bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rehoming of pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Sweden: an investigation of national advertisement
Authors: Ulfsdotter L , Lundberg A , Andersson M
Published: July 2016

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are popular companion animals, yet there has been little research into rabbits kept as pets in Sweden. Many rabbits that are rehomed are done so via personal contacts rather than through animal shelters. The purpose of this study was to provide a picture as to why rabbit owners rehome their pets and to what extent this is done in Sweden. There were 505 rabbits put up for rehoming through a large Swedish advertisement site during the winter of 2012/2013. The most commonly stated reasons for trying to rehome rabbits were ‘Lack of time’ (35.8%), ‘Owners are moving’ (16.6%) and ‘Allergies’ (13.2%). The mean age of the rabbits was 17.6 months and most rabbits were put up for sale for a price of between €11.1 and €55. Requests about the new home were mentioned in 46.8% of the adverts and the majority of the comments described the type of home needed for the rabbit. Reasons for relinquishing rabbits were similar to those found in other studies and the number of rabbits with behavioural problems was very low (0.9%). We conclude that a number of rabbits in Sweden are experiencing rehoming and the effect of this on their welfare should be further investigated.
Conducting sensitive social science research about on-farm animal welfare incidents: challenges and approaches
Authors: Devitt C , Kelly P , Blake M , Hanlon A , More SJ
Published: July 2016

The social sciences can help provide a deeper understanding of human-farm animal relations. However, social science research exploring problematic human-farm animal interactions can be of a sensitive nature. Studies that carry risks for participants and the researcher are known methodologically as sensitive research. However, there is little discussion in the animal welfare sciences on how best to conduct research of this nature on animal owners, despite recommendations being made for more interdisciplinary collaboration between the animal welfare sciences and social sciences. Drawing on social science research conducted in 2012 on the human element of on-farm animal welfare incidents in the Republic of Ireland, this short communication presents a case study of the sensitivities and challenges involved in carrying out social science research related to farm animal welfare. This communication details the steps involved in recruiting participants, the methodological challenges encountered, and the approaches used to overcome these challenges. Our experience suggests that when conducting socially sensitive research, careful consideration needs to be applied to the recruitment process, and the study design must aim to minimise the potential risks for all involved. Professionals in the field, such as veterinarians, can play an important role in outlining some of the implications involved, and in overcoming research challenges. Understanding the challenges to this form of research will help to maximise research potential.
Evaluation of brainstem disruption following penetrating captive-bolt shot in isolated cattle heads: comparison of traditional and alternative shot-placement landmarks
Authors: Gilliam JN , Shearer JK , Bahr RJ , Crochik S , Woods J , Hill J , Reynolds J , Taylor JD
Published: July 2016

Currently recommended landmarks for captive-bolt euthanasia of cattle often result in failure to penetrate the brainstem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability to disrupt the brainstem by placing the shot at a higher position on the head. Intact heads from euthanased animals or natural mortalities were used for this study. Heads were grouped as adult (> 2 years), young (6-24 months) and neonate (< 1 month) and randomly assigned to either the LOW group (the intersection of two lines drawn from the medial canthus to the top of the opposite ear) or the HIGH group (midline halfway between the top of the poll and an imaginary line connecting each lateral canthus). Each head received a single shot from a CASH penetrating captive bolt with bolt length and power load selected based on manufacturer's recommendations. Computed tomography images of each head were evaluated independently by two veterinary radiologists. Brainstem disruption was assumed to occur if the bolt passed caudal to the presphenoid bone and deep to the third ventricle and was within 1.5 cm of midline. Brainstem disruption occurred in 16/18 adult HIGH and 7/14 adult LOW heads, 13/16 young HIGH and 11/19 young LOW heads, and 11/11 neonate HIGH and 14/14 neonate LOW heads. The higher shot location landmarks used in this study increased the probability of disrupting the brainstem when adult cattle were shot with a penetrating captive bolt which should reduce the risk of regaining sensibility. Reliable brainstem disruption is a precondition for considering penetrating captive bolt as a single-step euthanasia method. Further research is needed to determine if this method will reliably ensure a humane death.
Neural and endocranial anatomy of Triassic phytosaurian reptiles and convergence with fossil and modern crocodylians
Authors: Lautenschlager Stephan , Butler Richard J.
Published: July 2016

Phytosaurs are a clade of large, carnivorous pseudosuchian archosaurs from the Late Triassic with a near cosmopolitan distribution. Their superficial resemblance to longirostrine (long-snouted) crocodylians, such as gharials, has often been used in the past to infer ecological and behavioural convergence between the two groups. Although more than thirty species of phytosaur are currently recognised, little is known about the endocranial anatomy of this clade. Here, we describe the endocranial anatomy (including the brain, inner ear, neurovascular structures and sinus systems) of the two non-mystriosuchine phytosaursParasuchus angustifrons(=“Paleorhinus angustifrons”) andEbrachosuchus neukamifrom the Late Triassic of Germany based on digital reconstructions. Results show that the endocasts of both taxa are very similar to each other in their rostrocaudally elongate morphology, with long olfactory tracts, weakly demarcated cerebral regions and dorsoventrally short endosseous labyrinths. In addition, several sinuses, including large antorbital sinuses and prominent dural venous sinuses, were reconstructed. Comparisons with the endocranial anatomy of derived phytosaurs indicate that Phytosauria is united by the presence of elongate olfactory tracts and longitudinally arranged brain architecture—characters which are also shared with Crocodyliformes. However, a substantial morphological variability is observed in the cephalic and pontine flexure and the presence of a pineal organ across the different phytosaur species. These results suggest that the endocranial anatomy in Phytosauria generally follows a plesiomorphic pattern, with moderate variation within the clade likely resulting from divergent sensory and behavioural adaptations.
AIDS in Africa—Impact of Research
Authors: Abdool Karim Quarraisha , Abdool Karim Salim S.
Published: September 2024

