bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered biodegradable nanopesticides for efficient leaf deposition and plant fungicides
Authors: Tong Xiaojing , Tang Jie , Wang Jia , Wu Yue , Zheng Zhiyuan , Yuan Chen , Kayitmazer A. Basak , Ahmad Ayyaz , Ramzan Naveed , Yang Jintao , Huang Qingchun , Xu Yisheng
Published: March 2024

Pesticides are indispensable in agricultural development, but their effectiveness is often hindered by natural factors like rain‐off and degradation. Herein, tebuconazole nanopesticides (TEB NPs) with leaf‐adhesive, water‐stable, and small‐sized were successfully prepared by flash nanoprecipitation using the biodegradable polyethylene glycol‐b‐poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) as a carrier. The nanopesticides could be efficiently deposited on plant leaves with uniform distribution and exhibited a 14° lower contact angle with foliage compared to commercial suspensions. The encapsulation of TEB within the polymer enhanced its resistance to photolysis, resulting in a 5‐h extension of its half‐life. TEB NPs were readily taken up by fungi and plants, thereby enhancing fungicidal efficacy. This nanopesticide could achieve the desired antifungal effect with reduced dosage and improved pesticide utilization. Therefore, the work is expected to provide a simple nanoplatform for improving pesticide utilization and promoting green agriculture.
Presynaptic Dopaminergic Imaging Characterizes Patients with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Due to Synucleinopathy
Authors: Arnaldi Dario , Mattioli Pietro , Raffa Stefano , Pardini Matteo , Massa Federico , Iranzo Alex , Perissinotti Andres , Niñerola‐Baizán Aida , Gaig Carles , Serradell Monica , Muñoz‐Lopetegi Amaia , Mayà Gerard , Liguori Claudio , Fernandes Mariana , Placidi Fabio , Chiaravalloti Agostino , Šonka Karel , Dušek Petr , Zogala David , Trnka Jiri , Boeve Bradley F. , Miyagawa Toji , Lowe Val J. , Miyamoto Tomoyuki , Miyamoto Masayuki , Puligheddu Monica , Figorilli Michela , Serra Alessandra , Hu Michele T. , Klein Johannes C. , Bes Frederik , Kunz Dieter , Cochen De Cock Valérie , de Verbizier Delphine , Plazzi Giuseppe , Antelmi Elena , Terzaghi Michele , Bossert Irene , Kulcsárová Kristína , Martino Alessio , Giuliani Alessandro , Pagani Marco , Nobili Flavio , Morbelli Silvia ,   International REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Study Group
Published: March 2024

Objective

To apply a machine learning analysis to clinical and presynaptic dopaminergic imaging data of patients with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) to predict the development of Parkinson disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Methods

In this multicenter study of the International RBD study group, 173 patients (mean age 70.5 ± 6.3 years, 70.5% males) with polysomnography‐confirmed RBD who eventually phenoconverted to overt alpha‐synucleinopathy (RBD due to synucleinopathy) were enrolled, and underwent baseline presynaptic dopaminergic imaging and clinical assessment, including motor, cognitive, olfaction, and constipation evaluation. For comparison, 232 RBD non‐phenoconvertor patients (67.6 ± 7.1 years, 78.4% males) and 160 controls (68.2 ± 7.2 years, 53.1% males) were enrolled. Imaging and clinical features were analyzed by machine learning to determine predictors of phenoconversion.

Results

Machine learning analysis showed that clinical data alone poorly predicted phenoconversion. Presynaptic dopaminergic imaging significantly improved the prediction, especially in combination with clinical data, with 77% sensitivity and 85% specificity in differentiating RBD due to synucleinopathy from non phenoconverted RBD patients, and 85% sensitivity and 86% specificity in discriminating PD‐converters from DLB‐converters. Quantification of presynaptic dopaminergic imaging showed that an empirical z‐score cutoff of −1.0 at the most affected hemisphere putamen characterized RBD due to synucleinopathy patients, while a cutoff of −1.0 at the most affected hemisphere putamen/caudate ratio characterized PD‐converters.

Interpretation

Clinical data alone poorly predicted phenoconversion in RBD due to synucleinopathy patients. Conversely, presynaptic dopaminergic imaging allows a good prediction of forthcoming phenoconversion diagnosis. This finding may be used in designing future disease‐modifying trials. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:1178–1192
Polar modification‐enhanced interfacial compatibility for high‐performance rubber blends
Authors: Xu Yihui , Liu Yudong , Liu Ling , Liu Jun
Published: March 2024

The blending of different elastomers can greatly broaden the application range of rubber materials. However, due to the poor compatibility between polar elastomers and non‐polar elastomers, severe phase separation occurs during the blending process, which severely degrades their processing performance and mechanical properties. In this paper, we prepared SBR‐P/XNBR blends by emulsion blending polar modified styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR‐P) latex with carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR) latex. The effects of the blending ratios on the vulcanization behavior, mechanical strength, dynamic mechanical properties, and oil resistance of the rubber compounds were studied. Experimental results showed that the mechanical strength and oil resistance of the modified SBR‐P/XNBR blends are significantly higher than the unmodified SBR and XNBR blends. The dynamic mechanical analysis curve results of the rubber compounds showed that SBR‐P has good compatibility with XNBR. With the increasing addition of XNBR, the oil resistance of the rubber compounds improves, and the solvent adsorption is reduced by over 60%.This study proposes a solution for utilizing non‐polar rubbers, which are typically not oil‐resistant, in oily environments. The proposed solution enables the preparation of composites with excellent mechanical properties in such environments.
The censored delta shock model with non‐identical intershock times distribution and an optimal replacement policy
Authors: Chadjiconstantinidis Stathis
Published: March 2024

