bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sodium-Glucose Transport Protein 2 Inhibitor Use for Type 2 Diabetes and the Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury in Taiwan
Authors: Chung Mu-Chi , Hung Peir-Haur , Hsiao Po-Jen , Wu Laing-You , Chang Chao-Hsiang , Hsiao Kai-Yu , Wu Ming-Ju , Shieh Jeng-Jer , Huang Yu-Chuen , Chung Chi-Jung
Published: February 2023

Importance

The association between sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use and the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) remains controversial. The benefits of SGLT2i use in patients to reduce AKI requiring dialysis (AKI-D) and concomitant diseases with AKI as well as improve AKI prognosis have not yet been established.

Objective

To investigate the association between SGLT2i use and AKI incidence in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide retrospective cohort study used the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. The study analyzed a propensity score–matched population of 104 462 patients with T2D treated with SGLT2is or dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4is) between May 2016 and December 2018. All participants were followed up from the index date until the occurrence of outcomes of interest, death, or the end of the study, whichever was earliest. Analysis was conducted between October 15, 2021, and January 30, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the incidence of AKI and AKI-D during the study period. AKI was diagnosed using International Classification of Diseases diagnostic codes, and AKI-D was determined using the diagnostic codes and dialysis treatment during the same hospitalization. Conditional Cox proportional hazard models assessed the associations between SGLT2i use and the risks of AKI and AKI-D. The concomitant diseases with AKI and its 90-day prognosis, ie, the occurrence of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD stage 4 and 5), end-stage kidney disease, or death, were considered when exploring the outcomes of SGLT2i use.

Results

In a total of 104 462 patients, 46 065 (44.1%) were female patients, and the mean (SD) age was 58 (12) years. After a follow-up of approximately 2.50 years, 856 participants (0.8%) had AKI and 102 (<0.1%) had AKI-D. SGLT2i users had a 0.66-fold risk for AKI (95% CI, 0.57-0.75; P < .001) and 0.56-fold risk of AKI-D (95% CI, 0.37-0.84; P = .005) compared with DPP4i users. The numbers of patients with AKI with heart disease, sepsis, respiratory failure, and shock were 80 (22.73%), 83 (23.58%), 23 (6.53%), and 10 (2.84%), respectively. SGLT2i use was associated with lower risk of AKI with respiratory failure (hazard ratio [HR], 0.42; 95% CI, 0.26-0.69; P < .001) and shock (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.23-0.99; P = .048) but not AKI with heart disease (HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.58-1.07; P = .13) and sepsis (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.58-1.03; P = .08). The 90-day AKI prognosis for the risk of advanced CKD indicated a 6.53% (23 of 352 patients) lower incidence in SGLT2i users than in DPP4i users (P = .045).

Conclusions and Relevance

The study findings suggest that patients with T2D who receive SGLT2i may have lower risk of AKI and AKI-D compared with those who receive DPP4i.
Understanding Community Health Access and Rural Transformation Reform—Implications for Rural Surgical Care
Authors: Kalata Stanley , Nathan Hari , Ibrahim Andrew M.
Published: February 2023

The Viewpoint describes the Community Transformation Track of the Community Health Access and Rural Transformation Model for improving financial stability at rural hospitals and its implications for rural surgical care.
Effect of Initial Grain Size on Crack Healing Behavior under DC Electric Field of Zirconia (8Y‐CSZ) Ceramic
Authors: Takahashi Shoma , Morita Koji , Nambu Kohta , Terada Daisuke , Kobayashi Kiyoshi , Tokunaga Tomoharu , Yamamoto Takahisa
Published: February 2023

The effect of initial grain size on the flash event was examined in microcrack healing behavior under DC electric field in fine‐ and coarse‐grained 8 mol% Y2O3‐stabilized cubic ZrO2 (8Y‐CSZ) polycrystals. The healing behavior depends strongly on the initial grain size and is apparently accelerated in fine‐grained 8Y‐CSZ than in coarse‐grained one. Since the crack healing under the flash event is higher than that of static annealing treatment without the electric field, the enhanced healing phenomena cannot be explained only by the thermal effect caused by Joule heating, but nonthermal effects caused by the flash event. The grain size‐dependent healing behavior indicates that the grain boundaries play an important role in the flash event and the flash healing would be accelerated through the field/current‐enhanced diffusional processes, especially through the grain boundary diffusivity of the cations.
Early sowing increases nitrogen use efficiency of sunflower in wet clay soils
Authors: Sarker Bidhan Chandro , Kabir Md. Enamul , Bell Richard W. , Ali Md. Yasin
Published: February 2023

Early sowing increases yield potential of sunflower on wet, saline clay soils but the effects on nitrogen (N) requirements have not been determined. In a 2‐year study on a drainable field with wet, saline clay soils in southwestern coastal Bangladesh, we investigated nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and yield responses to N rates (0, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 and 210 kg ha−1) for zero‐till sunflower cv. Hysun‐33 sown from November 30 (early) to December 30 (late). Early sowing produced highest seed yield (3.59 ton ha−1) and oil yield (1400 kg ha−1) at 150 kg N ha−1. Delayed sowing (December 15–December 30) reduced seed and oil yields by 4%–15% and 7%–18%, respectively. In late sowing, crops suffered from multiple stresses (soil–water deficit, salinity, and heat), which decreased yields. The N fertilizer requirement in late sowing was higher (180 kg ha−1) to achieve maximum yield, yet the yield was lower than from earlier sowing. Compared with nil N supply, the rates of 60–150 kg N ha−1 increased seed and oil yields of the early‐sown sunflower by 1.3–3.3 times and 1.2–2.9 times, respectively, whereas the rates of 180–210 kg N ha−1 decreased seed and oil yields by 2%–5% and 7%–14%, respectively. Higher net profit (US$764) was also achieved from earlier sowing with 150 kg N ha−1. We conclude that under wet and saline clay soils, higher sunflower yield in early sowing is attributable to lower stress that increased NUE and decreased N requirement.
Characteristics of circulating small noncoding RNAs in plasma and serum during human aging
Authors: Xiao Ping , Shi Zhangyue , Liu Chenang , Hagen Darren E.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Aging is a complicated process that triggers age‐related disease susceptibility through intercellular communication in the microenvironment. While the classic secretome of senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) including soluble factors, growth factors, and extracellular matrix remodeling enzymes are known to impact tissue homeostasis during the aging process, the effects of novel SASP components, extracellular small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs), on human aging are not well established.

