bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aggregation‐Induced Stimulated Emission of 100% Dye Microspheres
Authors: Kim Kwon‐Hyeon , Yan Hao , Yun Seok‐Hyun
Published: April 2023

Dyes with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) properties have gained interest due to their bright luminescence in solid‐state aggregates. While fluorescence from AIE dyes is widely exploited, relatively little is known about aggregation‐induced stimulated emission. Here, stimulated emission of tetraphenylethene (TPE)‐based organoboron AIE dyes, TPEQBN, in thin films and in microcavity lasers is investigated. Using femtosecond pump–probe spectroscopy, gain coefficients up to 230 cm−1 at 500 nm are measured. Using rate equations, concentration‐ and pump‐dependent gain dynamics as well as laser build‐up dynamics are analyzed. During laser oscillation, radiative stimulated emission allows high instantaneous quantum yield greater than 90% to be achieved. Solid‐state microspheres made of 100% AIE dyes are fabricated via microfluidic emulsion and solvent evaporation method. Coupled with high gain and high refractive index of 1.76, microspheres as small as 2 µm in diameter show lasing by nanosecond pumping with a threshold of ≈10 pJ µm–2. Polymer coated, but not bare, microspheres are internalized by live cells and generate narrowband cavity‐mode emission from within the cytoplasm. This work shows the potential of AIE dyes as laser materials.
DEX‐Induced SREBF1 Promotes BMSCs Differentiation into Adipocytes to Attract and Protect Residual T‐Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells After Chemotherapy
Authors: Jia Ruinan , Sun Tao , Zhao Xin , Li Guosheng , Xia Yuan , Zhou Ying , Li Wěi , Li Wei , Ma Daoxin , Ye Jingjing , Ji Min , Ji Chunyan
Published: April 2023

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) is an aggressive malignant blood disorder with a high rate of relapse. Patients relapse as a result of minimal residual disease (MRD), which originates from residual T‐ALL cells in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMM). In the present study, it is observed that adipocytes increase dramatically in the BMM of T‐ALL patients after exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs. Then, it is proved that adipocytes attract T‐ALL cells by releasing CXCL13 and support leukemia cell survival by activating the Notch1 signaling pathway via DLL1 and Notch1 binding. Furthermore, it is verified that dexamethasone (DEX) induces adipogenic differentiation by enhancing the expression of SREBF1 in bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs), and an SREBF1 inhibitor significantly decreases the adipogenic potential of BMSCs and the subsequent ability of adipocytes to support T‐ALL cells in vitro and in vivo. These findings confirm that the differentiation of BMSCs to adipocytes induced by DEX contributes to MRD in T‐ALL and provides an auxiliary clinical treatment to reduce the recurrence rate.
Wnt3a‐Loaded Extracellular Vesicles Promote Alveolar Epithelial Regeneration after Lung Injury
Authors: Gao Lei , Sun Yongping , Zhang Xinye , Ma Ding , Xie An , Wang Enyu , Cheng Linzhao , Liu Senquan
Published: April 2023

Compromised regeneration resulting from the deactivation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling contributes to the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with limited therapeutic options. Extracellular cytokine‐induced Wnt‐based signaling provides an alternative option for COPD treatment. However, the hydrophobic nature of Wnt proteins limits their purification and use. This study devises a strategy to deliver the membrane‐bound wingless‐type MMTV integration site family, member 3A (Wnt3a) over a long distance by anchoring it to the surface of extracellular vesicles (EVs). The newly engineered Wnt3aWG EVs are generated by co‐expressing Wnt3a with two genes encoding the membrane protein, WLS, and an engineered glypican, GPC6ΔGPI‐C1C2. The bioactivity of Wnt3aWG EVs is validated using a TOPFlash assay and a mesoderm differentiation model of human pluripotent stem cells. Wnt3aWG EVs activate Wnt signaling and promote cell growth following human alveolar epithelial cell injury. In an elastase‐induced emphysema model, impaired pulmonary function and enlarged airspace are greatly restored by the intravenous delivery of Wnt3aWG EVs. Single‐cell RNA sequencing–based analyses further highlight that Wnt3aWG EV‐activated regenerative programs are responsible for its beneficial effects. These findings suggest that EV‐based Wnt3a delivery represents a novel therapeutic strategy for lung repair and regeneration after injury.
A Chest‐Conformable, Wireless Electro‐Mechanical E‐Tattoo for Measuring Multiple Cardiac Time Intervals
Authors: Bhattacharya Sarnab , Nikbakht Mohammad , Alden Alec , Tan Philip , Wang Jieting , Alhalimi Taha A. , Kim Sangjun , Wang Pulin , Tanaka Hirofumi , Tandon Animesh , Coyle Edward F. , Inan Omer T. , Lu Nanshu
Published: April 2023

