bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Efficacy of 4% Articaine and 0.5% Bupivacaine and 2% Lignocaine Anaesthetic agents in Orthodontic Extractions-A Prospective Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Srinivasulu Yandeti , Wahab Abdul , Murugan P. Senthil
Published: August 2021

Aim: Articaine, bupivacaine, lignocaine are amide type of local anesthetic agents, which are of almost equal potency. However, lidocaine is considered the gold standard and is the most widely used anesthetic agent because of its potency, safety, and efficiency. Articaine is fast acting and bupivacaine is long lasting local anaesthesia. The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate and compare the clinical anesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine and 0.5% bupivacaine and 2% lignocaine in therapeutic orthodontic extractions.

Materials and Methods: A 150 healthy patients, requiring Maxillary premolars extraction for orthodontic reasons were included. Patients were categorized into three groups (4% articaine and 0.5% bupivacaine, 2% lignocaine) in a crossover manner. Subjective and objective observations recorded that include age, gender, and pain score using visual analog scale. At the first appointment, both upper premolars were extracted on one or two sides of the jaws. Each patient was evaluated using a visual analogue scale.

Results: The results showed that 0.5% Bupivacaine had significantly faster onset of action and lower visual analogue scores when compared with articaine and lignocaine. However, the duration of analgesia and need of first rescue analgesic medication was longer in the bupivacaine group.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of study we found that Bupivacaine has the best anaesthetic effect with low pain scores followed by Articaine and followed by Lignocaine. Bupivacaine is an alternative local anaesthetic drug for performing therapeutic orthodontic extractions.
Improved Efficacy and Stability of Silymarin Loaded Nanocochleates Over Liposomes for the Treatment of Skin Diseases
Authors: Rub Rukhsana , Munot Neha , Wadate Akshay
Published: August 2021

Aim: Silymarin, a complex polyphenolic component mixture with anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and membrane-stabilizing property is being investigated in several dermatological conditions. Present research aims to evaluate potential of silymarin loaded nanocochleates and liposomal  topical application for treating chronic skin diseases.

Study Design: Silymarin loaded liposomes and nanocochleates were formulated and optimized using Design Expert software. Different invitro and exvivo tests were performed to compare their performance.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Pune, India, between January 2019 till February 2020.

Methodology: Liposomes were prepared using ethanol injection method and further treated with calcium chloride to form nanocochleates by trapping method. Design of experiments (32 Factorial Design) was used for optimization of nanocochleates. Cell line studies (HaCaT cell lines) and short term stability studies were performed to compare the efficacy and stability respectively.

Results: Particle size, entrapment efficiency and drug deposition in Wistar Rat Skin was found to be statistically significant for nanocochleates over liposomes proving superiority of cochleates. Both the carriers sustained release of silymarin for 24h. Antimicrobial efficacy of nanocochleates against E.coli and S.aureus was significant. Inhibition of hyper proliferation of HaCaT cell lines (key mechanism by which most of the antipsoriatic drugs act) demonstrated the superiority of nanocochleates over liposomes.The nanocochleates also displayed better stability compared to liposomes due to  decreased entrapment efficacy and  leakage of drug.

Conclusion: Silymarin loaded Nanocochleates could prove as a promising topical drug delivery system for the treatment of chronic skin diseases like psoriasis.
Analysis of Accommodation Gain of Presbyopia Eye After Laser Ablation (or Shrinkage) of Sclera Via Lens Reshaping and Lens Anterior Shift
Authors: Lin Jui-Teng
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To derive and provide analytic formulas for an accommodative gain of presbyopia eyes. via sclera ablation and/or thermal shrinkage such that the lens is reshaped and/or its position is shifted. New mechanisms are also proposed.

Study Design: To increase the accommodation of presbyopia.

Place and Duration of Study: New Taipei City, Taiwan, between June 2021 and July 2021.

Methodology: Accommodation gain is calculated by a 4-component theory, in which the rate functions are derived by an effective eye model for the change of anterior curvature of the lens and its anterior shift. The measured data of accommodative response of the lens versus the lens curvature change and anterior shift are analyzed. The measured net change of the posterior vitreal zonules (PVZ) length and the space between the ciliary body and lens (CLS) during the accommodation are also analyzed.

Results: The accommodative gain (AG) is mainly due to the change of lens anterior curvature and its anterior shift. The AG per diopter change of the reshaped lens is 0.62 to 0.68 by our formulas, comparing to the measured average value M'=0.69.The efficacy of LASA (or AG) is proportional to the amount of scleral tissue removed (or shrinkaged), such that more space is produced for the change of PVZ and CLS from a UCS to AS for accommodation.

