bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From “Immunity Debt” to “Immunity Theft”—How COVID-19 Might Be Tied to Recent Respiratory Disease Surges
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: January 2024

This Medical News story discusses the relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and recent increases in other respiratory diseases.
In Vitro Assessment of Protamine Toxicity with Neural Cells, Its Therapeutic Potential to Counter Chondroitin Sulfate Mediated Neuron Inhibition, and Its Effects on Reactive Astrocytes
Authors: Nelson Derek W. , Funnell Jessica L. , Cheung Conrad H. , Quinones Geraldine B. , Mendoza Christina S. , Bentley Marvin , Gilbert Ryan J.
Published: January 2024

Multiple therapies have been studied to ameliorate the neuroinhibitory cues present after traumatic injury to the central nervous system. Two previous in vitro studies have demonstrated the efficacy of the Food and Drug Administration‐approved cardiovascular therapeutic, protamine (PRM), to overcome neuroinhibitory cues presented by chondroitin sulfates; however, the effect of a wide range of PRM concentrations on neuronal and glial cells has not been evaluated. In this study, we investigate the therapeutic efficacy of PRM with primary cortical neurons, hippocampal neurons, mixed glial cultures, and astrocytes. The threshold for PRM toxicity is shown to be at or above 10 µg mL−1 depending on the cell population, that 10 µg mL−1 PRM enables neurons to overcome the inhibitory cues presented by chondroitin sulfate type A, and that soluble PRM allows neurons to more effectively overcome inhibition compared to a PRM coating. Changes in gene expression of reactive astrocytes is also assessed with soluble PRM and it is determined that PRM does not increase their neurotoxic phenotype and that PRM may reduce brevican and serpin transcription in cortical and spinal cord astrocytes. This is the first study to thoroughly assess the toxicity threshold of PRM with neural cells and study astrocyte response after acute exposure to PRM in vitro.
Treatment preferences among Japanese patients and physicians for epidermal growth factor receptor‐mutant non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Hata Akito , Fifer Simon , Hasegawa Kazuo , Ando Emiko , Kasahara‐Kiritani Mami , Takahashi Michiko , Ordman Robyn , Toh Lili , Inoue Akira
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Evidence is limited on preferences of Japanese patients and physicians in treatment for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutant non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Several oral or intravenous novel agents for EGFR exon 20 insertions are under development. The aim of our study was to investigate which attributes of novel treatments influenced selection of oral or intravenous agents among treated patients and treating physicians in Japan.

Methods

The study was designed by board‐certified oncologists, patient representatives, and analytics specialists. Eligible participants completed an online survey with a discrete choice experiment presenting two treatment profiles described by attributes: mode of administration (oral or intravenous); frequency of administration; overall response rate (ORR); average progression‐free survival (PFS); chance of experiencing severe side effects (SEs); mild–moderate gastrointestinal SEs; mild–moderate skin‐related SEs; and patient out‐of‐pocket costs.

Results

Fifty‐four patients (all self‐reported EGFR‐mutant) and 74 physicians participated from December 2021 to August 2022. All attributes being equal, there was greater preference for oral administration. However, there was greater preference for intravenous over oral, when ORR and PFS improved by 10% and 1 month, and severe SEs reduced by 10%. Physicians exhibited greater preference for PFS compared to patients (p < 0.01). Ranked order of attribute importance was as follows: (1) PFS; (2) ORR; (3) severe SEs, expressed by patients and physicians alike.

Conclusions

Our study revealed Japanese physician and patient preferences in treatment options for EGFR‐mutant NSCLC. Compared to the strong preference for a more efficacious drug, the preference of oral versus intravenous revealed a smaller impact.
Consider how FERPA applies to coaches, staff accessing student‐athletes’ education records: Part 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: January 2024

Are coaches school officials? Although the answer can vary from college to college, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act regulations require each college, in its annual FERPA notification to students, to identify who are school officials at their institution. That's where we left it last month.
Clinical Study on the Eradication of Helicobacter pylori by Vonoprazan Combined with Amoxicillin for 10‐Day Dual Therapy
Authors: Yan Kunfeng , Dai Xiaorong , Li Zhenxing , Rong Weiwei , Chen Lei , Diao Xinxin
Published: January 2024

Vonoprazan holds significant research promise for Helicobacter pylori eradication, with the goal of determining the most effective drug regimen. In this study, H. pylori patients (426) were enrolled and randomized into 3 groups: an EA14 group (20 mg of esomeprazole qid and 1000 mg of amoxicillin tid for 14 days), a VA14 group (20 mg of vonoprazan bid and 750 mg of amoxicillin qid for 14 days), and a VA10 group (20 mg of vonoprazan bid and 1000 mg of amoxicillin tid for 10 days). Key outcomes encompassed the H. pylori eradication rate, patient adverse effects, and compliance. In the EA14, VA14, and VA10 groups, H. pylori eradication rates were 89.4%, 90.1%, and 88.7% in intention‐to‐treat analysis, and 94.2%, 94.4%, and 94.6% in per‐protocol analysis, respectively. Adverse events incidences were 14.8%, 12.7%, and 5.6%, while compliance rates were 88.7%, 90.9%, and 95.8%, respectively. Notably, the VA10 regimen demonstrated comparable H. pylori eradication rates, adverse effect incidences, and compliance levels to the EA14 and VA14 regimens.
Quantifying the Ground‐State Hydrogen‐Bond Formation of a Super‐Photoacid by Inspecting Its Excited‐State Dynamics.
Authors: Choi Ye‐Jin , Nho Hak‐Won , Kim Ye‐Jin , Kwon Oh‐Hoon
Published: January 2024

