bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous detection of testosterone, nandrolone, and boldenone esters in dried blood spots for doping control in sports by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Miyamoto Asami , Ota Masanori , Sato Mitsuhiko , Okano Masato
Published: March 2024

Testosterone, nandrolone, and boldenone, which are listed as doping substances on the World Anti‐Doping Agency Prohibited List, are mostly available commercially in esterified forms. Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) represents a key tool for identifying these substances, as they are hydrolyzed and discharged in the urine as pseudo‐endogenous substances. However, IRMS, which comprises a complicated process, cannot achieve the direct detection of steroid esters in blood samples. These substances can be detected using dried blood spots (DBSs), reducing the impact of esterase hydrolysis. Here, a simultaneous liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for detecting 28 steroid (13 testosterone, nine nandrolone, and six boldenone) esters was developed using three DBS types of samples, including a cellulose paper and polymer. The substances were first derivatized with methyloxime to increase their sensitivities (the limits of detection were <0.1–0.4, <0.1–0.9, and <0.1–0.9 ng/mL for the testosterone, nandrolone, and boldenone esters, respectively). Further, the DBS absorbents were verified since the effect of interferences depended on it. Next, a study involving seven participants was conducted to detect intramuscularly administered testosterone enanthate (100 mg). Polymer and cellulose papers were used to collect blood from their upper arms and fingertips, respectively, and testosterone enanthate was identified and detectable at both blood‐collection sites for up to 144 and 216 h, respectively. Furthermore, testosterone enanthate was detectable in the DBS samples stored under refrigeration after 6 months, indicating the stable nature of DBS.
Heart failure care in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region: status, barriers, and routes to improvement
Authors: Chioncel Ovidiu , Čelutkienė Jelena , Bělohlávek Jan , Kamzola Ginta , Lainscak Mitja , Merkely Béla , Miličić Davor , Nessler Jadwiga , Ristić Arsen D. , Sawiełajc Lidia , Uchmanowicz Izabella , Uuetoa Tiina , Turgonyi Eva , Yotov Yoto , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: March 2024

Despite improvements over recent years, morbidity and mortality associated with heart failure (HF) are higher in countries in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region than in Western Europe. With the goal of improving the standard of HF care and patient outcomes in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region, this review aimed to identify the main barriers to optimal HF care and potential areas for improvement. This information was used to suggest methods to improve HF management and decrease the burden of HF in the region that can be implemented at the national and regional levels. We performed a literature search to collect information about HF epidemiology in 11 countries in the region (Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia). The prevalence of HF in the region was 1.6–4.7%, and incidence was 3.1–6.0 per 1000 person‐years. Owing to the scarcity of published data on HF management in these countries, we also collected insights on local HF care and management practices via two surveys of 11 HF experts representing the 11 countries. Based on the combined results of the literature review and surveys, we created national HF care and management profiles for each country and developed a common patient pathway for HF for the region. We identified five main barriers to optimal HF care: (i) lack of epidemiological data, (ii) low awareness of HF, (iii) lack of national HF strategies, (iv) infrastructure and system gaps, and (v) poor access to novel HF treatments. To overcome these barriers, we propose the following routes to improvement: (i) establish regional and national prospective HF registries for the systematic collection of epidemiological data; (ii) establish education campaigns for the public, patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals; (iii) establish formal HF strategies to set clear and measurable policy goals and support budget planning; (iv) improve access to quality‐of‐care centres, multidisciplinary care teams, diagnostic tests, and telemedicine/telemonitoring; and (v) establish national treatment monitoring programmes to develop policies that ensure that adequate proportions of healthcare budgets are reserved for novel therapies. These routes to improvement represent a first step towards improving outcomes in patients with HF in the Central and Eastern Europe and Baltic region by decreasing disparities in HF care within the region and between the region and Western Europe.
Echocardiographic haemodynamic monitoring in the context of HeartMate 3™ therapy: a systematic review
Authors: Ohlsson Linus , Papageorgiou Joanna‐Maria , Ebbers Tino , Aneq Meriam Åström , Tamás Éva , Granfeldt Hans
Published: March 2024

Aims

While echocardiography remains essential within haemodynamic monitoring of durable mechanical circulatory support, previous echocardiographic guidelines are missing scientific evidence for the novel HeartMate 3™ (HM3) system. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize available echocardiographic evidence including HM3.

Methods and results

This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were conducted during August 2023 across PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar using specific echocardiographic terms combined with system identifiers. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cohort studies and Critical Appraisal Instrument (PCAI) for cross‐sectional studies. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, of which eight cohort studies and one cross‐sectional study. Aortic regurgitation (AR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited heterogenicity (33.5% (Δ 33%)) in a limited number of studies (n = 3). Several studies (n = 5) demonstrated an increasing prevalence and severity of AR during HM3 support, generating moderate to high level of evidence. One AR study showed a higher cumulative incidence of death and heart failure (HF) readmission compared with those without significant AR, hazard ratio 3.42 (95% CI 1.48–8.76). A second study showed that a worsening AR group had significantly lower survival‐free from HF readmission (59% vs. 89%, P = 0.023) with a hazard ratio of 5.18 (95% CI 1.07–25.0), while a third study did not reveal any differences in cardiac‐related hospitalizations in the 12 months follow‐up or non‐cardiac‐related hospitalization. Mitral regurgitation (MR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited good consistency 15.0% (Δ 0.8%) in both included studies, which did not reveal any significant pattern of changing prevalence over time. Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) prevalence at approximately 12 months of support exhibited fair consistency 28.5% (Δ 8.3%) in a limited number of studies (n = 2); both studies showed a statistically un‐confirmed trend of increased TR prevalence over time. The evidence of general prevalence of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) was insufficient due to lack of studies.

