bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Engineered Nanosugar Enables Rapid and Sustained Glucose‐Responsive Insulin Delivery in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Xu Rong , Bhangu Sukhvir Kaur , Sourris Karly C. , Vanni Domitilla , Sani Marc‐Antoine , Karas John A. , Alt Karen , Niego Be'eri , Ale Anukreity , Besford Quinn A. , Dyett Brendan , Patrick Joshua , Carmichael Irena , Shaw Jonathan E. , Caruso Frank , Cooper Mark E. , Hagemeyer Christoph E. , Cavalieri Francesca
Published: March 2023

Glucose‐responsive insulin‐delivery platforms that are sensitive to dynamic glucose concentration fluctuations and provide both rapid and prolonged insulin release have great potential to control hyperglycemia and avoid hypoglycemia diabetes. Here, biodegradable and charge‐switchable phytoglycogen nanoparticles capable of glucose‐stimulated insulin release are engineered. The nanoparticles are “nanosugars” bearing glucose‐sensitive phenylboronic acid groups and amine moieties that allow effective complexation with insulin (≈95% loading capacity) to form nanocomplexes. A single subcutaneous injection of nanocomplexes shows a rapid and efficient response to a glucose challenge in two distinct diabetic mouse models, resulting in optimal blood glucose levels (below 200 mg dL–1) for up to 13 h. The morphology of the nanocomplexes is found to be key to controlling rapid and extended glucose‐regulated insulin delivery in vivo. These studies reveal that the injected nanocomplexes enabled efficient insulin release in the mouse, with optimal bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles. These results highlight a promising strategy for the development of a glucose‐responsive insulin delivery system based on a natural and biodegradable nanosugar.
Tunable Efficient White Emission in Holmium Doped Double Perovskites Cs2KInCl6 via Antimony Sensitization
Authors: Huang Weiguo , Peng Hui , Wei Qilin , Xia Jingjing , He Xuefei , Ke Bao , Tian Ye , Zou BingSuo
Published: March 2023

Recently, ns2 metal ions (such as Bi3+ and Sb3+) doped double perovskites have captured intense attention for their efficient emission, however, achieving efficient and tunable white light emission is always an enormous challenge. Herein, Sb3+/Ho3+ co‐doped Cs2KInCl6 double perovskites are proposed, and the photoluminescence results show that there are two emission bands, one broad cyan emission band stems from self‐trapped exciton (STE) in [SbCl6]3‐ octahedron, while another red emission band derives from the f‐f transitions of Ho3+. The emission processes for Sb3+/Ho3+ co‐doped Cs2KInCl6 show that Sb3+ can act as the sensitizer to activate Ho3+ emission, which is due to the energy transfer channel from STE to Ho3+. As the Ho3+ concentration increases, the luminous color of Sb3+/Ho3+ co‐doped Cs2KInCl6 can be modulated from cyan to orange under 315 nm light irradiation, and the white emission can even be obtained with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 90 ± 2% when the energy‐transfer efficiency is 50%. Finally, single compound white‐light emitting diodes and fluorescent anti‐counterfeiting labels based on 0.5%Sb3+/60%Ho3+ co‐doped Cs2KInCl6 are fabricated. This work provides an effective strategy to achieve efficient tunable white emission in lead‐free double perovskites through ns2 metal and lanthanide ion co‐doping.
Site‐Engineering for Controlling Multiple‐Excitation and Emission in Eu2+‐Activated CaSrSiO4 Phosphors in Marine Fisheries
Authors: Liu Shuifu , Wen Dawei , Du Rongkai , Jiang Chunyan , Chen Jun , Li Junhao , Zhou Lei , Molokeev Maxim S. , Wu Mingmei
Published: March 2023

Artificial light fishing technology has been used in marine fisheries for thousands of years. The light source with multi‐color adjustable output is expected to become a new generation of fish‐attracting lamps. Herein, a new method of crystal‐site engineering through reducing atmospheres is proposed for the development of Eu2+ doped single‐phase phosphor with multi‐excitation and multi‐emission properties. Following this approach, the distribution ratio of Eu2+ at Ca2+ and Sr2+ sites in CaSrSiO4 (CSO) can be modulated. Importantly, Eu2+ at both lattice sites exhibit non‐interfering optical properties, CSO:Eu2+ phosphor realizes multi‐color output from green to yellow and then to red when Eu2+ occupies the Sr2+ and Ca2+ sites in a relatively balanced ratio. Benefitting from the tunable color range covering the spectral sensitivity regions of most marine fishes, this phosphor may eventually be applied in futuristic innovative fish‐attracting lamps.
Census of potential predators and competitors of sandfish, Holothuria scabra, juveniles during floating hapa ocean nursery culture
Authors: C. Gorospe Jay R , Rescordado Racelle R. , Juinio‐Meñez Marie Antonette , Cruz Margarita dela Torre‐dela , Southgate Paul C.
Published: March 2023

