bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Chemical Products and Processes: Green Metrics and Life Cycle Assessment – A Comparison
Authors: Blömer Jan , Maga Daniel , Röttgen Janek , Wu Zhengxuan , Hiebel Markus , Eilebrecht Sebastian , Jentsch Sebastian , Eggers Natascha
Published: April 2024

Green chemistry aims to use renewable materials, reduce waste, and avoid toxic substances and is defined by 12 principles of green chemistry. Green metrics (GM) are measurable figures that assess adherence to the 12 principles of green chemistry. GM are designed to be user‐friendly and can be applied without detailed process knowledge. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is another approach used to estimate the environmental impacts of products or processes throughout their life cycle. This paper compares LCA and GM, exploring their suitability for assessing the greenness of chemical products and processes. This includes the discussion of strengths and weaknesses, limitations, application areas, benefits of combining both approaches, and how to handle conflicting results.
Ruthenium‐Catalysed Asymmetric Intramolecular Isomerization/Esterification Reaction: Direct Synthesis of Chiral Dihydrocoumarins
Authors: Zhao Lingzi , Wang Xuchao , Qiang Qing , Zhao Xingwei , Liu Feipeng , Lu Shenci , Rong Zi‐Qiang
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

An asymmetric isomerization/intramolecular coupling reaction of allylic alcohols to synthesize chiral dihydrocoumarins was successfully accomplished through ruthenium catalysis. This method demonstrates a wide substrate applicability, excellent tolerance for various functional groups, and good enantioselectivities (up to 90% ee). It provides a convenient pathway to produce a diverse range of structurally distinct chiral dihydrocoumarins in good efficiency.
Comparative analysis of four color vision screening tests benchmarked by anomaloscopy for detection and investigation of protanomaly and deuteranomaly
Authors: Davison Peter A. , Scanlon Grainne
Published: April 2024

Significance

Clinicians, occupational health personnel, and educationalists need to make an appropriate choice of color vision screening test or tests when screening for color vision deficiency (CVD). Four color vision screening tests were assessed on the same sample of subjects against the anomaloscope as a reference, enabling direct comparison of these tests. Two of the tests are available in revised form, one has received little attention for inherited CVDs.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to examine three new or revised color vision screening tests, together with the Ishihara, on their (1) sensitivity, (2) specificity, and (3) ability to provide a tentative assessment of severity and of differentiation between protanomaly and deuteranomaly deficiencies.

Methods

Data from 104 color deficient and 38 color normal subjects were analyzed. The Hardy–Rand–Rittler (4th edition), City University (3rd edition), Ishihara (2005), and Mollon–Reffin tests were evaluated against the Oculus Heidelberg multi‐color anomaloscope. All screening tests were performed before anomaloscopy.

Results

Sensitivity was comparable for the Ishihara, Hardy–Rand–Rittler, and City University tests (Chi‐square = 3.26, df = 2, p > 0.05), whereas the Mollon–Reffin had best specificity (100% using a threshold value of two). Compared with all other screening tests the Hardy–Rand–Rittler was the best at correctly classifying a deficiency: protanomaly (75%) and deuteranomaly (82%). While the Ishihara was good at detecting deutans (100%), it misclassified 100% of protans as being deutan. Finally, the Hardy–Rand–Rittler was the only screening test to successfully separate mild from medium severity of deficiency.

Conclusions

Selection of screening test is dependent on the intended outcome of screening. Referral for more definitive CVD assessment is the preferred option.
Photodecarboxylative Ring Annulation of α‐ and β‐Functionalized Phthaloyl‐GABA Derivatives: Bioactive Pyrroloisoindolinones with High Quantum Efficiency
Authors: Schulze Wolfram , Zimmer Anne , Neudörfl Jörg‐Martin , Dato Florian M. , Sommerfeld Paul , Pietsch Markus , Derondeau Henrieta , Gaida Florian , Riedle Eberhard , Griesbeck Axel G.
Published: April 2024

The triplet‐sensitized (by the solvent acetone) as well as the direct (λex=300–320 nm) photochemical decarboxylation of N‐phthaloylated γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) derivatives are versatile and high‐yielding routes to benzopyrrolizidines via intramolecular electron transfer initiated decarboxylation followed by radical coupling. The ß‐mono‐ and ß,ß'‐disubstituted N‐phthaloyl GABA derivatives 7 a–7 g, respectively, were applied as substrates. Decarboxylative photocyclization yielded hydroxy benzopyrrolizidines 8 a–8 g in high chemical yields and with moderate diastereoselectivities from the ß‐monosubstituted substrates. The analogous α‐substituted GABA derivatives 11 a–11 c were also applied as potential substrates for memory of chirality effects. The reaction quantum yields of the photodecarboxylation reactions for the parent GABA derivative 13 and for the new substrates 7 h and 11 a were determined by the quantum yield determination system (QYDS) and showed a remarkable concentration dependency indicating aggregation at higher substrate concentrations. Inhibition studies on the atherogenic human serine hydrolase cholesterol esterase showed derivatives 8 a and 8 d to exhibit a hyperbolic mode of inhibition with moderate IC50 values of about 60–80 μM.
Systematic review on effects of experimental orthodontic tooth displacement on brain activation assessed by fMRI
Authors: Sadvandi Gelareh , Kianfar Amir Ehsan , Becker Kathrin , Heinzel Alexander , Wolf Michael , Said Yekta‐Michael Sareh
Published: April 2024

Background

Orthodontic treatment is often accompanied by discomfort and pain in patients, which are believed to be a result of orthodontic tooth displacement caused by the mechanical forces exerted by the orthodontic appliances on the periodontal tissues. These lead to change blood oxygen level dependent response in related brain regions.

