bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Triplet Metal‐Centered Jahn‐Teller Isomers Determine Temperature‐Dependent Luminescence Lifetimes in [Ru(bpy)3]2+
Authors: Hernández‐Castillo David , Nau Roland E. P. , Schmid Marie‐Ann , Tschierlei Stefanie , Rau Sven , González Leticia
Published: July 2023

Understanding the factors that determine the luminescence lifetime of transition metal compounds is key for applications in photocatalysis and photodynamic therapy. Here we show that for
(bpy = 2,2’‐bipyridine), the generally accepted idea that emission lifetimes can be controlled optimizing the energy barrier from the emissive triplet metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer (3MLCT) state to the thermally‐activated triplet metal‐centered (3MC) state or the energy gap between both states is a misconception. Further, we demonstrate that considering a single relaxation pathway determined from the minimum that is lowest in energy leads to wrong temperature‐dependent emission lifetimes predictions. Instead, we obtain excellent agreement with experimental temperature‐dependent lifetimes when an extended kinetic model that includes all the pathways related to multiple Jahn–Teller isomers and their effective reaction barriers is employed. These concepts are essential to correctly design other luminescent transition metal complexes with tailored emission lifetimes based on theoretical predictions.
Trajectory tracking control for quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle with input delay and disturbances
Authors: Li Shuo , Duan Na , Min Huifang
Published: July 2023

This paper aims to solve the tracking control problem for quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with input delay and disturbances. An appropriate auxiliary system is applied to compensate the effect of the input delay. The nonlinear disturbance observer is utilized to restrain the influence of external disturbances. Then, the controller is designed by backstepping method to ensure the trajectory tracking and steady flight of the quadrotor UAV. We also present simulation and experimental reification results to demonstrate the tracking effect and stable flight of the UAV.
Optimizing the Composite Cathode Microstructure in All‐Solid‐State Batteries by Structure‐Resolved Simulations
Authors: Clausnitzer Moritz , Mücke Robert , Al‐Jaljouli Fadi , Hein Simon , Finsterbusch Martin , Danner Timo , Fattakhova‐Rohlfing Dina , Guillon Olivier , Latz Arnulf
Published: July 2023

All‐solid‐state batteries are considered as an enabler for applications requiring high energy and power density. However, they still fall short of their theoretical potential due to various limitations. One issue is poor charge transport kinetics resulting from both material inherit limitations and non‐optimized design. Therefore, a better understanding of the relevant properties of the cathode microstructure is necessary to improve cell performance. In this article, we identify optimization potentials of the composite cathode by structure‐resolved electrochemical 3D‐simulations. In our simulation study, we investigate the influence of cathode active material fraction, density, particle size, and active material properties on cell performance. Special focus is set on the impact of grain boundaries on the cathode design. Based on our simulation results, we can predict target values for cell manufacturing and reveal promising optimization strategies for an improved cathode design.
Purification effects show seed and root mucilage's ability to respond to changing rhizosphere conditions
Authors: Diehl Doerte , Knott Mathilde , Schaumann Gabriele E.
Published: July 2023

Mucilage, a polysaccharide‐containing hydrogel, is hypothesized to play a key role in the rhizosphere as a self‐organized system because it may vary its supramolecular structure with changes in the surrounding solution. However, there is currently limited research on how these changes are reflected in the physical properties of real mucilage. This study examines the role of solutes in maize root, wheat root, chia seed, and flax seed mucilage in relation to their physical properties. Two purification methods, dialysis and ethanol precipitation, were applied to determine the purification yield, cation content, pH, electrical conductivity, surface tension, viscosity, transverse 1H relaxation time, and contact angle after drying of mucilage before and after purification. The two seed mucilage types contain more polar polymers that are connected to larger assemblies via multivalent cation crosslinks, resulting in a denser network. This is reflected in higher viscosity and water retention ability compared to root mucilage. Seed mucilage also contains fewer surfactants, making them better wettable after drying compared to the two root mucilage types. The root mucilage types, on the other hand, contain smaller polymers or polymer assemblies and become less wettable after drying. However, wettability not only depends on the amount of surfactants but also on their mobility, as well as the strength and mesh size of the network structure. The changes in physical properties and cation composition observed after ethanol precipitation and dialysis suggest that the polymer network of seed mucilage is more stable and specialized in protecting the seeds from unfavorable environmental conditions. In contrast, root mucilage is characterized by fewer cationic interactions and its network relies more on hydrophobic interactions. This allows root mucilage to be more flexible in responding to changing environmental conditions, facilitating nutrient and water exchange between root surfaces and the rhizosphere soil.
Peptide ligands for the affinity purification of adeno‐associated viruses from HEK 293 cell lysates
Authors: Chu Wenning , Shastry Shriarjun , Barbieri Eduardo , Prodromou Raphael , Greback‐Clarke Paul , Smith Will , Moore Brandyn , Kilgore Ryan , Cummings Christopher , Pancorbo Jennifer , Gilleskie Gary , Daniele Michael A. , Menegatti Stefano
Published: July 2023

