bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient strategy triggered crosslinking of polyethylene and its application in degassing‐free ultrahigh voltage power cables
Authors: Sun Wu‐Ji , Liu Xiong‐Jun , Yuan Li‐Juan , Xiao Han , Lu Jian‐Mei
Published: March 2023

Polyethylene has excellent electrical insulation, but its low thermal stability and breakdown strength limit its application in the field of high‐voltage (HV) and ultrahigh voltage (UHV) power cables. In this work, we have developed a new organic peroxide, 2,5‐dimethyl‐2,5‐di(tert‐butylperoxy) hexane (Bi25), which can efficiently trigger the crosslinking of polyethylene (Bi25‐XLPE). Bi25‐XLPE does not produce gas byproducts and has a longer scorching time. All performance of Bi25‐XLPE sheets fulfill the standard of the 500 kV power cable insulation due to the void‐free nature, higher crosslinking density and crystallinity. In addition, one 500 kV power cable model was constructed by COMSOL, which confirmed the breakdown strength (up to 61.66 kV/mm) and stability of Bi25‐XLPE.
Reproductive maturity and sexual dimorphism of a population of Amerotyphlops brongersmianus from a Restinga area in southeastern Brazil (Serpentes: Typhlopidae)
Authors: Khouri Rebeca Stella , Almeida‐Santos Selma Maria , Fernandes Daniel Silva
Published: March 2023

Natural history data are important for a better understanding of distinct aspects of snake biology, and this information in scarce on Scolecophidia. Here we focus on sexual maturity and sexual dimorphism within a population of Amerotyphlops brongersmianus from the Restinga de Jurubatiba National Park, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. The smallest sexually active male and female showed snout‐vent length of 117.5 and 158.4 mm, respectively. Females had statistically significant larger body and head length sizes, whereas males had longer tails. Juveniles showed no sexual dimorphism for any analyzed feature. Secondary vitellogenic follicles had a more opaque, yellowish/darker aspect, being larger than 3.5 mm. We reinforce that in addition to traditional features for determining sexual maturity, morphological and histological characteristics of kidneys should be evaluated in males, as well as the morphology of the infundibulum in females. Histological data show development of seminiferous tubules and presence of spermatozoa in males, and infundibulum receptacles and uterine glands in females as a sign of sexual maturity. This type of information is essential for a more accurate description of data on sexual maturity, allowing access to information on the development of reproductive structures that are not available macroscopically.
Current and potential methods to assess kidney structure and morphology in term and preterm neonates
Authors: Staub Eveline
Published: March 2023

After birth, the kidney structure in neonates adapt to the functional demands of extrauterine life. Nephrogenesis is complete in the third trimester, but glomeruli, tubuli, and vasculature mature with the rapidly increasing renal blood flow and glomerular filtration. In preterm infants, nephrogenesis remains incomplete and maturation is slower and may be aberrant. This structural and functional deficit has life‐long consequences: preterm born individuals are at higher risk for chronic kidney disease and arterial hypertension later in life. This review assembles the literature on existing and potential methods to visualize neonatal kidney structure and morphology and explore their potential to longitudinally document the developmental deviation after preterm birth. X‐rays with and without contrast, fluoroscopy and computed tomography (CT) involve relevant ionizing radiation exposure and, apart from CT, do not provide sufficient structural details. Ultrasound has evolved into a safe and noninvasive high‐resolution imaging method which is excellent for longitudinal observations. Doppler ultrasound modes can characterize and quantify blood flow to and through the kidneys. Microvascular flow imaging has opened new possibilities of visualizing previously unseen vascular structures. Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging display renal structure and function in unprecedented detail, but are offset by the logistical challenges of the imaging procedure and limited experience with the new techniques in neonates. Kidney biopsies visualize structure histologically, but are too invasive and remain anecdotal in newborns. All the explored methods have predominantly been examined in term newborns and require further research on longitudinal structural observation in the kidneys of preterm infants.
A thematic analysis of students' discussions on death and body donation in international online focus groups
Authors: Wu Anette , McWatt Sean C. , Utomo Rachel , Talis Austin , Xiao Que Yun , Saraci Kerstin , Brassett Cecilia , Sagoo Mandeep Gill , Wingate Richard , Chien Chung‐Liang , Traxler Hannes , Waschke Jens , Vielmuth Fransziska , Sigmund Anna , Yamada Yukari , Sakurai Takeshi , Zeroual Mina , Olsen Jorgen , El‐Batti Salma , Viranta‐Kovanen Suvi , Keay Kevin , Stewart William , Mao Yinghui , Lang Ariella , Kunzel Carol , Bernd Paulette , Kielstein Heike , Noël Geoffroy P. J. C.
Published: March 2023