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. Noninvasive, accurate, and continuous cardiovascular monitoring can enable the preemptive detection of heart diseases and timely intervention to prevent serious cardiac complications. However, unobtrusive, ambulatory, and comprehensive cardiac monitoring is still a challenge as conventional electronics are rigid, heavy, or consume too much power for long‐term measurement. This work presents a thin (200 µm), stretchable (20%), lightweight (2.5 g), wireless, and low‐power (<3 mW) cardiac monitoring device that conforms to the human chest like a temporary tattoo sticker, correspondingly known as an e‐tattoo. This chest e‐tattoo features dual‐mode electro‐mechanical sensing—bio‐electric cardiac signals via electrocardiography and mechanical cardiac rhythm via seismocardiography. A unique peripheral synchronization strategy between the two sensors enables the measurement of systolic time intervals like the pre‐ejection period and the left ventricular ejection time with high accuracy (error = −0.44 ± 8.74 ms) while consuming very low power. The e‐tattoo is validated against clinically approved gold‐standard instruments on five human subjects. The good wearability and low power consumption of this e‐tattoo permit 24‐h continuous ambulatory monitoring.
Shallow water habitat management influences soil CO2 efflux from agricultural fields in the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB), USA
Authors: Chatterjee Amitava , Taylor Jason , Moore Matt , Locke Martin , Hoeksema Jason
Published: April 2023

Temporary winter flooding is a common practice for enhancing wildlife habitat in the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) and other migratory waterfowl flyways in North America. This practice also facilitates nutrient retention and reuse of rainwater‐ or drainage‐water. This study examines the consequence of five different water management approaches on soil carbon dioxide (CO2) efflux and corn (Zea mays L.) residue decomposition, from October 11, 2021, through January 31, 2022. Management treatments included (i) control (CT) or no flooding; (ii) passive (P) rainfall capture; (iii) fall (F) pumping of leftover irrigation water; (iv) winter (W) flooding with leftover irrigation water; and (v) fall–winter (FW) flooding. The fall–winter flood field (FW) had reduced daily soil CO2 efflux for 4 out of 12 observations and increased soil pH and residue decomposition compared to the control field. The winter flood field (W) had reduced CO2 efflux on December 8 and January 21, and FW had lower efflux on December 8, December 14, December 21, and January 13, than the control field (CT). Soil temperature was positively associated with soil CO2 efflux in all fields except control. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that flood‐timing and ‐duration had strong connections with soil carbon dynamics in LMRB row croplands during fallow periods.
Programmable Shape Morphing Metasponge
Authors: Soto Fernando , Tsui Annie , Surappa Sushruta , Ahmed Rajib , Wang Jie , Kılınç Ufuk , Akin Demir , Demirci Utkan
Published: April 2023

Smart materials respond to environmental signals by changing their microstructure and physical properties. Programming multiple behaviors and functions into a single material could increase its utility and adaptability to ever‐changing environmental conditions. A swellable and stretchable metamaterial hydrogel or “metasponge” engineered to morph into customized sizes and shapes that dynamically tune its physical properties and functions is reported. Multiple case studies that take advantage of the morphing properties of the metasponge, including robotic actuation, light guidance, optical and sonic invisibility (“cloaking”), adaptation of propulsion mode, sampling, and multiple biomedical applications, are illustrated. Developing multifunctional smart materials in which logic is programmed into the materials rather than electronic components could pave a new path to autonomy and dynamic responses in soft robots, sensors, and actuators.
Adaptive Convolutional Neural Networks for Enhanced Memory Retention and Restoration in Optoelectronic Vision Devices
Authors: Aung Thiha , Ahmed Taimur , Mazumder Aishani , Elbourne Aaron , Ranjan Abhishek , Syed Nitu , Daeneke Torben , Nguyen Chung Kim , AI-Hourani Akram , Walia Sumeet
Published: April 2023

Optoelectronic devices based on optically responsive materials have gained significant attention due to their low cross talk and reduced power consumption. These devices rely on light‐induced changes in conductance states, which are used to create synaptic weights for image recognition tasks in neural networks. However, a major drawback of such devices is the rapid decay of conductance states after light stimulus removal, which hinders their long‐term memory and performance without a continuous external stimulus in place. To address this issue, a platform neural network scheme is proposed to counter the natural decay of conductance in optoelectronic devices. The approach restores the memory effect of the devices and significantly enhances their performance by several orders of magnitude without using additional energy‐intensive techniques like training pulses or gate fields. Herein, the model is validated experimentally using optoelectronic devices fabricated with two different materials, BP and doped In2O3, and demonstrates the restoration of memory/image retention ability to any material system being studied for optoelectronic synapses and vision. This approach has important implications for the practical application of neuromorphic visual processing technologies, bringing them closer to real‐world applications.
A Universal Nanogel‐Based Coating Approach for Medical Implant Materials
Authors: Ghosh Devlina , Keskin Damla , Forson Abigail M. , Rosman Colin W. K. , Bron Reinier , Siebenmorgen Clio M. , Zu Guangyue , Lasorsa Alessia , Van Der Wel Patrick C. A , Van Kooten Theo G. , Witjes Max J. H. , Sjollema Jelmer , Van Der Mei Henny C. , Van Rijn Patrick
Published: April 2023

