bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A dual functional turn off florescence sensor using metal–organic framework for sensitive detection of aluminum(III) in aqueous solution
Authors: Saedi Zahra , Roushani Mahmoud , Darabi Amin , Khaleghian‐Moghadam Roghayeh
Published: December 2023

Aluminum, classified as one of the toxic heavy metals, has a recommended daily consumption limit of 3–10 mg, as specified by the World Health Organization (WHO). Herein, the selective and sensitive aluminum(III) fluorescence sensor based on TMU‐16 metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in aqueous medium, is reported. A sensing pathway was found via the cation exchange between aluminum(III) and zinc(II) ions, and caused selectivity and sensitivity detection of aluminum(III) with a 5–100 ppm linear range and 1.99 ppm limit of detection (LOD).

This sensor offers the advantage of accurately determining the concentration range of aluminum(III) ions. At low concentrations, only fluorescence quenching was observed, while at higher concentrations, fluorescence emission not only undergoes quenching but also exhibits a blue shift in wavelength. Notably, the sensor demonstrates no interference from cation solutions of mercury(II), zinc(II), nickel(II), lead(II), cobalt(II), cadmium(II), silver(I), chromium(III), and iron(III).

Another significant feature of this sensor is its selectivity toward copper(II) and aluminum(III) ions, due to quenching fluorescence in the presence of copper(II) ion. The results presented the sensor's selectivity toward copper(II) at low concentrations and aluminum(III) at high concentrations.
JETWING technique: Combination therapy of JETSTREAMⓇ and aggressive wire recanalization in calcified atheroma and dilatation technique for eccentric heavy calcified plaques using WINGMAN for insertion of protection wire
Authors: Suzuka Yuki , Hirano Keisuke , Tokuda Takahiro , Diaz James Patrick
Published: December 2023

Although endovascular treatment (EVT) has developed and still progressing, calcified lesions remain a big challenge to operators in obtaining good results. Whenever, the eccentric and calcified plaques or nodules are present, balloon dilatation may be difficult and vascular complications may frequently occur. We present a 73‐year‐old woman, with severe, eccentric, calcified lesion in the right superficial femoral artery (SFA). First, we performed the aggressive wire recanalization in calcified atheroma and dilatation (ARCADIA) technique for the eccentric plaques. Then, we used a WingmanⓇ crossing catheter (ReFlow Medical, Inc.) to penetrate and pass through the calcifications and eventually exchanged to a ParachuteⓇ (Good Care, Inc.) filter wire. Finally, we performed rotational atherectomy using the JETSTREAMⓇ (Boston Scientific) rotational atherectomy device for debulking to obtain good lesion expansion and was able to avoid potential complications. Performing ARCADIA technique then using a Wingman catheter for inserting a filter wire before JETSTREAMⓇ atherectomy is safe and effective for heavily calcified, eccentric lesions. Further studies will be needed to validate the safety and efficacy of this approach.
Fluorescent characterization of differentiated myotubes using flow cytometry
Authors: Nolan Andy , Heaton Robert A. , Adamova Petra , Cole Paige , Turton Nadia , Gillham Scott H. , Owens Daniel J. , Sexton Darren W.
Published: December 2023

Flow cytometry is routinely used in the assessment of skeletal muscle progenitor cell (myoblast) populations. However, a full gating strategy, inclusive of difficult to interpret forward and side scatter data, which documents cytometric analysis of differentiated myoblasts (myotubes) has not been reported. Beyond changes in size and shape, there are substantial metabolic and protein changes in myotubes allowing for their potential identification within heterogenous cell suspensions. To establish the utility of flow cytometry for determination of myoblasts and myotubes, C2C12 murine cell populations were assessed for cell morphology and metabolic reprogramming. Laser scatter, both forward (FSC; size) and side (SSC; granularity), measured cell morphology, while mitochondrial mass, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and DNA content were quantified using the fluorescent probes, MitoTracker green, CM‐H2DCFDA and Vybrant DyeCycle, respectively. Immunophenotyping for myosin heavy chain (MyHC) was utilized to confirm myotube differentiation. Cellular viability was determined using Annexin V/propidium iodide dual labelling. Fluorescent microscopy was employed to visualize fluorescence and morphology. Myotube and myoblast populations were resolvable through non‐intuitive interpretation of laser scatter‐based morphology assessment and mitochondrial mass and activity assessment. Myotubes appeared to have similar sizes to the myoblasts based on laser scatter but exhibited greater mitochondrial mass (159%, p < 0.0001), ROS production (303%, p < 0.0001), DNA content (18%, p < 0.001) and expression of MyHC (147%, p < 0.001) compared to myoblasts. Myotube sub‐populations contained a larger viable cluster of cells which were unable to be fractionated from myoblast populations and a smaller population cluster which likely contains apoptotic bodies. Imaging of differentiated myoblasts that had transited through the flow cytometer revealed the presence of intact, ‘rolled‐up’ myotubes, which would alter laser scatter properties and potential transit through the laser beam. Our results indicate that myotubes can be analyzed successfully using flow cytometry. Increased mitochondrial mass, ROS and DNA content are key features that correlate with MyHC expression but due to myotubes ‘rolling up’ during flow cytometric analysis, laser scatter determination of size is not positively correlated; a phenomenon observed with some size determination particles and related to surface properties of said particles. We also note a greater heterogeneity of myotubes compared to myoblasts as evidenced by the 2 distinct sub‐populations. We suggest that acoustic focussing may prove effective in identifying myotube sub populations compared to traditional hydrodynamic focussing.
Marine heatwaves modulate the genotypic and physiological responses of reef‐building corals to subsequent heat stress
Authors: Brown Kristen T. , Genin Amatzia , Mello‐Athayde Matheus A. , Bergstrom Ellie , Campili Adriana , Chai Aaron , Dove Sophie G. , Ho Maureen , Rowell Devin , Sampayo Eugenia M. , Radice Veronica Z.
Published: December 2023

