bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lessons from experience: French geographers and the transcontinental excursion of 1912
Authors: Clout Hugh
Published: October 2004

On the eve of the first world war, American academic geography was in its infancy compared with the maturing discipline in Germany and France. The transcontinental excursion of 1912 was a remarkable venture whereby W.M. Davis promoted the vitality of American scholarship, as well as demonstrating his ideas on physical geography in the field. Unpublished writings by Albert Demangeon, together with a selection of published materials, present the reactions of French participants to this novel experience that exposed them to the growing economic might of the USA, its territorial magnitude and environmental grandeur. Friendships established among geographers in 1912 helped the exchange of information at the Paris peace conference, and facilitated subsequent academic publications on both sides of the Atlantic. The impact of Davisian geomorphology would prove to be enormous in France; ironically, Americans would welcome the brand of geographic humaine practised by Demangeon less readily than an alternative version from Jean Brunhes (who did not go on the excursion) that found favour with Isaiah Bowman.
Eotional and behavioural problems in Swedish 7-to 9-year olds with asthma
Authors: Reichenberg K , Broberg A G
Published: October 2004

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare emotional and behavioural problems between preadolescent children with asthma and healthy children, and to explore if disease factors relate to problem scores. Design: This was a cross-sectional study of 59 children, 34 boys and 25 girls, aged 7-9 years with mild (n = 11), moderate (n = 38) or severe (n = 10) asthma. A normative sample of 306 children in the same age range, 150 boys and 156 girls, was used as a comparison group.Methods: Parents assessed emotional and behavioural problems using the Child Behaviour Checklist. Peak expiratory flow rate and urinary eosinophil protein X were used as measures of lung function and inflammation. Children were interviewed about activity restriction and symptoms during the last week using the Paediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Parents scored day,night and exercise-induced symptoms during the same week. Results: On average, children with asthma were attributed more problems than healthy children of the same age and comparable family socio-economic status. Effect sizes were 0.80 (95% confidence interval 0.52-1.09) for total problems, 0.89 (0.60-1.18) for internalizing problems and 0.67 (0.38-0.95) for externalizing problems. The relative risk for children with asthma exceeding the 95% cut-offpoint for total problems was 4.2 (2.1-8.3) compared to healthy children. Conclusion: Children with parent-reported exercise-induced asthma symptoms were attributed more total problems than asthmatic children without such symptoms. Parent-reported day symptoms and child report of symptoms and restricted activities related with problem scores to a lesser degree. Objective measures of lung function and inflammation were not related to problem scores. Concurrent eczema increased problem scores. It is concluded that asthma in preadolescent children is associated with emotional and behavioural problems. Special attention should be paid to children reported to have exercise-induced symptoms.
Papillomatization' and ‘malignant transformation’ of an abscess cavity in a 25-year old man with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis who may have had Lemierre syndrome
Authors: Vealei A , Jurisevic C , Pieterse S , Psaltis A
Published: October 2004

We report here an unusual case of a 25-year old male with juvenile onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis who developed an infestation of papillomata ‘papillomatization’ of an old abscess cavity that, when removed, was coincidently found to contain a 2 cm well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. The abscess cavity had been caused by a previous Fusobaterium necrophorum infection that probably developed as a result of septic emboli from his internal jugular veins. This once common but now rare occurrence was first reported by Dr Lemierre in 1936 (Lemierre syndrome).
Reduction in resting energy expenditure following lung volume reduction surgery in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: McKeough, Z J , Alison J A , Bayfield M S , Bye PTP
Published: October 2004

Study objectives: Some subjects with COPD have an elevated resting energy expenditure (REE)which may be related to an increased work of breathing at rest. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) on REE and body weight. Design: Ten subjects with COPD were recruited (mean age + SD = 61.4 + 6.1 years). At baseline (which was following preoperative pulmonary rehabilitation) and four months following LVRS (combined with postoperative pulmonary rehabilitation), each subject had tests of lung function, REE via indirect calorimetry using a canopy system, six minute walk distance (6MWD) and quality of life (QoL) using the St George's Hospital Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Measurements: The FEV, (% predicted) increased from 27.7 + 5.8% (mean + SD) at baseline to 33.9 + 7.8% following LVRS (P < 0.05). REE (% predicted) was 110 + 9.8% at baseline and decreased to 106 + 6.7% following LVRS (P = 0.04). Body mass index (BMI) following LVRS was unchanged (P = 0.67). No correlation between the change in BMI and change in REE was shown (r2 = 0.3, P = 0.1). Therewas a significant improvement in QoL following LVRS (P < 0.001). 6MWD also significantly increased from 354 + 83 m to 412 + 82 m following LVRS (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Whilst there was an increase in lung function and a reduction in REE following LVRS, there was no corresponding change to body weight. The improvement in REE following LVRS may be related to an improvement in work of breathing.
Establishing a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Southernl K W , Peckham D
Published: October 2004

