bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant rhabdoid tumour of liver: Conundrum on ascitic fluid
Authors: Sharma Rashim , Thirunavukkarasu Balamurugan , Nalwa Aasma , Pathak Manish , Garg Pawan Kumar
Published: February 2023

Ascitic fluid analysis is an important tool for diagnosis and staging. Cytological analysis is routinely done as a part of workup for ascites. This is challenging in paediatric malignancies where multiple differentials need to be considered at times with limited cellularity. We present a case of malignant rhabdoid tumour of liver in a young child presenting with abdominal lump and ascites. The diagnosis was offered on ascitic fluid cytology based on cytomorphology, supporting immunohistochemistry and later confirmed on biopsy. This report briefly discusses its differentials and approach to diagnosis.
Butyrate prevents the migration and invasion, and aerobic glycolysis in gastric cancer via inhibiting Wnt/β‐catenin/c‐Myc signaling
Authors: Liang Yizhi , Rao Zilan , Du Dongwei , Wang Yiwen , Fang Taiyong
Published: February 2023

Gastric cancer (GC) remains a common cause of cancer death worldwide. Evidence has found that butyrate exhibited antitumor effects on GC cells. However, the mechanism by which butyrate regulate GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and aerobic glycolysis remains largely unknown. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells were tested by EdU staining, transwell assays. Additionally, protein expressions were determined by western blot assay. Next, glucose uptake, lactate production, and cellular ATP levels in GC cells were detected. Furthermore, the antitumor effects of butyrate in tumor‐bearing nude mice were evaluated. We found, butyrate significantly prevented GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion (p < .01). Additionally, butyrate markedly inhibited GC cell aerobic glycolysis, as shown by the reduced expressions of GLUT1, HK2, and LDHA (p < .01). Moreover, butyrate notably decreased nuclear β‐catenin and c‐Myc levels in GC cells (p < .01). Remarkably, through activating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling with LiCl, the inhibitory effects of butyrate on the growth and aerobic glycolysis of GC cells were diminished (p < .01). Moreover, butyrate notably suppressed tumor volume and weight in GC cell xenograft nude mice in vivo (p < .01). Meanwhile, butyrate obviously reduced nuclear β‐catenin, c‐Myc, GLUT1, HK2 and LDHA levels in tumor tissues in GC cell xenograft mice (p < .01). Collectively, butyrate could suppress the growth and aerobic glycolysis of GC cells in vitro and in vivo via downregulating wnt/β‐catenin/c‐Myc signaling. These findings are likely to prove useful in better understanding the role of butyrate in GC.
Phosphonylated tyrosine and lysine residues as biomarkers of local exposure of human hair to the organophosphorus nerve agents sarin and VX
Authors: John Harald , Lindl Tamara , Reuter Henrik , Schmeißer Wolfgang , Schrader Michael , Thiermann Horst
Published: February 2023

We herein present for the first time a micro liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization high‐resolution tandem‐mass spectrometry (μLC‐ESI MS/HR MS) procedure to detect phosphonylated tyrosine (Tyr) and lysine (Lys) residues obtained from human hair exposed to organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNA). In general, toxic OPNA react with endogenous blood proteins causing the formation of adducts representing well‐known targets for biomedical analysis to prove exposure. In contrast, no protein‐derived biomarker has been introduced so far to document local exposure of hair. Accordingly, we developed and characterized a μLC‐ESI MS/HR MS method for the analysis of scalp hair exposed to OPNA in vitro. Type I and Type II keratin from hair was dissolved during lysis, precipitated and subjected to pronase‐catalyzed hydrolysis yielding single adducted Lys and in a much higher amount Tyr residues. Exposure to sarin caused the adduction of an isopropyl methylphosphonic acid moiety and exposure to VX yielded adducts of ethyl methylphosphonic acid, well suited as biomarkers of exposure. These were of appropriate stability in the autosampler for 24 h. The biomarker yield obtained from hair of six individuals as well as from hair of six different parts of the body of one individual (armpit, beard, leg, arm, scalp, and pubic) differed reasonably indicating the variable individual protein composition and structure of hair. Exposed hair stored at ambient temperature for 9 weeks with contact to air and daylight showed stability of all adducts and therefore their suitability for verification of exposure.
Experiences of loss of control eating in women after bariatric surgery: A qualitative study
Authors: Yu Yang , Yeh Kuan‐Lin , Kalarchian Melissa A. , Groth Susan
Published: February 2023

Objective

Loss of control (LOC) eating following bariatric surgery remains insufficiently understood, reflected in a lack of clear conceptualization, valid measurements, and effective treatments. This study explored patients' perspectives on LOC eating post‐bariatric surgery, focusing on the relevance of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐5 (DSM‐5) indicators of impaired control, and patients' experiences before (precipitating factors), during (eating patterns, perpetuating factors), and after the episodes (strategies used to stop eating).

Methods

This was a qualitative study using descriptive phenomenology. Participants were adults who have undergone gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy and self‐reported recent LOC eating. Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews and analyzed using a combined inductive and deductive approach.

