bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of Shear Wave Elastography to Determine the Elasticity of the Levator Ani Muscle and Vaginal Tissue in Patients With Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: García‐Mejido José Antonio , García‐Jimenez Rocío , Fernández‐Conde Cristina , García‐Pombo Sara , Fernández‐Palacín Fernando , Sainz‐Bueno José Antonio
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The changes of the extracellular matrix of the connective tissue have significantly contributed to the incidence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). It seems reasonable that sonoelastography could be a useful tool to evaluate the elasticity of pelvic floor tissue in patients with POP and compare it to those without POP. The main aim of this pilot study was to determine if there are differences in the elasticity of the levator ani muscle (LAM) and vaginal tissue between patients with and without POP.

Methods

Prospective observation study, including 60 patients (30 with POP and 30 without POP). Sonoelastography was performed to evaluate the elasticity (in kilopascals, kPa) of the following regions of interest: vagina at the level of middle third of the urethra; vagina at the level of the bladder trigone; vagina in the anterior and posterior fornix; vagina at the level of middle third of the anorectal canal; posterior third of the LAM.

Results

A total of 60 patients completed the study (30 with POP, 30 without POP). In the POP group, 18/30 (60%) had an anterior vaginal wall prolapse, 3/30 (10%) a uterine prolapse, 15/30 (50%) a rectocele, and 6/30 (20%) a enterocele. Patients with POP had higher elasticity in all anatomical study areas, with statistically significant differences in the anterior fornix (13.6 vs 11.2 kPa; P: .012). A multiple regression (controlling age, menopausal stage, and parity) allowed to detect statistically significant differences in the elasticity of the middle third of the urethra (P: .03) and the middle third of the anorectal canal (P: .019).

Conclusion

It is possible to evaluate the elasticity of the LAM and vaginal tissue using sonoelastography, detecting a higher elasticity in patients with POP than in those without POP.
The Predictive Power of Bosniak 3 and 4 Cystic Renal Lesion Categorization Using Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Járay Ákos , Farkas Péter István , Semjén Dávid , Botz Bálint
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is increasingly utilized for the noninvasive assessment of renal cystic lesions, using the Bosniak grading system. Bosniak 3–4 lesions require surgical referral, which allows correlation with the histopathological outcome.

Methods

In this single‐center, retrospective study we evaluated renal CEUS exams conducted with SonoVue® with a diagnosis of a Bosniak 3 or 4 lesion between 2019 and 2022. A total of 49 patients and 50 lesions met the inclusion criteria, 31 lesions had available histopathological results. Patient demographics, cyst morphology, and dominant imaging features were registered. The histopathological diagnosis was considered a reference standard.

Results

Positive predictive power (PPV) for neoplastic lesions was comparable in the Bosniak 3 and 4 categories (75 vs 93.3%, P = .33), while PPV for histopathologically malignant lesion was considerably higher in the latter group (25 vs 93.33%, P = .0002). None of the lesions which had vividly enhancing thin septa as their dominant CEUS feature were malignant. Oncocytoma, multilocular cystic renal neoplasm of low malignant potential, and cystic nephroma were the major benign entities among Bosniak 3 lesions. Localized cystic kidney disease and hemorrhagic cysts were found to be the primary mimickers leading to false positive imaging findings.

Conclusions

CEUS has a high predictive power for malignancy in the Bosniak 4 category, which is not maintained in the Bosniak 3 group due to the large proportion of benign lesions. Adherence to rigorous rule‐in criteria and active surveillance strategies need to be considered for equivocal CEUS Bosniak 3 lesions.
Spatial variability of the hydrochemistry of shallow groundwaters and surface waters of the Rensdyrbekken: A case study of a permafrost catchment in Bellsund (SW Spitsbergen, Svalbard)
Authors: Lehmann‐Konera Sara , Zagórski Piotr , Nowiński Kamil , Raczyński Krzysztof , Frankowski Marcin , Franczak Łukasz , Dobek Mateusz , Szumińska Danuta , Ruman Marek , Al Bakain Ramia , Polkowska Żaneta
Published: January 2024

Progressive climate change may have unpredictable consequences for the Arctic environment. Permafrost catchments off the west coast of Svalbard, described as “thin” and “warm,” are particularly sensitive to climate change. The interdisciplinary research on the hydrochemical response of surface and underground water functioning within a small permafrost catchment area focused on the determination of the impact of meteorological conditions (temperature (T), precipitation (P)) on the mean daily discharge (Q), and the lowering of the groundwater table (H). We determined physical and chemical properties (pH and SEC) and concentrations of major elements (Ca, Mg, Na, K) and 23 trace elements (i.a. Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, Zn) in 280 water samples. The results of the correlation matrix showed that an increase in the average air temperature in the summer of 2021 had a significant impact on the hydrochemistry of both types of waters operating in the catchment. In response to increase in T, the lowering of the H (0.52 < r < 0.66) and a decrease in Q (−0.66 < r < −0.68) were observed what in consequence also leads to changes in water chemistry. The principal component analysis (CA) indicates that chemical weathering and binding of elements to DOC are processes influencing water chemistry. Results of statistical analysis showed that the resultant of the hydrometeorological conditions that prevailed in that season and the type of geological formations on which they were located had a significant impact on the water chemistry at individual measurement points. Significant differences in the concentrations of elements between points on the same geological formations were also found.
Comparison of 755‐nm picosecond alexandrite laser versus 1064‐nm Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser for melasma: A randomized, split‐face controlled, 2‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Zhou Yanjun , Li Yong , Hamblin Michael R. , Wen Xiang
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Pulsed laser treatment of melasma has shown some promising results. To compare the effectiveness and safety of 755‐nm picosecond alexandrite laser (PSAL) fitted with diffractive lens array (DLA) versus 1064‐nm Q‐switched neodynimum:yttrium aluminum garnet laser (QSNYL) for the treatment of melasma.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, split face controlled, 2‐year follow‐up study. Each face was divided into two parts, each side receiving three treatments with either PSAL or QSNYL at 1 month intervals. Modified Melasma Area Severity Index scores (mMASI), pain scores, patient satisfaction and adverse events were recorded. In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) images were acquired.