In this article, we consider the censored model in which the distribution of intershock times do not have the same distribution, but it is assumed that a change occurs in the distribution of the intershock times due to an environmental effect and hence this distribution changes after a random number of shocks. For this shock model, several reliability characteristics are evaluated by assuming that the random change point has a discrete phase‐type distribution. Analytical results for evaluating the reliability function of the system for several continuous as well discrete distributions of the interarrival times, are also given. Also, the optimal replacement policy that is based on a control limit is proposed for a mixed censored ‐shock model in which both the distributions of the magnitudes of shocks and the distributions of the interarrival times of shocks change after a random number of shocks. Finally, several numerical examples are given to illustrate our results.
Ultra‐Long Lifespan Ni Based Porphyrin Complex Cathode for Organic Alkali Metal Batteries
Authors: Peng Xi , Ren Bo , Sun Caihong , Liao Yao , He Fangfang , Li Tianfu , Sun Xiujuan , Chen Zhi , Liu Wei , Gao Ping
Published: March 2024

The high solubility and low intrinsic electronic conductivity are the key challenges for application of organic materials in electrochemical energy storage. Herein, a functionalized porphyrin complex of [5,15‐Bis(ethynyl)‐10,20‐diphenylporphinato]nickel(II) (NiDEPP) is proposed as new cathode material for alkali metal ion batteries. Owing to the in‐situ electropolymerization, NiDEPP became extremely stable after initial cycling. Therefore, the NiDEPP electrode delivers remarkable reversible capacity of 153 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1, a high specific energy density of 459 Wh kg−1 and extremely stable cyclability for 4000 cycles with negligible capacity decay in organic lithium batteries. It can further be cycled upto 10000 cycles. Due to the bipolar capability of porphyrin ring, this cathode can also be extended in both sodium and potassium based organic cells. Similar charge storage mechanism enables highly reversible capacity and long‐term cycling stability. This study would open a pathway toward new organic electrodes with long cycling life and high energy densities for renewable charge storage devices.
Cover Image, Volume 18, Issue 2
Authors: Arts Wouter , Storms Ilié , Van Aelst Joost , Lagrain Bert , Verbist Bruno , Van Orshoven Jos , Verkerk Pieter Johannes , Vermeiren Walter , Lange Jean‐Paul , Muys Bart , Sels Bert F.
Published: March 2024

The cover image is based on the Perspective Feasibility of wood as a renewable carbon feedstock for the production of chemicals in Europe by Wouter Arts et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/bbb.2575.

image
A simple chemical equilibrium algorithm applied for single and multiple reaction systems
Authors: Moreira Pedro Henrique de Lima Ripper , de Siqueira Rogério Navarro Correia , Vilani Cecília
Published: March 2024

Thermodynamics is a branch of physics of high importance for engineering applications but is usually considered by most students as a rather obscure field, full of abstract concepts. Therefore, simple algorithms, which can exemplify the use of thermodynamic principles for practical situations, should be viewed as valuable teaching tools with large applications in engineering undergraduate courses. This point served as motivation for the present work, which proposes an alternative and simple computational approach for solving chemical equilibrium problems via successive reaction quotient calculations, both for single and multireactional systems. The code was written using MATLAB software; its fundamental theory was explained through a step‐by‐step approach and applied to both Shift and Boudouard reactions. Comparisons with ASPEN HYSYS and HSC Chemistry simulations corroborate its versatility and thermodynamic consistency. The full script is available in its entirety at the as supporting information together with the necessary text (.txt) files. Also, a user guide was provided to help students to replicate the results presented in the article.
Student‐athletes share their NIL experiences
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2024

To provide an insider's look at the name, image, and likeness issue, the annual NCAA Convention hosted a panel of student‐athletes who shared their personal experiences with NIL deals.
Did court dismiss student‐athlete's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: March 2024

John Doe was a varsity baseball player at Franklin and Marshall College. In March 2022, Doe was arrested for an alleged sexual assault on a non‐student (Jane Roe) that occurred while Doe was traveling with the baseball team. Shortly thereafter, the college's athletics director suspended Doe from the baseball team. The college scheduled a hearing on the matter in May.
Tracing the development of learned song preferences in the female zebra finch brain with functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Arya Payal , Kolodny Nancy H. , Gobes Sharon M. H.
Published: March 2024

