bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipose and lipoma stem cells: A donor‐matched comparison
Authors: Conte Francesco , Beier Justus P. , Ruhl Tim
Published: December 2022

Lipomas are slow growing benign fat tumors that develop in soft tissues of the mesoderm. Thus, the specific (dys‐)function of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been suggested in the development of lipomas, but details of the tumor pathogenesis remain unclear. Existing studies comparing stem cells from native adipose (adipose stem cells [ASCs]) and lipomatous tissues (LSCs) have reported contradicting findings. However, harvesting ASCs and LSCs from different individuals might have influenced proper comparison. Therefore, we aimed to characterize donor‐matched ASCs and LSCs to investigate metabolic activity, proliferation, capability for tri‐linear differentiation (chondrogenesis, adipogenesis, osteogenesis), and the secretome of mature adipocytes and lipomacytes. Both stem cell types did not differ in metabolic activity, but ASCs demonstrated stronger proliferation than LSCs. While there was no difference in proteoglycan accumulation during chondrogenic differentiation, adipogenesis was higher in ASCs, with more lipid vacuole formation. Conversely, LSCs showed increased osteogenesis by higher calcium deposition. Lipomacytes showed stronger secretory activity and released higher levels of certain adipokines. Our findings indicated that LSCs possessed important characteristics of MSCs, including ASCs. However, LSCs' low proliferation and adipogenic differentiation behavior did not appear to account for enhanced tissue proliferation, but the secretome of lipomacytes could contribute to lipomatous neoplasm.
A successful Vasovasostomy operation
Authors: Dorjey Yeshey
Published: December 2022

Vasectomy is performed as a permanent method of contraception for men after completing the family. Many men are seeking vasectomy reversal operations after remarrying new partners. The reversal operation is seen as a challenging procedure that requires a skilled surgeon and sophisticated instruments. This write‐up reports a case of vasovasostomy performed successfully on an elderly man using the minimal available facilities at Phuentsholing General Hospital, Bhutan.
Dispersibility of TiO2 Nanoparticles in Less Polar Solvents: Role of Ligand Tail Structures
Authors: Sudo Tatsuya , Yamashita Shohei , Koike Natsumi , Kamiya Hidehiro , Okada Yohei
Published: December 2022

Nanoparticles (NPs) are inherently prone to aggregation and loss of their size‐derived properties, thus it is essential to enhance their dispersibility for applications. In less polar solvents, organic ligands containing oleyl groups are known as good dispersants due to their inefficient shell packing and inhibition of chain–chain crystallization as well as interdigitation between adjacent NPs. However, reagents with oleyl structures, such as oleic acid and oleylamine, can contain trans double bonds and saturated impurities, which might affect the chemical and/or physical properties of the NPs. Nevertheless, the effect of slight differences in surface ligand structure, including isomers, on the dispersibility of NPs has been little studied. We have synthesized five phosphonic acid ligands to investigate the structure–dispersibility relationship in detail. Dynamic light scattering and visible light transmittance revealed that not only regio‐ but also the stereochemistries of the C=C double bond in the ligand molecule, as well as the choice of solvent, are key factors in enhancing dispersibility.
Ab Initio Metadynamics Simulations of Hexafluoroisopropanol Solvent Effects: Synergistic Role of Solvent H‐Bonding Networks and Solvent‐Solute C−H/π Interactions
Authors: Hu Xinmin , Zhao Xia , Lv Xiangying , Wu Yan‐Bo , Bu Yuxiang , Lu Gang
Published: December 2022

The solvent effects in Friedel–Crafts cycloalkylation of epoxides and Cope rearrangement of aldimines were investigated by using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Explicit molecular treatments were applied for both reactants and solvents. The reaction mechanisms were elucidated via free energy calculations based on metadynamics simulations. The results reveal that both reactions proceed in a concerted fashion. Key solvent‐substrate interactions are identified from the structures of transition states with explicit solvent molecules. The remarkable promotion effect of hexafluoroisopropanol solvent is ascribed to the synergistic effect of H‐bonding networks and C−H/π interactions with substrates.
A Year of Sustainable Developments
Authors: Smith David J.
Published: December 2022

Sustainability in the spotlight: ChemSusChem Editor in Chief David Smith introduces the new volume of the journal and looks back over the last twelve months and ahead to the coming year, as well as introducing a new Chair of the ChemSusChem Editorial Board and the journal's first Early Career Advisory Board.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology for the diagnosis of plasma cell neoplasms in the head and neck region: A systematic analysis of the literature
Authors: Felix Fernanda Aragão , de Sena Ana Carolina Velasco Pondé , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Tavares Thalita Soares , Rocha Amanda Leal , Rodrigues‐Fernandes Carla Isabelly , de Cáceres Cinthia Verónica Bardález López , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Abreu Lucas Guimarães , Amaral Tania Mara Pimenta , Travassos Denise Vieira , de Sousa Silvia Ferreira , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Silva Tarcília Aparecida , Mesquita Ricardo Alves
Published: December 2022

Background

Cytopathologic analysis is feasible and provides detailed morphological characterisation of head and neck lesions.

