bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Doped n‐Type Quinoidal Compounds with Good Air Stability and High Electrical Conductivity for Organic Electronics
Authors: Wang Cheng , Yang Yi , Lin Linlin , Xu Bowei , Hou Jianhui , Deng Yunfeng , Geng Yanhou
Published: July 2023

Air stable n‐type conductive molecules with high electrical conductivities and excellent device performance have important applications in organic electronics, but their synthesis remains challenging. Herein, we report three self‐doped n‐type conductive molecules, designated QnNs, with a closed‐shell quinoidal backbone and alkyl amino chains of different lengths. The QnNs are self‐doped by intermolecular electron transfer from the amino groups to the quinoidal backbone. This process is ascertained unambiguously by experiments and theoretical calculations. The use of a quinoidal structure effectively improves the self‐doping level, and thus increases the electrical conductivity of self‐doped n‐type conductive molecules achieved by a closed‐shell structure from<10−4 S cm−1 to>0.03 S cm−1. Furthermore, the closed‐shell quinoidal structure results in good air stability of the QnNs, with half‐lives>73 days; and Q4N shows an electrical conductivity of 0.019 S cm−1 even after exposure to air for 120 days. When applying Q6N as the cathode interlayer in organic solar cells (OSCs), an outstanding power conversion efficiency of up to 18.2 % was obtained, which represents one the best results in binary OSCs.
Leader–follower synchronization of networked multi‐agent systems via hybrid protocols
Authors: Shen Yuan , Liu Xinzhi
Published: July 2023

This paper studies the leader–follower synchronization problem of complex‐valued networked multi‐agent systems with time‐delay. A new hybrid protocol including a continuous‐time protocol which is based on the interaction topology of follower agents and a pinning delayed impulsive control protocol is proposed. By employing the Lyapunov functional method in complex domains and the mathematical analysis technique, several delay‐dependent leader–follower synchronization criteria are established that take into account various sizes of delays. Particularly, our result shows that leader–follower synchronization of delayed complex‐valued networked multi‐agent systems can be achieved even if the proposed hybrid protocol is being subject to relatively large impulse delays. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Stages of change: Strategies to promote use of a Pediatric Early Warning System in resource‐limited pediatric oncology centers
Authors: Woo Marisa Cristin , Ferrara Gia , Puerto‐Torres Maria , Gillipelli Srinithya R. , Elish Paul , Muniz‐Talavera Hilmarie , Gonzalez‐Ruiz Alejandra , Armenta Miriam , Barra Camila , Diaz‐Coronado Rosdali , Hernandez Cinthia , Juarez Susana , Loeza José de Jesús , Mendez Alejandra , Montalvo Erika , Peñafiel Eulalia , Pineda Estuardo , Graetz Dylan E. , Kortz Teresa , Agulnik Asya
Published: July 2023

Background

Pediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS) assist early detection of clinical deterioration in hospitalized children with cancer. Relevant to successful PEWS implementation, the “stages of change” model characterizes stakeholder support for PEWS based on willingness and effort to adopt the new practice.

Methods

At five resource‐limited pediatric oncology centers in Latin America, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 71 hospital staff involved in PEWS implementation. Purposive sampling was used to select centers requiring variable time to complete PEWS implementation, with low‐barrier centers (3–4 months) and high‐barrier centers (10–11 months). Interviews were conducted in Spanish, professionally transcribed, and translated into English. Thematic content analysis explored “stage of change” with constant comparative analysis across stakeholder types and study sites.

Results

Participants identified six interventions (training, incentives, participation, evidence, persuasion, and modeling) and two policies (environmental planning and mandates) as effective strategies used by implementation leaders to promote stakeholder progression through stages of change. Key approaches involved presentation of evidence demonstrating PEWS effectiveness, persuasion and incentives addressing specific stakeholder interests, enthusiastic individuals serving as models for others, and policies enforced by hospital directors facilitating habitual PEWS use. Effective engagement targeted hospital directors during early implementation phases to provide programmatic legitimacy for clinical staff.

Conclusion

This study identifies strategies to promote adoption and maintained use of PEWS, highlighting the importance of tailoring implementation strategies to the motivations of each stakeholder type. These findings can guide efforts to implement PEWS and other evidence‐based practices that improve childhood cancer outcomes in resource‐limited hospitals.
Epidemiology of cervical cancer in elderly women: Analysis of incidence, treatment, and survival using German registry data
Authors: Neumeyer Sonja , Tanaka Luana Fiengo , Liang Linda A. , Klug Stefanie J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) screening is generally recommended until age 65. The incidence of CC could be underestimated, particularly in older women, due to a lack of hysterectomy correction. Furthermore, elderly women (≥65 years) are more often diagnosed with late‐stage disease and have worse outcomes than younger patients. This study aims to provide an in‐depth overview of CC in Germany.

Methods

Incidence rates of CC (ICD‐10 C53) were determined using data from the German Centre of Cancer Registry data (ZfKD) of six federal state registries. Incidence was corrected by using hysterectomy prevalence values from a real‐world study. The distribution of treatment modalities (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy) was assessed. Relative survival was calculated using the period approach (2011–2015). Survival was stratified by tumor (T) stage and histological type.

