bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palmitic Acid Induced a Dedifferentiation Profile at the Transcriptome Level: A Collagen Synthesis but no Triglyceride Accumulation in Hepatocyte‐Like Cells Derived From Human‐Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Cultivated Inside Organ on a Chip
Authors: Wang Hanyuan , Danoy Mathieu , Gong Ya , Utami Tia , Arakawa Hiroshi , Kato Yukio , Nishikawa Masaki , Sakai Yasuyuki , Leclerc Eric
Published: November 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the main causes of critical liver diseases leading to steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and ultimately to liver cirrhosis and hepatic carcinoma. In this study, the effect of palmitic acid (PA), one of the most abundant dietary fatty acids, was investigated using an organ‐on‐a‐chip (OoC) technology on hepatocyte‐like cells derived from human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). After 1 week of hepatic maturation, followed by 1 week of exposure, the transcriptomic analysis showed lower liver transcription factor activity. It also revealed that 318 genes were differentially expressed between the control and 0.5‐mM PA conditions. The 0.5‐mM PA conditions were characterized by the downregulation of hepatic markers (liver transcription factors, phase I and phase II metabolism genes) of lipidic genes (metabolism and transport). In parallel, the 0.5‐mM PA treatment upregulated several extracellular matrix genes (such as collagen genes). The physiopathological staining demonstrated no lipid accumulation in our model and confirmed the secretion of collagen in the 0.5‐mM PA conditions. However, the production of albumin, the metabolic biotransformation by the cytochrome P450 enzymes, and the biliary acid concentrations were not altered by the PA treatments. Overall, our data illustrated the response to PA characterized by an early stage of dedifferentiation observed at the transcriptomic levels associated with a modification of the collagenic profile but without lipid accumulation. We believe that our model provides new insight of the onset of palmitic lipotoxicity in the early stage of NAFLD.
Mimicking the Architecture and Dissolution Chemistry of Cancellous Bone Tissue to Optimize the Biocompatibility of Bioactive Scaffolds
Authors: Piraino Lindsay , Perry Danielle L. , Weitzel Ryan , Mokhtari Sahar , Kucko Sierra K. , Keenan Timothy J. , Wren Anthony W.
Published: November 2024

Synthesis of mechanically stable porous scaffolds with an architecture analogous to cancellous bone tissue poses significant challenges to bioactive glass (BG) based scaffolds. This is primarily due to densification and crystallization of the BG's during heat treatment. This study presents a modified BG series (42SiO2—xTiO2—24Na2O—21CaO—13P2O5, where x = 8 and 16 TiO2). TiO2 replaced the SiO2 concentration in the glass and was incorporated due to its biocompatibility and influence on glass structure. Material characterization determined that TiO2 did not induce crystallization within the glass but did increase the glass transition temperature (Tg) from 520°C to 600°C thereby indicating a more stable network connectivity. Scaffolds were synthesized using the foam replication method, resulting in scaffolds with a pore size of approximately 500 μm with the BG‐4 composition (30SiO2—12TiO2—24Na2O—21CaO—13P2O5) retaining its amorphous character post‐heat treatment. Scaffold ion release was monitored over 5–60 days in simulated body fluid (SBF). Si4+ release was found to decrease, while Ca2+ levels increased in SBF as TiO2 replaced SiO2 within the glass series. Cytocompatibility studies revealed that MC3T3 Osteoblast cells proliferated on the BG‐4 scaffold surface and at its interface within culture media, and cell numbers were not significantly reduced.
Impact of the host lattice on crystallographic, Raman, optical, and luminescent properties on the terbium ion
Authors: Ansari Anees A. , Khan M. A. Majeed
Published: November 2024

A comparative study of the Gd2O3:Tb and Y2O3:Tb nanoparticles (NPs) was presented to examine the influence of the host lattices on the crystallographic phase, surface characteristics, optical properties, Raman effect, and photoluminescence properties. Cubic shapes Gd2O3:Tb and Y2O3:Tb NPs with an estimated crystalline size of 17 and 11 nm were recorded from the X‐ray diffraction pattern, respectively. Comparative absorption spectra of both oxides NPs were presented to examine the dispersibility, colloidal stability, and optical behavior of the NPs. Energy bandgap values were estimated to monitor the optical characteristics of the metal oxides in the UV/Vis region. Fourier transform infrared was recorded to confirm the surface‐attached water and organic moieties. The Raman spectra of metal oxides were recorded to examine the symmetrical dis‐order and polarizability of the vibrational bands. The ionic radius of the atoms distorts the bond structure resulting in it greatly influenced the vibrational bands of the materials. The emission spectra certified the effective doping of the luminescent Tb3+‐ion in the metal oxide host lattices. Raman spectra and emission spectra validated the crystal symmetry imperfections; subsequently, the efficiency of the Raman active modes and emission transitions was greatly influenced. In a comparative analysis, Y2O3:Tb NPs exhibited higher luminescence intensity in comparison with the Gd2O3:Tb NPs.
Shear stress effects on epididymal epithelial cell via primary cilia mechanosensory signaling
Authors: Fakhari Sepideh , Campolina‐Silva Gabriel , Asayesh Farnaz , Girardet Laura , Scott‐Boyer Marie‐Pier , Droit Arnaud , Soulet Denis , Greener Jesse , Belleannée Clémence
Published: November 2024

