bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous crosslinking and foaming of ethylene‐propylene diene terpolymers (EPDM) organoclay composite foams
Authors: Gupta Arvind , Jonoobi Mehdi , Mekonnen Tizazu H.
Published: July 2023

This study used ethylene‐propylene diene monomers (EPDM), an elastomer, to develop foams incorporating clay as filler using simple compounding, chemical foaming, and peroxide‐mediated light crosslinking methods. The low‐temperature batch mixer was employed for compounding azodicarbonamide (ADC) as a foaming agent, dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as a crosslinker, followed by compression molding for sheet preparation and the high‐temperature foaming process. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) equipped with a hot stage attenuated total reflection (ATR) was employed to elucidate the ADC decomposition and foaming. The DCP (0.25 phr) content was optimized based on the foaming expansion ratio (>4) and stability, which was further optimized in conjuncture with clay to generate high‐performance composite foams. The incorporation of 1% organoclay enhances the expansion ratio and specific tensile strength by >7 and ~ 270%, respectively, compared with EPDM foams without clay while displaying a density of 0.11 g/cm3. Overall, the developed foaming process can be extended to other elastomeric polymers for various applications such as protective gears (e.g., helmets and shin guards), thermal/sound insulation, packaging/containment, footwear soles, oil absorption, etc.
What can hippopotamus isotopes tell us about past distributions of C4 grassy biomes on Madagascar?
Authors: Crowley Brooke Erin , Godfrey Laurie Rohde , Samonds Karen Elizabeth
Published: July 2023

Societal Impact Statement

Today, expansive C4 grassy biomes exist across central, western, and northern Madagascar. Some researchers have argued that the island's now‐extinct pygmy hippopotamuses belonged to a megaherbivore grazing guild that maintained these grasslands prior to human arrival. However, the chemistry of hippo bones indicates that C4 grasses were only a minor part of hippo diet. This, in turn, suggests that C4 grasses were present but not widespread when hippos were alive and that grasses expanded only after Malagasy people shifted from hunting and foraging to agropastoralism approximately 1000 years ago. These results have important implications for environmental reconstructions and biodiversity management.

Extinct hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus spp.) were part of Madagascar's megaherbivore guild. Stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes in radiometrically dated bone collagen track spatial and temporal variation in diet and habitat. If hippos helped maintain C4 grassy biomes, then they should have regularly consumed C4 grasses, which have high δ13C values. However, if expansive C4 grassy biomes are anthropogenic, then forests would have been more extensive in the past, and hippos would have predominantly consumed C3 plants with low δ13C values. Nitrogen isotopes can clarify foraging habitat (moist or dry).

We assessed δ13C and δ15N values for hippos from different ecoregions of Madagascar and compared these with data for extinct herbivorous lemurs from the same ecoregions. We further explored the effects of wet/dry transitions on isotopic trends for hippos from the central highlands and spiny thicket ecoregions.

Carbon isotopes suggest (1) limited C4 consumption by hippos in the central highlands, dry deciduous forest, and succulent woodland ecoregions; and (2) moderate consumption of C4 resources in the spiny thicket. Nitrogen data indicate that hippos foraged in wetter habitats than sympatric lemurs in all regions.

Malagasy hippos did not regularly graze C4 grasses in dry, open habitats, even in regions blanketed by C4 grassy biomes today. Malagasy grasses are adapted to grazing and fire, but these are likely ancient adaptations that accompanied grasses when they initially spread to Madagascar. C4 grassy biomes were spatially limited in extent in the past and only expanded after the Late Holocene introduction of domesticated ungulates.
Characteristics of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension from an innovative, comprehensive real‐world patient data repository
Authors: Farber Harrison W. , Chakinala Murali M. , Cho Michelle , Frantz Robert P. , Frick Andrew , Lancaster Lisa , Milligan Scott , Oudiz Ronald , Panjabi Sumeet , Tsang Yuen , Nathan Steven D.
Published: July 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, life‐limiting disease. PAH registries provide real‐world data that complement clinical trial data and inform treatment decisions. The TRIO comprehensive, integrated patient data repository (TRIO CIPDR), is an innovative US repository capturing data on contemporary patients diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and receiving US Food and Drug Administration‐approved PAH therapies. This repository uniquely combines clinical data from electronic medical records with the ability to track drug‐prescription and drug‐dispensing characteristics, and includes 946 adult patients with PAH (data collected January 2019 to December 2020) enrolled from nine representative US specialist tertiary care centers. Potentially eligible patients were identified based on dispensing data from specialty pharmacies. Hemodynamic and clinical data, as well as dispensing information on prescribed PAH medications, were provided by tertiary centers. At enrollment, 75% of patients were female, 67% were White, median age at PAH diagnosis was 53 years (median time from diagnosis to enrollment was 5 years), and 37% were obese. Comorbidity profiles were as expected for a PAH population, although the proportion with atrial fibrillation (34%) was higher than expected. Overall, 38% of patients had idiopathic PAH and 30% had connective tissue disease‐related PAH. Among 917 patients receiving PAH‐specific therapy, 40% were on monotherapy, 43% on dual therapy, and 17% on triple therapy. Longitudinal data from this repository will allow tracking of the PAH treatment journey in relation to clinical characteristics and outcomes.
Pyridine Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes: Unveiling the Role of External Pyridinic Nitrogen Sites for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Xu Yue , Xie Ruikuan , Li Qi , Feng Jingyu , Luo Hui , Ye Qingyu , Guo Zhenyu , Cao Ye , Palma Matteo , Chai Guoliang , Titirici Maria‐Magdalena , Jones Christopher R
Published: July 2023