Predation and competition are among the most important factors affecting sandfish, Holothuria scabra, growth and survival in ocean‐based production systems. In this study, the potential predators and competitors of sandfish juveniles reared at two sites in the Philippines using the floating hapa ocean nursery system were assessed. A total of 26 species of potential predators and competitors from 16 different families of fishes, molluscs and crustaceans were recorded. These taxa were dominated by the opisthobranch Stylocheilus striatus at Bolinao (north–west Luzon) and the isopod Cymodoce sp. at Maliwaliw (eastern Visayas). Highest number of potential predators and competitors that recruited and/or migrated to the inside of floating hapa nets was recorded on day 23 at Bolinao and day 30 at Maliwaliw, then decreased over the 69‐day duration of the study. Mean length, absolute growth rates (AGRs) and survival of sandfish juveniles reared in floating hapas at the two sites varied during the study. AGRs were highest at 1.17 ± 0.06 mm day−1 at Bolinao, and 1 ± 0.08 mm day−1 at Maliwaliw, by days 23 and 60, respectively. Mean lengths of sandfish juveniles reared at Bolinao and Maliwaliw by the end of the study were 46.7 ± 0.15 and 58.8 ± 2.4 mm, respectively, and survival at both sites was high at 96% by the end of the study. Negative correlations were observed between the number of individual predators and competitors, and survival and growth rates of sandfish juveniles reared at Bolinao and Maliwaliw, respectively. Our results highlight the importance of predator and competitor management measures and appropriate site selection to optimize growth performance and survival of sandfish juveniles reared in ocean‐based culture production systems.
Reproductive justice for Black, Indigenous, Women of Color: Uprooting race and colonialism
Authors: Suarez‐Balcazar Yolanda , Buckingham Sara , Rusch Dana B. , Charvonia Alissa , Young Rebecca Ipiaqruk , Lewis Rhonda K. , Ford‐Paz Rebecca E. , Mehta Tara G. , Perez Carolina Meza
Published: March 2023

Historically, atrocities against Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color's (BIWoC) reproductive rights have been committed and continue to take place in contemporary society. The atrocities against BIWoC have been fueled by White supremacy ideology of the “desirable race” and colonial views toward controlling poverty and population growth, particularly that of “undesirable” races and ethnicities. Grounded in Critical Race Theory, this paper aims to provide a critical analysis of historical and contemporary violations of BIWoC reproductive rights; discuss interventions based on empowerment and advocacy principles designed to promote women's reproductive justice; and discuss implications for future research, action, and policy from the lenses of Critical Race Theory and Community Psychology. This paper contributes to the special issue by critically analyzing historical and contemporary racism and colonialism against BIWoC, discussing implications for future research and practice, and making policy recommendations.
Child well‐being before and after the 2020 COVID‐19 lockdowns in three Australian states
Authors: Allen Jacqueline B. H. , Homel Ross J. , McGee Tara R. , Freiberg Kate J.
Published: March 2023

This paper reports on changes in the social‐emotional well‐being of 6‐ to 12‐year‐old children tested before the COVID‐19 pandemic and during 2020 and 2021. Well‐being was assessed using a video game that empowers children to report their own well‐being, including school attachment, social and emotional well‐being, behavioural conformity and family support. We compared well‐being over time for two groups of children in government schools in Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania. The treatment group of 580 children were tested in 2019 (Time 1) and a second time in mid‐late 2020 and early 2021 (Time 2). The comparison group of 841 children were tested twice before the pandemic. Results showed that children in the treatment group reported significantly lower family support at Time 2 than those in the comparison group. This reduction in perceived family support was stronger for girls. In addition, children in the treatment group who reported lower levels of family support at Time 1 reported a steeper decline in family support by Time 2. Finally, boys in the treatment group reported significantly better behavioural conformity and emotional well‐being relative to girls over time. Results highlight the varied impacts of the pandemic lockdowns and the need to provide continued support to vulnerable families.
A Spectroscopic Study on Nitrogen Electrooxidation to Nitrate
Authors: Li Tieliang , Han Shuhe , Wang Yuting , Zhou Jin , Zhang Bin , Yu Yifu
Published: March 2023

As a potential substitute technique for conventional nitrate production, electrocatalytic nitrogen oxidation reaction (NOR) is gaining more and more attention. But, the pathway of this reaction is still unknown owing to the lack of understanding on key reaction intermediates. Herein, electrochemical in situ attenuated total reflection surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (ATR‐SEIRAS) and isotope‐labeled online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) are employed to study the NOR mechanism over a Rh catalyst. Based on the detected asymmetric NO2− bending, NO3− vibration, N=O stretching, and N−N stretching as well as isotope‐labeled mass signals of N2O and NO, it can be deduced that the NOR undergoes an associative mechanism (distal approach) and the strong N≡N bond in N2 prefers to break concurrently with the hydroxyl addition in distal N.
New dinuclear cobalt(II) complexes as “self‐activating” chemical nuclease and inhibitor of tumor cell invasion: High selective cytotoxicity against NCI‐H460 cells
Authors: Zhang Yong‐Po , He Qing , Zhao Yan‐Yang , Qiao Pei‐Pei , Tian Yue‐Wei , Gao Chun‐Yan , Tian Jin‐Lei , Du Wei‐Jun , Yan Shi‐Ping
Published: March 2023

Three new dinuclear Co(II) complexes [Co2(L1)2Cl2](PF6)2 (1), [Co2L2(OAc)2(CH3OH)4](ClO4)2 (2), and [Co2L3(OAc)2(CH3OH)4](ClO4)2 (3) were synthesized and structurally determined by X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction analysis as well as IR, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry. All complexes exhibit efficiently self‐activated cleavage activity with hydrolytic mechanism, which was accurately proved by addition of regular radical scavengers, anaerobic cleavage experiment, and 2‐thiobarbituric acid reaction. Complex 1 exhibited higher selective cytotoxicity against tumor cells than normal cells, which is significantly better than that of cisplatin. Hoechst 33342 staining, intracellular ROS generation and mitochondrial membrane potential were conducted to assess the apoptosis‐inducing activity of 1. The effect of complex 1 on cell invasion was observed by Transwell assay and angiogenesis experiment, and the results demonstrated that 1 could inhibit the cell invasion and angiogenesis.
Importance of Adatom on Pure Iron Catalyst Towards Electrocatalytic N2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Das Arunendu , Das Sandeep , Pathak Biswarup
Published: March 2023