Results

In total, 14,528 CC cases were included, 27.6% of which occurred in elderly women. Cumulative (2001–2015) age‐standardized incidence rates were 12.5 per 100,000 women without hysterectomy correction and 15.5 per 100,000 women after hysterectomy correction (+24% relative change). A lower proportion of elderly women were treated, especially in advanced tumor stages. Younger women (20–64 years) had a higher 5‐year relative survival compared to elderly women: 76.7% versus 46.9%, respectively. Survival was worse with increasing stage and for glandular histological subgroups, particularly among elderly women.

Conclusions

CC incidence in elderly women is underestimated and survival is lower compared to younger women in Germany. Due to the high disease burden in elderly women, screening and treatment strategies need to be improved.
Benzimidazol‐1‐yl‐1‐phenylpropanone Analogs as Potent Antimicrobial Agents: Rational Design and Synthesis
Authors: Babbar Ritchu , Makkar Swikriti , Saini Deepika , Rawat Ravi , Vargas‐De‐La‐Cruz Celia , Alenzi Faris Q. , Behl Tapan
Published: July 2023

Designed, synthesized a sequence of novel benzimidazol‐1‐yl‐1‐phenylpropanone hybrids and assessed for in vitro antimicrobial potential counter to several bacterial strains. Computational Methodology was carried out for designing of the target molecules and structures were confirmed by spectroscopic analysis. Amid the 12 integrated derivatives, (3‐(2‐((3‐fluorobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6g) and 3‐(2‐((4‐fluorobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6k) were found to acquire excellent antibacterial activity against all bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus), whereas derivative 3‐(2‐((2‐fluorobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6c), was potent against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and displayed moderate action against P. aeruginosa. Derivatives with NO2 substituent at 3rd and 4th position, 3‐(2‐((3‐nitroobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6h) and 3‐(2‐((4‐nitroobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6 l) respectively declared good to moderate results against all bacterial strains. Further, 3‐(2‐((3‐chlorobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6f) and 3‐(2‐((4‐chlorobenzylidene)amino)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (6j) were found to be more competent against both fungal strains (C. albicans, A. niger). Serial two‐fold dilution method was used for the entire study and standard drugs utilized were ciprofloxacin and clotrimazole. MIC values (μg/ml) of novel synthesized analogs were reported in comparison to standard drugs for antibacterial and antifungal actions. Molecular docking studies showed that designed molecules dynamically bound with effective area of the receptor (DNA gyrase B, Clotrimazole complex of cytochrome P 45046A1) and in vitro results were in accord with in silico studies.
Acute central retinal artery occlusion with emboli
Authors: Chronopoulos Argyrios , Chatzantonis Georgios , Schutz James Scott , Hattenbach Lars‐Olof
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

CRAO is an ophthalmic and medical emergency. This case is a reminder that diagnosis and management of CRAO begins with ophthalmologists but immediately thereafter care involves emergency cardiovascular and neurological similar to cerebral stroke.
Point‐of‐care ultrasound aided diagnosis and management of peritoneal parenteral nutrition extravasation in a preterm baby: A case report
Authors: Kowalczyk Alexandra (Ola) , Bhogal Jagmeet , Surak Aimann
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

POCUS could identify some of UVC complications at the bedside. It complements the clinical picture and helps narrowing the deferential diagnosis when there is a clinical deterioration.
Vitamin D supplementation leading to hypervitaminosis D in a breastfed infant: A case report
Authors: Twanabasu Sajal , Ghimire Jeevan , Homagain Sushan , Duwadee Prabin , Devkota Susmita , Bhandari Ashish , Sunar Prabhu
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Breast milk alone is a poor and inadequate source of vitamin D. Many guidelines suggest supplementation of vitamin D to the newborns to prevent vitamin D deficiency. However, due to practices of outdoor breastfeeding and sunbathing, vitamin D supplementation may not be routinely required in our settings. Overzealous use of vitamin D supplementation and over‐the‐counter prescription may result in hypervitaminosis D.
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with AQP4‐IgG presenting as area postrema syndrome and progressing to myelitis: A rare case report
Authors: Jagannath Preethi , K Mohammed Suhail , S Shaikh Mohammed Aslam , Kulkarni Ashwin , Prashanth Polasu Sri Satya Sai , Madan Hritik , Anand Ayush
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders can less commonly present with area postrema syndrome progressing to myelitis. Management involves intravenous glucocorticoids, plasma exchange, and preventive immunotherapy.

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders can less commonly present with area postrema syndrome progressing to myelitis. The majority of patients have positive AQP4‐Ab. Diagnosis is based on clinical and imaging findings. These patients can be treated with intravenous glucocorticoids, plasma exchange, and preventive immunotherapy.
Kernohan–Woltman notch phenomenon in patient with subdural hematoma and ipsilateral hemiparesis in Bukavu
Authors: Murhega Roméo Bujiriri , Balemba Ghislain Maheshe , Mudekereza Paterne Safari , Musilimu Sudi , Bisimwa Igega , Munguakonkwa Budema Paul , Mubenga Léon‐Emmanuel
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Kernohan–Woltman phenomenon is a rare and paradoxical neurological situation in which a transtentorial lesion leads to compression of the contralateral cerebral peduncle responsible for compression of the descending corticospinal fibers with clinical consequence of a motor deficit ipsilateral to the primary lesion. This phenomenon should attract the attention of clinicians in order to avoid unfortunate incidents such as wrong‐side craniotomy in neurosurgical practice. In this work, we report a similar situation.