Results

Participants were all women (N = 15; age: 34.5 ± 9.2 years). Results suggested that (1) except for feeling disgusted, guilty, or depressed after eating, other DSM‐5 indicators did not seem to be highly relevant to this bariatric cohort; (2) LOC eating could occur across contexts, with food access, boredom, and food craving being consistent triggers; (3) the food amount consumed during a LOC episode was not necessarily considered excessive; (4) “mindlessness” and “satisfying hedonic, physiological, and mental needs” were the main perpetuating factors of LOC eating; and (5) self‐talk and distracting attention were the most adopted strategies to stop eating.

Discussion

Study findings have implications concerning the conceptualization, measurement, and intervention of LOC eating among bariatric patients. For example, results suggested the need for more data to determine the appropriate indicators of LOC eating and the inclusion of boredom as an intervention target in bariatric patients.

Public Significance

Loss of control (LOC) eating is characterized by a sense of being unable to stop while eating. LOC eating is prevalent in patients who have undergone weight loss surgery and is associated with worse surgical outcomes. This qualitative study that explored post‐bariatric surgery patients' experiences of LOC eating will inform efforts to better assess and intervene in this disordered eating behavior, thus ultimately optimizing patients' health following weight loss surgery.
The future of suitable habitats of an endangered Neotropical grassland bird: A path to extinction?
Authors: Meireles Ricardo C. , Lopes Leonardo E. , Brito Gustavo R. , Solar Ricardo
Published: February 2023

Global changes increasingly worry researchers and policymakers and may have irreversible impacts on Earth's biodiversity. Similar to other phytophysiognomies, natural grasslands suffer from the effects of land use changes and rising temperatures, threatening animal and plant communities. Birds, being very sensitive to these changes, are widely studied and fundamental to understand the dynamics of ecosystems in relation to climate and land use changes. The Campo Miner Geositta poeciloptera is a grassland bird endemic to the Brazilian Cerrado and threatened with extinction that has been widely studied in recent years. We analyze the decrease in its extent of occurrence (EOO) and the effects of climate and land use change to understand the environmental suitability of the species in current and future scenarios. We used 5 common algorithms to produce ecological niche models. For future predictions, we use two general circulation models for two different greenhouse gas emission scenarios with different climate policies, an optimistic (ssp245) and a pessimistic (ssp585), plus two land use models focusing on increasing farmlands and reducing native grasslands. The current EOO represents ~45% of that presented by the IUCN EOO. The models generated for the present were satisfactory (TSS = 0.77 and ROC = 0.90) and showed high environmental suitability in areas where the species is currently found and low suitability where it is already extinct. All future scenarios have reduced suitable areas for the species, and the models of a greater increase in temperature and increase in farmlands and a greater decrease in grasslands were the worse. Our results reinforce the need to care about biome awareness disparity and the importance of actively preserving grassy‐shrub areas. Apparently, the state of Minas Gerais will be the only stronghold of the species in the coming years; however, the lack of protected areas that guarantee its survival needs attention.
A study on improving shielding performance of shielded cable
Authors: Tsuchida Takashi
Published: February 2023

With the developments in power electronics equipment, the electromagnetic environment has become severe for electronic equipment. In the smart facility field, the stable operation of electronic devices is indispensable, and noise countermeasures must be improved. To suppress intrusive noise from cables, shielded cables are used in many cases. However, electromagnetic induction cannot be suppressed when the shield is grounded at one end, and when grounding both ends of the shield, current flows through the shield creating intrusive noise in the cable. That is, even if a shielded cable is used, a sufficient effect cannot be obtained. Therefore, as a countermeasure, this study prototypes and evaluates cables that combine double shielded cables with magnetic cores. Evaluations conducted using the copper pipe method, triaxial method, and impulse test confirm that the shielded performance improved by 10–30 dB compared with the conventional shielded cable.
STAT6 controls the stability and suppressive function of regulatory T cells
Authors: Arroyo‐Olarte Rubén D. , Rivera‐Rugeles Ana , Nava‐Lira Eduardo , Sánchez‐Barrera Ángel , Ledesma‐Soto Yadira , Saavedra Rafael , Armas‐López Leonel , Terrazas Luis I , Ávila‐Moreno Federico , Leon‐Cabrera Sonia
Published: February 2023

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) promotes tumorigenesis by decreasing the Forkhead box P3+ (Foxp3+) cell frequency allowing for the infiltration of inflammatory cells during the early stages of colitis‐associated cancer (CAC). In this study, we dissected the role of STAT6 in the generation of inducible in vitro regulatory T cells (iTregs) and peripheral in vivo Tregs (pTregs) under inflammatory conditions. In in vitro assays, when STAT6 was lacking, iTregs preserved a stable phenotype and expressed high levels of Foxp3 and CD25 during long expansion periods, even in the presence of IL‐6. This effect was associated with increased in vitro suppressive ability, over‐expression of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1), CTLA‐4, and Foxp3, and decreased IFN‐γ expression. Furthermore, iTregs developed during STAT6 deficiency showed a higher demethylation status for the FOXP3 Treg‐specific demethylated region (TSDR), coupled with lower DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) mRNA expression, suggesting that STAT6 may lead to Foxp3 silencing. Using a mouse model of CAC, the STAT6‐/‐ pTregs expressed a more activated phenotype at the intestine, had higher suppressive capacity, and expressed more significant levels of PD‐1 and latency‐associated peptide of TGF‐β (LAP) associated with their ability to attenuate tumor development. These data suggest that STAT6 signaling impairs the induction, stability, and suppressive capacity of Tregs developed in vitro or in vivo during gut inflammation.
Natural Molybdenite as a High‐Capacity Anode Material for Fast‐Charging Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Li Lingyao , Deng Heng , Cao Jun , Zhang Taoqiu , Shi Xiaojun , Yan Chunjie , Wang Huanwen
Published: February 2023

