bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in scaffold for treating ligament injuries; in vitro evaluation
Authors: Liu Shuang , Al‐Danakh Abdullah , Wang Haowen , Sun Yuan , Wang Lina
Published: November 2023

Tendon/ligament (T/L) injuries are a worldwide health problem that affects millions of people annually. Due to the characteristics of tendons, the natural rehabilitation of their injuries is a very complex and lengthy process. Surgical treatment of a T/L injury frequently necessitates using autologous or allogeneic grafts or synthetic materials. Nonetheless, these alternatives have limitations in terms of mechanical properties and histocompatibility, and they do not permit the restoration of the original biological function of the tissue, which can negatively impact the patient's quality of life. It is crucial to find biological materials that possess the necessary properties for the successful surgical treatment of tissues and organs. In recent years, the in vitro regeneration of tissues and organs from stem cells has emerged as a promising approach for preparing autologous tissue and organs, and cell culture scaffolds play a critical role in this process. However, the biological traits and serviceability of different materials used for cell culture scaffolds vary significantly, which can impact the properties of the cultured tissues. Therefore, this review aims to analyze the differences in the biological properties and suitability of various materials based on scaffold characteristics such as cell compatibility, degradability, textile technologies, fiber arrangement, pore size, and porosity. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights to aid in the selection of appropriate scaffolds for in vitro tissue and organ culture.
Factors influencing advanced colorectal neoplasm anatomic site distribution in China: An epidemiological study based on colorectal cancer screening data
Authors: Zhao Kailong , Li Hongzhou , Zhang Baofeng , Pang Wenwen , Yan Suying , Zhao Xinzhu , Liu Xinyu , Wang Wanting , Han Qiurong , Yao Yao , Chu Tianhao , Feng Zhiqiang , Zhang Qinghuai , Zhang Chunze
Published: November 2023

Objective

Existing studies indicate that advanced colorectal neoplasms exhibit distinct clinical and biological traits based on anatomical sites. However, in China, especially for advanced colorectal neoplasms, there's limited information available on these traits. Our primary objective is to comprehensively study the characteristics of advanced colorectal neoplasm patients in different anatomical sites in China.

Methods

We selected information from the colorectal cancer screening database in Tianjin, China, since 2010 as the study subject. We chose valid information from 3113 patients with comprehensive data and diagnosed advanced colorectal neoplasms (ANs) from a pool of 19,308 individuals to be included in the study. We then conducted further analysis to examine the correlation between these epidemiological data and tumor location.

Results

Among the 3113 patients, neoplasms in the left side of the colon accounted for the largest proportion, while neoplasms in the right side of the colon had the smallest proportion, followed by rectal neoplasms. The highest proportion of advanced colorectal neoplasms was found among men. In the age group of 39–49 years old, the proportion of left late‐stage advanced colon neoplasms was equal to that of right late‐stage advanced colon neoplasms, while late‐stage advanced rectal neoplasms increased with age. Smoking, drinking, and a history of colon cancer in first‐degree relatives showed statistically significant associations with the location distribution of advanced colorectal neoplasms. A history of appendicitis, appendectomy, cholecystitis, or cholecystectomy did not significantly affect the location distribution of advanced colorectal neoplasms. However, among patients with such histories, there was a statistically significant relationship between advanced colon neoplasms on the right and those on the left and in the rectum. Similar results were observed for BMI.

Conclusion

Our research findings demonstrate that advanced colorectal neoplasms display unique epidemiological characteristics depending on their anatomical locations, and these distinctions deviate from those observed in Western populations. These insights contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the topic and offer valuable guidance for future research in China. We advocate for further investigations centered on the anatomical location of colorectal neoplasms to enhance the precision of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and treatment.
Photochemical Metal‐Hydride Hydrogen Atom Transfer Mediated Radical Hydrofunctionalization of Dienes and Allenes
Authors: Yan Huaipu , Shan Jing‐Ran , Shi Lei
Published: November 2023

The metal‐hydride hydrogen atom transfer (MHAT) method is widely recognized as a powerful technique for functionalizing alkenes. However, its application in the functionalization of industrial feedstock dienes and allenes is relatively rare due to challenges related to chemo‐selectivity. In recent studies, Co‐porphines have been identified as highly efficient catalysts under photoirradiation for MHAT, demonstrating an exceptional level of chemoselectivity for the functionalization of dienes and allenes, while disregarding other simple olefins present. This novel method enables the selective reductive coupling of pyridines with dienes and the allylation of aldehydes by the combination with Ti catalysis. Mechanistic studies and density functional theory (DFT) calculations support the idea that the non‐reversible transfer of hydrogen atoms from cobalt hydride to dienes and allenes, leading to the generation of allyl radicals, is the key step in the catalytic cycle.
Nonlinear Behavior of Methanol Synthesis Compared to CO2 Methanation
Authors: Leipold Johannes , Jung Magnus , Keßler Tobias , Kienle Achim
Published: November 2023