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a recessively inherited condition caused by mutation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Characterization of the genetic defect has improved understanding of the condition and, in the majority of cases, diagnosis is straightforward. However, in a significant number, diagnosis remains a challenge. This paper will discuss the management of these issues and reflect on atypical presentations. In addition we will discuss situations in which genetic variations of the CFTR gene are not associated with a classical CF phenotype and the implications for practice in both paediatric and adult clinics.
Essential communication skills in individual smoking cessation
Authors: Tønnesen P.
Published: October 2004

When dealing with smokers it is important to realize that nicotine addiction plays a major role. Minimal clinic smoking cessation advice by a physician is a powerful motivation to quit and even short intervention (<3 minutes) is effective especially when repeated. There is a dose-response relationship between the number and duration of sessions and quit rate. The optimum programme contains 4-5 sessions of 10-15 minutes duration during the first six weeks after quit day. It is essential that smokers select a target quit day and stop smoking completely on that day as even a few cigarettes per day in the first weeks are strongly related to relapse. Administration of nicotine replacement products or bupropion may double success rates. The communication with smokers should be emphatic and adjusted to the level of change. Barriers to successful smoking cessation and structured interventions are described. The use of the five As to motivated smokers and the five Rs to smokers not ready to quit is recommended. Telephone and written material may supplement clinic visits in the follow-up period.
Care plans for acutely deteriorating COPD: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Martin I R , McNamara D , Sutherland F R , Tilyard M W , Taylor D R
Published: October 2004

Introduction: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are a frequent reason for admission to hospital and are responsible for the majority of the direct economic costs of treating COPD. Aims: To test whether an individualized care plan for patients experiencing acute exacerbations of COPD result in reduced health care utilization and improved quality of life for patients. Methods: Ninety-two patients with confirmed COPD were selected by general practitioners or district nurses, and randomly assigned to care plan or usual care groups. The care plan was developed in collaboration with general practitioners, secondary care specialists, specialist nurses, ambulance service providers and the after hours clinic. Patients were followed for 12 months, and the primary end-points were frequency of use of primary care services and hospital admissions. Results: There was no significant reduction in hospital admissions or improvement in quality of life in the group of patients who used the care plan compared to controls. The care plan group called out the ambulance service more frequently [2.8 (1.3, 4.3) versus 1.1 (0.7, 1.5) calls per 12 months; P = 0.03], and there was a trend towards greater use of oral prednisone [2.3 (1.4, 3.2) versus 1.3 (0.8, 1.8) courses per 12 months; P = 0.06]. Conclusion: In contrast to asthma, the provision of individualized self-management plans, whose content was enhanced to provide guidance to carers and health care professionals, did not reduce health care utilization or improve overall quality of life during acute exacerbations of COPD. Other strategies are required.
Subjective health and fibrinogen in a healthy Chinese cohort
Authors: Fielding Richard , Lam Tai Hing , Ho Sai Yin , Janus Edward D.
Published: October 2004

Objectives: This study explores standard cardiovascular (CVD) risk factors in a healthy population sample, with low CVD prevalence and presumed higher social connectedness as potential mechanisms linking subjective health (SH) and physical health.

Method: A population‐based, telephone‐sampled, cross‐sectional study recruited a healthy subset of 2280 Chinese adults who subsequently underwent a free medical examination. Serum total cholesterol, low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), high‐density lipoproteins (HDL), triglycerides, fibrinogen, fasting glucose, 2‐hour post‐load glucose, blood pressure and adiposity were compared between respondents reporting good SH and those reporting poor SH over the past 3 months, on a 4‐point, single‐item measure.

Results: After adjustment for age, gender, education, exercise, marital and smoking status, only serum fibrinogen significantly differentiated the two groups. Respondents reporting Very poor or Poor SH had a significantly greater likelihood of raised mean fibrinogen levels compared with those reporting Good or Very good SH (Adjusted Odds Ratio 1.37, 95% CL 1.002–1.84,p < .05).

Conclusions: There is a small but robust association between SH and fibrinogen in this low CVD prevalent population unexplained by known pre‐existing disease.
Social support, anxiety and depression after chemotherapy for ovarian cancer: A prospective study
Authors: Hipkins Jane , Whitworth Melissa , Tarrier Nicholas , Jayson Gordon
Published: October 2004

Objectives: We aimed to describe the levels of anxiety and depression in patients during the 3 month period following the end of chemotherapy treatment and to identify factors that predict psychological morbidity.

Method: We performed a prospective study in women with ovarian cancer to determine the changes in psychological status in the 3 months following completion of chemotherapy. Sixty‐three consecutive patients were assessed at the completion of chemotherapy (Time 1) and 57 at 3 months follow‐up (Time 2). Relevant disease and patient characteristics were recorded and patients were assessed at Time 1 for anxiety, depression and their perception of emotional support, an index of their psychosocial environment. Anxiety and depression were re‐assessed at Time 2.

Results: The results indicate significant initial psychological morbidity, with clinical caseness for anxiety (38%) and depression (33%) being common. Follow‐up at Time 2 shows that patients undergo a significant reduction in cases (19%) and symptoms of depression but an increase in cases of anxiety (47%). The principal factors associated with symptoms of anxiety at Time 2 were poor perceived social support, increased intrusive thoughts and, to a lesser extent, younger age. Medical parameters, such as the stage of disease, response of the cancer to treatment, Ca125 (a tumour glycoprotein) and Karnofsky Performance status (a measure of how well the patients is) were not associated with worse psychological outcome.