Shear stress, resulting from fluid flow, is a fundamental mechanical stimulus affecting various cellular functions. The epididymis, essential for sperm maturation, offers a compelling model to study the effects of shear stress on cellular behavior. This organ undergoes extensive proliferation and differentiation until puberty, achieving full functionality as spermatozoa commence their post‐testicular maturation. Although the mechanical tension exerted by testicular fluid is hypothesized to drive epithelial proliferation and differentiation, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Here we assessed whether the responsiveness of the epididymal cells to shear stress depends on functional primary cilia by combining microfluidic strategies on immortalized epididymal cells, calcium signaling assays, and high‐throughput gene expression analysis. We identified 97 genes overexpressed in response to shear stress, including early growth response (Egr) 2/3, cellular communication network factor (Ccn) 1/2, and Fos proto‐oncogene (Fos). While shear stress triggered a rapid increase of intracellular Ca2+, this response was abrogated following the impairment of primary ciliogenesis through pharmacological and siRNA approaches. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights into how mechanical forces influence the development of the male reproductive system, a requisite to sperm maturation.
Breaking the Silence: Critical discussion of a youth participatory action research project
Authors: Khawaja Jaspar , Bagley Christopher , Taylor Becky
Published: November 2024

Background

This paper aims to inform practice for educational psychologists and other professionals who seek to facilitate youth participatory action research (YPAR) in schools. Youth participatory action research is founded on the assumption that young people are capable of being researchers who can co‐create knowledge and act to change the world. It is a worldview as well as a research approach and can be initiated to co‐produce knowledge, facilitate critical thinking, promote the evaluation of social systems and/or act against social oppression.

Methods

We (a) outline the origins of YPAR and review crucial methodological elements of YPAR found in the literature, (b) support practitioners to use a YPAR approach in UK schools using a real‐world example to apply theory to practice and (c) critically discuss outcomes and challenges of facilitating YPAR. An ongoing YPAR project, Breaking the Silence (BtS), facilitated by social enterprise States of Mind and IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society will be outlined within the paper.

Results

BtS demonstrates the power of YPAR to promote the voices of young people, and to allow them to democratically develop action plans that challenge existing education structures. Youth researchers have presented their findings at several conferences and through a national newspaper. They continue to work alongside trade unions and other organisations to push for educational reform. However, the project has demonstrated several challenges and risks of facilitating YPAR. For example, facilitators were not always aware when youth researchers felt they had less meaningful involvement. Facilitators also found it challenging to collaboratively analyse data.

Conclusions

The project indicates that YPAR has the potential to be a democratic, empowering approach that can be brought more widely into the field of education. However, careful considerations are needed by facilitators to mitigate the challenges of the process.
Pennycress reduces potential for nutrient loss in Illinois
Authors: Meyer Ryan T. , Heller Nicholas J. , Rhykerd Robert L. , Perry William L.
Published: November 2024

Nutrient export of nitrogen and phosphorus from row crop agriculture in the Upper US Midwest is a threat to the structure and function of aquatic systems. To meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nutrient reduction goals, the Upper US Midwest needs to implement strategies to reduce nutrient export from agriculture. Studies demonstrate the potential of cover crops to reduce the export of nitrate‐nitrogen from the Upper US Midwest. We investigated the impact of the economically viable winter cash cover crop pennycress (Thlaspi arvense) on soil porewater nutrients and soil nutrients and characteristics. We used nine replicated 0.8 ha plots (n = 3 per treatment) at a production scale research farm over 4 years with pennycress and fertilized pennycress (56 kg ha−1 of urea) treatments compared to a fallow reference. Over the study period, soil porewater nitrate‐nitrogen was reduced by 53% in pennycress plots and 34% in fertilized pennycress plots relative to the fallow reference at a depth of 45 cm. Early season establishment was crucial in providing nutrient reduction potential. In 2021, poor pennycress establishment resulted in porewater nitrate‐nitrogen concentrations 141% higher than in 2022 with excellent pennycress establishment. Following pennycress termination, soil nitrate‐nitrogen was reduced by 24% in pennycress and 26% in fertilized pennycress compared to the fallow reference in the top 30 cm of soil. Following 4 years of pennycress planting, nitrate‐nitrogen concentrations were significantly reduced with no broad effect on soil characteristics. We conclude that the novel pennycress crop has potential to reduce nutrient loss from row crop agriculture in the Upper US Midwest.
The fate of atenolol in wastewater treatment plants of representative densely urban agglomerations in China
Authors: Xu Qiuxiang , Luo Liwen , Zhu Zhi , Liu Xuran , Ong Tala Victoria , Wong Jonathan W. C. , Pan Min
Published: November 2024