Aims

To integrate the available data published on fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) used for the diagnosis of plasma cell neoplasms (PCN) of the head and neck region.

Materials and Methods

Searches on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus were performed to compile data from case reports/case series published in English. The Joanna Briggs Institute tool was used for the critical appraisal of studies.

Results

A total of 82 studies comprising 102 patients were included in this review. There was a predilection for men (68.6%) (male/female ratio: 2.1:1). Individuals in their 50s (29.4%), 60s (22.5%), and 70s (22.5%) were more often affected. The thyroid gland (26.2%) was the main anatomical location, followed by scalp (15.5%), neck/cervical region (15.5%), jaws (13.6%), and major salivary glands (13.6%). For FNAC analysis, a smear was employed in 41 (40.6%) cases and a cell block was used in four (3.9%). In 56 (55.4%) reports, no cytological methods were available. Morphologically, 34 (56.7%) cases had a diagnosis of PCN with agreement between cytopathology and histopathology. The rate of wrong diagnoses when using cytology was 27.5%. Immunophenotyping was performed in 49 (48%) of the cases. The 69‐month disease‐free survival rate was 60.2%, while the 27‐month overall survival rate was 64.1%.

Conclusion

This study reinforces that FNAC can be an ancillary tool in the first step towards the diagnosis of PCN of the head and neck region, especially when applying a cell block for cytological analysis.
Expression dynamics of lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor 1 in terminal Schwann cells, dermal papilla, and interfollicular epidermis
Authors: Song Hongzhi , Zhao Xu‐Bo , Chu Qing‐Song , Zhang Jianyu , Gao Lipeng , Liao Xin‐Hua
Published: December 2022

Background

Transcription factor lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor 1 (LEF1) is a downstream mediator of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. It is expressed in dermal papilla and surrounding cells in the hair follicle, promoting cell proliferation, and differentiation.

Results

Here, we report that LEF1 is also expressed all through the hair cycle in the terminal Schwann cells (TSCs), a component of the lanceolate complex located at the isthmus. The timing of LEF1 appearance at the isthmus coincides with that of hair follicle innervation. LEF1 is not found at the isthmus in the aberrant hair follicles in nude mice. Instead, LEF1 in TSCs is found in the de novo hair follicles reconstituted on nude mice by stem cells chamber graft assay. Cutaneous denervation experiment demonstrates that the LEF1 expression in TSCs is independent of nerve endings. At last, LEF1 expression in the interfollicular epidermis during the early stage of skin development is significantly suppressed in transgenic mice with T‐cell factor 3 (TCF3) overexpression.

Conclusion

We reveal the expression dynamics of LEF1 in skin during development and hair cycle. LEF1 expression in TSCs indicates that the LEF1/Wnt signal might help to establish a niche at the isthmus region for the lanceolate complex, the bulge stem cells and other neighboring cells.
GABI‐I: The global ant biodiversity informatics‐island database
Authors: Liu Cong , Economo Evan P. , Guénard Benoit
Published: December 2022

Island systems are known to harbor disproportionate amounts of geographically restricted biodiversity and to experience high rates of species loss, and they ultimately represent critical systems with significant conservation values. However, knowledge of the biodiversity value of insular systems remains highly fragmented and incomplete for many groups of organisms, especially insects. This gap limits our understanding of their global significance for biodiversity and inhibits prioritization for future exploration and conservation efforts. Here, we developed a new database to present current knowledge on ants on 2678 islands globally, based on nominal species, and provide information on their native or exotic status. In total, this database contains 7010 ant species (44.6% of the known global ant fauna) that have been recorded on islands globally from 449,232 records. In addition, this database identifies 108 large islands (area > 200 km2) that have received no ant sampling efforts globally. This new data set provides the most comprehensive understanding of ant diversity and composition on islands globally, opening up new opportunities to address questions on a multitude of research questions and fields related to biogeography, ecology, and evolution. This data set also provides a roadmap for future exploration and conservation actions in connection with ants on islands as well as overall ant diversity, with updates available as new records and taxonomic updates are published. There are no copyright restrictions on this database and users should cite this data paper in publications when using the data.
Stable Cycling of All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled by Salt Engineering of PEO‐Based Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Liu Lujuan , Wang Tong , Sun Li , Song Tinglu , Yan Hao , Li Chunli , Mu Daobin , Zheng Jincheng , Dai Yang
Published: December 2022

Poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)‐based polymer electrolytes show the prospect in all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries; however, they present limitations of low room‐temperature ionic conductivity, and interfacial incompatibility with high voltage cathodes. Therefore, a salt engineering of 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3‐hexafluoropropane‐1, 3‐disulfonimide lithium salt (LiHFDF)/LiTFSI system was developed in PEO‐based electrolyte, demonstrating to effectively regulate Li ion transport and improve the interfacial stability under high voltage. We show, by manipulating the interaction between PEO matrix and TFSI−‐HFDF−, the optimized solid‐state polymer electrolyte achieves maximum Li+ conduction of 1.24 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 40 °C, which is almost 3 times of the baseline. Also, the optimized polymer electrolyte demonstrates outstanding stable cycling in the LiFePO4/Li and LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2/Li (3.0–4.4 V, 200 cycles) based all‐solid‐state lithium batteries at 40 °C.
Engineering Geometric Electrodes for Electric Field‐Enhanced High‐Performance Flexible In‐Plane Micro‐Supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Jihong , Wi Sung Min , Ahn Jong‐Guk , Son Sangjun , Lim HeeYoung , Park Yeonsu , Eun Hye Ji , Park Jong Bae , Lim Hyunseob , Pak Sangyeon , Jang A‐Rang , Lee Young‐Woo
Published: December 2022