Conclusion: These data show for the first time that social support and intrusive thoughts, rather than physical parameters, are the principal determinants of psychological morbidity in patients with ovarian cancer.
Differences between out‐patients with physical disease and those with medically unexplained symptoms with respect to patient satisfaction, emotional distress and illness perception
Authors: Jackson Judy , Kincey John , Fiddler Magdalen , Creed Francis , Tomenson Barbara
Published: October 2004

Objectives: This study aimed to assess whether patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) attending cardiology and neurology out‐patient clinics were less satisfied with their consultation than patients whose presenting symptoms were explained by an organic diagnosis. The multidimensional nature of satisfaction and its relationships with emotional distress and illness perception were also assessed within the two groups.

Design and setting: A prospective cohort study was carried out at a large inner city teaching hospital.

Participants: New attenders at cardiology and neurology out‐patient clinics participated in the study.

Measures: The Satisfaction Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Health Anxiety Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ) were used in the study.

Results: There were no overall significant differences in satisfaction between organic and MUS patients. Factor analysis yielded four factors: satisfaction with information, satisfaction with style of doctor — patient interaction, satisfaction with clinic environment, and satisfaction with patient's health. Levels of internal consistency were good, with Cronbach's alphas between .74 and .95 for the four subscales.

Conclusion: When considering patients with MUS, these findings emphasize the need to examine healthcare satisfaction from a detailed and multidimensional perspective. Relationships between satisfaction dimensions, clinic specialties and measures of psychological well‐being and of illness perception show interesting patterns. These findings raise both theoretical and service delivery questions concerning communication strategies.
Validation of a New Automated Renin Assay
Authors: de Bruin René A , Bouhuizen Angelique , Diederich Sven , Perschel Frank H , Boomsma Frans , Deinum Jaap
Published: October 2004

Background: Measurement of plasma renin is important for the treatment of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and in the evaluation of patients with suspected hyperaldosteronism. Immunologic assays for plasma renin offer easier implementation and standardization than enzyme-kinetic assays for plasma renin activity, but their sensitivity and specificity have been questioned. We studied a renin immunochemiluminescence assay on an automated platform.

Methods: Renin was measured by an enzymatic assay, by IRMA, and by the new Nichols Advantage Specialty System immunochemiluminometric assay (ICMA), in plasmas from unselected individuals from our outpatient departments and in samples from patients with selected diagnoses.

Results: The detection limit in the ICMA was 0.1 mU/L. The recovery was >90%, and the imprecision (CV) was generally <9%. Mean (SD) concentrations measured by ICMA were 32 (21)% lower than those measured by IRMA. Renin concentrations as measured by ICMA were identical in serum and EDTA-, heparin-, and citrate-anticoagulated plasmas. Prolonged incubation of whole blood at room temperature before centrifugation did not affect renin concentrations. The central 95% interval for 80 healthy adults was 6–85.5 mU/L. Plasma renin as assessed by ICMA in patients with primary hyperaldosteronism was <0.2 mU/L.

Conclusions: The performance characteristics of the new renin ICMA allow its use for patients with CAH and for the diagnosis of mineralocorticoid hypertension. In view of the variability of renin concentrations, use for other forms of hypertension or physiologic research calls for the development of uniform sampling protocols.
Cardiac Biomarkers for Detection of Myocardial Infarction: Perspectives from Past to Present
Authors: Rosalki Sidney B , Roberts Robert , Katus Hugo A , Giannitsis Evangelos , Ladenson Jack H , Apple Fred S
Published: October 2004

Editor’s Note: With great pleasure and anticipation in recognition of Clinical Chemistry’s 50th anniversary, I have been able to arm-twist four talented scientists to document their impressive marks on the science of diagnostics in the field of cardiac biomarkers and detection of myocardial infarction. Their exciting discoveries and applications have dramatically influenced the fields of laboratory medicine and cardiology and have greatly influenced the care and management of thousands of patients suffering from coronary artery disease leading to acute myocardial infarction. As a matter of historical record, I owe a great deal of thanks to each one of the coauthors of this special report because each one has personally influenced my scientific career. I met Dr. Rosalki, during my postdoctoral training, at a national AACC meeting, where he kindly answered my numerous queries regarding creatine kinase enzymology and muscle physiology. Dr. Roberts, while serving as Director of the Coronary Care Unit at Washington University in St. Louis, generously allowed this fledgling fellow into his laboratory and shared many of his clinical and experimental findings with me. Dr. Katus, whom I first met at a scientific meeting sponsored by Boehringer Mannheim in 1986 in Bavaria, where I first became fascinated with cardiac troponin T, has remained a friend and colleague. Lastly, Dr. Ladenson, who as mentor, scientific colleague, and close friend remains ultimately responsible for both my professional growth as a clinical chemist (he was my postdoctoral fellowship advisor) and for stimulating and encouraging my goals and aspirations in the field of cardiac biomarkers. With the descriptions of the ground-breaking science described below, I am extremely excited and optimistic that the future of cardiac biomarkers is secure and open to new discoveries by the Rosalkis, Robertses, Katuses, and Ladensons of the future.