Atenolol (ATL) that can decrease heart rate and reduce renin release is extensively used in the treatment of hypertension, angina, and other diseases. ATL's popularity has therefore drawn attention to its environmental behavior and potential impacts. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are the main collection point for ATL entering the water environment, highlighting the necessity of studying its fate in the environment. In this study, five WWTPs with different processes in China's representative densely urban agglomerations (Pearl River Delta [PRD] region) were selected as certain representative sampling sites to investigate the fate of ATL in the WWTPs over four seasons. Results showed that ATL concentration in the influent of these WWTPs was 146.5–918.6 ng/L and the corresponding concentration in the effluent was 43.0–534.1 ng/L, achieving a certain degree of removal. The seasonal ATL removal performance varied greatly among these WWTPs, Liede, Tai Po, and Sha Tin WWTPs showed better removal stability. Meanwhile, the average ATL removal rates in Tai Po (83.36%) and Sha Tin (81.67%) were higher than those in the Futian (71.24%), Liede (55.44%), and Stonecutters Island WWTPs (44.96%). The primary treatment capacity of Futian WWTP was better than that of Tai Po and Sha Tin WWTPs in removing ATL, while the performance of secondary treatment was opposite. Moreover, Zahn–Wellens test demonstrated that ATL could be almost completely degraded after 30 days and some protonated molecules (e.g., m/z 145 and m/z 190) metabolites were formed, indicating that degradation may play a role in ATL removal in WWTPs.
Efficient enzyme‐free isolation of brain‐derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Matamoros‐Angles Andreu , Karadjuzovic Emina , Mohammadi Behnam , Song Feizhi , Brenna Santra , Meister Susanne Caroline , Siebels Bente , Voß Hannah , Seuring Carolin , Ferrer Isidre , Schlüter Hartmut , Kneussel Matthias , Altmeppen Hermann Clemens , Schweizer Michaela , Puig Berta , Shafiq Mohsin , Glatzel Markus
Published: November 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have gained significant attention as pathology mediators and potential diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases. However, isolation of brain‐derived EVs (BDEVs) from tissue remains challenging, often involving enzymatic digestion steps that may compromise the integrity of EV proteins and overall functionality. Here, we describe that collagenase digestion, commonly used for BDEV isolation, produces undesired protein cleavage of EV‐associated proteins in brain tissue homogenates and cell‐derived EVs. In order to avoid this effect, we studied the possibility of isolating BDEVs with a reduced amount of collagenase or without any protease. Characterization of the isolated BDEVs from mouse and human samples (both female and male) revealed their characteristic morphology and size distribution with both approaches. However, we show that even minor enzymatic digestion induces ‘artificial’ proteolytic processing in key BDEV markers, such as Flotillin‐1, CD81, and the cellular prion protein (PrPC), whereas avoiding enzymatic treatment completely preserves their integrity. We found no major differences in mRNA and protein content between non‐enzymatically and enzymatically isolated BDEVs, suggesting that the same BDEV populations are purified with both approaches. Intriguingly, the lack of Golgi marker GM130 signal, often referred to as contamination indicator (or negative marker) in EV preparations, seems to result from enzymatic digestion rather than from its actual absence in BDEV samples. Overall, we show that non‐enzymatic isolation of EVs from brain tissue is possible and avoids artificial pruning of proteins while achieving an overall high BDEV yield and purity. This protocol will help to understand the functions of BDEV and their associated proteins in a near‐physiological setting, thus opening new research approaches.
Free Water MRI of White Matter in Wilson's Disease
Authors: Jing Xiao‐Zhong , Li Gai‐Ying , Wu Yu‐Peng , Yuan Xiang‐Zhen , Yang Hui‐Jia , Chen Jia‐Lin , Wang Shu‐Hong , Wang Xiao‐Ping , Li Jian‐Qi
Published: November 2024

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is susceptible to partial volume effects from free water, which can be corrected by using bi‐tensor free water imaging (FWI). This approach may improve the evaluation of microstructural changes associated with Wilson's disease (WD).

Purpose

To investigate microstructural changes in white matter of WD using DTI and FWI.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Nineteen neurological WD (7 female, 31.68 ± 7.89 years), 10 hepatic WD (3 female, 29.67 ± 13.37 years), and 25 healthy controls (13 female, 29.5 ± 7.7 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, spin‐echo echo‐planar imaging diffusion‐weighted imaging, T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery.

Assessment

Various diffusion metrics, including mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), free water, and free water‐corrected metrics (MDT, RDT, FAT, and ADT) were estimated and compared across entire white matter skeleton among neurological WD, hepatic WD, and controls. Voxel‐wise tract‐based spatial statistics and region of interest (ROI) analysis based on white matter atlas were performed. Additionally, partial correlation analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between FWI indices in ROIs and clinical indicators.

Statistical Tests

One‐way analysis of variance, family‐wise error correction for multiple comparisons, and Bonferroni correction for post hoc comparisons. A P‐value <0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons, was considered statistically significant.

Results

Our study found significantly lower FA and higher MD, AD, and RD across most of white matter skeleton in neurological WD. Decreased FAT and increased MDT, ADT, and RDT were observed only in limited white matter areas compared to DTI indices. Additionally, a significant relationship was found between Unified WD Rating Scale neurological subscale of neurological WD and free water (r = 0.613) in middle cerebellar peduncle, ADT (r = −0.555) in superior cerebellar peduncle, RDT (r = 0.655), and FAT (r = −0.660) in posterior limb in internal capsule.