Adeno‐associated viruses (AAVs) are the vector of choice for delivering gene therapies that can cure inherited and acquired diseases. Clinical research on various AAV serotypes significantly increased in recent years alongside regulatory approvals of AAV‐based therapies. The current AAV purification platform hinges on the capture step, for which several affinity resins are commercially available. These adsorbents rely on protein ligands—typically camelid antibodies—that provide high binding capacity and selectivity, but suffer from low biochemical stability and high cost, and impose harsh elution conditions (pH < 3) that can harm the transduction activity of recovered AAVs. Addressing these challenges, this study introduces peptide ligands that selectively capture AAVs and release them under mild conditions (pH = 6.0). The peptide sequences were identified by screening a focused library and modeled in silico against AAV serotypes 2 and 9 (AAV2 and AAV9) to select candidate ligands that target homologous sites at the interface of the VP1‐VP2 and VP2‐VP3 virion proteins with mild binding strength (KD ~ 10−5–10−6 M). Selected peptides were conjugated to Toyopearl resin and evaluated via binding studies against AAV2 and AAV9, demonstrating the ability to target both serotypes with values of dynamic binding capacity (DBC10% > 1013 vp/mL of resin) and product yields (~50%–80%) on par with commercial adsorbents. The peptide‐based adsorbents were finally utilized to purify AAV2 from a HEK 293 cell lysate, affording high recovery (50%–80%), 80‐ to 400‐fold reduction of host cell proteins (HCPs), and high transduction activity (up to 80%) of the purified viruses.
The clinical, economic, and patient‐centric burden of insomnia symptom severity in adults with major depressive disorder in the United States
Authors: Joshi Kruti , Cambron‐Mellott M. Janelle , Costantino Halley , Pfau Alanna , Jha Manish K.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Insomnia is prevalent in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) and is a key diagnostic criterion of MDD; however, little is understood about the burden of insomnia symptom severity in MDD. We evaluated the relationship between insomnia symptom severity and the clinical, economic, and patient‐centric burden among community‐dwelling individuals with MDD.

Methods

Respondents with diagnosed depression who reported insomnia symptoms in the past 12 months (N = 4402) were identified from the 2019 United States National Health and Wellness Survey. Multivariable analyses assessed the association of Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) with health‐related outcomes while controlling for sociodemographic and health characteristics. Further analyses also controlled for depression severity (9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire).

Results

Mean ISI score was 14.3 ± 5.6. Higher ISI was associated with greater depression severity (r = .51, p < .001). After adjustments, a one‐standard deviation (5.6‐point) increase in ISI score was significantly associated with higher depression (rate ratio [RR] = 1.36), anxiety (RR = 1.33) and daytime sleepiness (RR = 1.16) levels, more healthcare provider (RR = 1.13) and emergency room visits (RR = 1.31), hospitalizations (RR = 1.21), work productivity and activity impairment (RRs = 1.27 and 1.23, respectively), and poorer mental and physical health‐related quality of life (β = −3.853 and −1.999, respectively) (p < .001). These findings remained statistically significant when controlling for concurrent depression severity.

