bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MnNbS/Polyaniline Composite‐Based Electrode Material for High‐Performance Energy Storage Hybrid Supercapacitor Device
Authors: Khan Rizwan , Afzal Amir Muhammad , Hussain Zahid , Iqbal Muhammad Waqas , Imran Muhammad , Hamza Waris Muhammad , Azhar Mumtaz Muhammad , Usman Muhammad , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad , Al-Ammar Essam A. , Mumtaz Sohail
Published: June 2023

Hybrid supercapacitor or supercapattery devices have gained significant attention for their impressive power (Pd) and energy densities (Ed), as well as their exceptional cyclic stability compared to traditional storage devices. In this study, manganese niobium sulfide (MnNbS) is synthesized using a hydrothermal method. To enhance the electrochemical performance of MnNbS, polyaniline (PANI) is blended at varying mass ratios. Initially, the electrochemical properties of MnNbS/PANI are evaluated using a three‐electrode configuration, consisting of working, counter, and reference electrodes. At a current density of 2 A g−1, MnNbS/PANI exhibits an improved specific capacity () of 1366 C g−1. Subsequently, to develop a supercapattery energy storage device, a two‐electrode system is constructed. This setup offers enhanced performance and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for high‐performance supercapacitors. Activated carbon (AC) and MnNbS/PANI are employed as the negative and positive electrodes, respectively, in the two‐electrode system. Notably, the device demonstrates outstanding energy density (Ed) of 26.2 Wh kg−1, power density (Pd) of 2072 W kg−1, and specific capacity of 118 C g−1. Furthermore, durability tests involving 1000 charge–discharge cycles reveal a capacity retention of 79%. This study suggests that MnNbS/PANI (at a weight ratio of 80/20%) holds promise as an electrode material for supercapattery applications.
Obtaining the molar heat capacities and entropies of HCl and HBr by combining density functional theory and machine learning algorithm
Authors: Yang Zhangzhang , He Guiling , Wei Qinqin , Fu Jia , Fan Qunchao , Xie Feng , Zhang Yi , Ma Jie
Published: June 2023

An integrated approach combing density functional theory (DFT) and machine learning algorithm (MLA) is proposed here to obtain the molar heat capacities and entropies of diatomic macroscopic gasses with high quality. The DFT approach takes care of the main physical effects, while machine learning takes care of the intricate details it leaves out. After machine learning algorithm correction, a complete set of accurate prediction of vibrational energy spectrum is obtained, which is better than the results of DFT methods in accuracy. And then it is used to replace the vibrational part in the ro‐vibrational energy calculated by DFT to obtain the rectified ro‐vibrational energy. Furthermore, through the quantum ensemble theory, the thermodynamic properties of the macroscopic gas are calculated by the predicted ro‐vibrational energy spectrum, and are modified again by the machine learning algorithm. The study of the and system show that, compared with CCSD(T)/cc‐pV5Z and the improved variational algebraical method, the macroscopic thermodynamic properties calculated by this work in the temperature range of 300–6000 K are the closest to the experimental values. The relative error is less than 1% at each temperature.
Grounding alcohol simulation models in empirical and theoretical alcohol research: a model for a Northern Plains population in the United States
Authors: Deutsch Arielle R. , Chau Edward , Motabar Nikki , Jalali Mohammad S.
Published: June 2023

The growing number of systems science simulation models for alcohol use (AU) are often disconnected from AU models within empirical and theoretical alcohol research. As AU prevention/intervention efforts are typically grounded in alcohol research, this disconnect may reduce policy testing results, impact, and implementation. We developed a simulation model guided by AU research (accounting for the multiple AU stages defined by AU behavior and risk for harm and diverse transitions between stages). Simulated projections were compared to historical data to evaluate model accuracy and potential policy leverage points for prevention and intervention at risky drinking (RD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) stages. Results indicated prevention provided the greatest RD and AUD reduction; however, focusing exclusively on AUD prevention may not be effective for long‐term change, given the continued increase in RD. This study makes a case for the strength and importance of aligning subject‐based research with systems science simulation models. © 2023 System Dynamics Society.
Tolerance of Sonidegib after Intolerance of Vismodegib—Experience in Two Patients with Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome (Gorlin Syndrome)
Authors: Venturi Federico , Trane Luciana , Silvestri Flavia , Zuccaro Biancamaria , Magnaterra Elisabetta , De Giorgi Vincenzo
Published: June 2023

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS, Gorlin syndrome) is a rare genetic condition characterized by the early development of numerous cutaneous basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). Although most BCCs are surgically treated with total resection, some of the lesions may proceed to a locally advanced or metastatic stage. Systemic treatment with a hedgehog inhibitors (HHIs) such as Vismodegib or Sonidegib is indicated in this population. We report cases of two patients with confirmed diagnoses of NBCCS. Both patients had undergone multiple surgical excisions and had been treated with oral Vismodegib 150 mg/day for a locally advanced tumour. They both discontinued the therapy due to its specific adverse effects (AEs) and are now being treated with oral Sonidegib, which has had better tolerability and a complete response. The aims of this report was to demonstrate the efficacy of HHI treatment with Sonidegib in patients with NCBBS who had previously treated with Vismodegib but discontinued it because of its specific AEs. Our experience in two patients shows that Sonidegib can be considered in Gorlin patients intolerant but responding to Vismodegib.
Cyclo[18]carbon as a Hazardous Gas Scavenger: Effect of Boron and Nitrogen Doping on Molecular Adsorption
Authors: Vadalkar Shardul , Chodvadiya Darshil , Som Narayan N. , Vyas Keyur N. , Jha Prafulla K.
Published: June 2023