The nonlinear behavior of CO2 methanation over a Ni‐catalyst is compared to methanol synthesis over a standard Cu/ZnO‐catalyst in a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). Both reactions have received a lot of attention these days for chemical energy storage. Both reactions are exothermic but behave in a different way. CO2 methanation is known to be strongly exothermic, giving rise to multiple steady states. This behavior is induced by the self‐acceleration of the methanation reaction because the heat production of the chemical reaction increases with rising temperature. It is shown that methanol synthesis behaves fundamentally different under the operating conditions usually employed in practice. It is less exothermic but, even more important, the overall heat production of the methanol reaction system decreases with increasing temperature, giving rise to a unique and stable steady state. This insight is obtained with an extension of the classical graphical analysis with heat production and heat removal curves.
Production and Characterization of Biodiesel from Castor Seed Oil Using Cocoa Pod Ash as Catalyst
Authors: Olatayo Olahanmi A. , Sunday Ogunniyi D. , Olaluwoye Oladimeji S.
Published: November 2023

A major problem retarding the commercialization of biodiesel is the derivation of catalysts and feedstocks from high‐cost materials. Hence, the following proposal is being put forward to mitigate this challenge: Extract and characterize castor oil, synthesize and characterize cocoa pod ash as the base catalyst, and apply the base catalyst for biodiesel production. Cocoa pods were heated at 600 °C for 35 min in a muffle furnace and the product sieved to obtain ash with uniform size distribution. The yield of castor oil extracted was 42 %, and the synthesized catalyst was capable of transesterifying the extracted oil. Castor oil was converted to biodiesel with cocoa pod ash as catalyst. A biodiesel yield of 88 % was obtained. The catalyst was characterized by various methods to confirm the presence of active sites. The physicochemical properties of the biodiesel product are consistent with literature values.
Microelectrode Arrays, Electrocatalysis, and the Need for Proper Characterization
Authors: Huang Albert , Krueger Ruby , Moeller Kevin D.
Published: November 2023

Indirect electrochemical methods are a powerful tool for synthetic chemistry because they allow for the optimization of chemical selectivity in a reaction while maintaining the advantages of electrochemistry in terms of sustainability. Recently, we have found that such methods provide a handle for not only the synthesis of complex molecules, but also the construction of complex, addressable molecular surfaces. In this effort, the indirect electrochemical methods enable the placement or synthesis of molecules by any electrode or set of electrodes in a microelectrode array. The success of these surface‐based reactions are typically evaluated with the use of fluorescence labelling studies. However, these fluorescence‐based evaluations can be misleading. While they are excellent for determining that a reaction has occurred in a site‐selective fashion on an array, they do not provide information on whether that reaction is the one desired or how well it worked. We describe here how the use of a “safety‐catch” linker strategy allows for a more accurate assessment of reaction quality on an array, and then use that capability to illustrate how the use of transition metal mediated cross‐coupling reactions on an array prevent unwanted background reactions that can occur on a polymer‐coated electrode surface. The method enables a unique level of quality control for array‐based transformations.
Immunohistochemical characteristics and potential therapeutic regimens of hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach: a study of 139 cases
Authors: Yang Xuesong , Wu Yan , Wang Anqiang , Ma Xiuli , Zhou Kai , Ji Ke , Ji Xin , Zhang Ji , Wu Xiaojiang , Li ZhongWu , Bu Zhaode
Published: November 2023

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of stomach (HAS) is a special subtype of gastric cancer with poor prognosis. Immunohistochemical analysis could provide important clues for the treatment of HAS. A total of 159 patients were diagnosed as HAS and 139 were enrolled in this study. Statistical differences were determined using relative test methods and survival analyses were performed by the Kaplan–Meier method to find survival differences. All tumors in this study were negative for Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded small RNAs (EBERs) and almost all showed no loss of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins and were positive for alpha fetoprotein (AFP or spalt like transcription factor 4 (SALL4). About half of the tumors had a positive programmed death‐ligand 1 combined positive score (CPS) and 17.3% were positive for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). In addition, there was a relatively high proportion of cmet expression. We also found that HAS patients with recurrent disease treated by emerging therapy had a better survival than those treated with traditional chemotherapy (p = 0.002, median recurrence‐to‐death survival: 23 months versus 6 months); HAS patients who received anti‐HER2 therapy or harbored MMR deficiency had favorable prognosis. Overall, high proportions of MMR protein proficiency, positivity for AFP or SALL4, overexpression of HER2, CPS and cmet, as well as negative EBER findings, are distinctive characteristics of HAS patients. While negative EBER and MMR proficiency indicate molecular features of HAS, positivity for AFP or SALL4 could aid in the diagnosis of HAS. In addition, HAS patients could benefit from anti‐HER2 therapy, immunotherapy, and anti‐angiogenesis therapy.
Effect of the Phosphate Binder Sevelamer Carbonate on the Bioavailability of Enarodustat, an Oral Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agent
Authors: Pai Sudhakar M. , Yamada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2023