The Haber‐Bosch process using Fe‐based catalysts is still the predominant technique for ammonia production despite tough reaction conditions and high energy consumption. In the present work, we have investigated iron adatom on the (110) surface of pure iron catalyst towards the electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR) activity using density function theory (DFT) calculations. We demonstrate that the presence of adatom over the iron catalyst favours the NRR via alternating associative mechanistic pathway through a barrierless rate determining step (*NNH formation). Besides, the adatom‐based catalyst requires lower working potential than the previously reported Fe(110) surface and Fe‐nanocluster based catalysts. These findings may open a scope in terms of scrutinizing the atomicity effects over catalyst surface for various catalytic reactions.
Visible‐light‐responsive Photocatalyst Based on Nitrogen‐doped Bulk Oxide YTaO4−xNy for Z‐scheme Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Zou Hai , Bao Yunfeng , Du Shiwen , Xin Xueshang , Qi Yu , Shao Guosheng , Zhang Fuxiang
Published: March 2023

Nitrogen doping into oxide has been proved to be an effective strategy to extend visible‐light utilization of oxides with layered or channeled structure, but it is shortage for the bulk oxides free of layered or channeled structure. Here, we report a novel nitrogen‐doped bulk oxide (denoted as YTaO4−xNy) with good visible light response. As benefited from the strong hybridization of N 2p and O 2p electronic state according to the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the band gap (3.6 eV) of YTaO4 precursor was sharply narrowed to 2.4 eV on YTaO4−xNy due to the obvious uplift of the valence band maximum (VBM). After decorated with the platinum cocatalyst, the Pt/YTaO4−xNy was used as the H2‐evolving photocatalyst for assembly of Z‐scheme overall water splitting system by coupling with the PtOx/WO3 as the oxygen evolution photocatalyst and using the I−/IO3− as the shuttle ions. This work enriches the material database of nitrogen‐doped oxide with wide visible light absorption and shows its promising application in solar‐to‐chemical conversion.
Are track recommendations dependent on schools and school boards? A study of trends in the level of track recommendations, number of double recommendations and reconsiderations in Dutch urban and rural areas
Authors: Timmermans A. C. , Dijks M. A. , Warrens M. J.
Published: March 2023

Track recommendations provided to students in the final grade of primary education lead the allocation to specific school tracks in secondary education in the Netherlands. Where the results of a standardised test indicate that students are able to go to a higher track level, primary schools are required to reconsider and potentially adjust the track recommendation to a higher level. The current research aimed to (1) investigate trends in the level of track recommendations, double track recommendations and reconsiderations over the years 2014–2015 to 2018–2019, (2) explore the variation in (trends of) track recommendations between Dutch primary schools and their school boards, and (3) assess the association between track recommendations and the school level variables degree of urbanisation and type of primary education. We used multilevel growth curve modelling for continuous and count data based on publicly available school‐level population data regarding track recommendations and school leavers tests from 2014–2015 to 2018–2019. The number of double track recommendations has increased over the cohorts, with a slightly decreasing gap between schools in rural and urban areas. The number of reconsiderations first decreased and then increased. The differences in reconsiderations between rural and urban areas are increasing over time. An initial trend towards higher average recommendations stabilising in the later cohorts appeared with no clear pattern for degree of urbanisation. The current study adds to the existing knowledge by assessing longitudinal trends instead of cross‐sectional analyses and including multiple stakeholders and factors simultaneously.
The impact of DNMT3A variant allele frequency and two different comutations on patients with de novo cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Chen Xian , Tian Chuchu , Hao Zhuanghui , Pan Lingang , Hong Minglin , Wei Wei , Muyey Daniel Muteb , Wang Hongwei , Chen Xiuhua
Published: March 2023

To refine the biological and prognostic significance of DNMT3A mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), we assessed the impact of DNMT3A variant allele frequency (VAF) and its comutations in this study. Using targeted next‐generation sequencing, we analyzed 171 adult patients with de novo cytogenetically normal AML for DNMT3A mutations and associated comutations. DNMT3Amut was detected in 35 patients. DNMT3Amut patients were divided into DNMT3AHigh and DNMT3ALow using a cut‐off VAF value of 42%. We observed that DNMT3AHigh patients at diagnosis had increasing white blood cell (WBC) counts (p < 0.001) and a higher lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level (p = 0.027), and were associated with lower complete remission (CR) rate (p = 0.015) and shorter overall survival (OS) (p = 0.032) than DNMT3ALow patients. We classified two different comutated genetypes, including DNMT3AmutNPM1mutFLT3‐ITDmut and DNMT3AmutIDH1/IDH2mut. Patients with DNMT3AmutNPM1mutFLT3‐ITDmut showed worse OS (p = 0.026) and relapse‐free survival (RFS) (p = 0.003) than those with DNMT3AmutIDH1/IDH2mut, and showed a shorter OS (p = 0.027) than those with DNMT3AwtNPM1mutFLT3‐ITDmut. We also observed that patients with DNMT3AmutIDH1/IDH2mut had higher platelet counts (p = 0.009) and a lower BM blast percentage (p = 0.040) than those with DNMT3AwtIDH1/IDH2mut. In multivariate analyses, DNMT3AHigh was independently associated with a lower CR rate (OR = 5.883; p = 0.004) and shorter OS (HR = 3.768; p < 0.001). DNMT3AmutNPM1mutFLT3‐ITDmut independently affected worse OS (HR = 6.030; p < 0.001) and RFS (HR = 8.939; p < 0.001). Our findings might be potentially useful for predicting clinical outcomes.
Role of NF‐κB/IL‐1β Pathway and Caspase 3 in Mediating the Hepatoprotective Effect of Rutin against Paraquat‐Induced Liver Toxicity in Male Rats
Authors: Rafiee Sahar , Nouri Ali , Heidarian Esfandiar
Published: March 2023