Data Conclusion

FWI may allow a more precise evaluation of microstructural changes in WD than conventional DTI, with FWI metrics potentially correlating with clinical severity scores of WD patients.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Identification of Rotavirus Genotypes in Children under Five Years in the United Arab Emirates Using Nanopore Sequencing Technology
Authors: George Junu A. , Al‐Marzooq Farah , Narchi Hassib , Alsuwaidi Ahmed R.
Published: November 2024

Group A rotaviruses (RVA) remain a principal cause of childhood diarrhea in the UAE, despite universal vaccine use. Monitoring genetic diversity is important for identifying prevalent genotypes and escape mutants. Although real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) is widely used for RVA genotyping, it may not detect some new strains. This study evaluates nanopore sequencing and RT‐PCR for RVA genotyping. Thirty‐three RVA strains from children under 5 years presenting with diarrhea were genotyped using both methods. Thirteen strains were genotyped by RT‐PCR and confirmed by nanopore sequencing. Fifteen strains were genotyped by nanopore method alone. Most PCR‐genotyped strains (56%) had the VP7 G9 genotype, with G3 in five strains and G12 in two. For VP4, P8 (n = 8) and P4 (n = 7) were dominant. The most frequent combinations were G9P[8] (31%) and G9P[4] (25%). Nanopore sequencing of 28 strains revealed G3P[8] (29%) as the most prevalent, followed by G8P[8] (18%). G9P[8] and G2P[4] were present in 14% of samples with G12P[6] being the rarest (7%). Other combinations were detected in 4% the specimens with one nontypeable. Nanopore sequencing was superior to PCR in identifying diverse and emerging genotypes like G8P[8]. This method may enhance surveillance studies and guide preventive measures for RVA gastroenteritis.
A 4D time‐lapse morphometry method to quantify bone formation and resorption during distraction osteogenesis
Authors: Pu Sishun , Fu Ruisen , Bertrand David , Willie Bettina M. , Yang Haisheng
Published: November 2024

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is widely utilized for treating limb length discrepancy, nonunion, bone deformities and defects. This study sought to develop a 4D time‐lapse morphometry method to quantify bone formation and resorption in mouse femur during DO based on image registration of longitudinal in vivo micro‐CT scans. Female C57BL/6 mice (n = 7) underwent osteotomy, followed by 5 days of latency, 10 days of distraction and 35 days of consolidation. The mice were scanned with micro‐CT at Days 5, 15, 25, 35, 45, and 50. Histological sectioning and Movat Pentachrome straining were performed at Day 50. After registration of two consecutive micro‐CT images of the same bone (day x and day y), the spatially‐ and temporally‐linked sequences of formation, resorption and quiescent bones at the distraction gap were identified and bone formation and resorption rates (BFRdayx‐y and BRRdayx‐y) were calculated. The overall percentage error of the registration method was 2.98% ± 0.89% and there was a strong correlation between histologically‐measured bone area fraction and micro‐CT‐determined bone volume fraction at Day 50 (r = 0.89, p < 0.05). The 4D time‐lapse morphometry indicated a rapid bone formation during the first 10 days of the consolidation phase (BFRday15–25 = 0.14 ± 0.05 mm3/day), followed by callus reshaping via equivalent bone formation and resorption rates. The 4D time‐lapse morphometry method developed in this study allows for a continuous quantitative monitoring of the dynamic process of bone formation and resorption following distraction, which may offer a better understanding of the mechanism for mechano‐regulated bone regeneration and aid for development of new treatment strategies of DO.
The Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook (AIDH): Experience of artificial intelligence translations of non‐English product information
Authors: Wong Emma , Symons Keli
Published: November 2024

Background

In June 2022, the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia (SHPA) Specialty Practice Medicines Information Leadership Committee formally requested an expanded range of imported medicines to be included in the latest edition of the Australian Injectable Drugs Handbook (AIDH), developed and published by SHPA. This request was to aid medication safety and reduce the duplication of work required by tertiary hospital staff when producing local guidance. This study describes the challenges faced by the AIDH editorial team in obtaining information in English for imported medicines.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to determine whether machine translation is suitable for translating foreign language product information (PI) documents into English.

Method

Three sources (one machine and two human sources) were used to translate the PI provided for five imported medicines from four languages into English. We compared the quality of the translations for obtaining information suitable to inform a medicine administration guideline. Ethical approval was not required for this research article as it involved no experimental investigations on humans and did not involve human participants or cohort comparisons.

Results

Our study found machine translation and human translations to be very similar in terms of readability and adequacy. Machine translation was found to be more time‐saving and cost‐effective.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that it may be appropriate for pharmacists to harness the time‐ and cost‐saving benefits of machine translation. However, pharmacists must apply their critical evaluation skills to the information provided regardless of the source of the translation. Information translated from another language relating to the administration of an injectable medicine must be verified against an English language source.
Gastrostomy tube placement for children with autism spectrum disorders and functional constipation
Authors: Srinivas Shruthi , Halaweish Ihab , Griffin Kristine L. , Rodriguez Cameron , Pruitt Liese C. C. , Stephenson Kevin G. , Yossef Lina , Wood Richard J. , Williams Kent C.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Children with functional constipation (FC) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face sensory and behavioral conditions that prevent giving oral medical therapy to improve constipation and incontinence. We aimed to assess whether children with ASD and FC who had difficulty in taking oral medications could benefit from gastrostomy tube (GT) placement.

Methods

A single‐institution retrospective review was performed in children diagnosed with ASD and FC from 2020 to 2023. Children were considered candidates for GT if they suffered from constipation that adversely affected daily function and refused adequate oral medical therapy. Data were collected on ASD severity and FC symptoms before GT and after GT placement.