Enarodustat is an orally available hypoxia‐inducible factor‐prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor which can correct the erythropoietic capacity and improve anemia in chronic kidney disease. Sevelamer carbonate, a non‐calcium‐based polymeric resin, is one of the commonly prescribed agents for the management of hyperphosphatemia in patients undergoing hemodialysis. This was an open‐label, crossover study in healthy male subjects (N = 12) that evaluated the effect of sevelamer carbonate (2400 mg) on the bioavailability of enarodustat (25 mg) when the 2 drugs were administered together (Treatment B) or when enarodustat was administered 3 hours after (Treatment C) or 1 hour before (Treatment D) sevelamer carbonate compared to enarodustat alone (Treatment A). With coadministration of the 2 drugs (Treatment B), enarodustat Cmax and AUCinf reductions were 53% and 45%, respectively. For Treatment C, Cmax and AUCinf reductions were 11% and 6%, respectively, and for Treatment D the corresponding values were 8% and 20%. Thus, coadministration of enarodustat and sevelamer carbonate resulted in a substantial reduction (≈50%) in the oral bioavailability of enarodustat. However, the interaction was substantially mitigated by staggering the administration of enarodustat and sevelamer carbonate. Administration of 4 single oral doses of enarodustat 25 mg, with or without sevelamer carbonate, were safe and well tolerated in this study.
Insights into corporate social responsibility disclosure among multinational corporations during host‐country political transformations: Evidence from the Libyan oil industry
Authors: Almontaser Tariq S. , Gerged Ali Meftah
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) practices of multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in the Libyan oil industry, particularly amidst significant political transformations within the host‐country (HSC). By examining these insights, we aim to shed light on how these corporations navigate and address CSRD considerations in a dynamic and politically evolving environment. To analyse these aspects, we employ various econometric models, including two‐stage least squares (2SLS) and propensity score matching (PSM). Our examination covers a dataset of 6000 data points representing 35 multinational oil corporations headquartered in 18 different home countries (HMCs) across five continents, spanning the years from 2008 to 2015. Our findings indicated that the level of institutional quality convergence between MNCs' HMCs and HSC significantly determines the extent of HSC‐related CSRD by MNCs. Additionally, the study emphasised that MNCs' internationalisation and business horizon within the HSC are critical factors influencing their CSRD in that country. The findings furthermore suggested that MNCs with a higher CSRD might exert an influence on the political decisions of their HMCs' governments concerning the political crisis in the HSC.
Spatio‐temporal shifts in British wild bees in response to changing climate
Authors: Wyver Chris , Potts Simon G. , Edwards Mike , Edwards Rowan , Senapathi Deepa
Published: November 2023

Climate plays a major role in determining where species occur, and when they are active throughout the year. In the face of a changing climate, many species are shifting their ranges poleward. Many species are also shifting their emergence phenology. Wild bees in Great Britain are susceptible to changes in climatic conditions but little is known about historic or potential future spatio‐temporal trends of many species. This study utilized a sliding window approach to assess the impacts of climate on bee emergence dates, estimating the best temperature window for predicting emergence dates for 88 species of wild bees. Using a ‘middle‐of‐the‐road’ (RCP 4.5) and ‘worst‐case’ (RCP 8.5) climate scenario for the period 2070–2079, predictions of future emergence dates were made. In general, the best predicting climate window occurred in the 0–3 months preceding emergence. Across the 40 species that showed a shift in emergence dates in response to a climate window, the mean advance was 13.4 days under RCP 4.5 and 24.9 days under RCP 8.5. Species distribution models (SDMs) were used to predict suitable climate envelopes under historic (1980–1989), current (2010–2019) and future (2070–2079 under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios) climate conditions. These models predict that the climate envelope for 92% of studied species has increased since the 1980s, and for 97% and 93% of species under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 respectively, this is predicted to continue, due to extension of the northern range boundary. While any range changes will be moderated by habitat availability, it highlights that Great Britain will likely experience northward shifts of bee populations in the future. By combining spatial and temporal trends, this work provides an important step towards informing conservation measures suitable for future climates, directing how interventions can be provided in the right place at the right time.
Copper‐Catalyzed Stereoselective Defluoroalkylation or ‐arylation of gem‐Difluoroallenes To Form Monofluoroallenes under Mild Conditions
Authors: Tan Yaoming , Chen Kailun , Hu Jiaxin , Lin Sen , Wu Tao
Published: November 2023

Herein, we demonstrate the formation of monofluoroallenes through copper‐catalyzed defluoroalkylation or defluoroarylation of gem‐difluoroallenes using affordable and readily available Grignard reagents. Additionally, alkyl lithium or alkyl zinc reagents proved successful in these transformations. Under mild conditions, monofluoroallenes can be converted into fluorinated olefinic compounds or non‐fluorinated alkyne compounds. Initial mechanistic studies suggest that the reaction may start with an organocopper reagent and undergo a rapid β‐F elimination step. Although the current enantiomeric excess is low, chiral ligands could facilitate the asymmetric transformation of this reaction.
Negative contexts as catalyzers: Belief in a just world enhances political trust via perceived procedural justice, and contextual procedural injustice boosts it
Authors: Hadarics Márton
Published: November 2023

