bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of perceived discrimination with dementia risk in Black older adults
Authors: Dark Heather E. , Huang Alison , Cordon Jenifer , Deal Jennifer A. , Palta Priya , Windham B. Gwen , Barnes Lisa L. , Kucharska‐Newton Anna , Mosley Thomas , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Sims Mario , Griswold Michael , Arce Rentería Miguel , Manly Jennifer J. , Walker Keenan A.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION

Non‐Hispanic Black, compared to non‐Hispanic White, older adults are at increased risk for dementia. This may be due partly to greater exposure to psychosocial stressors, such as discrimination; however, few studies have examined this association.

METHODS

We examined the association of perceived discrimination (e.g., everyday, lifetime, and discrimination burden) with dementia risk in 1583 Black adults co‐enrolled in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study and the Jackson Heart Study (JHS). Perceived discrimination (defined continuously and using tertiles) was assessed at JHS Exam 1 (2000–2004; mean age ± SD:66.2 ± 5.5) and related to dementia risk through ARIC visit 6 (2017) using covariate‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Associations of perceived everyday, lifetime, and burden of discrimination with dementia risk were not supported in age‐adjusted models or demographic‐ and cardiovascular health‐adjusted models. Results were similar across sex, income, and education.

DISCUSSION

In this sample, associations between perceived discrimination and dementia risk were not supported.

Highlights

In Black older adults perceived discrimination not associated with dementia risk.

Younger age and greater education linked to greater perceived discrimination.

Older age and less education among factors associated with dementia risk.

Factors increasing exposure to discrimination (education) are also neuroprotective.
DementiaNet facilitates a sustainable transition toward integrated primary dementia care: A long‐term evaluation
Authors: Oostra Dorien L. , Nieuwboer Minke S. , Melis René J. F. , Remers Toine E. P. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Perry Marieke
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION

Care integration is a promising strategy to achieve sustainable health‐care systems. With DementiaNet, a 2‐year program, we facilitated collaboration between primary health‐care professionals. We studied changes in primary dementia care integration during and after DementiaNet participation.

METHODS

A longitudinal follow‐up study was performed. Networks started between 2015 and 2020; follow‐up ended in 2021. Quantitative and quantitative data were collected annually to assess quality of care, network collaboration, and number of crisis admissions. Growth modeling was used to identify changes over time.

RESULTS

Thirty‐five primary care networks participated. Network collaboration and quality of care of newly formed networks increased significantly in the first 2 years (respectively, 0.35/year, P < .001; 0.29/year, P < .001) and thereafter stabilized.

CONCLUSION

Primary care networks improved their collaboration and quality of care during DementiaNet participation, which persisted after the program ended. This indicates that DementiaNet facilitated a sustainable transition toward integrated primary dementia care.
Effect of ethanol on selective oligomerization of isobutene and the simulation of reactive distillation process
Authors: Yu Panhu , Luan Chenghao , Cao Min , Sun Dahai , Tian Hui
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the selective oligomerization of isobutene in mixed C4 using ethanol as an inhibitor. The effects of ethanol/isobutene, reaction temperature, and reaction space velocity on isobutene oligomerization were examined using two β molecular sieve catalysts. The results indicate that the optimal reaction conditions, at the same calcination temperature, are as follows: The mass ratio of ethanol to isobutylene is 20%, the reaction pressure is 1 MPa, the reaction temperature is 65°C, the reaction space velocity is 2 h−1, the dimerization product C8 has fewer types, and the selectivity can reach over 15%. After adding ethanol, there is a significant inhibitory effect on n‐butene. Furthermore, we used reactive distillation technology to simulate isobutene oligomerization. By optimizing the sensitivity of the tower's operating conditions, we obtained the optimal operational parameters of the tower. Under optimal operating conditions, the conversion rate of isobutene can reach over 80%. The mass fraction of C8 in the oligomerization product accounted for 57.44%, C12 accounted for 8.29%, and ETBE accounted for 34.23%. The reactive distillation technology can improve product selectivity.
Agrifood systems knowledge exchange through Australia‐Pacific circular migration schemes
Authors: Davila Federico , Dun Olivia , Farbotko Carol , Jacobs Brent , Klocker Natascha , Vueti Ema , Kaumaitotoya Lavinia , Birch Angela , Kaoh Peter , Pitakia Tikai , Tuʼitahi Sinaitakala
Published: May 2023

Pacific Island workers contribute significantly to Australiaʼs agriculture and food security through the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP). Previous studies show the economic benefits of the SWP to both Australian agro‐industries and Pacific workers. However, there are limited studies about the agricultural knowledge exchange that occurs via the circular migration enabled by the SWP, and the experiences of workers and employers as agricultural knowledge holders. With the SWP merged into the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme, there is an opportunity to help define how circular migration is both an economic and agricultural development policy. In this paper, we present findings from interviews with 63 workers (from Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu) about agricultural knowledge and skills acquired and exchanged via SWP participation. We provide a discussion of opportunities for knowledge exchange in international labour mobility, and areas of future research in circular migration.
An enigma of Przybylski's star: Is there promethium on its surface?
Authors: Andrievsky Sergei M. , Korotin Sergey A. , Werner Klaus , Kovtyukh Valery V.
Published: May 2023

