bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediagnostic serum glyceraldehyde‐derived advanced glycation end products and mortality among colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Mao Ziling , Baker Jacqueline Roshelli , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Tjønneland Anne , Eriksen Anne Kirstine , Severi Gianluca , Rothwell Joseph , Laouali Nasser , Katzke Verena , Kaaks Rudolf , Schulze Matthias B. , Palli Domenico , Sieri Sabina , de Magistris Maria Santucci , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Derksen Jeroen W. G. , Gram Inger T. , Skeie Guri , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Quirós Jose Ramón , Crous‐Bou Marta , Sánchez Maria‐Jose , Amiano Pilar , Colorado‐Yohar Sandra M. , Guevara Marcela , Harlid Sophia , Johansson Ingegerd , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Freisling Heinz , Gunter Marc , Weiderpass Elisabete , Heath Alicia K. , Aglago Elom , Jenab Mazda , Fedirko Veronika
Published: January 2023

Glyceraldehyde‐derived advanced glycation end products (glycer‐AGEs) could contribute to colorectal cancer development and progression due to their pro‐oxidative and pro‐inflammatory properties. However, the association of glycer‐AGEs with mortality after colorectal cancer diagnosis has not been previously investigated. Circulating glycer‐AGEs were measured by competitive ELISA. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations of circulating glycer‐AGEs concentrations with CRC‐specific and all‐cause mortality among 1034 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases identified within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study between 1993 and 2013. During a mean of 48 months of follow‐up, 529 participants died (409 from CRC). Glycer‐AGEs were statistically significantly positively associated with CRC‐specific (HRQ5 vs Q1 = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.04‐2.25, Ptrend = .002) and all‐cause (HRQ5 vs Q1 = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.16‐2.26, Ptrend < .001) mortality among individuals with CRC. There was suggestion of a stronger association between glycer‐AGEs and CRC‐specific mortality among patients with distal colon cancer (per SD increment: HRproximal colon = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.74‐1.42; HRdistal colon = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.20‐1.91; Peffect modification = .02). The highest HR was observed among CRC cases in the highest body mass index (BMI) and glycer‐AGEs category relative to lowest BMI and glycer‐AGEs category for both CRC‐specific (HR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.02‐3.01) and all‐cause mortality (HR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.33‐3.47), although no statistically significant effect modification was observed. Our study found that prediagnostic circulating glycer‐AGEs are positively associated with CRC‐specific and all‐cause mortality among individuals with CRC. Further investigations in other populations and stratifying by tumor location and BMI are warranted.
Homogeneous Pt nanostructures surface functionalized with phenylboronic acid phosphonic acid derivatives as potential biochemical nanosensors and drugs: SERS and TERS studies
Authors: Proniewicz Edyta , Gralec Barbara , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: January 2023

Here, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and tip‐enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) were used to characterize the selective adsorption of N‐substituted 4‐[(NH‐R)(phosphono)‐S‐methyl]phenylboronic acids on the surface of platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) from an aqueous solution and from air. The nature of the interaction of the studied compounds with the PtNPs/H2O and PtNPs/air interfaces was discussed and compared. For this purpose, 4‐[(N‐anilino)(phosphono)‐S‐methyl]phenylboronic acid (1‐PBA‐PA) and its two analogs (2‐PBA‐PA and bis{1‐PBA‐PA}) as well as the PtNPs were synthesized in surfactant/ion‐free solution via a synthetic route that allows control of the size and morphology of the NPs. The positively charged PtNPs with a size of ~12 nm were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD).
Dexamethasone leads to Zn2+ accumulation and increased unbound Zn2+ in C2C12 muscle and 3T3‐L1 adipose cells
Authors: Maier Michelle C. , Nankervis Scott , Wallace Morgan E. , Develyn Tamekha , Myers Mark A.
Published: January 2023

Skeletal muscle atrophy is associated with increases in circulating glucocorticoid levels and insulin resistance. Zinc accumulates in atrophic muscle, but the relationship between atrophy, insulin resistance, and Zn2+ homeostasis remains unclear. In this study, the effect of the glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) on insulin and Zn2+ homeostasis was explored. Treatment of differentiated C2C12 skeletal myotubes and 3T3‐L1 adipocytes with DEX significantly increased mRNA expression of the metal‐binding proteins Mt1 and 2 and altered energy storage as shown by the increased size of lipid droplets in 3T3‐L1 cells. In C2C12 cells the total cellular Zn2+ was higher after DEX treatment, and in both C2C12 and 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, free unbound Zn2+ was increased. Insulin treatment led to a gradual increase in free Zn2+ in C2C12 cells, and no significant change in DEX‐treated cells such that concentrations were similar 10 min after insulin treatment. These data demonstrate that DEX disturbs Zn2+ homeostasis in muscle and fat cells. Further study of the molecular pathways involved to identify novel therapeutic targets for treatment of skeletal muscle atrophy is warranted.
Murburn posttranslational modifications of proteins: Cellular redox processes and murzyme‐mediated metabolo‐proteomics
Authors: Manoj Kelath Murali
Published: January 2023