Coatings are essential for biomedical applications antifouling and antimicrobial properties, supporting cell adhesion and tissue integration and particularly interesting in this field are nanogel (nGel)‐based coatings. Since biomaterials differ in physiochemical properties, specific nGel‐coating strategies need to be developed for every distinct material, leading to complex coating strategies. Hence, the solution lies in adopting a universal strategy to apply the same nGel coating with the same function on a wide range of implant surfaces. To this end, a universal nGel‐based coating approach provides the same coating using a single method on implant materials including stiff polymer materials, metals, ceramics, glass, and elastomers. The coating formation is achieved by electrostatic interactions between oxygen plasma–activated surfaces and positively charged nGels using a spray‐deposition method. Fluorescent labels are introduced into the nGels as a model for post‐modification capabilities to increase the functionality of the coating. The coating is highly stable under in vitro physiological conditions with the retention of its function on different clinically relevant materials. Meanwhile, the in vivo study indicates that the nGel coating on a polyvinylidene fluoride hernia mesh is stable and biocompatible, therefore, making the coating and the coating strategy, a highly impactful approach for future clinical developments.
Hybrid manufacturing of mixed‐material bilayer parts via injection molding and material extrusion three‐dimensional printing
Authors: Gong Ke , Xu Han , Liu Handai , Cao Zhi , Fuenmayor Evert , Major Ian
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a hybrid manufacturing method combining the advantages of injection molding (IM) in terms of manufacturing efficiency and high precision with those of three‐dimensional printing (3DP) in terms of minimum waste and a high degree of freedom is described to produce mixed‐material bilayer tensile specimens. 3DP was first utilized to fabricate polylactic acid substrates with four varied geometries and two infill densities and an overmolding technique was employed to finish the manufacture using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene under two IM pressure. analysis of variance and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to investigate the tensile properties and microstructures of the samples. The results showed that a greater tensile performance could be found in those specimens with greater infill density. Lower‐pressure overmolded specimens performed better than those with higher IM pressure. In addition, female joints outperformed male joints in the tensile performances of finished specimens. This study optimized the parameters for this hybrid manufacturing process for building mixed‐material parts and has potential applications in manufacturing, particularly manufacturing as a service.
Crosslinking ofXNBRlatex with multifunctional epoxides: An energy‐efficient curing strategy for the fabrication of accelerator‐free rubber gloves
Authors: Grabmayer Theresa , Manhart Jakob , Kaiser Simon , Schaller Raimund , Holzner Armin , Schlögl Sandra
Published: April 2023

Herein, we pursue an efficient curing strategy using multifunctional epoxides, which undergo a nucleophilic ring opening reaction across the free COOH groups of a carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR). Following a prevulcanization protocol, we cure the rubber in the latex phase at 60°C. Thin films are then prepared by using a conventional coagulant dipping process, in which the final cure degree of the elastomer is reached during drying (postvulcanization). In a comprehensive approach, cure kinetics, tensile properties, and crosslink density of the thin elastomer films are studied as a function of the functionality and concentration of the applied crosslinker. The results clearly show that films with high tensile strength (39 MPa) are obtained without prevulcanization. Stability tests reveal that the shelf life of the latex formulations is limited to less than 1 day due to hydrolysis reactions of the epoxy groups of the water‐soluble crosslinker. However, the storage stability can be extended to several days if nonwater‐soluble epoxy crosslinkers are applied. The decent shelf life together with the fast cure rates and excellent mechanical properties make epoxy crosslinking a promising curing strategy for preparing dipped rubber gloves without hyperallergenic accelerators used in classical sulfur vulcanization.
Observer‐based robust optimal control for helicopter with uncertainties and disturbances
Authors: Qiu Yuqing , Li Yan , Liu Yuxian , Wang Zhong , Liu Kai
Published: April 2023

Unknown model uncertainties and external disturbances widely exist in helicopter dynamics and bring adverse effects on control performance. Optimal control techniques have been extensively studied for helicopters, but these methods cannot effectively handle flight control problems since they are sensitive to uncertainties and disturbances. This paper proposes an observer‐based robust optimal control scheme that enables a helicopter to fly optimally and reduce the influence of unknown model uncertainties and external disturbances. A control Lyapunov function (CLF) is firstly constructed using the backstepping method, then Sontag's formula is utilized to design an inverse optimal controller to stabilize the nominal system. Furthermore, it is stressed that the radial basis function (RBF) neural network is introduced to establish an observer with adaptive laws, approximating and compensating for the unknown model uncertainties and external disturbances to enhance the robustness of the closed‐loop system. The uniform ultimate boundedness of the closed‐loop system is ensured using the presented control approach via Lyapunov stability analysis. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
The importance of uranium isotope composition for gross alpha activity regulation
Authors: Scott Sean R. , Wiersma Amy K. , Krinke Gary
Published: April 2023

Uranium is a regulated contaminant (maximum contaminant level [MCL] 30 μg/L) that contributes to the gross alpha activity of groundwater. The adjusted gross alpha activity (MCL 15 pCi/L) is determined by subtracting the total uranium activity from the measured gross alpha activity. U.S. water utilities can use mass‐based and radiochemical analysis methods for compliance monitoring of uranium. Mass‐based measurements use a conversion factor of 0.67 pCi/μg of uranium to calculate the adjusted gross alpha activity. This conversion factor assumes that the activity of 234U equals 238U. Here, we present two decades of uranium isotope data measured by alpha spectrometry that shows 234U activity typically exceeds 238U. Using mass‐based measurements, the total uranium activity is biased low causing artificial exceedances of the adjusted gross alpha activity. Therefore, water utilities with gross alpha activities >15 pCi/L should utilize radiochemical analyses for uranium for the most accurate calculation of adjusted gross alpha activity.
Modulation of the catalytic performance of OYE3 by engineering key residues at the entrance of the catalytic pocket
Authors: Wu Shijin , Wang Qiang , Ma Xiaojing , Qiu Lequan , Yan Hongde
Published: April 2023

