bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive neuromonitoring approach in a large animal model of cardiac arrest
Authors: Annoni Filippo , Peluso Lorenzo , Hirai Lucas Akira , Babini Giovanni , Khaldi Amina , Herpain Antoine , Pitisci Lorenzo , Ferlini Lorenzo , Garcia Bruno , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Creteur Jacques , Su Fuhong
Published: January 2022

Background

Anoxic brain injuries represent the main determinant of poor outcome after cardiac arrest (CA). Large animal models have been described to investigate new treatments during CA and post‐resuscitation phase, but a detailed model that includes extensive neuromonitoring is lacking.

Method

Before an electrically‐induced 10‐minute CA and resuscitation, 46 adult pigs underwent neurosurgery for placement of a multifunctional probe (intracranial pressure or ICP, tissue oxygen tension or PbtO2 and cerebral temperature) and a bolt‐based technique for the placement and securing of a regional blood flow probe and two sEEG electrodes; two modified cerebral microdialysis (CMD) probes were also inserted in the frontal lobes and accidental misplacement was prevented using a perforated head support.

Result

42 animals underwent the CA procedure and 41 achieved the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). In 4 cases (8.6%) an adverse event took place during preparation, but only in two cases (4.3%) this was related to the neurosurgery. In 6 animals (13.3%) the minor complications that occurred resolved after probe repositioning.

Conclusion

Herein we provide a detailed comprehensive neuromonitoring approach in a large animal model of CA that might help future research.
Animal models in the study of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease: A historical perspective
Authors: Banerjee Rajashree , Rai Arushi , Iyer Shreyas M. , Narwal Sonia , Tare Meghana
Published: January 2022

Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are two of the most prevalent and disabling neurodegenerative diseases globally. Both are proteinopathic conditions and while occasionally inherited, are largely sporadic in nature. Although the advances in our understanding of the two have been significant, they are far from complete and neither diagnosis nor the current practices in treatment and rehabilitation is adequately helpful. Animal models have historically found application as testing beds for novel therapeutics and continue to be valuable aids in pharmacological research. This review chronicles the development of those models in the context of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and highlights the shifting paradigms in studying two human‐specific conditions in non‐human organisms.
Generalized Gravitational Phase Transition in Novel 4D Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet Gravity
Authors: Samart Daris , Channuie Phongpichit
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the possible existence of a thermal phase transition from asymptotic anti‐de Sitter (AdS) to de Sitter (dS) geometries in vacuum in the context of the novel fourdimensional Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet (4D EGB) gravity is presented. The phase transition proceeds via a thermalon (the Euclidean section of a bubble thin shell) formation, having a black hole in the dS spacetime and a thermal AdS spacetime in the exterior, without introducing any matter field. From the analysis, it is found that, using regularized novel 4D EGB gravity, the gravitational phase transitions occur for all allowed values of the 4D EGB coupling. In the 4D EGB gravity, the existence of the above phase transition is over a narrow range of the 4D EGB coupling, with particular critical values. In contrast, in five‐dimensional (5D) EGB gravity, a 5D sector needs a wider range of its coupling for the existence of a thermalon, and there also exist critical values for the emergence of the above phase transition.
Structural evolution and properties of polyamide‐6/poly(ether block amide) films during the simultaneous biaxial stretching
Authors: Lin Xintu , Wu Yincai , Fan Shuhong , Chen Xi , Liu Yuejun , Liu Xiaochao , Zheng Wei
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the structural evolution and properties of simultaneously biaxially stretched polyamide‐6/poly(ether block amide) copolymer (PA6/PEBA) films. The results showed the melting temperature of PA6 increased from 220.02°C to 225.56°C when the stretching ratios increased from 1 × 1 to 3.5 × 3.5, suggesting the occurrence of β → α crystal transformation. Meanwhile, the increase of stretching ratios increased the crystallinity of the films due to the molecular orientation, which could create a more tortuous path for the diffusion of oxygen molecules through the films. As a result, the oxygen barrier performance of the stretched PA6/PEBA film was increased after biaxial stretching. The morphological observation showed that spherical or slightly ellipsoidal PEBA particles were dispersed in the PA6 matrix. The thermal shrinkage of the stretched film increased as the stretching ratios increased, and no significant difference of the shrinkage between machine direction (MD) and transition direction (TD) was observed in the stretched films. It was also found that the tensile strength of the stretched films in MD and TD exhibited the highest value at a stretching ratio of 3.5 × 3.5, which was about 1.7 times and 2.1 times higher than that of the unstretched PA6/PEBA film, respectively.
Xenobiotic responses in insects
Authors: Gao Lujuan , Qiao Huanhuan , Wei Peng , Moussian Bernard , Wang Yiwen
Published: January 2022