In this Viewpoint, 2024 Lasker-Bloomberg Public Service Award winners Quarraisha Abdool Karim and Salim S. Abdool Karim discuss their journey in AIDS research in South Africa and the local and global health impact of this research.
The Supreme Court Disempowers Public Health Agencies and Devalues Science
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O. , Radhakrishnan Adi
Published: September 2024

This JAMA Forum discusses recent rulings made by the US Supreme Court that limit the decision-making power of government agencies to safeguard public health, ensure safety, and protect the environment.
Adipogenic‐Myogenic Signaling in Engineered Human Muscle Grafts used to Treat Volumetric Muscle Loss
Authors: Altamirano Dallas E. , Mihaly Eszter , Emmens Jalissa D. , Grayson Warren L.
Published: September 2024

Tissue‐engineered muscle grafts (TEMGs) are a promising treatment for volumetric muscle loss (VML). In this study, human myogenic progenitors (hMPs) cultured on electrospun fibrin microfiber bundles and evaluated the therapeutic potential of engineered hMP TEMGs in the treatment of murine tibialis anterior (TA) VML injuries is employed. In vitro, the hMP TEMGs express mature muscle markers by 21 days. Upon implantation into VML injuries, the hMP TEMGs enable remarkable regeneration. To further promote wound healing and myogenesis, human adipose‐derived stem/stromal cells (hASCs) as fibroadipogenic progenitor (FAP)‐like cells with the potential to secrete pro‐regenerative cytokines are incorporated. The impact of dose and timing of seeding the hASCs on in vitro myogenesis and VML recovery using hMP‐hASC TEMGs are investigated. The hASCs increase myogenesis of hMPs when co‐cultured at 5% hASCs: 95% hMPs and with delayed seeding. Upon implantation into immunocompromised mice, hMP‐hASC TEMGs increase cell survival, collagen IV deposition, and pro‐regenerative macrophage recruitment, but result in excessive adipose tissue growth after 28 days. These data demonstrate the interactions of hASCs and hMPs enhance myogenesis in vitro but there remains a need to optimize treatments to minimize adipogenesis and promote full therapeutic recovery following VML treatment.
NIR‐Triggered Cu2O/Cu2‐xS Heterostructure as an “All‐In‐One” Functional Nanoplatform for Efficient Synergistic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Gao Weihua , Zhang Jie , Chang Yi , Gao Fangli , Ma Guanglei , Gao Zhiyong , Wang Xiaobing , Liu Xinhe , Ma Xiaoming , Guo Yuming
Published: September 2024

The fabrication of synergistic multifunctional anti‐tumor nanoplatforms is challenging due to the urgent requirement to activate different therapeutic modalities. Although the multi‐modal treatments can be achieved by carrying out the activation with different exogenous and endogenous stimulations in sequence, this tedious manner is not applicable to the ideal synergistic cancer treatment. Herein, a simple heterojunction of Cu2O/Cu2‐xS modified with gambogic acid and hyaluronic acid (CCS@GA@HA) is ingeniously fabricated for the synergistic cancer treatment combining photothermal therapy (PTT), photocatalytic therapy (PCT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and potential ferroptosis just activated by the single near infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Cu2O/Cu2‐xS heterostructure (CCS) with promoted separation and transfer efficiency of photogenerated charge carriers exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance. The intervention of gambogic acid (GA) downregulates the overexpression of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), which make it possible to execute the mild PTT. And the CDT performance is efficiently improved by the heat generated from PTT. Specifically, CCS appears to accelerate the accumulation of lipid peroxides (LPO) and inactivate glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) that directly induce ferroptosis. In brief, CCS@GA@HA exhibits prominent NIR‐triggered synergistic effect involving PCT, mild PTT, enhanced CDT and ferroptosis for an effective multi‐modal tumor treatment.
Atomic‐Precision Manipulation of Defects in RuO2 Nanocrystals via Electron‐Beam
Authors: Li Guanxing , Zou Chen , Wang Fei , Han Zhong‐Kang , Yuan Wentao , Yang Hangsheng , Wang Yong
Published: September 2024

Manufacturing nanocrystals with desired structures is the basis for realizing designed properties in their applications. As an important top‐down fabrication technique, although electron beam (e‐beam) has been well used for atomic etching on one hand, it is still challenging to precisely repair the undesired crystal defects on the other. Herein, utilizing the e‐beam probe in a spherical aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscope, the possibility of e‐beam in the atomic‐level‐controllable construction/repair of crystalline defects in ruthenium oxide (RuO2) nanocrystals is systematically explored. It is found that the functional duality of beam effects can be well controlled, with the domination of either constructing or repairing defects in atomic scale, by tuning e‐beam parameters. With the aid of real‐time observation of the atom‐by‐atom repairing process via in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy and density functional theory calculations, the e‐beam‐assisted repairing mechanism is revealed. This work is anticipated to provide insights into controllable top‐down manufacturing nanomaterials at the sub‐nanoscale by e‐beam.
Reactive Oxygen Species Triggered Cleavage of Thioketal‐Containing Supramolecular Nanoparticles for Inflammation‐Targeted Oral Therapy in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Xiong Ting , Xu Huipeng , Nie Qin , Jia Bingqian , Bao Haojie , Zhang Hanwen , Li Jing , Cao Zeying , Wang Shunyao , Wu Li , Zhang Jiwen
Published: September 2024

