to >99% upon crystallization.
Modeled residual current cancer risk after clinical investigation of a positive multicancer early detection test result
Authors: Hudnut Andrew G. , Hubbell Earl , Venn Oliver , Church Timothy R.
Published: March 2023

Background

Positive results of a multi‐cancer early detection (MCED) test require confirmatory diagnostic workup. Here, residual current cancer risk (RR) during the process of diagnostic resolution, including situations where the initial confirmatory test does not provide resolution, was modeled.

Methods

A decision‐tree framework was used to model conditional risk in a patient’s journey through confirmatory diagnostic options and outcomes. The diagnostic journey assumed that cancer signal detection (a positive MCED test result) had already led to a transition from screening to diagnosis and began with an initial positive predictive value (PPV) from the positive result. Evaluation of a most probable (top) predicted cancer signal origin (CSO) and then a second–most probable predicted CSO followed. Under the assumption that the top‐ and second‐predicted CSOs were each followed by a targeted confirmatory test, the RR was estimated for each subsequent scenario.

Results

For an initial MCED test result with typical performance characteristics modeled (PPV, 40%; top‐predicted CSO accuracy, 90%), after a negative initial confirmatory test (sensitivity, 70%, 90%, or 100%) the RR ranged from 6% to 20%. A second‐predicted CSO (accuracy, 50%), after a negative second confirmatory test, still provided a significant RR (3%–18%) in comparison with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence–recommended cancer risk threshold warranting investigation in symptomatic individuals (3%). With a 40% PPV for an MCED test and 90% specificity for a confirmatory test, the risk of incidental findings after one or two confirmatory tests was 6% and 12%, respectively.

Conclusions

These results may illustrate the impact of a positive MCED test on follow‐up decision‐making.
Benefits versus drawbacks of delaying surgery due to additional consultations in older patients with breast cancer
Authors: Egleston Brian L. , Bleicher Richard J. , Fang Carolyn Y. , Galloway Thomas J. , Vucetic Slobodan
Published: March 2023

Background

Additional evaluations, including second opinions, before breast cancer surgery may improve care, but may cause detrimental treatment delays that could allow disease progression.

Aims

We investigate the timing of surgical delays that are associated with survival benefits conferred by preoperative encounters versus the timing that are associated with potential harm.

Methods and results

We investigated survival outcomes of SEER Medicare patients with stage 1–3 breast cancer using propensity score‐based weighting. We examined interactions between the number of preoperative evaluation components and time from biopsy to definitive surgery. Components include new patient visits, unique surgeons, medical oncologists, or radiation oncologists consulted, established patient encounters, biopsies, and imaging studies. We identified 116 050 cases of whom 99% were female and had an average age of 75.0 (SD = 6.2). We found that new patient visits have a protective association with respect to breast cancer mortality if they occur quickly after diagnosis with breast cancer mortality subdistribution Hazard Ratios [sHRs] = 0.87 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.76–1.00) for 2, 0.71 (CI 0.55–0.92) for 3, and 0.63 (CI 0.37–1.07) for 4+ visits at minimal delay. New patient visits predict worsened mortality compared with no visits if the surgical delay is greater than 33 days (CI 14–53) for 2, 33 days (CI 17–49) for 3, and 44 days (CI 12–75) for 4+. Medical oncologist visits predict worse outcomes if the surgical delay is greater than 29 days (CI 20–39) for 1 and 38 days (CI 12–65) for 2+ visits. Similarly, surgeon encounters switch from a positive to a negative association if the surgical delay exceeds 29 days (CI 17–41) for 1 visit, but the positive estimate persists over time for 3+ surgeon visits.

Conclusion

Preoperative visits that cause substantial delays may be associated with increased mortality in older patients with breast cancer.
Optimized deep neural network based DDoS attack detection and bait mitigation process in software defined network
Authors: Perumal Karthika , Arockiasamy Karmel
Published: March 2023

The software‐defined network (SDN) is a new network design with an operating system that allows better network quality control. The controller's primary role in an SDN network is to divide the control and forwarding planes in order to provide essential network power. The backup controller in an SDN may confront a variety of obstacles during a DDoS attack. It disrupts the flow of the network by attacking the service nodes hence obstructing the legitimate users from getting service. To overcome these issues, this work introduces a DDoS attack detection model that will aid in removing the attacker from the network. Initially, the input data is sent into the detection phase, which identifies the existence and kind of attacks. The presence of an attack is determined based on the data flow, and statistical features. With the reference of the extracted features, the optimized deep neural network (DNN) will decide the existence of attacker in the network. To make the decision more precise, the training of DNN will be carried out by self‐improved moth flame optimization (SIMFO) Algorithm via tuning the optimal weights. Once an attacker's presence has been identified, it is critical to remove the attacker's node from the network.
Dynamics of Electronically Excited Metal Atoms (Zn and Cd) in Rare Gas Matrices: Simulation of Multiple‐band Emission using Molecular Dynamics with Quantum Transitions
Authors: Lara‐Moreno Miguel , Negrin‐Yuvero Hassiel , Rojas‐Lorenzo German , McCaffrey John G.
Published: March 2023