Conclusion: The AG is proportional to the amount of scleral tissue removed (or shrinkaged), such that more space is produced for the change of PVZ and CLS from a UCS to AS for accommodation.
A Novel Synthetic Nano-Catalyst (Ag2O3/Zeolite) for High Quality of Light Naphtha by Batch Oxidative Desulfurization Reactor
Authors: Nawaf Amer Talal , Hameed Shymaa Ali , Abdulateef Layth T. , Jarullah Aysar Talib , Kadhim Mohammed S. , Mujtaba Iqbal M.
Published: August 2021

Oxidative desulfurization process (ODS), enhanced with a novel metal oxide (Ag ions) as an active component over nano-zeolite that has not been reported in the literature, is used here to improve the fuel quality by removing mercaptan (as a model sulfur compound in the light naphtha). Nano-crystalline (nano-support (Nano-zeolite)) composite is prepared by Incipient Wetness Impregnation method loaded with a metal salt to obtain 0.5, 1 and 1.5% of Ag2O3 over Nano-zeolite. The new homemade nano-catalysts (Ag2O3/Nano-zeolite) prepared are characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) (surface area, pore volume and pore size), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. The ODS process is then used to evaluate the performance of the catalysts for the removal of sulfur at different reaction temperatures (80–140 °C) and reaction times (30–50 min) in a batch reactor using the air as oxidant. 87.4% of sulfur removal has been achieved using 1% silver oxide loaded on Nano zeolite (1% of Ag2O3/Nano-zeolite) giving a clear indication that our newly designed catalyst is highly efficient catalyst  in the removal of sulfur compound (mercaptan) from naphtha. A new mechanism of chemical reaction for sulfur removal by oxygen using the new homemade catalyst (Ag2O3/Nano-zeolite) prepared has been suggested in this study. The best kinetic model parameters of the relevant reactions are also estimated in this study using pseudo first order technique based on the experimental results. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Proline‐rich extensin‐like receptor kinases PERK5 and PERK12 are involved in pollen tube growth
Authors: Borassi Cecilia , Sede Ana R. , Mecchia Martín A. , Mangano Silvina , Marzol Eliana , Denita‐Juarez Silvina P. , Salgado Salter Juan D. , Velasquez Silvia M. , Muschietti Jorge P. , Estevez José M.
Published: August 2021

Proline‐rich extensin‐like receptor kinases (PERKs) belong to the hydroxyproline‐rich glycoprotein (HRGP) superfamily known to be involved in many plant developmental processes. Here, we characterized two pollen‐expressed PERKs from Arabidopsis thaliana, PERK5 and PERK12. Pollen tube growth was impaired in single and double perk5‐1 perk12‐1 loss of function mutants, with an impact on seed production. When the segregation was analysed, a male gametophytic defect was found, indicating that perk5‐1 and perk12‐1 mutants carry deficient pollen transmission. Furthermore, perk5‐1 perk12‐1 displayed an excessive accumulation of pectins and cellulose at the cell wall of the pollen tubes. Our results indicate that PERK5 and PERK12 are necessary for proper pollen tube growth, highlighting their role in cell wall assembly and reactive oxygen species homeostasis.
Nonlinear partial differential equation modeling and adaptive fault‐tolerant vibration control of flexible rotatable manipulator in three‐dimensional space
Authors: Wang Jiacheng , Cao Fangfei , Liu Jinkun
Published: August 2021

In this article, we investigate the problem of nonlinear modeling and adaptive boundary vibration control with actuator failure for a flexible rotatable manipulator in three‐dimensional space, which is made up of a rotatable base and a flexible manipulator. In order to accurately reflect the characteristics of the distributed parameters, the Hamilton principle is introduced to derive the dynamic model expressed by partial differential equations (PDEs). Based on the model, an innovative boundary control scheme is proposed to eliminate the deflection and vibration simultaneously, and to guarantee that the rotatable base and the flexible manipulator can track the desired angle respectively. The adaptive law is developed to estimate the loss of the actuator. The effectiveness of the designed controller is verified from both theoretical analysis and numerical simulation.
Expanding Fluorinated‐Energetic Feedstock for Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Craig Ashton W. , Knott Matthew C. , Shankar Rahul , Morgan Sarah E. , Peloquin Andrew J. , McCollum Jena M.
Published: August 2021

To probe reaction kinetics and polymer decomposition, energetic filaments composed of aluminum (Al) and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) with varying hexafluoropropylene (HFP) content are tested for processability and combustion characteristics. Rheological and crystallization findings indicate that the Al‐binder interfacial interactions are disrupted by HFP content. Thermal analysis shows that fuel consumption scales with Al particle size due to the diffusion‐driven Al‐fluoropolymer reaction regardless of HFP concentration. Char yield analysis shows that more solid product is retained in samples with smaller particle diameters, which further reflects the diffusive nature of both Al‐PVDF and Al‐P(VDF‐HFP) reactions. Burn rates reveal two competing mechanisms for reaction efficiency: 1) accelerated binder decomposition through Al‐PVDF interactions and 2) more energetic fluorination due to higher fluorine content in the P(VDF‐HFP) binders. Finally, powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns show that AlF3 is the primary product from self‐propagating burns. However, in larger Al particle sizes, filaments are unable to burn completely and result in high levels of Al2O3 and Al4C3 formation, which indicates that these binders are not amenable with low surface area, metallic fuels. These findings aim to improve fluorinated feedstock selection for potential binder candidates in energetic additive manufacturing (AM).
Long‐Distance Triplet Diffusion and Well‐Packing Hosts with Ultralow Dopant Concentration for Achieving High‐Efficiency TADF OLED
Authors: Chen Chia‐Hsun , Ding Wen‐Cheng , Lin Bo‐Yen , Huang Jau‐Jiun , Leung Man‐kit , Lee Jiun‐Haw , Chiu Tien‐Lung
Published: August 2021