The Front Cover image is provided by Ye‐Jin Choi, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (Republic of Korea). The image shows the excited‐state proton transfer and proposed influence of medium polarity on the hydrogen‐bond formation between a cationic photoacid and a base in the ground state. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cptc.202300164.
Influence of different codes on the performance of SAC‐OCDMA over FSO link
Authors: Das Nabamita , Islam Md. Jahedul
Published: January 2024

This paper evaluates the performance of a spectral‐amplitude‐coding optical code division multiple access (SAC‐OCDMA) system over a free space optical (FSO) communication link under various weather conditions such as fog, snow, and rain. The system uses different code families, including modified quadrature congruence (MQC), random diagonal (RD), and diagonal eigenvalue unity (DEU), to address user codes and reduce the effects of multiple access interference (MAI). The system's bit error rate (BER) performance has been analyzed taking into account receiver noises and MAI, and calculates the required optical power for a BER value of 10−9 under different weather conditions. The results show that fog has the most significant impact on the system's performance, while rainy conditions require the lowest optical power. The performance of the system also declines with increasing transmission length and concurrent user count. Finally, the paper compares the performance of different code families under unfavorable weather conditions and concludes that DEU performs better than MQC and RD in bad weather.
Metallocarbenes as Substituents in 8‐Electron Electrocyclizations
Authors: Cao Yumeng , Kong Wang‐Yeuk , DeSnoo William , Tantillo Dean J.
Published: January 2024

Density functional theory was used to elucidate the mechanism and the pericyclicity of chromium‐catalyzed bicyclization reactions that purportedly involve 8‐electron electrocyclization steps. Our computational results indicate that these reactions do indeed proceed via 8‐electron electrocyclization rather than an alternative pathway involving 4‐electron electrocyclization followed by Cope rearrangement. The role of C=[M] groups on the electrocyclization, specifically its pericyclicity, was examined in detail using modern theoretical tools.
Moving forward in the world: Outcomes and communication for effective reform
Authors: Salvatore Leonardo
Published: January 2024

Recent years have given rise to an overwhelming number of challenges, thus complicating the prioritization of desirable outcomes in education. Clarity of purpose is difficult to generate when competing forces rage simultaneously. Yet, success in education reform depends on clear objectives. To encourage clarity in thought and action, this short essay discusses three salient notions: essential outcomes, communication pathways between micro, meso, and macro levels, and the practical ramifications of limited conceptions of “world.” In the inquisitive and explorative spirit of CIES, and in line with the queries that prompted this response, I offer a series of related reflections for each notion, which I hope will spark conversation and embolden our commitment to critical deliberations and thoughtful initiative.
Supercharging metabolic health with Lycium barbarum L.: A review of the therapeutic potential of this functional food for managing metabolic syndrome
Authors: Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Quetglas‐Llabrés Maria Magdalena , Sureda Antoni , Mardones Lorena , Villagran Marcelo , Sönmez Gürer Eda , Živković Jelena , Ezzat Shahira M. , Zayed Ahmed , Gümüşok Safa , Sibel Kılıç Ceyda , Fasipe Babatunde , Laher Ismail , Martorell Miquel
Published: January 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common disorder involving a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, such as abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and atherogenic profile. MetS is characterized by an increase in oxidative stress and a chronic proinflammatory state, which are directly related to the development and progression of this pathology. It has been seen how a healthy lifestyle and good dietary practices are key to improving the different metabolic parameters and, therefore, play a fundamental role in reducing the risk of developing diabetes. The present review focuses on the research evidence related to the therapeutic properties of Lycium barbarum L. in MetS gathered in the last years. Several preclinical studies suggest that L. barbarum extracts are a good dietary supplement for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in people with MetS. This compound has been used for years in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of atrophic gastritis, problems related to the lungs, kidneys, and liver, and as a supplement for eye health. In addition, different in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out that support the properties attributed to metabolites derived from L. barbarum, such as polysaccharides that have been shown diverse biological activities. In conclusion, L. barbarum extracts have multiple benefits to increase general well‐being and immune function. However, there are a limited number of studies related to effect of L. barbarum in MetS, but they demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of obesity, diabetes mellitus type 2, and prevention of diabetes mellitus type 2 complication.
Ferulic acid reduces GLP‐1 degradation to ameliorate diet‐induced obesity‐associated hepatic steatosis
Authors: An Yuxuan , Zhang Lichao , Fan Xiaxia , Cui Kaili , He Shuiling , Ji Pengyu , Tian Jinmiao , Li Zhuoyu
Published: January 2024

