bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary adenocarcinoma mimicking miliary tuberculosis in a 20‐year‐old man: A clinical case report
Authors: Seifi Arash , Shafiee Nahid , Moradi Maryam
Published: March 2023

Lung adenocarcinoma (LA) is the most common subtype of lung cancer with nonsignificant manifestations. Some benign conditions can mimic LA in symptoms and even chest imaging.

In this case report, we are discussing a young man without any significant medical history with metastatic LA, initially presumed military TB.
Effects of Group IB Metals of Au/Ag/Cu on Boosting Oxygen Evolution Reaction of Cobalt Hydroxide
Authors: Wang Xianchao , Zang Zehao , Fan Chunyan , Zhang Yintao , Li Xiang , Li Lanlan , Yu Xiaofei , Yang Xiaojing , Lu Zunming , Zhang Xinghua
Published: March 2023

Developing high‐activity, good‐stability oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts is the key to solving the problem of hydrogen production from electrolytic water. Cobalt hydroxide (Co(OH)2) is a hopeful OER catalyst, but its poor conductivity and low inherent activity limit its OER performance. Herein, we used group IB metals of Au, Ag, and Cu to increase the OER performance of Co(OH)2via the electrodeposition method. All three metals can increase the carrier concentration and proportion of high‐valence cobalt ions. The analysis results disclose that the construction of Ag−Co(OH)2heterostructure can optimize the electronic structure through interfacial interactions, produce a moderate proportion of high‐valence cobalt centers, enhance the charge transport capacity and the adsorption of hydroxyl species, thus accelerating the OER kinetics and effectively improving the inherent catalytic activity. This work not only develops effective and steady catalysts but also provides a facile method to enhance the OER performance through interface engineering.
Staubfreies Absacken von Carbon Black
Authors: Pohl Sebastian
Published: March 2023

Für die Herstellung von Primär‐ als auch Sekundärbatterien wird Carbon Black benötigt, welches schwer abzusacken ist und hohe Logistik‐ und Qualitätskosten verursacht. Die Vakuumtechnologie des Verpackungsmaschinenherstellers Greif‐Velox löst diese Probleme und sorgt dafür, dass der wertvolle Rohstoff für Batteriehersteller effizienter und staubfrei in größeren Mengen verfügbar gemacht werden kann.
Kombinierte CO‐Detektion und Feuchtemessung
Authors: Kemmling Alexander , Kendik Marcus
Published: March 2023

Trocknungsprozesse unterliegen einem hohen Risiko für eine Staubexplosion und der vorbeugende Explosionsschutz hat einen hohen Stellenwert. Bei der gefährlichen Selbstentzündung von Stäuben entstehen Glimmnester, die Kohlenmonoxid freisetzen. Außerdem ist die Luftfeuchte ein Gefahrenindikator. Das Messsystem CO.Pilot von Rembe misst beide Parameter in Echtzeit und trägt damit zum Explosionsschutz und zu einem optimierten Trocknungsprozess bei.
Preparation of biogum thickener and properties of recoverable fracturing fluid based on environmental protection
Authors: Zhou Chengyu , Zeng Linghao , Zhao Jing , Mei Qixiang , Zhou Min , Xiao Ying , Zhang Qian , Fan Yuzhu , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2023

A recyclable biogum thickener was developed and employed as the main agent to compound a fracturing fluid system in order to address the issue of the problematic recovery of fracturing fluid system. By using infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the physical characteristics and microstructure were examined. By using a rheometer, dynamic filtration loss, and an acid‐etching fracture conductivity device, respectively, the system's temperature and shear resistance, dynamic filtration loss, and fracture conductivity damage were studied. The system's gum‐breaking performance, formation water compatibility, and anti‐expansion performance were then measured in accordance with standards. As a result of shearing at 170 s−1 and 120°C for 2 h, the 4% biogum system's performance outperformed the other two systems in every way, according to the experimental findings. Its viscosity could also exceed 70 mPa · s. After breaking, the solution had a viscosity of 2.5 mPa · s, which was very compatible with the formation water. The system has a 90% anti‐swelling rate, a filtration loss coefficient of 5.14 × 10−5, strong infiltration ability, and negligible formation damage. The biogum system's recovery rate after field application is discovered to be around 50%.
Drawbacks of phase change models in simulating flashing of steam with a subsaturation downstream boundary condition
Authors: John Stanley , Lange Carlos F.
Published: March 2023

The development of phase change models applicable to a wide range of temperatures, pressures, and mass flow rates is primarily limited by the metastable or partially stable behaviour of the fluid. Due to this, the fluid does not change phase even after crossing saturation conditions. Most liquid–vapour phase change models have been developed primarily for the cavitation process where the phase change is not sustained, occurs in a very narrow region of space, or occurs under equilibrium conditions. In this paper, the mechanism of phase change is discussed along with the review of three different computational fluid dynamics (CFD)‐based phase change methods available in OpenFOAM, which are used to simulate flashing of steam, in applications related to steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) systems. The first method is based on barotropic compressibility (BC) used with the realizable turbulence model, the second combination is of mass transfer model (MTM) with the realizable turbulence model, and the third one is based on two fluid (TF) method along with a family of turbulence models. These methods are tested on a converging–diverging nozzle with pressure driven phase change. It is demonstrated that these methods are not able to adjust their physics to different depressurization rates, do not account for liquid to be in superheated conditions, and have significant discrepancies with experimental results. In the end, better approaches to model this category of phase change are discussed.
Manganese‐based polyanionic cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries
Authors: Niu Yubin , Zhao Yanan , Xu Maowen
Published: March 2023