In sexually dimorphic zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata), only males learn to sing their father's song, whereas females learn to recognize the songs of their father or mate but cannot sing themselves. Memory of learned songs is behaviorally expressed in females by preferring familiar songs over unfamiliar ones. Auditory association regions such as the caudomedial mesopallium (CMM; or caudal mesopallium) have been shown to be key nodes in a network that supports preferences for learned songs in adult females. However, much less is known about how song preferences develop during the sensitive period of learning in juvenile female zebra finches. In this study, we used blood‐oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to trace the development of a memory‐based preference for the father's song in female zebra finches. Using BOLD fMRI, we found that only in adult female zebra finches with a preference for learned song over novel conspecific song, neural selectivity for the father's song was localized in the thalamus (dorsolateral nucleus of the medial thalamus; part of the anterior forebrain pathway, AFP) and in CMM. These brain regions also showed a selective response in juvenile female zebra finches, although activation was less prominent. These data reveal that neural responses in CMM, and perhaps also in the AFP, are shaped during development to support behavioral preferences for learned songs.
Early prey intake of a short‐finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus Gray, 1846, Cetacea: Delphinidae) in the Canary Islands
Authors: Luna Amanda , Escánez Alejandro , Marrero Jacobo , Íñiguez Eva , Pérez José A. , Sánchez Pilar
Published: March 2024

This study reveals early prey eating by a short‐finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus Gray, 1846, Cetacea: Delphinidae) in the Canary Islands. Stomach contents, trophic markers, skin isotopic ratios of nitrogen (δ15N:15N/14N) and carbon (δ13C:13C/12C), and fatty acid profiles of the blubber of a short‐finned pilot whale of 213 cm size euthanized in free‐ranging conditions were analyzed. A total of 15 species of oegopsid squids, mostly diel vertical mesopelagic migrant species of the families Enoploteuthidae, Ommastrephidae, and Histioteuthidae, as well as mother's milk, were identified in the stomach contents. Asperoteuthis acanthoderma (Lu, 1977, Cephalopoda: Chiroteuthidae) was found as first time in this area, suggesting the possibility of its presence on both sides of the subtropical Atlantic, extending its current known distribution. The δ15N value (11.55‰) was higher than expected based on the size range of squid ingested, but lower than that of adult pilot whales, suggesting that mother's milk intake has a significant effect on these values in calves. Similarly, the δ13C values (−17.99‰) were shifted to those of adult pilot whales rather than the ingested squids, also due to the ingestion of high‐fat breast milk. The fatty acid (FA) composition of blubber showed a clear stratification. Long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PUFA) were mainly present in the inner layer, while most relevant ≤C20 monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were more abundant in the outer layer.
Meta‐analysis suggests that, for marine mammals, the risk of parasitism by anisakids changed between 1978 and 2015
Authors: Mastick Natalie C. , Fiorenza Evan , Wood Chelsea L.
Published: March 2024

As gastrointestinal parasites affect the health of marine mammal species, they are a potentially consequential stressor. Although they are infrequently identified as a cause of mortality, gastrointestinal parasites could drive cryptic declines in individual fitness—including declines in nutritional status—by acting synergistically with other stressors. Nematodes in the family Anisakidae are ubiquitous throughout the world's oceans and are transmitted to marine mammal hosts through the consumption of fish and cephalopod prey. We sought to assess whether marine mammals face a rising risk of gastrointestinal infection due to an increase in anisakid burden of their prey species. We used data compiled from a recent meta‐analysis of anisakid abundance in fish and invertebrates from 1967 to 2015. We reviewed the diets of 113 marine mammal species to identify their known prey species. We extracted data on anisakid burden for each of the prey species and tested whether anisakid abundance in these intermediate hosts had increased over time. Our findings suggest that Anisakis spp. abundance has increased over the past half‐century, while Pseudoterranova spp. burden showed no significant change. Our findings suggest that the risk of Anisakis spp. infection is increasing for marine mammal hosts.
An affordable and green voltammetric approach for the determination of sotalol in biological, environmental, and pharmaceutical samples
Authors: Fix Gustavo , Coldibeli Bruna , Sartori Elen Romão
Published: March 2024

This work outlines the development of a voltammetric method for a sensitive, rapid, and environmentally friendly determination of the antihypertensive sotalol (SOT) in several sample types employing the anodically pretreated boron‐doped diamond electrode. Cyclic voltammograms of SOT presented a well‐defined irreversible oxidation peak at 1.21 V (Ag/AgCl (3.0 mol L−1 KCl)) in Britton–Robinson buffer solution (pH 3.0). Figures of merits recommended by the validation guidelines were evaluated for the validation of the present method. Employing differential pulse voltammetry linearity of SOT was obtained in the concentration range of 0.39–4.22 μmol L−1 in 0.1 mol L−1 H2SO4 solution, with a limit of detection of 0.031 μmol L−1. The selectivity of the method was assessed against interferers and show relative standard deviation (RSD) values lower than 6 %. Recovery tests yielded percentages ranging from 93 % to 96 % in urine sample and from 100 % to 107 % in tap water sample. The proposed method was successfully applied in pharmaceutical, environmental, and biological samples offering a suitable green analytical chemistry profile.
A novel design strategy of track‐based asymmetric nonlinear energy sink for seismic response mitigation of structures
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Zheng Yuqiang
Published: March 2024