One of the most common bipyridinium herbicides that can lead to liver toxicity is paraquat. Rutin is a bioflavonoid with antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐hepatotoxic, and antimicrobial properties. The effect of rutin on paraquat‐induced liver toxicity was examined in this study. 48 male rats were divided into six groups: the control group was given a normal diet; the non‐treated group was given paraquat; the positive control group was given paraquat, and silymarin and the treatment groups were given paraquat and rutin at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg. After fourteen days, the rats were anesthetized by xylazine‐ketamine, and fasting blood samples were obtained from their hearts to measure alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), malondialdehyde (MDA), creatinine, lipid profile, antioxidant capacity, and carbonyl protein. The liver tissue was removed to measure the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total protein, vitamin C, plus NF‐κB, IL1β, and caspase‐3 gene expressions. Paraquat gavage in the untreated group (group 2) for 14 days in comparison with the control group induced a significant augmentation (p<0.05) in levels of lipid profile, AST, ALP, ALT, MDA, carbonyl protein, and also NF‐κB, IL1β, Caspase3 expressions. Treatment with rutin reduced the factors as mentioned above. Paraquat poisoning induced a substantial decline (p<0.05) in HDL content, FRAP level, CAT, and SOD activity of the liver compared to the control group. However, rutin oral treatment led to a substantial increase (p<0.05) in the level of these factors compared to the paraquat‐only treated group. Based on the findings of the present study, it was found that rutin can be significantly effective in improving hepatotoxicity caused by paraquat.
Phenylethanoid Glycosides from Caryopteris aureoglandulosa and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Chen Yi , Xu Hong‐Tao , Tian Tong , Wei Xiao‐Hui , Chou Gui‐Xin
Published: March 2023

This study describes the isolation and identification of two novel phenylethanoid glycosides, aureoglanduloside A (1) and aureoglanduloside B (2), as well as a newly discovered diterpene glycoside, aureoglanduloside C (29). Additionally, 31 known compounds were isolated from the n‐butyl alcohol (BuOH) soluble fraction of Caryopteris aureoglandulosa whole dried plants. Their structures were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques and high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HR‐ESI‐MS). Furthermore, the neuroprotective effects of all phenylethanoid glycosides were evaluated. Specifically, compounds 2 and 10–12 exhibited the ability to promote the phagocytosis of myelin by microglia, and compounds 2, 10–11, and 24 showed the ability to promote the phagocytosis of myelin by astrocytes.
Impact of degree of milling on cooking duration and textural attributes of long‐grain hybrid rice for instant rice processing
Authors: Okeyo Anne A. , Luthra Kaushik , Atungulu Griffiths G.
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Due to the emergence of new hybrid rice cultivars, rice product processors need to refine processing protocols to continue producing high‐quality products; this is especially true for the instant rice processing industry. This study develops knowledge that is meant to help understand the processing characteristics of new hybrid rice cultivars that are meant to be used for instant rice production. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of the degree of milling (DOM) on cooking durations and textural properties of new long‐grain (LG) hybrid rice to be used in instant rice processing.

Findings

Gelatinization of the new cultivars was affected by DOM (p < .0001). For milled rice, the cook duration estimated by the cooked rice moisture content (MC) relationship was comparable to data obtained from the common method of using gelatinized rice kernel to determine cook duration. However, the cook duration predicted based on cooked rice peak force relationships was significantly different (p < .05) for studied cultivars. For brown rice, the cook duration estimated by the cooked rice moisture content (MC) and peak force relationships were similar but significantly lower than that obtained by gelatinized rice kernel method. DOM did not affect the textural property values of cooked rice for the studied cultivars (p > .05).

Conclusions

Rice milled to a lesser degree took longer to gelatinize, while brown rice took the longest duration. The textural properties of cooked rice did not change significantly for different rice cultivars.

Significance and Novelty

Cook durations for milled and brown rice for newer LG hybrid rice cultivars (XL 753 and RT 7521 FP) were established. The study has provided information crucial to understanding the impacts of DOM on rice cooking duration and textural attributes of hybrid rice. This information is important for the instant rice processing industry.
Non‐eosinophilic asthma in nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease
Authors: Mastalerz Lucyna , Celejewska‐Wójcik Natalia , Ćmiel Adam , Wójcik Krzysztof , Szaleniec Joanna , Hydzik‐Sobocińska Karolina , Tomik Jerzy , Sanak Marek
Published: March 2023

Background

The cellular inflammatory pattern of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug–exacerbated respiratory disease (N‐ERD) is heterogeneous. However, data on the heterogeneity of non‐eosinophilic asthma (NEA) with aspirin hypersensitivity are scanty. By examination of N‐ERD patients based on clinical data and eicosanoid biomarkers we aimed to identify NEA endotypes potentially guiding clinical management.