Doping is one of the most important mechanisms to enhance the molecular adsorption performance of bulk and nanostructures. Here, we have investigated the adsorption performance of Boron and Nitrogen doped C18 nanocluster (or C17X : X=B,N) towards the gases CO, NO and NH3 by means of first principles calculations. The structural, electronic, and sensing properties of C17X nanoclusters are studied to understand their sensing behavior, using gaussian 09 package. The interaction of C17B nanocluster with CO, NO and NH3 molecules results into chemical adsorption with order of adsorption energies as: CO (−1.41 eV)>NH3 (−1.81 eV)>NO (−2 eV). However, in case of C17N, the interaction with CO and NH3 results into physisorption, and chemisorption is observed only for its interaction with NO gas molecule. The adsorption energy order goes as: CO (−0.15 eV)>NH3 (−0.25 eV)>NO (−1.32 eV). The long recovery time in case of C17B nanocluster after the adsorption, makes it suitable for removal application, whereas shorter recovery time (in case of C17N nanocluster for CO and NH3 adsorption), is suitable for sensor application.
Pharmacological Potential of Pyrmidine Derivatives: A Review With Emphasis on Antiviral Effects and Virtual Screening Against Sars‐Cov‐2 Molecular Targets
Authors: Caique Santos Costa Érick , Monte Zenaide S. , Falcão Emerson P. S. , dos Santos Maia Mayara , Priscila Barros de Menezes Renata , Scotti Luciana , Tullius Scotti Marcus , José de Melo Sebastião
Published: June 2023

The importance of R&D of new antivirals has been highly evident with the emergence of the pandemic caused by SARS‐CoV‐2. Pyrimidines are heterocyclic compounds with a broad biological spectrum. In this review we emphasize the antiviral application of pyrimidines. Scientific articles, drug and patent registrations were searched using terms involving antiviral pyrimidines. Between 2012 and 2022, more than 100 articles, which show the broad antiviral spectrum of these compounds, were added in this review. The publications of the last five years were prioritized. Anti‐HIV applications were found, their use more evident within the framework of antivirals; among others found were anti‐influenza, anti‐arboviral, and anti‐hepatitis viruses. The results found in the drug and patent databases corroborate the scenario observed in the analysis of scientific articles and demonstrate the importance of researching pyrimidine compounds in periods of great impact on global health. Additionally, through virtual screening of 119 pyrimidines from an in‐house library, we found seventeen pyrimidines with high binding potential with the Mpro and RdRp proteins of SARS‐CoV‐2. Almost all seventeen compounds showed good pharmacokinetic and toxicological profile, mainly compounds 150 and 151 being considered promising for biological evaluation against SARS‐CoV‐2.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Azine Based Chemosensors for Ag+ Ion Detection and Their Theoretical Investigations.
Authors: Manigandan Subramani , Muthusamy Athianna , Nandhakumar Raju , Prabakaran Gunasekaran
Published: June 2023

A novel azine monomer and its oligomeric esters were synthesized and applied to chemosensor applications. Among the series of metal ions, the fluorophores show selective and sensitive “turn off” response towards Ag+ ions. The stoichiometry and binding constant are calculated using the Stern‐Volmer equation and Benesi‐Hildebrand plots, respectively. The fluorophore‘s capability for quantitative analysis of Ag+ ions was studied. The quenching mechanism LMCT and PET behind the “turn off” response was confirmed. The conductivity nature of iodine doped and undoped oligoesters was studied. The dielectric behaviour of oligoesters was also studied to determine the possibility of oligoesters in making passive components such as capacitors and resistors. All the results obtained from chemosensor and electrical studies were validated using a theoretical (DFT) analysis using B3LYP/6–311++G(d,p) level basis set.
Alanine‐Induced Alteration of Organogelation Properties of Phenylalanine‐Based Shortest Peptide Sequence
Authors: Roy Sruti Singha , Goswami Atmaja , Mukherjee Dipanjan , Ghosh Ria , Pal Samir Kumar , Banerjee Raja
Published: June 2023

Short peptide based Low‐molecular‐weight‐organogelators (LMWGs), or supramolecular gels have recently gained large attention due to their enormous application in several biophysical and biochemical contexts. Out of the 20 naturally occurring amino acids Phenylalanine (Phe) acts as a good organogelators. Biophysical parameters like heat, pH, and solvent polarity, along with light, ultrasound, ions, can affect in alteration of supramolecular self‐aggregation at the molecular level in moderate length of peptide sequences; however, we focused here on how the conformational characteristics and supramolecular assemblages of the excellent LMWG Phe would be influenced by its substitution with similar hydrophobic amino acids (e.g Ala) in the same organic solvent even in the shortest two residue sequence. Using different microscopic and biophysical techniques, it is observed that the supreme capability of Phe residue as LMWG in the formation of supramolecular self‐aggregation in Hex‐Phe(1)‐Phe(2)‐OMe (FF) in organic solvents has been completely altered from fibrillary dendrimeric network to the crystalline phase by substitution with Ala at the C‐terminal [Hex‐Phe(1)‐Ala(2)‐OMe](FA) in a simple two residue sequence. This demonstrates unequivocally how a little change in the peptide side chain has the unique ability to form a distinct 3D supramolecular assembly and establishes the context‐dependent supramolecular morphology of the peptide‐based LMWG.
Efficient and Selective Hydrogenolysis of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Dimethylfuran by a Bimetallic Copper‐Palladium Catalyst on a Carbon‐Doped Boron Nitride Support
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Wang Jingjing , Du Zhao , Cai Huayi , Huang Yang , Chen Guifeng , Tang Chengchun , Fang Yi
Published: June 2023

