bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earthquake simulator testing of a three‐story steel building for evaluating built‐up box column performance and effect of sliding slab
Authors: Chou Chung‐Che , Lin Huang‐Zuo , Córdova Alvaro , Chen Jian‐Ming , Chou Daniel Yen‐Hsun , Chao Shu‐Hsien , Chao Shih‐Ho , Tsampras Georgios , Uang Chia‐Ming , Chung Hsin‐Yang , Loh Chin‐Hsiung , Hu Hsuan‐Teh
Published: April 2024

The width‐thickness requirement for highly ductile built‐up box columns in AISC 341‐22 is conservative when comparing the hysteretic responses of highly ductile box columns and I‐shaped columns. This study aimed to assess the seismic performance of moderately ductile box columns in a 3‐story steel dual frame with a buckling‐restrained braced frame (BRBF) and a special moment frame (SMF). The frame specimen was configured in phase 1 testing to allow the slabs to slide relative to the steel frame; Teflon pads were provided between the slabs and steel beams, and horizontal buckling‐restrained braces (BRBs) were installed between the slabs and steel beams. In phase 2, the horizontal BRBs were replaced by rigid links such that the frame specimen simulated a conventional construction. Two phases with 17 shake table tests were conducted on the frame specimen. A near‐fault motion record, obtained from the 2022 Chihshang earthquake, was used as an input motion. In phase 1, test results showed that the slab sliding system was effective in reducing the floor acceleration by 25% when compared to the rigid slab frame system. In phase 2, the base of moderately ductile built‐up box columns still performed well without local buckling even when the interstory drift angle reached 0.045 rad. Postearthquake tests were conducted on the all‐steel, first‐story BRB that was removed from the building specimen after all shake table tests. A higher‐mode buckling of the core plate was observed at both ends of the core, causing a minor strength increase at the end of the test.
Structural condition assessment with structural health monitoring systems and nonlinear simplified models
Authors: Aytulun Emre , Soyöz Serdar
Published: April 2024

Damage assessment of tall buildings after an earthquake is important for efficient postearthquake management due to social and economic reasons. Structural health monitoring (SHM) system enables rapid, remote, and objective condition assessment for tall buildings by controlling dynamic properties of structures. However, tracking only the changes in dynamic properties of tall buildings may not be sufficient for damage assessment. In this paper, changes in modal frequencies and maximum interstory drift ratio are investigated as damage assessment indicators because they can be obtained by analyzing vibration data recorded by SHM system. On the other hand, limited number of sensors are used due to economic reasons. Therefore, in this paper, firstly, a unique methodology on development and optimization of nonlinear simplified model for tall buildings is presented to estimate responses of noninstrumented floors from instrumented floors. After that, new threshold values are suggested for changes in dynamic properties and interstory drift ratios to reliably decide performance level of structures after earthquakes. Finally, the proposed method was validated with vibration record of a real damaged building.
Valorization of pineapple leaves: Effective conversion of agro waste to textile materials
Authors: Jalil Mohammad Abdul , Repon Md. Reazuddin , Jurkonienė Sigita , Haji Aminoddin , Hussain Syed Zubair , Shukhratov Sharof
Published: April 2024

The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices by reducing the usage of virgin materials and minimizing the environmental impact associated with textile production has increased. However, due to the subjectivity of reuse and recycling for waste management, developing textiles with sustainable and quality yarn characteristics remains a challenge. The main goal of this experiment is to produce a new sustainable blended open end (OE)‐rotor yarn by using pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and recycled waste fiber (RWF). OE‐rotor yarns are made in various proportions from RWFs generated from clothing wastes and bleached PALF at 20%, 50%, and 80%, respectively. To provide a more accurate evaluation, the properties of 100% PALF OE‐rotor yarns versus PALF‐RWF blended OE‐rotor yarns are compared. The evaluation of various physical properties led to the discovery that rotor yarns with up to 80% RWF‐PALF blended yarns had an acceptable number of physical attributes. The findings were encouraging given that the created yarns from RWF with PALF blended are less expensive than the yarns produced from standard raw materials. It also has a dual‐benefit for the manufacturers that it allows them to make money from the waste while also addressing zero waste management and disposal challenges.
The interaction mechanism of different ionic polysaccharides with myofibrillar protein and its contribution to the heat‐induced gels
Authors: Li Shuang , Lin Songyi , Jiang Pengfei , Bao Zhijie , Qian Xixin , Wang Shuo , Sun Na
Published: April 2024

Polysaccharides are widely used as quality improvers for meat products. However, the mechanisms of how different ionic polysaccharides regulate the gelling properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) are still unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the contribution of different ionic polysaccharides to MP gelation and its mechanism. The enhancement of hydrogen bond, hydrophobic interaction, and disulfide bond between carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC‐Na, anionic polysaccharide) and MP made them bind tightly, which contributes to the improvement of gel strength, water‐holding capacity, and viscoelasticity. Konjac glucomannan (neutral polysaccharide) mainly relied on physical filling to support the gel network and improve the gel characteristics. The electrostatic attraction between cationic polysaccharides and MP enhanced the binding between them. However, due to the large structure of chitosan (cationic polysaccharide) sugar chain, it can only attach to the surface of protein, which limits the interaction between them. These findings will provide guidance for the application of polysaccharides as food quality improvers or fat substitutes and the design of new low‐fat restructured meat products.
Spatial modeling of micro‐scale carbon dioxide sources and sinks in urban environments: A novel approach to quantify urban impacts on global warming
Authors: Khodakarami Loghman
Published: April 2024

