bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single‐Cell Profiling of Bone Marrow B Cells and Early B Cell Developmental Disorders Associated With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Dong Chen , Guo Yicheng , Chen Zechuan , Li Teng , Ji Juan , Sun Chi , Li Jing , Cao Haixia , Xia Yunfei , Xue Zhonghui , Gu Xixi , Liang Qian , Zhao Rui , Fu Ting , Ma Jiaqiang , Jiang Shan , Wu Chunmei , Fu Qiong , Guo Genkai , Bao Yanfeng , Guo Hua , Yang Junling , Xu Min , Zhang Xiaoming , Sheng Zizhang , Gu Zhifeng
Published: November 2023

Objective

The peripheral B cell compartment is heavily disturbed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but whether B cells develop aberrantly in the bone marrow (BM) is largely unknown.

Methods

We performed single‐cell RNA/B cell receptor (BCR) sequencing and immune profiling of BM B cells and classified patients with SLE into two groups: early B cell (Pro‐B and Pre‐B) normal (EBnor) and EB defective/low (EBlo) groups.

Results

The SLE‐EBlo group exhibited more severe disease activity and proinflammatory status, overaction of type I interferon signaling and metabolic pathways within the B cell compartment, and aberrant BCR repertoires compared with the SLE‐EBnor group. Moreover, in one patient with SLE who was initially classified in the SLE‐EBlo group, early B cell deficiency and associated abnormalities were largely rectified in a second BM sample at the remission phase.

Conclusion

In summary, this study suggests that early B cell loss in BM defines a unique pathological state in a subset of patients with SLE that may play an active role in the dysregulated autoimmune responses.
A Reusable Fluorescent Molecular Self‐Assembly Cage for Simultaneous Detection and Recycling of Silver(I) Ion
Authors: Yu Haitao , Luo Yanju , Luo Shuai , Zhu Wencheng , Chen Shunwei , Lu Zhiyun , Zheng Xujun
Published: November 2023

Although molecular self‐assembled porous materials capable of ratiometric fluorescence probing and recycling of metal ions are both economically and environmentally attractive, very few current efforts have been devoted. Herein, we demonstrated a three‐dimensional pure organic cage, namely 4‐cage, which can serve as a fluorescent probe for simultaneous ratiometric detection and recycling of Ag+ ion. Taking advantage of the promising emission behavior of its rigidified tetraphenylethylene scaffolds and the chelating ability of its dynamically reversible imine moieties, on one hand, upon the addition of Ag+, 4‐cage undergoes coordination to form a stable but poorly soluble fluorescent complex, Ag+@4‐cage, accompanied by a fluorescence color change from bluish‐green to yellowish‐green. This allows us to differentiate Ag+ from other cations with high selectivity. On the other hand, upon the addition of Cl− anion, Ag+@4‐cage can be effectively converted into free 4‐cage due to the competitive coordination of Cl− with Ag+. Through this process, secondary usage of 4‐cage and the recycling of Ag+ ion can be achieved.
A landscape of recent advances in lipid nanoparticles and their translational potential for the treatment of solid tumors
Authors: Paun Radu A. , Jurchuk Sarah , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: November 2023

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are biocompatible drug delivery systems that have found numerous applications in medicine. Their versatile nature enables the encapsulation and targeting of various types of medically relevant molecular cargo, including oligonucleotides, proteins, and small molecules for the treatment of diseases, such as cancer. Cancers that form solid tumors are particularly relevant for LNP‐based therapeutics due to the enhanced permeation and retention effect that allows nanoparticles to accumulate within the tumor tissue. Additionally, LNPs can be formulated for both locoregional and systemic delivery depending on the tumor type and stage. To date, LNPs have been used extensively in the clinic to reduce systemic toxicity and improve outcomes in cancer patients by encapsulating chemotherapeutic drugs. Next‐generation lipid nanoparticles are currently being developed to expand their use in gene therapy and immunotherapy, as well as to enable the co‐encapsulation of multiple drugs in a single system. Other developments include the design of targeted LNPs to specific cells and tissues, and triggerable release systems to control cargo delivery at the tumor site. This review paper highlights recent developments in LNP drug delivery formulations and focuses on the treatment of solid tumors, while also discussing some of their current translational limitations and potential opportunities in the field.
Experimental study of wastewater micropollutant removal by solar photo‐Fenton using a virtual lab
Authors: Guadalupe Pinna‐Hernández María , Casas López José Luis , Esteban García Ana Belén , Zurano Ana Sánchez , Fernández Sevilla José María
Published: November 2023

New technologies are providing opportunities for the design of novel educational methodologies. Virtual laboratories can simulate real conditions, thus reducing the workload of teachers and students, and removing the costs associated with laboratory or pilot plant tests. The present work describes the creation of a virtual and interactive lab using the Easy JavaScript Simulation (EJsS) 6.0 tool. The solar photo‐Fenton process for the degradation of the Acetamiprid pesticide (ACTM) as a micropollutant model in wastewater was implemented in discontinuous mode in a stirred tank reactor (STR) and in continuous mode in a raceway pond reactor (RPR). The objective was to achieve a virtual tool that would allow easy, intuitive connection to different devices (laptops, tablets, and smartphones), simplifying the difficulties related to teaching technology. This contribution details the design and implementation process of the model for its use as support material for theoretical classes. The virtual tool presented in this article is an example of how the EJsS platform can be used to teach dynamics systems in chemical engineering.
COVID‐19‐associated liver injury: Adding fuel to the flame
Authors: Wang Yingqian , Shen Min , Li Yujia , Shao Jiangjuan , Zhang Feng , Guo Mei , Zhang Zili , Zheng Shizhong
Published: November 2023