Results

Twenty subjects were enrolled and three dropped out. At 6 months, mMASI scores were significantly lower than baseline for QSNYL sides (p = 0.022), with no statistically significant difference between PSAL sides before and after treatment, PSAL sides versus QSNYL sides, or patient satisfaction scores. QSNYL treatment was associated with less pain (p = 0.014). No serious adverse events were reported. In the PSAL sides RCM showed a large number of dendritic melanocytes infiltrated in the dermis at 2 weeks and 4 weeks after treatment. Ten patients (58.82%) reported recurrence or exacerbation at 2‐year follow‐up with no statistically significant difference between the two lasers.

Conclusions

QSNYL demonstrated short term clinical efficacy for melasma, but did not provide any additional benefit compared to PSAL with DLA. QSNYL was associated with less pain. There was a high recurrence rate at 2‐year follow‐up. RCM allowed the detection of cellular changes in melasma lesions.
Evaluation of the amelioration effect of Ganoderma formosanum extract on delaying PM2.5 damage to lung macrophages
Authors: Hou Chih‐Yao , Hsieh Chen‐Che , Hung Yin‐Ci , Hsu Cheng‐Chih , Hsieh Chang‐Wei , Yu Shu‐Han , Cheng Kuan‐Chen
Published: January 2024

Scope

Particulate matter (PM) contains toxic organic matter and heavy metals that enter the entire body through blood flow and may cause mortality. Ganoderma formosanum mycelium, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine that has been used since ancient times, contains various active ingredients that can effectively impede inflammatory responses on murine alveolar macrophages induced by PM particles.

Methods and Results

An experimental study assessing the effect of G. formosanum mycelium extract's water fraction (WA) on PM‐exposed murine alveolar macrophages using ROS measurement shows that WA reduces intracellular ROS by 12% and increases cell viability by 16% when induced by PM particles. According to RNA‐Sequencing, western blotting, and real‐time qPCR are conducted to analyze the metabolic pathway. The WA reduces the protein ratio in p‐NF‐κB/NF‐κB by 18% and decreases the expression of inflammatory genes, including IL‐1β by 38%, IL‐6 by 29%, and TNF‐α by 19%. Finally, the identification of seven types of anti‐inflammatory compounds in the WA fraction is achieved through UHPLC‐ESI‐Orbitrap‐Elite‐MS/MS analysis. These compounds include anti‐inflammatory compounds, namely thiamine, adenosine 5ʹ‐monophosphate, pipecolic acid, L‐pyroglutamic acid, acetyl‐L‐carnitine, D‐mannitol, and L‐malic acid.

Conclusions

The study suggests that the WA has the potential to alleviate the PM ‐induced damage in alveolar macrophages, demonstrating its anti‐inflammatory properties.
Slice through the water—Exploring the fundamental challenge of water suppression for benchtop NMR systems
Authors: Pellizzari Jacob , Soong Ronald , Downey Katelyn , Biswas Rajshree Ghosh , Kock Flavio C. , Steiner Katrina , Goerling Benjamin , Haber Agnes , Decker Venita , Busse Falko , Simpson Myrna , Simpson Andre
Published: January 2024

Benchtop NMR provides improved accessibility in terms of cost, space, and technical expertise. In turn, this encourages new users into the field of NMR spectroscopy. Unfortunately, many interesting samples in education and research, from beer to whole blood, contain significant amounts of water that require suppression in 1H NMR in order to recover sample information. However, due to the significant reduction in chemical shift dispersion in benchtop NMR systems, the sample signals are much closer to the water resonance compared to those in a corresponding high‐field NMR spectrum. Therefore, simply translating solvent suppression experiments intended for high‐field NMR instruments to benchtop NMR systems without careful consideration can be problematic. In this study, the effectiveness of several popular water suppression schemes was evaluated for benchtop NMR applications. Emphasis is placed on pulse sequences with no, or few, adjustable parameters making them easy to implement. These fall into two main categories: (1) those based on Pre‐SAT including Pre‐SAT, PURGE, NOESY‐PR, and g‐NOESY‐PR and (2) those based on binomial inversion including JRS and W5‐WATERGATE. Among these schemes, solvent suppression sequences based on Pre‐SAT offer a general approach for easy solvent suppression for samples with higher analyte concentrations (sucrose standard and Redbull™). However, for human urine, binomial‐like sequences were required. In summary, it is demonstrated that highly efficient water suppression approaches can be implemented on benchtop NMR systems in a simple manner, despite the limited spectral dispersion, further illustrating the potential for widespread implementation of these approaches in education and research.
Proteomic analysis of boar seminal plasma: Putative markers for fertility based on capacity of semen preservation at 17°C
Authors: Lucca Matheus S. , Bustamante‐Filho Ivan C. , Ulguim Rafael R. , Gianluppi Rafael D. F. , Evaristo Joseph A. M. , Nogueira Fábio C. S. , Timmers Luís F. S. M. , Mellagi Ana P. G. , Wentz Ivo , Bortolozzo Fernando P.
Published: January 2024