Murburn concept constitutes the thesis that diffusible reactive species or DRS are obligatorily involved in routine metabolic and physiological activities. Murzymes are defined as biomolecules/proteins that generate/modulate/sustain/utilize DRS. Murburn posttranslational modifications (PTMs) result because murburn/murzyme functionalism is integral to cellular existence. Cells must incorporate the inherently stochastic nature of operations mediated by DRS. Due to the earlier/inertial stigmatic perception that DRS are mere agents of chaos, several such outcomes were either understood as deterministic modulations sponsored by house‐keeping enzymes or deemed as unregulated nonenzymatic events resulting out of “oxidative stress”. In the current review, I dispel the myths around DRS‐functions, and undertake systematic parsing and analyses of murburn modifications of proteins. Although it is impossible to demarcate all PTMs into the classical or murburn modalities, telltale signs of the latter are evident from the relative inaccessibility of the locus, non‐specificities and mechanistic details. It is pointed out that while many murburn PTMs may be harmless, some others could have deleterious or beneficial physiological implications. Some details of reversible/irreversible modifications of amino acid residues and cofactors that may be subjected to phosphorylation, halogenation, glycosylation, alkylation/acetylation, hydroxylation/oxidation, etc. are listed, along with citations of select proteins where such modifications have been reported. The contexts of these modifications and their significance in (patho)physiology/aging and therapy are also presented. With more balanced explorations and statistically verified data, a definitive understanding of normal versus pathological contexts of murburn modifications would be obtainable in the future.
Comparison of shear wave elastography with gray‐scale USG and CT for quantitative evaluation of rectus femoris muscle
Authors: Yi Jisook , Cha Jang Gyu , Hahn Seok
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the measurement of shear wave elastography (SWE) and gray scale ultrasonography (GSU) and CT attenuation of mid‐rectus femoris (RF) muscle in healthy adults.

Methods

This prospective study included 70 participants with a healthy body mass index (<25 kg/m2) between June 2019 and January 2020. Echo intensity (EI) grading of RF on GSU was performed. SWE was performed for the three levels of the RF. Measurements were repeated 10 min after the first measurement. The mid‐RF attenuation on CT was also measured. Interobserver agreement of EI grade among three readers was assessed using weighted‐kappa statistics. The reliability of SWE was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient. The correlations between the SWE and CT/GSU measurements were analyzed.

Results

Interobserver agreement of EI grade on GSU by the three radiologists was moderate to substantial (k = 0.562–0.767). The inter‐session agreements for SWE were almost perfect for mid RF (k = 0.822–0.829) and substantial for proximal and distal RF (k = 0.767–0.795). There were significant correlations between SWE‐EI and SWE‐CT attenuation (p < 0.001, respectively) at the mid‐RF.

Conclusions

SWE measurements on mid‐RF demonstrated the highest reliability. SWE parameters showed a strong correlation with EI on GSU and attenuation on CT.
Characterization of the structural and mechanical properties of pinecone fish (Monocentris japonica) scales
Authors: Guo Mingzhuo , Wu Siyang , Zhao Jiale , Zhuang Jian , Wu Qian
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the microstructure characteristics and mechanical properties (including nano‐indentation, tensile, and penetration behaviors) of the scales from pinecone fish (Monocentris japonica) were investigated. The M. japonica scales display a unique hierarchical structure and consist of three layers: an outer bone layer with high mineralization, an intermediate bone layer with obvious pore structures, and an inner collagen layer composed of multiple plies of collagen fibers. The hardness and indentation modulus of the three structural layers exhibit gradient changes, and decrease gradually from the outer layer to the inner layer. Tensile tests show that the tensile response and failure modes of the scales are different under dry and hydrated conditions. The dry scales have higher tensile strength (46.35 MPa) and Young's modulus (0.74 GPa), while the hydrated scales exhibit higher ultimate strain (20.18%) and toughness (4.57 MPa). Penetration tests indicate that the scales have a significantly high resistance to penetration, and increase the penetration force by more than six times compared with the descaled skin. Furthermore, the structure–property relationship of the M. japonica scales was discussed. It is found that the hard outer layer and the porous intermediate layer help to disperse the stress, and the soft inner layer containing collagen fiber plies helps to deflect the crack propagation, which are responsible for the excellent mechanical properties of the scales. The outcome of this study can provide a valuable biomimetic design inspiration for lightweight and high‐strength composite materials in engineering fields.

Research Highlights

Microstructure characteristics and mechanical properties of the Monocentris japonica scales were investigated.

The M. japonica scales can be divided into three layers rather than two layers.

The M. japonica scales exhibited high tensile strength and penetration resistance.
Significance of pretreatment alpha‐fetoprotein in patients with compensated severe fibrosis after hepatitis C viral eradication
Authors: Ishigami Masatoshi , Honda Takashi , Ishizu Yoji , Imai Norihiro , Ito Takanori , Yamamoto Kenta , Kawashima Hiroki
Published: January 2023

Background

We aimed to investigate the factors associated with improvement of liver functional reserve after sustained virological response using interferon‐free, direct‐acting antiviral combination treatment in patients with compensated, severe fibrosis.

