bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in β‐cyclodextrin‐based catalysts for reducing toxic nitroaromatic: An overview
Authors: Payamifar Sara , Poursattar Marjani Ahmad
Published: October 2023

Regarding the incremental shortage of water resources, wastewater treatment is essential for guarding the ecosystem and the sufficient usage of water resources. Freshwater, a vital item of life for humans and animals, is in danger because of the existence of destructive pollutants, such as p‐nitrophenol (p‐NP), and organic azo dyes, leading to water pollution. Among environmental pollution, water pollution has been recognized as one of the important threat agents in charge of many illnesses in humans. Nitrophenols contain high stability and solubility in water, which causes health risks. It is essential to change these harmful chemicals into healthy materials to have a safe life on the globe. Nitro compounds obtained from industrial wastewater are a severe threat to human being health and living organisms. Hence, designing green strategies and environment‐friendly catalysts to reduce toxic contaminants such as nitro compounds and dyes is a considerable challenge. One technique to overcome this crisis is the catalytic hydrogenation of nitro compounds to the amines, which are invaluable and non‐toxic materials. Reducing nitroarenes can be synthesized the amines, vital intermediates in organic and biological chemistry. Designing green strategies in nitro reduction processes for synthetic organic chemists is a great challenge. The nitroarene reduction reaction is a very efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing amines. Cyclodextrin (CD) can be applied as an effective catalyst in many aqueous organic reactions. Their derivatives have exhibited outstanding performance in water‐mediated organic synthesis and are now of ongoing attraction to many scientists in various fields. CDs show better catalytic activity and selectivity due to their particular geometry and structural interactions. CDs catalyzed reactions have been getting significant attention recently due to their low toxicity, biodegradability, economically and eco‐friendly behavior. Many reports are available in the literature on CDs material considered promising catalysts in reducing nitro compounds. This review article focuses on the use of β‐CD catalyst systems as valuable catalysts in the hydrogenation of nitroarenes and overviews articles up to 2023.
Comments on “Polymer compatibility,” Journal of Applied Polymer Science 17.10 (1973): 3175
Authors: Ghorab Salma , Malekzadeh Dirin Amirreza , Jalaei Salmani Hossein , Karkhanechi Hamed
Published: October 2023

This concise note highlights certain errors, encompassing dimensional inconsistency and flaws in the expression of fundamental relationships, associated with Schneier's equation. This equation was initially published in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science [17.10 (1973): 3175] and has subsequently found application in consequent studies.
Preconditioning Operation of Membraneless Vanadium Micro Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Oraá‐Poblete Beatriz , Perez‐Antolin Daniel , Maurice Ange A. , Palma Jesus , Kjeang Erik , Quintero Alberto E.
Published: October 2023

Development of a Membraneless Vanadium Micro Redox Flow Battery (MVMRFB) with an automated closed‐loop control, using micro actuators and micro sensors, is presented for the first‐time during electrolyte preconditioning operation in recirculation mode. The progress of preconditioning is tracked with UV‐vis spectroscopy by 3D printed micro flow cuvettes. Influence of flow rate, reactor internal resistance, and presence of side reactions in the preconditioning process are studied. Optimal flow rate ratio between negative and positive electrolytes is determined and significant performance improvements achieved by operating at lower flow rates are obtained. Influence of reactor internal resistance, which is directly related with the maximum power density, is evaluated demonstrating that operating at a high‐power density can be a source of inefficiency due to the presence of side reactions. Finally, presence of side reactions is evaluated through a dual measurement of electrolytes concentrations in both negative and positive side, and it is demonstrated to be a cause for charge imbalance between the two half‐cells. This work lays a solid foundation for the successful implementation of a charge‐discharge cycle in MVMRFBs operating in recirculation mode.
Die UHFB‐Biegedatenbank
Authors: Metje Kevin , Leutbecher Torsten
Published: October 2023

In dieser Arbeit werden Versuchsdaten von 228 Biegeträgern aus ultrahochfestem Beton (UHFB) in einer Datenbank zusammengeführt. Berücksichtigung finden unterschiedliche Querschnittsformen und Bewehrungskonfigurationen, einschließlich vorgespannter, rein stahlfaserbewehrter und rein stabstahlbewehrter Bauteile. Bei der Auswertung der Quellen zeigt sich, dass wichtige Werkstoffkenngrößen vielfach nur unzureichend dokumentiert vorliegen. Zudem erschwert der Einsatz unterschiedlicher, häufig nicht normierter Methoden der Werkstoffcharakterisierung die Vergleichbarkeit der einzelnen Studien. Daher werden sämtliche Daten zunächst sorgfältig geprüft, normiert und in Teilen ergänzt. Anschließend erfolgt mit den Datensätzen der Datenbank die Validierung eines unter Beteiligung der Autoren entstandenen und hier für die Anwendung auf komplexe Querschnittsgeometrien aufbereiteten Ansatzes zur Biegebemessung kombiniert bewehrter Biegeträger. Bei der Auswertung mit den Mittelwerten der Werkstoffkenngrößen wird sowohl für die Gesamtheit der Versuche als auch für einzelne Modellparameter eine gute Modellpassung erzielt. Ein akzeptables Sicherheitsniveau wird erreicht, wenn der charakteristische Wert der Nachrisszugfestigkeit auf den 0,6‐fachen Mittelwert begrenzt wird. Das 5%‐Quantil des Verhältnisses zwischen experimenteller und rechnerischer Biegetragfähigkeit Mexp / Mcal beträgt dann Q0,05 = 0,97 für die Gesamtheit der 228 Datensätze.
Heed warnings gleaned from hazing case at Northwestern
Authors: O’Brien Timothy J.
Published: October 2023