Methods

Here, by utilizing 446 small RNA‐seq samples from plasma and serum of healthy donors found in the Extracellular RNA (exRNA) Atlas data repository, we correlated linear and nonlinear features between circulating sncRNAs expression and age by the maximal information coefficient (MIC) relationship determination. Age predictors were generated by ensemble machine learning methods (Adaptive Boosting, Gradient Boosting, and Random Forest) and core age‐related sncRNAs were determined through weighted coefficients in machine learning models. Functional investigation was performed via target prediction of age‐related miRNAs.

Results

We observed the number of highly expressed transfer RNAs (tRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) showed positive and negative associations with age respectively. Two‐variable (sncRNA expression and individual age) relationships were detected by MIC and sncRNAs‐based age predictors were established, resulting in a forecast performance where all R2 values were greater than 0.96 and root‐mean‐square errors (RMSE) were less than 3.7 years in three ensemble machine learning methods. Furthermore, important age‐related sncRNAs were identified based on modeling and the biological pathways of age‐related miRNAs were characterized by their predicted targets, including multiple pathways in intercellular communication, cancer and immune regulation.

Conclusion

In summary, this study provides valuable insights into circulating sncRNAs expression dynamics during human aging and may lead to advanced understanding of age‐related sncRNAs functions with further elucidation.
A likely pathogenic ACTG1 variant in a child showing partial phenotypic overlap with Baraitser‐Winter syndrome
Authors: Graziani Ludovico , Cinnirella Giacomo , Ferradini Valentina , Conte Chiara , Bascio Federica Lo , Bengala Mario , Sangiuolo Federica , Novelli Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Baraitser‐Winter syndrome (BRWS) is a rare autosomal dominant disease (AD) caused by heterozygous variants in ACTB (BRWS1) or ACTG1 (BRWS2) genes. BRWS features developmental delay/intellectual disability of variable degree and craniofacial dysmorphisms. Brain abnormalities (especially pachygyria), microcephaly, epilepsy, as well as hearing impairment, cardiovascular and genitourinary abnormalities may be present. We report on a 4‐year‐old female, who was addressed to our institution because of psychomotor delay associated with microcephaly and dysmorphic features, short stature, mild bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, mild cardiac septal hypertrophy, and abdominal swelling. Clinical exome sequencing detected a c.617G>A p.(Arg206Gln) de novo variant in ACTG1 gene. Such variant has been previously reported in association with a form of AD nonsyndromic sensorineural progressive hearing loss and we classified it as likely pathogenic according to ACMG/AMP criteria, despite our patient's phenotype only partially overlapped BWRS2. Our finding supports the extreme variability of the ACTG1‐related disorders, ranging from classical BRWS2 to nuanced clinical expressions not fitting the original description, and occasionally featuring previously undescribed clinical findings.
Achieving High Single‐Pass Carbon Conversion Efficiencies in Durable CO2 Electroreduction in Strong Acids via Electrode Structure Engineering
Authors: Li Le , Liu Zhaoyang , Yu Xiaohan , Zhong Miao
Published: February 2023

Acidic CO2 reduction (CO2R) holds promise for the synthesis of low‐carbon‐footprint chemicals using renewable electricity. However, the corrosion of catalysts in strong acids causes severe hydrogen evolution and rapid deterioration of CO2R performance. Here, by coating catalysts with an electrically nonconductive nanoporous SiC‐NafionTM layer, a near‐neutral pH was stabilized on catalyst surfaces, thereby protecting the catalysts against corrosion for durable CO2R in strong acids. Electrode microstructures played a critical role in regulating ion diffusion and stabilizing electrohydrodynamic flows near catalyst surfaces. This surface‐coating strategy was applied to three catalysts, SnBi, Ag, and Cu, and they exhibited high activity over extended CO2R operation in strong acids. Using a stratified SiC‐NafionTM/SnBi/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) electrode, constant production of formic acid was achieved with a single‐pass carbon efficiency of >75 % and Faradaic efficiency of >90 % at 100 mA cm−2 over 125 h at pH 1.
Functional Ionic Liquid Polymer Stabilizer for High‐Performance Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Shen Yunxiu , Xu Guiying , Li Jiajia , Lin Xia , Yang Fu , Yang Heyi , Chen Weijie , Wu Yeyong , Wu Xiaoxiao , Cheng Qinrong , Zhu Jian , Li Yaowen , Li Yongfang
Published: February 2023