Methods

Between September 2014 and April 2020, 492 patients received direct‐acting antiviral combination treatment in our hospital. Among them, 173 patients who had severe fibrosis based on a fibrosis‐4 index ≥3.25, showed sustained virological response after treatment. We investigated the dynamic change in albumin‐bilirubin score and the baseline factors associated with its improvement, 48 weeks after treatment.

Results

The baseline significant factors associated with albumin‐bilirubin ≦ −0.5 were lower albumin (HR: 15.625, 95% CI: 4.273–58.824, P < .001), higher hepatitis C virus RNA (HR: 4.995, 95% CI: 1.882–13.260, P = .001), and higher alpha‐fetoprotein (HR: 1.033, 95% CI: 1.011–1.055, P = .003). Patients with alpha‐fetoprotein ≧10 ng/mL showed significant improvement of albumin‐bilirubin score from baseline to 48 weeks after treatment compared to those with alpha‐fetoprotein <10 ng/mL (P < .001).

Conclusions

Baseline serum alpha‐fetoprotein might be a predictive factor for improvement of liver function after sustained virological response in patients with severe fibrosis.
Methylene blue as a photo‐redox catalyst employed for the synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine scaffolds via a single‐electron transfer/energy transfer pathway
Authors: Mohamadpour Farzaneh
Published: January 2023

The radical tandem Knoevenagel‐Michael cyclocondensation reaction of barbituric acid/1,3‐dimethylbarbituric acid, malononitrile, and aryl aldehydes was used to establish a green tandem method for the metal‐free synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine scaffolds. At ambient temperature, photo‐excited state functions made from methylene blue (MB+) were used as single‐electron transfer and energy transfer catalysts in an aqueous solvent, utilizing visible light as a sustainable energy source. The purpose of this project is to enhance the use of a non‐metal cationic dye that is both affordable and widely available. Methylene blue is photochemically catalyzed with the least amount of catalyst feasible, yielding excellent yields, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness, as well as excellent atom economy, time‐saving features, and ease of operation. As a result, a wide range of environmental and long‐term chemical properties can be obtained. The pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine scaffolds' turnover number and turnover frequency have been calculated. Surprisingly, gram‐scale cyclization is conceivable, indicating that the technology could be used in industry.
Inequality and the middle‐income trap
Authors: Hu Xiaoshan , Wan Guanghua , Yang Chen , Zhang Anqi
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes an indicator measuring the likelihood for an economy to escape the middle income trap (MIT) and then estimates the impact of income inequality on this indicator using 1960‐2019 cross‐country data. Major findings include the following: (1) The likelihood of escaping MIT is relatively large for Asia, followed by Europe, Africa, North America and South America. (2) Inequality is negatively and significantly correlated with the MIT indicator, particularly in freer, high‐income and MIT country groups. (3) Regarding the mechanisms, domestic investment, human capital accumulation and trade openness contribute positively to this indicator, while ageing does the opposite.
Dust emission and potential diffusion process in Mongolia
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Gao Xin , Lei Jiaqiang
Published: January 2023

Mongolian dust is an important part of Asian aerosols, which highly influences regional ecological balance and atmospheric environment cycling. Detailed and systematic research is essential for downwind countries of Mongolia to formulate appropriate strategies for dust disaster prevention. In this study, a size‐resolved dust emission scheme and a hybrid single‐particle Lagrangian integrated trajectory model were coupled to reproduce the Mongolian dust events. For the dust storm that occurred on March 14, 2021, the simulated dust source was mainly located in the Gobi Provinces and a narrow strip between the Altai and Khangai Mountains. The potential diffusion area of dust was approximately 8.59 × 106 km2. The long‐term simulation between 2001 and 2020 shows that Mongolian dust sources can be divided into three areas: southwest Mongolia, the Gobi Provinces, and the area between the Altai and Khangai Mountains. Dust emissions can reach 100.6 Tg year−1, affecting approximately 12.6 × 106 km2 of land in East Asia. The emission and transport characteristics of Mongolian dust vary according to the sources. Southwestern Mongolia has the most severe dust emissions and the Gobi Provinces have the strongest diffusion capacity. Southern Mongolia and northern China have always been the hotspots of Mongolian dust transportation and deposition and thus require more research attention. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Mongolian dust and presents a potential diffusion map that can be used to formulate preventive measures.
Outside the library: Early career researchers and use of alternative information sources in pandemic times
Authors: Herman Eti , Nicholas David , Clark David , Boukacem‐Zeghmouri Chérifa , Rodríguez‐Bravo Blanca , Abrizah Abdullah , Sims David , Watkinson Anthony , Xu Jie , Serbina Galina , Świgoń Marzena , Jamali Hamid R. , Tenopir Carol , Allard Suzie
Published: January 2023