COVID‐19 is mainly characterized by respiratory disorders and progresses to multiple organ involvement in severe cases. With expansion of COVID‐19 and SARS‐CoV‐2 research, correlative liver injury has been revealed. It is speculated that COVID‐19 patients exhibited abnormal liver function, as previously observed in the SARS and MERS pandemics. Furthermore, patients with underlying diseases such as chronic liver disease are more susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 and indicate a poor prognosis accompanied by respiratory symptoms, systemic inflammation, or metabolic diseases. Therefore, COVID‐19 has the potential to impair liver function, while individuals with preexisting liver disease suffer from much worse infected conditions. COVID‐19 related liver injury may be owing to direct cytopathic effect, immune dysfunction, gut−liver axis interaction, and inappropriate medication use. However, discussions on these issues are infancy. Expanding research have revealed that angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression mediated the combination of virus and target cells, iron metabolism participated in the virus life cycle and the fate of target cells, and amino acid metabolism regulated immune response in the host cells, which are all closely related to liver health. Further exploration holds great significance in elucidating the pathogenesis, facilitating drug development, and advancing clinical treatment of COVID‐19‐related liver injury. This article provides a review of the clinical and laboratory hepatic characteristics in COVID‐19 patients, describes the etiology and impact of liver injury, and discusses potential pathophysiological mechanisms.
An Enzymatic Cofactor Regeneration System for the in‐Vitro Reduction of Isolated C=C Bonds by Geranylgeranyl Reductases
Authors: Niese Richard , Deshpande Ketaki , Müller Michael
Published: November 2023

Cofactor regeneration systems are of major importance for the applicability of oxidoreductases in biocatalysis. Previously, geranylgeranyl reductases have been investigated for the enzymatic reduction of isolated C=C bonds. However, an enzymatic cofactor‐regeneration system for in vitro use is lacking. In this work, we report a ferredoxin from the archaea Archaeoglobus fulgidus that regenerates the flavin of the corresponding geranylgeranyl reductase. The proteins were heterologously produced, and the regeneration was coupled to a ferredoxin reductase from Escherichia coli and a glucose dehydrogenase from Bacillus subtilis, thereby enabling the reduction of isolated C=C bonds by purified enzymes. The system was applied in crude, cell‐free extracts and gave conversions comparable to those of a previous method using sodium dithionite for cofactor regeneration. Hence, an enzymatic approach to the reduction of isolated C=C bonds can be coupled with common systems for the regeneration of nicotinamide cofactors, thereby opening new perspectives for the application of geranylgeranyl reductases in biocatalysis.
Mesenchymal stem cells and their extracellular vesicles in urological cancers: Prostate, bladder, and kidney
Authors: Saadh Mohamed J. , Alhuthali Hayaa M. , Gonzales Aníbal Oblitas , Asenjo‐Alarcón José Ander , Younus Dhuha Ghassan , Alhili Ahmed , Adhab Zainab Hussein , Alsalmi Ohud , Gharib Amal F. , Pecho Renzon Daniel Cosme , Akhavan‐Sigari Reza
Published: November 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recognized for their remarkable ability to differentiate into multiple cell types. They are also known to possess properties that can fight cancer, leading to attempts to modify MSCs for use in anticancer treatments. However, MSCs have also been found to participate in pathways that promote tumor growth. Many studies have been conducted to explore the potential of MSCs for clinical applications, but the results have been inconclusive, possibly due to the diverse nature of MSC populations. Furthermore, the conflicting roles of MSCs in inhibiting tumors and promoting tumor growth hinder their adaptation to anticancer therapies. Antitumorigenic and protumorigenic properties of MSCs in urological cancers such as bladder, prostate, and renal are not as well established, and data comparing them are still limited. MSCs hold significant promise as a vehicle for delivering anticancer agents and suicide genes to tumors. Presently, numerous studies have concentrated on the products derived from MSCs, such as extracellular vesicles (EVs), as a form of cell‐free therapy. This work aimed to review and discuss the current knowledge of MSCs and their EVs in urological cancer therapy.
How to perform a successful drug‐coated balloon angioplasty? Tips and tricks
Authors: Basavarajaiah Sandeep , Kalkat Harkaran , Bhatia Gurbir , Cortese Bernardo
Published: November 2023

Drug‐coated balloons (DCB) offer an excellent alternative to stents as the antiproliferative drugs are delivered via balloons and hence there is no permanent implant of metal or polymer. This rationale applies perfectly in in‐stent restenosis (ISR) as we want to avoid another layer of metal in a previously failed stent. However, their use has also been extended to de novo lesions especially in patients and lesion subsets where stents are not ideal. There is an increased desire toward expanding this further and studies are now being done which are testing DCB in large‐caliber vessels. As the use of DCB is escalating, we felt the importance of writing this article whereby we aim to provide important tips and tricks when using DCB especially for the operators who are in the early phase or have the desire of embarking this technology. From our experience, the DCB‐angioplasty substantially differs on several aspects from DES‐angioplasty. We have provided several case bases examples including algorithm when using DCB in ISR and de novo lesions.
Ellis type 4 coronary artery perforation during percutaneous coronary intervention: Case series and review
Authors: Majeed Harris , Blankenship James C.
Published: November 2023