We carried out a new attempt to check for the presence of promethium lines in the spectrum of HD 101065 (Przybylski's star). The neutron capture element promethium does not have stable isotopes, and the maximum half‐life time is about 18 years. Thus, its presence in this peculiar star would indicate an ongoing process of irradiation of its surface layers with free neutrons. Unfortunately, almost all promethium lines are heavily blended with lines of other neutron capture elements and other species. We selected and analyzed three lines of promethium (Pm I and Pm II) and came to the conclusion that at present it is impossible to definitely claim the presence of this element in Przybylski's star atmosphere.
Functional assessment of the dural lymphatic vessels using dynamic contrast MRI in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gabr Refaat E. , Lincoln John A. , Hasan Khader M. , Kramer Larry A.
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

The discovery of glymphatic function in the human brain has generated interest in waste clearance mechanisms in neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). However, noninvasive in vivo functional assessment is currently lacking. This work studies the feasibility of a novel intravenous dynamic contrast MRI method to assess the dural lymphatics, a purported pathway contributing to glymphatic clearance.

Methods

This prospective study included 20 patients with MS (17 women; age = 46.4 [27, 65] years; disease duration = 13.6 [2.1, 38.0] years, expanded disability status score (EDSS) = 2.0 [0, 6.5]). Patients were scanned on a 3.0T MRI system using intravenous contrast‐enhanced fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery MRI. Signal in the dural lymphatic vessel along the superior sagittal sinus was measured to calculate peak enhancement, time to maximum enhancement, wash‐in and washout slopes, and the area under the time‐intensity curve (AUC). Correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between the lymphatic dynamic parameters and the demographic and clinical characteristics, including the lesion load and the brain parenchymal fraction (BPF).

Results

Contrast enhancement was detected in the dural lymphatics in most patients 2–3 min after contrast administration. BPF had a significant correlation with AUC (p < .03), peak enhancement (p < .01), and wash‐in slope (p = .01). Lymphatic dynamic parameters did not correlate with age, BMI, disease duration, EDSS, or lesion load. Moderate trends were observed for correlation between patient age and AUC (p = .062), BMI and peak enhancement (p = .059), and BMI and AUC (p = .093).

Conclusion

Intravenous dynamic contrast MRI of the dural lymphatics is feasible and may be useful in characterizing its hydrodynamics in neurological diseases.
Exploring the prioritisation of biodiversity amongst small‐ to medium‐sized enterprise leaders with strong bigger‐than‐self value orientation
Authors: Herbert Samantha , Bradley Peter , Everard Mark
Published: May 2023

This paper reports on a quantitative study of prioritisation of biodiversity amongst small‐ to medium‐sized enterprise (SME) leaders. Existing research indicates that value orientation impacts propensity for pro‐environmental behaviours. However, as biodiversity loss remains inadequately addressed, this study employs the value‐belief‐norm framework to explore how leaders with strong biospheric and altruistic (collectively termed ‘bigger‐than‐self’) value orientations perceive their responsibility for biodiversity loss in comparison with climate change and, using an adaptation of the Global Reporting Initiative standards, how biodiversity is prioritised against other areas of environmental sustainability in their businesses. Surveying 61 SME leaders, primarily in the South‐West UK, it was found that biodiversity is often considered of low priority compared with factors such as energy, waste, materials and emissions. Analysis also indicates that these leaders feel less responsibility for biodiversity than for climate change demonstrating that, even where bigger‐than‐self values dominate, there is a need for higher prioritisation of biodiversity amongst SMEs.
NiCo alloy‐anchored self‐supporting carbon foam as a bifunctional oxygen electrode for rechargeable and flexible Zn–air batteries
Authors: Dong Mengyang , Fu Huai Qin , Xu Yiming , Zou Yu , Chen Ziyao , Wang Liang , Hu Mengqing , Zhang Kaidi , Fu Bo , Yin Huajie , Liu Porun , Zhao Huijun
Published: May 2023

The design and fabrication of flexible, porous, conductive electrodes with customizable functions become the prime challenge in the development of new‐generation wearable electronics, especially for rechargeable batteries. Here, the NiCo bialloy particulate catalyst‐loaded self‐supporting carbon foam framework (NiCo@SCF) as a flexible electrode has been fabricated through one facile adsorption‐pyrolysis method using a commercial melamine foam. Compared with the electrode with Pt/C and Ir/C benchmark catalysts, the NiCo@SCF electrode exhibited superior bifunctional electrocatalytic performance in alkaline media with a half‐wave potential of 0.906 V for oxygen reduction reaction, an overpotential of 286 mV at j = 10 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution reaction, and stable bifunctional performance with a small degradation after 20,000 voltammetric cycles. The as‐assembled aqueous zinc–air battery (ZAB) with NiCo@SCF as a self‐supporting air cathode demonstrated a high peak power density of 178.6 mW cm−2 at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a stable voltage gap of 0.94 V over a 540 h charge−discharge operation. Remarkably, the as‐assembled flexible solid‐state ZAB with self‐supporting NiCo@SCF as the air cathode presented an engaging peak power density of 80.1 mW cm−2 and excellent durability of 95 h undisrupted operation, showing promise for the design of wearable ZAB. The demonstrated electrode fabrication approach exemplifies a facile, large‐scale avenue toward functional electrodes, potentially extendable to other wearable electronics for broader applications.
Region feature smoothness assumption for weakly semi‐supervised crowd counting
Authors: Miao Zhuangzhuang , Zhang Yong , Piao Xinglin , Chu Yi , Yin Baocai
Published: May 2023