The amino acid residues at the entrance of the catalytic pocket may impose steric hindrance on the substrate to enter the active center of the enzyme. Based on the analysis of the three‐dimensional structure of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae old yellow enzyme 3 (OYE3), four bulky residues were chosen and mutated to small amino acids. The results showed that mutation of the W116 residue had interesting impacts on the catalytic performance. All four variants became inactive for the reduction of (R)‐carvone and (S)‐carvone, but inverted the stereoselectivity for the reduction of (E/Z)‐citral. The mutation of the F250 residue had a more positive effect on the activity and stereoselectivity. Two variants, F250A and F250S, showed excellent diastereoselectivity and activity for the reduction of (R)‐carvone (de > 99%, c > 99%) and increased diastereoselectivity and activity for the reduction of (S)‐carvone (de > 96%, c > 80%). One variant of the P295 residue, P295G, displayed excellent diastereoselectivity and activity only for the reduction of (R)‐carvone (de > 99%, c > 99%). Mutation of the Y375 residue had a negative impact on the activity of the enzyme. These findings provide some solutions for rational enzyme engineering of OYE3.
Quantitative Cell Classification Based on Calibrated Impedance Spectroscopy and Metrological Uncertainty
Authors: Moradpour Amin , Kasper Manuel , Kienberger Ferry
Published: April 2023

Invited for this month′s cover picture is the group of researchers at Keysight Technologies Labs Austria. The front cover shows the error sources with different distribution functions affecting the battery impedance measurements. The uncertainties due to these errors are propagated in a metrology framework resulting in the confidence level of the impedance‐based cell classification. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/batt.202200524
Promotional role of tungstate in the integrated synthesis of C2 and C3 alcohols and understanding the bond functionality for a series of cascade reactions
Authors: Niaze Ambereen A. , Bhardwaj Aakash , Sunkara Mahendra K. , Upadhyayula Sreedevi
Published: April 2023

In this work, TiO2 nanowires (TNWs) were synthesized using a plasma‐assisted method, and then Pt clusters were impregnated onto these TNWs. The nanowires supported Pt when combined with various tungsten‐based co‐catalysts, which improved the catalytic performance. The direct conversion of cellulose to C2‐C3 alcohols using tungsten‐based co‐catalysts was enhanced, even at low temperatures. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman analysis showed oxygen vacancy (Ov) enrichment on the surface of Pt/TiO2 in the presence of tungsten co‐catalysts, which improved their catalytic activity. The role of metallic platinum (Pto) was also investigated and was found to have a linear relationship with their activity as follows: H2WO4 > (NH4)6H2W12O40 · xH2O > H3PW12O40. Maximum yields of 32.33% and 51.52% of ethanol and propane‐2‐ol at optimum temperatures of 220 and 250 °C, respectively, were obtained with H2WO4. A catalytic reaction performed using tandem catalytic system gave a high ethanol yield of 25.56%, which is low in comparison with an integrated catalytic system. Cellulose conversion was also quantified here by probe electrospray ionization (pESI) coupled with Fourier transform mass spectroscopy (FTMS), which was never reported earlier for these reactions. This method provides evidence of negligible fragmentation of high molecular‐weight compounds, and the maximum cellulose conversion reported here is 100%. A reaction pathway is proposed, based on the experimental results, which elaborates the activation and cleavage of specific C‐C and C‐O bonds. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Optimized conditions for the design and operation of a vacuum distillation column for the purification of crude glycerol from biodiesel production
Authors: Braga Eduardo R. , Neto Guilherme J. M. , Braga Rafael R. , Pontes Luiz A. M.
Published: April 2023

Due to the growth in global demand for biodiesel, there is a tendency for the volume of its main by‐product, glycerol, available on the market to increase. This has led to a search for new uses for this by‐product and the development of new processes that use glycerol as a raw material because it has wide industrial applications. However, to be used in many of these processes, the glycerol must go through a purification stage before reaching the purity required for the application (which can reach 99.7% w/w). Taking this into account, the optimization of the parameters for the main glycerol purification stage (vacuum distillation) is essential to reduce the cost of this stage as much as possible. In this article, optimization of the vacuum distillation column was carried out using an artificial neural network (ANN) and a genetic algorithm (GA) together. With the optimization, it was found that four theoretical stages of equilibrium (separation) is the optimal value, in economics terms, for the distillation column on an industrial scale, leading to better performance (in terms of glycerol purity) than patents that used a smaller number of theoretical stages and an equal performance in relation to the patents that used a greater number of stages, which in this case reduces the cost with the size of the column. This result helps to increase the financially viability of using glycerol as a raw material, which can make several processes cheaper, thus generating greater added value to this sustainable by‐product. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Ketamine‐induced uropathy: A narrative systemic review of surgical outcomes of reconstructive surgery
Authors: Vizgan Gabriel , Huamán Michael , Rychik Kevin , Edeson Max , Blaivas Jerry G.
Published: April 2023

Aims

Refractory ketamine‐induced uropathy (KU) (RKU) has devastating effects on the lower urinary tract leading to ureteral obstruction and even renal failure. The only effective treatment for RKU is major surgical reconstruction or urinary diversion. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of awareness about this destructive condition; the aim of this study is to conduct a narrative systemic review of all surgical outcomes of RKU.

