bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating a broken river: Understanding the ecological consequences of fragmentation on benthic life
Authors: Sofi Mohd Sharjeel , Bhat Sami Ullah , Muslim Mohd
Published: August 2023

Habitat fragmentation is emerging as a leading cause of biodiversity decline in riverine ecosystems. Several natural and human factors contribute to the fragmentation of rivers. River fragmentation is a growing problem that is widely spread and poses a significant challenge to the conservation of freshwater biodiversity, but its impact is not fully documented and acknowledged. Fragmentation impedes the movement of aquatic organisms and alters natural flow regimes, disrupting habitats and trophic supplies for aquatic biodiversity. It can also affect the adaptive ability of organisms to natural environmental changes, leading to a change in the structure and function of biotic communities. To understand the effects of fragmentation on river ecology, it is crucial to link its spatial and structural implications. This article examines the occurrence and frequency of fragmentation and its effects on the ecological community of benthic biota. This review aims to elucidate the overall effects of fragmentation on river ecology and recommends the possible measures to mitigate its impact. Urgent action is required to establish a comprehensive global network of free‐flowing river systems and revive previously exploited rivers in different regions to enhance the protection and sustainable utilization of river ecosystems.
SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern elicit divergent early immune responses in hACE2 transgenic mice
Authors: Fricke Charlie , Pfaff Florian , Ulrich Lorenz , Halwe Nico Joel , Schön Jacob , Timm Laura , Hoffmann Weda , Rauch Susanne , Petsch Benjamin , Hoffmann Donata , Beer Martin , Corleis Björn , Dorhoi Anca
Published: August 2023

Knowledge about early immunity to SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern mainly comes from the analysis of human blood. Such data provide limited information about host responses at the site of infection and largely miss the initial events. To gain insights into compartmentalization and the early dynamics of host responses to different SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, we utilized human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) transgenic mice and tracked immune changes during the first days after infection by RNAseq, multiplex assays, and flow cytometry. Viral challenge infection led to divergent viral loads in the lungs, distinct inflammatory patterns, and innate immune cell accumulation in response to ancestral SARS‐CoV‐2, Beta (B.1.351) and Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of concern (VOC). Compared to other SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, infection with Beta (B.1.351) VOC spread promptly to the lungs, leading to increased inflammatory responses. SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibodies and T cells developed within the first 7 days postinfection and were required to reduce viral spread and replication. Our studies show that VOCs differentially trigger transcriptional profiles and inflammation. This information contributes to the basic understanding of immune responses immediately postexposure to SARS‐CoV‐2 and is relevant for developing pan‐VOC interventions including prophylactic vaccines.
Individuals’ power determines how they respond to positive versus negative performance feedback
Authors: Straub Leila M. , Lin Enru , Tremonte‐Freydefont Laure , Schmid Petra C.
Published: August 2023

Performance feedback signals to people where they stand in their goal progress. Positive feedback suggests that one is on a good track to achieve a goal. Negative feedback indicates that another strategy or greater effort is required. However, not everyone reacts equally to such feedback. Through four studies using a variety of methods, we examined how individuals’ experience of power affects motivation and performance depending on whether they receive negative or positive performance feedback. While results were not completely uniform, a general pattern could be observed. Specifically, a meta‐analysis across all studies showed that negative feedback had an overall detrimental effect on motivation and performance of low‐power individuals but not of high‐power individuals. Positive feedback neither impacted low‐ nor high‐power individuals' motivation but increased low‐power individuals’ performance relative to their high‐power counterparts. Our findings imply that performance feedback needs to be tailored to the recipient's experience of power.
Rational design of bi‐phase CaV2O6/NaV6O15 cathode materials for long‐life aqueous zinc batteries
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Yi , Wu Xiang
Published: August 2023

Vanadium‐based compounds with various crystal structures are highly promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc‐based batteries. However, their further development is limited due to the low electrical conductivity, slow zinc ion diffusion, and weak structural stability. It is a feasible strategy to resolve above mentioned issues through surface modification. Herein, we design bi‐phase coexisting CaV2O6/NaV6O15 nanobelt structures with abundant interfaces, which provide more reactive sites than single‐phase ones. The samples as the electrode materials deliver a specific capacity of 312 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 2000 cycles. They still keep a capacity of 231 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1 with a cycle life of 6500 times.

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Efficient immobilization of acids into activated carbon for high durability and continuous desulfurization of diesel fuel
Authors: Hamad Khaleel I. , Humadi Jasim I. , Abdulkareem Hiba A. , Al‐Salihi Sara , Farhan Omar I.
Published: August 2023