Insects have evolved a powerful detoxification system to protect themselves against environmental and anthropogenic xenobiotics including pesticides and nanoparticles. The resulting tolerance to insecticides is an immense problem in agriculture. In this study, we summarize advances in our understanding of insect xenobiotic responses: the detoxification strategies and the regulation mechanisms against xenobiotics including nanoparticles, the problem of response specificity and the potential usefulness of this study field for an elaborate pest management. In particular, we highlight that versatility of the detoxification system relies on the relatively unspecific recognition of a broad range of potential toxic substances that trigger either of various canonical xenobiotic responses signaling pathways, including CncC/Keap1, HR96, AHR/ARNT, GPCR, and MAPK/CREB. However, it has emerged that the actual response to an inducer may nevertheless be specific. There are two nonexclusive possibilities that may explain response specificity: (1) differential cross‐talk between the known pathways and (2) additional, yet unidentified regulators and pathways of detoxification. Hence, a deeper and broader understanding of the regulation mechanisms of xenobiotic response in insects in the future might facilitate the development and application of highly efficient and environmentally friendly pest control methods, allowing us to face the challenge of the world population growth.
Vibration suppression and fault‐tolerant control of an aerial refueling hose with multiple actuators
Authors: Song Congcong , Yan Xiaobao , Wang Qin , Liang Jinyuan , Han Zhiji , Liu Zhijie
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we propose an adaptive fault‐tolerant boundary vibration control approach for the flexible aerial refueling hose with variable length, variable speed, and multiple actuators. A distributed parameter system (DPS) is utilized to represent the dynamic behavior of the flexible refueling hose more precisely and accurately. Based on the established DPS model, we present a boundary vibration controller to suppress the vibration of the flexible refueling hose. In the controller, fault‐tolerant control with multiple actuators is considered to tackle the failure issues, and both multiplicative and additive failures are discussed in the fault situation. Then, by the Lyapunov direct method, we prove that the stability of the closed‐loop system is guaranteed under the proposed control approach. Numerical examples are presented to support the theoretical derivation.
Mimicking continuous capture chromatography for virus clearance using a single chromatography column model
Authors: Capito Florian , Flato Hendrik , Oeinck Verena , Dierl Stefan , Berg Annette
Published: January 2022

Continuous chromatography is increasingly being used across the biotechnology industry due to its economic advantages. For adoption in commercial manufacturing, also models for virus clearance studies must be available. It is demonstrated how for a virus clearance study for a multispecific antibody, the continuous protein A capture chromatography process, being run on multiple interconnected columns, can be mimicked with only a single column. With this mimicking small‐scale model, resources and complexity can be minimized, when conducting virus clearance studies at a contract research organization (CRO) lab. Obtained log reduction values (LRV) for murine leukemia virus (xMuLV) and minute virus of mice (MVM) virus, used as model viruses, are comparable to batch protein A chromatography and results described by other groups. The feasibility of this mimicking small‐scale model helps to further reduce barriers to adoption when implementing continuous chromatography.
High production of jasmonic acid by Lasiodiplodia iranensis using solid‐state fermentation: Optimization and understanding
Authors: Shen Ziqiang , Zheng Pu , Li Ruiying , Sun Xingyun , Chen Pengcheng , Wu Dan
Published: January 2022

Background

Jasmonic acid (JA) is a plant hormone involved in regulating developmental and growth controls as well as photosynthesis. In addition, this hormone protects the plant against insects and has good applications in agriculture, the flavored industry and other fields. Filamentous fungus generally produces JA using liquid static culture. In the present study, a solid‐state fermentation (SSF) method is developed for high production of JA using Lasiodiplodia iranensis.

Main methods and major results

By selecting the solid substrate and optimizing the initial water content, inoculum volume, loading volume and other culture conditions, the maximum JA yield reached 5306.38 mg kg–1 when fermented for 12 days in a petri dish containing a medium with crushed wheat as the solid substrate and 75% initial water content. The logistic and Luedeking–Piret models were used to characterize the relationship between microbial growth and product synthesis in the SSF process, and the maximum JA production is predicted to be 5263.23 mg kg–1, which is close to the experimental value. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) is used to examine the metabolic changes that develop during fermentation. The results indicate that JA biosynthesis occurs in the α‐linolenic acid metabolic pathway, of which 13(S)‐HpOTrE is a key intermediate metabolite and both 13(S)‐HOTrE and traumatic acid are byproducts of the branches of its synthesis.

Conclusions and implications

The results of this study provide a method for obtaining high JA yields by SSF, and offer new insights for understanding the production of JA by fungal fermentation.
Sustainable management of electronic waste: Empirical evidences from a stakeholders' perspective
Authors: Alblooshi Badreya Gharib Khamis Mohammed , Ahmad Syed Zamberi , Hussain Matloub , Singh Sanjay Kumar
Published: January 2022

With rapid advancements in technology, the evolution and demand for electronic/electric devices have drastically increased. The exponential increase in the use of technology to fulfill the needs of the fast‐paced information era has led to electronic and electrical devices being discarded or disposed of at a faster rate than in the past. This phenomenon has resulted in e‐waste becoming the fastest‐growing form of solid waste. E‐waste is classified as hazardous waste and can be harmful to the environment and health if not disposed of responsibly. Therefore, alternatives, such as exporting, landfilling, and recycling (from different economic, social, technical, and environmental criteria), are of interest to minimize the disposal of this toxic waste form into landfill sites. The analytic hierarchy process approach was deployed to evaluate and prioritize alternatives for e‐waste processing systems in the United Arab Emirates context. The obtained results indicate that recycling has the highest priority among the studied alternatives in the e‐waste processing system. The low economic and environmental awareness of stakeholders with regard to e‐waste shows that e‐waste management system initiatives must be expedited to adhere to e‐waste best practices implemented nationally and internationally.
Structure‐Activity Relationships in Highly Active Platinum‐Tin MFI‐type Zeolite Catalysts for Propane Dehydrogenation
Authors: Lezcano‐González Inés , Cong Peixi , Campbell Emma , Panchal Monik , Agote‐Arán Miren , Celorrio Verónica , He Qian , Oord Ramon , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Beale Andrew M.
Published: January 2022