Crowd counting is a hot issue in visual data processing. It also plays an important role in the field of video surveillance, social security, and traffic control. However, most of the existing crowd counting methods always adopt a mount of training data or point‐level annotation to learn the mapping relationships between images and density maps, which would cost much human labor. In this paper, we propose a new weakly semi‐supervised crowd counting method which uses less count‐level data for data training. In particular, we extend the classical smoothness assumption and design a many‐to‐many Region Feature Smoothness Assumption to deal with the uneven density distribution problem within crowd region. Further, we adopt hypergraph representation to explore the complex high‐order relationship for different crowd regions. Besides, we design a multi‐scale dynamic hypergraph convolutional module and hyperedge contrastive loss. Extensive experiments have been conducted on five public datasets. The experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art ones.
Selective Amination of Phenol to Cyclohexylamine over Metal‐Acid Bifunctional Catalysts Derived from Nickel Phyllosilicates
Authors: Liu Xiaoying , Wang Xia , Qiu Jingru , Chen Weikun , Fu Xiao , Ye Linmin , Yuan Youzhu
Published: May 2023

Phenol amination to various valuable amines has attracted considerable attention in heterogeneous catalysis, but limited studies have focused on non‐noble metal catalysts. This study reports a bifunctional catalyst (Ni/SiO2‐AE) containing nickel nanoparticles and Lewis acid sites derived from nickel phyllosilicates for efficient amination of phenol to cyclohexylamine. The Ni/SiO2‐AE catalyst resulted in 89.4% phenol conversion and 86.0% selectivity to cyclohexylamine at 160 °C for 2 h, which outperforms the catalysts by conventional deposition‐precipitation (Ni/SiO2‐DP) and wetness‐impregnation (Ni/SiO2‐WI). The turnover frequencies based on the actual exposed metal surface area for Ni/SiO2‐AE, Ni/SiO2‐DP, and Ni/SiO2‐WI are calculated as 71.7, 49.0, and 8.7 h−1, respectively. Results demonstrate that the Ni nanoparticles exsoluted from nickel phyllosilicates participate in the activation of dihydrogen molecules, and the Lewis acid sites stemmed from coordination unsaturated Ni2+ sites on the catalyst serve to adsorb and activate phenol. The synergistic effect of the dual‐functions intensifies the phenol amination.
Bright or Dark: Unexpected Photocatalytic Behavior of Closely Related Phenanthroline‐based Copper(I) Photosensitizers
Authors: Doettinger Florian , Obermeier Martin , Caliskanyürek Volkan , Burmeister Lars E. , Kleeberg Christian , Karnahl Michael , Schwalbe Matthias , Tschierlei Stefanie
Published: May 2023

In search of a better understanding of the structure‐property relationship of heteroleptic CuI photosensitizers, two structurally closely related complexes are investigated in detail. Although both compounds bear the same 4‐methoxyphenyl substituents at the phenanthroline moiety (i. e. at 5,6‐position in Cu1 and at 4,7‐position in Cu2), substitution at the 4,7‐position increases the attenuation coefficient in the 300–500 nm range by a factor of more than two. Even more drastic is the difference in emission lifetime (11 vs. 628 ns), which rises by a factor of almost 60 when positions 4 and 7 (i. e. Cu2) are chosen. A combination of solid‐state structural analysis, TDDFT calculations, transient absorption spectroscopy and quenching studies is then applied to elucidate the reasons for the superior photophysical properties of Cu2. Subsequently, a non‐emissive and long‐lived excited state (715 ns) has been revealed for Cu1. In a next step, both complexes were successfully used in the photocatalytic splitting of water and the reduction of CO2 to CO to test the influence of this behavior on the activity. Most importantly, Cu2 not only performs significantly better than Cu1, but also than the benchmark system and the noble‐metal‐based complex [Ir(dFppy)3].
Stokes Number Effects on Deposition in Particle‐Laden Turbulent Pipe Flows
Authors: Wolde Bisrat , Mortimer Lee F. , Fairweather Michael
Published: May 2023

The ability to predict particle dispersion, interaction, and deposition in turbulent pipes is of value in improving the transport and process efficiency of high concentration particulate flows. In this work, the settling and deposition behavior of suspensions of dense particles in a cylindrical pipe has been studied using direct numerical simulation coupled with Lagrangian particle tracking, with the influence of Stokes number on deposition behavior examined. From the analysis performed, it can be concluded that particle deposition is sensitive to Stokes number. In particular, the dispersion function and mean vertical displacement of the particles are demonstrated to decrease considerably faster with time at the higher Stokes number. Particle migration towards the lower wall regions of the pipe also shows the formation of a solid bed of these particles, whilst over the same time period only dune‐like structures are produced at the lower Stokes number. Further analysis of the particle dynamics confirms these findings and generates insight into the particle dynamics within the deposition regions.
A Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Model Describing the Cellular Kinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Relationship for a Live Biotherapeutic Product to Support Microbiome Drug Development
Authors: Renardy Marissa , Prokopienko Alexander J. , Maxwell Joseph R. , Flusberg Deborah A. , Makaryan Sahak , Selimkhanov Jangir , Vakilynejad Majid , Subramanian Kalyanasundaram , Wille Lucia
Published: May 2023