Conclusion

In adults with MDD, greater insomnia symptom severity is associated with worse health‐related outcomes, which suggests the importance of addressing insomnia symptoms as a clinical target for treating MDD.
Identification of angiogenesis‐related genes signature for predicting survival and its regulatory network in glioblastoma
Authors: Wan Zhiping , Zuo Xiaokun , Wang Siqiao , Zhou Lei , Wen Xiaojing , Yao Ying , Song Jiefang , Gu Juan , Wang Zhimin , Liu Ran , Luo Chun
Published: July 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is notorious for malignant neovascularization that contributes to undesirable outcome. However, its mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to identify prognostic angiogenesis‐related genes and the potential regulatory mechanisms in GBM. RNA‐sequencing data of 173 GBM patients were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database for screening differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially transcription factors (DETFs), and reverse phase protein array (RPPA) chips. Differentially expressed genes from angiogenesis‐related gene set were extracted for univariate Cox regression analysis to identify prognostic differentially expressed angiogenesis‐related genes (PDEARGs). A risk predicting model was constructed based on 9 PDEARGs, namely MARK1, ITGA5, NMD3, HEY1, COL6A1, DKK3, SERPINA5, NRP1, PLK2, ANXA1, SLIT2, and PDPN. Glioblastoma patients were stratified into high‐risk and low‐risk groups according to their risk scores. GSEA and GSVA were applied to explore the possible underlying GBM angiogenesis‐related pathways. CIBERSORT was employed to identify immune infiltrates in GBM. The Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the correlations among DETFs, PDEARGs, immune cells/functions, RPPA chips, and pathways. A regulatory network centered by three PDEARGs (ANXA1, COL6A1, and PDPN) was constructed to show the potential regulatory mechanisms. External cohort of 95 GBM patients by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay demonstrated that ANXA1, COL6A1, and PDPN were significantly upregulated in tumor tissues of high‐risk GBM patients. Single‐cell RNA sequencing also validated malignant cells expressed high levels of the ANXA1, COL6A1, PDPN, and key DETF (WWTR1). Our PDEARG‐based risk prediction model and regulatory network identified prognostic biomarkers and provided valuable insight into future studies on angiogenesis in GBM.
c‐JUN‐induced upregulation of LINC00174 contributes to colorectal cancer proliferation and invasion through accelerating USP21 expression
Authors: Liang Weijie , Liu Dongdong , Wu Jie
Published: July 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common human malignancies due to its invasiveness and metastasis. Recent studies revealed the pivotal roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in tumorigenesis and progressions of various tumors. However, the biological roles and molecular mechanisms of long intergenic noncoding RNA 00174 (LINC00174) in human CRC remain unclear. Here, we report that LINC00174 expression was higher in human CRC tissues and cell lines than in adjacent normal tissues and a colon epithelial cell line (FHC). High expression of LINC00174 was positively correlated with poor overall and disease‐free survival in patients with CRC. Loss‐ and gain‐of‐function of LINC00174 demonstrated its critical roles in promoting cell proliferation, apoptosis resistance, migration, and invasion of CRC cells in vitro. Moreover, overexpression of LINC00174 enhanced tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistic experiments revealed that LINC00174 could bind to microRNA (miR)−2467‐3p and augment the expression and function of ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 21 (USP21). Rescue assays found that miR‐2467‐3p inhibition can offset the actions of LINC00174 or USP21 knockdown in CRC cells. Additionally, transcriptional factor c‐JUN transcriptionally activated LINC00174 expression and mediated LINC00174‐induced malignant phenotypes of CRC cell lines. Totally, our findings shed light on a new therapeutic strategy in modulating LINC00174/miR‐2467‐3p, which may interfere with the expression of USP21, and revealed that LINC00174 could be a new therapeutic target or prognostic marker in CRC.
Recent Progress of Catalysts for Reforming of Biomass Tar/Tar Models at Low Temperatures – A Short Review
Authors: Tang Wen , Cao Jing‐Pei , He Zi‐Meng , Jiang Wei , Wang Zhi‐Hao , Zhao Xiao‐Yan
Published: July 2023