Results

There were nine patients who underwent GT placement. Median age was 7.4 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 4.8–9.7). Of the five with available ASD evaluations, four had extremely low intelligence quotient and extremely low adaptive skills; only one child of the nine was verbal. Before GT placement, most patients had Bristol 1 or 2 consistency stool (66.7%); following placement, most had Bristol 5 or 6 consistency stool (66.7%). Seven children strained with bowel movements before GT; only one child strained after GT. There were no tube dislodgements or site infections. Gastrointestinal quality of life scores improved for both constipation (+38.5, IQR: 27.5–54.3) and medication administration (+31.5, IQR: 0.0–75.0).

Conclusions

GT placement may be a viable option in children with FC and ASD with minimal complications, improvement in constipation, and improvement in quality of life. Further prospective study will ensure generalizability of these results.
Insight into the conformational changes and allergenic reactivity of coarse wheat bran induced by ozone treatment
Authors: Zhu Wenyan , Yao Yaya , Tao Peijun , Li Huijing
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Whole grain food has gradually come into view because of its high nutritional value, but the incidence of wheat allergies has been increasing year by year. Ozone is a new non‐thermal desensitization technology in food processing, and its effect on coarse wheat bran protein has received little study. We investigated the effects of different ozone airflow rates and treatment times on wheat bran allergenic property and protein structure.

RESULTS

The ozone treatment time of 30 min at an airflow rate of 5 L min−1 reduced the coarse wheat bran allergenic property by 61.14%; subunits of 33, 46, 48 and 68 kDa were significantly less allergenic via western blotting; and the lowest releasing rate of β‐hexosaminidase was 25.32% in the cell model of rat basophilic leukaemia 2H3. According to secondary structure and chemical interaction determination, the protein molecules were reorganized and aggregated by disulfide bonds and hydrophobic contacts following ozone exposure.

CONCLUSION

Ozone treatment has a beneficial potential in reducing the allergenic property of coarse wheat bran and improving the safety of whole wheat products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Simultaneous Determination of Methotrexate and 7‐Hydroxy‐Methotrexate by UHPLC‐MS3 Assay Coupled With Multiple Stage Fragmentation to Enhance Sensitivity
Authors: Li Huaqiang , Duan Xujian , Wu Feifei , Yin Lei
Published: November 2024

A selective ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry cubed (UHPLC/MS3) assay for simultaneous determination of methotrexate (MTX) and 7‐hydroxy‐methotrexate (7‐OH‐MTX) in human plasma was developed and validated. After protein precipitation with methanol, chromatographic separation of MTX, MTX‐d3, and 7‐OH‐MTX was performed on a Waters AcQuity UPLC‐BEH column (2.1 × 50 mm I.D., 1.7 µm) with gradient elution. MRM3 transition was used for the detection of MTX (m/z 455.2→308.0→175.1) and 7‐OH‐MTX (m/z 471.3→191.0→148.1). The linear range of UHPLC/MS3 assay for the determination of MTX and 7‐OH‐MTX was 0.5–300 ng/mL (R2 ≥ 0.99) and 5–1500 ng/mL (R2 ≥ 0.99), respectively. The enhanced selectivity and sensitivity are the novelties of the developed UHPLC/MS3 assay. The analytical method was successfully applied to simultaneous determination of MTX and its major metabolite 7‐OH‐MTX in real human plasma samples.
Effervescent‐assisted Liquid‐phase Microextraction Employing Switchable Hydrophilicity Solvent for the Determination of Cortisol and Testosterone in Oral Fluid by High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Diode Array Detection
Authors: Dalanhol Carolina Silveira , Scheid Camila , Merib Josias
Published: November 2024

Cortisol and testosterone are important biomarkers for diagnosing complex disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome and Cushing's syndrome, where symptomatology usually overlaps with other prevalent disorders. This work proposes, for the first time, an analytical method based on a switchable hydrophilicity solvent as an extraction phase for the determination of cortisol and testosterone in oral fluid (OF) by high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection. The optimized extraction conditions consisted of 1000 µL of OF, 100 µL of decanoic acid solution (65 mg/mL), 170 µL of Na2CO3, 900 µL of H2SO4 and 150 µL of acetonitrile for dilution. The method was validated, and coefficients of determination higher than 0.9926, the limit of detection of 4.55 ng/mL and the limit of quantification of 15.00 ng/mL were obtained. Intra‐day precision varied from 5.6% to 11.9%, inter‐day precision ranged from 6.1% to 13.5%, and relative recoveries ranged from 98.9% to 104.6% for cortisol, and 89.1% to 103.9% for testosterone. This methodology was successfully applied to five OF samples from volunteers. Moreover, the greenness of this methodology was evaluated based on the sample preparation metric of sustainability achieving a global score of 7.37 which can be considered sustainable.
Home ranges of roaming golden jackals in a European forest‐agricultural landscape
Authors: Csányi Erika , Gaál Dorottya , Heltai Miklós , Pölös Máté , Sándor Gyula , Schally Gergely , Lanszki József
Published: November 2024