High‐efficiency organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are fabricated using a group of benzimidazole‐carbazole derivatives with good molecular packing as hosts. The hosts are separately doped with a green thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitter, 1,2,3,5‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)‐4,6‐dicyanobenzene (4CzIPN). An ultralow concentration (0.5% volume ratio) of 4CzIPN is required in the emitting layer (EML) to achieve a record‐high external quantum efficiency of 31.8% by comparison with reported 4CzIPN‐relative devices. This result is attributed to efficient energy transfer, alleviation of concentration quench of 4CzIPN, long‐distance triplet exciton diffusion ability of host materials, and excellent horizontal molecular packing. With an increase in dopant concentration from 0.5% to 15%, the diodes exhibit a tiny variation in power efficiencies (82.9−78.7 lm W−1) and current efficiencies (92.2−87.5 cd A−1). In particular, the long‐distance triplet exciton diffusion ability of hosts exceeds the typical distance limitation (less than 10 Å) of Dexter energy transfer. Thus, high‐efficiency OLEDs are obtained with the scarce dopants . The aforementioned long‐distance triplet diffusion results are verified by the almost‐identical high‐efficiency device performances and the longer delayed emission lifetime in transient electroluminescence signals of a series of partially doped devices, conducting by separately doping low‐concentration TADF emitters in different EML regions.
Intramolecular Diels‐Alder Reaction of Styrene with Phenoxy‐Acrylate for Construction of Functionalized Naphthalenes
Authors: Pan Liu‐Na , Wang Qin , Sun Jing , Yan Chao‐Guo
Published: August 2021

The DABCO promoted domino reaction of 1‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3‐phenylprop‐2‐en‐1‐ones and alkyl propiolate or dialkyl but‐2‐ynedioate in toluene at high temperature resulted in methyl 3‐(2‐hydroxybenzoyl)‐1‐naphthoates or dimethyl 3‐(2‐hydroxybenzoyl)naphthalene‐1,2‐dicarboxylate in moderate to good yields. The hydroxyl group played a crucial rule in the reaction. The reaction mechanism of this formal [4+2] cycloaddition reaction was believed with initially formation of methyl 3‐(2‐cinnamoylphenoxy)acrylate, intramolecular Diels‐Alder reaction, ring‐opening of benzo[b]xanthene and aromatization process.
Identifizierung von reaktiven Zentren und Oberflächenfallen in Chalkopyrit‐Photokathoden
Authors: Liu Yongpeng , Bouri Maria , Yao Liang , Xia Meng , Mensi Mounir , Grätzel Michael , Sivula Kevin , Aschauer Ulrich , Guijarro Néstor
Published: August 2021

Das Sammeln von Informationen über die atomare Natur von reaktiven Zentren und Fallenzuständen ist der Schlüssel zur Feinabstimmung der Katalyse und zur Unterdrückung schädlicher Oberflächenpotentialverluste in photoelektrochemischen Technologien. Hier wurden spektroelektrochemische und rechnerische Methoden kombiniert, um eine Modellphotokathode aus der vielversprechenden Chalkopyrit‐Familie zu untersuchen: CuIn0.3Ga0.7S2. Es wurde festgestellt, dass Potentialverluste mit Fallen verbunden sind, die durch Oberflächen‐Ga‐ und In‐Leerstellen induziert werden, wohingegen Operando‐Raman‐Spektroskopie zeigte, dass Katalyse an Ga‐, In‐ und S‐Stellen stattfand. Diese Studie ermöglicht es, eine Brücke zwischen der Leistung des Chalkopyrits und seiner Oberflächenchemie zu schlagen, wobei die Vermeidung der Bildung von Ga‐ und In‐Leerstellen entscheidend ist, um eine hohe Aktivität zu erzielen.
Structure–Activity Relationships in Nonenzymatic Template‐Directed RNA Synthesis
Authors: Giurgiu Constantin , Fang Ziyuan , Aitken Harry R. M. , Kim Seohyun Chris , Pazienza Lydia , Mittal Shriyaa , Szostak Jack W.
Published: August 2021

The template‐directed synthesis of RNA played an important role in the transition from prebiotic chemistry to the beginnings of RNA based life, but the mechanism of RNA copying chemistry is incompletely understood. We measured the kinetics of template copying with a set of primers with modified 3′‐nucleotides and determined the crystal structures of these modified nucleotides in the context of a primer/template/substrate‐analog complex. pH‐rate profiles and solvent isotope effects show that deprotonation of the primer 3′‐hydroxyl occurs prior to the rate limiting step, the attack of the alkoxide on the activated phosphate of the incoming nucleotide. The analogs with a 3E ribose conformation show the fastest formation of 3′–5′ phosphodiester bonds. Among those derivatives, the reaction rate is strongly correlated with the electronegativity of the 2′‐substituent. We interpret our results in terms of differences in steric bulk and charge distribution in the ground vs. transition states.
Identifying Reactive Sites and Surface Traps in Chalcopyrite Photocathodes
Authors: Liu Yongpeng , Bouri Maria , Yao Liang , Xia Meng , Mensi Mounir , Grätzel Michael , Sivula Kevin , Aschauer Ulrich , Guijarro Néstor
Published: August 2021