GLP‐1 is a vital candidate for stimulating insulin secretion in a glucose‐dependent manner, reducing body weight and eliminating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with few side effects. Therefore, elevating GLP‐1 secretion and antagonizing the enzymatic cleavage by DPP4 are the main direction of GLP‐1‐based drug development. The present study implies that ferulic acid (FA) treatment increased the serum GLP‐1 level in diet‐induced obesity mice. The binding of FA to GLP‐1 effectively prevented the enzymatic cleavage of GLP‐1 by DPP4, which led to the effective elimination of hepatic cellular lipids by GLP‐1 in vitro. Furthermore, studies of fluorescence titration and molecular simulation showed that the combination ratio of FA and GLP‐1 was 1:1, and FA could enhance the stability of GLP‐1 through van der Waals force and electrostatic force binding to GLP‐1. In turn, it increased the level of endogenous GLP‐1. More importantly, data from mass spectrometry analysis revealed that FA bound to GLN‐17, ALA‐18, or ALA‐19 sites of GLP‐1 differently. In addition, after binding to FA, the α‐helix in GLP‐1 did not change significantly, and the biological activity of GLP‐1 was unaffected. These results highlight that FA‐rich food, such as millet and oats, is an excellent source of dietary intervention for metabolic disorders.
Recent trends in the application of films and coatings based on starch, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, xanthan, gellan, pullulan, Arabic gum, alginate, pectin, and carrageenan in food packaging
Authors: Rostamabadi Hadis , Demirkesen Ilkem , Colussi Rosana , Roy Swarup , Tabassum Nazia , de Oliveira Filho Josemar Gonçalves , Bist Yograj , Kumar Yogesh , Nowacka Małgorzata , Galus Sabina , Falsafi Seid Reza
Published: January 2024

The inevitable drawbacks of petrochemical polymer‐based packaging (e.g., extreme loss of fossil resources, excessive products’ carbon footprint, and inordinate environmental pollution resulting from the accumulation of disposed nonbiodegradable plastic‐based packages) have urged scientists to develop novel packaging materials from nature‐inspired biopolymers. Due to their biodegradability, non‐toxicity, film‐forming ability, and barrier properties versus gasses/aroma, polysaccharides have been increasingly valued in developing food packaging materials at the lab or industrial scale. Nonetheless, these valuable biopolymers also suffer from some inherent deficiencies, that is, low resistance to water and poor mechanical attributes. Hitherto, tackling such bottlenecks via the modification of biopolymers through chemical/physical approaches and applying a combination of several biopolymers has been the main focus of numerous recent studies. In this context, the present article, for the first time, provides a comprehensive update on the most recent utilization of common polysaccharides (e.g., starch, chitosan, xanthan gum, gum Arabic, alginate, gellan, pectin, and carrageenan) for food packaging applications.
Selective Recognition of Aromatic Amino Acids by a Molecular Cleft in Water
Authors: Keller Joël F. , Valášek Michal , Mayor Marcel
Published: January 2024

The development of water‐soluble hosts for the selective recognition of aromatic amino acids is highly desirable and may serve as a tool to facilitate drug discovery and enable fabrication of sensors for point‐of‐care monitoring in the context of phenylketonuria disease. This paper presents the synthesis and characterization of a water‐soluble molecular cleft which is demonstrated to selectively bind aromatic amino acid guests over other amino acids in aqueous medium, favoring ʟ‐Trp over ʟ‐Phe and ʟ‐Tyr by a factor of approximately five. Host/guest‐interaction forces were studied by 1H‐NMR titrations complemented by fluorescence titrations and isothermal titration calorimetry. The here presented results provide a starting point for future optimizations in our efforts to selectively identify and quantify individual aromatic amino acids in aqueous medium.
Thermo‐hydraulic performance investigation of solar air heater duct having staggered D‐shaped ribs: Numerical approach
Authors: Dutt Nitesh , Hedau Ankush , Kumar Ashwani , Awasthi Mukesh Kumar , Hedau Sachin , Meena Chandan Swaroop
Published: January 2024

The thermohydraulic performance (THP) of a solar air heater (SAH) duct with staggered D‐shaped ribs as roughness geometry is examined in this work using three‐dimensional numerical investigation. The investigation is carried out at roughness parameters of radius of rib to transverse pitch (r/Ptv) ratios of 0.1–0.35 and longitudinal pitch to radius of rib (Plg/r) ratios of 4–10 under varied operating circumstances of Reynolds number (Re) from 10,200 to 20,200. The maximum Nusselt number (Nu) is obtained to be 81.3 at Re of 20,200, r/Ptv as 0.1, and Plg/r as 4. In contrast, the maximum friction factor (f) is obtained to be 0.0169 at Re of 10,200, r/Ptv as 0.35, and Plg/r as 4. In the range of parameters examined, the maximum enhancement in Nusselt number (Nu/Nus) is observed to be 1.35 at an optimal parameter of r/Ptv as 0.1, Plg/r as 4, and Re as 10,200. Correspondingly, the enhancement in the friction factor (f/fs) at this optimum parameter is 1.87. The maximum value of the THP parameter is found to be 1.1 at the same optimum range of parameters. In further analysis, correlations were developed for Nusselt number (Nu) and friction factor (f) in terms of r/Ptv, Plg/r, and Re with a deviation of ±2% and ±1.5%, respectively.
Enhancing heat transfer in MHD Falkner's‐Skan flow with thermal radiation, free convection and dusty fluid between parallel plates
Authors: Khan Dolat , Ali Gohar , Ghazwani Hassan Ali
Published: January 2024

