bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanically Strong and Fast‐Curing Kraft Lignin‐Based Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Husna Naurotul , Ismayati Maya , Syafii Wasrin , Fatriasari Widya , Solihat Nissa Nurfajrin
Published: December 2024

The creation of biobased rigid polyurethane from nonfood resources such as lignin has garnered significant interest, especially concerning the biorefinery concept. However, few studies have investigated virgin lignin as a polyol source for polyurethane foam and the effects of single factors, such as the lignin solvent, lignin concentration, and lignin:isocyanate ratio, on the properties of polyurethane. High‐density rigid foam (~500 kg/m3) was successfully formed by all the solvents except sodium hydroxide, which was confirmed via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py‐GCMS). The highest to lowest modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) values for the different lignin solvents were as follows: tetrahydrofuran (THF) (402.25 and 13.24 N/mm2) > dimethyl formamide (DMF) (46 and 1.69 N/mm2) > dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (29 and 1.39 N/mm2). DMSO was selected as the optimal solvent because of the considerable curing time (26.67 s) needed to produce rigid foam. A higher lignin concentration resulted in better physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the foam to some extent. Moreover, the opposite occurred with increasing isocyanate ratio in the system. These findings can serve as a basis for optimizing the utilization of lignin as a bioresource in the manufacture of rigid polyurethane foam with more specific uses.
Water Ageing of Epoxies: Effect of Thermal Oxidation
Authors: Tahraoui Nawfel , Delannoy Romain , Derue Isabelle , Richaud Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

Epoxy samples obtained by curing bisphenol A diglycidyl ether with triethylenetetramine are thermally oxidized at 160°C under air. The impact on water sorption is investigated by water uptake recorded by Dynamic Vapor Sorption and the gravimetric method. Experimental data mainly showed that water solubility in epoxies increases due to oxidative degradation, meanwhile, the formation of clustering remains limited. In the investigated ageing conditions, water diffusion obeys Fick's law. Despite a significant chain scission process, water diffusivity in polymer remains constant, possibly in line with the fact that hydroxypropylethers are the driving force of water diffusion and are not degraded during thermal ageing.
Reassessment of Xenodens calminechari with a discussion of tooth morphology in mosasaurs
Authors: Sharpe Henry S. , Powers Mark J. , Caldwell Michael W.
Published: December 2024

Xenodens calminechari is a mosasaurid taxon named by Longrich et al. (2021) based on the holotype MHNM.KH.331, a left maxilla with several teeth. This holotype was obtained nonscientifically (without technical supervision) from an area in Morocco that yields many manipulated or forged specimens. Examination of Longrich et al. (2021) reveals four tooth crowns occupy what appear to be two alveoli in MHNM.KH.331, and there is potential adhesive connecting the tooth crowns to the maxilla on their lateral sides. We argue that the articulated tooth crowns of this taxon were artificially placed in the maxilla, rendering at least two apomorphies of this taxon the product of forgery. Longrich et al. (2021)'s claims of fused tooth ‘roots' in MNHM.KH.331 are instead calcified periodontal ligament and alveolar bone that have ankylosed, resembling the typical mosasaurid condition. Differing tooth crown morphology does not preclude the referral of the teeth of this specimen to a younger ontogenetic stage of another mosasaur (possibly Carinodens) because many extant lizard species show drastic ontogenetic changes in the dentition. We argue that Xenodens calminechari represents a nomen dubium. This specimen constitutes a confluence of two persistent problems in vertebrate paleontology: material sourced from commercial excavations that has not been adequately tested for forgery, and taxa named from tooth‐based holotypes that ignore the potential for intraspecific dental variation and interspecific convergence in dental characters, as are common in squamates. We suggest that Longrich et al. CT scan MHNM.KH.331, and we supply CT examples for identifying artificially added tooth crowns to Moroccan mosasaur jaws. Finally, we provide recommendations for the designation of mosasaurid holotypes.
Endogenous Retroelement Activation is Implicated in Interferon‐α Production and Anti–Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Autoantibody Generation in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cooles Faye A. H. , Vidal Pedrola Gemma , Naamane Najib , Pratt Arthur G. , Barron‐Millar Ben , Anderson Amy E. , Hilkens Catharien M. U. , Casement John , Bondet Vincent , Duffy Darragh , Zhang Fan , Shukla Ruchi , Isaacs John D.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Endogenous retroelements (EREs) stimulate type 1 interferon (IFN‐I) production but have not been explored as potential interferonogenic triggers in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We investigated ERE expression in early RA (eRA), a period in which IFN‐I levels are increased.

Methods

ERE expression (long terminal repeat [LTR] 5, long interspersed nuclear element 1 [LINE‐1], and short interspersed nuclear element [SINE]) in disease‐modifying treatment‐naïve eRA whole‐blood and bulk synovial tissue samples was examined by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and NanoString alongside IFN‐α activity. Circulating lymphocyte subsets, including B cell subsets, from patients with eRA and early psoriatic arthritis (ePsA) were flow cytometrically sorted and similarly examined. Existing established RA and osteoarthritis (OA) synovial single‐cell sequencing data were reinterrogated to identify repeat elements, and associations were explored.