Gathering information on the atomic nature of reactive sites and trap states is key to fine tuning catalysis and suppressing deleterious surface voltage losses in photoelectrochemical technologies. Here, spectroelectrochemical and computational methods were combined to investigate a model photocathode from the promising chalcopyrite family: CuIn0.3Ga0.7S2. We found that voltage losses are linked to traps induced by surface Ga and In vacancies, whereas operando Raman spectroscopy revealed that catalysis occurred at Ga, In, and S sites. This study allows establishing a bridge between the chalcopyrite's performance and its surface's chemistry, where avoiding formation of Ga and In vacancies is crucial for achieving high activity.
Lewis‐Basic EDTA as a Highly Active Molecular Electrocatalyst for CO2 Reduction to CH4
Authors: Huang Minxue , Gong Shipeng , Wang Changlai , Yang Yang , Jiang Peng , Wang Pengcheng , Hu Lin , Chen Qianwang
Published: August 2021

The most active catalysts so far successful in hydrogenation reduction of CO2 are mainly heterogeneous Cu‐based catalysts. The complex coordination environments and multiple active sites in heterogeneous catalysts result in low selectivity of target product, while molecular catalysts with well‐defined active sites and tailorable structures allow mechanism‐based performance optimization. Herein, we firstly report a single ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) molecular‐level immobilized on the surface of carbon nanotube as a catalyst for transferring CO2 to CH4 with an excellent performance. This catalyst exhibits a high Faradaic efficiency of 61.6 % toward CH4, a partial current density of −16.5 mA cm−2 at a potential of −1.3 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the Lewis basic COO− groups in EDTA molecule are the active sites for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). The energy barrier for the generation of CO from *CO intermediate is as high as 0.52 eV, while the further protonation of *CO to *CHO follows an energetic downhill path (−1.57 eV), resulting in the high selectivity of CH4. This work makes it possible to control the product selectivity for CO2RR according to the relationship between the energy barrier of *CO intermediate and molecular structures in the future.
Surface modified cellulose nanocrystalline hybrids actualizing efficient and precise delivery of doxorubicin into nucleus with: In vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Li Na , Wang Yiwei , Guo Yuqi , Ji Zhenyu , Zhang Zhuangli , Yu Jiahui , Zhang Lianzhong
Published: August 2021

Rod‐like‐shape nanomedicines with the ability of lysosomal pH‐controlled drug release can precisely deliver doxorubicin (DOX) into its target, nucleus, and can fully exert its anticancer effect. Taking advantage of their large specific surface area, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were used to fabricate pH‐responsive DOX‐loaded rod‐like shaped hybrids nanomedicines: cis‐aconityl‐doxorubicin (CAD)@polyethylenimine (PEI)@CNCs (CAD@PEI@CNCs) via layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly. In vitro, CAD@PEI@CNCs hybrids displayed rod‐like shape, high drug loading content, lysosomal pH‐controlled drug release, efficient and precise doxorubicin (DOX) delivering into the nucleus. Moreover, the cellular uptake of CAD@PEI@CNCs hybrids was 20.9 folds higher than that of DOX·HCl against A549 cells. The cytotoxicity of CAD@PEI@CNCs hybrids was much higher than that of DOX·HCl and the pH‐irresponsive hybrids against A549 cell. In vivo, CAD@PEI@CNCs hybrids exhibited good antitumor effect: (42.0 ± 6)% inhibition rate and few harms to the nude mice. Altogether, rod‐like shaped pH‐responsive CAD@PEI@CNCs hybrids nanomedicines could efficiently overcome the vascular and tumor barriers, and precisely deliver DOX to nucleus to convert DOX antitumor effects. These results indicate that CAD@PEI@CNCs have great potential to act as advanced nanomedicines with enhanced delivery efficiency and therapeutic efficiency.
Rostral neurovasculature indicates sensory trade‐offs in Mesozoic pelagic crocodylomorphs
Authors: Bowman Charlotte I. W. , Young Mark T. , Schwab Julia A. , Walsh Stig , Witmer Lawrence M. , Herrera Yanina , Choiniere Jonah , Dollman Kathleen N. , Brusatte Stephen L.
Published: August 2021

Metriorhynchoid thalattosuchians were a marine clade of Mesozoic crocodylomorphs that evolved from semi‐aquatic, “gharial”‐like species into the obligately pelagic subclade Metriorhynchidae. To explore whether the sensory and physiological demands of underwater life necessitates a shift in rostral anatomy, both in neurology and vasculature, we investigate the trigeminal innervation and potential somatosensory abilities of metriorhynchoids by digitally segmenting the rostral neurovascular canals in CT scans of 10 extant and extinct crocodyliforms. The dataset includes the terrestrial, basal crocodyliform Protosuchus haughtoni, two semi‐aquatic basal metriorhynchoids, four pelagic metriorhynchids and three extant, semi‐aquatic crocodylians. In the crocodylian and basal metriorhynchoid taxa, we find three main neurovascular channels running parallel to one another posteroanteriorly down the length of the snout, whereas in metriorhynchids there are two, and in P. haughtoni only one. Crocodylians appear to be unique in their extensive trigeminal innervation, which is used to supply the integumentary sensory organs (ISOs) involved with their facial somatosensory abilities. Crocodylians have a far higher number of foramina on the maxillary bones than either metriorhynchoids or P. haughtoni, suggesting that the fossil taxa lacked the somatosensory abilities seen in extant species. We posit that the lack of ISO osteological correlates in metriorhynchoids is due to their basal position in Crocodyliformes, rather than a pelagic adaptation. This is reinforced by the hypothesis that extant crocodyliforms, and possibly some neosuchian clades, underwent a long “nocturnal bottleneck”—hinting that their complex network of ISOs evolved in Neosuchia, as a sensory trade‐off to compensate for poorer eyesight.
Identification and engineering on the nonconserved residues of metallo‐β‐lactamase‐type thioesterase to improve the enzymatic activity
Authors: Jiang Dayong , Li Ya , Wu Wanqi , Zhang Hong , Xu Ruoxuan , Xu Hui , Zhan Ruoting , Sun Lei
Published: August 2021