Back‐to‐back marine heatwaves in 2016 and 2017 resulted in severe coral bleaching and mortality across the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Encouragingly, some corals that survived these events exhibit increased bleaching resistance and may represent thermally tolerant populations that can better cope with ocean warming. Using the GBR as a natural laboratory, we investigated whether a history of minimal (Heron Island) or severe (Lizard Island) coral bleaching in 2016 and 2017 equates to stress tolerance in a successive heatwave (2020). We examined the genetic diversity, physiological performance, and trophic plasticity of juvenile (<10 cm) and adult (>25 cm) corals of two common genera (PocilloporaandStylophora). Despite enduring greater cumulative heat stress (6.3°C week−1vs. 5.6°C week−1), corals that experienced the third marine heatwave in 5 years (Lizard) exhibited twice as high survival and visual bleaching thresholds compared to corals that had not experienced significant bleaching in >10 years (Heron). Surprisingly, only one shared host–Symbiodiniaceae association was uncovered between locations (Stylophora pistillata–Cladocopium“C8 group”) and there was no genetic overlap inPocillopora–Cladocopiumpartnerships, suggesting turnover in species composition from recent marine heatwaves. Corals within the species complexPocilloporathat survived the 2016 and 2017 marine heatwaves at Lizard Island were the most resilient, exhibiting three times greater calcification rates than conspecifics at Heron Island. Further, surviving corals (Lizard) had distinct isotopic niches, lower host carbon, and greater host protein, while conspecifics that had not experienced recent bleaching (Heron) had two times greater symbiont carbon content, suggesting divergent trophic strategies that influenced survival (i.e., greater reliance on heterotrophy vs. symbiont autotrophy, respectively). Ultimately, while corals may experience less bleaching and survive repeated thermal stress events, species‐specific trade‐offs do occur, leaving open many questions related to the long‐term health and recovery of coral reef ecosystems in the face of intensifying marine heatwaves.
A false paradigm? Do biocrust types necessarily reflect ‘successional stages’?
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Xiao Bo
Published: December 2023

The term ‘succession’ was first proposed to describe the gradual development of plants from an initial stage such as a bare ground to a well‐developed plant community, which at its peak, may reach a climax (primary succession). Accordingly, the earlier and fast growing stage (such as an annual plant community) may grant stability, organic matter and nutrients to the latter, high‐biomass and slow‐growing stages, such as trees. Commonly, reference to the different successional stages is also made once intact and disturbed communities (such as due to mechanical disturbance, tillage, fire, etc.) are compared (secondary succession). The concept was borrowed by many ecologists to describe variable biocrust types. Cyanobacterial or algal biocrust is regarded as an initial stage before turning to a later, more mature biocrust, whether composed of lichens or mosses. The underlain assumptions are that (a) the cyanobacteria provide essential stability and (b) nutrients that are required for the development of the later stages; (c) the initial biocrusts improve the water regime for the later successional stages; (d) cyanobacteria promote the lichen symbiosis; (e) due to substantial differences in the recovery time, a linear succession is inevitable, commonly from cyanobacterial/alga to lichen and lastly to moss; and (f) the cyanobacterial/algal biocrust is a temporary stage, just before being outcompeted by a later stage. It is argued hereafter that the above‐mentioned assumptions are not necessarily correct. As with higher plants, unless a direct comparison between disturbed and intact crusts justifies a reference to successional stages, different types of biocrusts commonly reflect the abiotic conditions at their site, and as such, unless the abiotic conditions change, they reflect stable communities of variable crust types. This paradigm shift may have important implications regarding inoculation efforts and directions and may explain the low success thus far obtained following inoculation experiments once performed with the more developed biocrusts, lichens and mosses.
State‐dependent estuary stopover boosts juvenile salmon growth: Implications for marine survival
Authors: Sawyer Alexandra C. , Atlas William I. , Seitz Karl M. , Wilson Samantha M. , Moore Jonathan W.
Published: December 2023