The hazing scandal that has enveloped the Northwestern University football team serves as an important reminder that allegations of misconduct — which in this case consisted of bullying, harassment, discrimination, and hazing by student‐athletes with the alleged knowledge of some of the coaches — have the potential to occur within any athletics department and can happen at the most unexpected times and places.
Computational Screening of Neuropilin‐1 Unveils Novel Potential Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 Therapeutics
Authors: Afiadenyo Michael , Adams Latif , Agoni Clement , Moane Siobhan , Mckeon‐Bennett Michelle , Obiri‐Yeboah Dorcas , Singh Jasdeep
Published: October 2023

Neuropilin 1 (NRP‐1) inhibition has shown promise in reducing the infectivity of severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and preventing the virus entry into nerve tissues, thereby mitigating neurological symptoms in COVID‐19 patients. In this study, we employed virtual screening, including molecular docking, Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation, and Molecular Mechanics‐Poisson Boltzmann Surface Area (MM‐PBSA) calculations, to identify potential NRP‐1 inhibitors. From a compendium of 1930 drug‐like natural compounds, we identified five potential leads: CNP0435132, CNP0435311, CNP0424372, CNP0429647, and CNP0427474, displaying robust binding energies of −8.2, −8.1, −10.7, −8.2, and −8.2 kcal/mol, respectively. These compounds demonstrated interactions with critical residues Tyr297, Trp301, Thr316, Asp320, Ser346, Thr349, and Tyr353 located within the b1 subdomain of NRP‐1. Furthermore, MD simulations and MM‐PBSA calculations affirmed the stability of the complexes formed, with average root mean square deviation, radius of gyration, and solvent accessible surface area values of 0.118 nm, 1.516 nm, and 88.667 nm2, respectively. Notably, these lead compounds were estimated to penetrate the blood‐brain barrier and displayed antiviral properties, with Pa values ranging from 0.414 to 0.779. The antagonistic effects of these lead compounds merit further investigation, as they hold the potential to serve as foundational scaffolds for the development of innovative therapeutics aimed at reducing the neuroinfectivity of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Application of Vitreoscilla Hemoglobin as a Green and Efficient Biocatalyst for the Synthesis of Benzoxazoles in Water
Authors: Xu Yaning , Zhao Nan , Li Fengxi , Wang Chunyu , Xie Hanqing , Wu Junhao , Cheng Lei , Wang Lei , Wang Zhi
Published: October 2023

We report an efficient and eco‐friendly method for the Vitreoscilla hemoglobin (VHb)‐catalyzed synthesis of benzoxazoles in water at room temperature. tert‐Butyl hydroperoxide and 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxy were used as oxidant and radical scavenger, respectively. A total of 27 functionally diverse benzoxazoles were prepared in moderate to high yields (62 %‐94 %) by the annulation reaction of phenols with amines in the presence of VHb in 1 h. Thus, this method is highly viable for practical applications. This work broadens the application of hemoglobin to organic synthesis.
Development of a gluten‐free bread with added heat‐treated yellow pea flour: Application of response surface methodology
Authors: Jeradechachai Tanya , Hall Clifford
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

Processing parameters of yellow pea (Pisum sativum L.) flour‐fortified gluten‐free (GF) bread was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). The final bread product was evaluated for quality, sensory acceptability, and shelf life. A second‐order model was fitted to the precooking temperature of whole pea (PTWP), water level, and proof time as the factors used in RSM.

Findings

Higher PTWP and lower proof time had significantly (p < .05) lower bread crumb brightness compared to other treatments. Crumb firmness was influenced by the PTWP, water level, and proof time. The optimized parameters for PTWP, water level, and proof time were 156.9°C, 523.8 g, and 18.0 min, respectively. The optimized bread had a brightness (L* value), specific volume, crumb firmness, and mean cell diameter of 68.20, 2.6 mL/g, 174.2 gf, and 3.81 mm, respectively. The optimized GF bread had longer shelf‐life but had significantly (p < .05) lower acceptance scores, than the commercial premix GF bread product.

Conclusion

The optimized processing parameters for yellow pea utilization in gluten‐free bread were identified by RSM resulting in optimized quality characteristics of the finished baked product.

Significance and Novelty

The principles of RSM were an excellent tool to optimize the physical attributes of gluten‐free bread formulated with yellow pea flour.
Porous Organic Polymer with Free Carboxylic Acids (Carboxy‐POP) for Heterogeneous Catalytic One‐Pot Synthesis of Xanthenes and Acridines
Authors: Karn Alka , Yadav Chetna , Kumar Sahoo Ajay , Narasimha Moorthy Jarugu
Published: October 2023