The standalone metallo‐β‐lactamase‐type thioesterase (MβL‐TE), belongs to the group V nonreducing polyketide synthase agene cluster, catalyzes the rate‐limiting step of product releasing. Our work first investigated on the orthologous MβL‐TEs from different origins to determine which nonconserved amino acid residues are important to the hydrolysis efficiency. A series of chimeric MβL‐TEs were constructed by fragment swapping and site‐directed mutagenesis, in vivo enzymatic assay showed that two nonconserved residues A19 and E75 (numbering in HyTE) were critical to the catalytic performance. Protein structure modeling suggested that these two residues are located in different areas of HyTE. A19 is on the entrance to the active sites, whereas E75 resides in the linker between the two β strands which hold the metal‐binding sites. Combining with computational simulations and comparative enzymatic assay, different screening criteria were set up for selecting the variants on the two noncatalytic and nonconserved key residues to improve the catalytic activity. The rational design on A19 and E75 gave five candidates in total, two (A19F and E75Q) of which were thus found significantly improved the enzymatic performance of HyTE. The double‐point mutant was constructed to further improve the activity, which was increased by 28.4‐fold on product accumulation comparing to the wild‐type HyTE. This study provides a novel approach for engineering on nonconserved residues to optimize enzymatic performance.
Establishment and characterization of lung co‐culture spheroids for paclitaxel loaded Eudragit® RL 100 nanoparticle evaluation
Authors: Pant Tejal , Gaikwad Ganesh , Jain Dhiraj , Dandekar Prajakta , Jain Ratnesh
Published: August 2021

3D cell cultures are regarded as a better and more relevant approach for screening drugs and therapeutics, particularly due to their likeness with the in vivo conditions. Spheroids offer an intermediate platform between in vitro and in vivo models, for conducting tumor‐based investigations. In this study, a simple setup was developed for consistent generation of lung co‐culture spheroids, which were developed using the cancer cell lines A549, NCI H460, and fibroblast cells WI‐38. The potential of these spheroids for evaluating the toxicity of Eudragit® RL 100 nanoparticles (ENP) was explored. Monodisperse ENP, having the size range of 140–200 nm was prepared using the nanoprecipitation method. These were loaded with the poorly water‐soluble anticancer drug paclitaxel. The evaluation of toxicity and uptake of drug‐loaded ENP revealed that 2D monolayers were more sensitive to treatment than 3D spheroids. Within spheroids, co‐cultures were more resistant to the treatment than monocultures. Overall, our findings demonstrated that the lung co‐culture spheroids were a suitable model for accelerating the efficacy and toxicity‐related investigations of novel drug delivery systems.
Involvement of extracellular vesicles in aging process and their beneficial effects in alleviating aging‐associated symptoms
Authors: Das Madhurima , Kale Vaijayanti
Published: August 2021

Aging is a gradual and unavoidable physiological phenomenon that manifests in the natural maturation process and continues to progress from infanthood to adulthood. Many elderly people suffer from aging‐associated hematological and nonhematological disorders. Recent advances in regenerative medicine have shown new revolutionary paths of treating such diseases using stem cells; however, aging also affects the quality and competence of stem and progenitor cells themselves and ultimately directs their death or apoptosis and senescence, leading to a decline in their regenerative potential. Recent research works show that extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from different types of stem cells may provide a safe treatment for aging‐associated disorders. The cargo of EVs comprises packets of information in the form of various macromolecules that can modify the fate of the target cells. To harness the true potential of EVs in regenerative medicine, it is necessary to understand how this cargo contributes to the rejuvenation of aged stem and progenitor populations and to identify the aging‐associated changes in the macromolecular profile of the EVs themselves. In this review, we endeavor to summarize the current knowledge of the involvement of EVs in the aging process and delineate the role of EVs in the reversal of aging‐associated phenotypes. We have also analyzed the involvement of the molecular cargo of EVs in the generation of aging‐associated disorders. This knowledge could not only help us in understanding the mechanism of the aging process but could also facilitate the development of new cell‐free biologics to treat aging‐related disorders in the future.
Alveograph characterization of industrial samples of Danish pastry dough
Authors: Jødal Anne‐Sophie Schou , Larsen Kim Lambertsen
Published: August 2021

Background and objectives

Only a limited number of methods are available for the assessment of dough properties for doughs containing all the ingredients of a bakery product. The aim of this work was to analyze industrial samples of Danish pastry doughs with alveograph analysis. An adjusted protocol was developed, in which analysis conditions and data analysis were modified compared to the standard alveograph method for assessment of flour quality. A sampling and handling protocol for dough from the industrial production was also developed.

Findings

The Danish pastry doughs analyzed with the adjusted protocol were more dependent on mixing time and extrusion order than the flour‐water dough analyzed with the standard protocol. Two different types of industrial Danish pastry dough with similar recipes could be differentiated with the adjusted protocol.