Ellis type 4 coronary artery perforation (CAP4), also referred to as Ellis type 3 cavity‐spilling perforation, is a rare but life‐threatening complication of percutaneous coronary intervention characterized by extravasation of blood into a cardiac chamber, anatomic cavity, or coronary sinus or vessel. CAP4 is uncommon, accounting for 1.9% to 3.0% of all CAP. Only 11 cases of CAP4 have been reported in detail; we report an additional two cases and review prior reports of this rare complication. Our first case highlights a patient with chronic anginal symptoms due to a 75% concentric stenotic lesion in the mid‐LAD. Revascularization was complicated by perforation during pre‐dilation with robust contrast extravasation into the left ventricle. Successful postperforation hemostasis was achieved with heparin reversal and covered stent placement. The second case demonstrates another major mechanism of CAP4: wire perforation. During intervention, the absence of blood flow distal to the lesion in the setting of an ST segment elevation myocardial infarction obscured the course of the nonhydrophilic floppy wire leading to perforation that was managed conservatively.

In our scoping review, we found that the majority of CAP4 occurred in the LAD. The most frequently involved cavity was the left ventricle—other cavities involved were the right ventricle and coronary veins. Common etiologies of CAP4 included guidewire perforation (62%) and balloon dilation (31%). Perforation was managed with reversal of anticoagulation in 46% of cases, prolonged balloon inflation in 54% of cases, and covered stent deployment in 15% of cases. No patients required surgical repair or pericardiocentesis and perforations were successfully sealed in all cases. In‐hospital mortality was 0%.
The everolimus eluting Synergy MegatronTMdrug‐eluting stent platform: Early outcomes from the European Synergy MegatronTMImplanters' Registry
Authors: De Silva Kalpa , Li Kam Wa Matthew E. , Wells Tim , Mozid Abdul , Ladwiniec Andrew , Hynes Brian G. , Kotecha Ashish , Ratib Karim , Biswas Sinjini , Amabile Nicolas , Deharo Pierre , McEntagart Margaret , Spratt James C. , Digne Franck , Hogg Meadhbh , Mailey Jonathan A. , Walsh Simon J. , Kalra Sundeep S.
Published: November 2023

Background

The Synergy MegatronTMis an everolimus‐drug eluting stent that may offer advantages in the treatment of aorto‐ostial disease and large proximal vessels.

Aims

To report the short‐ to medium‐term clinical outcomes from the European Synergy MegatronTMImplanters' Registry.

Methods

This registry was an investigator‐initiated study conducted at 14 European centers. The primary outcome was target lesion failure (TLF), defined as the composite of cardiovascular death, target vessel myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularisation.

Results

Five hundred seventy‐five patients underwent PCI with MegatronTMbetween 2019 and 2021. Patients were 69 ± 12 years old, 26% had diabetes mellitus, 24% had moderate‐severe left ventricular impairment and 59% presented with an acute coronary syndrome. 15% were deemed prohibitively high risk for surgical revascularisation. The target vessel involved the left main stem in 55%, the ostium of the RCA in 13% and was a true bifurcation (Medina 1,1,1) in 50%.  At 1 year, TLF was observed in 40 patients, with 26 (65%) occurring within the first 30 days. The cumulative incidence of TLF was 4.5% at 30 days and 8.6% (95% CI 6.3–11.7) at 1 year. The incidence of stent thrombosis was 0.5% with no late stent thromboses. By multivariate analysis, the strongest independent predictors of TLF were severe left ventricular impairment (HR 3.43, 95% CI: 1.67–6.76,p < 0.001) and a target vessel involving the left main (HR 4.00 95% CI 1.81–10.15p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Use of the Synergy MegatronTMeverolimus eluting stent in a ‘real‐world’ setting shows favorable outcomes at 30 days and 1 year.
Treatment strategy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia with symptomatic central nervous system involvement: A case report
Authors: Dewaide Rosina , Saevels Kirsten
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case report offers support for treatment approaches in a historically rare and very difficult to treat CLL patient population with no established guidelines.

