bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kiritimatiellales
Authors: Spring Stefan
Published: June 2023

Ki.ri.ti.ma.ti.el.la'les. N.L. fem. dim. n.
Kiritimatiella
, type genus of the order; L. fem. pl. n. suff. –
ales,
ending to denote an order; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Kiritimatiellales
, the
Kiritimatiella
order.

Kiritimatiellota / Kiritimatiellia / Kiritimatiellales

The order
Kiritimatiellales
as defined in the chapter on the class
Kiritimatiellia
encompasses all cultivated members of the phylum
Kiritimatiellota
, which are represented by the species
Kiritimatiella glycovorans
,
Pontiella desulfatans
,
P. sulfatireligans
, and
Tichowtungia aerotolerans
. Microorganisms assigned to this order are generally free‐living, nonmotile, non‐spore‐forming, coccoid bacteria adapted to anoxic aquatic niches often characterized by marine or hypersaline salinity. Further features common to all strains include cell division by binary fission, a cell wall of the Gram‐negative type that contains peptidoglycan, absence of intracellular membranes, and an anaerobic metabolism based on the fermentation of carbohydrates. Transparent exopolymers are produced by pure cultures of the known strains. A specialization in the degradation of complex polysaccharides can be assumed for most strains, since the corresponding genomes contain a large number of genes encoding glycoside hydrolases and sulfatases. Cellular fatty acid patterns of axenic cultures are dominated by straight‐chain (C
18:0
) and iso‐branched fatty acids (iso‐C
14:0
, iso‐C
18:0
). The major polar lipids were identified as phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol (cardiolipin). The genome sizes among described representatives of this order range from 2.9 to 8.7 Mb.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 53–63 (genome analyses,
n
 = 4).

Type genus
:
Kiritimatiella
Spring et al. 2016, VL174.
Application of Conductive MOF in Zinc‐Based Batteries
Authors: Zhang Qian , Jiang Shu , Lv Tingting , Peng Yi , Pang Huan
Published: June 2023

The use of conductive MOFs (c‐MOFs) in zinc‐based batteries has been a popular research direction. Zinc‐based batteries are widely used with the advantages of high specific capacity and safety and stability, but they also face many problems. c‐MOFs have excellent conductivity compared with other primitive MOFs, and therefore have better applications in zinc‐based batteries. In this paper, the transfer mechanisms of the unique charges of c‐MOFs: hop transport and band transport, respectively, are discussed and the way of electron transport is further addressed. Then, the various ways to prepare c‐MOFs are introduced, among which solvothermal, interfacial synthesis, and postprocessing methods are widely used. In addition, the applications of c‐MOFs are discussed in terms of their role and performance in different types of zinc‐based batteries. Finally, the current problems of c‐MOFs and the prospects for their future development are presented.
Förster Resonance Energy Transfer Sensitized Singlet Fission in BODIPY‐Pentacene Dimer Conjugates
Authors: Wollny Anna‐Sophie , Lavarda Giulia , Papadopoulos Ilias , López‐Duarte Ismael , Gotfredsen Henrik , Hou Yuxuan , Tykwinski Rik R. , Torres Tomás , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: June 2023

In the present work, the energy donor 4,4‐difluoro‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene (BODIPY) is used for the first time in combination with a pentacene dimer (Pnc2) to provide the conjugate BODIPYPnc2 that features absorption throughout a large part of the solar spectrum. Upon photoexcitation, the singlet excited state energy of BODIPY is transferred to the pentacene dimer via intramolecular Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). Subsequently, the pentacene dimer undergoes intramolecular singlet fission. In this process, a singlet correlated triplet pair is generated from the first singlet excited state via coupling to an intermediate state. The results show that solvent polarity has an influence on the system, with the largest FRET rate (i.e., 7.46 × 1011 s−1) being obtained in the most polar solvent (namely, benzonitrile) along with the largest triplet quantum yield (i.e., 207 ± 20%).
Mixing Dion–Jacobson and Ruddlesden–Popper Structures in Quasi‐2D Perovskite Films for Thermal‐ and Photo‐Stable Stimulated Emission
Authors: Jiang Xinyi , Lu Guochao , Wang Xinyang , Wu Xiaohui , Li Jing , Dai Xingliang , Ye Zhizhen , He Haiping
Published: June 2023

