bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Soluble ‘Ba(Ni-ett)’ (ett = 1,1,2,2-Ethenetetrathiolate) Derived Thermoelectric Material
Authors: Hu Yaoyang , Rivers Geoffrey , Weir Michael P. , Amabilino David B. , Tuck Christopher J. , Wildman Ricky D. , Makarovsky Oleg , Woodward Simon
Published: September 2023

We describe the synthesis and characterisation of the first of a new class of soluble ladder oligomeric thermoelectric material based on previously unutilised ethene-1,1,2,2-tetrasulfonic acid. Reaction of Ba(OH)2 and propionic acid at a 1:1 stoichiometry leads to the formation of the previously unrecognised soluble [Ba(OH)(O2CEt)]⋅H2O. The latter when used to hydrolyse 1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene-2,5-dione (TPD), in the presence of NiCl2, forms a new material whose elemental composition is in accord with the formula [(EtCO2Ba)4Ni8{(O3S)2C = C(SO3)2}5]⋅22H2O (4). Compound 4 can be pressed into pellets, drop-cast as DMSO solutions or ink-jet printed (down to sub-mm resolutions). While its room temperature thermoelectric properties are modest (σmax 0.04 S cm−1 and Seebeck coefficient, αmax − 25.8 μV K−1) we introduce a versatile new oligomeric material that opens new possible synthetic routes for n-type thermoelectrics.

Graphical Abstract
The Influence of Selected Insecticides on the Oxidative Response of Atta sexdens (Myrmicinae, Attini) Workers
Authors: Poiani Silvana Beani , Dobeš Pavel , Kunc Martin , Pereira Mayara Cristina , Bueno Odair Correa , Hyršl Pavel
Published: September 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated as products of normal cellular metabolic activities; however, the use of pesticides to control leafcutter ants leads to unbalanced ROS production. We evaluated the effects of two insecticides (fipronil, sulfluramid) and metallic insecticide complex (magnesium complex [Mg(hesp)2(phen)] (1)) on the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and the overall antioxidant capacity using two different methodologies: total radical-trapping potential (TRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Media workers of Atta sexdens (C. Linnaeus) were exposed to the insecticides for 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h before their fat bodies were dissected for analysis. The results showed that although the sulfluramid may cause the production of ROS, its slow action in the organism does not lead to oxidative stress. There is a rise in oxidative stress in workers of leafcutter ants treated with fipronil because SOD significantly increased when compared to the control group. On the other hand, Mg1-complex suppressed both GSH and SOD, indicating that the immune system may be affected by Mg1-complex, which has a delayed activity ideal for its use in chemical pest control. Both TRAP and ORAC evaluated total antioxidant capacities; however, ORAC proved to be a more sensitive method. In conclusion, the Mg1-complex is a new compound that should be further investigated as a potential replacement for fipronil and sulfluramid in pest control.
From Natural Towards Representative Decision Making in Sports: A Framework for Decision Making in Virtual and Augmented Environments
Authors: Janssen Tim , Müller Daniel , Mann David L.
Published: September 2023

Decision making is vital in complex sporting tasks but is difficult to test and train. New technologies such as virtual and augmented reality offer novel opportunities for improving decision making, yet it remains unclear whether training gains using these new approaches will improve decision making on-field. To clarify the potential benefits, a clear conceptualization of decision making is required, particularly for invasive team sports such as football, basketball and field hockey, where decisions are complex with many possible options offered. Therefore, the aim of this position paper is to establish a framework for the design of virtual and augmented environments that help invasive team sport athletes to train their decision-making capacities. To achieve this, we propose a framework for conceptualising ‘natural’ decision making within the performance environment in invasive team sports that views decision making as a continuous cyclical process where the ball carrier interacts with teammates to create ‘windows of opportunity’, and where skilled decision makers often delay decisions to create time, and in turn new opportunities, rather than necessarily selecting the first option available to them. Within the framework, we make a distinction between decision making and anticipation, proposing that decision making requires a series of on-going anticipatory judgments. Based on the framework, we subsequently highlight the consequences for testing and training decision making using virtual and augmented reality environments, in particular outlining the technological challenges that need to be overcome for natural decision making to be represented within virtual and augmented environments.
Estimates for evolutionary partial differential equations in classical function spaces
Authors: Castro Alejandro J. , Israelsson Anders , Staubach Wolfgang , Yerlanov Madi
Published: September 2023

We establish new local and global estimates for evolutionary partial differential equations in classical Banach and quasi-Banach spaces that appear most frequently in the theory of partial differential equations. More specifically, we obtain optimal (local in time) estimates for the solution to the Cauchy problem for variable-coefficient evolutionary partial differential equations. The estimates are achieved by introducing the notions of Schrödinger and general oscillatory integral operators with inhomogeneous phase functions and prove sharp local and global regularity results for these in Besov–Lipschitz and Triebel–Lizorkin spaces.
Decolonization of Global Health Law: Lessons from International Environmental Law
Authors: Phelan Alexandra L. , Sirleaf Matiangai
Published: September 2023

Global health law for pandemics currently lacks legal obligations to ensure distributional and reparative justice. In contrast, international environmental law contains several novel international legal mechanisms aimed at addressing the effects of colonialism and global injustices that arise from the disproportionate contributions to — and impacts of — climate change and biodiversity loss.
Adolescent psychological adjustment and social supports during pandemic-onset remote learning: A national multi-wave daily-diary study
Authors: Wang Ming-Te , Scanlon Christina L. , Del Toro Juan , Qin Xu
Published: September 2023