Live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) are human microbiome therapies showing promise in the clinic for a range of diseases and conditions. Describing the kinetics and behavior of LBPs poses a unique modeling challenge because, unlike traditional therapies, LBPs can expand, contract, and colonize the host digestive tract. Here, we present a novel cellular kinetic‐pharmacodynamic quantitative systems pharmacology model of an LBP. The model describes bacterial growth and competition, vancomycin effects, binding and unbinding to the epithelial surface, and production and clearance of butyrate as a therapeutic metabolite. The model is calibrated and validated to published data from healthy volunteers. Using the model, we simulate the impact of treatment dose, frequency, and duration as well as vancomycin pretreatment on butyrate production. This model enables model‐informed drug development and can be used for future microbiome therapies to inform decision making around antibiotic pretreatment, dose selection, loading dose, and dosing duration.
The Irwin Test and Functional Observational Battery (FOB) for Assessing the Effects of Compounds on Behavior, Physiology, and Safety Pharmacology in Rodents
Authors: Mathiasen Joanne R. , Moser Virginia C.
Published: May 2023

The modified Irwin procedure or functional observational battery (FOB) can be used to achieve several goals. New chemical entities (NCEs) can be behaviorally screened for nervous system effects at a variety of doses to identify potential therapeutic uses and in the selection of appropriate doses for subsequent assays. NCEs can also be evaluated in the behavioral battery and compared with reference standards to assess liabilities in a new compound class, with an estimated therapeutic index being suggested by the doses used in comparison to therapeutic doses. For the assessment of neurotoxicology, the FOB is often used. The differences between the two assays are subtle. The procedures used are essentially the same, but when considering neurotoxicology, the FOB is often conducted using GLP guidelines, with more animals being used per group, and doses that are low enough to determine a no effect level and high enough to induce marked nervous system behaviors. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: The Irwin test and FOB for assessing the effects of compounds on behavior, physiology, and safety pharmacology in rodents
An Efficient Gram‐Scale Chemical Synthesis of UNA‐Nucleoside‐5′‐O‐Triphosphates
Authors: Senthilvelan Annamalai , Shanmugasundaram Muthian , Kore Anilkumar R.
Published: May 2023

This unit describes a facile, reliable, and efficient method for the gram‐scale chemical synthesis of unlocked nucleic acid‐ (UNA) nucleoside‐5′‐O‐triphosphates such as UNA‐guanosine‐5′‐O‐triphosphate (UNA‐GTP), UNA‐adenosine‐5′‐O‐triphosphate (UNA‐ATP), UNA‐cytidine‐5′‐O‐triphosphate (UNA‐CTP), and UNA‐uridine‐5′‐O‐triphosphate (UNA‐UTP), starting from the commercially available corresponding nucleoside‐5′‐O‐triphosphate. The present process involves a “one‐pot, two‐step” strategy that utilizes green chemistry principles. The overall reaction involves the oxidation of nucleoside‐5′‐O‐triphosphate using sodium periodate under aqueous conditions, followed by reduction using sodium borohydride to furnish the corresponding UNA‐nucleoside‐5′‐O‐triphosphate in good yields with high purity (>99.5%). © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Synthesis of UNA‐nucleoside‐5′‐O‐triphosphates
Real time implementation of a new seven level multilevel inverter with design considerations for feasible and reliable operation
Authors: Krishnachaitanya Daki , Annamalai Chitra
Published: May 2023

Future power electronics is moving towards compact, economical, feasible, and reliable inverters for integration with renewable energy sources and energy efficient drive schemes. Multilevel inverters (MLIs) are becoming more prominent candidates for such medium and high power applications. Though their attractive performance offers a better choice, the real time implementation of MLIs suffer with higher part count, compatibility of bidirectional switches, complementary conditions, number of transitions, polarity conversion module, and reliability. In order to bridge this gap, this work has come up with a new seven level symmetric MLI for utility applications. The abovementioned design parameters have been considered in the proposed MLI that promotes feasible and reliable operation for real time implementation. To defend this proposed topology, recent symmetric seven level MLI topologies have been compared and the results are compiled from constructional, operational, and performance aspects using Matlab/SIMULINK. The performance indices quantified for the analysis include part count, total harmonic distortion (THD), complementary conditions, number of transitions, polarity conversion module, switching losses, and reliability in terms of failure rate. The proposed topology has been validated through real time hardware implementation in which Atmega 2560 microprocessor is deployed for pulse generation.
Miniaturized lumped‐element low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic balun using capacitance‐enhanced capacitors
Authors: Zhou Bo , Pan Zheng
Published: May 2023

A capacitance‐enhanced capacitor (CEC) is proposed and applied to build a low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) balun for miniaturization. The capacitance enhancement is by adding horizontal fingers to traditional vertically interdigital capacitor (VIC) for capacitance increasing without size enlargement. The proposed CEC increased 7.2% capacitance comparing with that of traditional VIC. The balun using the proposed CEC is only 9.5 × 8.4 × 1 mm3, which is equivalent to 0.0034 × 0.0031 × 0.0004 λg3. The measured inband S11, S21, and S31 are better than −15, −3.6, and 3.5 dB from 46 to 58 MHz, respectively. A wide fractional bandwidth (FBW) of 24% based on 15 dB return loss is also reached. The proposed balun has widely applications in maritime navigation, aircraft navigation, and 1–1.5 Tesla (T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) applications.
Significance of non‐granulomatous cytomorphology on fine needle aspirate in lymphadenitis cases classified as tuberculous by using a composite reference standard
Authors: Helle Ole Magnus Bjørgaas , Kanthali Mala , Akhtar Naish , Purohit Manju Raj , Mustafa Tehmina
Published: May 2023

Background

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is established as a first line investigation for tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBLA). We aimed to describe the various cytomorphologic features of tuberculosis (TB) on FNAC and their contribution in the diagnostic decision‐making in suspected TBLA cases.