Porous organic polymers (POPs) – the emergent hydrothermally stable, amorphous and porous materials – have proven to be invaluable for catalytic applications. Through a rational bottom‐up design, we have developed a Carboxy‐POP, a POP that is adorned by Bronsted acid (COOH) functionalities, for heterogeneous catalysis. The Carboxy‐POP has been comprehensively characterized by FT‐IR, solid‐state 13C NMR, SEM, TEM, etc. It exhibits a moderate porosity with a BET surface area of 381 m2 g−1 and acid concentration of 1.67 mmol/g. Its functional utility as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for one‐pot synthesis of a variety of xanthenes and acridines in excellent isolated yields (up to 98 %) is demonstrated. In contrast to the conventional methods, the advantages of the reported metal‐free catalytic protocol include ease of operation, excellent isolated yields of the products, facile workup, and shorter reaction times. It is shown that the heterogeneous catalyst can be repetitively used with the catalytic activity almost intact even after 16 reaction cycles.
Transforming Hetera‐Buckybowls into Chiral Conjugated Polycycles Incorporating Epoxycyclooctadiene: a Two‐Step Approach
Authors: Wang Xue , Hua Xinqiang , Zhang Haomin , Wu Lingxi , Yuan Chengshan , Liu Zitong , Zhang Hao‐Li , Shao Xiangfeng
Published: October 2023

Chiral π‐conjugated polycycles have garnered increasing attention due to versatile applications in optoelectronic materials and biological sciences. In this study, we report the synthesis of chiral π‐conjugated polycycles incorporating a chiral epoxycyclooctadiene moiety. Our synthetic strategy capitalizes on the novel reactions of hetera‐buckybowl triselenasumanene (TSS) and is achieved in two‐step manner. Firstly, the TSS is regio‐selectively transformed into its ortho‐quinone form. Subsequently, the nucleophilic addition reactions of TSS ortho‐quinone by phenylethynides are metal ion‐dependent. When utilizing (phenylethynyl)magnesium bromide as the nucleophile, two phenylethynyls are furnished onto the edged benzene ring of TSS. When the nucleophile is (phenylethynyl)lithium, a cascade of nucleophilic addition, intermolecular electron‐transfer, ring‐opening, and tetradehydro‐Diels–Alder (TDDA) reactions occur sequentially in one‐pot, ultimately affording chiral π‐conjugated polycycles featuring the epoxycyclooctadiene moiety as an integral part of their backbones. This work represents a step forward in the synthesis of chiral π‐conjugated polycycles using TSS as synthon.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Gold‐N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes**
Authors: Nicholls Thomas P. , Jia Zhongfan , Chalker Justin M.
Published: October 2023

An electrochemical synthesis of gold(I)‐N‐heterocyclic carbene (Au‐NHC) complexes has been developed. The electrochemical methodology uses only imidazolium salts, gold metal electrodes, and electricity to produce these complexes with hydrogen gas as the only by‐product. This high‐yielding and operationally simple procedure has been used to produce eight mononuclear and three dinuclear Au‐NHC complexes. The electrochemical procedure facilitates a clean reaction with no by‐products. As such, Au‐NHC complexes can be directly transferred to catalytic reactions without work‐up or purification. The Au‐NHC complexes were produced on‐demand and tested as catalysts in a vinylcyclopropanation reaction. All mononuclear Au‐NHC complexes performed similarly to or better than the isolated complexes.
Modifying the Catalytic Activity of Lipopeptide Assemblies with Nucleobases
Authors: Vela‐Gallego Sonia , Lewandowski Bartosz , Möhler Jasper , Puente Alonso , Gil‐Cantero David , Wennemers Helma , de la Escosura Andrés
Published: October 2023

Biohybrid catalysts that operate in aqueous media are intriguing for systems chemistry. In this paper, we investigate whether control over the self‐assembly of biohybrid catalysts can tune their properties. As a model, we use the catalytic activity of functional hybrid molecules consisting of a catalytic H‐dPro‐Pro‐Glu tripeptide, derivatized with fatty acid and nucleobase moieties. This combination of simple biological components merged the catalytic properties of the peptide with the self‐assembly of the lipid, and the structural ordering of the nucleobases. The biomolecule hybrids self‐assemble in aqueous media into fibrillar assemblies and catalyze the reaction between butanal and nitrostyrene. The interactions between the nucleobases enhanced the order of the supramolecular structures and affected their catalytic activity and stereoselectivity. The results point to the significant control and ordering that nucleobases can provide in the self‐assembly of biologically inspired supramolecular catalysts.
Separation of the enantiomers of coumarinic anticoagulant drugs by capillary electrophoresis using maltodextrins as chiral modifiers
Authors: D'Hulst Annick , Verbeke Norbert
Published: October 2023

The separation and quantitation of coumarinic anticoagulant drug enantiomers were achieved by direct chiral capillary electrophoresis using complex maltooligosaccharide mixtures as stereoselective electrolyte modifiers. Chiral separations were characterized by a high selectivity and efficiency, enabling enantiomeric excess determinations. In addition, preliminary results indicate the applicability of the method for the determination of individual enantiomers in biological samples. So the method can be used to perform stereoselective pharmacokinetic studies. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stress in der Fritteuse
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: October 2023

Bei einem Wort wie Frittenfett erinnern viele sich an ein bestimmtes Geruchs‐ und Geschmacksprofil. Allerdings gibt es keine klaren Parameter dafür, wann Gastronomen das Öl in der Fritteuse auswechseln sollten. Wie sich die Qualität jedoch einfach und treffend feststellen lässt, war Ziel einer Studie in Wuppertal und Detmold.
Competition between Loss of H2 versus H+H in the Fragmentation of the Fluorene Cation
Authors: Désesquelles Pierre , Domin Dominik , Xu Lejin , Van‐Oanh Nguyen‐Thi
Published: October 2023

