bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digestive glycosidases from cannonball jellyfish (Stomolophus sp. 2): identification and temporal-spatial variability
Authors: Martinez-Perez Raul Balam , Rodriguez Jorge A. , Cisneros-Mata Miguel A. , Leyva Soto Luis Alonso , Gortáres-Moroyoqui Pablo , Renteria-Mexia Ana , Hernandez Corral Edna Abigail , Diaz-Tenorio Lourdes M.
Published: December 2023

Jellyfish are economically important organisms in diverse countries, carnivorous organisms that consume various prey (crustaceans, mollusks, bivalves, etc.) and dissolved carbohydrates in marine waters. This study was focused on detecting and quantifying the activity of digestive glycosidases from the cannonball jellyfish (Stomolophus sp. 2) to understand carbohydrate digestion and its temporal-spatial variation. Twenty-three jellyfish gastric pouches were collected in 2015 and 2016 in the Gulf of California in three localities (Las Guásimas, Hermosillo, and Caborca). Nine samples were in intra-localities from Las Guásimas. Chitinase (Ch), β-glucosidase (β-glu), and β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (β-NAHA) were detected in the gastric pouches. However, cellulase, exoglucanase, α-amylase, polygalacturonase, xylanase, and κ-carrageenase were undetected. Detected enzymes showed halotolerant glycolytic activity (i = 0–4 M NaCl), optimal pH, and temperature at 5.0 and 30–50 °C, respectively. At least five β-glucosidase and two β-N-acetylhexosaminidase were detected using zymograms; however, the number of proteins with chitinase activity is not precise. The annual variation of cannonball jellyfish digestive glycosidases from Las Guásimas between 2015–2016 does not show significant differences despite the difference in phytoplankton measured as chlorophyll α (1.9 and 3.4 mg/m3, respectively). In the inter-localities, the glycosidase activity was statistically different in all localities, except for β-N-acetylhexosaminidase activity between Caborca and Hermosillo (3,009.08 ± 87.95 and 3,101.81 ± 281.11 mU/g of the gastric pouch, respectively), with chlorophyll α concentrations of 2.6, 3.4 mg/m3, respectively. For intra-localities, the glycosidase activity did not show significant differences, with a mean chlorophyll α of 1.3 ± 0.1 mg/m3. These results suggest that digestive glycosidases from Stomolophus sp. 2 can hydrolyze several carbohydrates that may belong to their prey or carbohydrates dissolved in marine waters, with salinity over ≥ 0.6 M NaCl and diverse temperature (4–80 °C) conditions. Also, chlorophyll α is related to glycosidase activity in both seasons and inter-localities, except for chitinase activity in an intra-locality (Las Guásimas).
Physiological Aspects of Flowering, Fruit Setting, Fruit Development and Fruit Drop, Regulation and their Manipulation: A Review
Authors: Rimpika  , Jain Shubham , Rathod Manjunath , Banjare Rajni , Nidhi Nivedita , Sood Ankita , Shilpa  , Sharma Rohit
Published: December 2023

The physiology of flowering and fruit setting involves the changes in the characters of cells proliferating in the meristematic tissues of the shoot owing to the specific gene action and change in the phyto-hormones level. Flower formation is a transition phase in the life cycle of a plant. The alteration of vegetative apex into reproductive structure results in flowering initiation. The reduction of shoot meristem starts development of sepals, petals, stamens, carpals instead of leaves. The plant must attain specific state of ‘ripeness to response’ before it flowers. Once the stage is reached, then it can induce to flower. The flowering is closely linked to the diverse environmental conditions in which each species has evolved. The effects of the large number of factors that influence the proportion of buds giving rise to flowers have generally been interpreted in terms of an inbuilt propensity to flowering and interference with attainment of this.
Principal Component Analysis for Quality Traits in Indigenous Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) Germplasm Lines
Authors: Karunakar J. , Preethi T. L. , Boopathi N. Manikanta , Pugalendhi L. , Hepziba S. Juliet , Prasad Y. M. Mahadev
Published: December 2023

The present investigation was carried out at Department of Vegetable Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute (HC&RI), Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Periyakulam during 2016 -2017 with twenty genotypes in order to study the genetic diversity for different Quality characters of Moringa by principal component analysis. In this study, out of five principal components (PC), only three components exhibited eigenvalues greater than 0.5 and accounted for 84.12% variability. The PC1 accounted for the highest variability (52.53% of) the total variability, followed by PC2 (17.66%) then PC3 with 13.93%. Thus the results of the principal component analysis revealed, wide genetic variability exists in this Moringa genotype accessions.
Effect of Different Organic and Inorganic Fertility Sources on Protein Content in Pearl Millet Crop Grown in Sandy Soils
Authors: Doutaniya R. K. , Yadav S. S. , Shivran A. C. , Kumawat Priyanka , Jajoriya D. K. , Yadav L. R. , Bairwa L. N. , Dotaniya M. L. , Dadhich S. K. , Dutt Mahesh , Dotaniya C. K.
Published: December 2023