Fuel contaminants are the most critical issues in human health, cars' engines life and performance, and refinery equipment, and have an ultimate consecutive economic negative impact over time. Nowadays, sulfur is considered as one of the most dangerous contaminants in fuel, and different approaches have been carried out for desulfurization processing. In this study, new modified activated carbon (AC) for adsorptive diesel fuel desulfurization is carried out. To increase the robustness and effectiveness of a continuous adsorptive desulfurization (ADS) process, the study provides a new surface modification technique of the AC. Real diesel fuel (RDF, sulfur content 7510 ppm) and model diesel fuel (MDF, dibenzothiophene content 637 ppm) were used in a series of ADS tests carried out in a fixed‐bed adsorption column under atmospheric pressure and temperature. To achieve zero emissions of diesel fuel, the process parameters were optimized using the experimental findings. The AC and modified AC were tested via Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Fourier Transform Infrared to evaluate the effect of the modification process on adsorbent characterization. The liquid hourly space velocity of the feedstock, the height of the absorber bed, and the kind of AC were the optimization parameters. In these circumstances, the ADS procedure was examined to address the impact of the feedstock flow rate on the effectiveness of ADS. The sulfur removal efficiency was 85.3% for RDF and 94% for MDF at 9 cm bed height, 8 h−1 LSHV, and 10 g bed weight, respectively. This is the first time that AC has been used to examine the stability of continuous ADS and to examine how acid immobilization affects sulfur removal. The investigation showed that the modified AC had a high rate of stability and was effective in the continuous ADS process. The spent modified AC was regenerated via a solvent extractive regeneration process to evaluate the durability of the ACs. The results proved that the regeneration performance of various solvents for modified activated carbon 1 decreases as follows: iso‐octane > ethanol > methanol > acetonitrile.
Cobalt hydroxide‐based electrodes for supercapacitors: Synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical performance optimization
Authors: Naeem Sajid , Shinde UP , Patil AV
Published: August 2023

Dopant‐free cobalt hydroxides were synthesized via electrochemical deposition techniques, employing various precursors. The process involved preparing an aqueous electrolyte with a 0.1 M concentration of the respective precursor at ambient temperature (27°C). The synthesis of cobalt hydroxides was carried out using a two‐electrode system, with a controlled potential of 0.5 V. After the successful synthesis of dopant‐free cobalt hydroxides using the electrochemical deposition techniques with different precursors, the next step involved investigating these cobalt hydroxide electrodes. For this purpose, a three‐electrode system was utilized to analyze their cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) characteristics. Furthermore, to gain deeper insights into the properties of the cobalt hydroxide thin films, thorough examination was conducted using various techniques. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to study the crystal structure, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe the surface morphology, and UV spectra to analyze the optical properties of the thin films. The investigations unveiled that the films displayed a crystalline nature with an average crystallite size of 40 nm. The morphology of the film appeared leaf‐like, and the particle size was measured to be 180 nm. Notably, the cobalt hydroxide electrodes demonstrated exceptional electrochemical performance. The specific capacitance, energy density, and power density of these electrodes were found to have average values of 1140 F/g, 142.5 Wh/kg, and 4.74 W/kg, respectively. These impressive results underscore the excellent performance and robust cycle stability of the cobalt hydroxide electrodes, making them highly promising for supercapacitor applications.
Sensorial, textural, and rheological analysis of novel pistachio‐based chocolate formulations by quantitative descriptive analysis
Authors: Mousazadeh Morad , Mousavi Mohammad , Emam‐Djomeh Zahra , Ali Ahmed Salar , Hadinezhad Mehri , Hassanzadeh Hamed
Published: August 2023

Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to investigate the effects of pistachio oil (7.5 and 15%), xanthan gum (0 and 0.3%), distillated monoglyceride (0.5 and 1%), and cocoa butter (7.5 and 15%) on the sensorial descriptors of spread based on pistachio oil. The response variables were the most significant spread texture attributes: hardness, graininess, meltability, adhesiveness to spoon, adhesiveness to mouth, spreadability, fluidity, and oiliness. PCA revealed that the first two principal components explained 90% or more of the variance between the data. The first principal component was dominated by the descriptors' adhesiveness and hardness on the positive side and the descriptors' oiliness and fluidness on the negative side. The descriptor spreadability had a high positive loading on the second principal component. Herschel–Balkley and power law models were fitted to confirm the sensory evaluation results on different formulations. In the current research, the power law model seemed to be more accurate for fitting the samples. In terms of the selected texture attributes determined by the sensory evaluation, using component plot, the optimum combination of variables was found as follows: 15 pistachio oil, 7.5% cocoa butter, 0.3% xanthan gum, and 1% distilled monoglyceride that produced desirable spreads that mimic commercial spread.
Endothelial senescence alleviates cognitive impairment in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Horibe Sayo , Emoto Takuo , Mizoguchi Taiji , Tanaka Toru , Kawauchi Shoji , Sasaki Naoto , Yamashita Tomoya , Ikeda Koji , Emoto Noriaki , Hirata Ken‐ichi , Rikitake Yoshiyuki
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is among the most prevalent age‐related neurodegenerative diseases. Endothelial cell (EC) senescence was discovered in the AD brain, but its function in AD pathogenesis was unidentified. Here we created an AD mouse model with EC senescence (APP/PS1;TERF2DN mice) by intercrossing APP/PS1 mice with Tie2 promoter‐driven dominant negative telomeric repeat‐binding factor 2 transgenic mice (TERF2DN‐Tg mice). We evaluated cognitive functions and AD brain pathology in APP/PS1;TERF2DN mice. Surprisingly, compared with the control APP/PS1 mice, APP/PS1;TERF2DN mice demonstrated the attenuation of cognitive impairment and amyloid‐β (Aβ) pathology, accompanied by the compaction of Aβ plaques with increased microglial coverage and reduced neurite dystrophy. Moreover, we evaluated whether EC senescence could affect microglial morphology and phagocytosis of Aβ. Compared with wild‐type mice, microglia in TERF2DN‐Tg mice display increased numbers of endpoints (a morphometric parameter to quantify the number of processes) and Aβ phagocytosis and related gene expression. Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing analysis showed that compared with APP/PS1 mouse microglia, APP/PS1;TERF2DN mouse microglia displayed a modest decline in disease‐associated microglia, accompanied by an altered direction of biological process branching from antigen synthesis and arrangement to ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis. Our outcomes indicate that EC senescence alters microglia toward a protective phenotype with a rise in phagocytic and barrier roles, and may offer a clue to create a novel preventive/therapeutic method to treat AD.
Indirect evidence for altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in very premature‐born adults
Authors: Schinz David , Schmitz‐Koep Benita , Zimmermann Juliana , Brandes Elin , Tahedl Marlene , Menegaux Aurore , Dukart Juergen , Zimmer Claus , Wolke Dieter , Daamen Marcel , Boecker Henning , Bartmann Peter , Sorg Christian , Hedderich Dennis M.
Published: August 2023