The fluorene cation is a frequently studied molecule in the context of fragmentation experiments. This is because of its potential role in interstellar chemistry, notably as a precursor of PAH cages. In this paper, we analyze H, H+, H2 and
losses from the fluorene cation using the SMF (Statistical Molecular Fragmentation) model. We calculate the probabilities of all the 534 possible fragmentation channels as a function of the excitation energy, up to the loss of three hydrogens. Four different types of hydrogen atom pairings (from the same carbon, from the same ring, from different rings and across‐the‐bay) have been tested in order to determine which types contribute to the actual production of hydrogen molecules. The simulated breakdown curves are in very good agreement with different experimental results when same ring pairing is taken into account. It was possible to deduce from the model the locations of the emitted H, H+, H2 and
species.
Kinetics of the Temperature‐Dependent eaq− and ⋅OH Radical Reactions with Cr(III) Ions in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Conrad Jacy K. , Lisouskaya Aliaksandra , Mezyk Stephen P. , Bartels David M.
Published: October 2023

The reactivity of chromium(III) species with the major oxidizing and reducing radiolysis products of water was investigated in aqueous solutions at temperatures up to 150 °C. The reaction between the hydrated electron (eaq−) and Cr(III) species showed a positive temperature dependence over this temperature range. The reaction was also studied in pH 2.5 and 3.5 solutions for the first time. This work also studied the reaction between acidic Cr(III) species and the hydroxyl radical (⋅OH). It was found that Cr3+ did not react significantly with the ⋅OH radical, but the first hydrolysis species, Cr(OH)2+, did with a rate coefficient of k= (7.2±0.3)×108 M−1 s−1 at 25 °C. The oxidation of Cr(OH)2+ by the ⋅OH radical formed an absorbing product species that ultimately oxidized to give Cr(VI). These newly measured reaction rates allow for the development of improved models of aqueous chromium speciation for the effective remediation of liquid high‐level nuclear waste via vitrification processes.
Partial Methane Oxidation to Methanol on Ru‐Porphyrins – on the Role of Non‐Innocent Ligands and Spin Crossover
Authors: Kizior Beata , Jezierska Aneta , Szyja Bartłomiej M.
Published: October 2023

The partial oxidation reaction of CH4 led to the formation of CH3OH in the presence of Ru‐porphyrin oxo complexes (denoted as POR, POR‐O and POR‐OH where in the case of the last two, oxygen atom and the OH group were attached to the active site, respectively), in which Ru was present on different oxidation states. The simulations were performed based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) with extended geometric and electronic structure analyses of each reaction step. Moreover, the reaction pathways were investigated in different spin states. The Spin Crossover (SCO) phenomenon was found to play an important role in the kinetics of the reaction in the presence of POR and POR‐O. Harmonic Oscillator Model of Aromaticity (HOMA) index was applied for different spin states to estimate the aromaticity changes of the pyrrole rings in the Ru‐porphyrin complexes. In order to characterize the nature of bonding, the Natural Bond Orbitals (NBO) analysis including the Wiberg Bond Index (WBI) and Natural Population Analysis (NPA) was carried out. Finally, the Non‐Covalent Interactions (NCI) index was employed to gain insight into interactions between the components of the reaction. It was found that the non‐covalent interactions cannot be neglected in the studied reaction paths.
Catalytic Behavior of K‐doped Fe/MgO Catalysts for Ammonia Synthesis Under Mild Reaction Conditions
Authors: Era Kohei , Sato Katsutoshi , Miyahara Shin‐ichiro , Naito Takahiro , De Silva Kanishka , Akrami Saeid , Yamada Hiroshi , Toriyama Takaaki , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Murakami Yasukazu , Aika Ken‐ichi , Inazu Koji , Nagaoka Katsutoshi
Published: October 2023

An important part of realizing a carbon‐neutral society using ammonia will be the development of an inexpensive yet efficient catalyst for ammonia synthesis under mild reaction conditions (<400 °C, <10 MPa). Here, we report Fe/K(3)/MgO, fabricated via an impregnation method, as a highly active catalyst for ammonia synthesis under mild reaction conditions (350 °C, 1.0 MPa). At the mentioned conditions, the activity of Fe/K(3)/MgO (17.5 mmol h−1 gcat−1) was greater than that of a commercial fused iron catalyst (8.6 mmol h−1 gcat−1) currently used in the Haber‐Bosch process. K doping was found to increase the ratio of Fe0 on the surface and turnover frequency of Fe in our Fe/K(3)/MgO catalyst. In addition, increasing the pressure to 3.0 MPa at the same temperature led to a significant improvement of the ammonia synthesis rate to 29.6 mmol h−1 gcat−1, which was higher than that of two more expensive, benchmark Ru‐based catalysts, which are also potential alternative catalysts. A kinetics analysis revealed that the addition of K enhanced the ammonia synthesis activity at ≥300 °C by changing the main adsorbed species from NH to N which can accelerate dissociative adsorption of nitrogen as the rate limiting step in ammonia synthesis.
N6‐methyladenosine‐modified circSTX6 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating the HNRNPD/ATF3 axis and encoding a 144 amino acid polypeptide
Authors: Lu Jiahua , Ru Junnan , Chen Yunhao , Ling Zhenan , Liu Hanqing , Ding Bo , Jiang Yifan , Ma Jun , Zhang Deguo , Ge Jiangzhen , Li Yu , Sun Fei , Chen Diyu , Zheng Shusen , Wu Jian
Published: October 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a significant role in the initiation and progression of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Circular syntaxin 6 (circSTX6, also known as hsa_circ_0007905) has been identified as a microRNA (miRNA) sponge in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. However, its full range of functions in terms of protein scaffold and translation remain largely unexplored in the context of HCC.