Boar seminal plasma (SP) proteins were associated with differences on sperm resistance to cooling at 17°C. However, information about seminal plasma proteins in boars classified by capacity of semen preservation and in vivo fertility remains lacking. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the SP proteome in boars classified by capacity of semen preservation and putative biomarkers for fertility. The ejaculates from high‐preservation (HP) showed higher progressive motility during all 5 days than the low‐preservation (LP) boars. There was no difference for farrowing rate between ejaculates from LP (89.7%) and HP boars (88.4%). The LP boars presented lower total piglets born (14.0 ± 0.2) than HP (14.8 ± 0.2; p < 0.01). A total of 257 proteins were identified, where 184 were present in both classes of boar, and 41 and 32 were identified only in LP and HP boars, respectively. Nine proteins were differently expressed: five were more abundant in HP (SPMI, ZPBP1, FN1, HPX, and C3) and four in LP boars (B2M, COL1A1, NKX3‐2, and MPZL1). The HP boars had an increased abundance of SP proteins related to sperm resistance and fecundation process which explains the better TPB. LP boars had a higher abundance of SP proteins associated with impaired spermatogenesis.
Predictive uncertainty in deep learning–based MR image reconstruction using deep ensembles: Evaluation on the fastMRI data set
Authors: Küstner Thomas , Hammernik Kerstin , Rueckert Daniel , Hepp Tobias , Gatidis Sergios
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To estimate pixel‐wise predictive uncertainty for deep learning–based MR image reconstruction and to examine the impact of domain shifts and architecture robustness.

Methods

Uncertainty prediction could provide a measure for robustness of deep learning (DL)–based MR image reconstruction from undersampled data. DL methods bear the risk of inducing reconstruction errors like in‐painting of unrealistic structures or missing pathologies. These errors may be obscured by visual realism of DL reconstruction and thus remain undiscovered. Furthermore, most methods are task‐agnostic and not well calibrated to domain shifts. We propose a strategy that estimates aleatoric (data) and epistemic (model) uncertainty, which entails training a deep ensemble (epistemic) with nonnegative log‐likelihood (aleatoric) loss in addition to the conventional applied losses terms. The proposed procedure can be paired with any DL reconstruction, enabling investigations of their predictive uncertainties on a pixel level. Five different architectures were investigated on the fastMRI database. The impact on the examined uncertainty of in‐distributional and out‐of‐distributional data with changes to undersampling pattern, imaging contrast, imaging orientation, anatomy, and pathology were explored.

Results

Predictive uncertainty could be captured and showed good correlation to normalized mean squared error. Uncertainty was primarily focused along the aliased anatomies and on hyperintense and hypointense regions. The proposed uncertainty measure was able to detect disease prevalence shifts. Distinct predictive uncertainty patterns were observed for changing network architectures.

Conclusion

The proposed approach enables aleatoric and epistemic uncertainty prediction for DL‐based MR reconstruction with an interpretable examination on a pixel level.
RNA interference‐based exogenous double‐stranded RNAs confer resistance to Rhizoctonia solaniAG‐3 on Nicotiana tabacum
Authors: Wang Yan , Guo Yi , Guo Shiping , Qi Lin , Li Bin , Jiang Lianqiang , Xu Chuantao , An Mengnan , Wu Yuanhua
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhizoctonia solani Kühn is a pathogenic fungus causing tobacco target spot disease, and leads to great losses worldwide. At present, resistant varieties and effective control strategy on tobacco target spot disease are very limited. Host‐induced gene silencing (HIGS) as well as the exogenous dsRNA can be used to suppress disease progression, and reveal the function of crucial genes involved in the growth and pathogenesis of the fungus.

RESULTS

The silencing of endoPGs or RPMK1 in host plants by TRV‐based HIGS resulted in a significant reduction in disease development in Nicotiana benthamiana. In vitro analysis validated that red fluorescence signals were consistently observed in the hyphae treated with Cy3‐fluorescein‐labeled dsRNA at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h postinoculation (hpi). Additionally, application of dsRNA‐endoPGs, dsRNA‐RPMK1 and dsRNA‐PGMK (fusion of partial endoPGs and RPMK1 sequences) effectively inhibited the hyphal growth of R. solani YC‐9 in vitro and suppressed disease progression in the leaves, and quantitative real‐time PCR confirmed that the application of dsRNAs significantly reduced the expression levels of endoPGs and RPMK1.