Lithium‐ion capacitor (LIC) is a promising energy storage device, which combines double advantages of high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and high‐power supercapacitors. However, the reported anode materials for LICs are synthesized based on the high‐purity chemicals under complicated and time‐consuming conditions, which exhibit a prohibitive cost in practical application. Herein, natural molybdenite is employed as the precursor to construct a high‐capacity and low‐cost anode material of LICs. Specifically, molybdenite is exfoliated into thin‐layer MoS2 under the interaction of hydrazine hydrate and sodium hydroxide, and then coupled with reduced graphene oxide to form a MoS2@rGO composite. Resulting from high reactive activity and structural stability, the MoS2@rGO anode shows excellent lithium‐ion storage performance including high specific capacity (936 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1) and rate capability (446 mAh g−1 at 5000 mA g−1). By using MoS2@rGO as an anode and activated carbon as a cathode, the assembled LIC device provides a maximum energy density of 105 Wh kg−1. Even at a high power density of 25 000 W kg−1, the energy density is still up to 65 Wh kg−1. This work provides a reference for the commercial utilization of natural molybdenum resources in the energy storage field.
Coal gangue detection and recognition method based on multiscale fusion lightweight network SMS‐YOLOv3
Authors: Li Deyong , Ren Huaiwei , Wang Guofa , Wang Shuang , Wang Wenshan , Du Ming
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the problems of large memory footprint, low detection speed, and low detection accuracy for small and overlapping targets existing in the current coal gangue target detection algorithm, a real‐time detection method for coal gangue based on a multiscale fusion lightweight network (SMS‐YOLOv3) is proposed. Taking MobileNetv3 as a feature extraction network, in which all SE modules are replaced with SKNet, thus improving the ability of image feature extraction and making more effective use of parameters. A shallow detection scale is added to form a detection structure with the fusion of four scales to improve the detection accuracy of small targets. The spatial pyramid pooling is added after the backbone network to convert different feature maps into fixed feature maps, to improve the detection accuracy of the algorithm. CIoU bounding box regression loss and the K‐means++ clustering anchorbox are used to improve the detection accuracy of targets. Experimental equipment was built, and coal gangue datasets of small size, large size, dim light, mutual concealment, and a large number of coal gangue under multiple conditions were constructed. Experiment results demonstrate the effective and fast detection of the proposed algorithm for small targets and overlapping targets of coal gangue accurately, with mAP reaching 98.97%. The algorithm has an mAP improvement of 0.37% and an fps increase of 119.04% compared with the original YOLOv3, with memory only 1/24 of the original.
X‐Ray and NMR Structural Data of Ethynylbenziodoxolones (EBXs) Reagents and Their Analogues
Authors: Le Du Eliott , Ramirez Nieves P. , Nicolai Stefano , Scopelliti Rosario , Fadaei‐Tirani Farzaneh , Wodrich Matthew D. , Hari Durga Prasad , Waser Jerome
Published: February 2023

First synthesized in 1991, EthynylBenziodoXolones (EBXs) – cyclic hypervalent iodine reagents derived from 2‐iodobenzoic acid – are now among the most versatile electrophilic alkynylation reagents. Due to their cyclic structure, these reagents exhibit enhanced stability compared to previously used alkynyl iodonium salts. Over the last decade, both the iodoheterocycle and the arene ring have been extensively modified to fine‐tune the reactivity of the reagents, resulting in new analogues such as Ethynylbenziodoxoles (EBxs) or N‐heterocyclic reagents. In this article, we have for the first time compiled the structural data available for EBXs and their analogues, focusing especially on X‐Ray and NMR data. For selected compounds, molecular electrostatic potentials (MEP) have also been calculated. When considering the tight relationship between structure and reactivity in hypervalent iodine reagents, the collected data is expected to be highly useful for further developments in the field.
The impact of COVID‐19 on cybersecurity awareness‐raising and mindset in the southern African development community (SADC)
Authors: Bagui Laban , Lusinga Shallen , Pule Nthabiseng , Tuyeni Teofelus , Mtegha Chimwemwe Q. , Calandro Enrico , Chigona Wallace , von Solms Basie
Published: February 2023