Combating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and targeted drug delivery to inflammatory sites are considered effective therapeutic strategies for ulcerative colitis (UC), a refractory chronic inflammatory disease. Herein, a ROS‐responsive thioketal (TK) crosslinked cyclodextrin metal‐organic framework (TCOF) is fabricated, to which a non‐ROS‐sensitive vector, sulfur substituted by carbon chain‐crosslinked cyclodextrin metal‐organic framework (CCOF) is parallelly designed as ROS negative reference. Dexamethasone (DEX) loaded in TCOF (TCD) and CCOF (CCD) are investigated to demonstrate the advantages of precision medicine for UC. After the ROS‐induced collapse of nanoparticles, TCD selectively triggered the release of DEX. Moreover, TCD effectively protected cells from oxidative stress damage and reduced inflammation levels in vitro. Remarkably, the TK group of TCD is oxidatively broken by consuming ROS at the inflammatory site, exposing the thiol group to mucosal adhesion, which enhances the retention of TCD at colons. In vivo studies of UC treatment reveals that oral administration of TCD demonstrated excellent inflammation‐targeting properties, remarkably attenuated oxidative stress, and ameliorated both acute and chronic colitis compared to CCD. Furthermore, TCD exhibits an excellent safety profile in mice. These results instill confidence in advancing targeted drug delivery and precision therapy for UC.
Synergistic Effects of Defects and Strain on Photoluminescence in Van der Waals Layered Crystal AgScP2S6${\rm AgScP_{2}S_{6}}$
Authors: Mukherjee Abhishek , Wlodarczyk Damian , Somakumar Ajeesh K. , Sybilski Piotr , Siebenaller Ryan , Rao Rahul , Susner Michael A. , Suchocki Andrzej , Boriskina Svetlana V.
Published: September 2024

Metal thiophosphates (MTPs) are a large family of 2D materials that exhibit large structural and chemical diversity. They also show promise for applications in energy harvesting and photodetection. Strain and defect engineering have previously been demonstrated as useful mechanisms to tune several properties of MTPs such as resistivity, magnetic state, and electronic band gap. However, the effect of these stimuli on engineering tunable light emission in MTPs remains unexplored. Here, it is experimentally demonstrated that sulfur vacancies in metal thiophosphate allow defect‐state‐to‐valence‐band transitions leading to visible light emission at sub‐bandgap energies, while structural defects in the material can enhance and modulate the photoluminescence spectrum. It is also showed that the structural‐defect‐enhanced light emission can be further tuned by temperature‐induced strain gradients.
Nano‐Size Effects on Decay Dynamics of Photo‐Excited Polarons in CeO2
Authors: Katoch Abhishek , Park Sang Han , Jeong Kwangsik , Lazemi Masoud , Wang Ru‐Pan , Ahn Hyun S. , Kim Tae Kyu , de Groot Frank M.F. , Kwon Soonnam
Published: September 2024

The study of polaron dynamics in complex materials has garnered significant attention owing to its implications for various technological applications, including catalysis, solid‐state devices, and energy storage. This paper investigates the photo‐excited electron and hole polaron dynamics in cerium dioxide (CeO2) using time‐resolved X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, with an emphasis on the nano‐size effect. Additionally, density functional theory and multiplet calculations have been utilized to reveal the photo‐excited polaron dynamics in CeO2 single crystal (SC) and nanocrystal (NC). The electron polaron is observed to decay into a deep trap site with a short duration of ≈5 ps, while electrons in the traps stay for more than 1400 ps. The most significant observation is the behavior of holes in NC, which tends to stay longer (≈150 ps) compared to SC (<10 ps) suggesting hole existence more at the surface than at bulk. The fast dissociation of the electron polarons the prolonged lifetime of the electrons above the Fermi level and the enhanced hole lifetime at the surface are proposed to be among the various factors that influence the high reactivity of CeO2.
Achieving the Birefringence Optimization by Methyl Modulation in Organic Nonlinear Optical Crystals
Authors: Yang Dongling , Sha Hongyuan , Wang Zujian , Su Rongbing , He Chao , Su Bin , Yang Xiaoming , Long Xifa
Published: September 2024