Falkner's‐Skan flows are one‐dimensional flows widely used in fluid dynamics and boundary layer theory. They optimize heat exchangers and cooling systems, enhance turbine and compressor blades in turbomachinery, and provide consistency and quality in semiconductor fabrication. Additionally, they assist in pollution management and environmental impact assessments. The variety of Falkner's‐Skan flows clarifies fluid flow phenomena and their practical applications. This article aims to explore the impact of surface temperature on the flow behavior of dusty fluid in Falkner's‐Skan flow. The study focuses on the flow of dust particles in a channel formed by two infinite parallel plates. The study assumes that the particles are round and uniformly dispersed in the fluid. Furthermore, the article takes into account the effect of radiation on the energy equation. With the findings of this study, we hope to gain a better understanding of the dynamics of Falkner's‐Skan flow and contribute to the development of effective strategies for managing the flow of dusty fluids. The right plate's movement at free stream velocity causes the fluid to flow. Partial differential equations are used to represent the behavior of the flow. The Poincare‐Light Hill Technique yields exact answers. Visual representations of the temperature and velocity curves show the effects of different factors. It is possible to create graphic pictures of the fluid and dust particles using Mathcad‐15. Furthermore, critical fluid characteristics for engineers, such as skin friction and heat transfer rate, are analyzed and tabulated. These evaluations include the heat transfer rate at the wedge surface and the influence of this enhancement on surface viscous drag forces.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of cell‐based versus egg‐based quadrivalent influenza vaccines in the pediatric population in Taiwan
Authors: Chi Chia‐Yu , Cheng Ming‐Fang , Ko Karam , Mould Joaquin F. , Chen Chih‐Jung , Huang Yhu‐Chering , Lee Ping‐Ing
Published: January 2024

Cell‐based influenza vaccines avoid egg‐adaptive mutations, potentially improving vaccine effectiveness. We assessed the one‐season cost‐effectiveness of cell‐based quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIVc) against that of egg‐derived quadrivalent influenza vaccines (QIVe) in children (6 months to 17 years of age) from payer and societal perspectives in Taiwan using an age‐stratified static model. Base case and high egg adaptation scenarios were assessed. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) threshold in Taiwan was assumed to be USD 99 177/quality‐adjusted life year (QALY). Compared to QIVe, QIVc would prevent 15 665 influenza cases, 2244 complicated cases, and 259 hospitalizations per year. The base case ICER was USD 68 298/QALY and USD 40 085/QALY from the payer and societal perspective, respectively. In the high egg adaptation scenario, the ICER was USD 45 782/QALY from the payer's perspective and USD 17 489/QALY from the societal perspective. Deterministic sensitivity analyses indicated that infection incidence rate, vaccination coverage, and prevalence of the A/H3N2 strain were the main drivers of ICER. In conclusion, switching the immunization strategy from QIVe to QIVc is predicted to reduce the influenza‐associated disease burden and be cost‐effective for the pediatric population in Taiwan. The potential benefits of QIVc would be even higher during influenza seasons with high levels of egg adaptation.
Surgery for female urethral stricture
Authors: Bouchard Béatrice , Campeau Lysanne
Published: January 2024

Background

Female urethral stricture (FUS) is a rare entity that causes great morbidity and suffering in those affected. As the available scientific data is sparce, there are no formal guidelines or standard of care for this disease.

Methods

This is a narrative review of the surgical management for female urethral stricture. The literature review was performed on PubMed. Articles were limited to English, but there was no limitation in terms of date.

Results

Management of FUS is divided between endoscopic and open surgical repair. Urethral dilation with or without urethrectomy can be offered as a first‐line treatment. However, the rate of success of this procedure remains inferior to open surgical repair, and its efficacy decreases with the number of previous dilations. For distal urethral strictures, distal urethrectomy and advancement meatoplasty may be considered. Vaginal flaps are readily available, easy to harvest, well‐vascularized, and allow for a dorsal or ventral orientation urethroplasty. The results of this procedure are promising, but most studies are small and retrospective. Labia flaps are easily accessible, wet, hairless, and elastic. The main limitations with the use of vaginal or labial tissues are co‐existing conditions such as lichen sclerosis or vaginal atrophy, which may affect future results. Vaginal and labial graft urethroplasty can be used when it is not possible to mobilize an adequate flap. Stricture‐free rates of this technique are variable. In cases of more severe stricture, an augmentation urethroplasty using buccal mucosa graft may be necessary. The techniques used in FUS replicate those for male urethral strictures, where both ventral and dorsal approaches can be utilized.

Conclusions

Although there is growing interest in the field, the optimal management of FUS remains to be determined.
Aspects of image data preparation to extend a classification scheme for cleaning mechanisms to realistic soils
Authors: Golla Christian , Boddin Ludwig , Köhler Hannes , Rüdiger Frank , Fröhlich Jochen
Published: January 2024

Knowledge of the cleaning mechanism is necessary to choose a suitable model for a cleaning simulation. In the present work, an existing classification scheme for cleaning mechanisms is considered. Altough this framework is quite promising, the generation of training data constitutes a bottleneck, since the labeling was done manually and very roughly in order to supply the necessary amount of samples in a reasonable time. This, in turn, causes the scheme to be inaccurate when applied to more realistic data. The aim of the present work is to improve the preparation of training data preparation by introducing a semi‐automatic labeling procedure. The labeling procedure involves a new perspective on the data and the application of a gradient filter procedure. Furthermore, fully convolutional networks (FCNs) are employed to generalize different gradient filter. The labeling procedure is significantly faster and more consistent than manual labeling. Also, a proof of concept is provided showing that the FCNs are a suitable technique for the present classification task.
A hypothetic model for examining the relationship between savoring, imagination, perceived hope and resilience: A study of Taiwanese principals
Authors: Cheng Yao‐Chung
Published: January 2024