Results

There was significant coexpression of all ERE classes and IFNA in eRA synovial tissue samples (n = 22, P < 0.0001) and significant positive associations between whole‐blood LINE‐1 expression (n = 56) and circulating IFN‐α protein (P = 0.018) and anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) titers (P < 0.0001). ERE expression was highest in circulating eRA B cells, particularly naïve B cells compared with ePsA, with possible ERE regulation by SAM and HD Domain Containing Deoxynucleoside Triphosphate Triphosphohydrolase 1 transcription (SAMDH1) implicated and associations with IFNA again observed. Finally, in established RA synovium, LTRs, particularly human endogenous retroviral sequence K (HERVK), were most increased in RA compared with OA, in which, for all synovial subsets (monocytes, B cells, T cells, and fibroblasts), ERE expression associated with increased IFN‐I signaling (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Peripheral blood and synovial ERE expression is examined for the first time in eRA, highlighting both a potential causal relationship between ERE and IFN‐I production and an intriguing association with anti‐CCP autoantibodies. This suggests EREs may contribute to RA pathophysiology with implications for future novel therapeutic strategies.
Evaluating the sustainability of biohydrogen, biogas, and biohythane generation from agricultural, industrial, and municipal waste sources
Authors: Meena Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Deepak , Singh Lokesh , Sharma Sumit , Didwania Mukesh
Published: December 2024

Biofuel production from waste materials offers an effective solution for generating renewable energy in biohydrogen, biogas, and biohythane while reducing waste and recycling valuable nutrients. This review examines recent advances in biohydrogen and biogas production from renewable resources, focusing on the environmental impacts of different production techniques. It emphasizes life cycle analysis (LCA) as an important tool for assessing these impacts and discusses key production pathways and processes. The variability in LCA methodologies – including differences in software, impact categories, system boundaries, functional units, and analytical approaches – poses challenges for direct comparisons of studies. Despite these challenges, fermentation‐based production methods show substantial environmental advantages, such as reduced CO2 emissions, diminished ozone depletion potential, improved human health outcomes, lower ecotoxicity, and reduced fossil fuel use. Combining biohydrogen production with anaerobic digestion for biohythane generation demonstrates even greater energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction. Adopting waste‐to‐energy strategies grounded in life cycle principles could advance renewable energy system implementation and sustainability significantly.
Test Statistics and Statistical Inference for Data With Informative Cluster Sizes
Authors: Kim Soyoung , Martens Michael J. , Ahn Kwang Woo
Published: December 2024

In biomedical studies, investigators often encounter clustered data. The cluster sizes are said to be informative if the outcome depends on the cluster size. Ignoring informative cluster sizes in the analysis leads to biased parameter estimation in marginal and mixed‐effect regression models. Several methods to analyze data with informative cluster sizes have been proposed; however, methods to test the informativeness of the cluster sizes are limited, particularly for the marginal model. In this paper, we propose a score test and a Wald test to examine the informativeness of the cluster sizes for a generalized linear model, a Cox model, and a proportional subdistribution hazards model. Statistical inference can be conducted through weighted estimating equations. The simulation results show that both tests control Type I error rates well, but the score test has higher power than the Wald test for right‐censored data while the power of the Wald test is generally higher than the score test for the binary outcome. We apply the Wald and score tests to hematopoietic cell transplant data and compare regression analysis results with/without adjusting for informative cluster sizes.
Edaravone's Safety Profile in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Batino Laurence K. J. , Escabillas Cyrus G. , Navarro Jose C.
Published: December 2024

Background

We aimed to evaluate the safety of intravenous edaravone for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke among Filipino patients. The study, categorized as Phase IV, spans from December 2022 to November 2023. The primary objective is to document side effects and serious adverse events during the 14‐day edaravone infusion period.

Methods

The protocol gained approval from the Institutional Review Board, and participants provided written consent. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 18–70 with acute ischemic stroke within 24 h. Exclusion criteria included extremes of age, pregnancy, severe hepatic impairment, and participation in other clinical trials. Edaravone was administered for 14 days, underwent continuous monitoring, and adverse events were actively recorded.

Findings

Out of 64 enrolled patients, 58 completed the treatment, while 4 did not finish, and 2 dropped out. The majority were male (n = 35), median age of 53.5 years, and 81.03% exhibited moderate stroke severity. Two patients reported headaches, and one reported dizziness. No serious adverse events or other untoward effects were documented. Dropouts, attributed to a low ejection fraction, showed normal laboratory results and no side effects during edaravone infusion. Thrombolytic therapy was given to 37.93% of patients.

Discussion

Our study contributes insights into edaravone's safety, revealing a favorable profile with mild side effects, aligning with existing literature. Notably, no serious adverse events occurred, emphasizing edaravone's tolerability. Headache and dizziness, which were the common side effects in our case, did not lead to treatment discontinuation. The findings support the growing evidence of edaravone's safety in acute ischemic stroke treatment. Overall, edaravone demonstrates promise in stroke management, necessitating vigilant monitoring, especially considering individual cardiovascular health.
Teachers' Discursive Constructions of Adolescent Sexting, Consent and Gender
Authors: Rousaki Anastasia , Seymour‐Smith Sarah , Kitson‐Boyce Rosie , Marriott Mike
Published: December 2024