Objective

This systematic review aims to assess the impact of experimental orthodontic tooth displacement on alterations in central nervous system activation assessed by tasked based and resting state fMRI.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was conducted using online databases, following PRISMA guidelines and the PICO framework. Selected studies utilized magnetic resonance imaging to examine the brain activity changes in healthy participants after the insertion of orthodontic appliances.

Results

The initial database screening resulted in 791 studies. Of these, 234 were duplicates and 547 were deemed irrelevant considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the ten remaining potential relevant studies, two were excluded during full‐text screening. Eight prospective articles were eligible for further analysis. The included studies provided evidence of the intricate interplay between orthodontic treatment, pain perception, and brain function. All of the participants in the included studies employed orthodontic separators in short‐term experiments to induce tooth displacement during the early stage of orthodontic treatment. Alterations in brain activation were observed in brain regions, functional connectivity and brain networks, predominantly affecting regions implicated in nociception (thalamus, insula), emotion (insula, frontal areas), and cognition (frontal areas, cerebellum, default mode network).

Conclusions

The results suggest that orthodontic treatment influences beyond the pain matrix and affects other brain regions including the limbic system. Furthermore, understanding the orthodontically induced brain activation can aid in development of targeted pain management strategies that do not adversely affect orthodontic tooth movement. Due to the moderate to serious risk of bias and the heterogeneity among the included studies, further clinical trials on this subject are recommended.
Normative data for the Digit Symbol Substitution for diverse Hispanic/Latino adults: Results from the Study of Latinos‐Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging (SOL‐INCA)
Authors: Morlett Paredes Alejandra , Tarraf Wassim , Gonzalez Kevin , Stickel Ariana M. , Graves Lisa V. , Salmon David P. , Kaur Sonya S. , Gallo Linda C. , Isasi Carmen R. , Lipton Richard B. , Lamar Melissa , Goodman Zachary T. , González Hector M.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Executive functioning and processing speed are crucial elements of neuropsychological assessment. To meet the needs of the Hispanic/Latino population, we aimed to provide normative data for the Digit Symbol Substitution (DSS) test.

METHODS

The target population for the Study of Latinos‐Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging included six heritage backgrounds (n = 6177). Average age was 63.4 ± 8.3 years, 54.5% were female, and mean education was 11.0 ± 4.7 years. Participants were administered the DSS as part of a larger battery. Heritage‐adjusted DSS scores, and percentile cut‐points were created using survey‐adjusted regression and quantile regression models.

RESULTS

Age, education, sex, heritage, and language preference were associated with DSS scores.

DISCUSSION

Significant correlates of DSS performance should be considered when evaluating cognitive performance. Representative DSS norms for Hispanics/Latinos will advance assessment and accuracy of neurocognitive disorder diagnosis in clinical practice. To facilitate interpretation, we provide norms to reduce test biases and developed an online dashboard.

Highlights

Normative data for the Digit Symbol Substitution (DSS) for diverse Hispanic/Latino adults: Results from the Study of Latinos‐Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging (SOL‐INCA)

This study is the first to develop norms for the DSS test across four regions of the United States.

Factors such as age, education, sex, and Hispanic/Latino heritage and language preference are associated with differences in executive functioning and information processing speed.

We created norms and an online dashboard (https://solincalab.shinyapps.io/dsst_shiny/) providing an easily accessible tool to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning in Hispanic/Latino adults.
Climate change‐associated declines in water clarity impair feeding by common loons
Authors: Piper Walter H. , Glines Max R. , Rose Kevin C.
Published: April 2024

Climate change has myriad impacts on ecosystems, but the mechanisms by which it affects individual species can be difficult to pinpoint. One strategy to discover such mechanisms is to identify a specific ecological factor related to survival or reproduction and determine how that factor is affected by climate. Here we used Landsat imagery to calculate water clarity for 127 lakes in northern Wisconsin from 1995 to 2021 and thus investigate the effect of clarity on the body condition of an aquatic visual predator, the common loon (Gavia immer). In addition, we examined rainfall and temperature as potential predictors of water clarity. Body mass tracked July water clarity strongly in loon chicks, which grow chiefly in that month, but weakly in adult males and females. Long‐term mean water clarity was negatively related to chick mass but positively related to adult male mass, suggesting that loons foraging in generally clear lakes enjoy good foraging conditions in the long run but might be sensitive to perturbations in clarity during chick‐rearing. Finally, chick mass was positively related to the density of docks, perhaps because angling removes large fishes and thus boosts the abundance of the small fishes on which chicks depend. Water clarity itself declined strongly from 1995 to 2021, was negatively related to July rainfall, and was positively related to July air temperature. Our findings identified both long‐term and short‐term water clarity as strong predictors of loon foraging efficiency, and suggest that climate change, through water clarity, impacts freshwater ecosystems profoundly. Moreover, our results identified the recent decrease in water clarity as a likely cause of population decline in common loons.
Impact of baseline kidney dysfunction on oral diuretic efficacy following hospitalization for heart failure – insights from TRANSFORM‐HF
Authors: Martens Pieter , Greene Stephen J. , Mentz Robert J. , Li Shuang , Wojdyla Daniel , Kapelios Chris J. , Mullens Wilfried , Hall Michael E. , Ketema Fassil , Kim Dong‐Yun , Eisenstein Eric L. , Anstrom Kevin , Fang James C. , Pitt Bertram , Velazquez Eric J. , Tang W.H. Wilson
Published: April 2024