Quasi‐two–dimensional (2D) perovskite films are promising candidates as a gain medium for stimulated emission owing to their hydrophobicity and efficient energy funneling that facilitates the population inversion. However, the commonly used Ruddlesden–Popper (R–P) perovskites still suffer from instability induced by high‐density pumping as well as the resulting heating effect. Here, quasi‐2D perovskite films with mixed Dion–Jacobson (D–J) and R–P phases are demonstrated with both excellent amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) properties and thermal‐ and photo‐stabilities under ambient conditions. In these films, octyl ammonium bulky organic cations are used to obtain the preferred crystal orientation and highly smooth surface for low‐threshold ASE, while 1,8‐octanedi ammonium cations contribute to the greatly improved stability. The films containing the D–J phase exhibit good structural stability even after 130 °C heat treatment for 48 h. The mixed‐ligands film maintains a low ASE threshold of 11.6 µJ cm−2 and a high optical gain of 413 cm−1 after environmental annealing. It is demonstrated that it is the diammonium that firmly bonds to the perovskite layer,allowing the maintenance of quasi‐2D perovskite structure and good ASE performances.
Frailty after COVID‐19: The wave after?
Authors: König Maximilian , Gollasch Maik , Komleva Yulia
Published: June 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic poses an ongoing public health challenge, with a focus on older adults. Given the large number of older persons who have recovered from COVID‐19 and reports of long‐lasting sequelae, there is reasonable concern that the COVID‐19 pandemic may lead to a long‐term deterioration in the health of older adults, i.e., a potential “wave of frailty.” Therefore, it is critical to better understand the circumstances surrounding the development of frailty as a result of COVID‐19, as well as the underlying mechanisms and factors contributing to this development. We conducted a narrative review of the most relevant articles published on the association between COVID‐19 and frailty through January 2023. Although few studies to date have addressed the effects of COVID‐19 on the onset and progression of frailty, the available data suggest that there is indeed an increase in frailty in the elderly as a result of COVID‐19. Regarding the underlying mechanisms, a multicausal genesis can be assumed, involving both direct viral effects and indirect effects, particularly from the imposed lockdowns with devastating consequences for the elderly: decreased physical activity, altered diet, sarcopenia, fatigue, social isolation, neurological problems, inflammation, and cardiovascular morbidity are among the possible mediators. Since the COVID‐19 pandemic is leading to an increase in frailty in the elderly, there is an urgent need to raise awareness of this still little‐known problem of potentially great public health importance and to find appropriate prevention and treatment measures.
Effects of methoxy polyethylene glycol‐polycaprolactone block copolymers and silica nanoparticles on the mechanical, tissue affinity and antibacterial properties of n‐butyl cyanoacrylate adhesive
Authors: Su Xiao‐Tong , Jin Guo‐Cheng , Xu Shi‐Ai
Published: June 2023

Cyanoacrylates are widely used as surgical tissue adhesives because of their high biodegradability, but they are brittle and have poor tissue affinity. In this study, methoxy polyethylene glycol‐polycaprolactone block copolymers (MPEG‐co‐PCLs) with different PCL chain lengths were synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization. Then, a new tissue adhesive with excellent mechanical properties, tissue affinity, antibacterial properties, and coagulation performances was prepared by incorporating MPEG‐co‐PCL and silica nanoparticles (SNPs) into n‐butyl cyanoacrylate (BCA). The optimal MPEG: PCL ratio is 1:4 (MP‐3), and the optimal mass ratio of MPEG‐co‐PCL and SNPs (0.5SNPs/0.5MP‐3) is 0.5 wt.%. Compared to BCA, the adhesion strength and flexibility of 0.5SNPs/0.5MP‐3 are dramatically improved by 110% and 244%, respectively. MPEG‐co‐PCL can fully exploit the advantages of homopolymers, and therefore, improve the tissue affinity and adhesion strength of the adhesive and avoid BCA polymerization initiated by MPEG and poor compatibility of PCL with BCA. SNPs can also compensate for the lack of antibacterial properties of BCA against Gram‐negative bacteria. The E. coli inhibition circle of 0.5SNPs/0.5MP‐3 is twice as large as BCA. SNPs can also improve coagulation by promoting platelet aggregation. This work provides an effective strategy for developing adhesives with potential clinical applications.
Association Study Identified HLA‐DQA1 as a Novel Genetic Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus‐Associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Qian Junyan , Chen Ying , Yang Xinzhuang , Wang Qian , Zhao Jiuliang , Deng Xiaoyue , Ding Yufang , Li Shengjie , Liu Yongtai , Tian Zhuang , Shen Juan , Liao Qijun , Wang Yanhong , Zuo Xianbo , Zhang Xuejun , Li Mengtao , Cui Yong , Yu Xueqing , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: June 2023

Objective

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the genetic signatures of SLE‐associated PAH have not been well studied. We aimed to identify genetic variants implicated in SLE‐associated PAH susceptibility within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region and assess the contribution to clinical outcomes.

Methods

A total of 172 patients with SLE‐associated PAH confirmed by right heart catheterization, 1,303 patients with SLE without PAH, and 9,906 healthy controls were included. Deep sequencing of the MHC region was performed to identify alleles, single‐nucleotide polymorphisms, and amino acids. We compared patients with SLE‐associated PAH with patients with SLE without PAH and healthy controls. Clinical association study was conducted to explore the contribution to phenotypes.