The stability‐related issues arising from the perovskite precursor inks, films, device structures and interdependence remain severely under‐explored to date. Herein, we designed an ionic‐liquid polymer (poly[Se‐MI][BF4]), containing functional moieties like carbonyl (C=O), selenium (Se+), and tetrafluoroborate (BF4−) ions, to stabilize the whole device fabrication process. The C=O and Se+ can coordinate with lead and iodine (I−) ions to stabilize lead polyhalide colloids and the compositions of the perovskite precursor inks for over two months. The Se+ anchored on grain boundaries and the defects passivated by BF4− efficiently suppress the dissociation and migration of I− in perovskite films. Benefiting from the synergistic effects of poly[Se‐MI][BF4], high efficiencies of 25.10 % and 20.85 % were exhibited by a 0.062‐cm2 device and 15.39‐cm2 module, respectively. The devices retained over 90 % of their initial efficiency under operation for 2200 h.
Square‐Planar Anionic Pt0Complexes
Authors: Kameo Hajime , Tanaka Yudai , Shimoyama Yoshihiro , Izumi Daisuke , Matsuzaka Hiroyuki , Nakajima Yumiko , Lavedan Pierre , Le Gac Arnaud , Bourissou Didier
Published: February 2023

A T‐shaped Pt0complex with a diphosphine‐borane (DPB) ligand was prepared. The Pt→B interaction enhances the electrophilicity of the metal and triggers the addition of Lewis bases to give the corresponding tetracoordinate complexes. For the first time, anionic Pt0complexes are isolated and structurally authenticated. X‐ray diffraction analyses show the anionic complexes [(DPB)PtX]−(X=CN, Cl, Br, I) to be square‐planar. The d10configuration and Pt0oxidation state of the metal were unambiguously established by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The coordination of Lewis acids as Z‐type ligands is a powerful mean to stabilize elusive electron‐rich metal complexes and achieve uncommon geometry.
A LDH Template Triggers the Formation of a Highly Compact MIL‐53 Metal‐Organic Framework Membrane for Acid Upgrading
Authors: Wang Yuecheng , Ban Yujie , Hu Ziyi , Yang Weishen
Published: February 2023

Highly compact metal–organic framework (MOF) membranes offer hope for the ambition to cope with challenging separation scenarios with industrial implications. A continuous layer of layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoflakes on an alumina support as a template triggered a chemical self‐conversion to a MIL‐53 membrane, with approximately 8 hexagonal lattices (LDH) traded for 1 orthorhombic lattice (MIL‐53). With the sacrifice of the template, the availability of Al nutrients from the alumina support was dynamically regulated, which resulted in synergy for producing membranes with highly compact architecture. The membrane can realize nearly complete dewatering from formic acid and acetic acid solutions, respectively, and maintain stability in a continuous pervaporation over 200 h. This is the first success in directly applying a pure MOF membrane to such a corrosive chemical environment (lowest pH value of 0.81). The energy consumption is saved by up to 77 % when compared with the traditional distillation.
Electrochemiluminescence Distance and Reactivity of Coreactants Determine the Sensitivity of Bead‐Based Immunoassays
Authors: Wang Yafeng , Ding Jialian , Zhou Ping , Liu Jilin , Qiao Zhiyuan , Yu Kai , Jiang Jie , Su Bin
Published: February 2023

Herein we report the study of electrochemiluminescence (ECL) generation by tris(2,2′‐bipyridyl)ruthenium (Ru(bpy)32+) and five tertiary amine coreactants. The ECL distance and lifetime of coreactant radical cations were measured by ECL self‐interference spectroscopy. And the reactivity of coreactants was quantitatively evaluated in terms of integrated ECL intensity. By statistical analysis of ECL images of single Ru(bpy)32+‐labeled microbeads, we propose that ECL distance and reactivity of coreactant codetermine the emission intensity and thus the sensitivity of immunoassay. 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)‐2,2′,2′′‐nitrilotriethanol (BIS‐TRIS) can well balance ECL distance‐reactivity trade‐off and enhance the sensitivity by 236 % compared with tri‐n‐propylamine (TPrA) in the bead‐based immunoassay of carcinoembryonic antigen. The study brings an insightful understanding of ECL generation in bead‐based immunoassay and a way of maximizing the analytical sensitivity from the aspect of coreactant.
Catalytic Asymmetric Hydrophosphinylation of 2‐Vinylazaarenes to Access P‐Chiral 2‐Azaaryl‐Ethylphosphine Oxides
Authors: Wang Binghui , Liu Yilin , Jiang Chenyang , Cao Zheng , Cao Shanshan , Zhao Xiaowei , Ban Xu , Yin Yanli , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: February 2023

A chiral Brønsted acid‐catalysed asymmetric hydrophosphinylation of 2‐vinylazaarenes by secondary phosphine oxides is described. A variety of P‐chiral 2‐azaaryl‐ethylphosphine oxides are synthesized with high yields and ees, of which both the substituents of phosphines and azaarenes can be flexibly modulated, underscoring an exceptionally broad scope of substrates. These adducts are valuable to asymmetric metal catalysis since the resultant P‐chiral tertiary phosphines from the reduction of them are verified as a kind of effective C1‐symmetric chiral 1,5‐hybrid P,N‐ligands. Importantly, this catalysis platform enables the generic and efficient kinetic resolution of P‐chiral secondary phosphine oxides. It thus provides an expedient approach to access the enantiomers of the P‐chiral tertiary phosphine oxides derived from asymmetric hydrophosphinylation, further improving the utility of the method.
Enantioselective Radical‐Type 1,2‐Alkoxy‐Phosphinoylation to Styrenes Catalyzed by Chiral Vanadyl Complexes
Authors: Chuang Chin‐Wei , Huang Guan‐Ru , Hung Shiang‐Fu , Hsu Chan‐Wei , Liu Yue‐Hua , Hwang Chiu‐Han , Chen Chien‐Tien
Published: February 2023