School principals are integral to the success of school operations, particularly in the face of diverse challenges. Resilience emerges as a critical attribute for these educational leaders. This research investigated the sequential mediation effects of imagination and perceived hope on the relationship between savoring and resilience. A survey was conducted with 1306 principals (390 females and 916 males; 302 from senior high schools, 351 from junior high schools, and 653 from elementary schools), representing 34% of the total population. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, the analysis revealed that: (1) savoring positively correlates with resilience, (2) imagination significantly mediates the relationship between savoring and resilience, (3) perceived hope significantly mediates the relationship between savoring and resilience, and (4) imagination and perceived hope sequentially mediate the relationship between savoring and resilience. The research concludes by discussing the theoretical and educational implications of these findings and proposes directions for future research.
Efficient White Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Cu(I) Activated Single‐Phase Halide Single Crystals
Authors: Cheng Shuangliang , Beitlerova Alena , Kucerkova Romana , Nikl Martin , Buryi Maksym , Shao Chongyun , Ren Guohao , Wu Yuntao
Published: January 2024

Single‐phase white light emitters have become a potential substitute for tricolor phosphor mixtures for the white light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) application to simplify device structure and eliminate self‐absorption. Newly developed low‐dimensional halides, noted for their highly efficient luminescent characteristics, have seen increasing interest in recent years. Herein, highly efficient white‐light emission is demonstrated in single‐phase zero‐dimensional halide single crystal, namely monovalent Cu‐doped Cs2HfCl6. Cs2HfCl6:Cu single crystals have three luminescent centers. Two emission peaks at 365 nm and 380 nm correspond to the intrinsic self‐trapped excitons emission and a defect‐related trapped exciton emission, respectively. Cu doping introduces an intense Cu‐bound exciton emission peaking at 540 nm with a large Stokes shift of 250 nm and a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 68%. With different excitation wavelengths and Cu‐doping concentrations, Cs2HfCl6:Cu single crystals show tunable emissions. Under 254 nm ultraviolet light excitation, Cs2HfCl6:0.5%Cu yields cold white light with a high color rendering index (Ra = 87.3). These findings demonstrate the potential of Cs2HfCl6:Cu as a promising phosphor for cold WLEDs.
Insights from autonomy trials of a self‐reconfigurable floor‐cleaning robot in a public food court
Authors: Wijegunawardana I. D. , Muthugala M. A. Viraj J. , Samarakoon S. M. Bhagya P. , Hua Ong Jun , Padmanabha Saurav Ghante Anantha , Elara Mohan Rajesh
Published: January 2024

As autonomous cleaning robots advance, we expect certain features, such as higher area coverage and robustness. To explore these features and their challenges, we need tools and strategies that allow us to develop them rapidly. In this paper, we present lessons learned and results while performing 3 months long field trials on the autonomy of a self‐reconfigurable floor‐cleaning robot. The autonomy here includes path planning and navigation of the robot for coverage in a public food court. The environment of the food court is often subjected to alterations due to human activities. One of the main contributions of this paper is proposing a task‐level execution system to deploy the cleaning robot in an actual use case scenario. We also provide in‐depth discussions on the solutions and the implementation strategies we found in accomplishing goals. These findings would be helpful in conducting autonomy development targeted for field deployments of self‐reconfigurable robots and cleaning robots.
Detection of Amaranth and Iron in Foods by Modified Carbon Quantum Dots as a Ratiometric Fluorescence Probe
Authors: Hu Qingqing , Kuang Jianhua , Yuan Jingxue , Feng Yao , Cheng Zhengjun
Published: January 2024

In this work, a new carbon quantum dots (CDs) was prepared though microwave assisted approach using citric acid anhydrous (CA) and N‐[3‐(Trimethoxysilyl)propyl] ethylenediamine (TPED) as raw materials. However, the CDs was not effective in actual sensing applications, so further modification of CDs was done by 3,5‐Dichloro‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde (it was named as G‐CDs). Fortunately, the modified CDs (G‐CDs) has good selectivity for Fe3+ and amaranth. Studies confirmed that Fe3+ could quench the fluorescence of G‐CDs by forming a complex, while the fluorescence quenching mechanism of G‐CDs by amaranth (AM) mainly belonged to the internal filtering effect (IFE). A detection limit of 20.8 nM for Fe3+ and 43.8 nM for AM were achieved. Moreover, the as‐developed G‐CDs probe was also successfully used to detect Fe3+ and amaranth in real samples, and compared with their results by the standard method, hinting that the accuracy and reliability of the probe were highly satisfactory.
Investigation of nanofiltration systems efficiency for removal of chromium and copper from groundwater resources
Authors: Jalali Seyed Homam Seyed
Published: January 2024