Aim

Among patients discharged after hospitalization for heart failure (HF), a strategy of torsemide versus furosemide showed no difference in all‐cause mortality or hospitalization. Clinicians have traditionally favoured torsemide in the setting of kidney dysfunction due to better oral bioavailability and longer half‐life, but direct supportive evidence is lacking.

Methods and results

The TRANSFORM‐HF trial randomized patients hospitalized for HF to a long‐term strategy of torsemide versus furosemide, and enrolled patients across the spectrum of renal function (without dialysis). In this post‐hoc analysis, baseline renal function during the index hospitalization was assessed as categories of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; <30, 30–<60, ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2). The interaction between baseline renal function and treatment effect of torsemide versus furosemide was assessed with respect to mortality and hospitalization outcomes, and the change in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire clinical summary score (KCCQ‐CSS). Of 2859 patients randomized, 336 (11.8%) had eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2, 1138 (39.8%) had eGFR 30–<60 ml/min/1.73 m2, and 1385 (48.4%) had eGFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Baseline eGFR did not modify treatment effects of torsemide versus furosemide on all adverse clinical outcomes including individual components or composites of all‐cause mortality and all‐cause (re)‐hospitalizations, both when assessing eGFR categorically or continuously (p‐value for interaction all >0.108). Similarly, no treatment effect modification by eGFR was found for the change in KCCQ‐CSS (p‐value for interaction all >0.052) when assessing eGFR categorically or continuously.

Conclusion

Among patients discharged after hospitalization for HF, there was no significant difference in clinical and patient‐reported outcomes between torsemide and furosemide, irrespective of renal function.
Cost‐effectiveness of remote haemodynamic monitoring by an implantable pulmonary artery pressure monitoring sensor (CardioMEMS‐HF system) in chronic heart failure in the Netherlands
Authors: Mokri Hamraz , Clephas Pascal R.D. , de Boer Rudolf A. , van Baal Pieter , Brugts Jasper J. , Rutten‐van Mölken Maureen P.M.H.
Published: April 2024

Aims

Remote haemodynamic monitoring with an implantable pulmonary artery (PA) sensor has been shown to reduce heart failure (HF) hospitalizations and improve quality of life. Cost‐effectiveness analyses studying the value of remote haemodynamic monitoring in a European healthcare system with a contemporary standard care group are lacking.

Methods and results

A Markov model was developed to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of PA‐guided therapy compared to the standard of care based upon patient‐level data of the MONITOR‐HF trial performed in the Netherlands in patients with chronic HF (New York Heart Association class III and at least one previous HF hospitalization). Cost‐effectiveness was measured as the incremental cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) gained from the Dutch societal perspective with a lifetime horizon which encompasses a wide variety of costs including costs of hospitalizations, monitoring time, telephone contacts, laboratory assessments, and drug changes in both treatment groups. In the base‐case analysis, PA‐guided therapy increased costs compared to standard of care by €12 121. The QALYs per patient for PA‐guided therapy and standard of care was 4.07 and 3.481, respectively, reflecting a gain of 0.58 QALYs. The resulting incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was €20 753 per QALY, which is below the Dutch willingness‐to‐pay threshold of €50 000 per QALY gained for HF.

Conclusions

The current cost‐effectiveness study suggests that remote haemodynamic monitoring with PA‐guided therapy on top of standard care is likely to be cost‐effective for patients with symptomatic moderate‐to‐severe HF in the Netherlands.
Synthesis of Aza‐Bicyclic Maleimide Skeleton by Addition‐Ring Opening Cascade Reaction of Vinylogous Oxindole
Authors: Liao Qian , Zhang Yang , Liu Jin‐Yu , Li Qing‐Song , Huang Yu‐Min
Published: April 2024

An efficient method has been developed to facilitate the addition‐ring opening cascade reaction of vinylogous oxindole, resulting in the synthesis of a variety of aza‐bicyclic maleimide derivatives with high yields and exceptional diastereoselectivities. Furthermore, the product could be effectively and easily transformed into the difluoromethylenecyclohexane skeleton through a dehydrofluorination process. This methodology demonstrates significant potential for the synthesis of aza‐bicyclic maleimide skeleton, which possesses biological or pharmaceutical activity.
Base‐Catalyzed Highly Regioselective Synthesis of Bio‐Based Hydroxyurethanes
Authors: de la Cruz‐Martínez Felipe , Francés‐Poveda Enrique , North Michael , Castro‐Osma José A. , Lara‐Sánchez Agustín
Published: April 2024

The regioselective synthesis of carbamates from bio‐derived cyclic carbonates and amines by using 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) as an organocatalyst is reported. This methodology led to the preparation of a wide range of bio‐sourced hydroxyurethanes from furan‐, carvone‐ and limonene‐based scaffolds under solvent‐free and mild reaction conditions. Moreover, a comprehensive analysis of the process allowed us to optimize the catalyst loading with little or no impact on the process regioselectivity.
Emotion regulation skills‐focused interventions for chronic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Norman‐Nott Nell , Hesam‐Shariati Negin , Wewege Michael A. , Rizzo Rodrigo R. N. , Cashin Aidan G. , Wilks Chelsey R. , Quidé Yann , McAuley James H. , Gustin Sylvia M.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To investigate the effect of emotion regulation skills‐focused (ERSF) interventions to reduce pain intensity and improve psychological outcomes for people with chronic pain and to narratively report on safety and intervention compliance.