A series of vanadyl complexes bearing 3‐t‐butyl‐5‐bromo, 3‐aryl‐5‐bromo, 3,5‐dihalo‐, and benzo‐fused N‐salicylidene‐tert‐leucinates was examined as catalysts for 1,2‐alkoxy‐phosphinoylation of 4‐, 3‐, 3,4‐, and 3,5‐substituted styrene derivatives (including Me/t‐Bu, Ph, OR, Cl/Br, OAc, NO2, C(O)Me, CO2Me, CN, and benzo‐fused) with HP(O)Ph2 in the presence of t‐BuOOH (TBHP) in a given alcohol or cosolvent with MeOH. The best scenario involved the use of 5 mol % 3‐(2,5‐dimethylphenyl)‐5‐Br (i.e., 3‐DMP‐5‐Br) catalyst at 0 °C in MeOH. The desired catalytic cross coupling reactions proceeded smoothly with enantioselectivities of up to 95 % ee of (R)‐configuration as confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis of several recrystallized products. The origin of enantiocontrol and homolytic substitution of the benzylic intermediates by vanadyl‐bound methoxide and radical type catalytic mechanism were proposed.
Flammability and vibrational study of graphene incorporated epoxy/ramie/glass hybrid nanocomposite
Authors: Thiyagu Chenniappan , NarendraKumar Uttamchand
Published: February 2023

Hybrid polymer composites are vastly used in aerospace, construction, and automotive fields. This study aims to analyze the flammability and vibrational behavior of graphene incorporated epoxy/ramie/glass (ERG) hybrid nanocomposite. The samples were prepared with different weight percentage of graphene (GR) through hand layup method, followed by vacuum bag technique. The samples were analyzed for water intake, porosity, mechanical strength, fractography, vibrational property together with flammability of the material. GR addition depletes water intake and porosity by 11.5% to 5.3% and 6.2% to 2.2%, respectively. It increases hardness and flexural strength up to 25% and 41%, with a reduction in tensile property of the composites. Besides, GR nanocomposites show improved damping properties, owing to stick‐slip mechanism exhibited at epoxy and GR interface. Also, GR addition declines burning rate of ERG at high concentrations since it does not score any grade in flammability test. This work found that the incorporation of GR in ERG composite enhances mechanical properties and decreases water intake. A decrease in the burning rate of the ERG composite could be achieved by incorporating graphene particles, which could be used for structural applications (car door‐panels, ballistic, and aerospace) leading to delay in burning rate of the developed composites when exposed to fire during accidents.
Polarization Multiplexing Bifunctional Metalens Designed by Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Liu Zhengchang , Peng Pu , He Xiao , Dang Zhibo , Dai Yuchen , Chen Yuxiang , Shao Xinyuan , Li Yu , Huang Yijing , Liu Donglin , Tao Guangyi , Zhang Yunhao , Fang Zheyu
Published: February 2023

As planar optical elements, metasurfaces confer an unprecedented potential to manipulate light, which benefits from the deep control of the interactions between nanostructures and light. In the past decade, considerable progress has been made in various metasurfaces for on‐demand functions, drawing great interest from the scientific community. However, it is a great challenge to integrate different functions into a single metasurface, due to the incapability of manipulating light at different dimensions and the lack of universal intelligent design strategy. Here, an intelligent design platform based on deep neural networks is proposed, which can map between structure parameters and optical response. The well‐trained network model can intelligently retrieve nanostructures to meet multidimensional optical requirements of metasurfaces. Four metalenses for chiral focusing are realized by the design platform and the simulation results are highly consistent with the design target. In addition, metalenses based on arbitrary polarization at various working wavelength are also demonstrated, showing that the method has powerful design ability. Various optical properties of nanostructures, such as phase shift and polarization, are manipulated by deep neural networks, which can greatly promote the development of multifunctional devices and further pave the way for optical display, communication, computing, sensing, and other applications.
Conservation initiatives of Syngnathiformes species in the southern Philippines: What does the mitochondrial DNA signature tell us?
Authors: Tabugo Sharon Rose M. , Ortega Rose Chinly Mae H. , Padasas Chinee S. , Oñate Carl Nico P. , Dablo Grazzette Anne N. , Balatero Tricksie P. , Maguate Noel John Ian Feben S. , Martinez Joey Genevieve T. , Galvez‐Reyes Nancy , Uy Mylene M.
Published: February 2023

Mitochondrial DNA signatures based on the control region and 12S rRNA gene were used to assess the impact of conservation measures on the effective management of vulnerable Syngnathiformes (seahorses, pipefishes, and allies) species. Results from phylogenetic inference, polymorphism, neutrality indices, haplotype networks and microhabitat information may justify the establishment of distinct management units for different species.

For smooth seahorses, Hippocampus kuda was identified as a species complex that formed three clusters with 20 haplotypes. Based on molecular data, these are the first records of Hippocampus capensis and Hippocampus casscsio in the Philippines. High haplotype diversity (h = 28; Hd = 0.943), yet low nucleotide diversity (Pi:0.18095) for polymorphism, suggests minor differences among haplotypes. Neutrality indices calculated using Tajima's D (−2.00774), with P < 0.05 and Fu's Fs (−11.645), were significant. However, both tests were negative, a signature of rapid population expansion from a small effective population size, which could be attributed to past heavy harvests and habitat destruction, as supported by local data.

For pipefishes and their allies, there was high haplotype diversity (h = 22; Hd = 0.875) and low nucleotide diversity of Pi: 0.16671. However, neutrality indices calculated using Tajima's D (−1.68518) and Fu's Fs (11.549) were not significant, with P > 0.05, indicating a balancing selection for this population.