In plane micro‐supercapacitors that are miniaturized energy storage components have attracted significant attention due to their high power densities for various ubiquitous and sustainable device systems as well as their facile integration on various flexible/wearable platform. To implement the micro‐supercapacitors in various practical applications that can accompany solid state or gel electrolyte and flexible substrates, ions must be readily transported to electrodes for achieving high power densities. Herein, we show large enhancement in electrochemical properties of flexible, in‐plane micro‐supercapacitor using sharp‐edged interdigitated electrode design, which was simply fabricated through direct laser scribing method. The sharp‐edged electrodes allowed strong electric field to be induced at the corners of the electrode fingers which led to the greater accumulation of ions near the surface of electrode, significantly enhancing the energy storage performance of micro‐supercapacitors. The electric field‐enhanced in‐plane micro‐supercapacitor showed the volumetric energy density of 1.52 Wh L−1 and the excellent cyclability with capacitive retention of 95.4% after 20 000 cycles. We further showed various practicability of our sharp‐edged design in micro‐supercapacitors by showing circuit applicability, mechanical stability, and air stability. These results present an important pathway for designing electrodes in various energy storage devices.
Natural products of relevance in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Custódio Luísa , Vizetto‐Duarte Catarina , Cebeci Fatma , Özçelik Beraat , Sharopov Farukh , Gürer Eda Sönmez , Kumar Manoj , Iriti Marcello , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Calina Daniela
Published: December 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is among the most common neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by motor hyperactivity, attention deficit, distraction, impulsive behavior, and relationship difficulties. It affects children, and thus over the years, there has been growing attention on the use of natural product formulations and their naturally‐occurring bioactive for overcoming the problem of ADHD. Concerning this issue, this review aims to discuss the ADHD treatment potential of natural products/formulations in vitro, in vivo as well as in clinical trials. To gather the most relevant data regarding bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects in the management of ADHD, the following databases were searched: PubMed/MedLine, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for articles in English. Various medicinal plants and their isolated biomolecules have been evaluated in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical trials for their ability to treat ADHD. Most of the analyzed research results showed an improvement of ADHD signs and symptoms in in vivo models, but the molecular mechanisms of action of the bioactive compounds are unclear and incompletely elucidated. Further studies are needed to determine the bioactive compound responsible for health‐promoting effects in ADHD. In addition, clinical studies should be performed over longer periods with more participants.
Katritzky Salts for the Synthesis of Unnatural Amino Acids and Late‐Stage Functionalization of Peptides
Authors: Yousif Ali Munaim , Colarusso Stefania , Bianchi Elisabetta
Published: December 2022

Peptide drug discovery often benefits from the large structural diversity permitted by unnatural amino acids (UAAs). Indeed, numerous approved peptide drugs include UAAs in their sequences. Therefore, innovative chemical approaches either to synthesize UAAs or to allow late‐stage functionalization of peptides are emerging themes in peptide drug discovery. Thanks to the recent advances in deaminative strategies using alkylpyridiniums salts, often referred to as Katritzky salts, a variety of radical alkylation methods have been developed. In recent years the use of Katritzky salts have become popular in peptide chemistry due to their ease of preparation from a primary amine, which is a predominant functional group in amino acids. This review highlights the progress that has been made by using Katritzky salts in the synthesis of UAAs, late‐stage peptide functionalization, and peptide macrocyclization.
Natural Eutectic Solvent Mixture of l‐Menthol/Malonic acid (4 : 1) and Its Ibuprofen Solution: Thermal and Physical Characterizations and NMR Studies of Molecular Interaction
Authors: Lázaro‐Rangel Jehovani M. , Sánchez Analilia , Inoue Motomichi , Olivares‐Romero José Luis , Meza‐Gordillo Rocío , Salas‐Reyes Magali , Virués Claudia , Domínguez Zaira
Published: December 2022

A eutectic mixture of L‐menthol and malonic acid, Me/MA (4 : 1), was characterized by calorimetry and other physical measurements. The new deep eutectic solvent (m.p. 6 °C) solvates 338 mg of ibuprofen per mL, and the solution is stable in a wide temperature range. Strategies of NMR titration used in supramolecular chemistry were employed to explore binding forces between the eutectic constituents as well as solute‐solvent interaction in ibuprofen solution. Even in acetonitrile, Me4MA is formed through a hydrogen‐bonding network, where the constituents act as hydrogen donors and acceptors at the same time. The estimated association constant is around 30 M−1; the binding forces are enough to build the eutectic mixture at high concentrations. The aggregate Me4MA forms a molecular complex with ibuprofen in acetonitrile as a result of the cooperative effect of the constituents. In addition, van der Waals interactions are operative between ibuprofen and menthol in the saturated IB‐Me/MA (4 : 1) solution.
Bowl‐shaped hollow N‐doped carbon as an electrochemical platform for the highly selective and sensitive electrochemical detection of isoprenaline in pharmaceutical injection
Authors: Zhou Menglin , Su Guoning , Pu Shunhua , Tang Tingfan , Lu Danxia , Cheng Hao , Deng Min , Hu Guangzhi , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: December 2022