Methods

This is an English language literature review of surgical outcomes in KU patients who underwent reconstructive lower urinary tract surgery or urinary diversion through 5 August 2022. Two independent researchers assessed the relevance of each paper and disputes were settled by a third party. In‐vitro, animal studies, letters to the editor and papers that did not evaluate surgical outcomes were excluded.

Results

Of the 50 763 identified articles, 622 were relevant based on title, 150 based on abstract, but only 23 papers were relevant by content. In all, 875 patients were documented as having KU, of whom 193 (22%) underwent reconstructive surgery. The data were disconcerting, as the apparent rapid progression from the beginning of KU to end‐stage bladder was only a 1‐year difference of ketamine abuse between those patients who required surgery (4.4 years) and those that did not (3.4 years).

Conclusions

The data suggest that the time interval from the beginning of ketamine‐induced uropathy to the end‐stage bladder may be measured in months, confounding decision making. There is a dearth of literature about KU, and more research is needed to better understand this pathology.
Einfluss der Anordnung der Durchstanz‐ und Verbundbewehrung aus L‐Blechen auf die Tragfähigkeit
Authors: Günther Gerd , Cramer Jörg , Heller Kevin
Published: April 2023

Das CLIXS Durchstanz‐ und Verbundbewehrungssystem besteht aus L‐förmigen Stahlblechen mit einem oder zwei eingehängten Bügeln aus Betonstahl. Mit diesem System ist eine Tragfähigkeitssteigerung um mehr als das Zweifache der Tragfähigkeit ohne Durchstanzbewehrung möglich. Die im Aufsatz beschriebenen experimentellen Untersuchungen wurden an quadratischen Deckenausschnitten mit einer Länge von 2,8 m und einer Dicke von 18 und 25 cm vorgenommen. Die Tragfähigkeit in Abhängigkeit von der Anzahl der gleichmäßig verteilten L‐Bleche wurde anhand von 17 Experimenten ermittelt. Hierfür wurden verschiedene Körper mit L‐Blechen jeweils in den ersten drei Rundschnitten geprüft. Außerdem wurden zehn Körper mit unterschiedlich großen Bereichen ohne L‐Bleche als Durchstanzbewehrung getestet. Die Bereiche ohne L‐Bleche lagen zwischen 25 % und 75 % der Fläche innerhalb der ersten drei Rundschnitte. Die Verwendung von Bügeln mit einem Durchmesser von 8 mm anstatt 6 mm wurde anhand von zwei Versuchskörpern untersucht.
Proposed mechanism for the selection of lactase persistence in childhood
Authors: Fabre Alexandre , Fabre Anne , Bon Céline , Guerry Paul , Segurel Laure
Published: April 2023

Lactase persistence/persistent (LP), the ability to express the lactase enzyme in adults, is one of the most strongly selected phenotypes in humans. It is encoded by at least five genetic variants that have rapidly become widespread in various human populations. The underlying selective mechanism is not clear however, because dairy products in general are well tolerated in adults, even by lactase non‐persistence/persistent (LNP) individuals. Cultural adaptations to milk consumption, notably fermentation and transformation, which can provide most of the energy (protein, fat) to both LP and LNP individuals without any associated cost seem to have been common in ancient societies. Here, we propose that selection for LP occurred through increased glucose/galactose (energy) from fresh milk intake in early childhood, a crucial period for growth. At the age of weaning indeed, lactase activity has already begun to decline in LNP individuals so the gain in energy from fresh milk by LP children represents a major fitness increase.
pH‐sustaining nanostructured hydroxyapatite/alginate composite hydrogel for gastric protection and intestinal release of Lactobacillus rhamnosusGG
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Hlaing Shwe Phyu , Lee Juho , Kwak Dongmin , Kim Hyunwoo , Saparbayeva Aruzhan , Yoon In‐Soo , Im Eunok , Jung Yunjin , Yoo Jin‐Wook
Published: April 2023