The Kernohan–Woltman notch phenomenon is a rare and paradoxical neurological situation in which transtentorial damage is observed leading to compression of the contralateral cerebral peduncle responsible for compression of descending corticospinal fibers with the clinical consequence of a motor deficit ipsilateral to the primary lesion. This phenomenon has been found in several situations including tumors and cerebral hematomas after craniocerebral trauma. In this work, we have reported the case of a 52‐year‐old man with hemiparesis ipsilateral to a large chronic subdural hematoma.
Selective Oxidation of Glucose using Hydrogen Peroxide as an Oxidant: On the Structure Sensitivity of the Apparent Activation Energy
Authors: Reinsdorf Ole , Pellegrin Camille , Schmidt Christoph , Alvear Matias , Eränen Kari , Murzin Dmitry Yu , Salmi Tapio
Published: July 2023

The selective oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid with hydrogen peroxide was studied using different heterogeneous catalysts with alumina (Al2O3) and titanium silicate (TS‐1, TiMWW) as supports and different noble (Au, Pd) and non‐noble metals (Fe, W) as the catalytically active phases. Supported tungsten oxide catalysts showed a moderate selectivity and activity compared to palladium and iron catalysts. The best performance in the selective oxidation of glucose among the studied catalysts was displayed by gold on alumina. For this kind of catalyst, the structure sensitivity in glucose oxidation was explored, revealing a maximum rate shifted to larger gold particle sizes at higher temperatures in comparison with other studies involving activation of molecular oxygen on gold particles. A significant change in the apparent activation energy was established while changing the particle size of gold. These changes of the activation energy were adequately explained by a theoretical model for the cluster size dependence of the apparent activation energy.
Microstructure and Catalytic Activity of MnSbOx Catalysts for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NO with NH3
Authors: Lv Shuangshuang , Zhang Xianlong , Dong Haoyang , Jin Shi , Wang Xinyu
Published: July 2023

Manganese‐antimony composite oxide catalysts were prepared for use in low‐temperature selective catalytic reduction of flue gas, by adopting the strategy of passivation to regulate the valence state of the active component and control catalytic activity. Activity evaluation results found that MnSb0.36Oy delivered 80 % NO conversion in the presence of SO2 at 200 °C, and nearly 90 % conversion at 250 °C. Doping with Sb changed the surface micromorphology, resulting in a perforated porousness layered foam with a porous structure of tens of nanometers, which was conducive to molecular mass transfer of the reaction gas. Doping with Sb regulated the valence state of the active MnOx component, which diminished catalytic oxidation of SO2, thus promoting catalyst stability and limiting the toxic effect of SO2.
Emerging Electrocatalysts in Urea Production
Authors: Wu Guanzheng , Yang Yidong , Jiang Jiadi , Liu Yi , Sun Mengmiao , Zhang Jianrui , Zhang Wuyong , Qin Qing
Published: July 2023

Urea synthesis from abundant CO2 and N‐feedstocks via renewable electricity has attracted increasing interests, offering a promising alternative to the industrial‐applied Haber‐Meiser process. However, the studies toward electrochemical urea production remain scarce and appeal for more research. Herein, in this perspective, an up‐to‐date overview on the urea electrosynthesis is highlighted and summarized. Firstly, the reaction pathways of urea formation through various feedstocks are comprehensively discussed. Then, we focus on the strategies of materials design to improve C−N coupling efficiency by identifying the descriptor and understanding the reaction mechanism. Finally, the current challenges and disadvantages in this field are reviewed and some future development directions of electrocatalytic urea synthesis are also prospected. This Minireview aims to promote future investigations of the electrochemical urea synthesis.
Fundamental symmetry origins in the chiral interactions of optical vortices
Authors: Andrews David L.
Published: July 2023

Recently, a variety of mechanisms have been discovered that extend the range of optical techniques for identifying and characterizing molecular chirality, beyond those associated with optical polarization. It is now evident that beams of light with a twisted wavefront, known as optical vortices, can also interact with chiral matter with a specificity determined by relative handedness. Exploring this chiral sensitivity of vortex light in its interactions with matter requires careful consideration of the symmetry properties that engage in such processes. Most of the familiar measures of chirality are directly applicable to either matter, or to light itself—but only to one or the other. To elicit the principles that determine the viability of distinctly optical vortex‐based forms of chiral discrimination invites a more universal approach to symmetry analysis, as is afforded by the common, fundamental physics of
symmetry. Taking this approach supports a comprehensive and straightforward analysis to identify the mechanistic origins of vortex chiroptical interactions. Careful inspection of selection rules for absorption also elicits the principles governing any identifiable engagement with vortex structures, providing a reliable basis to ascertain the viability of other forms of enantioselective vortex interaction.
BORG family proteins in physiology and human disease
Authors: Tomasso Meagan R. , Padrick Shae B.
Published: July 2023