In spring 2020, U.S. schools universally transitioned to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset, thus creating a natural experiment for examining adolescents’ risk and resilience during an ongoing school crisis response. This longitudinal study used a daily-diary approach to investigate the role of social support in the link between remote learning and psychological well-being across 64 days among a national sample of adolescents (n = 744; 42% Black, 36% White, 22% Other ethnicity/race; 41% boys; 72% eligible for free/reduced-priced lunch; Mage=14.60, SDage=1.71, age-range = 12–17 years). On days when youth attended remote learning, they reported lower daily positive affect, more daily stress, and higher parent social support. There were no significant differences in the effect of remote learning on affect or stress by race or economic status. On days when youth experienced more parent support, they reported lower daily stress and negative affect and higher daily positive affect. On days when youth experienced more peer support, they reported higher daily positive affect. Overall, the study highlights the impact of pandemic-onset remote learning on adolescents’ psychological well-being and emphasizes the need for future research on school crisis contingency planning to address these challenges.
Sino–Japanese third-party market cooperation: asymmetries of economic diplomacy and politico-economic gaps
Authors: Zhang Muhui
Published: September 2023

In the wake of the intensifying Sino–Japanese rivalry in Asia, a new third-party market cooperation (TPMC) framework emerged in late 2018. The new mechanism was inaugurated around the time of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Beijing, displaying new attempts at Sino–Japanese economic diplomacy. Nonetheless, this article highlights the absence of major cooperative outcomes and suggests a pessimistic vision of TPMC's future, as three pairs of politico-economic gaps have led to asymmetries in the approaches adopted by China and Japan. First, a government-to-government policy asymmetry occurred between China's initiatives and Japan's responsiveness, as the latter merely utilized the TPMC as a temporary diplomatic tool to restore bilateral relations in late 2018 and appeared to have lost its policy momentum in the following years. Second, asymmetries in business modes and investment management between the two countries' enterprises have led to technical barriers in materializing the two governments' agreements into specific TPMC business collaboration. This study illustrated a project of Sino–Japanese collaboration in building a high-speed railway in Thailand, and saw this failed case as a warning for existing gaps of commercial modes. Third, both countries are now confronted with domestic underdeveloped public–private partnerships between state and private sectors. This article also aims to provide some policy-oriented implications for steadily implementing the Sino–Japanese TPMC in the future.
Sprachentwicklung über die Lebensspanne
Authors: Kauschke Christina , Marschik Peter B.
Published: September 2023

Zusammenfassung: Im Laufe ihrer Entwicklung eignen sich Kinder Sprache als komplexes Regelsystem und als Kommunikationsmittel an. Der Erwerb dieser Kompetenzen ist ein vielschichtiger Prozess, der die Spracherwerbsforschung seit Langem beschäftigt. In jeder Lebensphase stehen spezifische Erwerbsaufgaben im Vordergrund: Säuglinge können das Sprachangebot erstaunlich effizient verarbeiten und bereiten sich mit verschiedenen Formen von Vokalisationen schrittweise auf das Sprechen vor. Im Kleinkind- und Vorschulalter erwerben Kinder die Aussprache, den Wortschatz und die Grammatik ihrer Umgebungssprache, wobei sie charakteristische Entwicklungssequenzen durchlaufen. Im Laufe des Schul- und Jugendalters werden die Sprachfähigkeiten erweitert und in vielfältigen Situationen und Lernkontexten angewandt. Sprache spielt eine entscheidende Rolle für eine gesunde Gesamtentwicklung, soziale Integration und einen erfolgreichen Bildungsweg. Dieser Beitrag vermittelt einen kurzen chronologischen Abriss des Spracherwerbs im Deutschen vom Säuglings- bis zum Jugendalter und führt in den Themenschwerpunkt ein.
GREB1 isoform 4 is specifically transcribed by MITF and required for melanoma proliferation
Authors: Shinzawa Koei , Matsumoto Shinji , Sada Ryota , Harada Akikazu , Saitoh Kaori , Kato Keiko , Ikeda Satsuki , Hirayama Akiyoshi , Yokoi Kazunori , Tanemura Atsushi , Nimura Keisuke , Ikawa Masahito , Soga Tomoyoshi , Kikuchi Akira
Published: September 2023

Growth regulation by estrogen in breast cancer 1 (GREB1) is involved in hormone-dependent and -independent tumor development (e.g., hepatoblastoma). In this study, we found that a GREB1 splicing variant, isoform 4 (Is4), which encodes C-terminal half of full-length GREB1, is specifically expressed via microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) in melanocytic melanoma, and that two MITF-binding E-box CANNTG motifs at the 5’-upstream region of GREB1 exon 19 are necessary for GREB1 Is4 transcription. MITF and GREB1 Is4 were strongly co-expressed in approximately 20% of the melanoma specimens evaluated (17/89 cases) and their expression was associated with tumor thickness. GREB1 Is4 silencing reduced melanoma cell proliferation in association with altered expression of cell proliferation-related genes in vitro. In addition, GREB1 Is4 targeting by antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) decreased melanoma xenograft tumor formation and GREB1 Is4 expression in a BRAFV600E; PTENflox melanoma mouse model promoted melanoma formation, demonstrating the crucial role of GREB1 Is4 for melanoma proliferation in vivo. GREB1 Is4 bound to CAD, the rate-limiting enzyme of pyrimidine metabolism, and metabolic flux analysis revealed that GREBI Is4 is necessary for pyrimidine synthesis. These results suggest that MITF-dependent GREB1 Is4 expression leads to melanoma proliferation and GREB1 Is4 represents a new molecular target in melanoma.
Reducing intrusive memories after trauma via an imagery-competing task intervention in COVID-19 intensive care staff: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Iyadurai Lalitha , Highfield Julie , Kanstrup Marie , Markham Alfred , Ramineni Varsha , Guo Boliang , Jaki Thomas , Kingslake Jonathan , Goodwin Guy M. , Summers Charlotte , Bonsall Michael B. , Holmes Emily A.
Published: September 2023