Presents findings from a study into the attitudes and practices of pandemic‐era early career researchers (ECRs) in regard to obtaining access to the formally published scholarly literature, which focused on alternative providers, notably ResearchGate and Sci‐Hub. The study is a part of the Harbingers project that has been exploring the work lives and scholarly communication practices of ECRs in pre‐pandemic times and during the pandemic, and utilizes data from two rounds of interviews with around 170 ECRs from the sciences and social sciences in eight countries. Findings show that alternative providers, as represented by ResearchGate and Sci‐Hub, have become established and appear to be gaining ground. However, there are considerable country‐ and discipline‐associated differences. ECRs' country‐specific level of usage of the alternative providers is partly traceable to the adequacy of library provisions, although there are other factors at play in shaping ECRs' attitudes and practices, most notably convenience and time saving, as well as the fact that these platforms have become embedded in the scholarly dashboard. There is a dearth of evidence of the impact of the pandemic on ECRs' ways of obtaining scholarly papers.
Mapping length of inpatient treatment duration and year‐wise relapse rates in eating disordered populations in a well‐defined Western‐European healthcare region across 1998–2020
Authors: Andersson Peter , Jamshidi Esmail , Ekman Carl‐Johan , Tedroff Kristina , Björkander Jonnie , Sjögren Magnus , Lundberg Johan , Jokinen Jussi , Desai Boström Adrian E.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Updated international guideline recommendations for AN inpatient care rely on expert opinions/observational evidence and promote extended inpatient stays, warranting investigation using higher‐level ecological evidence.

Methods

The study was conducted according to Guidelines for Accurate and Transparent Health Estimates Reporting (GATHER). Data encompassing 13,885 ED inpatients (5336 adolescents and 8549 adults) was retrieved from Swedish public health registries. Variables analyzed included (1) ED inpatient care opportunities, (2) unique number of ED inpatients and (3) mean length of ED‐related inpatient stays in age groups 15–19 and 20–88+, across 1998–2020.

Results

Mean length of inpatient stays was inversely correlated to relapse to ED‐related inpatient care within the same year (p < 0.001, R‐squaredadj = 0.5216 and p < 0.00001, R‐squaredadj = 0.5090, in the 15–19 and 20–88+ age groups, respectively), independent of number of ED inpatients treated within a year in both age groups. Extending mean adolescent inpatient duration from 35 to 45 days was associated with a ∼30% reduction in the year‐wise relapse rate.

Conclusions

Mean length of ED‐related inpatient treatment stays was associated with reduced relapses to inpatient care within the same year, which could be interpreted as support for recommendations to include a stabilization phase in inpatient ED treatment.
Revisiting the empirical particle‐fluid coupling model used in DEM‐CFD by high‐resolution DEM‐LBM‐IMB simulations: A 2D perspective
Authors: Zeng Zhixiong , Fu Jinlong , Feng Y. T. , Wang Min
Published: January 2023

The work investigates the applicability of the unresolved Computational Fluid Dynamics and Discrete Element Method (CFDDEM) technique based on empirical equations for fluid‐particle coupling. We first carry out a series of representative volume element simulations using the high‐resolution particle‐resolved Lattice Boltzmann method and Discrete Element Method (LBMDEM) coupled by an Immersed Moving Boundary (IMB) scheme. Then, we compare the results obtained by both LBMDEM and empirical equations used in unresolved CFDDEM with analytical solutions. It is found that the existing empirical equations used in solving fluid‐particle interactions in 2D CFDDEM fail to accurately calculate the hydrodynamic force applied to solid particles. The underlying reason is that the existing empirical models are obtained based on 3D experimental results and thus are not applicable to 2D problems. Based on the simulation results, a new drag coefficient model is then proposed. The estimated drag forces using the new model are compared favourably with the simulated ones, indicating the good performance of the proposed model.
Stress response and influencing factors among fever outpatients and children's families during normalisation of the COVID‐19 epidemic: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lu Lifen , Zheng Gui , He Jiangqin , Wu Hui , He Xueqian , Yu Huajun , Wu Siying , Shen Xiulan
Published: January 2023

Aim

To examine the demographic characteristics associated with stress response of fever outpatients and children's families during normalisation of the COVID‐19 epidemic and to examine the relationship between stress response, coping style and resilience.

Design

Online cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 541 fever clinic participants from Yiwu, China, were recruited via WeChat from February to November 2021. Online self‐administered questionnaires were used to collect data. Data were analysed using t‐tests, one‐way analyses of variance, Pearson's correlation analyses and multiple linear regression analyses.

Results

There were apparent physical and emotional responses among the fever outpatients, especially the adult patients. The main coping style was negative coping, and the degree of psychological resilience was low. Income, comorbidities, religious beliefs, tenacity, negative coping and positive coping were independent predictors of stress response.
Event‐triggered adaptive dynamic programming of nonlinear system with asymmetric input constraints and uncertain disturbances
Authors: Liu Yan , Qiu Guoqing , Gou Wenyao , Liu Qie
Published: January 2023