Results

A total of 19,881 genetic variants were identified within the MHC region. HLA‐DQA1*03:02 was identified as a novel genetic variant associated with SLE‐associated PAH in the discovery cohort (P = 5.68 × 10−12) and authenticated in an independent replication cohort (P = 1.30 × 10−9). The strongest associated amino acid position was mapped to HLA‐DQα1 in the region affecting MHC/peptide‐CD4+ T cell receptor affinity and antigen binding. Clinical association study demonstrated that patients with SLE‐associated PAH with HLA‐DQA1*03:02 had significantly lower rates of target role achievement (P = 0.005) and survival (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

This study, based on the largest cohort of SLE‐associated PAH, is the first to investigate how MHC region genetic variants contribute to SLE‐associated PAH susceptibility. HLA‐DQA1*03:02 is a novel genetic risk factor and a prognostic factor in SLE‐associated PAH. Patients with SLE with this allele require regular monitoring and careful follow‐up for early diagnosis and interventions for potential PAH.
Assessing the impact of 3D image segmentation workshops on anatomical education and image interpretation: A prospective pilot study
Authors: Jinga Maria‐Ruxandra , Lee Rachel B Y , Chan Kai Lok , Marway Prabhvir S. , Nandapalan Krishan , Rhode Kawal , Kui Christopher , Lee Matthew
Published: June 2023

Three‐dimensional (3D) segmentation, a process involving digitally marking anatomical structures on cross‐sectional images such as computed tomography (CT), and 3D printing (3DP) are being increasingly utilized in medical education. Exposure to this technology within medical schools and hospitals remains limited in the United Kingdom. M3dicube UK, a national medical student, and junior doctor‐led 3DP interest group piloted a 3D image segmentation workshop to gauge the impact of incorporating 3D segmentation technology on anatomical education. The workshop, piloted with medical students and doctors within the United Kingdom between September 2020 and 2021, introduced participants to 3D segmentation and offered practical experience segmenting anatomical models. Thirty‐three participants were recruited, with 33 pre‐workshop and 24 post‐workshop surveys completed. Two‐tailed t‐tests were used to compare mean scores. From pre‐ to post‐workshop, increases were noted in participants' confidence in interpreting CT scans (2.36 to 3.13, p = 0.010) and interacting with 3D printing technology (2.15 to 3.33, p = 0.00053), perceived utility of creating 3D models to aid image interpretation (4.18 to 4.45, p = 0.0027), improved anatomical understanding (4.2 to 4.7, p = 0.0018), and utility in medical education (4.45 to 4.79, p = 0.077). This pilot study provides early evidence of the utility of exposing medical students and healthcare professionals in the United Kingdom to 3D segmentation as part of their anatomical education, with additional benefit in imaging interpretation ability.
Enhancing High‐Capacity and High‐Rate Sodium‐Ion Storage through Synergistic N,S Dual Doping of Hard Carbon
Authors: Cui Yingxue , Cen Meixiang , Wang Liaoliao , Zhang Yun , Wang Juan , Lian Jiabiao , Li Huaming
Published: June 2023

Hard carbon, as the most promising commercial anode materials of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), has suffered from the coupling limitations on initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), capacity, and rate capability. Herein, to break such coupling limitations, sulfur‐rich nitrogen‐doped carbon nanomaterials (S‐NC) were synthesized by a synergistic modification strategy, including structure/morphology regulation and dual heteroatom doping. The small specific surface area of S‐NC is beneficial for inhibiting excessive growth of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film and irreversible interfacial reaction. The covalent S can serve as active electrochemical sites by Faradaic reactions and provide extra capacity. Benefit by N, S co‐doping, S‐NC shows large interlayer spacing, high defects, good electronic conductivity, strong ion adsorption performance, and fast Na+ ion transport, which combined with a more significant pore volume result in speedier reaction kinetics. Hence, S‐NC possesses a high reversible specific capacity of 464.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 with a high ICE of 50.7%, excellent rate capability (209.8 mAh g−1 at 10.0 A g−1), and superb long‐cycle capability delivering a capacity of 229.0 mAh g−1 (85% retention) after 1800 cycles at 5.0 A g−1.
A protocol for the development of core outcome sets for effectiveness trials and clinical audits in renal cell cancer (R‐COS)
Authors: MacLennan Steven , Wintner Lisa M. , Beyer Katharina , Lawlor Ailbhe , Tripathee Sheela , Dabestani Saeed , Marconi Lorenzo , Giles Rachel H. , Woodward Rose , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Bex Axel , Zondervan Patricia
Published: June 2023

Background

There is inconsistency in outcomes collected in renal cell cancer (RCC) intervention effectiveness studies and variability in their definitions. This makes critical summaries of the evidence base difficult and sub‐optimally informative for clinical practice guidelines and decision‐making by patients and healthcare professionals. A solution is to develop a core outcome set (COS), an agreed minimum set of outcomes to be reported in all trials in a clinical area.

Objectives

To develop three COS for (a) localised, (b) locally advanced and (c) metastatic

RCC study design, participants and methods

The methods are the same for each of our three COS and are structured in two phases. Phase 1 identifies potentially relevant outcomes by conducting both a systematic literature review and patient interviews (N ~ 30 patients). Qualitative data will be analysed using framework analysis. In phase 2, all outcomes identified in phase 1 will be entered in a modified eDelphi, whereby patients and healthcare professionals (50 of each) will score each outcome's importance (Likert scale from 1 [not important] to 9 [critically important]). Outcomes scored in the 7–9 range by ≥70% and 1–3 by ≤15% will be regarded as ‘consensus in’, and the vice versa of this will constitute ‘consensus out’. All other combinations will be regarded as equivocal and discussed at consensus meetings (including 10 patients and 10 healthcare professionals) in order to vote on them and ratify the results of the eDelphi.