Non‐centrosymmetric organics are promising nonlinear optical (NLO) candidates, which always exhibit a short UV absorption cutoff edge, and a strong second harmonic generation (SHG) response, but an overlarge birefringence. Here, in order to optimize the birefringence, the methyl modulation of π‐conjugated organic planar units is proposed and implemented with the urea structure as a template. Thus, N‐methylurea and N,N'‐dimethylurea crystals are obtained by partially replacing hydrogen atoms with methyl groups. This replacement reduces hydrogen donors and weakens interchain hydrogen bonds, which facilitates the decreasing density and the parallel arrangement of π‐conjugated planar units. Hence, both N‐methylurea and N,N'‐dimethylurea crystals exhibit not only an optimized birefringence (N‐methylurea ≈0.099 and N,N'‐dimethylurea ≈0.072 at 546 nm) but also an enhanced SHG response (N‐methylurea ≈1.2 × β‐BaB2O4 and N,N'‐dimethylurea ≈1.9 × β‐BaB2O4), while maintaining a short UV absorption cutoff edge. Therefore, this work provides a novel strategy for the structural design and performance modulation of organic NLO crystals.
Facile Synthesis of Diverse 1,3,5‐Trisubstituted 1,2,4‐Triazole using Hydrazones with Aldehydes, Alkenes, Amines
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Kunyi , Zhang Jialiang , Liu Shuikun , Song Yu , Tan Xinqiang , Fang Lizhen
Published: September 2024

An efficient, and easy method for the synthesis of 1,3,5‐ substituted 1,2,4‐triazole derivatives by [3+2] annulation reactions of hydrazones with aldehydes, alkenes, or amines has been established. This strategy is characterized by the use of inexpensive and readily available oxidants and starting materials, a broader substrate scope, and moderate to good yields.
Stereoregular Poly(Phenyl Glycidyl Ethers): In Situ Formation of a Polyether Stereocomplex from a Racemic Monomer Mixture
Authors: Schüttner Sandra , Lu Yiye , Frey Holger , Coates Geoffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Polymer stereocomplex formation represents a promising research area as it can improve thermal and mechanical properties of co‐crystallized polymer strands of opposite chirality. Polymers that form stereocomplexes commonly feature high stereoregularity and usually require sourcing from enantiopure monomer building blocks. Herein, we report the in situ polyether stereocomplex formation from racemic epoxide monomers, i.e., substituted methyl phenyl glycidyl ethers. The bio‐renewable glycidyl ethers were explored in both enantio‐ and isoselective ring‐opening polymerizations (ROPs), resulting in isotactic poly(phenyl glycidyl ether). While the enantioselective ROP selectively resolves a single enantiomeric, isotactic polyether stereoisomer ([mm]P≥78 %), the isoselective ROP leads to the concurrent formation of both isotactic (R)‐ and (S)‐poly(phenyl glycidyl ether) stereoisomers ([mm]P≥92 %) and thus results directly in a stereoisomer blend, which forms a stereocomplex. This is one of only a few polymer stereocomplexes generated directly during polymerization from a racemic monomer mixture. Stereocomplexes of the different poly(phenyl glycidyl ether)s show an increase in melting temperature of up to 76 °C, relative to the enantiopure parent polymers. The position of the methyl group at the phenyl ring determines both stereocomplex formation and the thermal properties of the resulting materials.
Single Exposed Zn (0002) Plane and Sustainable Zn‐Oriented Growth Achieving Highly Reversible Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Da , Song Ziyang , Miao Ling , Lv Yaokang , Duan Hui , Li Mingfang , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: September 2024

To prevent dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution reaction, directional epitaxial growth of Zn2+ ions on Zn anode, especially along the lowest‐surface‐energy Zn (0002) plane, is pursued for highly reversible zinc metal batteries (ZMBs). However, designing single Zn (0002) exposed anodes for sustained uniaxial crystalline orientation of Zn electroplating faces challenges. Herein, we propose an anode engineering that utilizes a low lattice mismatch substrate and ordered Zn2+ migration channels to modify Zn anodes with single (0002) surface exposure and sustainable Zn‐oriented growth, yielding highly reversible ZMBs. A vapor‐deposited metal–organic framework Cu3(C6O6)2 film on brass foil shows low lattice mismatch (4.24 %) with electrodeposited Zn anodes, enabling the exposure of a single (0002) plane. Furthermore, the low desolvation energy (−1.36 eV) between solvated Zn2+ ions and the ordered porous Cu3(C6O6)2 film guides sustainable Zn‐oriented nucleation along the Zn (0002) surface. Consequently, the Zn||Zn cells with brass‐Cu3(C6O6)2 substrate shows a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.55 % after 4,000 cycles at 10 mA cm−2. This work provides a new window to design highly reversible Zn metal anode with a single‐exposed Zn (0002) plane and sustainable oriented growth for emerging ZMBs.
Platinum‐Group Metal High‐Entropy Selenides for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Deng Xiaohui , Kusada Kohei , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Toriyama Takaaki , Murakami Yasukazu , Tseng Jo‐Chi , Yamada Hiroki , Sakata Osami , Ashitani Hirotaka , Kawaguchi Shogo , Kubota Yoshiki , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

The selenides of platinum‐group metals (PGMs) are emerging as promising catalysts for diverse electrochemical reactions. To date, most studies have focused on single metal or bimetallic systems, whereas the preparation of a high‐entropy (HE) selenide consisting of five or more PGM elements holds the promise to further enhance catalytic performance by introducing abundant active sites with various local coordination environments and electronic structures. Herein, we report for the first time the synthesis of PGM‐based HE‐Selenide (HE‐Se) nanoparticles with a unique amorphous structure. The atomic metal–Se coordination and the presence of short‐range order were thoroughly revealed. It is further shown that the amorphous HE‐Se can be facilely transformed into a single‐phase crystalline HE‐Se with a cubic structure by thermal annealing. Catalytically, the amorphous HE‐Se showed better acidic hydrogen evolution activity over monometallic PGM‐based selenides and the crystalline counterpart, demonstrating the advantages of high‐entropy configuration and amorphous structure. Our findings may pave the way toward the synthesis and property exploration of amorphous PGM‐based selenides with tunable compositions.
High‐Temperature Solid‐State Post‐Synthetic Modification of Highly Luminescent Cu(I) Metallacycles toward New Luminescent Thermic Tracers
Authors: Schlachter Adrien , Xu Chendong , Schiller Jana , Melero Raquel Utrera , Kerneis Sébastien , Calvez Guillaume , Costuas Karine , Scheer Manfred , Lescop Christophe
Published: September 2024