A field experiment carried out at the S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner, Agronomy farm.  The six treatments include four levels of liquid organic manures (control, panchgavya, vermiwash, and cow urine), which are given to the main and sub plots, respectively, and are replicated three times in the Split Plot Design. The integrated nitrogen management treatments include control, 100% RDN, 75% RDN + 25% N through FYM, 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM, 25% RDN + 75% N through FYM, and 100% N through FYM. As a test crop, the pearl millet variety "RHB 223" was used. The findings showed that integrated nitrogen management improved the performance of the pearl millet crop before having a residual effect on the mustard variety Giriraj (DRMR IJ-31). In addition to improved soil health in terms of physical and chemical properties, coordinated nitrogen management significantly raised soil organic carbon and improved crop routine. The application of 25% RDN + 75% N through FYM to pearl millet and 50% RDN + 50% N through FYM to mustard crop, among other treatments, had a residual effect that improved crop performance and quality content while also enhancing the physico-chemical properties of the soil. These methods demonstrate a viable approach to enhancing soil nutrient availability on a sustainable basis.
Endothelial inflammation and thrombotic risk: From the leg to the pelvis and back
Authors:   University of Ferrara, Department of Translational Medicine, Ferrara, Italy, Gianesini Sergio , Doganci Suat ,   University of Health Sciences Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye
Published: December 2023

Pathological shear and stretch stress acting on the endothelium lining following venous reflux has been associated with an increased risk not only of thrombosis, but also of pan-endothelial inflammation. Indeed, varicose veins patients demonstrate an increased risk not only of deep venous thrombosis, but also of pulmonary embolism and peripheral arterial disease. Ex-vivo studies, including the ones on vascular endothelial cells, highlight the correlation between the physical forces and the biochemical related messaging triggering these clinical scenarios. Herein we report insights on the biosignaling following this mechano-transduction involving surface and cytoskeleton structures such as the glycocalyx, involved in endothelial permeability, protection, as well as in vessel tone and coagulation balance in a parallelism between lower limb and pelvic venous district venous thrombo-inflammation.
The Performance of Bamboo Truss with Gapit Form Under Vertical Loads
Authors: Kartika Amelia Shafa , Prihatmaji Yulianto Purwono
Published: December 2023

The connection in bamboo construction is frequently the weakest point. This research discusses the performance of the gapit form on bamboo truss that effectively optimises the bamboo's inherent strength and can sustain vertical loads. Gapit is a connection form where a member is located between two members which also serves as a construction reinforcement. This truss optimizes the strength of whole bamboo with a total span of 4 meters and height of 2 meters. The gapit form applied at the top chord member, bracing member, and "V" support and column connections which are strengthen with bolts on the bamboo node. This research uses a quantitative method where data collection is taken through an experiment. To test the strength of the truss, a vertical hydraulic compression test was conducted. It was found that the truss can withstand a maximum load of up to 8.72 kN, with a truss decline of 7.27 cm, and a shift of 2 cm. As a result, the use of the gapit form on the truss is considered effective in withstanding large vertical loads.
Wood Dust
Authors: Nylander‐French Leena A.
Published: December 2023

Occupational exposure to wood dust is associated with an increased risk of respiratory diseases including acute or chronic impairment of lung function, cancers of the nasal cavity, lung, digestive system, and hematopoietic system, asthma, and allergic and nonallergic dermatitis. Most recent studies on occupational wood dust exposures have been focused on respiratory symptoms, lung function, and sinonasal cancer. The specific causative agents, and so on, wood dust alone (natural products), wood dust with additives used in the processing or manufacturing of wood products, and/or physical and chemical properties of wood dust, associated with adverse effects are still poorly understood. This chapter discusses the peer‐reviewed scientific literature published on occupational exposure to wood dust and the associated risks of developing adverse health effects. In future studies, attention is called for robust exposure assessment that includes control of confounding variables, duration of exposure, and sufficient follow‐up time for onset of effects. This information is needed to understand the causation of health effects caused by wood dust exposure and the demographic differences in disease rates as well as to develop strategies for interventions to reduce risks to wood industry workers.
Uranium and Thorium
Authors: Gaitens Joanna M. , McDiarmid Melissa A. , Squibb Katherine S. , Condon Marian , Hoffman Jessica F. , Kalinich John F.
Published: December 2023

Uranium is a radioactive metal, the 92nd element in the periodic table, and a member of the actinide series. With the advent of the nuclear age, uranium now occupies a key position in nuclear weapons and energy. Uranium in its depleted form has also been used for military armament and weaponry. Small amounts of uranium are also used in chemicals, ceramics, glass, and photography. Due to uranium's natural radioactivity, both radiological and chemical methods are available for quantitative measurements of uranium in environmental samples and human tissues. Kidney damage has been seen in humans and animals after inhaling or ingesting uranium compounds. Studies in animals have shown that inhalation exposure to insoluble uranium compounds can result in lung damage . Thorium is the 90th element in the periodic table and also a member of the actinide series. Thorium is used as a source of atomic fuel, in the production of incandescent mantles, as an alloying element with magnesium, tungsten, and nickel, and in the past was used as a diagnostic agent for systemic radiological studies. Thorium is primarily a radioactive hazard in humans; but, like uranium, also has chemical toxicity. Breathing high levels of thorium dust results in an increased risk of lung disease. Liver diseases and effects on the blood were found in people injected with thorotrast, a thorium compound injected into the body as a radiographic contrast medium between the years 1928 and 1955.
Inorganic Compounds of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Oxygen
Authors: Leikauf George D. , Bein Kiflai , Prows Daniel R.
Published: December 2023