In this study, bowl‐shaped N‐doped hollow carbon sphere‐containing mesoporous nanomaterials (BNHC) were used for the ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of isoprenaline (ISOP). The linear ranges of the BNHC‐based sensor were as follows: 0.05 – 15 μM; 15 – 70 μM, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 6.8 nM. And the BNHC‐based electrochemical sensor showed a good current response to ISOP and maintained 95.6 % of the initial current after 30 days of storage. Notably, when the BNHC‐modified sensor was used to detect the actual ISOP injection and urine samples, the sensor exhibited satisfactory recovery.
Spatiotemporal variations of large wood and river channel morphology in a rapidly degraded reach of an intermittent river
Authors: Galia Tomáš , Škarpich Václav , Vardakas Leonidas , Dimitriou Elias , Panagopoulos Yiannis , Spálovský Vilém
Published: December 2022

The links between rapid channel degradation and related large wood (LW) recruitment and storage are still not precisely understood, especially in aquatic systems with high human and natural pressures such as intermittent rivers in the peri‐Mediterranean region. In this study, by using multidisciplinary research (analysis of satellite images time series, detailed field inventory, and simulated hydrological data), we focused on rapid upstream propagation of channel degradation (i.e., incision and consequent channel widening) in an intermittent Mediterranean river (Evrotas River, southern Greece) as a response to short‐term intensive gravel extraction from the active channel and removal of riparian vegetation in the 2013–2016 period. Subsequently, our objective was to link this channel transformation with the spatiotemporal changes of LW storage in the active channel. We found that short‐term and spatially limited human impact, coupled with high flows, allowed rapid upstream progression (~2 km) of erosion processes (approximately twofold widening of the active channel) during the relatively short 2‐year period (2017–2019). This morphological response accelerated LW recruitment through bank erosion and its subsequent storage in the active channel. Incision and channel widening processes were interrupted in the 2019–2021 period due to the prevalence of relatively low, geomorphologically non‐effective flows. However, the storage of LW in the channel continued to increase as a result of the higher trapping efficiency of the widened channel, a delay between tree death and its final uprooting, or by LW recruitment processes not directly related to flood events. We suggest that freshly recruited LW has the potential to accelerate the establishment of a new channel equilibrium and increase channel heterogeneity through its interaction with flows and sediments.
Starch, gallic acid, their inclusion complex and their effects in diabetes and other diseases—A review
Authors: Nag Sayoni , Majumder Suman
Published: December 2022

Starch is the most important energy‐providing component of food. It is useful for maintaining the structural and rheological consistency of food, ad thus, in turn, is responsible for maintaining the freshness of food. Polyphenols are present in plant products in huge amounts as secondary metabolites. Gallic acid, one of the potent plant polyphenols, has been reported to have excellent anti‐inflammatory, antioxidative, anticarcinogenic, microbicidal, and antidiabetic properties. Till date, very few articles on the starch–polyphenol inclusion complex are present. Quite a few hypotheses have been proposed as to how the formation of an inclusion complex of starch with polyphenol can slower the digestion or the hydrolysis of starch. The efficient qualities of starch–polyphenol systems, such as reduced starch digestion, lower blood glucose and preserving food freshness, have formed a necessity for investigation in this area. The focus of this review centers on the recent research on starch–polyphenol interactions and starch–gallic acid inclusion complexes in native and extruded food systems, as well as how the production of these complexes can aid in the treatment of diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus.
The impact of strike action on healthcare delivery: A scoping review
Authors: Essex Ryan , Ahmed Salina , Elliott Helen , Lakika Dostin , Mackenzie Laura , Weldon Sharon Marie
Published: December 2022

Background

Strike action carried out by healthcare workers raises a range of ethical issues. Most fundamentally, as a strike is designed to disrupt, it has the potential to impact patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. This paper synthesises and analyses the empirical literature that details the impact of strike action on healthcare delivery.

Methods

A systematic scoping review was utilised to examine the extent, range and nature of research activity. Embase, Medline, CINAHL, Bioethicsline, EconLit and Web of Science were searched, yielding 5644 results. Papers were included if they examined the impact that strike action had on healthcare delivery (i.e., admissions, presentations, waiting time). After screening, 43 papers met inclusion criteria.