Stopover habitats allow migratory animals to bolster energy stores prior to the resumption of migration, which can increase an individual's likelihood of survival. Carryover effects from prior habitats may mediate stopover behavior: evidence suggests that low‐condition migrants exhibit longer stopovers and attain more growth during stopover than high‐condition individuals. For Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.), estuaries may be important stopover habitats during juvenile emigration from natal freshwaters to the ocean. Favorable foraging conditions in high‐productivity estuaries could boost growth, and body size at marine entry is generally positively correlated with survival to adulthood. However, the contribution of the estuarine life stage to individual fitness across the salmon life cycle remains poorly understood. Here, we show that body size at freshwater exit mediates estuary stopover behavior by juvenile coho salmon (O. kisutch) and that estuary growth can increase the probability of marine survival. We performed a multiyear mark–recapture study of juvenile coho salmon in the Koeye River and its estuary, located on the Central Coast of British Columbia. We found that stopover duration decreased with increasing body size: small juveniles spent more than three times longer in the estuary than their larger conspecifics. Mean annual estuary growth rates ranged from 0.58 to 0.95 mm/day, and the smallest juveniles grew by nearly 30% in fork length during estuary stopover. Consequently, each out‐migrating juvenile cohort entered the ocean larger and less variable in body size than it was at freshwater exit. Analysis of returning spawners from two juvenile cohorts (2017, 2018) indicated that larger individuals had higher ocean survival rates. Using a simplistic analytical extrapolation, we demonstrate that estuary stopover could increase marine survival: For median‐sized juveniles, growth achieved in the estuary was associated with 39.8% (34.0%–46.2%) higher survival for the 2017 cohort and 39.1% (31.6%–47.0%) higher survival for the 2018 cohort. These results, from a watershed unaltered by intensive logging or development, suggest that growth achieved during estuary stopover can mitigate freshwater carryover effects and buffer size‐selective survival in a changing ocean. More broadly, these findings highlight the importance of state‐dependent use of stopover habitats in the study of migration ecology and conservation of migratory species.
Thinning occurrence points does not improve species distribution model performance
Authors: Ten Caten Cleber , Dallas Tad
Published: December 2023

Spatial biases are an intrinsic feature of occurrence data used in species distribution models (SDMs). Thinning species occurrences, where records close in the geographic or environmental space are removed from the modeling procedure, is an approach often used to address these biases. However, thinning occurrence data can also negatively affect SDM performance, given that the benefits of removing spatial biases might be outweighed by the detrimental effects of data loss caused by this approach. We used real and virtual species to evaluate how spatial and environmental thinning affected different performance metrics of four SDM methods. The occurrence data of virtual species were sampled randomly, evenly spaced, and clustered in the geographic space to simulate different types of spatial biases, and several spatial and environmental thinning distances were used to thin the occurrence data. Null datasets were also generated for each thinning distance where we randomly removed the same number of occurrences by a thinning distance and compared the results of the thinned and null datasets. We found that spatially or environmentally thinned occurrence data is no better than randomly removing them, given that thinned datasets performed similarly to null datasets. Specifically, spatial and environmental thinning led to a general decrease in model performances across all SDM methods. These results were observed for real and virtual species, were positively associated with thinning distance, and were consistent across the different types of spatial biases. Our results suggest that thinning occurrence data usually fails to improve SDM performance and that the use of thinning approaches when modeling species distributions should be considered carefully.
A meta‐analysis examining how fish biodiversity varies with marine protected area size and age
Authors: Hollitzer Helene A. L. , May Felix , Blowes Shane A.
Published: December 2023

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are a well‐established conservation practice worldwide, but their effectiveness in protecting or replenishing fish biodiversity remains uneven. Understanding the patterns of this heterogeneity is central to general guidelines for MPA design and can ultimately provide guidance on how to maximize MPA potential. Here, we examine associations between the degree of protection, duration of protection, and protected area size, with fish biodiversity inside of protected areas relative to that of sites nearby, but outside of protected areas. We quantitatively synthesize 116 published estimates of species richness from 72 MPAs and 38 estimates of Shannon entropy from 21 MPAs. We show that species richness is on average 18% (95% CIs: 10%–29%) higher in protected areas than in areas open to fishing; on average, Shannon entropy is 13% (95% CIs: −2% to 31%) higher within protected areas relative to outside. We find no relationship between the degree and duration of protection with the ratio of species richness inside versus outside of protected areas; both fully and partially protected areas contribute to the accumulation of species inside of protected areas, and protected areas of all ages contribute similarly on average to biodiversity conservation. In contrast to our expectations, increasing protected area size was associated with a decreased ratio of species richness sampled at sites inside versus outside of the protected area, possibly due, for example, to insufficient enforcement and/or low compliance. Finally, we discuss why meta‐analyses such as ours that summarize effect sizes of local scale biodiversity responses, that is, those at a single site, can only give a partial answer to the question of whether larger protected areas harbor more species than comparable unprotected areas.
Development of novel LAMP and qPCR assays for rapid and specific identification of Bronze birch borer (Agrilus anxius)
Authors: Peterson Donnie L. , Pecori Francesco , Luchi Nicola , Migliorini Duccio , Santini Alberto , Kyle Kathleen E. , Rutledge Claire , Sallé Aurélien , Kaya Sezer Olivia , Ramsfield Tod , Cleary Michelle
Published: December 2023