This chapter reviews the toxicology of some of the most commonly encountered chemicals in environmental and occupational settings. Although these chemicals are often generated by industrial processes such as combustion, several are generated by natural processes including endogenous production within the body. These substances are basic to the biological process and therefore life itself. Nonetheless, excessive exposures can be life‐threatening and must be controlled. This chapter is modeled after the excellent, previous chapter in this series written by Michael J. Lipsett, Dennis J. Shusterman, and Rodney R. Beard.
Alicyclic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Jia Sophie , Kraft Katherine
Published: December 2023

Alicyclic hydrocarbons are ring structures comprised of three or more carbon molecules. Saturated molecules, those containing only single bonds, include cycloalkanes, also called cycloparaffins, cyclanes, and naphthenes. Unsaturated molecules, those containing one or more double bonds, include cycloalkenes, also called cycloolefins and cyclenes. Derivatives formed by alkyl or alkenyl substitution are widely known. Some compounds are isolated from crude petroleum refinery distillates or catalytically cracked petroleum products and used to produce reformed aromatics, as solvents or as synthesis intermediates. Naturally occurring derivatives found in plants are commonly called terpenes. Cyclopropane and cyclobutane are gases with anesthetic properties. Cyclopentane and higher members are liquids with low acute and chronic toxicity overall but may induce effects characteristic of lipophilic compounds, such as dose‐dependent central nervous system (CNS) depression, dizziness, and headache. Effects resolve readily when exposure stops. Following ingestion or inhalation, cycloalkanes are exhaled in unchanged form or rapidly metabolized into water‐soluble metabolites, usually glucuronides. Oral administration of high doses to animals resulted in severe diarrhea, vascular collapse, and heart, lung, liver, and brain degeneration. Some compounds cause ocular and/or dermal irritation, and skin defatting (dry skin). Some larger compounds are skin sensitizers, an effect increased with the number of double bonds present. Liquid members with low viscosity are aspiration hazards. Multiple compounds are associated with α2‐u‐globulin‐induced nephrotoxicity in various strains of male rats, effects not considered biologically relevant in other species including human.
Aromatic Amino and Nitro–Amino Compounds and Their Halogenated Derivatives
Authors: Darby Paul S.
Published: December 2023

The fundamental aromatic hydrocarbon benzene, when substituted by one or more functional groups of the amine, nitro, or halogen classes, alone or in various combinations, provides an enormous number of compounds of immense practical value, ubiquitous presence in the industrial world, and often heightened toxicity relative to benzene itself, a notorious cause of blood cancer. This chapter begins by providing a general overview of aromatic compounds possessing amino and/or nitro substituents, with or without halogen substituents. The production and uses, exposure and biomonitoring, toxicity, and toxic mechanism of action are introduced. The remainder of the chapter focuses on specific compounds in a roughly systematic order based upon chemical structure, expanding on the same subheadings as covered in the general overview. The nomenclature of these compounds can be very confusing since many have traditional names that sometimes markedly differ from their systematized formal names. In this chapter, the same traditional names are used as were used in the previous edition of this publication, but if there is ambiguity of nomenclature, the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) numbers provided herein correspond to unique structures, each of which may have several names depending upon the naming convention. In general, when an aromatic compound has an amino or a nitro substituent, it is referred to as an “aniline” or a “nitrobenzene,” respectively, based upon the names of the parent compounds, even though other substituents may be present. When amino and nitro groups are present on the same benzene ring, “aniline” takes precedence, and both “aniline” and “nitrobenzene” take precedence over halogens. There are many exceptions to these general rules, however.
Selected Aliphatic and Aromatic Nitrogen Compounds
Authors: Ziegler‐Skylakakis Kyriakoula
Published: December 2023

This is an update of a previous chapter. It presents an evaluation of the toxicological potential of a number of aliphatic and aromatic nitrogen compounds, with information on their use, production, and exposure scenarios. These compounds were originally selected on the basis of their use in industry. In general, there has been little new information published in the literature that has significantly altered the previous profile of each compound.

The three‐membered ring compounds discussed are ethyleneimine, propylenenimine, and triethylenemelamine. They are alkylating agents and have toxicological properties similar to nitrogen mustards. Six nitrogen mustards and their hydrochlorides are discussed as a group of chemicals. Furthermore, data on representatives of five‐membered ring nitrogen compounds (pyrrolidine,N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) and of six‐membered ring compounds (piperidine, piperazine, morpholine, and hexamethylenetetramine) are included. Captan, captafol, and folpet—threeN‐sulfenyl phthalimide fungicides—and benomyl, carbendazim, and thiophanate‐methyl—benzimidazole fungicides—are evaluated as separate groups. Data on 1‐H‐benzotriazol are also included in this chapter. The subchapter of each compound or group of compounds includes the physical and chemical properties, information as to use and production, data on the toxicological potential, and standards, regulations, or guidelines of exposure. In addition, data on the environmental impact of each compound or group of compounds are presented and evaluated.
Alkylpyridines and Miscellaneous Organic Nitrogen Compounds
Authors: Peterson Michael K.
Published: December 2023