Sexting is the exchange of sexually suggestive content through technological means. Despite being tasked with addressing such incidents in schools, teachers are underrepresented in sexting research. The present study explores teachers' discursive constructions of sexting, consent and gender using Critical Discursive Psychology, analysing 30 interviews with educators and safeguarding staff. The first key finding uncovers the interpretative repertoire of ‘Sexting as a threat’. This repertoire showcases the gendered positions teachers assign adolescents to, positioning ‘Boys as oppressors; girls as victims of sexting’, with girls being simultaneously constructed as sexting to attract boys' attention through the ‘Girls as the validation‐seeking Other’ position. Regarding consent, we explicate three repertoires: ‘Consent as an oxymoron in relation to non‐consensual distribution’, ‘Consent as illegal’ and ‘Coercion as a power imbalance’. We contextualise and discuss these findings within the socio‐political discursive terrain. We highlight their ideological implications and the need to initiate emancipatory positions and discussions regarding inclusive sexting education. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's .
Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of Cyanus celikhanensis Extract: An in Silico and in Vitro Approach
Authors: Baş Topcu Kübra Sena , Sağ Vildan , Genç Nusret , Celik Ahmet , İmamoğlu Rizvan , Kisa Dursun
Published: December 2024

Herbal products are valuable biological resources of bioactive compounds expressed as secondary metabolites. This study aimed to explore the potential biological properties and phenolic content of Cyanus celikhanensis Kaya et al. extract, which has no data on pharmacological properties. A quantitative phytochemical analysis of C. celikhanensis was performed using a triple quadrupole LC/MS system. In vitro pharmacological tests, which included antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and 10 medicinal enzyme inhibition, were accompanied by in silico studies. The extract of C. celikhanensis exhibited promising inhibitory effect against HMG‐CoA reductase (IC50: 0.724 µg mL−ˡ), α‐glucosidase (IC50: 68 µg mL−ˡ), and α‐amylase (IC50: 114 µg mL−ˡ) enzymes. The extract presented a cytotoxic effect (130.4 µg mL−ˡ), antibacterial potency against Enterococcus faecalis (591.2 ± 2.7 µg mL−ˡ), and ABTS scavenging activity (12.32 µg mL−ˡ) closer to that of BHT (8.12 ± 0.096 µg mL−ˡ). The quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed that the major compounds were keracyanin chloride (72.56 µg mL−ˡ) and quinic acid (12.54 µg mL−ˡ). The molecular insertion studies showed that the major compound has low binding energy, and the biological capacity of the plant extract might be attributable to its leading compounds, especially keracyanin. According to the first comprehensive in vitro and in silico analysis, the study data show that C. celikhanensis has potential biological activities.
Hypersine H, One Undescribed Xanthone From the Hypericum elodeoides Choisy With Anti‐Neuroinflammation Activity
Authors: He Shoulun , Liu Xiangzhong , Wang Tingjiya , Li Jingdian , Lin Yingting , Zhou Mi , Sun Cuiling , Ding Rong , Wang Guanghui , Chen Hai‐Feng , Tian Wen‐Jing
Published: December 2024

One undescribed xanthone, hypersine H (1), together with three known analogs, 3,7‐dihydroxy‐1‐methoxyxanthone (2), 1,7‐dihydroxy‐5,6‐dimethoxyxanthone (3), and 1,5‐dihydroxy‐6,7‐dimethoxyxanthone (4), were isolated from the whole plant of Hypericum elodeoides Choisy. Their structures, including absolute configurations, were unambiguously elucidated by HR‐ESI–MS, extensive NMR spectroscopy, and quantum chemical calculation of electronic circular dichroism (ECD) method. Moreover, the anti‐neuroinflammation activities of isolated compounds were evaluated. As a result, Compounds 1–2 decreased the production of nitric oxide (NO) in LPS‐stimulated mouse BV2 microglia. Further mechanism study indicated that 1 and 2 exerted anti‐neuroinflammation effects by suppressing the expression of pro‐inflammatory enzymes, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2. Above all, compounds 1–2 showed promise as useful therapeutic agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases caused by neuroinflammation.
Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Residual Soybean Oil with Simultaneous Separation Using Membrane
Authors: Pacheco Bruna Jeanne Soares , Vieira Rafael Bruno , Cardoso Vicelma Luiz
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the simultaneous separation process using a batch reactor coupled to a cellulose acetate membrane for the enzymatic hydrolysis of residual soybean oil. The membrane was manufactured with 30 s pre‐evaporation time and 1‐mm thickness. Their morphologies and wettability were analyzed. Pichia pastoris lipase was characterized based on temperature and pH and was applied to the hydrolysis of residual soybean oil at 45 °C and pH 7 in batches, with and without simultaneous separation. The results show that the process efficiency with the cellulose acetate membrane resulted in 55.58 % ± 2.78 % free fatty acids in enzymatic hydrolysis, compared with 39.72 % ± 1.99 % without the membrane. The membrane also achieved 100 % oil rejection.
The Impact of Single Amino Acid Insertion on the Supramolecular Assembly Pathway of Aromatic Peptide Amphiphiles
Authors: Higuchi Ayato , Som Arka , Wakabayashi Rie , Goto Masahiro , Kamiya Noriho , Besenius Pol
Published: December 2024