Methods

Induced sputum was collected from patients with N‐ERD. Sixty six patients (49.6% of 133 N‐ERD) with NEA were included in the hierarchical cluster analysis based on clinical and laboratory data. The quality of clustering was evaluated using internal cluster validation with different indices and a practical decision tree was proposed to simplify stratification of patients.

Results

The most frequent NEA pattern was paucigranulocytic (PGA; 75.8%), remaining was neutrophilic asthma (NA; 24.2%). Four clusters were identified. Cluster #3 included the highest number of NEA patients (37.9%) with severe asthma and PGA pattern (96.0%). Cluster #1 (24.2%) included severe only asthma, with a higher prevalence of NA (50%). Cluster #2 (25.8%) comprised well‐controlled mild or severe asthma (PGA; 76.5%). Cluster #4 contained only 12.1% patients with well‐controlled moderate asthma (PGA; 62.5%). Sputum prostaglandin D2 levels distinguished cluster #1 from the remaining clusters with an area under the curve of 0.94.

Conclusions

Among identified four NEA subtypes, clusters #3 and #1 represented N‐ERD patients with severe asthma but a different inflammatory signatures. All the clusters were discriminated by sputum PGD2 levels, asthma severity, and age of patients. The heterogeneity of non‐eosinophilic N‐ERD suggests a need for novel targeted interventions.
Care of the pregnant patient with cancer should include unfettered access to abortion
Authors: Chino Junzo P. , Moss Haley A. , Swartz Jonas J. , Gray Beverly A.
Published: March 2023

The Dobbs versus Jackson decision overturning protection for abortion access has profound implications for pregnant patients with cancer. This editorial discusses these implications and calls for universal abortion access for patients with cancer.
Monitoring Light‐Driven Oxygen Insertion Reactions into Metal Carbon Bonds by LED‐NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ho Sarah K. Y. , Ezeorah Chigozie , Chari Suviti , Salehi‐Reyhani Ali , Britovsek George J. P.
Published: March 2023

The facile light‐driven insertion reaction of oxygen into metal carbon bonds of the BPI (1,3‐bis(2‐pyridylimino)isoindole) complexes [Pt(BPI)Me] and [Pd(BPI)Me] has been investigated by LED‐NMR in CDCl3. The initial insertion reaction leads to peroxo complexes [Pt(BPI)OOMe] and [Pd(BPI)OOMe], which undergo further reactions over time. Spectra were recorded at 1 minute time intervals, which enabled the tracking of the methyl substituent, which eventually generates formaldehyde (and methanediol) and methanol in almost equal proportions. Degradation of the solvent CDCl3 to phosgene and DCl in the presence of oxygen and light leads to several side reactions. DCl reacts with [M(BPI)Me] and [M(BPI)OOMe] to form [M(BPI)Cl], whereas phosgene reacts with in situ generated methanol to chloro methylformate and dimethyl carbonate.
Two years of early intervention for FEP: No long‐term benefits
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2023

Two years of early intervention services for young people with first‐episode psychosis did not produce any benefits over the long‐term, researchers have found in a follow‐up study of the OPUS randomized clinical trial. The researchers concluded that in order to maintain the positive effects that have been shown early on, new initiatives are needed to improve long‐term outcomes for these patients.
Thermal Stability of LiRF4 (R = Gd, Tb) Compounds
Authors: Fedorov Pavel , Alexandrov Alexander , Korableva Stella , Chernova Elena
Published: March 2023

LiGdF4 and LiTbF4 single crystals are grown by the Bridgman–Stockbarger method from the nonstoichiometric melt comprising 32 mol% RF3 (R = Gd, Tb) and 68 mol% LiF, respectively. Incongruent melting of the single crystals LiGdF4 and LiTbF4 is confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry. For the first time, the crystal structures of LiGdF4 and LiTbF4 are determined by Rietveld method. Also, rare‐earth lithium fluoride syntheses from lithium nitrate melts at 400 °С are performed for LiTbF4, LiGdF4, LiYF4, and LiDyF4 compounds. For terbium, the product is a mixture of LiTbF4 and TbF3; and for gadolinium, GdF3 is thus produced. With reference to the related literature, it is concluded that LiGdF4 and LiTbF4 are the thermodynamically stable phases in the ranges from 750 ± 5 to 425 ± 15 °С, and from 782 ± 5 to 400 ± 15 °С, respectively. The metastability of LiGdF4 and LiTbF4, however, does not prevent the use of their single crystals as photonic materials.
Contaminated disposable rubber gloves as evidence samples after a chemical attack with nerve agents
Authors: Rozsypal Tomas
Published: March 2023

Nerve agents have been used recently in the Syrian civil war. Collecting relevant samples for retrospective identification of an attack is often problematic. The article deals with the possibility of using contaminated gloves as an analytical sample for evidence of the chemical weapons use. There have not yet been published studies dealing with the identification of chemical warfare agents in this type of matrix, where the diversity of chemical properties of gloves and the lifetime of the contaminated sample would be considered. Sarin, soman, and cyclosarin were used as contaminants in the study. Nitrile, latex, and vinyl disposable gloves were chosen as matrices. The identification method was gas chromatography. Six solvents commonly used in military laboratories were tested as extractants. The extraction procedure was optimized in terms of the appropriate method (vortex) and the required extraction time (1 min) and resulted in significant reduction in sample preparation time. The chromatographic background of the extracts was also monitored in order to find a method with the least number of peaks interfering in the identification. Suitable solvents were hexane and acetonitrile. The lifetime of the sample was also investigated. The worst result was recorded for latex. For individual contaminants, the time varied depending on the volatility. The developed procedures were successfully validated within a sample handling effects scenario. The results demonstrate that in the event of an ongoing military risk at the site of an attack, even discarded disposable rubber glove type samples can be used as evidence.
Co‐occurrence of native white‐tailed deer and invasive wild pigs: Evidence for competition?
Authors: Garabedian James E. , Cox Kyle J. , Vukovich Mark , Kilgo John C.
Published: March 2023