Catalytic tar reforming is considered as a promising technology to convert tar into useful syngas such as H2 and CO as well as chemicals such as benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX). Up until now, few review works have reported the recent progress focusing on the catalyst design for low‐temperature reforming of biomass tar. Therefore, in this work, we focused on the design and preparation of tar cracking and reforming catalysts with high performances to achieve an efficient conversion of tar at temperatures lower than 700 °C. Char supported Ni or Co catalysts with high specific surface area, small metallic particle size and high dispersion are conductive to produce more amount of syngas. Moreover, HZSM‐5 and metal‐promoted zeolites are more suitable for high conversion of tar and selectivity of BTX due to the excellent mesopore structure, thermal stability and medium acidity. Based on those literatures, the adjustment of the catalyst‘s structure, the deactivation mechanism, and the reforming mechanism were also summarized and discussed. In addition, some futural insights were proposed in order to promote the catalyst‘s performance in terms of activity and stability, as well as reveal the clear tar reforming mechanism.
Synthesis of Black Phosphorene Quantum Dots from Red Phosphorus**
Authors: Shutt Rebecca R. C. , Ramireddy Thrinathreddy , Stylianidis Evgenios , Di Mino Camilla , Ingle Rebecca A. , Ing Gabriel , Wibowo Ary A. , Nguyen Hieu T. , Howard Christopher A. , Glushenkov Alexey M. , Stewart Andrew , Clancy Adam J.
Published: July 2023

Black phosphorene quantum dots (BPQDs) are most commonly derived from high‐cost black phosphorus, while previous syntheses from the low‐cost red phosphorus (Pred) allotrope are highly oxidised. Herein, we present an intrinsically scalable method to produce high quality BPQDs, by first ball‐milling Pred to create nanocrystalline Pblack and subsequent reductive etching using lithium electride solvated in liquid ammonia. The resultant ~25 nm BPQDs are crystalline with low oxygen content, and spontaneously soluble as individualized monolayers in tertiary amide solvents, as directly imaged by liquid‐phase transmission electron microscopy. This new method presents a scalable route to producing quantities of high quality BPQDs for academic and industrial applications.
Gold(I)‐Mediated Isomerization of Spring‐loaded 1,7‐Enynes seen through the Lens of Density Functional Theory
Authors: Robidas Raphaël , Legault Claude Y.
Published: July 2023

We propose a mechanism for the previously reported formation of benzobicyclo[3.2.0]heptane derivatives from 1,7‐enyne derivatives bearing a terminal cyclopropane. ‐> A mechanism for the previously reported formation of benzobicyclo[3.2.0]heptane derivatives from 1,7‐enyne derivatives bearing a terminal cyclopropane is proposed.
Color as metaphor in architectural design
Authors: Minah Galen
Published: July 2023

In the early stage of a building design, forming a design concept is the first step. The architect must assimilate and organize information involving spatial needs, engineering, building codes, and budget considerations. They must also consider its visual appearance, how the building fits into its physical context, and, most importantly, how to conceive of the building holistically as both functional and aesthetic. A process for accomplishing this will use a methodology associated with intuition and imagination. A metaphor is used that gives form to the building through an analogy that imitates its activities and function and serves as a device for conceiving of the building as a whole. Making a design diagram that defines the concept using the metaphor and showing the relationship of the critical parts of the building is the biggest challenge in this stage. A new approach is to assign color to these parts in the design diagram. With the metaphor as guide, the hierarchical status of the parts will be shown by the perceptual weight of the colors in juxtaposition to one another by contrasts in hue, value, and chroma. The results show that the addition of color increases the clarity and comprehension of the design concept in the eyes of the designer, in visual presentations to faculty in academic settings, and to clients in the profession. The color decisions latter in the process may differ from those used in the diagram, but these decisions will adhere to the established hierarchies of the building parts as foreground or background colors. This methodology is intended to be a tool for students in architecture as well as professional architects.
Sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry—An assessment of sustainability maturity and effects of sustainability measure implementation on supply chain security
Authors: Bade Celina , Olsacher Alexandra , Boehme Philip , Truebel Hubert , Bürger Lena , Fehring Leonard
Published: July 2023