Intrusive memories (IMs) after traumatic events can be distressing and disrupt mental health and functioning. We evaluated the impact of a brief remotely-delivered digital imagery-competing task intervention on the number of IMs for intensive care unit (ICU) staff who faced repeated trauma exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic using a two-arm, parallel-group, single-blind randomised controlled trial, with the comparator arm receiving delayed access to active treatment (crossover). Eligible participants worked clinically in a UK NHS ICU during the pandemic and had at least 3 IMs of work-related traumatic events in the week before recruitment. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to immediate (weeks 1–4) or delayed (weeks 5–8) intervention access. Sequential Bayesian analyses to optimise the intervention and increase trial efficiency are reported elsewhere [1]. The primary endpoint for the pre-specified frequentist analysis of the final study population compared the number of IMs experienced in week 4 between the immediate and delayed access arms. Secondary outcomes included clinical symptoms, work functioning and wellbeing. Safety was assessed throughout the trial by scheduled questions and free report. All analyses were undertaken on an intention-to-treat basis (86 randomised participants). There were significantly fewer intrusive memories during week 4 in the immediate (median = 1, IQR = 0–3,n = 43), compared to the comparator delayed arm (median = 10, IQR = 6–17,n = 43), IRR 0.31, 95% CI: 0.20–0.48,p < 0.001. After crossover, the delayed arm also showed a significant reduction in IMs at week 8 compared to week 4. There were convergent findings for symptoms of PTSD, insomnia and anxiety, work engagement and burnout, general functioning and quality of life. The intervention was found safe and acceptable to participants. All adverse events were unrelated to the study. Our study provides the first evidence of a benefit on reducing IMs, improving other clinical symptoms, work functioning and wellbeing, as well as safety of a brief remotely-delivered digital imagery-competing task intervention. An efficacy trial with an active control and longer follow-up is warranted. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04992390).
Genome-wide analysis of anorexia nervosa and major psychiatric disorders and related traits reveals genetic overlap and identifies novel risk loci for anorexia nervosa
Authors: Bang Lasse , Bahrami Shahram , Hindley Guy , Smeland Olav B. , Rødevand Linn , Jaholkowski Piotr P. , Shadrin Alexey , Connell Kevin S. O’ , Frei Oleksandr , Lin Aihua , Rahman Zillur , Cheng Weiqiu , Parker Nadine , Fan Chun C. , Dale Anders M. , Djurovic Srdjan , Bulik Cynthia M. , Andreassen Ole A.
Published: September 2023

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a heritable eating disorder (50–60%) with an array of commonly comorbid psychiatric disorders and related traits. Although significant genetic correlations between AN and psychiatric disorders and related traits have been reported, their shared genetic architecture is largely understudied. We investigated the shared genetic architecture of AN and schizophrenia (SCZ), bipolar disorder (BIP), major depression (MD), mood instability (Mood), neuroticism (NEUR), and intelligence (INT). We applied the conditional false discovery rate (FDR) method to identify novel risk loci for AN, and conjunctional FDR to identify loci shared between AN and related phenotypes, to summarize statistics from relevant genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Individual GWAS samples varied from 72,517 to 420,879 participants. Using conditional FDR we identified 58 novel AN loci. Furthermore, we identified 38 unique loci shared between AN and major psychiatric disorders (SCZ, BIP, and MD) and 45 between AN and psychological traits (Mood, NEUR, and INT). In line with genetic correlations, the majority of shared loci showed concordant effect directions. Functional analyses revealed that the shared loci are involved in 65 unique pathways, several of which overlapped across analyses, including the “signal by MST1” pathway involved in Hippo signaling. In conclusion, we demonstrated genetic overlap between AN and major psychiatric disorders and related traits, and identified novel risk loci for AN by leveraging this overlap. Our results indicate that some shared characteristics between AN and related disorders and traits may have genetic underpinnings.
Multiomic interpretation of fungus-infected ant metabolomes during manipulated summit disease
Authors: Will I. , Attardo G. M. , de Bekker C.
Published: September 2023

Camponotus floridanusants show altered behaviors followed by a fatal summiting phenotype when infected with manipulatingOphiocordyceps camponoti-floridanifungi. Host summiting as a strategy to increase transmission is also observed with parasite taxa beyond fungi, including aquatic and terrestrial helminths and baculoviruses. The drastic phenotypic changes can sometimes reflect significant molecular changes in gene expression and metabolite concentrations measured in manipulated hosts. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms still need to be fully characterized. To investigate the small molecules producing summiting behavior, we infectedC. floridanusants withO. camponoti-floridaniand sampled their heads for LC–MS/MS when we observed the characteristic summiting phenotype. We link this metabolomic data with our previous genomic and transcriptomic data to propose mechanisms that underlie manipulated summiting behavior in “zombie ants.” This “multiomic” evidence points toward the dysregulation of neurotransmitter levels and neuronal signaling. We propose that these processes are altered during infection and manipulation based on (1) differential expression of neurotransmitter synthesis and receptor genes, (2) altered abundance of metabolites and neurotransmitters (or their precursors) with known behavioral effects in ants and other insects, and (3) possible suppression of a connected immunity pathway. We additionally report signals for metabolic activity during manipulation related to primary metabolism, detoxification, and anti-stress protectants. Taken together, these findings suggest that host manipulation is likely a multi-faceted phenomenon, with key processes changing at multiple levels of molecular organization.
Last glacial hydroclimate variability in the Yucatán Peninsula not just driven by ITCZ shifts
Authors: Travis-Taylor Leah , Medina-Elizalde Martín , Karmalkar Ambarish V. , Polanco-Martinez Josué , Serrato Marks Gabriela , Burns Stephen , Lases-Hernández Fernanda , McGee David
Published: September 2023