—Fred Apple
Yeast and Bacteria as Biological Control Agents Against Fungal Discolouration of Pinus sylvestris Blocks in Laboratory-Based Tests and the Role of Antifungal Volatiles
Authors: Payne C. , Bruce A. , Staines H.
Published: October 2004

This paper reports on the use of yeast as biological control agents against mould and blue-stain fungi in
laboratory-based Pinus sylvestris sapwood wood block incubation tests. All 5 yeast isolates tested significantly
reduced discolouration of wood surfaces by moulds and most were also effective against staining
fungi. The 2 most promising yeast isolates also significantly reduced radial growth of selected mould
and stain fungi in vitro solely through the liberation of volatile compounds. Five bacterial isolates were
also tested for antagonism toward mould and stain fungi and were effective biological control agents in
wood block tests. Again, volatile production alone by the bacteria was shown to be sufficient to significantly
reduce fungal growth in vitro. Most of the bacteria and yeasts significantly reduced wood discolouration
by fungi when inoculated onto block surfaces 7 days before, or at the same time as the target
fungi, and in some cases even when inoculated 7 days after the fungi. The possibility of using yeasts
as biological control agents to prevent wood spoilage during kiln drying and short-term storage at
sawmills is considered.
Chromated Copper Arsenate Preservative Treatment of North American Hardwoods. Part 1. CCA Fixation Performance
Authors: Janezic T. Stevanovic , Cooper P.A. , Ung Y.T.
Published: October 2004

We have examined chromated copper arsenate (CCA) wood preservative fixation at two selected temperatures
in seven common North American hardwood species: red maple (Acer rubrum L.), white birch
(Betula papyrifera Marsh.), yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.), trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides
Michx.), red oak (Quercus rubra L.), basswood (Tilia americana L.) and American beech (Fagus
grandifolia Ehrh.). The softwood red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) was included for comparison. CCA component
fixation was monitored by the expressate method at both 21°C and 50°C under non-drying conditions.
Hexavalent chromium (CrVI) and total Cr, Cu and As contents of the expressate were determined
at different times during fixation. Based on CCA fixation results it was possible to divide the examined
hardwoods into a fast fixing group (beech, red oak and red maple), intermediate group (white birch and
red pine) and slow fixing group (aspen, yellow poplar and basswood). The variable fixation rates for the
different species could not be directly related to different anatomical and chemical attributes of the studied
hardwoods, although there was an apparent relationship with density with more dense species fixing
faster than low density species. However, the species differences appeared to be mainly influenced by
types and amounts of extractives in the woods. In red maple, extraction resulted in a slowing of the fixation
rate, while the opposite effect was seen in red oak.
Neolignan Skeletons and Benzodioxanes Through Chiral Aryl Alkyl Ether Formation
Authors: Li K. , Helm R.F.
Published: October 2004

Several chiral neolignan skeletons and a benzodioxane were prepared from a tartrate derivative with the
crucial chiral aryl alkyl ether formation being accomplished with cesium phenolate and 18-crown-6.
These compounds have greater than 96% enantiomeric excess, and this work represents the first successful
synthetic preparation of optically active 8-O-4′ type neolignan skeletons. The chiral aryl alkyl
ethers were also synthesized from several protected carbohydrates, which can serve as chiral auxiliaries
for a wide variety of target molecules.
The Kismet of Residual During LMS Delignification of High-Kappa Kraft Pulps
Authors: Chakar F.S. , Ragauskas A.J.
Published: October 2004

A series of laccase-mediator treatments (LMS) with 1-hydroxybenzotriazole (HBT) andN-acetyl-Nphenylhydroxylamine(NHAA) (Fig. 1) as the mediators were performed on a laboratory prepared southern softwood conventional kraft pulp (kappa # 75.4). Subsequent to the LMS treatments, the treated pulps were subjected to various oxidatively reinforced alkaline extraction stages (E*). The kappa results suggested that both LMSHBTand LMSNHAAtreatments delignified this high-kappa pulp. The E* stages were beneficial in countering the darkening effect observed after the LMS treatments. Structural changes in residual lignins isolated before and after laccase-mediator (LMSNHAA(E*) and LMSHBT(E*)) treatments were explored. The spectral analysis of phosphitylated residual lignins revealed an increase in carboxylic acid content and a depletion of phenolic hydroxyl groups in non-condensed at C-5 lignin moieties. Aliphatic hydroxyl groups were substantially decreased when NHAA was used. Overall, it appears that LMSHBTand LMsNHAAtreatments on high-kappa kraft pulps primarily attack phenolic hydroxyl groups in non-condensed at C-5 lignin structures.
Strain Changes on the Inner Bark Surface of an Inclined Coniferous Sapling Producing Compression Wood
Authors: Yoshida M. , Yamamoto O. , Okuyama T.
Published: October 2004