The gut microbiome is closely linked to gastrointestinal health and disease status. Oral administration of known probiotic strains is now considered a promising therapeutic strategy, especially for refractory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. In this study, we developed a nanostructured hydroxyapatite/alginate (HAp/Alg) composite hydrogel that protects its encapsulated probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) by neutralizing hydrogen ions that penetrate the hydrogel in a stomach without inhibiting LGG release in an intestine. Surface and transection analyses of the hydrogel revealed characteristic patterns of crystallization and composite‐layer formation. TEM revealed the dispersal of the nanosized HAp crystals and encapsulated LGG in the Alg hydrogel networks. The HAp/Alg composite hydrogel maintained its internal microenvironmental pH, thereby enabling the LGG to survive for substantially longer. At intestinal pH, the encapsulated LGG was completely released upon disintegration of the composite hydrogel. In a dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis mouse model, we then assessed the therapeutic effect of the LGG‐encapsulating hydrogel. This achieved intestinal delivery of LGG with minimal loss of enzymatic function and viability, ameliorating colitis by reducing epithelial damage, submucosal edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and the number of goblet cells. These findings reveal the HAp/Alg composite hydrogel as a promising intestinal‐delivery platform for live microorganisms including probiotics and live biotherapeutic products.
A Review on Torilis japonica: Ethnomedicinal, Phytochemical, and Biological Features
Authors: Rahimpour Yahya , Doorandishan Mina , Dehsheikh Anahita Boveiri , Sourestani Mohammad Mahmoodi , Mottaghipisheh Javad
Published: April 2023

The present study was aimed at comprehensive overviewing a phytochemically and biologically important species namely Torilis japonica (Apiaceae family). Treatment of dysentery, fever, haemorrhoids, spasm, uterine tumors, lymphadenitis, rheumatism, impotence, infertility, women's diseases, and chronic diarrhea are reported as the main folk medicinal applications of the T. japonica fruits. So far, the plant is phytochemically characterized for its diverse terpene derivatives, predominantly sesquiterpenes. The plant's fruit is a rich source of torlin, a guaiane‐type sesquiterpene, possessing various potent bioactivities. To date, anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, skin photoaging activities of the plant extracts and its constituents have been evaluated. Further investigation of the plant, specifically bioassay‐guided isolation and identification of its major bioactive constituents can lead to discover potential phytopharmaceutical candidates.
An inguinal enigma: Myxoid liposarcoma in a female
Authors: Agarwal Shantanu , Bains Lovenish , Makthala Sripooja , Lal Pawan , Singh Meeta
Published: April 2023

Myxoid liposarcoma of the inguinal region is rare, can mimics an inguinal hernia. Any swelling in the inguinal region, that is partially reducible, fluctuant, soft, and without any signs of bowel obstruction should be evaluated further.
Intermolecular Dearomative 1,2‐Amination/Carbonylation via Nucleophilic Addition of Simple Amines to Arene π‐Bonds
Authors: Li Zheng‐Jian , Wang Ming‐Yang , Li Chu‐Qiao , Zeng Wei‐Long , Li Wei
Published: April 2023

The incorporation of the privileged amino functionality is of paramount importance in organic synthesis. In contrast to the well‐developed amination methods for alkenes, the dearomative amination of arenes is largely underexplored due to the inherently inert reactivity of arene π‐bonds and selectivity challenges. Herein, we report an intermolecular dearomative aminofunctionalization via direct nucleophilic addition of simple amines to chromium‐bound arenes. This multicomponent 1,2‐amination/carbonylation reaction enables rapid access to complicated alicyclic compounds containing amino and amide functionalities from benzene derivatives under CO‐gas‐free conditions, which also represents the first application of nitrogen‐based nucleophiles in η6‐coordination‐induced arene dearomatizations.
d‐Amino acids in biological systems
Authors: Du Siqi , Wey Michael , Armstrong Daniel W.
Published: April 2023

Investigations on the occurrence and biochemical roles of free D‐amino acids and D‐amino acid‐containing peptides and proteins in living systems have increased in frequency and significance. Their occurrence and roles may vary substantially with progression from microbiotic to evermore advanced macrobiotic systems. We now understand many of the biosynthetic and regulatory pathways, which are outlined herein. Important uses for D‐amino acids in plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates are reviewed. Given its importance, a separate section on the occurrence and role of D‐amino acids in human disease is presented.
Bayesian instrumental variable estimation in linear measurement error models
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Lichun , Wang Liqun
Published: April 2023

In this article, we study the problem of parameter estimation for measurement error models by combining the Bayes method with the instrumental variable approach, deriving the posterior distribution of parameters under different priors with known and unknown variance parameters, respectively, and calculating the Bayes estimator (BE) of the parameters under quadratic loss. However, it is difficult to obtain an explicit expression for BE because of the complex multiple integrals involved. Therefore, we adopt the linear Bayes method, which does not specify the form of the prior and avoids these complicated integral calculations, to obtain an expression for the linear Bayes estimator (LBE) for different priors. We prove that this LBE is superior to the two‐stage least squares estimator under the mean squared error matrix criterion. Numerical simulations show that our LBE is very close to the real parameter whether the variance parameters are known or unknown, and it gradually approaches BE as the sample size increases. Our results indicate that this instrumental variable approach is valid for measurement error models.
Derivation of human retinal cell densities using high‐density, spatially localized optical coherence tomography data from the human retina
Authors: Tong Janelle , Khou Vincent , Trinh Matt , Alonso‐Caneiro David , Zangerl Barbara , Kalloniatis Michael
Published: April 2023