Understanding the mechanism of self‐assembly driven by non‐covalent interactions is crucial for designing supramolecular materials with desired properties. Here we investigate the self‐assembly of aromatic peptide amphiphiles, Fmoc‐L2QG and Fmoc‐L3QG using a combination of spectroscopic, transmission electron and superresolution optical microscopy techniques. Our results show that Fmoc‐L2QG leads to concentration‐dependent assembly, forming fibrous assemblies at low concentrations and supramolecular droplets via liquid‐liquid phase separation (LLPS) at higher concentrations. Mechanical activation using for example ultrasonication triggered the transition from metastable droplets to fibre morphologies of Fmoc‐L2QG. In contrast, Fmoc‐L3QG followed both on‐pathway and off‐pathway routes, resulting in the formation of fibrous morphologies regardless of concentration. Seeding experiments revealed that homo‐seeds of the same peptide sequence accelerated the on‐pathway process, while hetero‐seeds of a mismatched peptide sequences accelerated the off‐pathway process, highlighting the competing nature of the complex assembly profile. These findings demonstrate the significant impact of single amino acid insertion on the supramolecular assembly process of oligopeptide monomers, and highlight the potential for controlling the structure and dynamics of peptide materials. Pathway engineering of oligopeptide building blocks and multidomain supramolecular monomers will open new avenues in tailor‐made and customizable supramolecular biomaterials.
Covalently Grafting of Ethylenediamine onto a 2D Sub‐stoichiometric COF for Enhanced CO2/N2 Separation†
Authors: Sun Shixin , Luo Guanglun , Peng Yongwu
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The post‐synthetic modification of two‐dimensional sub‐stoichiometric covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for gas separation, particularly for the efficient removal of CO2 from CO2/N2 mixtures, is an area of growing interest yet remains relatively unexplored. In this study, we report the precise tuning of functional groups in sub‐stoichiometric COFs to enhance CO2 capture performance. A sub‐stoichiometric COF with free aldehyde groups (HPCOF) was designed and synthesized, followed by covalent modification via ethylenediamine (EDA) grafting, yielding HPCOF‐EDA. This post‐modification strategy significantly increased CO2 adsorption capacity (55.7 cm3·g–1 at 298 K and 1 bar) and CO2/N2 selectivity (58), primarily attributed to the formation of additional N—H···O interactions. These findings demonstrate the potential of functional engineering to broaden the application prospects of sub‐stoichiometric COFs in gas adsorption and separation technologies.
Relationship Between Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and ICD‐10 Codes Among Patients Hospitalized With Heart Failure
Authors: Gluckman Ty J. , Chiu Shih‐Ting , Rider Deanna , Tseng Phil K. , Mudd James O. , Remick Joshua D. , Granowitz Craig , Carroll Amy , Sikirica Slaven , Canonico Mario E. , Hsia Judith , Bonaca Marc P.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

While left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) represents an important means by which to classify patients with heart failure (HF), relatively little is known about the distribution of LVEFs among patients hospitalized for HF based on their International Classification of Disease (ICD)‐10 code.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cross‐sectional analysis of patients admitted to a large integrated health system within the western US between January 1, 2018 and October 1, 2022 with a principal diagnosis of HF (defined by ICD‐10 codes: I50.2, systolic HF; I50.3, diastolic HF; I50.4, combined systolic and diastolic HF; I11.0, hypertensive heart disease with HF; and I13.0 and I13.2, hypertensive heart disease with HF and chronic kidney disease).

Results

Over nearly 5 years, 61,238 HF hospitalizations occurred, of which 49,772 (81%) had a LVEF available by echocardiography within the preceding 3 months. Whereas most patients hospitalized with systolic HF (n = 2220) as well as systolic and diastolic heart failure (n = 1582) had an LVEF ≤ 40% (86.2% and 74.8%, respectively), most patients hospitalized with diastolic HF (n = 1542) had an LVEF ≥ 50% (94.0%) (Figure). A much greater range of LVEFs were noted for those with hypertensive heart disease with HF (n = 18,092) and hypertensive heart disease with HF and CKD (n = 26,336) (Figure).

Conclusion

While there was relatively good concordance between LVEF and the ICD‐10 code‐defined HF type for systolic HF, diastolic HF, and systolic and diastolic HF, these codes represent a small subset (~10%) of total HF hospitalizations.
Diastereoselective Cascade Double Michael Addition to Access Bridged Coumarins, Oxindoles and Spirooxindoles: A Sustainable Strategy for Synthesis of Anticancer Molecules
Authors: Battula Shravani , Bhumannagari Haripriya , Ambadipudi S. S. S. S. Sudha , Andugulapati Sai Balaji , Nayani Kiranmai
Published: December 2024

An efficient and concise synthesis of highly functionalized bridged coumarins has been developed through a diastereoselective double Michael addition reaction of p‐quinols with various 4‐hydroxy coumarins under catalyst‐free conditions in H2O‐DMSO (8 : 2). The method has been applied to oxindoles for the synthesis of a variety of bridged‐oxindoles and bridged‐spiroxindoles in presence of a DABCO base using H2O−EtOH (8 : 2) as solvent medium. The strategy is simple, highly atom economical as there is no by‐product and environmentally benign (E‐factor=0.1–0.9). The synthesized compounds were screened against triple‐negative breast cancers and found that bridged coumarin (3 a) and oxindole (5 d) compounds exhibit potent anti‐cancer activity at 6.6 and 8.8 μM (IC50) concentrations respectively. Further analysis revealed that 3 a and 5 d caused elevated early and total apoptosis by arresting the MDA‐MB‐468 cells in G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Overall, our results demonstrate that bridged coumarin (3 a) and oxindole (5 d) compounds‐based approach attenuates the cancer progression and may pave a path for the translational outcome.
Fabrication of Ferulic Acid‐Cellulose Nanocrystal Enhanced Stretchable and Antibacterial Hydrogels
Authors: Li Fangyu , Wang Yajie , Xu Luchun , Li Xiaxue , Song Wangcheng , Mao Yanyong , Zhou Jia , Shi Hao
Published: December 2024