Molecular dynamics with quantum transitions approach is employed to simulate the spectroscopic characteristics of the 1P1↔1S0 transitions in atomic zinc and cadmium in order to gain insight into the excited state behavior of these atoms isolated in solid rare gases neon, argon, and krypton. The absorption and emission spectra are simulated. Non‐radiative processes play a fundamental role in the transfer of population among the three electronic states initially accessed in absorption. Three distinct relaxation pathways were identified. Two of these are related to the dynamical modes described in previous works [McCaffrey and Kerins, J. Chem. Phys. 106, 7885 (1997); Kerins and McCaffrey, J. Chem. Phys. 109, 3131 (1998)] in which the system evolves to form a square planar configuration around the metal atom. The third distinct pathway involves motion on a hexagonal close packed plane. The temperature dependence of complex formation was also determined for the three relaxation pathways.
Facile Access to CO2‐Sourced Polythiocarbonate Dynamic Networks And Their Potential As Solid‐State Electrolytes For Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Habets Thomas , Olmedo‐Martínez Jorge L. , del Olmo Rafael , Grignard Bruno , Mecerreyes David , Detrembleur Christophe
Published: March 2023

Poly(monothiocarbonate)s are an interesting class of sulfur‐containing materials whose application as solid polymer electrolytes was barely studied, certainly due to the elusive production of diversified polymer architectures. Herein, a new liquid CO2‐sourced bis(α‐alkylidene cyclic carbonate) monomer was designed at high yield to allow its one‐step and solvent‐free copolymerization with thiols to produce linear and cross‐linked polymers in mild conditions. The influence of the monomer structure on the thermal properties and the ionic conductivity of linear polymers was assessed. The polymer network showed to be thermally re‐processable owing to the dynamic nature of the monothiocarbonate bonds. A solid polymer electrolyte was easily obtained from the cross‐linked material when combined with LiTFSI salt. The solid polymer electrolyte was characterized by an ionic conductivity reaching 6×10−6 S cm−1 at room temperature with a lithium transference number of 0.37 and a wide electrochemical stability window (4.0 V vs Li0/Li+) valid for lithium cycling. This work thus reports an attractive valorizing approach for carbon dioxide to deliver under mild operating conditions poly(monothiocarbonate)‐containing novel covalent adaptable network materials of high potential for energy applications, especially as solid electrolytes for batteries.
How far to build it before they come? Analyzing the use of the Field of Dreams hypothesis in bull kelp restoration
Authors: Arroyo‐Esquivel Jorge , Baskett Marissa L. , McPherson Meredith , Hastings Alan
Published: March 2023

In restoration ecology, the Field of Dreams hypothesis posits that restoration efforts that create a suitable environment could lead to the eventual recovery of the remaining aspects of the ecosystem through natural processes. Natural processes following partial restoration has led to ecosystem recovery in both terrestrial and aquatic systems. However, understanding the efficacy of a “Field of Dreams” approach requires a comparison of different approaches to partial restoration in terms of spatial, temporal, and ecological scale with what would happen given more comprehensive restoration efforts. We explore the relative effect of partial restoration and ongoing recovery on restoration efficacy with a dynamical model based on temperate rocky reefs in Northern California. We analyze our model for both the ability and rate of bull kelp forest recovery under different restoration strategies. We compare the efficacy of a partial restoration approach with a more comprehensive restoration effort by exploring how kelp recovery likelihood and rate change with varying intensities of urchin removal and kelp outplanting over different time periods and spatial scales. We find that, in the case of bull kelp forests, setting more favorable initial conditions for kelp recovery by implementing both urchin harvesting and kelp outplanting at the start of the restoration project has a bigger impact on the kelp recovery rate than applying restoration efforts through a longer period of time. Therefore, partial restoration efforts, in terms of spatial and temporal scale, can be significantly more effective when applied across multiple ecological scales in terms of both the capacity and rate for achieving the target outcomes.
Effects of angiotensin receptor‐neprilysin inhibitor on insulin resistance in patients with heart failure
Authors: Kashiwagi Yusuke , Nagoshi Tomohisa , Kimura Haruka , Tanaka Yoshiro , Oi Yuhei , Inoue Yasunori , Ogawa Kazuo , Kawai Makoto , Yoshimura Michihiro
Published: March 2023

Aims

Although the haemodynamic effects of angiotensin receptor‐neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) on patients with heart failure have been demonstrated, the effect on glucose metabolism has not been fully elucidated. We retrospectively investigated the effect of ARNI on abnormal glucose metabolism in patients with stable chronic heart failure using an additional structural equation model (SEM) analysis.