Conclusions

There are few methodologically consistent studies with focus on long‐term haemodynamic effects. Aortic regurgitation still seems to be a prevalent and potentially significant finding. The available evidence concerning right heart function is limited despite clinical relevance and potential prognostic value. Potential interventricular and haemodynamic interplay are identified as a white field for future research.
CH‐VAD left ventricular assist implantation combined with the Bentall procedure and coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Zhao Shuanglei , Liu Chongyang , Wang Jun , Wang Hong , Luo Tiange , Hao Xiaoyan , Yang Xian , Wen Mingxiu , Han Jie , Zhang Hongjia , Gong Ming
Published: March 2024

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is an effective alternative treatment to heart transplantation, especially for end‐stage heart failure patients who are ineligible for or unable to await a heart transplant. This report describes a complex and innovative surgery where LVAD implantation was performed alongside multiple concomitant cardiac and aortic procedures. A 62‐year‐old male patient with complicated comorbidities developed acute myocardial infarction and subsequent refractory advanced heart failure. Given his critically ill condition and intractable anatomical malformations, the CH‐VAD left ventricular assist system implantation was performed concomitantly with the Bentall procedure, coronary artery bypass grafting, tricuspid valvuloplasty, and foramen ovale closure. The patient was successfully discharged. This case details the medical decision‐making process and surgical strategy and demonstrates the feasibility of LVAD implantation combined with multiple additional cardiac and aortic procedures in expert cardiac centres. Success relies on experienced cardiac surgeons and a multidisciplinary LVAD Heart Team, ensuring excellence in surgical techniques, preoperative evaluation, post‐operative care, and rehabilitation.
Diborane, Diborene and M(I)‐η2‐Diborene Complexes Stabilized by Bicyclic (Alkyl)(Amino)Carbene (M=Cu and Ag)
Authors: Adhikari Manu , De Sriman , Kumar Manar Krishna , Kumar Thakur Sandeep , Kamte Rohit S. , Koley Debasis , Singh Sanjay
Published: March 2024

BICAAC (bicyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene) as ambiphilic carbene has been utilized to prepare stable neutral tetrahydrodiborane [BICAAC
(H2)B−B(H2)
BICAAC] and dihydrodiborene [BICAAC→(H)B=B(H)
BICAAC] compounds. The Lewis base stabilized dihydrodiborene is isoelectronic and isolobal to conventional olefins and therefore offers the possibility to explore the formation of π‐complexes with transition metals. Reaction of the diborene with coinage metal salts (CuCl, AgBr and CuI) leads to the formation of π‐diborene metal complexes via η2 side‐on coordination. These are first examples of dihydrodiborene coinage metal complexes. Interestingly, coordination of two CuCl units to the diborene has been observed for the first time with a considerable lengthening of >B=B< and B
CBICAAC bonds manifesting the key role of the BICAAC combined with small steric requirements of hydride substituents in stabilizing these complexes. The energy decomposition analysis (EDA) calculations reveal the interaction between the diborene and Cu(I)/Ag(I) is mainly electrostatic in nature.
Aerobic Photoredox Catalyzed Oxamate Ester Synthesis from Bromodifluoroacetate Esters
Authors: Tagami Takuma , Kawamura Shintaro , Sodeoka Mikiko
Published: March 2024

Here we report an aerobic photoredox catalysis approach to oxamate ester synthesis using bromodifluoroacetate esters and amines under open‐air conditions. Oxamate ester is an important skeleton found in bioactive molecules and used as a synthetic building block. However, previous synthetic methods require the use of moisture‐ and air‐sensitive precursors and/or harsh conditions, limiting accessible oxamate esters. The present method uses bench‐stable bromodifluoroacetate esters and amines under mild photoredox catalytic conditions to furnish a wide variety of oxamate esters. Combining photoredox catalysis with aerobic oxygenation enables the use of bromodifluoroacetate ester as a precursor for the synthesis of oxamate esters via fluoroglyoxylate esters.
Zinc Cobalt Sulfide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite for High‐Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitor: A Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis
Authors: Konwar Madhabi , Singh Rana Sanjay Kumar , Borthakur Lakhya Jyoti
Published: March 2024