Owing to abundant resources and low cost, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are sweeping the world at a rapid pace. The cathode is the key to determining the energy density of the battery, and polyanionic compounds have become a representative class of cathode materials due to their stable three‐dimensional framework structure, high operating voltage, and good safety. Vanadium‐based and iron‐based polyanionic compounds are highly regarded in academic communities, but environmental hazards or low energy densities have once overshadowed them in the practical arena. In contrast, manganese (Mn)‐based polyanion is one of the potential candidates in terms of cost, voltage, and environmental friendliness, besides, many noteworthy advances have been recorded in recent years. This review summarizes the current research progress of Mn‐based polyanions and discusses the challenges they face while looking forward to the future development of such materials and ideas to solve the key problems. It is expected to have a positive effect, that is, to attract more practitioners to focus on the practical way out of such materials.
Effect of biomaterial stiffness on cardiac mechanics in a biventricular infarcted rat heart model with microstructural representation of in situ intramyocardial injectate
Authors: Motchon Y. D. , Sack Kevin L. , Sirry M. S. , Kruger M. , Pauwels E. , Van Loo D. , De Muynck A. , Van Hoorebeke L. , Davies Neil H. , Franz Thomas
Published: March 2023

Intramyocardial delivery of biomaterials is a promising concept for treating myocardial infarction. The delivered biomaterial provides mechanical support and attenuates wall thinning and elevated wall stress in the infarct region. This study aimed at developing a biventricular finite element model of an infarcted rat heart with a microstructural representation of an in situ biomaterial injectate, and a parametric investigation of the effect of the injectate stiffness on the cardiac mechanics. A three‐dimensional subject‐specific biventricular finite element model of a rat heart with left ventricular infarct and microstructurally dispersed biomaterial delivered 1 week after infarct induction was developed from ex vivo microcomputed tomography data. The volumetric mesh density varied between 303 mm−3 in the myocardium and 3852 mm−3 in the injectate region due to the microstructural intramyocardial dispersion. Parametric simulations were conducted with the injectate's elastic modulus varying from 4.1 to 405,900 kPa, and myocardial and injectate strains were recorded. With increasing injectate stiffness, the end‐diastolic median myocardial fibre and cross‐fibre strain decreased in magnitude from 3.6% to 1.1% and from −6.0% to −2.9%, respectively. At end‐systole, the myocardial fibre and cross‐fibre strain decreased in magnitude from −20.4% to −11.8% and from 6.5% to 4.6%, respectively. In the injectate, the maximum and minimum principal strains decreased in magnitude from 5.4% to 0.001% and from −5.4% to −0.001%, respectively, at end‐diastole and from 38.5% to 0.06% and from −39.0% to −0.06%, respectively, at end‐systole. With the microstructural injectate geometry, the developed subject‐specific cardiac finite element model offers potential for extension to cellular injectates and in silico studies of mechanotransduction and therapeutic signalling in the infarcted heart with an infarct animal model extensively used in preclinical research.
Oxygen Vacancy Promoted Generation of Monatomic Oxygen Anion over Ni2+‐Doped MgO for Efficient Glycolysis of Waste PET**
Authors: Lin Yuheng , Yang Deshuai , Meng Chaoyu , Si Chunying , Zhang Quanxing , Zeng Guixiang , Jiang Wei
Published: March 2023

Developing efficient and eco‐friendly catalysts for selective degradation of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is critical to the circular economy of plastics. Herein, we report the first monatomic oxygen anion (O−)‐rich MgO−Ni catalyst based on a combined theoretical and experimental approach, which achieves a bis(hydroxyethyl) terephthalate yield of 93.7 % with no heavy metal residues detected. DFT calculations and electron paramagnetic resonance characterization indicate that Ni2+ doping not only reduces the formation energy of oxygen vacancies, but also enhances local electron density to facilitate the conversion of adsorbed oxygen into O−. O− plays a crucial role in the deprotonation of ethylene glycol (EG) to EG− (exothermic by −0.6 eV with an activation barrier of 0.4 eV), which is proved effective to break the PET chain via nucleophilic attack on carbonyl carbon. This work reveals the potential of alkaline earth metal‐based catalysts in efficient PET glycolysis.
Soil surface treatments and precipitation timing determine seedling development across southwesternUSrestoration sites
Authors: Farrell Hannah L. , Munson Seth M. , Butterfield Bradley J. , Duniway Michael C. , Faist Akasha M. , Gornish Elise S. , Havrilla Caroline A. , Larios Loralee , Reed Sasha C. , Rowe Helen I. , Laushman Katherine M. , McCormick Molly L.
Published: March 2023