A new luminescent Cu(I) tetrametallic metallacycle B is reported that features very rare semi‐bridging aqua ligands. When heated markedly above room temperature, this compound undergoes a post‐synthetic transformation in the solid‐state, affording the new luminescent metallacycle C. Thermogravimetric analysis, IR spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction reveal that this alteration preserves the gross tetrametallic macrocycle structure, but is caused by the release of the coordinated water molecules with the concomitant formation of cuprophilic interactions. This transition induces a shift from eye‐perceived green (B) to blue (C) room‐temperature luminescence for these molecular solids. Photophysical measurements and time‐dependent density‐functional theory calculations have been conducted to identify the origins of the emission properties lying in these structurally related assemblies, and suggest that thermally activated delayed fluorescence dominates the radiative relaxation pathways. This study highlights the innovative feature of Cu(I) derivatives, offering access to stimuli‐sensitive materials that can witness, a posteriori, the exceeding of critical temperatures in their environment.
A novel laccase for alkaline medium temperature environments in the textile industry
Authors: Xu Kaifeng , Huo Ying , Tang Shiming , Han Shuangyan , Lin Ying , Zheng Suiping
Published: September 2024

Laccases are extensively used in the textile industry due to their ability to decolorize dyes, modify fabric surfaces, and bleach textiles. Identifying a laccase with both high thermal stability and alkali tolerance suitable for textile applications presents a significant challenge. A novel alkaline laccase, LacCT, was discovered from Caldalkalibacillus thermarum and successfully expressed it in Escherichia coli. LacCT displayed optimal activity at 65°C and maintained high stability across a pH range of 6.0–10.0, with an optimal pH of 7.5. Through rational design, the thermal stability of the best variant, G190P/Q254Y/G336M/D510F (LacCT‐11), was significantly enhanced, resulting in a half‐life of 63.2 min at 60°C – 1.8 times longer than that of the wild type. This research introduces a promising new laccase with considerable potential for decolorizing textile wastewater and improving the ramie degumming process.
Buffer system improves the removal of host cell protein impurities in monoclonal antibody purification
Authors: Lakatos Dániel , Idler Martina , Stibitzky Selina , Amann Jennifer , Schuschkewitz Jakob , Krayl Dominik , Liebau Judith , Grosch Jan‐Hendrik , Arango Gutierrez Erik , Kluters Simon
Published: September 2024

Polysorbates (PS) are commonly used as stabilizers of biopharmaceuticals such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, they are prone to chemical and enzymatic degradation. The latter can be caused by residual host cell proteins (HCPs) in the drug substance. Degradation affects the functionality of the PS surfactant which can lead to formation of particles. An increasing number of publications describe enzymatic PS degradation. Significant efforts have been made to characterize HCP removal during Downstream Processing (DSP) of mAbs and to develop mitigation strategies. Here we describe the use of glycine buffer for acidic elution in Protein A affinity chromatography compared to acetate buffer, which is more commonly used in the biopharmaceutical industry. Increased turbidity was observed during pH re‐adjustment after low pH virus inactivation when using glycine buffer. Analytical data suggests that this turbidity is caused by the formation of precipitates which include HCP and DNA impurities. Additionally, as a zwitterion, glycine does not contribute to conductivity; this further enhances HCP removal during anion‐exchange flow‐through chromatography. Although glycine is well known as a possible elution buffer for Protein A affinity chromatography, its positive impact on HCP removal and PS stability have not yet been described in literature.
Culture system for longitudinal monitoring of bone dynamics ex vivo
Authors: Cramer Esther E.A. , Hermsen Kim C.J. , Kock Linda M. , Ito Keita , Hofmann Sandra
Published: September 2024

To quantify and visualize both bone formation and resorption within osteochondral explants cultured ex vivo is challenging with the current analysis techniques. An approach that enables monitoring of bone remodeling dynamics is longitudinal microcomputed tomography (µCT), a non‐destructive technique that relies on repeated µCT scanning and subsequent registration of consecutive scans. In this study, a two‐compartment culture system suitable for osteochondral explants that allowed for µCT scanning during ex vivo culture was established. Explants were scanned repeatedly in a fixed orientation, which allowed assessment of bone remodeling due to adequate image registration. Using this method, bone formation was found to be restricted to the outer surfaces when cultured statically. To demonstrate that the culture system could capture differences in bone remodeling, explants were cultured statically and under dynamic compression as loading promotes osteogenesis. No quantitative differences between static and dynamic culture were revealed. Still, only in dynamic conditions, bone formation was visualized on trabecular surfaces located within the inner cores, suggesting enhanced bone formation towards the center of the explants upon mechanical loading. Taken together, the ex vivo culture system in combination with longitudinal µCT scanning and subsequent registration of images demonstrated potential for evaluating bone remodeling within explants.
Changes in the Firmicutes to Bacteriodetes ratio in the gut microbiome in individuals with anorexia nervosa following inpatient treatment: A systematic review and a case series
Authors: Helal Passent , Xia Wangmingyu , Sardar Puspendu , Conway‐Morris Anna , Conway‐Morris Andrew , Pedicord Virginia A. , Serfontein Jaco
Published: September 2024