Urban environments play a significant role in global carbon emissions and sequestration, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their spatial distribution. This study presents a micro‐scale spatial modeling framework to elucidate the complex interplay between CO2 sources and sinks within urban settings. Utilizing advanced geospatial analysis, remote sensing data, and geographically weighted regression (GWR) modeling techniques, we provide a detailed characterization of emission patterns and identify the spatial distribution of carbon dioxide sequestration. Employing the bottom‐up method and geographic information system techniques, we quantified carbon dioxide emissions in Isfahan City, Iran, attributing 81.68% to stationary combustion sources (residential, commercial, industrial, and power plant sectors) and 18.32% to mobile combustion sources (road‐rail transportation, and non‐road transportation [agricultural machinery]). To model carbon sequestration, we calculated tree biomass using allometric equations and estimated carbon sequestration per tree unit. Subsequently, we employed GWR to map the spatial distribution of carbon deposition across the city. The results revealed an annual carbon sequestration capacity of 7,704 tons, equivalent to storing 28,275 tons of CO2. Our findings highlight the substantial contribution of urban areas to greenhouse gas emissions and the potential of urban green spaces to mitigate these emissions. The spatial modeling framework developed in this study provides a valuable tool for urban planners to optimize carbon management strategies and promote sustainable urban development. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of fluvial‐lacustrine systems in the rift basins fostered Jehol Biota origin: Palaeobiogeographic insights on Dabeigou‐type ostracod fauna
Authors: Qin Zuohuan
Published: April 2024

The Lower Cretaceous Dabeigou Formation (135–130 Ma) in the Luanping Basin, associated with its contemporary strata in northeastern China, contains the earliest documented fossils of the Jehol Biota. This includes the Luanpingella—Eoparacypris—Ocrocypris ostracod assemblage, referred to in this study as the Dabeigou‐type ostracod fauna (DOF). Ostracods, which are small (0.5–2 mm) aquatic crustaceans, are abundant and easily preserved as fossils. Outlining a clear palaeobiogeographic range of the DOF can help expand the distribution range of the early Jehol Biota, providing valuable information on its origin. Results show that the DOF is mainly distributed in a series of rift basins along the Yanliao area of China to the eastern Transbaikal region of Russia, with a roughly narrow north‐south distribution. Rift basin development in the eastern part of the North China Craton, combined with humid climatic conditions, provided a suitable environment (e.g., fluvial‐lacustrine systems) for the emergence of the Jehol Biota.
Adipose tissue IL‐18 production is independent of caspase‐1 and caspase‐11
Authors: Román‐Domínguez Luis , Salazar‐León Jonathan , Meza‐Sosa Karla F. , Pérez‐Martínez Leonor , Pedraza‐Alva Gustavo
Published: April 2024

Background

Inflammation in adipose tissue, resulting from imbalanced caloric intake and energy expenditure, contributes to the metabolic dysregulation observed in obesity. The production of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐1β and IL‐18, plays a key role in this process. While IL‐1β promotes insulin resistance and diabetes, IL‐18 regulates energy expenditure and food intake. Previous studies have suggested that caspase‐1, activated by the Nlrp3 inflammasome in response to lipid excess, mediates IL‐1β production, whereas activated by the Nlrp1b inflammasome in response to energy excess, mediates IL‐18 production. However, this has not been formally tested.

Methods

Wild‐type and caspase‐1‐deficient Balb/c mice, carrying the Nlrp1b1 allele, were fed with regular chow or a high‐fat diet for twelve weeks. Food intake and mass gain were recorded weekly. At the end of the twelve weeks, glucose tolerance and insulin resistance were evaluated. Mature IL‐18 protein levels and the inflammatory process in the adipose tissue were determined. Fasting lipid and cytokine levels were quantified in the sera of the different experimental groups.

Results

We found that IL‐18 production in adipose tissue is independent of caspase‐1 activity, regardless of the metabolic state, while Nlrp3‐mediated IL‐1β production remains caspase‐1 dependent. Additionally, caspase‐1 null Balb/c mice did not develop metabolic abnormalities in response to energy excess from the high‐fat diet.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that IL‐18 production in the adipose tissue is independent of Nlrp3 inflammasome and caspase‐1 activation, regardless of caloric food intake. In contrast, Nlrp3‐mediated IL‐1β production is caspase‐1 dependent. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying cytokine production in the adipose tissue during both homeostatic conditions and metabolic stress, highlighting the distinct roles of caspase‐1 and the Nlrp inflammasomes in regulating inflammatory responses.
Knowledge mapping and global trends of drug hypersensitivity from 2013 to 2023: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Luo Li , Chen Niannian , Li Zhanpeng , Zhao Chunmei , Dong Yiming , Wang Likai , Li Xiaoqian , Zhou Wenchao , Li Yingna , Gao Cairong , Guo Xiangjie
Published: April 2024

Background

Drug hypersensitivity is a major global public health issue with a significant increase in prevalence in populations. Here, we provide a deep insight into the frontier hotspot and future direction in the field of drug hypersensitivity.