In our multinational study, we tested the hypothesis that belief in a just world (BJW) enhances political trust by strengthening perceptions of political procedural justice. Based on data from the ninth round of the European Social Survey and various country‐ranking indices, we found a positive relationship between BJW and political trust, with perceived procedural justice serving as an important mediator in this relationship. More importantly, our multilevel analysis indicated that the actual quality of procedural justice moderates this relationship in a way that BJW enhances perceived procedural justice and political trust indirectly to a greater extent in countries with more severe problems with political procedural justice. The results show that a negative context serves as a catalyzer for motivated perceptions, as BJW pushes perceptions in the direction of justice even more strongly in an unjust context, which, in turn, contributes to gratuitous political trust.
Evaluation of optimal route selection for public transport network routes on urban roads using Fuzzy‐TOPSIS method
Authors: Madhu K. A. , Rajakumara H. N. , Kangda Mohd Zain , Girija S. P. , Reddy Ganta Raghotham , Wodajo Anteneh Wogasso
Published: November 2023

In developing countries such as India, Bengaluru city has experienced extraordinary growth in vehicle traffic on arterial roads, causing intersections to operate over capacity under mixed traffic conditions. The speed on urban streets in central business district areas is lower than 15 kmph during peak hours. One of the main routes connecting the airport to the central business district is also vulnerable to this problem. Therefore, providing an alternative route to divert traffic from the mainstream is critical. This study's main goal is to identify alternate routes from Majestic to the airport using remote sensing and a geographic information system, and then evaluate those alternates using the Fuzzy‐TOPSIS approach. This study has used the GIS Arc software application to select the alternative while taking numerous factors such as time, speed, distance, environmental impact, and economic feasibility into consideration. The video graphic and moving car observer methods have been used for the extraction of data for the inventory of the existing route, while the geo image processing tool has been used to analyze alternative routes in the Bengaluru metropolitan area (BMA). The analysis has shown that the alternative route has a lesser travel time of 2 h 30 min in public transit and 1 h 30 min in private mode. The future scope of the study is to compare the alternative and the most suitable routes to divert traffic. Another public transport route network could be developed to minimize the external incoming vehicles in BMA, particularly to reach the airport on urban roads under heterogeneous traffic conditions.
Early intervention of extracorporeal photopheresis for advancing/progressing cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Aires Daniel , Abhyankar Sunil
Published: November 2023

Patients with cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma with progressive disease typically undergo a series of skin‐directed and systemic therapy regimens during cycles of response and relapse. Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is an effective and safe systemic treatment option, often reserved for later stages of disease and typically employed after failure of several other therapies. ECP has benefits in response rate, time to next treatment, and tolerability that may support its use earlier in the treatment cycle for advancing/progressing disease.
Prescription patterns in an intensive care unit of COVID‐19 patients in Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rahman Tanvir , Islam Md. Saiful , Paul Shyamjit , Islam Md. Momin , Samadd Md. Abdus , Reyda Rashmia Nargis , Sarkar Md. Raihan
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

To reduce death rates for critical patients hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs), coronavirus (COVID‐19) lacks proven and efficient treatment methods. This cross‐sectional study aims to evaluate how physicians treat severe and suspected COVID‐19 patients in the ICU department in the absence of an established approach, as well as assess the rational use of the medication in the ICU department.

Methods

Between June 16, 2021, and December 10, 2022, a total of 428 prescriptions were randomly gathered, including both suspected (yellow zone) and confirmed (red zone) COVID‐19 patients. For data management, Microsoft Excel 2021 was utilized, while STATA 17 provided statistical analysis. To find associations between patients' admission status and demographic details, exploratory and bivariate analyses were conducted.

Results

Of the 428 patients admitted to the ICU, 228 (53.27%) were in the yellow zone and 200 (46.73%) were in the verified COVID‐19 red zone. The majority of patients were male (54.44%), and the age range from 41 to 60 was the most common (41.82%). No significant deviation was detected to the yellow and red groups' prescription patterns. A total of 4001 medicines (mean 9.35/patient) were prescribed. Antiulcerants, antibiotics, respiratory, analgesics, anticoagulants, vitamins and minerals, steroids, cardiovascular, antidiabetic drugs, antivirals, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, and antifungal treatments were widely prescribed drugs. Enoxaparin (67.06%) appeared as the most prescribed medicine, followed by montelukast (60.51%), paracetamol (58.41%), and dexamethasone (51.64%).