Buprestids are an emerging threat to broadleaf forests across the world. Bronze birch borer (Agrilus anxius, BBB) poses a serious threat to European birch species if the insect were to be introduced. Due to their cryptic lifestyle feeding on the vascular tissue of their host plants, buprestids and other wood borers can be difficult to observe or detect. Early detection tools are vital to swiftly implement eradication measures and prevent the establishment of introduced species. In this study, we developed novel qPCR and LAMP assays for BBB and investigated the specificity and sensitivity for their use as early detection tools in European forests. Plant chemicals may limit these assays, so we conducted sensitivity testing with extracted foliage and plant vascular tissues to determine potential inhibition effects on DNA amplification. Both assays were specific to the target species when tested against the DNA of 17 other European Agrilus/buprestid species, two Scolytinae, and five Cerambycids (N = 24). Both assays varied in sensitivity with the qPCR assay amplifying at a concentration as low as 20 fg/μL, whereas the LAMP assay amplified as low as 3.2 pg/μL. Plant chemicals in DNA extracts from leaves did not impact the sensitivity of either assay, reaching similar detection levels. In contrast, vascular tissue reduced the sensitivity of the LAMP assay, amplifying as low as 0.04 ng/μL compared with 0.008 ng/μL in the control. These results demonstrate that both assays are highly specific and sensitive tools that can be used to detect frass and identify larvae as well as monitor the spread of A. anxius. qPCR resulted in more sensitive than LAMP overall. Thus, if results are needed quickly to make fast management decisions or as an initial screening of samples, the LAMP method is optimal. However, if fine detection is critical, then qPCR is preferential.
Trauma‐informed interactions within a trauma‐informed homeless service provider: Staff and client perspectives
Authors: Barry Amanda R. , Hoffman Erin , Martinez‐Charleston Elizabeth , DeMario Milena , Stewart Justine , Mohiuddin Madeeha , Mihelicova Martina , Brown Molly
Published: December 2023

This study aims to provide practical insights for developing trauma‐informed interaction strategies between service providers and participants in homeless service organizations (HSOs). Twelve providers and 17 participants were interviewed for a qualitative study on trauma‐informed care (TIC) within an HSO. Thematic analysis revealed six themes regarding provider approaches to TIC interactions with participants: provide a sounding board, promote safety, foster understanding and respect, build relationships and trust, facilitate connection to services, and ensure flexibility in service provision. Participants noted three themes regarding their views of TIC interactions with providers: possess education and experience, build relationships and trust, and demonstrate supportive interpersonal styles. This study describes the application of TIC within an HSO, emphasizing the importance of supportive, positive interactions that promote understanding, respect, and trust. It highlights key factors in service provision. The findings expand our understanding of TIC implementation in HSOs and suggest areas for improvement.
Recent developments in heterologous production of cellulases and xylanases using the Pichia pastoris expression system
Authors: Ullah Hayat , Madadi Meysam , Asadollahi Mohammad Ali , Hu Yun , Dou Shaohua , Yan Junshu , Huan Hailin , Sun Fubao
Published: December 2023

The yeast expression system, Pichia pastoris, is one of the most robust and versatile expression systems in biotechnology and molecular biology, generally considered as a safe host for heterologous protein expression, especially for producing cellulases and xylanases at the industrial level. Despite the high recombinant protein expression rate, the potential of the P. pastoris expression system has still not been fully explored. Cultivation of P. pastoris under optimized conditions greatly relies on the strain and is associated with certain problems such as promoter strength, sensitivity to methanol, and oxygen demand. To address these issues, different genetic engineering strategies have been employed. Advancements in promoter engineering, optimization of gene dosage and codon usage, recombinant plasmid engineering using CRISPR/Cas9 system, and directed evolution strategies have proven beneficial to the yield of cellulase expression levels. This study will systemically review recent progress in various genetic engineering strategies to enhance cellulase and xylanase expression in the P. pastoris expression system. The utilization of alcohol oxidase 1 promoter (pAOX1), methanol‐free system, and recombinant plasmid engineering for improved production of these enzymes are highlighted. Additionally, we discuss the recent advancements in the P. pastoris expression system toolbox for improved cellulase and xylanase production, thus providing a deep insight into how P. pastoris is becoming the indispensable platform for heterologous protein production. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Changes in child and adolescent mental health across the COVID‐19 pandemic (2018–2023): Insights from general population and clinical samples in the Netherlands
Authors: van Oers Hedy A. , Alrouh Hekmat , Tieskens Jacintha M. , Luijten Michiel A. J. , de Groot Rowdy , Broek Emma , van der Doelen Daniël , Klip Helen , De Meyer Ronald , van der Mheen Malindi , Ruisch I. Hyun , van den Berg Germie , Bruining Hilgo , Buitelaar Jan , van der Rijken Rachel , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Kleinjan Marloes , Lindauer Ramón , Oostrom Kim J. , Staal Wouter , Vermeiren Robert , Cornet Ronald , Haverman Lotte , Popma Arne , Bartels Meike , Polderman Tinca J. C. , Zijlmans Josjan
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic negatively affected child and adolescent mental health and at the end of the pandemic (April 2022) child mental health had not returned to pre‐pandemic levels. We investigated whether this observed increase in mental health problems has continued, halted, or reversed after the end of the pandemic in children from the general population and in children in psychiatric care.