Methods

A knowledge map is portrayed based on publications related to drug hypersensitivity from Web of Science Core Collection using CiteSpace. Co‐occurrence relationships of countries, institutes, authors, journals, references, and keywords are constructed. According to the co‐occurrence relationships, hotspots and future trends are overviewed.

Results

The United States ranked first in the world and China with the second highest publications was the only developing country. Torres, Mayorga, and Blanca were highly productive authors. Harvard University was the institution with the most research publications. Keywords co‐occurrence analysis suggested applications in emerging causes, potential mechanisms, and clinical diagnosis as the research hotspots and development frontiers.

Conclusion

Research on drug hypersensitivity is in a rapid development stage and an emerging trend in reports of anaphylaxis to polyethylene glycols is identified. Developing algorithms for understanding the standardization process of culprit drugs, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic methods will be the focus of future direction. In addition, a better understanding of the mechanisms to culprit drugs with immunological precise phenotypic definitions and high‐throughput platforms is needed.
Intermittent hypoxic pretreatment exacerbates house dust mite‐induced asthma airway inflammation
Authors: Meng Hao , Zhang Dongxue , Que Yifan , Hu Peng , Wang Runsheng , Liao Yunfei , Xu Guogang
Published: April 2024

Background

Asthma is widely recognized as an inflammatory disorder. In the context of this inflammatory microenvironment, the involvement of hypoxia and its impact on related pathways have drawn considerable attention. However, the exact role of hypoxia, a prevalent environmental factor, in the development and progression of asthma remains poorly understood.

Methods

Mice were treated with house dust mite (HDM) extracts for 23 days to induce asthma. Mice were divided into room air (RA) group and intermittent hypoxic (IH) group by exposing to different conditions and IH preconditioning (IHP) were underwent to the above groups before the hypoxic regimen. Airway inflammation in mice was evaluated by airway hyperresponsiveness, excessive mucus secretion, and recruitment of inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemistry was employed to quantify the expression levels of NF‐κB. Subsequently, the dose of allergen was modified to investigate whether the impact of hypoxia on asthma is affected by different doses of allergens.

Result

Compared to the RA and IH groups, HDM‐treated mice in the IHP group exhibited aggravated inflammatory cell infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness (p＜.05). Moreover, there was an increased release of inflammatory mediators and higher expression levels of NF‐κB (p＜.05). Importantly, the impact ia on asthma was found to be influenced by high dose of allergen (p＜.05).

Conclusion

IHP treatment potentially exacerbates HDM‐induced airway inflammation in asthma, with the involvement of NF‐κB, particularly under high‐dose allergen stimulation.
“Skylights” increase exposure levels and reduce the maximum depth of nature reserves
Authors: Gao Haiyang , Zhu Di
Published: April 2024

Spatial contradictions between nature conservation and social development are prominent in the integration and optimization of nature reserves (NRs) in China. Due to restrictions from the farmland “red line” policy and territorial spatial planning, scattered urban areas and farmland distributed within NRs form many “skylights”. Perforating NRs alters their shape and continuity and may have negative effects on long‐term conservation. Through remote sensing data, we identified urban areas and farmland “skylights” in NRs in Guangdong Province, China. This study evaluated four scenarios: maintaining both urban areas and farmland (current state), maintaining farmland while removing urban areas, maintaining urban areas while removing farmland, and removing both urban areas and farmland. Two indicators, the exposure level and the maximum depth of NRs, were used to preliminarily assess the impacts of “skylights”. We found that urban “skylights” accounted for a relatively low proportion (5.81%) of total “skylights” and farmland “skylights” accounted for 94.19%. The current exposure level of NRs in Guangdong Province was very high, and approximately 82.83% of the NR areas were within 1 km of an unprotected matrix. If “skylights” were removed without exception, the 1 km exposure level would decrease to 61.37%, and the maximum depth would significantly increase. We recommend further assessment of the influence of “skylights” on the conservation effect of NRs and suggest first removing small “skylights” to reduce their negative impact.
On‐farm performance evaluation of small‐scale irrigation schemes in the Ethiopian Rift Valley: Internal and external performance process approach
Authors: Wabela Kedrala , Hammani Ali , Taky Abdelilah , Tekleab Sirak
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the on‐farm performance of two small‐scale irrigation schemes, Furfuro and Bedene Alemtena (hereafter referred to as Bedene), in the Ethiopian Rift Valley. Two sets of performance indicator parameters were used. The first group was internal performance indicators, which included conveyance, water application and application uniformity. The water flow velocity through canals was monitored using the floating method. The amount of irrigation water applied to the fields was measured using a cutthroat flume. The second group was external performance indicators, including agricultural performance, water use performance and physical sustainability indicators. The results indicated that Furfuro had average conveyance, application and uniformity efficiencies of 84%, 59% and 50%, respectively, while that of Bedene were 79%, 63% and 55%, respectively. The overall efficiencies for both schemes were about 49%, which is lower than the minimum permissible values. The outputs per irrigation supply and consumed water for Furfuro were 0.14 and 0.16 US$/m3, respectively, and they were 0.11 US$/m3 for Bedene. The relative irrigation and total water supply of Furfuro were 1.21 and 1.20, respectively, indicating the presence of excess water in the command area during the study season. The relative irrigation and water supply of Bedene was 0.81, which indicated that the scheme was water deficient. Irrigation water management practices need improvement in the two schemes.
Identifying ideal pharmacist‐to‐patient ratios for the successful provision of clinical pharmacy services
Authors: Martello Jay L. , Dumont Zack , Bruck Wiyanna , Buckley Mitchell S. , Buckley Christopher T. , Centanni Nicolette , Chester Elizabeth A. , Gonzales Jeffrey , Harper Gina , Howland Miranda , Gutenschwager David , Langham Kendra , Meyers Rachel , Roberts Russel J. , Selby Ashley R. , Shin Emily , Szempruch Kristen , Van Dril Elizabeth , Wu Sharon
Published: April 2024