In this article, an uncertain disturbance rejection control problem for the affine system in the presence of asymmetric input constraints is addressed using an event‐triggered control method. The disturbance rejection control is converted to an optimal control problem, and a zero‐sum game‐based method is proposed to solve this optimal control problem. To deal with the input constraints, a new cost function is proposed. The event‐triggered controller is updated only when the triggering condition is satisfied, which can reduce the computational complexity.In order to obtain a controller that minimizes the performance index function in the worst‐case disturbance, we use a critic‐only network to solve the Hamilton–Jacobi–Isaacs (HJI) equation, and the critic network weight is tuned through a gradient descent method with the historical state data. The stability of the closed‐loop system and the uniform ultimate boundedness of the critic network parameters are proved by the Lyapunov method. Two numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Spontaneous Nystagmus in Patients With Posterior Semicircular Canal Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Kim Chang‐Hee , Lee Dong‐Han , Lee Jiyeon , Shin Jung Eun , Park Joon Yong
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the incidence of spontaneous nystagmus (SN) in posterior semicircular canal (PSCC) benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and its effect on treatment outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Methods

This study included 50 patients with idiopathic unilateral PSCC BPPV between July 2021 and May 2022. The presence of SN was investigated, and the results of the bithermal caloric test and video head impulse test (vHIT) were compared.

Results

SN was observed in 13 (26%) of the 50 patients presenting PSCC BPPV. The direction of SN was mainly unidirectional and horizontal in 12 of the 13 patients with a slow‐phase velocity ranging from 2 to 4°/s. One patient presented an upbeating torsional SN at the initial evaluation. The mean vHIT gain of the PSCC on the affected side was significantly lower in patients with SN than those without SN (p = .004, Mann‐WhitneyUtest). The proportion of patients who recovered within 2 sessions of the repositioning maneuver was significantly higher in those without SN than that in those with SN (p < .001, Fisher's exact test).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the treatment outcomes of PSCC BPPV were significantly worse in patients with SN than those without SN. Examining the presence of SN in patients with PSCC BPPV may be helpful in counseling the patients on prognosis, and it is expected that more sessions of canalith repositioning maneuver may be required to treat PSCC BPPV in patients with SN than those without SN.
Self‐assembly of surfactin‐like polymer in solution by the dissipative particle dynamics method
Authors: Zhou Zhengwei , Wan Daihong , Zhou Junwei , Zhang Yixin , Wang Rong
Published: January 2023

Surfactin is a kind of special and efficient cyclic lipopeptide biosurfactant, which is composed of a seven‐peptide ring and a fatty acid tail chain and is widely used in the fields of medicine, environmental remediation and heavy oil transportation. This special ring structure also makes surfactin have great application potential in biomedicine and surface catalysis. In this work, the self‐assembly behavior of surfactin‐like polymer in selective solvents was studied by dissipative particle dynamics. By changing the interaction parameters, the size of the hydrophilic ring, the length of the hydrophobic tail chain and the concentration, a series of structures such as vesicles, disk‐like micelles, worm‐like micelles, sphere‐like micelles and ring‐like micelles were obtained from the establishment of the phase diagram. We explored the dynamic formation paths of vesicles and ring‐like micelles and discovered morphological changes during their aggregation. The mechanism of sphere‐like micelle formation at lower concentration was also studied, explained by the packing of molecules of effective conical shape. The structural properties of the vesicles were also intensively studied. Based on the special ring structure of surfactin‐like polymers, we explored the difference in their self‐assembly behavior from those of linear block copolymers and giant surfactant‐like polymers. A detailed study on the self‐assembly of surfactin‐like polymer can deepen the understanding of ordered aggregates of cyclic surfactants in selective solvents and can drive important implications for their practical application. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
When a plant invader meets its old enemy abroad: what can be learnt from accidental introductions of biological control agents
Authors: Müller‐Schärer Heinz , Sun Yan , Schaffner Urs
Published: January 2023

Accidental introductions of biological weed control (BWC) agents (i) offer opportunities to assess host use of agents with a potentially broader fundamental host‐range than those approved for field release directly in target areas; (ii) urge national authorities to rapidly respond as they may threaten native species or crops, and by this (iii) help advancing post‐release studies, a neglected aspect of BWC. Through detailed insights gained from studying the recent accidental introduction of the ragweed leaf beetle Ophraella communa into Europe, we derive suggestions for overcoming barriers to adoption of BWC by re‐evaluating the predictive power of pre‐release studies and, thus, the presently strict criteria for deciding upon their release that might exclude safe and efficient agents. By using the allergenic weed Ambrosia artemisiifolia and the accidentally introduced BWC agent O. communa as study system, we also hope to raise the awareness of authorities to consider biological control more prominently as a key approach for pest management in the ‘One Health’ concept, which aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, plants and ecosystems. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Sustainable production of AlSi10Mg parts by laser powder bed fusion process
Authors: Mercurio Vincenza , Calignano Flaviana , Iuliano Luca
Published: January 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is an additive manufacturing technology that allows producing complex and lightweight parts without the use of specific tooling during the building process. However, despite continuous developments, some problems limit its use in series production. To introduce these systems in mass production, it is necessary to solve the problems and exceed the limits related to the requirements of industrialization: higher productivity, less material consumption, less over-production, and less waste, greater stability of the process, and higher quality of the final components. In this study, good practices to reduce resource consumption are presented. The production rate of the L-PBF technique was increased to produce AlSi10Mg alloy components. All the samples were manufactured with 90-µm-layer thickness increasing productivity by approximately 65%. A design of experiments (DOE) method was used to analyze the effect of process parameters on the densification percentage. The produced samples were observed with a non-destructive process, the X-ray computed tomography system, to detect the presence of defects and pores. It has been found that a combination of parameters can induce porosities with a morphology such that after stress relieving the density increases rather than decreases as has been widely discussed in the literature. The mechanical properties are comparable with the literature values for conventional technologies. Good values of as-built surface roughness were also achieved despite the layer thickness.
Hinokitiol for hypertensive emergencies: effects on peripheral resistance, cardiac load, baroreflex sensitivity, and electrolytes balance
Authors: Omar Hoda A. , El-Bassossy Hany M. , Hassan Noura A.
Published: January 2023