CONCLUSION

These results provide theoretical basis and new direction for RNAi approaches on the prevention and control of disease caused by R. solani. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Structural insight into subunit F of respiratory chain complex I from Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae inhibition by parthenolide
Authors: Li Lei , Zhou Qian , Li Linwei , Ran Tingting , Wang Weiwu , Liu Chenyang , Chen Jin , Sun Tiemin , Chen Yu , Feng Xu , Zhang Feng , Xu Shu
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is one of the most serious diseases of rice, and there is a lack of bactericides for controlling this disease. We previously found parthenolide (PTL) is a potential lead for developing bactericides against Xoo, and subunit F of respiratory chain complex I (NuoF) is an important target protein of PTL. However, the binding modes of PTL with NuoF need further elucidation.

RESULTS

In this study, we obtained the crystal structure of Xoo NuoEF (complex of subunit E and F of respiratory chain complex I) with a resolution of 2.36 Å, which is the first report on the protein structure of NuoEF in plant‐pathogenic bacteria. The possible binding sites of PTL with NuoF (Cys105 and Cys187) were predicted with molecular docking and mutated into alanine using a base mismatch method. The mutated proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified with affinity chromatography. The binding abilities of PTL with mutated proteins were investigated via pull‐down assay and BIAcore analysis, which revealed that double mutation of Cys105 and Cys187 in NuoF severely affected the binding ability of PTL with NuoF. In addition, the binding modes were further simulated with combined quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical calculations, and the results indicated that PTL may have a stronger binding with Cys105 than Cys187.

CONCLUSION

NuoEF protein structure of Xoo was resolved, and Cys105 and Cys187 in NuoF are important binding sites of PTL. This study further clarified the action mechanism of PTL against Xoo, and will promote the innovation of bactericides targeting Xoo complex I. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Parental education and neighbourhood‐effect heterogeneity in educational attainments of native and minority youth in Belgian metropolitan cities
Authors: Imeraj Lena , de Valk Helga A. G. , Gadeyne Sylvie
Published: January 2024

Research has made significant contributions to our understanding of ethnic disparities in educational attainment, revealing amongst others the importance of parental and residential characteristics. Mixed empirical results, however, challenge the interpretation of why some ethnic groups face more difficulties in educational success than others, upholding contextual effects as a contested and inconclusive topic. This case study scrutinises the contextual underpinnings of ethnic diversity in the educational attainment of adolescents from various ethnic populations in Belgium's largest cities. Using full population individual‐level longitudinal census data (1991–2001), stratified multilevel ordinal models focus on the heterogeneous role of household characteristics – parental education and household composition – and neighbourhood characteristics – ethnic density, coethnic representation and deprivation – in young native and ethnic minority populations. While this Belgian case study shows that parental education and residential environment contribute to educational outcomes of all young adults in similar ways, it also points at two ethnic‐specific dynamics. First, contextual socioeconomic advantages are accumulated to a greater extent among native adolescents. Second, coethnic residential concentration shows a positive association with educational attainment for native and European‐origin children only. This paper reveals how the spatial separation of ethnic communities fosters differential opportunities for educational success, in particular for the most segregated population groups. If we want to better understand the complexities of native‐origin and minority youth embarking on differential educational trajectories, our study echoes the need for considering various sociospatial contexts in which people of different ethnic communities interact.
Mitochondrial‐targeted curcumin inhibits T‐cell activation via Nrf2 and inhibits graft‐versus‐host‐disease in a mouse model
Authors: Patwardhan Raghavendra S. , Gohil Dievya , Singh Babita , Kumar Binita K. , Purohit Vaitashi , Thoh Maikho , Checker Rahul , Gardi Nilesh , Gota Vikram , Kutala Vijay Kumar , Patwardhan Sejal , Sharma Deepak , Sandur Santosh K.
Published: January 2024

Anti‐inflammatory and immune suppressive agents are required to moderate hyper‐activation of lymphocytes under disease conditions or organ transplantation. However, selective disruption of mitochondrial redox has not been evaluated as a therapeutic strategy for suppression of T‐cell‐mediated pathologies. Using mitochondrial targeted curcumin (MitoC), we studied the effect of mitochondrial redox modulation on T‐cell responses by flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy, transcriptomics, and proteomics, and the role of Nrf2 was studied using Nrf2−/− mice. MitoC decreased mitochondrial TrxR activity, enhanced mitochondrial ROS (mROS) production, depleted mitochondrial glutathione, and suppressed activation‐induced increase in mitochondrial biomass. This led to suppression of T‐cell responses and metabolic reprogramming towards Treg differentiation. MitoC induced nuclear translocation and DNA binding of Nrf2, leading to upregulation of Nrf2‐dependent genes and proteins. MitoC‐mediated changes in mitochondrial redox and modulation of T‐cell responses are abolished in Nrf2−/− mice. Restoration of mitochondrial thiols abrogated inhibition of T‐cell responses. MitoC suppressed alloantigen‐induced lymphoblast formation, inflammatory cytokines, morbidity, and mortality in acute graft‐versus‐host disease mice. Disruption of mitochondrial thiols but not mROS increase inculcates an Nrf2‐dependent immune‐suppressive disposition in T cells for the propitious treatment of graft‐versus‐host disease.
Tailoring the surface properties of molybdenum oxytelluride thin films by its compositional ratio
Authors: Han Sangmin , Yoon Hee‐Seung , Park Juyun , Oh Jin‐Woo , Kang Yong‐Cheol
Published: January 2024