Methods

We analysed 34 patients who regularly visited to the outpatient department of our institute with heart failure from October 2021 and July 2022 and who were taking angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Seventeen patients switched from ACE inhibitors or ARBs to an ARNI (ARNI group), and the other 17 patients continued treatment with ACE inhibitors or ARBs (control group).

Results

At baseline, although the ARNI group included fewer patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in comparison with the control group (P = 0.004), patients with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction, and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction were mostly biased towards the ARNI group (although not statistically significant). The baseline insulin resistance in the ARNI group was already significantly higher in comparison with the control group [fasting blood insulin, 9.7 (7.4, 11.6) vs. 7.8 (5.2, 9.2) μU/mL, P = 0.033; homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), 3.10 (1.95, 4.19) vs. 2.02 (1.56, 2.42), P = 0.014].

Three months later, the fasting blood insulin and the HOMA‐IR levels were both found to have decreased in comparison with the baseline values [baseline to 3 months: insulin, 9.7 (7.4, 11.6) to 7.3 (4.6, 9.4) μU/mL, P < 0.001; HOMA‐IR, 3.10 (1.95, 4.19) to 1.96 (1.23, 3.09), P < 0.001]. An additional SEM analysis demonstrated that the initiation of ARNI had caused a reduction in the fasting blood insulin and the HOMA‐IR levels at 3 months independently of the baseline fasting blood insulin and HOMA‐IR levels, respectively. Similarly, the initiation of ARNI resulted in a significant reduction in serum uric acid levels (6.28 ± 0.35 to 5.80 ± 0.30 mg/dL, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

In conclusion, even in a short period of only 3 months, the administration of ARNI improved insulin resistance and consequently reduced the serum uric acid levels in patients with stable chronic heart failure. Although the ARNI group already had high insulin resistance at baseline, an additional SEM analysis revealed that the decreased insulin resistance was truly due to the effect of ARNI.
A Luminescent Metal‐Organic Framework with Boosted Picric Acid Fluorescence Detection Performance via a Complementary Capture‐Quench Mechanism
Authors: Yang Li , Tian Momang , Qin Jian , Lu Yuewen , Yu Qian , Han Ji‐Min
Published: March 2023

The strong explosiveness, toxicity and environmental pollution of picric acid make its sensitive detection important. Recently, LMOF materials are showing great potential toward efficient detection of PA. However, hindered by the weak connections between LMOFs and analytes, a feasible fluorescence selectivity and sensitivity to desired compounds by constructed LMOFs remain challenging. Herein, we propose a new strategy by using the innate adsorption ability of MOFs. We choose NDC−Zn, a highly stable LMOF with unique pore structures. The topology of ligands can capture PAs specifically inside the pores and the selectivities are further elevated. PET effects are boosted due to longer and closer contact between ligands and trapped PAs, thus higher sensitivity is also achieved. Besides, a fluorescence enhancement at a visible wavelength was found as the concentration of PA increased, suggesting a potential application of naked‐eye recognition for PA. NDC−Zn exhibited an outstanding detection sensitivity for PA with a quenching constant of 49657 M−1, as well as distinctive fluorescence quenching among 9 nitro explosives. From DFT calculations, the fluorescence quenching mechanisms such as PET and the complexation between H2NDC and PA were supported.
Upcycled synthesis and extraction of carbon‐encapsulated iron carbide nanoparticles for gap Plasmon applications in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Han Jiye , Kim Kyusun , Tavakkoli Mohammad , Lee Jongmin , Kim Dawoon , Chung In , Lee Aram , Park Keonwoo , Liao Yongping , Lee Jin‐Wook , Lee Seoung‐Ki , Oh Jin‐Woo , Sung Hyokyung , Kauppinen Esko , Jeon Il
Published: March 2023

An effective method for obtaining large amounts of metal nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulated by carbon layers through upcycling from floating‐catalyst aerosol chemical vapor‐deposited carbon nanotubes is demonstrated. NPs with diameters of less than 20 μm are selectively extracted from the synthesized carbon assortments through sonication, centrifugation, and filtration. The particles show an aggregation behavior owing to the π–π interaction between the graphitic carbon shells surrounding the iron carbides. By controlling the degree of the aggregation and arrangement, the light scattering by the gap‐surface plasmon effect in perovskite solar cells is maximized. Application of the NPs to the devices increased the power conversion efficiency from 19.71% to 21.15%. The short‐circuit current density (JSC) trend over the particle aggregation time accounts for the plasmonic effect. The devices show high stability analogue to the control devices, confirming that no metal‐ion migration took place thanks to the encapsulation.