Objective

Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate among psychiatric illnesses. Current treatments remain ineffective for a large fraction of patients. This may be due to unclear mechanisms behind its development and maintenance. Studies exploring the role of the gut microbiome have revealed inconsistent evidence of dysbiosis. This article aims to investigate changes in the gut microbiome, particularly, mean differences in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio, in adolescent and adult individuals with anorexia nervosa following inpatient treatment.

Methods

Longitudinal studies investigating gut microbiome composition in inpatient populations of anorexia nervosa before and after treatment were systematically reviewed. Additionally, gut microbiome compositions were characterized in three acute anorexia nervosa inpatients early after admission and after 4–12 weeks of treatment.

Results

Review results indicated an increase in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio in individuals with anorexia nervosa after treatment. These however did not match values of their healthy counterparts. In the case‐series samples, the reverse occurred with samples taken 4 weeks after treatment. In the patient who provided an extra sample 12 weeks after treatment, similar results to the studies included in the review were observed. Furthermore, Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio values in the case‐series samples were notably higher in the two patients who had chronic anorexia nervosa.

Discussion

Differences in methodologies, small sample sizes, and insufficient data limited the generalizability of the outcomes of the reviewed studies. Results suggest a potentially unique microbiome signature in individuals with chronic anorexia nervosa, which may explain different outcomes in this group of patients.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of depression among university students
Authors: Wang Xuechao , Li Cuiluan
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of depression among university students.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was carried out across randomly selected universities in Shandong Province from October 25, 2023, to November 8, 2023. Demographic information and KAP scores were assessed through the administration of questionnaires. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.816 and the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure of 0.894.

Results

This study included 2448 university students, with 1489 (60.8%) females. The median scores for KAP were 20 (Interquartile Range (IQR): 17–21), 26 (IQR: 23–28), and 35 (IQR: 32–38), respectively. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that being a junior (odds ratio [OR] = 0.720, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.538–0.965, p = .028), senior or above (OR = 0.474, 95% CI: 0.325–0.691, p < .001), having divorced parents (OR = 0.618, 95% CI: 0.409–0.933, p = .022), having direct relatives with depression (OR = 0.710, 95% CI: 0.589–0.856, p < .001), and lacking intimate friends (OR = 0.344, 95% CI: 0.245–0.484, p < .001) were negatively associated with practice. Only having an attitude score of ≥26 (OR = 5.076, 95% CI: 4.230–6.091, p < .001) was significantly and positively associated with practice.

Conclusion

University students had insufficient knowledge, positive attitude, and passive practice toward depression. Clinical interventions should focus on enhancing the understanding and management of depression among university students, particularly through targeted educational programs and support groups, to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice and foster a proactive approach to mental health care.
Neuroprotective effects of salvianolic acids combined with Panax notoginseng saponins in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion rats concerning the neurovascular unit and trophic coupling
Authors: Chen Hongyang , Liu Zhen , Zhao Lei , Jia Zhuangzhuang
Published: September 2024

Background

The neurovascular unit (NVU) and neurovascular trophic coupling (NVTC) play a key regulatory role in brain injury caused by ischemic stroke. Salvianolic acids (SAL) and Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are widely used in China to manage ischemic stroke. Neuroprotective effects of SAL and PNS, either taken alone or in combination, were examined in this research.

Methods

Wistar rats were randomly divided into the following groups: Sham group (Sham), cerebral ischemia/reperfusion group (I/R), I/R with SAL group (SAL), I/R with PNS group (PNS), I/R with SAL combined with PNS (SAL + PNS), and I/R with edaravone group (EDA). Treatment was administered once daily for two days after modeling of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R).

Results

Compared with the I/R group, SAL, PNS, or SAL + PNS treatment reduced infarct size, improved neurological deficit score, reduced Evans blue extravasation, increased expression of CD31 and tight junction proteins (TJs), including zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), zonula occludens‐2 (ZO‐2), and junctional adhesion molecule‐1 (JAM‐1). Furthermore, SAL, PNS, or SAL + PNS suppressed the activations of microglia and astrocyte and led to the amelioration of neuron and pericyte injury. Treatment also inhibited NVU dissociation of GFAP/PDGFRβ and Collagen IV/GFAP while upregulated the expression level of BDNF/TrkB and BDNF/NeuN.

Conclusions

SAL and PNS have significantly remedied structural and functional disorders of NVU and NVTC in I/R injury. These effects were more pronounced when SAL and PNS were combined than when used separately.
Multiomics and single‐cell sequencings reveal the specific biological characteristics of low Ki‐67 triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Han Boyue , Han Xiangchen , Luo Hong , Nasir Javaria , Chen Chao , Shao Zhiming , Ling Hong , Hu Xin
Published: September 2024

Background

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) displays high heterogeneity. The majority of TNBC cases are characterized by high Ki‐67 expression. TNBC with low Ki‐67 expression accounts for only a small fraction of cases and has been relatively less studied.