Pt/Sn‐containing MFI zeolites prepared by one‐pot hydrothermal methods are highly active and selective catalysts for propane dehydrogenation. An alternative preparation method is reported alongside an in‐depth characterization of Pt and Sn before and after reaction. Pt species dispersed on highly‐defective Silicalite‐1 show a significantly long catalytic lifetime with an improved coke resistance, but increased Pt−Sn alloying and the (eventual) build‐up of carbon leads to deactivation.
Isolation and Stabilization of the Metastable Form‐II Polymorph of Vanillin
Authors: Sundareswaran Supriya , Karuppannan Srinivasan
Published: January 2022

Isolation and stabilization of the rare metastable polymorphic form‐II of vanillin was achieved by employing the template‐enhanced crystallization method through heterogeneous nucleation induced with Cu wire as the template surface. Irrespective of supersaturation, the solution induces the nucleation of the fine needle‐like form‐II polymorph on the surfaces of the Cu wire within a shorter induction period. This method has two main advantages: (i) It induces the nucleation of only the metastable form‐II polymorph of vanillin and (ii) stabilizes its steady growth without showing any solution‐mediated polymorphic phase transformation throughout. Thus, the harvested form‐II crystals stay for longer periods without showing any phase transformation at ambient conditions, with maximum stability.
Side N2O Pathways in a Denitrification‐Nitrification Biofilm That Receives a Low COD/N Ratio
Authors: González-Barceló Oscar , Calva-Olvera Juan Antonio
Published: January 2022

Biological nitrogen removal (BNR) as dinitrogen (N2) by simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SNdN) could be accompanied by side pathways that emit N2O. A biofilm was developed that could be used for BNR in a stream with a high ammonium content, e.g., the liquid fraction from digestate. The BNR reactions through the depth of the biofilm were integrated into a scheme. The objective was to achieve the oxygen‐limited autotrophic nitrification‐denitrification process in a biofilm with minimum emissions of N2O with respect to those of N2 by SNdN. This was shown in a laboratory rotating biological contactor, in which ca. 53 % of the influent ammonium ions was removed by anaerobic ammonium oxidation. Furthermore, less than 3 % ammonia loss was attributed to side autotrophic denitrification as N2O.
Metal Complexes of Singly, Doubly and Triply Linked Porphyrins and Corroles: An Insight into the Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Hazari Arijit Singha , Chandra Shubhadeep , Kar Sanjib , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: January 2022

Metal complexes of multi‐porphyrins and multi‐corroles are unique systems that display a host of extremely interesting properties. Availability of free meso and β positions allow formation of different types of directly linked bis‐porphyrins giving rise to intriguing optical and electronic properties. While the fields of metalloporphyrin and corroles monomer have seen exponential growth in the last decades, the chemistry of metal complexes of bis‐porphyrins and bis‐corroles remain rather underexplored. Therefore, the impact of covalent linkages on the optical, electronic, (spectro)electrochemical, magnetic and electrocatalytic activities of metal complexes of bis‐porphyrins and ‐corroles has been summarized in this review article. This article shows that despite the (still) somewhat difficult synthetic access to these molecules, their extremely exciting properties do make a strong case for pursuing research on these classes of compounds.
Tuning the Photoluminescence Properties of β‐NaYF4:Yb,Er by Bi3+ Doping Strategy
Authors: Ding Yanli , Li Zhaohan
Published: January 2022

The low luminous efficiency of upconversion materials limits their practical applications in various fields. The present study focuses on the efficient upconversion enhancement of β‐NaYF4:Yb,Er induced by Bi3+ doping. The XRD and SEM results show that introducing Bi3+ into the matrix lattice changes the microstructure and particle size of the crystal. The photoluminescence spectra show that at 6% Bi3+ doping, the red and green emission intensities are enhanced by 12 and 8 times, respectively. The reason could be the lattice distortion caused by Bi3+ doping, breaking the partial forbidden transition of rare‐earth ions. The fluorescence lifetime measurement reveals that the Bi3+ doping changes the environment around erbium ions, affecting the energy level lifetime of erbium ions, explaining the luminescence dynamics law. The present study provides a facile route to achieve nano/microstructures with intense upconversion luminescence with potential applications in optoelectronic devices.
Lifestyle modifications and complementary treatments for hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: De Devea R. , Rick Jonathan W. , Shih Terri , Alavi Afsaneh , Hsiao Jennifer L. , Shi Vivian Y.
Published: January 2022

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis with recurrent painful nodules and abscesses affecting the intertriginous areas. Patients often experience a significant negative impact on quality of life from associated pain, discharge, odor, scarring, and social stigma. Even with complex medical regimens, patients may report inadequate disease control. Lifestyle changes and complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are used by a majority of HS patients. Conventional medicines and lifestyle and CAM modalities strategically incorporated together can increase treatment satisfaction and success.