Clinical pharmacists add significant value to the health care team and are associated with reduced hospital mortality, drug costs, length of stay, and adverse drug reactions. However, there remains a paucity of evaluative data regarding optimal clinical pharmacy practice models. Identifying optimal patient (or bed)‐to–clinical pharmacist ratios is one mechanism to assess the allocation of resources. The ACCP Task Force on Clinical Pharmacy Services was charged with developing a white paper to examine optimal ratios in different care settings, considering confounders and other factors that affect the interpretation of ratio data. The committee performed an extensive search of the pharmacy, medical, and nursing literature to identify existing data on provider‐to‐patient ratios. Recommendations on ratios are mainly from survey data or statements from various health care organizations. Many factors affect the capacity of clinical pharmacists to achieve patient care and non‐patient care responsibilities. Examples include general differences in baseline expectations; nonstandardized program performance metrics; variable hospital/practice setting types; variable patient acuity and complexity; competing priorities and other resources; industry‐wide rates of and variability in addressing burnout; inconsistent means for justifying numbers and historical corporate structures; and external endorsements and mandates. Although some areas of practice such as critical care pharmacy have more robust evidence for specific ratios, others such as pediatrics are far less clear. A clinical pharmacist ratio must be established as a starting point. This will allow for better allocation today and serve as a springboard for future determinations. Furthermore, clinical pharmacist ratios should be preserved to offer reliable patient care 365 days per year. As clinical pharmacist services shift from beneficial to essential, continuous daily patient care services must be the practice model moving forward.
Hydroxyapatite nano‐pillars on TI‐6Al‐4V: Enhancements in cell spreading and proliferation during cell/surface integration
Authors: Osafo Sarah Akua , Etinosa Precious Osayamen , Obayemi John David , Salifu Ali Azeko , Asumadu Tabiri , Klenam Desmond , Agyei‐Tuffour Benjamin , Dodoo‐Arhin David , Yaya Abu , Soboyejo Winston Oluwole
Published: April 2024

Despite the attractive combinations of cell/surface interactions, biocompatibility, and good mechanical properties of Ti‐6Al‐4V, there is still a need to enhance the early stages of cell/surface integration that are associated with the implantation of biomedical devices into the human body. This paper presents a novel, easy and reproducible method of nanoscale and nanostructured hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings on Ti‐6Al‐4V. The resulting nanoscale coatings/nanostructures are characterized using a combination of Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy. The nanostructured/nanoscale coatings are shown to enhance the early stages of cell spreading and integration of bone cells (hFOB cells) on Ti‐6Al‐4V surfaces. The improvements include the acceleration of extra‐cellular matrix, cell spreading and proliferation by nanoscale HA structures on the coated surfaces. The implications of the results are discussed for the development of HA nanostructures for the improved osseointegration of Ti‐6Al‐4V in orthopedic and dental applications.
Vincamine alleviates brain injury by attenuating neuroinflammation and oxidative damage in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease through the NF‐κB and Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Pengjun , Chen Chen , Shan Min
Published: April 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease featured by progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, the etiology of which is associated with the existence of neuroinflammatory response and oxidative stress. Vincamine is an indole alkaloid that was reported to exhibit potent anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties in many central and/or peripheral diseases. Nevertheless, the specific role of vincamine in PD development remains unknown. In our study, dopaminergic neuron loss was determined through immunohistochemistry staining and western blot analysis of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the substantia nigra (SN) of PD mice. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels were detected through DHE staining and commercially available kits to assess oxidative stress. Pro‐inflammatory cytokine (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6) levels in the SN were measured via RT‐qPCR and western blot analysis. Microglial and astrocyte activation was examined through immunofluorescence staining of Iba‐1 (microglia marker) and GFAP (astrocyte marker) in the SN. The regulation of vincamine on the NF‐κB and Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway was estimated through western blot analysis. Our results showed that vincamine treatment decreased TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 mRNA and protein levels, reduced GFAP and Iba‐1 expression, decreased ROS production and MDA level, and increased SOD activity and GSH level in the SN of PD mice. Mechanically, vincamine repressed the phosphorylation levels of p65, IKKβ, and IκBα but enhanced the protein levels of Nrf2 and HO‐1 in PD mice. Collectively, vincamine plays a neuroprotective role in PD mouse models by alleviating neuroinflammation and oxidative damage via suppressing the NF‐κB pathway and activating the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway.
HN1 is a novel dedifferentiation factor involved in regulating the cell cycle and microtubules in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Özar Tilbe , Javed Aadil , Özduman Gülseren , Korkmaz Kemal S.
Published: April 2024