Hinokitiol, a natural monoterpenoid, has been shown previously to possess a potent vasodilating activity in vitro in both control and hypertensive aortae. Here, the antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of an intravenous hinokitiol injection were fully investigated in angiotensin II-induced hypertensive emergency in rats. Hinokitiol intravenous injection was prepared in the form of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system. Rat’s arterial and ventricular hemodynamics were measured in real-time recordings in addition to surface electrocardiogram while slow injection of cumulative doses of hinokitiol or vehicle as well as time control. Hinokitiol at dose 10 mg/kg showed a considerable reduction in the raised systolic blood pressure (30 mmHg) within only 30 min. The decrease in blood pressure seems to be mediated through a reduction in peripheral resistance, as appears from the decreases in diastolic pressure, dicrotic notch pressure, and pulse pressure. In addition, hinokitiol injection reduced heart load due to the decrease in heart rate, increases in cycle duration (particularly the non-ejection duration) and diastolic duration, and decreases in end-diastolic pressure. An effect most likely mediated via prolongation of ventricular repolarization as appears from the increases in PR, QTc, and JT intervals. However, acute intravenous injection of hinokitiol neither affected the baroreflex sensitivity nor sodium/potassium balance. In conclusion, acute hinokitiol intravenous injection markedly reduced severe hypertension in rats. This effect seems to be mediated through decreasing peripheral resistance and decreasing cardiac load, suggesting that it is an effective treatment in hypertensive emergencies after clinical evaluation.
Medial joint space narrowing progresses after pullout repair of medial meniscus posterior root tear
Authors: Kawada Koki , Furumatsu Takayuki , Tamura Masanori , Xue Haowei , Higashihara Naohiro , Kintaka Keisuke , Yokoyama Yusuke , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The extent to which arthropathic changes progress after medial meniscus posterior root tear (MMPRT) repair remains controversial. This retrospective study assessed medial joint space (MJS) narrowing progression after pullout repair for MMPRT and identified the correlating factors.

Methods

We included 56 patients who underwent pullout repair for MMPRT. The MJS of the bilateral knees was assessed with radiography using the fixed-flexion view. A second-look arthroscopy was performed one year post-operatively for all patients. The baseline characteristics, clinical scores, Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade, and medial meniscus extrusion (MME) were identified. Statistical comparisons and correlation analyses were conducted.

Results

The MJS narrowing width was significantly larger in MMPRT knees than in contralateral knees (0.51 ± 0.85 mm vs. 0.09 ± 0.49 mm, p < 0.001). KL grade progression was observed in 23.2% (13/56) of patients. There was a significant difference between pre- and post-operative MME values, indicating MME progression (p < 0.001). Each clinical score showed significant improvement one year post-operatively (p < 0.001). Positive correlations were found between MJS narrowing and pre-operative MJS (coefficient = 0.510, p < 0.001), rate of change in MJS (coefficient = 0.929, p < 0.001), and increase in MME (ΔMME) (coefficient = 0.506, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Knees that underwent pullout repair for MMPRT showed progression of MJS narrowing by 0.51 mm at one year post-operatively, although clinical scores markedly improved. Correlating factors for MJS narrowing were pre-operative MJS, rate of change in MJS, and ΔMME. Preventing MME progression is essential for preventing arthropathic changes.
The morphological classification and clinical significance of atlas vertebral artery sulcus based on computed tomography three-dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Hu Dingxiang , Li Changhui , Chen Liang , Ma Chenxi , Huang He , Zheng Ruiqing
Published: January 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to research the morphological classification and clinical significance of vertebral artery sulcus on atlas based on CT three-dimensional reconstruction.

Methods

Three-dimensional reconstruction images of 300 adult atlases were collected. A total of 600 atlas vertebral artery sulci were selected in this study. The parameters required for placement of C1 pedicle screw, including depth of grinding drilling (ao), width (cd), length ab), height (H), lateral wall thickness (L1), inner wall thickness (L2), medial angle (∠α), and the cephalad angle to the transverse plane of atlas pedicle (∠β), were measured.

Results

CT three-dimensional reconstruction images showed that there were five types of atlas vertebral artery sulci: no process type (n = 494 cases, 82.33%), upper process type (n = 29, 4.83%), lower process type (n = 25, 4.17%), double process type (n = 19, 3.17%), and posterior ring type (33, 5.50%). One-way ANOVA tests showed that the five groups differed significantly in the parameter of ao, L2, H, ∠α and ∠β. One-way ANOVA with the LSD post hoc tests showed that the parameter ao of the group of no process type was less than that of the group of upper or lower process type (P < 0.05), and ao of the group of lower process or posterior ring type was less than that of the group of the upper type (P < 0.05). The parameter of ao of the male group was larger than that of the female group.