Understanding whether invasive and native species compete for shared resources where they co‐occur is essential for mitigating the negative impacts of invasive species on native ecosystems. Here, we examined how the presence and density of an invasive species, wild pigs (Sus scrofa), affect native white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus; hereafter, deer) on the Savannah River Site, SC, USA. We examined potential changes in deer areas of use, temporal overlap, and occupancy to evaluate the effects of wild pig occurrence and density on deer space use, diel activity, and co‐occurrence with wild pigs across 9 months during 2018 and 2019. Wild pig density had the strongest effect on deer space use in high‐ and moderate‐use areas. Declines in deer space use in response to wild pig density were most pronounced in March and October 2018 and April 2019 for females, while male space use declined in response to wild pig density in October and December 2018. Both species were largely nocturnal with high overlap in diel activity across months. Deer occupancy responses to wild pig density varied across months, with negative responses in May and October 2018 and positive responses in July 2018 and April 2019. Deer and wild pigs co‐occurred at 30%–59% of camera stations across months, with broadscale co‐occurrence patterns being unaffected by changes in shared cover or wild pig occurrence. Overall, our results suggest that deer make fine‐scale behavioral adjustments to avoid wild pigs, providing evidence that competition is likely occurring even where wild pig density is relatively low. Such fine‐scale behavioral plasticity in deer appears to mitigate the costs of competition with wild pigs and may be a mechanism enabling long‐term co‐existence of deer and wild pigs. Our study provides novel insight on the complexities of spatiotemporal relationships between invasive wild pigs and native deer and suggests that the negative effects of interactions between deer and wild pigs may be more pronounced when deer life history needs are particularly demanding. In areas where eradication of invasive wild pigs may be impossible, maintaining low wild pig densities may help mitigate, but may not eliminate, the negative effects of wild pigs on deer.
Thiocyanation of Allylic Alcohols Promoted by Trifluoroacetic Acid
Authors: Xia Wen , Hu Liangzhen , Ma Chenglong , Cao Jiaqi , Zhang Xiaohui , Xiong Yan
Published: March 2023

A rapid and efficient acid‐promoted strategy to access allylic thiocyanates using allylic alcohols as substrates and easily‐available NH4SCN as the thiocyanate source is presented under metal‐ and oxidant‐free conditions. Through screening of various kinds of acids, organic and strong trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) was found most effective. Testing of substrates showed that the strategy has remarkable functional group tolerance. A possible mechanism is provided, and the gram‐scale experiment demonstrate that this novel protocol has potential industrial application value.
β‐N‐Heterocyclic Cyclobutane Carboximides: Synthesis through a Tandem Base‐Catalyzed Amidation/aza‐Michael Addition Protocol and Facile Transformations
Authors: Barranco Stefano , Cuccu Federico , Liu Dayi , Robin Sylvie , Guillot Régis , Secci Francesco , Brenner Valérie , Mons Michel , Caboni Pierluigi , Aitken David J. , Frongia Angelo
Published: March 2023

A stereoselective one‐pot double derivatization of cyclobutene‐1‐carboxylic acid via a mild organic base catalyzed amidation/aza‐Michael addition of benzo[d]oxazol‐2(3H)‐ones has been developed. This unprecedented tandem reaction provides access to novel β‐N‐heterocyclic cyclobutane carboximide derivatives with a trans geometry. The carboximide moiety reacts smoothly with nucleophiles, allowing access to diverse derivatives of trans‐β‐N‐heterocyclic cyclobutanecarboxylic acid, including peptidomimetic structures.
Electroanalytical performance of a Bismuth/Antimony composite glassy carbon electrode in detecting lead and cadmium
Authors: Muna Grace W. , Barrera Emily , Robinson Lucas , Majeed Hiba , Jones Keon , Damschroder Abigail , Vila Andrew
Published: March 2023

This work reports on the electroanalytical performance of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with antimony and bismuth (Sb/Bi‐GCE) in detecting heavy metal ions using lead and cadmium as model analytes. The electroanalytical performance of the Sb/Bi‐GCE surface was compared to the bismuth modified glassy carbon electrode (Bi‐GCE) as well as the antimony modified glassy carbon electrode (Sb‐GCE). The Sb/Bi‐GCE exhibited excellent figures of merit compared to Bi‐GCE and Sb‐GCE surfaces. For example, the limit of detection for lead was 0.01 ppb using Sb/Bi‐GCE and 0.1 and 1 ppb on Bi‐GCE and Sb‐GCE, respectively.
Stratsi Kulinsky: Creating a new type of university
Authors: D'Orio Wayne
Published: March 2023

Today might seem like the worst time to begin a new university. Not only is the public increasingly losing confidence in the value of a college degree, but an upcoming enrollment cliff will decrease the number of high school graduates by about 15 percent.
Eslicarbazepine acetate for the treatment of status epilepticus
Authors: Winter Yaroslav , Sandner Katharina , Vieth Thomas , Groppa Sergiu
Published: March 2023

Objective

Due to the high mortality of patients with refractory status epilepticus (SE), new antiseizure medications (ASMs) are needed to improve long‐term outcomes. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), a new sodium channel blocker, based on the data from a large epilepsy register.