Mass dampers, whether linear or nonlinear, rely on resonance with the structure to achieve optimal control performance. However, linear mass dampers require frequency tuning, while nonlinear mass dampers are sensitive to input energy levels, rendering both inadequate for control problems that involve frequency and energy uncertainties. To address this issue, the track asymmetric nonlinear energy sink (TANES) has been developed as a robust mass damper against frequency and energy changes. In this study, a novel design strategy consisting of physical and parameter design was proposed for TANESs. First, TANESs with inverted tracks as the auxiliary mass were proposed, resulting in a significant reduction in the dimensions and weight of the device. The new physical design was then realized, and the mathematical descriptions of the TANES system were validated through experiments on a two‐story frame structure. Subsequently, a parameter design method was proposed to match the frequency variation pattern of the TANES with the given structural and load conditions. Following the design procedure, three TANESs with markedly different track shapes were obtained and compared with existing mass dampers under different types of excitations. Results showed that the frequency responses of the TANES systems subjected to harmonic ground excitations shared great similarity with those of a well‐tuned TMD system at small‐to‐moderate energy levels. As the energy level increased, nonlinear responses such as strongly modulated responses were observed in the TANES systems with decrease structural frequencies, which significantly reduced the resonant peak in the frequency responses. The frequency responses of the TANES systems were consistent with the design objective and could be used to quantitatively predict the robustness performance of the devices under impulsive and seismic excitations. With the reduced dimensions and weight resulting from the inverted‐track configuration and the robustness performance in line with common structural and load conditions, the proposed design strategy of TANESs demonstrated great potential in the seismic response mitigation of engineering structures.
Investigating the energy storage performance in optimal design of a solar hybrid multi‐generation system with distillatory
Authors: Forghani Amir Hossein , Hajabdollahi Hassan , Solghar Alireza Arab
Published: March 2024

In this study, a cogeneration system of heating, cooling and power used with the solar flat plate collectors (FPCs) and photovoltaic panels (PVs) integrates with a multi‐effect distillation through thermal vapor compression (MEE‐TVC), investigated as the first system to meet the loads of heating, cooling, electricity and fresh water. As an innovation, the combination of the first system with cooling and thermal storage tanks have been investigated. The systems are optimized with MATLAB and single‐objective genetic algorithm. The total annual cost considered as the objective function to compare the two systems and 36 and 61 design variables are obtained for the first and second systems, respectively. The design parameters considered for optimization included the capacity of the diesel engine as the prime mover, electrical chiller capacity, absorption chiller capacity, size of the boiler, partial loads of the diesel engine for each hour of the 2 days (1 day for hot months and 1 day for cold months), partial loads of the chillers for each hour of the first days (second day has no cooling load), number of FPCs and PVs, number of effects in the desalination unit, driving steam pressure, feed water flow rate, driving steam flow rate, and electric cooling ratio. The optimization aimed to fulfill the heating, cooling, electricity, and fresh water requirements of a residential town situated in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan province, Iran. The second system's optimization results were compared with first system. The results have shown that the objective function for the first system was and the initial investment cost was , and for the second system the objective function was and the initial investment cost was . Therefore, by using energy storage, the objective function was reduced by 11.30%.
From plant litter to soil organic matter: a game to understand carbon dynamics
Authors: Piazza Maria‐Victoria , Pinto Priscila , Bazzoni Bruno , Berenstecher Paula , Casas Cecilia , Zieher Ximena López , Mallerman Julieta , Méndez M Soledad , Omacini Marina , Piñeiro Gervasio , Semmartin María , Vivanco Lucía , Yahdjian Laura
Published: March 2024

Managing ecosystems to sequester soil carbon requires a thorough understanding of complex soil processes. Here, we integrate these soil processes through the metaphor of a game—one that moves through multiple dimensions (from macro‐aggregates to micropores and clay particles) and scales (from centimeters to nanometers) of the soil. The rules of the game are based on current understanding of soil carbon persistence, which differs from the classic humus concept of molecular complexity. The game's objective is to win points, by keeping “tokens” (plant‐derived organic compounds) within the soil organic matter for as long as possible. The game begins when tokens enter different “pool‐levels” (plant litter, particulate organic matter, dissolved organic matter, and mineral‐associated organic matter) of the soil, either directly or after metabolic transformation by soil biota. Points are lost through either respiration by soil biota or leaching. We invite readers to play this game and explore different natural ecosystems and land‐use scenarios to better comprehend complex soil processes.
Escherichia coli isolates from vegetable farms in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Antimicrobial susceptibility profile and associated resistance genetic markers
Authors: Hailu Woinshet , Alemayehu Haile , Hailu Lulit , Medhin Girmay , Rajashekara Gireesh , Gebreyes Wondwossen A. , Eguale Tadesse
Published: March 2024