Central nervous system involvement of chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a rare condition. Its diagnosis is often challenging, and treatment can be difficult with a lack of established guidelines. We describe a case of a 76‐year‐old male Caucasian with known chronic lymphocytic leukemia for more than 25 years, initially treated with chlorambucil. Upon first clinical relapse, cytogenetic analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization combined showed three different abnormalities (complex karyotype), suggesting a poor prognosis. He was started on ibrutinib but developed an out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation 2 months later. Ibrutinib treatment was consequently discontinued. Due to the seriousness of the adverse event and the lack of apparent treatment indication after rapid improvement on ibrutinib, a watch‐and‐wait approach was maintained. Four years later, he developed progressive cognitive impairment, a balance disorder, and a peripheral facial nerve palsy. Anamnesis further revealed significant progressive weight loss. Routine blood tests did not show any abnormalities, but brain magnetic resonance imaging showed focal staining of cranial nerves and leptomeningeal staining. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed the same monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis as that was already known to be present in the peripheral blood. Further analysis ruled out sample contamination or other conditions. PET‐CT scan revealed an increased uptake in the liver, and biopsy confirmed infiltration of chronic lymphocytic leukemia at the site. The patient was first started on treatment with intrathecal administration of dexamethasone, cytarabine, and methotrexate. This did not result in complete clearance in the cerebrospinal fluid. Next, oral venetoclax was initiated, resulting in rapid clearance and clinical resolution. Venetoclax, administered orally, was able to achieve clearance of the monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis from the cerebrospinal fluid as well as clinical response of neurological symptoms. Response was durable with persistent remission at 1 year of treatment.
Cobalt Coordination Polymers Offering Hydrogen Bonding Cavities as Efficient Catalysts for Coupling Reactions
Authors: Pachisia Sanya , Goyal Hina , Aashish  , Kumar Gulshan , Gupta Rajeev
Published: November 2023

This work presents synthesis and characterization of two cobalt‐based coordination polymers (CPs) prepared by using two positionally related pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxamide fragment‐based ligands containing appended arylcarboxylic acid groups. While arylcarboxylate groups of ligands coordinate to the Co(II) ions to produce 2D CPs; the amidic N−H groups remain free and generate large cavities lined with hydrogen bonds. Such hydrogen bonding cavities based CPs were found to reversibly adsorb molecular iodine. The Lewis acidic Co(II) ions and metal‐coordinated labile solvent molecules in CPs promoted noteworthy heterogeneous catalysis for Friedel crafts reactions as well as multicomponent condensation reactions.
Porous Aromatic Framework Covalently Embedded with N‐Hydroxyphthalimide as Metal‐free Heterogeneous Catalyst for Highly Efficient and Selective Aerobic Oxidation
Authors: Fan Tao , Wang Man , Yin Ying , Fang Lei , Xu Hui , Wu Guocai , Li Liangchun
Published: November 2023

Ideal catalysts with all‐around advantages including high efficiency and selectivity, environment‐benign and good recyclability, etc. have been long‐sought yet challenging. Herein, the stable porous aromatic framework covalently embedded with N‐Hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) organocatalytic site was constructed to establish an ideal catalytic system. The synthesized PAF‐NHPI catalyst was demonstrated to be metal‐free, highly efficient, selective, recyclable and heterogeneous for the aerobic oxidation of various alcohols, aldehydes, olefins, and hydrosilanes (totally 66 examples). As a proof‐of‐concept, the continuous PAF‐NHPI packed bed reactor achieved persistent conversion of 1‐phenylethanol to acetophenone up to 95 % yield. This work provides the inspiration for developing ideal catalysts in practical production of fine chemicals.
Conformational Studies of β‐Azapeptoid Foldamers: A New Class of Peptidomimetics with Confined Dihedrals
Authors: Anshulata  , Vishnoi Pratap , Kanta Sarma Bani
Published: November 2023

Controlling amide bond geometries and the secondary structures of β‐peptoids is a challenging task as they contain several rotatable single bonds in their backbone. Herein, we describe the synthesis and conformational properties of novel “β‐azapeptoids” with confined dihedrals. We discuss how the acylhydrazide sidechains in these molecules enforce trans amide geometries (ω ~180°) via steric and stereoelectronic effects. We also show that the Θ(Cα‐Cβ) and Ψ(OC‐Cα) backbone torsions of β‐azapeptoids occupy a narrow range (170–180°) that can be rationalized by the staggered conformational preference of the backbone methylene carbons and a novel backbone nO→σ*Cβ‐N interaction discovered in this study. However, the ϕ (Cβ‐N) torsion remains freely rotatable and, depending on ϕ, the sidechains can be parallel, perpendicular, and anti‐parallel relative to each other. In fact, we observed parallel and perpendicular relative orientations of sidechains in the crystal geometries of β‐azapeptoid dimers. We show that ϕ of β‐azapeptoids can be controlled by incorporating a bulky substituent at the backbone β‐carbon, which could provide complete control over all the backbone dihedrals. Finally, we show that the ϕ and Ψ dihedrals of β‐azapeptoids resemble that of a PPII helix and they retain PPII structure when incorporated in Host–guest proline peptides.
tert‐butanol and hydrogen peroxide react over Amberlyst‐15 to form tert‐butyl hydroperoxide
Authors: El Kfoury Marie‐Thérèse , Chub Olga V. , Boffito Daria C. , Patience Gregory S.
Published: November 2023