Restoration in dryland ecosystems often has poor success due to low and variable water availability, degraded soil conditions, and slow plant community recovery rates. Restoration treatments can mitigate these constraints but, because treatments and subsequent monitoring are typically limited in space and time, our understanding of their applicability across broader environmental gradients remains limited. To address this limitation, we implemented and monitored a standardized set of seeding and soil surface treatments (pits, mulch, and ConMod artificial nurse plants) designed to enhance soil moisture and seedling establishment across RestoreNet, a growing network of 21 diverse dryland restoration sites in the southwestern USA over 3 years. Generally, we found that the timing of precipitation relative to seeding and the use of soil surface treatments were more important in determining seeded species emergence, survival, and growth than site‐specific characteristics. Using soil surface treatments in tandem with seeding promoted up to 3× greater seedling emergence densities compared with seeding alone. The positive effect of soil surface treatments became more prominent with increased cumulative precipitation since seeding. The seed mix type with species currently found within or near a site and adapted to the historical climate promoted greater seedling emergence densities compared with the seed mix type with species from warmer, drier conditions expected to perform well under climate change. Seed mix and soil surface treatments had a diminishing effect as plants developed beyond the first season of establishment. However, we found strong effects of the initial period seeded and of the precipitation leading up to each monitoring date on seedling survival over time, especially for annual and perennial forbs. The presence of exotic species exerted a negative influence on seedling survival and growth, but not initial emergence. Our findings suggest that seeded species recruitment across drylands can generally be promoted, regardless of location, by (1) incorporation of soil surface treatments, (2) employment of near‐term seasonal climate forecasts, (3) suppression of exotic species, and (4) seeding at multiple times. Taken together, these results point to a multifaceted approach to ameliorate harsh environmental conditions for improved seeding success in drylands, both now and under expected aridification.
Metapopulation regulation acts at multiple spatial scales: Insights from a century of seabird colony census data
Authors: Jeglinski Jana W. E. , Wanless Sarah , Murray Stuart , Barrett Robert T. , Gardarsson Arnthor , Harris Mike P. , Dierschke Jochen , Strøm Hallvard , Lorentsen Svein‐Håkon , Matthiopoulos Jason
Published: March 2023

Density‐dependent feedback is recognized as important regulatory mechanisms of population size. Considering the spatial scales over which such feedback operates has advanced our theoretical understanding of metapopulation dynamics. Yet, metapopulation models are rarely fit to time‐series data and tend to omit details of the natural history and behavior of long‐lived, highly mobile species such as colonial mammals and birds. Seabird metapopulations consist of breeding colonies that are connected across large spatial scales, within a heterogeneous marine environment that is increasingly affected by anthropogenic disturbance. Currently, we know little about the strength and spatial scale of density‐dependent regulation and connectivity between colonies. Thus, many important seabird conservation and management decisions rely on outdated assumptions of closed populations that lack density‐dependent regulation. We investigated metapopulation dynamics and connectivity in an exemplar seabird species, the Northern gannet (Morus bassanus), using more than a century of census data of breeding colonies distributed across the Northeast Atlantic. We developed and fitted these data to a novel hierarchical Bayesian state‐space model, to compare increasingly complex scenarios of metapopulation regulation through lagged, local, regional, and global density dependence, as well as different mechanisms for immigration. Models with conspecific attraction fit the data better than the equipartitioning of immigrants. Considering local and regional density dependence jointly improved model fit slightly, but importantly, future colony size projections based on different mechanistic regulatory scenarios varied widely: a model with local and regional dynamics estimated a lower metapopulation capacity (645,655 Apparently Occupied Site [AOS]) and consequently higher present saturation (63%) than a model with local density dependence (1,367,352 AOS, 34%). Our findings suggest that metapopulation regulation in the gannet is more complex than traditionally assumed, and highlight the importance of using models that consider colony connectivity and regional dynamics for conservation management applications guided by precautionary principles. Our study advances our understanding of metapopulation dynamics in long‐lived colonial species and our approach provides a template for the development of metapopulation models for colonially living birds and mammals.
Association between MMP2 gene polymorphisms and dilated cardiomyopathy in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Li Shiyang , Zeng Xiaobin , Wang Shihai , Xie Xiaoshuang , Lan Jianjun
Published: March 2023

Aims

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) belongs to the common types of cardiomyopathies. The pathogenesis remains unclear despite the fact that various genes have been found associated with DCM. MMP2 is a zinc‐dependent and calcium‐containing secreted endoproteinases, which could cleave a broad spectrum of substrates including extracellular matrix components and cytokines. It has proved to play an important role in the cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of MMP2 gene polymorphisms in DCM susceptibility and prognosis in a Chinese Han population.