The tangential strain on the inner bark of Cryptomeria japonica saplings grown in a growth chamber was
continuously measured using strain gauges. Compression wood formation was induced by artificial
inclination. The diurnal changes in tangential strain during light/dark cycles in the growth chamber differed
from those observed in the field. The total strain increased daily, increasing incrementally during
dark periods and decreasing in the light, as observed in the field. In the growth chamber, however, steep
increases and rapid decreases in strain were found immediately following lights-off and lights-on. In the
inclined saplings, the strain increased more on the lower side of the stem than on the upper side; and the
increment of the strain in the dark and the decrement in the light were larger on the lower side than on
the upper side. The change in tangential strain on the inner bark surface arises from changes in the volume
of differentiating cells, corresponding to turgor pressure changes and cell-wall extensibility
changes. Therefore, the differentiating tracheids into compression wood appear to expand at night and
shrink in the daytime more than the differentiating tracheids into normal wood.
Nanoporous Dna Field Effect Transistor with Potential for Random‐Access Memory Applications: A Selectivity Performance Evaluation
Authors: Kilinc Volkan , Hayakawa Ryoma , Yamauchi Yusuke , Wakayama Yutaka , Hill Jonathan P.
Published: February 2024

Methods to encode digital data items as strands of synthetic DNA followed by selective data retrieval have been demonstrated. However, these initially bio‐oriented processes remain slow and not optimized. DNA field‐effect transistor (DNA‐FET) is studied here as a possible random‐access memory (RAM) device for simple, selective and rapid ssDNA fragment retrieval used as data pool identifier. The DNA‐FET is based on a co‐planar Au‐gated fully organic transistor appended with short single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) probes bearing a blocking molecule to prevent partial hybridization and achieve near perfect selectivity for short length ssDNA (up to 45 nt). Examination of transconductance of the novel active layer incorporating a DNA nanopore architecture reveals enhanced binding site accessibility. This, in turn, facilitates discriminatory hybridization, particularly in the physical retrieval of short‐length ssDNA from a competitive, concentrated ssDNA background pool consisting of nine different sequences, with at least one nucleotide difference. The DNA‐FET exhibits rapid operation (9 min) in the millivolt range, low detection limit (sub‐femtomolar), high selectivity and reusability. Considering the straightforward concept, near error‐free identification capacity and hypothetically outstanding scalability, the DNA‐FET described here has potential as a foundation for further exploration of advanced RAM technology in the DNA data storage process.
ZSM‐5 zeolite incorporated flow battery membranes with regulated pore channels for high proton conduction
Authors: Cai Yekai , Lin Shuhao , Xia Yu , Hou Qingming , Lu Yuqin , Cao Hongyan , Wang Yixing , Huang Kang , Xu Zhi
Published: February 2024

Fast proton conduction plays an essential role in ion conductive membranes (ICMs) for energy conversion and storage technologies, but the demand for low reactive species permeation always limits further enhancement in proton transport rate. Herein, an ICM incorporating ZSM‐5 zeolite with optimized physicochemical property of pore channels was developed to achieve highly conductive ion transport via regulating the silicon‐aluminum atomic (Si/Al) ratio of ZSM‐5. Benefiting from the regulation of pore channels of zeolites, the proton conductivity of the pristine membrane was remarkably improved to 1.7‐fold. As expected, the optimized membrane exhibited outstanding voltage efficiency (VE) of 85.7% and energy efficiency (EE) of 85.1% at 120 mA/cm2, which is considerably better than pure polymer membrane (VE of 80.5% and EE of 79.4%) and commercial Nafion 212 (VE of 81.3% and EE of 77.4%) membrane, respectively.
Nontargeted metabolomics reveals sequential changes in amino acid and ferroptosis‐related metabolism in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Xu Delai , Dai Jing , Tang Liuxing , Pan Jie , Zhang Hua
Published: February 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is inseparable from metabolic disorders but lacks assessment of specific metabolite alteration. To explore the sequential metabolic changes in PD progression, we evenly divided 78 C57BL/6 mice (10 weeks) into six groups (one control group and five experimental groups) and collected the hippocampus tissue of mice after treating with 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine, and probenecid (twice a week) at five periods (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks) for metabolome analysis. Our study identified 567 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) (total 4348 metabolites). Compared with controls, 145, 146, 171, 208, and 213 DAMs were obtained from the five experimental groups, respectively. Notably, 40 shared DAMs were present in five experimental groups, of which 22 shared DAMs formed a new metabolic network based on amino acid metabolism. Compared with group W3, 84 DAMs were identified in group W5, including 12 unique DAMs. DAMs in different stages of PD were significantly enriched in amino acid metabolism pathway, lipid metabolism pathway, and ferroptosis pathway. l‐Glutamine, spermidine, and l‐tryptophan were the key hubs in the whole metabolic process of PD. N‐Formyl‐l‐methionine gradually increased in abundance with PD progression, whereas 5‐methylcytosine gradually decreased. The study emphasized the sequential changes in DAMs in PD progression, stimulating subsequent studies.
Double‐input triple‐output non‐isolated DC–DC converter based on coupled inductor with high step‐up output voltages
Authors: Saadatizadeh Zahra , Babaei Ebrahim , Hosseini Seyed Hossein
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces a new non‐isolated double‐input triple‐output (DITO) high voltage gain DC–DC converter with a wide range of applications, including hybrid voltage source systems, solar home appliances, DC‐bus power distribution systems, and electrical vehicles (EVs). The proposed DITO converter interfaces two hybrid voltage sources to supply three different output loads with varying voltage and power levels. Compared to conventional converters of the same type, the proposed DITO converter offers several advantages, including operation for all duty cycles, integration of hybrid energy sources to transfer power to multiple loads, high voltage conversion ratio for all three‐output ports, a higher ratio of total voltage gain to total components number, common grounded input and output DC ports, simultaneous DC voltage regulation of three‐output ports by tuning separate controlling parameters of duty cycles, an additional turns ratio of coupled inductors to increase the voltage gain of output ports, and medium voltage stress on switches. The proposed DITO converter utilizes a new single‐switch single‐coupled‐inductor DC–DC structure, which is analyzed and verified through a prototype implementation for 25 and 30 V input voltages and 210, 330, and 400 V output voltages with a total power of 480 W. The experimental results confirm the simulation results and theoretical analysis.
Coupled inductor‐based buck power factor correction (PFC) converter with soft switching
Authors: Ortatepe Zafer , Karaarslan Ahmet , Akgül Hüseyin
Published: February 2024