Discussion

The R‐COS will reduce outcome reporting heterogeneity and improve the evidence base for RCC.

Study registration

The study is registered with the COMET initiative: https://www.comet-initiative.org/studies/details/1406.
Pre‐diagnosis lipid levels and mortality after obesity‐related cancer diagnosis in the Women's Health Initiative cardiovascular disease biomarker cohort
Authors: Hovsepyan Gayane , Barac Ana , Brasky Theodore M. , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Lehman Amy , McLaughlin Eric M. , Saquib Nazmus , Iyengar Neil M. , Wild Robert A. , Caan Bette J. , Desai Pinkal , Beebe Dimmer Jennifer , Thomson Cynthia A. , Simon Michael S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Published studies have demonstrated inconclusive relationships between serum lipid levels and mortality after cancer.

Methods

The primary objective was to evaluate the relationship between fasting lipid levels and mortality after cancer. Data were obtained on baseline lipids and outcomes after cancer from 1263 postmenopausal women diagnosed with 13 obesity‐related cancers who were part of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) lipid biomarkers cohort. Obesity‐related cancers included incident invasive cancers of the breast, colorectum, endometrium, esophagus (adenocarcinoma), kidney, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, ovaries, small intestine, thyroid, stomach, as well as multiple myeloma. Baseline lipid measurements included high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol, and non‐HDL‐cholesterol. Outcomes were all cause, cancer‐specific, and CVD mortality. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to measure associations between lipid levels and mortality (all cause, cancer, and CVD) after a cancer diagnosis, with lipids analyzed as continuous variables.

Results

Among women with obesity‐related cancer, there were 707 deaths, of which 379 (54%) were due to cancer and 113 (16%) were due to CVD. Mean time from blood draw to cancer diagnosis was 5.1 years (range: 0.05–10 years). LDL‐C values above the 95th percentile were associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality (p < 0.001), and cancer‐specific mortality (p < 0.001), but not mortality due to CVD. Non‐HDL‐C values above the 65th percentile were associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality (p = 0.01) and mortality due to CVD (p = 0.003), but not cancer‐specific mortality (p = 0.37). HDL‐C values above the 95th percentile were associated with lower all‐cause mortality (p = 0.002), and above the 65th percentile with lower cancer‐specific mortality (p = 0.003), but no significant relationship with mortality due to CVD was observed.

Conclusions

The relationship between pre‐diagnosis fasting lipid levels and mortality after cancer diagnosis is complex. These results suggest that improved lipid control through lifestyle and anti‐lipid medications could have a meaningful impact on outcomes after cancer.
The PRMT5 inhibitor C9 mitigates hypoxia‐induced carboplatin resistance in lung cancer by inducing autophagy
Authors: Fan Jiangjiang , Li Haichao , Ruan Qiong , Zhu Ximing , Jing Pengyu , Gu Zhongping
Published: June 2023

Hypoxia, a common feature of solid tumors, can promote chemoresistance in cancer cells. PRMT5 mediates various cellular processes involved in cancer development and progression. However, the role of PRMT5 in hypoxia‐induced chemoresistance is unclear. In this study, hypoxia upregulated PRMT5 expression in lung cancer cells. Additionally, PRMT5 overexpression promoted cancer cell resistance to carboplatin. In carboplatin‐resistant cancer cells, PRMT5 overexpression promoted the methylation of ULK1, a critical regulator of autophagy. ULK1 hypermethylation leads to the upregulation of autophagy, which can improve the survival of cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, this study demonstrated that the PRMT5 inhibitor C9 significantly enhanced the sensitivity of lung cancer cells to carboplatin. These findings suggest that targeting PRMT5‐mediated autophagy with C9 can overcome hypoxia‐induced carboplatin resistance and improve the efficacy of chemotherapy in patients with cancer.
Ascorbic acid enhances chondrocyte differentiation of ATDC5 by accelerating insulin receptor signaling
Authors: Okita Kaede , Hikiji Hisako , Koga Ayaka , Nagai‐Yoshioka Yoshie , Yamasaki Ryota , Mitsugi Sho , Fujii Wataru , Ariyoshi Wataru
Published: June 2023