Conclusion

The prescription patterns for the yellow and red groups were comparable and mostly included symptomatic treatment. Respiratory drugs constituted the most frequent therapeutic class. Polypharmacy should be taken under considerations. In ICU settings, the outcomes emphasize the need of correct diagnosis, cautious antibiotic usage, suitable therapy, and attentive monitoring.
Developing a prehospital care service in a low‐resource setting: Barriers and solutions
Authors: Takoutsing Berjo D. , Zolo Yvan
Published: November 2023

Prehospital care (PHC) is critical to the comprehensive and effective functioning of a healthcare system. Given the disproportionate burden of both communicable and non‐communicable diseases in low‐income nations, its significance cannot be understated. In spite of this, many of these nations lack a comprehensive PHC system. Setting up a cost‐effective PHC system in this environment can be difficult and necessitate a variety of stakeholders at various healthcare delivery system levels. Therefore, it is necessary to consider these anticipated barriers and identify feasible solutions for its execution. This will assist in creating a PHC system that is suited to the local needs and achieve sustainable and global health goals. This paper describes the challenges and solutions to establishing a prehospital care service in a low‐resource setting.
Optimal Power Transformations for Analysis of Sperm Concentration and Other Semen Variables
Authors: HANDELSMAN DAVID J.
Published: November 2023

The nongaussian (or nonnormal) distribution of sperm concentration, and variables deriving from it, is a common practical problem in the statistical evaluation of semen data. Yet it has been little studied, and its importance to data analysis, as well as to practical remedies, is not widely appreciated. Inappropriate use of the raw scale of measurement produces inflated estimates of mean and variance, leading to false‐negative (underpowered) statistical comparisons and excessive sample size estimates. This study employs the Box‐Cox family of power transforms to illustrate by a simple graphical method how to identify optimal power transforms for semen data variables. Using robust statistical methods, it is shown that the nongaussian distribution is due to right skewing rather than multimodality or influential outliers. The optimal power transform, typically in the region of 0.15 to 0.35 (most easily implemented as a cube‐root transformation), usually performs better than the logarithmic transformation in normalizing the data. In addition, the power transformation has an important practical advantage over the logarithmic transformation in the appropriate handling of zeros (azoospermia), a regular and important features of such data sets in practice.
Obesity impairs revascularization and bone healing in a mouse model of osteonecrosis
Authors: Deng Zhuo , Aguirre‐Flores Maria , Kim Harry K. W. , Ren Yinshi
Published: November 2023

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a devastating bone disease that is caused by a disruption of blood supply leading to necrotic cell death. Clinically, it was found that obesity has a high prevalence with ONFH. However, it remains unclear how obesity may directly affect tissue regeneration and bone healing in osteonecrosis (ON). The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of obesity and weight loss (WL) on ON healing. In this study, we induced obesity and WL in an established surgery‐induced ON mouse model via feeding a high‐fat diet (HFD) and altering the diet respectively. All mice received a surgical induction of ON of distal femoral epiphysis at the age of 12 weeks. HFD was switched to normal diet (ND) after ON surgery to induce WL. Mouse body weight was recorded weekly. Mouse body composition was scanned by DEXA (Dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry) right after sacrifice at the age of 16 weeks. The distal femoral bone samples were fixed and embedded for histology such as H&E, immunohistochemistry, and TRAP staining. In this study, we found that HFD‐induced obesity impaired revascularization and bone remodeling showing decreased vessel areas and reduced osteoblast and osteoclast numbers. WL could rescue obesity‐induced bone healing defects. Our study is the first to test the direct effects of obesity and WL on ON bone healing. We believe our work may provide new concepts for osteonecrosis treatment in obese patients.
Influence of running on femoroacetabular joint bone‐to‐bone distances
Authors: Heckelman Lauren N. , Kratzer Avery L. , Spritzer Charles E. , Soher Brian J. , Lewis Brian D. , DeFrate Louis E.
Published: November 2023

There is limited data quantifying the influence of running on hip cartilage mechanics. The goal of this investigation was to quantify changes in hip joint bone‐to‐bone distance in response to a 3‐mile treadmill run. We acquired magnetic resonance (MR) images of the dominant hip of eight young, asymptomatic runners (five males, three females) before and immediately after they ran 3 miles at a self‐selected pace on a level treadmill. The femoral heads and acetabula were semiautomatically segmented from the pre‐ and post‐exercise MR images to generate three‐dimensional models of each participant's hip that were used to compute changes in the bone‐to‐bone distances incurred by the running exercise. We observed a significant 3% decrease in bone‐to‐bone distance from 3.47 ± 0.20 to 3.36 ± 0.22 mm between the femoral head and acetabulum after a 3‐mile treadmill run (mean ± 95% confidence interval; p = 0.03). These findings provide new baseline data describing how running impacts the hip joint in young, asymptomatic runners.
Hamstrings vibration reduces tibiofemoral compressive force following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Lowe Timothy , Dong Xuanliang Neil , Griffin Lisa
Published: November 2023