Methods and results

A total of 600 idiopathic DCM patients and 700 healthy controls were enrolled. Patients with contact information were followed up for a median period of 28 months. Three tagged single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs243865, rs2285052, and rs2285053) in the promoter of MMP2 gene were genotyped. A series of function analysis were conducted to illuminate the underlying mechanism. The frequency of rs243865‐C allele was increased in DCM patients when compared with healthy controls (P = 0.001). Genotypic frequencies of rs243865 were associated with the susceptibility of DCM in the codominant, dominant, and overdominant models (P < 0.05). Besides, rs243865‐C allele presented a correlation with the poor prognosis of DCM patients in both dominant (HR = 2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14–3.57, P = 0.017) and additive (HR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.09–3.13, P = 0.02) model. The statistical significance remained after adjustment for sex, age, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, and smoking status. There were significant differences in left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter and left ventricular ejection fraction between rs243865‐CC and CT genotypes. Functional analysis indicated that rs243865‐C allele increased luciferase activity and the mRNA expression level of MMP2 by facilitating ZNF354C binding.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that MMP2 gene polymorphisms were associated with DCM susceptibility and prognosis in the Chinese Han population.
Genes-to-Pathways Species Conservation Analysis: Enabling the Exploration of Conservation of Biological Pathways and Processes Across Species
Authors: Rivetti Claudia , Houghton Jade , Basili Danilo , Hodges Geoff , Campos Bruno
Published: March 2023

The last two decades have witnessed a strong momentum toward integration of cell-based and computational approaches in safety assessments. This is fueling a global regulatory paradigm shift toward reduction and replacement of the use of animals in toxicity tests while promoting the use of new approach methodologies. The understanding of conservation of molecular targets and pathways provides an opportunity to extrapolate effects across species and ultimately to determine the taxonomic applicability domain of assays and biological effects. Despite the wealth of genome-linked data available, there is a compelling need for improved accessibility, while ensuring that it reflects the underpinning biology. We present the novel pipeline Genes-to-Pathways Species Conservation Analysis (G2P-SCAN) to further support understanding on cross-species extrapolation of biological processes. This R package extracts, synthetizes, and structures the data available from different databases, that is, gene orthologs, protein families, entities, and reactions, linked to human genes and respective pathways across six relevant model species. The use of G2P-SCAN enables the overall analysis of orthology and functional families to substantiate the identification of conservation and susceptibility at the pathway level. In the present study we discuss five case studies, demonstrating the validity of the developed pipeline and its potential use as species extrapolation support. We foresee this pipeline will provide valuable biological insights and create space for the use of mechanistically based data to inform potential species susceptibility for research and safety decision purposes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:1152–1166. © 2023 UNILEVER GLOBAL IP LTD. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Modification of rheological properties of animal and vegetable proteins treated with high‐intensity ultrasound: A review
Authors: Flores‐Jiménez Nitzia Thalía , Ulloa José Armando , Urías‐Silvas Judith Esmeralda , Hidalgo‐Millán Antonio
Published: March 2023

The rheological properties of proteins play a role important in the fluid flow, pump selection, equipment design, and product development. In addition, it has been observed that the texture and mouthfeel of foods depend on the viscoelastic properties of their ingredients, especially those that show both elastic and viscous behavior, such as proteins. To improve the functional properties, including the rheological ones, proteins have been subjected to some physical treatments, such as ultrasound, which is considered an emerging green technology. Changes in the properties of proteins by high‐intensity ultrasound vary according to the equipment used, power, frequency, and time of sonication, as well as the intrinsic characteristics of the studied proteins. As pretreatment, ultrasound affects the rheological properties of proteins such as viscosity and storage and loss moduli due to the structural modification of its polypeptide chain, as a consequence of the cavitation phenomenon. In this review, we present the main results of the effect of high‐intensity ultrasound on the rheological properties of animal and vegetable proteins subjected to different conditions such as ultrasound device, power, frequency, wave amplitude, and exposure time mainly. In this context, the information from studies of the impact of ultrasound on the rheological properties of proteins from animal and vegetable sources is important to diversify its possible use as a food ingredient.
A minimal model for the influence of equilibrium positions on brake squeal
Authors: Koch Sebastian , Gräbner Nils , von Wagner Utz
Published: March 2023

The phenomenon brake squeal has been an ongoing topic for decades, both in the automotive industry and in science. Although there is agreement on the excitation mechanism of brake squeal, namely self‐excitation due to frictional forces between the disk and the pad, in the subject of squeal it is very complex to discover all relevant effects and to take them into account. Several of these problems are related to nonlinearities, for example, in the contact between pad and disk or drum or in the behavior of the brake pad material. One of these nonlinear effects, which has been almost completely neglected so far, is that the brake can engage, mainly due to the bushing and joint elements within the brake, different equilibrium positions. This in fact has serious influence on the noise behavior as shown in experimental studies. For example, it is observed in experiments that, despite identical operating parameters, squeal sometimes occurs and sometimes not. In initial experimental studies, this could be related to the engaged equilibrium position. Following these experimental studies, the present paper introduces a minimal model by extending the well‐known minimal model by Hoffmann et al. by corresponding elements and nonlinearities allowing the system to engage different equilibrium positions. As will be presented, the stability behavior strongly depends on the engaged equilibrium position. Therefore, the minimal model represents the key experimentally observed issues. Additionally, a limit cycle behavior can also be observed.
Does financial stability matter for environmental degradation?
Authors: Kirikkaleli Dervis , Sofuoğlu Emrah
Published: March 2023