Pyridinic nitrogen has been recognized as the primary active site in nitrogen‐doped carbon electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which is a critical process in many renewable energy devices. However, the preparation of nitrogen‐doped carbon catalysts comprised of exclusively pyridinic nitrogen remains challenging, as well as understanding the precise ORR mechanisms on the catalyst. Herein, a novel process is developed using pyridyne reactive intermediates to functionalize carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exclusively with pyridine rings for ORR electrocatalysis. The relationship between the structure and ORR performance of the prepared materials is studied in combination with density functional theory calculations to probe the ORR mechanism on the catalyst. Pyridinic nitrogen can contribute to a more efficient 4‐electron reaction pathway, while high level of pyridyne functionalization result in negative structural effects, such as poor electrical conductivity, reduced surface area, and small pore diameters, that suppressed the ORR performance. This study provides insights into pyridine‐doped CNTs‐functionalized for the first time via pyridyne intermediates‐as applied in the ORR and is expected to serve as valuable inspiration in designing high‐performance electrocatalysts for energy applications.
Metal Ion‐induced Gelation of High‐concentration Graphite‐like Crystalline Nanosheet Aqueous Suspensions
Authors: Yang Mengmei , Zuo Songlin , Hu Xin
Published: July 2023

The stability and transformation of nanomaterial aqueous suspensions are essential for their applications. Preparation of high‐concentration carbon nanomaterials suspensions remains challenging due to their nonpolar nature. Herein, 200 mg mL−1 carbon nanomaterial aqueous suspensions are achieved by using graphite‐like crystalline nanosheets (GCNs) with high hydrophilicity. Furthermore, these high‐concentration GCN aqueous suspensions spontaneously transform into gels when induced by mono‐, di‐, and trivalent metal salt electrolytes at room temperature. Theoretical calculation of potential energy by DLVO theory reveals that the gelatinized GCNs is a new and metastable state between two usual forms of solution and coagulation. It is shown that the gelation of GCNs is due to the preferential orientation of nanosheets in an edge‐edge arrangement, which differs from the case of solution and coagulation. High‐temperature treatment of GCN gels produces metal/carbon materials with pore structures. This work provides a promising opportunity to create various metal/carbon functional materials.
Visualizing the Interfacial Chemistry in Multivalent Metal Anodes by Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Lin Huijun , Yu Jingya , Chen Feiyang , Li Renjie , Xia Bao Yu , Xu Zheng‐Long
Published: July 2023

Multivalent metal batteries (MMBs) have been considered potentially high‐energy and low‐cost alternatives to commercial Li‐ion batteries, thus attracting tremendous research interest for energy‐storage applications. However, the plating and stripping of multivalent metals (i.e., Zn, Ca, Mg) suffer from low Coulombic efficiencies and short cycle life, which are largely rooted in the unstable solid electrolyte interphase. Apart from exploring new electrolytes or artificial layers for robust interphases, fundamental works on deciphering interfacial chemistry have also been conducted. This work is dedicated to summarizing the state‐of‐the‐art advances in understanding the interphases for multivalent metal anodes revealed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. Operando and cryogenic TEM with high spatial and temporal resolutions realize the dynamic visualization of the vulnerable chemical structures in interphase layers. Following a scrutinization of the interphases on different metal anodes, we elucidate their features for appealing multivalent metal anodes. Finally, perspectives are proposed for the remaining issues on analyzing and regulating interphases for practical MMBs.
Catalytic Pollutant Upgrading to Dual‐Asymmetric MnO2@polymer Nanotubes as Self‐Propelled and Controlled Micromotors for H2O2 Decomposition
Authors: Yang Yangyang , Hu Kunsheng , Zhu Zhong‐Shuai , Yao Yu , Zhang Panpan , Zhou Peng , Huo Pengwei , Duan Xiaoguang , Sun Hongqi , Wang Shaobin
Published: July 2023

Industrial and disinfection wastewater typically contains high levels of organic pollutants and residue hydrogen peroxide, which have caused environmental concerns. In this work, dual‐asymmetric MnO2@polymer microreactors are synthesized via pollutant polymerization for self‐driven and controlled H2O2 decomposition. A hollow and asymmetric MnO2 nanotube is derived from MnO2 nanorods by selective acid etching and then coated by a polymeric layer from an aqueous phenolic pollutant via catalytic peroxymonosulfate (PMS)‐induced polymerization. The evolution of particle‐like polymers is controlled by solution pH, molar ratios of PMS/phenol, and reaction duration. The polymer‐covered MnO2 tubing‐structured micromotors presented a controlled motion velocity, due to the reverse torque driven by the O2 bubbles from H2O2 decomposition in the inner tunnels. In addition, the partially coated polymeric layer can regulate the exposure and population of Mn active sites to control the H2O2 decomposition rate, thus avoiding violent motions and massive heat caused by vigorous H2O2 decomposition. The microreactors can maintain the function of mobility in an ultra‐low H2O2 environment (<0.31 wt.%). This work provides a new strategy for the transformation of micropollutants to functional polymer‐based microreactors for safe and controlled hydrogen peroxide decomposition for environmental remediation.
Supported Noble Metal Catalysts and Adsorbents with Soft Lewis Acid Functions
Authors: Murayama Haruno , Huang Qi‐An , Yamamoto Eiji , Tokunaga Makoto , Ishida Tamao , Okumura Mitsutaka , Honma Tetsuo , Fujitani Tadahiro , Isogai Atsuko
Published: July 2023