Methods

The expression of circSTX6 and its encoded protein was examined in HCC tumour tissues. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) on circSTX6 was verified and quantified by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (Me‐RIP), RIP and dual luciferase reporter assays. The biological functions of circSTX6 and its encoded protein in HCC were clarified by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Mechanistically, the interaction between circSTX6 and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (HNRNPD) was investigated by RNA pull‐down, RIP and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)/IF. The regulatory effects of circSTX6 and HNRNPD on activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) mRNA were determined by mRNA stability and RIP assays. Furthermore, the presence of circSTX6‐encoded protein was verified by mass spectrometry.

Results

CircSTX6 and its encoded 144 amino acid polypeptide, circSTX6‐144aa, were highly expressed in HCC tumour tissues and served as independent risk factors for overall survival in HCC patients. The expression of circSTX6 was regulated by METTL14 in an m6A‐dependent manner. Functionally, circSTX6 accelerated HCC proliferation and tumourigenicity and reinforced tumour metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circSTX6 acted as a sponge for HNRNPD protein, facilitating its binding to ATF3 mRNA, consequently promoting ATF3 mRNA decay. Meanwhile, circSTX6‐144aa promoted HCC proliferation, migration and invasion independent of circSTX6 itself.

Conclusion

Collectively, our study reveals that m6A‐modified circSTX6 drives malignancy in HCC through the HNRNPD/ATF3 axis, while its encoded circSTX6‐144aa contributes to HCC progression independent of circSTX6. CirSTX6 and its encoded protein hold promise as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in HCC.
Combined effects of soil 3D spatial heterogeneity and biotic spatial heterogeneity (plant clumping) on ecosystem processes in grasslands
Authors: Vindušková O. , Deckmyn G. , Bortier M. , De Boeck H. J. , Liu Y. , Nijs I.
Published: October 2023

Soil heterogeneity has been shown to enhance plant diversity, but its effect on grassland productivity is less clear. Even less is known about the effect of plant clumping (intraspecific aggregation) and its potential interaction with soil heterogeneity. The combined effects of soil 3D spatial heterogeneity and species clumping were experimentally studied in grassland mesocosms consisting of four grassland species. These species were planted in three patterns (i.e. completely mixed, clumped by 9 or 36 individuals of the same species) on soils with heterogeneous cells of alternating nutrient‐poor and rich soil differing in size from 0 (mixed soil) to 12, 24, and 48 cm (complete poor or rich mesocosm). Moderate soil cell sizes (12–24 cm) consistently increased whole‐mesocosm aboveground productivity by more than 20%, which mainly originated from the increased growth of the plants growing on the poor soil cells. In contrast, total mesocosm productivity was not affected by species clumping although there were some species‐specific effects, both of clumping and of the interaction of clumping with soil heterogeneity. Our results show that intermediate soil heterogeneity promotes productivity. Clumping can improve the growth of inferior species, thus promoting coexistence, without affecting overall productivity. We found no interaction effect of clumping and soil heterogeneity on productivity at the community level and some minor species‐specific effects.
Multidimensional beta‐diversity across local and regional scales in a Chinese subtropical forest: The role of forest structure
Authors: Yao Zhiliang , Yang Xin , Wang Bin , Shao Xiaona , Wen Handong , Deng Yun , Zhang Zhiming , Cao Min , Lin Luxiang
Published: October 2023

Beta‐diversity, or the spatio‐temporal variation in community composition, can be partitioned into turnover and nestedness components in a multidimensional framework. Forest structure, including comprehensive characteristics of vertical and horizontal complexity, strongly affects species composition and its spatial variation. However, the effects of forest structure on beta‐diversity patterns in multidimensional and multiple‐scale contexts are poorly understood. Here, we assessed beta‐diversity at local (a 20‐ha forest dynamics plot) and regional (a plot network composed of 19 1‐ha plots) scales in a Chinese subtropical evergreen broad‐leaved forest. We then evaluated the relative importance of forest structure, topography, and spatial structure on beta‐diversity and its turnover and nestedness components in taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic dimensions at local and regional scales. We derived forest structural parameters from both unmanned aerial vehicle light detection and ranging (UAV LiDAR) data and plot inventory data. Turnover component dominated total beta‐diversity for all dimensions at the two scales. With the exception of some components (taxonomic and functional turnover at the local scale; functional nestedness at the regional scale), environmental factors (i.e., topography and forest structure) contributed more than pure spatial variation. Explanations of forest structure for beta‐diversity and its component patterns at the local scale were higher than those at the regional scale. The joint effects of spatial structure and forest structure influenced component patterns in all dimensions (except for functional turnover) to some extent at the local scale, while pure forest structure influenced taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness patterns to some extent at the regional scale. Our results highlight the importance and scale dependence of forest structure in shaping multidimensional beta‐diversity and its component patterns. Clearly, further studies need to link forest structure directly to ecological processes (e.g., asymmetric light competition and disturbance dynamics) and explore its roles in biodiversity maintenance.
Qiliqiangxin: A multifaceted holistic treatment for heart failure or a pharmacological probe for the identification of cardioprotective mechanisms?
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: October 2023