Results

Nineteen studies explored presentations to emergency or admissions to hospital. Both dropped dramatically when comparing non‐strike to strike periods. Ten studies examined length of stay in hospital and waiting times. No clear relationship was found with strike action, with some studies showing that wait times decreased. Nine studies examined the impact of strike action in facilities that were not on strike, but were impacted by nearby strike action along with the impact that strike action had on treatment seeking. Hospitals dealing with these upstream impacts often saw increase in presentations at hospitals, but results relates to treatment seeking during strike action were mixed.

Conclusion

Strike action can have a substantial impact on the delivery of healthcare, but this impact is not felt uniformly across services. While many services are disrupted, a number are not, with several studies reporting increased efficiency.
Cascading bankruptcies under simultaneous sectorial shocks: Theory and application to the Tunisian banking sector
Authors: Nabi Mahmoud‐Sami , Fersi Sami
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a theoretical framework modelling the effect of simultaneous sectorial shocks on the banking system resilience, in presence of overlapping portfolio risk. A sectorial shock decreases the value of banks' assets and solvency. We show that beyond a determined threshold, the regulator (central bank) shall intervene in order to avoid that simultaneous sectorial shocks lead to bankruptcies in a cascading process. The model is simulated in the context of the Tunisian banking system for a variety of extreme macroeconomic conditions (economic recession and inflation). The simulations show that the simultaneous shocks to industry, commerce and real estate sectors might lead to the bankruptcies of one to 10 banks among the 23 Tunisian banks via the cascading contagion channel, in the absence of a prompt and adequate intervention by the regulator.
Does intelligence predict development of investment traits from mid to late adolescence? Evidence from a 3‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Bergold Sebastian , Hufer‐Thamm Anke , Abad Borger Katharina , Luhmann Maike , Steinmayr Ricarda
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Investment theories have claimed reciprocal relations between intelligence and investment traits (i.e., personality traits related to seeking out, and dealing with, cognitive challenges). However, previous research has primarily addressed the effects of investment traits on intellectual development (environmental enrichment hypothesis) and often focused on either childhood or later adulthood. The present study investigated the effects of intelligence on investment traits (environmental success hypothesis) from mid to late adolescence.

Method

In a 3‐year longitudinal survey (2008–2011) covering four measurement occasions, the predictive effects of both fluid and crystallized intelligence on intraindividual change in both the achievement motive (i.e., hope for success and fear of failure) and need for cognition were examined. Overall, 476 adolescents (t1:Mage = 16.43, SD = 0.55; 51.3% girls) from Germany participated.

Results

Second‐order latent growth models indicated that fluid intelligence predicted a steeper growth in hope for success (β = .40), but was unrelated to change in the other investment traits. Crystallized intelligence had no effects on the investment traits under study.

Conclusions

The results contribute to the research on the bidirectionality of intelligence and investment traits and add to our understanding of personality development from mid to late adolescence. Specifically, they underline the importance of nurturing hope for success especially in individuals with lower intelligence, but also show that support for the environmental success hypothesis seems to be limited to certain investment traits.
Associations Among Hip Structure, Bone Mineral Density, and Strength Vary With External Bone Size in White Women
Authors: Jepsen Karl J , Bigelow Erin MR , Casden Michael A , Goulet Robert W , Kennedy Kathryn , Hertz Samantha , Kadur Chandan , Nolan Bonnie T , Richards‐McCullough Kerry , Merillat Steffenie , Karvonen‐Gutierrez Carrie A , Clines Gregory , Bredbenner Todd L
Published: December 2022

Bone mineral density (BMD) is heavily relied upon to reflect structural changes affecting hip strength and fracture risk. Strong correlations between BMD and strength are needed to provide confidence that structural changes are reflected in BMD and, in turn, strength. This study investigated how variation in bone structure gives rise to variation in BMD and strength and tested whether these associations differ with external bone size. Cadaveric proximal femurs (n = 30, White women, 36–89+ years) were imaged using nanocomputed tomography (nano‐CT) and loaded in a sideways fall configuration to assess bone strength and brittleness. Bone voxels within the nano‐CT images were projected onto a plane to create pseudo dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (pseudo‐DXA) images consistent with a clinical DXA scan. A validation study using 19 samples confirmed pseudo‐DXA measures correlated significantly with those measured from a commercially available DXA system, including bone mineral content (BMC) (R2 = 0.95), area (R2 = 0.58), and BMD (R2 = 0.92). BMD–strength associations were conducted using multivariate linear regression analyses with the samples divided into narrow and wide groups by pseudo‐DXA area. Nearly 80% of the variation in strength was explained by age, body weight, and pseudo‐DXA BMD for the narrow subgroup. Including additional structural or density distribution information in regression models only modestly improved the correlations. In contrast, age, body weight, and pseudo‐DXA BMD explained only half of the variation in strength for the wide subgroup. Including bone density distribution or structural details did not improve the correlations, but including post‐yield deflection (PYD), a measure of bone material brittleness, did increase the coefficient of determination to more than 70% for the wide subgroup. This outcome suggested material level effects play an important role in the strength of wide femoral necks. Thus, the associations among structure, BMD, and strength differed with external bone size, providing evidence that structure–function relationships may be improved by judiciously sorting study cohorts into subgroups. © 2022 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Influence of calcium‐based desensitizing toothpastes on the bonding performance of universal adhesive
Authors: Wang Silin , Meng Yuchen , Zhang Yuchen , Huang Fan , Teng Rui , Lu Yi , Li Ang , Sun Junyi , Pei Dandan
Published: December 2022