Hematological and neurological expressed 1 (HN1), encoding a small protein, has been recently explored in different cancers owing to its higher expression in tumor samples as compared to adjacent normal. It was discovered and subsequently named because of its higher expression in hematological and neurological tissues in developing mice. Following discovery, it was considered a neuronal regeneration or dedifferentiation‐related gene. However, since then, it has not been characterized in neuroblastoma or differentiated neurons. SH‐SY5Y cell line presents a unique model of neuroblastoma often utilized in neurobiology research. In this study, first, we employed bioinformatics analysis along with in vitro evaluation using normal and retinoic acid (RA)‐differentiated SH‐SY5Y cells to determine the responses of HN1 and its function. The analysis revealed that HN1 expression is higher in neuroblastoma and lower in differentiated neurons and Parkinson's disease as compared to appropriate controls. Since HN1 coexpression network in neuroblastoma is found to be enriched in cell‐cycle‐related pathways, we have shown that HN1 expression increases in S‐phase and remains lower in the rest of the cell cycle phases. Moreover, HN1 expression is also correlated with the microtubule stability in SH‐SY5Y cells, which was investigated with nocodazole and taxol treatments. HN1 overexpression increased the ratio of S‐type cells (undifferentiated), indicating that it acts as a dedifferentiating factor in neuroblastoma cells. Moreover, cell cycle dynamics also changed upon HN1 overexpression with alternating effects on SH‐SY5Y and RA‐differentiated (N‐type) cells. Therefore, HN1 is a potential cell cycle regulatory element in the development of neuroblastoma or dedifferentiation of neurons, which requires further studies to decipher its mechanistic role.
Opting for conservative management over surgery for neonatal ovarian cysts
Authors: Bai Ruimiao , Bonanni John Ross , Guo Jinzhen , Li Zhankui , Yu Xiping , Zhao Jinru , Zeng Junan , Garvin Gregory , Yan Yi
Published: April 2024

Objective

To explore the suitability of conservative management for neonatal ovarian cysts in newborns.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, involving infants diagnosed with neonatal abdominal/pelvic cysts at two separate medical institutions from January 2015 through July 2021. Data collection included clinical characteristics, imaging results, pathological findings, and postnatal outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using the Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

In total, 34 cases of neonatal abdominal/pelvic cystic masses were detected, with mean birth weight of 3401 ± 515 g. Of these, 22 patients underwent postnatal cystectomy/oophorectomy. Pathological assessments revealed 16 uncomplicated cysts, 5 complex cysts, and 1 ovarian cyst with torsion complications. Notably, the cysts' dimensions at the time of surgical intervention had significantly decreased from the initial measurements (p = 0.015). The ROC curve analysis presented an area under the curve of 0.642, indicating moderate accuracy in employing cyst size as a discriminative feature to differentiate complex from simple ovarian cysts. Additionally, a short‐term follow‐up of nonsurgical cases indicated a 100% resolution rate by 24 months of age (n = 9).

Conclusion

Given their predominantly benign nature, the majority of neonatal ovarian cysts seem to be amenable to conservative management. This approach remains justified for larger cysts with minimal torsion risk, as well as considering the observed reduction in cyst size at birth, which further supports the case against surgical intervention.
Comparison of digitally assessed quality of posterior crown preparations performed with and without previous practice on patient‐specific three‐dimensional‐printed teeth models
Authors: Tricio Jorge A. , Braithwaite Catalina , Herrera Constanza M. , Vicuña Daniela P. , Cacciuttolo Franco R. , Jorquera Gilbert A. , Gutiérrez Mario F. , Córdova Christian G. , Villalón Pablo A. , Moncada Gustavo A. , Casanova Renzo A. , González María I. , Ilić Dent Stud Macarena A. , Orsini César A.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Three‐dimensional (3D)‐printing technology can provide customizable simulations, but its effects on patient care quality have not been well studied. This study aimed to assess the impact of practicing with patient‐specific 3D‐printed teeth models on the quality of patients’ dental preparations performed by students transitioning to clinical training. Accordingly, the quality of posterior crown preparations was evaluated by objectively analyzing digital scans and grades in two groups: the study group, which practiced beforehand with patient‐specific 3D‐printed teeth models, and the control group, which did not practice with these models.