In this study, couple inductor‐based buck power factor correction (PFC) converter is designed to mitigate dead zones of the converter. To minimize switching losses, all switches are controlled using a soft switching method, eliminating the need for snubber circuits. The circuit is controlled by an analog UC3843 pulse width modulation (PWM) integrated circuit (IC), providing natural PFC capability, which simplifies control and offers advantages in terms of size and cost compared to conventional ones. Simulation studies and prototype implementation are carried out to evaluate performance of the topology. The converter operates within a voltage range of 90–280 Vrms and has a power rating of 150 W. The results from both simulation and experimental analyses indicate that power factor (PF) of the circuit exceeds 98% and total harmonic distortion (THD) of the input current is found to be below 5% under various input voltage and load conditions. Furthermore, proposed topology demonstrated high efficiency, with measurements of 93% at full load and 95.6% at half load under 220 Vrms input voltage and 80 Vdc output voltage conditions. Outcomes highlight that the proposed topology achieves pure sinusoidal input current and exhibits competitive performance compared to other topologies used in the industry.
Application of geochemical tracers for the investigations of groundwater resources in semi‐arid region (Central‐East Tunisia)
Authors: Gammoudi Amal , Trabelsi Rim , Zouari Kamel
Published: February 2024

Groundwater resources in Mahdia‐Ksour Essef region, located in the central‐eastern part of Tunisia, suffer from intensive exploitation and degradation of water quality. The assessment of groundwater vulnerability, the well‐understanding of geochemical processes and the investigation of groundwater quality variations are of particular importance for water resources management in this semi‐arid region. The results of this multi‐disciplinary investigation show that groundwaters of Mahdia‐Ksour Essef region are flowing from El Jem and Boumerdes regions in the South, towards the Mediterranean Sea and the sebkha of Moknine in the North. The groundwaters are classified as either Na‐Cl or Ca‐SO4. Stable oxygen and hydrogen isotope compositions (δ18O and δ2H) confirm a recharge by rapid water infiltration, evaporate surface water and water‐rock interaction processes in the salinity increase. The rock‐water interaction processes of the mineralization of groundwaters include the cation‐exchange reactions and the dissolution of carbonates and evaporate. The high values of the water quality index (WQI) and of the total dissolved solids (TDS) (3.7–11 g/L) of these groundwaters indicate their unsuitability for drinking purpose. Moreover, the combination of the WQI, TDS and nitrate results prove the vulnerability of the studied groundwater to the anthropogenic pollution linked to agriculture and domestic activities and to the salt water contamination.
What do we need in order to successfully treat persons with pathological narcissism? How does change happen? Treatment principles and mechanisms of change emerging from single cases treated by experts: A commentary
Authors: Dimaggio Giancarlo , Weinberg Igor
Published: February 2024

Persons with pathological narcissism (PN) or narcissistic personality disorder present with a wide array of symptoms and social problems. They need effective psychotherapies but empirical evidence for what works with them is mostly lacking. In this issue of the Journal and Clinical Psychology: In Session four authors from different orientations described single cases of patients suffering from different manifestations of PN. In this commentary we reviewed in detail the four cases and tried to distill (a) the treatment principles adopted; (b) the actual mechanisms of therapeutic change. We hope that the list of principles and mechanisms and change we identified here can help both clinicians and researchers develop and test effective options for persons with PN who are difficult to treat but do have chances to change in a meaningful way in treatment.
UBC9‐mediated SUMOylation of Lamin B1 enhances DNA‐damage‐induced nuclear DNA leakage and autophagy after spinal cord injury
Authors: Fan Yun‐peng , Lou Jun‐sheng , Jin Meng‐ran , Zhou Cong‐hui , Shen Hong‐hao , Fu Chun‐yan , Mao Xing‐jia , Chen Ying‐ying , Zhong Jin‐jie , Wang Lin‐lin , Wu Jun‐song
Published: February 2024