Heterogeneous noble metal catalysts exhibit various functions. Although their redox functions have been extensively studied, we focused on their soft Lewis acid functions. Supported Au, Pt, and Pd catalysts electrophilically attack the π‐electrons of soft bases such as alkynes, alkenes, and aromatic compounds to perform addition and substitution reactions. Hydroamination, intramolecular cyclization of alkynyl carboxylic acids, isomerization of allylic esters, vinyl exchange reactions, Wacker oxidation, and oxidative homocoupling of aromatics are introduced based on a discussion of the active species and reaction mechanisms. Furthermore, the adsorption of sulfur compounds, which are soft bases, onto the supported AuNPs is discussed. The adsorption and removal of 1,3‐dimethyltrisulfane (DMTS), which is the compound responsible for the stale odor of “hine‐ka” in alcoholic beverages, particularly Japanese sake, is described.
Climate change impacts on crop breeding: Targeting interacting biotic and abiotic stresses for wheat improvement
Authors: Robles‐Zazueta Carlos A. , Crespo‐Herrera Leonardo A. , Piñera‐Chavez Francisco J. , Rivera‐Amado Carolina , Aradottir Gudbjorg I.
Published: July 2023

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as a staple crop is closely interwoven into the development of modern society. Its influence on culture and economic development is global. Recent instability in wheat markets has demonstrated its importance in guaranteeing food security across national borders. Climate change threatens food security as it interacts with a multitude of factors impacting wheat production. The challenge needs to be addressed with a multidisciplinary perspective delivered across research, private, and government sectors. Many experimental studies have identified the major biotic and abiotic stresses impacting wheat production, but fewer have addressed the combinations of stresses that occur simultaneously or sequentially during the wheat growth cycle. Here, we argue that biotic and abiotic stress interactions, and the genetics and genomics underlying them, have been insufficiently addressed by the crop science community. We propose this as a reason for the limited transfer of practical and feasible climate adaptation knowledge from research projects into routine farming practice. To address this gap, we propose that novel methodology integration can align large volumes of data available from crop breeding programs with increasingly cheaper omics tools to predict wheat performance under different climate change scenarios. Underlying this is our proposal that breeders design and deliver future wheat ideotypes based on new or enhanced understanding of the genetic and physiological processes that are triggered when wheat is subjected to combinations of stresses. By defining this to a trait and/or genetic level, new insights can be made for yield improvement under future climate conditions.
Christine Gibbs
Authors: Frances  , Barr Alistair , Bradley Kate , Darke Peter , Gruffydd‐Jones Tim , Herrtage Michael , Holt Peter , Kelly Donald , Lane Geoff , McAllister Hester , Orr Simon , Patteson Mark , Sullivan Martin , Wotton Paul
Published: July 2023

A pioneer of veterinary radiology, she was a born teacher and a role model.
Explaining the cost of veterinary care
Authors: Lacey Hannah
Published: July 2023

Membership and policy project manager Hannah Lacey discusses BVA's latest resource to support members with potentially tricky discussions.
Effectiveness of chlorhexidine diacetate and povidone‐iodine in antiseptic preparation of the canine external ear canal prior to total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy procedure: A preliminary study
Authors: Nye Alicia K. , Rogovskyy Artem , Lazarus Matthew A. , Amore Riley , Mankin Kelley M. Thieman
Published: July 2023

Objective

This article is a preliminary study to compare the ability of 0.05% chlorhexidine diacetate (CD) and 1% povidone‐iodine (PI) solutions to reduce bacterial contamination on the canine external ear canal during initial patient preparation and comparison of the incidence of immediate tissue reactions.

Study design

The study is a multi‐institutional, randomised, clinical prospective study.

Animals or sample population

Dogs (n= 19) undergoing total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy (TECABO).

Methods

The external ear of each dog was cleaned with the assigned antiseptic solution. Culture of the ear was performed by standard techniques to semi‐quantitatively evaluate bacterial growth and to identify bacterial organisms pre‐ and post‐antiseptic use.

Results

Both antiseptic groups showed a significant reduction in bacterial growth score (BGS) between pre‐ and post‐antiseptic use (CDp= 0.009, PI p = 0.005). There was no difference in the reduction of BGS between CD and PI solutions (p= 0.53). Minor adverse skin reactions occurred in 25% of cases. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of adverse skin reactions between antiseptics (p= 0.63).

Conclusion

CD and PI were similarly able to decrease the number of bacteria on the external ear following initial preparation. No difference in the incidence of adverse tissue reactions was found.