The pharmaceutical industry faces increased sustainability demands. The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework is most widely accepted to discuss corporate sustainability, but little is known about the effects of ESG measure implementation on supply chain security. Understanding these effects is especially important in the face of drug shortages. Leveraging a quantitative and a qualitative method based on a grounded theory approach, we aim to investigate the state of ESG maturity of pharmaceutical corporations in Germany and develop a perspective on the effects of ESG measure implementation on supply chain security. We find publicly traded and larger companies having higher ESG target‐setting maturity than privately‐owned or smaller companies and that company priorities, costs, and regulatory processes limt ESG progress overall. Our findings suggest that ESG measure implementation can induce short‐term supply disruption risks. A risk assessment considers current ESG maturity, implementation effects outside of own operations, short‐term supply buffers, implementation timeline, and scope, and change management capabilities.
Influence of rippled density and laser profile on third harmonic generation using cosh‐Gaussian laser pulses in inhomogeneous magnetized plasmas
Authors: Basiry Mohammad Javad , Sharifian Mehdi , Hashemzadeh Mojtaba , Borhani Mahmood , Alirezaie Hajar
Published: July 2023

The third harmonic generation of cosh‐Gaussian laser pulses in inhomogeneous magnetized plasmas is investigated. The plasma is considered inhomogeneous with a sinusoidal form, and the external magnetic field has an oscillating wiggler structure. Various ponderomotive forces are obtained considering the external magnetic field, the magnetic field of the laser beam, and different orders of electron velocity. These forces are nonlinear, which leads to a nonlinear current density. Using linear and nonlinear current densities and Maxwell's equations, the wave equation of the third harmonic wave is obtained. Results show that by increasing the deviation parameter from the center and the external magnetic field, the third harmonic electric field increases. It is also indicated that by increasing the laser beam width, the excited electric field decreases. Finally, it is found that by increasing the wavenumber and amplitude of the rippled electron density, the amplitude of the third harmonic electric field increases.
Thermocapillary flow‐induced core release from double‐emulsion droplets in microchannels
Authors: Qin Jingyi , Wang Zhibin , Chen Ying , Mo Songping , Liu Jian
Published: July 2023

The use of double emulsions (DEs), which represent colloidal structures composed of droplets nested within droplets, can provide for unparallel droplet manipulation in droplet‐based microfluidic technology due to their unique core–shell structures. The controlled release of cores in DEs is of particular interest. However, this process remains poorly explored. In this work, the thermocapillary flow induced by a temperature gradient is used as a driving force to control the core release and the impacts of different linear temperature gradients, core diameters, shell diameter, and core/shell diameter ratios on the thermocapillary flow and core release characteristics of DE droplets consisting of a water‐in‐n‐hexadecane‐in‐water system within a cylindrical microchannel are investigated. Most of the core and shell diameter conditions considered result in a double‐core release process, where the inner droplet volume is partially ejected before the remaining core is rewrapped by the outer droplet, and the remaining inner droplet volume is ejected later during a second core release event. However, relatively small core diameters of 50 and 75 μm produce conditions where the full inner droplet volume is ejected during a single‐core release process. In addition, we provide empirical relationships for accurately determining the time at which core release initially occurs under given DE parameters as well as for precisely determining whether the applied conditions will lead to single‐ or double‐core release processes. Therefore, the results of this study provide insights enabling the development of accurate inner droplet release technologies under thermocapillary migration.
Dynamic and broad expression of adamts9 in developing and adult zebrafish
Authors: He Yuanfa , Carver Jonathan J. , Erickson Timothy , Le Pabic Pierre , Zhu Yong
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous studies showed that Adamts9 is involved in multiple functions including ovulation, spine formation, primordial germ cell migration, and development of primary ovarian follicles in animals. However, systemic examination and high‐resolution analyses of adamts9 expression are missing due to lack of a sensitive reporter assay.