There is a vital need and constraint for providing water of good quality all around the world. Thus, with the aim of groundwater treatment, different methods of water treatment have been reviewed. Considering modern methods of membrane filtration, in this study efficiency of nanofiltration for removing heavy metals (copper and chromium) has been examined. The investigation has been accomplished in two separate phases for removing copper and chromium. To prepare the samples of groundwater, urban waters have been utilized and for preparation of chromium‐contaminated and copper‐contaminated waters, powder of chromium‐oxide and powder of copper sulfate pentahydrate have been added into samples, respectively. In this research, system‐operating pressure has been changed, while concentration and pH were kept constant. The effect of pressure on the efficiency of heavy metals removal has been checked and optimum pressure of the process has been achieved. Then, with optimal pressure as system operating pressure, the removal of heavy metals in different pH have been checked and accordingly, the optimal pH for the process was obtained. The Optimum Pressure and pH for chromium and copper are 7.5 bars and 6.3, and 7.5 bars and 6.7, respectively. Taking into account the result of this study, Nano filtration is a suitable method with high efficiency (90% and higher in optimum pressure and pH) for the removal of heavy metals from groundwater.
Spinal cord abnormal autophagy and mitochondria energy metabolism are modified by swim training in SOD1-G93A mice
Authors: Dzik Katarzyna Patrycja , Flis Damian Józef , Kaczor-Keller Katarzyna Barbara , Bytowska Zofia Kinga , Karnia Mateusz Jakub , Ziółkowski Wiesław , Kaczor Jan Jacek
Published: January 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may result from the dysfunctions of various mechanisms such as protein accumulation, mitophagy, and biogenesis of mitochondria. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the molecular mechanisms in ALS development and the impact of swim training on these processes. In the present study, an animal model of ALS, SOD1-G93A mice, was used with the wild-type mice as controls. Mice swam five times per week for 30 min. Mice were analyzed before ALS onset (70 days old), at ALS 1 disease onset (116 days old), and at the terminal stage of the disease ALS (130 days old), and compared with the corresponding ALS untrained groups and normalized to the wild-type group. Enzyme activity and protein content were analyzed in the spinal cord homogenates. The results show autophagy disruptions causing accumulation of p62 accompanied by low PGC-1α and IGF-1 content in the spinal cord of SOD1-G93A mice. Swim training triggered a neuroprotective effect, attenuation of NF-l degradation, less accumulated p62, and lower autophagy initiation. The IGF-1 pathway induces pathophysiological adaptation to maintain energy demands through anaerobic metabolism and mitochondrial protection.

Graphical Abstract

Key messages

The increased protein content of p62 in the spinal cord of SOD1-G93A mice suggests that autophagic clearance and transportation are disrupted.

Swim training attenuates neurofilament light destruction in the spinal cord of SOD1-G93A mice.

Swim training reducing OGDH provokes suppression of ATP-consuming anabolic pathways. Swim training induces energy metabolic changes and mitochondria protection through the IGF-1 signaling pathway.
Induced oscillatory brain responses under virtual reality conditions in the context of repetition priming
Authors: Kisker Joanna , Johnsdorf Marike , Sagehorn Merle , Schöne Benjamin , Gruber Thomas
Published: January 2024

In the human electroencephalogram (EEG), induced oscillatory responses in various frequency bands are regarded as valuable indices to examine the neural mechanisms underlying human memory. While the advent of virtual reality (VR) drives the investigation of mnemonic processing under more lifelike settings, the joint application of VR and EEG methods is still in its infancy (e.g., due to technical limitations impeding the signal acquisition). The objective of the present EEG study was twofold. First, we examined whether the investigation of induced oscillations under VR conditions yields equivalent results compared to standard paradigms. Second, we aimed at obtaining further insights into basic memory-related brain mechanisms in VR. To these ends, we relied on a standard implicit memory design, namely repetition priming, for which the to-be-expected effects are well-documented for conventional studies. Congruently, we replicated a suppression of the evoked potential after stimulus onset. Regarding the induced responses, we observed a modulation of induced alphaband in response to a repeated stimulus. Importantly, our results revealed a repetition-related suppression of the high-frequency induced gammaband response (>30 Hz), indicating the sharpening of a cortical object representation fostering behavioral priming effects. Noteworthy, the analysis of the induced gammaband responses required a number of measures to minimize the influence of external and internal sources of artefacts (i.e., the electrical shielding of the technical equipment and the control for miniature eye movements). In conclusion, joint VR–EEG studies with a particular focus on induced oscillatory responses offer a promising advanced understanding of mnemonic processing under lifelike conditions.
Endolysin NC5 improves early cloxacillin treatment in a mouse model of Streptococcus uberis mastitis
Authors: Vander Elst Niels , Bellemans Julie , Lavigne Rob , Briers Yves , Meyer Evelyne
Published: January 2024

Streptococcus uberis frequently causes bovine mastitis, an infectious udder disease with significant economic implications for dairy cows. Conventional antibiotics, such as cloxacillin, sometimes have limited success in eliminating S. uberis as a stand-alone therapy. To address this challenge, the study objective was to investigate the VersaTile engineered endolysin NC5 as a supplemental therapy to cloxacillin in a mouse model of bovine S. uberis mastitis. NC5 was previously selected based on its intracellular killing and biofilm eradicating activity. To deliver preclinical proof-of-concept of this supplemental strategy, lactating mice were intramammarily infected with a bovine S. uberis field isolate and subsequently treated with cloxacillin (30.0 μg) combined with either a low (23.5 μg) or high (235.0 μg) dose of NC5. An antibiotic monotherapy group, as well as placebo treatment, was included as controls. Two types of responders were identified: fast (n = 17), showing response after 4-h treatment, and slow (n = 10), exhibiting no clear response at 4 h post-treatment across all groups. The high-dose combination therapy in comparison with placebo treatment impacted the hallmarks of mastitis in the fast responders by reducing (i) the bacterial load 13,000-fold (4.11 ± 0.78 Δlog10; p < 0.001), (ii) neutrophil infiltration 5.7-fold (p > 0.05), and (iii) the key pro-inflammatory chemokine IL-8 13-fold (p < 0.01). These mastitis hallmarks typically followed a dose response dependent on the amount of endolysin added. The current in vivo study complements our in vitro data and provides preclinical proof-of-concept of NC5 as an adjunct to intramammary cloxacillin treatment.