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Myoclonic status epilepticus in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: Case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Pascarella Angelo , Manzo Lucia , Marsico Oreste , Gasparini Sara , Mechelli Alessandro , Cianci Vittoria , Bova Valentina , Mammì Anna , Ieracitano Rossella , Aguglia Umberto , Ferlazzo Edoardo
Published: March 2023

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Achieving change through gully erosion research
Authors: Wilkinson Scott N. , Rutherfurd Ian D. , Brooks Andrew P. , Bartley Rebecca
Published: March 2023

This is an introduction to a special issue arising from the 8th International Conference on Gully Erosion, held in Townsville, Australia in 2019. Research has improved understanding of gully erosion processes and increasingly emphasizes sophisticated near‐and‐remotely sensed methods to characterize and measure gullies. These data can then be analysed using equally sophisticated models and scenarios can be simulated. These advances improve the capacity to predict gully initiation and development over time and space. It is often assumed that better prediction translates into greater impact and uptake of research to solve real world gully erosion problems. Examples of impressive associations between research programmes and major gully management programmes are evident. However, there has been little assessment of the impact of gully research. We argue for a greater focus on achieving impact including interventions that better manage and prevent gully erosion. Opportunities to deliver research impact are assessed using three indicators of progression towards impact; the practical usability of research, whether it is in use by non‐researchers, and whether it is useful in guiding improvements in management. Like other natural hazards, gully erosion is a phenomenon of the social, economic and environmental context in which it occurs. Defining the contexts and consequences of gully erosion and using these to frame further research is therefore a means to increase research impact. Enhancing collaboration between research disciplines and with practitioners who act on the research, and a greater focus on the translation of results into practice, is another avenue. Expanding the monitoring and evaluation of gully management can better demonstrate the impact of past research and enable further useful investigations. We urge gully erosion researchers to consider the potential impact of their research, including how it can more effectively inform better and more cost‐effective management and political decisions.
Hydrodynamic feedbacks of salt-marsh loss in the shallow microtidal back-barrier lagoon of Venice (Italy)
Authors: Finotello Alvise , Tognin Davide , Carniello Luca , Ghinassi Massimiliano , Bertuzzo Enrico , D'Alpaos Andrea
Published: March 2023

Extensive loss of salt marshes in back-barrier tidal embayments is
undergoing worldwide as a consequence of land-use changes, wave-driven
lateral marsh erosion, and relative sea-level rise compounded by mineral
sediment starvation. However, how salt-marsh loss affects the
hydrodynamics of back-barrier systems and feeds back into their
morphodynamic evolution is still poorly understood. Here we use a
depth-averaged numerical hydrodynamic model to investigate the feedback
between salt-marsh erosion and hydrodynamic changes in the Venice
Lagoon, a large microtidal back-barrier system in northeastern Italy.
Numerical simulations are carried out for past morphological
configurations of the lagoon dating back up to 1887, as well as for
hypothetical scenarios involving additional marsh erosion relative to
the present-day conditions. We demonstrate that the progressive loss of
salt marshes significantly impacted the Lagoon hydrodynamics, both
directly and indirectly, by amplifying high-tide water levels, promoting
the formation of higher and more powerful wind waves, and critically
affecting tidal asymmetries across the lagoon. We also argue that
further losses of salt marshes, partially prevented by restoration
projects and manmade protection of salt-marsh margins against wave
erosion, which have been put in place over the past few decades, limited
the detrimental effects of marsh loss on the lagoon hydrodynamics, while
not substantially changing the risk of flooding in urban lagoon
settlements. Compared to previous studies, our analyses suggest that the
hydrodynamic response of back-barrier systems to salt-marsh erosion is
extremely site-specific, depending closely on the morphological
characteristics of the embayment as well as on the external climatic
forcings.
Spatial–temporal influence of the Mongol–Okhotsk and Palaeo–Pacific tectonic systems in NE China: Evidence from geochronological and geochemical data of felsic rocks in the east‐Central Jilin Province and southern Great Xing'an Range
Authors: Li Mengqi , Wang Shijie , Dong Xiaojie , Liu Zhenghong , Sha Qian , Li Gang
Published: March 2023