Objective

We aim to highlight lifestyle and CAM treatment modalities to use alongside conventional treatment plans for HS patients.

Findings

Lifestyle modifications for HS patients include weight loss, reducing skin friction, smoking cessation, and stress reduction. Dietary modifications for HS patients include limiting foods containing dairy, Brewer's yeast, and simple carbohydrates, appropriate caloric reduction, and consuming foods in the Mediterranean diet. The CAM modalities studied in HS are vitamin D, niacinamide, vitamin B12, zinc, and magnesium. Potential CAM modalities for HS include probiotics, cannabinoids, turmeric, bathing regimens, and acupuncture.

Conclusion

This review is a guide for clinicians to provide evidence‐based care for HS patients seeking non‐pharmacologic treatment modalities such as weight loss, clothing choices, dietary changes, and use of supplements and complementary medicine. Lifestyle and CAM modalities may be used in parallel with conventional medicines to synergistically improve patient disease outcomes.
Momentary associations between fear of weight gain and dietary restriction among individuals with binge‐spectrum eating disorders
Authors: Manasse Stephanie M. , Lampe Elizabeth W. , Srivastava Paakhi , Payne‐Reichert Adam , Mason Tyler B. , Juarascio Adrienne S.
Published: January 2022

Objective

Fear of weight gain (FOWG) is increasingly implicated in the maintenance of binge‐spectrum eating disorders (EDs; e.g., bulimia nervosa [BN], binge‐eating disorder [BED]) through the pathway of increased dietary restriction. However, particularly in binge‐spectrum EDs, research is nascent and based on retrospective self‐report. To improve treatment outcomes, it is critical to better understand the momentary relations between FOWG and dietary restriction.

Method

Sixty‐seven adults with binge spectrum EDs completed a 7‐14‐day ecological momentary assessment protocol that included items regarding FOWG, ED behaviors, and types of dietary restriction (e.g., attempted restraint vs. actual restriction) several times per day. Multilevel models were used to evaluate reciprocal associations between FOWG and dietary restriction, and to evaluate the indirect of effects of dietary restriction on the relation between FOWG and binge eating.

Results

While main effects were not statistically significant, ED presentation significantly moderated the association between increases in FOWG at time1 and both attempted and actual avoidance of enjoyable foods at time2 such that those with BN‐spectrum EDs were more likely to avoid enjoyable foods following increased FOWG compared to those with BED‐spectrum EDs. Engagement in restriction at time1 was not associated with decreased FOWG at time2.

Discussion

Prospective associations between FOWG and restriction suggest that individuals with BN may be more likely to restrict their eating following increased FOWG. These findings suggest FOWG may be an important target for future treatments.
Pincer‐Type Mesoionic Carbene Nickel(II) Complexes: Synthesis, Properties, Reactions, and Catalytic Application to the Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling Reaction of Aryl Bromides
Authors: Matsubara Kouki , Tomomatsu Kanta , Tajiri Ayame , Watanabe Arisa , Koga Yuji , Ishikawa Ryuta , Yamada Yuji
Published: January 2022

Tridentate pincer‐type triazolylidene nickel(II) complexes have been prepared and characterized. Despite increasing interest in the new series of mesoionic carbene (MIC) ligands in the field of homogeneous catalysis, pincer‐type MIC metal complexes have rarely been used as catalysts, and there are few studies on MIC nickel complexes. Herein, MIC nickel(II) halide complexes were synthesized from their silver analogues and fully characterized. An anion exchange reaction with silver tetrafluoroborate in acetonitrile gave a dicationic acetonitrile complex in good yield. A comparison of the structures and frontier orbitals between the MIC‐ and NHC‐nickel(II) chloride complexes has revealed that these complexes are comparable in nature. However, their use in the Suzuki–Miyaura (SM) cross‐coupling reaction of aryl bromides with phenylboronic acid requires different conditions to provide sufficient results.
Silkworm Cocoon Layer with Gradient Structure as Separator for Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Guo Xuesong , Li Jiayi , Xing Jianxin , Zhang Kai , Zhou Yige , Pan Chen , Wei Zhenzhen , Zhao Yan
Published: January 2022

Structural design of separator is becoming a strategy as attractive as material innovation for improving lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) performance. Silkworm cocoon displays a very unique multilayer gradient structure in the thickness direction, but how the gradient structure in every single layer affects its separator properties is still unknown. Herein, the cocoon is initially peeled into various layers, and the differences in the composition, porosity, and packing density of each layer confirm the multilayer gradient structure of the cocoon. The thermal, puncture, wetting, and electrochemical properties of every layer are then investigated, and the relationship between structure and property is further analyzed. The performance is greatly dependent on the number of peeled layers and the layer position in the cocoon. Particularly, the puncture strength of the layered cocoon is better than the polyolefin separator and increases from the inner to the outer layer, while the wettability decreases. Moreover, the electrochemical performance of the cocoon layer is better than the unlayered cocoon with larger capacity retention. Therefore, it is hoped that such a study on the gradient structure and property of cocoon layers could provide inspiration for the separator design research focusing on the high safety and high performance for LIBs development.
Analysis of nationwide hemophilia care: A cohort study using two Japanese healthcare claims databases
Authors: Kinai Ei , Ono Midori , Oh Akinori , Ota Mihoko , Myaguchi Yasuo , Ueda Hitoshi
Published: January 2022

Background and aims

In many developed countries, hemophilia care is provided by specialized centers which can offer standardized high‐quality care for patients and collect data for patient registries. However, in countries with less centralized provision of hemophilia care, registry data lacks accuracy and medical care is inconsistent among providers. Claims databases can be an alternative for obtaining nationwide data on hemophilia care, and we applied this approach to evaluate inequalities in hemophilia care in Japan.