Methods

This study analyzed a large single‐center multiomics TNBC data set, combined with a single‐cell data set. The clinical, genomic, and metabolic characteristics of patients with low Ki‐67 TNBC were analyzed.

Results

The clinical and pathological characteristics were analyzed in 2217 TNBC patients. Low Ki‐67 TNBC was associated with a higher patient age at diagnosis, a lower proportion of invasive ductal carcinoma, increased alterations in the PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway, upregulated lipid metabolism pathways, and enhanced infiltration of M2 macrophages. High Ki‐67 TNBC exhibited a higher prevalence of TP53 gene mutations, elevated nucleotide metabolism, and increased infiltration of M1 macrophages.

Conclusions

We identified specific genomic and metabolic characteristics unique to low Ki‐67 TNBC, which have implications for the development of precision therapies and patient stratification strategies.
p‐Terphenyl and Orsellinic Acid Derivatives from the European Polyporales Terana coerulea and Sparassis brevipes
Authors: Chemutai Sum Winnie , Ebada Sherif S. , Kellner Harald , Stadler Marc
Published: September 2024

Investigation of the secondary metabolites of the solid‐state rice cultures from the European basidiomycetes Terana coerulea and Sparassis brevipes afforded three previously undescribed secondary metabolites identified as two p‐terphenyl derivatives (1 and 2) and one orsellinic acid congener (3) in addition to another known, isoeverninic acid (4). Chemical structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated through comprehensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analyses, coupled with HR‐MS and other spectral methods. The isolated compounds were assessed for their cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities. Compound 1 revealed weak antimicrobial properties, whereas the inseparable mixture of 3 and 4 featured moderate cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects.
Differences in physicochemical properties and structure of red sorghum starch: Effect of germination treatments
Authors: Wu Xiuli , Wang Chunying , Zhang Jianwen , Wu Xuexu , Yan Xiangxuan
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Germination has been extensively studied, but the changes in different starch components have not yet been entirely elucidated. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of germination on the starch composition, physicochemical properties, and structure of red sorghum seeds.

Findings

Germination of red sorghum starch led to decreased amylose, water absorption, and syneresis, but increased oil absorption, solubility, and swelling power. The freeze–thaw stability of germinated sorghum starch improved. However, the starch paste exhibited thinning under shear, suggesting its gel structure was susceptible to damage. The starch's peak viscosity and breakdown value increased significantly with the increase in germination time, whereas the setback value decreased. Germination treatment did not alter the chemical structure of the starch, but it increased the porosity and the number of dents on the surface of starch granules. Notably, the in vitro digestibility of the starch increased significantly after germination.

Conclusions

The germination treatment of red sorghum affected the structure and physicochemical properties of the isolated starch to some extent.
Sarcoidosis in a young adult: A rare sequelae of COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Subedi Deepak , Parajuli Binod Raj , Bista Neha , Rauniyar Somee , Banstola Anish , Sharma Ashish , Gurung Monika
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case illustrates sarcoidosis as a potential complication of COVID‐19, highlighting the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach, including histopathology and prolonged monitoring, to distinguish it from post‐COVID fibrosis. Further research is crucial to elucidate these associations and understand their underlying mechanisms.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus‐ 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a positive‐sense single‐stranded RNA virus, causes COVID‐19 and has been linked to autoimmune disorders. Sarcoidosis is a multi‐system disease that is frequently triggered by infections. It is characterized by non‐necrotizing granulomas in multiple organs. We present a case of sarcoidosis as rare sequelae of COVID‐19. A 26‐year‐old man presented with mild COVID‐19 symptoms, followed by prolonged fever and cough despite initial therapy, prompting a provisional diagnosis of post‐COVID fibrosis. A subsequent assessment at a tertiary hospital revealed dyspnea, weight loss, and abnormal chest imaging, all of which were consistent with pulmonary sarcoidosis with pulmonary tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis. A biopsy taken during bronchoscopy confirmed pulmonary sarcoidosis and treatment with inhalation steroids resulted in symptom relief, which was followed by remission with oral steroid therapy. Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease of unknown etiology, characterized by non‐necrotizing granulomas in multiple organs. It may be triggered by infections and involves an abnormal immune response. COVID‐19 can potentially initiate sarcoidosis, with both sharing common immune mechanisms. Diagnosis involves imaging and biopsy, and treatment typically includes glucocorticoids and regular monitoring. This case report emphasizes the potential link between COVID‐19 and autoimmune conditions like sarcoidosis, highlighting the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach and long‐term observation to distinguish between sarcoidosis and post‐COVID fibrosis.
A patient with positive anti‐IFN‐γ autoantibody and monoclonal gammaglobulinemia masquerading as multiple myeloma: Case report and literature review
Authors: An Ran , Liu Zhiyin , Luo Fangxiu , Yan Zeying , Wang Ying , Sun Haimin , Tian Jie , Chen Yu , Chen Yubao
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Adult‐onset immunodeficiency (AOID) is an emerging acquired immunodeficiency, characterized by multiple opportunistic infections including non‐tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) due to the presence of anti‐IFN‐γ autoantibody (AIGA). This case highlights the challenges of accurate diagnosis of monoclonal gammaglobulinemia with NTM infection and favorable outcomes of anti‐plasma cell therapy in AOID.