Chondrogenesis is strictly regulated by several factors, including cytokines, hormones, and extracellular matrix proteins. Mouse teratocarcinoma‐derived lineage cells, differentiate into chondrocytes in the presence of insulin. Although ascorbic acid promotes chondrogenic differentiation, the detailed regulative mechanisms underlying its role in chondrogenesis remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the effects of ascorbic acid on insulin‐induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells and the underlying intracellular signaling. The results revealed that insulin‐stimulated collagen deposition, matrix formation, calcification, and expression of chondrogenic differentiation marker genes in ATDC5 cells. This enhancement by insulin was amplified with the addition of ascorbic acid. Molecular analysis revealed that the activation of insulin‐induced phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling was enhanced in the presence of ascorbic acid. In contrast, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling was suppressed during chondrocyte differentiation via upregulation of the Wnt agonist, secreted Frizzled‐related protein 1 (sFRP‐1) and 3 (sFRP‐3). Notably, ascorbic acid upregulated the expression of insulin receptors and their substrates (IRS‐1 and IRS‐2). Furthermore, ascorbic acid reversed the suppression of IRS‐1 and IRS‐2 protein by insulin. These results indicate that ascorbic acid positively regulates the chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells via enhancement of insulin signaling. Our findings provide a substantial basis for further elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms of chondrocyte differentiation and the pathophysiology of OA, thus aiding in development of effective treatment strategies.
Bilateral vocal fold paresis and glottal bridge synechia in COVID‐19
Authors: Tardue‐Breiter Antonia , Glück Anna , Dier Helga , Sprinzl Georg Mathias
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Bilateral vocal fold paresis (BVFP) is a rare complication in COVID‐19 and should be considered as differential diagnosis in COVID‐19‐patients presenting with dyspnea and stridor. High‐dose intravenous corticosteroids can be useful treating COVID‐19‐related laryngeal edema and vocal fold paresis. This case shows the complexity of laryngeal complications in COVID‐19 requiring surgeries and functional therapies.

Although COVID‐19 is known to affect peripheral as well as cranial nerves, there is a paucity of reports on vocal fold paresis in COVID‐19, bilateral vocal fold paresis (BVFP) in particular. We describe a case of BVFP and glottal bridge synechia following COVID‐19‐pneumonia discussing pathomechanisms and treatment options.
Synergistic Syngas Production: Needleless Electrospinning Synthesis of Co/CeO2–La2O3 Catalyst for Efficient Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Rosli Siti Nor Amira , Othman Nur Hidayati , Nguyen Van Cuong , Zainal Abidin Sumaiya
Published: June 2023

The prime cause for catalyst deactivation during dry reforming of methane (DRM) has been attributed to the deposition of carbon. Nanofibrous (NF) catalysts are attractive candidates that offer high catalytic activity and stability in DRM. A comparative study between electrospun and impregnated Co/CeO2–La2O3 catalysts in the DRM reaction was carried out to evaluate the merits of the NF catalyst. Application of the electrospun catalyst yielded the highest activity in DRM and showed a substantial improvement in resistance to carbon formation. The unique structure of the NF electrospun catalyst, the robust metal‐support interaction, and the increased surface area could more effectively suppress deactivation of the catalyst during an 8‐h DRM reaction than the impregnated catalyst.
Moisture content prediction of semen ziziphi spinosae based on hyperspectral images coupled with convolutional neural networks and subregional voting
Authors: Li Xiong , Liu Yande , Liu Liangfeng , Jiang Xiaogang , Wang Guantian
Published: June 2023

Deep learning algorithms represented by convolutional neural networks bring new opportunities for spectral analysis technology. Convolutional neural networks are more straightforward than traditional chemometric algorithms for detecting the quality of agricultural products, reducing the procedures of spectral preprocessing and band selection, and with higher prediction accuracy. However, there are few research papers on the relevance of the explanation of the convolutional neural networks model mechanism, and the reader cannot fully understand convolutional neural networks feature learning. In this study, convolutional neural networks combined with the subregional voting method were used to predict the moisture content of semen ziziphi spinosae. Firstly, 10 regions of interest were divided using the subregional voting method, and the results of network models were compared. It was found that the average spectrum of the fifth region of interest had the best prediction of moisture content because it was closest to the central region of semen ziziphi spinosae. Based on this, a convolutional neural network containing three convolutional layers, three pooling layers, and one fully connected layer is proposed. Partial least squares regression, backpropagation neural network, and convolutional neural networks were established to predict the moisture content of semen ziziphi spinosae. The correlation coefficient of the prediction set of the partial least squares regression is 0.98 after the multiplicative scatter correction preprocessed the spectra, and correlation coefficient of the prediction set of the backpropagation neural network is 0.83 after the standard normal variate preprocessed the spectra. The correlation coefficient of the prediction set of the convolutional neural networks established by using the raw spectra reached 0.99. The spectral preprocessing method can improve the prediction set correlation coefficient of partial least squares regression and backpropagation neural network. Still, it will reduce the prediction ability of convolutional neural networks. This study also analyzed the effect of different learning rates on the performance of convolutional neural networks, and it was found that the training loss and training accuracy performed most consistently when the learning rate was 0.01. Secondly, this study also visualized the output feature maps of the three convolutional layers of convolutional neural networks and verified the effectiveness of convolutional neural networks feature band extraction. This study provides new ideas for deep learning in the online detection of seed moisture content.
Chemical Recycling of Polyolefinic Waste to Light Olefins by Catalytic Pyrolysis
Authors: Netsch Niklas , Vogt Jonas , Richter Frank , Straczewski Grazyna , Mannebach Gerd , Fraaije Volker , Tavakkol Salar , Mihan Shahram , Stapf Dieter
Published: June 2023