Methods

We collected parent‐reported and child‐reported data at two additional post‐pandemic time points (November/December 2022 and March/April 2023) in children (8–18 years) from two general population samples (N = 818–1056 per measurement) and one clinical sample receiving psychiatric care (N = 320–370) and compared these with data from before the pandemic. We collected parent‐reported data on internalizing and externalizing problems with the Brief Problem Monitor and self‐reported data on Anxiety, Depressive symptoms, Sleep‐related impairments, Anger, Global health, and Peer relations with the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®).

Results

In the general population, parents reported no changes in externalizing problems but did report higher internalizing problems post‐pandemic than pre‐pandemic (p < 0.001). Children also reported increased mental health problems post‐pandemic, especially in anxiety and depression, to a lesser extent in sleep‐related impairment and global health, and least in anger (all ps < 0.01). In the clinical sample, parents reported higher internalizing (p < 0.001), but not externalizing problems post‐pandemic compared to the start of the pandemic. Children reported greatest increases in problems in anxiety, depression, and global health, to a lesser extent on sleep‐related impairment, and least on anger (all ps < 0.05).

Conclusions

Child mental health problems in the general population are substantially higher post‐pandemic compared to pre‐pandemic measurements. In children in psychiatric care mental health problems have increased during the pandemic and are substantially higher post‐pandemic than at the start of the pandemic. Longitudinal and comparative studies are needed to assess what the most important drivers of these changes are.
Morphological description of spontaneous pelvic fin loss in a neotropical cichlid fish
Authors: Ehemann Nicolás Roberto , Meyer Axel , Hulsey Christopher Darrin
Published: December 2023

Pelvic fins are a characteristic structure of the vertebrate Bauplan. Yet, pelvic fin loss has occurred repeatedly across a wide diversity of other lineages of tetrapods and at least 48 times in teleost fishes. This pelvic finless condition is often associated with other morphological features such as body elongation, loss of additional structures, and bilateral asymmetry. However, despite the remarkable diversity in the several thousand cichlid fish species, none of them are characterized by the complete absence of pelvic fins. Here, we examined the musculoskeletal structure and associated bilateral asymmetry in Midas cichlids (Amphilophus cf. citrinellus) that lost their pelvic fins spontaneously in the laboratory. Due to this apparent mutational loss of the pelvic girdle and fins, the external and internal anatomy are described in a series of “normal” Midas individuals and their pelvic finless sibling tankmates. First, other traits associated with teleost pelvic fin loss, the genetic basis of pelvic fin loss, and the potential for pleiotropic effects of these genes on other traits in teleosts were all reviewed. Using these traits as a guide, we investigated whether other morphological differences were associated with the pelvic girdle/fin loss. The mean values of the masses of muscle of the pectoral fin, fin ray numbers in the unpaired fins, and oral jaw tooth numbers did not differ between the two pelvic fin morphotypes. However, significant differences in meristic values of the paired traits assessed were observed for the same side of the body between morphotypes. Notably, bilateral asymmetry was found exclusively for the posterior lateral line scales. Finally, we found limited evidence of pleiotropic effects, such as lateral line scale numbers and fluctuating asymmetry between the Midas pelvic fin morphotypes. The fast and relatively isolated changes in the Midas cichlids suggest minor but interesting pleiotropic effects could accompany loss of cichlid pelvic fins.
Rapid screening and evaluation of natural antioxidants from leaf, stem, and root of Artemisia argyi by online liquid microextraction combined with HPLC‐based antioxidant assay system coupled with calibration quantitative analysis
Authors: Yang Wei‐Qi , Huang Qi , Wu Meng‐Qi , Mei Quan‐Xi , Zou Yuan‐Sheng , Qian Zheng‐Ming , Tang Dan
Published: December 2023

To reveal the utilization value of leaf, stem, and root of Artemisia argyi, a rapid online liquid microextraction combined with a high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with 2,2‐nitrogen‐di (3‐ethyl‐benzothiazole‐6‐sulfonic acid) diammonium salt antioxidant assay system was established for analysis of antioxidants in the leaf, stem, and root of A. argyi, and a calibration quantitative method of antioxidant activity with equivalent chlorogenic acid was proposed. Thirty‐three positive peaks were identified; among them, 12 compounds were found that possess good antioxidant activity including eleven organic acids (components 2–4, 8, 11–14, 17, 19, and 21) and one flavonoids (component 22). The proposed calibration quantitative method avoided the influence of content of compound and compared the extent of radical scavenging capacity of five antioxidant compounds, which were ranked as follow: 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid > 3,4‐dicaffeoylquinic acid ≈ 4,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid > 1,4‐dicaffeoylquinic acid > chlorogenic acid. In conclusion, this study provided composition and biological potential for the future development of the leaf, stem, and root of A. argyi. It is believed that the online liquid microextraction combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography based antioxidant assay system can be widely used for the rapid screening of natural antioxidant components in the different parts of natural products.
Anti‐Counterfeiting Application of Persistent Luminescence Materials and Its Research Progress
Authors: Zhang Jiawei , Wang Zhijun , Huo Xiaoxue , Meng Xue , Wang Yu , Suo Hao , Li Panlai
Published: December 2023