The active ingredients in many traditional Chinese medicines are isoprene oligomers with a diterpenoid or triterpenoid structure, which exert cardiovascular effects by signalling through nutrient surplus and nutrient deprivation pathways. Qiliqiangxin (QLQX) is a commercial formulation of 11 different plant ingredients, whose active compounds include astragaloside IV, tanshione IIA, ginsenosides (Rb1, Rg1 and Re) and periplocymarin. In the QUEST trial, QLQX reduced the combined risk of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization (hazard ratio 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.68–0.90), based on 859 events in 3119 patients over a median of 18.2 months; the benefits were seen in patients taking foundational drugs except for sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Numerous experimental studies of QLQX in diverse cardiac injuries have yielded highly consistent findings. In marked abrupt cardiac injury, QLQX mitigated cardiac injury by upregulating nutrient surplus signalling through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR/HIF‐1α/NRF2 pathway; the benefits of QLQX were abrogated by suppression of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, HIF‐1α or NRF2. In contrast, in prolonged measured cardiac stress (as in chronic heart failure), QLQX ameliorated oxidative stress, maladaptive hypertrophy, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and proinflammatory and profibrotic pathways, while enhancing mitochondrial health and promoting glucose and fatty acid oxidation and ATP production. These effects are achieved by an action of QLQX to upregulate nutrient deprivation signalling through SIRT1/AMPK/PGC‐1α and enhanced autophagic flux. In particular, QLQX appears to enhance the interaction of PGC‐1α with PPARα, possibly by direct binding to RXRα; silencing of SIRT1, PGC‐1α and RXRα abrogated the favourable effects of QLQX in the heart. Since PGC‐1α/RXRα is also a downstream effector of Akt/mTOR signalling, the actions of QLQX on PGC‐1α/RXRα may explain its favourable effects in both acute and chronic stress. Intriguingly, the individual ingredients in QLQX – astragaloside IV, ginsenosides, and tanshione IIA – share QLQX's effects on PGC‐1α/RXRα/PPARα signalling. QXQL also contains periplocymarin, a cardiac glycoside that inhibits Na+‐K+‐ATPase. Taken collectively, these observations support a conceptual framework for understanding the mechanism of action for QLQX in heart failure. The high likelihood of overlap in the mechanism of action of QLQX and SGLT2 inhibitors requires additional experimental studies and clinical trials.
Epidemiology and clinical aspect of mushroom poisonings in South Sardinia: A 10‐year retrospective analysis (2011–2021)
Authors: La Rosa Laura , Corrias Serafina , Pintor Iginio , Cosentino Sofia
Published: October 2023

Mushroom poisoning is a severe problem of public health, however, information about its epidemiology and management is still limited. This is the first study focused on Sardinia that investigates data about mushroom poisoning describing epidemiology, clinical presentation, seasonality, and the most common involved species. In this retrospective study, we analyzed data recovered from the database of Mycological Inspectorates during a 10‐year period (2011–2021). Overall, 164 cases of mushroom poisoning have been identified, with significant peaks in autumn. The highest number of episodes of intoxication were recorded in Cagliari (64), followed by Carbonia (55) and Sanluri (45), although the annual distribution of cases among the provinces varied considerably in the study period. Thanks to the expertise of the Mycological Inspectorate service, the implicated species have been identified in 162 cases (98.78%); 81 cases were caused by toxic species, 60 by edible, and 45 by not edible species. Omphalotus olearius and Agaricus xanthodermus were the most represented toxic species (22% and 18%, respectively); Boletus aereus (18%) was the most frequent edible species, while Boletaceae were the prevalent not edible mushrooms. The data collected in South Sardinia over a period of 10‐years demonstrate how a correct and rapid recognition of mushroom poisoning is important to improve the prognosis of patients, however, there are still problems of lack of knowledge, on the part of the population, on the existence of the consultancy services. Because most illnesses from poisonous mushroom ingestion are preventable, increased public awareness about the potential dangers of mushroom poisoning is mandatory.
Low intracellular water and incident cognitive impairment in chronic hemodialysis patients
Authors: Tian Maolu , Yuan Jing , Yu Fangfang , He Pinghong , Hu Shanshan , Zha Yan
Published: October 2023

Objective

To explore the effect of intracellular water (ICW) evaluated by the bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy (BIS) on the risk of incident cognitive impairment (CI) in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods

Three thousand three hundred eighty‐five patients were recruited and monitored prospectively for up to 3 years (the median follow‐up time, 2 years) in this observational cohort study. Mini‐Mental State Examination score (MMSE) was used to assess the global cognitive function. ICW was measured by body composition monitor based on BIS. Multiple Cox regression models, stratified analyses, and interactive analyses were conducted.

Results

During the follow‐up period, 1256 patients (37.1%) experienced incident CI. The incidence of CI was increased with decreasing quartiles of ICW (27.4%, 32.2%, 38.9%, and 50.1% for the fourth, third, second, and first quartiles, respectively). Decreased ICW was significantly associated with incident CI. The association remained statistically significant even after adjusting for age, sex, education, albumin, C‐reactive protein, residual renal function and various medical histories. The hazard ratios were 1.38 (1.17–1.64) and 1.28 (1.08–1.52) for ICW quartile 1 and quartile 2, respectively (reference, quartile 4). The association stably existed across subgroups, and the residual renal function had an interactive role in the association between ICW and incident CI (p = 0.014).