In the present world, 2,5‐dimethylfuran (DMF), as a renewable liquid fuel, is valuable for maintaining ecological stability. Therefore, it is quite necessary to enhance the selectivity of DMF during the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to DMF. In this paper, a copper‐palladium bimetal supported on carbon‐doped boron nitride (BCN) catalyst was prepared as a class of catalyst for HDO. Notably, under the combined action of Cu−Pd alloy and support, the catalyst of 10Cu3Pd/BCN showed remarkable activity with high selectivity (99.2 %) for DMF. In addition, the packing and dispersion of the alloy particles by the carrier improved the cycling performance of the catalyst. Therefore, the selection of 10Cu3Pd/BCN as a catalyst for HDO has excellent application prospects.
Polyphenyltriazoles on Kombucha‐Derived Bacterial Cellulose: Synthesis, Structural Evaluation and Hydrophobicity
Authors: Ramar Periyamuthu , Suprajaa P. , Lobo Nitin Prakash , Sampath Srinivasan , Samanta Debasis
Published: June 2023

Bacterial cellulose‐based materials have diverse applications as leather‐like materials, wound‐healing materials, and optoelectronic materials etc. Particularly, functionalization by polymer or organic compounds can help improve specific properties to diversify application areas. In this work, we reported a facile approach to functionalize Kombucha‐derived bacterial cellulose (BC) by AB‐type “Graft Through” click polymerization reaction. Since by this technique, the polymer was anchored on the surfaces as well as was produced in solution, and it provided the flexibility of detailed characterization on the surface as well as in a solution. Apart from standard spectroscopic characterization techniques, multinuclear solid‐state 13C, 29Si, and 15N NMR spectroscopic studies were undertaken extensively for finding the detailed structural information unambiguously. Thermal analysis, X‐Ray Diffraction analysis, and Small Angle Scattering (SAXS) was undertaken to understand the crystallinity and fibrous properties of the bacterial cellulose materials, while various microscopic analyses were undertaken for morphological studies. Those are particularly helpful in understanding the hydrophobicity of the materials an essential parameter for diversifying the application areas of the materials.
Different Synthetic Methods for the Preparation of Triazolopyrimidines and their Biological Profile
Authors: Hibot Achraf , Oumessaoud Asmaa , Hafid Abderrafia , Khouili Mostafa , Pujol Maria Dolors
Published: June 2023

One or more nitrogen‐containing molecules constitute an important class of heterocyclic compounds in organic synthesis, due to their reactivity and their presence in many molecules of natural, human or plant origin. These nitrogenous heterocycles play an essential role in various scientific domains, whether they are chemical, biological or pharmacological. N‐heterocycles are the privileged source of many research topics developed by several groups of researchers. Thus, different methods have been developed to access these heterocyclic compounds with nitrogenous rings, such as triazolopyrimidines. In this review, a bibliographic study summarizing the pharmacological importance of the triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine ring, the different synthesis routes of these derivatives as well as their reactivity was reported.
Near‐infrared light‐responsive Nitric oxide microcarrier for multimodal tumor therapy
Authors: Liang Danna , Kuang Gaizhen , Chen Xiang , Lu Jianhua , Shang Luoran , Sun Weijian
Published: June 2023

Nitric oxide (NO) has shown great potential in tumor therapy, and the development of a platform for precise and controllable NO release still needs to be explored. Herein, a microfluidic electrospray strategy is proposed for the fabrication of hydrogel microspheres encapsulating NO donors (S‐nitrosoglutathione, GSNO) together with black phosphorus (BP) and chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (DOX) as microcarriers for tumor therapy. Based on the excellent photothermal property of BP and thermal sensitivity of GSNO, the microcarriers exhibit a near‐infrared light (NIR)‐responsive NO release behavior. Besides, the photothermal performance of the microcarriers accelerates the release of DOX. All these contribute to the excellent tumor‐killing effect of the microcarriers by combining multiple therapeutic strategies including NO therapy, photothermal therapy, and chemotherapy. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the NIR‐responsive NO delivery microcarriers could significantly inhibit tumor growth without apparent side effects in vivo. Therefore, it is believed that the novel NIR‐responsive NO microcarriers are promising candidates in clinical tumor therapy applications.
Bioinspired Superhydrophobic Fibrous Materials
Authors: Tang Zhongxue , Xu Bojie , Man Xingkun , Liu Huan
Published: June 2023