Organic peroxides are explosive compounds that are applied as disinfectants, bleaching agents, and as initiators for polymer synthesis because of their high reactivity. Traditional homogeneous processes with H2SO4 catalyst produce salts, either in the neturalization step after reaction or due to the foramtion of tert‐butyl hydrogen sulphate, that must be disposed of, which introduces cost and represents an environmental burden. Here, we devised a flow chemistry approach to oxidize tert‐butyl alcohol (TBA) to tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) over various heterogeneous catalysts. Under acidic conditions, TBHP is the main product and di‐tert‐butyl peroxide (DTBP) and peroxy‐ketal are by‐products. The most active catalyst was Amberlyst‐15, while yield of Nafion, activated carbon, and heteropoly acids (HPA) on carbon and silica matrices was less than 1% at 70°C. In in the range of 30 to 50°C, a first order kinetic expression characterizes the tert‐butyl alcohol conversion well (). The reaction rate is slow and the rate constant, , was 0.003 min−1. Above 50°C, by‐products reacted further to acetone, methane, ethane, and other compounds.
Intravascular lithotripsy: A novel option for severe calcification of coronary artery
Authors: Lv He , Li Xinyu , Ren Zengduoji , Ma Xuelian , Qin Zhilu , Fu Qiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Severe coronary artery calcification is associated with low success rate of interventional operation, perioperative adverse cardiac events, and poor prognosis, which is a major problem faced by operators. The existing therapy methods all have inherent limitations, such as unsatisfactory balloon crossability, inadequate balloon dilation, and so on. The emergence of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) has brought the dawn of the treatment of calcified lesions by using unfocused acoustic pressure waves to fracture calcification in situ. And IVL is the only technology capable of targeting deep calcification.

Hypothesis

IVL may have great clinical application values and potential prospects.

Method

Based on the existing clinical evidence of IVL and traditional treatment ways, this review discusses the safety and efficacy of IVL. Combined with clinical practice, the precautions and coping strategies of IVL are analyzed. And the review improves the management algorithm of coronary calcification.

Results

IVL has extremely high safety and effectiveness for severe coronary calcification compared with other ways, and structural improvements of IVL will further expand its value.

Conclusions

The emergence of IVL could set off a revolution in the treatment of coronary artery calcification.
Primary mitral regurgitation: Toward a better quantification on left ventricular consequences
Authors: Neveu Antoine , Aghezzaf Samy , Oger Emmanuel , L'official Guillaume , Curtis Elizabeth , Galli Elena , Montaigne David , Coisne Augustin , Donal Erwan
Published: November 2023

Background

Left ventricular end‐systolic diameter (LVESD) and ejection fraction (LVEF) are the parameters to look for when discussing repair in asymptomatic patients with a primary mitral regurgitation (PMR). Loading conditions are altering LV‐function quantification. LV‐myocardial work (LVMW) is a method based on pressure‐strain loops.

Hypothesis

We sought to evaluate the additive value of the LVMW for predicting clinical events in patients with PMR.

Methods

103 patients (66% men, median age 57 years) with asymptomatic severe PMR were explored at rest and during an exercise stress echocardiography. LV myocardial global work index (GWI), constructive work (GCW), wasted work (GWW), and work efficiency (GWE) were measured with speckle‐tracking echocardiography at rest and low workload. The indication for surgery was based on the heart teams' decision. The median follow‐up was 670 days.

Results

Clinical events occurred for 50 patients (48.5%) with a median of event‐free survival distribution of 289 days. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) at rest was 32.61 ± 8.56 mmHg and did not predict the risk of event like LVEF and LVESD. Changes in, GLS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.55; 95% confidence interval (Cl): 0.36–0.83; p = .005), GWI (HR 1.01; 95% Cl: 1.00–1.02; p = .002) and GCW (HR 1.85; 95% Cl: 1.28–2.68; p = .001) in addition to Left Atrial Volume Index (HR 1.73; 95% CI: 1.28 – 2.33; p < 0,001) were independent predictors of events.

Conclusion

Changes in myocardial work indices related to low‐dose exercise are relevant to best predict PMR patient prognosis It might help to better select patient's candidate for “early‐surgery.”
Efficient nonlinear homogenization of bones using a cluster‐based model order reduction technique
Authors: Ju Xiaozhe , Zhou Chenbin , Liang Junbo , Tao Weiming , Liang Lihua , Xu Yangjian
Published: November 2023

We present a reduced order model for efficient nonlinear homogenization of bones, accounting for strength difference effects and containing some well‐known plasticity models (like von Mises or Drucker‐Prager) as special cases. The reduced order homogenization is done by using a cluster‐based model order reduction technique, called cluster‐based nonuniform transformation field analysis. For an offline phase, a space–time decomposition is performed on the mesoscopic plastic strain fields, while a clustering analysis is employed for a spatial decomposition of the mesoscale RVE model. A volumetric‐deviatoric split is additionally introduced to capture the enriched characteristics of the mesoscopic plastic strain fields. For an online analysis, the reduced order model is formulated in a unified minimization problem, which is compatible with a large variety of material models. Both cortical and trabecular bones are considered for numerical experiments. Compared to conventional FE‐based RVE computations, the developed reduced order model renders a considerable acceleration rate beyond , while maintaining a sufficient accuracy level.
An 8‐week compassion and mindfulness–based exposure therapy program improves posttraumatic stress symptoms
Authors: Kummar Auretta Sonia , Correia Helen , Tan Jane , Fujiyama Hakuei
Published: November 2023

