bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unique Tubular BiOBr/g‐C3N4 Heterojunction with Efficient Separation of Charge Carriers for Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Gao Kaiyue , Zhang Chengming , Zhu Haibao , Xia Jingjing , Chen Jianli , Xie Fazhi , Zhao Xiaoli , Tang Zhi , Wang Xiufang
Published: March 2023

The industrial ammonia synthesis process consumes a lot of energy and causes serious environmental pollution. As a sustainable approach for ammonia synthesis, photocatalytic nitrogen reduction employing water as the reducing agent has a lot of potential. A simple surfactant‐assisted solvothermal method is used to synthesize g‐C3N4 nanotubes with flower‐like spherical BiOBr grown inside and outside (BiOBr/g‐C3N4, BC). The hollow tubular structure realizes the full use of visible light by the multi‐scattering effect of light. Large surface areas and more active sites for N2 adsorption and activation are present in the distinctive spatially dispersed hierarchical structures. Particularly, the quick separation and transfer of electrons and holes are facilitated by the sandwich tubular heterojunctions and tight contact interface of BiOBr and g‐C3N4. The maximal NH3 generation rate of the BiOBr/g‐C3N4 composite catalysts can reach 255.04 μmol⋅ g−1⋅ h−1, and it is 13.9 and 5.8 times that of pure BiOBr and g‐C3N4. This work provides a novel method for designing and constructing unique heterojunctions for efficient photocatalytic nitrogen fixation.
Bonding in Low‐Coordinated Organoarsenic and Organoantimony Compounds: A Threshold Photoelectron Spectroscopic Investigation
Authors: Karaev Emil , Gerlach Marius , Faschingbauer Lukas , Ramler Jacqueline , Krummenacher Ivo , Lichtenberg Crispin , Hemberger Patrick , Fischer Ingo
Published: March 2023

Methyl and methylene compounds of arsenic and antimony have been studied by photoelectron photoion coincidence spectroscopy to investigate their relative stability. While for As both HAs=CH2, As−CH3 and the methylene compound As=CH2 are identified in the spectrum, the only Sb compound observed is Sb−CH3. Thus, there is a step in the main group 15 between As and Sb, regarding the relative stability of the methyl compounds. Ionisation energies, vibrational frequencies and spin‐orbit splittings were determined for the methyl compound from photoion mass‐selected photoelectron spectra. Although the spectroscopic results for organoantimony resemble those for the previously investigated bismuth compounds, EPR spectroscopic experiments indicate a far lower tendency for methyl transfer for Sb(CH3)3 compared to Bi(CH3)3. This study concludes investigations on low‐valent organopnictogen compounds.
Synthesis of NIR‐II Fluorescent Hybrid Ag2S/ZnPc Nanoparticles for in vitro Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Bao Yuxin , Wu Xi , Bo Bingyang , Qin Jinglei , Zhang Yafei , Wu Xiaojia , Li Xiang , Wang Yiquan , Peng Hongshang
Published: March 2023

Fluorescence imaging‐guided photodynamic therapy (PDT), particularly near infrared II (NIR‐II) fluorescence featuring deep penetration depth, can greatly improve the treatment outcomes with precise administration. In this work, a reprecipitation‐encapsulation method was used to co‐load NIR‐II fluorescent Ag2S quantum dots (QDs) and photosensitizer zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) into single nanoparticles (NPs), i. e., Ag2S/ZnPc NPs. Moreover, the resultant NPs were coated by a poly‐L‐lysine (PLL) layer, which endowed the initial hydrophobic Ag2S QDs and ZnPc with good biocompatibility. Ag2S/ZnPc NPs exhibited a hydrodynamic diameter of ∼70 nm, strong NIR‐II fluorescence peaking at 1052 nm, efficient cellular uptaken, and high singlet oxygen generation. Taking advantage of Ag2S/ZnPc NPs, efficient phototherapeutic efficacy was achieved on HeLa cells upon the irradiation of 660 nm light, and a deep optical tissue penetration depth of 1.4 mm was obtained under 808 nm excitation. These results suggested that the facilely prepared Ag2S/ZnPc NPs are very promising for NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided in vivo PDT.
Lacunary Polyoxometalate iImmobilized on Graphene Oxide: An Effective Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Generation in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Khalaji‐Verjani Maryam , Masteri‐Farahani Majid , Mohammadikish Maryam , Mashhadizadeh Mohammad Hossein
Published: March 2023

A new stable nanocomposite comprising thiol‐functionalized lacunary Keggin‐type phosphomolybdate (PMo11) and graphene oxide (GO) was prepared via the thiol‐ene click reaction. Various characterization techniques, like FT‐IR spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed the strong covalent interaction of GO and PMo11 species and successful formation of PMo11−S−GO nanocomposite. Nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analysis revealed the decrease in GO surface area after introducing PMo11 species. The prepared nanocomposite was employed in the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution. A low overpotential of 335 mV and small Tafel slope of 71 mV.dec−1 were obtained in electrocatalytic HER experiments. The nanocomposite exhibited high stability and negligible loss of electrocatalytic activity for at least 850 cycles which is a result of the stable covalent attachment of lacunary Keggin type phosphomolybdate to the surface of GO nanosheets.
Enhancement of seed germination of Daucus carota sativus L. by non‐thermal plasma treatment
Authors: Sedhai Binita , Guragain Rajesh Prakash , Shrestha Bikash , Sedhai Sabita , Baniya Hom Bahadur , Subedi Deepak Prasad
Published: March 2023