Methods

Patients with presumptive TBLA were prospectively enrolled (n = 266) and subjected to routine diagnostic work‐up for TB, including FNAC samples, and followed until the end of treatment. Patients were categorized as TB or non‐TB cases based on a composite reference standard of which the various cytomorphologic patterns were compared. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy was calculated using cross‐tabulation.

Results

Fifty‐six patients were categorized as bacteriologically confirmed TB, 102 as clinically confirmed TB and 108 as non‐TB. The most common cytomorphologic pattern among TB cases (59%) was granulomatous inflammation with necrosis, however, about one‐third of tuberculous lymphadenitis patients presented with non‐granulomatous inflammation, with 21% showing only necrosis and 13% presenting with a reactive pattern. The overall sensitivity and specificity of FNAC was 85% and 66%, respectively.

Conclusions

We found that about one‐third of TBLA patients presented without granulomas on FNA, highlighting the importance of considering TB in a wide spectrum of cytomorphology in a high TB burden setting. Our study supports the use of FNAC as a first‐line investigation tool for diagnosing TBLA in a low‐resource setting due to its relative simplicity and good sensitivity. However, the low specificity of FNAC, emphasizes the need for a second‐tier confirmatory test with improved specificity.
Distinct signatures on d‐galactose‐induced aging and preventive/protective potency of two low‐dose vitamin D supplementation regimens on working memory, muscular damage, cardiac and cerebral oxidative stress, and SIRT1 and calstabin2 downregulation
Authors: Salemi Sahar , Zamanian Mohammad Yasin , Giménez‐Llort Lydia , Jalali Zahra , Mahmoodi Mehdi , Golmohammadi Maryam , Kaeidi Ayat , Taghipour Zahra , Khademalhosseini Morteza , Modanloo Mona , Hajizadehi Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2023

Chronic administration of d‐galactose (d‐gal) in rodents reproduces the overproduction of reactive oxygen species of physiological aging. The present research shows for the first time distinct signatures on d‐gal‐induced aging (500 mg/kg, 6 weeks) and the preventive and protective potential of two vitamin D (50 IU) supplementation regimens (pre‐induction and simultaneous, respectively) in two vital organs (heart and brain). d‐gal‐induced notorious alterations in working memory, a strong increase in brain malondialdehyde (MDA) oxidative levels, and strong downregulation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in the heart and hippocampus and of calstabin2 in the heart. Cardiac and brain superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzymatic antioxidant capacities were damaged, brain calstabin2 was downregulated, and neuropathology was observed. Heart damage also included a moderate increase in MDA levels, serologic lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total creatine kinase (CK) activities, and histopathological alterations. The used dose of vitamin D was enough to prevent cognitive impairment, avoid muscular damage, hamper cardiac and cerebral oxidative stress, and SIRT1 and calstabin2 downregulation. Most importantly, the potencies of the two preventive schedules depended on the tissue and level of study. The pre‐induction schedule prevented d‐gal‐induced aging by 1 order of magnitude higher than simultaneous administration in all the variables studied except for SIRT1, whose strong downregulation induced by d‐gal was equally prevented by both schedules. The benefits of vitamin D for oxidative stress were stronger in the brain than in the heart. Brain MDA levels were more sensitive to damage, while SOD and GPx antioxidant enzymatic activities were in the heart. In this order, the magnitude of SOD, MDA, and GPx oxidative stress markers was sensitive to prevention. In summary, the results unveiled distinct aging induction, preventive signatures, and sensitivity of markers depending on different levels of study and tissues, which are relevant from a mechanistic view and in the design of targeted interventions.
Investigation of microwave application time with constant pulse ratio on drying of zucchini
Authors: Dehghannya Jalal , Farhoudi Sepideh , Dadashi Saeed
Published: May 2023