Individuals who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are at greater risk of developing knee osteoarthritis (OA). This elevated risk of knee OA is associated with high tibiofemoral (TF) compressive force, due to a combination of low knee flexion angles and increased co‐contraction of the hamstrings and quadriceps during limb loading. Prolonged vibration of the hamstrings fatigues the intrafusal muscle fibers, which reduces autonomic reflexive excitation of the hamstrings and alleviates reciprocal inhibition to the quadriceps. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of prolonged hamstrings vibration on TF compressive force in individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction. Fourteen participants with unilateral ACLR and 14 participants without knee injury performed a single‐leg drop‐land task before and after prolonged (20 min) vibration of the hamstrings. Peak TF compressive force, knee flexion angle, and hamstrings/quadriceps co‐contraction were calculated during the deceleration phase of the drop‐land task before and after vibration. The ACLR group experienced an 18% decrease in TF compressive force, a 32% increase in knee flexion angle, and a 38% decrease in hamstrings/quadriceps co‐contraction after hamstrings vibration. There was no difference in any of the parameters in the noninjured group after vibration. These data suggest that acute prolonged hamstrings vibration has the potential to mitigate TF compressive force, which may protect the knee joint in the long term. Clinical significance: The results of this research are expected to lead to improved clinical care for ACLR patients because it holds promise for mitigating altered joint mechanics and perhaps slowing down the onset of posttraumatic knee osteoarthritis.
Glucose depletion decreases cell viability without triggering degenerative changes in a physiological nucleus pulposus explant model
Authors: Padrona Mathilde , Maroquenne Manon , El‐Hafci Hanane , Rossiaud Lucille , Petite Hervé , Potier Esther
Published: November 2023

Although the etiology of intervertebral disc degeneration is still unresolved, the nutrient paucity resulting from its avascular nature is suspected of triggering degenerative processes in its core: the nucleus pulposus (NP). While severe hypoxia has no significant effects on NP cells, the impact of glucose depletion, such as found in degenerated discs (0.2–1 mM), is still uncertain. Using a pertinent ex‐vivo model representative of the unique disc microenvironment, the present study aimed, therefore, at determining the effects of “degenerated” (0.3 mM) glucose levels on bovine NP explant homeostasis. The effects of glucose depletion were evaluated on NP cell viability, apoptosis, phenotype, metabolism, senescence, extracellular matrix anabolism and catabolism, and inflammatory mediator production using fluorescent staining, RT‐qPCR, (immuno)histology, ELISA, biochemical, and enzymatic assays. Compared to the “healthy” (2 mM) glucose condition, exposure to the degenerated glucose condition led to a rapid and extensive decrease in NP cell viability associated with increased apoptosis. Although the aggrecan and collagen‐II gene expression was also downregulated, NP cell phenotype, and senescence, matrix catabolism, and inflammatory mediator production were not, or only slightly, affected by glucose depletion. The present study provided evidence for glucose depletion as an essential player in NP cell viability but also suggested that other microenvironment factor(s) may be involved in triggering the typical shift of NP cell phenotype observed during disc degeneration. The present study contributes new information for better understanding disc degeneration at the cellular‐molecular levels and thus helps to develop relevant therapeutical strategies to counteract it.
An overview of Principal Components Analysis approaches in Raman studies of cultural heritage materials
Authors: Coccato Alessia , Caggiani Maria Cristina
Published: November 2023

The present overview answers the need of assessing the current state of the art concerning the application of principal components analysis (PCA) to Raman spectroscopy investigations of cultural heritage and related materials. An increment of the employment of this multivariate statistic technique to Raman results in the mentioned field began between 15 and 10 years ago, after a very slow start at the turn of the millennium. A delay of about a decade was observed with respect to PCA applied to elemental quantitative data of archaeometric analyses, likely a consequence of the required spectral pre‐treatment and to results of complex interpretation. Therefore, it is by now the time to summarize this evolution in a comprehensive, yet very specific way. In this overview, painting constituents were considered, both colouring materials and binders, in addition to natural and synthetic glasses, and biogenic and mineral gemmological materials. A marked unbalance between the studies pertaining to the different sections has been noticed, revealing a concentration of the work mainly on painting materials, including the study of ageing and alteration. The different aims of PCA application to Raman spectra, the various approaches and the achievable results, with the possible arising problems, were underlined, too. Special attention was given to the pre‐treatment of the spectra, which was observed to be essential to overcome the influence of several issues concerning bands intensity, spectral noise, background, fluorescence and so on.
Eco‐design influence on the life cycle assessment of frozen cauliflower gnocchi: a comprehensive cradle‐to‐grave analysis
Authors: Casson Andrea , Giovenzana Valentina , Pampuri Alessia , Zambelli Martina , Contiero Silvia , Tugnolo Alessio , Narote Abhishek Dattu , Beghi Roberto , Guidetti Riccardo
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, when discussing agri‐food products, it is important to talk about sustainable production methods. Environmental sustainability has become a production issue, especially when it comes to the design of a product, service, or process. Using frozen fresh cauliflower gnocchi marketed in different packaging and in different global areas as a case study, we aim to highlight the importance of the impact of product eco‐design on the entire life cycle.

RESULTS

The environmental impact of cauliflower gnocchi was assessed based on the life cycle assessment methodology. With the cradle‐to‐gate approach, the most influential factors are the cultivation, distribution, and packaging phases. Considering the cradle‐to‐grave approach, home storage has proven to be the most influential factor for a quarter of the entire life cycle of cauliflower gnocchi. The eco‐design of packaging has demonstrated how, by analysing only the packaging, it is possible to achieve significant reductions in impact (−47%), but when compared with the entire life cycle these actions have no significant responsibility (approximately 10%). If, however, the field of action is broadened and eco‐design solutions are sought to reduce the impact deriving from the conservation phase, the consumer has the ability, through their decisions, to reduce the impact relating to conservation as much as possible or to double the impact of the product life cycle.