Historically, Anatomy education is an in‐person discipline involving exposure to human body donors that facilitates personal and professional growth through, in part, the initiation of reflection on the topic of death. However, during the COVID‐19 pandemic the decreased exposure to cadaveric anatomy for many health professions students may have influenced the depth of their individual reflections on this topic. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the effect of an alternate approach—focus group discussions between peers with varying degrees of exposure to cadaveric material—that may offer one strategy to stimulate deep reflection on the topic of death. A programmatic intervention was introduced, wherein students (n = 221) from 13 international universities discussed differences in their anatomy courses during small focus group sessions as part of an online exchange program. An inductive semantic thematic analysis was conducted on responses to an open‐ended text–response question on how the activity influenced students' reflections about death. Resulting themes were organized into categories that described the content and topics of the students' discussions as they grappled with this sensitive topic. The students reportedly engaged in deep reflection and expressed an increased sense of connectedness with their peers, despite their disparate exposure levels to cadaveric anatomy and being physically distanced. This demonstrates that focus groups with students experiencing different laboratory contexts can be used to help all students reflect on the topic of death and that interchanges between dissecting and non‐dissecting students can initiate thoughts about death and body donation among non‐dissecting students.
Growth Reaction of Gold Nanorods in the Presence of Mutated Peptides and Amine‐Modified Single‐Stranded Nucleic Acids
Authors: Sahu Jitendra K. , Singh Omkar , Chakraborty Debashree , Sadhu Kalyan K.
Published: March 2023

Conformation of biomolecules like DNA, peptides and amino acids play vital role during nanoparticle growth. Herein, we have experimentally explored the effect of different noncovalent interaction between a 5′‐amine modified DNA sequence (NH2−C6H12‐5′‐ACATCAGT‐3′, PMR) and arginine during the seed‐mediated growth reaction of gold nanorods (GNRs). Amino acid‐mediated growth reaction of GNRs results in a snowflake‐like gold nanoarchitecture. However, in case of Arg, prior incubation of GNRs with PMR selectively produces sea urchin‐like gold suprastructures, via strong hydrogen bonding and cation‐π interaction between PMR and Arg. This distinctive structure formation strategy has been extended to study the structural modulation caused by two structurally close α‐helical RRR (Ac‐(AAAAR)3A−NH2) peptide and the lysine mutated KKR (Ac−AAAAKAAAAKAAAARA−NH2) peptide with partial helix at the amino terminus. Simulation studies confirm that a greater number of hydrogen bonding and cation‐π interaction between the Arg residues and PMR resulted in the gold sea urchin structure for RRR peptide against KKR peptide.
Investigating the in vivo effect of Tribulus terrestris extract in middle cerebral artery occlusion rats using LC–MS‐based metabolomics combined with molecular docking
Authors: Li Xingxing , Guo Wenjun , Zhao Liang , Xu Dandan , Xu Xiaohang , Han Yuqing , Wang Chengyan , Jiang Yingzi , Wang Yang , Xu Yajuan
Published: March 2023

Tribulus terrestris L. fruit (TT) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used to treat ischemic stroke (IS). This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of TT extract, named TT15, on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats using metabolomics and molecular docking and find the targets of action and the material basis of TT15 against IS. The results of the infarct volume and neurological defect scores confirmed the efficacy of TT15. Serum metabolomics analysis using LC–MS revealed that model group animals experienced a variety of metabolic disturbances when compared to the sham group. TT15 can restore the MCAO‐induced serum metabolite changes by modulating multiple metabolic pathways. Six enzymes were highlighted by the metabolite‐reaction‐enzyme‐gene (M‐R‐E‐G) network analysis, which might be the possible targets for the TT15 against IS. Molecular docking analysis was applied to show the binding affinities between active compounds and these enzymes. The representative docking mode with the lowest binding energy between three compounds and phospholipase A 2 (PLA2) and peroxidase (POD) was displayed by the ribbon binding map. This study profiles the metabolic changes in MCAO‐induced IS and investigates the efficacy and the corresponding mechanism of TT15 in the treatment of IS.
Acidotic and hypoxic tumor microenvironment induces changes to histone acetylation and methylation in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Khan Tajwali , Iftikhar Fizza , Akhlaq Rafia , Musharraf Syed Ghulam , Ali Arslan
Published: March 2023

Hypoxia and acidosis are ubiquitous hallmarks of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and in most solid cancers they have been linked to rewired cancer cell metabolism. These TME stresses are linked to changes in histone post‐translational modifications (PTMs) such as methylation and acetylation, which lead to tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Hypoxic and acidotic TME cause changes in histone PTMs by impacting the activities of histone‐modifying enzymes. These alterations are yet to be extensively explored in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), one of the most prevalent cancers in developing countries. Hypoxic, acidotic, and hypoxia with acidotic TME affecting histone acetylation and methylation in the CAL27 OSCC cell line was studied using LC–MS–based proteomics. The study identified several well‐known histone marks, in the context of their functionality in gene regulation, such as H2AK9Ac, H3K36me3, and H4K16Ac. The results provide insights into the histone acetylation and methylation associated with hypoxic and acidotic TME, causing changes in their level in a position‐dependent manner in the OSCC cell line. Hypoxia and acidosis, separately and in combination, cause differential impacts on histone methylation and acetylation in OSCC. The work will help uncover tumor cell adaptation to these stress stimuli in connection with histone crosstalk events.
Residue levels of emamectin benzoate, imidacloprid and its major metabolites in cabbage from 12 regions in China and dietary risk assessment
Authors: Zhao Xia , Dong Chao , Hu Jiye
Published: March 2023

A modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe method combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was established to investigate the residues of emamectin benzoate (EB), imidacloprid (IMI) and five IMI metabolites (IMI‐olefin, IMI‐urea, IMI‐guanidine, 5‐OH and 6‐CNA) in cabbage. The average recoveries of the seven compounds in cabbage were 80–102%, with relative standard deviations < 8.0%. The limit of quantification for each compound was 0.01 mg kg−1. Standardized residue tests were carried out in 12 areas of China under Good Agricultural Practice conditions. A 10% EB‐IMI microcapsule suspension was applied once with the high recommended dosage (18 g a.i. ha−1) on cabbage. The residues of EB (<0.01 mg kg−1), IMI (<0.016 mg kg−1) and the sum of IMI and its metabolites (<0.068 mg kg−1) in cabbage with the recommended preharvest interval (7 days) were lower than the maximum residue limits in China. Based on residual data from fields, toxicology data and Chinese dietary patterns, dietary risk assessments were conducted. Both the chronic risk quotients (25.2–73.1%) and acute risk quotients (0.43–1.57%) of EB and IMI were below 100%, indicating no unacceptable public health risk for different populations. This study provides guidance on the rational application of these insecticides in cabbage.
Comparing executive functions in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with or without reading disability: A resting‐state EEG study
Authors: Tabiee Maryam , Azhdarloo Ahmad , Azhdarloo Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Introduction

As numerous studies have shown, executive dysfunction is the main impairment in attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder. According to recent neuroimaging studies, the frontoparietal coherence plays a key role in overall cognitive functions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare executive functions during resting‐state EEG by monitoring brain connectivity (coherence) patterns in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with or without reading disability (RD).

Methods

The statistical sample of the study consisted of 32 children with ADHD aged between 8 and 12 years old with or without specific RD. Each group consisted of 11 boys and 5 girls that were matched on chronological age and gender. EEG was recorded during eyes‐opened condition and brain connectivity within and between frontal and parietal regions was analyzed within theta, alpha, and beta bands.

Results

The results revealed that across the frontal regions, the comorbid group showed a significant reduction in the left intrahemispheric coherence in the alpha and beta bands. The ADHD‐alone group exhibited increased theta and decreased alpha and beta coherence in frontal regions. In the frontoparietal regions, children in the comorbid group showed lower coherence between frontal and parietal networks compared to children without comorbid RD.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that brain connectivity (coherence) patterns of children with ADHD with comorbid RD were more abnormal and lend support to more disrupted cortical connectivity in the comorbid group. Thus, these findings can be a useful marker for better recognizing ADHD and comorbid disabilities.
Circular economy supply network transition phases management dynamics
Authors: Braz Antonio Carlos , de Mello Adriana Marotti
Published: March 2023

This paper discusses transitions towards circular economy, developing a circular economy supply network transition phases management dynamics framework. We studied seven circular supply networks in Brazil through process analysis and system dynamics modeling. Primary data were collected through 35 manager's interviews and companies' plant and their suppliers' visits. We suggest that transition phases management are pre‐development, learning, expansion, leadership, stabilization and self‐renew with cooperative and competitive challenges, characterized by specific circular factors over time. The simulation and transition phases models provide strategic tools to make decision on which circular factor, project team should focus applying multi‐tier supply chain management and hybrid leadership to stimulate internal and integrate external stakeholders to adopt circularity, unveiling challenges and average time to achieve each phase. We also enrich circular economy supply network management theoretical background defining it in three dimensions: behavioral as supply ecosystem, structural as supply network and contextual as complex adaptive system.
Internal cohesion psychotherapy: The nature, principles and application
Authors: Uka Fitim , Gashi Arlinda , Studenica Arvesa
Published: March 2023

Psychotherapy is widely used to treat different mental health disorders and emotional difficulties. The main objective of psychotherapy is to help clients become aware of and have control over their thoughts, moods, feelings and behaviours, as well as create healthy strategies to respond to challenging situations. Since the existing psychotherapy approaches and other methods of treatment are not always effective in treating mental health disorders, there is still space for new approaches to fill this gap. In this paper, we provide information about internal cohesion psychotherapy, which is a new integrative approach. This paper presents a new approach to eclectic psychotherapy, focussing on four detrimental aspects of human functioning through different time perspectives.
Partners in crime: A 21‐year cohort comparison of people who commit serious crimes together with those who act alone
Authors: Ahlgren‐Rimpilainen Aulikki Johanna , Rautanen Mika
Published: March 2023

Background

Perpetrators who act together violently occur frequently in police and media discussions, but are rarely the focus of forensic psychiatric research.

Aims

We aimed to characterise people who act together when committing a serious crime and to map the frequency of such crimes over 21 years in Finland.

Methods

Data for the study were retrieved from the national database of forensic psychiatric examinations for the period 2000–2020, with reports on file for nearly all people charged with serious criminal offences in the country. Index cases were defined as those with two or more perpetrators attacking a single victim; people who acted alone were comparison cases. Sex and age at the time of the crime were extracted together with all diagnoses listed in the reports.

Results

Seventy‐five multiple perpetrator groups (MPG) were identified, accounting for 165 individuals whose reports were compared with 2494 single‐perpetrator (SPR) reports. Most group and solitary offenders were male (87%: 86%, respectively). The index offence was more likely to be homicide among the group perpetrators (mean 1.12) than the solitary offenders (mean 0.83). Proportionately more of the group offenders had personality disorder or substance use disorders (antisocial personality disorder MPG 49%: SPR 32%; any personality disorder MPG 89%: SPR 76%); alcohol (MPG 79%: SPR 69%; cannabis MPG 15%: SPR 9%). By contrast, psychosis was about twice as common among the solitary offenders (MPG 12%; SPR 26%).