Clinical significance

Properly diluted aqueous formulations of either antiseptic may be used for safe preparation limited to the external ear canal of dogs. Additional studies evaluating outcomes such as duration of bacterial inhibition and incidence of surgical site infections are needed to fully elucidate differences between CD and PI antiseptics prior to TECABO.
Actinobacillus lignieresii‐associated myocellulitis of the nasal planum in a Jersey cow
Authors: Agerholm Jørgen S. , Damborg Peter , Bennedsgaard Torben W.
Published: July 2023

Actinobacillus lignieresii is a normal part of the oral bacterial flora of cattle, but may cause infection if the mucosal barrier is interrupted. Here, we report a case of diffuse myocellulitis in the nasal planum without development of granulomas on its surface. A Jersey cow was presented with hypersalivation and a firm, painless, diffuse almost symmetrical swelling of the nasal planum with moderate hyperaemia. The cow was slaughtered and the head was examined. Histopathology of the nasal planum revealed widespread severe pyogranulomatous inflammation with clusters of bacteria and Splendore–Hoeppli material with extensive diffuse fibrosis and loss of muscle tissue. A. lignieresii was isolated in monoculture by bacteriology. The appearance of the condition differed from previously reported cases, as protruding granulomas were not present and the tissue reaction affected the entire nasal planum in a uniform way. Actinobacillosis should be considered in cases of firm enlargement of the nasal planum in cattle.
Insufficient effect of sedation followed by difficulties inducing a colicking Shetland pony
Authors: Veen Iris , de Grauw Janny
Published: July 2023

A Shetland pony suspected of large intestinal displacement was presented for exploratory laparotomy. The pony was extremely agitated with refractory pain despite repeated intravenous administration of detomidine and morphine. As the pony became unmanageable and recumbent, it was decided to induce general anaesthesia as soon as possible to prevent further harm. However, it subsequently proved impossible to obtain adequate anaesthetic depth despite intravenous administration of ketamine/midazolam, propofol and thiopental. Only after endotracheal intubation and administration of isoflurane was a surgical plane of anaesthesia achieved. An anaesthetist may be faced with an unexpected lack of effect of administered anaesthetic drugs, which in equine anaesthesia may lead to dangerous situations for patients and personnel. Possible explanations for the observed events and recommendations for prevention are offered.
Intranasal delivery of stem cells labeled by nanoparticles in neurodegenerative disorders: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Alizadeh Rafieh , Asghari Alimohamad , Taghizadeh‐Hesary Farzad , Moradi Salah , Farhadi Mohammad , Mehdizadeh Mehdi , Simorgh Sara , Nourazarian Alireza , Shademan Behrouz , Susanabadi Alireza , Kamrava Kamran
Published: July 2023

Neurodegenerative disorders occur through progressive loss of function or structure of neurons, with loss of sensation and cognition values. The lack of successful therapeutic approaches to solve neurologic disorders causes physical disability and paralysis and has a significant socioeconomic impact on patients. In recent years, nanocarriers and stem cells have attracted tremendous attention as a reliable approach to treating neurodegenerative disorders. In this regard, nanoparticle‐based labeling combined with imaging technologies has enabled researchers to survey transplanted stem cells and fully understand their fate by monitoring their survival, migration, and differentiation. For the practical implementation of stem cell therapies in the clinical setting, it is necessary to accurately label and follow stem cells after administration. Several approaches to labeling and tracking stem cells using nanotechnology have been proposed as potential treatment strategies for neurological diseases. Considering the limitations of intravenous or direct stem cell administration, intranasal delivery of nanoparticle‐labeled stem cells in neurological disorders is a new method of delivering stem cells to the central nervous system (CNS). This review describes the challenges and limitations of stem cell‐based nanotechnology methods for labeling/tracking, intranasal delivery of cells, and cell fate regulation as theragnostic labeling.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease
Modeling of Inhomogeneous Spatio-Temporal Signals by Least Squares Collocation
Authors: Schuh Wolf-Dieter , Korte Johannes , Schubert Till , Brockmann Jan Martin
Published: July 2023

Through inverse modeling and adjustment techniques, the geodesists try to derive mathematical models from their measurements to get a better understanding of various processes in the system Earth. Sophisticated deterministic and stochastic models are developed to achieve the best possible reflection of reality and the remaining uncertainty.

The main focus of this article is on the further development of stochastic model representations, with the capability to switch from the usual assumption of homogeneous (time-stationary) to inhomogeneous (time-variable) stochastic models. To accomplish this we build up and extend a methodical framework to connect the filter and the covariance approach represented by time-variable autoregressive processes (AR) and time-variable (inhomogeneous) covariance models for least squares collocation.