Methods

Six databases and four registries were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to 29 April 2022. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool, and certainty of evidence was assessed according to the Grading, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Meta‐analyses for eight studies (902 participants) assessed pain intensity (primary outcome), emotion regulation, affect, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and pain interference (secondary outcomes), at two time points when available, post‐intervention (closest to intervention end) and follow‐up (the first measurement after the post‐intervention assessment).

Results

Compared to TAU, pain intensity improved post‐intervention (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −10.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] [−17.55, −2.56]) and at follow‐up (WMD = −11.38; 95% CI [−13.55, −9.21]). Emotion regulation improved post‐intervention (standard mean difference [SMD] = 0.57; 95% CI [0.14, 1.01]), and depressive symptoms improved at follow‐up (SMD = −0.45; 95% CI [−0.66, −0.24]). Compared to active comparators, anxiety symptoms improved favouring the comparator post‐intervention (SMD = 0.10; 95% CI [0.03, 0.18]), and compared to CBT, pain interference improved post‐intervention (SMD = −0.37; 95% CI [−0.69, −0.04]). Certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate.

Significance

The findings provide evidence that ERSF interventions reduce pain intensity for people with chronic pain compared to usual treatment. These interventions are at least as beneficial to reduce pain intensity as the current gold standard psychological intervention, CBT. However, the limited number of studies and certainty of evidence mean further high‐quality RCTs are warranted. Additionally, further research is needed to identify whether ERSF interventions may be more beneficial for specific chronic pain conditions.
A review of research on MnS inclusions in high‐quality steel
Authors: Song Yan , Zhang Hainan , Ren Lei
Published: April 2024

MnS which has good plasticity is a non‐metallic inclusion commonly found in steel. For most steel types, the size, shape, and distribution of MnS have a significant influence on the properties of steel. The large‐sized MnS inclusions disrupt the continuity of the steel and cause the anisotropy in steel. The result is a decline of steel's overall performance. In contrast, the small‐sized MnS inclusions which in the shape of spherical or spindle in steel can diminish the incidence of thermal embrittlement and improve the machinability of steel. The morphology of MnS in steel is mainly affected by the ingredients of steel and heat treatment manner. MnS inclusions in steel are present in spherical, polyhedral, dendritic, and irregular shapes. The precipitation behavior is mainly affected by the steel ingredients, heat treatment system, and other factors. This paper summarizes the latest research results about the factors affecting MnS inclusions and controlling measures in high‐quality steel in recent years.
Autobiographical memory following weight gain in adult patients with Anorexia Nervosa: A longitudinal study
Authors: Terhoeven Valentin , Faschingbauer Sandra , Huber Julia , Simon Joe J. , Herzog Wolfgang , Friederich Hans‐Christoph , Nikendei Christoph
Published: April 2024

Background

Patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) show overgeneralization of memory (OGM) when generating autobiographical episodes related to food and body shape. These memories are central for the construction of a coherent self‐concept, interpersonal relationships, and problem‐solving abilities. The current study aims to investigate changes in autobiographical memory following weight gain.

Methods

OGM was assessed with an adapted version of the Autobiographical Memory Test including food‐, body‐, depression‐related, and neutral cues. N = 41 female patients with AN (28 restricting‐, 13 binge‐eating/purging‐subtype; mean disease duration: 4.5 years; mean BMI: 14.5 kg/m2) and N = 27 healthy controls (HC) were included at baseline. After inpatient treatment (mean duration: 11 weeks), 24 patients with AN and 24 age‐matched HC were reassessed. Group differences were assessed using independent samples t‐tests for cross‐sectional comparisons and repeated measures ANOVAs for longitudinal data.

Results

At baseline, patients with AN generated significantly fewer specific memories than HC, independent of word category (F(1.66) = 27.167, p < 0.001). During inpatient stay, the average weight gain of patients with AN was 3.1 body mass index points. At follow‐up, patients with AN showed a significant improvement in the number of specific memories for both depression‐related and neutral cues, but not for food‐ and body‐related cues.