Methods

Medical records of hemophilia A patients were collected by a combination of ICD‐10 code (D66) and prescribed coagulation factors from two major Japanese claims databases (JMDC and Medical Data Vision [MDV]). Patient records with an anti‐inhibitor coagulant complex were excluded.

Based on the annual number of hemophilia A patients, medical facilities were categorized into specialized facilities (SP, ≥5 patients) and nonspecialized facilities (N‐SP, <5 patients). Patient age, comorbidities, diagnostic testing, prescribed drugs and their dosages were compared between facility types.

Results

The JMDC and MDV databases included 274 and 1266 hemophilia A patients, respectively. In the MDV database, SP facilities prescribed extended half‐life factor VIII (FVIII) products for more patients (31.8% vs 24.3%) than N‐SP. The mean annual FVIII consumption per patient was higher in SP facilities (240 333 IU [international units] vs 210 334 IU), and the mean FVIII dosage was higher in SP facilities for all types of FVIII products. The proportion of patients who received diagnostic blood tests was higher in SP (75.7% vs 56.2%).

Conclusion

The MDV database revealed disparities in hemophilia A care between SP and N‐SP facilities in types of FVIII products prescribed, FVIII consumption, and frequency of the relevant management such as blood tests. Claims databases can be an alternative for the assessment of nationwide hemophilia care patterns in countries without a well‐established registry.
Impacts of a mature forestry plantation on blanket peatland runoff regime and water quality
Authors: Flynn Raymond , Mackin Francis , McVeigh Claire , Renou‐Wilson Florence
Published: January 2022

A lack of information concerning the hydrology and hydrogeology of intact blanket bogs limits current understanding of how their alteration to mature forestry plantations impacts stream flow and associated water quality. An integrated hydrological/hydrogeological monitoring programme compared processes operating in a relatively intact blanket peat‐covered catchment with conditions encountered in an adjacent area under closed canopy plantation forestry. Groundwater monitoring revealed contrasting water level regimes and deeper summer water tables in the afforested area, with forest groundwater also having more elevated specific electrical conductance (SEC) and containing higher concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Near‐simultaneous pairwise runoff sampling at the relatively intact catchment and afforested catchment outlets demonstrated no significant difference in DOC concentration. Conversely, water samples from the afforested catchment outlet displayed significantly greater SEC; this arose in part because of higher concentrations of dissolved calcium and magnesium, discharging via artificial drainage. Comparison of base flow runoff SEC with peat groundwater samples reflected in significant contrasts in ionic signature and greater levels of mineralisation in surface water, pointing to contributions of deeper water, derived from inorganic substrate materials. Study findings indicate that disturbance to the ground in that part of the catchment under plantation forestry has led to greater variations in stream flow and water quality for aquatic ecosystems. Comparable conditions have been observed instreams flowing through plantation forestry in similar physical settings elsewhere. Study findings suggest that plantations on deep peat can adversely affect stream ecosystems and this may impact on a water body's legal status.
Local climate impacts from ongoing restoration of a peatland
Authors: Worrall Fred , Howden Nicholas J. K. , Burt Tim P. , Rico‐Ramirez Miguel A. , Kohler Tim
Published: January 2022

We hypothesize that peatlands represent a cool humid island in their landscape context and that this cool humid island effect could be brought about by successful peatland restoration. This study used 20 years of Earth observation data for land surface temperature (day‐ and night‐ time LST), albedo (near infra‐red white sky albedo) and vegetation indices measured for 42 one km2 grid squares across two peatlands and their surrounding arable fields. The peatlands have undergone restoration (re‐vegetation and raising of water tables) since 2004. The results show that over the restored peatlands:

Day time temperatures over the peatlands cooled relative to the surrounding arable‐land by up to 1.1 K (°C), but there was no significant change in night time temperatures.

Over the peatlands the average amplitude of the diurnal temperature cycle decreased by up to 2.4 K (°C) over the period of the restoration.

Comparison to vegetation indices and albedo shows the cooling effect of increasing albedo was smaller than warming effect of changes aerodynamic resistance brought about by development of shrubby vegetation.