The successful European expansion of the golden jackal (Canis aureus) is influenced by space use and an exploration of their movement ecology may promote the application of appropriate population management. However, little is known about their home range dynamics in forest–agricultural landscapes with dense populations and high hunting pressure. We evaluated home range size variations and movement patterns of golden jackals in southwestern Hungary, focusing on sex and age differences, seasonal variability, and the prevalence of irruptive nomad behavior. Over a 2‐year study, we tracked 45 global positioning system (GPS)‐collared jackals (22 females and 23 males) for an average of 245 days, collecting 236,675 hourly location points. We analyzed home ranges using the 95% kernel home range method, and used trajectory segmentation to identify residents (single home range) versus non‐resident or irruptive nomads (multiple home ranges or home range shifts). Residents exhibited a mean (± SE) home range size of 14.38 ± 2.27 km2 (n = 28), with significant individual variability (up to a 100‐fold difference). Males had larger home ranges than females, and juveniles had larger home ranges than adults, particularly during pup‐rearing periods. The home range shifts were more frequent for juveniles than adults, and females than males, whereas sex and age did not affect home range size of irruptive nomads (n = 17). Jackals mostly used forests close to forest–agricultural area edges and far from artificial structures. Our data revealed high interindividual space‐use variability and intra‐year differences in home range sizes between sexes, and substantiated the high ecological plasticity of this species. Our results likely relate to the complex social system of golden jackals along with a dense population, high hunting pressure, absence of large carnivores, and seasonal flexibility in response to abundant food sources.
Impact of forest management on the communication distance of an endangered tree squirrel
Authors: Brzozowski Ryan , Mahoney Sean M. , Combrink Hendrik J. , Hefty Kira L. , Pasch Bret
Published: November 2024

Long‐distance acoustic signals mediate important social interactions between animals, and the structure of the environment can influence sound transmission to affect communication distance. Anthropogenic disturbances such as fire suppression alter forest structure and can potentially affect acoustic interactions by altering sound attenuation patterns. In the spruce‐fir and mixed‐conifer forests of the Pinaleño Mountains, Arizona, USA, that harbor endangered Mount Graham red squirrels (Tamiasciurus fremonti grahamensis), numerous historical anthropogenic disturbances have altered forest characteristics and contributed to habitat degradation and loss. In this study, we assessed how recent forest management treatments influenced the attenuation of red squirrel territorial rattle vocalizations. In June 2023–August 2023, we broadcast and recorded rattles 5.4 m above the forest floor at various distances (1, 10, 20, and 40 m) to mimic hypothetical senders and receivers. We used on‐the‐ground measurements and lidar to quantify forest structure relative to patterns of sound attenuation in 3 treatments: thinning, understory fuel reduction, and untreated control plots. Across all treatments, we found that increasing tree basal area resulted in higher attenuation, with rattles being approximately 6 dB lower in amplitude in the most dense compared to the least dense plots, equivalent to a doubling in squirrel communication distance. Additionally, rattles on untreated control plots experienced more attenuation than thinned (~3 dB) and fuel‐reduced (~1.5 dB) plots. A lidar‐derived measure of canopy structure was a better predictor of rattle attenuation than lower resolution on‐the‐ground measurements. In the short‐term, forest thinning may facilitate development of acoustic social neighborhoods that increase squirrel fitness, though alternative costs of more open forests exist. More generally, our results indicate that forest management can affect the efficacy of acoustic communication and that integration of signaling and sensory ecology with remote sensing can inform wildlife conservation.
In‐Plane Metasurface Design for Perfect Chiral Dichroism in Inhomogeneous Environment
Authors: Li Sergei , Ma Binze , Li Qiang , Rybin Mikhail V.
Published: November 2024

Bound states in the continuum represent a captivating and significant phenomenon in the realms of photonics, materials science, and quantum mechanics. These exceptional resonant states have emerged as crucial elements in a diverse array of nanotechnology applications including chiral nanophotonics. Applying bound states in the continuum for chiral applications is a challenging problem and usually requires some additional complicated steps such as multi‐layer lithography, adding superstrate with index matching materials and geometry parameters adjusting. Nevertheless, creating a structure placed in inhomogeneous background that is capable to perfectly convert one circular polarization to the opposite one is still a challenging problem. This work presents chiral metasurface based on bound states in the continuum allowing to achieve perfect unitary circular conversion in an inhomogeneous environment. This approach is based on a coupling of two chiral but not perfect resonances which makes it possible to get one mode with chiral dichroism value of 1. A theoretical model is built, perform numerical calculation and conduct an experimental verification to prove this concept. The presented results could find many applications in sensing, optics, telecommunications, biomedical and chemical analysis.
Grating‐Based Eight‐Channel Lan‐WDM Silicon Photonic Transceiver for Tb/s Applications
Authors: Zhang Zanyun , Li Meixin , Lv Xiaoqing , Zhang Kaixin , Zhou Lingjun , Jiang Hao , Li Ke , Liu Tianjun , Wang Qixin , Huang Beiju
Published: November 2024