This chapter provides a broad overview of topics related to the occupational use and exposure to a variety of miscellaneous nitrogen‐containing compounds. Topics addressed include chemical/physical properties, uses, exposure assessment, and toxic effects, as well as standards, regulations, and guidelines for exposure. Some of the chemicals and classes represented in this chapter include pyridine, alkylpyridines, vinylpyridines, aminopyridines, aminopicolines, pyridinethione compounds (pyrithiones), nicotine, the substituted uracils, quaternary herbicides,s‐triazine herbicides, propazine, cyanazine, ametryn, prometryn, simazine, hexazinone, azides, and hydrazine and its derivatives.
Cyanides and Nitriles
Authors: Bourgeois Marie , Guth Kevin , Sutherland Desirae , Harbison Raymond
Published: December 2023

For purposes of the toxicologist, cyanides and nitriles can be classified into groups based on their common properties. Group 1, inorganic cyanides, includes hydrogen cyanide, cyanogen, and simple salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and ammonium cyanide of hydrogen cyanide that dissociate readily to release CN
−1
ions. Group 2 includes halogenated compounds such as cyanogen chloride or bromide. Group 3 comprises simple and complex salts such as cobalt cyanide trihydrate, cupric and cuprous cyanide, silver cyanide, and ferricyanide and ferrocyanide salts of hydrogen cyanide that do not dissociate readily to release CN
−1
ions. Group 4, organic cyanides, includes cyanide glycosides produced by plants such as amygdalin and linamarin. Group 5, nitriles, have a general structure R‐CNO, and include compounds such as acetonitrile (methyl cyanide), acrylonitrile, and isobutyronitrile. This chapter will cover common cyanide compounds and nitriles.
Unsaturated Halogenated Hydrocarbons
Authors: Belpoggi Fiorella , Tibaldi Eva , Gnudi Federica , Mandrioli Daniele
Published: December 2023

This chapter contains details on 12 unsaturated halogenated hydrocarbons. The considered chemicals are 1,3‐dichloropropene (DCP),cis‐ andtrans‐1,2‐dichloroethylene (DCE), dichloroacetylene (DCA), allyl chloride (AC), hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD), β‐chloropropene, vinylidene chloride (VDC), vinyl chloride (VC), vinyl bromide (VB), vinyl fluoride (VF), trichloroethene (TCE), and tetrachloroethene (PCE). These compounds are used as fumigants, pesticides, solvents, and chemical intermediates. This chapter follows the outline determined for compounds and includes physical and chemical properties, production and use, exposure assessment in air and workplace, toxic effects (experimental and epidemiological studies), community methods for monitoring, regulations, and guidelines.
Aldehydes and Acetals
Authors: Bernal Autumn J. , Loccisano Anne , Neilson Louise , Kerger Brent D.
Published: December 2023

Aldehydes and acetals are both naturally occurring and the result of manufacturing processes, resulting in potential human exposures in occupational settings and from the ambient air and the use of consumer products. Aldehydes and acetals have been identified as genotoxicants, carcinogens, reproductive and developmental toxicants, and irritants. However, many also demonstrate limited toxicological effects at anticipated exposure levels in the general population. Here, 64 aldehydes and acetals are cataloged by sub‐class, chemical and physical properties, toxicological effects, and regulatory standards for occupational and general population cohorts. This summary of selected aldehydes and acetals represents the range of potential toxicological effects, which may cause difficulty in utilizing read‐across to predict the toxicity of aldehydes and acetals without toxicological data.
Esters of Tricarboxylic Acids
Authors: Greim Heidrun
Published: December 2023

Representatives of this substance class are, for example, citrates or trimellitates. They are used as plasticizers, solvents, adhesives, coatings, inks or cosmetics, and personal care products. In general, these substances are of low acute toxicity after single as well as after repeated exposure. The available data show no genotoxic or carcinogenic effects. Reproductive or developmental toxicity did not occur as well. The substances show only slightly, if any, irritating properties and no skin sensitization potential.
Ethers of Ethylene Glycol and Derivatives
Authors: Kelsey Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2023

E series Glycol ethers are alkyl ethers of ethylene glycol along with their acetate esters. They are commonly used in paints and cleaners and typically have a higher boiling point in conjunction with the favorable solvent properties of lower‐molecular weight ethers, esters, and alcohols. They are colorless liquids that have mild earthy or fruity odors. The ethers are miscible with water and/or with numerous organic solvents making them useful as solvents in oil‐water compositions. Their relatively slow rate of evaporation also makes them useful as solvents and coalescing agents in paints and inks. The surface tension and solvent properties of the ethers make them useful in cleaners. Other uses of the ethers include process solvents and deicers. The ethers of the higher glycols are used as hydraulic fluids. Occupational exposure to glycol ethers occurs dermally and by inhalation. Most glycol ethers have low acute, single‐dose toxicity to humans. The most notable and well‐known effect relevant to humans is toxicity to male fertility and developmental toxicity produced by those glycol ethers that can metabolize to produce significant amounts of methoxyacetic acid such as methoxy ethanol and the methyl glymes.
Polyvinyl Acetate, Alcohol and Derivatives, Polystyrene, and Acrylics
Authors: Kim Sang‐Tae
Published: December 2023