Hydrogels are widely utilized in biomaterials, medicine, and food science due to their versatile properties. This study developed a ferulic acid (FA) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) hydrogel within a polyacrylamide matrix, polymerized using ammonium persulfate and crosslinked with N‐methylenebisacrylamide. The FA@CNC hydrogel demonstrated exceptional tensile ductility and elasticity. Antibacterial evaluations against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus revealed significant efficacy, with activity increasing proportionally to FA concentration. Swelling studies indicated a maximum equilibrium swelling ratio of 1210 % after 36 h, showcasing the hydrogel's ability to undergo substantial expansion while maintaining its original shape and structural integrity. It was indicated that the synthesized hydrogels were capable of absorbing large volumes of exudate while preserving a moist environment conducive to accelerated wound healing. Scanning electron microscopy analysis confirmed a regular and dense microstructure, which contributes to the hydrogel's mechanical stability and robustness. The optimized preparation process developed in this study resulted in hydrogels with significantly enhanced performance. These findings underscore the hydrogel's superior mechanical and functional properties, paving the way for innovative applications across biomaterials, medical, and food‐related industries.
Remote Sensing Data Reveal a Significant Reduction in the Area of the Nesting Habitat of Rafetus euphraticus in the Tigris River, Southeastern Turkey
Authors: Biricik Murat , Safi Kamran , Turğa Şemsettin
Published: December 2024

The Euphrates Softshell Turtle (Rafetus euphraticus) is an endangered freshwater turtle native to the Tigris‐Euphrates river system. Habitat destruction caused by dams and sand mining poses a major threat to the species. This study quantitatively assesses the occurrence of sandy areas in the upper Tigris in Turkey as a key component of their nesting habitat, utilizing remote sensing data. An ensemble approach was employed, applying and combining Generalized Additive Models (GAM), Generalized Boosting Models (GBM), Generalized Linear Models (GLM), and Random Forests (RF) for classification. The models indicate that, compared to 2018, the occurrence of sandbanks—assumed to be crucial nesting habitat for this species—was reduced by 41% in 2022 following the construction of a large dam. Additionally, sand mining and flooding of adjacent lands have fragmented and degraded the remaining sandbanks. The survival of the Turkish population of the Euphrates Softshell Turtle requires immediate and effective action.
Warm Spring Days are Related to Shorter Durations of Reproductive Phenophases for Understory Forest Herbs
Authors: Miller Chelsea N. , Stuble Katharine L.
Published: December 2024

As plants continue to respond to global warming with phenological shifts, our understanding of the importance of short‐lived heat events and seasonal weather cues has lagged relative to our understanding of plant responses to broad shifts in mean climate conditions. Here, we explore the importance of warmer‐than‐average days in driving shifts in phenophase duration for spring‐flowering woodland herbs across one growing season. We harnessed the combined power of community science and public gardens, engaging more than 30 volunteers to monitor shifts in phenology (documenting movement from one phenophase to the next) for 198 individual plants of 14 species twice per week for the 2023 growing season (March—October) across five botanic gardens in the midwestern and southeastern US. Gardens included the Holden Arboretum, Kirtland, OH; Dawes Arboretum, Newark, OH; Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL; Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, MO; and Huntsville Botanical Garden, Huntsville, AL. We tested: (1) that higher‐than‐average daily temperatures (deviation from 30‐year historical mean daily temperatures for each location) would be related to truncated phenophase durations; and (2) that phenophase durations would vary among species. Our findings support both hypotheses. We documented significant inverse relationships between positive deviations in daily temperature from historic means (e.g., warmer‐than‐average days) and durations of three reproductive phenophases: “First Bud,” “First Ripe Fruit,” and “Early Fruiting.” Similar (non‐significant) trends were noted for several other early‐season phenophases. Additionally, significant differences in mean phenophase durations were detected among the different species, although these differences were inconsistent across plant parts (vegetative, flowering, and fruiting). Results underscore the potential sensitivity of understory herb reproductive phenophases to warmer‐than‐average daily temperatures early in the growing season, contributing to our understanding of phenological responses to short‐term heat events and seasonal weather cues.
Range Extension of the Popeye Catalufa (Pristigenys serrula, Gilbert 1891) to Central Chile During the “El Niño” Southern Oscillation (ENSO) 2023–2024
Authors: Asorey Cynthia M. , Cuevas Jeremías , Larraín María Angélica , Araneda Cristian
Published: December 2024

We report the presence of Pristigenys serrula Gilbert 1891 off Zapallar (−32.568253, −71.464225), central Chile, during the ENSO 2023–2024 event. Morphology and a partial fragment of the mitochondrial markers cytochrome oxidase 1 (COX1) and 16S rDNA identified one specimen fished by artisanal fishermen. This report extends the known southern range limit of P. serrula by 9° of latitude (~1000 km) to central Chile (−32°) during strong negative ENSO conditions.
BAFF Blockade Attenuates B Cell MALT Formation in Conditional Nlrc5‐Deficient Mice With Helicobacter felis Infection
Authors: Tong Dongmei , He Yuqi , Haile Shambel Araya , Lee Zoe , Le Lena H. M. , Emery Jack , Wray‐McCann Georgie , Chonwerawong Michelle , Philpott Dana J. , Hertzog Paul J. , Schneider Pascal , Ferrero Richard L. , Ying Le
Published: December 2024