Conclusions

The number of group‐perpetrated crimes has not increased, according to these Finnish forensic psychiatric report data of 2000–2020, but the relatively high prevalence among them of personality and substance use disorders is a constant. Understanding psychiatric disorders as factors in both leading to and avoiding violent conflicts may help plan new approaches to further diminish group violence.
Right atrial thrombus and pulmonary thromboembolism related to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Sayyadi Amin , Mahdavi Mahsa , Dalfardi Behnam , Karami Robati Fatemeh , Shafiepour Mohsen
Published: March 2023

A young lady with a history of infertility presented to the hospital with dyspnea and chest pain a few days after ovulation induction. Her manifestations were consistent with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Further investigations revealed right atrial thrombus and pulmonary thromboembolism. We successfully managed the condition with conservative therapy.
Secondary oxalate nephropathy and impact of high‐dose vitamin C intake for COVID‐19 prevention on a patient with Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass: A case report
Authors: Kafi Fatemeh , Mortazavi Mojgan , Pouramini Alireza , Dolatkhah Shahaboddin , Kaleidari Behrouz , Taheri Diana
Published: March 2023

The current study is important in informing clinicians about the possibility of concurrent oxalate nephropathy caused by Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass, high oxalate materials, and high‐dose vitamin C intake for COVID‐19 prevention.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 familial case in a patient with insulinoma and primary hyperparathyroidism: First report in literature and in the Costa Rican population of the c.1224_1225insGTCC pathogenic variant
Authors: Molina‐Céspedes Paula , Ruiz‐Golcher Ernesto José , Badilla‐Barboza Oscar , Sedó‐Mejía Giovanni , Barboza‐Rodríguez Laura , Badilla‐Porras Ramsés
Published: March 2023

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder without a good genotype–phenotype correlation, characterized by tumor predisposition in the parathyroid gland, anterior pituitary, and pancreatic islet cells. Here, we describe a 37‐year‐old male with previous history of nephrolithiasis, with a 1‐year history of recurrent hypoglycemic episodes. Physical examination revealed the presence of two lipomas. Family history revealed primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), hyperprolactinemia, and multiple non‐functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Initial laboratories revealed hypoglycemia and primary hyperparathyroidism. A fasting test was positive after 3 hours of initiation. An abdominal CT Scan demonstrated a 28 × 27 mm mass in the pancreatic tail and bilateral nephrolithiasis. A distal pancreatectomy was done. After surgery, the patient persisted with hypoglycemic episodes that were managed with diazoxide and frequent feedings. A parathyroid Tc‐99 m MIBI scan with SPECT/CT imaging demonstrated two hot uptake lesions compatible with abnormally functioning parathyroid tissue. Surgical treatment was offered; however, the patient decided to postpone the procedure. Direct sequence analysis of MEN1 gene revealed heterozygosity for a pathogenic insertion c.1224_1225insGTCC (p.Cys409Valfs*41). DNA sequence analysis was done to six of his first‐degree relatives. A sister with clinical diagnosis of MEN1 and a pre‐symptomatic brother were positive for the same MEN1 variant. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a genetically confirmed case of MEN1 in our country and is the first report in literature of the c.1224_1225insGTCC variant related to a clinically affected family.
A case of needle tract seeding that seemed to be caused by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration
Authors: Sekine Masanari , Asano Takeharu , Kurabayashi Risako , Maeda Shimpei , Watanabe Fumiaki , Noda Hiroshi , Rikiyama Toshiki , Mashima Hirosato
Published: March 2023

A 66‐year‐old man underwent a single endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) session and distal pancreatectomy for the pancreatic body adenocarcinoma measuring 12 mm in diameter. At 3 years after surgery, we diagnosed needle tract seeding (NTS) and performed total gastrectomy. NTS can occur with small tumors or after a single session of EUS‐FNA.
Improvement of depressive symptoms, after a suicide attempt, with dextromethorphan/bupropion combination treatment in a patient with treatment‐resistant depression and psychiatric comorbidities
Authors: Pedraz‐Petrozzi Bruno , Deuschle Michael , Gilles Maria
Published: March 2023

We admitted a 42‐year‐old patient with severe treatment‐resistant depression and with psychiatric comorbidities. The patient attempted suicide 5 weeks after admission. Subsequently, we initiated dextromethorphan/bupropion based on prior evidence. As a result, the patient demonstrated an improvement in mood symptoms and a reduction in suicide risk, leading to her discharge.
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy presenting as a “pancake enhancement” on MRI of the spinal cord: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Sharma Nava Raj , Sharma Bharosa , Lamichhane Saral , Pokhrel Madalasa , Shrestha Prajwal
Published: March 2023