CONCLUSION

Overall, to promote prosperity while protecting the environment, according to Agenda 2030, the agri‐food system must analyse the supply chains without neglecting any step involved in the life cycle of the product. The eco‐design must go beyond the usual factors analysed and shall include downstream activities to aim for more sustainable products, including consumer behaviours, following the cradle‐to‐grave approach. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessment of calcium alginate gels as wall materials for encapsulation systems
Authors: Oroná Jesica Daiana , Zorrilla Susana Elizabeth , Peralta Juan Manuel
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Calcium alginate gels are widely used to encapsulate active compounds. Some characteristic parameters of these gels are necessary to describe the release of active compounds through mechanistic mathematical models. In this work, transport and kinetics properties of calcium alginate gels were determined through simple experimental techniques.

RESULTS

The weight‐average molecular weight ( = 192 × 103 Da) and the fraction of residues of α‐l‐guluronic acid ( = 0.356) of sodium alginate were determined by capillary viscometry and 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance at 25 °C, respectively. Considering the half egg‐box model, both values were used to estimate the molecular weight of calcium alginate as  = 2.02 × 105 Da. An effective diffusion coefficient of water ( = 2.256 × 10−9 m2 s−1) in calcium alginate was determined using a diffusion cell at 37 °C. Finally, a kinetics constant of depolymerization ( = 9.72 × 10−9 m3 mol−1 s−1) of calcium alginate was obtained considering dissolution of calcium to a medium under intestinal conditions.

CONCLUSION

The experimental techniques used are simple and easily reproducible. The obtained values may be useful in the design, production, and optimization of the alginate‐based delivery systems that require specific release kinetics of the encapsulated active compounds. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of fiber‐enriched muffins using pomegranate peel powder and its effect on physico‐chemical properties and shelf life of the muffins
Authors: Giri Namrata A , Gaikwad Prasad , Gaikwad Nilesh N , Manjunatha Nanjundappa , Krishnakumar Thulasimani , Kad Vikram , Raigond Pinky , Suryavanshi Swati , Marathe Rajiv Arvind
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Pomegranate peel is a by‐product from the pomegranate processing industries and is a rich source of dietary fibers and bioactive compounds. It has good antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In the present study, the effects of substitution of refined wheat flour with pomegranate peel powder (PPP) at a rate of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10% on the physico‐chemical and sensorial properties as well as on the oxidative and microbial stability of muffins were investigated.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in specific volume (1.99 to 1.57 cm3 g−1), weight loss (11.73 to 10.14 g 100 g−1) and an increase in crumb hardness (633.06 to 2311.5 g) of muffins were observed on addition of PPP. Moreover, the nutritional value was improved by a significant increase in the fiber content (4.39 to 10.66%), total phenols (0.443 to 48.53 mg GAE 100 g−1), antioxidant activity (75.94% to 99.36%), calcium (200.33 to 294.33 mg 100 g−1), potassium (227.33 to 425.33 mg 100 g−1) and magnesium (96.33 to 288.33 mg 100 g−1). The pasting and rheological properties of muffin batter showed a significant decrease in the final and peak viscosity, as well as increase in storage, loss and complex modulus. The muffin samples were organoleptically acceptable up to a level of 8% PPP. Free fatty acid content, peroxide value and microbial count of the muffin with 8% PPP were significantly lower compared to the control sample and more oxidatively and microbially stable for a storage period of 21 and 28 days at ambient and refrigerated temperatures, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides the opportunity to use PPP as functional ingredients and natural preservative in the preparation of muffins. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ultrasound Coded‐Excitation Imaging for Endoleak Detection After Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Hofmann Amun , Mlekusch Irene , Wickenhauser Georg , Walter Corinna , Falkensammer Jürgen , Assadian Afshin , Taher Fadi
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Several imaging modalities have been suggested for surveillance after fenestrated endovascular aortic repair in general and endoleak detection in specific. In the present project a coded excitation‐based ultrasound (B‐Flow) was investigated for endoleak detection after complex endovascular aortic repair.

Methods

Patients post complex endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR or T/FEVAR) undergoing follow‐up appointments including ultrasonography of the aorta at a vascular and endovascular surgery outpatient center were included in the study. B‐Flow was compared with computed tomography angiography (CTA), Duplex ultrasound (DUS), and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) regarding agreement and reliability for endoleak detection and characterization.