This study sought to identify demographic variations in retinal thickness measurements from optical coherence tomography (OCT), to enable the calculation of cell density parameters across the neural layers of the healthy human macula. From macular OCTs (n = 247), ganglion cell (GCL), inner nuclear (INL), and inner segment–outer segment (ISOS) layer measurements were extracted using a customized high‐density grid. Variations with age, sex, ethnicity, and refractive error were assessed with multiple linear regression analyses, with age‐related distributions further assessed using hierarchical cluster analysis and regression models. Models were tested on a naïve healthy cohort (n = 40) with Mann–Whitney tests to determine generalizability. Quantitative cell density data were calculated from histological data from previous human studies. Eccentricity‐dependent variations in OCT retinal thickness closely resemble topographic cell density maps from human histological studies. Age was consistently identified as significantly impacting retinal thickness (p = .0006, .0007, and .003 for GCL, INL and ISOS), with gender affecting ISOS only (p < .0001). Regression models demonstrated that age‐related changes in the GCL and INL begin in the 30th decade and were linear for the ISOS. Model testing revealed significant differences in INL and ISOS thickness (p = .0008 and .0001; however, differences fell within the OCT's axial resolution. Qualitative comparisons show close alignment between OCT and histological cell densities when using unique, high‐resolution OCT data, and correction for demographics‐related variability. Overall, this study describes a process to calculate in vivo cell density from OCT for all neural layers of the human retina, providing a framework for basic science and clinical investigations.
Elucidating the Effect of Ion Exchange Protocol on the Copper Exchange Efficacy, Copper Siting, and SCR activity in Cu‐SSZ‐13
Authors: Koishybay Aibolat , Umhey Charles , Kuo Chun‐Te , Groden Kyle , McEwen Jean‐Sabin , Karim Ayman M. , Shantz Daniel F.
Published: April 2023

The influence of the copper ion exchange protocol on SCR activity of SSZ‐13 is quantified. Using the same parent SSZ‐13 zeolite, four exchange protocols are used to assess how exchange protocol impacts metal uptake and SCR activity. Large differences in the SCR activity, nearly 30 percentage points at 160 °C at constant copper content, are observed for different exchange protocols implying that different exchange protocols lead to different copper species. Hydrogen temperature programmed reduction on selected samples and infrared spectroscopy of CO binding corroborates this conclusion as the reactivity at 160 °C correlates with the intensity of the IR band at 2162 cm−1. DFT‐based calculations show that such an IR assignment is consistent with CO adsorbed on a Cu(I) cation within an eight‐membered ring. This work shows that SCR activity can be influenced by the ion exchange process even when different protocols lead to the same metal loading. Perhaps most interesting, a protocol used to generate Cu‐MOR for methane to methanol studies led to the most active catalyst both on a unit mass or unit mole copper basis. This points to a yet not recognized means to tailor catalyst activity as the open literature is silent on this issue.
Growing Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin Film at Low Temperature Using a New Improved Configuration of Close‐Distance CVD Technique
Authors: Belaqziz Mohamed , Medjnoun Kahina , Chehouani Hassan , Sagna Alphousseyni , Lahlali Sanaa , Djessas Kamal
Published: April 2023

This study presents a new possibility to deposit the polycrystalline Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin film at low temperature using an improved close‐distance chemical vapor deposition reactor. Firstly, a theoretical study is conducted to predict the iodine pressure (PI2) and the substrate temperature (Ts) as the optimal conditions for the deposition of CZTS. The theoretical model is based on the minimization of the Gibbs energy of the Cu‐Zn‐Sn‐S‐I chemical system. An experimental study is realized, and the predicted optimal conditions to obtain quasi‐stoichiometric depositions are tested. The X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy are used to analyze the thin films elaborated at substrate temperatures of Ts = 400 and 550 °C for iodine pressure PI2 = 0.03 × 105 Pa. With the help of the thermodynamical calculations, the results show that it is possible to grow a good quality CZTS thin film at a low substrate temperature of 400 °C.
Establishing standards for Yonsei point in a White South African population for the treatment of gummy smile
Authors: Booysen Brandon , Baron René H. , Uys André
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to establish the efficacy of Yonsei point in the treatment of a gummy smile in a White South African population. The accurate surface anatomy criteria in relation to the underlying musculature for the administration of Botulinum toxin injections in the treatment of gummy smile was determined.

Materials and Methods

Nineteen (10 males and 9 females) cadavers were selected for facial dissection. Facial profile photographs were taken before and after dissection. The before and after photographs were overlayed to determine where the pin positions should be on the dissected cadaver to determine the Yonsei point. The levator labii superioris (LLS), LLS alaeque nasi (LLSAN), zygomaticus minor, and zygomaticus major muscles were measured using a protractor and ruler, which accounted for the manual measurements. Digital measurements were measured by importing dissected images into ImageJ. Circles with a 2 cm diameter (1 cm radius) were constructed to determine whether the Yonsei point could successfully influence muscles fibers.

Results

Digital and manual measurements show comparable results with high correlation and reliability. Results showed that the White South African population had narrower facial musculature angles as compared with the Korean population.