Spondylotic myelopathy involves chronic spinal cord compression from degenerative spine changes presenting a myriad of neurological and pain symptoms. We report a case of cervical myelopathy with transverse pancake‐like gadolinium enhancement seen on MRI in a 42‐year‐old gentleman with progressive bilateral upper extremity numbness, tingling, and impaired gait.
Hybrid Organometallic and Enzymatic Tandem Catalysis for Oxyfunctionalisation Reactions
Authors: Domestici Chiara , Wu Yinqi , Hilberath Thomas , Alcalde Miguel , Hollmann Frank , Macchioni Alceo
Published: March 2023

Unspecific peroxygenases (UPOs) are promising biocatalysts for oxyfunctionalisation reactions, owing to their simplicity of handling, stability and robustness. A limitation of using UPOs on a large scale is their deactivation in the presence of even rather modest concentrations of H2O2, requiring a constant and controlled supply of low amount of H2O2. Herein, we report an organometallic complex [Cp*Ir(pica)NO3] {pica=picolinamidate=κ2‐pyridine‐2‐carboxamide ion (−1)} 1 capable of efficiently regenerating FMNH2 from FMN (TOF=350 h−1, 298 K), driven by NaHCOO; FMNH2, in turn, spontaneously reacts with O2 leading to H2O2. After having studied the compatibility of 1 with the UPO from Agrocybe aegerita (rAaeUPO PaDa‐I) and individuated the best experimental conditions, we applied such a hybrid catalytic tandem in some hydroxylation, epoxidation and sulfoxidation reactions. Best performances were obtained by using a 1/rAaeUPO molar ratio of 50. TONs for the biocatalyst of up to 18933 were obtained for the transformation of ethylbenzene derivatives into (R)‐1‐phenylethanols (ee>99 %). 1/rAaeUPO was found to oxidise also cis‐methyl styrene (TON=13488), leading exclusively (1R,2S)‐cis‐methyl styrene oxide (ee>99 %), cyclohexane (TON=1634) and thioanisole (TON=1369).
Organosilicon‐functionalized polyolefins, a kind of designable and versatile polymer: From preparation to applications
Authors: Cai Yuquan , Fang Wenyu , Zheng Jieyuan , Xu Jie , Fan Hong
Published: March 2023

Functionalization of polyolefins has been a challenging but promising issue since their invention, with the promise of retaining inherent properties and overcoming the low reactivity and poor compatibility. Organosilicons are widely used for polymer modification to improve thermal stability, hydrophobicity, compatibility, and permeability. Since the advent of alkoxysilane‐grafted polyethylene in 1960s, organosilicon‐functionalized polyolefins (Si‐PO) have been extensively prepared, investigated, and developed. The structure of Si‐PO is designable due to the flexible chemistry of organosilicons; crosslinked, long chain branched, and star‐shaped polyolefins are available after the introduction of alkoxysilanes, chlorosilanes, hyrdosilanes, or alkylsilanes into polyolefins, and generally these polymers are more compatible to fillers than commercial polyolefins due to stronger interaction. In addition, functionalization of polyolefins with stable organosilicon components such as polysiloxane and polysilsesquioxane can improve thermostability, hydrophobicity, gas permeability, and aging resistance; such polyolefins are usually grafted or block polymers. In this review, Si‐PO is classified according to the functional organosilicon component, namely alkoxysilane, chlorosilane, hydrosilane, alkylsilane, polysiloxane, and polysilsesquioxane; their preparations are discussed minutely and summarized with manifold examples. Silicon‐containing structures impart the unique properties of organosilicons to polyolefins; applications of Si‐PO as compatibilizers, processing aids, battery separators, and separating membranes have been widely reported and are discussed here.
Molecular diagnostics and inhibition of cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants in Hymenoptera venom allergy
Authors: Jovanovic Dragana , Peric‐Popadic Aleksandra , Djuric Vojislav , Stojanovic Maja , Lekic Branislav , Milicevic Ognjen , Bonaci‐Nikolic Branka
Published: March 2023

Background

The composition of venom extracts, cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD) and the component‐resolved diagnostics (CRD) are important fields of investigation. IgE‐reactivity to CCD complicates the interpretation of IgE to Hymenoptera venoms, especially in patients with multiple‐positivity. We analyzed the clinical importance of CRD and CCD‐inhibition for selection of allergens for venom immunotherapy (VIT).

Methods

In 71 patients, we measured specific IgE (sIgE) to honeybee venom (HBV), wasp venom (WV), hornet venom (HV), CCD, and recombinant allergens: phospholipase A2 (rApi m 1), hyaluronidase (rApi m 2), icarapin (rApi m 10), antigen 5 (rVes v 5), and phospholipase A1 (Immunoblot). In 29/71 HBV/WV/HV/CCD‐positive patients CCD‐inhibition was performed. According to CRD and CCD‐inhibition, we identified true sensitization and defined groups of multiple‐positive patients who needed CCD‐inhibition before starting VIT.

Results

sIgE‐rApi m 1, sIgE‐rApi m 2, and sIgE‐rApi m 10 were detected in 65.7%, 68.4%, and 58%, respectively. In HBV allergic patients, CRD sensitivity was 86.8%. In WV allergic patients, sensitivity of sIgE‐rVes v 5 was 94%. True multiple‐sensitization was found in 44.8% of HBV/WV/HV/CCD‐positive patients after CCD‐inhibition. Patients with multiple venom‐ and CCD‐positivity had more frequent severe allergic reactions (p < 0.001). CCD‐inhibition was helpful in HBV/WV/HV/CCD‐positive patients who were negative to all tested recombinant honeybee allergens. Persistence of HBV‐positivity after CCD‐inhibition requires CRD to other honeybee recombinant allergens.