Conclusions

Industrial samples of Danish pastry dough and possibly also other full formula doughs can be analyzed with alveography using the adjusted protocol, if adjustments with respect to the mixing time are made.

Significance and novelty

The findings in this work enables alveograph analysis of full formula dough, which might be used to evaluate the effects of different variables in an industrial setting.
Seizure and delirium secondary to carboplatin and pantoprazole therapy‐induced hypomagnesemia in a cancer patient
Authors: Kundal Sanchit V. , Lai Shum Janet , Emeasoba Emmanuel U. , Marcelin Michael , Shetty Vijay S. , Huang Tiffany
Published: August 2021

Active surveillance and treatment of hypomagnesemia along with strict avoidance of concurrent offending agents is essential to prevent its grave clinical consequences among patients on carboplatin therapy.
Association of omphalocele with a patent urachus presenting as a large umbilical cystic mass in a newborn
Authors: Farhadi Roya , Mousavi Seyed Abdollah
Published: August 2021

Simultaneous presentation of omphalocele, patent urachus, and umbilical cyst is very rare. There is wide range of differential diagnosis for umbilical cyst. Accurate assessment of umbilical cysts is important to evaluate other abnormalities.
Acute urinary retention by fungus balls of Candida
Authors: Anan Go , Sato Makoto
Published: August 2021

In the cases of rapid obstruction of urethral catheter, resulting in urinary retention, due to excessive floating material, such as a large number of spherical masses, fungus balls of Candida may be present.
Cost‐minimization analysis of a wearable cardioverter defibrillator in adult patients undergoing ICD explant procedures: Clinical and economic implications
Authors: Boriani Giuseppe , Mantovani Lorenzo Giovanni , Cortesi Paolo Angelo , De Ponti Roberto , D'Onofrio Antonio , Arena Giuseppe , Curnis Antonio , Forleo Giovanni , Guerra Federico , Porcu Maurizio , Sgarito Giuseppe , Botto Giovanni Luca
Published: August 2021

Aims

Patients with permanently increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) can be protected by implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD). If an ICD must be removed due to infection, for example, immediate reimplantation might not be possible or indicated. The wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) is an established, safe and effective solution to protect patients from SCD during this high‐risk bridging period. Very few economic evaluations on WCD use are currently available.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the available evidence of WCD in patients undergoing ICD explant/lead extraction. Additionally, a decision model was developed to compare use and costs of the WCD with standard therapy (in‐hospital stay). For this purpose, a cost‐minimization analysis was conducted, and complemented by a one‐way sensitivity analysis.

Results

In the base case scenario, the WCD was less expensive compared to standard therapy. The cost‐minimization analysis showed a cost reduction of €1782 per patient using the WCD. If costs of standard care were changed, cost savings associated with the WCD varied from €3500 to €0, assuming costs for standard care of €6800 to €3600.

Conclusion

After ICD explantation, patients can be safely and effectively protected from SCD after hospital discharge through WCD utilization. Furthermore, the use of a WCD for this patient group is cost saving when compared to standard therapy.
Looking at breast cancer through the ethnic and racial lens—One size definitely does not fit all
Authors: Yaffe Martin J.
Published: August 2021

Lay Summary

Breast cancer cases are elevated in younger women in minority cohorts in the United States.

Much of this is due to their younger age distributions, particularly for Hispanic women, but beyond this there are elevated risks in younger Black and Asian women.

Disparities increase further for minority women when being diagnosed with more advanced disease or dying of breast cancer before the age of 50 years is considered.

Strategies for culturally appropriate education about breast cancer, better access to screening, and prompt treatment must be implemented.
A family of AC amplifiers for ultra‐low frequency operation
Authors: Martincorena‐Arraiza Maite , Carlosena Alfonso , De La Cruz‐Blas Carlos A. , Beloso‐Legarra Javier , Lopez‐Martin Antonio
Published: August 2021

A family of capacitively coupled alternating current (AC) amplifiers featuring ultra‐low (below 1 Hz) corner frequency is presented. This is achieved by using high‐gain devices which actively boost feedback resistance and thus reduce corner frequency. This procedure is often termed, though with a different purpose, as “bootstrapping.” The proposed architectures are very general and admit several possible practical implementations. To demonstrate their usefulness, the circuits are implemented with two operational amplifiers (OA), but other active devices such as operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) can be alternatively used. All circuits have been theoretically analyzed, extensively simulated and measured, exhibiting high‐pass cutoff frequencies as low as 30 mHz.
Temporal patterns of the catadromous thinlip grey mullet migration in freshwater
Authors: Pereira Esmeralda , Quintella Bernardo R. , Lança Maria João , Alexandre Carlos M. , Mateus Catarina S. , Pedro Sílvia , Belo Ana F. , Rato Ana S. , Quadrado Maria F. , Telhado Ana , Batista Carlos , Almeida Pedro R.
Published: August 2021

The thinlip grey mullet (Chelon ramada Risso, 1827) is a catadromous fish that performs massive migrations to freshwater habitats for feeding purposes that can assume a structuring role on riverine ecology due to the biomass involved in these movements. Seasonal movements of thinlip grey mullet through a vertical slot fish pass located in River Mondego (Portugal) were continuously monitored between 2013 and 2017. The extent of trophic migration, population size structure, biomass and the environmental triggers of bi‐directional species' migratory activity were analysed. Between March and November of 2013/2014, ~2 million and 1 million movements were respectively recorded. From a subsampling approach, the upstream movements between 2015 and 2017 were estimated. Annually, around five hundred thousand upstream movements can occur to provide species access to the upstream freshwater reaches. Movements are exclusively diurnal, and the population composed by young adults in their first year of maturity, yet juveniles and larger fish were present (TL range: 90–540 mm). Upstream movements increased with temperatures above 15°C, reaching a peak at around 20°C coupled with a photoperiod of 15 h. Downstream movements attained the higher rates when temperature dropped from 22°C to 20°C and photoperiod to 13 h. However, under wetter hydrological conditions (as in 2014), discharge flows have a higher influence.