While animal models indicate altered brain dopaminergic neurotransmission after premature birth, corresponding evidence in humans is scarce due to missing molecular imaging studies. To overcome this limitation, we studied dopaminergic neurotransmission changes in human prematurity indirectly by evaluating the spatial co‐localization of regional alterations in blood oxygenation fluctuations with the distribution of adult dopaminergic neurotransmission. The study cohort comprised 99 very premature‐born (<32 weeks of gestation and/or birth weight below 1500 g) and 107 full‐term born young adults, being assessed by resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI) and IQ testing. Normative molecular imaging dopamine neurotransmission maps were derived from independent healthy control groups. We computed the co‐localization of local (rs‐fMRI) activity alterations in premature‐born adults with respect to term‐born individuals to different measures of dopaminergic neurotransmission. We performed selectivity analyses regarding other neuromodulatory systems and MRI measures. In addition, we tested if the strength of the co‐localization is related to perinatal measures and IQ. We found selectively altered co‐localization of rs‐fMRI activity in the premature‐born cohort with dopamine‐2/3‐receptor availability in premature‐born adults. Alterations were specific for the dopaminergic system but not for the used MRI measure. The strength of the co‐localization was negatively correlated with IQ. In line with animal studies, our findings support the notion of altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in prematurity which is associated with cognitive performance.
Prevalence and reasons to seek traditional healing methods among residents of two localities in North Kordofan State, Sudan 2022: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ahmed Ghassan E. Mustafa , Ahmed Exeer Yahia M. , Ahmed Ayat Eltahir , Hemmeda Lina , Birier Anmar B. , Abdelgadir Tibyan , Hassan Hadiea Mosaab AhmedElbashir , Alfadul Esraa S. A. , Bakr Musab , Sadig Ethar
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Traditional medicines are one of Africa's primary response mechanisms to medical emergencies, while, in other communities, all healthcare decisions are based on indigenous traditions and beliefs. For millions of individuals who reside in rural areas throughout low‐ and middle‐income nations, those healers serve as their only primary healthcare practitioners. This study intends to examine the availability, preferences, and practices of traditional medicine seeking among the Sudanese of North Kordofan state.

Method

A descriptive cross‐sectional study was carried out in two conveniently chosen localities in North Kordofan state, namely Barrah, and Shaikan. A structured questionnaire with three sections—sociodemographic, attitudes, and forms of traditional medical practices—was used for face‐to‐face interviews with the residents. The frequency (n) and percentage (%) of categorical data are presented. The Chi‐square and Fischer exact tests were performed to determine characteristics related to traditional medicine practice and the preferred type of medicine among participants; apvalue of.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 302 residents took part in the study, with the 15–30 age group constituting the majority. The majority of participants (89.1%) used traditional medicine, and the majority of them (92.4%) learned about it from their families. The major type of traditional medicine (60.3%) used was a medical herbs–herb practitioner. Cultural influences (57%) and the effectiveness of traditional medicines (48.3%) were the most common reasons for seeking those medicines.

Conclusion

Most participants seek traditional medicine, with traditional herbs and holy recitation commonly used. Affordability, therapeutic effectiveness, and cultural and religious influence were reasons for preferring traditional medicine.
Investigation of the influencing factors with the uptake of the COVID‐19 vaccine booster dose among the general population of Ardabil, Iran: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: NeJhaddadgar Nazila , Jafarzadeh Mohammad , Khazir Zahra , Yoosefi Lebni Javad , Rostami Mohammad , Janjani Parisa , Ziapour Arash
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Vaccination is one of the most efficient approaches to combating COVID‐19 if it is adequately embraced by the general population. Numerous factors influence the uptake or refusal of the booster dose. The goal of this study was to look at the different factors that affect how the general population in Ardabil feels about getting vaccine boosters (annual boosters) for COVID‐19 and to evaluate those feelings.