Conclusion

CRD, using a profile of five most important recombinant allergens and CCD, has a high sensitivity for the diagnosis of venom allergy, especially in patients positive to several venom extracts. CRD and CCD‐inhibition are helpful to reveal the clinically relevant, true sensitization and improve the selection of venoms for long‐lasting VIT.
A Reinvestigation of the Role of the Sorbic Acid Tail on the Antibacterial and Anti‐Tuberculosis Properties of Moiramide B
Authors: Kollmorgen Irina , Bachmann Nathalie , Dal Molin Michael , Degenhart Carsten , Zent Eldar , Pareek Vikram , Koch Uwe , Rybniker Jan , Metzler‐Nolte Nils , Stoll Raphael , Klebl Bert , Bandow Julia Elisabeth , Scherkenbeck Jürgen
Published: March 2023

Due to worldwide increasing resistances, there is a considerable need for antibacterial compounds with modes of action not yet realized in commercial antibiotics. One such promising structure is the acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) inhibitor moiramide B which shows strong antibacterial activity against gram‐positive bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis and weaker activities against gram‐negative bacteria. However, the narrow structure‐activity relationship of the pseudopeptide unit of moiramide B represents a formidable challenge for any optimization strategy. In contrast, the lipophilic fatty acid tail is considered an unspecific vehicle responsible only for the transport of moiramide into the bacterial cell. Here we show that the sorbic acid unit, in fact, is highly relevant for ACC inhibition. A hitherto undescribed sub‐pocket at the end of the sorbic acid channel binds strongly aromatic rings and allows the development of moiramide derivatives with altered antibacterial profiles including anti‐tubercular activity.
Design, Synthesis, and Optimization of Indole Acetic Acid Derivatives as Potent and Selective CRTH2 Receptor Antagonists: Discovery of ACT‐774312
Authors: Aissaoui Hamed , Holdener Martin , Gnerre Carmela , Niggemann Kerstin , Reber Stefan , Richard Sylvia , Siegrist Romain , Boss Christoph
Published: March 2023

Herein we report the structure‐activity relationship (SAR) studies and optimization of new highly potent and selective CRTH2 receptor antagonists as potential follow‐ups of our previous reported clinical candidate setipiprant (ACT‐129968) for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Structural modification of the amide part of setipiprant (ACT‐129968) led to the identification of the tetrahydrocarbazole derivative(S)‐B‐1(ACT‐453859) ((S)‐2‐(3‐((5‐chloropyrimidin‐2‐yl)(methyl)amino)‐6‐fluoro‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)acetic acid). This compound which displayed a substantial improvement in potency in the presence of plasma versus setipiprant(ACT‐129968)has exhibited an excellent overall pharmacokinetic profile. Further lead optimization to overcome a safety issue as observed in non‐clinical studies with(S)‐B‐1(ACT‐453859), led to the discovery of the 4‐azaindole derivative(S)‐72(ACT‐774312) ((S)‐2‐(8‐((5‐chloropyrimidin‐2‐yl)(methyl)amino)‐2‐fluoro‐6,7,8,9‐tetrahydro‐5H‐pyrido[3,2‐b]indol‐5‐yl)acetic acid) which was selected as a potential follow‐up of setipiprant (ACT‐129968).
Linguistic predictors of symptom change in an internet‐based cognitive behavioural intervention for prolonged grief symptoms
Authors: Schmidt Viktoria , Kaiser Julia , Treml Julia , Linde Katja , Nagl Michaela , Kersting Anette
Published: March 2023

This study investigates linguistic predictors of reduction in prolonged grief symptoms following a writing intervention in an internet‐based cognitive behavioural therapy for people bereaved by cancer. Data stem from a randomized control clinical trial with 70 people. The Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count program was used to analyse patient language. Absolute change scores and reliable change index were used to calculate reduction in grief symptoms and clinical significant change. Best subset regression and Mann–Whitney U tests were conducted. A higher reduction of prolonged grief symptoms was correlated with more social words in the first module (β = −.22, p = .042), less risk (β = .33, p = .002) and body words (β = .22, p = .048) in the second module and more time words in the third module (β = −.26, p = .018). Patients with clinically significant change showed a higher median in function words in the first module (p = .019), a lower median in risk words in the second module (p = .019) and a higher median in assent words in the last module (p = .014) compared to patients without clinically significant change. Findings suggest that it may be beneficial for therapists to encourage a more detailed description of patients' relationship with their deceased relative during the first module, a change in perspective during the second module and a summary of past, present and future aspects at the end of therapy. Future studies should include mediation analyses to allow causal attribution of the studied effects.
Salt‐Melt Synthesis of Poly Heptazine Imides with Enhanced Optical Absorption for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Chang Mengling , Pan Zhiming , Zheng Dandan , Wang Sibo , Zhang Guigang , Anpo Masakazu , Wang Xinchen
Published: March 2023