In this work, the microwave‐assisted synthesis of ZnxCo1–xS/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite and the evaluation of its electrochemical properties for supercapacitor (SC) application are dealt with. The synergistic effect between ZnxCo1–xS and rGO along with the conducting network provided by rGO facilitates the conducive movement of ions and enhances the electrochemical performance of the nanocomposite. The stoichiometric ratio of Zn:Co:rGO plays a crucial role in the SC behavior of the material. In three electrode systems, a material shows a high specific capacitance of 1094 F g−1 at current density 1 A g−1. The material stores charge both diffusively as well as capacitively. An asymmetric SC with acetylene black as the negative electrode and ZnxCo1–xS/rGO as the positive electrode has a stable potential window 0–1.6 V. For the fabrication of the electrodes, Ni foam is used as the current collector. The energy density and power density of the SC are found to be 32.71 and 431.95 W kg−1, respectively. The Coulombic efficiency of the SC is found to be 107% while its capacitance retention is 86% after 10 000 galvanostatic charge–discharge cycles. The energy and power density of the SC are comparatively higher than many recently reported literature. The material exhibits superior electrochemical stability and reversibility and can be a suitable electrode material for SCs.
Connectome spectrum electromagnetic tomography: A method to reconstruct electrical brain source networks at high‐spatial resolution
Authors: Rué‐Queralt Joan , Fluhr Hugo , Tourbier Sebastien , Aleman‐Gómez Yasser , Pascucci David , Yerly Jérôme , Glomb Katharina , Plomp Gijs , Hagmann Patric
Published: March 2024

Connectome spectrum electromagnetic tomography (CSET) combines diffusion MRI‐derived structural connectivity data with well‐established graph signal processing tools to solve the M/EEG inverse problem. Using simulated EEG signals from fMRI responses, and two EEG datasets on visual‐evoked potentials, we provide evidence supporting that (i) CSET captures realistic neurophysiological patterns with better accuracy than state‐of‐the‐art methods, (ii) CSET can reconstruct brain responses more accurately and with more robustness to intrinsic noise in the EEG signal. These results demonstrate that CSET offers high spatio‐temporal accuracy, enabling neuroscientists to extend their research beyond the current limitations of low sampling frequency in functional MRI and the poor spatial resolution of M/EEG.
Adopting telemedicine in the fight against antimicrobial resistance in West Africa
Authors: Dauda Babatunde Jamiu , Offor Michael Chukwubuikem , Adebusuyi Olakulehin , Owolabi Caleb Promise
Published: March 2024

The detrimental effects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have called for several approaches in the fight against it in West Africa, where telemedicine is still in its infancy. In West Africa, self‐medication is prevalent because the majority of these medications are easily accessible due to insufficient regulatory structures that control their production, distribution, and consumption. Also, access to healthcare facilities and professionals is limited. All of these and other inadequacies consequently result in the emergence of antimicrobial‐resistant organisms. AMR, which is now a major global health crisis according to the WHO, may cause the deaths of about 10 million people before 2050, and Africa may make up 41% of these deaths, with the Western part of this continent affected the most. While several approaches have been adopted, unlike in other regions of the world, the use of telemedicine in West Africa to fight AMR has rarely been studied or considered and where it is now in partial use, its efficacy is constrained by several factors. This paper discusses the roles of telemedicine, the limitations to its application in the fight against AMR, and suggests remedies for these limitations.
Pregnancy outcomes for women with pre‐existing renal disease and the role of a dedicated joint maternal medicine and renal clinic: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wildridge Bethany , Makanjuola David , Johnson Antoinette , Ganapathy Ramesh , Mountford Lucy , Bell Christina , Odogwu Jonathan , Shehata Hassan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To reaffirm the value of a joint obstetric and renal clinic on obstetric outcomes in patients with high‐risk pregnancies due to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who attended the clinic between 2005 and December 2021. The hospital is a regional tertiary unit for renal medicine and a maternal medicine hub. The data included all women with pre‐existing renal conditions who were cared for in a dedicated renal and obstetric clinic. Datasets were extracted from hospital notes, the renal database, clinical data and maternity electronic health records. The data analyzed included pre‐existing renal conditions, biochemical parameters related to the renal condition, pregnancy outcomes included miscarriages, gestation, mode of delivery, postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), loss, birth weight and neonatal admission.

Results

The results were as follows: Lupus nephritis: four term deliveries; three had pre‐eclampsia; two PPH and two miscarriages. Four estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) returned to baseline levels within 12 months. With regard to IgA nephropathy there were five live births, four term deliveries, two pre‐eclampsia (PE) and five cesarean sections (CS). All eGFRs returned to baseline within 12 months. With regard to patients with adult polycystic kidney disease (APKD), there were six live births, two had pre‐eclampsia and there were five term vaginal deliveries.