Recent studies have shown that nucleophagy can mitigate DNA damage by selectively degrading nuclear components protruding from the nucleus. However, little is known about the role of nucleophagy in neurons after spinal cord injury (SCI). Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence were performed to evaluate the nucleophagy after nuclear DNA damage and leakage in SCI neurons in vivo and NSC34 expression in primary neurons cultured with oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro, as well as the interaction and colocalization of autophagy protein LC3 with nuclear lamina protein Lamin B1. The effect of UBC9, a Small ubiquitin‐related modifier (SUMO) E2 ligase, on Lamin B1 SUMOylation and nucleophagy was examined by siRNA transfection or 2‐D08 (a small‐molecule inhibitor of UBC9), immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. In SCI and OGD injured NSC34 or primary cultured neurons, neuronal nuclear DNA damage induced the SUMOylation of Lamin B1, which was required by the nuclear Lamina accumulation of UBC9. Furthermore, LC3/Atg8, an autophagy‐related protein, directly bound to SUMOylated Lamin B1, and delivered Lamin B1 to the lysosome. Knockdown or suppression of UBC9 with siRNA or 2‐D08 inhibited SUMOylation of Lamin B1 and subsequent nucleophagy and protected against neuronal death. Upon neuronal DNA damage and leakage after SCI, SUMOylation of Lamin B1 is induced by nuclear Lamina accumulation of UBC9. Furthermore, it promotes LC3‐Lamin B1 interaction to trigger nucleophagy that protects against neuronal DNA damage.
Collagen peptides from sturgeon swim bladder prolong the lifespan and healthspan in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Lin , Li Peiyu , Zheng Fuping , Zhu Zhiling , Bai Fan , Gao Ruichang
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Sturgeon is a popular aquaculture species in many countries. Its swim bladder is rich in collagen but has not yet been exploited scientifically.

RESULTS

Collagen peptides (CPs) prepared from sturgeon swim bladder by trypsinolysis had an average molecular weight of 528.5 Da and consisted of 407 peptides, 16.1% of the content of which was GFPGADGSAGPK. The CPs at 25 mg mL‐1 extended the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans by 22.6%, which was significantly higher than the extension achieved by other hydrolysis methods and source materials. They also improved fitness‐related traits (body size, motor capacity, oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and epidermal barrier function), indicating prolonged healthspan. Transcriptome analysis showed that the effect was mediated by the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway, which enhanced stress resistance, the insulin/IGF‐1 pathway, which inhibited protein aggregation, and the NHR‐80/FAT‐6 pathway, which regulated lipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Collagen peptides from sturgeon swim bladder by trypsinolysis prolonged the lifespan and healthspan in C. elegans, and might be promising anti‐aging agents. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Partial Replacement of NaCl with KCl in Cooked Meat Could Reduce the Liver Damage Through Renin–Angiotensin System in Mice
Authors: Zou Lifang , Yu Xia , Xiong Jiahao , Chen Conggui , Xiao Guiran
Published: February 2024

Scope

Dietary salt (sodium chloride, NaCl) is necessary for processed meat products, but intake of a high‐sodium diet carries serious health risks. Considerable studies indicate that the partial substitution of NaCl with potassium chloride (KCl) can produce sodium‐reduced cooked meat. However, most studies of sodium‐reduced cooked meat focus on the production process in vitro, and the effect of cooked meat on health has not been well clarified in vivo.

Methods and results

This study finds that compared to the high‐sodium group (HS), serum renin, angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin (Ang) II, and the levels of some indicators of dyslipidemia are decreased in the reduced salt by partial substitution of NaCl with KCl group (RS + K). Furthermore, RS + K increases the antioxidation abilities, inhibits the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) through ACE/Ang II/Ang II type 1 receptor axis pathway, reduces synthesis of triglyceride and cholesterol and protein expressions of inflammatory factors interleukin‐17A and nuclear factor‐kappa B in the liver.

Conclusion

Partial substitution of NaCl with KCl in cooked meat can be a feasible approach for improving the health benefits and developing novel functional meat products for nutritional health interventions.
A lupin protein hydrolysate protects the central nervous system from oxidative stress in WD‐fed ApoE−/− mice
Authors: Santos‐Sánchez Guillermo , Ponce‐España Eduardo , Álvarez‐López Ana Isabel , Pedroche Justo , Millán‐Linares María del Carmen , Fernández‐Pachón María‐Soledad , Lardone Patricia Judith , Cruz‐Chamorro Ivan , Carrillo‐Vico Antonio
Published: February 2024