Catalytic pyrolysis of post‐industrial and post‐consumer waste is studied in an auger‐type reactor at pilot scale by applying two different zeolites and an amorphous silica‐alumina catalyst in‐situ at 400–550 °C. Contrary to thermal pyrolysis, of polyolefin‐rich waste, high gaseous pyrolysis product yields of approx. 85 wt % are achieved with C2–C4 olefin contents of up to 67 wt %. After deactivation by coke deposition catalyst regeneration is proved feasible for maintaining the gaseous product yield and composition. Waste feedstocks with significant nitrogen and halogen heteroatom content are not suitable for in‐situ catalytic pyrolysis.
Biobased Silicon and Biobased Silica: Two Production Routes Whose Time has Come**
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Laine Richard M. , Pagliaro Mario
Published: June 2023

This study offers an updated bioeconomy perspective on biobased routes to high‐purity silicon and silica in the context of the societal, economic and environmental trends reshaping chemical processes. We summarize the main aspects of the green chemistry technologies capable of transforming current production methods. Coincidentally, we discuss selected industrial and economic aspects. Finally, we offer perspectives of how said technologies could/will reshape current chemical and energy production.
High purity and integrity RNA from human cell lines stored in liquid nitrogen for over 20 years
Authors: Voinsky Irena , Shapira Elad , Gurwitz David
Published: June 2023

Biobanks are a key resource for obtaining human cell lines for biomedical research, including for drug development projects. Such projects often include comparative RNA‐sequencing of large panels of human cell lines from individuals affected by certain disorders and healthy controls, or from individuals with different drug response phenotypes. RNA extractions are typically done from growing cell cultures, a process that may take several weeks. However, maintaining large numbers of cell lines in parallel increases the project workload. Here, we show that extracting RNAs directly from frozen vials of human cell lines stored for over 20 years in a liquid nitrogen freezer yields RNAs with the high purity and integrity parameters that conform to those required for optimal RNA‐sequencing and are closely similar to those obtained for RNAs extracted from growing human cell lines.
Interactions between large‐scale and local factors influence seed predation rates and seed loss
Authors: Calixto Eduardo S. , Maron John L. , Hahn Philip G.
Published: June 2023

Herbivores often have highly variable impacts on plant fecundity. The relative contribution of different environmental factors operating at varying spatial scales in affecting this variability is often unclear. We examined how density‐dependent seed predation at local scales and regional differences in primary productivity are associated with variation in the magnitude of pre‐dispersal seed predation on Monarda fistulosa (Lamiaceae). Within M. fistulosa populations growing in a low‐productivity region (LPR), Montana, USA, and a high‐productivity region (HPR), Wisconsin, USA, we quantified the magnitude of pre‐dispersal seed predation among individual plants differing in seed head densities. Out of a total of 303 M. fistulosa plants that were surveyed, we found half as many herbivores in seed heads in the LPR (n = 133 herbivores) compared to the HPR (n = 316). In the LPR, 30% of the seed heads were damaged in plants with low seed head density, while 61% of seed heads were damaged in plants with high seed head density. Seed head damage was consistently high in the HPR (about 49% across the range of seed head density) compared to the LPR (45% across a range of seed head density). However, the proportion of seeds per seed head that were destroyed by herbivores was nearly two times higher (~38% loss) in the LPR compared to HPR (22% loss). Considering the combined effects of probability of damage and seed loss per seed head, the proportion seed loss per plant was consistently higher in the HPR regardless of seed head density. Nevertheless, because of greater seed head production, the total number of viable seeds produced per plant was higher in HPR and high‐density plants, despite being exposed to greater herbivore pressure. These findings show how large‐scale factors can interact with local‐scale factors to influence how strongly herbivores suppress plant fecundity.
An automated approach for counting groups of flying animals applied to one of the world's largest bat colonies
Authors: Koger Benjamin , Hurme Edward , Costelloe Blair R. , O'Mara M. Teague , Wikelski Martin , Kays Roland , Dechmann Dina K. N.
Published: June 2023

Estimating animal populations is essential for conservation. Censusing large congregations is especially important since these are priorities for protection, but efficiently counting hundreds of thousands of moving animals remains a challenge. We developed a deep learning‐based system using consumer cameras that not only counts but also records behavioral information for large numbers of flying animals in a range of lighting conditions including near darkness. We built a robust training set without human labeling by leveraging data augmentation and background subtraction. We demonstrate this approach by estimating the size of a straw‐colored fruit bat (Eidolon helvum) colony in Kasanka National Park, Zambia with cameras encircling the colony to record evening emergence. Detection of bats was robust to deteriorating lighting conditions and changing backgrounds. Combined over five days, our population estimates ranged between 750,000 and 976,000 bats with a mean of 857,233. In addition to counts, we extracted wingbeat frequency, flight altitude, and local group polarity for 639,414 individuals. This open access method is an inexpensive but powerful approach that, in addition to radial emergences from central locations, can also be applied to unidirectional movements of flying groups, such as migratory streams of birds.
Longer‐term verbal and visual memory patterns in patients with temporal lobe and genetic generalized epilepsies
Authors: Puteikis Kristijonas , Wolf Peter , Mameniškienė Rūta
Published: June 2023

Objective

To compare forgetting patterns between patients with temporal lobe (TLE) and generalized (GGE) epilepsies and to assess whether recall is associated with epileptic activity.