Conclusion

Patients with lupus nephritis, APKD, and IgA demonstrated a higher incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes as compared with our local pregnant population. Our findings reflect those of larger studies and support the role of combined renal/obstetric clinics. More research and larger scale studies are needed into specific CKD conditions and their outcomes.
Daily huddles in antenatal clinics: An effective tool to optimize quality of antenatal care
Authors: Puri Manju , Agrawal Swati , Patra Sharda , Nain Shilpi , Meena Deepika , Chauhan Divya , Devraj Rupesh , Ahlawat Kiran
Published: March 2024

Synopsis

Daily huddles are 15 golden minutes in antenatal clinics which can aid in the reduction of maternal and perinatal morbidity as well as mortality.
Inorganic nanoparticles‐based strategies for the microbial detection in infectious diseases
Authors: Ding Xinyu , Ma Juntao , Fan Tao , Issa Rahma , Li Yaxin , Weng Dan , Zhang Dagan , Chen Yuxin
Published: March 2024

Infectious diseases pose significant threats to public health and the global economy, necessitating rapid and accurate detection of the causative microorganisms to prevent their transmission. Nanomaterials, with their unique size‐dependent physical and chemical attributes, present innovative solutions for the detection of infectious diseases, thereby playing a crucial role in the development of advanced detection technologies. This review describes the application of inorganic nanomaterials in the detection of infectious diseases, focusing on the potential uses of nanomaterials, including carbon nanoallotropes, quantum dots, gold and silver nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles and upconversion nanoparticles.
Evaluation of Aortic Hemodynamics Using Four‐Dimensional Flow of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rabbits with Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Li Jiali , Li Yuansheng , Lin Xin , Lv Cheng , Zhang Xiaoyong , Chen Jing
Published: March 2024

Background

Liver fibrosis (LF) precipitates systemic hemodynamic alterations, however, its impact on the aorta remaining undefined.

Purpose

To assess aorta hemodynamics changes during LF development in a rabbit model.

Study Type

Prospective, experimental.

Animal Model

Thirty 7‐month‐old male rabbits underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) to induce LF.

Field Strength/Sequence

Biweekly four‐dimensional (4D) flow imaging incorporating a 3D gradient‐echo at 3.0 T scanner for 14 weeks post‐BDL.

Assessment

Histopathological exams for 2–5 rabbits were performed at each time point, following each MRI scan. LF was graded using the Metavir scale by a pathologist. 4D flow was analyzed by two radiologists using dedicated postprocessing software. They recorded 4D flow parameters at four aorta sections (aortic sinus, before and after bifurcation of aortic arch, and descending aorta).

Statistical Tests

The linear mixed model; Bonferroni correction; Pearson correlation coefficient (r); receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve; Delong test. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Following BDL, the wall shear stress (WSS) (0.23–0.32 Pa), energy loss (EL) (0.27–1.55 mW) of aorta significantly increased at the second week for each plane, peaking at the sixth week (WSS: 0.35–0.49 Pa, EL: 0.57–2.0 mW). So did the relative pressure difference (RPD) (second week: 1.67 ± 1.63 mmHg, sixth week: 2.43 ± 0.63 mmHg) in plane 2. Notably, the RPD in plane 2 at the second week displayed the highest area under ROC curve of 0.998 (specificity: 1, sensitivity: 0.967). LF were found at the second, fourth, and sixth week after BDL, with grade F2, F3, and F4, respectively. The RPD in plane 2 was most strongly correlated with the severity of LF (r = 0.86).

Data Conclusions

The occurrence of LF could increase WSS, EL, and RPD of aorta as early as the second week following BDL.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
The role of orexin in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Braun Alisha , Manavis Jim , Yamanaka Akihiro , Ootsuka Youichirou , Blumbergs Peter , Bobrovskaya Larisa
Published: March 2024

Emerging evidence has implicated the orexin system in non‐motor pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. It has also been suggested the orexin system is involved in the modulation of motor control, further implicating the orexin system in Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease with millions of people suffering worldwide with motor and non‐motor symptoms, significantly affecting their quality of life. Treatments are based solely on symptomatic management and no cure currently exists. The orexin system has the potential to be a treatment target in Parkinson's disease, particularly in the non‐motor stage. In this review, the most current evidence on the orexin system in Parkinson's disease and its potential role in motor and non‐motor symptoms of the disease is summarized. This review begins with a brief overview of Parkinson's disease, animal models of the disease, and the orexin system. This leads into discussion of the possible roles of orexin neurons in Parkinson's disease and levels of orexin in the cerebral spinal fluid and plasma in Parkinson's disease and animal models of the disease. The role of orexin is then discussed in relation to symptoms of the disease including motor control, sleep, cognitive impairment, psychological behaviors, and the gastrointestinal system. The neuroprotective effects of orexin are also summarized in preclinical models of the disease.
Evaluation of the climate models used by the IPCC based on the position of the ITCZ in the Equatorial South Atlantic
Authors: Saad Sandra Isay , Duarte da Silva Melquizedek Rafael , Mota da Silva Jonathan
Published: March 2024