The use of animal manure to fertilize soil is an emerging concern contributing to the transfer of antimicrobial‐resistant pathogens to vegetables. Hence, assessing antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Escherichia coli in vegetable farms is essential to design appropriate interventions against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the food chain. This study assessed antimicrobial resistance profile and associated genetic markers among E. coli isolated from vegetable farms fertilized with animal manure in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 1044 samples were collected using convenience sampling: soil (n = 271), manure (n = 375), and vegetables (n = 398) from 81 vegetable farms in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was conducted for 100 E. coli isolates and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 1044 collected samples, 25.3% were positive for E. coli, with significantly higher prevalence in the manure sample and samples collected from Akaki Kality sub‐city (p < .05). The highest resistance rate was recorded for tetracycline (72%), followed by streptomycin (63%), and sulfamethoxazole +trimethoprim (56%). Multidrug resistance was detected in 61% of the E. coli isolates. The aac(3)‐IV (76.9%), bla TEM (65.4%), aadA (60.3%), tet(A) (58.3%), and sulI (51.7%) were the commonly detected resistance genes. The current study showed a high burden of antimicrobial resistance among E. coli isolated from manure‐amended vegetable farms, with potential of playing a significant role in the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in the food chain. Efforts should be made to reduce the burden of resistant organisms and ARGs through prudent use of antimicrobials in livestock and application of appropriate composting techniques before using manure as fertilizer.
The infant health effects of doulas: Leveraging big data and machine learning to inform cost‐effective targeting
Authors: Peet Evan D. , Schultz Dana , Lovejoy Susan , Tsui Fuchiang (Rich)
Published: March 2024

Doula services represent an underutilized maternal and child health intervention with the potential to improve outcomes through the provision of physical, emotional, and informational support. However, there is limited evidence of the infant health effects of doulas despite well‐established connections between maternal and infant health. Moreover, because the availability of doulas is limited and often not covered by insurers, existing evidence leaves unclear if or how doula services should be allocated to achieve the greatest improvements in outcomes. We use unique data and machine learning to develop accurate predictive models of infant health and doula service participation. We then combine these predictive models within the double machine learning method to estimate the effects of doula services. We show that while doula services reduce risk on average, the benefits of doula services increase as the risk of negative infant health outcomes increases. We compare these benefits to the costs of doula services under alternative allocation schemes and show that leveraging the risk predictions dramatically increases the cost effectiveness of doula services. Our results show the potential of big data and novel analytic methods to provide cost‐effective support to those at greatest risk of poor outcomes.
Current progress and future perspectives in total‐body PET imaging, part I: Data processing and analysis
Authors: Sun Tao , Chen Ruohua , Liu Jianjun , Zhou Yun
Published: March 2024

Total‐body positron emission tomography (TB‐PET) has ultra‐high sensitivity and the unique ability to conduct dynamic imaging of the entire body. Both the hardware configuration and the data acquired from a TB‐PET scanner differ from those of the conventional short axial field‐of‐view scanners. Therefore, various aspects concerning data processing need careful consideration when implementing TB‐PET in clinical settings. Additionally, advances in data analysis are needed to fully uncover the potential of these systems. Although some progress has been achieved, further research and innovation in scan data management are necessary. In this report, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current progress, challenges, and possible future directions for TB‐PET data processing and analysis. For a review of clinical applications, please find the other review accompanying this paper.
Saikosaponin d protects pancreatic acinar cells against cerulein‐induced pyroptosis through alleviating mitochondrial damage and inhibiting cGAS‐STING pathway
Authors: Chen Hui , Lu Xirong , Xu Beiqi , Cheng Gang , Li Yuyi , Xie Dan
Published: March 2024

Acute pancreatitis represents an inflammatory disease featuring pancreatic necrosis and inflammation. Inflammatory injury of pancreatic acinar cells (PACs) is critically involved in the initiation and progression of acute pancreatitis. Pyroptosis, a new kind of programmed cell death concomitant with a low‐grade inflammatory reaction, plays a function in acute pancreatitis pathology. It is unclear whether saikosaponin d (SSd), a pharmacologically active natural product, could protect PACs by regulating pyroptosis. Here, we established a PAC injury model in vitro using cerulein to treat AR42J cells. SSd restored viability and proliferation and lowered the release of pancreatic enzymes and inflammatory interleukins in cerulein‐treated AR42J cells. Cerulein‐induced pyroptosis was evidenced by typical ultrastructural changes and NLRP3/caspase‐1 activation in AR42J cells, but SSd attenuated cerulein‐induced pyroptosis and inhibited NLRP3/caspase‐1 pathway. Mechanically, SSd reduced mitochondrial damage and mtDNA release, and blocked cGAS‐STING signaling in AR42J cells treated with cerulein, contributing to the inhibition of NLRP3‐mediated pyroptosis. Furthermore, SSd abolished cerulein‐elevated oxidative stress in AR42J cells, leading to the mitigation of mitochondrial damage and inhibition of cGAS‐STING signaling and pyroptosis. In conclusion, SSd protected PACs against cerulein‐induced pyroptosis by alleviating mitochondrial damage and inhibiting the cGAS‐STING pathway, and it could be a therapeutic candidate for acute pancreatitis.
Cover Image
Authors: Stern Brett , Monteleone Peter , Zoldan Janet
Published: March 2024

The cover image is based on the Research Article SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein induces endothelial dysfunction in 3D engineered vascular networks by Brett Stern et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jbm.a.37543.

image
Neuregulin 4 (Nrg4) cooperates with melatonin to regulate the PRL expression via ErbB4/Erk signaling pathway as a potential prolactin (PRL) regulator
Authors: Lin Wen‐wen , Ou Guan‐yong , Dai Hui‐fang , Zhao Wei‐jiang
Published: March 2024