Results reveal that the recent population expansion of seahorses proves that current conservation measures are effectively safeguarding populations, while balancing selection is maintaining genetic polymorphism in pipefishes and their relatives, making them resilient to changing environments. Moreover, as revealed by haplotype networks, intraspecific variation suggests distinct management for different species.

In addition, underwater surveys show an essential association between microhabitats and species' survival, thus encouraging future initiatives regarding habitat protection, especially coral reefs, seagrass beds, sponge gardens, mangrove areas and estuaries.
Public knowledge and awareness of the conservation of the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) along the central coast of Peru
Authors: Guidino Chiara , Cortez‐Casamayor Sarai , Campbell Elizabeth , Cajaleón Mateo , Peña‐Cutimbo Nelly , Delgado Mauricio , Moran‐Valverde Jenyffer , Arbulu‐Vercauteren Yvette , Pacheco Aldo S.
Published: February 2023

Although the coastal common bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus is under legal protection, this species is threatened by bycatch and direct hunting along the Peruvian coast.

Species conservation can be better achieved if communities are empowered with knowledge and actions to mitigate negative impacts on vulnerable species. Thus, it is important to understand people's degree of knowledge about a species and its conservation issues.

This study evaluated the knowledge and perception of aspects of the biology, ecology and conservation status of the common bottlenose dolphin in coastal communities along the central coast of Peru. Structured questionnaires were completed by 197 people, and seven people participated in open‐ended interviews in January 2022.

Most respondents were knowledgeable of the distribution and ecology of common bottlenose dolphins. Seventy per cent of those surveyed were aware of some threats to this species. Some respondents were eager to take part in actions that would aid in the conservation of the species. However, 69.5% (n = 137) were unfamiliar with the word ‘bycatch’.

Charismatic species can engage the public in conservation actions. This research shows that common bottlenose dolphin can be used as a flagship species for marine conservation. It is important to actively involve all stakeholders, particularly fishers, in conservation efforts and the measures that need to be taken to improve common bottlenose dolphin conservation.
High‐loading LiBH4 Confined in Structurally Tunable Ni Catalyst‐decorated Porous Carbon Scaffold for Fast Hydrogen Desorption
Authors: Guo Yusang , Liu Yafei , Feng Lizhuang , An Cuihua , Wang Yijing
Published: February 2023

Catalysts combined with nanoconfinement can improve the sluggish desorption kinetics and poor reversibility of LiBH4. However, at high LiBH4 loading, their hydrogen storage performance is significantly reduced. Herein, a porous carbon‐sphere scaffold decorated with Ni nanoparticles (NPs) was synthesised by calcining a Ni metal‐organic framework precursor, followed by partial etching of the Ni NPs to fabricate an optimised scaffold with a high surface area and large porosity that accommodates high LiBH4 loading (up to 60 wt.%) and exhibits remarkable catalyst/nanoconfinement synergy. Owing to the catalytic effect of Ni2B (formed in situ during dehydrogenation) and the reduced hydrogen diffusion distances, the 60 wt.% LiBH4 confined system exhibited enhanced dehydrogenation kinetics with >87% of the total hydrogen storage capacity released within 30 min at 375 °C. The apparent activation energies were significantly reduced to 110.5 and 98.3 kJ/mol, compared to that of pure LiBH4 (149.6 kJ/mol). Moreover, partial reversibility was achieved under moderate conditions (75 bar H2, 300 °C) with rapid dehydrogenation during cycling.
UPLC/Q‐TOF–MS‐based metabolomics evaluate the efficacy of oroxylin A against postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Xian Yansi , Nong Yunyuan , Gao Yijie , Su Yuangang , Lei Zhiqiang , Lian Haoyu , Cheng Jianwen , Liang Jiamin , Feng Xiaoliang , Liu Zhijuan , Zhao Jinmin , Zhao Tongling , Su Zhiheng , Liu Qian , Song Fangming
Published: February 2023

Post‐menopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common metabolic bone malady characterized by bone mass loss and bone microarchitectural deterioration; however, there is currently no effective drug for its management. According to our previous study, oroxylin A (OA) could effectively protect ovariectomized (OVX)‐osteoporotic mice from bone loss; however, its therapeutic targets are still unclear. From a metabolomic perspective, we studied serum metabolic profiles to discover potential biomarkers and OVX‐related metabolic networks, which could assist us to comprehend the impact of OA on OVX. Five metabolites were identified as biomarkers associated with 10 related metabolic pathways, including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and phenylalanine, tryptophan and glycerophospholipid metabolism. After OA treatment, the expression of multiple biomarkers changed, with lysophosphatidylcholine (18:2) being a major significantly regulated biomarker. Our study demonstrated that OA's effects on OVX are probably related to the regulation of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis. Our findings explain the role of OA against PMOP in terms of metabolism and pharmacology and provide a pharmacological foundation for OA treatment of PMOP.
Developing an emotion‐focused therapy model for fear of cancer recurrence: A case‐level task analysis
Authors: Almeida Susana N. , Elliott Robert , Silva Eunice R. , Sales Célia M. D.
Published: February 2023