Conclusion

Low baseline ICW was an independent risk factor for CI in chronic HD patients. Our finding highlights the necessity of using BIS to measure body composition when assessing the risk of CI in HD patients.
Migrants' living conditions, perceived health needs and implications for the use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance in the United Kingdom: A qualitative study
Authors: Nanakali Shajwan S. , Hassan Osama , Silva Luisa , Al‐Oraibi Amani , Chaloner Jonathan , Gogoi Mayuri , Qureshi Irtiza , Sahare Pankhuri , Pareek Manish , Chattopadhyay Kaushik , Nellums Laura B.
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the top public health concerns around the globe. Migrants, especially forced migrants, could be at higher risk of acquiring and transmitting AMR during their journeys or in host countries. There is limited understanding regarding migrants' living conditions and the wider factors contributing to their risk of acquiring infections, and behaviors around antimicrobial use, and AMR development. In this study, we aimed to explore transit experiences, living conditions, and antibiotic use of migrants living in the United Kingdom.

Methods

We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 27 participants and identified five themes regarding migrants' journey and their living conditions during transit and after arriving in the United Kingdom, their access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and their use of antibiotics.

Results

Migrants, particularly forced migrants, experienced unfavorable living conditions, poor access to WASH, and challenges in accessing healthcare, which further contributed to health conditions like urinary and skin problems. Isolation and difficulty in accessing healthcare played significant roles in migrants' perceived need for storing and using antibiotics as a safety net.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the need for coordinated and multilevel interventions to address these challenges and contribute toward tackling AMR and improving the health of this population group.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated optic neuritis in a post‐COVID‐19 infection patient
Authors: Zaini Mohamad Azlan , Mohd Zain Ayesha , Md Din Norshamsiah , Lam Chenshen
Published: October 2023

Purpose

SARS‐CoV‐2 viral infection affects multiple systems including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiac, and ophthalmic systems. We report a case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) related optic neuritis in a SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) patient.

Methods

Case report.

Results

A 36‐year‐old Malay gentleman with underlying hypertension presented with the first episode of bilateral progressively worsening blurred vision for 1 week associated with retrobulbar pain. There were no other neurological symptoms. He had fever a week before the eye symptoms and tested positive for COVID‐19. He received COVID‐19 booster vaccine a month before the disease onset. On examination, his vision was hand motion on right eye and 6/18 on left eye. Relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) was positive on right eye with abnormal optic nerve function tests. Anterior segments were unremarkable. Fundus examination showed bilateral optic disc swelling. MRI revealed multifocal hyperintense subcortical white matter lesions. Optic nerves appeared normal with no enhancement seen. Blood investigation showed a positive serum MOG antibody. Intravenous methylprednisolone was commenced followed by oral prednisolone after which his vision and ocular symptoms markedly improved. The oral prednisolone was tapered alongside addition of azathioprine. At 1 month, the disease was stable with no recurrence.

Conclusion

While optic neuritis has been associated with both COVID‐19 infection and vaccination, MOG IgG antibody‐mediated optic neuritis is also a possible manifestation. This type of optic neuritis associated with COVID‐19 infection does not show a similar pattern of frequent recurrences as seen in non‐COVID‐19 related optic neuritis.
Accuracy of 2‐ and 8‐Hour Urine Collections for Measuring Creatinine Clearance in the Hospitalized Elderly
Authors: O'Connell Mary Beth , Wong Marietta O. , Bannick‐Mohrland Susan D. , Dwinell Andrea M.
Published: October 2023

The accuracy of 2‐ and 8‐ hour urine collections for estimating creatinine clearance was compared with that of the standard 24‐hour procedure in 45 hospitalized elderly patients (age ≥ 65 yrs) with indwelling urethral catheters. Urine was collected at blocked intervals from 0–2, 2–8, and 8–24 hours and then added together to determine the 8‐ and 24‐hour clearances. The mean 8‐hour creatinine clearance was not significantly different from the 24‐hour value, whereas the mean 2‐hour creatinine clearance was significantly different. The 8‐hour value was less biased (2.2 and 10.7 ml/min, respectively) and more precise (11.7 and 25.3 ml/min, respectively) than the 2‐hour value. Regardless of age, renal function, serum creatinine level, or diuretic use, the 8‐hour value was less biased, usually more precise, and clinically more accurate. Thus it can be used in stable, hospitalized, elderly patients with indwelling catheters to determine degrees of renal impairment and provide optimum drug dosing.
Therapeutic Decisions: Assessing Clinical Fit
Authors: Barriere Steven L.
Published: October 2023

Quality health care has been defined as the maximization of desired outcomes while minimizing undesirable consequences. Therefore, the optimal antimicrobial agent for a given clinical condition will be one that is the most rapidly effective, produces the least patient discomfort, results in minimal disruption of the patient's or hospital flora, and causes minimal dissatisfaction with the treatment program and its attendant costs. The clinical utility of antimicrobials is generally judged on the basis of in vitro activity, kinetic disposition, resistance trends, safety, and cost. Fluoroquinolones possess characteristics in each of these areas; for example, broad, potent gram‐negative spectrum coupled with excellent oral absorption and tissue penetration, and relative safety and reduced cost compared with parenteral therapy. Drawbacks include the emergence of resistance among certain bacteria, particularly staphylococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, drug interactions that may compromise efficacy, and greater cost than other potentially useful oral antimicrobial agents. Indications for the agents' use can be categorized as appropriate (gram‐negative osteomyelitis, complicated urinary tract infection, prostatitis, certain sexually transmitted diseases, bacterial gastroenteritis), potential (gastrointestinal tract decontamination in granulocytopenic patients, exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, nosocomial pneumonia and bacteremia, eradication of certain bacterial carrier states), or inappropriate (community‐acquired pulmonary infections, especially aspiration pneumonitis, serious gram‐positive infections, uncomplicated urinary tract infection, surgical prophylaxis except prostatic surgery). Gram‐negative osteomyelitis serves as a model to demonstrate the fluoroquinolones as agents for quality health care. Current and future investigations should focus on the cost effectiveness and cost utility of the agents.
Development and Implementation of Simplified Aminoglycoside Empiric Dosing Guidelines
Authors: Nimmo Cindy Reesor , Mamdani Fatima , Baker Allan , Jewesson Peter
Published: October 2023