The binder of rho GTPases (BORG)/Cdc42 effector proteins (Cdc42EP) family is composed of five Rho GTPase binding proteins whose functions and mechanism of actions are of emerging interest. Here, we review recent findings pertaining to the family as a whole and consider how these change our understanding of cellular organization. Recent studies have implicated BORGs in both fundamental physiology and in human diseases, mainly cancers. An emerging pattern suggests that BORG family members cancer‐promoting properties are related to their ability to regulate the cytoskeleton, with many impacting the organization of acto‐myosin stress fibers. This is consistent with the broader literature indicating that BORG family members are regulators of both the septin and actin cytoskeleton networks. The exact mechanism through which BORGs modify the cytoskeleton is not clear, but we consider here a few data‐supported and speculative possibilities. Finally, we delve into how the Rho GTPase Cdc42 modifies BORG function in cells. This remains open‐ended as Cdc42's effects on BORGs appear cell type‐ and cell state‐dependent. Collectively, these data point to the importance of the BORG family and suggest broader themes in their function and regulation.
Consensus recommendations in the management of Ewing sarcoma from the National Ewing Sarcoma Tumor Board
Authors: Gupta Ajay , Riedel Richard F. , Shah Chirag , Borinstein Scott C. , Isakoff Michael S. , Chugh Rashmi , Rosenblum Jeremy M. , Murphy Erin S. , Campbell Shauna R. , Albert Catherine M. , Zahler Stacey , Thomas Stefanie M. , Trucco Matteo
Published: July 2023

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a malignant tumor of bone and soft tissue that most often occurs in adolescents and young adults. Despite an international coordinated approach, several nuances, discrepancies, and debates remain in defining the standard of care for treating ES. In this review, the authors leverage the expertise assembled by formation of the National Ewing Sarcoma Tumor Board, a multi‐institution, multidisciplinary virtual tumor board that meets monthly to discuss complicated and challenging cases of ES. This report is focused on select topics that apply to the management of patients with newly diagnosed ES. The specific topics covered include indications for bone marrow aspirate and biopsy for initial evaluation compared with fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography, the role of interval compressed chemotherapy in patients aged 18 years and older, the role of adding ifosfamide/etoposide to vincristine/doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide for patients with metastatic disease, the data on and role of high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation, maintenance therapy, and whole‐lung irradiation. The data referenced are often limited to subgroup analyses and/or compiled from multiple sources. Although not intended to replace the clinical judgement of treating physicians, the guidelines are intended to provide clarity and recommendations for the upfront management of patients with ES.

Plain Language Summary

Ewing sarcoma is a malignant tumor of bone and soft tissue that most often occurs in adolescents and young adults.

For this review, the authors used the experience of the National Ewing Sarcoma Tumor Board, a multi‐institution, multidisciplinary virtual tumor board that meets monthly to discuss complicated and challenging cases of Ewing sarcoma.

Although not intended to replace the clinical judgement of treating physicians, the guidelines will focus on the development of consensus statements for the upfront management of patients with Ewing sarcoma.
Mandibular bone remodeling around osseointegrated functionally graded biomaterial implant using three dimensional finite element model
Authors: Elleuch Sameh , Jrad Hanen , Wali Mondher , Dammak Fakhreddine
Published: July 2023

Dental implantation surgery has been progressed as one of the most efficient prosthetic technologies, however, it still fails very often and one of the main causes is the large difference between implant mechanical properties and those in welcoming bony tissues, making it problematical in osseointegration and bone remodeling. Biomaterial and tissue engineering research shows that there is a requirement in developing implants with Functionally Graded Materials (FGM). Indeed, the great potential of FGM lies not only in the field of bone tissue engineering but also in dentistry. To improve the acceptance of dental implants inside the living bone, FGM were proposed to step up the challenge of ensuring a better match of mechanical properties between biologically and mechanically compatible biomaterials. The aim of the present work is to investigate mandibular bone remodeling induced by FGM dental implant. Three‐dimensional (3D) mandibular bone structure around an osseointegrated dental implant has been created to analyze the biomechanical behavior of the bone–implant system depending on implant material composition. In order to implement the numerical algorithm into ABAQUS software, UMAT subroutines and user‐defined material were employed. Finite element analysis have been conducted to determine the stress distributions in implant and bony system, and to evaluate bone remodeling induced by the use of various FGM and pure titanium dental implants over the period of 48 months.
Effect of bariatric surgery on endometrial cancer regression as part of fertility sparing treatment
Authors: Lin Jinlin , Ho Weng Yan , Lim Qi Xuan , Chin Hui Xian Felicia
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Obesity is a major risk factor in the development of endometrial cancer (EC) in young patients of reproductive age. Fertility sparing treatment is a viable option for a select group of patients with early EC, and involves systemic and intra‐uterine hormonal therapy. Weight loss has been associated with improved outcomes in this group. Bariatric surgery (BS) has been shown to be the most efficient and durable method of weight loss in obese patients. However, there is a paucity of data studying the benefit of BS as part of fertility sparing treatment.

Methods

We present a retrospective case series of five patients who are undergoing fertility sparing treatment for early EC, who also underwent BS for treatment of obesity and related comorbidities. We aim to show early regression of EC for all the patients and also report on the other health benefits of BS.

Results

All five patients in the series achieved regression of EC within 6 months of undergoing BS. They also achieved significant weight loss consistent with previous studies, and three patients who had comorbidities related to obesity had remission of these conditions. One of the patients with EC regression also managed to conceive with IVF (In‐vitro Fertilisation).