These finding provide unique information regarding species migration to freshwater habitats in the Atlantic coast, namely the extended periods spent in such environments, overlapping with the spawning migration period. Additionally, highlights the importance of species' trophic migration both for its life cycle and riverine food‐web.
Impact of epicardial adipose tissue on cardiovascular haemodynamics, metabolic profile, and prognosis in heart failure
Authors: Pugliese Nicola R. , Paneni Francesco , Mazzola Matteo , De Biase Nicolò , Del Punta Lavinia , Gargani Luna , Mengozzi Alessandro , Virdis Agostino , Nesti Lorenzo , Taddei Stefano , Flammer Andreas , Borlaug Barry A. , Ruschitzka Frank , Masi Stefano
Published: August 2021

Aims

We evaluated the impact of echocardiographic epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) on cardiovascular haemodynamics, metabolic profile and prognosis in heart failure (HF) using combined cardiopulmonary‐echocardiography exercise stress.

Methods and results

We analysed EAT thickness of HF patients with reduced (HFrEF, n = 205) and preserved (HFpEF, n = 188) ejection fraction, including 44 controls. HFpEF patients displayed the highest EAT, while HFrEF patients had lower values than controls. EAT showed an inverse correlation with natriuretic peptides, troponin T and C‐reactive protein in HFrEF, while having a direct association with troponin T and C‐reactive protein in HFpEF. EAT was independently associated with peak oxygen consumption (VO2) and peripheral extraction (AVO2diff), regardless of body mass index. EAT was inversely correlated with peak VO2 and AVO2diff in HFpEF, while a direct association was observed in HFrEF, where lower EAT values were associated with worse left ventricular systolic dysfunction. In HFpEF, increased EAT was related to right ventriculo–arterial (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/systolic pulmonary artery pressure) uncoupling. After 21 months of follow‐up, 146 HF hospitalizations and 34 cardiovascular deaths were recorded in the HF population. Cox multivariable analysis supported an independent differential role of EAT in HF cohorts (interaction P = 0.01): higher risk of adverse events for increasing EAT in HFpEF [hazard ratio (HR) 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.37] and for decreasing EAT in HFrEF (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.54–0.91).

Conclusion

In HFpEF, EAT accumulation is associated with worse haemodynamic and metabolic profile, also affecting survival. Conversely, lower EAT values imply higher left ventricular dysfunction, global functional impairment and adverse prognosis in HFrEF.
Chain, Network and Framework Formation in Uranyl Ion Complexes with 1,1′‐Biphenyl‐3,3′,4,4′‐Tetracarboxylate
Authors: Thuéry Pierre , Harrowfield Jack
Published: August 2021

1,1′‐Biphenyl‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride has been reacted with uranyl nitrate under solvo‐hydrothermal conditions and in the presence of different counterions to give three complexes of varying periodicity. [Co(en)3]‐ [UO2(bptc)(HCOO)] ⋅ 2.5H2O (1) crystallizes as a monoperiodic coordination polymer in which the bptc4− ligand is exclusively bound through formation of two 7‐membered chelate rings. The [Co(en)3]3+ counterion is essentially a hydrogen bond donor, forming 15 hydrogen bonds with carboxylate and water oxygen atoms. In [H2NMe2]2[UO2(bptc)] ⋅ 0.5H2O (2), half the ligand forms a 7‐membered chelate ring, and the other half bridges two uranium atoms, resulting in the formation of a diperiodic network with hcb topology, the H2NMe2+ counterions being located between the undulating sheets. [PPh4]4[(UO2)4(bptc)3] ⋅ 6H2O (3) contains a mixture of ligands forming either four 4‐membered or two 7‐membered chelate rings, the latter with further bridging, which gives a triperiodic framework displaying large channels, each of which contains two rows of PPh4+ counterions. These results are compared to those of previous studies with this ligand, and of similar studies of phthalate complexes of uranyl ion, in particular in relation to 7‐membered chelate ring formation.
Cisplatin Inhibits Neurotransmitter Release during Exocytosis from Single Chromaffin Cells Monitored with Single Cell Amperometry
Authors: Wang Mengying , Liu Yuying , Du Jinchang , Zhou Junlan , Cao Lijiao , Li Xianchan
Published: August 2021

Chemotherapy with cisplatin induces side effects such as memory loss, confusion of thinking, and difficulties with multi‐tasking. However, the mechanism of cisplatin inducing nervous dysfunction is still unknown. Herein, we examine whether and how cisplatin regulates the release of neurotransmitter during exocytosis in single chromaffin cells using single cell amperometry. The results show that cisplatin reduces the amount of transmitter released during exocytosis by reducing the duration of the exocytotic events, including the opening and closing time of the fusion pore. Furthermore, the stability of the initial fusion pore formed during exocytosis is also reduced by cisplatin. Our study holds the promise for understanding the side effects of cisplatin on the nervous system at single cell level.
A multi‐port MMC topology with reduced capacitor size for use in grid‐connected PV systems
Authors: Safaee Sheila , Ketabi Abbas , Farshadnia Mohammad , Shahidehpour Mohammad
Published: August 2021