Since nonuniform drying in the continuous microwave harms the safety and quality of dried food materials, a significant quality improvement can be achieved by controlling the application time of the microwave. This study aimed to investigate the influence of microwave application time and power at a constant pulse ratio during the drying of zucchini on different product characteristics. The samples were first exposed to microwaves with powers of 360, 600, and 900 W alternately for 10, 30, and 50 s. After drying with intermittent microwaves, the process was continued using the hot‐air drying. Increasing the microwave application time and power caused a significant reduction in the total process time. The minimum drying time was obtained at 900 W and 50 s (259.44 min). Deff increased significantly by 24.4% and 34.1% with increasing application time and power, respectively. The highest shrinkage and bulk density were observed in the samples dried at 360 W and 10 s due to a longer total process time than the other treatments. Rehydration increased by 10.3% and 14.7% with increasing application time and power, respectively. A 33% decrease in energy consumption was noticed in the 900 W–50 s treatment compared to the 360 W–10 s treatment. Moreover, with increasing microwave application time and power, the lightness of the dried product decreased, and the total color difference increased. In summary, the 900 W power and 50 s application time produced a better‐dried product than the other treatments considering different quantitative and qualitative properties. The results of this research can be used in the food industry to dry products using microwave and hot air to control and improve their quality.
Age‐associated change in pyruvate metabolism investigated with hyperpolarized 13C‐MRI of the human brain
Authors: Uthayakumar Biranavan , Soliman Hany , Bragagnolo Nadia D. , Cappelletto Nicole I. C. , Lee Casey Y. , Geraghty Benjamin , Chen Albert P. , Perks William J. , Ma Nathan , Heyn Chris , Endre Ruby , MacIntosh Bradley J. , Stanisz Greg J. , Black Sandra E. , Cunningham Charles H.
Published: May 2023

In this study, hyperpolarized 13C MRI (HP‐13C MRI) was used to investigate changes in the uptake and metabolism of pyruvate with age. Hyperpolarized 13C‐pyruvate was administered to healthy aging individuals (N = 35, ages 21–77) and whole‐brain spatial distributions of 13C‐lactate and 13C‐bicarbonate production were measured. Linear mixed‐effects regressions were performed to compute the regional percentage change per decade, showing a significant reduction in both normalized 13C‐lactate and normalized 13C‐bicarbonate production with age: per decade for 13C‐lactate and per decade for 13C‐bicarbonate. Certain regions, such as the right medial precentral gyrus, showed greater rates of change while the left caudate nucleus had a flat 13C‐lactate versus age and a slightly increasing 13C‐bicarbonate versus age. The results show that both the production of lactate (visible as 13C‐lactate signal) as well as the consumption of monocarboxylates to make acetyl‐CoA (visible as 13C‐bicarbonate signal) decrease with age and that the rate of change varies by brain region.
A massive hit that targets kids quite a bit: Where and how Australian school children see energy drinks
Authors: Parnell Stephanie A. , Mandzufas Joelie , Howard Justine , Gannett Anna T. , Trapp Gina S. A.
Published: May 2023

Issues Addressed

Energy drinks (EDs) are not recommended for children due to their high caffeine content and adverse health risks. Their popularity among children may be due to children's exposure to ED marketing. This study aimed to identify where children have seen ED marketing and whether they believe ED marketing targets them.

Methods

Participant data were drawn from ‘AMPED UP: An Energy Drink Study’, where 3688 students in grades 7–12 (age 12–17 years) from 25 randomly selected secondary schools in Western Australia were asked if they had ever seen ED advertising on television, posters/signs in shops, online/internet, movies, cars/vehicles, social media, magazines/newspapers, music videos, video games, merchandise and free samples. Participants were also shown three ED advertisements and asked, ‘Which age group/s do you think this ad targets?’ (12 years or less, 13–17 years, 18–23 years, 24 years or older) and could select multiple age groups for each advertisement.

Results

On average, participants saw ED advertising on 6.5 (SD = 2.5) of 11 possible marketing channels, including television (seen by 91% of participants), posters/signs in shops (88%), online/internet (82%) and movies (71%). Participants also perceived ED advertisements targeted children (< 18 years).

Conclusions

ED marketing has a high reach among Western Australian children. The voluntary ED advertising pledge to not market EDs to children in Australia does not prevent children from seeing or being targeted by ED marketing.

So What?

Stronger regulatory control of ED marketing is needed to better protect children from the appeal and adverse health risks of ED use.
Antibiotic Treatment Prior to Injury Abrogates the Detrimental Effects of LPS in STR/ort Mice Susceptible to Osteoarthritis Development
Authors: Mendez Melanie E , Murugesh Deepa K , Christiansen Blaine A , Loots Gabriela G
Published: May 2023

Post traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a form of secondary osteoarthritis (OA) that develops in ~50% of cases of severe articular joint injuries and leads to chronic and progressive degradation of articular cartilage and other joint tissues. PTOA progression can be exacerbated by repeated injury and systemic inflammation. Few studies have examined approaches for blunting or slowing down PTOA progression with emphasis on systemic inflammation; most arthritis studies focused on the immune system have been in the context of rheumatoid arthritis. To examine how the gut microbiome affects systemic inflammation during PTOA development, we used a chronic antibiotic treatment regimen starting at weaning for 6 weeks before anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in STR/ort mice combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced systemic inflammation. STR/ort mice develop spontaneous OA as well as a more severe PTOA phenotype than C57Bl/6J mice. By 6 weeks post injury, histological examination showed a more robust cartilage staining in the antibiotic‐treated (AB) STR/ort mice than in the untreated STR/ort controls. Furthermore, we also examined the effects of AB treatment on systemic inflammation and found that the effects of LPS administration before injury are also blunted by AB treatment in STR/ort mice. The AB‐ or AB+LPS‐treated STR/ort injured joints more closely resembled the C57Bl/6J VEH OA phenotypes than the vehicle‐ or LPS‐treated STR/ort, suggesting that antibiotic treatment has the potential to slow disease progression and should be further explored therapeutically as prophylactic post injury. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Preparation of a fluorescent composite coating and its anticorrosive and indicative performance
Authors: Zhang Lanhe , Wang Sen , Wang Junqi , Jiang Hong , Liu Qiang , Cheng Xin , Xu Xiaohui
Published: May 2023

Objective

A novel fluorescent composite anti‐corrosion coating was prepared, which could simultaneously indicate corrosion sites and corrosion degree according to change of fluorescence intensity.