Conclusion

Patients on fertility sparing treatment for early EC who underwent BS was associated with early regression within 6 months, significant weight loss and resolution of comorbidities. BS could be a promising component of fertility sparing treatment. Long term, prospective studies are required to confirm the benefits reported in this case series.
On the Role of Charge Transfer in Many‐Body Non‐Covalent Interactions**
Authors: Řezáč Jan , de la Lande Aurélien
Published: July 2023

Charge transfer is one of the mechanisms involved in non‐covalent interactions. In molecular dimers, its contribution to pairwise interaction energies has been studied extensively using a variety of interaction energy decomposition schemes. In polar interactions such as hydrogen bonds, it can contribute ten or several tens of percent of the interaction energy. Less is known about its importance in higher‐order interactions in many‐body systems, mainly because of the lack of methods applicable to this problem. In this work, we extend our method for the quantification of the charge‐transfer energy based on constrained DFT to many‐body cases and apply it to model trimers extracted from molecular crystals. Our calculations show that charge transfer can account for a large fraction of the total three‐body interaction energy. This also has implications for DFT calculations of many‐body interactions in general as it is known that many DFT functionals struggle to describe charge‐transfer effects correctly.
Addressing the Clinical Importance of Equilibrative Nucleoside Transporters in Drug Discovery and Development
Authors: Hau Raymond K. , Wright Stephen H. , Cherrington Nathan J.
Published: July 2023

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) guidances on small‐molecule drug–drug interactions (DDIs), with input from the International Transporter Consortium (ITC), recommend the evaluation of nine drug transporters. Although other clinically relevant drug uptake and efflux transporters have been discussed in ITC white papers, they have been excluded from further recommendation by the ITC and are not included in current regulatory guidances. These include the ubiquitously expressed equilibrative nucleoside transporters (ENT) 1 and ENT2, which have been recognized by the ITC for their potential role in clinically relevant nucleoside analog drug interactions for patients with cancer. Although there is comparatively limited clinical evidence supporting their role in DDI risk or other adverse drug reactions (ADRs) compared with the nine highlighted transporters, several in vitro and in vivo studies have identified ENT interactions with non‐nucleoside/non‐nucleotide drugs, in addition to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs. Some noteworthy examples of compounds that interact with ENTs include cannabidiol and selected protein kinase inhibitors, as well as the nucleoside analogs remdesivir, EIDD‐1931, gemcitabine, and fialuridine. Consequently, DDIs involving the ENTs may be responsible for therapeutic inefficacy or off‐target toxicity. Evidence suggests that ENT1 and ENT2 should be considered as transporters potentially involved in clinically relevant DDIs and ADRs, thereby warranting further investigation and regulatory consideration.
Effects of endozoochory and diploendozoochory by captive wild mammals on Juniperus deppeana seeds
Authors: Rubalcava‐Castillo Fabián Alejandro , Valdivia‐Flores Arturo Gerardo , Luna‐Ruíz José de Jesús , Íñiguez‐Dávalos Luis Ignacio , Martínez‐Calderón Víctor Manuel , Meraz Jiménez Antonio de Jesús , Sosa‐Ramírez Joaquín
Published: July 2023

Carnivorous mammals disperse seeds through endozoochory and diploendozoochory. The former consists of ingestion of the fruit, passage through the digestive tract, and expulsion of the seeds, a process that allows scarification and dispersal of the seeds over long or short distances. The latter is typical of predators that expel seeds that were contained in the prey and the effects of which may differ from those of endozoochory with respect to the retention time of the seeds in the tracts, as well as their scarification and viability. The objective of this study was to conduct an experimental evaluation comparing the capacity of each mammal species in terms of the dispersal of Juniperus deppeana seeds and, at the same time, to compare this capacity through the two dispersal systems: endozoochory and diploendozoochory. We measured dispersal capacity using indices of recovery, viability, changes in testas, and retention time of seeds in the digestive tract. Juniperus deppeana fruits were collected in the Sierra Fría Protected Natural Area in Aguascalientes, Mexico, and were administered in the diet of captive mammals: gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), coati (Nasua narica) and domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). These three mammals represented the endozoochoric dispersers. For the diploendozoochoric treatment, seeds excreted by rabbits were incorporated into the diets of captive mammals: bobcat (Lynx rufus) and cougar (Puma concolor), in a local zoo. Seeds present in the scats were then collected, and recovery rates and retention times were estimated. Viability was estimated by X‐ray optical densitometry and testa thicknesses were measured and surfaces checked using scanning electron microscopy. The results showed a recovery of seeds greater than 70% in all the animals. The retention time was <24 h in the endozoochory but longer at 24–96 h in the diploendozoochory (p < .05). Seed viability ( ± SD) was decreased in rabbits (74.0 ± 11.5%), compared to fruits obtained directly from the canopy (89.7 ± 2.0%), while gray fox, coati, bobcat, and cougar did not affect seed viability (p < .05). An increase in the thickness of the testas was also observed in seeds excreted from all mammals (p < .05). Through evaluation, our results suggest that mammalian endozoochory and diploendozoochory contribute to the dispersal of J. deppeana by maintaining viable seeds with adaptive characteristics in the testa to promote forest regeneration and restoration. In particular, feline predators can provide an ecosystem service through scarification and seed dispersal.
High‐Performance All‐Printed Flexible Micro‐Supercapacitors with Hierarchical Encapsulation
Authors: Yuan Yuhang , Yuan Wei , Wu Yaopeng , Wu Xuyang , Zhang Xiaoqing , Jiang Simin , Zhao Bote , Chen Yu , Yang Chenghao , Ding Liangxin , Tang Zhenghua , Xie Yingxi , Tang Yong
Published: July 2023