Results

In total, 47 follow‐ups were included. They accumulated in a total of 149 imaging investigations. Endoleaks were discovered in 44.7% of B‐Flow studies and a majority of these endoleaks were classified as type II. Agreement between B‐Flow and other imaging modalities was good (>80.0%) in general. However, with B‐Flow 6 and 2 endoleaks would have been missed compared with CEUS and CTA, respectively. Regarding endoleak classification, B‐Flow had a strong agreement (94.5%) with CEUS in detected cases. Furthermore, in a limited subset analysis, imaging findings were externally validated using findings from angiography.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography allows for endoleak detection and characterization without an invasive procedure or the use of potentially nephrotoxic contrast medium and can reduce radiation exposure. While CEUS mitigates issues of radiation and nephrotoxicity it still requires the intravenous application of contrast enhancers. Ultrasound coded‐excitation imaging such as B‐Flow could therefore further simplify endoleak surveillance after fenestrated endovascular aortic repair.
High Dose‐Rate MeV Electron Beam from a Tightly‐Focused Femtosecond IR Laser in Ambient Air
Authors: Vallières Simon , Powell Jeffrey , Connell Tanner , Evans Michael , Lytova Marianna , Fillion‐Gourdeau François , Fourmaux Sylvain , Payeur Stéphane , Lassonde Philippe , MacLean Steve , Légaré François
Published: November 2023

Ultrashort electron beams with femtosecond to picosecond bunch durations offer unique opportunities to explore active research areas ranging from ultrafast structural dynamics to ultra‐high dose‐rate radiobiological studies. It presents a straightforward method to generate relativistic electron beams in ambient air via the tight focusing of a few‐cycle, mJ‐class femtosecond infrared laser. It demonstrates experimentally that electrons can reach up to 1.4 MeV at a dose‐rate of 0.15 Gy/s, providing enough dose rate for radiation therapy applications. 3D Particle‐In‐Cell simulations confirm that the acceleration mechanism is based on the relativistic ponderomotive force and show theoretical agreement with the measured electron energies and divergence. Relativistic peak intensities up to 1019Wcm−2are reached in ambient air due to a very lowB‐integral accumulation during focusing, which prevents intensity clamping. Furthermore, it discusses the scalability of this method with the continuing development of mJ‐class high average power lasers, and providing a promising approach for FLASH radiation therapy.
Dense Monolayer Network Structures of Double Hydrophilic Hyperbranched Copolymers at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Tu Yongliang , Wen Gangyao , Selianitis Dimitrios , Pispas Stergios
Published: November 2023

Influences of subphase pH and temperature on the interfacial aggregation behavior of two double hydrophilic hyperbranched copolymers of poly[oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate‐co‐(2‐diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (P(OEGMA‐co‐DIPAEMA)) at the air/water interface are studied by the Langmuir film balance technique. Morphologies of their Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films are characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). At the interface, P(OEGMA‐co‐DIPAEMA) copolymers tend to form a dense network structure of circular micelles composed of branching agent‐connected carbon backbone cores and mixed shells of OEGMA and DIPAEMA segments (pendant groups). This network structure containing many honeycomb‐like holes with diameters of 6–8 nm is identified for the first time and clearly observed in the enlarged AFM images of their LB films. Under acidic conditions, surface pressure versus molecular area isotherms of the two copolymers in the low‐pressure region show larger mean molecular area than those under neutral and alkaline conditions due to the lack of impediment from DIPAEMA segments. Upon further compression, each isotherm exhibits a wide pseudo‐plateau, which corresponds to OEGMA segments being pressed into the subphase. Furthermore, the isotherms under neutral and alkaline conditions exhibit the lower critical solution temperature behavior of OEGMA segments, and the critical temperature is lower when the hyperbranched copolymer contains higher OEGMA content.
Hydrogel Rivet with Unidirectional Shape Morphing for Flexible Mechanical Assembly
Authors: Ye April L. , Zhang Haozhe , Wu Baoyi , Lu Huanhuan , Si Muqing , Zhang Kaihang , Chen Tao
Published: November 2023

Integrating diverse materials and functions into highly additive produce has piqued global interest due to the increasing demands of intelligent soft robotics. Nevertheless, existing assembly techniques, especially supramolecular assembly which heavily rely on precise chemical design and specific recognition, may prove inadequate when confronted with diverse external demands. Inspired by the traditional mechanical assembly, rivet connection, herein, a thermo‐responsive hydrogel with unidirectional shape‐morphing is fabricated and a stable mechanical assembly is constructed by emulating the rivet connection mechanism. This system employed poly(acrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) [P(AAm‐co‐AAc)] to induce continuous swelling and hexylamine‐modified polyvinyl alcohol (PVA‐C6) as a molecular switch to control the swelling process. The hydrogel rivet, initially threaded through pre‐fabricated hollows in two components. Subsequently, upon the disassociation of alkane chains the molecular switch would activate, inducing swelling and stable mechanical assembly via anchor structures. Moreover, to enhance the assembly strength, knots are introduced to enhance assembly strength, guiding localized stress release for programmed deformations. Additionally, the system can be remotely controlled using near‐infrared light (NIR) by incorporating photo‐thermal nanoparticles. This work presents a universal and efficient strategy for constructing stable mechanical assemblies without compromising overall softness, offering significant potential for the fabrication of integrated soft robots.