The study evaluated the effect of calcium‐based desensitizing toothpastes on the dentinal tubule occlusion and its influence on the dentin bond strength of universal adhesive. Mid‐coronal dentin samples were prepared for hypersensitivity model and treated by the following calcium‐based desensitizing toothpastes: no treatment (Control), Clinpro (fTCP), Pro‐Relief (Pro‐Argin), and Repair & Protect (Novamin). Single Bond Universal adhesive was applied in self‐etch or etch‐and‐rinse mode. The dentinal tubule occlusion and adhesion interface were evaluated under scanning electron microscope (SEM). A double‐fluorescence technique was used to examine interfacial permeability under confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The micro‐tensile bond strength (μTBS) was employed, followed by the fracture interface observation. SEM showed the toothpastes occluded dentinal tubules, and the occlusion exhibited stability against acid and abrasion. Hindered resin infiltration was observed in the adhesion interface after desensitization. CLSM showed more water permeation within or under the adhesion interface in etch‐and‐rinse mode than self‐etch mode. Desensitization decreased the μTBS in self‐etch mode. When using etch‐and‐rinse mode, the desensitized samples presented similar μTBS to the control group. No difference in μTBS was found between the two bonding modes, except for the control group. Calcium‐based desensitizing toothpastes can effectively occlude the exposed dentinal tubules with acid‐resistant and abrasion‐resistant stability. The desensitization reduced the dentin bond strength of the universal adhesive system in self‐etch mode but did not affect the bond strength of etch‐and‐rinse mode.
Comparative anatomical survey of Cyclamen L. (Primulaceae) taxa and their traditional medicinal uses in Turkey
Authors: Zare Golshan , Çilden Emre , Çelemli Ömür Gençay
Published: December 2022

The genus Cyclamen is native to Turkey, where it is represented by 12 perennial tuberous geophytic taxa. In this study, a detailed anatomical description of all Cyclamen taxa found in Turkey is provided for the first time. Tuber, root, petiole, and leaf cross‐sections were stained with Astra blue and safranin, and tuber slides were also stained with sartur. Tubers of these taxa used by local people as a treatment for infertility were separately investigated. Stomatal index values and epidermis cell features of the studied taxa were measured. Indumentum features of the leaves were described for the first time. Petiole and leaf anatomy and particularly stomatal density, size, and index, provided valuable evidence for species identification. Although the anatomical features of these taxa are not sufficient as diagnostic characters, they can be used together with morphological features.
Prognostic imagination: Genetic counseling amidst therapeutic innovation and evolving futures
Authors: Mueller Rebecca
Published: December 2022

Despite the moniker “precision medicine,” genetic diagnoses are often imprecise with respect to prognosis. In a period when prognoses are evolving in lockstep with advances in genetic diagnostics and therapeutics, it is critical that clinicians and researchers consider how prognosis is communicated beyond the moment of diagnosis. Research has shown that genetic diagnoses are described differently in pre‐ and postnatal contexts, but we know relatively little about how patients and families make sense of prognostic information as affected children grow up. Here, I draw on research and personal narratives to describe how prognostic information impacts individuals' conceptions of the future. A deeper understanding of how patients and families view prognosis is important because parents may need support as prognostic conversations arise and because perceptions of prognosis may influence ideas about the future, psychological health, decisions, and planning. By exploring how specific ideas about an individuals' future take hold, clinicians and researchers may begin to identify the benefits, harms, and accuracy of varied sources of prognostic information, opening new areas of bioethical investigation. In closing, I propose prognostic imagination as a useful concept for considering how patients and families experience prognostic information amidst therapeutic innovations and evolving futures.
The experiences of families receiving a diagnosis of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in Ireland
Authors: O'Donoghue Emma , McAllister Marion , Rizzo Roberta
Published: December 2022

Families in Ireland often wait over 1 year to see a genetic counselor (GC). This qualitative study aimed to explore the views of families who received a diagnosis of 22q11DS in Ireland regarding the need for timely access to genetic counseling at the point of diagnosis. Twenty participants were recruited through the ‘22q Ireland’ support group, giving a response rate of approximately 10% of the total support group members. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted online and by telephone which explored experiences of receiving diagnoses, medical care, genetic counseling, mental health, and coping with the diagnosis. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. The experiences of 20 participants were classified into five main themes: Receiving Diagnosis, Interactions with Healthcare Professionals (HCPs, excluding GCs), Medical Care, Information, and Impact of Condition. Participants reported receiving diagnoses for their children in a sub‐optimal manner due to inappropriate settings and insufficient information, support, and pre‐test counseling. Parents reported feeling responsible for managing their child's complex and fragmented medical care. Participants reported insufficient empathy and little awareness of 22q11DS among HCPs. Participants perceived genetic counseling to be associated with family planning and reported delayed, if any, access to services. Mental health was a particular worry among participants. Conferences about 22q11DS are the main source of information for parents. Participants reported a range of emotions after diagnosis and described the family impact. The findings suggest both an association between HCPs' poor understanding of 22q11DS and the perceived lack of empathy from HCPs and fragmented medical care. There is an identified need for advocacy of the GC profession in Ireland to support these families. Increased awareness of 22q11DS among HCPs and the development of a coordinated care pathway for 22q11DS, with timely access to genetic counseling, may improve care and lead to better outcomes.
Electromagnetic interferences susceptibility analysis for a metasurface‐modified wireless power transfer system
Authors: Liang Tao , Barmada Sami , Fontana Nunzia , Xie Yan‐zhao , Brizi Danilo , Monorchio Agostino
Published: December 2022