A number of the uncertainties in climate projections for the end of the century are due to the difficulty of general circulation models (GCMs) to represent large‐scale precipitating systems such as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) in the historical period. In this study, we evaluate the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 and 6 models based on the position of the ITCZ in the South Atlantic during the period in which it is climatologically further south (February–May). This period characterizes the rainy season of the Brazilian semiarid. The models were ranked according to two objective methods and validated through a qualitative analysis. The first method considered a success rate to evaluate the correct position of the areas with maximum precipitation and minimum pressure and meridional wind as representative of the mean position of the ITCZ. Among the 15 coupled GCMs analysed for each CMIP, those that best represented the position of the ITCZ were HADGEM.2‐AO, MIROC5 and CANESM2 from CMIP5 and CESM2 and MIROC6 from CMIP6. These models represented well the following characteristics of the ITCZ in February–May: maximum precipitation near the equator at the height of the coast of South America and with the wind convergence zone sloping north towards the African continent. The most common problem noticed in the other GCMs was to displace the ITCZ to the south of its observed mean position within the period February–May. Also, some GCMs presented a double ITCZ (GISS‐E2‐H, GDFL‐CM3 and IPSL‐CM5A‐LR from CMIP5 and INM‐CM5‐0 from CMIP6) following two high TSM cores. One GCM (ACCESS1‐3 from CMIP5) presented a relatively good performance, but the zone of greater precipitation was shifted to the east, being located in the centre of the Atlantic basin. Knowing how the GCMs represent the ITCZ is a criterion that must be considered when choosing the GCMs for climate change studies.
Porous versus solid shoulder implants in humeri of different bone densities: A finite element analysis
Authors: Hitchon Sydney , Soltanmohammadi Pendar , Milner Jaques S. , Holdsworth David , Willing Ryan
Published: March 2024

Porous metallic prosthesis components can now be manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques, and may prove beneficial for promoting bony ingrowth, for accommodating drug delivery systems, and for reducing stress shielding. Using finite element modeling techniques, 36 scenarios (three porous stems, three bone densities, and four held arm positions) were analysed to assess the viability of porous humeral stems for use in total shoulder arthroplasty, and their resulting mechanobiological impact on the surrounding humerus bone. All three porous stems were predicted to experience stresses below the yield strength of Ti6Al4V (880 MPa) and to be capable of withstanding more than 10 million cycles of each loading scenario before failure. There was an indication that within an 80 mm region of the proximal humerus, there would be a reduction in bone resorption as stem porosity increased. Overall, this study shows promise that these porous structures are mechanically viable for incorporation into permanent shoulder prostheses to combat orthopedic infections.
Cardamonin inhibits osteogenic differentiation by downregulating Wnt/beta‐catenin signaling and alleviates subchondral osteosclerosis in osteoarthritic mice
Authors: Meng Fanding , Zhu Pengchong , Ren Xiaoli , Wang Limei , Ding Dong , Yan Jiangbo , Zhang Ying , Yang Shang‐You , Ning Bin
Published: March 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, and subchondral osteosclerosis is an important pathological change that occurs in its late stages. Cardamonin (CD) is a natural flavonoid isolated from Alpinia katsumadai that has anti‐inflammatory activity. The objectives of this study were to investigate the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of CD in regulating OA subchondral osteosclerosis at in vivo and in vitro settings. Eight‐week‐old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into four groups: sham operation, anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)‐induced OA model, low‐dose and high‐dose CD treated ACLT‐OA model groups. Histological assessment and immunohistochemical examinations for chondrocyte metabolism‐related markers metalloproteinase‐13, ADAMTS‐4, Col II, and Sox‐9 were performed. Microcomputed tomography was used to assess the sclerosis indicators in subchondral bone. Further, MC3T3‐E1 (a mouse calvarial preosteoblast cell line) cells were treated with various concentrations of CD to reveal the influence and potential molecular pathways of CD in osteogenic differentiations. Animal studies suggested that CD alleviated the pathological changes in OA mice such as maintaining integrity and increasing the thickness of hyaline cartilage, decreasing the thickness of calcified cartilage, decreasing the Osteoarthritis Research Society International score, regulating articular cartilage metabolism, and inhibiting subchondral osteosclerosis. In vitro investigation indicated that CD inhibited alkaline phosphatase expression and production of calcium nodules during osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells. In addition, CD inhibited the expression of osteogenic differentiation‐related indicators and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway‐related proteins. In conclusion, CD inhibits osteogenic differentiation by downregulating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling and alleviating subchondral osteosclerosis in a mouse model of OA.
Nutrient‐efficient catfish‐based aquaponics for producing lamb's lettuce at two light intensities
Authors: Sebastião Fernando , Vaz Daniela C , Pires Cristiana L , Cruz Pedro F , Moreno Maria João , Brito Rui M M , Cotrim Luis , Oliveira Nelson , Costa Ana , Fonseca André , Rodrigues Maria , Ispolnov Kirill , Bernardino Raul , Vieira Judite
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Aquaponic systems are sustainable processes of managing water and nutrients for food production. An innovate nutrient‐efficient catfish‐based (Clarias gariepinus) aquaponics system was implemented for producing two cultivars of two leafy vegetables largely consumed worldwide: lamb's lettuce (Valerianella locusta var. Favor and Valerianella locusta var. de Hollande) and arugula (Eruca vesicaria var. sativa and Eruca sativa). Different growing treatments (4 × 2 factorial design) were applied to plants of each cultivar, grown at two light intensities (120 and 400 μmol m−2 s−1). During growth, several morphological characteristics (root length, plant height, leaf number, foliage diameter and biggest leaf length) were measured. At harvest, plants were weighed and examined qualitatively in terms of greenness and health status. Additionally, leaf extracts were obtained and used to determine total phenolic contents, antioxidant capacities, and levels of cytotoxicity to Caco‐2 intestinal model cells.