Helicobacter infection is a key cause of gastric B cell mucosa–associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. This study examined the role of B cell–activating factor (BAFF), a major driver of B cell proliferation and many B cell disorders, in this malignancy using a model in which conditional knockout mice for NOD‐like receptor family CARD domain‐containing 5 (Nlrc5) are infected with Helicobacter felis. Gastric BAFF production was significantly increased in H. felis–infected Nlrc5mø‐KO mice compared to wild‐type. Blocking BAFF signalling, before or after the onset of Helicobacter‐induced gastritis, significantly reduced MALT development, with fewer gastric B cell follicles and reduced gland hyperplasia. BAFF blockade also reshaped the immune cell landscape in the stomach, resulting in fewer CD4+ T cells, Tregs, macrophages and dendritic cells. Using a cell culture model, we identified the protein‐coding BAFF transcripts that are upregulated in NLRC5‐deficient macrophages stimulated with either H. felis or the NLRC5 agonist, lipopolysaccharide. Among the upregulated variants, TNFSF13B (BAFF)‐206 acts as a transcription factor and is reported to enhance BAFF production in autoimmune diseases and cancer. Altogether, these findings implicate the NLRC5–BAFF signalling axis in Helicobacter‐induced B cell MALT lymphoma, highlighting BAFF inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach.
Pseudo‐silapnictene and Bis(pseudo‐silapnictene) – Hyperconjugatively Stabilized Heavier Analogues of Imine and Ethane‐1,2‐diimine
Authors: Muhammed Shahila , Parameswaran Pattiyil
Published: December 2024

The equilibrium geometry, bonding, and proton affinity of the pseudo‐silapnictenes and the bis(pseudo‐silapnictenes) are explored using computational quantum mechanical calculations carried out at M06/def2‐TZVPP//BP86‐D3(BJ)/def2‐SVP level of theory. The pseudo‐silapnictene 1E features a dicoordinated, monovalent group‐15 center having two lone pairs of σ‐ and π‐local symmetry. Both the lone pairs are stabilized by hyperconjugative donation to the silylene fragment. The extent of hyperconjugative stabilization of π‐type lone pair is higher than that of σ‐type lone pair and is comparable to classical Si−E π‐bonds. Accordingly, the former interactions can be considered as pseudo‐π‐bonding interactions. The strength of the pseudo‐π‐bond reduces as the group‐15 element changes from nitrogen to bismuth. Hence, 1E can be considered as heavier analogues of imine. Even though these lone pairs are stabilized by hyperconjugative interactions, they are very reactive as indicated by the very high values of first and second proton affinities. In the bis(pseudo‐silapnictene) 2E, two Si−E pseudo‐π‐bonds formed by hyperconjugative interactions are delocalized over the E−Si−Si−E skeleton. Since the π‐bonds are majorly localized on the group‐15 element, the extent of delocalization is quite less than that of the classical π‐delocalized system. Nevertheless, the bis(pseudo‐silapnictene) can be considered as the heavier analogue of ethane‐1,2‐diimine.
Plant‐Based Meat Alternatives Intake and Its Association With Health Status Among Vegetarians of the UK Biobank Volunteer Population
Authors: Navratilova Hana F. , Whetton Anthony D. , Geifman Nophar
Published: December 2024

Consumption of plant‐based meat alternatives (PBMAs) within the vegetarian population is increasing. This study assessed the relationship between PBMA intake and health markers using the UK Biobank cohort. Participants were categorized into vegetarian PBMA consumers and vegetarian PBMA nonconsumers. Nonparametric statistical tests were used to evaluate differences in participants’ characteristics, food intake, and 30 blood biochemistry measures after assessing data distributions. Metabolomics (168 metabolites) and proteomics (2923 proteins) data were further examined to identify significant differences between the two participant groups. Relative risks (RRs) for 45 chronic diseases and mental conditions were calculated using Poisson regression. Sensitivity analysis accounted for sociodemographic factors, and the proportion of energy from ultra‐processed food (UPF) intake was determined. No substantial differences in sodium, free sugar, total sugar, or saturated fatty acids intake between vegetarian PBMA consumers and nonconsumers were found. However, PBMA consumers exhibited higher blood pressure (130/79 and 129/78 mmHg for consumer and nonconsumer groups, respectively) and elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels (1.76 ± 3.12 and 1.57 ± 3.17 mg/L for consumer and nonconsumer groups, respectively). Metabolite and protein abundance analysis showed no notable differences. Pathway enrichment analysis suggested that PBMAs may influence immune reactions through cell signaling pathways. PBMA consumers had a 42% increased risk of depression (p = 0.03) and a 40% reduction in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) risk (p = 0.02), compared to nonconsumers. In conclusion, while no clear health risks or benefits were associated with PBMA consumption in vegetarians, the higher risk of depression, elevated CRP, and lower apolipoprotein A levels in PBMA consumers suggest potential inflammatory concerns that warrant further investigation.
Unveiling the medicinal potential of edible mushroom polysaccharides: Structure, function, and therapeutic insights
Authors: Khaskheli Shahzor Gul , Liu Ying , Khaskheli Ashfaque Ahmed , Dong Xiaobo
Published: December 2024

Edible mushrooms have been a staple in diets worldwide for centuries, prized for their distinct flavors, versatility in the kitchen, and potential health benefits. Among the various bioactive compounds found in mushrooms, polysaccharides have garnered significant attention due to their diverse therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the medicinal properties of polysaccharides in edible mushrooms, highlighting their potential for future medicinal advancements. Over the past 3 decades, numerous polysaccharides and polysaccharide‐protein complexes have been isolated from mushrooms, many of which are currently used or being investigated as therapeutic agents. Studies suggest that polysaccharides derived from mushrooms may be effective in cancer treatment. The primary components of these polysaccharides in edible mushrooms include beta‐glucans, heteroglycans, and glycoproteins, all of which enhance the mushrooms' potential as medicinal agents.
Lipids: Emerging Players of Microglial Biology
Authors: Prakash Priya , Randolph Caitlin E. , Walker Katherine A. , Chopra Gaurav
Published: December 2024