The use of magnetic metasurfaces in Wireless Power Transfer systems is becoming a popular research topic: they have proven to be a valid approach to increase the performances (in terms of power transfer) and improve the overall EMC properties in terms of field emissions. In this contribution, the authors investigate the susceptibility of such systems in case of an impinging Electromagnetic Interference (that might also be intentional), evaluating different parameters for a selected set of the system's components. In particular, the worst‐case scenarios of voltage peak, energy and sharpness (where appliable) at the transmitting and receiving ports and at each capacitor of the metasurface are calculated. The results obtained for a specific system practically implemented in the lab, show that the metasurface does not necessarily decreases susceptibility towards EMI and it can be itself the most critical component. The identification of the key and critical parameters allows us to provide an insight on how metamaterials used as shielding devices should be properly designed.
Methodology for dyes purification by preparative bidimensional offline reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography separation based on mobile phase pH change: Case study of Justicia spicigera
Authors: Arberet Lucie , Nowik Witold , Michelin Anne , Tchapla Alain , Andraud Christine , Héron Sylvie
Published: December 2022

The extensive characterization of the natural dyes involves the purification of their colored compounds for their structural analysis and stability studies. As most natural compounds being ionizable, herein is presented the optimization of an easy and affordable preparative bidimensional offline reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography purification based on mobile phase pH change. At the analytical scale, several combinations of stationary phases and mobile phases at different pH values were investigated first. The orthogonality between the dimensions was quantitatively evaluated using the nearest‐neighbor distance approach. The optimized separation method was transferred to the preparative scale for the successful isolation of two colored compounds from Justicia spicigera, a traditional dye plant from Central America. They were identified as perisbivalvine B (2‐amino‐8‐hydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐3H‐phenoxazin‐3‐one) and one of its derivatives, also found in another tinctorial plant species, Peristrophe bivalvis growing in Asia.
Plantation understorey legume functional groups enhance soil organic carbon sequestration by promoting species richness
Authors: Wang Cong , Wang Shuai , Fu Bojie , Li Zongshan , Lü Yihe
Published: December 2022

Despite evidence showing that plant diversity or tree mixtures increase carbon storage in experimental grasslands or mixed forests, the effects of understorey plant communities on changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) storage in planted forests remain unclear, especially for monoculture plantations. Therefore, based on field observations in monoculture plantations on the Loess Plateau in China, we investigated the direct effects of understorey species richness (USR) and plantation age on SOC storage, and identified the indirect effects of understorey legume species richness (ULSR) and soil moisture (SM) mediated by USR. Results indicated that plantation age and USR significantly increased SOC sequestration with almost equal effects. The changes in the relationship between USR and SOC storage varied along the water availability gradient, from significantly positive (in plots with SM ≤11.14%) to insignificant (in plots with SM >11.14%). We observed that ULSR could increase SOC sequestration by promoting USR, while SM had negative and positive effects on ULSR and USR, respectively. Our findings can provide insights into plantation management in semiarid regions: Thinning mature plantations and introducing understorey legumes can increase SOC sequestration and maintain water resource sustainability.
Biochar affects the distribution of phosphorus in the soil profile by changing the capacity of soil to adsorb phosphorus and its distribution within soil macroaggregates
Authors: Liu Suying , Cao Dianyun , Hang Yuwei , Ge Shaohua , He Wanying , Zhan Zengyi , He Tianyi , Chen Wenfu , Lan Yu
Published: December 2022