In this article, a novel multi‐port modular multilevel inverter topology is presented for grid‐connected photovoltaic systems, which feature a smaller capacitor size compared with its counterparts. In the proposed MMC topology, each submodule is an individual input port being fed by an independent PV array through a boost converter. This allows modularity of the proposed topology, easing its maintenance and facilitating its expansion for PV integration. Individual maximum power point tracking controllers are used to operate the boost converters in each submodule to extract maximum energy from their PV arrays under different radiation conditions. A model‐predictive control scheme is designed for regulating the proposed multi‐port MMC topology to inject the harvested solar power to the grid. This controller enables minimized circulating currents in the MMC arms and balanced capacitor voltages in the MMC submodules, while total harmonic distortion (THD) of injected current to the grid is kept within the limits. The proposed multi‐port MMC topology with model‐predictive control is validated under different radiation conditions for a grid‐connected PV system to indicate that the proposed topology has a desirable performance under different radiation conditions.
Should females prefer old males?
Authors: Segami Julia Carolina , Lind Martin I. , Qvarnström Anna
Published: August 2021

Whether females should prefer to mate with old males is controversial. Old males may sire offspring of low quality because of an aging germline, but their proven ability to reach an old age can also be an excellent indicator of superior genetic quality, especially in natural populations. These genetic effects are, however, hard to study in nature, because they are often confounded with direct benefits offered by old males to the female, such as experience and high territory quality. We, therefore, used naturally occurring extra-pair young to disentangle different aspects of male age on female fitness in a natural population of collared flycatchers because any difference between within- and extra-pair young within a nest should be caused by paternal genetic effects only. Based on 18 years of long-term data, we found that females paired with older males as social partners experienced an overall reproductive advantage. However, offspring sired by old males were of lower quality as compared to their extra-pair half-siblings, whereas the opposite was found in nests attended by young males. These results imply a negative genetic effect of old paternal age, given that extra-pair males are competitive middle-age males. Thus, offspring may benefit from being sired by young males but raised by old males, to maximize both genetic and direct effects. Our results show that direct and genetic benefits from pairing with old males may act in opposing directions and that the quality of the germline may deteriorate before other signs of senescence become obvious.
A neglected conceptual problem regarding phenotypic plasticity's role in adaptive evolution: The importance of genetic covariance and social drive
Authors: Bailey Nathan W. , Desjonquères Camille , Drago Ana , Rayner Jack G. , Sturiale Samantha L. , Zhang Xiao
Published: August 2021

There is tantalizing evidence that phenotypic plasticity can buffer novel, adaptive genetic variants long enough to permit their evolutionary spread, and this process is often invoked in explanations for rapid adaptive evolution. However, the strength and generality of evidence for it is controversial. We identify a conceptual problem affecting this debate: recombination, segregation, and independent assortment are expected to quickly sever associations between genes controlling novel adaptations and genes contributing to trait plasticity that facilitates the novel adaptations by reducing their indirect fitness costs. To make clearer predictions about this role of plasticity in facilitating genetic adaptation, we describe a testable genetic mechanism that resolves the problem: genetic covariance between new adaptive variants and trait plasticity that facilitates their persistence within populations. We identify genetic architectures that might lead to such a covariance, including genetic coupling via physical linkage and pleiotropy, and illustrate the consequences for adaptation rates using numerical simulations. Such genetic covariances may also arise from the social environment, and we suggest the indirect genetic effects that result could further accentuate the process of adaptation. We call the latter mechanism of adaptation social drive, and identify methods to test it. We suggest that genetic coupling of plasticity and adaptations could promote unusually rapid ‘runaway’ evolution of novel adaptations. The resultant dynamics could facilitate evolutionary rescue, adaptive radiations, the origin of novelties, and other commonly studied processes.
Mosaic vaccination: How distributing different vaccines across a population could improve epidemic control
Authors: McLeod David V. , Wahl Lindi M. , Mideo Nicole
Published: August 2021

Although vaccination has been remarkably effective against some pathogens, for others, rapid antigenic evolution results in vaccination conferring only weak and/or short-lived protection. Consequently, considerable effort has been invested in developing more evolutionarily robust vaccines, either by targeting highly conserved components of the pathogen (universal vaccines) or by including multiple immunological targets within a single vaccine (multi-epitope vaccines). An unexplored third possibility is to vaccinate individuals with one of a number of qualitatively different vaccines, creating a “mosaic” of individual immunity in the population. Here we explore whether a mosaic vaccination strategy can deliver superior epidemiological outcomes to “conventional” vaccination, in which all individuals receive the same vaccine. We suppose vaccine doses can be distributed between distinct vaccine “targets” (e.g., different surface proteins against which an immune response can be generated) and/or immunologically distinct variants at these targets (e.g., strains); the pathogen can undergo antigenic evolution at both targets. Using simple mathematical models, here we provide a proof-of-concept that mosaic vaccination often outperforms conventional vaccination, leading to fewer infected individuals, improved vaccine efficacy, and lower individual risks over the course of the epidemic.