There is a body of evidence that financial development contributes to the quality of the environment, either positively or negatively. However, a limited number of studies consider the effect of financial stability or financial risk on environmental degradation. As part of the proposed research, the present study contributes to the existing literature on asymmetric financial stability's impact on Ireland's environmental quality, as a major gap needs to be added to the literature. Based on this aim, the present study explores the effect of financial stability on environmental degradation in Ireland while controlling primary energy consumption, economic growth, and renewable energy in Ireland. The study employs a novel Fourier autoregressive distributed lag model (FARDL) approach for Ireland, covering the period 1990Q1‐2019Q4 with quarterly data. FARDL cointegration test results indicate a long‐term relationship between financial stability, primary energy consumption, renewable energy consumption, and CO2 emissions. The outcomes from the long‐term coefficient estimation model based on the FARDL model reveal that (i) financial stability leads to a decrease in environmental degradation in Ireland; (ii) renewable energy consumption promotes environmental sustainability; (iii) primary energy consumption has a negative effect on Ireland's environmental quality. These results denote that Ireland should enhance financial stability and promote renewable energy to reduce fossil fuel consumption to achieve net‐zero targets by 2050. Ireland to implement long‐term financial stability policies to fill the emission gap and achieve a net zero emissions target by 2050. Specific policy recommendations for Ireland's environmental policies are also discussed in the study.
The role of glial cells in Zika virus‐induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Quincozes‐Santos André , Bobermin Larissa Daniele , Costa Naithan Ludian Fernandes , Thomaz Natalie K. , Almeida Rômulo Rodrigo de Souza , Beys‐da‐Silva Walter O. , Santi Lucélia , Rosa Rafael L. , Capra Daniela , Coelho‐Aguiar Juliana M. , DosSantos Marcos Fabio , Heringer Manoela , Cirne‐Lima Elizabeth O. , Guimarães Jorge Almeida , Schuler‐Faccini Lavínia , Gonçalves Carlos‐Alberto , Moura‐Neto Vivaldo , Souza Diogo Onofre
Published: March 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a strongly neurotropic flavivirus whose infection has been associated with microcephaly in neonates. However, clinical and experimental evidence indicate that ZIKV also affects the adult nervous system. In this regard, in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the ability of ZIKV to infect glial cells. In the central nervous system (CNS), glial cells are represented by astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes. In contrast, the peripheral nervous system (PNS) constitutes a highly heterogeneous group of cells (Schwann cells, satellite glial cells, and enteric glial cells) spread through the body. These cells are critical in both physiological and pathological conditions; as such, ZIKV‐induced glial dysfunctions can be associated with the development and progression of neurological complications, including those related to the adult and aging brain. This review will address the effects of ZIKV infection on CNS and PNS glial cells, focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms, including changes in the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, Ca2+ and glutamate homeostasis, neural metabolism, and neuron–glia communication. Of note, preventive and therapeutic strategies that focus on glial cells may emerge to delay and/or prevent the development of ZIKV‐induced neurodegeneration and its consequences.
Leaf gas exchange characteristics, biomass partitioning, and water use efficiencies of two C4 African grasses under simulated drought
Authors: Mganga Kevin Z. , Kuhla Jana , Carminati Andrea , Pausch Johanna , Ahmed Mutez A.
Published: March 2023

Background

Few studies have evaluated the effect of drought on the morpho‐physiological characteristics of African C4 grasses. We investigated how drought affects leaf gas exchange characteristics, biomass partitioning, and water use efficiencies of Enteropogon macrostachyus and Cenchrus ciliaris.

Methods

The grasses were grown in a controlled environment under optimum conditions, that is, 70% of the maximum water‐holding capacity (WHC) for the first 40 days. Thereafter, half of the columns were maintained under optimum or drought conditions (30% of maximum WHC) for another 20 days.

Results

Under optimum conditions, C. ciliaris showed a significantly higher photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate than E. macrostachyus. Drought decreased the photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate only in C. ciliaris. The net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and leaf transpiration of E. macrostachyus did not differ significantly under optimum and drought conditions. E. macrostachyus showed an increase in its water use efficiencies under drought to a greater extent than C. ciliaris.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that C. ciliaris is more sensitive to drought than E. macrostachyus. The decrease in the intercellular CO2 concentration and the increase in stomatal limitation with drought in C. ciliaris and E. macrostachyus suggest that stomatal limitation plays the dominant role in photosynthesis of the studied African C4 grasses.
A narrative review of the neuropharmacology of synthetic cathinones—Popular alternatives to classical drugs of abuse
Authors: Kuropka Patryk , Zawadzki Marcin , Szpot Paweł
Published: March 2023

Objective

To review the literature on the neuropharmacology of synthetic cathinones.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was carried out across multiple databases (mainly PubMed, World Wide Web, and Google Scholar) using relevant keywords.

Results

Cathinones exhibit a broad toxicological profile, mimicking the effects of a wide variety of ‘classic drugs’ such as 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methamphetamine and cocaine. Even small structural changes affect their interactions with key proteins. This article reviews existing knowledge of the mechanisms of action of cathinones at the molecular level, and key findings from research on their structure‐activity relationship. The cathinones are also classified according to their chemical structure and neuropharmacological profiles.