The temporal and spatial extents of the Palaeo–Pacific and Mongol–Okhotsk tectonic systems, which together dominated the Mesozoic tectonics of NE China, still remain unclear. Here, we present new zircon U–Pb ages, isotopic analyses and whole‐rock major‐ and trace‐element data for felsic rocks from west and east Songliao Basin to explore the above question. The granites in Shancheng area formed between 176 and 164 Ma and have εHf(t) values of −22.09 to −7.59 with a TDM2 age range of 3622–2336 Ma. The granites are dominated by adakites and I‐type granite whose primary magma is derived from a thickened ancient crust. The rhyolites in Wushijiazi area formed between 151 and 141 Ma and have εHf(t) values of 3.34–12.38 with a TDM2 age range of 517–1328 Ma. They are A‐type granite and have a flat rare‐earth‐element (REE) pattern with obvious negative Eu anomalies, suggesting they were derived from partial melting of lower crustal rocks. The above findings indicate that the middle–late Jurassic granite in the Shancheng area formed in a compression setting related to the subduction of the Palaeo–Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian continent and the Late Jurassic to early Cretaceous rhyolites in Wushijiazi area formed in an extensional setting related to the collapse of the Mongol–Okhotsk belt. In combination with regional geologic data, we conclude that the Palaeo–Pacific tectonic system mainly affected the east side of Songliao Basin, while the Mongol Okhotsk tectonic system mainly affected the Erguna Block, through the GXAR to the northern margin of the North China Craton (NCC).
Numerical modeling of conjugate heat transfer through concrete hollow bricks
Authors: Jamal Bouchaib , El Moutaouakil Lahcen , Mohammed Boukendil , Abdelhalim Abdelbaki , Zaki Zrikem
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the thermal conductance of concrete hollow bricks, which is necessary for the evaluation of the energy efficiency of a building. The three varieties of hollow concrete bricks that are often used to build walls in Morocco are the subject of this study. A computational model created using the finite volume method is used to evaluate the conjugate heat transfer through concrete hollow bricks. According to the results, the use of hollow brick type Ah3 reduces the heat flux by approximately 86% compared with type Ah1. It is undeniable that hollow bricks type Ah3 with a thermal conductivity of 1 W/m K can improve the thermal characteristics of building walls.
Groundwater recharge in typical geomorphic landscapes and different land use types on the loess plateau, China
Authors: Chen Peiyuan , Ma Jinzhu , Ma Xiaoyi , Yu Qiao , Cui Xuekai , Guo Jiabing
Published: March 2023

Land use significantly affects the rate and amount of groundwater recharge. To understand these patterns, stable isotope analyses (δ2H and δ18O) and hydrochemical methods were employed to study the recharge and evolution of groundwater. MixSIAR Bayesian mixture modelling and statistical regression techniques were utilized to investigate the influence of land‐use type on groundwater recharge and to calculate the contribution of various water sources to different groundwater types. These findings are important for effective management and conservation of groundwater resources. The groundwater in all studied areas displayed a magnesium bicarbonate type with notable cation exchange, and also demonstrated the dissolution of carbonate and weathering of silicate. Results from the Bayesian mixture model indicate that 69.3% of the groundwater in the Loess Plateau region was recharged by precipitation, while 86.9% of the groundwater in the loess hilly‐gully region was recharged from the surface water. Groundwater recharge was more rapid in the loess hilly‐gully region than in the Loess Plateau and was less sensitive to the land use type in the former. Dryland‐moderate coverage grassland was found to be most conducive to groundwater infiltration, whereas monotypic dryland and high‐coverage grassland inhibited infiltration to some degree. To maintain balanced soil erosion control, an increase the area of moderate‐coverage grasslands in the Loess Plateau region is recommended.
SiO2 dust induces inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis in rat lungs through activation of ASMase/ceramide pathway
Authors: Huang Fang‐cai , Du Yue , Zhang Xiang‐fei , Guan Lan , Liu Xin‐Min , Zeng Ming
Published: March 2023