Methods and Materials

In the city of Ardabil, general population, perceptions towards the COVID‐19 vaccine booster (annual boosters) dose were evaluated using a cross‐sectional survey design between January 2 and March 25, 2022. A questionnaire was developed and filled out by 662 subjects via phone calls from healthcare providers. Descriptive statistics, the Chi‐square test, the correlation coefficient, and regression analysis were run for the analysis of quantitative data.

Results

The findings of the research revealed that 238 participants, or 35.9%, had previously gotten the booster dose of the COVID‐19 vaccination, while 198 participants, or 29.2%, expressed a desire to do so as soon as feasible. A total of 187 (28.2%) respondents reported not wanting to get a booster dose, and 39 (5.7%) could not decide. In the factors found to affect decisions not to accept regular doses, adverse effects (45.4%) and the presence of misinformation (30%) were the most important. Regression in educational achievement, and following the COVID‐19 news showed to be the major predictors of the subjects' attitudes toward the regular COVID‐19 vaccine.

Conclusion

The present findings revealed that low confidence in the efficiency of the booster shot and misinformation are two critical factors to consider in educational planning and interventions.
Functional status and quality of life in post‐COVID‐19 patients two to three weeks after hospitalization: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Qorolli Merita , Beqaj Samire , Ibrahimi‐Kaçuri Dafinë , Murtezani Ardiana , Krasniqi Valon , Mačak Hadžiomerović Amra
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Extended hospitalization due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is associated with residual musculoskeletal and functional deficits lasting even 6 months after discharge; therefore, it is crucial that post‐hospitalized patients are promptly assessed. The aim of this study was to identify post‐COVID‐19 patients' functional status and quality of life, as well as to investigate their inter‐relatedness 2–3 weeks after hospital discharge.

Methods

The study included 39 post‐COVID‐19 patients previously hospitalized in the Clinic for Infectious Diseases at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK) from August to December 2021. Physiotherapeutic assessment encompassed socio‐demographic and clinical data including Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) for physical functional performance, hand grip strength, 6‐min Walk Test (6MWT) for aerobic capacity and endurance, EuroQol 5‐Dimension 5‐Level (EQ‐5D‐5L) for quality of life, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Borg CR10 for dyspnea, peripheral oxygen saturation and heart rate. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were utilized for data processing.

Results

The median (interquartile range [IQR]) for Borg CR10, VAS pain scale, total SPPB, grip strength, and 6MWT were 1 (0–3), 3 (1–6), 9 (8–10), 30.5 (23.2–43.5) kg, 344.5 (312.7–381.7) m respectively, while the mean (SD) for EQ‐5D‐5L index value was 0.7 (0.2). The strongest and most significant correlation was depicted between SPPB total score and its subscales, followed by correlation with EQ‐5D‐5L (r = 0.719, p < 0.001), grip strength (r = 0.612 p < 0.001), Borg CR10 (r = −0.515, p = 0.001), 6MWT (r = 0.416, p = 0.02), and VAS scale (r = −0.343, p = 0.03). Using the multiple regression analysis, the grip strength, Borg‐CR10, and 6MWT were found to be strongly predictive of SPPB total score.

Conclusion

In post‐COVID‐19 patients' functional status and quality of life were impaired 2–3 weeks following hospitalization. SPPB showed the most frequent and significant correlation with other variables, hence it should be considered as one of the primary screening tools.
Energy–irrigation conundrum in India's green revolution states
Authors: Khara Deepratan Singh , Ghuman Ranjit Singh
Published: August 2023

Energy consumption patterns have evolved as a crucial component of the groundwater irrigation economy in India's green revolution states of Punjab and Haryana. A major contributor to the exponential growth of groundwater irrigation and its overexploitation is the availability of free (in Punjab) and almost free (in Haryana) electricity for tube wells. Using empirical analysis, this study assesses the link between energy consumption and irrigation practices among farmers with different landholdings at both interstate and intrastate levels. Without power subsidies, the average cost of operating an electric tube well irrigation system for rice is estimated at US$361 (₹25,400) per hectare in Punjab and US$675 (₹47,500) in Haryana. For wheat, the calculated cost comes to US$70 (₹4900) per hectare in Punjab and US$172 (₹12,100) in Haryana. In both crops, variations in energy consumption were observed at all levels across different regions and farmer groups in both states.
Alpha‐emitters and targeted alpha therapy in cancer treatment
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Qin Shanshan , Yang Mengdie , Zhang Xiaoyi , Zhang Shenghong , Yu Fei
Published: August 2023

Alpha emitters are radionuclides with good pharmacological characteristics for the treatment of cancer because they decay by emitting high linear energy transfer particles. Recent advancements in isotope production and purification and the generation of novel techniques for optimum targeting have led to the development of targeted alpha therapy (TAT). The great cytotoxic potential of α‐particle emissions combined with monoclonal antibodies, peptides, small compounds, or nanoparticles has led to investigations of TAT in the pre‐clinical context and more recently, in oncology clinical trials. Numerous studies have shown that TAT is effective both in vitro and in vivo. The first α‐emitter to obtain FDA approval for the treatment of prostate cancer with metastatic bone lesions was radium‐223 dichloride. Many clinical trials are being conducted to evaluate the efficiency and safety of several radionuclides in cancer treatment, including radium‐223, astatine‐211, actinium‐225, bismuth‐213, lead‐212, and thorium‐227. This review provides an overview of the therapeutic use of these radionuclides and a summary of the studies that lay the groundwork for future clinical advancement.
Loss of Prom1 impairs autophagy and promotes epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in mouse retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Bhattacharya Sujoy , Yin Jinggang , Huo Weihong , Chaum Edward
Published: August 2023