Adult‐onset immunodeficiency (AOID) is an emerging acquired immunodeficiency due to anti‐IFN‐γ autoantibody (AIGA) with low morbidity, frequent disseminated infections, a prolonged course, difficult diagnosis and treatment, and a poor prognosis. Here, we report a patient with positive AIGA and monoclonal gammaglobulinemia who was mimicking symptomatic multiple myeloma and resulting in a non‐tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection. While he achieved an excellent therapeutic effect with anti‐plasma cell therapy, it also serves as a warning that monoclonal gammaglobulinemia with NTM infection is easily misdiagnosed as symptomatic multiple myeloma, and the screening for AIGA should not be ignored in patients with NTM infection.
Erdheim–Chester disease: An elusive diagnosis in a 50‐year‐old Ethiopian man presenting with diffuse sclerotic bone lesion
Authors: Usmael Semir Abdi , Gebrehiywot Addisu Alemu , Bekele Ashenafi Lemma , Yezengaw Solomon Bishaw , Tefera Tekalign Tsegaye , Bote Hunduma Bikila , Shibeshi Kalkidan Abera , Fantaye Anteneh Belachew
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Diagnosis of Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) requires the clinician to be familiar with its various manifestations, classic radiologic and histologic features. This case highlights the significance of considering ECD in any patient presenting with bone pain and symmetric osteosclerosis of long bones of extremities to allow for early diagnosis and treatment.

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non‐Langerhans histiocytic disorder with diverse clinical manifestations, ranging from indolent, localized presentation to life‐threatening, multi‐systemic disease. Delayed or erroneous diagnosis is common. The presence of classic radiographic finding along with foamy histiocytes that is positive for CD68 but negative for CD1a on histologic examination establishes the diagnosis. We report a second case of ECD from Ethiopia. A 50‐year‐old Ethiopian man presented with a 13‐year history of bilateral lower leg bone pain, cold intolerance, somnolence, constipation, impotence, decreased libido, and secondary infertility. The diagnosis was suspected when skeletal X‐ray revealed bilateral symmetric sclerosis of metadiaphysis of femur, tibia, and humerus. The demonstration of foamy histiocytes that were positive for CD68 but negative for CD1a on histologic examination with immunohistochemical staining confirmed the diagnosis. Evaluation for the extent of the disease revealed coated aorta sign, hairy kidney sign, and cystic lesion with ground glass opacity of lung, primary hypothyroidism, and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. ECD is rare histiocytic neoplasm with wide range of clinical features which often delay the diagnosis. Clinician should be mindful of the various presentations and the classic radiographic and histologic features of ECD. This case highlights the significance of entertaining ECD in any patient presenting with lower leg bone pain and symmetric osteosclerosis of long bones of lower extremities to allow for early diagnosis and treatment.
100 μs Luminescence Lifetime Boosts the Excited State Reactivity of a Ruthenium(II)‐Anthracene Complex in Photon Upconversion and Photocatalytic Polymerizations with Red Light
Authors: Hammecke Heinrich , Fritzler Dennis , Vashistha Nikita , Jin Pengyue , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin , Wang Cui
Published: September 2024

The triplet excited state lifetime of a photosensitizer is an essential parameter for diffusion‐controlled energy‐ and electron‐transfer, which occurs usually in a competitive manner to the intrinsic decay of a triplet excited state. Here we show the decisive role of luminescence lifetime in the triplet excited state reactivity toward energy‐ and electron transfer. Anchoring two phenyl anthracene chromophores to a ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complex (RuII ref) leads to a RuII triad with a luminescence lifetime above 100 μs, which is more than 40 times longer than that of the prototypical complex. The obtained RuII triad sensitizes energy transfer to anthracene‐based annihilators more efficiently than RuII ref and enables red‐to‐blue photon upconversion with a pseudo anti‐Stokes shift of 0.94 eV and a moderate upconversion efficiency near 1 % in aerated solution. Particularly, RuII triad allows rapid photoredox catalytic polymerizations of acrylate and acrylamide monomers under aerobic condition with red light, which are kinetically hindered for RuII ref. Our work shows that excited state lifetime of a photosensitizer governs the dynamics of the excited state reactions, which seems an overlooked but important aspect for photochemistry.
Axial Coordination Engineering on Fe−N−C Materials for Oxygen Reduction: Insights from Theory
Authors: Mou Yimin , Gao Shurui , Wang Yu , Li Yafei
Published: September 2024

Axial coordination engineering has emerged as an effective strategy to regulate the catalytic performance of metal−N−C materials for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, the ORR mechanism and activity changes of their active centers modified by axial ligands are still unclear. Here, a comprehensive investigation of the ORR on a series of FeN4−L moieties (L stands for an axial ligand) is performed using advanced density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The axial ligand has a substantial effect on the electronic structure and catalytic activity of the FeN4 center. Specially, FeN4−C6H5 is screened as a promising active moiety with superior ORR activity, as further revealed by constant‐potential calculations and kinetic analysis. The enhanced activity is attributed to the weakened *OH adsorption caused by the altered electronic structure. Moreover, microkinetic modeling shows that at pH=1, FeN4−C6H5 possesses an impressive theoretical half‐wave potential of ~1.01 V, superior to the pristine Fe−N−C catalysts (~0.88 V) calculated at the same level. These findings advance the understanding of the ORR mechanism of FeN4−L and provide guidance for optimizing the ORR performance of single‐metal‐atom catalysts.