We reconstructed hydroclimate variability in the Yucatán Peninsula (YP) based on stalagmite oxygen and carbon isotope records from a well-studied cave system located in the northeastern YP, a region strongly influenced by Caribbean climate dynamics. The new stalagmite isotopic records span the time interval between 43 and 26.6 ka BP, extending a previously published record from the same cave system covering the interval between 26.5 and 23.2 ka BP. Stalagmite stable isotope records show dominant decadal and multidecadal variability, and weaker variability on millennial timescales. These records suggest significant precipitation declines in the broader Caribbean region during Heinrich events 4 and 3 of ice-rafted discharge into the North Atlantic, in agreement with the antiphase pattern of precipitation variability across the equator suggested by previous studies. On millennial timescales, the stalagmite isotope records do not show the distinctive saw-tooth pattern of climate variability observed in Greenland during Dansgaard–Oeschger (DO) events, but a pattern similar to North Atlantic sea surface temperature (SST) variability. We propose that shifts in the mean position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), per se, are not the dominant driver of last glacial hydroclimate variability in the YP on millennial timescales but instead that North Atlantic SSTs played a dominant role. Our results support a negative climate feedback mechanism whereby large low latitude precipitation deficits resulting from AMOC slowdown would lead to elevated salinity in the Caribbean and ultimately help reactivate AMOC and Caribbean precipitation. However, because of the unique drivers of future climate in the region, predicted twenty-first century YP precipitation reductions are unlikely to be modulated by this negative feedback mechanism.
Long-term efficacy and safety of adjunctive perampanel in pediatric patients aged 4–19 years with epilepsy: a real-world study
Authors: Youn Song Ee , Kang Hoon-Chul , Lee Joon Soo , Kim Heung Dong , Kim Se Hee
Published: September 2023

This study determined the 24-month outcomes of perampanel treatment in children and adolescents with epilepsy. The percentage of ≥ 50% responders was 47.3% (139/294) at 12 months and 49.0% (144/294) at 24 months. A 100% reduction in seizures for more than 12 months was observed in 12.2% (36/294). Discontinuation occurred in 39.8% (117/294). The most common reason for discontinuation was adverse events (29.1%, 34/117). Baseline seizure frequency was higher in children aged < 12 years than in patients aged ≥ 12 years; however, the percentage of seizure reduction and ≥ 50% responders did not significantly differ between the two groups. The rate of early discontinuation was higher (p < 0.001) and the duration of perampanel treatment was shorter in children aged < 12 years (p = 0.001). Most children aged < 12 years discontinued PER due to inadequate effectiveness, while adverse event was the most common reason in patients aged ≥ 12 years (p = 0.045). Only slow titration was significantly associated with ≥ 50% of responders. In conclusion, this study showed that perampanel can be utilized effectively and safely for a prolonged period in pediatric patients aged 4 to < 12 years, as well as in patients aged 12 years and older.
Prognostic impact of radiotherapy-induced-lymphopenia in patients treated with breast-conservative surgery
Authors: Yoon Chang Ik , Hwang Jawon , Kim Dooreh , Ji Jung Hwan , Lee Janghee , Bae Soong June , Jeong Joon , Chang Jee-Suk , Cho Yeona , Lee Hye Sun , Kim Jee Ye , Ahn Sung Gwe
Published: September 2023

We investigated a prognostic impact of radiotherapy-induced lymphopenia (RIL) in breast cancer patients treated with breast-conservative surgery (BCS). We included 531 breast cancer patients who were treated with BCS and adjuvant radiotherapy. None of these received (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy. Pre- and post- absolute lymphocyte counts (ALC) were reviewed before and after radiotherapy. The primary endpoint was to evaluate recurrence-free survival (RFS) according to the pre-to-post ALC ratio. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors for RIL. Either continuous or categorical (> 2.4) pre-to-post ALC ratio was associated with RFS. In 531 patients receiving whole breast irradiation (WBI) and regional nodal irradiation (RNI), RFS was significantly reduced in the patients with high pre-to-post ALC ration (> 2.4). In multivariable analysis, low pre-to-post post ALC ratio was significantly related to decreased RFS in the multivariable analysis (HR 2.293, 95% CIs 1.110–4.735, P = 0.025). In 452 patients treated with WBI alone, high pre-to-post ALC ratio was still significantly associated with decreased RFS in the multivariable analysis (HR 2.708, 95% CIs 1.016–7.218, P = 0.046). In binary logistic regression analysis, RNI was only significant risk factor for clinically meaningful RIL. Our findings show that a markedly decrease in ALC during radiotherapy has a negative prognostic impact.
Interactions of the male contraceptive target EPPIN with semenogelin-1 and small organic ligands
Authors: Gomes Antoniel A. S. , Santos Natália C. M. , Rosa Leonardo R. , Borges Rafael J. , Fontes Marcos R. M. , Hamil Katherine G. , O’Rand Michael G. , Silva Erick J. R.
Published: September 2023