Natural fibers with robust water repellency play an important role in adapting organisms to various environments, which has inspired the development of artificial superhydrophobic fibrous materials with applications in self‐cleaning, antifogging, water harvesting, heat exchanging, catalytic reactions, and microrobots. However, these highly textured surfaces (micro/nanotextured) suffer from frequent liquid penetration in high humidity and abrasion‐induced destruction of the local environment. Herein, bioinspired superhydrophobic fibrous materials are reviewed from the perspective of the dimension scale of fibers. First, the fibrous dimension characteristics of several representative natural superhydrophobic fibrous systems are summarized, along with the mechanisms involved. Then, artificial superhydrophobic fibers are summarized, along with their various applications. Nanometer‐scale fibers enable superhydrophobicity by minimizing the liquid–solid contact area. Micrometer‐scale fibers are advantageous for enhancing the mechanical stability of superhydrophobicity. Micrometer‐scale conical fibrous structures endow a Laplace force with a particular magnitude for self‐removing condensed tiny dewdrops in highly humid air and stably trapping large air pockets underwater. Furthermore, several representative surface modification strategies for constructing superhydrophobic fibers are presented. In addition, several conventional applications of superhydrophobic systems are presented. It is anticipated that the review will inspire the design and fabrication of superhydrophobic fibrous systems.
Date palm spathe extract reverses chronic stress‐induced changes in dendritic arborization in the amygdala and impairment of hippocampal long‐term potentiation
Authors: Hadipour Mohammadmehdi , Meftahi Gholam Hossein , Jahromi Gila Pirzad
Published: June 2023

Chronic restraint stress induces anxiety‐like behaviors and emotional abnormalities via an alteration of synaptic remodeling in the amygdala and the hippocampus. Given that the date palm spathe has been shown to have neuroprotective effects on different experimental models, this study aimed to address whether the date palm spathe extract (hydroalcoholic extract of date palm spathe [HEDPP]) can reduce chronic restraint stress‐induced behavioral, electrophysiological, and morphological changes in the rat model. Thirty‐two male Wistar rats (weight 200–220 g) were randomly divided into control, stress, HEDPP, and stress + HEDPP for 14 days. Animals were submitted to restraint stress for 2 h per day for 14 consecutive days. The animals of the HEDPP and stress + HEDPP groups were supplemented with HEDPP (125 mg/kg) during these 14 days, 30 min before being placed in the restraint stress tube. We used passive avoidance, open‐field test, and field potential recording to assess emotional memory, anxiety‐like behavioral and long‐term potentiation in the CA1 region of the hippocampus, respectively. Moreover, Golgi–Cox staining was used to investigate the amygdala neuron dendritic arborization. Results showed that stress induction was associated with behavioral changes (anxiety‐like behavioral and emotional memory impairment), and the administration of HEDPP effectively normalized these deficits. HEDPP remarkably amplified the slope and amplitude of mean‐field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in the CA1 area of the hippocampus in stressed rats. Chronic restraint stress significantly decreased the dendritic arborization in the central and basolateral nucleus of the amygdala neuron. HEDPP suppressed this stress effect in the central nucleus of the amygdala. Our findings indicated that HEDPP administration improves stress‐induced learning impairment and memory and anxiety‐like behaviors by preventing adverse effects on synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus and amygdala.
Coexisting commensurate and incommensurate magnetic orders in the double double perovskite CaMnCoWO6
Authors: Ji Kunlang , Chen Ruichao , Manuel Pascal , Attfield J. Paul
Published: June 2023

A new double double perovskite of ideal composition CaMnCoWO6 has been synthesised at high pressure. The structure is tetragonal (P42/n, a=7.6651(3), c=7.6822(3) Å) and disorder between A‐site Mn2+ and B‐site Co2+ leads to a Co‐rich off‐stoichiometric composition CaMn0.8Co1.2WO6 [Ca(Mn0.65Co0.35) (Co0.86Mn0.14)WO6]. An unusual combination of commensurate and incommensurate spin orders (A‐site Mn/Co spins with propagation vector (0.5 0.5 0.5) and B‐site Co/Mn spins with (0.5 0.42 0.5)) is observed below a magnetic transition at TC=18 K. This is the first discovery of complex magnetism in the double double perovskite family.
Multi-GNSS Tomography: Case Study of the July 2021 Flood in Germany
Authors: Wilgan Karina , Brenot Hugues , Biondi Riccardo , Dick Galina , Wickert Jens
Published: June 2023

Due to climate change, intensive storms and severe precipitation will continue to happen, causing destructive flooding. In July 2021, a series of storms with prolonged rain episodes took place in Europe. Several countries were affected by severe floods following that rainfall, causing many deaths and material damage. Thus, a good understanding and forecasting of such events are of uttermost importance. This study highlights the interest of multi-GNSS tomography for the 3D modelling of the neutral atmosphere refractivity. The tropospheric parameters have been retrieved for the July 2021 flood in Germany from two tomographic solutions with different constraining options using either GPS-only or multi-GNSS estimates. Our investigations show that the stand-alone solution (especially the multi-GNSS) is producing more patterns of refractivity, and is temporally more stable. We compare the tomographic results with external observations such as radiosondes and GNSS radio-occultations from Metop-A & -B satellites. The results show that tomography is producing wetter conditions than the reference. However, we can see the precursor information of the initiation of deep convection in the ground-based GNSS technique.
Plantation Slavery in the British Caribbean
Authors: Burnard Trevor
Published: June 2023