Methods

All 78 fourth‐year dental students who had just finished their fixed prosthodontics course at the simulation laboratory with training on phantom heads and without previous clinical experience in crown preparations were invited to participate in the study. Sixty‐eight agreed to take part and were randomly divided into a study group that practiced crown preparations on 3D‐printed models of their own patient's teeth and a control group that did not practice with 3D‐printed models and started their clinical work straightforwardly after simulation training. Students completed validated perception questionnaires on self‐confidence and clinical skills before and after the protocol, which were compared using a chi‐squared test. Crown preparations performed on 3D‐printed models and then on patients were digitally scanned and objectively graded by prepCheck software for critical parameters, such as undercuts, taper, and occlusion reduction. Non‐parametric tests were used to compare preparations on 3D‐printed models and on patients performed by the study group and those on patients made by the control group.

Results

Initially, both groups reported similar perceptions of self‐confidence and clinical skills levels. The study group significantly improved both aspects after the protocol. Analysis of the scanned preparations demonstrated that the study group removed less tooth structure from actual patients than from the initial 3D‐printed models. In contrast, the control group showed excess occlusal clearance in their patients compared to the study group.

Conclusions

Practicing patient‐specific 3D‐printed teeth before performing procedures clinically appears to enhance preparation quality and minimize unnecessary tooth reduction in early clinical experiences.
Compartmental neuronal degeneration in the ventral striatum induced by status epilepticus in young rats' brain in comparison with adults
Authors: Al‐Redouan Azzat , Salaj Martin , Kubova Hana , Druga Rastislav
Published: April 2024

According to experimental and clinical studies, status epilepticus (SE) causes neurodegenerative morphological changes not only in the hippocampus and other limbic structures, it also affects the thalamus and the neocortex. In addition, several studies reported atrophy, metabolic changes, and neuronal degeneration in the dorsal striatum. The literature lacks studies investigating potential neuronal damage in the ventral component of the striatopallidal complex (ventral striatum [VS] and ventral pallidum) in SE experimentations. To better understand the development of neuronal damage in the striatopallidal complex associated with SE, the detected neuronal degeneration in the compartments of the VS, namely, the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the olfactory tubercle (OT), was analyzed. The experiments were performed on Wistar rats at age of 25‐day‐old pups and 3‐month‐old adult animals. Lithium–pilocarpine model of SE was used. Lithium chloride (3 mmol/kg, ip) was injected 24 h before administering pilocarpine (40 mg/kg, ip). This presented study demonstrates the variability of post SE neuronal damage in 25‐day‐old pups in comparison with 3‐month‐old adult rats. The NAc exhibited small to moderate number of Fluoro‐Jade B (FJB)‐positive neurons detected 4 and 8 h post SE intervals. The number of degenerated neurons in the shell subdivision of the NAc significantly increased at survival interval of 12 h after the SE. FJB‐positive neurons were evidently more prominent occupying the whole anteroposterior and mediolateral extent of the nucleus at longer survival intervals of 24 and 48 h after the SE. This was also the case in the bordering vicinity between the shell and the core compartments but with clusters of degenerating cells. The severity of damage of the shell subdivision of the NAc reached its peak at an interval of 24 h post SE. Isolated FJB‐positive neurons were detected in the ventral peripheral part of the core compartment. Degenerated neurons persisted in the shell subdivision of the NAc 1 week after SE. However, the quantity of cell damage had significantly reduced in comparison with the aforementioned shorter intervals. The third layer of the OT exhibited more degenerated neurons than the second layer. The FJB‐positive cells in the young animals were higher than in the adult animals. The morphology of those cells was identical in the two age groups except in the OT.
How far has diabetes‐related foot disease research progressed in Australia? A bibliometric review (1970–2023)
Authors: Tehan Peta E. , Perrin Byron M. , Lazzarini Peter A. , Al‐Busaidi Ibrahim S. , Carroll Matthew R.
Published: April 2024

Background

Diabetes‐related foot disease (DFD) is a leading cause of the Australian and global disease burdens and requires proportionate volumes of research to address. Bibliometric analyses are rigorous methods for exploring total research publications in a field to help identify volume trends, gaps and emerging areas of need. This bibliometric review aimed to explore the volume, authors, institutions, journals, collaborating countries, research types and funding sources of Australian publications investigating DFD over 50 years.

Methods

A systematic search of the Scopus® database was conducted by two independent authors to identify all Australian DFD literature published between 1970 and 2023. Bibliometric meta‐data were extracted from Scopus®, analyzed in Biblioshiny, an R Statistical Software interface, and publication volumes, authors, institutions, journals and collaborative countries were described. Publications were also categorised for research type and funding source.

Results

Overall, 332 eligible publications were included. Publication volume increased steadily over time, with largest volumes (78%) and a 7‐fold increase over the last decade. Mean co‐authors per publication was 5.6, mean journal impact factor was 2.9 and median citation was 9 (IQR2‐24). Most frequent authors were Peter Lazzarini (14%), Vivienne Chuter (8%) and Jonathon Golledge (7%). Most frequent institutions affiliated were Queensland University Technology (33%), University Sydney (30%) and James Cook University (25%). Most frequent journals published in were Journal Foot and Ankle Research (17%), Diabetic Medicine (7%), Journal Diabetes and its Complications (4%) and International Wound Journal (4%). Most frequent collaborating countries were the United Kingdom (9%), the Netherlands (6%) and the United States (5%). Leading research types were etiology (38%), treatment evaluation (25%) and health services research (13%). Leading funding sources were no funding (60%), internal institution (16%) and industry/philanthropic/international (10%).