Broadening the visible light absorption range and accelerating the separation and migration process of charge carriers are effective ways to improve photocatalytic quantum efficiencies. In this study, we show that poly heptazine imides with enhanced optical absorption and promoted charge carrier separation and migration could be obtained by means of a rational design of the band structures and crystallinity of polymeric carbon nitride. Copolymerization of urea with monomers such as 2‐aminothiophene‐3‐carbonitrile would first generate amorphous melon with enhanced optical absorption, while further ionothermal treatment of melon in eutectic salts would increase the polymerization degree and create condensed poly heptazine imides as final products. Accordingly, the optimized poly heptazine imide presents an apparent quantum yield of 12 % at 420 nm for photocatalytic hydrogen production.
The relationship between midlife dyslipidemia and lifetime incidence of dementia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Wee Jason , Sukudom Sara , Bhat Saiuj , Marklund Matti , Peiris Niridu Jude , Hoyos Camilla M , Patel Sanjay , Naismith Sharon L , Dwivedi Girish , Misra Ashish
Published: March 2023

Introduction

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to review the relationship between midlife dyslipidemia and lifetime incident dementia.

Methods

The databases Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane were searched from inception to February 20, 2022. Longitudinal studies examining the relationship between midlife lipid levels on dementia, dementia subtypes, and/or cognitive impairment were pooled using inverse‐variance weighted random‐effects meta‐analysis.

Results

Seventeen studies (1.2 million participants) were included. Midlife hypercholesterolemia was associated with increased incidence of mild cognitive impairment (effect size [ES] = 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19 to 2.84; I2 = 0.0%) and all‐cause dementia (ES = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.21; I2 = 0.0%). Each 1 mmol/L increase in low‐density lipoprotein was associated with an 8% increase (ES = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.14; I2 = 0.3%) in incidence of all‐cause dementia.

Discussion

Midlife dyslipidemia is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment in later life.
Plasma amyloid beta 40/42, phosphorylated tau 181, and neurofilament light are associated with cognitive impairment and neuropathological changes among World Trade Center responders: A prospective cohort study of exposures and cognitive aging at midlife
Authors: Kritikos Minos , Diminich Erica D. , Meliker Jaymie , Mielke Michelle , Bennett David A. , Finch Caleb E. , Gandy Sam E. , Carr Melissa A. , Yang Xiaohua , Kotov Roman , Kuan Pei‐Fen , Bromet Evelyn J. , Clouston Sean A. P. , Luft Benjamin J.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

World Trade Center (WTC) responders are experiencing a high risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, though the etiology remains inadequately characterized. This study investigated whether WTC exposures and chronic post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were correlated with plasma biomarkers characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology.

Methods

Eligible participants included WTC‐exposed individuals with a baseline cognitive assessment and available plasma sample. We examined levels of the amyloid beta (Aβ)40/42 ratio, phosphorylated tau 181 (p‐tau181), and neurofilament light chain (NfL) and associations with a WTC exposures (duration on site ≥15 weeks, dust cloud), the PTSD Symptom Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition PTSD, and classification of amyloid/tau/neurodegeneration (AT[N]) profiles. Multinomial logistic regressions assessed whether biomarkers predicted increased risk of MCI or dementia.

Results

Of 1179 eligible responders, 93.0% were male, mean (standard deviation) age 56.6 years (7.8). Aβ40/42, p‐tau181, and NfL intercorrelated and increased with age. In subgroup analyses of responders with available neuroimaging data (n = 75), Aβ40/42 and p‐tau181 were further associated with decreased hippocampal volume (Spearman's ρ = −0.3). Overall, 58.08% of responders with dementia had ≥1 elevated biomarker, and 3.45% had elevations across all biomarkers. In total, 248 (21.05%) had MCI and 70 (5.94%) had dementia. Increased risk of dementia was associated with plasma AT(N) profile T+ or A+N+. Exposure on site ≥15 weeks was independently associated with T+ (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 1.03 [1.01−1.05], P = 0.009), and T+N+ profile (aRR = 2.34 [1.12−4.87]). The presence of PTSD was independently associated with risk of A+ (aRR = 1.77 [1.11−2.82]).

Discussion

WTC exposures and chronic PTSD are associated with plasma biomarkers consistent with neurodegenerative disease.
The cumulative effect of socioeconomic status and dyslexia on linguistic, cognitive and reading skills among Arabic‐speaking children
Authors: Asadi Ibrahim A. , Kasperski Ronen , Sarid Miri
Published: March 2023

Research has shown that children with dyslexia and children with a low socioeconomic status (SES) fall behind in terms of literacy acquisition, but a question remains regarding the cumulative effect of dyslexia and SES on linguistic, cognitive and reading skills. To examine the impact of cognition and environment on literacy development, we returned to the data set of 1,441 elementary school children (223 dyslexic readers and 1,241 typical readers) from low and medium‐high SES backgrounds within Palestinian society in Israel who had participated in the development study of a comprehensive battery of tests in oral and written Arabic. The findings of this retrospective study reveal that, across grade levels, dyslexic readers from a low SES background showed similar performance to those from a medium‐high SES background on most linguistic, cognitive and reading measures. As for typical readers, SES contributed to individual differences in all linguistic, cognitive and reading indices, with the exception of RAN. Finally, a cumulative effect of dyslexia and SES was found in relation to morphology, vocabulary, listening comprehension and text‐reading accuracy.
Nest building in titmice Paridae: Selectivity in bryophyte use
Authors: Rydgren Knut , Indreeide Bendik , Slagsvold Tore , Lampe Helene M.
Published: March 2023