Persistent luminescent materials can continue to emit light after stopping excitation, and their stored energy is gradually released during the decay time after persistent emitting, which makes the color and luminance changes in slow decay and plays an important role in protecting information and combating forgery. When combined with other anti‐counterfeiting technologies to form a multi‐modal and multi‐process anti‐counterfeiting design, it perfectly hides the real information and has a broad application prospect in anti‐counterfeiting logo design. A brief overview of the design of three different persistent luminescence‐based anti‐counterfeiting applications in unimodality to achieve information encryption in the time dimension. The energy stored in the trap is studied to be released by different physical stimuli and applied to stimulus‐like responsive persistent luminescent materials, and the design of persistent luminescence anti‐counterfeiting applications based on many different processes in dual‐modality, obtaining the dynamic anti‐counterfeiting effect of multiple processes in multiple modes. This work reviews the research background of persistent luminescent materials in the field of anti‐counterfeiting in recent years, compares the important breakthrough progress of persistent luminescent materials applied to anti‐counterfeiting research, and finally puts forward the current problems, future challenges, and development directions.
Antibiotic‐Loaded Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylenes
Authors: Lekkala Sashank , Inverardi Nicoletta , Yuh Jean , Wannomae Keith K. , Tierney Peyton , Sekar Amita , Muratoglu Orhun K. , Oral Ebru
Published: December 2023

The occurrence of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) after total joint replacement constitutes a great burden for the patients and the healthcare system. Antibiotic‐loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is often used in temporary spacers during antibiotic treatment. PMMA is not a load‐bearing solution and needs to be replaced by a functional implant. Elution from the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bearing surface for drug delivery can combine functionality with the release of clinically relevant doses of antibiotics. In this study, the feasibility of incorporating a range of antibiotics into UHMWPE is investigated. Drug stability is assessed by thermo‐gravimetric analysis and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Drug‐loaded UHMWPEs are prepared by compression molding, using eight antibiotics at different loading. The predicted intra‐articular concentrations of drugs eluted from UHMWPE are above minimum inhibitory concentration for at least 3 weeks against Staphylococci, which are the major causative bacteria for PJI. The antibacterial efficacy is confirmed for samples covering 2% of a representative knee implant in vitro over 72 h, showing that a small fraction of the implant surface loaded with antibiotics may be sufficient against Staphylococci.
Translating mesenchymal stem cell and their exosome research into GMP compliant advanced therapy products: Promises, problems and prospects
Authors: Ma Chui‐Yan , Zhai Yuqing , Li Chung Tony , Liu Jie , Xu Xiang , Chen Hao , Tse Hung‐Fat , Lian Qizhou
Published: December 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are one of the few stem cell types used in clinical practice as therapeutic agents for immunomodulation and ischemic tissue repair, due to their unique paracrine capacity, multiple differentiation potential, active components in exosomes, and effective mitochondria donation. At present, MSCs derived from tissues such as bone marrow and umbilical cord are widely applied in preclinical and clinical studies. Nevertheless, there remain challenges to the maintenance of consistently good quality MSCs derived from different donors or tissues, directly impacting their application as advanced therapy products. In this review, we discuss the promises, problems, and prospects associated with translation of MSC research into a pharmaceutical product. We review the hurdles encountered in translation of MSCs and MSC–exosomes from the research bench to an advanced therapy product compliant with good manufacturing practice (GMP). These difficulties include how to set up GMP‐compliant protocols, what factors affect raw material selection, cell expansion to product formulation, establishment of quality control (QC) parameters, and quality assurance to comply with GMP standards. To avoid human error and reduce the risk of contamination, an automatic, closed system that allows real‐time monitoring of QC should be considered. We also highlight potential advantages of pluripotent stem cells as an alternative source for MSC and exosomes generation and manufacture.
Quality of life in children with Down syndrome and its association with parent and child demographic characteristics: Parent‐reported measures
Authors: Alrayes Nuha , Issa Noha M. , Alghubayshi Omar Y. , Al‐Amaa Jumana Y. , Alsabban Ashwaq Hassan , Al Shaer Dalal Sameer , Alyoubi Reem Abdullah , Nasser Khalidah K. , Alkhiary Yaser M.
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aims to explore the association between the quality of life (QoL) in children with Down syndrome (DS) and its relationship with demographic characteristics of both parents and children. The investigation encompasses five domains: physical and psychological well‐being, autonomy and parental relationship, social well‐being, and peers, as well as school and the learning environment.

Method

An online questionnaire, the KIDSCREEN‐27, was used to measure the QoL of 112 families with DS in Saudi Arabia, referred to as “Parent‐Reported Measures.” Descriptive statistics were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences.