Novel male contraceptives will promote gender equality in sharing contraceptive responsibility. The sperm-associated protein epididymal protease inhibitor (EPPIN) is a promising target for non-hormonal male contraception. EPPIN interacts with the semen coagulum protein semenogelin-1 (SEMG1) on the sperm surface, leading to transient inhibition of sperm motility after ejaculation. Small organic molecules targeting EPPIN's SEMG1-binding are under development as male contraceptives. Here, we combined computational approaches to uncover key aspects underlying EPPIN binding to SEMG1 and small organic ligands. We generated a human EPPIN model showing a typical arrangement of the WFDC (Whey-acid four disulfide core)-type and Kunitz-type domains, connected by a hinge region. Determining the EPPIN model's intrinsic motion by molecular dynamics simulations and normal mode analysis revealed a conformation, presenting a binding pocket that accommodates SEMG1Glu229-Gln247, EP055, and EP012. EPPIN's residues Phe63 and Lys68 (WFDC domain), Asp71 (hinge region), and Asn113, Asn114, and Asn115 (Kunitz domain) were identified as hot spots for SEMG1, EP055, and EP012 binding. Moreover, hydrophobic and hydrophilic residues in the WFDC and Kunitz domains allow plasma membrane anchoring, orienting the EPPIN binding pocket to the solvent. Targeting EPPIN's essential residues for its biomolecular interactions may improve the rational design of EPPIN ligands as spermiostatic compounds.
The hemodynamics of adrenal veins with four-dimensional computed tomography using quantitative time-density curve: a study based on aldosteronism patients
Authors: He Xi , Sueyoshi Eijun , Nagayama Hiroki , Koike Hirofumi , Uetani Masataka
Published: September 2023

Present study quantitatively analyzed adrenal venous flow using four-dimensional computed tomography (4D CT). We reviewed 4D CT images of 55 patients [mean age, 52 years ± 11 (standard deviation); 23 females] who underwent adrenal venous sampling between August 2017 and February 2021. Time–density curves were referred for the adrenal venous enhancement. The clinical factors affecting hemodynamics were assessed using uni- and multivariate linear regression analyses. The right and left adrenal veins (RAV and LAV, respectively) were visualized in all cases. Mean peak enhancement values in RAV and LAV were 247 ± 67 and 292 ± 70 Hounsfield units (P < 0.01), and were reached at 44.43 ± 6.86 and 45.39 ± 7.53 s (P < 0.01), respectively. The body mass index (BMI), plasma renin activity and potassium were significant factors influencing the peak enhancement of RAV blood flow [standardized regression coefficients, − 0.327 (P = 0.017), − 0.346 (P = 0.013), 0.426 (P = 0.016), respectively]. A linear relationship between sex and the time-to-peak was observed for RAV [standardized regression coefficient, 0.348 (P = 0.046)]. RAV had a lower contrast effect than LAV and reached its peak faster. BMI, plasma renin activity, and potassium were associated with flow density in RAV. Sex independently influenced the time-to-peak.
Cost-effective, portable, patient-dedicated three-dimensional automated breast ultrasound for point-of-care breast cancer screening
Authors: Park Claire Keun Sun , Trumpour Tiana , Aziz Amal , Bax Jeffrey Scott , Tessier David , Gardi Lori , Fenster Aaron
Published: September 2023

Breast cancer screening has substantially reduced mortality across screening populations. However, a clinical need persists for more accessible, cost-effective, and robust approaches for increased-risk and diverse patient populations, especially those with dense breasts where screening mammography is suboptimal. We developed and validated a cost-effective, portable, patient-dedicated three-dimensional (3D) automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) system for point-of-care breast cancer screening. The 3D ABUS system contains a wearable, rapid-prototype 3D-printed dam assembly, a compression assembly, and a computer-driven 3DUS scanner, adaptable to any commercially available US machine and transducer. Acquisition is operator-agnostic, involves a 40-second scan time, and provides multiplanar 3D visualization for whole-breast assessment. Geometric reconstruction accuracy was evaluated with a 3D grid phantom and tissue-mimicking breast phantoms, demonstrating linear measurement and volumetric reconstruction errors < 0.2 mm and < 3%, respectively. The system’s capability was demonstrated in a healthy male volunteer and two healthy female volunteers, representing diverse patient geometries and breast sizes. The system enables comfortable ultrasonic coupling and tissue stabilization, with adjustable compression to improve image quality while alleviating discomfort. Moreover, the system effectively mitigates breathing and motion, since its assembly affixes directly onto the patient. While future studies are still required to evaluate the impact on current clinical practices and workflow, the 3D ABUS system shows potential for adoption as an alternative, cost-effective, dedicated point-of-care breast cancer screening approach for increased-risk populations and limited-resource settings.
CD31 defines a subpopulation of human adipose-derived regenerative cells with potent angiogenic effects
Authors: Dhumale Pratibha , Nielsen Jakob Vennike , Hansen Anne Cathrine Schmidt , Burton Mark , Beck Hans Christian , Jørgensen Mads Gustaf , Toyserkani Navid Mohamadpour , Haahr Martha Kirstine , Hansen Sabrina Toft , Lund Lars , Thomassen Mads , Sørensen Jens Ahm , Andersen Ditte Caroline , Jensen Charlotte Harken , Sheikh Søren Paludan
Published: September 2023