One of the innovative and successful approaches for early seed sprouting, and development in an agricultural area is the utilization of non‐thermal plasma therapy. In this work, the surface of carrot (Daucus carota sativus L.) seeds was directly treated with low‐temperature plasma. Line frequency was used to produce dielectric barrier discharge at an applied ac voltage of 14.87 kV. Carrot seeds were treated under the produced discharge for 1–4 min employing an argon gas flow rate of 2 L/min. Various growth parameters and seed germination properties had been assessed for both untreated and plasma‐exposed seeds. Parameters such as final germination percentage, mean germination rate, coefficient of the velocity of germination, germination index, length of root and shoot, fresh weight, diameter, and the number of leaves were found to be increased in plasma‐treated seeds. Results from the experiment indicate an increment in vigour index I and vigour index II after plasma treatment. Similarly, significant mass loss and increased water absorption were both observed in the plasma‐treated seeds. The study of the results demonstrates that exposing seeds to plasma can be an effective method for the early growth of carrots.
The mechanisms and drivers of lithification in slag‐dominated artificial ground
Authors: MacDonald John M. , Brolly Connor V. , Slaymark Charlotte , Spruženiece Liene , Wilson Claire , Hilderman Robin
Published: March 2023

Unconsolidated artificial ground is an ever‐increasing feature on the Earth's surface but it poses various challenges such as pollutant release and ground instability. The process of lithification could be an important factor in changing the properties of artificial ground and ameliorating these challenges. In this study, a lithified deposit of a furnace slag associated with a former iron and steel works in Scotland was analysed to determine the mechanisms and drivers of lithification. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed that Ca leached from around the edges of clasts of slag through reaction of the chemically unstable slag with water from an adjacent water body. Dissolution of Ca (and OH−) from the slag caused the water in contact with the slag to become hyperalkaline, facilitating ingassing and hydroxylation of CO2from the atmosphere (fingerprinted through carbon isotope analysis). Reaction of the dissolved Ca and CO2led to precipitation of calcite. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed the calcite is distributed between slag clasts, forming rims around clasts and cementing clasts together into a solid rock‐like mass. Understanding the mechanisms and drivers of lithification in artificial ground will be important, given its widespread nature particularly in urban areas where artificial ground is the substrate of most development.
Incorporating pyrodiversity into wildlife habitat assessments for rapid post‐fire management: A woodpecker case study
Authors: Stillman Andrew N. , Wilkerson Robert L. , Kaschube Danielle R. , Siegel Rodney B. , Sawyer Sarah C. , Tingley Morgan W.
Published: March 2023

Spatial and temporal variation in fire characteristics—termed pyrodiversity—are increasingly recognized as important factors that structure wildlife communities in fire‐prone ecosystems, yet there have been few attempts to incorporate pyrodiversity or post‐fire habitat dynamics into predictive models of animal distributions and abundance to support post‐fire management. We use the black‐backed woodpecker—a species associated with burned forests—as a case study to demonstrate a pathway for incorporating pyrodiversity into wildlife habitat assessments for adaptive management. Employing monitoring data (2009–2019) from post‐fire forests in California, we developed three competing occupancy models describing different hypotheses for habitat associations: (1) a static model representing an existing management tool, (2) a temporal model accounting for years since fire, and (3) a temporal–landscape model which additionally incorporates emerging evidence from field studies about the influence of pyrodiversity. Evaluating predictive ability, we found superior support for the temporal–landscape model, which showed a positive relationship between occupancy and pyrodiversity and interactions between habitat associations and years since fire. We incorporated the new temporal–landscape model into an RShiny application to make this decision‐support tool accessible to decision‐makers.
Harnessing decay rates for coastal marine biosecurity applications: A review of environmental DNA and RNA fate
Authors: Scriver Michelle , Zaiko Anastasija , Pochon Xavier , von Ammon Ulla
Published: March 2023

Marine nonindigenous species (NIS) are spreading at an alarming rate internationally through anthropogenic activities such as shipping and aquaculture, affecting local biodiversity and negatively impacting the ecosystem and human well‐being. Countries and international organizations have recognized this global threat and have begun implementing biosecurity management programs to ensure early detection, effective surveillance, and mitigation of marine NIS spread. Molecular techniques based on environmental DNA and RNA (eDNA/eRNA), collectively referred to as environmental nucleic acids (eNAs), have become a popular noninvasive tool for detecting NIS and monitoring biodiversity locally and globally. However, uncertainties about eNAs detection probabilities and the location of the source population impede the broad uptake of this tool in marine biosecurity programs. It's been hypothesized that most of these uncertainties can be explained by studying the molecules' dynamics within a marine environment and implementing eNAs distribution models. To contribute to further knowledge development in this area, our study reviews data from 20 recent reports on the degradation mechanisms and fate of eNAs in the marine environment. We classified the critical factors influencing eNAs' persistence that should be considered by biosecurity practitioners, outlining the complex interaction between the molecules' degradation processes and particular environmental conditions. To help guide the parameterization of eNAs distribution models, this review also summarizes and standardizes the marine decay rates of eDNA/eRNA from the literature. Finally, this manuscript outlines guidelines to help calculate accurate decay rates to build appropriate “fit‐for‐purpose” marine biosecurity tools for improved target detectability and greater resolution in assessing biodiversity.
Dose titration of sacubitril/valsartan for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a real‐world study
Authors: Wang Chen , Lin Zongwei , Miao Dongxia , Zhang Hui , Fu Kang , Zhang Xinyu , Xiao Jie , Hu Yue , Sun Yijun , Wang Fen , Lu Huixia , Ji Xiaoping
Published: March 2023