Methods

Tri‐HDI/GO/SR/AP coating was prepared by blending method. Its structure, physical properties, anti‐corrosion ability and fluorescence intensity were analyzed.

Results

Tri‐HDI/GO/SR/AP coating was not significantly damaged during the corrosion simulation experiment. The fluorescence intensity of the coating decreased with the increase of corrosion degree.

Conclusions

Based on structure characterization and electrochemical analysis, it is found that Tri‐HDI/GO/SR/AP coating has positive anti‐corrosion performance. Fluorescence molecules undergo a quenching reaction when corrosion occurs, the corrosion location and corrosion degree can be determined according to the changes of luminescence intensity.
A preliminary examination of the contextual interference effect on trained trick retention in domestic dogs
Authors: Messina Maddie G. , Ziv Gal , Byosiere Sarah‐Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

This study sought to enhance current dog training practices by determining whether a finding from human motor skill learning research, the contextual interference (CI) effect, could be replicated in a trick‐training paradigm with companion dogs. In humans, research shows that practicing skills in random order, as compared with blocked order, improves learning of those skills. To test this question in dogs, we randomly allocated 17 dogs to blocked training (low CI) or random training (high CI). The dogs performed three behaviors of varying difficulty. After training, we conducted a retention test in which half of the dogs in each group performed the tasks in blocked order and the other half in random order. We scored each trick, measured duration, and measured whether dogs required one or two tries to perform a behavior. We found no significant differences between dogs who practiced three tricks in random or in blocked order during training and during a retention test. This study is the first to apply the CI effect to dog trick training. Although no evidence of the CI effect was found, the current research provides a preliminary framework for future studies with potential implications for increasing retention of trained skills.
Real‐world complication burden and disease management paradigms in transfusion‐related β‐thalassaemia in Greece: Results from ULYSSES, an epidemiological, multicentre, retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kattamis Antonis , Voskaridou Ersi , Delicou Sophia , Klironomos Evangelos , Lafiatis Ioannis , Petropoulou Foteini , Diamantidis Michael D. , Lafioniatis Stylianos , Evliati Loukia , Kapsali Eleni , Karvounis‐Marolachakis Kiki , Timotheatou Despoina , Deligianni Chrysoula , Viktoratos Panagiotis , Kourakli Alexandra
Published: May 2023

Patients with transfusion‐dependent beta (β)‐thalassaemia experience a broad range of complications. ULYSSES, an epidemiological, multicentre, retrospective cross‐sectional study, aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of treatment and disease complications, capture disease management and identify predictors of complications in patients with transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassaemia, treated in routine settings in Greece. Eligible patients were adults diagnosed with β‐thalassaemia ≥12 months before enrolment and having received ≥6 red blood cell (RBC) units (excluding elective surgery) with no transfusion‐free period ≥35 days in the 24 weeks before enrolment. Primary data were collected at a single visit and through chart review. Between Oct 21, 2019, and Jun 15, 2020, 201 eligible patients [median (interquartile range, IQR) age 45.7 (40.2–50.5) years; 75.6% > 40 years old; 64.2% female] were enrolled, a mean (standard deviation) of 42.9 (7.8) years after diagnosis. Median (IQR) age at diagnosis and RBC transfusion initiation were 0.8 (0.4–2.8) and 1.3 (1.0–5.0) years, respectively. From diagnosis to enrolment, patients had developed a median of six (range: 1–55) complications; 19.6% were grade ≥3. The most represented complications were endocrine/metabolic/nutrition disorders (91.5%), surgical/medical procedures (67.7%) and blood/lymphatic system disorders (64.7%). Real‐world data generated by ULYSSES underscore the substantial complication burden of transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassaemia patients, routinely managed in Greece.
Plasmodium structure of Intoshia linei (Orthonectida)
Authors: Skalon Elizaveta K. , Starunov Viktor V. , Bondarenko Natalya I. , Slyusarev George S.
Published: May 2023

Orthonectids are enigmatic parasitic bilaterians whose exact position on the phylogenetic tree is still uncertain. Despite ongoing debate about their phylogenetic position, the parasitic stage of orthonectids known as “plasmodium” remains underexplored. There is still no consensus on the origin of the plasmodium: whether it is an altered host cell or a parasitic organism that develops in the host extracellular environment. To determine the origin of the orthonectid parasitic stage, we studied in detail the fine structure of the Intoshia linei orthonectid plasmodium using a variety of morphological methods. The orthonectid plasmodium is a shapeless multinucleated organism separated from host tissues by a double membrane envelope. Besides numerous nuclei, its cytoplasm contains organelles typical for other bilaterians, reproductive cells, and maturing sexual specimens. Reproductive cells, as well as developing orthonectid males and females, are covered by an additional membrane. The plasmodium forms protrusions directed to the surface of the host body and used by mature individuals for egress from the host. The obtained results indicate that the orthonectid plasmodium is an extracellular parasite. A possible mechanism for its formation might involve spreading parasitic larva cells across the host tissues with subsequent generation of a cell‐within‐cell complex. The cytoplasm of the plasmodium originates from the outer cell, which undergoes multiple nuclear divisions without cytokinesis, while the inner cell divides, giving rise to reproductive cells and embryos. The term “plasmodium” should be avoided and the term “orthonectid plasmodium” could be temporarily used instead.
Studies on the synthesis, spectroscopy, thermal properties, docking, and biology of new Schiff base and its mono‐ and binuclear complexes
Authors: Abou‐Melha Khlood
Published: May 2023