Slavery made the British Caribbean work and it did so largely within the institution of the plantation. British Caribbean plantation slavery was excessively brutal and exploitative but it was thoroughly modern and extremely productive and efficient. It brought great wealth to a few and to the British imperial government. But it made the lives of the majority of plantations workers very miserable as they were perhaps the most overworked and badly treated people in the eighteenth-century Atlantic world.
Slavery in South Asia
Authors: Kalb Emma
Published: June 2023

Slavery in South Asia during the early modern and colonial periods is a broad and diverse category, including practices ranging from agricultural slavery to military to domestic slavery. As a result, scholars have emphasized the need to avoid generalizations and consider this subject in a highly contextualized, historicized manner. This chapter provides an overview of the different forms and experiences of slavery in this region, covering topics such as mechanisms of enslavement, intra- and inter-regional slave trades, practices of manumission, as well as continuities and shifts during the colonial period.
Injection: Modern Slavery and Political Strategy
Authors: Quirk Joel
Published: June 2023

The political fortunes of recent campaigns targeting “modern slavery” and human trafficking have been shaped by strategic calculations and institutional interests. Different actors have been attracted to the category of modern slavery for different reasons. For civil society campaigners, modern slavery offers a way of harnessing the iconography of transatlantic enslavement to draw attention to “exceptional” cases of exploitation. Conversations about modern slavery can also be strategically useful for many governments and corporations, since they can help to deflect or displace more challenging questions about the systemic abuse and exploitation of precarious migrants and workers. These calculations play a key behind the scenes role when it comes to determining whether different cases of exploitation and coercion are classified as the same as, similar to, or separate from historical systems of enslavement.
Slavery in Ancient Greece
Authors: Vlassopoulos Kostas
Published: June 2023

Slavery was a defining phenomenon in the history of Greek city-states. This chapter explores the various local slaving systems of ancient Greece and examines their similarities and differences with respect to four factors: the slaving strategies employed by the masters; the geopolitical context of ancient Greek communities; the ways and aims for which the political community intervened in the master–slavery relationship; and the forms of communities in which slaves participated.
Slavery in the Byzantine Empire
Authors: Rotman Youval
Published: June 2023

The importance of Byzantium to the history of global slavery stems from its geographic and historical position. Byzantium boasts a history of more than a millennium, longer than any other Mediterranean empire. As an offspring of the Roman Empire, it inherited the Roman institution of slavery, which was in constant change in view of the changes that the medieval world underwent. The Byzantine Empire offers an ideal historical environment to examine questions about global slavery, questions that pertain to continuity and change, the destiny of ancient slavery in particular, and thanks to its geopolitical position, also to connectivity between different medieval enslaving societies.
Progressive Property: A Spatially Just Approach to Property?
Authors: Byer Amanda
Published: June 2023

This chapter examines the progressive property school’s attempts to address property’s shortcomings, as it is one of the more recent critiques of the ownership model to have gained traction. The main characteristics of progressive property are described, and the contributions of prominent scholars are summarised in relation to virtue ethics, public trust and the common heritage of mankind. While noting that this school emerged in the specific cultural context of the US, and that its parameters are continuing to evolve, the chapter nevertheless outlines some conceptual limitations in progressive property thinking that have implications for developing a spatially just approach to property. The chapter concludes by reinforcing the importance of a legal geographical perspective when examining the law’s relationship with land.
A Pexider equation containing the aritmetic mean
Authors: Kiss Tibor
Published: June 2023

In this paper we determine the solutions $$(\varphi ,f_1,f_2)$$

(
φ
,

f
1

,

f
2

)

of the Pexider functional equation $$\begin{aligned} \varphi \Big (\frac{x+y}{2}\Big )\big (f_1(x)-f_2(y)\big )=0,\qquad (x,y)\in I_1\times I_2, \end{aligned}$$

φ

(

x
+
y

2

)

(

f
1

(
x
)

-

f
2

(
y
)

)

=
0
,

(
x
,
y
)

∈

I
1

×

I
2

,

where $$I_1$$

I
1

and $$I_2$$

I
2

are nonempty open subintervals. Special cases of the above equation regularly arise in problems with two-variable means. We show that, under a rather weak regularity condition, the coordinate-functions of a typical solution of the equation are constant over several subintervals of their domain. The regularity condition in question will be that the set of zeros of $$\varphi $$
φ
is closed. We also discuss particular solutions where this condition is not met.
Kniegelenknahe Osteotomien: operative Planung mithilfe von CT-3-D-Analyse, patientenspezifischen Schnitt- und Korrekturblöcken
Authors: Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Fucentese Sandro F.
Published: June 2023

Operationsziel

Ziel ist, durch eine Osteotomie entweder die prätraumatischen anatomischen Verhältnisse wiederherzustellen oder die Belastung in weniger betroffene Kompartimente zu verlagern.

Indikationen

Die Indikation für computerassistierte 3‑D-Analyse und die Verwendung von patientenspezifischen Schnitt- und Korrekturschnittblöcken ist neben „einfachen“ Deformitäten insbesondere auch bei multidimensionalen komplexen (v. a. posttraumatischen) Deformitäten gegeben.