Aims

The study aims to explore the real‐world titration patterns of sacubitril/valsartan in a chronic heart failure (HF) follow‐up management system and the effect on the recovery of ventricular remodelling and cardiac function in China.

Methods and results

This is a single‐centre, observational study of 153 adult outpatients with HF and reduced ejection fraction who were managed in the chronic HF follow‐up management system and prescribed with sacubitril/valsartan from August 2017 to August 2021 in China. All patients tried to titrated sacubitril/valsartan to the tolerant dose during follow‐up. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who reached and maintained the target dose of sacubitril/valsartan. The main secondary outcomes were the changes in left atrium diameter, left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from baseline to 12 months. Among the patients, 69.3% were male, with a median age of 49 years. The baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 117.6 ± 18.3 mmHg before starting the treatment of sacubitril/valsartan. Benefiting from the management system, 117 (76.5%) patients achieved the target dose of sacubitril/valsartan, and the median time to reach the target dose was 3 (IQR 1–5) months. Advanced age and lower SBP may be predictors of failure to reach the target dose. Compared with baseline, standard treatment resulted in a pronounced improvement in left ventricular geometry and cardiac function. The patients showed a significant increase in LVEF [28 (IQR 21–34) % vs. 42 (IQR 37.0–54.3) %, P < 0.001], with a great reduction in left atrium diameter [45 (IQR 40.3–51.0) mm vs. 41 (IQR 37.0–45.3) mm, P < 0.001] and LVEDD [65 (IQR 60.0–70.3) mm vs. 55 (IQR 52–62) mm, P < 0.001] during 12 month follow‐up. Of patients, 36.5% had a LVEF ≥50%, 54.1% had LVEF >40%, and 81.1% experienced an increase in LVEF of ≥10%. After 12 month follow‐up, the proportion of patients with New York Heart Association classification I or II increased from 41.8% to 96.4%. Additionally, there was a significant improvement in N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (P < 0.001). At Month 12, 50% of patients achieved the target dose of beta‐blockers. No serious adverse events caused by sacubitril/valsartan were observed during the follow‐up.

Conclusions

Optimising HF follow‐up management was essential and effective in a real‐world clinical setting; the majority could reach the target dose of sacubitril/valsartan within the management system and achieve a remarkable improvement in cardiac function and ventricular remodelling.
Effect of vericiguat on left ventricular structure and function in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: The VICTORIA echocardiographic substudy
Authors: Pieske Burkert , Pieske‐Kraigher Elisabeth , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Melenovský Vojtěch , Sliwa Karen , Lopatin Yuri , Arango Juan Luis , Bahit M. Cecilia , O'Connor Christopher M. , Patel Mahesh J. , Roessig Lothar , Morris Daniel A. , Kropf Martin , Westerhout Cynthia M. , Zheng Yinggan , Armstrong Paul W. ,   for the VICTORIA Study Group
Published: March 2023

Aim

Vericiguat significantly reduced the primary composite outcome of heart failure (HF) hospitalization or cardiovascular death in the VICTORIA trial. It is unknown if these outcome benefits are related to reverse left ventricular (LV) remodelling with vericiguat in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The aim of this study was to compare the effects of vericiguat versus placebo on LV structure and function after 8 months of therapy in patients with HFrEF.

Methods and results

Standardized transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed at baseline and after 8 months of therapy in a subset of HFrEF patients in VICTORIA. The co‐primary endpoints were changes in LV end‐systolic volume index (LVESVI) and LV ejection fraction (LVEF). Quality assurance and central reading were performed by an echocardiographic core laboratory blinded to treatment assignment. A total of 419 patients (208 vericiguat, 211 placebo) with high‐quality paired TTE at baseline and 8 months were included. Baseline clinical characteristics were well balanced between treatment groups and echocardiographic characteristics were representative of patients with HFrEF. LVESVI significantly declined (60.7 ± 26.8 to 56.8 ± 30.4 ml/m2; p < 0.01) and LVEF significantly increased (33.0 ± 9.4% to 36.1 ± 10.2%; p < 0.01) in the vericiguat group, but similarly in the placebo group (absolute changes for vericiguat vs. placebo: LVESVI −3.8 ± 15.4 vs. −7.1 ± 20.5 ml/m2; p = 0.07 and LVEF +3.2 ± 8.0% vs. +2.4 ± 7.6%; p = 0.31). The absolute rate per 100 patient‐years of the primary composite endpoint at 8 months tended to be lower in the vericiguat group (19.8) than the placebo group (29.6) (p = 0.07).