Conclusions

Synthetic cathinones represent one of the most numerous and widespread groups among new psychoactive substances. Initially developed for therapeutic purposes, they quickly started to be used recreationally. With a rapidly increasing number of new agents entering the market, structure‐activity relationship studies are valuable for assessing and predicting the addictive potential and toxicity of new and potential future substances. The neuropharmacological properties of synthetic cathinones are still not fully understood. A full elucidation of the role of some key proteins, including organic cation transporters, requires detailed studies.
Multifunctional bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) particles: Evidence for selective melanoma therapy
Authors: Chaki Borrás Marcela Laura , Colbran Georgia , Mitchell David R. G. , Barker Philip J. , Sluyter Ronald , Konstantinov Konstantin
Published: March 2023

The current study investigates the therapeutic and optical properties of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) particles for selective melanoma therapy and prevention. The Bi2O3 particles were prepared using a standard precipitation method. The Bi2O3 particles induced apoptosis in human A375 melanoma cells but not human HaCaT keratinocytes or CCD‐1090Sk fibroblast cells. This selective apoptosis appears to be associated with a combination of factors: increased particle internalization (2.29 ± 0.41, 1.16 ± 0.08 and 1.66 ± 0.22‐fold of control) and enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (3.4 ± 0.1, 1.1 ± 0.1 and 2.05 ± 0.17‐fold of control) in A375 cells compared to HaCaT and CCD‐1090SK cells, respectively. As a high‐Z element, bismuth is also an excellent contrast agent for computer tomography, which renders Bi2O3 a theranostic material. Moreover, Bi2O3 displays high UV absorption and low photocatalytic activity compared to other semiconducting metal oxides, which opens further potential fields of application as a pigment or as an active ingredient in sunscreens. Overall, this study demonstrates the multifunctional properties of Bi2O3 particles surrounding the treatment and prevention of melanoma.
Electric shortages and mental health in Maracaibo, Venezuela: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Andrade Gabriel
Published: March 2023

For the past 10 years, Venezuela has undergone a severe electric crisis. However, not all regions have been equally affected. The city of Maracaibo has endured more blackouts than other cities, and they have now become routine. This article sought to study the impact of electric shortages on the mental health of Maracaibo's inhabitants. Using a sample from all districts in the city, the study sought to test if there are correlations between the number of hours without electricity (per week), and four dimensions of mental health: anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality, and boredom. Results came out showing that there are moderate correlations across all four variables.
Nuchal organs in the trochophore of Siboglinum fiordicum (Annelida, Siboglinidae)
Authors: Temereva Elena , Rimskaya‐Korsakova Nadezhda
Published: March 2023

Nuchal organs are epidermal sensory structures present in most annelids. Based on one of the interpretations, they serve in larval settlement. Siboglinids lack nuchal organs in adult and larval stages, however, larvae of some siboglinids inhabiting seeps and hydrothermal vents are capable of swimming up to 100 km away from their home hydrothermal field to colonize a new one. One question that remains is, what organ are siboglinid larvae using to search and locate suitable substrates? To determine if any nuchal organs are present in siboglinid larvae, we studied the head and sensory apparatus in successive larval stages in a frenulate, Siboglinum fiordicum (Webb, 1963), using transmission electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. In the early trochophore stage, we found an unpaired dorsal organ lying proximal to the posterior prototroch. This organ consists of trochoblast‐ and “covering” cells. Trochoblasts exhibited serotonin‐like immunoreactivity and likely correspond to ciliated supporting cells, where cilia and microvilli project into the olfactory chamber. The “covering” cells are characterized by the presence of large nuclei with numerous pores and thick processes that project into the olfactory chamber, forming the contacts with the trochoblast projections. We have shown for the first time the presence of a nuchal‐like organ in annelids as early as the trochophore stage. The presence of this organ in siboglinid trochophores while they are still in the inside the female tube suggests that this structure might be associated with functions other than settlement, such as communication or initiation of the departure from her tube.
Incidence and predictors of alcohol relapse following living donor liver transplantation for alcohol related liver disease
Authors: Falari Sanyam Santosh , Mohapatra Nihar , Patil Nilesh Sadashiv , Pattnaik Bramhadatta , Varshney Mohit , Choudhury Ashok , Sarin Shiv K. , Pamecha Viniyendra
Published: March 2023

Background

Alcohol relapse after liver transplantation has a negative impact on outcomes. There is limited data on its burden, the predictors, and impact following live donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Methods

A single‐center observational study was carried out between July 2011 and March 2021 for patients undergoing LDLT for alcohol associated liver disease (ALD). The incidence, predictors of alcohol relapse, and post‐transplant outcomes were assessed.

Results

Altogether 720 LDLT were performed during the study period, 203 (28.19%) for ALD. The overall relapse rate was 9.85% (n = 20) with a median follow‐up of 52 months (range, 12–140 months). Sustained harmful alcohol use was seen in 4 (1.97%). On multivariate analysis, pre‐LT relapse (P = .001), duration of abstinence period (P = .007), daily intake of alcohol (P = .001), absence of life partner (P = .021), concurrent tobacco abuse before transplant (P = .001), the donation from second‐degree relative (P = .003) and poor compliance with medications (P = .001) were identified as predictors for relapse. Alcohol relapse was associated with the risk of graft rejection (HR 4.54, 95% CI: 1.751–11.80, P = .002).