We apply these time-variable covariance models to describe the temporal component of a spatio-temporal point stack of surface displacements derived from a DInSAR-SBAS analysis of the ERS1 and ERS2 missions from the Lower-Rhine Embayment in North Rhine-Westphalia. The construction of a time-variable spatio-temporal covariance model allows to use the least squares collocation approach to predict the vertical movements at any location and at any time. Furthermore, a report on the uncertainty of the prediction is provided.
Einleitung
Authors: Schlüter Saskia
Published: July 2023

Bei Betrachtung der aktuellen fachwissenschaftlichen Diskurse zu Themen der Diagnostik und Förderung sprachlich-kommunikativer Kompetenzen lässt sich eindeutig eine pädagogische Prägung (von Knebel 2013; Kracht 2010) feststellen. Von diesem pädagogischen Standpunkt aus wird die sprachliche Handlungsfähigkeit von Kindern in ihrer alltäglichen Lebenssituation (von Knebel 2013, 231) fokussiert. Dies bedeutet, dass diagnostisch nicht nur die Regelhaftigkeiten der Sprache und des Sprechens betrachtet werden.
Das Konstrukt der alltäglichen Lebenssituation
Authors: Schlüter Saskia
Published: July 2023

Im vorliegenden Kapitel werden im Hinblick auf die Beantwortung der ersten Forschungsfrage nach den Konstruktionsfaktoren von alltäglicher Lebenssituation die theoretischen Bezugssysteme der vorliegenden Arbeit untersucht. Ziel der Untersuchung ist es, herauszuarbeiten, wie alltägliche Lebenssituation vom Subjekt konstruiert wird. Um Erkenntnisse zu gewinnen, die der Beantwortung der ersten Forschungsfrage zugrunde liegen, wird das vorliegende Kapitel wie folgt gegliedert: Zunächst erfolgt eine theoretische Auseinandersetzung mit dem Konstrukt alltägliche Lebenssituation.
Implikationen für die pädagogische Sprachdiagnostik und pädagogische Sprachförderung sowie für zukünftige Forschungsfelder auf Basis der Befunde der vorliegenden Arbeit
Authors: Schlüter Saskia
Published: July 2023

Das vorliegende Kapitel gibt auf Basis der vorherigen Ausführungen zur Reflexion und Diskussion der Vorgehensweise und Ergebnisse der vorliegenden Arbeit einen Ausblick auf Implikationen für das Aufgabenfeld der pädagogischen Sprachdiagnostik und pädagogischen Sprachförderung. Daran anschließend werden Implikationen für zukünftige Forschungsfelder beschrieben.
Neutrinoless double beta decays tell nature of right-handed neutrinos
Authors: Asaka Takehiko , Ishida Hiroyuki , Tanaka Kazuki
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We consider the minimal seesaw model, the Standard Model extended by two right-handed neutrinos, for explaining the neutrino masses and mixing angles measured in oscillation experiments. When one of right-handed neutrinos is lighter than the electroweak scale, it can give a sizable contribution to neutrinoless double beta (0νββ) decay. We show that the detection of the 0νββ decay by future experiments gives a significant implication to the search for such a light right-handed neutrino.
Combining transcriptomics and metabolomics to identify key response genes for aluminum toxicity in the root system of Brassica napus L. seedlings
Authors: Li Chenyang , Shi Hongsong , Xu Lu , Xing Mingli , Wu Xiaoru , Bai Yansong , Niu Mengyuan , Gao Junqi , Zhou Qingyuan , Cui Cui
Published: July 2023

Key Message

By integrating QTL mapping, transcriptomics and metabolomics, 138 hub genes were identified in rapeseed root response to aluminum stress and mainly involved in metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and secondary metabolites.

Aluminum (Al) toxicity has become one of the important abiotic stress factors in areas with acid soil, which hinders the absorption of water and nutrients by roots, and consequently retards the growth of crops. A deeper understanding of the stress-response mechanism of Brassica napus may allow us to identify the tolerance gene(s) and use this information in breeding-resistant crop varieties. In this study, a population of 138 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) was subjected to aluminum stress, and QTL (quantitative trait locus) mapping was used to preliminarily locate quantitative trait loci related to aluminum stress. Root tissues from seedlings of an aluminum-resistant (R) line and an aluminum-sensitive (S) line from the RIL population were harvested for transcriptome sequencing and metabolome determination. By combining the data on quantitative trait genes (QTGs), differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), key candidate genes related to aluminum tolerance in rapeseed were determined. The results showed that there were 3186 QTGs in the RIL population, 14,232 DEGs and 457 DAMs in the comparison between R and S lines. Lastly, 138 hub genes were selected to have a strong positive or negative correlation with 30 important metabolites (|R|≥ 0.95). These genes were mainly involved in the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and secondary metabolites in response to Al toxicity stress. In summary, this study provides an effective method for screening key genes by combining QTLs, transcriptome sequencing and metabolomic analysis, but also lists key genes for exploring the molecular mechanism of Al tolerance in rapeseed seedling roots.
Predictors of outcome for treatment of enterovaginal fistula
Authors: Drefs Moritz , Schömer Cuenca Sebastian , Wirth Ulrich , Kühn Florian , Burian Maria , Werner Jens , Zimmermann Petra
Published: July 2023

Background

Enterovaginal fistulas represent a serious complication of various diseases and therapeutic procedures, often associated with complicated clinical courses and massive impairment of quality of life. As underlying conditions and procedures are multifarious, therapeutic approaches are challenging and have to be tailored individually. As the therapeutic management is complex and individualized, multiple surgical interventions might be necessary.

Methods

The aim of this study was to identify possible predictors for outcome in the treatment enterovaginal fistula patients. The study was realized as a retrospective analysis. Ninety-two patients treated with enterovaginal fistulas between 2004 and 2016 were analyzed. Patient characteristics, therapeutic data, and endoscopic findings were stratified according to etiology, closure rate and time, as well as recurrence of fistula. Main outcome measure was the overall rate of fistula closure.