Key points

• Engineered endolysin NC5 was preclinically evaluated as add-on to cloxacillin treatment.

• Two types of mice (slow and fast responding) were observed.

• The add-on treatment decreased bacterial load, neutrophil influx, and pro-inflammatory mediators.
Novel recombinant aminoacylase from Paraburkholderia monticola capable of N-acyl-amino acid synthesis
Authors: Haeger Gerrit , Jolmes Tristan , Oyen Sven , Jaeger Karl-Erich , Bongaerts Johannes , Schörken Ulrich , Siegert Petra
Published: January 2024

N-Acyl-amino acids can act as mild biobased surfactants, which are used, e.g., in baby shampoos. However, their chemical synthesis needs acyl chlorides and does not meet sustainability criteria. Thus, the identification of biocatalysts to develop greener synthesis routes is desirable. We describe a novel aminoacylase from Paraburkholderia monticola DSM 100849 (PmAcy) which was identified, cloned, and evaluated for its N-acyl-amino acid synthesis potential. Soluble protein was obtained by expression in lactose autoinduction medium and co-expression of molecular chaperones GroEL/S. Strep-tag affinity purification enriched the enzyme 16-fold and yielded 15 mg pure enzyme from 100 mL of culture. Biochemical characterization revealed that PmAcy possesses beneficial traits for industrial application like high temperature and pH-stability. A heat activation of PmAcy was observed upon incubation at temperatures up to 80 °C. Hydrolytic activity of PmAcy was detected with several N-acyl-amino acids as substrates and exhibited the highest conversion rate of 773 U/mg with N-lauroyl-L-alanine at 75 °C. The enzyme preferred long-chain acyl-amino-acids and displayed hardly any activity with acetyl-amino acids. PmAcy was also capable of N-acyl-amino acid synthesis with good conversion rates. The best synthesis results were obtained with the cationic L-amino acids L-arginine and L-lysine as well as with L-leucine and L-phenylalanine. Exemplarily, L-phenylalanine was acylated with fatty acids of chain lengths from C8 to C18 with conversion rates of up to 75%. N-lauroyl-L-phenylalanine was purified by precipitation, and the structure of the reaction product was verified by LC–MS and NMR.

Key points

• A novel aminoacylase from Paraburkholderia monticola was cloned, expressed in E. coli and purified.

• The enzyme PmAcy exhibits exceptional temperature and pH stability and a broad substrate spectrum.

• Synthesis of acyl amino acids was achieved in good yields.
Identification of acidic stress-responsive genes and acid tolerance engineering in Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942
Authors: Zhang Jie , Sun Tao , Zhang Weiwen , Chen Lei
Published: January 2024

Cyanobacteria are excellent autotrophic photosynthetic chassis employed in synthetic biology, and previous studies have suggested that they have alkaline tolerance but low acid tolerance, significantly limiting their productivity as photosynthetic chassis and necessitating investigations into the acid stress resistance mechanism. In this study, differentially expressed genes were obtained by RNA sequencing-based comparative transcriptomic analysis under long-term acidic stress conditions and acidic shock treatment, in the model cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942. A pathway enrichment analysis revealed the upregulated and downregulated pathways during long-term acidic and shock stress treatment. The subsequent single gene knockout and phenotype analysis showed that under acidic stress conditions, the strains with chlL, chlN, pex, synpcc7942_2038, synpcc7942_1890, or synpcc7942_2547 knocked out grew worse than the wild type, suggesting their involvement in acid tolerance. This finding was further confirmed by introducing the corresponding genes back into the knockout mutant individually. Moreover, individual overexpression of the chlL and chlN genes in the wild type successfully improved the tolerance of S. elongatus PCC 7942 to acidic stress. This work successfully identified six genes involved in acidic stress responses, and overexpressing chIL or chIN individually successfully improved acid tolerance in S. elongatus PCC 7942, providing valuable information to better understand the acid resistance mechanism in S. elongatus PCC 7942 and novel insights into the robustness and tolerance engineering of cyanobacterial chassis.

Key points

• DEGs were identified by RNA-seq based transcriptomics analysis in response to acidic stress in S. elongatus PCC 7942.

• Six genes were identified to be involved in acid tolerance in S. elongatus PCC 7942.