RESULTS

After a 5‐week growth period, both lamb's lettuce cultivars presented high levels of greenness and health status, at both light intensities, particularly the var. de Hollande that also showed higher average performance in terms of plant morphology. In turn, arugula cultivars showed lower levels of greenness and health status, especially the cultivar E. vesicaria var. sativa submitted to direct sunlight during growth. In addition, plant specimens submitted to higher levels of light intensity showed higher contents in antioxidants/polyphenols. Cultivars with a higher content in antioxidants/polyphenols led to higher Caco‐2 cell viability.

CONCLUSION

For successful industrial implementation of the aquaponics technology, different and optimized acclimatizing conditions must be applied to different plant species and cultivars. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Prediction of moisture content for a single maize kernel based on viscoelastic properties
Authors: Qiao Mengmeng , Xia Guoyi , Xu Yang , Cui Tao , Fan Chenlong , Li Yibo , Han Shaoyun , Qian Jun
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The rapid and accurate detection of moisture content is important to ensure maize quality. However, existing technologies for rapidly detecting moisture content often suffer from the use of costly equipment, stringent environmental requirements, or limited accuracy. This study proposes a simple and effective method for detecting the moisture content of single maize kernels based on viscoelastic properties.

RESULTS

Two types of viscoelastic experiments were conducted involving three different parameters: relaxation tests (initial loads: 60, 80, 100 N) and frequency‐sweep tests (frequencies: 0.6, 0.8, 1 Hz). These experiments generated corresponding force‐time graphs and viscoelastic parameters were extracted based on the four‐element Maxwell model. Then, viscoelastic parameters and data of force‐time graphs were employed as input variables to explore the relationships with moisture content separately. The impact of different preprocessing methods and feature time variables on model accuracy was explored based on force‐time graphs. The results indicate that models utilizing the force‐time data were more accurate than those utilizing viscoelastic parameters. The best model was established by partial least squares regression based on S‐G smoothing data from relaxation tests conducted with initial force of 100 N. The correlation coefficient and the root mean square error of the calibration set were 0.954 and 0.021, respectively. The corresponding values of the prediction set were 0.905 and 0.029, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the potential for accurate and fast detection of moisture content in single maize kernels using viscoelastic properties, which provides a novel approach for the detection of various components in cereals. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of faba bean protein isolate on rheological properties of pork myofibrillar protein gels and quality characteristics of pork low‐fat model sausages
Authors: Kim Geon Ho , Chin Koo Bok
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the effect of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) protein isolate (FBPI) on the rheological properties of pork myofibrillar protein gels (MPGs) and the quality characteristics of pork low‐fat model sausages (LFMSs).

RESULTS

Pork MPGs with 5 or 10 g kg−1 FBPI had higher cooking yield, gel strength, and viscosity than controls. The addition of FBPI to MPGs increased the protein surface hydrophobicity and decreased sulfhydryl groups. Adding FBPI to MPGs changed the protein profile and microstructure. The cooking loss and expressible moisture of LFMSs with 5, 10, or 15 g kg−1 FBPI were lower than those of controls and showed similar results to those with 15 g kg−1 soy protein isolate (SPI). Hardness values of LFMSs with FBPI and SPI were no different, and were higher than those of controls.

CONCLUSION

The addition of FBPI potentially improves rheological properties of MPGs and the functional properties of LFMSs, including water‐holding capacity and textural properties. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris refractory to ustekinumab successfully treated with guselkumab
Authors: Teixeira João , Matos Ana L. , Aparício‐Martins André , Calvão Joana , de Oliveira Hugo S.
Published: March 2024

Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris (PRP) is a rare papulosquamous inflammatory dermatosis with variable clinical presentation and poorly understood pathogenesis that often poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Data on currently available treatment options are limited, particularly when facing refractory cases. Both ustekinumab, an interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) and IL‐23 inhibitor, and guselkumab, an IL‐23p19 inhibitor, target the Th‐17 axis and are well established treatment options in moderate to severe psoriasis. However, increasing evidence, mostly derived from case reports and supported by recent understanding of the role of Th‐17 axis in PRP, also favours the use of IL‐17/IL‐23 pathway inhibitors in this disease. We present an adult female patient with long history of recalcitrant PRP refractory to multiple treatment options. Although initial improvement with ustekinumab was achieved, late disease progression ensued, leading to transition to guselkumab with remarkable clinical response.
Morphology, Not Only Volume: A Study on Empty Nose Syndrome and Inferior Turbinates
Authors: Fu Chia‐Hsiang , Chen Chien‐Cheng , Huang Chi‐Che , Chang Po‐Hung , Chen Yi‐Wei , Tang Ya‐Cheng , Lee Ta‐Jen
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is an underdiagnosed but burdensome clinical condition. Studies that have addressed the impact of remnant inferior turbinate volume (ITV) on ENS are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the impact of ITV and phenotyping on the severity and presentation of ENS.

Methods

All the enrolled patients underwent the following subjective assessments: the ENS 6‐Item Questionnaire (ENS6Q), Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐25 (SNOT‐25), Beck Depression Inventory‐II (BDI‐II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The ITV was obtained from finely cut (1‐mm‐thick slices) sino‐nasal computed tomography scan images and analyzed using ImageJ. The correlation between ITV, subjective measurements, and morphology of inferior turbinates was evaluated. ENS was categorized as torpedo type (balanced tissue volume) or pistol type (posterior dominance) based on the morphology.