Conclusions

Australian DFD research increased steadily until more dramatic increases were seen over the past decade. Most research received no funding and mainly investigated etiology, existing treatments or health services. Australian DFD researchers appear to be very productive, particularly in recent times, despite minimal funding indicating their resilience. However, if the field is to continue to rapidly grow and address the very large national DFD burden, much more research funding is needed in Australia, especially targeting prevention and clinical trials of new treatments in DFD.
Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of isolated sulfite oxidase deficiency and molybdenum cofactor deficiencies
Authors: Schwahn Bernd C. , van Spronsen Francjan , Misko Albert , Pavaine Julija , Holmes Victoria , Spiegel Ronen , Schwarz Guenter , Wong Flora , Horman Alistair , Pitt James , Sass Jörn Oliver , Lubout Charlotte
Published: April 2024

Sulfite intoxication is the hallmark of four ultrarare disorders that are caused by impaired sulfite oxidase activity due to genetic defects in the synthesis of the molybdenum cofactor or of the apoenzyme sulfite oxidase. Delays on the diagnosis of these disorders are common and have been caused by their unspecific presentation of acute neonatal encephalopathy with high early mortality, followed by the evolution of dystonic cerebral palsy and also by the lack of easily available and reliable diagnostic tests. There is significant variation in survival and in the quality of symptomatic management of affected children. One of the four disorders, molybdenum cofactor deficiency type A (MoCD‐A) has recently become amenable to causal treatment with synthetic cPMP (fosdenopterin). The evidence base for the rational use of cPMP is very limited. This prompted the formulation of these clinical guidelines to facilitate diagnosis and support the management of patients. The guidelines were developed by experts in diagnosis and treatment of sulfite intoxication disorders. It reflects expert consensus opinion and evidence from a systematic literature search.
Morphological heterogeneity of neurons in the human central amygdaloid nucleus
Authors: Vásquez Carlos E. , Knak Guerra Kétlyn T. , Renner Josué , Rasia‐Filho Alberto A.
Published: April 2024

The central amygdaloid nucleus (CeA) has an ancient phylogenetic development and functions relevant for animal survival. Local cells receive intrinsic amygdaloidal information that codes emotional stimuli of fear, integrate them, and send cortical and subcortical output projections that prompt rapid visceral and social behavior responses. We aimed to describe the morphology of the neurons that compose the human CeA (N = 8 adult men). Cells within CeA coronal borders were identified using the thionine staining and were further analyzed using the “single‐section” Golgi method followed by open‐source software procedures for two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional image reconstructions. Our results evidenced varied neuronal cell body features, number and thickness of primary shafts, dendritic branching patterns, and density and shape of dendritic spines. Based on these criteria, we propose the existence of 12 morphologically different spiny neurons in the human CeA and discuss the variability in the dendritic architecture within cellular types, including likely interneurons. Some dendritic shafts were long and straight, displayed few collaterals, and had planar radiation within the coronal neuropil volume. Most of the sampled neurons showed a few to moderate density of small stubby/wide spines. Long spines (thin and mushroom) were observed occasionally. These novel data address the synaptic processing and plasticity in the human CeA. Our morphological description can be combined with further transcriptomic, immunohistochemical, and electrophysiological/connectional approaches. It serves also to investigate how neurons are altered in neurological and psychiatric disorders with hindered emotional perception, in anxiety, following atrophy in schizophrenia, and along different stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Low zinc availability limits the response to phosphorus fertilization in cotton
Authors: Santos Elcio Ferreira , Macedo Fernando Giovannetti , Rodrigues Marcos , Pavinato Paulo Sérgio , Lavres José
Published: April 2024

Background

Cotton productivity is commonly limited by the imbalanced nutritional status of phosphorus (P) and zinc (Zn) in Brazil. Evaluating the effect of the P–Zn interaction on nutrient availability in soil is crucial, as this interaction promotes plant adaptations that modify the availability of these nutrients in the rhizosphere. However, the influence of root growth on the P–Zn interaction and its adsorption in rhizosphere soil remains poorly understood.

Aim

We tested the interaction of P and Zn rates in two classes of soil cultivated with cotton. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the P and Zn availability and adsorption capacity by rhizosphere soils cultivated with cotton plants subjected to P and Zn rates.

Methods

Cotton plants were grown under greenhouse conditions in two different soils (Entisol and Oxisol), with different P and Zn rates. Phosphorus fractionation and Zn sequential extraction were assessed in rhizosphere soil, while total P and Zn concentrations were measured in the shoot and roots.