Mutations in the Prominin‐1 (Prom1) gene disrupt photoreceptor disk morphogenesis, leading to macular dystrophies. We have shown that human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) homeostasis is under the control of Prom1‐dependent autophagy, demonstrating that Prom1 plays different roles in the photoreceptors and RPE. It is unclear if retinal and macular degeneration caused by the loss of Prom1 function is a cell‐autonomous feature of the RPE or a generalized disease of photoreceptor degeneration. In this study, we investigated whether Prom1 is required for mouse RPE (mRPE) autophagy and phagocytosis, which are cellular processes essential for photoreceptor survival. We found that Prom1‐KO decreases autophagy flux, activates mTORC1, and concomitantly decreases transcription factor EB (TFEB) and Cathepsin‐D activities in mRPE cells. In addition, Prom1‐KO reduces the clearance of bovine photoreceptor outer segments in mRPE cells due to increased mTORC1 and reduced TFEB activities. Dysfunction of Prom1‐dependent autophagy correlates with both a decrease in ZO‐1 and E‐cadherin and a concomitant increase in Vimentin, SNAI1, and ZEB1 levels, consistent with induction of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in Prom1‐KO mRPE cells. Our results demonstrate that Prom1‐mTORC1‐TFEB signaling is a central driver of cell‐autonomous mRPE homeostasis. We show that Prom1‐KO in mRPE leads to RPE defects similar to that seen in atrophic age‐related macular degeneration and opens new avenues of investigation targeting Prom1 in retinal degenerative diseases.
Efficient synthesis of 3‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐dihydroquinolines via tandem aza‐Michael addition/cyclizations of N‐acyl‐protected 2‐aminobenzaldehyde with vinyl sulfones
Authors: Wang Kai‐Kai , Liu Guo‐Yan , Li Yan‐Li , Zhou Wen‐Wen , Ye Jun‐Wei , Jia Yan‐Zhi , Chen Rongxiang , Wang Zhan‐Yong
Published: August 2023

A mild and effective method for the synthesis of 3‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐dihydroquinolines from N‐acyl‐protected 2‐aminobenzaldehyde with vinyl sulfones has been established. This reaction could rapidly proceed and exhibit different reactivity when employed the vinyl sulfones as nucleophile on aza‐Michael addition/cyclization reaction, allow for the production of 1,2‐DHQs in high yields up to 95%. In addition, the chemical structure of the product was confirmed by x‐ray single‐crystal structure analysis.
Characterization of Age‐Related and Sex‐Related Differences of Relaxation Parameters in the Intervertebral Disc Using MR‐Fingerprinting
Authors: Menon Rajiv G. , Monga Anmol , Kijowski Richard , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: August 2023

Background

Multiparameter characterization using MR fingerprinting (MRF) can quantify multiple relaxation parameters of intervertebral disc (IVD) simultaneously. These parameters may vary by age and sex.

Purpose

To investigate age‐ and sex‐related differences in the relaxation parameters of the IVD of the lumbar spine using a multiparameter MRF technique.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

17 healthy subjects (8 male; mean age = 34 ± 10 years, range 20–60 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

3D‐MRF sequence for simultaneous acquisition of proton density, T1, T2, and T1ρ maps at 3.0T.

Assessment

Global mean T1, T2, and T1ρ of all lumbar IVDs and mean T1, T2, and T1ρ of each individual IVD (L1–L5) were measured. Gray level co‐occurrence matrix was used to quantify textural features (median, contrast, correlation, energy, and homogeneity) from T1, T2, and T1ρ maps.

Statistical Tests

Spearman rank correlations (R) evaluated the association between age and T1, T2, and T1ρ of IVD. Mann–Whitney U‐tests evaluated differences between males and females in T1, T2, and T1ρ of IVD. Statistical significance was defined as P‐value <0.05.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between age and global mean values of all IVDs for T1 (R = −0.637), T2 (R = −0.509), and T1ρ (R = −0.726). For individual IVDs, there was a significant negative correlation between age and mean T1 at all IVD segments (R range = −0.530 to −0.708), between age and mean T2 at L2‐L3, L3‐L4, and L4‐L5 (R range = −0.493 to 0.640), and between age and mean T1ρ at all segments except L1‐L2 (R range = −0.632 to −0.763). There were no significant differences between sexes in global mean T1, T2, and T1ρ (P‐value = 0.23–0.76) The texture features with the highest significant correlations with age for all IVDs were global T1ρ mean (R = −0.726), T1 energy (R = −0.681), and T1 contrast (R = 0.709).