Kontraindikationen

Allgemeine Kontraindikationen für die Durchführung einer Computertomographie (CT) oder für einen offenen Zugang für die Durchführung der Operation.

Operationstechnik

Anhand CT-Untersuchungen der betroffenen und ggf. der kontralateralen gesunden Extremität als gesunde Vorlage (einschließlich Hüft‑, Knie- und Sprunggelenk) werden 3‑D-Computer-Modelle erzeugt, welche für die 3‑D-Analyse des Ausmaßes der Deformität als auch für die Berechnung der Korrekturparameter verwendet werden. Für die exakte und vereinfachte intraoperative Umsetzung des präoperativen Plans werden individualisierte Schablonen für die Osteotomie als auch die Reposition mittels 3‑D-Druck hergestellt.

Weiterbehandlung

Teilbelastung an Unterarmstützen ab dem ersten postoperativen Tag. Belastungsaufbau abhängig von den Röntgenkontrollen nach 6 Wochen. Keine Limitierung des Bewegungsumfangs.

Ergebnisse

Es gibt mehrere Studien, welche die Genauigkeit der Umsetzung der geplanten Korrektur für kniegelenknahe Korrekturosteotomien mit der Verwendung patientenspezifischer Schnitt- und Korrekturschnittblöcke analysiert haben mit vielversprechenden Ergebnissen.
Cholesterol crystal formation is a unifying pathogenic mechanism in the development of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Hammer Sandra S. , Dorweiler Tim F. , McFarland Delaney , Adu-Agyeiwaah Yvonne , Mast Natalia , El-Darzi Nicole , Fortmann Seth D. , Nooti Sunil , Agrawal Devendra K. , Pikuleva Irina A. , Abela George S. , Grant Maria B. , Busik Julia V.
Published: June 2023

Aims/hypothesis

Hyper-reflective crystalline deposits found in retinal lesions have been suggested to predict the progression of diabetic retinopathy, but the nature of these structures remains unknown.

Methods

Scanning electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry were used to identify cholesterol crystals (CCs) in human donor, pig and mouse tissue. The effects of CCs were analysed in bovine retinal endothelial cells in vitro and in db/db mice in vivo using quantitative RT-PCR, bulk RNA sequencing, and cell death and permeability assays. Cholesterol homeostasis was determined using 2H2O and 2H7-cholesterol.

Results

We identified hyper-reflective crystalline deposits in human diabetic retina as CCs. Similarly, CCs were found in the retina of a diabetic mouse model and a high-cholesterol diet-fed pig model. Cell culture studies demonstrated that treatment of retinal cells with CCs can recapitulate all major pathogenic mechanisms leading to diabetic retinopathy, including inflammation, cell death and breakdown of the blood–retinal barrier. Fibrates, statins and α-cyclodextrin effectively dissolved CCs present in in vitro models of diabetic retinopathy, and prevented CC-induced endothelial pathology. Treatment of a diabetic mouse model with α-cyclodextrin reduced cholesterol levels and CC formation in the retina, and prevented diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusions/interpretation

We established that cholesterol accumulation and CC formation are a unifying pathogenic mechanism in the development of diabetic retinopathy.

Graphical Abstract
Factors associated with low fruit and vegetable consumption among people with severe mental ill health
Authors: Lorimer Ben , Traviss-Turner Gemma , Hill Andrew , Baker Sarah , Gilbody Simon , Peckham Emily
Published: June 2023

Severe mental ill health (SMI) is associated with excess mortality, and poor diet is one associated modifiable risk factor. This study investigated factors associated with low consumption of fruit and vegetables among people with SMI (N = 9914). A total of 8.4% of participants ate no portions per day, while only 15% ate 5 + portions. Individuals who never consumed fruit and vegetables or ate < 5 portions per day were more likely to be male, younger than 65, unemployed, experience poorer general health, or perceive health as unimportant. Poor diet is common among people with SMI and tailored dietary improvement interventions are required.
Restoration of the native tibial joint line obliquity in total knee arthroplasty with inverse kinematic alignment does not increase knee adduction moments
Authors: Winnock de Grave Philip , Van Criekinge Tamaya , Luyckx Thomas , Moreels Robin , Gunst Paul , Claeys Kurt
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Patient‐specific alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has shown promising patient‐reported outcome measures; however, the clinical and biomechanical effects of restoring the native knee anatomy remain debated. The purpose of this study was to compare the gait pattern between a mechanically aligned TKA cohort (adjusted mechanical alignment—aMA) and a patient‐specific alignment TKA cohort (inverse kinematic alignment—iKA).

Methods

At two years postoperatively, the aMA and iKA groups, each with 15 patients, were analyzed in a retrospective case–control study. All patients underwent TKA with robotic assistance (Mako, Stryker) through an identical perioperative protocol. The patients’ demographics were identical. The control group comprised 15 healthy participants matched for age and gender. Gait analysis was performed with a 3D motion capture system (VICON). Data collection was conducted by a blinded investigator. The primary outcomes were knee flexion during walking, knee adduction moment during walking and spatiotemporal parameters (STPs). The secondary outcomes were the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS).