At the beginning of 2020, the world came to a stand‐still when governments across the globe decided to enter states of ‘emergency’ or ‘disaster’ over the breakout of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The responses to the pandemic included stringent movement restrictions and hygiene advice preventing face‐to‐face interactions. As a result, many activities, including schooling, working, and shopping were moved online, drastically increasing exposure to cyber threats and risks. It is unclear if and how the rapid increase in internet use corresponded to an improvement in cybersecurity mindset development in countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This paper explores the effect of the increase in digital technology usage due to the COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions on the relationship between cybersecurity awareness‐raising initiatives and the development of higher levels of cybersecurity mindset in Botswana, Lesotho, and Malawi. These three countries have a similar cybersecurity footprint and an average cybersecurity capacity level for the region. The research applies a comparative multiple case study approach relying on a thematic review of the literature and related documents, supported by in‐depth interviews with purposefully selected key informants from the three selected SADC countries. Findings suggest that since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic, awareness‐raising programs have gained some momentum in our selected countries, but the cybersecurity mindset has not improved. That was attributed to low frequency and poor quality of campaigns added to the lack of training, education and lived experience. The paper highlights the need to increase the frequency and improve the quality of programmes, for greater impact on the development of local cybersecurity mindsets.
The choleretic role of tauroursodeoxycholic acid exacerbates alpha‐naphthylisothiocyanate induced cholestatic liver injury through the FXR/BSEP pathway
Authors: Zhao Jing , Song Guochao , Weng Fengyi , Li Yue , Zou Bin , Jin Jingyi , Yan Dongming , Sun Xin , Liu Chenghai , Qiu Fu‐rong
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on the alpha‐naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)‐induced model of cholestasis in mice. Wild‐type and farnesoid X receptor (FXR)‐deficient (Fxr−/−) mice were used to generate cholestasis models by gavage with ANIT. Obeticholic acid (OCA) was used as a positive control. In wild‐type mice, treatment with TUDCA for 7 days resulted in a dramatic increase in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), with aggravation of bile infarcts and hepatocyte necrosis with ANIT‐induction. TUDCA activated FXR to upregulate the expression of bile salt export pump (BSEP), increasing bile acids (BAs)‐dependent bile flow, but aggravating cholestatic liver injury when bile ducts were obstructed resulting from ANIT. In contrast, TUDCA improved the liver pathology and decreased serum ALT and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in ANIT‐induced Fxr−/− mice. Furthermore, TUDCA inhibited the expression of cleaved caspase‐3 and reduced the area of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) staining in the model mice. TUDCA also upregulated anion exchanger 2 (AE2) protein expression, protecting cholangiocytes against excessive toxic BAs. Our results showed that TUDCA aggravated cholestatic liver injury via the FXR/BSEP pathway when bile ducts were obstructed, although TUDCA inhibited apoptotic activity and protected cholangiocytes against excessive toxic BAs.
Contextual antecedents and well‐being indicators associated with children's and adolescents' access to supportive nonparent adults
Authors: Hagler Matthew A. , Poon Cyanea Y. S.
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to examine contextual antecedents and well‐being indicators associated with children's and adolescents' access to supportive nonparent adults (SNPAs). We conducted secondary data analysis of the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health, a large‐scale caregiver‐reported survey. We analyzed separate subsamples of children (ages 6–11,n = 12,849) and adolescents (ages 12–17,n = 17,628). For both children and adolescents, markers of social advantage (e.g., White race, nonimmigrant families, neighborhood/community capital, access to extracurriculars) increased the likelihood of having SNPAs, according to parent or caregiver reports. Familial factors (e.g., parent participation in school and extracurricular activities) were stronger predictors of SNPA presence for children. Access to SNPAs was negatively associated with social difficulties among children and adolescents and positively associated with curiosity and overall health among adolescents. In conclusion, disadvantage across multiple ecological levels impairs children's and adolescents' access to SNPAs. Having an SNPA may be associated with some aspects of youth well‐being, although causality cannot be inferred in cross‐sectional data.
The role of ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Mappa Ilenia , Patrizi Lodovico , Maruotti Giuseppe Maria , Carbone Luigi , D'Antonio Francesco , Rizzo Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of death or severe morbidity for the mother after delivery. As a consequence healthcare staff working in the delivery room should be trained to perform a prompt diagnosis and adequate management of PPH. Uneventful outcome is induced correct identification of the underlying cause of hemorrhage. Ultrasound is a promising technique for the prompt diagnosis of PPH etiology. Indeed, it is easily available, with relatively low cost, not using ionizing radiation, and can be used in different settings including the labor room, the operating theater and at the bedside of an affected women. In order to be effective Obstetricians should have an adequate knowledge of postpartum ultrasonography. In this article, we will review the sonographic findings occurring in PPH, in the differential diagnosis of the underlying cause of hemorrhage, that include retained placenta, morbidly adherent placenta, rupture of the uterus uterine, vascular anomalies of the uterine arteries and uterine inversion. We will also provide an algorithm to manage PPH according to the ultrasonographic findings.
Methyltransferase‐like 3 modulates osteogenic differentiation of adipose‐derived stem cells in osteoporotic rats
Authors: Luo Daowen , Peng Shuanglin , Li Qing , Rao Pengcheng , Tao Gang , Wang Lang , Xiao Jingang
Published: February 2023

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) is a metabolic bone disease involving reduced bone mass. Adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) play an important role in bone regeneration. Emerging evidence suggests that methyltransferase‐like 3 (METTL3) plays a significant role in bone development and metabolism. Therefore, this study investigates changes to METTL3 in the osteogenic differentiation of adipose stem cells in osteoporotic rats (OP‐ASCs) and explores ways to enhance their osteogenic ability.