Conclusion

This study showed that the 3D‐MRF technique has potential to characterize age‐related differences in T1, T2, or T1ρ of IVD in healthy subjects.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Assessment of the Added Value of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion‐Weighted MR Imaging in Identifying Non‐Diabetic Renal Disease in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhou Shao‐Peng , Wang Qian , Chen Pu , Zhai Xue , Zhao Jian , Bai Xu , Li Lin , Guo Hui‐Ping , Ning Xue‐Yi , Zhang Xiao‐Jing , Ye Hui‐Yi , Dong Zhe‐Yi , Chen Xiang‐Mei , Wang Hai‐Yi
Published: August 2023

Background

Identification of non‐diabetic renal disease (NDRD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may help tailor treatment. Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion‐weighted imaging (IVIM‐DWI) is a promising tool to evaluate renal function but its potential role in the clinical differentiation between diabetic nephropathy (DN) and NDRD remains unclear.

Purpose

To investigate the added role of IVIM‐DWI in the differential diagnosis between DN and NDRD in patients with T2DM.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Sixty‐three patients with T2DM (ages: 22–69 years, 17 females) confirmed by renal biopsy divided into two subgroups (28 DN and 35 NDRD).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T/ T2 weighted imaging (T2WI), and intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion‐weighted imaging (IVIM‐DWI).

Assessment

The parameters derived from IVIM‐DWI (true diffusion coefficient [D], pseudo‐diffusion coefficient [D*], and pseudo‐diffusion fraction [f]) were calculated for the cortex and medulla, respectively. The clinical indexes related to renal function (eg cystatin C, etc.) and diabetes (eg diabetic retinopathy [DR], fasting blood glucose, etc.) were measured and calculated within 1 week before MRI scanning. The clinical model based on clinical indexes and the IVIM‐based model based on IVIM parameters and clinical indexes were established and evaluated, respectively.

Statistical Tests

Student's t‐test; Mann–Whitney U test; Fisher's exact test; Chi‐squared test; Intraclass correlation coefficient; Receiver operating characteristic analysis; Hosmer–Lemeshow test; DeLong's test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The cortex D*, DR, and cystatin C values were identified as independent predictors of NDRD in multivariable analysis. The IVIM‐based model, comprising DR, cystatin C, and cortex D*, significantly outperformed the clinical model containing only DR, and cystatin C (AUC = 0.934, 0.845, respectively).

Data Conclusion

The IVIM parameters, especially the renal cortex D* value, might serve as novel indicators in the differential diagnosis between DN and NDRD in patients with T2DM.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Early predictors of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder symptom trajectories in U.S. Army soldiers deployed to the Iraq war zone
Authors: Vasterling Jennifer J. , Franz Molly R. , Lee Lewina O. , Kaiser Anica Pless , Proctor Susan P. , Marx Brian P. , Schnurr Paula P. , Ko John , Concato John , Aslan Mihaela
Published: August 2023

The course of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms varies among veterans of war zones, but sources of variation in long‐term symptom course remain poorly understood. Modeling of symptom growth trajectories facilitates the understanding of predictors of individual outcomes over time. Although growth mixture modeling (GMM) has been applied to military populations, few studies have incorporated both predeployment and follow‐up measurements over an extended time. In this prospective study, 1,087 U.S. Army soldiers with varying military occupational specialties and geographic locations were assessed before and after deployment to the Iraq war zone, with long‐term follow‐up assessment occurring at least 5 years after return from deployment. The primary outcome variable was the PTSD Checklist–Civilian Version summary score. GMM yielded four latent profiles, characterized as primarily asymptomatic (n = 194, 17.8%); postdeployment worsening symptoms (n = 84, 7.7%); mild symptoms (n = 320, 29.4%); and preexisting, with a chronic postdeployment elevation of symptoms (n = 489, 45.0%). Regression models comparing the primarily asymptomatic class to the symptomatic classes revealed that chronic symptom classes were associated with higher degrees of stress exposure, less predeployment social support, military reservist or veteran status at the most recent assessment, and poorer predeployment visual memory, ORs = 0.98–2.90. PTSD symptom course varies considerably over time after military deployment and is associated with potentially modifiable biopsychosocial factors that occur early in its course in addition to exposures and military status.
A Survey of Microvascular Technique Preferences Among American Head Neck Society Members
Authors: Philips Ramez , Best Keisha A. , Agarwal Aarti , Sagheer Hamad , Selman Yamil , Sweeney Larissa , Wax Mark , Krein Howard , Heffelfinger Ryan , Luginbuhl Adam , Curry Joseph
Published: August 2023

Objective

To identify practices in microvascular techniques in routine and challenging scenarios.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A national survey addressing practices related to microvascular free flap reconstruction was distributed to AHNS members between October and November 2021.

Results

The respondents encompassed 95 microvascular surgeons. Median years of practice was 6 (interquartile range, 2–13) and median flaps per year was 35 (22–50). Common practices in arterial anastomosis included limited cleaning of artery (84.2%), use of a double approximating clamp (64.2%), and use of interrupted suture (88.4%). Common practices in venous anastomosis included limited cleaning (89.5%), downsizing the coupler (53.7%), and coupling to two independent venous systems (47.4%). In arterial anastomosis, respondents felt that kinking (50.5%) and tension (24.2%) were the riskiest challenges. Kinking was handled by loose sutures or native tissue/dissolvable biomaterial to orient pedicle. Excess tension was handled by additional dissection. With regards to associated practices, most surgeons perform anastomosis after partial inset (52.6%), give aspirin immediately postoperatively (66.3%), reserve transfusion for hemodynamic instability (69.5%), and utilize intraoperative pressors when needed (72.6%). More senior surgeons reported placing more suture to address leaks (p = 0.004) and perform end to side anastomosis on larger vein in case of venous mismatch (p = 0.012). In cases of tension, higher volume surgeons perform more extensive dissection (p = 0.035) and end to side coupling (p = 0.029).