In this work, RF magnetron co‐sputtering was used to fabricate molybdenum oxytelluride thin films with different atomic ratios. Scanning electron micrographs and atomic force micrographs revealed that pure Mo thin films were segregated. Thin films with 40% Te content portrayed needle‐like structures and thus had the largest Rq value of 2.48 nm. Contact angle measurements further supported the findings as the thin films with 40% Te content were the most hydrophobic. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results revealed that the major oxidation states of Mo from Te‐poor to Te‐rich TFs were changed from high (+6) to low (+4 and/or +2). X‐ray diffraction data showed that peaks pertaining to molybdenum oxide species appeared, notably at 33.048° and 33.115°. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy and Kelvin probe measurements evinced that the work function increases with increasing Te content. Four‐point probe measurements revealed that molybdenum oxytelluride thin films tend to have higher electrical conductivity than pure Mo and Te thin films.
Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Conjugated with Triazole‐N‐acetamide Thiazole Derivatives for Selective Detection of Cymoxanil in Complex Samples
Authors: Ali Imdad , Khan Sarzamin , Ali Shah Zafar , Ahmed Farid , Shah Ismail , Hameed Abdul , Ullah Riaz , Raza Shah Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Cymoxanil (CYM) is one of the most important fungicides for various vegetables and fruits. However, its routine detection is still expensive due to high‐cost equipment. In this context, the silver nanoparticle‐based colorimetric probe was synthesized using triazole‐N‐acetamide thiazole (TAT) derivative as a stabilizer. The triazole‐N‐ acetamide thiazole (TAT) derivative functionalized silver nanoparticles (TAT‐AgNPs) were used as a probe for selective, efficient, rapid and quantitative determination of CYM in tap and river water. The characterization of TAT‐AgNPs was accomplished through UV‐visible, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Zetasizer analysis. Highly sensitive surface plasmonic resonance band at 400 nm indicated complete reduction of Ag+ by using 1 : 15 (v/v) (TAT: AgNO3). The limit of detection (LOD), which corresponds to signal‐to‐noise ratio 3, is 0.013 μmol L−1, showed a linear response as a function of CYM concentration from 1 to 100 μM. Furthermore, the probe shows good selectivity when exposed to a series of interfering pesticides. TAT‐AgNPs were also spiked with blood plasma and the effects of relevant interfering studies were evaluated. The nanosensor detects the CYM tap water and river water samples. It confirmed that nanosensor can detect CYM in biological and environmental samples.
Construction of Hierarchical Films via Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Exfoliated Unilamellar Zeolite Nanosheets
Authors: Wang Chenhui , Sakai Nobuyuki , Ebina Yasuo , Kikuchi Takayuki , Grzybek Justyna , Roth Wieslaw J. , Gil Barbara , Ma Renzhi , Sasaki Takayoshi
Published: January 2024

Zeolites have been widely applied as versatile catalysts, sorbents, and ion exchangers with unique porous structures showing molecular sieving capability. In these years, it is reported that some layered zeolites can be delaminated into molecularly thin 2‐dimensional (2D) nanosheets characterized by inherent porous structures and highly exposed active sites. In the present study, two types of zeolite nanosheets with distinct porous structures with MWW topology (denoted mww) and ferrierite‐related structure (denoted bifer) are deposited on a substrate through the solution process via electrostatic self‐assembly. Alternate deposition of zeolite nanosheets with polycation under optimized conditions allows the layer‐by‐layer growth of their multilayer films with a stacking distance of 2–3 nm. Furthermore, various hierarchical structures defined at the unit‐cell dimensions can be constructed simply by conducting the deposition of mww and bifer nanosheets in a designed sequence. Adsorption of a dye, Rhodamine B, in these films, is examined to show that adsorption is dependent on constituent zeolite nanosheets and their assembled nanostructures. This work has provided fundamental advancements in the fabrication of artificial zeolite‐related hierarchical structures, which may be extended to other zeolite nanosheets, broadening their functionalities, applications, and benefits.
Advanced Polymers in Cathodes and Electrolytes for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Song Zihui , Jiang Wanyuan , Li Borui , Qu Yunpeng , Mao Runyue , Jian Xigao , Hu Fangyuan
Published: January 2024