Conclusions

In this pre‐specified echocardiographic study, significant improvements in LV structure and function occurred over 8 months in both vericiguat and placebo in a high‐risk HFrEF population with recent worsening HF. Further studies are warranted to define the mechanisms of vericiguat's benefit in HFrEF.
Axial Chirality in Alkylidene‐Cyclic Molecules
Authors: Hu Fangdong , Xia Ying
Published: March 2023

Axial chirality is an interesting stereoisomeric phenomenon in organic chemistry and a key structural feature of several organic compounds. Atropisomers such as biaryls, anilides and diaryl ethers are one type of axially chiral compounds, whose axial chirality is resulted from rotationally blocked single bond. Allenes, spiranes and alkylidenecycloalkanes are another type of axially chiral compounds and their axial chirality come from the perpendicular geometry of two pairs of substituents. The axial chirality in atropisomers, allenes and spiranes has been widely investigated and well developed, while the similar chirality in alkylidene‐cyclic molecules gained very limited attentions. This concept focuses on summarizing recent advances of axial chirality in alkylidene‐cyclic molecules and arouses the research interests to this promising field.
Catalytic C−C/C−H Bond Activation Relay for Synthesis of Fluorescent Naphthoquinolizinium Salts
Authors: Ulč Jan , Jacko Jaroslav , Císařová Ivana , Pospíšil Lubomír , Nečas David , Kotora Martin
Published: March 2023

Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a series of novel cationic nitrogen‐embedded polyaromatic hydrocarbons with a planar geometry. The synthetic pathway is based on catalytic C−C/C−H bond activation relay that enabled preparation of regioselectively 5,6,10,11‐tetrasubstituted naphtho[2,1,8‐ija]quinolizinium salts bearing various types of substituents. Single‐crystal X‐ray analyses of selected compounds confirmed planarity of the quinolizinium core. Most of the prepared compounds exhibited strong fluorescence (Φs up to >99 %) ranging from 420–600 nm depending on the substitution pattern. According to DFT calculations LUMO is always distributed over the quinolizinium framework regardless of the attached substituents, whereas delocalization of HOMO is related to the substitution pattern. Electrochemical measurements show irreversible reduction of all compounds, which is supported by the calculated location of LUMO orbitals.
Electrochemical properties of theCaNi4.8M0.2(MMg, Zn, and Mn) mechanical milling alloys used as anode materials in nickel‐metal hydride batteries
Authors: Karaoud Imen , Dabaki Youssef , Khaldi Chokri , ElKedim Omar , Fenineche Nouredine , Lamloumi Jilani
Published: March 2023

The present research work examines the electrochemical properties of CaNi4.8M0.2(MMg, Zn) type alloy applied as an anode in nickel metal hybrid batteries. Based on an extensive study of the CaNi4.8Mn0.2compound prepared by mecano‐synthesis; under an argon atmosphere, with a variation of milling time and weigh ratio, using a Retsch PM400 type ball mill. The experimental results show that the excellent electrochemical properties were obtained for a milling time of 40 h and a ball‐to‐powder weight ratio equal to 8:1. Based on this study, we examined electrochemically the CaNi4.8M0.2(MMg, Zn, and Mn) compound according to the optimized parameters. Several methods, such as galvanostatic polarization and potentiodynamic polarization, were applied to characterize these electrodes. CaNi4.8M0.2(MMg, Zn, and Mn) electrodes were activated, respectively, during the first, second, and third cycles. The maximum discharge capacity was about 87, 60, and 96 mAhg−1at ambient temperature. These electrochemical findings correlate with the kinetic results provided during a long cycle.
Epilepsy and cerebral developmental venous anomalies (DVAs): A systematic review
Authors: El Meskine Tahir , Li Jimmy , Reise Julia , Toffa Dènahin Hinnoutondji
Published: March 2023

Objective

Cerebral developmental venous anomalies (DVAs) are frequent and rarely symptomatic. When symptomatic, DVAs may present with seizures; however, little is known about the characteristics of DVA‐related epilepsy. In this systematic review, we aim to describe the clinical and paraclinical features of patients with DVA‐related epilepsy.

Methods

This review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021218711). We searched the MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus databases for case reports/series on patients with DVAs complicated by seizures. Studies describing patients with a potentially epileptogenic comorbid lesion close to their seizure focus were excluded. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to synthetize patient characteristics. The methodological quality of each study was evaluated using a standardized appraisal tool.

Results

In total, 66 patients were included from 39 articles. The frontal lobe was the most common location for DVAs. The superior sagittal sinus drained half of the DVAs. Seizures were inaugural in most cases, and the most common manifestations accompanying seizures were headaches. EEG was abnormal in 93% of cases, but only 26% had characteristic epileptic spikes. More than half the patients suffered a medical complication due to their DVA, with hemorrhage and thrombosis being the most common. Refractory seizures were encountered in 19% of individuals. At 12 months of follow‐up, 75% of patients were seizure free. Most included studies were at low risk of bias.