An eight‐channel local‐area‐network wavelength division multiplexing silicon photonic transceiver is designed within a 5 mm × 5 mm chip area. This integrated chip is composed of a set of perfectly vertical grating couplers, interleaved angled‐MMI wavelength division (de)multiplexers, silicon E‐O modulators, and germanium waveguide photodetectors. The multiplexer exhibits an IL of (4.5–5.8) dB and average crosstalk ≈−20 dB. Due to the limited bandwidth of the 2‐D GC, the IL of the demultiplexer is 5.17 dB at minimum, with a channel nonuniformity of 5.53 dB. The EO modulator and germanium waveguide PD exhibit 3‐dB bandwidths of 45 and 47 GHz, respectively. With a customized fiber array packaged, a back‐to‐back data transmission capacity of 1.56 and 1.42 Tb/s with BERs below the SD‐FEC limit is demonstrated for the transmitter and receiver, respectively. By connecting the transmitter and receiver, the dynamic performance of the transceiver chip is characterized, and the total data capacity of eight wavelength channels is 1.18 Tb/s. To show the advantage of transmission distance, 2 and 10 km SMF transmission experiments are also carried out. Through close integration with matched electronic circuits, the data capacity of this transceiver chip can be potentially boomed to 1.6 Tb/s.
Ethanol‐Induced Reversible Phase Transition in Antimony Halides for Morse Code Anti‐Counterfeiting and Optical Logic Gates
Authors: Zang Zhigang , Liang Dehai , Shi Yingrui , Liu Zhenyu , Li Ru , Qaid Saif M. H. , Cai Wensi
Published: November 2024

Low‐dimensional hybrid organic‐inorganic metal halides (OIMHs) have attracted considerable attention in anti‐counterfeiting due to their non‐toxicity and high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). However, many reported OIMHs are either not reversible or have a poor PLQY. In this study, two antimony‐based halides, (C21H21P)2SbCl5 and (C22H24P)2SbCl5, are synthesized using different organic cations. Both compounds exhibit bright orange–yellow emissions with a PLQY of 82.6% and 83.5%, respectively. The orange–yellow emission of (C21H21P)2SbCl5 and (C22H24P)2SbCl5 are attributed to the radiative recombination of self‐trapping excitons. While (C21H21P)2SbCl5 maintains stable orange–yellow luminescence when exposed to ethanol, (C22H24P)2SbCl5 undergoes a structural transformation to non‐luminescent (C22H24P)2Sb2Cl8 upon ethanol treatment, which can be reverted to its luminescent state by heating. Even after multiple cycles, the PLQY of (C22H24P)2SbCl5 is still over 80%, demonstrating excellent cycling stability. (C21H21P)2SbCl5 and (C22H24P)2SbCl5 are also explored as fluorescent materials for Morse code anti‐counterfeiting and optical logic gate applications. This work offers a completely new option for fluorescent material used for security information.
Quantitative analysis for rod‐shaped inclusion in three‐dimensional conductivity problem
Authors: Deng Youjun , Shokor Ghadir
Published: November 2024

We show a quantitative analysis of the perturbed electric field of a 3D anisotropic conductive rod geometry embedded in homogeneous background, which is an extension of the work in 2D case. The solution to the perturbed problem is presented by layer potential techniques, and dedicated asymptotic analysis is employed for characterization of the density function. The asymptotic result shows that near the high curvature boundary of the rod, the electric field is much strong, compared with other parts adjacent to the rod.
Adolescent and Parent Experiences and Perceived Effectiveness of Physical Interventions for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Joslin Rhiannon , Roberts Lisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

There is a paucity of evidence on the effectiveness of physical interventions for chronic musculoskeletal pain affecting adolescents. This study explored adolescent and parent experiences and perceived effectiveness of physical intervention for chronic musculoskeletal pain in the UK.

Methods

Using semi‐structured interviews, 21 young people receiving treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain and 21 parents were interviewed regarding their healthcare experiences. Data regarding experiences of physical interventions were analysed in this secondary qualitative analysis using inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes that captured why adolescents and parents perceived physical interventions to be effective or not were (1) feeling in control, (2) the right person and an explanation that makes sense and (3) make a difference to me not my foot.

Discussion

Core concepts that appeared to influence the perceived effectiveness of physical interventions from the perspectives of adolescents and parents included facilitating adolescent autonomy, establishing a therapeutic alliance on the basis of trust and focusing physiotherapy treatment on meaningful participation in life.

Conclusion

There were no ideal physical interventions. The themes convey the importance of therapeutic alliance, intervention context and the need for personalised care.
A 40‐week phase 2B randomized, multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study evaluating the safety and efficacy of memantine in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Bhai Salman , Levine Todd , Moore Dan , Bowser Robert , Heim Andrew J. , Walsh Maureen , Shibani Aziz , Simmons Zachary , Grogan James , Goyal Namita A. , Govindarajan Raghav , Hussain Yessar , Papsdorf Tania , Schwasinger‐Schmidt Tiffany , Olney Nick , Goslin Kim , Pulley Michael , Kasarskis Edward , Weiss Michael , Katz Susan W. , Moser Suzan , Jabari Duaa , Jawdat Omar , Statland Jeffrey , Dimachkie Mazen M. , Barohn Richard ,   the Neuromuscular Study Group and Western ALS Consortium Memantine ALS Study Group
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease with no known cure, limited treatment options with minimal benefits, and significant unmet need for disease modifying therapies.

Aims

This study investigated memantine's impact on ALS progression, with an additional focus on the effects of memantine on cognitive and behavioral changes associated with the disease.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was conducted from December 2018 to September 2020. ALS patients were enrolled in‐person and remotely across 13 sites in the United States. Participants were randomized to memantine (20 mg twice daily) or placebo in a 2:1 ratio and completed 36 weeks of treatment. The primary outcome of disease progression was assessed by the Revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS‐R), and blood was collected for biomarker analysis.