Printed micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) have shown broad prospect in flexible and wearable electronics. Most of previous studies focused on printing the electrochemically active materials paying less attention to other key components like current collectors and electrolytes. This study presents an all‐printing strategy to fabricate in‐plane flexible and substrate‐free MSCs with hierarchical encapsulation. This new type of “all‐in‐one” MSC is constructed by encapsulating the in‐plane interdigital current collectors and electrodes within the polyvinyl‐alcohol‐based hydrogel electrolyte via sequential printing. The bottom electrolyte layer of this fully printed MSCs helps protect the device from the limitation of conventional substrate, showing excellent flexibility. The MSCs maintain a high capacitance retention of 96.84% even in a completely folded state. An optimal electrochemical performance can be achieved by providing ample and shorter transport paths for ions. The MSCs using commercial activated carbon as the active material are endowed with a high specific areal capacitance of 1892.90 mF cm−2 at a current density of 0.3 mA cm−2, and an outstanding volumetric energy density of 9.20 mWh cm−3 at a volumetric power density of 6.89 mW cm−3. For demonstration, a thermo‐hygrometer is stably powered by five MSCs which are connected in series and wrapped onto a glass rod. This low‐cost and versatile all‐printing strategy is believed to diversify the application fields of MSCs with high capacitance and excellent flexibility.
Rape bee pollen alleviates renal tissue damage in diabetic rats via anti‐inflammation, anti‐oxidation, and modulating gut microbiota
Authors: Hu Yingjun , Chen Simin , Yan Wenrui , Ji Le , Shao Mengli , Sun Ze , He Dong , Zhang Lijun , Xia Zengrun , Li Xinsheng , Zheng Hongxing , Qi Shanshan
Published: July 2023

Rape (Brassica napus L.) bee pollen (RBP) is a functional food rich in nutrients obtained by worker bees collecting rape pollen and mixing it with nectar and bee salivary enzymes. The study aimed to investigate the protective impact of RBP on renal tissue damage and modulating gut microbiota in diabetic rats. We established a diabetic model of rat via streptozotocin injection, then the rats were treated with RBP for 6 weeks. Results showed that RBP significantly suppressed fasting glucose, reduced oxidative stress and prevented renal pathological changes as well as renal function damage in diabetic rats. In addition, RBP reduced the levels of serum inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor‐α, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, C‐reaction protein, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and IL‐18), and the expression levels of transforming growth factor‐β1, p‐Smad2, and p‐Smad3 in the kidney. Moreover, RBP supplementation also improved the gut microbial dysregulation in diabetic rats. Based on the results, RBP can improve kidney tissue damage in diabetic rats. This study will promote the development of RBP functional food.
Effects of exogenous advanced glycation end products on oxidative stress and renal injury in healthy mice
Authors: Zhang Lan , Wen Pingping , Zhang Jixin , Xia Chao , Xu Jingguo , Xu Huiqing , Cui Guiyou , Wang Jun
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the biological effects of exogenous advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on the induction of chronic kidney disease and the dose‐effect relationship. Male C57BL/6 mice were placed on four diets, including saline and three other diets differing only in AGEs content (low‐AGEs [LA], medium‐AGEs [MA], and high‐AGEs [HA] ratio, 1:3:5) for 4 weeks. With the increasing intake of AGEs, mice developed a significant increase in blood glucose and lipid levels, the fluorescence intensity of AGEs, Nε‐(carboxymethyl)‐lysine, Nε‐(carboxyethyl)‐lysine, and malondialdehyde levels, whereas their superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels were decreased significantly. HA had the highest urinary protein levels and the lowest creatinine clearance compared to the other groups. These suggested that AGEs are an essential contributor to increasing oxidative stress levels and intake of high‐level AGEs induces more severe kidney function impairment. Meanwhile, the AGEs intake damaged the kidney structure in a dose‐dependent manner, as evidenced by granular degeneration of kidney tubular epithelial cells and inflammatory cell infiltration. These findings shed light on the detrimental impacts of AGEs on human kidneys, which also will help reveal a dose‐effect relationship of AGEs.
Meningeal regulation of infections: A double‐edged sword
Authors: Eme‐Scolan Elisa , Arnaud‐Paroutaud Laurie , Haidar Narjess , Roussel‐Queval Annie , Rua Rejane
Published: July 2023