Conclusions

Generalised OGM (i.e., independent of word category) in patients with AN before weight restoration may be a general incapacity to recall autobiographical memory. After weight gain, the previously well‐studied pattern of eating disorder‐related OGM emerges. The clinical relevance of the continuing disorder‐related OGM in patients with AN after weight gain is discussed.
Optical and electrical characterization of solar cell with nanowires mimicking antireflection coating layers considering axial and radial PN junctions
Authors: Cabrera‐España Francisco J. , Kamuka Abdullah , Khaled Awad , Hameed Mohamed F. O. , Obayya Salah S. A. , Rahman B. M. Azizur
Published: April 2024

It has been well documented that the usage of a textured cover layer reduces reflection from the air‐solar cell interface, which ultimately enhances the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of a solar cell. The most commonly used patterns, such as pyramids, micropillars, nanowires (NW), and nanoholes have been widely studied and optimized. Besides using such NWs to enhance light absorption, this work also additionally considers the concept of mimicking the antireflection coating of single or multiple layers in minimizing the reflectance and thus enhancing the total absorptance further. It is shown here that at least one order of magnitude shorter multilayer NW pattern of 268 nm total height can outperform a standard NW of 4270 nm height, which needs less material and can also be fabricated at a reduced cost. Furthermore, the proposed design with reduced height has a significantly lower surface‐to‐volume ratio, which also reduces surface recombination loss than the other textured surface patterns. The results presented in this work have been comprehensively analyzed by initially optimizing optical absorption and then completing the electrical simulations. The optimized design in conjunction with a back reflector offers an efficiency as high as 16.434%.
Water saturation characteristics of coal of different ranks and its effect on capillary pressure
Authors: Liang Zhongqiu , Zhu Chuanjie , Zhang Xiaozhe , Li Ke , Zhang Zhiyuan , Lin Baiquan
Published: April 2024

Saturation characteristics of water and capillary pressure are important for hydrofracturing or water flooding, which is widely adopted in dust suppression, methane displacement, and gas and coal outburst elimination. In this paper, we have studied the water saturation characteristics of coal samples with different coal ranks and their effect on capillary pressure. It was found that the isothermal adsorption of water vapor from coal samples can be divided into three processes: monolayer adsorption, multilayer adsorption, and capillary condensation. The dent isothermal adsorption model can well describe water vapor adsorption of coal samples, indicating water molecules were first adsorbed on the first‐order adsorption site of pore surfaces at low relative humidity and then on the second‐order adsorption site with increasing relative humidity. An obvious hysteresis occurred in the process of water imbibition and drainage. A capillary pressure of ~325 MPa or even larger was required to displace the water from the coal. Besides, micro‐ and mesopores play a more important role in capillary pressure. The capillary pressure of coal samples was positively correlated with wettability at lower water saturation, but it is not significant at higher capillary pressures. Therefore, the article's results provide a new direction for solving the water‐locking effect in coal seams.
Fragrance Encapsulates: Effect of Polymeric Shell Purification Method on the Accuracy of Biodegradability Testing
Authors: Karagianni Katerina , Kuntzmann-Dembele Fatimata , Bocokic Vladica , Charbonnier Antoine , Harrison Ian , Kreutzer Georg , Mendoza Arturo , Jenner Karen
Published: April 2024

Fragrance encapsulates are widely used in consumer care applications such as fabric softeners or other liquid laundry products; they provide multiple benefits, from fragrance protection in the commercial product to a controlled release and improved sensorial experience for the consumers. Polymeric fragrance encapsulates are in the scope of the EU regulation restricting the use of intentionally added microplastic particles, and industry is actively working on innovation programs to find biodegradable alternatives. However, particular attention needs to be paid to claims that a fragrance encapsulation system is biodegradable, because biodegradation test results can vary considerably depending on how a test material is prepared, which can even lead to false-positive biodegradation test results, as shown in our study. We demonstrate the importance of the sample preparation phase of the process. We show how the biodegradation level can fluctuate from 0% to 91%, depending on how the test material is isolated from a given microcapsule slurry system, and we present a method that can be used to obtain trustworthy biodegradation results. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1242–1249. © 2024 Givaudan France SAS. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Exploring Alternatives for Marine Toxicity Testing: Initial Evaluation of Fish Embryo and Mysid Tests
Authors: Allen Dalton S. , Wiencek Maddie M. , Kelly Michaela M. , Solomons Katie S. , Sellin Jeffries Marlo K.
Published: April 2024

Current regulations require that toxicity assessments be performed using standardized toxicity testing methods, often using fish. Recent legislation in both the European Union and United States has mandated that toxicity testing alternatives implement the 3Rs of animal research (replacement, reduction, and refinement) whenever possible. There have been advances in the development of alternatives for freshwater assessments, but there is a lack of analogous developments for marine assessments. One potential alternative testing method is the fish embryo toxicity (FET) test, which uses fish embryos rather than older fish. In the present study, FET methods were applied to two marine model organisms, the sheepshead minnow and the inland silverside. Another potential alternative is the mysid shrimp survival and growth test, which uses an invertebrate model. The primary objective of the present study was to compare the sensitivity of these three potential alternative testing methods to two standardized fish-based tests using 3,4-dichloroaniline (DCA), a common reference toxicant. A secondary objective was to characterize the ontogeny of sheepshead minnows and inland silversides. This provided a temporal and visual guide that can be used to identify appropriately staged embryos for inclusion in FET tests and delineate key developmental events (e.g., somite development, eyespot formation, etc.). Comparison of the testing strategies for assessing DCA indicated that: (1) the standardized fish tests possessed comparable sensitivity to each other; (2) the mysid shrimp tests possessed comparable sensitivity to the standardized fish tests; (3) the sheepshead minnow and inland silverside FET tests were the least sensitive testing strategies employed; and (4) inclusion of sublethal endpoints (i.e., hatchability and pericardial edema) in the marine FETs increased their sensitivity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1285–1299. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Causal role of vitamin E in atopic dermatitis risk: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Jian , Zeng Youjie , Yuan Yuan
Published: April 2024