In many bird species, reproductive success is dependent on nest quality. However, detailed data on nest composition are scarce, and quantitative analyses have generally used only rough categories, without species identification. Bryophytes dominate the nests of many passerine bird species, but little is known about whether birds have preferences for certain species. In this study, we determined the bryophyte species composition in nests of blue tits Cyanistes caeruleus and great tits Parus major in a forest near Oslo, Norway. We also sampled the abundance of the bryophyte species in plots on the forest floor surrounding a subset of the great tit nests. Blue tits and great tits both used 15 bryophyte species as nest materials, mainly the same pleurocarpous species but in different proportions. The tits preferred highly branched bryophyte species, i.e., Pleurozium schreberi, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, and Sanionia uncinata but avoided common forest floor bryophyte species that are sparsely branched. Great tits clearly collected bryophyte species selectively. We also found that bryophyte species content in great tit nests in the same nest box in different years was very similar. Our results also indicated that the great tits collected bryophyte nest materials close to their nests, mostly within 5 m, supporting the view that collecting nest materials is costly. We review several hypotheses to explain why the tits prefer certain species of bryophytes as nest materials. These include handling costs and their suitability as structural materials. We recommend field experiments to test specific hypotheses and to study whether preferences are heritable.
Experimental ectoparasite removal has a sex‐specific effect on nestling telomere length
Authors: Wolf Sarah E. , Zhang Samuel , Clotfelter Ethan D.
Published: March 2023

Parasites are a strong selective force that can influence fitness‐related traits. The length of chromosome‐capping telomeres can be used to assess the long‐term costs of parasitism, as telomere loss accelerates in response to environmental stressors and often precedes poorer survival prospects. Here, we explored the sex‐specific effects of ectoparasite removal on morphology and telomere length in nestling tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor). To do so, we experimentally removed blow fly (Protocalliphoraspp.) larvae from nests using Permethrin, a broad‐spectrum insecticide. Compared to water‐treated controls, insecticide treatment of nests had a sex‐biased effect on blood telomere length: ectoparasite removal resulted in significantly longer telomeres in males but not females. While this treatment did not influence nestling body mass, it was associated with reduced feather development regardless of sex. This may reflect a relaxed pressure to fledge quickly in the absence of parasites, or alternatively, could be a negative side effect of permethrin on morphology. Exploring robust sex‐specific telomere dynamics in response to early‐life environmental pressures such as parasitism will shed light on sexual dimorphism in adult life histories and aging.
Predicting ecosystem metaphenome from community metagenome: A grand challenge for environmental biology
Authors: Martinez Neo D.
Published: March 2023

Elucidating how an organism's characteristics emerge from its DNA sequence has been one of the great triumphs of biology. This triumph has cumulated in sophisticated computational models that successfully predict how an organism's detailed phenotype emerges from its specific genotype. Inspired by that effort's vision and empowered by its methodologies, a grand challenge is described here that aims to predict the biotic characteristics of an ecosystem, its metaphenome, from nucleic acid sequences of all the species in its community, its metagenome. Meeting this challenge would integrate rapidly advancing abilities of environmental nucleic acids (eDNA and eRNA) to identify organisms, their ecological interactions, and their evolutionary relationships with advances in mechanistic models of complex ecosystems. Addressing the challenge would help integrate ecology and evolutionary biology into a more unified and successfully predictive science that can better help describe and manage ecosystems and the services they provide to humanity.
Historical anthropogenic disturbances explain long‐term moorland vegetation dynamics
Authors: Rowney Francis M. , Fyfe Ralph M. , Baker Leonard , French Henry , Koot Martha B. , Ombashi Havananda , Timms Rhys G. O.
Published: March 2023

Upland moorlands are important landscapes, but many are considered degraded as a result of human activities. Consequently, their protection and restoration are of substantial concern. In Europe, restoration activities are often aimed at reversing the effects of 19th and 20th century “agricultural improvements,” which often involved major drainage schemes. However, the ecological effects and long‐term ecological context of “agricultural improvement” are not yet fully understood. To develop this understanding, we analyze paleoecological data (pollen, coprophilous fungal spores, microcharcoal) from five upland peatland sites using a range of analytical approaches: cluster analysis, principal component analysis, rate‐of‐change analysis, and regression analyses incorporating documentary historical data. The sites are located on Exmoor (South West England, UK), a landscape that typifies historic upland degradation. We demonstrate that in this landscape, 19th century drainage is associated with declines inSphagnumand non‐arboreal taxon richness; over longer timescales burning is associated with enhanced graminoid monocot abundance and grazing with lower taxon richness. We also show that rate‐of‐change in moorland vegetation communities during the 19th century is not distinctive in a long‐term context: change has been a constant in this landscape, rather than an exception during the 19th century. Our findings indicate that the aims of “restoration” interventions intended to increaseSphagnumabundances, increase taxon richness and reduce graminoid dominance are consistent with the long‐term dynamics of peatland systems, such as those on Exmoor. “Restoration” deemed successful in these terms may or may not resemble pre‐drainage conditions, which were themselves a function of millennia of successive moorland management regimes.