Results

During walking, the maximum knee flexion did not differ between the iKA group (53.0°) and the control group (55.1°), whereas the aMA group showed lower amplitudes of sagittal motion (47.4°). In addition, the native limb alignment in the iKA group was better restored, and although more in varus, the knee adduction moments in the iKA group were not increased (225 N mm/kg) compared to aMA group (276 N mm/kg). No significant differences in STPs were observed between patients receiving iKA and healthy controls. Six of 7 STPs differed significantly between patients receiving aMA and healthy controls. The OKS was significantly better in patients receiving iKA than aMA: 45.4 vs. 40.9; p = 0.05. The FJS was significantly better in patients receiving iKA than aMA: 84.8 vs. 55.5; p = 0.002.

Conclusion

At two years postoperatively, the gait pattern showed greater resemblance to that in healthy controls in patients receiving iKA rather than aMA. The restoration of the native coronal limb alignment does not lead to increased knee adduction moments due to the restoration of the native tibial joint line obliquity.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Clinical outcome data of anxiety patients treated with cannabis-based medicinal products in the United Kingdom: a cohort study from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry
Authors: Rifkin-Zybutz Raphael , Erridge Simon , Holvey Carl , Coomber Ross , Gaffney Jessica , Lawn Will , Barros Daniela , Bhoskar Urmila , Mwimba Gracia , Praveen Kavita , Symeon Chris , Sachdeva-Mohan Simmi , Rucker James J , Sodergren Mikael H
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) have been identified as novel therapeutics for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) based on pre-clinical models; however, there is a paucity of high-quality evidence on their effectiveness and safety.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with GAD treated with dried flower, oil-based preparations, or a combination of both CBMPs.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of patients with GAD (n = 302) enrolled in the UK Medical Cannabis Registry prescribed oil or flower-based CBMPs was performed. Primary outcomes were changes in generalised anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaires at 1, 3, and 6 months compared to baseline. Secondary outcomes were single-item sleep quality scale (SQS) and health-related quality of life index (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaires at the same time points. These changes were assessed by paired t-tests. Adverse events were assessed in line with CTCAE (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events) v4.0.

Results

Improvements in anxiety, sleep quality and quality of life were observed at each time point (p < 0.001). Patients receiving CBMPs had improvements in GAD-7 at all time points (1 month: difference −5.3 (95% CI −4.6 to −6.1), 3 months: difference −5.5 (95% CI −4.7 to −6.4), 6 months: difference −4.5 (95% CI −3.2 to −5.7)). Thirty-nine participants (12.9%) reported 269 adverse events in the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Prescription of CBMPs in those with GAD is associated with clinically significant improvements in anxiety with an acceptable safety profile in a real-world setting. Randomised trials are required as a next step to investigate the efficacy of CBMPs.
Oleoylethanolamide restores stress-induced prepulse inhibition deficits and modulates inflammatory signaling in a sex-dependent manner
Authors: González-Portilla Macarena , Montagud-Romero Sandra , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando , Rodríguez-Arias Marta
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Social stress contributes to the development of depressive and anxiety symptomatology and promotes pro-inflammatory signaling in the central nervous system. In this study, we explored the effects of a lipid messenger with anti-inflammatory properties – oleoylethanolamide (OEA) – on the behavioral deficits caused by social stress in both male and female mice.

Methods

Adult mice were assigned to an experimental group according to the stress condition (control or stress) and treatment (vehicle or OEA, 10 mg/kg, i.p.). Male mice in the stress condition underwent a protocol consisting of four social defeat (SD) encounters. In the case of female mice, we employed a procedure of vicarious SD. After the stress protocol resumed, anxiety, depressive-like behavior, social interaction, and prepulse inhibition (PPI) were assessed. In addition, we characterized the stress-induced inflammatory profile by measuring IL-6 and CX3CL1 levels in the striatum and hippocampus.

Results

Our results showed that both SD and VSD induced behavioral alterations. We found that OEA treatment restored PPI deficits in socially defeated mice. Also, OEA affected differently stress-induced anxiety and depressive-like behavior in male and female mice. Biochemical analyses showed that both male and female stressed mice showed increased levels of IL-6 in the striatum compared to control mice. Similarly, VSD female mice exhibited increased striatal CX3CL1 levels. These neuroinflammation-associated signals were not affected by OEA treatment.

Conclusions

In summary, our results confirm that SD and VSD induced behavioral deficits together with inflammatory signaling in the striatum and hippocampus. We observed that OEA treatment reverses stress-induced PPI alterations in male and female mice. These data suggest that OEA can exert a buffering effect on stress-related sensorimotor gating behavioral processing.
Improving carotenoid extraction, stability, and antioxidant activity from Citrus sinensis peels using green solvents
Authors: Viñas-Ospino Adriana , López-Malo Daniel , Esteve María José , Frígola Ana , Blesa Jesús
Published: June 2023