Results

Overall, 54 patients met the inclusion criteria. The ITV was positively correlated with the ENS6Q score and domain of ENS symptoms in SNOT‐25. Neither BDI‐II nor BAI scores had a significant correlation with ITV. Based on their morphological classification, the torpedo type exhibited diverse manifestations in the SNOT‐25 analysis in response to changes in ITV, while the pistol type demonstrated an elevated rhinologic symptom burden and ENS‐specific symptoms as their ITV increased. Nasal resistance did not correlate with the ITV in either type of ENS.

Conclusions

Symptoms were paradoxically worse in ENS patients with greater remnant ITV, and distinct morphological phenotypes in the nasal cavities may result in different presentations. Further investigation into the correlation between remnant inferior turbinates and nerve function is warranted.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3060–3066, 2024
Efficient management of benign laryngeal symptoms in an endoscopy outpatient clinic
Authors: Järvenpää Pia , Kinnari Teemu , Pietarinen Petra , Ilmarinen Taru
Published: March 2024

Objectives

A globus and thick mucus in the throat are common reasons for referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. ENT outpatient appointments focus on nasolaryngoscopy examinations, patient education, and reassurance. An endoscopic outpatient clinic (EOC) was established to efficiently manage patients with benign laryngeal symptoms.

Methods

Patients referred between February 2022 and June 2023 due to a globus and/or thick mucus in the throat were immediately contacted via post. The contact letter included patient education about the potential underlying reasons for their symptoms and self‐care instructions. A 15‐min outpatient visit was scheduled for an ENT examination and nasolaryngoscopy. Patients completed a questionnaire about their current symptoms and whether they had followed the self‐care instructions just before visiting the EOC and 1‐month following their appointment.

Results

In total, 203 patients examined in the EOC were included in the study. Before the EOC visit, most patients (89.2%) considered the information letter useful, it relieved concerns in 44.2% of patients, and 73.2% patients had already followed the self‐care instructions. After the 1‐month follow‐up period, symptoms diminished significantly (p < .001).

Conclusions

Instructions for self‐care and encouragement relieved concerns among patients with benign laryngeal symptoms. Moreover, symptoms improved significantly after a 1‐month follow‐up period.

Level of evidence

4.
Metal loss and corrosion attack of FeCrAl overlay welds on evaporator tube shields of a waste‐fired power plant
Authors: Valiente Bermejo Maria Asuncion , Núñez Alice Moya , Norling Rikard
Published: March 2024

Three FeCrAl alloys (APMT, EF100 and EF101) from Kanthal® and the reference Ni‐Cr Alloy 625 were used as weld cladding materials on tube shields in the evaporator tube bank of a waste‐fired combined heat and power plant. For each alloy type, the overlay welded tube shields were placed in both roof and floor positions within the evaporator for 6 months. The metal‐loss rate, the microstructure and hardness of the overlay welds before and after exposure and the corrosion products were analysed. The results showed higher metal‐loss rates in the welds placed in the roof position, confirming heterogeneities in the evaporator bank environment. Alloys were ranked from higher to lower erosion–corrosion resistance as follows: APMT ≈ Alloy 625 > EF101 > EF100. The analysis of the corrosion attacks showed a significant variation among the alloys, from a primarily homogeneous corrosion attack on APMT to intergranular corrosion in EF100 and pit formation in EF101.
Equivariant K$K$‐theory of flag Bott manifolds of general Lie type
Authors: Paul Bidhan , Uma Vikraman
Published: March 2024

The aim of this paper is to describe the equivariant and ordinary Grothendieck ring and the equivariant and ordinary topological ‐ring of flag Bott manifolds of the general Lie type. This will generalize the results on the equivariant and ordinary cohomology of flag Bott manifolds of the general Lie type due to Kaji, Kuroki, Lee, and Suh.
Hybrid Photoiniferter and Ring‐Opening Polymerization Yields One‐Pot Anisotropic Nanorods
Authors: Hurst Paul Joshua , Yoon Junsik , Singh Riya , Abouchaleh Mohammed Faris , Stewart Kevin A. , Sumerlin Brent S. , Patterson Joseph P.
Published: March 2024

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has emerged as a scalable one‐pot technique to prepare block copolymer (BCP) nanoparticles. Recently, a PISA process, that results in poly(l‐lactide)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol) BCP nanoparticles coined ring‐opening polymerization (ROP)‐induced crystallization‐driven self‐assembly (ROPI‐CDSA), was developed. The resulting nanorods demonstrate a strong propensity for aggregation, resulting in the formation of 2D sheets and 3D networks. This article reports the synthesis of poly(N,N‐dimethyl acrylamide)‐b‐poly(l)‐lactide BCP nanoparticles by ROPI‐CDSA, utilizing a two‐step, one‐pot approach. A dual‐functionalized photoiniferter is first used for controlled radical polymerization of the acrylamido‐based monomer, and the resulting polymer serves as a macroinitiator for organocatalyzed ROP to form the solvophobic polyester block. The resulting nanorods are highly stable and display anisotropy at higher molecular weights (>12k Da) and concentrations (>20% solids) than the previous report. This development expands the chemical scope of ROPI‐CDSA BCPs and provides readily accessible nanorods made with biocompatible materials.
Report calls for collaboration to support 988/911 systems working together
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2024