In the past 10 years, important discoveries have been made in the field of neuroimmunology, especially regarding brain borders. Indeed, meninges are protective envelopes surrounding the CNS and are currently in the spotlight, with multiple studies showing their involvement in brain infection and cognitive disorders. In this review, we describe the meningeal layers and their protective role in the CNS against bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, by immune and nonimmune cells. Moreover, we discuss the neurological and cognitive consequences resulting from meningeal infections in neonates (e.g. infection with group B Streptococcus, cytomegalovirus, …) or adults (e.g. infection with Trypanosoma brucei, Streptococcus pneumoniae, …). We hope that this review will bring to light an integrated view of meningeal immune regulations during CNS infections and their neurological consequences.
Solid‐state Chromism of Zwitterionic Triarylmethylium Salts
Authors: Iwai Kento , Mizuhata Yoshiyuki , Nakamura Tomoya , Goto Masato , Wakamiya Atsushi , Shimakawa Yuichi , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: July 2023

Zwitterionic triarylmethylium dyes 1 and 2 were synthesized by using a synthetic unit of a tetraarylborate. The zwitterionic structure of 1 and 2 exhibits varied molecular assembly and induces charge transfer transition. These properties gave them specific optical features such as solvatochromism and mechanochromism in the solid state, that is, the green solid of 2 changes to yellow or red solid by dissolution & evaporation or grinding, respectively. The three colors were reproduced independently in different crystal forms, which were prepared from different recrystallization conditions. The diffuse reflectance measurement and powder X‐ray diffraction demonstrated the correlation between the colors and the solid‐state structures. The single crystal X‐ray analysis revealed face‐to‐face dimeric assembly in each crystal. Among the crystal structures, the intermolecular distances and packing patterns were notable differences. Based on these results, it can be suggested that unique color change of zwitterionic triarylmethylium dyes originates from the alternation of intermolecular interactions.
Osteoporosis treatment and pain relief: A scoping review
Authors: Pickering Marie‐Eva , Javier Rose‐Marie , Malochet Sandrine , Pickering Gisele , Desmeules Jules
Published: July 2023

Background and Objective

Anti‐osteoporosis (OP) drugs have been suggested to contribute to pain reduction during OP management. This scoping review aimed at mapping the literature on pain relief with anti‐OP drugs in OP treatment.

Databases and Data Treatment

Medline, Pubmed and Cochrane databases were searched by two reviewers with keywords combinations. Randomized controlled and real‐life English studies, pain as an endpoint, antiosteoporosis drugs were inclusion criteria. Case reports, surveys, comment letters, conference abstracts, animal studies and grey literature were excluded. Predetermined data were extracted by two reviewers and disagreement solved through discussion.

Results

A total of 130 articles were identified, 31 publications were included, 12 randomized clinical trials and 19 observational studies. Pain reduction was assessed by different tools: Visual Analogue Scale, Verbal Rating Scale, Facial Scale or as a domain of quality of life questionnaires including Short form 8, 36, mini‐OP, Japanese OP, Qualeffo, Roland Morris Disability questionnaires. Collective data show that anti‐OP drugs may display an analgesic effect that may be linked to the local mode of action of drugs on bone and consecutive modulation of pain sensitization. The methodology of the studies showed a heterogeneity of endpoints, comparators, statistical approaches and follow‐up duration.

Conclusion

Considering the limitations of the literature, there is a need for more rigorous trials and larger real‐life studies taking into account the recommendations published for research in rheumatology and in pain medicine. The identification of responders, patient subtypes, and of analgesic‐effect doses would allow optimization and individualization for pain relief in patients with OP.

Significance Statement

This scoping review shows that anti‐OP drugs may improve pain and quality of life of patients with OP. The heterogeneity in design, choice of endpoints, methodology, comparators and follow‐up duration of included randomized clinical trials and real‐life studies does not allow so far to identify a predominant antiosteoporosis drug or an optimal dosage for pain relief. These gaps need to be addressed and warrant further research in the future for optimizing pain improvement in the course of OP drug treatment.
A novel potentiometric approach for the sensitive detection of cadmium in real samples using modified carbon paste electrodes
Authors: EL‐Sanafery Safa S. , Ibrahim Mahmoud W. , Abbas Ashraf A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: July 2023

The goal of this study was to demonstrate a novel potentiometric technique for the measurement of Cd(II) ion. A new ionophore called [5′‐(ethane‐1,2‐diylbis(sulfanediyl))bis(3‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐amine) (ESPTA)] was prepared and used as an electroactive material in the fabrication of new carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the quantification of Cd(II) ion. The paste was prepared by mixing ESPTA, graphite, graphene, and TCP or o‐NPOE as a plasticizer in different weight percent ratios. The developed electrodes I, II, III, and IV showed divalent Nernstian response of 29.80±0.05, 29.80±0.08, 29.86±±0.04 and 29.75±0.33 mV decade−1 over the concentration ranges of 1.0×10−5–1.0×10−1, 1.0×10−8–1.0×10−1, 1.0×10−6–1.0×10−1 and 1.0×10−7–1.0×10−1 mol L−1 with percentage of (2.65 ESPTA: 66.32 graphite: 31.03 TCP), (2.65 ESPTA: 13.27 graphite : 53.05 graphene : 31.03 TCP), (2.75 ESPTA: 68.68 graphite: 28.57 o‐NPOE) and (2.75 ESPTA: 13.74 graphite : 54.94 graphene : 28.57 o‐NPOE), for electrodes I, II, III, and IV, respectively. In order to improve the performance characteristics of electrodes I, II, III, and IV, response time, the effect of temperature, and pH were examined. The electrodes showed high selectivity for Cd(II) over different mono‐, di‐ or trivalent cations. These modified electrodes were applied for the determination of the concentration of Cd(II) in different real samples like Nido Milk, juice extractions and tap water samples with high percentage recovery. The F‐ and t‐test values showed that there is no statistically significant difference between the results obtained and those from the stated method of inductively coupled plasma. Low standard and relative standard deviation values, good percentage recovery, and modest detection and quantification limitations were all displayed by the electrodes. The outcomes showed the potentiometric method‘s effectiveness in detecting Cd(II) in actual samples and its potential for use in routine analysis.
Toxicity and mutagenicity studies of 6PPD‐quinone in a marine invertebrate species and bacteria
Authors: Botelho Marina Tenório , Militão Gabriely Groto , Brinkmann Markus , Umbuzeiro Gisela de Aragão
Published: July 2023