Significance

Epilepsy can be a complication of DVAs; these DVAs are mostly frontal or parietal, draining via the superior sagittal sinus or the vein of Galen.
Seismic excitation of offshore wind turbines and transition piece response
Authors: Hamilton Christopher M. , Abadie Christelle N.
Published: March 2023

Expansion of the offshore wind industry in seismically active areas has raised concerns regarding the structural integrity of offshore wind turbines under earthquake loading. This paper details a 3D finite element study to investigate the behaviour of the structure, and in particular the transition piece (TP), under seismic loads. The work focuses on equivalent grouted connection and TP‐less designs, selected as promising design solutions for seismic zones. The numerical model is validated against a medium‐scale 4‐point bending laboratory test, and scaled up to a representative 8 MW turbine. The results show that cracking of the grout occurs due to earthquake excitation at the top of the TP; a location that is typically undamaged during monotonic loading. This can lead to excessive settlement of the transition piece and loss of axial capacity caused by deterioration of the grout‐steel bond and water ingress. The residual hub displacement after earthquake excitation is around 0.1 m. The global monotonic response post‐earthquake excitation is not significantly altered, with apparent stiffness and ultimate strength maintained. An equivalent TP‐less design is shown to have a 5% lower natural frequency than an equivalent grouted connection design, suggesting a reduced global stiffness, with reduced structural damping due to the absence of grout. However, TP‐less design eliminates the risk of grout deterioration and settlement and may therefore be a safer design option for offshore wind turbines installed in seismic zones in the future.
The effect of the global supply chain and oil prices on the inflation rates in advanced economies and emerging markets
Authors: Ye Maoran , Si Mohammed Kamel , Tiwari Sunil , Ali Raza Syed , Chen Lianghua
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the effect of global supply chain pressures and crude oil prices on the consumer price index from October 1997 to February 2022 using panel linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lags (ARDLs, NARDLs). The results showed that the asymmetric effect of the global supply chain on the inflation rate is stronger when the supply chain increases than when it decreases in the long run for advanced economies and vice versa in emerging markets. A one standard deviation of the supply chain pressures has rebounded the inflation rate by about 1.7% and 0.71% for advanced economies and emerging markets, respectively. The findings establish that a 10 U.S. dollar increase in oil prices leads the inflation rate to rise by 0.1%–0.6% for all countries in the short run. However, the impact of the global supply chain index fits much better with the inflation rate than the oil prices in the short and long run, including the subprime crisis, such as the COVID‐19 outbreak, and the beginning of the Russo–Ukrainian conflict. Thus, the empirical results of the current study provide acumens for policymakers of advanced economies and emerging markets to consume green energy and make use of green technology and environmental innovations for counterbalancing the inflation issues induced by the higher rates of oil prices without halting the economic growth and sustainable development.
Retro walking treadmill training reduces C—reactive protein levels in overweight and obese young adults: A randomized comparative study
Authors: Soman Ajith , Chandy Sunil , Alkhathami Khalid , Ramamoorthy Baranitharan , Alqahtani Bijad
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

Retro walking has been shown to acquire a greater metabolic cost, placing a higher cardiopulmonary demand on the body, when compared with forward walking at a similar speed. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of retro walking with that of forward walking on C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) and to understand the influence of independent factors namely systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and BMI on CRP in untrained overweight and obese young adults.

Methods

This was a randomised controlled trial whereby 106 participants underwent either retro walking (n = 53) or forward walking (n = 53) treadmill training four times a week for 12 weeks before and after which CRP, BMI, and BP levels were measured. Comparison of the measured values before and after intervention and between the groups was done and influence of BMI and BP on CRP levels was determined.

Results

Both groups recorded a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in CRP, BMI, and BP levels postintervention. The participants who underwent retro walking training showed a significantly (p < 0.001) higher decrease in all the outcomes as compared with the forward walking group. C‐reactive protein levels were seen to be influenced by BMI and DBP.

Conclusion

Retro‐walking training leads to greater decrease in CRP, BMI, and BP when compared with forward walking, and CRP levels are influenced by BMI and DBP. Retro walking treadmill training can be used preferentially to bring about reduction in cardiovascular risk factors.
Improved heating floor thermal performance by adding PCM microcapsules enhanced by single and hybrid nanoparticles
Authors: Babaharra Oumayma , Choukairy Khadija , Faraji Hamza , Hamdaoui Said
Published: March 2023

A heating floor is a low‐temperature emitter consisting of pipelines in which a fluid circulates between 35°C and 45°C. To ensure energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and building material durability, proper heat management is crucial in buildings. By using phase change materials (PCMs) in building envelopes, the indoor temperature can be regulated through the storage and release of thermal energy, which reduces energy consumption and enhances occupant comfort. In this study, we evaluated numerically a heating floor that incorporates a PCM enhanced by nanoparticles (NePCM). The aim of the numerical analysis is to assess the impact of the addition of single and hybrid nanoparticles in different proportions to the PCM layer on the thermal performance of the PCM‐based floor. Therefore, two main objectives are defined. The primary is to take advantage of the storage capacity of a PCM layer by integrating it into the ground; second, to evaluate the hot water temperature levels effect on the floor's performance. Additionally, we address the low thermal conductivity of PCM by enhancing PCM microcapsules with single and hybrid nanoparticles and comparing them to pure PCM. The numerical results obtained show that positioning the PCM microcapsules above the heating tubes (upper position) provides an optimum improvement in thermal performance. Moreover, the addition of hybrid nanoparticles within the base PCM, 1% of Cu mixed with 4% of Al2O3, allows an increase of 4°C, which relates to a reduction of 18% in the internal temperature amplitude and a phase shift of 6 h 30 min compared with the conventional heated floor in which there is no PCM.
Indigenous literacies: A look at pedagogies and policy in the Southwest United States
Authors: Martinez Natalie
Published: March 2023