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, which store energy through reversible redox reactions with multiple electron transfers, are seen as one of the promising energy storage systems of the future due to their outstanding advantages. However, the shuttle effect, volume expansion, low conductivity of sulfur cathodes, and uncontrollable dendrite phenomenon of the lithium anodes have hindered the further application of Li–S batteries. In order to solve the problems and clarify the electrochemical reaction mechanism, various types of materials, such as metal compounds and carbon materials, are used in Li–S batteries. Polymers, as a class of inexpensive, lightweight, and electrochemically stable materials, enable the construction of low‐cost, high‐specific capacity Li–S batteries. Moreover, polymers can be multifunctionalized by obtaining rich structures through molecular design, allowing them to be applied not only in cathodes, but also in binders and solid‐state electrolytes to optimize electrochemical performance from multiple perspectives. The most widely used areas related to polymer applications in Li–S batteries, including cathodes and electrolytes, are selected for a comprehensive overview, and the relevant mechanisms of polymer action in different components are discussed. Finally, the prospects for the practical application of polymers in Li–S batteries are presented in terms of advanced characterization and mechanistic analysis.
Engineering Assembly of Plasmonic Virus‐Like Gold SERS Nanoprobe Guided by Intelligent Dual‐Machine Nanodevice for High‐Performance Analysis of Tetracycline
Authors: Xu Xinlin , Li Tiantian , Liu Yue , Zhou Luxiao , Li Yingying , Luo Yu , Xu Yang , Zhao Lin , Song Weiling , Jiang Degang , He Peng , Zhou Hong
Published: January 2024

Accurate detection of trace tetracyclines (TCs) in complex matrices is of great significance for food and environmental safety monitoring. However, traditional recognition and amplification tools exhibit poor specificity and sensitivity. Herein, a novel dual‐machine linkage nanodevice (DMLD) is proposed for the first time to achieve high‐performance analysis of TC, with a padlock aptamer component as the initiation command center, nucleic acid‐encoded multispike virus‐like Au nanoparticles (nMVANs) as the signal indicator, and cascade walkers circuit as the processor. The existence of spike vertices and interspike nanogaps in MVANs enables intense electromagnetic near‐field focusing, allowing distinct surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity. Moreover, through the sequential activation between multistage walker catalytic circuits, the DLMD system converts the limited TC recognition into massive engineering assemblies of SERS probes guided by DNA amplicons, resulting in synergistic enhancement of bulk plasmonic hotspot entities. The continuously guaranteed target recognition and progressively promoted signal enhancement ensure highly specific amplification analysis of TC, with a detection limit as low as 7.94 × 10−16 g mL−1. Furthermore, the reliable recoveries in real samples confirm the practicability of the proposed sensing platform, highlighting the enormous potential of intelligent nanomachines for analyzing the trace hazards in the environment and food.
Bifunctional Amorphous Transition‐Metal Phospho‐Boride Electrocatalysts for Selective Alkaline Seawater Splitting at a Current Density of 2A cm−2
Authors: Silviya R. , Bhide Aniruddha , Gupta Suraj , Bhabal Rinkoo , Mali Kishan H. , Bhagat Brajesh Rajesh , Spreitzer Matjaž , Dashora Alpa , Patel Nainesh , Fernandes Rohan
Published: January 2024

Hydrogen production by direct seawater electrolysis is an alternative technology to conventional freshwater electrolysis, mainly owing to the vast abundance of seawater reserves on earth. However, the lack of robust, active, and selective electrocatalysts that can withstand the harsh and corrosive saline conditions of seawater greatly hinders its industrial viability. Herein, a series of amorphous transition‐metal phospho‐borides, namely Co‐P‐B, Ni‐P‐B, and Fe‐P‐B are prepared by simple chemical reduction method and screened for overall alkaline seawater electrolysis. Co‐P‐B is found to be the best of the lot, requiring low overpotentials of ≈270 mV for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), ≈410 mV for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and an overall voltage of 2.50 V to reach a current density of 2 A cm−2 in highly alkaline natural seawater. Furthermore, the optimized electrocatalyst shows formidable stability after 10,000 cycles and 30 h of chronoamperometric measurements in alkaline natural seawater without any chlorine evolution, even at higher current densities. A detailed understanding of not only HER and OER but also chlorine evolution reaction (ClER) on the Co‐P‐B surface is obtained by computational analysis, which also sheds light on the selectivity and stability of the catalyst at high current densities.
English learners? Emergent bilinguals? Multilingual learners?: Goals, contexts, and consequences in labeling students
Authors: Kanno Yasuko , Rios‐Aguilar Cecilia , Bunch George C.
Published: January 2024

In this essay, the authors explore the dilemmas facing researchers, educators, and policymakers in how to refer to multilingual students who are deemed in need of language support in school. There is a growing concern with the label English learner, the term currently used in U.S. federal legislation, as focusing exclusively on students' English language acquisition and ignoring their multilingual resources. Alternative terms such as emergent bilingual and multilingual learner that underscore students' multilingual assets have become widespread alternatives. The authors argue that the critiques of the term English learner must be taken seriously. They also argue that, given that being classified as English learners in schools has material consequences for students' academic and occupational trajectories, this label cannot simply be wished away. In fact, debating over labels alone carries the danger of mislocating the primary site of struggle for equity and justice in the labels themselves, rather than in the systems that position and frame linguistically minoritized students in a deficit light in the first place. As researchers who have worked with this population for years, the authors, too, are grappling with how to refer to them. Each of them shares the dilemmas they have encountered, and they conclude by offering a multidimensional tool that might assist scholars, educators, and policymakers in reflecting on what is gained and lost by using different terms.
Stabilization in extensible thermoelastic Timoshenko microbeam based on modified couple stress theory
Authors: Aouadi Moncef , Passarella Francesca , Tibullo Vincenzo
Published: January 2024