Prior studies suggested that vitamin E might be beneficial in alleviating atopic dermatitis, but confirming a causal link was hindered by limitations such as sample sizes and unaccounted confounders. The present study aimed to clarify this through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. GWAS summary statistics was obtained from public databases encompassing a study on vitamin E and two studies related to atopic dermatitis. Two sets of instrumental variables (IVs) were selected using lenient (p < 1e‐5) and strict (p < 5e‐6) thresholds for separate MR analyses. Inverse variance weighted (IVW) was used as the primary MR method, supplemented by six additional MR methods, and followed by a meta‐analysis to consolidate the impact of vitamin E on atopic dermatitis from two independent studies. Furthermore, various sensitivity tests were performed to assess the reliability of the MR results. A meta‐analysis of IVW analyses deriving from two different atopic dermatitis cohorts under lenient IV selection thresholds demonstrated that vitamin E exhibited a significant lowering risk of atopic dermatitis effect (OR = 0.817, 95% CI: 0.673–0.991, p = .041), which was validated under strict IV selection thresholds (OR = 0.822, 95% CI: 0.709–0.954, p = .010). In addition, six other MR methods remained parallel to IVW (OR > 1). Multiple sensitivity tests showed that MR analyses were not affected by heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. Overall, this MR study supported vitamin E reducing the risk of atopic dermatitis. Consequently, maintaining an adequate intake of vitamin E could potentially serve as an effective preventive measure against atopic dermatitis.
Coupled simulations and parameter inversion for neural system and electrophysiological muscle models
Authors: Homs‐Pons Carme , Lautenschlager Robin , Schmid Laura , Ernst Jennifer , Göddeke Dominik , Röhrle Oliver , Schulte Miriam
Published: April 2024

The functioning of the neuromuscular system is an important factor for quality of life. With the aim of restoring neuromuscular function after limb amputation, novel clinical techniques such as the agonist‐antagonist myoneural interface (AMI) are being developed. In this technique, the residual muscles of an agonist‐antagonist pair are (re‐)connected via a tendon in order to restore their mechanical and neural interaction. Due to the complexity of the system, the AMI can substantially profit from in silico analysis, in particular to determine the prestretch of the residual muscles that is applied during the procedure and determines the range of motion of the residual muscle pair. We present our computational approach to facilitate this. We extend a detailed multi‐X model for single muscles to the AMI setup, that is, a two‐muscle‐one‐tendon system. The model considers subcellular processes as well as 3D muscle and tendon mechanics and is prepared for neural process simulation. It is solved on high performance computing systems. We present simulation results that show (i) the performance of our numerical coupling between muscles and tendon and (ii) a qualitatively correct dependence of the range of motion of muscles on their prestretch. Simultaneously, we pursue a Bayesian parameter inference approach to invert for parameters of interest. Our approach is independent of the underlying muscle model and represents a first step toward parameter optimization, for instance, finding the prestretch, to be applied during surgery, that maximizes the resulting range of motion. Since our multi‐X fine‐grained model is computationally expensive, we present inversion results for reduced Hill‐type models. Our numerical results for cases with known ground truth show the convergence and robustness of our approach.
Wetland landscapes in the Southern Maya Lowlands (Naachtun, Guatemala) from the ancient agroecosystems to the tropical biosphere reserve: Ecology, exploitation and management of water and soil resources, and heritage legacy
Authors: Castanet Cyril , Fernandes Amaury , Mokadem Fatima , Hatté Christine , Gauthier Caroline , Develle‐Vincent Anne‐Lise , Cavero Julien , Dru Hugo , Virmoux Clément , Sipos Gyorgy , Dussol Lydie , Nondédéo Philippe
Published: April 2024

In the Biosphere Reserve of the Maya Lowlands, the large‐scale characterisation of the current wetlands ecology and the exploitation and management of their natural resources by the ancient Maya is severely constrained by the forest. This paper presents an integrated geomatic, geoarchaeological and ecological approach, developed to overcome this obstacle in the microregion of the Naachtun Maya city. It is based on the analysis of LiDAR, and field and laboratory data. This approach has revealed the mosaic of current ecological conditions of the wetlands, thanks to the characterisation and spatial modelling of the landforms, hydrology, vegetation and soil cover. It has enabled the characterisation of numerous hydraulic and agricultural structures: 70 large reservoirs, raised fields (the largest over 1.5 km²), canals and ditches (with a cumulative length of over 300 km) and dikes. Eight morphological types of hybrid structures—hydraulic and agricultural—are described. These constructions have enabled the intensive exploitation of water and soil resources, their management and the resulting environmental risks. This study has shown that the agroecosystems of lowland areas were created as early as ~1500 B.C.E. and evolved in a polyphasic way, until a phase of radical decline around 1000 C.E. This study has made it possible to characterise the legacy of the Maya Early Anthropocene on current wetlands, as well as their important natural and cultural heritage.
CO2 capture and dissociation on novel Ni/CaO bifunctional materials: A theoretical study
Authors: Wang Hao , Li Rongrong , Wang Enna , Zhu Zhengtong , Zhang Jianbin
Published: April 2024