Methods

An animal model of osteoporosis was established by removing both ovaries in rats. Real‐time PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the expression of METTL3 and bone‐related molecules, including runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osteopontin (Opn). Furthermore, alkaline phosphatase staining was used to confirm the osteogenic potential of stem cells. Mettl3 small interfering RNA and Mettl3 overexpression lentivirus were used to assess the role of METTL3 in osteogenic differentiation of ASCs and OP‐ASCs.

Results

The osteogenic differentiation capacity and Mettl3 expression significantly decreased in OP‐ASCs. Moreover, Mettl3 silencing down‐regulated the osteogenic ability of ASCs, and overexpression of Mettl3 recovered the impaired osteogenic capacity in OP‐ASCs in vitro.

Conclusion

The Mettl3 expression levels and osteogenic potential of OP‐ASCs decreased. However, overexpression of METTL3 rescued the osteogenic ability of OP‐ASCs, providing a new target for treatment of osteoporotic bone defects.
Nucleotide and codon usage biases involved in the evolution of African swine fever virus: A comparative genomics analysis
Authors: Pu Feiyang , Wang Rui , Yang Xuanye , Hu Xinyan , Wang Jinqian , Zhang Lijuan , Zhao Yongqing , Zhang Derong , Liu Zewen , Liu Junlin
Published: February 2023

Since African swine fever virus (ASFV) replication is closely related to its host's machinery, codon usage of viral genome can be subject to selection pressures. A better understanding of codon usage can give new insights into viral evolution. We implemented information entropy and revealed that the nucleotide usage pattern of ASFV is significantly associated with viral isolation factors (region and time), especially the usages of thymine and cytosine. Despite the domination of adenine and thymine in the viral genome, we found that mutation pressure alters the overall codon usage pattern of ASFV, followed by selective forces from natural selection. Moreover, the nucleotide skew index at the gene level indicates that nucleotide usages influencing synonymous codon bias of ASFV are significantly correlated with viral protein hydropathy. Finally, evolutionary plasticity is proved to contribute to the weakness in synonymous codons with A‐ or T‐end serving as optimal codons of ASFV, suggesting that fine‐tuning translation selection plays a role in synonymous codon usages of ASFV for adapting host. Taken together, ASFV is subject to evolutionary dynamics on nucleotide selections and synonymous codon usage, and our detailed analysis offers deeper insights into the genetic characteristics of this newly emerging virus around the world.
Specialty and high‐quality coffee: discrimination through elemental characterization via ICP‐OES, ICP‐MS, and ICP‐MS/MS of origin, species, and variety
Authors: Vezzulli Fosca , Fontanella Maria Chiara , Lambri Milena , Beone Gian Maria
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to establish the elemental profiling and origin combined with the genetic asset of coffee samples collected from major coffee‐producing countries. A total of 76 samples were analysed for 41 elements using inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS), and inductively coupled plasma‐triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS/MS). The mineral composition of the silver skin detachment during the roasting process was also evaluated to verify the loss of minerals during roasting, differences in composition with beans, and between species.

RESULTS

Application of linear discriminant analysis provided models with an accuracy of 93.3% for continents, 97.8% for countries of cultivation, and 100% for species. Discrimination between Arabica, Canephora coffee, and Eugenoides, and different varieties of Arabica species were identified in both models with calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), rubidium (Rb), and strontium (Sr) as significant discriminant elements. Rb, Sr, sulphur (S), and thulium (Tm) were significant discriminant elements in both models for geographical distinction at different scales. Most of the elements had significantly higher values in silver skin than those in roasted coffee at different magnitudes, with exceptions of P and Rb.

CONCLUSION

In summary, determination of mineral elements, processed by multivariate statistical analysis, was demonstrated to be discriminant for different coffee species. Linear discriminant analysis of the elemental analysis of samples from the seven major producing countries provided a reliable prediction model. Elemental analysis of major and minor elements is relatively easy and can be used together with other traceability systems and sensory evaluations to authenticate the origin of roasted coffee, different species, and varieties. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of the polypeptide from peanut meal mixed fermentation on lipid metabolism and intestinal flora of hyperlipidemic mice
Authors: Ding Haoyue , Zhang Huiwen , Lu Yaqian , Jiang Xiaoyang , Liu Qing , Hu Yingfen , Sun Haiyan , Ma Aiguo
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Hyperlipidemia is one of the metabolic disorders posing great threat to human health. Our previous studies have shown that the nutritional properties of peanut meal after fermentation are markedly improved, and can effectively improve hyperlipidemia caused by high‐fat diet in mice. In this study, in order to facilitate the further utilization of peanut meal, the effect of peanut polypeptide (PP) from peanut meal mixed fermentation on lipid metabolism in mice fed with high‐fat diet (HFD) and its possible mechanism were investigated. Fifty male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into five groups: normal control group (N), high‐fat model group (M), PP low‐dose group (PL), PP high‐dose group (PH), and atorvastatin positive control group (Y).