The persistence of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) can be debilitating. However, many people experiencing such symptoms may not qualify for or may not seek treatment. Potentially contributing to ongoing residual symptoms of PTSS is emotion dysregulation. Meanwhile, the research area of mindfulness and compassion has grown to imply emotion regulation as one of its underlying mechanisms; yet, its influence on emotion regulation in PTSS cohort is unknown. Here, we explored the potential effectiveness of an 8‐week Compassion‐oriented and Mindfulness‐based Exposure Therapy (CoMET) for individuals with PTSS using a waitlist control design. A total of 28 individuals (27 females, age range = 18–39 years) participated in the study (17 CoMET; 11 waitlist control). Following CoMET, participants reported significant decreases in PTSS severity (from clinical to non‐clinical levels), emotion dysregulation and experiential avoidance, as well as significant increases in mindfulness, self‐compassion and quality of life. Electroencephalogram‐based brain network connectivity analysis revealed an increase in alpha‐band connectivity following CoMET in a network that includes the amygdala, suggesting that CoMET successfully induced changes in functional connectivity between brain regions that play a crucial role in emotion regulation. In sum, the current study demonstrated promising intervention outcomes of CoMET in effectively alleviating the symptoms of PTSS via enhanced emotion regulation.
Annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass tiller response to phosphate fertilizer and soil pH
Authors: McNally Brandon C. , Elmore Matthew T. , Murphy James A. , Murphy Stephanie L.
Published: November 2023

Creeping bentgrass (CB; Agrostis stolonifera L.) grows well in low phosphorus (P) soils in monoculture, however, the soil P concentration range that provides CB an advantage over annual bluegrass (AB; Poa annua L.) in mixed swards is unknown. The objective of this research was to determine how P and soil pH influence species composition when AB and CB are established from tillers in polyculture. Replicate greenhouse experiments evaluated five P rates (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 kg ha−1 P via triple superphosphate) and two soil pH levels (5.6 and 7.1). The highest P rate in the high pH soil resulted in the most AB cover (61%). Phosphate applied at 3 kg ha−1 P in the low pH soil provided the greatest CB cover (72%), which was fivefold greater than AB cover. All P‐receiving treatments in the low pH soil had similar green cover, but a species advantage for CB was only observed in the 3 kg ha−1 P treatment. Turfgrass quality was greatest when ≥6 kg ha−1 P was applied to low pH soil but was only slightly reduced at 3 kg ha−1 P. Regardless of pH, withholding P resulted in the lowest AB cover (<4%); however, these treatments resulted in poor turfgrass quality and low green cover (<30%). Aboveground shoot biomass increased linearly with P rate and was greater at the lower pH. In moderately acidic sand, AB was less competitive than CB when Mehlich‐3 P ranged from 4 to 6 mg kg−1.
Exploring the role of mechanical forces on tendon development using in vivo model: A scoping review
Authors: Usami Yuna , Iijima Hirotaka , Kokubun Takanori
Published: November 2023

Tendons transmit the muscle contraction forces to bones and drive joint movement throughout life. While extensive research have indicated the essentiality of mechanical forces on tendon development, a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental role of mechanical forces still needs to be impaerted. This scoping review aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the role of mechanical forces during the tendon developmental phase. The electronic database search using PubMed, performed in May 2023, yielded 651 articles, of which 16 met the prespecified inclusion criteria. We summarized and divided the methods to reduce the mechanical force into three groups: loss of muscle, muscle dysfunction, and weight‐bearing regulation. In contrast, there were few studies to analyze the increased mechanical force model. Most studies suggested that mechanical force has some roles in tendon development in the embryo to postnatal phase. However, we identified species variability and methodological heterogeneity to modulate mechanical force. To establish a comprehensive understanding, methodological commonality to modulate the mechanical force is needed in this field. Additionally, summarizing chronological changes in developmental processes across animal species helps to understand the essence of developmental tendon mechanobiology. We expect that the findings summarized in the current review serve as a groundwork for future study in the fields of tendon developmantal biology and mechanobiology.
Shining a light on elusive lynx: Density estimation of three Eurasian lynx populations in Ukraine and Belarus
Authors: Palmero Stefano , Smith Adam F. , Kudrenko Svitlana , Gahbauer Martin , Dachs Dominik , Weingarth‐Dachs Kirsten , Kashpei Irina , Shamovich Dmitry , Vyshnevskiy Denys , Borsuk Oleksandr , Korepanova Kateryna , Bashta Andriy‐Taras , Zhuravchak Rostyslav , Fenchuk Viktar , Heurich Marco
Published: November 2023

The Eurasian lynx is a large carnivore widely distributed across Eurasia. However, our understanding of population status is heterogeneous across their range, with some populations isolated that are at risk of reduced genetic variation and a complete lack of information about others. In many European countries, Eurasian lynx are monitored through demographic studies crucial for their conservation and management. Even so, there are only rough and fragmented population assessments from Ukraine and Belarus, despite strict protection in both countries and their importance for lynx connectivity across Europe. We monitored lynx from October 2020 to March 2021 and used camera trapping in combination with spatial capture–recapture (SCR) methods in a Bayesian framework to provide the first SCR density estimation of three lynx populations across Ukraine and Belarus, including the Ukrainian Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, southern Belarus and the Ukrainian Carpathians. Our density estimates varied within our study areas ranging from 0.45 to 1.54 individuals/100 km2. This work provides a substantial scientific component to the overall understanding of lynx conservation for a region where only broad information is available and opens the doors for further large‐scale monitoring and trend assessments. The crucial information we provide can greatly enhance the range‐wide assessments of the status of this protected species. We also discuss the implications for Eurasian lynx conservation, despite the geopolitical realities impacting species monitoring in the region. Our work serves as a baseline, not only for future conservation interventions but also to evaluate the effects of disturbance and threats to these protected populations.
The effect of experimental pollinator decline on pollinator‐mediated selection on floral traits
Authors: Brown Kaitlyn S. , Caruso Christina M.
Published: November 2023