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Studies indicate the relationship between oxidative stress and the brain damage caused by a high‐fat diet. It is previously found that a lupin protein hydrolysate (LPH) has antioxidant effects on human leukocytes, as well as on the plasma and liver of Western diet (WD)‐fed ApoE−/− mice. Additionally, LPH shows anxiolytic effects in these mice. Given the connection between oxidative stress and anxiety, this study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of LPH on the brain of WD‐fed ApoE−/− mice. LPH (100 mg kg−1) or a vehicle is administered daily for 12 weeks. Peptide analysis of LPH identified 101 amino acid sequences (36.33%) with antioxidant motifs. Treatment with LPH palliated the decrease in total antioxidant activity caused by WD ingestion and regulated the nitric oxide synthesis pathway in the brain of the animals. Furthermore, LPH increased cerebral glutathione levels and the activity of catalase and glutathione reductase antioxidant enzymes and reduced the 8‐hydroxy‐2’‐deoxyguanosine levels, a DNA damage marker. These findings, for the first time, highlight the antioxidant activity of LPH in the brain. This hydrolysate could potentially be used in future nutraceutical therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Study on the wear characteristics of carbon fiber yarns under the influence of multifactor coupling on braiding carriers
Authors: Ye Yinping , Chi Xinfu , Peng Yongqin , Sun Zhijun , Ji Chengchang , Sun Yize
Published: February 2024

Reducing the wear of carbon fibers on braiding carriers is the key to manufacturing high‐performance carbon fiber composite prefabricated parts. In this study, a new analytical model is developed to describe the local friction behavior of yarns on braiding carriers. The degree of yarn wear is characterized by calculating the gray value of carbon fiber hairiness and observing the micro‐surface morphology of carbon fibers. The wear characteristics of carbon fiber yarns under the multi‐factor coupling influences of yarn tension, unwinding speed, and guiding element characteristics were considered. The results show that increases in unwinding angle and unwinding speed both increase the wear of carbon fiber yarns. Eliminating the effect of unwinding angle can reduce the yarn hairiness by more than 60%, alleviate the yarn tension fluctuation by more than 70%, and improve the yarn tension stability by more than 75%. Meanwhile, the relationship between the wrapping angle between the yarn and the yarn bobbin, the unwinding angle, and the yarn tension was established according to the Capstan Equation. A method is proposed to improve the characteristics and spatial position of the guiding elements to obtain more intact yarn and low‐damage yarn surfaces.

Highlights

A new analytical model for local friction of carbon fibers is developed.

The friction‐wear‐fracture mechanism of carbon fiber yarns is constructed.

Characterize the degree of yarn wear from a macro and micro perspective.

Wear characteristics of carbon fiber yarns under multi‐factor coupling.
Regulation Mechanism of Ash Fusion of Iron‐Rich Coal in Xinjiang with Different Additives
Authors: Lv Junxin , Zhang Jiansheng , Wang Yonggang , Lin Xiongchao , Liao Changlin , Liu Xianghui
Published: February 2024

To realize the high‐efficiency utilization of iron‐rich coal (ZC), it is necessary to conduct in‐depth research on its ash fusion characteristics and regulation mechanism. In this paper, the fusion temperature test of ZC coal ash was first carried out in a weak reducing atmosphere, and diatomite (GZT) and Naomaohu high‐calcium coal (NMH) were selected as additives. The results show that the four characteristic temperatures of ZC coal ash are all low under weak reducing conditions. The addition of NMH ash lowered the fusion temperature of ZC coal ash, while the GZT ash increased the fusion temperature to varying degrees. When the addition ratio of NMH ash is less than 40 %, the effect of increasing the difference between the deformation temperature and flow temperature of ZC coal ash is still positive. The addition of NMH ash made the slag system generate a high content of calcium‐magnesium feldspar and calcium‐iron feldspar, decreasing the fusion temperature of the blended coal ash. The addition of GZT ash increased the content of SiO2 in the slag system and promoted the increase of the iron‐pyroxene content, and the formation of the iron‐aluminum pyroxene and cordierite mineral phases, thereby increasing the coal ash fusion temperature.
Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Remediation of Carcinogenic Anthracene and Phenanthrene by green Synthesized N‐doped Prussian blue Analogues
Authors: Rani Manviri , Choudhary Sudha , Shanker Uma
Published: February 2024

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are classified as priority pollutants because of their persistent nature, carcinogenicity, and mutagenicity; therefore, they must be eliminated. Herein, synthesis of nitrogen‐doped metal hexacyanoferrate nanoparticles (N−MHCF; M=Cu, Zn) was achieved using the green protocol in co‐precipitation techniques for the oxidative removal of PAH pollutants, namely, anthracene (ANT) and phenanthrene (PHE). PXRD and XPS analysis confirmed the doping of Nitrogen in MHCF nanocomposite. The optimum conditions, concentration of PAHs (10 mg L−1), and catalyst dose (20 mg) at neutral pH under sunlight to eliminate PAHs were reported. The degradation followed the Langmuir model and Ist‐order kinetics. The highest photodegraFdation was found for N−CuHCF (ANT: 95 %; PHE: 93 %), as compared to N−ZnHCF (ANT: 90 %; PHE: 87 %), which might be due to a high negative zeta charge (−30.3 mV), surface area, and lower band gap energy (1.7 eV). The GC‐MS technique showed that photocatalysts (N−MHCF) break down PAH contaminants into minor metabolites in exposure to solar irradiation. Up to eight consecutive cycles of use were possible with nanocomposites without any appreciable decrease in activity. Largely because of favorable surface characteristics, N−MHCF nanostructure fabricated via the green method is of great importance with a bright future in industries.