Neuregulin‐4 (Nrg4) and melatonin play vital roles in endocrine diseases. However, there is little discussion about the function and potential mechanism of Nrg4 and melatonin in prolactin (PRL) regulation. The human normal pituitary data from Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was used to explore the correlation between NRG4 and PRL. The expression and correlation of NRG4 and PRL were determined by Immunofluorescence staining (IF) and human normal pituitary tissue microarray. Western Blot (WB) was used to detect the expression of PRL, p‐ErbB2/3/4, ErbB2/3/4, p‐Erk1/2, Erk1/2, p‐Akt and Akt in PRL‐secreting pituitary GH3 and RC‐4B/C cells treated by Nrg4, Nrg4‐small interfering RNA, Erk1/2 inhibitor FR180204 and melatonin. The expression of NRG4 was significantly positively correlated with that of PRL in the GEPIA database and normal human pituitary tissues. Nrg4 significantly increased the expression and secretion of PRL and p‐Erk1/2 expression in GH3 cells and RC‐4B/C cells. Inhibition of Nrg4 significantly inhibited PRL expression. The increased levels of p‐Erk1/2 and PRL induced by Nrg4 were abolished significantly in response to FR180204 in GH3 and RC‐4B/C cells. Additionally, Melatonin promotes the expression of Nrg4, p‐ErbB4, p‐Erk1/2, and PRL and can further promote the expression of p‐Erk1/2 and PRL in combination with Nrg4. Further investigation into the function of Nrg4 and melatonin on PRL expression and secretion may provide new clues to advance the clinical control of prolactinomas and hyperprolactinemia.
Condensed Fukui function and experimental evaluation of the corrosion inhibition properties of some antipyrinyl‐imidazotriazole and their derivatives for copper in an acidic environment
Authors: Elsayed Shymaa Adel , Barghout Nehal A. , Ragab Safaa , Abdel‐Latif Ehab , Etman Hassan Ali , Hamed Mohamed A. , Eddy Nnabuk Okon , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: March 2024

The effectiveness of synthesized antipyrinyl‐imidazotriazole and its derivatives as inhibitors for the corrosion of copper alloy in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution was tested using weight loss, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodyanmic polarization techniques. The generated results confirmed that the tested compounds have strong inhibition efficiencies for the protection of the corrosion of copper alloy in 0.5 M H2SO4. Maximum inhibition efficiencies (IEs) evaluated from electrochemical measurements at inhibitor's concentrations of 0.040 g/L were 85% (5‐(4‐Antipyrinyl)‐3H‐imidazo[1,2‐b][1,2,4]triazole), 60% (6‐Antipyrinyl‐imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazole) and 72% (2‐Antipyrinyl‐7‐ethoxy‐imidazo[2,1‐b]benzothiazole). It was observed that the inhibition efficiency was strongly influenced by the flow rate of the solution and was reduced to 79 (5‐(4‐Antipyrinyl)‐3H‐imidazo[1,2‐b][1,2,4]triazole), 60% (6‐Antipyrinyl‐imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazole), and 44% (2‐Antipyrinyl‐7‐ethoxy‐imidazo[2,1‐b]benzothiazole) at an agitation speed of 400 rpm. EI from weight loss was comparable with those from PDP of mixed‐type inhibition style and EIS of diffusion model. The low inhibition efficiency for 6‐Antipyrinyl‐imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazole was significantly enhanced from 60% to 90% through a synergistic effect of 0.0001 M KI. The Temkin and Frumkin isotherms indicate the physical adsorption of inhibitors on copper surface. Condensed Fukui function calculations reveal a common center for electrophilic attacks in the three molecules: the nitrogen in the bridged pyrrole rings (labeled as N11).
Examining cognitive disengagement syndrome in a psychiatric outpatient sample: Psychometric support and associations with internalizing symptoms and sleep problems
Authors: Yucens Bengu , Basay Omer , Buber Ahmet , Tumkaya Selim , Kabukcu Basay Burge , Erdem Busra , Becker Stephen P. , Leonard Burns G.
Published: March 2024

Objective

The internal (structural) and external validity of a self‐report measure of cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS, formerly sluggish cognitive tempo) relative to a self‐report measure of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder‐inattention (ADHD‐IN) was evaluated with adults from university outpatient psychiatric clinics in Turkey.

Methods

A total of 274 outpatients (75.9% women; ages 18–64 years; Mage = 31.06; SDage = 10.84; 50.4% anxiety disorders; 41.6% depressive disorders; 2.9% ADHD; 1.5% sleep disorders; 0.7% eating disorders; 2.9% no mental disorder) completed self‐report measures of CDS, ADHD‐IN, ADHD‐hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI), sleep problems, depression, and stress.

Results

All 15 CDS symptoms measured by the Adult Concentration Inventory (ACI) showed convergent (moderate to high loadings on the CDS factor) and discriminant (loading close to zero on the ADHD‐IN factor) validity. CDS also showed stronger first‐order and unique associations than ADHD‐IN with sleep problems, depression, anxiety, and stress, whereas ADHD‐IN showed stronger first‐order and unique associations than CDS with ADHD‐HI.