The focus of this chapter is polymers with a carbon–carbon backbone chain. The polymers discussed consist primarily of vinyl monomers, CH
2
CH

x

. The chapter also considers the family of styrene polymers, including polystyrene, copolymers or styrene with other vinyl monomers, polymer derivatives of styrene, and mixtures of polystyrene and styrene‐containing copolymers with elastomers. Many styrene derivatives have been synthesized but only a few are found to be of commercial importance.
Cadmium Compounds
Authors: Saghir Shakil A. , Ewert Donald H. , Shekh Kamran , Alfuraih Saleh , Javed Saleem , Ansari Rais A.
Published: December 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is a soft, malleable, silvery bluish‐gray, relatively rare metal, occurs mainly with Zn, Pb, and Cu. Cadmium is used in nickel–cadmium batteries; pigments, protective plating on steel, ceramics, and glass; stabilizers for PVC; and as a component in various alloys. Production of Cd was ∼20 tons in 1920 and is well over 25,000 tons now. Cadmium is released into the atmosphere from both natural and anthropogenic sources. In workplace, Cd dust and fume arise from smelting nonferrous metals and in the production of Cd‐containing materials. Cadmium in air range 0.1–5 ng/m3in rural, 1–20 ng/m3in urban, and 15–150 ng/m3in industrialized areas. Little or no differences are noted in Cd levels between indoor and outdoor air; however, smoking substantially increases indoor air Cd concentrations as it is present in tobacco. Cadmium can cause severe acute or chronic toxicity; although, acute toxicity is less common. Most cases are from chronic exposure; even low‐level chronic exposure can affect many organs with the kidneys and bones being the principal targets. OSHA has three occupational exposure limits for Cd: AL of 2.5 μg/m3(8‐h TWA), PEL of 5 μg/m3, and SECAL of 15 or 50 μg/m3, depending on the processes involved. SECAL requires that the levels are achieved by combination of engineering and work practice control methods and respirators to the extent feasible to protect workers from exposures above PEL. This chapter covers toxicity of a number of Cd compounds along with regulations based on the available data.
Miscellaneous Organic Polymers
Authors: Skoglund Robert , Roy Robert
Published: December 2023

Polymers are advanced materials composed of many repeating monomer units; organic polymers are polymers that essentially contain carbon atoms in the backbone. Significant volumes of organic polymers are manufactured each year. Plastic products manufactured from these polymers can be as simple as toilet seats and single‐use grocery bags, or as tough as bulletproof materials, space suits, chemical resistant gaskets, or as sophisticated as implantable medical devices. Key features of plastics are modified by the selection of the resins, the manufacturing processes, and the additives used. Plastics are divided up into three main groups: thermoplastics, thermosetting plastics, and elastomers. Exposure to monomers, polymers, resins, and plastics can occur during the initial polymerization and manufacturing of the resins, the subsequent polymerization and manufacturing of the plastics and finished products, during use of the finished product, and during the product's end‐of‐life stage. This chapter focuses on the human health hazard profile of several miscellaneous organic polymer resins used to form thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. These polymers include phenolic resins, aminoplastic resins, furfuryl alcohol resins, polyvinylpyrrolidone resins, polybenzimidazole resins, and polylactic acid resins. Most of the plastics manufactured from these resins are resistant to biodegradation; however, a few can be biodegraded. In addition to the toxicology profiles, this chapter discusses production and use, potential exposures, hazard classification, sensitive applications such as food‐contact and medical applications, and exposure guidelines.
Magnesium
Authors: Williams Grace R. , Downs John W.
Published: December 2023

Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal that is an essential element for human life. Magnesium compounds have both pharmacologic and industrial uses. Oral medicinal formulations of magnesium include magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium hydroxide, indicated primarily for catharsis or gastric acid neutralization. In industrial settings, magnesium is found in metal alloys, often with aluminum to produce light and strong materials. Acute magnesium toxicity typically results from excessive pharmacologic use and may manifest as diminished deep tendon reflexes, weakness, hypotension, and cardiac arrhythmias. Acute human toxicity from industrial exposure is most often the result of inhalation of magnesium oxide fumes manifesting as a spontaneously resolving influenza‐like illness for about 24 h after cessation of exposure, so‐called “metal fume fever.” Studies of chronic magnesium exposure in occupational settings are limited but do not appear to show chronic toxicity related to magnesium. Occupational exposure limits for magnesium are based on studies of magnesium oxide inhalation and are intended to protect against metal fume fever. Much of the foundation of this chapter is credited to Dr. Mary Beth Genter, who authored The Metals chapter in the fourth edition of Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
Second Language Pragmatics
Authors: Roever Carsten
Published: December 2023