Conclusion

Our results show that the overall incidence of relapse and rate of harmful drinking following LDLT is low. Donation from spouse and first degree relative was protective. History of daily intake, prior relapse, shorter pretransplant abstinence duration and lack of family support significantly predicted relapse.
Advanced MR Techniques for Preoperative Glioma Characterization: Part 1
Authors: Hirschler Lydiane , Sollmann Nico , Schmitz‐Abecassis Bárbara , Pinto Joana , Arzanforoosh Fatemehsadat , Barkhof Frederik , Booth Thomas , Calvo‐Imirizaldu Marta , Cassia Guilherme , Chmelik Marek , Clement Patricia , Ercan Ece , Fernández‐Seara Maria A. , Furtner Julia , Fuster‐Garcia Elies , Grech‐Sollars Matthew , Guven Nazmiye Tugay , Hatay Gokce Hale , Karami Golestan , Keil Vera C. , Kim Mina , Koekkoek Johan A. F. , Kukran Simran , Mancini Laura , Nechifor Ruben Emanuel , Özcan Alpay , Ozturk‐Isik Esin , Piskin Senol , Schmainda Kathleen , Svensson Siri F. , Tseng Chih‐Hsien , Unnikrishnan Saritha , Vos Frans , Warnert Esther , Zhao Moss Y. , Jancalek Radim , Nunes Teresa , Emblem Kyrre E. , Smits Marion , Petr Jan , Hangel Gilbert
Published: March 2023

Preoperative clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocols for gliomas, brain tumors with dismal outcomes due to their infiltrative properties, still rely on conventional structural MRI, which does not deliver information on tumor genotype and is limited in the delineation of diffuse gliomas. The GliMR COST action wants to raise awareness about the state of the art of advanced MRI techniques in gliomas and their possible clinical translation or lack thereof. This review describes current methods, limits, and applications of advanced MRI for the preoperative assessment of glioma, summarizing the level of clinical validation of different techniques. In this first part, we discuss dynamic susceptibility contrast and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI, arterial spin labeling, diffusion‐weighted MRI, vessel imaging, and magnetic resonance fingerprinting. The second part of this review addresses magnetic resonance spectroscopy, chemical exchange saturation transfer, susceptibility‐weighted imaging, MRI‐PET, MR elastography, and MR‐based radiomics applications.

Evidence Level: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2
Neo‐cartilage formation using human nondegenerate versus osteoarthritic chondrocyte‐derived cartilage organoids in a viscoelastic hydrogel
Authors: Kleuskens Meike W. A. , Crispim João F. , van Doeselaar Marina , van Donkelaar Corrinus C. , Janssen Rob P. A. , Ito Keita
Published: March 2023

Current regenerative cartilage therapies are associated with several drawbacks such as dedifferentiation of chondrocytes during expansion and the formation of fibrocartilage. Optimized chondrocyte expansion and tissue formation could lead to better clinical results of these therapies. In this study, a novel chondrocyte suspension expansion protocol that includes the addition of porcine notochordal cell‐derived matrix was used to self‐assemble human chondrocytes from osteoarthritic (OA) and nondegenerate (ND) origin into cartilage organoids containing collagen type II and proteoglycans. Proliferation rate and viability were similar for OA and ND chondrocytes and organoids formed had a similar histologic appearance and gene expression profile. Organoids were then encapsulated in viscoelastic alginate hydrogels to form larger tissues. Chondrocytes on the outer bounds of the organoids produced a proteoglycan‐rich matrix to bridge the space between organoids. In hydrogels containing ND organoids some collagen type I was observed between the organoids. Surrounding the bulk of organoids in the center of the gels, in both OA and ND gels a continuous tissue containing cells, proteoglycans and collagen type II had been produced. No difference was observed in sulphated glycosaminoglycan and hydroxyproline content between gels containing organoids from OA or ND origin after 28 days. It was concluded that OA chondrocytes, which can be harvested from leftover surgery tissue, perform similar to ND chondrocytes in terms of human cartilage organoid formation and matrix production in alginate gels. This opens possibilities for their potential to serve as a platform for cartilage regeneration but also as an in vitro model to study pathways, pathology, or drug development.
Earlier proteoglycan turnover promotes higher efficiency matrix remodeling in MRL/MpJ tendons
Authors: Aggouras Anthony N. , Connizzo Brianne K.
Published: March 2023