Conclusions

This survey of AHNS members indicates patterns of microvascular techniques in routine and challenging scenarios. There exists a variation in approaches amongst surgeons based on volume and practice length.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 134:1265–1277, 2024
Incidental Thyroid Tissue in Sentinel Nodes From Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Schilling Clare , Collins Lisette , Farrow Adrian , McGurk Mark , Bisase Brian , Kerawala Cyrus , Wan Simon , Hall Gill , Thavaraj Selvam
Published: August 2023

Objective

Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) is a surgical staging test in which sentinel nodes (SNs) undergo intensive histological analysis. SNB diagnoses early cancer spread, but can also reveal unexpected findings within the SNs. We review cases of incidental thyroid cells (TC) found in SNs from patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to assess the prevalence of TC, and the clinical significance of these.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective review of SNB performed for cT1‐T2N0 OSCC. Incidental TC were identified by TTF‐1 or thyroglobulin positivity. Anatomical location of nodes containing TC, TC morphology, and ongoing management/follow up of this incidental finding was recorded. Neck dissections performed during the same period were reviewed to establish the expected incidence of TC in neck nodes without serial sectioning analysis.

Results

278 SNB cases were reviewed. Ten procedures detected TC in nine patients (10/278, 3.6%). During the same time period 725 neck dissections were performed, six containing TCs (6/725, 0.8%). One patient underwent SNB twice with TC identified on both occasions. Three patients had both OSCC metastasis and thyroid cells. All SNB patients with TC identified underwent thyroid USS with no primary tumours identified. Three patients underwent thyroidectomy, in all cases no primary thyroid tumour was found.

Conclusion

Prevalence of incidental TC in SNs appears to be higher than that reported in neck dissections, these are not likely to be clinically relevant and can be managed on a conservative basis in the absence of clear metastatic features.

Level of Evidence

Multicentre retrospective cohort study, 3 Laryngoscope, 134:1278–1281, 2024
Hourglass‐like constrictions on MRI are common in electromyography‐confirmed cases of neuralgic amyotrophy (Parsonage–Turner syndrome): A tertiary referral center experience
Authors: Sneag Darryl B. , Urban Casey , Li Tim Y. , Colucci Philip G. , Pedrick Emily G. , Nimura Clare A. , Feinberg Joseph H. , Milani Carlo J. , Tan Ek T.
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Aims

Hourglass‐like constrictions (HGCs) of involved nerves in neuralgic amyotrophy (NA) (Parsonage–Turner syndrome) have been increasingly recognized with magnetic resonance neurography (MRN). This study sought to determine the sensitivity of HGCs, detected by MRN, among electromyography (EMG)‐confirmed NA cases.

Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed records of patients with the clinical diagnosis of NA, and with EMG confirmation, who underwent 3‐Tesla MRN within 90 days of EMG at a single tertiary referral center between 2011 and 2021. “Severe NA” positive cases were defined by a clinical diagnosis and specific EMG criteria: fibrillation potentials or positive sharp waves, along with motor unit recruitment (MUR) grades of “discrete” or “none.” On MRN, one or more HGCs, defined as focally decreased nerve caliber or diffusely beaded appearance, was considered “imaging‐positive.” Post hoc inter‐rater reliability for HGCs was measured by comparing the original MRN report against subsequent blinded interpretation by a second radiologist.

Results

A total of 123 NA patients with 3‐Tesla MRN performed within 90 days of EMG were identified. HGCs were observed in 90.2% of all NA patients. In “severe NA” cases, based on the above EMG criteria, HGC detection resulted in a sensitivity of 91.9%. Nerve‐by‐nerve analysis (183 nerve‐muscle pairs, nerves assessed by MRN, muscles assessed by EMG) showed a sensitivity of 91.0%. The second radiologist largely agreed with the original HGC evaluation, (94.3% by subjects, 91.8% by nerves), with no significant difference between evaluations (subjects: χ2 = 2.27, P = .132, nerves: χ2 = 0.98, P = .323).