Cellular heterogeneity represents a major challenge for regenerative treatment using freshly isolated Adipose Derived Regenerative Cells (ADRCs). Emerging data suggest superior efficacy of ADRCs as compared to the ex vivo expanded and more homogeneous ADRCs (= ASCs) for indications involving (micro)vascular deficiency, however, it remains unknown which ADRC cell subtypes account for the improvement. Surprisingly, we found regarding erectile dysfunction (ED) that the number of injected CD31+  ADRCs correlated positively with erectile function 12 months after one bolus of autologous ADRCs. Comprehensive in vitro and ex vivo analyses confirmed superior pro-angiogenic and paracrine effects of human CD31+ enriched ADRCs compared to the corresponding CD31− and parent ADRCs. When CD31+, CD31− and ADRCs were co-cultured in aortic ring- and corpus cavernous tube formation assays, the CD31+  ADRCs induced significantly higher tube development. This effect was corroborated using conditioned medium (CM), while quantitative mass spectrometric analysis suggested that this is likely explained by secretory pro-angiogenic proteins including DKK3, ANGPT2, ANAX2 and VIM, all enriched in CD31+  ADRC CM. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that transcripts of the upregulated and secreted proteins were present in 9 endothelial ADRC subsets including endothelial progenitor cells in the heterogenous non-cultured ADRCs. Our data suggest that the vascular benefit of using ADRCs in regenerative medicine is dictated by CD31+  ADRCs.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum as a novel platform for production and purification of integral membrane proteins using RseP as the benchmark
Authors: Kristensen Sofie S. , Lukassen Marie V. , Siebenhaar Suzana , Diep Dzung B. , Morth J. Preben , Mathiesen Geir
Published: September 2023

The present study describes a detailed procedure for expressing and purifying the integral membrane protein RseP using the pSIP system and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum as an expression host. RseP is a membrane-bound site-2-protease and a known antibacterial target in multiple human pathogens. In the present study, we screened five RseP orthologs from Gram-positive bacteria and found RseP from Enterococcus faecium (EfmRseP) to yield the highest protein levels. The production conditions were optimized and EfmRseP was purified by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography followed by size-exclusion chromatography. The purification resulted in an overall yield of approximately 1 mg of pure protein per 3 g of wet-weight cell pellet. The structural integrity of the purified protein was confirmed using circular dichroism. We further assessed the expression and purification of RseP from E. faecium in the Gram-negative Escherichia coli. Detection of soluble protein failed in two of the three E. coli strains tested. Purification of EfmRseP expressed in E. coli C43(DE3) resulted in a protein with lower purity compared to EfmRseP expressed in L. plantarum. To our knowledge, this is the first time L. plantarum and the pSIP expression system have been applied for the production of membrane proteins.
Vaginal reconstruction with a double-sided biomembrane—a preclinical experimental study on large animals
Authors: Xiao Yanlai , Zhang Jingkun , Tian Yanpeng , Zhang Mingle , Du Yanfang , Meng Li , Liu Yibin , Zhang Zhiqiang , Qiu Linzi , Chen Yanyan , Dong Qun , Chen Liang , Gao Jingui , Zheng Jiahua , Li Zhongkang , Li Qian , Dai Jianwu , Huang Xianghua
Published: September 2023

In brief, a portion of the vagina (4 cm) was removed in minipigs and replaced with an equal-sized DBM. The neovagina finally showed no significant difference from the normal vagina.
Multivalency-enhanced enzyme inhibitors with biomolecule-responsive activity
Authors: Ding Fan , Li Xinrui , Chen Xu , Ma Yue , Pan Guoqing
Published: September 2023

This work reports a polymeric adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-responsive trypsin inhibitor.
Phosphorylated amelogenin N-terminal peptides regulate calcite crystal cluster formation in a water–acetonitrile system
Authors: Zou Wenwu , Lin Yutao , Xie Zhenze , Lin Yingxin , Du Chang
Published: September 2023

The function of phosphorylated organic additives can be enhanced by changing the secondary structure of the organic matrix which may provide a new strategy for novel crystal synthesis.
Tailoring D–π–A architectures with hybridized local and charge transfer fluorophores exhibiting high electroluminescence exciton utilization and low threshold amplified spontaneous emission
Authors: Ma Lin , Yu Yue , Zhong Daokun , Zhu Chunrong , Yang Xiaolong , Feng Zhao , Zhou Guijiang , Wu Zhaoxin
Published: September 2023

For the organic laser materials which could both use 25% singlet and 75% triplet excitons as the energy source, there’s a trade-off between the high radiative rate of the local-excited state and high exciton utilization of the charge-transfer state.
Phenol, the simplest aromatic monohydroxy alcohol, displays a faint Debye-like process when mixed with a nonassociating liquid
Authors: Hoffmann Lars , Beerwerth Joachim , Moch Kevin , Böhmer Roland
Published: September 2023

Hydrogen-bonding in phenol, solvated in propylene carbonate, generates a weak supramolecular Debye process resembling that of aliphatic monohydroxy alcohols.
Controlling polymorph selection during nucleation by tuning the structure of metallic melts
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Junjie , Wang Zhijun , Wang Jincheng
Published: September 2023

Distinct free energy surfaces and kinetic nucleation pathways for metallic Al and Cu.
The crucial role of silver(i)-salts as additives in C–H activation reactions: overall analysis of their versatility and applicability
Authors: de Carvalho Renato L. , Diogo Emilay B. T. , Homölle Simon L. , Dana Suman , da Silva Júnior Eufrânio N. , Ackermann Lutz
Published: September 2023