Calcium‐looping dry reforming of methane (CaL‐DRM) strategy mainly relies on novel Ni/CaO‐based dual‐functional materials, in which its microscopic mechanism remains to be further explored. In this work, molecular simulation of the adsorption and dissociation processes of CO2 was performed on the surface of Ni/CaO dual‐functional materials (DFMs) based on density functional theory (DFT). The analyses of electron density, partial density of states, and formation energy suggest that the Ni/CaO model has higher stability and activity than the CaO model. The analyses of the evolution of chemical bonds, adsorption energy, density of states, and charge population after the adsorption of CO2 on the CaO surface and Ni/CaO shows that the modification with Ni made the adsorption of CO2 on Ni/CaO more stable. The transient calculations indicate that the path with the lowest activation energy is the H‐mediated dissociation path of chemisorption carboxyl COOH* as an intermediate, which is the possible dissociation path of CO2 on the surface of Ni/CaO DFMs. The dissociation of COOH* into CO* and OH* is the rate‐controlling step of the reaction. The DFT results demonstrate that the doping of Ni during the preparation of CaO materials can realize and enhance the CaL‐DRM processes, which provide a theoretical basis for the optimum preparation of Ni/CaO‐based DFMs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Healthcare Utilization of Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients in Emergency Department and Outpatient Settings: An 8‐year Population‐Based Study
Authors: MiriMoghaddam Masoud , Bohlouli Babak , Lai Hollis , Ganatra Seema , Amin Maryam
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to determine trends in the healthcare utilization by Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal cancer patients across emergency department (ED) and outpatient settings in Alberta and examine the predictors of ED visits.

Methods

This is a retrospective, population‐based, cohort study using administrative data collected by all healthcare facilities between 2010 and 2019 in Alberta, Canada. Trend of visits to different facilities, patients' primary diagnosis, and predictors of ED visits were analyzed.

Results

In total, 34% of patients had at least one cancer‐related ED visit. With a rise of 31% in cancer incidence, there was a notable upswing in visits to outpatient clinics and community offices, while ED visits decreased. Cancer stage, rural residence, high material deprivation score, and treatments were found as predictors of ED visits.

Conclusion

Improved symptom management and better care access for disadvantaged and rural oral cancer patients may decrease avoidable ED visits.
Exploring innovative applications of 5G in aviation medical rescue
Authors: Han Wei , Ji Zhongliang , Li Yuanting , Chen Changgen , Li Xiang , Huang Danni , Wang Junchao , Li Qin , Li Zhuang
Published: April 2024

Objective

To explore the application and advantages of 5G technology in aeromedical rescue.

Methods

Through the analysis of 11 rescue cases, especially two cases of 5G rescus cases, such as remote video consultation, 5G module equipment, vital signs data return, and Beidou high‐precision positioning.

Results

5G technology significantly optimizes the rescue process, enabling real‐time monitoring, low‐airspace 5G private network coverage, advanced equipment support, collaborative operations, and seamless information connection. Its high‐speed network transmission and high‐precision positioning capabilities have promoted the development of aerial body area network disease perception technology and 5G ground–ground collaborative rapid diagnosis and treatment technology, making telemedicine more convenient, safe, and scalable.

Conclusion

5G technology has great potential and promotion value in the field of aeromedical rescue.
Active tuberculosis incidence among treatment failure experienced patients in North Wollow Zone: A multicenter historical cohort
Authors: Bizuneh Fassikaw Kebede , Masresha Seteamlak Adane , Yayeh Berihun Mulu , Bizuneh Tsehay Kebede
Published: April 2024

Background

In Ethiopia, tuberculosis (TB) is a significant cause of death among individuals living with HIV, especially in resource‐limited areas and those who have experienced treatment failure. However, there is the paucity of data regarding TB among treatment failures experienced people living with HIV. This study aimed to estimate the rate and identify predictors of tuberculosis among patients who received second‐line treatment in North Wollo, Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective follow‐up study was conducted on 474 HIV‐infected patients who experienced treatment failure. The study period ranged from January 2015 to September 30, 2021. The incidence of TB was assessed using a Cox proportional hazard regression model, after ensuring that all assumptions were met. Factors associated with active TB were determined by analyzing adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

In a study of 474 HIV‐positive patients on second‐line antiretroviral treatment, we found an incidence rate of 3.6% with 17 new cases of TB observed over 4412.4 persons per year (PPY). The overall incidence density rate was estimated to be 0.39 cases per 100 PPY (95% CI: 0.239–0.618). Regarding the occurrence of active TB in second‐line patients, WHO clinical treatment stage (T3 and T4), missed isoniazid preventive therapy had a significantly higher risk (AHR: 13.225, 95% CI: 2.894–60.434, p = 0.001), while being married was associated with a lower risk (AHR: 0.203, 95% CI: 0.045–0.907, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

A high incidence of active TB was observed shortly after initiating second‐line antiretroviral treatment. Factors such as being in the WHO clinical treatment stage (T3 and T4) and marital status were determinants for active TB. To improve overall survival rates, it is vital to enhance early TB screening and implement effective isoniazid preventive therapy.
Infants of mothers with early remitted clinical depression and mothers with no postpartum depression: Adaptive functioning in the second year of life
Authors: Bornstein Marc H. , Manian Nanmathi , Henry Lauren M.
Published: April 2024