Human‐mediated environmental change, by reducing mean fitness, is hypothesized to strengthen selection on traits that mediate interactions among species. For example, human‐mediated declines in pollinator populations are hypothesized to reduce mean seed production by increasing the magnitude of pollen limitation and thus strengthen pollinator‐mediated selection on floral traits that increase pollinator attraction or pollen transfer efficiency. To test this hypothesis, we measured two female fitness components and six floral traits of Lobelia siphilitica plants exposed to supplemental hand‐pollination, ambient open‐pollination, or reduced open‐pollination treatments. The reduced treatment simulated pollinator decline, while the supplemental treatment was used to estimate pollen limitation and pollinator‐mediated selection. We found that plants in the reduced pollination treatment were significantly pollen limited, resulting in pollinator‐mediated selection for taller inflorescences and more vibrant petals, both traits that could increase pollinator attraction. This contrasts with plants in the ambient pollination treatment, where reproduction was not pollen limited and there was not significant pollinator‐mediated selection on any floral trait. Our results support the hypothesis that human‐mediated environmental change can strengthen selection on traits of interacting species and suggest that these traits have the potential to evolve in response to changing environments.
Enhancing myocardial function with cardiac contractility modulation: potential and challenges
Authors: Li Zihan , Liu Qiming , Zhou Shenghua , Xiao Yichao
Published: November 2023

Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) offers a novel therapeutic avenue for heart failure patients, particularly those unresponsive to cardiac resynchronization therapy within specific QRS duration ranges. This review elucidates CCM's mechanistic underpinnings, its impact on myocardial function, and utility across patient demographics. However, CCM is limited by insufficient data on mortality and hospitalization rate reductions, as well as the need for specialized device implantation skills. While prevailing research has concentrated on left ventricular effects, a knowledge gap persists for other patient subsets. Future inquiries should address combinatory treatment strategies, extended usage and the impact of atrial fibrillation on device implantation. Such expanded studies could refine therapeutic outcomes and widen the scope of beneficiaries.
Dehydrogenation of Aqueous Formic Acid by Iridium and Ruthenium Complexes with Nitrogen‐rich Diamino‐bis(1H‐1,2,4‐triazole)
Authors: Ge Shun , Liu Jia‐Hao , Gong Lishan , Mo Xiu‐Fang , Liu Chao , Yi Xiao‐Yi , He Piao
Published: November 2023

The development of efficient catalysts for the dehydrogenation of formic acid (FA) through molecular level control and precise regulation remains challenging. Herein, we report the newly developed complexes of iridium and ruthenium with nitrogen‐rich ligand for aqueous FA dehydrogenation. The Cp*Ir complex 1 (Cp*=cyclopentadienyl) and Ru(p‐cym) complex 2 (p‐cym=p‐Cymene) were synthesized and fully characterized. The single crystal structures of these complexes have a typical piano‐stool structure. A turnover frequency of 12468 h−1 was achieved for FA dehydrogenation at 90 °C by using complex 1 bearing 3,3’‐diamino‐5,5’‐bis(1H‐1,2,4‐triazole) (DABT). The effects of pH, temperature, concentration of formic acid and amount of catalyst on the reaction kinetics were studied in detail. Kinetic isotope effect (KIE) experiments and 1H NMR detection of reaction revealed that a plausible mechanism involves the decarboxylation of formate and the formation of H2. More importantly, the influence of H2O and H+ was involved in the rate‐determining step. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of nitrogen‐rich ligand for FA dehydrogenation, which would contribute to the development of new and effective hydrogen release systems.
Early versus persistent Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Is there a difference in patient reported outcomes following rehabilitation?
Authors: Lewis Jennifer S. , Wallace Chris S. , White Paul , Mottram Laura , Ockenden Gareth , Rehm Kjetil , Walker Kate
Published: November 2023

Background

Expert consensus asserts that early treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) leads to better outcomes. Yet no evidence supports this assumption regarding the recognized gold standard of multidisciplinary functional rehabilitation. To address this, we aimed to establish if there is a difference in outcomes between early CRPS (<1 year symptom duration) and persistent CRPS (= >1 year symptom duration) following rehabilitation and whether any gains are maintained at three months.

Method

Secondary analysis was conducted on previously collected clinical Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS) data from 218 patients attending a residential multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme. Datasets were categorized into early CRPS (n = 40) or persistent CRPS (n = 178) dependent on symptom duration. Function, pain, self‐efficacy, kinesiophobia and psychological health domains were compared using repeated measures analysis of covariance for a two group design for group difference post rehabilitation and at three month follow‐up.

Results

Post‐rehabilitation, both groups improved in pain, function, kinesiophobia, psychological health and self‐efficacy. At three months, the persistent CRPS group maintained improvements in pain and function. This was not achieved in early CRPS.