Results

Of the 99 participants enrolled in the study, 89 were randomized to memantine or placebo (ages 24–83 years, male‐to‐female ratio ~3:2). Fifty‐two participants completed the study treatment with no significant differences in disease progression, biomarker changes (including neurofilament light chain [NfL]), or neuropsychiatric testing noted between the groups. Initial NfL values correlated with the rate of ALSFRS‐R decline.

Discussion

In this study, memantine did not impact ALS disease progression or neuropsychiatric symptoms. Trials with remote enrollment may help trial participation and success.
A Novel Hydro‐Grain‐Texture Model to Unveil the Impact of Mineral Grain Anisotropy on Fluid‐Driven Cracking Processes in Crystalline Rock
Authors: Wang Suifeng , Yasuhara Hideaki , Zhuang Li , Zhao Xianyu , Zhang Liping , Wang Tao
Published: November 2024

The anisotropy at the grain scale significantly impacts cracking behavior of crystalline rocks. However, the anisotropy of mineral structure, especially the grain shape and orientation has been inadequately addressed in studies on hydraulic fracturing. To bridge this gap, this paper introduces a coupled hydro‐grain‐texture model (HGTM) based on discrete element model (DEM) that investigates the influence of grain shape and orientation on fluid‐driven cracking processes in crystalline rock. The HGTM can consider the different mineral grain shapes and orientations by changing the aspect ratio and rotating coordinate axes. Our studies covered six distinct in‐situ stresses, three grain shapes, and five grain orientations. Initially, we present a comprehensive examination of the microcracking processes of hydraulic fracturing. Then the influences of in‐situ stress, grain shape, and grain orientation on cracking processes were studied. The results underscore that both mineral grain and in‐situ stress interplay to influence the hydraulic fracturing of the crystalline rocks. The proposed HGTM can well mimic the propagation process of hydraulic fracturing by comparing with the experimental results and the results reveal that hydraulic fracturing in crystalline rocks is a highly complex process. This research clarifies the complex interplay between grain texture and hydraulic fracturing, offering invaluable insights for optimizing stimulation practices.
Assessing the Bactericidal Effectiveness of Clove Oil Nanoemulsion‐Loaded Polycaprolactone Nanofibers for Eco‐Friendly and Endurable Food Packaging
Authors: Kenawy El‐Refaie , Hemdan Bahaa A. , Abdel‐Sattar Raghda , Khairallah Mohamed R. , Shendy Samah , Morsy Osama M. , El‐Naggar Mehrez E.
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the possible use of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber loaded with different concentrations of clove oil (CO) as an antimicrobial bioactive agent for utilization in food packaging. CO nanoemulsions were prepared using various concentrations of CO resulting in small, spherically‐shaped particles. The codes (CO‐1, CO‐2, and CO‐3) were given to these nanoemulsions, which had relative diameters of 69 nm, 71 nm, and 150 nm, respectively. After adding CO nanoemulsion to PCL solutions, the resulting nanofiber samples (PCL‐CO 1, PCL‐CO 2, and PCL‐CO 3), showed contact angle values (131.1°, 125.1°, and 117.4°) than the unmodified PCL nanofibers without CO (PCL ‐base; 140.5°). These obtained nanofibers exhibited smooth feature. Additionally, evaluations of thermal stability revealed that PCL loaded with CO exhibited higher thermal resistance when compared to PCL nanofibers without CO loading (PCL base). The antibacterial assessments conducted on these nanofibers revealed that their efficiency against typical food spoilage bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus subtilis, improved as the concentration of CO increased. Surprisingly, the most inhibitory impact was seen at greater CO concentrations, with bacterial counts being considerably reduced by 6.5 log10 CFU/mL. Significantly, the PCL‐CO 3 nanofiber composite showed encouraging characteristics that point to its possible use in reducing the growth of microorganisms in food packaging environments. These results highlight the potential use of PCL nanofibers loaded with CO (PCL‐CO 3 in particular) as multi‐purposes antibacterial agent appropriate for using in food packaging.
Preparation of a New Hydrophobic Modified Starch and Its Effect on Paper Properties
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhao WenGuang , Zhang Yazeng , Lin Benping , Zhu Hongwei , Deng Fengwei , Chen Qi‐Jie
Published: November 2024

Petroleum‐based compounds are widely used to enhance the hydrophobicity of paper but compromise its biodegradability. The development of biocompatible natural materials for the hydrophobic treatment of paper is of great significance. This study used corn starch (St) as raw material and prepared double‐modified starch (PT‐St) through dual modification of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and tetradecyl succinic anhydride (TDSA). The conditions for double modification starch were optimized through single‐factor and orthogonal experiments. The effects of PT‐St modified starch on the mechanical properties, hydrophobicity, and barrier properties of different paper types were studied. The results showed that the tensile index of 100% waste pulp (WEP), wood pulp (hardwood pulp: softwood pulp = 7:3) (WDP), and 100% bamboo pulp (BOP) coated with PT‐St increased by 44.11%, 37.41%, and 20.39%, respectively, and the contact angle was 118.42°, 120.17° and 122.37°, respectively. The water vapor transmission rate decreased by 35.03%, 20.32% and 21.83%, respectively. This new hydrophobic‐enhanced modified starch has considerable potential application potential in food packaging paper.