Results

The study found that the QoL of children with DS showed high scores in the psychological well‐being, autonomy, parental relations, school, and learning environment domains. However, the physical and social well‐being and peer domains had lower scores, although still considered “good scores.” Family income had a positively significant influence on all QoL domains. Specifically, higher family income was associated with better QoL outcomes, except for social well‐being. Parental age was found to influence psychological well‐being, while parental education and the relationship between the parent and child influenced social well‐being. Lastly, the child's gender was found to have an impact on the school and learning environment domain.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of understanding the impact of the demographic variability of children with DS and their parents on the QoL of their children. It emphasizes the need to address the needs of families with lower incomes and the importance of parental education and relationships with their children in improving social well‐being. The findings could aid policymakers and healthcare providers in improving the QoL for families with children who have DS.
Research progress and perspectives in field‐induced imprinted polymers
Authors: Xu Wan , Ou Xiaojian , Sun Yuan , Sun Yuanjun , Chen Zhenbin , Yu Xiaoqing
Published: December 2023

In the process of preparation of imprinted polymers, the introduction of external fields, such as magnetic field, microwave field, ultrasonic field, electric field and high‐energy radiation field, to improve the structure and performance of imprinted polymers has become a novel direction of the development of imprinted polymers, and relevant reports have been increasing in recent years. However, the progress of research on field‐induced imprinted polymers has not been summarized and noticed, resulting in few perspective on the shortcomings and future development of the field‐induced effect which in turn has hindered its further study. Considering this, we firstly introduced the development history and mechanism of imprinted polymers. Then, the field‐induced effects on the mechanism of polymerization and the structure and performances of imprinted polymers were summarized in the order of magnetic field‐induced imprinted polymers, microwave field‐induced imprinted polymers, ultrasonic field‐induced imprinted polymers, electric field‐induced imprinted polymers and high‐energy radiation field‐induced polymers. Significantly, the challenges to the development of field‐induced imprinted polymers were presented, and the development trends of field‐induced imprinted polymers were proposed with the aim to build the bridge for future FI‐IPs research and shed the light on the application research of the field‐induced imprinted polymers.
An environmentally friendly strategy for preparing polydimethylsiloxane/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites with multilayer structures
Authors: Zhang Menghui , Shao Liang , Zhang Tao , Yang Yanlong , Li Xiaoqiang , Ma Jianzhong
Published: December 2023

This work showcases the production of flexible polydimethylsiloxane/multiwalled carbon nanotube (PDMS/MWCNT) composites with multilayer structures via the glucose template method followed by vacuum‐assisted filtration and hot pressing. The properties of the single‐layer and multilayer composites have been systematically investigated. In the X‐band, thanks to the ohmic loss, the interfacial polarization loss at the interfaces and the multiple reflections between PDMS/MWCNT layers, the 5‐layer PDMS/MWCNT composites achieves 65.9 dB. Furthermore, all multilayer PDMS/MWCNT composites present a high retention rate of about of 90% after repeated bending with curvature radius of 1.8 mm at a frequency of 1 cycle per 2 s for 1000 times.

Highlights

The PDMS/MWCNT composites are fabricated by the glucose template method.

The 5‐layer PDMS/MWCNT composites can reach 65.9 dB in X‐band.

The PDMS/MWCNT composites present high stability even after repeated bending.
Functional surfaces by plasma grafting of itaconic acid onto polypropylene mesh: synthesis and structural investigations
Authors: Sethi Vipula , Verma Chetna , Mukhopadhyay Samrat , Gupta Amlan , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: December 2023

Polypropylene (PP) is an unflinching element of biomaterials for human healthcare, leading to enormous possibilities for their functional development within a broad range of biocompatible and bioreceptive materials. Plasma grafting of itaconic acid was carried out on a PP surface by oxygen plasma activation. The variation of grafting parameters, such as monomer concentration, reaction temperature and reaction time, as a function of the degree of grafting was investigated. The graft distribution and surface homogeneity of the PP surfaces were evaluated using confocal microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. These surface characterizations led to information about the impact of grafts on the material surface. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
The female self‐advocacy in Cancer Survivorship scale is a psychometrically sound measure of self‐advocacy in male cancer survivors
Authors: Thomas Teresa Hagan , Scott Paul W. , Nilsen Marci Lee , Lee Jiyeon , McCarthy Mary Ella , Harris Alexandria , Johnson Jonas , Donovan Heidi S.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To develop and psychometrically evaluate an adapted version of the Female Self‐Advocacy in Cancer Survivorship (FSACS) Scale in men with a history of cancer.

Methods

This psychometric instrument development and validation study used a two‐phase approach to first adapt the FSACS Scale items to reflect the experience of men with a history of cancer and then evaluate the psychometric properties of the adapted scale compared to the original FSACS Scale. The study was conducted from December 2018 through April 2022 through cancer clinics, patient registries, and national advocacy organizations. We evaluated scale reliability and validity using reliability coefficients, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and item analyses to determine a final set of scale items.