L2 pragmatics investigates second language users' ability to engage in extended interaction with others and use language appropriately to the interlocutor, discourse context, and physical context. It was traditionally informed by speech act theory and politeness theory, but the theoretical framework has in recent years shifted toward conversation analysis. Mirroring research in second language acquisition, the main interest of second language pragmatics is learners' development. The impact of individual difference factors has also been investigated, with the roles of proficiency and the learning environment drawing most research attention. Research on L2 pragmatics and interaction has the potential to inform pedagogy and assessment, and L2 pragmatic and interactional abilities have been shown in research studies to be teachable and assessable. However, the integration of findings from L2 pragmatics and interaction research in curricula and test instruments is still lacking. This entry discusses these subtopics of L2 pragmatics research.
Composite Quasi‐Solid‐State Electrolytes with Organic–Inorganic Interface Engineering for Fast Ion Transport in Dendrite‐Free Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Tian Wenyue , Li Zhaopeng , Miao Licheng , Sun Zhiqin , Wang Qinglun , Jiao Lifang
Published: December 2023

Quasi‐solid‐state electrolytes (QSSE) are a promising candidate for addressing the limitations of liquid and solid electrolytes. However, different ion transport capacities between liquid solvents and polymers can cause localized heterogeneous distribution of Na+ fluxes. In addition, the continuous side reactions occurring at the interface between QSSE and sodium anode lead to uncontrollable dendrites growth. Herein, a novel strategy is designed to integrate the composite electrospun membrane of Na3Zr2Si2PO12 and poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) into QSSE, aiming to introduce new fast ion conducting channels at the organic–inorganic interface. The efficient ion transfer pathways can effectively promote the homogenization of ion migration, enabling composite QSSE to achieve an ultrahigh ionic conductivity of 4.1 mS cm−1 at room temperature, with a Na+ transference number as high as 0.54. Moreover, the PVDF‐HFP is preferentially reduced upon contact with the sodium anode to form a “NaF‐rich” solid electrolyte interphase, which effectively suppresses the growth of dendrites. The synergistic combination of multiple strategies can realize exceptional long‐term cycling stability in both sodium symmetric batteries (≈700 h) and full batteries (2100 cycles). This study provides a new insight for constructing high performance and dendrite‐free solid‐state sodium metal batteries.
Nano‐Regulator Inhibits Tumor Immune Escape via the “Two‐Way Regulation” Epigenetic Therapy Strategy
Authors: Liang Shuang , Liu Meichen , Mu Weiwei , Gao Tong , Gao Shuying , Fu Shunli , Yuan Shijun , Liu Jinhu , Liu Yongjun , Jiang Dandan , Zhang Na
Published: December 2023

Tumor immune escape caused by low levels of tumor immunogenicity and immune checkpoint‐dependent suppression limits the immunotherapeutic effect. Herein, a “two‐way regulation” epigenetic therapeutic strategy is proposed using a novel nano‐regulator that inhibits tumor immune escape by upregulating expression of tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs) to improve immunogenicity and downregulating programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression to block programmed death‐1 (PD‐1)/PD‐L1. To engineer the nano‐regulator, the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor zebularine (Zeb) and the bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) inhibitor JQ1 are co‐loaded into the cationic liposomes with condensing the toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) via electrostatic interactions to obtain G‐J/ZL. Then, asparagine–glycine–arginine (NGR) modified material carboxymethyl‐chitosan (CMCS) is coated on the surface of G‐J/ZL to construct CG‐J/ZL. CG‐J/ZL is shown to target tumor tissue and disassemble under the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME). Zeb upregulated TAAs expression to improve the immunogenicity; JQ1 inhibited PD‐L1 expression to block immune checkpoint; CpG promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation and reactivated the ability of tumour‐associated macrophages (TAM) to kill tumor cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the nano‐regulator CG‐J/ZL can upregulate TAAs expression to enhance T‐cell infiltration and downregulate PD‐L1 expression to improve the recognition of tumor cells by T‐cells, representing a promising strategy to improve antitumor immune response.
High shear reactor for glycerolysis—Interesterification palm stearin‐olein blend: Reaction kinetics and physical properties
Authors: Wangi Inasanti Pandan , Supriyanto  , Sulistyo Hary , Hidayat Chusnul
Published: December 2023

Structured lipids containing high monoacylglycerol (MAG) and diacylglycerol (DAG) (SLs‐MDAG) were synthesized by chemical glycerolysis‐interesterification using sodium metasilicate as the catalyst in High Shear Reactor (HSR). The objective of this research was to investigate the effect of temperature on the glycerolysis‐interesterification kinetics at relatively low temperatures in an HSR and the physical product properties. The reaction was performed using immiscible and highly viscous reactants at various temperatures (80–120°C) and a mixing rate of 2000 rpm for 5 h. Results showed that the reaction rate constant exponentially increased as temperature increased. Triacylglycerol (TAG) conversion was 2.5 fold greater at 110 and 120°C compared to lower reaction temperatures (80 and 90°C). MAG and DAG increased by about 18.3% and 13.4%, respectively, as the reaction temperature increased from 80 to 120°C. The product's melting point, hardness, and color were also improved by increasing temperature. In summary, SLs‐MDAG could be produced at a relatively low temperature (110°C) using HSR. The glycerolysis‐interesterification kinetic displayed an exponential relationship, even though it did not precisely fit the Arrhenius model.
Do fossorial water voles have a functional vomeronasal organ? A histological and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Ruiz‐Rubio Sara , Ortiz‐Leal Irene , Torres Mateo V. , Somoano Aitor , Sanchez‐Quinteiro Pablo
Published: December 2023