Poor empiric dosing of aminoglycosides continues to be a problem in many hospitals. Consequently, a two‐phase study was undertaken to evaluate gentamicin and tobramycin (G‐T) dosing in our institution and to develop practical guidelines to achieve optimum initial G‐T serum concentrations. In the pre‐intervention phase (phase 1), approximately one‐third of 232 G‐T treatment courses were initiated with regimens that resulted in low initial serum concentrations. Empiric dosing guidelines were subsequently developed using Pharmacy Pharmacokinetic Service data and literature recommendations. They were validated with patients in phase 1. Compared with earlier dosing methods, the guidelines resulted in initial serum G‐T concentrations within the therapeutic range in an equivalent proportion of patients. To simplify the procedure, recommended dosages were based on age, total weight, and serum creatinine only. The guidelines were tabular in format, and prescriber calculations were not required. Pocket and wall chart guidelines were distributed and promoted. During the post‐intervention phase (phase 2), the impact of the guidelines was assessed. A review of 232 phase 1 and 203 phase 2 treatment courses revealed an increase in the initial mean dose per interval prescribed after the intervention (p<0.01). No change in the mean interval was noted. When guidelines were followed, a higher proportion of treatment courses achieved early therapeutic serum concentrations (Cpmax 5–10 mg/L, 80% vs 54%; p<0.005). The new empiric guidelines appear to be a practical alternative to existing methods of dosing aminoglycosides.
Selecting a Decongestant
Authors: Hendeles Leslie
Published: October 2023

Antihistamines and decongestants often are used interchangeably and in combination for a variety of upper respiratory illnesses ranging from allergic rhinitis to the common cold; yet, these two classes of drugs have distinct therapeutic actions. When administered alone, antihistamines are of no value in reducing nasal stuffiness. Therefore, many allergy products also contain decongestants. Conversely, cough‐cold remedies often contain antihistamines despite their lack of efficacy in these conditions. Nasal congestion, on the other hand, regardless of its cause, responds quite well to decongestants. The topical route provides a faster and more intense decrease in nasal airway resistance, but has a shorter duration and the potential to produce rebound congestion in patients with allergic rhinitis, whereas oral agents do not. Phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylephrine are the most common decongestants. Although all are sympathomimetic amines, their efficacy varies. In particular, phenylephrine is subject to first‐pass metabolism and therefore is not bioavailable in currently recommended doses. In addition, phenylpropanolamine and pseudoephedrine, but not phenylephrine, are effective decongestants. Slow‐release formulations allow a longer dosing interval, especially during the night. However, most formulations available in the United States are manufactured and sold without Food and Drug Administration scrutiny. Since the in vitro dissolution of many of these products differs, it is possible that some of the generic formulations are not bioequivalent to established brand‐name products. Therefore, pharmacists should not substitute formulations without discussing the matter with the prescriber.
A Randomized, Controlled Trial Comparing Diltiazem, Hydrochlorothiazide, and Their Combination in the Therapy of Essential Hypertension
Authors: Pool Peter E. , Applegate William B. , Woehler Thomas , Sandall Paul , Cady William J.
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To compare the efficacy of combination therapy with sustained‐release diltiazem and hydrochlorothiazide (DTZ SR‐HCTZ) with that of monotherapy with DTZ SR, HCTZ, or placebo in the treatment of essential hypertension; and to determine whether the addition of a diuretic to diltiazem at apparent optimum doses of each agent significantly enhances their antihypertensive effects.

Design. Multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group trial with a 6‐week treatment phase.

Setting. Private and university‐based clinics.

Patients and Participants. Subjects of either sex, ranging in age from 18–70 years, with a diagnosis of stable essential hypertension made from two consecutive weekly mean supine diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 95 mm Hg or above to 110 mm Hg or less that varied 7 mm Hg or less after 4–6 weeks in the baseline phase. Of the patients enrolled, 298 met the inclusion criteria.

Interventions. Combination therapy with DTZ SR‐HCTZ 120 mg‐12.5 mg, or monotherapy with DTZ SR 120 mg or HCTZ 12.5 mg, or placebo was administered twice daily.

Measurements and Main Results. Combination therapy with DTZ SR‐HCTZ lowered both supine DBP and SBP significantly (p<0.005) more than either single agent. The combination also lowered DBP and SBP significantly more than either monotherapy. During a 12‐hour in‐clinic monitoring period spanning a dosing interval, both the combination and DTZ SR therapies maintained efficacy, whereas the antihypertensive effects of HCTZ dissipated after 8 hours. Treatment‐related adverse events for the combination and HCTZ were similar but slightly greater than those for DTZ SR and placebo.

Conclusions. The addition of a diuretic to sustained‐release diltiazem produced an enhanced antihypertensive effect compared with monotherapy with either individual agent.