N‐(1,3‐dimethylbutyl)‐N′‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine‐quinone (6PPD‐quinone), an oxidation product of the tire additive, 6PPD, has been associated with high mortality of salmonids (0.1 μg/L). The objective of this study was to determine the acute toxicity using neonates and mutagenicity (micronuclei in hemolymph of exposed adults) of 6PPD‐quinone in the marine amphipod Parhyale hawaiensis. Also, we studied its mutagenicity in the Salmonella/microsome assay using five strains of Salmonella with and without metabolic system (rat liver S9, 5%). 6PPD‐quinone did not present acute toxicity to P. hawaiensis from 31.25 to 500 μg/L. Micronuclei frequency increased after 96 h‐exposure to 6PPD‐quinone (250 and 500 μg/L) when compared to the negative control. 6PPD‐quinone also showed a weak mutagenic effect for TA100 only in the presence of S9. We conclude that 6PPD‐quinone is mutagenic to P. hawaiensis and weakly mutagenic to bacteria. Our work provides information for future risk assessment of the presence of 6PPD‐quinone in the aquatic environment.
Investigation of heavy metal removal from salty wastewater and voltage production using Shewanella oneidensisMR‐1 nanowires in a dual‐chamber microbial fuel cell
Authors: Munoz‐Cupa Carlos , Bassi Amarjeet
Published: July 2023

Heavy metal removal and simultaneous energy production were studied using a dual chambered Microbial Fuel Cell inoculated with Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 in the anode. Synthetic wastewater was prepared with Cu (II), Mg (II), Mn (II), Zn (II), Na, and Phenol based on desalter effluent from refinery processes at different metal concentrations. In this study, a maximum open‐circuit voltage of 517.6 mV was reached at Conc. 5 with wastewater in the anode chamber, and 127.7 mV at Conc. 3 was produced with synthetic wastewater in the cathode chamber. Moreover, μ at Conc. 5 was 0.1133 h−1, demonstrating bacterial growth under metal and phenol concentrations. The highest metal removal in the anode for Cu (II), Mg (II), Mn (II), Zn (II), and Na was 93%, 85%, 93%, 88%, and 36%, respectively. In the cathode chamber the removal of Cu (II), Mg (II), Mn (II), Zn (II), and Na was 98%, 49%, 57%, 59%, and 36%, respectively. During the operation in the anode, SEM images showed that the bacterial nanowires are formed in response to toxic and anaerobic environments which contribute to the bacterial growth. These nanowires increased the metal removal and the voltage production as a consequence of a higher electron rate from the anode to the cathode due to the higher extracellular membrane surface area. S. oneidensis is a bacterium with metal‐reducing characteristics, and it is suitable for metal removal and electron transport from carbon sources, demonstrated in voltage production with microbial fuel cells.
A simple and economical fire test setup for examining the fire retardancy/extinguishing ability of water additive fire‐retardant materials on class A fires
Authors: Bokka Sravan , Ameta Pranav , Achary Srungarpu Nagabhusan , Chowdhury Anirban
Published: July 2023

A portable lab scale test setup (1 × 1 × 0.72 m3) with apparatus and procedure has been illustrated to test the fire extinguishability of fire retardant materials (FRMs) as water additives on class A fires. The main objective was to use selected commercial, eco‐friendly FRM powders such as hydroxides, carbonates, and clays as water additive‐based fire extinguishing agents for suppressing solid fires. FRM powders, namely, Mg(OH)2, Ca(OH)2, CaCO3, and MMT‐Clay were added to water and were mist sprayed on a wooden fire (class A) to test their fire‐suppressing ability. A comparison involving tests with only water (without any additives) was also recorded. The solutions made with FRM additives in water showed promising results in suppressing the fire in comparison to systems with only water as an extinguishing agent. Heat sink materials, such as hydroxides and clays depicted commendable performances in retarding the burning process and almost doubled the capability of fire suppression with low loading. Their heat‐absorbing nature resisted the increase in temperature and slowed down the burning process causing an increase in the total burning time of the crib and avoiding reignition. Whereas, carbonates (CaCO3) showed a faster flame out by the release of CO2 gas, which diluted the oxygen content in the surroundings. The article concludes with a discussion of the requirements for the ideal water mist additive‐based fire extinguishing agent and a recommendation that future work include validation of the laboratory‐scale method based on a comparison with full‐scale suppression data for the same additives.