Discussion

MRN detection of HGCs is common in NA.
Speculating on social life
Authors: Kristiansen Mathias Levi Toft
Published: August 2023

This article addresses how a group of people in the San Francisco Bay Area turns social encounters into opportunities to make money. This group participated in sales schemes known as multi‐level marketing (MLM). MLM companies use a sales model in which participants earn money by selling products on behalf of companies while also recruiting people to join the companies as fellow salespeople. MLM participants earn financial commissions through selling products and recruiting others to join their network, leading them to hunt for new customers in public spaces or among existing social connections. The subjects of the study perceived social life as a commercial opportunity that could lead to financial gain, deliberately turning Saturday morning at the farmers' market or Sunday night dinner at a restaurant into an opportunity to recruit new customers. I interpret these activities as a form of social speculation: MLM participants invested their time in relationships that may 1 day be profitable, but they never knew whether their efforts would succeed. The potential to make money from social encounters was a constant motivator. Social speculation is an expression of a development in the United States in which people perceive social relationships in terms of economic potential because of precarious market conditions.
Salt‐inducible kinases are required for glucose uptake and insulin signaling in human adipocytes
Authors: Säll Johanna , Lindahl Maria , Fritzen Andreas M. , Fryklund Claes , Kopietz Franziska , Nyberg Emma , Warvsten Anna , Morén Björn , Foretz Marc , Kiens Bente , Stenkula Karin G. , Göransson Olga
Published: August 2023

Objective

Salt‐inducible kinase 2 (SIK2) is abundantly expressed in adipocytes and downregulated in adipose tissue from individuals with obesity or insulin resistance. The main aims of this work were to investigate the involvement of SIKs in the regulation of glucose uptake in primary mature human adipocytes and to identify mechanisms underlying this regulation.

Methods

Primary mature adipocytes were isolated from human, rat, or mouse adipose tissue and treated with pan‐SIK inhibitors. Adipocytes isolated from wild type, ob/ob, and SIK2 knockout mice were also used. Glucose uptake was examined by glucose tracer assay. The insulin signaling pathway was monitored by Western blotting, co‐immunoprecipitation, and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy.

Results

This study demonstrates that SIK2 is downregulated in obese ob/ob mice and that SIK activity is required for intact glucose uptake in primary human and mouse adipocytes. The underlying mechanism involves direct effects on the insulin signaling pathway, likely at the level of phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)‐trisphosphate (PIP3) generation or breakdown. Moreover, lack of SIK2 alone is sufficient to attenuate glucose uptake in mouse adipocytes.

Conclusions

SIK2 is required for insulin action in human adipocytes, and the mechanism includes direct effects on the insulin signaling pathway.
Preparing microcrystalline cellulose‐reinforced polylactic acid composites by an energy saving method
Authors: Jia Xue , Cui Boyu , Li Shuang , Xie Hao , Wang Weihong , Cui Yutong , Ding Jiayan , Zhang Xianquan , Song Yongming
Published: August 2023

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) fibers are co mmonly used to reinforce polymers; however, their freeze‐drying process consumes a lot of energy. In this study, MCC dried at different temperatures, oven‐dried at 25, 50, 75, and 103°C and freeze‐dried, was evaluated based on their effect on the reinforced composites. The dried MCC was compounded with polylactic acid (PLA) by melt extrusion and compressed into an MCC/PLA composite film. The morphology, structure, and crystallinity of the dried MCCs and MCC/PLA composites were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, laser particle size analysis, x‐ray diffraction, mechanical testing, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was proved that MCC dried at 103°C was more uniformly dispersed and tightly bound to the PLA matrix than freeze‐dried MCC. Tensile measurements showed that the MCC dried at 103°C had nearly the same tensile strength (58.35 MPa) as that of the freeze‐dried MCC (58.7 MPa) and was higher than that of the other oven‐dried MCC. Energy consumption evaluation revealed that oven‐drying consumed much less energy than freeze‐drying MCC for 24 h to obtain the same final moisture content. MCC dried at 103°C has significantly better properties than MCC dried at 25, 50, and 75°C, similar to freeze‐drying. Concerning performance and energy consumption, drying at 103°C is determined the optimal choice to support the preparation of MCC‐reinforced PLA composites.

Highlights

Drying temperature effects aggregation of MCC.

MCC Dried at 103°C can present similar properties to freeze‐dried MCC but save more energy.

Oven‐drying can be a good way to dry MCC for the preparation of MCC/PLA composite.
Enhanced mechanical properties of poly(vinyl chloride) using hexene‐doping graphitic nanoplatelets
Authors: Yoon Seo Jeong , Baek Jaehoon , Baek Jong‐Beom , Jeon In‐Yup
Published: August 2023

Hexene‐doping graphitic nanoplatelets (HxGNs), as a new filler, have extraordinary properties (e.g., hexene‐functionalization, wedge‐shaped pore, high specific surface areas, and so on), and interfacial interactions with hydrophobic polymers. Thus, the HxGNs sufficiently increase the mechanical properties of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). HxGN@PVC_X nanocomposites can be prepared easily with a solution casting method because the HxGNs are well dispersed in tetrahydrofuran. The tensile strength, Young's modulus, toughness, and strain‐to‐failure of HxGN@PVC_5 nanocomposites increase by approximately 33.1%, 27.3%, 58.6%, and 40.5%, respectively, compared with pure PVC. Especially, the low toughness of PVC, which hinders practical applications, has been greatly improved. The improved performance is from the outstanding properties of the HxGNs and the excellent interfacial interactions between the HxGNs and PVC chain. As a result, HxGNs as a filler act as a reinforcing agent and plasticizer for the PVC matrix.

Highlights

The performance of the HxGN@PVC_5 nanocomposites is increased.

The HxGN into PVC matrix is effective to overcome the disadvantages of PVC.

A mechanochemical reaction can make graphitic nanoplatelets with specific groups.

Graphitic nanoplatelets with specific groups can be used as new filler.