Observing the need for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to achieve its full potential, RAND Corporation researchers this month released a new report that examines three jurisdictions that have established models of 988/911 interoperability — a process for identifying calls that are a good fit for transfer. A collaboration among relevant stakeholders should be at the table to ensure the right level of care from the right type of service organization, according to the lead author of the report.
FDA gives breakthrough designation for psychedelic treatment
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2024

A clinical‐stage biopharmaceutical company that officials said is committed to revolutionizing mental health care by developing new and innovative next‐generation psychedelic‐based treatment options, announced last week that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) for an adjunctive psychedelic‐based therapy for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), according to the press release news outlet, Businesswire.
Population demographics and angler exploitation of Suwannee Bass in two Georgia rivers
Authors: Yeager Joel W. , Bonvechio Timothy F. , Hamel Martin J.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Suwannee Bass Micropterus notius are a unique black bass that are endemic to riverine systems in Georgia and Florida, USA. Despite their “near threatened” status by the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, Suwannee Bass are a popular sport fish that can be harvested throughout their range under a single harvest regulation with all black basses (genus Micropterus). However, a single harvest regulation may have disproportion effects on Suwannee Bass because of their rarity, limited distribution, and sex-specific growth patterns.

Methods

Boat electrofishing was used to collect Suwannee Bass and Largemouth Bass M. nigricans from both the Withlacoochee and Ochlockonee rivers to assess population demographics and angler exploitation. Common fisheries assessment metrics were calculated and annual exploitation rate was estimated from high reward (US$100) tags under simulated variability in tag loss and angler reporting rates.

Result

We observed different relative abundance and size structure among river systems. Electrofishing catch per unit effort of Suwannee Bass was higher in the Withlacoochee River (6.89 fish/h) than the Ochlockonee River (2.01 fish/h). Length-frequency histograms suggested a wide breadth of lengths and presumed ages except for a lack of stock size Suwannee Bass in the Ochlockonee River. Eight percent of monetary reward tags were returned from anglers, yielding an overall exploitation estimate of 3.2%.

Conclusion

Annual angler exploitation rates of Suwannee Bass and Largemouth Bass were low (<9.1%) in the Withlacoochee and Ochlockonee rivers of Georgia. Low exploitation coupled with a wide breadth of lengths and ages suggest these populations are currently not at risk of overexploitation.
Antibacterial performance of a copper nanoparticle thin film
Authors: Salah Intisar , Allan Elaine , Nair Sean P. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus has led to an increased focus on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the community and hospitals. An inherently antibacterial thin film is reported to combat the transmission of microbes on glass surfaces that could be accessed by the public, reducing the need for constant cleaning. The copper nanoparticle thin film is synthesized via a sol–gel method and deposited using a dip‐coater to create a transparent, rugged film resistant to scratching. The antibacterial performance is tested by a droplet and an aerosol deposition technique, where Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are sprayed directly onto the thin film, replicating coughs and sneezes: a common form of microbial transmission. The mechanism of antibacterial performance is studied by introducing reactive oxygen species quenchers to the thin film. This research presents copper nanoparticle thin films as an effective solution in reducing the transmission of microbes on glass surfaces and their potential as a valuable tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
The dual role of microglia in ischemic stroke and its modulation via extracellular vesicles and stem cells
Authors: Haupt Matteo , Gerner Stefan T. , Doeppner Thorsten R.
Published: March 2024

Stem cell‐based therapies and extracellular vesicle (EV) treatment have demonstrated significant potential for neuroprotection against ischemic stroke. Although the neuroprotective mechanisms are not yet fully understood, targeting microglia is central to promoting neuroprotection. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. These cells are crucial in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. They respond rapidly to the site of injury by releasing pro‐inflammatory cytokines, phagocytizing dead cells and debris, and recruiting peripheral immune cells to the ischemic area. Although these responses are essential for clearing damage and initiating tissue repair, excessive or prolonged microglial activation can exacerbate brain injury, leading to secondary neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Moreover, microglia exhibit a dynamic range of activation states with the so‐called M1 pro‐inflammatory and M2 anti‐inflammatory phenotypes, representing the two ends of the spectrum. The delivery of both EVs and stem cells modulates microglial activation, suppressing pro‐inflammatory genes, influencing the expression of transcription factors, and altering receptor expression, ultimately contributing to neuroprotection. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the complex and dynamic role of microglia in the development of effective neuroprotective strategies to reduce the effects of ischemic stroke. In this review, we examine the current state of knowledge regarding the role of microglia in ischemic stroke, including their molecular and cellular mechanisms, activation states, and interactions with other cells. We also discuss the multifaceted contributions of microglia to stem cell‐ and EV‐based neuroprotection during an ischemic stroke to provide a comprehensive understanding of microglial functions and their potential implications in stroke therapies.