Conclusion

No process type of the atlas vertebral artery sulcus was the most common, and the medial angle and cephalad angle of the atlas pedicle in this type were the smallest. When pedicle screws are inserted, the above two angles should not be too large. Male's ao was larger than that of female's. All these findings should be considered to avoid the deviation of the nail track.
Functional connectivity changes between amygdala and prefrontal cortex after ECT are associated with improvement in distinct depressive symptoms
Authors: Domke Ann-Kathrin , Hempel Moritz , Hartling Corinna , Stippl Anna , Carstens Luisa , Gruzman Rebecca , Herrera Melendez Ana Lucia , Bajbouj Malek , Gärtner Matti , Grimm Simone
Published: January 2023

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression. However, the underlying mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood. The investigation of depression-specific networks using resting-state fMRI and the relation to differential symptom improvement might be an innovative approach providing new insights into the underlying processes. In this naturalistic study, we investigated the relationship between changes in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and symptom improvement after ECT in 21 patients with treatment-resistant depression. We investigated rsFC before and after ECT and focused our analyses on FC changes directly related to symptom reduction and on FC at baseline to identify neural targets that might predict individual clinical responses to ECT. Additional analyses were performed to identify the direct relationship between rsFC change and symptom dimensions such as sadness, negative thoughts, detachment, and neurovegetative symptoms. An increase in rsFC between the left amygdala and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) after ECT was related to overall symptom reduction (Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.033) as well as to a reduction in specific symptoms such as sadness (r = 0.524, uncorrected p = 0.014), negative thoughts (r = 0.700, Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.002) and detachment (r = 0.663, p = 0.004), but not in neurovegetative symptoms. Furthermore, high baseline rsFC between the left amygdala and the right frontal pole (FP) predicted treatment outcome (uncorrected p = 0.039). We conclude that changes in FC in regions of the limbic-prefrontal network are associated with symptom improvement, particularly in affective and cognitive dimensions. Frontal-limbic connectivity has the potential to predict symptom improvement after ECT. Further research combining functional imaging biomarkers and a symptom-based approach might be promising.
Characterization of a polyclonal antibody that is highly selective for the d-isoAsp-25 variant of mammalian histone H2B
Authors: Aswad Dana W. , O’Leary Kevin S. , Williams Katherine
Published: January 2023

Approximately 12% of histone H2B molecules in mammalian brain contain a modification wherein Asp25 is present as the d-enantiomer, and is mostly linked to Gly26 via the side-chain carboxyl. Here we (1) demonstrate the high specificity of a polyclonal antibody to this modification, and (2) use this Ab to demonstrate that this modification is enriched in brain relative to liver, thymus, and HeLa cells.
On the road with RTLola
Authors: Biewer Sebastian , Finkbeiner Bernd , Hermanns Holger , Köhl Maximilian A. , Schnitzer Yannik , Schwenger Maximilian
Published: January 2023

This paper is about shipping runtime verification to the masses. It presents the crucial technology enabling everyday car owners to monitor the behaviour of their cars in-the-wild. Concretely, we present an Android app that deploys rtlola runtime monitors for the purpose of diagnosing automotive exhaust emissions. For this, it harvests the availability of cheap Bluetooth adapters to the On-Board-Diagnostics (obd) ports, which are ubiquitous in cars nowadays. The app is a central piece in a set of tools and services we have developed for black-box analysis of automotive vehicles. We detail its use in the context of real driving emission (rde) tests and report on sample runs that helped identify violations of the regulatory framework currently valid in the European Union.
The developments in amniotic membrane transplantation in glaucoma and vitreoretinal procedures
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Nappi Vivian , Empeslidis Theodoros
Published: January 2023

The main reasons why Amniotic Membrane (AM) is transplanted in Ophthalmology are: to provide a substrate for cellular growth and to provide tectonic support or as a biological bandage and barrier that protects the wound to facilitate an environment for wound healing. The application of AM is well-documented in corneal disorders of various aetiologies [1], however, research within the field has highlighted how it can be used in conjunctival disorders and most recently, in glaucoma and vitreoretinal procedures. This review explores the preservation modalities of AM and summarises the current literature regarding AM transplantation in Glaucoma and Vitreoretinal conditions. AM transplantation in conjunction with trabeculectomy was reported to be used in two different surgical techniques. They differ in relation to the position of the implant: below the scleral flap or over the entire exposed sclera. The results of these studies suggest that AM transplant is a safe procedure that helps in the improvement of the intraocular pressure when associated with trabeculectomies. Moreover, it enhances trabeculectomies success rates when used along with mitomycin C [2]. The use of AM is also described for managing leaking blebs. It is mentioned to be a suitable alternative to conjunctival advancement. Regarding AM transplantation in glaucoma shunt or valve surgeries, the current literature is relatively limited. However, AM has been described as a good tectonic support for shunt procedures [3]. Successful results are described in the literature for surgical treatments using AM plug for vitreoretinal procedures. In particular macular hole closure and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. In conclusion, AM transplant is a very promising and versatile adjutant therapy. However, further studies are also required for a better understanding and refinement of surgical techniques.
A viscoelastic–viscoplastic model for adhesives subjected to reversed cyclic load
Authors: Chen Yi , Smith Lloyd V.
Published: January 2023