Results

Soil type significantly affected the P–Zn availabilities on rhizosphere soils. Although increased P‐rates raised P‐soil availability on bulk and rhizosphere soils, cotton growth was not increased under low soil‐Zn availability. The labile inorganic P content was influenced by P and Zn rates just in Oxisol. In both soils, the Zn‐ Zn‐exchangeable content was decreased by P rates, while Zn bound to oxides increased.

Conclusions

Soil‐type effects on P–Zn interaction could have important implications for increasing cotton productivity. Increased cotton productivity by P application was only achieved with an adequate supply of Zn.
Protective effects of oyster polypeptide on cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppressed rats
Authors: He Ying , Nong Yunyuan , Qin Junliang , Feng Linlin , Qin Jinghua , Wang Qianyi , Deng Lijun , Tang Siqi , Zhang Meiling , Fan Xiaofeng , Dong Min , Wei Jinbin , Pan Shihan , Su Zhiheng
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Oyster polypeptide (OP) is a mixture of oligopeptides extracted from oysters through enzyme lysis, separation, and purification. It is associated with immunomodulatory effects, but the underlying mechanisms are not known. This study therefore combined proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) urinary metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the gut microbiome to determine the immunoprotective mechanisms of OP in rats subjected to cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppression.

RESULTS

Oyster polypeptide restored the body weight and the structure of spleen and thymus in rats with cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppression. It upregulated the levels of white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), platelets (PLT), red blood cells (RBCs), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), cytokines such as interleukin‑6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and increased the numbers of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells in the immunosuppressed rats. The 1H‐NMR metabolomics results showed that OP significantly reversed the levels of ten metabolites in urine, including 2‐oxoglutarate, citrate, dimethylamine, taurine, N‐phenylacetylglycine, alanine, betaine, creatinine, uracil, and benzoate. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that OP restored the gut microbiome homeostasis by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria and reducing the abundance of pathogenic bacteria. Finally, a combination of metabolomics and microbiomics found that the metabolism of taurine and hypotaurine, and the metabolism of alanine, aspartate, and glutamate were disturbed, but these metabolic pathways were restored by OP.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that OP had immunoprotective effects in rats with cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppression by restoring key metabolic pathways and the gut microbiome homeostasis. Our findings provide a framework for further research into the immunoregulatory mechanisms of OP and its potential use in drugs and nutritional supplements. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A comprehensive review of the impact of farmland property rights stability on farmers' land use and protection behaviors
Authors: Baopeng Xie , Ying Chen , Tingting Pei , Mak‐Mensah Erastus
Published: April 2024

The stability of property rights is a key factor in incentivizing farmers to engage in land use and protection activities, which, in turn, serve to mitigate or prevent the degradation of land resources and enhance the effectiveness of agricultural management practices. This research uses Scientometric analysis according to PRISMA guidelines to thoroughly examine academic landscape related to the stability of farmland property rights and its impact on farmers' land utilization and protection behaviors. By examining 4165 publications from 2014 to 2023 in Web of Science and Scopus databases, the study conducts a comprehensive analysis. Theoretical frameworks elucidate three primary avenues through which property rights influence farmers' behavior: the assurance effect, collateral effect, and realizable effect. Through document co‐citation analysis 11 distinct thematic clusters were revealed, highlighting the prominence of land tenure security (Cluster #0). Notably, Ma X's publication experienced a significant 4‐year surge, indicating its key influence. Author co‐citation analysis outlined author clusters, emphasizing the increasing relevance of authors like Cotula L, Angelsen A, and De Schuttero during specific periods. Journal co‐citation analysis revealed cohesive journal clusters such as Development and Change and Journal of Peasant Studies, showcasing thematic boundaries within clusters. Keywords co‐citation analysis (CO‐DESC) identified thematic clusters around “China,” “agricultural land,” and “land use,” with keywords like “land degradation” exhibiting substantial bursts. This systematic analysis highlights influential publications, authors, journals, and thematic clusters, emphasizing the structured landscape within farmland property rights research and revealing critical aspects impacting farmers' behavior and land use.
Quickly Formed Continuously Tuneable Laser in the Full Visible Spectrum Using Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Cells Based on the Electrothermal Effect
Authors: Jeong Mi‐Yun , Choi Hyeon‐Jong , Nam Youngwoo , Kwak Keumcheol
Published: April 2024

Wavelength‐tuneable lasers can play a crucial role across many fields, and their applications continue to expand with advancements. Cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) devices are developed, enabling good wavelength‐tuneable lasers. In CLC devices, pitch control is required to tune the desired wavelength. However, pitch control takes a long time and is difficult, which limits the speed and range of laser wavelength tuning. Here, by applying a voltage once and forming an electric field gradient along the wedge direction in the CLC wedge cell, we could realize CLC pitch gradient arrays that achieve continuous wavelength tuning over 500 nm in only 10 min through the electrothermal effect while continuously generating laser lines in the full visible spectrum. The laser wavelength could be rapidly tuned over the full visible spectrum by moving within the array in the wedge cell. The study of CLC cells for electric field application in real time is able to observe the dynamic process of pitch change directly. This new laser device and strategy has potential in many fields that require active laser tuning and is expected to lead to innovative changes in the development of future practical laser devices in the optical industry.