Conclusion

This is the first study to provide support for the scores from this 15 item self‐report measure of CDS by the ACI in a clinical sample of adults, with findings consistent with previous studies examining parent and teacher rating scale measures with the same 15 CDS symptoms. These findings provide additional support for usefulness of these 15 CDS symptoms as measured by the ACI to study CDS across various cultures.
Total lesion glycolysis by 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography predicts tumor aggressiveness in patients with extrahepatic bile duct carcinoma
Authors: Fukushima Ryosuke , Harimoto Norifumi , Kawai Shunsuke , Ishii Norihiro , Tsukagoshi Mariko , Igarashi Takamichi , Araki Kenichiro , Tomonaga Hiroyasu , Higuchi Tetsuya , Shirabe Ken
Published: March 2024

Background

18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET/CT) parameters are prognostic factors in multiple malignancies. However, the prognostic value in bile duct carcinoma is unclear. We evaluated the impact of metabolic parameters of 18F‐FDG‐PET/CT in resectable extrahepatic bile duct carcinoma.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 100 patients with extrahepatic bile duct carcinoma who had undergone 18F‐FDG‐PET/CT and subsequent surgical resection between January 2017 and January 2023. We calculated maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and investigated their prognostic significance.

Results

The optimal cutoff values of SUVmax, MTV, and TLG for predicting overall survival (OS) after surgery were 3.88, 3.55 and 7.55, respectively. In multivariate analysis, each metabolic parameter influenced both OS and recurrence‐free survival (RFS). TLG showed the lowest Akaike information criteria statistic value, indicating that it had the best ability to predict OS and RFS. High TLG was significantly associated with the number of lymph node metastases and poorly differentiated type. Patients with high TLG showed poorer RFS and OS, which were significantly worse than in those with low TLG.

Conclusions

Tumor TLG predicted tumor malignancy potential and could be a useful prognostic predictor for extrahepatic bile duct carcinoma.
Predictive role of the prognostic nutritional index in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by curative pancreatic resection: A retrospective study using prospectively collected data
Authors: Suto Hironobu , Matsukawa Hiroyuki , Ando Yasuhisa , Oshima Minoru , Fuke Takuro , Nagao Mina , Yamana Hiroki , Kamada Hideki , Kumamoto Kensuke , Okano Keiichi
Published: March 2024

Background

Despite a strong association between nutritional indices and disease prognosis, evidence regarding the evaluation of nutritional indices after preoperative treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is insufficient. We evaluated the clinical significance of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in patients with resectable (R‐) and borderline resectable (BR‐) PDAC who received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) followed by pancreatic resection.

Methods

We assessed 153 patients with R‐ and BR‐PDAC who underwent NACRT followed by curative resection between 2009 and 2022. We evaluated the association between preoperative PNI after NACRT and short‐ and long‐term outcomes.

Results

The median preoperative PNI value after NACRT was 42.1, and the optimal cutoff value from the time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic curve was 38.6. The low PNI group (PNI < 38.6, n = 44) exhibited significantly worse inflammatory parameters, surgical outcomes, and prognoses than the high PNI group (PNI ≥ 38.6, n = 109). Multivariate analysis identified preoperative PNI ≤ 38.6 (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–5.38, p = .049), blood loss ≥1642 mL (HR: 3.05, 95% CI: 1.65–5.64, p < .001), node positive pathology (HR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.32–3.34, p = .002), and lack of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (HR: 3.55, 95% CI: 2.05–6.15, p < .001) as significant predictors of overall survival.

Conclusions

For patients with R‐ and BR‐PDAC receiving preoperative treatment, it is imperative to closely monitor their nutritional status when determining the optimal surgical procedure timing.
Flush toilet use and its impact on health and non‐health expenditures
Authors: Li Junpeng , Vatsa Puneet , Ma Wanglin
Published: March 2024

This study analysed the effects of flush toilet use on health and non‐health expenditures incurred by rural Chinese. The instrumental‐variable‐based Tobit and endogenous treatment regression models were used to analyse the 2016 China Labour Force Dynamics Survey data while addressing the selection bias inherent in flush toilet use. The results showed that by improving rural residents' physical and mental health, flush toilet use reduced per capita health expenditure while increasing non‐health expenditure. Furthermore, using flush toilets had positive spillover effects, reducing the health expenditures of even those who did not use them. Factors affecting flush toilet use were also analysed.
Low antibody levels associated with significantly increased rate of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in a highly vaccinated population from the US National Basketball Association
Authors: Tai Caroline G. , Haviland Miriam J. , Kissler Steven M. , Lucia Rachel M. , Merson Michael , Maragakis Lisa L. , Ho David D. , Anderson Deverick J. , DiFiori John , Grubaugh Nathan D. , Grad Yonatan H. , Mack Christina DeFilippo
Published: March 2024

SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody levels may serve as a correlate for immunity and could inform optimal booster timing. The relationship between antibody levels and protection from infection was evaluated in vaccinated individuals from the US National Basketball Association who had antibody levels measured at a single time point from September 12, 2021, to December 31, 2021. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the risk of infection within 90 days of serologic testing by antibody level (<250, 250–800, and >800 AU/mL1), adjusting for age, time since last vaccine dose, and history of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Individuals were censored on date of booster receipt. The analytic cohort comprised 2323 individuals and was 78.2% male, 68.1% aged ≤40 years, and 56.4% vaccinated (primary series) with the Pfizer‐BioNTech mRNA vaccine. Among the 2248 (96.8%) individuals not yet boosted at antibody testing, 77% completed their primary vaccine series 4–6 months before testing and the median (interquartile range) antibody level was 293.5 (interquartile range: 121.0–740.5) AU/mL. Those with levels <250 AU/mL (adj hazard ratio [HR]: 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–3.7) and 250–800 AU/mL (adj HR: 1.5; 95% CI: 0.98–2.4) had greater infection risk compared to those with levels >800 AU/mL. Antibody levels could inform individual COVID‐19 risk and booster scheduling.
Understanding unique employability skill sets of autistic individuals: A systematic review
Authors: Griffiths Amy Jane , Torres Rachel , Delgado Raquel , Hurley‐Hanson Amy E. , Giannantonio Cristina M. , Walrod Wallace , Maupin Zachary , Brady John
Published: March 2024

In recent years, several publications and media outlets have highlighted how the skills and interests of autistic individuals may benefit organizations. However, there is scant empirical research on the topic. The present study's authors conducted a systematic review to find which potential employability skills, strengths, and interests of autistic individuals available research has highlighted. Data extraction methods identified 51 papers related to skills in this population. The skill sets autistic individuals may possess and the research behind these findings were organized, evaluated, and summarized. Based on these findings, investigators discuss implications for employment counseling and future research.
Minimal but potentially clinically relevant anteroinferior position of the humeral head following traumatic anterior shoulder dislocations: A 3D‐CT analysis
Authors: Verweij Lukas P. E. , Dobbe Johannes G. G. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Streekstra Geert J. , van den Bekerom Michel P. J. , Blankevoort Leendert , van Deurzen Derek F. P.
Published: March 2024

In unstable shoulders, excessive anteroinferior position of the humeral head relative to the glenoid can lead to a dislocation. Measuring humeral head position could therefore be valuable in quantifying shoulder laxity. The aim of this study was to measure (1) position of the humeral head relative to the glenoid and (2) joint space thickness during passive motion in unstable shoulders caused by traumatic anterior dislocations and in contralateral uninjured shoulders. A prospective cross‐sectional CT‐study was performed in patients with unilateral anterior shoulder instability. Patients underwent CT scanning of both injured and uninjured side in supine position (0° abduction and 0° external rotation) and in 60°, 90°, and 120° of abduction with 90° of external rotation without an external load. Subsequently, 3D virtual models were created of the humerus and the scapula to create a glenoid coordinate system to identify poster‐anterior, inferior‐superior, and lateral‐medial position of the humeral head relative to the glenoid. Joint space thickness was defined as the average distance between the subchondral bone surfaces of the humeral head and glenoid. Fifteen consecutive patients were included. In supine position, the humeral head was positioned more anteriorly (p = 0.004), inferiorly (p = 0.019), and laterally (p = 0.021) in the injured compared to the uninjured shoulder. No differences were observed in any of the other positions. A joint‐space thickness map, showing the bone‐to‐bone distances, identified the Hill−Sachs lesion footprint on the glenoid surface in external rotation and abduction, but no differences on average joint space thickness were observed in any position.
Fusion information refresh rate improvement based on adaptive visual tracking in vehicle augmented reality sightseeing interactive system
Authors: Tsai Yu‐Hsiang , Dai Hong‐Ming , Yan Yung‐Jhe , Ou‐Yang Mang
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a dynamic information fusion interactive system with a transparent display applied in the vehicle. The dynamic information fusion interactive system integrates three leading technologies: relative position acquisition, fusion information mapping, and visual field tracking adaptive information generation. For visual field tracking adaptive information generation, the position of fusion information changes as the observer's field of view varies to help observers use this system more comfortably and intuitively. The frame rate of the dynamic virtual information display can be increased from 10 to 20 Hz without increasing the AI computing power and providing observers with a better observer experience. Integrating those technologies could achieve an AR‐based interactive system on a direct‐view transparent display. Such a system can provide passengers with location‐based interactive virtual and real integration information in the mobile field.
Deep eutectic solvent–based pressurized liquid extraction combined with dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction of organophosphorus pesticide residues in egg powder prior to high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis
Authors: Zareasghari Omid , Javadi Afshin , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2024

Herein, a deep eutectic solvent (DES)‐based miniaturized pressurized liquid extraction in combination with DES‐based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) was developed for the extraction of organophosphorus pesticides (parathion–methyl, triazophos, parathion, diazinon, and phoxim) from egg powder samples prior to their analysis by a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector. In this work, first, the analytes' extraction was done by a pressurized liquid phase extraction for effective extraction of the analytes from the solid matrix, and then they were concentrated on a DLLME for more concentration of the analytes to reach low limits of detections. The use of DESs was done in both steps to omit the use of toxic organic solvents. Satisfactory results including high extraction recoveries (74–90%), great repeatability (relative standard deviations equal or less than 4.3% and 5.3% for intra‐ and inter‐day precisions), and low limits of detection (0.11–0.29 ng/g) and quantification (0.38–0.98 ng/g) were attained under the optimum conditions. Lastly, the suggested approach was utilized for the determination of the studied pesticides in various egg powder samples marketed in Tabriz, Iran.