Conclusion

Based on the selected sample, the Yonsei point is an ineffective injection site for the successful treatment of gummy smile in a White South African population.
Corpus analysis of evaluative language and framework implementation for pharmaceutical industryCSRreports
Authors: Cai Siying , Zhu Wenzhong , Wang Yuting
Published: April 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a concept, where organizations can store and maintain environmental, economic and social issues by including social or environmental concerns. This research intends to map out the features of evaluative language used by pharmaceutical industry CSR reports and figure out how evaluative meaning assists companies in communicating with stakeholders and narrowing the legitimacy gap, to be in a status congruent with societal expectation. An integrated analytical framework and the Three‐Domain Model of CSR is created to fulfill the research objectives. This study primarily examines the characteristics of evaluative language with the use of two sets of self‐built corpora that include CSR reports from pharmaceutical companies that must maintain and repair their legitimacy; the study reveals that report authors usually use more resources with a positive attitude to evaluate themselves whereas negative resources are only adopted to characterize others. Statistics demonstrate a considerable difference in the utilization of affect resources, although CSR reports in both organizations embrace appreciation resources as the primary means of maintaining or repairing their legitimacy. Finally, by borrowing the Three‐Domain Model of CSR, the results also show “ethical” responsibility as the focused area in pharmaceutical industry CSR reports.
Rate Response of Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate)‐Hydrolases to Substrate Crystallinity: Basis for Understanding the Lag Phase
Authors: Thomsen Thore B. , Schubert Sune , Hunt Cameron J. , Borch Kim , Jensen Kenneth , Brask Jesper , Westh Peter , Meyer Anne S.
Published: April 2023

The rate response of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)‐hydrolases to increased substrate crystallinity (XC) of PET manifests as a rate‐lowering effect that varies significantly for different enzymes. Herein, we report the influence ofXCon the product release rate of six thermostable PET‐hydrolases. All enzyme reactions displayed a distinctive lag phase until measurable product formation occurred. The duration of the lag phase increased withXC. The recently discovered PET‐hydrolase PHL7 worked efficiently on “amorphous” PET disks (XC≈10 %), but this enzyme was extremely sensitive to increasedXC, whereas the enzymes LCCICCG, LCC, and DuraPETase had higher tolerance to increases inXCand had activity on PET disks havingXCof 24.4 %. Microscopy revealed that theXC‐tolerant hydrolases generated smooth and more uniform substrate surface erosion than PHL7 during reaction. Structural and molecular dynamics analysis of the PET‐hydrolyzing enzymes disclosed that surface electrostatics and enzyme flexibility may account for the observed differences.
Cognitive function in individuals with and without painful and painless diabetic polyneuropathy—A cross‐sectional study in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Croosu Suganthiya S. , Gjela Mimoza , Røikjer Johan , Hansen Tine M. , Mørch Carsten D. , Frøkjær Jens B. , Ejskjaer Niels
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Previous studies suggest that cognitive impairment is more prevalent in individuals with painful and painless diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). However, the current evidence is not well described. This study investigated cognitive function in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and the association to painful/painless DPN and clinical parameters.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, observational, case–control study included 58 participants with T1DM, sub‐grouped into 20 participants with T1DM and painful DPN, 19 participants with T1DM and painless DPN, 19 participants with T1DM without DPN, and 20 healthy controls were included. The groups were matched for sex and age. The participants performed Addenbrooke's examination III (ACE‐III), which assesses attention, memory, verbal fluency, language and visuospatial skills. Working memory was evaluated using an N‐back task. Cognitive scores were compared between the groups and correlated to age, diabetes duration, HbA1c and nerve conduction measurements.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, T1DM participants showed lower total ACE‐III (p = .028), memory (p = .013) and language scores (p = .028), together with longer reaction times in the N‐back task (p = .041). Subgroup analyses demonstrated lower memory scores in those with painless DPN compared with healthy controls (p = .013). No differences were observed between the three T1DM subgroups. Cognitive scores and clinical parameters were not associated.

Conclusions

This study supports the notion of cognitive alterations in T1DM and indicates that cognitive function is altered in T1DM regardless of underlying neuropathic complications. The memory domain appears altered in T1DM, particularly in those with painless DPN. Further studies are needed to verify the findings.
A year in heart failure: updates of clinical and preclinical findings
Authors: Bäck Magnus , von Haehling Stephan , Papp Zoltán , Piepoli Massimo F.
Published: April 2023

We witnessed major advances in the management of heart failure (HF) in 2022. Results of recent clinical and preclinical investigations aid preventive strategies, diagnostic efforts, and therapeutic interventions, and collectively, they hold promises for a more effective HF care for the near future. Accordingly, currently available information extends the 2021 European Society of Cardiology guidelines and provides a solid background for the introduction of improved clinical approaches in the number of HF‐related cases. Elaboration on the relationships between epidemiological data and risk factors lead to better understanding of the pathophysiology of HF with reduced ejection fraction and HF with preserved ejection fraction. The clinical consequences of valvular dysfunctions are increasingly interpreted not only in their haemodynamic consequences but also in association with their pathogenetic factors and modern corrective treatment possibilities. The influence of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the clinical care of HF appeared to be less intense in 2022 than before; hence, this period allowed to refine coronavirus disease 2019 management options for HF patients. Moreover, cardio‐oncology emerges as a new subdiscipline providing significant improvements in clinical outcomes for oncology patients. Furthermore, the introduction of state‐of‐the‐art molecular biologic methods, multi‐omic approaches forecast improved phenotyping and precision medicine for HF. All above aspects are addressed in this article that highlights a selection of papers published in ESC Heart Failure in 2022.