Lipids are small molecule immunomodulators that play critical roles in maintaining cellular health and function. Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, regulate lipid metabolism both in the extracellular environment and within intracellular compartments through various mechanisms. For instance, glycerophospholipids and fatty acids interact with protein receptors on the microglial surface, such as the Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells 2, influencing cellular functions like phagocytosis and migration. Moreover, cholesterol is essential not only for microglial survival but, along with other lipids such as fatty acids, is crucial for the formation, function, and accumulation of lipid droplets, which modulate microglial activity in inflammatory diseases. Other lipids, including acylcarnitines and ceramides, participate in various signaling pathways within microglia. Despite the complexity of the microglial lipidome, only a few studies have investigated the effects of specific lipid classes on microglial biology. In this review, we focus on major lipid classes and their roles in modulating microglial function. We also discuss novel analytical techniques for characterizing the microglial lipidome and highlight gaps in current knowledge, suggesting new directions for future research on microglial lipid biology.
The Mini‐Cog: A Community Screening Tool for Dementia in Indonesia
Authors: Turana Yuda , Farina Nicolas , Theresia Imelda , Sani Tara Puspitarini , Suswanti Ika , Fitri Fasihah Irfani , Albanese Emiliano , Comas‐Herrera Adelina , Knapp Martin , Banerjee Sube
Published: December 2024

Background

Early detection of dementia enables more effective planning and can enable access to treatment and support. The Mini‐Cog is a widely used screening instrument in Indonesia; however, this instrument has never undergone a translation and cultural adaptation process. Currently, there is no data on how accurate the tool is against diagnostic criteria, particularly in low‐education.

Methods

Embedded within the community‐based dementia prevalence study was the Strengthening Responses to Dementia in Developing Countries (STRiDE) project; older adults (aged ≥ 65 years) were randomly recruited from sites in Jakarta and North Sumatra, Indonesia. All participants were asked to complete the Mini‐Cog and the 10/66 short dementia diagnostic schedule. The accuracy of three Mini‐Cog algorithms (Mini‐Cog1, Mini‐Cog2, and Mini‐Cog3) were compared against and the 10/66 short dementia diagnostic schedule. Additional analysis explored its performance accuracy at different educational levels.

Results

The Mini‐Cog test performance assessment was conducted on 2098 older adults

The area under the curve (AUC) of Mini‐Cog1, Mini‐Cog2, and Mini‐Cog3 receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were 0.66, 0.62, and 0.64, respectively. All algorithms demonstrated high sensitivity (Sv) but low specificity (Sp). (Mini‐Cog1: Sv 83.2%; Sp 49.2%, Mini‐Cog2: Sv 87.1%; Sp 37.8% and Mini‐Cog3: Sv 72.5%; Sp 56%). All algorithms showed no affected by education. Only 59.1% of people without dementia could do the CDT.

Conclusions

The high sensitivity of the Mini‐Cog1 algorithm lends itself to screening purposes. Given that the specificity is still low, and less than 60% of patients without dementia can complete the CDT. Further research is needed, as is the development of screening instruments with high accuracy values in low‐ and middle‐income countries, particularly in Indonesia.
Nodal Yield From Neck Dissection Predicts the Anti‐Tumor Immune Response in Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Chen Shuqing , Pyne Justin M. , Liu Yulun , Abraham Youstina , Wen Zhuoyu , Palsgrove Doreen , Xiao Guanghua , Truelson John , Myers Larry , Tillman Brittny , Day Andrew , Gordin Eli , Stankova Lenka , Xie Yang , Sher David , Bishop Justin , Gao Jinming , Sumer Baran D.
Published: December 2024

Background

Lymph node count (LNC) from neck dissection has been associated with undernutrition and survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). As local components of the immune system, cervical lymph nodes may reflect anti‐tumor immune status. This study investigates the relationship between decreased LNC, formation of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), and primary tumor infiltration by lymphocytes in undernourished patients.

Methods

A matched‐cohort study was conducted in a tertiary medical center, where neck dissection quality was standardized for a total of 384 subjects that were evaluated. Six head and neck cancer patients that underwent primary surgery including neck dissection with low LNC and BMI (low BMI < 23, low LNC ≤ 5.6 per neck level) were matched by stage, p16 status, and subsite to 16 patients with normal BMI and high LNC. Multiplexed immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and the number and quality of TLS within primary tumors. Whole primary cancers underwent automated analysis and counting of leukocytes after multiplexed immunohistochemistry staining of tumor slides. A head and neck pathologist blindly scored the number and maturity of TLS. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze outcomes.

Results

The patients with low BMI and low LNC had significantly fewer CD3 (p = 0.0136), CD8 (p = 0.0003), and CD20 (p = 0.0334) cells in their primary tumors compared to patients with normal BMI and LNC. The low BMI low LNC patients also had fewer mature TLS (0.83/tumor) in their primary cancers compared to patients with normal BMI and high LNC (5.4/tumor) and also had greater than fourfold lower mature TLS density (TLS per μm2 mean) (6.34 × 10−9 vs. 2.82 × 10−8), with significantly worsened survival relative to patients with low BMI and normal LNC and patients with normal BMI.