RESULTS

The results show that PP supplementation can effectively reduce the body weight of mice, decrease the serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and leptin levels (P < 0.05), increase the high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels (P < 0.05), up‐regulate the expression levels of ileal tight junction proteins ZO‐1 and occludin (P < 0.05), reduce the hepatocyte injury and lipid accumulation caused by high‐fat diet and increase the species richness of intestinal flora.

CONCLUSION

PP can significantly improve hyperlipidemia and regulate intestinal flora disorders caused by hyperlipidemia. The possible mechanism may be related to the reduction of serum leptin levels and up‐regulating the expression levels of the ileal tight junction proteins ZO‐1 and occludin. This study provides evidence for its regulatory role in lipid metabolism and intestinal function, and provides a research basis for the potential nutritional benefits of underutilized food by‐products. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Do graphical abstracts on a publisher's official website have an effect on articles' usage and citations? A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Zong Qianjin , Huang Zhihong , Deng Zhijun
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to examine whether a graphical abstract (GA) on a publisher's official website affected an article's usage and citations. Articles published in Molecules during 2016 (n = 1389) and 2017 (n = 1804) were selected as the data sets. Propensity score matching analysis was conducted to examine the data sets. The results showed that articles with GAs had significantly greater text abstract usage than those without GAs. There were no significant differences between the two groups (articles with/without GAs) on the usage of the full text as well as citations, both in the data set of 2016 and the data set of 2017. Our study concluded that a GA played a role in attracting attention with ‘the first impressions’ to gain more clicks of text abstract for an article, however, it took no advantage in receiving more usage of full text and citations of the article.
The organic carbon budget of an oligotrophic temperate peatland lake
Authors: Doyle Brian C. , de Eyto Elvira , McCarthy Valerie , Dillane Mary , Jennings Eleanor
Published: February 2023

Lakes play a key role in the global carbon cycle, transporting, processing and storing organic carbon (OC) along the land‐ocean aquatic continuum. There are, however, surprisingly few complete lake OC budgets, particularly for certain lake types and geographical areas. An OC budget for Lough Feeagh (Ireland), an oligotrophic, peatland lake in a temperate oceanic location, was estimated for one year using both direct measurements and elements calculated from literature. It was constructed as a simple mass balance model that constrained the key OC processing rates. The total OC input to the lake during 2017 was estimated to be 2544 t C, of which it was estimated that 51% was imported as dissolved OC (DOC) in surface water, 4% in ground water, 1% in rainwater, and 3% was fixed in the lake as net ecosystem production. The remaining 41% was carried into the lake as particulate OC (POC) in surface water. The total C exported was estimated to be 2892 t C, of which 46% and 11% were exported as DOC and POC in the surface water outflow, respectively, 26% was deposited as sediment and 17% was mineralized and emitted as CO2 to the atmosphere. The results highlight the substantial volume of OC turned over in the lake during the study period. Moreover, it emphasizes how lakes in temperate, humic systems, common on the western edge of Europe, are important to the processing and fate of OC mobilized from their catchments.
Molecular mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as broad therapeutic targets for gene therapy applications utilizing adeno‐associated viral vectors
Authors: Merjane Jessica , Chung Roger , Patani Rickie , Lisowski Leszek
Published: February 2023

Despite the devastating clinical outcome of the neurodegenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), its etiology remains mysterious. Approximately 90% of ALS is characterized as sporadic, signifying that the patient has no family history of the disease. The development of an impactful disease modifying therapy across the ALS spectrum has remained out of grasp, largely due to the poorly understood mechanisms of disease onset and progression. Currently, ALS is invariably fatal and rapidly progressive. It is hypothesized that multiple factors can lead to the development of ALS, however, treatments are often focused on targeting specific familial forms of the disease (10% of total cases). There is a strong need to develop disease modifying treatments for ALS that can be effective across the full ALS spectrum of familial and sporadic cases. Although the onset of disease varies significantly between patients, there are general disease mechanisms and progressions that can be seen broadly across ALS patients. Therefore, this review explores the targeting of these widespread disease mechanisms as possible areas for therapeutic intervention to treat ALS broadly. In particular, this review will focus on targeting mechanisms of defective protein homeostasis and RNA processing, which are both increasingly recognized as design principles of ALS pathogenesis. Additionally, this review will explore the benefits of gene therapy as an approach to treating ALS, specifically focusing on the use of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) as a vector for gene delivery to the CNS and recent advances in the field.
Structure and properties of compositions of linear low‐density polyethylene with starch
Authors: Kudyshkin V. O. , Bozorov N. I. , Ashurov N. Sh. , Ashurov N. R. , Rashidova S. Sh.
Published: February 2023