In this article we derive the equations that constitute the nonlinear model of extensible thermoelastic Timoshenko microbeam. The constructed mathematical model is based on the modified couple stress theory which implies prediction of size dependent effects in microbeam resonators, by applying the Hamilton principle to full von Kármán equations. This takes account of the effects of extensibility where the dissipations are entirely contributed by temperature. Based on semigroups theory, we establish existence and uniqueness of weak and strong solutions to the derived problem. By an approach based on the Gearhart‐Herbst‐Prüss‐Huang theorem, we prove that the associated linear semigroup (without extensibility) is not analytic in general. In the absence of additional mechanical dissipations, the system is often not highly stable. Then by adding a damping frictional function to the first equation of the derived model and using the multiplier method, we show that the solutions decay exponentially under a condition on the physical coefficients.
Vectorial analogues of Cauchy’s surface area formula
Authors: Hug Daniel , Schneider Rolf
Published: January 2024

Cauchy’s surface area formula says that for a convex body K in n-dimensional Euclidean space, the mean value of the $$(n-1)$$

(
n
-
1
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-dimensional volumes of the orthogonal projections of K to hyperplanes is a constant multiple of the surface area of K. We prove an analogous formula, with the volumes of the projections replaced by their moment vectors. This requires to introduce a new vector-valued valuation on convex bodies.
Ground States for Infrared Renormalized Translation-Invariant Non-Relativistic QED
Authors: Hasler David , Siebert Oliver
Published: January 2024

We consider a translation-invariant Pauli–Fierz model describing a non-relativistic charged quantum mechanical particle interacting with the quantized electromagnetic field. The charged particle may be spinless or have spin one half. We decompose the Hamiltonian with respect to the total momentum into a direct integral of so-called fiber Hamiltonians. We perform an infrared renormalization, in the sense of norm resolvent convergence, for each fiber Hamiltonian, which has the physical interpretation of removing an infinite photon cloud. We show that the renormalized fiber Hamiltonians have a ground state for almost all values for the total momentum with modulus less than one.
The miniSLR: a low-budget, high-performance satellite laser ranging ground station
Authors: Hampf Daniel , Niebler Felicitas , Meyer Tristan , Riede Wolfgang
Published: January 2024

Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) is an established technique providing very accurate position measurements of satellites in Earth orbit. However, despite decades of development, it remains a complex and expensive technology, which impedes its further growth to new applications and users. The miniSLR implements a complete SLR system within a small, transportable enclosure. Through this design, costs of ownership can be reduced significantly, and the process of establishing a new SLR site is greatly simplified. A number of novel technical solutions have been implemented to achieve a good laser ranging performance despite the small size and simplified design. Data from the initial six months of test operation have been used to generate a first estimation of the system performance. The data include measurements to many of the important SLR satellites, such as Lageos, Etalon and most of the geodetic and Earth observation missions in LEO. It is shown that the miniSLR achieves sub-centimetre accuracy, comparable with conventional SLR systems. The miniSLR is an engineering station in the International Laser Ranging Service and supplies data to the community. Continuous efforts are undertaken to further improve the system operation and stability.
L-DOPA and oxytocin influence the neural correlates of performance monitoring for self and others
Authors: Jansen Myrthe , Overgaauw Sandy , de Bruijn Ellen R. A.
Published: January 2024

Rationale

The ability to monitor the consequences of our actions for others is imperative for flexible and adaptive behavior, and allows us to act in a (pro)social manner. Yet, little is known about the neurochemical mechanisms underlying alterations in (pro)social performance monitoring.

Objective

The aim of this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study was to improve our understanding of the role of dopamine and oxytocin and their potential overlap in the neural mechanisms underlying performance monitoring for own versus others’ outcomes.

Method

Using a double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over design, 30 healthy male volunteers were administered oxytocin (24 international units), the dopamine precursor L-DOPA (100 mg + 25 mg carbidopa), or placebo in three sessions. Participants performed a computerized cannon shooting game in two recipient conditions where mistakes resulted in negative monetary consequences for (1) oneself or (2) an anonymous other participant.

Results

Results indicated reduced error-correct differentiation in the ventral striatum after L-DOPA compared to placebo, independent of recipient. Hence, pharmacological manipulation of dopamine via L-DOPA modulated performance-monitoring activity in a brain region associated with reward prediction and processing in a domain-general manner. In contrast, oxytocin modulated the BOLD response in a recipient-specific manner, such that it specifically enhanced activity for errors that affected the other in the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC), a region previously implicated in the processing of social rewards and prediction errors. Behaviorally, we also found reduced target sizes—indicative of better performance—after oxytocin, regardless of recipient. Moreover, after oxytocin lower target sizes specifically predicted higher pgACC activity when performing for others.