Results

In the present study, we created a new transgenic zebrafish reporter line Tg(adamts9:EGFP) and assayed its expression in various tissues and cells during development and in adults at high‐resolution using confocal imaging. Reporter expression was validated with real‐time quantitative PCR, whole mount in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry for endogenous adamts9. Strong expression of the adamts9:EGFP transgene was found in a wide range of adult and embryonic zebrafish tissues/cells including ovaries, testes, brains, eyes, pectoral fins, intestine, skin, gill, muscle, and heart; while lower expression was observed in the liver and growing ovarian follicles (stages II and III).

Conclusions

Our results of a broad and dynamic expression pattern for this evolutionary conserved metalloprotease suggest involvement of adamts9 in the development and physiological functions of various tissues in animals.
The evolution of eavesdropping on heterospecific alarm calls: Relevance, reliability, and personal information
Authors: Turner Cameron Rouse , Spike Matt , Magrath Robert D.
Published: July 2023

Interceptive eavesdropping on the alarm calls of heterospecifics provides crucial information about predators. Previous research suggests predator discrimination, call relevance, reliability, and reception explain when eavesdropping will evolve. However, there has been no quantitative analysis to scrutinize these principles, or how they interact. We develop a mathematical framework that formalizes the study of the key principles thought to select for eavesdropping. Interceptive eavesdropping appears to be greatly affected by the threat faced by caller and eavesdropper, as well as presence of informational noise affecting the detection of calls and predators. Accordingly, our model uses signal detection theory to examine when selection will favor alarm calling by a sender species and fleeing by an eavesdropping receiver species. We find eavesdropping is most strongly selected when (1) the receiver faces substantial threats, (2) species are ecologically similar, (3) senders often correctly discriminate threats, (4) receivers often correctly perceive calls, and (5) the receiver's personal discrimination of threats is poor. Furthermore, we find (6) that very high predation levels can select against eavesdropping because prey cannot continuously flee and must conserve energy. Reliability of heterospecific calls for identifying threats is thought to be important in selecting for eavesdropping. Consequently, we formally define reliability, showing its connection to specificity and sensitivity, clarifying how these quantities can be measured. We find that high call relevance, due to similar vulnerability to predators between species, strongly favors eavesdropping. This is because senders trade‐off false alarms and missed predator detections in a way that is also favorable for the eavesdropper, by producing less of the costlier error. Unexpectedly, highly relevant calls increase the total number of combined errors and so have lower reliability. Expectedly, when noise greatly affects personally gathered cues to threats, but not heterospecific calls or detection of predators, eavesdropping is favored.
Foetal recapitulation of nutrient surplus signalling by O‐GlcNAcylation and the failing heart
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: July 2023

The development of the foetal heart is driven by increased glucose uptake and activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), which drives glycolysis. In contrast, the healthy adult heart is governed by sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1) and adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which promote fatty‐acid oxidation and the substantial mitochondrial ATP production required for survival in a high‐workload normoxic environment. During cardiac injury, the heart recapitulates the foetal signalling programme, which (although adaptive in the short term) is highly deleterious if sustained for long periods of time. Prolonged increases in glucose uptake in cardiomyocytes under stress leads to increased flux through the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway; its endproduct – uridine diphosphate N‐acetylglucosamine (UDP‐GlcNAc) – functions as a critical nutrient surplus sensor. UDP‐GlcNAc drives the post‐translational protein modification known as O‐GlcNAcylation, which rapidly and reversibly modifies thousands of intracellular proteins. Both O‐GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation act at serine/threonine residues, but whereas phosphorylation is regulated by hundreds of specific kinases and phosphatases, O‐GlcNAcylation is regulated by only two enzymes, O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O‐GlcNAcase (OGA), which adds or removes GlcNAc (N‐acetylglucosamine), respectively, from target proteins. Recapitulation of foetal programming in heart failure (regardless of diabetes) is accompanied by marked increases in O‐GlcNAcylation, both experimentally and clinically. Heightened O‐GlcNAcylation in the heart leads to impaired calcium kinetics and contractile derangements, arrhythmias related to activation of voltage‐gated sodium channels and Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II, mitochondrial dysfunction, and maladaptive hypertrophy, microvascular dysfunction, fibrosis and cardiomyopathy. These deleterious effects can be prevented by suppression of O‐GlcNAcylation, which can be achieved experimentally by upregulation of AMPK and SIRT1 or by pharmacological inhibition of OGT or stimulation of OGA. The effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on the heart are accompanied by reduced O‐GlcNAcylation, and their cytoprotective effects are reportedly abrogated if their action to suppress O‐GlcNAcylation is blocked. Such an action may represent one of the many mechanisms by which enhanced AMPK and SIRT1 signalling following SGLT2 inhibition leads to cardiovascular benefits. These observations, taken collectively, suggest that UDP‐GlcNAc functions as a critical nutrient surplus sensor (which acting in concert with mTOR and HIF‐1α) can promote the development of cardiomyopathy.
Improved long‐term survival with tafamidis treatment in patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy and severe heart failure symptoms
Authors: Elliott Perry , Gundapaneni Balarama , Sultan Marla B. , Ines Monica , Garcia‐Pavia Pablo
Published: July 2023