Literacy engagement for Indigenous peoples is a practice embedded in lived experience as thoughtful ways to communicate with and make sense of the world around us. Indigenous literacies involve the melding of Indigenous ways of knowing with contemporary educational pedagogies. Indigenous authors and teachers have long used Indigenous pedagogies in their writing and teaching to situate Indigenous identities and knowledge where it has been omitted, to interrogate the systems that appropriate or misarticulate Indigenous knowledge, to actively question spaces where the value and power of Indigenous knowledge is completely disregarded, and to reclaim or create spaces that amplify Indigenous voices and ways of knowing for learners as acts of education sovereignty. This column discusses the concepts of Indigenous literacy, it provides an overview of its practical applications in the US Southwest and the Native American education policies that shape literacy engagement in contemporary learning spaces centering on Indigenous perspectives.
Bilirubin–biliverdin concentration measurement using photoacoustic spectroscopic analysis for determining hemorrhage age
Authors: Manwar Rayyan , Gelovani Juri G. , Avanaki Kamran
Published: March 2023

The onset of intracerebral hemorrhage and its progression toward acute brain injury have been correlated with the concentration of unconjugated bilirubin (BR). In addition, BR has been considered a novel predictor of outcome from intracranial hemorrhage. Since the existing invasive approach for determining localized BR and biliverdin (BV) concentration within the hemorrhagic brain lesion is not feasible, the predictive capability of BR in terms of determining the onset of hemorrhage and understanding the consequences of its progression (age) is unknown. In this study, we have demonstrated a photoacoustic (PA) approach to the noninvasive measurement of BR–BV ratio that can be utilized longitudinally to approximate the onset of the hemorrhage. The PA imaging‐based measurements of BV and BR in tissues and fluids can potentially be used to determine hemorrhage “age,” quantitatively evaluate the hemorrhage resorption or detect a rebleeding, and assess responses to therapy and prognosis.
Polymyxin B exerts nephrotoxicity effects via inhibition of the Nrf2/NQO1 pathway‐mediated antioxidant response
Authors: Xiao Guiying , Yuan Fang , Deng Yang , Xiang Debiao , Xiong Liguang , Li Xin , Li Yuan
Published: March 2023

Polymyxin B (PMB) is a polypeptide antibiotic widely used in treating multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria. However, nephrotoxicity is a serious adverse effect that limits its clinical use. Therefore, clarification of the molecular mechanism of PMB‐induced renal injury is essential. Our study aimed to explore possible mechanisms of PMB‐induced nephrotoxicity in vivo and in vitro. Mice were treated with PMB to construct the kidney injury model. The antioxidant capacity was assessed by measuring the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities and the glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. The pathway of the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2/NADH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nrf2/NQO1) was examined after PMB treatment in NRK‐52E cells and mice. Finally, the expressions of genes and proteins (Bax, Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, Caspase‐9) related to apoptosis were evaluated through quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot assay. The study verified PMB‐induced nephrotoxicity in mice and NRK‐52E cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. PMB treatment significantly decreased the expression of Nrf2 and its downstream target gene NQO1 and increased the apoptosis‐related proteins expression. In summary, our results suggested that PMB‐induced oxidative stress damage by inhibiting the Nrf2/NQO1 pathway and promoting apoptosis in kidney tissues.
Protective role of hispolon and its derivatives against apoptosis in cortical neurons induced by electromagnetic radiation from 4G mobile phone
Authors: Saka Vara Prasad , V. Chitra , Narayanasamy Damodharan
Published: March 2023

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from wireless devices, particularly mobile phones, is a potentially growing public health concern. In this study, the neuronal effects of EMR on primary cortical neurons (PCNs) from neonatal rat cerebral cortex and the protective role of hispolon (HIS) and its derivatives were investigated as a measure of cranial exposure during mobile phone use. PCNs were isolated and cultured from day‐old neonatal rats, then exposed for 2 h to EMR emitted by a mobile phone operating at a frequency of 2100 MHz with 1.6 W/Kg specific absorption rate (SAR) in call‐answered mode treated with HIS and its derivatives. The induction of apoptosis through modulation of pro and anti‐apoptotic genes via mitochondrial pathway and the protection by the test compounds was assessed. Pyrazole derivatives decreased apoptosis by modulating the levels of pro and anti‐apoptotic genes by reducing the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) via mitochondrial damage, which was observed in the EMR exposed PCNs. The pyrazole compounds were found to have antioxidative and anti‐apoptotic properties. Thus, the neuroprotective mechanisms of the pyrazole derivatives can be investigated further, which may make them appropriate as lead compounds in developing neuroprotective formulations.
SUZ12 promotes the malignant behavior of gastric cancer cells by CDKs
Authors: Guo Li , Zhang Caiqun
Published: March 2023