The presence of an overall cooling effect, despite a warming effect due to vegetation development, means that a rising water table led to a lowering of the Bowen ratio. Peatlands revegetated to, or dominated by, moss carpets rather than shrubby vegetation will maximise the potential cooling effect, whereas shrub development across peatlands without a rise in water table would lead to warming.
Integrating microirrigation with rainwater harvesting to improve yield, water productivity and profit in a citrus orchard*
Authors: Panigrahi Pravukalyan , Srivastava Anoop K. , Huchche Ambadas D.
Published: January 2022

Integrated water resource management is key to sustainable citriculture. Keeping this in mind, a study was conducted to evaluate the techno‐economic feasibility of rainwater harvesting and use of harvested water by microirrigation in a citrus orchard. The prediction of runoff from rainfall data which may help in the planning and design of water conservation measures in citrus orchards has also been explored in the study. Three water conservation treatments, viz. continuous trench (CT), CT + rainwater harvesting tank (RWHT) + basin irrigation (BI) and CT + RWHT + drip irrigation (DRI) with rainfed treatment (RT), were compared in relation to productivity, water productivity and profit in a citrus orchard. The CT + RWHT + DRI produced 219% higher fruit yield with 298% higher net income (NI) and 130% higher net economic water productivity (NEWP) compared with RT (yield, 7.14 t ha−1; NI, 59 704 INR ha−1; NEWP, 15.75 INR m−3). The sustainable yield index (SYI) and energy use efficiency (EUE) were 49 and 87% higher, respectively, in CT + RWHT +DRI than RT. The regression model developed reasonably predicted (R2 = 0.84–0.94) the runoff from rainfall in a citrus orchard.
Three‐dimensional spheroid cell culture of human MSC‐derived neuron‐like cells: New in vitro model to assess magnetite nanoparticle‐induced neurotoxicity effects
Authors: De Simone Uliana , Croce Anna Cleta , Pignatti Patrizia , Buscaglia Eleonora , Caloni Francesca , Coccini Teresa
Published: January 2022

As nanoparticles (NPs) can access the brain and impact on CNS function, novel in vitro models for the evaluation of NPs‐induced neurotoxicity are advocated. Three‐dimensional spheroids of primary neuron‐like cells (hNLCs) of human origin have been generated, from differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The study evaluated Fe3O4NP impact on the differentiation process by applying the challenge at complete 3D hNLC spheroid formation (after 4 days, T4) or at beginning of neurogenic induction/simultaneously 3D forming (T0). Different endpoints were monitored over time (up to 10 days): spheroid growth, size, morphology, ATP, cell death, neuronal markers (β‐Tub III, MAP‐2, and NSE), NP uptake. At T0 application, a marked concentration‐ and time‐dependent cell mortality occurred: effect started early (day 2) and low concentration (1 μg/ml) and exacerbated (80% mortality) after prolonged time (day 6) and increased concentrations (50 μg/ml). ATP was strikingly affected. All neuronal markers were downregulated, and spheroid morphology altered in a concentration‐dependent manner (from ≥5 μg/ml) after day 2. Fe3O4NPs applied at complete 3D formation (T4) still induced adverse effects although less severe: cell mortality (20–60%) and ATP content decrease (10–40%) were observed in a concentration‐dependent manner (from ≥ 5 μg/ml). A neuronal‐specific marker effect and spheroid size reduction from 25 μg/ml without morphology alteration were evidenced. This finding provides additional information on neurotoxic effects of Fe3O4NPs in a new 3D hNLC spheroid model derived from MSCs that could find a consistent application as in a testing strategy serving in first step hazard identification for correct risk assessment.
Evaluation of novel biomaterials for cartilage regeneration based on gelatin methacryloyl interpenetrated with extractive chondroitin sulfate or unsulfated biotechnological chondroitin
Authors: Vassallo Valentina , Tsianaka Anastasia , Alessio Nicola , Grübel Jana , Cammarota Marcella , Tovar Günter E. M. , Southan Alexander , Schiraldi Chiara
Published: January 2022

Gelatin is widely proposed as scaffold for cartilage tissue regeneration due to its high similarities to the extracellular matrix. However, poor mechanical properties and high sensitivity to enzymatic degradation encouraged the scientific community to develop strategies to obtain better performing hydrogels. Gelatin networks, specifically gelatin‐methacryloyl (GM), have been coupled to hyaluronan or chondroitin sulfate (CS). In this study, we evaluated the biophysical properties of an innovative photocross‐linked hydrogel based on GM with the addition of CS or a new unsulfated biotechnological chondroitin (BC). Biophysical, mechanical, and biochemical characterization have been assessed to compare GM hydrogels to the chondroitin containing networks. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were seeded on these biomaterials in order to evaluate the differentiation toward the chondrocyte phenotype in 21 days. Rheological characterization showed that both CS and BC increased the stiffness (G' was about 2‐fold), providing a stronger rigid matrix, with respect to GM alone. The biological tests confirmed the onset of MSCs differentiation process starting from 14 days of in vitro culture. In particular, the combination GM + BC resulted to be more effective than GM + CS in the up‐regulation of key genes such as collagen type 2A1 (COLII), SOX‐9, and aggrecan). In addition, the scanning microscope analyses revealed the cellular adhesion on materials and production of extracellular vesicles. Immunofluorescence staining confirmed an increase of COLII in presence of both chondroitins. Finally, the outcomes suggest that BC entangled within cross‐linked GM matrix may represent a promising new biomaterial with potential applications in cartilage regeneration.
Optimization and design for the curing process of solid azide propellant: Influence of typical components on the curing reactions of PBT binders with TDI
Authors: Zhao Xiao , Zhu Weihua
Published: January 2022