Results

Overall therapeutic success rate was 67.4%. Postoperatively derived fistulas were most frequent (40.2%), mainly after rectal surgery (59.5%). Postoperative and non-IBD-inflammation associated fistulas had better outcome than IBD-, radiotherapy-, and tumor-related fistulas (p = 0.001). Successful fistula closure was observed more frequently after radical surgical interventions, best results observed after transabdominal surgery (p < 0.001). Fistula recurrence was also less frequently observed after radical surgical therapies (p = 0.029). A temporary stoma was associated with higher incidence of fistula closure (p = 0.013) and lower incidence of fistula recurrence (p = 0.042) in the postoperative subgroup, as well as shortened therapy period in all groups (p = 0.031).

Conclusion

Enterovaginal fistulas are a result of various etiologies, and treatment should be adjusted accordingly. A very sustainable, rapid, and persistent therapeutic success can be expected after radical surgical approaches with temporary diverting stoma. This is especially true for postoperatively derived fistulas.
Retrospective clinical and X-ray-based outcome analysis of a short-stem hip arthroplasty taking into account the operative learning curve over 7 years in the 3-year control course
Authors: Jahnke Alexander , Köther-Herrmann Jan , Fonseca Ulloa Carlos A. , Harz Torben , Rickert Markus , Ishaque Bernd Alexander
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Self-monitoring is crucial to work progressively with a high-quality standard. A retrospective analysis is a valuable tool for studying the postoperative outcome of a prosthesis and for evaluating the learning process for the surgeon.

Materials and methods

The learning process of one surgeon was analysed in 133 cases of hip arthroplasty. These were divided into seven groups representing the surgical years 2008–2014. Over the course of 3 postoperative years, a total of 655 radiographs were analysed at regarding three radiological quality parameters (centrum-collum-diaphyseal angle (CCD angle), intramedullary fit&fill ratio (FFR), and migration) and ancillary outcome parameters (Harris Hip Score (HHS), blood loss, operating time, and complications). This period was divided into five times: 1st-day post-op, 6 M, 12 M, 24 M, and 36 M. Bivariate Spearman's correlation analysis and pairwise comparisons were performed.

Results

The total collective achieved a proximal FFR of over 0.8. The distal prosthesis tip migrated and was located on the lateral cortex within the first months. The CCD angle initially showed a variation with a subsequent constant course. The HHS showed a significant increase (p < 0.001) to over 90 points postoperatively. Over time, the operating time and blood loss decreased. Intraoperative complications existed only at the beginning of the learning phase. A learning curve effect can be determined for almost all parameters by comparing the subject groups.

Conclusions

Operative expertise was shown to gain through a learning curve, whereby postoperative results corresponded to the system philosophy of the short hip stem prosthesis. The distal FFR and the distal lateral distance could represent the principle of the prosthesis, which overall could be an interesting approach for verification of a new parameter.
Validated method for polystyrene nanoplastic separation in aqueous matrices by asymmetric-flow field flow fraction coupled to MALS and UV–Vis detectors
Authors: H.Valido Iris , Fuentes-Cebrian Victor , Hernández Alba , Valiente Manuel , López-Mesas Montserrat
Published: July 2023

Plastics with nanosize (nanoplastics, NPLs) must be characterized, since they can be toxic or act as carriers of organic and inorganic pollutants, but there is a lack of reference materials and validated methods in the nanosize range. Therefore, this study has focused on the development and validation of a separation and size characterization methodology of polystyrene latex nanospheres, by using an asymmetric-flow field flow fraction system coupled to multi-angle light scattering and ultraviolet–visible detectors (AF4-MALS-UV). Hence, this work presents a fully validated methodology in the particle size range 30 to 490 nm, with bias between 95 and 109%, precision between 1 and 18%, LOD and LOQ below 0.2 and 0.3 µg respectively, except for 30-nm standard, for both detectors, and showing stable results for 100 analyses.

Graphical Abstract
Callose deposition analysis with special emphasis on plasmodesmata ultrastructure during megasporogenesis in Sedum (Crassulaceae)
Authors: Brzezicka Emilia , Kozieradzka-Kiszkurno Małgorzata
Published: July 2023

In this study, the results of the first detection of callose within the ovules of the representatives of the family Crassulaceae are presented. This study was carried out on three species of the genus Sedum. Data analysis showed differences in the callose deposition pattern between Sedum hispanicum and Sedum ser. Rupestria species during megasporogenesis. Callose was present mostly in the transversal walls of dyads and tetrads in S. hispanicum. Furthermore, a complete loss of callose from the cell walls of the linear tetrad and a gradual and simultaneous deposition of callose within the nucellus of S. hispanicum were observed. The findings of this study showed the presence of hypostase with callose in the ovules of S. hispanicum, which is not common in other angiosperms. The remaining species tested in this study—Sedum sediforme and Sedum rupestre—showed a typical, well-known callose deposition pattern for plants with the monospore type of megasporogenesis and the Polygonum type of embryo sac. The functional megaspore (FM) in all studied species was located most chalazally. FM is a mononuclear cell, which wall is callose-free in the chalazal pole. The study presents the causes of different patterns of callose deposition within Sedum and their relationship with the systematic position of the study species. Moreover, embryological studies present an argument for excluding callose as a substance that forms an electron-dense material near the plasmodesmata in megaspores of S. hispanicum. This research expands the knowledge about the embryological processes of succulent plants from the family Crassulaceae.
Quality of life and healthcare costs of patients with allergic respiratory diseases: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hillerich Vivienne , Valbert Frederik , Neusser Silke , Pfaar Oliver , Klimek Ludger , Sperl Annette , Werfel Thomas , Hamelmann Eckard , Riederer Cordula , Wobbe-Ribinski Stefanie , Neumann Anja , Wasem Jürgen , Biermann-Stallwitz Janine
Published: July 2023