This review discusses the important role of silver(i) salts as additives in transition-metal catalyzed C–H activation, and depicts the discussion about the current shift towards Ag-free procedures, as plausible and sustainable alternatives.
Correction: Non-catalytic proteins as promising detoxifiers in lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment: unveiling the mechanism for enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Madadi Meysam , Song Guojie , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Aghbashlo Mortaza , Sun Chihe , Sun Fubao , Tabatabaei Meisam
Published: September 2023

Correction for ‘Non-catalytic proteins as promising detoxifiers in lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment: unveiling the mechanism for enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis’ by Meysam Madadi et al., Green Chem., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3gc01718d.
Facile preparation of a hydrophobic intumescent flame retardant toward simultaneously enhanced flame retardancy and smoke suppression of thermoplastic polyurethane
Authors: Yuan Bihe , Wang Pengcheng , Fang Quan , Yang Man , Liu Xiaoyong , Tan Zhezhe , Ding Qingquan , Zhang Guangyi , Qi Congrui , Gao Zeyang , Mei Jiayi
Published: September 2023

In this work, a hydrophobic intumescent flame retardant (HIFR) based on ammonium polyphosphate (APP), tannic acid (TA), CuO and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was fabricated via an aqueous phase reaction.
Different morphologies on Cu–Ce/TiO2 catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 and DRIFTS study on sol–gel nanoparticles
Authors: Zhuang Ke , Jin Pengkai , Yang Liu , Yao Jie , Yu Lemeng , Sheng Zhongyi , Chu Xinyue , Zhuang Zhipeng , Chen Xiongbo
Published: September 2023

Cu–Ce/TiO2 with different morphologies were prepared and the reaction route on sol–gel nanoparticles was purposed.
Effect of tailoring π-linkers with extended conjugation on the SJ-IC molecule for achieving high VOC and improved charge mobility towards enhanced photovoltaic applications
Authors: Zubair Hira , Mahmood Rana Farhat , Waqas Muhammad , Ishtiaq Mariam , Iqbal Javed , Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A. , Sayed Shaban R. M. , Noor Sadia , Khera Rasheed Ahmad
Published: September 2023

In this quantum chemical approach, we studied the effect of inserting various π-linkers to reveal the photovoltaic properties of SJ-IC. Results showed that the newly proposed molecules outperformed the reference SJ-IC in the context of photovoltaic properties.
Multifunctional ternary ZnMgFe LDH as an efficient adsorbent for ceftriaxone sodium and antimicrobial agent: sustainability of adsorption waste as a catalyst for methanol electro-oxidation
Authors: Mohamed Hala , Mahmoud Rehab , Abdelwahab Abdalla , Farghali Ahmed A. , Abo El-Ela Fatma I. , Allah Abeer Enaiet
Published: September 2023

ZnMgFe LDH acts as active nano adsorbent for the removal of CTX. The spent adsorbent ZnMgFe LDH/CTX was reused as an electro-catalyst for methanol fuel cell application. In addition, ZnMgFe LDH displays promising antibacterial activity of against several harmful bacterial and fungal strains.
Coupling effect of reaction conditions on the catalytic activity of Cu–Mn composite oxide catalysts for toluene
Authors: Wang Yungang , Liang Xu , Dai Yanjun , Zou Li , Sun Dou , Li Feixiang
Published: September 2023

The toluene catalytic combustion for Cu–Mn/SBA-15 followed both the MVK and L–H mechanism, but the proportion of both reaction mechanisms varied according to the content of Oads and Olatt in the catalysts.
Anomalous catalytic and antibacterial activity confirmed by molecular docking analysis of silver and polyacrylic acid doped CeO2 nanostructures
Authors: Ikram Muhammad , Karim Rizwan , Haider Ali , Shahzadi Anum , Algaradah Mohammed M. , Ul-Hamid Anwar , Nabgan Walid , Fouda Ahmed M. , Ali Salamat
Published: September 2023

This research presents the novel synthesis of CeO2 nanostructures (NSs) doped with a fixed amount of capping agent (polyacrylic acid-PAA) and different concentrations (0.01 and 0.03) of silver (Ag).
N/O Co-doped hierarchical nanoporous biochar derived from waste polypropylene nonwoven for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Geng Yihao , Wang Jieni , Wang Qizhao , Chen Xuanyu , Sun Sainan , Zhang Shuqin , Tian Yijun , Liu Chenxiao , Wang Lin , Wei Zhangdong , Cao Leichang , Zhang Jinglai , Zhang Shicheng
Published: September 2023

How to efficiently treat municipal solid waste (MSW) has become one of the critical solutions in response to the call for “carbon neutrality”.
Combinatorial mixtures of organic solutes for improved liquid/liquid extraction of ions
Authors: Liu Shu , Wei An-Tsun , Wang Hui , Van Winkle David , Lenhert Steven
Published: September 2023

Bayesian optimization of organic solutes for improving liquid/liquid extraction of ions.
Virus-like particles nanoreactors: from catalysis towards bio-applications
Authors: Su Yuqing , Liu Beibei , Huang Zhenkun , Teng Zihao , Yang Liulin , Zhu Jie , Huo Shuaidong , Liu Aijie
Published: September 2023

Virus-like particles (VLPs) are self-assembled supramolecular structures in nature for compartmentalization. We summarize the current progress of protein cage nanoreactors spanning multilength scales, and highlight the emerging field of VLP based nanoreactors for biomedical applications.
Effects of Auditory Training in Older Adults
Authors: Lai C.-Y. Yvonne , Ng P. S. , Chan Alice H. D. , Wong Francis C. K.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

This study examines the effects of an auditory training program on the auditory and cognitive abilities of older adults. Auditory rehabilitation programs are generally designed for hearing aid users, and studies have demonstrated benefits for them. In this study, we seek to understand whether such a training program can also benefit older adults who do not wear hearing aids. We also examined if cognitive benefits can indeed be observed as a result of the training.