The fossorial water vole, Arvicola scherman, is an herbivorous rodent that causes significant agricultural damages. The application of cairomones and alarm pheromones emerges as a promising sustainable method to improve its integrated management. These chemical signals would induce stress responses that could interfere with the species regular reproductive cycles and induce aversive reactions, steering them away from farmlands and meadows. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the water vole vomeronasal system, both in its morphological foundations and its functionality, making it imperative to understand the same for the application of chemical communication in pest control. This study fills the existing gaps in knowledge through a morphological and immunohistochemical analysis of the fossorial water vole vomeronasal organ. The study is primarily microscopic, employing two approaches: histological, using serial sections stained with various dyes (hematoxylin–eosin, Periodic acid‐Schiff, Alcian blue, Nissl), and immunohistochemical, applying various markers that provide morphofunctional and structural information. These procedures have confirmed the presence of a functional vomeronasal system in fossorial water voles, characterized by a high degree of differentiation and a significant expression of cellular markers indicative of active chemical communication in this species.
Diet supplementation with sodium pyruvate increases sleep time and lifespan in Drosophila model
Authors: Xu Yifan , Liu Xingyou , Jin Hui , Li Xiangyu , Shen Jie
Published: December 2023

Sodium pyruvate is a natural metabolite commonly used in biological fields, including cell culture. This study investigated the effects of sodium pyruvate on the lifespan and other physiological characters of Drosophila melanogaster, by measuring feeding, fecundity, and spontaneous activity. The results indicated that 0.2 mol/L of sodium pyruvate increased the median lifespan of female flies by 8.33%. Moreover, the group sleep duration of female flies significantly increased by 53.98% when exposed to the sodium pyruvate concentration. However, the intake of sodium pyruvate did not significantly affect the fecundity or food intake of female flies. Our results also show that the effect of extending lifespan and increasing sleep time was dose‐dependent and sex‐specific. Our data provides the role of sodium pyruvate as an insect culture additive by enhancing survival.
A combined approach of structure‐based virtual screening and NMR to interrupt the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis: Biphenyl‐benzimidazole containing compounds as novel PD‐L1 inhibitors
Authors: Donati Greta , Viviano Monica , D'Amore Vincenzo Maria , Cipriano Alessandra , Diakogiannaki Isidora , Amato Jussara , Tomassi Stefano , Brancaccio Diego , Russomanno Pasquale , Di Leva Francesco Saverio , Arosio Daniela , Seneci Pierfausto , Taliani Sabrina , Magiera‐Mularz Katarzyna , Musielak Bogdan , Skalniak Lukasz , Holak Tad A. , Castellano Sabrina , La Pietra Valeria , Marinelli Luciana
Published: December 2023

Immunotherapy has emerged as a game‐changing approach for cancer treatment. Although monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1 (PD‐1/PD‐L1) axis have entered the market revolutionizing the treatment landscape of many cancer types, small molecules, although presenting several advantages including the possibility of oral administration and/or reduced costs, struggled to enter in clinical trials, suffering of water insolubility and/or inadequate potency compared with mAbs. Thus, the search for novel scaffolds for both the design of effective small molecules and possible synergistic strategies is an ongoing field of interest. In an attempt to find novel chemotypes, a virtual screening approach was employed, resulting in the identification of new chemical entities with a certain binding capability, the most versatile of which was the benzimidazole‐containing compound 10. Through rational design, a small library of its derivatives was synthesized and evaluated. The homogeneous time‐resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay revealed that compound 17 shows the most potent inhibitory activity (IC50) in the submicromolar range and notably, differently from the major part of PD‐L1 inhibitors, exhibits satisfactory water solubility properties. These findings highlight the potential of benzimidazole‐based compounds as novel promising candidates for PD‐L1 inhibition.
Magnetometer mapping of drowned prehistoric landscapes for Archaeological Heritage Management in the Netherlands
Authors: van den Brenk Seger , Huisman Hans , Willemse Nico W. , Smit Bjørn , van Os Bertil J. H.
Published: December 2023

Coastal areas can contain a highly valuable archaeological record because of post‐glacial drowning of previously inhabited land surfaces. Such records are increasingly under threat because of a range of economic activities. Archaeological Heritage Management (AHM) is hampered by a lack of detailed data on the buried landscapes. This makes it difficult to fully assess and deflect threats to this record. Here, we present a novel way of using under water magnetometer surveys to map and characterize buried Mesolithic/Neolithic landforms in high detail. Magnetometer maps from the IJsselmeer area (Netherlands) show patterns of paired linear anomalies that resemble banks or levees that straddle channel‐like features. Sub‐bottom profile transects and sediment core analyses confirm that the observed linear features are Mesolithic and Neolithic submerged buried channel and bank/levee systems that connect to known onshore buried channel systems from that age. Although the origin of the magnetic signal is still subject of study, the observed patterns clearly indicate areas or geomorphological phenomena of high archaeological potential, and make it possible to take measures for protection and research.
Recent advances of organic emitters in deep‐red light‐emitting electrochemical cells
Authors: Zhao Zhiqin , Gao Anran , Wang Zhi , Liu Zhicheng , Xiong Wenjing , Xu Yanzi , Meng Lingjie , Dang Dongfeng
Published: December 2023