The role of ASMase/ceramide signaling pathway in the development of silicosis needs to be verified by in vivo experiments. We investigated the role of the ASMase/ceramide signaling pathway in the progression of silicosis and the effect of desipramine (DMI) (1 mg/mL) on the development of silicosis, by establishing a silica (1 mL, 50 mg/mL) dust‐contaminated rat silicosis model and administering the ASMase inhibitor, DMI, to the dust‐contaminated rats. The results showed that the levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐6 were increased in the lung tissues of the rats in the dust‐contaminated group at the initial stage after dusting; the inflammatory cell aggregation in the lung tissue was increased. With time progression, the hydroxyproline content in the lung tissue increased, and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), collagen I, and vimentin substantially increased, suggesting that silicosis was formed in the lung tissue of the rats 28 days after SiO2 dust treatment. Moreover, the levels of ASMase, ceramide, and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) were increased in the lung tissue of rats. The expression of β‐catenin, fibronectin, and caspase‐3 protein was increased, and E‐cadherin protein expression was decreased in the lung tissue of the rats in the late stage of dust contamination. The ASMase and ceramide in the lung tissues of the rats in the DMI intervention group were reduced, as were the lung tissue inflammation levels, collagen expression, and lung fibrosis. These results suggest that SiO2 dust may activate the ASMase/ceramide signaling pathway in rat lung tissue, promoting pulmonary fibrosis. DMI inhibited this activation, attenuated apoptosis, blocked epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and halted silica dust‐induced silicofibrosis.
Civic engagement and well‐being among noncollege young adults: Investigating a mediation model
Authors: Fenn Natalie , Yang Manshu , Pearson‐Merkowitz Shanna , Robbins Mark
Published: March 2023

Young adults may benefit from civic engagement as a health promotion tool, as civic engagement is generally associated with positive well‐being. However, more information is needed to examine civic engagement among lesser‐educated young adults who are least likely to civically engage, and more likely to demonstrate mental health needs. We surveyed noncollege young adults (N = 621) to measure their civic engagement, meaning, civic efficacy, well‐being, and sociodemographic factors. Using an a priori model, direct, indirect, and full effects path analyses were conducted across men and women, and then the entire sample. The full effects model best fit the data with mediation by civic efficacy and meaning (χ2(2) = 0.59, p = 0.74; comparative fit index = 1.0; root mean square error of approximation = 0.00, 90% confidence interval [0.00–0.06]; R2 = 0.42). Types of engagement (civic, electoral, activism, and online) demonstrated differing relationships with well‐being. Stakeholders should resource young adults with civic skills and coping strategies to address the many challenges that civic experiences often elicit.
EXT418, a novel long‐acting ghrelin, mitigates Lewis lung carcinoma induced cachexia in mice
Authors: Kerr Haiming L. , Krumm Kora , Lee Ian (In‐gi) , Anderson Barbara , Christiani Anthony , Strait Lena , Breckheimer Beatrice A. , Irwin Brynn , Jiang Alice (Siyi) , Rybachok Artur , Chen Amanda , Caeiro Lucas , Dacek Elizabeth , Hall Daniel B. , Kostyla Caroline H. , Hales Laura M. , Soliman Tarik M. , Garcia Jose M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Ghrelin is a potential therapy for cachexia due to its orexigenic properties and anabolic effects on muscle and fat. However, its clinical use is limited by the short half‐life of active (acylated) ghrelin (~11 min in humans). EXT418 is a novel long‐acting, constitutively active ghrelin analog created by covalently linking it to a vitamin D derivative. Here, we evaluated the effects and mechanisms of action of EXT418 on Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC)‐induced cachexia in mice.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice (5‐ to 7‐month‐old) were implanted with 1 × 106 heat‐killed (HK) or live LLC cells. When the tumour was palpable, mice were injected with vehicle (T + V) or EXT418 daily (T + 418 Daily, 0.25 mg/kg/day) or every other day (T + 418 EOD, 0.5 mg/kg/EOD) for up to 14 days, whereas HK‐treated mice were given vehicle (HK + V). Subsets of T + 418 Daily or EOD‐treated mice were pair‐fed to the T + V group. Body composition and grip strength were evaluated before tumour implantation and at the end of the experiment. Molecular markers were probed in muscles upon termination.

Results

In tumour‐bearing mice, administration of EXT418 daily or EOD partially prevented weight loss (T + V vs. T + 418 Daily, P = 0.030; and vs. T + 418 EOD, P = 0.020). Similar effects were observed in whole body fat and lean body mass. Grip strength in tumour‐bearing mice was improved by EXT418 daily (P = 0.010) or EOD (P = 0.008) administration compared with vehicle‐treated mice. These effects of EXT418 on weight and grip strength were partially independent of food intake. EXT418 daily administration also improved type IIA (P = 0.015), IIB (P = 0.037) and IIX (P = 0.050) fibre cross‐sectional area (CSA) in tibialis anterior (TA) and EXT418 EOD improved CSA of IIB fibres in red gastrocnemius (GAS; P = 0.005). In skeletal muscles, tumour‐induced increases in atrogenes Fbxo32 and Trim63 were ameliorated by EXT418 treatments (TA and GAS/plantaris, PL), which were independent of food intake. EXT418 administration decreased expression of the mitophagy marker Bnip3 (GAS/PL; P ≤ 0.010). Similar effects of EXT418 EOD were observed in p62 (GAS/PL; P = 0.039). In addition, EXT418 treatments ameliorated the tumour‐induced elevation in muscle Il6 transcript levels (TA and GAS/PL), independently of food intake. Il‐6 transcript levels in adipose tissue and circulating IL‐10 were elevated in response to the tumour but these increases were not significant with EXT418 administration. Tumour mass was not altered by EXT418.