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and allergic asthma (AA) are chronic respiratory diseases that represent a global health problem. One aim of this study was to analyze the Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of the patients in order to identify statistically significant influencing factors that determine HRQoL. Another aim was to assess and analyze data on cost-of-illness from a statutory health insurance perspective.

Methods

 The EQ-5D-5L was used to evaluate the patients’ HRQoL. To identify the factors influencing the HRQoL, a multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted using groups based on the EQ-5D-5L index value as dependent variable. Routine data were analyzed to determine total healthcare costs.

Results

 The average EQ-5D-5L index was 0.85 (SD 0.20). A high age, the amount of disease costs, low internal health-related control beliefs and high ozone exposure in the residential area were found to be statistically significant influencing factors for a low HRQoL, whereas low age, male sex and a good possibility to avoid the allergens were found to be statistically significant factors influencing a high HRQoL. On average, the study participants incurred annual costs of €3072 (SD: 3485), of which €699 (SD: 743) could be assigned to allergic respiratory diseases.

Conclusions

 Overall, the patients in the VerSITA study showed a high level of HRQoL. The identified influencing factors can be used as starting points for improving the HRQoL of patients with allergic respiratory diseases. From the perspective of a statutory health insurance, per person expenditures for allergic respiratory diseases are rather low.
University students’ beliefs about science and their relationship with knowledge about science
Authors: Schoor Cornelia
Published: July 2023

Science and personal experiences in some cases seem to be two different ways of knowledge justification. The current “post-truth” era is characterized by a rise of personal beliefs and justifications. In order to address these phenomena from a perspective of beliefs, several constructs may be considered: Beliefs about the utility of science and of personal experiences, trust in science, and epistemic beliefs. Despite some research addressing each belief’s independent relation to information seeking behavior, we do not know much about the interrelationship of these beliefs. To address this research gap and to explore whether knowledge about how science works is related to these beliefs, a paper–pencil study with 315 university students of psychology, education, and teacher education was conducted. There was a high positive relationship of trust in science with justification-by-authority beliefs, and medium negative relationships of trust in science with uncertainty beliefs and personal-justification beliefs. Trust in science was positively related to the perceived utility of science. Epistemic beliefs were also related to utility beliefs. The number of methods courses taken and knowledge about how science works was related to trust in science and epistemic beliefs, but not to utility of science or utility of personal experiences. It is concluded that we should revisit our conceptualization of epistemic beliefs in the context of “post-truth”.
Cavity-breeding birds create specific microhabitats for diverse arthropod communities in boreal forests
Authors: Hanzelka Jan , Baroni Daniele , Martikainen Petri , Eeva Tapio , Laaksonen Toni
Published: July 2023

The nests of secondary cavity-nesters located in tree cavities may form specific microhabitats of conservation importance due to their limited accessibility and availability. Species-specific nesting materials in nests of different secondary cavity-nesters may furthermore provide very different microhabitats for arthropods. The potential differences in arthropod communities inhabiting nests of different bird species in excavated cavities or nest boxes have, however, rarely been studied despite their relevance for conservation. Here we investigated the diversity and composition of arthropod communities in these different cavity types and bird species’ nests in managed boreal forests. We identified morphologically and by DNA-metabarcoding arthropods in nest materials that were collected in and compared between (i) woodpecker-size cavities from seven different combinations of cavity type (nest box or excavated cavity), tree species (aspen or pine) and accumulation history of nest materials (single-season cleaned or uncleaned nest boxes that accumulated nests of passerines or an owl species); and (ii) nests of two different passerine species in small nest boxes. We identified 64 arthropod taxa in ten orders, from which Diptera, Coleoptera, Siphonaptera, and Lepidoptera were the most abundant. Shannon diversity index was similar among the cavity-nest-type combinations, but taxa richness was the highest in the owl nests. The arthropod communities (especially Histeridae beetles) deviated most from the other types of nests in owl and aspen cavity nests with more advanced decomposition of nest material (soil or wet environment related taxa). The differences in arthropod communities between the different nest types point out the importance of the ecological chain “tree cavities—bird nests—arthropod communities”.
Exposure to pesticides and risk of Hodgkin lymphoma in an international consortium of agricultural cohorts (AGRICOH)
Authors: Kim Joanne , Leon Maria E. , Schinasi Leah H. , Baldi Isabelle , Lebailly Pierre , Freeman Laura E. Beane , Nordby Karl-Christian , Ferro Gilles , Monnereau Alain , Brouwer Maartje , Kjaerheim Kristina , Hofmann Jonathan N. , Straif Kurt , Kromhout Hans , Schüz Joachim , Togawa Kayo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Some pesticides may increase the risk of certain lymphoid malignancies, but few studies have examined Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). In this exploratory study, we examined associations between agricultural use of 22 individual active ingredients and 13 chemical groups and HL incidence.