Light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) are kind of easily fabricated and low‐cost light‐emitting devices that can efficiently convert electric power to light energy. Compared with blue and green LECs, the performance of deep‐red LECs is limited by the high non‐radiative rate of emitters in long‐wavelength region. While various organic emitters with deep‐red emission have been developed to construct high‐performance LECs, including polymers, metal complexes, and organic luminous molecules (OLMs), but this is seldom summarized. Therefore, we overview the recent advances of organic emitters with emission at the deep‐red region for LECs, and specifically highlight the molecular design approach and electrochemiluminescence performance. We hope that this review can act as a reference for further research in designing high‐performance deep‐red LECs.
Evaluating ChatGPT as a self‐learning tool in medical biochemistry: A performance assessment in undergraduate medical university examination
Authors: Surapaneni Krishna Mohan , Rajajagadeesan Anusha , Goudhaman Lakshmi , Lakshmanan Shalini , Sundaramoorthi Saranya , Ravi Dineshkumar , Rajendiran Kalaiselvi , Swaminathan Porchelvan
Published: December 2023

The emergence of ChatGPT as one of the most advanced chatbots and its ability to generate diverse data has given room for numerous discussions worldwide regarding its utility, particularly in advancing medical education and research. This study seeks to assess the performance of ChatGPT in medical biochemistry to evaluate its potential as an effective self‐learning tool for medical students. This evaluation was carried out using the university examination question papers of both parts 1 and 2 of medical biochemistry which comprised theory and multiple choice questions (MCQs) accounting for a total of 100 in each part. The questions were used to interact with ChatGPT, and three raters independently reviewed and scored the answers to prevent bias in scoring. We conducted the inter‐item correlation matrix and the interclass correlation between raters 1, 2, and 3. For MCQs, symmetric measures in the form of kappa value (a measure of agreement) were performed between raters 1, 2, and 3. ChatGPT generated relevant and appropriate answers to all questions along with explanations for MCQs. ChatGPT has “passed” the medical biochemistry university examination with an average score of 117 out of 200 (58%) in both papers. In Paper 1, ChatGPT has secured 60 ± 2.29 and 57 ± 4.36 in Paper 2. The kappa value for all the cross‐analysis of Rater 1, Rater 2, and Rater 3 scores in MCQ was 1.000. The evaluation of ChatGPT as a self‐learning tool in medical biochemistry has yielded important insights. While it is encouraging that ChatGPT has demonstrated proficiency in this area, the overall score of 58% indicates that there is work to be done. To unlock its full potential as a self‐learning tool, ChatGPT must focus on generating not only accurate but also comprehensive and contextually relevant content.
Did court dismiss lawsuit over change from DI to DIII?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

A student‐athlete chose to play women's lacrosse at the University of Hartford in the fall of 2020. Less than a year later, the university president announced the university's decision to transition its athletics programs from Division I to DIII. The president stated that all student‐athlete scholarships and coaching contracts would be honored during the transition. The university also allegedly told student‐athletes that there would be no change to their DI athletic experience during the 2021–2022 school year.
Fatal myocardial infarction investigated using contrast‐enhanced postmortem computed tomography: A case report
Authors: Aoe Kohei , Orita Yuichi , Oshita Chikage , Date Shuji , Teragawa Hiroki
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Conventional autopsies are considered standard methods for clarifying cause of death. However, because of the increasing use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and other diagnostic imaging techniques, autopsy imaging is now more frequently adopted to identify diseases with unknown causes and sudden deaths. A 84‐year‐old man was diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction using coronary angiography. After taking oral antiplatelet medication in the catheterization laboratory, the patient suddenly coughed violently, lost consciousness, and was diagnosed with cardiac arrest. Spontaneous circulation did not return after 50 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. To elucidate the cause of the cardiac arrest, we performed contrast‐enhanced postmortem computed tomography (PMCT), which revealed cardiac tamponade due to cardiac rupture of the inferior myocardium. Our findings reaffirm the effectiveness of contrast‐enhanced PMCT in the diagnosis of sudden death in the clinical setting.
Effects of team affiliation on color‐valence associations
Authors: Forrester Declan , Winskel Heather , Longstaff Mitchell
Published: December 2023

This study aims to empirically test whether identifying as a supporter of either New South Wales (NSW) or Queensland (QLD) rugby league teams influences the extent that their respective team colors blue and maroon are associated with positively and negatively valenced words. We used a valence categorization experiment and affective rating task (valence and preference) to investigate if team affiliation and shared ingroup experience influenced affective associations with team colors. NSW supporters were faster and more accurate when categorizing positive words presented in blue than maroon font and negative words in maroon than blue font. While QLD supporters did not significantly differ when categorizing words in either blue or maroon, they rated blue and maroon equally positively in contrast to the NSW supporters. Results from this study give us greater insights into how color‐valence associations can be formed through subcultural ingroup affiliations.