This study aims to describe a toughened adhesive’s ratcheting–recovery behavior under reversed cyclic load using a viscoelastic–viscoplastic model. As most adhesives are based on synthetic polymers, their tensile and compression response can be different. A series of load–Sunload tests were conducted on bulk adhesives and bonded joints involving tension/compression–shear loads to characterize the initial yield surface. The effect of hydrostatic stress was studied by considering the instantaneous response and yield strength under tensile and compression loads. Given the observed modulus degradation and extensive permanent strain during reversed cyclic tests, time-dependent damage factors were considered for both viscoelastic and viscoplastic responses. The model was implemented in a finite element (FE) code and used to model the shear response to reversed cyclic load with varying frequency. Good agreement between the model and experiment was obtained. The consideration of both hydrostatic stress and damage was required to describe the observed adhesive reversed cyclic response.
Reference values of four measures of craniocervical stability using upright dynamic magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Nicholson Leslie L. , Rao Prashanth J. , Lee Matthew , Wong Tsz Ming , Cheng Regen Hoi Yan , Chan Cliffton
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To establish reference ranges for four most commonly used diagnostic measures of craniocervical instability (CCI) in three cervical sagittal positions. This necessitated development of a reliable measurement protocol using upright, dynamic MRI (udMRI), to determine differences in the extent of motion between positions, and whether age and sex correlate with these measures.

Materials and Methods

Deidentified udMRIs of 50 adults, referred for reasons other than CCI, were captured at three positions (maximal flexion, maximal extension and neutral). Images were analyzed, providing measures of basion-axial interval, basion-axial angle, basion-dens interval (BDI) and the Grabb–Oakes line (GOL) for all three positions (12 measures per participant). All measures were independently recorded by a radiologist and neurosurgeon to determine their reliability. Descriptive statistics, correlations, paired and independent t-tests were used. Mean (± 2 SD) identified the reference range for all four measures at each craniocervical position.

Results

The revised measurement protocol produced inter-rater reliability indices of 0.69–0.97 (moderate–excellent). Fifty adults’ (50% male; mean age 41.2 years (± 9.7)) reference ranges for all twelve measures were reported. Except for the BDI and GOL when moving between neutral and full flexion, significant extents of movement were identified between the three craniocervical positions for all four measures (p ≤ 0.005). Only a minor effect of age was found.

Conclusions

This is the first study to provide a rigorous standardized protocol for four diagnostic measures of CCI. Reference ranges are established at mid and ends of sagittal cervical range corresponding to where exacerbations of signs and symptoms are commonly reported.
Nicely structured positive bases with maximal cosine measure
Authors: Hare Warren , Jarry-Bolduc Gabriel , Planiden Chayne
Published: January 2023

The properties of positive bases make them a useful tool in derivative-free optimization and an interesting concept in mathematics. The notion of thecosine measurehelps to quantify the quality of a positive basis. It provides information on how well the vectors in the positive basis uniformly cover the space considered. The number of vectors in a positive basis is known to be between$$n+1$$n+1and 2ninclusively. When the number of vectors is strictly between$$n+1$$n+1and 2n, we say that it is an intermediate positive basis. In this paper, the structure of intermediate positive bases with maximal cosine measure is investigated. The structure of an intermediate positive basis with maximal cosine measure over a certain subset of positive bases is provided. This type of positive bases has a simple structure that makes them easy to generate with a computer software.
Topology of Asymptotically Conical Calabi–Yau and G2 Manifolds and Desingularization of Nearly Kähler and Nearly G2 Conifolds
Authors: Schiemanowski Lothar
Published: January 2023

A natural approach to the construction of nearly$$G_2$$G2manifolds lies in resolving nearly$$G_2$$G2spaces with isolated conical singularities by gluing in asymptotically conical$$G_2$$G2manifolds modelled on the same cone. If such a resolution exits, one expects there to be a family of nearly$$G_2$$G2manifolds, whose endpoint is the original nearly$$G_2$$G2conifold and whose parameter is the scale of the glued in asymptotically conical$$G_2$$G2manifold. We show that in many cases such a curve does not exist. The non-existence result is based on a topological result for asymptotically conical$$G_2$$G2manifolds: if the rate of the metric is below$$-3$$-3, then the$$G_2$$G24-form is exact if and only if the manifold is Euclidean$$\mathbb R^7$$R7. A similar construction is possible in the nearly Kähler case, which we investigate in the same manner with similar results. In this case, the non-existence results is based on a topological result for asymptotically conical Calabi–Yau 6-manifolds: if the rate of the metric is below$$-3$$-3, then the square of the Kähler form and the complex volume form can only be simultaneously exact, if the manifold is Euclidean$$\mathbb R^6$$R6.