Zeste 12 Homolog (SUZ12), as a transcription factor, has been found to be highly expressed in a variety of tumors and promote tumor progression. We focus on revealing its role and mechanism in gastric cancer. Cellular level studies were conducted in mouse gastric cancer MFC cells by performing overexpression of SUZ12, overexpression of CDK6, and treatment with CDK6 inhibitor, respectively. Changes in cell viability, invasion, metastasis and colony formation were detected, and the expression variations of cell cycle regulatory proteins CDK6, P21, and Cyclin D were determined. During the animal experimentation, a mouse xenograft model was established. After transplantation of SUZ12‐overexpressing MFC‐SUZ12, the tumor growth was compared with that in MFC, and the tissue expressions of CDK‐6, SUZ12, and Cyclin D were examined. Overexpression of SUZ12 could enhance the viability of MFC cells while upregulating their migration, invasion and colony formation abilities, which promoted the expression of CDK6, P21, and Cyclin D. CDK6 inhibitor, on the other hand, could suppress the effects of SUZ12 overexpression and weaken the cell viability and malignant behavior. Overexpression of CDK6 also promoted the MFC viability and malignant behavior. We found that SUZ12 exerted its effects by promoting the expression of downstream cyclin CDK6. At the animal level, the mice xenografted with SUZ12‐overexpressing MFC cells exhibited larger tumor volumes, as well as elevated cyclin expression. SUZ12 promotes the proliferation and malignant behavior of gastric cancer cells by regulating the expression of downstream CDK6.
Impact of Basel III liquidity and capital regulations on bank lending and financial stability: Evidence from emerging countries
Authors: Sharma Anil K. , Chauhan Rosy
Published: March 2023

We examine the impact of Basel III's liquidity requirements, such as the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR), net stable funding ratio (NSFR), and capital adequacy, on bank lending and financial stability using data from 688 commercial banks of 10 developing economies from 2014 to 2021 using fixed effects panel estimation. The findings of the study support that bank lending is positively impacted by the regulatory capital and the short‐term liquidity requirement (LCR), but negatively impacted by the NSFR. We find that the bank's Z‐score benefits from achieving the required capital and liquidity requirements. Lending growth and bank stability are nonlinearly impacted by regulations governing bank capital and liquidity. Furthermore, we use the Generalized Methods of Moments‐Quantile Regression (GMM‐QR). Finally, our results indicate that regulators in these developing countries should support adequate capital and liquidity management to lessen adverse economic shocks' impact on banks' intermediation capabilities and stability.
Endothelial cells release microvesicles that harbour multivesicular bodies and secrete exosomes
Authors: Petersen Jennifer D. , Mekhedov Elena , Kaur Sukhbir , Roberts David D. , Zimmerberg Joshua
Published: March 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by endothelial cells support vascular homeostasis. To better understand endothelial cell EV biogenesis, we examined cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) prepared by rapid freezing, freeze‐substitution, and serial thin section electron microscopy (EM). Thin sections of HUVECs revealed clusters of membrane protrusions on the otherwise smooth cell surface. The protrusions contained membrane‐bound organelles, including multivesicular bodies (MVBs), and appeared to be on the verge of pinching off to form microvesicles. Beyond cell peripheries, membrane‐bound vesicles with internal MVBs were observed, and serial sections confirmed that they were not connected to cells. These observations are consistent with the notion that these multi‐compartmented microvesicles (MCMVs) pinch‐off from protrusions. Remarkably, omega figures formed by fusion of vesicles with the MCMV limiting membrane were directly observed, apparently releasing exosomes from the MCMV. In summary, MCMVs are a novel form of EV that bud from membrane protrusions on the HUVEC surface, contain MVBs and release exosomes. These observations suggest that exosomes can be harboured within and released from transiting microvesicles after departure from the parent cell, constituting a new site of exosome biogenesis occurring from endothelial and potentially additional cell types.
Development of an electrochemical surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic biosensor for the direct detection of glutathione
Authors: Chotoye Sumayyah A. B. , Eisnor Maddison M. , Ball Rachael B. E. , Brosseau Christa L.
Published: March 2023