Methods

We used data from three agricultural cohorts participating in the AGRICOH consortium: the French Agriculture and Cancer Cohort (2005–2009), Cancer in the Norwegian Agricultural Population (1993–2011), and the US Agricultural Health Study (1993–2011). Lifetime pesticide use was estimated from crop-exposure matrices or self-report. Cohort-specific covariate-adjusted overall and age-specific (< 40 or ≥ 40 years) hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox regression and combined using random effects meta-analysis.

Results

Among 316 270 farmers (75% male) accumulating 3 574 815 person-years at risk, 91 incident cases of HL occurred. We did not observe statistically significant associations for any of the active ingredients or chemical groups studied. The highest risks of HL overall were observed for the pyrethroids deltamethrin (meta-HR = 1.86, 95% CI 0.76–4.52) and esfenvalerate (1.86, 0.78–4.43), and inverse associations of similar magnitude were observed for parathion and glyphosate. Risk of HL at ≥ 40 years of age was highest for ever-use of dicamba (2.04, 0.93–4.50) and lowest for glyphosate (0.46, 0.20–1.07).

Conclusion

We report the largest prospective investigation of these associations. Nonetheless, low statistical power, a mixture of histological subtypes and a lack of information on tumour EBV status complicate the interpretability of the results. Most HL cases occurred at older ages, thus we could not explore associations with adolescent or young adult HL. Furthermore, estimates may be attenuated due to non-differential exposure misclassification. Future work should aim to extend follow-up and refine both exposure and outcome classification.
Insights into the borohydride reduction of dialdehyde cellulose: the dilemma of competing reduction and β-elimination reactions
Authors: Simon Jonas , Fliri Lukas , Fröhlich Flavia , Sapkota Janak , Ristolainen Matti , Hummel Michael , Rosenau Thomas , Potthast Antje
Published: July 2023

Borohydride reduction of dialdehyde cellulose (DAC) is a promising strategy to generate dialcohol cellulose as bio-based alternative to petroleum-based materials. However, the degradation of the polymer backbone according to β-elimination mechanisms limits the practical applications of the reaction. Therefore, we aimed at optimizing the process to suppress degradation reactions by varying reaction time, pH, and reagent stoichiometry. The degree of oxidation (DO) of the DAC intermediates significantly impacts the yields and molecular weights of the isolated dialcohol celluloses, with a “leveling-off” effect at higher DO values. Increasing the amount of sodium borohydride can minimize—but not entirely prevent—chain scissions. Lowering the pH value during reduction slows down the degradation but results in incomplete conversion of the aldehyde functionalities. Our study provides valuable insights into the consequences of side reactions during borohydride reduction of DAC as well as into chemistry and analysis of the dialdehyde cellulose/dialcohol cellulose system.

Graphical abstract

About a dilemma in cellulose chemistry: Dialcohol cellulose derived by periodate oxidation and subsequent borohydride reduction of cellulose has received increasing attention in the development of sustainable thermoplastic materials. The present study highlights the challenge of suppressing β-elimination and favoring the reduction pathway to optimize reaction conditions and minimize chain degradation.
A compactification of the moduli space of multiple-spin curves
Authors: Sertöz Emre Can
Published: July 2023

We construct a smooth Deligne–Mumford compactification for the moduli space of curves with an m-tuple of spin structures using line bundles on quasi-stable curves as limiting objects, as opposed to line bundles on stacky curves. For all m, we give a combinatorial description of the local structure of the corresponding coarse moduli spaces. We also classify all irreducible and connected components of the resulting moduli spaces of multiple-spin curves.
Solubility of Salicylic Acid in Some (Ethanol + Water) Mixtures at Different Temperatures: Determination, Correlation, Thermodynamics and Preferential Solvation
Authors: Akay Sema , Kayan Berkant , Peña María Ángeles , Jouyban Abolghasem , Martínez Fleming
Published: July 2023

Equilibrium mole fraction solubility of salicylic acid in nine aqueous-ethanolic mixtures, as well as in neat water and neat ethanol, was determined at seven temperatures from T = (293.15 to 323.15) K. Salicylic acid solubility in these mixtures was adequately correlated with well-known correlation/prediction methods based on Jouyban-Acree model. Apparent thermodynamic quantities, i.e. Gibbs energy, enthalpy, and entropy, for the dissolution and mixing processes, were computed by means of the van’t Hoff and Gibbs equations. The enthalpy–entropy compensation plot of enthalpy vs. Gibbs energy of dissolution was not linear exhibiting positive slopes from neat water to the mixture of w1 = 0.30 and from the mixture of w1 = 0.50 to neat ethanol indicating enthalpy-driven drug transfer processes but negative in the interval of 0.30 < w1 < 0.50 indicating entropy-driven drug transfer processes from more polar to less polar solvent systems. Moreover, by using the inverse Kirkwood–Buff integrals it is observed that salicylic acid is preferentially solvated by water molecules in water-rich mixtures but preferentially solvated by ethanol molecules in those mixtures of 0.24 < x1 < 1.00.