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) involves anxiety about the possible return or progression of the disease. It is common among people surviving cancer, covering a range of adaptive and maladaptive responses including clinical presentations of FCR, for which different psychological interventions have been developed, most within the cognitive‐behavioural paradigm. Recently, emotion‐focused therapy (EFT) has been proposed as an alternative and has been the subject of research focusing on the cancer population and cancer‐related issues, including FCR. In this study, we looked closely at a successful case from a larger exploratory study, carrying out a discovery‐phase task analysis aimed at identifying the main components of EFT–FCR. We found that this approach generally followed the usual structure of an EFT intervention, with four distinct phases. However, we identified some specific secondary processes (e.g., hypervigilance and catastrophising) and clarified the nature of the core pain in this presentation as existential (e.g., fear of dying).
Dihydroisocoumarins and Phenylglycosides from Scorzonera longiana, Their Antimicrobial Activities and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Korkmaz Büşra , Renda Gülin , Bozdal Gözde , Coşkunçelebi Kamil , Bozdeveci Arif , Uzuner Ugur , Yaylı Nurettin
Published: February 2023

Five new phenyl dihydroisocoumarin glycosides (1–5) and two known compounds (6–7) were identified from the butanol fraction of Scorzonera longiana. The structures of 1–7 were elucidated based on spectroscopic methods. Antimicrobial, antitubercular, and antifungal evaluation of compounds 1–7 were carried out using the microdilution method against nine microorganisms. Compound 1 was active only against Mycobacterium smegmatis (Ms) with a MIC value of 14.84 μg/mL. All tested compounds (1–7) were active against Ms but only compounds 3–7 were active against fungi (C. albicans, S. cerevisiae) with MIC values of 25.0–125 μg/mL. In addition, molecular docking studies were conducted against Ms DprE1 (PDB ID: 4F4Q), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mbt) DprE1 (PDB ID: 6HEZ), and arabinosyltransferase C (EmbC, PDB ID: 7BVE) enzymes. Compounds 2, 5, and 7 are the most effective Ms 4F4Q inhibitors. Compound 4 was the most promising inhibitory activity on Mbt DprE with the lowest binding energy of −9,9 kcal/mol.
Ameliorative effect of sesame oil on experimentally induced polycystic ovary syndrome: A cross‐link between XBP‐1/PPAR‐1, regulatory proteins for lipogenesis/steroids
Authors: Elshamy Amira Mostafa , Shatat Doaa , AbuoHashish Norhan Ahmed , Safa Mohamed Abd Elmotaal , Elgharbawy Nashwa , Ibrahim Hoda Ali , Barhoma Ramez Abd Elmoneim , Eltabaa Eman Fawzy , Ahmed Ahmed S. , Shalaby Amany Mohamed , Alabiad Mohamed Ali , Alorini Mohammed , Ibrahim Rowida Raafat
Published: February 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a mixed endocrine/metabolic/reproductive disorder in women of reproductive age. Sesame oil (SO) contains sesame lignans & vitamin E with broad‐spectrum antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. This study investigates the ameliorative effect of SO on experimentally induced PCOS and elucidates the possible molecular mechanisms with a deeper focus on the different signaling pathways involved. The study was carried out on 28 nonpregnant female Wister albino rats that were divided into four equal groups; Group I (control group) received oral 0.5% wt/vol carboxymethyl cellulose daily. Group II (SO group): orally administered SO (2 mL/kg body wt./day) for 21 days. Group III (PCOS group) received letrozole daily, 1 mg/kg, for 21 days. Group IV (PCOS + SO group): concomitantly administered letrozole and SO for 21 days. The serum hormonal and metabolic panel and the homogenate ATF‐1, StAR, MAPK, PKA, and PI3K levels of the ovarian tissue were calorimetrically evaluated. However, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was evaluated by ovarian XBP1 and PPAR‐γ messenger RNA expression level using the qRT‐PCR technique. Ovarian COX‐2 was detected immunohistochemically. The results suggest that SO‐treated PCOS rats showed a significantly improved hormonal, metabolic panel, inflammatory, and ER stress status with concomitant decreases in ATF‐1, StAR, MAPK, PKA, and PI3K in ovarian rats compared to the correspondent values in PCOS without treatment.

Conclusions

The protective effects of SO against PCOS are triggered by ameliorating regulatory proteins of ER stress, lipogenesis, and steroidogenesis through the PI3K/PKA and MAPK/ERK2 signaling cascades.

Significance Statement

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common mixed endocrine‐metabolic dysfunction among women within the reproductive period, with an estimated prevalence of 5%–26% worldwide. Doctors traditionally recommend metformin for PCOS patients. However, metformin is known to be associated with significant adverse effects and contraindications. This work aimed at shedding light on the ameliorative effect of sesame oil (SO), natural polyunsaturated fatty acids‐rich oil, on the induced PCOS model. SO proved to have a marvelous effect on the metabolic and endocrine derangements in the PCOS rat model. We hoped to provide a valuable alternative treatment for PCOS patients to avoid the side effects of metformin and to help PCOS patients for whom metformin is contraindicated.
Bilateral basal ganglia calcifications and Graves' disease in a young patient: A very rare association (case report)
Authors: Okar Lina , Habib Mhd Baraa , Hamad Mohammad Khair
Published: February 2023

Basal ganglia calcifications have been linked to a wide range of conditions. Mostly it is an idiopathic finding, especially in the elderly. Endocrinological and neurological disorders are two significant entities causing this radiological finding. Here, we report the first case that suggests a possible correlation between Graves' disease and basal ganglia calcifications.
Duplication of urethra: A case report from Nepal
Authors: Thapa Sajina , Awal Shila , Basukala Sunil , Thapa Narayan , Thapa Bikash Bikram , Thapa Suresh
Published: February 2023