Carotenoids have a wide range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries as natural coloring agents and antioxidants. Consequently, industries are more concerned about extracting them from natural resources and by-products. The present research aimed to evaluate the extraction efficiency of carotenoids from orange peels using hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs) as alternatives for organic solvents. The antioxidant capacity and color stability of HDESs extracts were monitored for 20 days and to intensify the extraction process, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using a response surface methodology (RSM). Menthol:Eucalyptol (Me:Eu) extract showed the highest carotenoid extraction yield [359.3 ± 3.5 mg/100 g of fresh weight (fw)], and also presented high stability during the storage period. HDESs extracts showed higher antioxidant capacity compared to hexane extracts, while Me:Eu extracts showed the lowest color variation (5.9 ± 0.2). Optimal parameters using Me:Eu were extraction time of 20 min, ultrasonic power of 120 W (60%), and solid–liquid ratio of 1:20 (g/mL) reaching a carotenoid content of 573.4 mg/100 gfw. While, C12:C8 optimal parameters were 10 min, 80 W (40%), and a solid–liquid ratio of 1:10 (g/mL), providing a carotenoid content of 183.7 mg/100 gfw. To establish if the solvents used are greener alternatives, the EcoScale was used and showed that UAE is a sustainable method to recover carotenoids using HDESs. Overall, the results showed that HDESs can improve carotenoid stability, and when combined with the intrinsic safety and edibility of their components, it makes these extracts appealing for food industry.
Use of Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction (BodyTite) for Upper Arms Lifting
Authors: Tettamanzi Matilde , Pili Nicola , Rodio Manuela , Serra Pietro Luciano , Trignano Claudia , Rubino Corrado , Trignano Emilio
Published: June 2023

Background

Body contouring surgery is increasingly requested by patients, both for aesthetic and post-bariatric purposes. There has also been a rapid increase in demand for noninvasive aesthetic treatments. While brachioplasty is burdened by numerous complications and unsatisfactory scars, and conventional liposuction is unsuitable for all patients, nonsurgical arm remodeling performed with radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL) allows to effectively treat most of patients, regardless of the amount of fat and ptosis of the skin and avoiding surgical excision.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted on 120 consecutive patients who presented to the author's private clinic and required upper arm remodeling surgery for aesthetic purposes or after weight loss. Patients were classified according to the modified classification of El Khatib and Teimourian. Pre- and posttreatment upper arm circumferences were taken after 6 months of follow-up to assess the degree of skin retraction obtained by treating the arm with RFAL. A satisfaction questionnaire regarding the appearance of the arms (Body-Q upper arm satisfaction) was administered to all patients before surgery and after 6 months of follow-up.

Results

All patients were effectively treated with RFAL, and no cases required conversion to brachioplasty. The average reduction in arm circumference was 3.75 cm at 6 months follow-up, and patients’ satisfaction increased from 35 to 87% posttreatment.

Conclusions

Radio frequency is a valid tool to treat most patients with upper limbs skin laxity, with significant aesthetic results and a high degree of patient satisfaction, regardless of the degree of skin ptosis and lipodystrophy of the arm.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Diffuse fasciitis with eosinophilia in boys: a case-based review
Authors: Wosiak Agnieszka , Biernacka-Zielińska Małgorzata , Roszkiewicz Justyna , Smolewska Elżbieta
Published: June 2023

Diffuse fasciitis with eosinophilia (EF) is a rare condition classified as a part of the connective tissue disorders. The clinical presentation of this condition can be diverse, however the main symptoms include symmetrical swelling and hardening of distal parts of limbs accompanied by peripheral eosinophilia. The diagnostic criteria are not specified. In inconclusions cases Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and skin to muscle biopsy may be useful. The pathogenesis and ethiology remain unknown, but extensive physical exertion, certain infectious factors, such as Borrelia burgdorferi, or medications may serve as a trigger. EF affects equally women and men, mainly in their middle age, however the disease can occur at any age. The standard therapy contents gluccocorticosteroids. As a second-line treatment, methotrexate is usually chosen. In this article we compare world reports of EF in paediatric patients with the cases of two adolescent male patients recently hospitalized in the Department of Paediatric Rheumatology.
Intrathecal kappa free light chain synthesis is associated with worse prognosis in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rosenstein Igal , Axelsson Markus , Novakova Lenka , Malmeström Clas , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Lycke Jan
Published: June 2023

Background

While kappa free light chain (KFLC) index has become a useful diagnostic biomarker in multiple sclerosis (MS), its prognostic properties are less explored. B cells play a crucial role in MS pathogenesis, but the impact from increased intrathecal production of immunoglobulins and KFLC remains to be determined. Recently, it has become evident that insidious worsening is not confined to progressive MS but is also common in relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), a feature known as progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA).

Methods

We retrospectively identified 131 patients with clinically isolated syndrome or early RRMS who had determined KFLC index as part of their diagnostic workup. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from the Swedish MS registry. Associations of baseline KFLC index with evidence of disease activity (EDA) and PIRA were investigated in multivariable cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

KFLC index was significantly higher in PIRA (median 148.5, interquartile range [IQR] 106.9–253.5) compared with non-PIRA (78.26, IQR 28.93–186.5, p = 0.009). In a multivariable cox regression model adjusted for confounders, KFLC index emerged as an independent risk factor for PIRA (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.005, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.002–1.008, p = 0.002). Dichotomized by the cut-off value KFLC index > 100, patients with KFLC index > 100 had an almost fourfold increase in the risk for developing PIRA. KFLC index was also predictive of evidence of disease activity during follow-up.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that high KFLC index at baseline is predictive of PIRA, EDA-3, and overall worse prognosis in MS.