Aim

The value of disease‐modifying therapies (such as tafamidis) in patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR‐CM) and severe heart failure symptoms has been debated. This study assessed long‐term all‐cause survival in patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III symptoms in the Tafamidis in Transthyretin Cardiomyopathy Clinical Trial (ATTR‐ACT) long‐term extension (LTE) study.

Methods and results

At the baseline of ATTR‐ACT, 55/176 (31.3%) patients receiving tafamidis 80 mg and 63/177 (35.6%) receiving placebo had NYHA class III symptoms. After 30 months of treatment, patients could join an ongoing LTE study to receive open‐label tafamidis. In an interim analysis of the LTE study (August 2021), all‐cause mortality was lower among patients with NYHA class III symptoms who received continuous tafamidis in ATTR‐ACT and the LTE study (hazard ratio 0.64; 95% confidence interval 0.41–0.99; median follow‐up: 60 months), as compared with those who received placebo in ATTR‐ACT and tafamidis in the LTE study (median follow‐up: 56 months). Similar findings were observed in patients with NYHA class I/II symptoms at baseline (0.50; 0.35–0.73; tafamidis 80 mg n = 121; placebo n = 114; median follow‐up of 61 and 60 months, respectively).

Conclusion

We observed reduced all‐cause mortality with continuous tafamidis treatment compared with delayed tafamidis treatment (placebo then tafamidis) in patients with NYHA class III symptoms at baseline over a median follow‐up of ∼5 years. These findings demonstrate the value of tafamidis treatment in patients with ATTR‐CM and severe heart failure symptoms, and emphasize the importance of early treatment.

Clinical Trial Registrations: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01994889 and NCT02791230.
On the Brink of Decomposition: Controlled Oxidation of a Substituted Arsanylborane as a Way to Labile Group 13‐15‐16 Compounds
Authors: Lehnfeld Felix , Seidl Michael , Timoshkin Alexey Y. , Scheer Manfred
Published: July 2023

The reactivity of the organic‐substituted arsanylborane tBuAsHBH2NMe3 (1) towards different elemental chalcogenes as well as organic oxidants such as O‐NMe3, Me3Si−O−O‐SiMe3, MesCNO and cyclohexenesulfide is reported. By the reaction of 1 with grey selenium, the selenium oxidation product tBuAs(Se)HBH2NMe3 (2) was obtained. For the oxidation with sulfur, the two products tBuAs(S)HBH2NMe3 (3 a) and tBuAs(S)SHBH2NMe3 (3 b) could be isolated as oils. The structural characterization of As(tBuAs(S)SHBH2NMe3)3 (4) as well as corresponding DFT computations allow insights into the decomposition behavior of 3 a and 3 b in solution. For the reaction of MesCNO with 1, the formation of an unusual As−H activation product Mes‐C(NOH)‐AstBu‐BH2NMe3 (5) is observed. In the reaction with Me3N−O, the first isolatable oxo‐arsanylboranes tBuAs(O)HBH2NMe3 (6 a) and tBuAs(O)OHBH2NMe3 (6 b) are obtained, with 6 b also being accessible via the controlled reaction of 1 with air.
Mind the gap ‐ A brief echo and some contributions from eating disorder experts from other European countries
Authors: Zipfel Stephan , Fernandez‐Aranda Fernando , Giel Katrin
Published: July 2023