Grafted copolymers of low‐molecular‐weight polyethylene with acrylic acid were used as compatibilizers in polymer compositions based on linear low‐density polyethylene and starch. Using atomic force microscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, and physical and mechanical tests, it was determined that the presence of a graft copolymer in the composition improves the distribution of starch particles in the polyethylene matrix, affecting the supramolecular structure and the physical and mechanical properties of the composition.
Aramid fiber coated with aramid nanofiber coating to improve its interfacial properties with polycarbonate
Authors: Song Jiyin , Chen Chaofeng , Du Xue , Sun Xiaoling , Zhang Peng , Ma Yufang , Kong Haijuan , Yu Muhuo
Published: February 2023

This study addresses the effect of the coatings prepared from aramid nanofibers (ANFs) on the surface treatment of aramid fiber and reinforced polycarbonate (PC) composite (AF/PC). Aramid fiber's smooth, inert surface bonds poorly with polycarbonate. In this research, the PC‐ANF coating was made by the PC/CH2Cl2solution, which was modified by aramid nanofibers to improve the interfacial adhesion and compatibility of aramid fiber/PC composites. What's more, the silane (KH570) was added to improve the dispersion and interfacial strength of ANF and PC. The results showed the water contact angle of the aramid fiber modified by PSi‐ANF coating was reduced, indicating the modified fiber has a better wettability. The interfacial bonding strength between PC and aramid fiber increased by 77.2%. The AF/PC composites were prepared by hot‐compression, which the aramid fiber wovens treated with P‐ANF coating, PSi‐ANF coating. The tensile strength, flexural strength, interlaminar shear strength, and impact strength of the AF/PC composite reinforced by AF treated with PSi‐ANF containing 2.0 wt% ANF increased by 62.0%, 81.9%, 49.5%, and 27.6%, respectively. Therefore, this study demonstrates that incorporating ANF interphase may offer an innovative and practical way for enhancing the interface bonding properties of aramid‐reinforced composites.
Natural hybridization between wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and its wild relatives Aegilops geniculata Roth and Aegilops triuncialis L.
Authors: Loureiro Iñigo , Escorial María Concepción , Chueca María Cristina
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Cultivated bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) spontaneously hybridizes with wild/weedy related Aegilops populations, but little is known about the actual rates at which this hybridization occurs under field conditions. It is very important to provide reliable empirical data on this phenomenon in order to assess the potential crop–wild introgression, especially in the context of conducting risk assessments for the commercialization of genetically modified (GM) wheat, as gene flow from wheat to Aegilops species could transfer into the wild species genes coding for traits such as resistance to herbicides, insects, diseases or environmental stresses.

RESULTS

The spontaneous hybridization rates between wheat and A. geniculata and A. triuncialis, which are very abundant in the Mediterranean area, have been estimated for the first time in the northern part of the Meseta Central, the great central plateau which includes the largest area of wheat cultivation in Spain. Hybridization rates averaged 0.12% and 0.008% for A. geniculata and A. triuncialis, respectively. Hybrids were found in 26% of A. geniculata and 5% of A. triuncialis populations, at rates that can be ≤3.6% for A. geniculata and 0.24% for A. triuncialis.

CONCLUSION

The detection of Aegilops spp.–wheat hybrids in Aegilops populations indicates that gene flow can occur, although wheat is considered a crop with a low‐to‐medium risk for transgene escape. These data on field hybridization rates are essential for GM wheat risk assessment purposes. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Unlocking the electronic, optical and transport properties of semiconductor coupled quantum dots using first principles methods
Authors: Chakraborty Arup , Das Bidisa , Dasgupta I.
Published: February 2023

Semiconductor coupled quantum dots provide a unique opportunity for tuning band gaps by tailoring band offsets, making them ideal for photovoltaic and other applications. Here, we have studied stability, trends in the band gap, band offsets, and optical properties for a series of coupled quantum dots comprised of II–VI semiconductors using a hybrid functional method. We have shown how the quantum confinement and interfacial strain considerably affect the band gap and band offsets for these heterostructures at the nanoscale. We show that the trend in band offsets obtained from our first‐principles electronic structure calculations agrees with that obtained from the method of average electrostatic potential. It is found that a common anion rule for band offset is followed for these heterostructures at the nanoscale. Further, the calculated optical absorption spectra for these coupled quantum dots reveal that absorption peaks lie in the ultra‐violet (UV) region, whereas absorption edges are in the visible region. In addition to electronic and optical properties, we have also explored transport properties for two representative coupled quantum dots, either having common cations or common anions, which revealed asymmetric nature in current–voltage characteristics. Therefore, these semiconductor coupled quantum dots may be useful for photovoltaic, light‐emitting diode, and optoelectronic devices.
Initial experience with modified en bloc robot‐assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomy for thoracic oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sun Hai‐Bo , Liu Xian‐Ben , Xing Wen‐Qun , Chen Pei‐Nan , Liu Shi‐Lei , Li Peng , Ma Ya‐Xing , Feng Shao‐Kang , Jiang Duo , Yan Sen
Published: February 2023

Background

The feasibility and safety of en bloc robot‐assisted minimally invasive oesophagectomy (RAMIE) need to be verified.