While most mammalian tissue regeneration is limited, the Murphy Roths Large (MRL/MpJ) mouse has been identified to regenerate several tissues, including tendon. Recent studies have indicated that this regenerative response is innate to the tendon tissue and not reliant on a systemic inflammatory response. Therefore, we hypothesized that MRL/MpJ mice may also exhibit a more robust homeostatic regulation of tendon structure in response to mechanical loading. To assess this, MRL/MpJ and C57BL/6J flexor digitorum longus tendon explants were subjected to stress‐deprived conditions in vitro for up to 14 days. Explant tendon health (metabolism, biosynthesis, and composition), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, gene expression, and tendon biomechanics were assessed periodically. We found a more robust response to the loss of mechanical stimulus in the MRL/MpJ tendon explants, exhibiting an increase in collagen production and MMP activity consistent with previous in vivo studies. This greater collagen turnover was preceded by an early expression of small leucine‐rich proteoglycans and proteoglycan‐degrading MMP‐3, promoting efficient regulation and organization of newly synthesized collagen and allowing for more efficient overall turnover in MRL/MpJ tendons. Therefore, mechanisms of MRL/MpJ matrix homeostasis may be fundamentally different from that of B6 tendons and may indicate better recovery from mechanical microdamage in MRL/MpJ tendons. We demonstrate here the utility of the MRL/MpJ model in elucidating mechanisms of efficient matrix turnover and its potential to shed light on new targets for more effective treatments for degenerative matrix changes brought about by injury, disease, or aging.
On the adsorption kinetics of an eco‐friendly surfactant n‐decyl‐β‐D‐maltopyranoside
Authors: Tseng Wen‐Chi , Hussain Siam , Tsay Ruey‐Yug , Lin Shi‐Yow , Le Thu Thi‐Yen , Van Nho Tran
Published: March 2023

Eco‐friendly surfactant alkyl polyglycosides (APGs) have garnered ample interest in the literature. However, the adsorption kinetics of APGs at an air‐water interface has not been studied to date. Consequently, this study aimed at investigating the adsorption kinetics of the APG n‐decyl‐β‐D‐maltopyranoside (β‐C10G2) at a freshly created air‐water interface. The dynamic and equilibrium surface tension (ST) of the aqueous β‐C10G2 solutions were experimentally measured at varying concentrations using a pendant bubble tensiometer and the ST data were examined via theoretical simulations using the Langmuir and Frumkin models. The fitting results revealed that the Frumkin model (with K = −2.9) well‐predicted the equilibrium ST data; signifying a considerable cohesive intermolecular force amidst the adsorbed β‐C10G2 molecules. The theoretical mixed‐controlled ST profiles (predicted by the Frumkin model) described the dynamic ST data reasonably well, but the adsorption rate constant increased significantly at increasing concentration. A comparison on the ST data of β‐C10G2 and β‐C12G2 (n‐dodecyl‐β‐D‐maltopyranoside) was also conducted and a relatively greater surface‐activity and lower cmc of the latter alkyl glycoside was observed.
Separation of diarylethene‐based photoswitchable isomeric compounds by high‐performance liquid chromatography and supercritical fluid chromatography
Authors: Salazar Brandon L. , Marr Zoe Y. , Benedict Jason B. , Colón Luis A.
Published: March 2023

Diarylethene‐based photoswitches have become very popular over the last few decades for potential applications in chemistry, materials science, and biotechnology due to their unique physical and chemical properties. We report the isomeric separation of a diarylethene‐based photoswitchable compound using high‐performance liquid chromatography. The separated isomers were characterized by ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy and mass spectrometry confirmed the isomeric nature of the compounds. The isomers were purified by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography, providing fractionated samples to study the isomers individually. A total amount of 13 mg of an isomer of interest was fractionated from a solution of 0.4 mg/ml of the isomeric mixture. Because the preparative high‐performance liquid chromatographic method required large quantities of solvent, we explored the use of supercritical fluid chromatography as an alternative separation mode which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first time this technique is used to separate diarylethene‐based photoswitchable compounds. Supercritical fluid chromatography provided faster analysis times while maintaining sufficient baseline resolution for the separated compounds and consuming less organic solvent in the mobile phase compared to high‐performance liquid chromatography. It is proposed that the supercritical fluid chromatographic method be upscaled and used in future fractionation of the diarylethene isomeric compounds, becoming a more environmentally benign approach for compound purification.
Efficacy of dupilumab in moderate and severe atopic dermatitis
Authors: Weidinger Stephan , Simpson Eric L. , Silverberg Jonathan I. , Schmitt Jochen , Leshem Yael A. , Katoh Norito , Chen Zhen , Zhang Haixin , Shumel Brad , Bansal Ashish , Chao Jingdong , Lu Yufang , Rossi Ana B. , Abramova Alvina
Published: March 2023

Background

Treatment responses may differ between patients with severe versus moderate atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objectives

To assess dupilumab response by baseline AD severity in adolescent and adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD.

Methods

We assessed dupilumab response by baseline AD severity in 1719 patients aged ≥12 years with moderate‐to‐severe AD from five randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials. Patients received subcutaneous placebo or dupilumab as monotherapy (300 mg [adults, adolescents] or 200 mg [adolescents] every 2 weeks; 16 weeks), or with concomitant topical corticosteroids (TCS) (adults; 16/52 weeks). Patients were stratified by baseline Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score (3 [moderate]/4 [severe]).

Results

Dupilumab‐treated patients with moderate AD had numerically higher absolute proportions of patients achieving IGA 0/1 (clear/almost clear) than those with severe AD; risk differences (dupilumab vs. placebo) were 18.9–35.5 for moderate AD and 16.4–34.2 for severe AD. For all other endpoints assessed, no meaningful differences or consistent response patterns between moderate and severe subgroups were observed.

Conclusions

Dupilumab with or without TCS demonstrated similar efficacy in patients with moderate or severe AD.