Methods

Thirty‐three patients with TLE (13 left, 17 right, and 3 nonlateralized TLE), 42 patients with GGE, and 57 healthy controls (HCs) were asked to recall words, verbal story material, and the Rey‐Osterrieth complex figure at two delays. Accelerated long‐term forgetting (ALF) was defined by group performance comparable to HCs at 30 min and worse recall than HCs after 4 weeks. ALF was assessed by comparing raw test scores in a two‐way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) adjusted for the learning capacity.

Results

Compared to HCs, patients with R‐TLE remembered fewer items of the word list after 30 min as well as after 4 weeks. Patients with L‐TLE and GGE had comparable learning‐adjusted performance to HCs at the 30 min delay but scored less after 4 weeks (group by delay interaction F(3, 124) = 3.2, P = 0.026,  = 0.07). The epilepsy group (patients with TLE and GGE combined) performed as well as HCs at 30 min but worse after 4 weeks irrespective of experienced seizures during the 4‐week delay or interictal bilateral (TLE) or generalized (GGE) activity before the study. We noted no statistically significant differences between patient and HC verbal story (group by delay interaction F(3, 124) = 0.7, P = 0.570,  = 0.02) or complex figure (F(3, 124) = 0.8, P = 0.488,  = 0.02) recall.

Significance

Our data support verbal and visual memory impairment in both TLE and GGE with different performances between these groups in the task of word recall. We suggest the presence of ALF in patients with GGE and left TLE after adjusting for learning capacity. We could not confirm the influence of epileptic activity on long‐term forgetting patterns. Future studies are required to better define domain‐specific differences in memory impairment in TLE and GGE.
Sonographic evaluation of median nerve cross‐sectional area in a normal Iranian population: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rayegani Seyed Mansoor , Bayat Masume
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Considering disagreements on the normal range of median nerve cross‐sectional area (MNCSA) and insufficient data in the Iranian population, this study aimed to measure normal MNCSA.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, bilateral upper limbs of 99 subjects were assessed by sonography, and MNCSA was measured at three levels: forearm, carpal tunnel inlet (CTI), and carpal tunnel outlet (CTO). The association between MNCSA and demographic factors was assessed.

Results

Mean MNCSA was 6.33 mm2 at the forearm, 9.41 mm2 at CTI, and 10.67 mm2 at CTO. MNCSA was significantly higher in males (6.78 vs. 5.94 mm2 at the forearm, 9.98 vs. 8.92 mm2 at CTI, and 11.24 vs. 10.84 mm2 at CTO in males and females, respectively) and taller (>170 cm) subjects in all three levels (6.69 vs. 6.03 mm2 at the forearm, 9.80 vs. 9.02 mm2 at CTI, and 11.27 vs. 10.12 mm2 at CTO in taller and shorter subjects, respectively). MNCSA was not significantly associated with wrist ratio (WR) or body mass index (BMI).

Conclusion

The normal MNCSA range in the Iranian population is 6.31 mm2 (forearm) to 10.74 mm2 (CTO). MNCSA is significantly higher in males and taller subjects but is not associated with BMI and WR.
On the computational approaches for supporting triage systems
Authors: Defilippo Annamaria , Bertucci Giuseppe , Zurzolo Cosimo , Veltri Pierangelo , Guzzi Pietro Hiram
Published: June 2023

Triage procedure is used in Emergency Departments (ED) to manage the patient's treatment and prioritise care access. This is a largely resource‐consuming phase and relevant to reduce risk and optimise resource management. Moreover, the presence of patients in the ED (both in treatment rooms and in waiting rooms after triage) may increase the patients' time of stay, thus creating problems for critical patients and for healthcare process management. Moreover, it has been proved that a large fraction of ED incoming patients do not require emergency treatments and might be treated in ambulatory or by family doctors. In such cases, the triage wastes resources and time. In addition, the decision of a low priority or no ED necessity is relevant considering that underestimating treatment necessity may cause errors in patient treatments. Improving triage related decisions is a relevant task. It has been shown that computational methods such as machine learning (ML) may support triage by providing better stratification of patients as well as better results in terms of outcome. We here present a literature review discussing some recent approaches to predict the severity of patients and in particular, we present recent approaches based on ML. We use PRISMA methodology to include works in our analysis. Finally, the future directions of research and open problems are highlighted.
From extremely acidic to alkaline: Aquatic invertebrates in forest mining lakes under the pressure of acidification
Authors: Spyra Aneta , Cieplok Anna , Kaszyca‐Taszakowska Natalia
Published: June 2023