Conclusions

EXT418 mitigates LLC‐induced cachexia by attenuating skeletal muscle inflammation, proteolysis, and mitophagy, without affecting tumour mass and partially independent of food intake.
Assessment of immune function and prediction of survival and infection in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis: An exploratory study
Authors: Boeira Paula , Tan Huey , Yates Euan , Dhanda Ashwin
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim

Alcoholic hepatitis (AH), a severe complication of long‐term alcohol misuse, has a 30% 90‐day mortality. Infections are common and associated with higher mortality. There is currently no accurate method to predict infection in these patients. We aimed to test a measure of immune function, the QuantiFERON Monitor (QFM), in predicting clinical outcomes in patients with severe AH.

Methods

Peripheral blood was taken at baseline, and QFM performed according to the manufacturer's instructions. In parallel, QFM samples were analyzed with a cytokine multiplex. Clinical outcomes of mortality at 28 and 90 days and development of infection were recorded prospectively.

Results

Forty‐nine patients were recruited (mean age 51, 59% male and mean discriminant function 57.8). Interferon (IFN)‐γ release measured by standard QFM was significantly higher in survivors compared to non‐survivors at 28 (102 vs 16 IU/mL, P = 0.02) and 90 days (115 vs 32 IU/mL; P = 0.046). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was 0.79 for 28‐day mortality. IFN‐γ, IL‐10, and IL‐23 release measured by multiplex were significantly lower in patients who developed a subsequent infection compared to those who did not (115 vs 27 IU/mL, P = 0.037; 457 vs 202 pg/mL, P = 0.008; and 1039 vs 663 pg/mL, p = 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

Immune dysfunction is associated with poorer outcomes in patients with severe AH. Measurement of IFN‐γ release by standard QFM accurately predicts early mortality, which can be applied to clinical practice as a biomarker of survival. Adaptation of the test to measure IL‐10 could be used as a biomarker of subsequent infection to guide clinical treatment decisions.
Comprehensive analysis of the exosomal circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network in breast cancer
Authors: Mao Shuangshuang , Cheng Yi , Huang Yu , Xiong Huihua , Gong Chen
Published: March 2023

Background

Exosomal circular RNAs (circRNAs) played critical roles in tumor development and progression and might be novel biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers. However, the biological functions and clinical implications of exosomal circRNAs in breast cancer are unclear.

Methods

Expression profiles of exosomal circRNAs the in exoRBase 2.0 database were used to identify differentially expressed exosomal circRNAs in breast cancer. The LASSO and SVM‐RFE algorithms followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to construct the diagnostic model. The target genes of circRNAs were selected by combing differential expression analysis and CSCD, TargetScan and ENCORI databases. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis were conducted to construct a survival‐associated exosomal circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network. GSVA and CIBERSORT algorithms were used to evaluate the cancer hallmarks and immune cells in breast cancer and Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate their correlations with the circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network.

Results

In total, 347 upregulated and three downregulated exosomal circRNAs were identified in breast cancer patients. The diagnostic model based on 14 exosomal circRNAs showed a high area under the curve (AUC) value in both the training (AUC = 0.98) and validation (AUC = 0.94) dataset. In total, 70 miRNAs and 1147 mRNAs were selected as the downstream targets of circRNAs and were revealed to participate in tumor‐associated pathways, including the PI3K‐AKT, MAPK, RAS and RAP1 pathways, as well as calcium signaling pathways, in addition to transcriptional misregulations. The constructed survival‐associated exosomal circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network contained nine exosomal circRNAs, 12 miRNAs and 10 mRNAs, and showed complicated correlations and interactions within networks. Cancer hallmark pathways, including the TGF‐β, KRAS and MYC signaling pathways, tumor angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, DNA repair and G2M checkpoint, as well as immune cells, including CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, macrophage cells, memory B cells and natural killer cells, were closely correlated with the circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to systematically analyze the exosomal circRNAs in breast cancer. We established an exosomal circRNA diagnostic model and constructed a survival‐associated exosomal circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network. Our results revealed the complicated functions and potential mechanisms of the exosomal circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network in breast cancer, which need to be validated further in future studies.
A pictorial presentation and the clinical use of the modified trauma axial (MTA) shoulder x‐ray view
Authors: Tam Yat Hang , Abu Awwad Dania
Published: March 2023

Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral shoulder projections are routinely performed as part of a post‐reduction shoulder x‐ray series in the emergency department (ED). Research has shown that these projections alone are insufficient to demonstrate post‐dislocation injuries, particularly Hill‐Sachs and Bankart lesions. These concomitant pathologies are best demonstrated on axial shoulder projections but are difficult to obtain in trauma patients with limited range of motion. The diagnostic quality and the pathology demonstrated by different projections is crucial so that doctors and other ED staff can triage patients appropriately, radiologists can report on the presence or absence of post‐dislocation shoulder injuries, and the orthopaedic team can plan for follow‐up or treatment. Different modified axial views were reported to improve the post‐dislocation pathology sensitivity in the shoulder series. However, all of these shoulder axial views require patient movement. The modified trauma axial (MTA) is an alternative projection that is suitable for trauma patients that does not depend on patient movement. This paper presents several cases where the MTA shoulder projection had clinical importance when used as part of the post‐reduction shoulder series in the ED or radiology department.
Aortic thrombus with contraceptive vaginal ring use
Authors: Smith Katharyn L. , Bolton Kimberly J. , Weger Natalie S. , Hobbs Ryan A.
Published: March 2023

Background

Combination hormonal contraceptives are widely used and are available in various dosage forms. Thromboembolism is an established risk factor associated with the use of these agents, with increased rates of arterial thrombosis and venous thromboembolism reported. Arterial thromboembolism occurs much less frequently and is associated with more serious short‐term and long‐term consequences.

Aim

We report a case of aortic thrombus occurring secondary to NuvaRing use with concomitant smoking. There are no other reports of aortic thrombus resulting from contraceptive vaginal ring (CVR) use reported in the literature.

Clinical Details

This case describes a 35‐year‐old female patient with disabling claudication, severe aortoiliac stenosis, and end organ damage resulting from a nearly occlusive aortic thrombus with no identifiable source of emboli. The patient's past medical history was significant for tachycardia and tobacco use disorder. Her scheduled medicines most notably included NuvaRing for contraception. Oral anticoagulation was initiated, and the patient agreed to pursue tobacco cessation. Haematology consultation and workup was negative. Months later, an open infrarenal abdominal aorta thromboendarterectomy and bovine patch angioplasty were completed. The clinical pharmacist conducting intensive care unit admission medication reconciliation postoperatively identified continued NuvaRing use, in addition to smoking. NuvaRing was promptly discontinued. Repeat hypercoagulable workup has remained negative.

Outcome

Following NuvaRing and smoking cessation, no thrombotic symptoms have recurred.

Conclusion

NuvaRing should be considered as potential aetiology for venous and arterial thromboembolism.
Enzymatic hydrolysis as a valorization strategy of bovine lungs: Optimization of process variables and study of antioxidant capacity
Authors: Martinez F. G. , Ambrosi V. A. , Rocha G. , Sancho A. M. , Szerman N.
Published: March 2023

Background

The increase in meat production would also imply an increase in the generation of by‐products or edible offal. These by‐products can be used, due to their high protein content, as a substrate to obtain hydrolysates with functional activities. This study aimed to valorize bovine lungs by producing hydrolysates with antioxidant capacity.

Results

A response surface methodology study was carried out using a central composite design in which factors were temperature (43.2–76.8°C), enzyme/substrate ratio [ES: 0.65–4.85% (w/w)] using Alcalase 2.4 L/Flavourzyme (1:1) and pH (5.8–9.2). The antioxidant capacity of the obtained BLH (bovine lung hydrolysates) was evaluated by the ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP methods. The maximum antioxidant capacity was achieved at 53.°C, ES ratio of 2.3% (w/w), and pH of 8.2. Under optimal hydrolysis conditions, the antioxidant capacity increased rapidly from the beginning of the reaction to 30 min, reaching a maximum at 120 min; then, it decreased until the end (180 min). The degree of hydrolysis increased as hydrolysis occurred up to a maximum of 45%. Molecular weight distribution of BLH evaluated by Tricine‐SDS‐PAGE and SEC‐FPLC showed that bovine lung proteins hydrolyzed for 120 min presented low molecular weight peptides (<5 kDa), which are absent in the non‐hydrolyzed sample.

Conclusion

In this work, we optimized the variables for producing BLH with antioxidant capacity using commercial proteases in a short reaction time, making it a worthwhile strategy for the recovery of by‐products from the meat industry.