Glutathione is an important biological free radical scavenger, aiding in the prevention of oxidative stress in living organisms. A decrease in glutathione concentration in cells or bodily fluids is associated with serious health issues including certain cancers and Alzheimer's disease. Rapid detection and quantification of salivary glutathione could play a crucial role in healthcare monitoring as well as in therapeutic progress. This paper reports on the development of a direct electrochemical surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopic (EC‐SERS) method for the monitoring of glutathione deposited via drop casting from a prepared aqueous stock solution and measured in 0.1‐M sodium fluoride and in artificial saliva. The detection platform for this study is constructed by modifying the working electrode of a carbon screen‐printed electrode with silver nanoparticles of approximately 30 nm in diameter, followed by potassium chloride treatment to remove interfering citrate anions prior to analysis. The coupling of SERS and an applied electrochemical potential resulted in a significantly enhanced spectrum for glutathione compared with those previously reported. Vibrational mode assignment confirmed that glutathione was indeed in close proximity to the surface of the working electrode and had varying anchor points as the potential was stepped anodically. Quantitative analysis of glutathione in artificial saliva showed that the 653 cm−1 marker peak intensity varies linearly (R2 = 0.990) over the concentration of 0.005–1.00 mM on the modified electrode surface. The signal limit of detection of glutathione using EC‐SERS in artificial saliva was determined to be 5 μM. This direct and rapid EC‐SERS detection platform is promising for point‐of‐care diagnostics.
Characterizing quality traits of boiled yam: texture and taste for enhanced breeding efficiency and impact
Authors: Adinsi Laurent , Djibri‐Moussa Imayath , Honfozo Laurenda , Bouniol Alexandre , Meghar Karima , Alamu Emmanuel O. , Adesokan Michael , Arufe Santiago , Ofoeze Miriam , Okoye Benjamin , Madu Tessy , Hotègni Francis , Chijioke Ugo , Otegbayo Bolanle , Dufour Dominique , Hounhouigan Joseph D. , Ceballos Hernán , Mestres Christian , Akissoé Noël H.
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Boiled yam key quality attributes typical for West African consumers are that it is crumbly, easy to break and has a sweet taste. New yam varieties are being developed but high‐ or medium‐throughput tools to assess the required quality traits and their range of acceptance are limited. This study assessed the acceptance thresholds of these quality attributes and established predictive models for screening yam varieties that meet the required consumer preferences.

RESULTS

Overall liking was associated with sweet taste, crumbliness and easiness to break (r‐values 0.502, 0.291 and −0.087, respectively). These parameters and selected biophysical parameters highly discriminated the boiled yam varieties. Crumbly texture and easiness to break were well predicted by penetration force and dry matter, whereas sweet taste were well predicted by dry matter and sugar intensity. A high crumbliness and sweet taste are preferred (sensory scores above 6.19 and 6.22 for crumbly and sweet taste, respectively, on a 10 cm unstructured line scale), while a too high easiness to break is disliked (sensory scores ranging from 4.72 to 7.62). Desirable biophysical targets were between 5.1 and 7.1 N for penetration force, dry matter around 39% and sugar intensity below 3.62 g 100 g−1. Some improved varieties fulfilled the acceptable thresholds, and screening was improved through deviation from the optimum.

CONCLUSION

Acceptance thresholds and deviation from optimum for boiled yam assessed through the instrumental measurements are promising tools for yam breeders. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
InGaAs Geiger‐mode three‐dimensional image sensor for flash LIDAR
Authors: Mizuno Takahide , Ikeda Hirokazu , Makino Kenji , Tamura Yusei , Suzuki Yoshihito , Hashi Tatsuya , Baba Takashi , Adachi Shunsuke , Okumura Ryuji
Published: March 2023

Three‐dimensional (3D) image sensors are requested by planetary explorers to detect obstacles around landing sites during the landing process and to measure the relative distance and attitude of an orbiting spacecraft during rendezvous docking procedures. Three‐dimensional image sensors are also requested in many other fields, including as sensors for autonomous vehicles. In flash LIDAR, a sensor acquires 3D images using the diffuse emission of a pulsed laser, making it suitable for applications like obstacle detection and terrain measurement. We fabricated a prototype 3D image sensor with a temporal resolution of 500 ps and dimensions of 128 × 128 pixels using an InGaAs Geiger mode avalanche photodiode, which is capable of counting photons in the eye‐safe band, as the light receiving sensor. This report gives an overview of the prototype sensor and its functions, a detailed evaluation of its time measurement performance, and details of imaging experiments under sunlight.
Plasma formation in holmium:YAG laser lithotripsy
Authors: Pishchalnikov Yuri A. , Behnke‐Parks William M. , Stoller Marshall L.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

During holmium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (holmium:YAG) laser lithotripsy to break urinary stones, urologists frequently see flashes of light. As infrared laser pulses are invisible, what is the source of light? Here we studied the origin, characteristics, and some effects of flashes of light in laser lithotripsy.

Methods

Ultrahigh‐speed video‐microscopy was used to record single laser pulses at 0.2–1.0 J energy lasered with 242 µm glass‐core‐diameter fibers in contact with whole surgically retrieved urinary stones and hydroxyapatite (HA)‐coated glass slides in air and water. Acoustic transients were measured with a hydrophone. Visible‐light and infrared photodetectors resolved temporal profiles of visible‐light emission and infrared‐laser pulses.

Results

Temporal profiles of laser pulses showed intensity spikes of various duration and amplitude. The pulses were seen to produce dim light and bright sparks with submicrosecond risetime. The spark produced by the intensity spike at the beginning of laser pulse generated a shock wave in the surrounding liquid. The subsequent sparks were in a vapor bubble and generated no shock waves. Sparks enhanced absorption of laser radiation, indicative of plasma formation and optical breakdown. The occurrence and number of sparks varied even with the same urinary stone. Sparks were consistently observed at laser energy >0.5 J with HA‐coated glass slides. The slides broke or cracked by cavitation with sparks in 63 ± 15% of pulses (1.0 J, N = 60). No glass‐slide breakage occurred without sparks (1.0 J, N = 500).

Conclusion

Unappreciated in previous studies, plasma formation with free‐running long‐pulse holmium:YAG lasers can be an additional physical mechanism of action in laser procedures.