Methods

Data on the efficacy and safety of ESL for the treatment of refractory SE were gathered from the Mainz Epilepsy Registry (MAINZ‐EPIREG). Logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of status interruption.

Results

In total, 64 patients with remote symptomatic refractory SE were treated with ESL. No cases of idiopathic generalized epilepsy were included. The average age was 61.4 ± 11.0 years. The median number of administered ASMs before the start of ESL was three. On average, 2 days had elapsed since the onset of SE before the administration of ESL. The initial dose of 800 mg/day was increased up to a maximum daily dose of 1600 mg in case of nonresponse. In 29 of 64 patients (45.3%), the SE could be interrupted within 48 h of ESL therapy. In patients with poststroke epilepsy, the control of SE was achieved in 62% of patients (15/23). The earlier initiation of ESL therapy was an independent predictor of control of SE. Hyponatraemia occurred in five patients (7.8%). Other side effects were not observed.

Significance

Based on these data, ESL may be used as an adjunct therapy for the treatment of refractory SE. The best response was found in patients with poststroke epilepsy. In addition, early initiation of ESL therapy appears to result in better control of SE. Besides a few cases of hyponatraemia, no other adverse events were detected.
The importance of discriminative power rather than significance when evaluating potential clinical biomarkers in epilepsy research
Authors: Slinger Geertruida , Stevelink Remi , van Diessen Eric , Braun Kees P. J. , Otte Willem M.
Published: March 2023

Objective

The quest for epilepsy biomarkers is on the rise. Variables with statistically significant group‐level differences are often misinterpreted as biomarkers with sufficient discriminative power. This study aimed to demonstrate the relationship between significant group‐level differences and a variable's power to discriminate between individuals.

Methods

We simulated normal‐distributed datasets from hypothetical populations with varying sample sizes (25–800), effect sizes (Cohen's d: .25–2.50), and variability (standard deviation: 10–35) to assess the impact of these parameters on significance and discriminative power. The simulation data were illustrated by assessing the discriminative power of a potential real‐case biomarker—the EEG beta band power—to diagnose generalized epilepsy, using data from 66 children with generalized epilepsy and 385 controls. Additionally, we evaluated recently reported epilepsy biomarkers by comparing their effect sizes to our simulation‐derived effect size criterion.

Results

Group size affects significance but not discriminative power. Discriminative power is much more related to variability and effect size. Our real data example supported these simulation results by demonstrating that group‐level significance does not translate, one to one, into discriminative power. Although we found a significant difference in the beta band power between children with and without epilepsy, the discriminative power was poor due to a small effect size. A Cohen's d of at least 1.25 is required to reach good discriminative power in univariable prediction modeling. Slightly over 60% of the biomarkers in our literature search met this criterion.

Significance

Rather than statistical significance of group‐level differences, effect size should be used as an indicator of a variable's biomarker potential. The minimal required effects size for individual biomarkers—a Cohen's d of 1.25—is large. This calls for multivariable approaches, in which combining multiple variables with smaller effect sizes could increase the overall effect size and discriminative power.
Negative myoclonus causes locomotory disability in progressive myoclonus epilepsy type EPM1‐ Unverricht‐Lundborg disease
Authors: Vogt Heinrich , Baisch Thomas , Mueller‐Pfeiffer Christoph , Mothersill Ian William
Published: March 2023

Objective

Patients with Unverricht‐Lundborg disease/EPM1 develop increasing locomotory disability or ataxia in the course of their disease. To test our hypothesis that negative myoclonus is the reason for this increasing ataxia, we investigated a possible correlation over time.

Methods

In 15 patients with EPM1who were confirmed to have a mutation in the CSTB gene, polygraphic video‐EEG–EMG recordings were performed in freely moving or standing patients. The criterion for the duration of the negative myoclonus was the measured length of the silent periods on the EMG.

Results

All 15 patients had documented negative myoclonus when standing and walking. The mean duration of silent periods significantly increased from 100 (SD: 19.1) ms at time point T1 to 128 (SD: 26.6) ms at T2 in seven of eight patients, based on two recordings and a mean interval of 12.8 (SD: 4.9) years. Using a cross‐sectional approach, all 15 patients were classified based on whether they were ambulatory, could walk with aid, or needed a wheelchair. Ambulatory patients had a mean duration of 97.3 (SD: 16.5) ms, patients who could walk with aid had a mean duration of 106.7 (SD: 16) ms, and patients who were wheelchair‐bound had a mean duration of 138 (SD: 23.6) ms. In addition to the prolongation of the silent periods, there was an observed increase in frequency of the negative myoclonus, becoming more continuous and tremulous.

Significance

Using simultaneous EEG/EMG recordings in freely moving or standing patients, we have shown that the locomotor disability or ataxia is due to negative myoclonus in voluntary innervated muscles. The reason for the progression is the prolongation of the silent periods as measured by the duration of the negative myoclonus and their increase in frequency.
Sika deer velvet antler protein extract modulater bone metabolism and the structure of gut microbiota in ovariectomized mice
Authors: Pan Wang , Du Juan , An Liping , Xu Guangyu , Yuan Guangxin , Sheng Yu , Sun Jingbo , Wang Manli , Zhao Nanxi , Guo Xiao , Li Hongyu , Han Xiao
Published: March 2023