Human activities, including the mining industry, have considerably degraded water habitats worldwide. Acidification has severely affected aquatic environments and biodiversity by altering food webs and reducing species richness. The study area in southern Poland is unique in addressing the effects of mining‐related acidification on biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems along a broad pH gradient (2.4–9.6) in mining lakes. Study was designed to test for effect of human induced acidification. Using multivariate ordination techniques, we analyzed how variations in invertebrate composition are related to environmental factors. The results indicated that pH, hardness, total dissolved solids, and the content of ammonia and calcium were significantly associated with the distribution of invertebrates in the studied mining lakes. The highest iron content, relatively high values of conductivity, and chlorides were found in the extremely acidic mining lakes. A clear trend in decreasing density with decreasing pH was observed for taxa such as Oligochaeta, Chironomidae, Glossiphonidae, and certain taxa of snails. However, the density of other taxa such as Lestidae, Libellulidae, Caenidae, Sialidae, Helodidae, Hydrophilidae, and Polycentropodidae increased with decreasing pH. Specific communities were found with increasing acidity. Therefore, a further increase in acidity will probably cause a stronger decline in most of taxa and their density, and on water chemistry (e.g., calcium concentration, nitrites, and hardness). The data yielded offer an opportunity to fill knowledge gaps on acidic stress concerning less‐studied environments such as mining lakes and link environmental pollution with communities, which is especially important, because aquatic forest habitats are especially exposed to different climatic factors and threats.
The reproductive and transgenerational toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: A threat to mammalian fertility in both sexes
Authors: He Yuchong , Yin Ruocheng
Published: June 2023

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are extensively distributed in the environment. However, a comprehensive review and in‐depth discussion on the effects of MPs and NPs to reproductive capacity and transgenerational toxicity on mammals, especially on humans, is lacked. It is suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics could accumulate in mammalian reproductive organs and exert toxic effects on the reproductive system for both sexes. For males, the damage of microplastics consists of abnormal testicular and sperm structure, decreased sperm vitality, and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis of testicular cells, autophagy, abnormal cytoskeleton, and abnormal hypothalamic‐pituitary‐testicular axis. For females, the damage of microplastics includes abnormal ovary and uterus structure and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, hypothalamic‐pituitary‐ovary axis abnormalities, and tissue fibrosis. For transgenerational toxicity, premature mortality existed in the rodent offspring after maternal exposure to microplastics. Among the surviving offspring, metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, immune, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive disorders were detected, and these events directly correlated with transgenerational translocation of MPs and NPs. Studies on human‐derived cells or organoids demonstrated that transgenerational toxicity studies for both sexes are yet in the phase of exploring suitable experimental models, and more detailed research on the threat of MPs and NPs to human fertility is still urgently needed. Further studies will help assess the MPs and NPs threat to public fertility and reproductive health risks.
Osteosclerotic Metaphyseal Dysplasia Due to a Likely Pathogenic LRRK1 Variant as a Cause of Recurrent Long Bone Fractures
Authors: van Velsen Evert F.S. , Demirdas Serwet , Hanff David , Zillikens M. Carola
Published: June 2023

Osteosclerotic metaphyseal dysplasia (OSMD) is a very rare autosomal‐recessive disease caused by mutations in the leucine‐rich repeat kinase 1 (LRRK1) gene. It is a sclerosing skeletal dysplasia characterized by osteosclerosis of the long bones, predominantly at the metaphyses and vertebrae. Phenotypic features can be short stature, pathological fractures, delayed development, and hypotonia, but they are not uniformly present, and relatively few cases are known from the literature. A 40‐year‐old man was seen at our bone center because of nonspontaneous multiple peripheral low‐energy trauma fractures since puberty. He had no other complaints and his family history was negative. Except for a relatively short stature (167 cm; −1.5 SD), there were no abnormalities on examination, including laboratory tests. Initially, a suspicion was raised of osteogenesis imperfecta, but bone mineral density was high and X‐rays of the whole skeleton showed osteosclerosis of the metaphyses of long bones and vertebrae. Whole‐exome sequencing showed a homozygous, likely pathogenic, variant (American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics criteria class 4) in the LRRK1 gene, fitting the diagnosis of OSMD. In conclusion, we described a 40‐year‐old patient with osteosclerotic metaphyseal dysplasia caused by a homozygous variant in the LRRK1 gene, resulting in multiple fractures of the long bones without other features of the disease, adding to the phenotypic variation of OSMD. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
What was happening in the collaboration between general practitioners and public health nurses in the community: A qualitative study
Authors: Watanabe Fumiko , Kita Keiichiro , Kobayashi Naoko , Kuroiwa Maiko , Shimizu Yosuke , Sekijima Azusa , Yamashiro Seiji , Son Daisuke
Published: June 2023

Background

Interprofessional collaboration in the community is becoming essential in primary care, particularly collaboration between public health nurses and general practitioners. However, the precise value of such collaboration has not been sufficiently studied. The purpose of this study was to conduct a qualitative analysis of collaboration between general practitioners and public health nurses in the community to explore the details of the phenomenon and its possible impact on the community.

Methods

Since 2015, The University of Toyama has been implementing the Collaborative Health Activities Project, in which general practitioners and public health nurses work together to promote community health. Focus group and individual interviews were conducted with participating staff, and the data were analyzed qualitatively.

Results

Fifteen themes were generated, in six categories. The categories were as follows: enhanced roles of public health nurses and physicians in the community, new perspectives on the community, public health nurses' sense of trust and empathy toward physicians, bonds of solidarity between public health nurses and physicians, proactive change in residents, and supporting “hangout places”.

Conclusion

The collaboration between general practitioners and public health nurses familiar with the same community fostered a sense of trust and empathy and created the bonds of solidarity between staff and residents. The results also suggest the collaboration may have a positive impact on the local community by inspiring residents to change proactively and supporting “hangouts” where residents and professionals can informally connect.