Conclusion

Low LNC predicts worsened survival only in low BMI HNSCC patients with non‐HPV related tumors and in these patients is associated with markers of immunosuppression such as fewer tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T‐cells, CD20+ cells, and fewer TLS in primary cancers compared to matched normal BMI patients with high LNC.
Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Compared to Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) for Primary Inguinal Hernia Repair in a Military Hospital: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Basukala Sunil , Shrestha Oshan , Chhetri Suchit Thapa , Thapa Niranjan , Oli Samana , Mehta Bipin K. , Pokhrel Nabin , Tiwari Bishal
Published: December 2024

Background

Inguinal hernias are encountered commonly, but there is a lack of uniformity and standardization in repair techniques. There are a variety of repair methods, from open methods to laparoscopic approaches. The available laparoscopic techniques that exist for inguinal hernia repair are transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair. This study aims to compare the outcomes of these two laparoscopic procedures.

Methods

The study was initiated after receiving ethical clearance. This single‐centric retrospective study included the patients that underwent laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023. Patient records were reviewed and assessed against the inclusion criteria of the study. Systematic random sampling was applied to select patients from the records. A structured questionnaire was prepared for the purpose of data collection. The data were refined and analyzed using the SPSS software.

Results

A total of 200 patients (100 in each group) who underwent laparoscopic repair of an inguinal hernia were part of this study. The median (IQR) age of patients in the TAPP group was 50 (41.25–64.75) years, and that in the TEP group was 48.5 (39.25–64.75) years. The TAPP procedure took a median (IQR) time of 81 (77–88) min, while the TEP procedure took 69 (66–73) min to finish. The patients in the TAPP group returned to their normal activities after 15 (14–16) days of surgery, and the patients in the TEP group returned after 13 (11–14) days. The pain score at 1 week was found to be better in the TEP group. No difference was observed in complications or recurrence.

Conclusion

TEP repair was found to be superior to TAPP repair in terms of procedural time, return to normal activities, and pain score at 1 week.
Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐targeting therapy augmented the sensitivity to programmed death ligand‐1 blockade by enhancing interferon‐γ‐induced chemokines in tumor cells
Authors: Yabuki Yohei , Mitsuhashi Atsushi , Ogino Hirokazu , Yoshida Aito , Nguyen Na Thi , Yoneda Hiroto , Ozaki Ryohiko , Tsukazaki Yuki , Morita Yutaka , Nokihara Hiroshi , Sato Seidai , Shinohara Tsutomu , Hanibuchi Masaki , Nishioka Yasuhiko
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) provide clinical benefits for various advanced malignancies. However, the predictive factors that determine sensitivity to ICIs have not been fully elucidated. We focused on tumor‐derived CXCL10/11 as a pivotal factor that determines the response to PD‐L1 blockade by regulating T cell accumulation and tumor angiogenesis. We previously reported that CXCL10/11 was upregulated by interferon (IFN)‐γ in ICI‐sensitive tumor cells but not in ICI‐resistant cells, including mouse Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC). In the present study, gene silencing of tumor‐derived CXCL10/11 induced resistance to PD‐L1 blockade in AB1‐HA mesothelioma cell‐bearing mice. To identify the mechanisms underlying ICI resistance, we performed a microarray analysis to compare the IFN‐γ‐inducible genes between ICI‐sensitive AB1‐HA and ICI‐resistant LLC in vitro. A pathway analysis based on microarray data indicated that hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF) 1A is the key signal that inhibits CXCL10/11 expression. We revealed that the HIF1A inhibitors echinomycin (EC) and YC‐1 upregulated CXCL10/11 genes induced by IFN‐γ in tumor cells in vitro. In addition, combination therapy with PD‐L1 blockade and EC demonstrated synergistic antitumor effects in LLC‐bearing mice. Combination therapy enhanced tumor infiltration of CD8 T cells and suppressed tumor angiogenesis. The present study suggests that HIF1A signaling in tumor cells dominates ICI resistance via the downregulation of tumor‐derived CXCL10/11.
The Credit Channel of Monetary Transmission in the US: Is It a Bank Lending Channel, a Balance Sheet Channel or Both or Neither?
Authors: Brissimis Sophocles N. , Papafilis Michalis‐Panayiotis
Published: December 2024

We develop a theoretical framework that extends the Bernanke and Blinder model to incorporate imperfect substitution between internal and external finance of firms to study the operation of both the bank lending and the balance sheet channels of monetary transmission in the US. Our model is used to quantify the financial accelerator effects due to the operation of these channels. Empirically, we use multivariate cointegration techniques to identify the equilibrium relationships included in our model, and we provide evidence that only the balance sheet channel is operational for the period before and after the global financial crisis.
Informational Differences, Adaptive Learning, and Inflation Forecast Bias
Authors: Chen Qiang , Yin Zechen
Published: December 2024

This work highlights a previously overlooked factor that contributes to bias in private inflation forecasts—ignorance of confidential monetary rules. Additionally, it examines how this ignorance indirectly affects policy rate settings. The model proposed reconciles biases in two key forecast sources: the inflation expectations from the Survey of Professional Forecasters and the Federal Reserve's Greenbook forecasts for the output gap. Moreover, the model investigates the impact of informational differences on monetary policy transmission and identifies clear conditions under which inflation rises following a contractionary monetary policy shock.