A novel Schiff base has been synthesized from the condensation of the 3‐formyl‐2‐hydroxybenzoic acid and 4‐nitrobenzene‐1,2‐diamine. The new ligand was found to have two coordination sites. So, it has the capability to form mono‐ and binuclear complexes with different metal ions. The free ligand and its mono‐ and binuclear cobalt(II) complexes have been characterized by UV–Visible spectra, IR, elemental analyzes, H1 NMR, conductimetric, thermal, and magnetic measurements. Results indicated that the cobalt(II) ion is attached to the inside coordination site and the second metal ion attached to the outside coordination site. The complexes are all non‐electrolytes, as demonstrated by the molar conductance tests. The thermodynamic parameters of the metal complexes are calculated using Horowitz Metzger and Coats‐Redfern methods. The complexes' bonding properties have also been estimated. Molecular docking was employed to forecast the interaction of the prepared with the Candida‐albicans receptor (1zap). The biological activities of these metal complexes were tested against some bacteria and fungi. It is evident from the biological screening data that the prepared Co(II) binuclear complexes exhibit predominant activity against Candida albicans, Penicillium oxalicum and Escherichia coli, while they have no activity against Micrococcus roseus and Micrococcus luteus.
Antibody response to the third dose of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine in people living with HIV (PLWH): A longitudinal cohort
Authors: Zeng Guang , He Fei , Zhang Xiaomin , Li Guilian , Wang Xiaohui , Gan Yongxia , Zheng Chenli , Tang Jie , Xu Liumei , Zhao Jin , Feng Shuidong , Yang Zhengrong
Published: May 2023

The immunogenicity induced by the third dose of inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines in people living with HIV (PLWH) is unclear, and relevant literature is extremely scarce. It is important to add evidence on the humoral immune response induced by the third dose of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine in PLWH. We collected peripheral venous blood for spike receptor binding domain‐protein specific immunoglobulin G (S‐RBD‐IgG) antibody tests at 28 days after the second dose (T1), 180 days after the second dose (T2) and 35 days after the third dose (T3) of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccines in PLWH. The differences in S‐RBD‐IgG antibody levels and specific seroprevalence among T1, T2, and T3 time periods were analyzed, and the effects of age, vaccine brand, and CD4+T cell count on the levels and specific seroprevalence of S‐RBD‐IgG antibody induced by the third dose in PLWH were examined. The third dose of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccines induced strong S‐RBD‐IgG antibody responses in PLWH. The levels and specific seroprevalence of S‐RBD‐IgG antibody were significantly higher than those at 28 and 180 days after the second dose and were not affected by vaccine brand or CD4+T cell count. Younger PLWH produced higher levels of S‐RBD‐IgG antibody. The third dose of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine showed good immunogenicity in PLWH. It is necessary to popularize the third dose in the PLWH population, especially PLWH who do not respond to two doses of inactivated COVID‐19 vaccines. Meanwhile, the durability of the protection provided by the third dose in PLWH must be continuously monitored.
Detection of human papillomavirus in fresh and dried urine through an automated system for cervical cancer screening in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Tanzi Elisabetta , Bianchi Silvia , Fappani Clara , Gori Maria , Colzani Daniela , Passera Ilaria , Tincati Camilla , Canuti Marta , Raviglione Mario , Amendola Antonella
Published: May 2023

The majority of cervical cancer cases and associated deaths occur in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), where sociocultural barriers, poor access to prevention and care, and technical and practical difficulties hinder screening coverage improvement. Using urine specimens for human papillomaviruses (HPV) molecular screening through automated testing platforms can help to overcome these problems. We evaluated the high‐risk (HR) HPV detection performance of the Xpert® HPV test on GeneXpert® System (Cepheid), on fresh and dried urine (Dried Urine Spot [DUS]) samples as compared to an in‐house polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genotyping assay. Forty‐five concentrated urine samples collected from women with known cytological and HPV infection status, determined through in‐house PCR and genotyping assays, were tested “as is” and as DUS with the Xpert® HPV test. This system detected HR‐HPV in 86.4% of fresh and in 77.3% of dried urine samples collected from HPV+ women, correctly identifying HR‐HPV infection in 100% of women with low‐ and high‐grade lesions. High concordance (91.4%, k = 0.82) was found between PCR test and Xpert® HPV Test from urine. Urine‐based Xpert® HPV test seems to be a suitable screening test for detection of HR‐HPV infections associated with low‐ and high‐grade lesions requiring follow‐up monitoring or treatment. This methodology, relying on noninvasively collected samples and on available rapid testing platforms, could facilitate large, at‐scale screening programs, particularly in LMICs and rural areas, thus reducing adverse outcomes of HPV infection and facilitating achievement of the WHO cervical cancer elimination goal.