Whether and how remitted clinical depression in postpartum motherhood contributes to poor infant adaptive functioning is inconclusive. The present longitudinal study examines adaptive functioning in infants of mothers diagnosed as clinically depressed at 5 months but remitted at 15 and 24 months. Fifty‐five U. S. mothers with early, remitted clinical depression and 132 mothers without postpartum depression completed the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales about their infants at 15 and 24 months. Between groups, mothers were equivalent in age, ethnicity, marital status, and receptive vocabulary (a proxy for verbal intelligence), and infants were equivalent in age and distribution of gender. Controlling for maternal education and parity, mothers with early, remitted clinical depression and mothers with no postpartum depression rated their infants similarly on communication, daily living skills, and socialization. Mothers with early, remitted clinical depression rated their infants poorer in motor skills. Girls were rated more advanced than boys in communication at 24 months and daily living skills at 15 and 24 months. Rated infant adaptive behavior skills increased from 15 to 24 months. With exceptions, adaptive functioning in infants may be robust to early, remitted maternal depression, and adaptive functioning presents a domain to promote positive development in this otherwise vulnerable population.
Enhancing the degradation rate and biomineralization nature of antiferromagnetic Fe‐20Mn alloy by groove pressing
Authors: Sahu Manas Ranjan , Sampath Kumar T. S. , Chakkingal Uday , Dewangan Vimal Kumar , Doble Mukesh
Published: April 2024

The Fe‐Mn alloys are potential candidates for biodegradable implant applications. However, the very low degradation rates of Fe‐Mn alloys in the physiological environment are a major disadvantage. In this study, the degradation rate of a Fe‐20Mn alloy was improved using the groove pressing (GP) technique. Hot rolled sheets of 2 mm thickness were subjected to GP operation at 1000°C. Uniform fine‐grained (UFG) Fe‐Mn alloys were obtained using the GP technique. The influence of GP on the microstructure, mechanical properties, degradation behavior in simulated body fluid (SBF), surface wettability, biomineralization, and cytocompatibility was investigated and compared to the annealed (A Fe‐Mn) and rolled (R Fe‐Mn) sample. The groove‐pressed Fe‐Mn (G Fe‐Mn) alloy had a grain size of approximately 40 ± 16 μm whereas the A Fe‐Mn and R Fe‐Mn samples had grain sizes of 303 ± 81 and 117 ± 14.5 μm, respectively. Enhanced strength and elongation were also observed with the G Fe‐Mn sample. The potentiodynamic polarization test showed the highest Icorr, lowest polarization resistance, and lowest Ecorr for the G Fe‐Mn sample among all other samples indicating its higher degradation rate. The weight loss data from immersion tests also shows that the percentage of weight loss increases with time indicating the accelerated degradation behavior of the sample. The static immersion test showed an enhancement in weight loss of 0.46 ± 0.02% and 1.02 ± 0.05% for R Fe‐Mn and G Fe‐Mn samples, respectively, than A Fe‐Mn sample (0.31 ± 0.03%) after 56 days in immersion in SBF. The greater biomineralization tendency in UFG materials is confirmed by the G Fe‐Mn sample's stronger hydroxyapatite deposition. When compared to the A Fe‐Mn and R Fe‐Mn samples, the G Fe‐Mn sample has a better wettability, which promotes higher cell adhesion and vitality, showing higher biocompatibility. This study demonstrates that Fe‐20Mn processed by GP has potential applications for the manufacture of biodegradable metallic implants.
FNDC5 inhibits malignant growth of human cervical cancer cells via restraining PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Li Na , Wang Xiao‐Li , Ge Rui , Wang Yu , Tian Xiao‐Lei , Zhu Guo‐Qing , Zhou Bing
Published: April 2024

Cervical cancer (CxCa) is the fourth most frequent cancer in women. This study aimed to determine the role and underlying mechanism of fibronectin type III domain‐containing protein 5 (FNDC5) in inhibiting CxCa growth. Experiments were performed in human CxCa tissues, human CxCa cell lines (HeLa and SiHa), and xenograft mouse model established by subcutaneous injection of SiHa cells in nude mice. Bioinformatics analysis showed that CxCa patients with high FNDC5 levels have a longer overall survival period. FNDC5 expression was increased in human CxCa tissues, HeLa and SiHa cells. FNDC5 overexpression or FNDC5 protein not only inhibited proliferation, but also restrained invasion and migration of HeLa and SiHa cells. The effects of FNDC5 were prevented by inhibiting integrin with cilengitide, activating PI3K with recilisib or activating Akt with SC79. FNDC5 inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt, which was attenuated by recilisib. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 showed similar effects to FNDC5 in HeLa and SiHa cells. Intravenous injection of FNDC5 (20 μg/day) for 14 days inhibited the tumor growth, and reduced the proliferation marker Ki67 expression and the Akt phosphorylation in the CxCa xenograft mouse model. These results indicate that FNDC5 inhibits the malignant phenotype of CxCa cells through restraining PI3K/Akt signaling. Upregulation of FNDC5 may play a beneficial role in retarding the tumor growth of CxCa.