The effects of several typical ingredients on the thermal curing reactions of poly (3,3′‐bis‐azidomethyl oxetane)‐tetrahydrofuran (PBT) adhesive with curing agent toluene diisocyanate (TDI) were carried out using density functional theory. The results show that the most energetic favorable curing route is the reaction with the cured product with two urethane segments and its rate‐determining step is the nucleophilic addition reaction of TDI with triethanolamine (TEA). Compared to the reaction of TDI with PBT, the reaction with trimethylolpropane (TMP) shows relatively lower activation free energy mainly due to the weakening of N‐H bond in corresponding TS structures. After the pre‐modification of TDI by diethylene glycol (DEG), the reactivity of the remaining isocyanate group is significantly decreased, which is supported by the smallest absolute value of torsion angle when the electron density in NH and CO bond areas maintains locally concentrated. In contrast, the final curing reactions with PBT are remarkably facilitated as the participation of the intermediate structures formed through TEA. The stronger hindrance to the last step curing reaction of biuret molecule obtained through the continuous reaction stemming from H2O basically attributes to the reduction in the electrophilicity of relevant ‐NCO groups.
Pulmonary embolism following the third thoracic tuberculosis surgery: A case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Liyi , Liu Chong , Liang Tuo , Ye Zhen , Huang Shengsheng , Sun Xuhua , Yi Ming , Chen Tianyou , Li Hao , Chen Wuhua , Jiang Jie , Chen Jiarui , Guo Hao , Yao Yuanlin , Liao Shian , Yu Chaojie , Fan Binguang , Wu Shaofeng , Zhan Xinli
Published: January 2022

Background

The study aimed to analyze the clinical effects of pulmonary embolism succeeding a third surgery conducted for multiple recurrences in thoracic tuberculosis (TB).

Case report

A 74‐year‐old female patient developed thoracic tuberculosis and was subsequently treated in our hospital in March 2019, October 2020, and February 2021. The third surgical intervention included anterolateral thoracic lesion resection, internal fixation, posterior spinal tuberculous sinus resection, and debridement with suture. The operative time was 172 min resulting in a substantial intraoperative blood loss (2321 ml). Postoperative re‐examination of chest CTPA indicated a strip filling defect and pulmonary embolism in the external branch of the right middle lobe of the lung. After completing the active treatment, the D‐dimer quantification, WBC, CRP, and ESR values were 1261 ng/ml, 7.71 × 109/L, 74.66 mg/L, and 63 mm, respectively. Chest CTPA re‐examination after the treatment showed no signs of pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion

Patients with a long‐term history of multiple operations, high BMI, cerebral infarction, diabetes, and older age group were more likely to develop pulmonary embolism after spinal tuberculosis surgery. Thus, the possibility of postoperative pulmonary embolism should be thoroughly analyzed before any subsequent surgical treatment in patients with recurrent spinal tuberculosis.
Whole‐body and adipose tissue metabolic phenotype in cancer patients
Authors: Anderson Lindsey J. , Lee Jonathan , Anderson Barbara , Lee Benjamin , Migula Dorota , Sauer Adam , Chong Nicole , Liu Haiming , Wu Peter C. , Dash Atreya , Li Yi‐Ping , Garcia Jose M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Altered adipose tissue (AT) metabolism in cancer‐associated weight loss via inflammation, lipolysis, and white adipose tissue (WAT) browning is primarily implicated from rodent models; their contribution to AT wasting in cancer patients is unclear.

Methods

Energy expenditure (EE), plasma, and abdominal subcutaneous WAT were obtained from men (aged 65 ± 8 years) with cancer, with (CWL, n = 27) or without (CWS, n = 47) weight loss, and weight‐stable non‐cancer patients (CON, n = 26). Clinical images were assessed for adipose and muscle area while plasma and WAT were assessed for inflammatory, lipolytic, and browning markers.