• Overexpression of chIL or chIN individually successfully improved the acid tolerance of S. elongatus PCC 7942.
Community composition of phytopathogenic fungi significantly influences ectomycorrhizal fungal communities during subtropical forest succession
Authors: Chen Meirong , Yang Jiazhi , Xue Chunquan , Tu Tieyao , Su Zhiyao , Feng Hanhua , Shi Miaomiao , Zeng Gui , Zhang Dianxiang , Qian Xin
Published: January 2024

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) can form symbiotic relationships with plants, aiding in plant growth by providing access to nutrients and defense against phytopathogenic fungi. In this context, factors such as plant assemblages and soil properties can impact the interaction between EMF and phytopathogenic fungi in forest soil. However, there is little understanding of how these fungal interactions evolve as forests move through succession stages. In this study, we used high-throughput sequencing to investigate fungal communities in young, intermediate, and old subtropical forests. At the genus level, EMF communities were dominated by Sebacina, Russula, and Lactarius, while Mycena was the most abundant genus in pathogenic fungal communities. The relative abundances of EMF and phytopathogenic fungi in different stages showed no significant difference with the regulation of different factors. We discovered that interactions between phytopathogenic fungi and EMF maintained a dynamic balance under the influence of the differences in soil quality attributed to each forest successional stage. The community composition of phytopathogenic fungi is one of the strong drivers in shaping EMF communities over successions. In addition, the EMF diversity was significantly related to plant diversity, and these relationships varied among successional stages. Despite the regulation of various factors, the positive relationship between the diversity of phytopathogenic fungi and EMF remained unchanged. However, there is no significant difference in the ratio of the abundance of EMF and phytopathogenic fungi over the course of successions. These results will advance our understanding of the biodiversity–ecosystem functioning during forest succession.

Key points

•Community composition of both EMF and phytopathogenic fungi changed significantly over forest succession.

•Phytopathogenic fungi is a key driver in shaping EMF community.

•The effect of plant Shannon’s diversity on EMF communities changed during the forest aging process.
The effect of hospital caseload on perioperative mortality, morbidity and costs in bladder cancer patients undergoing radical cystectomy: results of the German nationwide inpatient data
Authors: Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Volz Yannic , Ebner Benedikt , Kazmierczak Philipp M. , Enzinger Benazir , Hermans Julian , Buchner Alexander , Stief Christian , Schulz Gerald Bastian
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To determine a data-based optimal annual radical cystectomy (RC) hospital volume threshold and evaluate its clinical significance regarding perioperative mortality, complications, length of hospital stay, and hospital revenues.

Material and methods

We used the German Nationwide inpatient Data, provided by the Research Data Center of the Federal Bureau of Statistics (2005–2020). 95,841 patients undergoing RC were included. Based on ROC analyses, the optimal RC threshold to reduce mortality, ileus, sepsis, transfusion, hospital stay, and costs is 54, 50, 44, 44, 71 and 76 cases/year, respectively. Therefore, we defined an optimal annual hospital threshold of 50 RCs/year, and we also used the threshold of 20 RCs/year proposed by the EAU guidelines to perform multiple patient-level analyses.

Results

28,291 (29.5%) patients were operated in low- (< 20 RC/year), 49,616 (51.8%) in intermediate- (20–49 RC/year), and 17,934 (18.7%) in high-volume (≥ 50 RC/year) centers. After adjusting for major risk factors, high-volume centers were associated with lower inpatient mortality (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.64–0.8, p < 0.001), shorter length of hospital stay (2.7 days, 95% CI 2.4–2.9, p < 0.001) and lower costs (457 Euros, 95% CI 207–707, p < 0.001) compared to low-volume centers. Patients operated in low-volume centers developed more perioperative complications such as transfusion, sepsis, and ileus.

Conclusions

Centralization of RC not only improves inpatient morbidity and mortality but also reduces hospital stay and costs. We propose a threshold of 50 RCs/year for optimal outcomes.
Expression profiles of the lncRNA antisense GAS5-AS1 in colon biopsies from pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients and its role in regulating sense transcript GAS5
Authors: Curci Debora , Franzin Martina , Zudeh Giulia , Bramuzzo Matteo , Lega Sara , Decorti Giuliana , Stocco Gabriele , Lucafò Marianna
Published: January 2024

The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) level was demonstrated as involved in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis. Since its antisense transcript GAS5-AS1 has never been investigated in IBD, this study aims to detect whether GAS5-AS1 and GAS5 levels are related to IBD clinical parameters and investigate their correlation in vitro. Twenty-six IBD pediatric patients were enrolled; paired inflamed and non-inflamed intestinal biopsies were collected. We evaluated GAS5 and GAS5-AS1 levels by real-time PCR. The role of GAS5 and GAS5-AS1 was assessed in vitro by transient silencing in THP1-derived macrophages. GAS5-AS1 and GAS5 levels were associated with patients’ clinical parameters; GAS5-AS1 expression was downregulated in inflamed tissues and inversely correlated with disease activity. A positive correlation between GAS5-AS1 and GAS5 levels was observed in non-inflamed biopsies. On THP1-derived macrophages, a reduced amount of both GAS5-AS1 and GAS5 was observed; accordingly, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 was increased. After GAS5-AS1 silencing, a downregulation of GAS5 was found, whereas no effect was detected on GAS5-AS1 after GAS5 silencing.

    Conclusion: This study provided for the first time new insights into the potential role of GAS5-AS1 in IBD. GAS5-AS1 modulates GAS5 levels in vitro and may serve as a potential IBD diagnostic biomarker.

What is Known:• GAS5 is involved in regulating intestinal MMP-2 and MMP-9 in pediatric patients with IBD;• GAS5-AS1 has never been investigated in the context of IBD;• GAS5-AS1 regulates the expression of GAS5, increasing its stability in tissues and in vitro cell models of cancer.

What is New:• GAS5-AS1 correlated with GAS5 and IBD clinical parameters;• GAS5-AS1 can modulate GAS5 levels in macrophages;• GAS5-AS1 may serve as potential IBD diagnostic biomarker.