A large number of studies suggested that biochar can affect the adsorption of phosphorus (P) in soil and the distribution of P in soil aggregates, but it is still unclear whether biochar can indirectly affect the distribution of P in soil profiles through the influence of these two factors. Therefore, the ability of maize straw biochar to mitigate the risk of loss of P and improve the distribution of P in soil profile was evaluated by studying the capacity of soil to adsorb P from the soil and distribution fractions of it in diverse grain‐sized aggregates of soil. A 5‐year field trial site had received NPK fertilizer inputs at the same rate and one‐time biochar inputs at different rates (0, 15.75, 31.5 and 47.25 t ha−1) at the beginning of the experiment. Langmuir and Freundlich equations were fitted to the sorption data of the soil and suggested that the applicataion of biochar can promote P absorption capacity of soil, particularly when the rates of biochar applied were 31.5 and 47.25 t ha−1. Biochar can improve the stability of soil aggregates, and aggregates with particle sizes of 0.25–2 mm have the highest relative rate of contribution to various fractions of P in the soil. Biochar can promote the accumulation of most of the P fractions in soil aggregates, particularly when the rates of biochar applied were 31.5 and 47.25 t ha−1. The TP, Ca2‐P, Al‐P, Ca8‐P, moderately labile organic phosphorus (MLOP) and moderately resistant organic phosphorus (MROP) were primarily distributed in the 0–20 cm soil layer. Biochar increased the contents of MLOP and highly resistant organic phosphorus in the soil layer of 0–20 cm while reducing the contents of Al‐P, Fe‐P and occluded phosphorus (O‐P) in the soil layer of 0–20 cm and decreased the contents of TP, Ca8‐P, O‐P and MROP under the 20 cm soil layers. Biochar can change the distribution of P fractions along the soil profile by improving the adsorption of soil P and its distribution in the soil aggregates (0–20 cm).
Efficient Synthetic Aperture for Phaseless Fourier Ptychographic Microscopy with Hybrid Coherent and Incoherent Illumination
Authors: Fan Yao , Sun Jiasong , Shu Yefeng , Zhang Zuxin , Zheng Guoan , Chen Wenjian , Zhang Jin , Gui Kun , Wang Kehui , Chen Qian , Zuo Chao
Published: December 2022

Fourier ptychographic microscopy (FPM) is a computational high‐throughput technique for high‐resolution and wide field‐of‐view (FOV) imaging applications such as cell biology, medicine screening, and digital pathology. By integrating angle‐varied illumination, iteration phase retrieval, and synthetic aperture, it achieves a significantly enhanced imaging resolution beyond the diffraction limit of the objective lens while retaining its original large FOV without any mechanical movement. However, sufficient data redundancy is a prerequisite for the convergence of the iteration algorithm, which in turn requires dozens or even hundreds of raw images to get a decent resolution, leaving ample room for further improvement. In this paper, an efficient synthetic aperture scheme for FPM is proposed, termed ESA‐FPM. It employs both coherent and incoherent illuminations to maximize the efficiency of data utilization and achieve high spatial‐bandwidth product (SBP) reconstruction with few acquisitions. The data redundancy requirements are further analyzed, suggesting that ESA‐FPM reaches imaging resolution of using only seven images. The experiment with USAF target demonstrates that ESA‐FPM achieves theoretical resolution with only 1.6% of the data of conventional FPM. A customized miniaturized ESA‐FPM system with a high‐numerical‐aperture, low‐magnification objective lens, and a high‐brightness LED array is built, demonstrating its potential for biomedical and pathological applications.
Do incentives work to motivate voluntary blood donation?
Authors: Gong Yuwen , Dai Ying , Ma Zujun , Li Jianguo
Published: December 2022

Based on previous research on blood donation incentives, we investigated the effectiveness of two incentives—eligibility for free blood transfusions and improving individual credit scores—and explored the psychological mechanisms underlying these effects. We conducted four studies to explore the relationship between incentives and blood donation intention. The results showed that eligibility for free blood transfusions was more effective than improving individual credit scores due to the mediating effect of perceived attractiveness. Meanwhile, improving individual credit scores failed to play an effective role and was significantly lower than eligibility for free blood transfusions due to the mediating effect of perceived threat to freedom. We further found that after adding the moderating variable of involvement, there was no difference between the two incentives due to the weakened mediating effects of perceived threat to freedom and perceived attractiveness in the high‐involvement group. This study establishes two effect paths from incentives to perceived threat to freedom/perceived attractiveness to blood donation intention, explaining the effectiveness of incentives.
Atorvastatin shows antitumor effect in hepatocellular carcinoma development by inhibiting angiogenesis via TGF‐β1/pERK signaling pathway
Authors: Deza Zahira , Caimi Giselle Romero , Noelia Miret , Coli Lucia , Ridruejo Ezequiel , Alvarez Laura
Published: December 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents 90% of liver tumors. Statins may reduce HCC incidence. Its antitumor activities may be mediated by disrupting several hepatocarcinogenic pathways. To evaluate in vivo and in vitro the antiproliferative and antiangiogenic action of atorvastatin (AT) in the development of HCC as well as its mechanisms of action. In vivo model: hexachlorobenzene (HCB) was used to promote the development of HCC in Balb/C nude mice. Number of hepatic tumor, liver cell proliferation parameters (proliferating cell nuclear antigen, PCNA), angiogenesis, and VEGF levels were analyzed. In vitro model: Hep‐G2 and Ea‐hy926 cells were used to evaluate the effect of different doses of AT on HCB induced cell proliferation, migration, and vasculogenesis and to analyze proliferative parameters. In vivo: AT prevented liver growth and tumor development and inhibited PCNA, TGF‐β1, and pERK levels increase. AT prevented skin blood vessel formation. In vitro, AT prevented cell proliferation and migration as well as tubular formation in the endothelial cell line by inhibiting the MAPK ERK pathway. We were able to demonstrate the potential AT antiproliferative and antiangiogenic effects in an HCC model and the involvement of TGF‐β1 and pERK pathways.