Urethral duplication is uncommon with few cases reported in the literature. We report a case in which a patient presented with discharge from proximal part of penis since childhood and recent history of infection. The diagnosis of pre‐pubic sinus was made and complete excision of the sinus tract was done.
Whitish patches on the buccal mucosa: Role of dermoscopy
Authors: Baklouti Massara , Mnif Emna , Sellami Khadija , Turki Hamida
Published: February 2023

Morsicatio is caused by chronic self‐inflicted biting of the buccal mucosa that results in clinically whitish plaques. It is frequently confused with other dermatological mucosal disorders. To avoid needless invasive procedures, dermoscopy can help with differential diagnosis. Dermoscopy shows whitish and yellowish structureless areas and lines, small erosions, and some white scales. The lack of additional, more specific signs such as Wickham striae is crucial to guide the diagnosis.
Invasive lobular carcinoma metastasis mimicking primary gastric signet ring cell carcinoma
Authors: Jinushi Ryuhei , Tashima Tomoaki , Sato Ryo , Kawasaki Tomonori , Ryozawa Shomei
Published: February 2023

The endoscopic findings of gastric metastases from breast carcinoma are nonspecific, and often difficult to distinguish from primary gastric signet ring cell carcinoma. Therefore, pathological findings are key to diagnosis.
Case report: Management challenges of late diagnosed 17‐alpha hydroxylase deficiency
Authors: Ben Salah Dhoha , Trimeche Oumeyma , Elleuch Mouna , El abed Wafa , Salah Ameni , Abdelhadi Fatma , Kammoun Hassen , Feki Wiem , Mnif Zeineb , Chaabouni Khansa , Ayedi Fatma , Mnif Fatma , Rekik Nabila , Mnif Mouna , Charfi Nadia , Hadj kacem Faten , Abid Mohamed
Published: February 2023

Herein we report the intriguing case of a 42‐year‐old woman presenting with grade three hypertension, severe hypokalemia and primary amenorrhea, which revealed to be the complete form of 17 alphahydroxylase deficiency. We also discuss the challenging therapeutic approach as well as the outcomes and the follow‐up of this patient.
Molecular Hinges by Fusion of Pyrrole and Dithiin: Synthesis, Structure, Redox Chemistry and Host–Guest Complexation of Dipyrrolo‐1,4‐dithiins
Authors: Lu Zonghuan , Liu Hongyi , Lv Xinyuan , Lv Wanqian , Liu Yandie , Zhu Kelong
Published: February 2023

A series of novel hinge‐like molecules, namely dipyrrolo‐1,4‐dithiins (PDs), were prepared and fully characterized by NMR, UV/vis, cyclic voltammogram, ESR, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis. The lateral fusion of pyrroles with 1,4‐dithiins has led to not only retained key features of a dithiin, but also enhanced redox‐activity with increased susceptibility to radical cations via redox or chemical oxidation. Stabilization of their radicals are observed for the N,N‐tert‐butyl or N,N‐triphenylmethyl PD as evidenced by ESR measurements. DFT calculations and SCXRD analysis revealed PDs are extremely flexible with adaptive molecular geometries that can be mechanically regulated via crystal packing or host–guest complexation. The excellent donor nature of PDs renders inclusion complexes with the cyclophane bluebox (cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene)), featuring association constants up to 104 M−1. Additionally, a planarized transition intermediate associated with inversion dynamics of a PD has been preserved in the pseudorotaxane structure with assistances of π⋅⋅⋅π and S⋅⋅⋅π interactions. The hinged structure, excellent redox‐activity, and adaptive nature of PDs could further enable accesses to exotic redox switchable host–guest chemistry and functional materials.
A Critical Study on Acylating and Covalent Reversible Fragment Inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 Main Protease Targeting the S1 Site with Pyridine
Authors: Wamser Rebekka , Pach Szymon , Arkona Christoph , Baumgardt Morris , Aziz Umer Bin Abdul , Hocke Andreas C. , Wolber Gerhard , Rademann Jörg
Published: February 2023

SARS coronavirus main proteases (3CL proteases) have been validated as pharmacological targets for the treatment of coronavirus infections. Current inhibitors of SARS main protease, including the clinically admitted drug nirmatrelvir are peptidomimetics with the downsides of this class of drugs including limited oral bioavailability, cellular permeability, and rapid metabolic degradation. Here, we investigate covalent fragment inhibitors of SARS Mpro as potential alternatives to peptidomimetic inhibitors in use today. Starting from inhibitors acylating the enzyme's active site, a set of reactive fragments was synthesized, and the inhibitory potency was correlated with the chemical stability of the inhibitors and the kinetic stability of the covalent enzyme‐inhibitor complex. We found that all tested acylating carboxylates, several of them published prominently, were hydrolyzed in assay buffer and the inhibitory acyl‐enzyme complexes were rapidly degraded leading to the irreversible inactivation of these drugs. Acylating carbonates were found to be more stable than acylating carboxylates, however, were inactive in infected cells. Finally, reversibly covalent fragments were investigated as chemically stable SARS CoV‐2 inhibitors. Best was a pyridine‐aldehyde fragment with an IC50 of 1.8 μM at a molecular weight of 211 g/mol, showing that pyridine fragments indeed are able to block the active site of SARS‐CoV‐2 main protease.
Electrostatic Fields Stimulate Absorption of Small Neutral Molecules in Gradient Polyelectrolyte Brushes
Authors: Smook Leon A. , de Beer Sissi
Published: February 2023