Results

Item responses from N = 171 men with a history of cancer were evaluated to determine scale validity. After removing poor‐performing items based on item‐level analyses, factor analyses confirmed that a 3‐factor structure of both the adapted and original FSACS Scale best fit the scale. The 10 new items did not outperform the original 20‐item scale and were therefore excluded from the final scale. The final 20‐item scale explained 87.94% of item variance and subscale's Cronbach α varied from 0.65 to 0.86.

Conclusion

The SACS Scale can be used in research and clinical contexts to assess the propensity of men and women to get their needs, values, and priorities met in the face of a challenge.
MXene‐Based Capacitive Deionization–Strong Competitor Among Faradaic Electrode Systems: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Dubey Prashant
Published: December 2023

Capacitive deionization (CDI) of brackish water is emerging as a sustainable and energy efficient desalination processes to mitigate the excessive demand of freshwater. Despite that the porous carbon is prime choice in the conventional CDI; its electrostatic interaction‐based limited salt adsorption capacity (SAC, up to 25 mg g−1) has driven the research interest to explore various Faradaic electrodes for attaining maximum SAC (>100 mg g−1) in supplementation with the other desalination metrics. MXene is one of the newly discovered intercalation‐type pseudocapacitive nanostructures, which promised an excellent desalination performance due to its intriguing properties, such as tuneable interlayer spacing, high electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, and structural integrity. Furthermore, its compositing/heterostructuring with other electro‐active components significantly improves the desalination activity. This article provides a systematic overview of the MXene‐based electrodes utilized in CDI along with the one‐to‐one comparison with other Faradaic systems. Materials design, structure, cell architecture, desalination metrics‐based performance evaluation, and underlying driving forces behind the salty ions removal activity are the main emphasis of discussion to realize MXene‐based efficient CDI desalination. Lastly, the key issues and perspectives of MXene‐based electrode systems are put forward towards new developments and real time implication.
Modifications of 4‐Amino‐substituted 5‐Phenyl‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)pyrazoles for the Development of New Analgesics
Authors: Shchegolkov Evgeny V. , Perminova Anastasia N. , Malkova Natalia A. , Kushch Svetlana O. , Burgart Yanina V. , Triandafilova Galina A. , Solodnikov Sergey Yu. , Krasnykh Olga P. , Saloutin Victor I.
Published: December 2023

To develop the new analgesics, different approaches to the modification of 4‐amino‐5‐phenyl‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)pyrazoles were proposed. A series of 4‐(het)arylimino‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)‐5‐phenylpyrazoles, existing as the E‐isomer, was synthesized by condensation of the 4‐aminopyrazoles with various aldehydes. Methylation of the initial substrates occurred at the NH2 group, while alkylation with bromobutyl was successfully carried out only for NH‐pyrazole to yield 3‐ and 5‐CF3‐isomeric N‐butyl‐substituted pyrazoles. The addition of phenylisothiocyanate to 4‐aminopyrazoles allowed us to introduce a thiourea fragment into their structure. According to computer calculations, all derivatives of aminopyrazoles have an acceptable ADME profile. Using the “hot plate” test in vivo, the analgesic activity of a number of the synthesized compounds was evaluated. Introducing the phenylmethanimine fragment allows us to obtain 1‐phenyl‐N‐(5‐phenyl‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)pyrazol‐4‐yl)methan‐imine as the lead compound with the analgesic activity in 1.4–2.2 times more than effect of the initial 4‐aminopyrazole, diclofenac and metamizole. In addition, the lead compound had low acute toxicity.
Molecular Docking Studies of Boron‐Containing Compounds as Dual Inhibitors of SARS‐Cov‐2 Spike Receptor Binding Domain/ACE2 Complex and Main Protease and ADMET Investigations
Authors: Ercan Selami , Pir Meryem
Published: December 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome SARS‐CoV‐2 is the causative agent of COVID‐19. Preventing binding of SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike glycoprotein to human ACE2 enzyme and inhibition of MPRO enzyme are still attractive drug targets for treatment of COVID‐19 infection. Boron atom‐containing compounds show anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti‐inflammatory, antituberculosis, anti‐dermatophytic and anti‐fertility activities. In the current study, the ADMET properties of ligands were calculated by the aim of SwissADME and pkCSM pharmacokinetics web tools. The results revealed that the ligands meet drug‐likeness properties. Furthermore, we have performed molecular docking study of boron containing dioxaborepine and oxadiazaborole derivatives to investigate binding properties of ligands against SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike glycoprotein/ACE2 complex and inhibition of MPRO enzyme. Through the ligands a derivative of dioxaborepine showed best binding score against SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike glycoprotein/ACE2 complex with a binding score of −8.93 kcal/mol and a oxadiazaborole derivative exhibited a binding score value of −8.36 kcal which is the best binding ligand to the MPRO enzyme binding site. The analysis of binding poses of ligands and ligand‐residue interactions of the systems revealed that dioxaborepines and oxadiazaboroles could have block binding of Spike glycoprotein to human ACE2 enzyme and could have inhibition effects on MPRO enzyme.