Osteoporosis is a systemic osteopathy characterized by bone metabolism disorders that become more serious with age increases in postmenopausal women. Recent studies have found that antler protein is the main bioactive component of cervus pantotrichum, and it has a positive regulatory effect on bone metabolism and can improve estrogen level. This study aimed to investigate the effect of velvet antler extract (VAE) on the prevention of osteoporosis and the modulation of gut microbiota in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. OVX mice treated with 12 weeks of VAE exhibited higher levels of serum BGP, Ca2+, CT, and HyP (p < .05). Micro‐CT scans showed that VAE significantly elevated bone volume fraction (BV/TV), trabecular bone number (Tb.N), trabecular bone thickness (Tb.Th), trabecular bone connection density (Conn.D), decreased trabecular separation (Tb.Sp), and structural modality index (SMI) than untreated OVX mice. The right tibial retinaculum in the VAE group was clearer, with a clearer reticular structure, smaller gaps, a tighter distribution, and a more orderly arrangement. The gut microbiota of the cecal contents was analyzed by 16 s rDNA amplicon sequencing. The data indicated that VAE modulated the species, numbers, and diversity of the gut microbiota in OVX mice. Ovariectomy caused dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota by increasing the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes in mice, but the ratio decreased after treatment with VAE. These results suggest that VAE has a therapeutic effect on OVX mice via modulate bone‐related biochemical markers in serum and structure of gut microbiota.
Topologically Triggered Dynamic DNA Frameworks
Authors: Li Zhenzhen , Wang Jianbang , Willner Bilha , Willner Itamar
Published: March 2023

Topologically triggered dynamic nucleic acid circuitries play important roles in diverse biological processes. Biomimetic frameworks emulating topologically triggered native circuitries is a challenging topic in the area of Systems Chemistry. Dynamically reconfigurable functions encoded in synthetically engineered nucleic acids provide means to design topologically‐triggered dynamic DNA frameworks. This topic is addressed with three examples: (i) Integration of reconfigurable G‐quadruplex barriers into polymerization or transcription templates leading to the switchable synthesis of a DNAzyme or of an RNA aptamer as models for native gene expression instability processes. (ii) Design of dynamic transient transcription and gated transcription machineries using an autoinhibition reaction module. (iii) Design of dynamic DNA reaction moduli leading to transient biocatalytic cascades, transient aggregation/deaggregation of semiconductor quantum dots or supramolecular Ag nanoclusters.
Myopericytoma in the corpus cavernosum of the penis: A case report of a rare disease
Authors: Oshiro Hiroki , Shimizu Yousuke , Nakayasu Ryota , Utsunomiya Noriaki , Asai Satsuki , Ishihara Misa , Hashimoto Kimio , Katsushima Hiroki , Kanamaru Sojun
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Myopericytomas usually occur in the extremities of older individuals; however, they also rarely occur in the penis. We report a case of myopericytoma in the corpus cavernosum of the penis and review the relevant literature.

Case presentation

A 76‐year‐old man presented with a slow‐growing painless nodule on the left side of the penis. On physical examination, a non‐tender, 7‐mm mass was palpable. This tumor showed inhomogeneous low signal intensity on T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging. The mass was excised and a myopericytoma diagnosed by pathological examination of the operative specimen.

Conclusion

We here report a rare case of myopericytoma in the corpus cavernosum of the penis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second reported case of a myopericytoma in the penis and the first in the corpus cavernosum of the penis. Clinicians should keep this rare possibility in mind when investigating a mass in the penis.
Effects of salt source and irrigation water salinity on growth, yield and quality parameters of black cumin
Authors: Khan Afzaal , Kurunc Ahmet
Published: March 2023

Excess salinity, osmotic stress, toxic ions and ion imbalance negatively affect plant growth. Many crops are classified as salt sensitive. However, there is no information in the literature about the effects of different salt sources (SS) and salinity levels (SLs) on black cumin (Nigella sativa L.). This study was conducted to determine the effects of SL (0.6, 1.5, 2.5 and 5.0 dS/m) prepared separately by different SSs (CaCl2, MgCl2, NaCl, Ca(NO3)2, MgSO4 and Na2SO4) on the evapotranspiration, growth, yield and quality parameters of black cumin. The results showed that the evapotranspiration, soil salinity, plant height, vegetative dry weight and oil content of black cumin were affected only by SL. Both SS and SL have a significant effect on the number of capsules and seed weight. The SS × SL interaction was meaningful on drainage water salinity and the number of seeds. The seed weights under CaCl2, MgCl2, Ca(NO3)2, MgSO4 and Na2SO4 SS were adversely affected even at very low SL. However, the low slope values for these salts reveal that the increase in SL has a limited effect on seed weight. Therefore, it can be recommended to consider both the salt type and SL of irrigation water in black cumin cultivation.
Some effects of detection dogs on passenger behavior at border control ports
Authors: Williams Emma E. M. , Sharp Rebecca A.
Published: March 2023

Detection dogs are used at border controls as an antecedent intervention to deter the smuggling of contraband. However, there is little research that has explored how the presence of dogs might affect passenger behavior. We observed passengers' behavior at a port when there was an officer alone, an officer with a dog, and an officer with a dog wearing a florescent yellow jacket with “police” written on it for increased salience. We measured eye contact, vocal‐verbal interactions, facial expressions, and nonvocal verbal gestures toward the officer and dog, and changes in passenger direction. Passengers looked, talked, and had the highest frequencies of positive facial expressions when the dog was not wearing a jacket. However, passengers looked toward the dog the quickest and had the highest frequency of negative facial expressions and gestures when the dog was wearing a jacket. We discuss how these findings might inform antecedent interventions to address undesirable behavior such as smuggling.