Methods

Forty‐seven patients who received conventional RAMIE and 31 who received modified en bloc RAMIE at Henan Cancer Hospital were included in the study cohort. We compared the perioperative outcomes of conventional RAMIE and modified en bloc RAMIE.

Results

Compared with the conventional RAMIE group, the en bloc RAMIE group yielded a higher total number of lymph nodes (p = 0.001), especially thoracic lymph nodes (p = 0.025) and left recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) lymph nodes (p = 0.005). No notable differences were found in the rate of total complications (p = 0.663) or RLN injury (p = 0.891) between the two groups. The preoperative and postoperative serological indicators were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions

Modified en bloc RAMIE was safe and feasible for patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and improved lymph node dissection, especially thoracic and left RLN lymph node dissection.
Three‐dimensional Honeycomb MoP@C Nanocomposite with Advanced Sodium/Potassium Ion Storage Performance
Authors: Wang Rui , Xu Bangqiang , Zheng Cheng , Deng Yue , Fan Kai , Wang Nana , Hu Kunkun , Zhang Qiang , Zou Guifu , Zhai Yanjun , Bai Zhongchao , Xu Xun
Published: February 2023

MoP@C nanocomposite, combined three‐dimensional (3D) honeycomb carbon matrix with molybdenum phosphide, was synthesized through a simple hard template method followed by high‐temperature phosphating treatment. The MoP@C has shown excellent sodium and potassium‐ion storage properties applied as anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). The MoP@C composite maintains a high reversible specific capacity of 250 mAh g−1 in SIBs after 100 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. Furthermore, even at a high current density of 5 A g−1, it still delivers a specific capacity of 200.5 mAh g−1. Additionally, the nanocomposite holds 147.2 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 1 A g−1 in PIBs. The excellent electrochemical performance benefits from the synergistic effect of the hierarchical MoP@C nanostructure. The exquisite porous nano‐frame with higher conductivity and larger specific surface area, the active substance is fully infiltrated in the electrolyte, and successfully shortens the diffusion distance of electrons and ions. Moreover, the cavity in the heterostructure effectively inhibits the instinctive aggregation of MoP and simultaneously alleviates the volume expansion during the intercalation and deintercalation of ions in the charge and discharge process, enabling the excellent rate performance and long cycle life of the MoP@C electrode. The designed MoP@C composite shows excellent electrochemical cycle performance and rate performance as anode materials for sodium/potassium‐ion batteries. The MoP@C composite maintained a high reversible specific capacity of 250 mAh g−1 in sodium‐ion batteries after 100 cycles at the current density of 0.5 A g−1. Furthermore, even at a high current density of 5 A g−1, it still delivered a specific capacity of 200.5 mAh g−1. Moreover, MoP@C composite materials also show excellent performance as anode material of potassium‐ion batteries, with a specific capacity of 147.2 mAh g−1 at the high current density of 1 A g−1. In summary, the excellent electrochemical performance of MoP@C composite materials fully proves that they can greatly improve the stability of the structure and reversibility as electrode materials, and lays a foundation for the further application of electrochemical energy storage devices in large‐scale applications.
Single Atom Catalysis for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction using Transition‐metal Atoms Doped g‐C3N3: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Zhang Wenya , Huang Zhijing , Gao Zhaoju , Perez‐Aguilar Jose Manuel , Gu Zonglin , Tu Yusong
Published: February 2023

Single transition‐metal atom coordinated graphite carbon nitride, including the metal atom doped g‐C3N4 system, displays catalytic activity comparable to that of the noble metal Pt catalyst with outstanding performance. Herein, we investigate the single atom catalytic performance of g‐C3N3 embedded by a single transition metal atom (M−C3N3; M=Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Rh, Pd, Ag, and Pt) for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results indicate that all the M−C3N3 catalysts are thermally and dynamically stable systems. By comparing the Gibbs free energies, we found that the Rh−C3N3 catalyst exhibits the best HER electrocatalytic performance among the investigated systems. Subsequently, analysis of electronic structure indicates that the Rh−C3N3 system displays a metallic behavior, which is a beneficial feature for an adequate HER electrocatalyst. Finally, the charge density difference of the Rh−C3N3 structure further supports the rationality of our results. This study provides a new candidate of low‐cost, high‐performance, and highly active non‐noble metal electrocatalysts.
The CO2 Reduction Reaction Mechanism on Silicene Nanoflakes. A Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Vallejo Narváez Wilmer E. , de la Garza Cesar Gabriel Vera , Rodríguez Luis Daniel Solís , Fomine Serguei
Published: February 2023

From density functional theory calculations, we elucidated the reaction mechanism of CO2 reduction on silicene nanoflakes. According to the results, silicene monoflakes present a notable catalytic activity for the hydrogenation of CO2. The most probable energetically favorable reaction pathway is formic acid and formaldehyde production, with energy barriers ranging between 16 and 24.1 kcal/mol. At the same time, transforming carbon dioxide to methanol, carbon monoxide, and methane requires higher activation energies. This theoretical perspective provides significant insights into silicene‐based materials and their potential applications as CO2 conversion to fuel and value‐added chemicals.