Results

CWL displayed smaller subcutaneous AT (SAT; P = 0.05) and visceral AT (VAT; P = 0.034) than CWS, and displayed higher circulating interleukin (IL)‐6 (P = 0.01) and WAT transcript levels of IL‐6 (P = 0.029), IL‐1β (P = 0.042), adipose triglyceride lipase (P = 0.026), and browning markers (Dio2, P = 0.03; PGC‐1a, P = 0.016) than CWS and CON. There was no difference across groups in absolute REE (P = 0.061), %predicted REE (P = 0.18), circulating free fatty acids (FFA, P = 0.13) or parathyroid hormone‐related peptide (PTHrP; P = 0.88), or WAT protein expression of inflammation (IL‐6, P = 0.51; IL‐1β, P = 0.29; monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, P = 0.23) or WAT protein or gene expression of browning (uncoupling protein‐1, UCP‐1; P = 0.13, UCP‐1, P = 0.14). In patients with cancer, FFA was moderately correlated with WAT hormone‐sensitive lipase transcript (r = 0.38, P = 0.018, n = 39); circulating cytokines were not correlated with expression of WAT inflammatory markers and circulating PTHrP was not correlated with expression of WAT browning markers. In multivariate regression using cancer patients only, body mass index (BMI) directly predicted SAT (N = 25, R2 = 0.72, P < 0.001), VAT (N = 28, R2 = 0.64, P < 0.001), and absolute REE (N = 22, R2 = 0.43, P = 0.001), while BMI and WAT UCP‐1 protein were indirectly associated with %predicted REE (N = 22, R2 = 0.45, P = 0.02), and FFA was indirectly associated with RQ (N = 22, R2 = 0.52, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cancer‐related weight loss was associated with elevated circulating IL‐6 and elevations in some WAT inflammatory, lipolytic and browning marker transcripts. BMI, not weight loss, was associated with increased energy expenditure. The contribution of inflammation and lipolysis, and lack thereof for WAT browning, will need to be clarified in other tumour types to increase generalizability. Future studies should consider variability in fat mass when exploring the relationship between cancer and adipose metabolism and should observe the trajectory of lipolysis and energy expenditure over time to establish the clinical significance of these associations and to inform more mechanistic interpretation of causation.
Patients with liver cirrhosis due to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis have lesser chances for liver transplantation
Authors: Hasegawa Yasushi , Obara Hideaki , Chu Po‐Sung , Shinoda Masahiro , Kitago Minoru , Abe Yuta , Yagi Hiroshi , Matsubara Kentaro , Nakamoto Nobuhiro , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: January 2022

Background

The main causes of liver cirrhosis have changed over the past decade. In Japan, the number of deceased donors is increasing but is still insufficient relative to the number of patients awaiting a liver transplant. In the present study we aimed to assess the outcomes of candidates for liver transplantation.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of adult patients who visited our department for consultation regarding liver transplantation from January 2009 to December 2020. Of a total of 601 patients, 336 were followed‐up. The following data were collected and analyzed: patient's characteristics, liver etiology, Child‐Pugh and MELD scores, and the eventual outcome, that is, whether liver transplantation was performed.

Results

Only 153 of 336 (45.5%) patients underwent liver transplantation, of which 42 (27.5%) received deceased donor liver transplantation, and 129 (38.4%) died without transplantation. The proportion of patients who underwent liver transplantation was low among patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (10.7%) (P < .001). The rate of qualified living donors was the lowest for patients with NASH (28.6%) and that for the other etiologies ranged from 55.6% to 67.4% (P = .050).

Conclusion

Patients with liver cirrhosis due to NASH may have a lesser chance of undergoing liver transplantation from both living and deceased donors.
Optogenetic stimulation of ventral tegmental area dopaminergic neurons in a female rodent model of depression: The effect of different stimulation patterns
Authors: Tong Yixin , Pfeiffer Lisa , Serchov Tsvetan , Coenen Volker A. , Döbrössy Máté D.
Published: January 2022

Major depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders, and more than 300 million of people suffer from depression worldwide. Recent clinical trials indicate that deep brain stimulation of the superolateral medial forebrain bundle (mfb) can have rapid and long‐term antidepressant effects in patients with treatment‐resistant depression. However, the mechanisms of action are elusive. In this study, using female rats, we demonstrate the antidepressant effects of selective optogenetic stimulation of the ventral tegmental area's dopaminergic (DA) neurons passing through the mfb and compare different stimulation patterns. Chronic mild unpredictable stress (CMUS) induced depressive‐like, but not anxiety‐like phenotype. Short‐term and long‐term stimulation demonstrated antidepressant effect (OSST) and improved anxiolytic effect (EPM), while long‐term stimulation during CMUS induction prevented depressive‐like behavior (OSST and USV) and improved anxiolytic effect (EPM). The results highlight that long‐term accumulative stimulation on DA pathways is required for antidepressant and anxiolytic effect.
Recent Advances in Bioinspired Hydrogels with Environment‐Responsive Characteristics for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ran Chao , Wang Jiacheng , He Yonggang , Ren Qian , Hu Hao , Zhu Jiangqin , Gu Xunxin , Li Meng , Zheng Lu , Li Jing
Published: January 2022

The development of hydrogel‐integrated soft materials via the incorporation of therapeutic medicines into biocompatible hydrogels, serving as host, will significantly contribute to advances in medical diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, intelligent hydrogels having the ability to respond to local environmental conditions offer a promising approach for the development of novel solutions in the biomedical field. Bioinspired intelligent hydrogels are now becoming a potentially powerful biomaterial class for tissue engineering, drug delivery, and medical device. Recent advances include bioinspired intelligent hydrogels that possess unique mechanical and optical properties as a result of their nature‐inspired complex‐structured design. This review highlights the latest advances in intelligent bionic hydrogels, as well as strategies targeting smart response of their characteristics across multiple dimensions (such as temperature, light, pH, among others). Finally, the potential development and prospective application of mimicking the natural intelligence of multifunctional medical hydrogels are also discussed.
GAO points to populations at high risk of BH effects of COVID
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2022

Americans have reported feeling more isolated and stressed, and many have experienced economic hardship as a result of COVID‐19, causing an increase in demand for behavioral health services, including those from mental health and substance use, according to a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) report. People most at risk of the effects of the pandemic include health care workers, children and adolescents, and people with preexisting behavioral health conditions, the GAO report stated.