Conclusions

These different behavioral and neural patterns after oxytocin compared to L-DOPA administration highlight a divergent role of each neurochemical in modulating the neural mechanisms underlying social performance monitoring.
Constructing Number Field Isomorphisms from *-Isomorphisms of Certain Crossed Product C*-Algebras
Authors: Bruce Chris , Takeishi Takuya
Published: January 2024

We prove that the class of crossed product C*-algebras associated with the action of the multiplicative group of a number field on its ring of finite adeles is rigid in the following explicit sense: Given any *-isomorphism between two such C*-algebras, we construct an isomorphism between the underlying number fields. As an application, we prove an analogue of the Neukirch–Uchida theorem using topological full groups, which gives a new class of discrete groups associated with number fields whose abstract isomorphism class completely characterises the number field.
Dabigatran-related serious medication errors: an analysis using data from VigiBase
Authors: Zhang Qingxia , Ding Qian , Yue Qun-Ying
Published: January 2024

Objective

To analyze the serious medication errors (MEs) on dabigatran, and their related factors, in order to avoid or reduce the occurrence of adverse events.

Methods

Serious MEs related to dabigatran were extracted from the WHO global database of reported potential side effects of medicinal products (VigiBase) by using “Medication errors and other product use errors and issues” High Level Group Term (HLGT) of the international Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). Well-documented reports, vigiGrade completeness score ≥ 0.80, or with an informative narrative were analyzed with a focus on the clinical features of the cases. The PCNE Classification for drug-related problems (DRP) was used to classify medication errors in our analysis of cases.

Results

Until January 26, 2020, there were 453 cases with serious MEs related to dabigatran in VigiBase, and 113 were well-documented. Among these, 69 patients (61%) were hospitalized or had prolonged hospitalization, 16 (14%) had life-threatening events, and 12 (11%) died. The MEs occurred in the prescription phase in 77 cases, in administration in 35, and at the dispensing stage in one case. The MEs in prescription were related to a drug selection error in 44 cases (24 concerning contraindications and 20 drug interactions) and to dose error in 33 cases (17 with excessive dose; eight with insufficient frequency; four had an incorrect time; in three, the dose was too low; and in one, too frequent). The MEs in administration were medical-staff-related errors in five cases (three with wrong administration route, one administration omission, and one overdose), patient-related errors in 28 (14 insufficient dose or no administration, seven improper drug storage, four wrong administration method, and three over prescribed dose), and other errors in two (without efficacy monitoring). The dispensing error of a wrong drug strength occurred in a pharmacy. The main adverse events in the 113 patients were haemorrhage in 57 cases (50%) and ischemia in 29 cases (26%).

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of reports in VigiBase, serious MEs related to dabigatran mainly occurred during prescription and administration. Although the incidence of MEs with clinical consequences in the use of dabigatran cannot be determined, attention should be paid to selection of the appropriate dose to a right patient in the prescription, and to patient compliance and storage in drug administration. The patient harm mainly manifested itself as bleeding or ischemia including fatal outcome in rare patients.
Transcriptomic analyses of Vibrio parahaemolyticus under the phenyllactic acid stress
Authors: Lin Yilin , Fang Meimei , Liu Jun , Zhang Yehui , Yu Yigang
Published: January 2024

Phenyllactic acid (PLA) generally recognized as a natural organic acid shows against Vibrio parahaemolyticus activity. In this study, V. parahaemolyticus ATCC17802 (Vp17802) was cultured under the stress of 1/2MIC PLA, and then the antibacterial mechanisms were explored via transcriptomics. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PLA against Vp17802 was 3.2 mg/mL, and the time-kill analysis resulted that Vp17802 was inhibited. PLA was able to destroy the bacterial membrane, leading to the leakage of intracellular substances and decline of ATP levels. The RNA-sequencing analysis results indicated that 1616 significantly differentially expressed genes were identified, among which 190 were up-regulated and 1426 were down-regulated. Down-regulation of the icd2 gene in the TCA cycle mediates blockage of tyrosine metabolic, arginine biosynthesis, and oxidative phosphorylation, causing insufficient energy supply of Vp17802. Moreover, PLA could cause amino acids, metal ions, and phosphate transporters to be blocked, affecting the acquisition of nutrients. The treatment by PLA altered the expression of genes encoding functions involved in quorum sensing, flagellar assembly, and cell chemotaxis pathway, which may be interfering with the biofilm formation in Vp17802, reducing cell motility. Overall, 1.6 mg/mL PLA inhibited the growth of Vp17802 by disrupting to uptake of nutrients, cell metabolism, and the formation of biofilms. The results suggested a new direction for exploring the activity of PLA against Vp17802 and provided a theoretical basis for bacterial pathogen control in the food industry.

Key points

•RNA sequencing was carried out to indicate the antibacterial mechanism of Vp17802.

•The icd2 gene in the TCA cycle mediates blockage of metabolic of Vp17802.

•The biofilm formation has interfered with 1.6 mg/mL PLA, which could reduce cell motility and virulence.

Graphical Abstract
Isolated massive pleural effusion as a manifestation of chronic graft versus host disease successfully treated with corticosteroid
Authors: Masuda Yasutaka , Yamazaki Sho , Honda Akira , Masamoto Yosuke , Kurokawa Mineo
Published: January 2024

Isolated pleural effusion is a rare manifestation of chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We herein report a 58-year-old woman presenting with massive pleural effusion approximately 1 year after allogeneic HSCT, who was successfully treated with corticosteroid. She had discontinued tacrolimus approximately 1 month before she presented with pleural effusion, which was attributed to cGVHD after a thorough exclusion process. This case illustrates a unique manifestation of atypical cGVHD and highlights the need for prompt therapy initiation.