Molecules can partition from a solution into a polymer coating, leading to a local enrichment. If one can control this enrichment via external stimuli, one can implement such coatings in novel separation technologies. Unfortunately, these coatings are often resource intensive as they require stimuli in the form changes of bulk solvent conditions such as acidity, temperature, or ionic strength. Electrically driven separation technology may provide an appealing alternative, as this will allow local, surface‐bound stimuli instead of system‐wide bulk stimuli to induce responsiveness. Therefore, we investigate via coarse grained molecular dynamics simulations the possibility of using coatings with charged moieties, specifically gradient polyelectrolyte brushes, to control the enrichment of the neutral target molecules near the surface with applied electric fields. We find that targets which interact more strongly with the brush show both more absorption and a larger modulation by electric fields. For the strongest interactions evaluated in this work, we obtained absorption changes of over 300 % between the collapsed and extended state of the coating.
Interleukin‐21 in autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Mesas‐Fernández Alberto , Bodner Euna , Hilke Franz Joachim , Meier Katharina , Ghoreschi Kamran , Solimani Farzan
Published: February 2023

Studies on the role of interleukins (ILs) in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases allow for the better understanding of pathologic mechanisms of disease and reshaping of treatment modalities. The development of monoclonal antibodies targeting specific ILs or IL signaling pathways (i.e., anti‐IL‐17/IL‐23 in psoriasis or anti‐IL‐4/IL‐13 in atopic dermatitis) is the shining example of therapeutic interventions in research. IL‐21, belonging to the group of ɣc‐cytokines (IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐7, IL‐9, and IL‐15), is gaining attention for its pleiotropic role in several types of immune cells as activator of various inflammatory pathways. In both health and disease, IL‐21 sustains T‐ and B‐cell activity. Together with IL‐6, IL‐21 helps to generate Th17 cells, promotes CXCR5 expression in T cells, and their maturation into follicular T helper cells. In B cells, IL‐21 sustains their proliferation and maturation into plasma cells and promotes class switching and antigen‐specific antibody production. Due to these characteristics, IL‐21 is a main factor in numerous immunologic disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and MS. Studies in preclinical skin disease models and on human skin strongly suggest that IL‐21 is crucially involved in inflammatory and autoimmune cutaneous disorders. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of IL‐21 in well‐known skin diseases.
Design, Synthesis and Photophysical Studies of Luminescent Rhodium(III) Complexes in Near‐Infrared Region
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Zhao Shunan , Wei Fangfang , Wong Keith Man‐Chung
Published: February 2023

A series of near‐infrared (NIR)‐emitting cyclometalated rhodium(III) complexes have been designed, synthesized and characterized. The NIR luminescence has been realized by rational design of strong σ‐donor cyclometalating (C^N) ligand with extended π‐conjugation structure for decreasing the energy level of intraligand (IL) state. In addition, the investigation of substituents on the benzo[g]quinoxaline moiety as the carbon‐donor demonstrated that the luminescence can be further shifted to the red by the introduction of electron‐donating thienyl groups. The luminescence maxima of these complexes are ranging from 763 nm to 792 nm with the luminescence quantum yield (Φlum) of 0.41 %–0.66 % in dichloromethane solution. This work demonstrates the first example of NIR‐phosphorescent rhodium(III) complexes and provides an alternative for diversifying the development of NIR materials.
The effects of climate change adaptation strategies on the welfare of rural farm households in Ethiopia
Authors: Mogess Yohannes Kefale , Ayen Dereje Degu
Published: February 2023

We estimate the effect of multiple climate change adaptation strategies (CCAS) on farm household welfare using a new three‐wave panel data derived from the World Bank's geo‐referenced household socioeconomic survey and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) historical weather data. Using the multinomial panel endogenous switching regression model, we discovered that combining climate change adaptation strategies such as crop rotation and improved seed varieties is the most effective way to improve the welfare of smallholder farmers. The average treatment effect (ATT) results show that all CCAS have a positive and significant effect on the pattern of welfare improvement among smallholder farmers, but combinations of CCAS provide the highest payoffs. As a result, the combination of crop rotation and improved seed is the most appealing CCAS package that farmers could adopt as an ex‐ante strategy to improve farm household welfare. We also discovered that climate change and technology adoption are the most important factors influencing the welfare of rural farm households. Furthermore, we discover that the effectiveness of climate change adaptation strategies varies by farm households. Thus, we argued that targeted extension and advisory services, as well as other policies that support the synchronization of adaptation strategies, are critical for improving the welfare of rural farm households.
Modeling and Thermodynamic Studies of γ‐Valerolactone Production from Bio‐derived Methyl Levulinate
Authors: Montejano‐Nares Elena , Ivars‐Barceló Francisco , Osman Sameh M. , Luque Rafael
Published: February 2023

The exploitation of biomass to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels represents a challenge that needs to be solved as soon as possible. Nowadays, one of the most fashionable processes is γ‐valerolactone (GVL) production from bio‐derived methyl levulinate (ML). Deep understanding of the thermodynamic aspects involved in this process is key for a successful outcome, but detailed studies are missing in the existing literature. A thermodynamic study of the reaction of γ‐valerolactone (GVL) production from bio‐derived methyl levulinate (ML) is performed by the Gibbs free energy minimization method. The effect of various reaction conditions (temperature, concentration, flow rate) and the implication of possible intermediates and byproducts are assessed. Conversion and selectivity are calculated from the simulation of the ML hydrogenation using isopropanol as the hydrogen donor under continuous flow conditions. Significant increases in GVL selectivity can be achieved under dry conditions, keeping the high conversion. Comparison between theoretical and experimental results from a previous article discloses the effect of using 5%RuTiO2 catalysts, which increases the selectivity from 3–40% to 41–98%. Enthalpy and Gibbs free energy of the reactions at issue are also calculated from models using Barin equations according to Aspen Physical Property System parameters.