Method:

Sixty-four older adults were recruited and assigned into three groups: the experimental group (
n
= 20), the active control group (
n
= 21), and the no-training control group (
n
= 23). The experimental group underwent an auditory training program (Listening and Communication Enhancement [LACE]) during the training phase. Meanwhile, the active control group listened to short audio clips and the no-training control group did not participate in any program. An auditory test (Quick Speech-in-Noise [QuickSIN]) and a battery of cognitive tests were conducted before and after the training to examine the participants' performance on auditory ability, short-term memory, and attention.

Results:

The results showed improvements in auditory and cognitive abilities during the training period. When assessing the training effects by comparing the pre- and the posttraining performances, a significant improvement on the QuickSIN task was found in the training group but not in the other two groups. However, other cognitive tests did not show any significant improvement. That is, the LACE training did not benefit short-term memory and attention. The improved performance on short-term memory during the training was not maintained in the posttraining session.

Conclusion:

Overall, the study has extended the auditory benefit from the LACE training to the typical aging population in terms of improved communication ability, but the effect of training on auditory abilities did not transfer to gains in cognitive abilities.
The Effect of Hemodilution on Cold Agglutinins
Authors: Gallimore Kimberly S. , Maurer William G.
Published: September 2023

(J. Extra-Corpor. Technol. 19[3] p. 290-296 Fall 1987, 14 ref.) The effect of hypothermia in patients with cold agglutinin disease was studied in a patient with a strongly positive agglutination at 4°C (1:16,000 titer, a thermal amplitude of 30°C or less, and a specific I antibody). The study investigates a method of hemodilution by which patients with cold agglutinin disease may safely undergo hypothermia during cardiopulmonary bypass. By diluting the blood with an isotonic solution, the tendency toward agglutination of red blood cells is reduced, along with the risks associated with hypothermia in the patient with cold agglutinin disease.

It was concluded that as the degree of hemodilution of the blood is increased, hemodilution reduced the tendency toward aggregation of red blood cells during hypothermia when cold agglutinins are present in the blood. As a result, hemodilution may enable a patient with cold agglutinin disease to safely undergo cold cardioplegia and cardiac arrest during hypothermic conditions.
Comparison of Click and Level-Specific CE Chirp-Stimulated Auditory Brainstem Responses in Adults with Hearing Loss
Authors: Ceylan Seval , Çekiç Şule
Published: September 2023

Abstract Background The Claus Elberling Chirp (CE-Chirp) stimulus used in the auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) was developed to compensate for the cochlear wave delay. As a version of broadband CE-Chirp stimulus, the use of level-specific (LS) CE-Chirp stimuli,
which are created with varying delay models suitable for the intensity levels at which the sound is transmitted, is becoming increasingly common. Purpose The aim of this study was to compare click ABRs with LS CE-Chirp ABR thresholds in adults with sensorineural hearing loss.
Research Design The research is a cross-sectional, analytical research. Study Sample Twenty-two adult patients (n = 44 ears) with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss were included in the study. Data Collection and Analysis Pure-tone
audiometry, click ABR, and LS CE-Chirp ABR tests were performed on adult (13 males and 9 females; 42.86 ± 14.50 years) patients with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Click ABR and LS CE-Chirp ABR thresholds were compared in terms of proximity to behavioral hearing
thresholds of 2 kHz, 4 kHz, and 2 to 4 kHz averages. Results Both types of ABR stimuli were able to identify with total hearing loss (n = 6). A significant difference was found between LS CE-Chirp ABR thresholds (53.81 ± 20.28
decibel normal hearing level [dB nHL]) and click ABR thresholds (58.81 ± 19.11 dB nHL) in the other ears (n = 38) with hearing loss (p = 0.00). When both ears were evaluated together and the right and left ears were evaluated
separately, no difference was found between LS CE-Chirp ABR thresholds and 4 kHz hearing thresholds (p = 0.66, 0.80, and 0.69, respectively). Conclusion In adults with hearing loss, the LS CE-Chirp provides ABR thresholds closer to the behavioral
hearing thresholds at 2 and 4 kHz compared with the click stimulus. Notably, there was no difference between LS CE-Chirp ABR thresholds and the 4 kHz behavioral hearing thresholds. We concluded that the LS CE-Chirp can be used effectively in the estimation of behavioral hearing
thresholds in adults with hearing loss.
Determining best practices for using genetic algorithms in molecular discovery
Authors: Greenstein Brianna L. , Elsey Danielle C. , Hutchison Geoffrey R.
Published: September 2023

Genetic algorithms (GAs) are a powerful tool to search large chemical spaces for inverse molecular design. However, GAs have multiple hyperparameters that have not been thoroughly investigated for chemical space searches. In this tutorial, we examine the general effects of a number of hyperparameters, such as population size, elitism rate, selection method, mutation rate, and convergence criteria, on key GA performance metrics. We show that using a self-termination method with a minimum Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient of 0.8 between generations maintained for 50 consecutive generations along with a population size of 32, a 50% elitism rate, three-way tournament selection, and a 40% mutation rate provides the best balance of finding the overall champion, maintaining good coverage of elite targets, and improving relative speedup for general use in molecular design GAs.