Conclusion

This exploratory study is the first to empirically test the assumption that those with early CRPS have better outcomes following rehabilitation. Our clinical data challenges this, as both early and persistent CRPS groups improved following rehabilitation. Findings indicate that rehabilitation benefits those with CRPS, regardless of symptom duration. However, unlike early CRPS, those with persistent CRPS sustain gains at follow‐up. Further prospective exploration is warranted.

Significance

Expert consensus recommends early treatment for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, yet there is little empirical evidence to support this. Our findings are the first to challenge this assumption by revealing no difference in outcomes between early and persistent CRPS post‐rehabilitation. However, those with persistent CRPS maintain gains after three months, unlike people with early CRPS (symptoms < one year). These findings are relevant to clinical practice as they challenge established assumptions, suggesting a focus on improving early CRPS follow‐up outcomes.
Electrospun nanofibers synthesis enhancing the activity of energy storage devices/electrochemical and biosensor applications
Authors: Noor Umar , Saleem Amna , Furqan Mughal Muhammad , Sharif Ammara , Kulsum Umme , Bano Sadia , Fayyaz Farid Muhammad , Ahmed Toheed
Published: November 2023

Nanofibers have been synthesized by many methods due to its numerous applications. This article provides a thorough introduction to electrospinning here, including its history, various production techniques, common materials, and potential uses, most notably in energy storage. Electrospinning, a simple and low‐cost process, can be used to effectively manufacture nanofibers. While the method of electrospinning has been known for over a half‐century, current understanding of the process and the parameters that determine the qualities of the fibers produced by it is quite limited. This is extremely advantageous for energy devices including electrochemical (bio) sensors that give increased solar‐electric energy conversion efficiency. Apart from energy, other applications related to drug delivery, filter media and membrane like are also discussed. This article covers current advances in electrospun nanofibers, with an emphasis on their synthesis and applications.
Dye Degradation, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking Analysis of Samarium‐Grafted Carbon Nitride Doped‐Bismuth Oxobromide Quantum Dots
Authors: Rani Shams , Imran Muhammad , Haider Ali , Shahzadi Anum , Ul‐Hamid Anwar , Somaily H. H. , Moeen Sawaira , Khan Mahreen , Nabgan Walid , Ikram Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Various concentrations of samarium‐grafted‐carbon nitride (Sm‐g‐C3N4) doped‐bismuth oxobromide (BiOBr) quantum dots (QDs) are prepared by the co‐precipitation method. Elemental evaluation, morphological, optical, and functional group assessment are studied employing characterization techniques. Based on the XRD pattern analysis, it is determined that BiOBr exhibits a tetragonal crystal structure. The electronic spectroscopy revealed an absorption peak for BiOBr at 315 nm and the bandgap energy (Eg) decreasing from 3.9 to 3.8 eV with the insertion of Sm‐g‐C3N4. The presence of vibrational modes related to BiOBr at 550 cm−1 is confirmed through FTIR spectra. TEM revealed that pure BiOBr possessed non‐uniform QDS, and agglomeration increased with the addition of Sm‐g‐C3N4. The catalytic performance of Sm‐g‐C3N4 into BiOBr (6 mL) in a neutral medium toward rhodamine B exhibited excellent results (99.66%). The bactericidal activity is evaluated against multi‐drug resistance (MDR) Escherichia coli once the surface area is increased by dopant and the measured inhibition zone is assessed to be 3.65 mm. Molecular docking results supported the in vitro bactericidal potential of Sm‐g‐C3N4 and Sm‐g‐C3N4 doped‐BiOBr as DNA gyraseE. coli inhibitors. This study shows that the novel Sm‐g‐C3N4 doped‐BiOBr is a better catalyst that increases specific semiconductor's catalytic activity (CA).
Estimating runoff probability from precipitation data: A binomial regression analysis
Authors: DeGuzman Kelly , Knappenberger Thorsten , Brantley Eve , Olshansky Yaniv
Published: November 2023

The runoff threshold of a catchment is often reported in the literature as a measure used to evaluate the effectiveness of low‐impact development (LID) techniques and is oftentimes determined using linear regression. However, due to the heteroscedastic nature of precipitation and runoff data, linear regression analyses can result in invalid conclusions, so the use of a binomial regression model was investigated. Precipitation and runoff data collected from five studies were assessed for homoscedasticity and applied to four linear regression models for the evaluation of the linear regression runoff threshold (LRRT) and the associated 95% bootstrapping confidence intervals. Log‐transformation corrected the heteroscedasticity of two of the five precipitation and runoff datasets. While mixed‐effect linear models accounted for heteroscedasticity, these models often resulted in extremely large confidence intervals. A binomial regression model was created to determine the likelihood of runoff based on precipitation depth. For each catchment, the 10%–90% runoff probability range (p10–p90) is reported to provide the user with a more comprehensive understanding of when a catchment produces runoff than the LRRT. The p10–p90 range reflects the effects that environmental factors may have on runoff generation. For example, impervious catchments with limited interaction with the vegetation and soil produce a narrow p10–p90 range. Conversely, LID practices encourage the interaction of runoff with environmental factors and result in a wider p10–p90 range. Utilization of the binomial regression methodology presented herein is recommended for evaluation of the likelihood of runoff for each precipitation depth.