Recently, Davey et al. (2023) outlined several recommendations for future care, policy and research for patients with eating disorders which is primarily focused on the UK health care system. Our commentary aims at contributing several aspects from other European countries and emphasises the need for stronger European collaboration, joint initiatives and a strategic plan to foster clinical and research concepts in the eating disorder field, especially in a time of multiple (global) crises and restricted resources.
Potential of Allium sativum in blood pressure control involves signaling pathways: A narrative review
Authors: Ali Anwar , Kouvari Matina , Riaz Sakhawat , Naumovski Nenad , Liao Lan , Khan Ahmal , Khalid Waseem , Zeng Xin‐An , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal
Published: July 2023

The use of food products and functional foods to manage and treat several health conditions is expanding globally. Garlic (Allium sativum) consumption is commonly used for its potential therapeutic functions in numerous cardiometabolic disorders, including hypertension. The proposed blood pressure–reducing effects of garlic after its consumption influence several metabolic pathways, resulting in potentially beneficial health outcomes. The first postulated mechanism is nitric oxide (NO) activation, leading to vasodilation. Furthermore, garlic consumption was also shown to promote vasodilation by suppressing the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) and the formation of prostaglandins, suppressing angiotensin‐converting enzyme activity. The mechanism of garlic‐related vasodilation is related to its high sulfur‐containing content associated with forming hydrogen sulfides (H2S). The H2S binds to and activates vascular ATP‐sensitive potassium channels (kATP), leading to hyperpolarization, which induces vasodilation. This review summarizes garlic's features and the mechanical paths that could contribute to blood pressure control.
Bisphenol A in German watersheds: Part II. FlowEQ model-based characterization of sources and current and future conditions
Authors: Bock Michael , Fetters Kyle , Tappert Lars , Hoehne Dominik , Bunge Michael , Tenbrock Silke , Mueller Gerhard , Gestermann Sven
Published: July 2023

Increasing scientific and regulatory concern regarding environmental concentrations of bisphenol A (BPA) increases the need to understand the sources and sinks of this chemical. We developed a coupled flow network/fugacity-based fate and transport model to assess the contribution of different emissions sources to the concentration of BPA in surface water in Germany. The model utilizes BPA loadings and sinks, BPA physicochemical properties, a water flow network, environmental characteristics, and fugacity equations. The model considers industrial emissions, leaching from BPA-containing articles, wastewater treatment and bypass events, and emissions from landfills. The model also considers different scenarios that account for changes in the usage profile of BPA. Model predictions compare favorably to measured surface water concentrations, with the modeled concentrations generally falling within the range of measured values. Model scenarios that consider reductions in BPA usage due to government-mandated restrictions and voluntary reductions in usage predict falling BPA concentrations that are consistent with the most recent monitoring data. Model predictions of the contributions from different usage scenarios and wastewater treatment methods can be used to assess the efficacy of different restrictions and waste handling strategies to support efforts to evaluate the costs and benefits associated with actions aimed at reducing BPA levels in the environment. This feature of the model is of particular importance, given current efforts to update the regulations regarding BPA usage in the EU. The model indicates that as the current restriction on BPA in thermal paper works through the paper recycling process, BPA concentrations will continue to decrease. Other actions, such as upgrades to the stormwater and wastewater infrastructure to minimize the frequency of storm-related bypasses, are predicted to provide more meaningful reductions than additional restrictions on usage. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:226–238. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Evidence on the therapeutic role of thiolutin in imiquimod‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in mice
Authors: Wang Aixue , Ma Xixing , Wei Feng , Li Yanling , Liu Qiang , Zhang Huanhuan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

A recent study confirmed that thiolutin (THL), as a potent inflammasome inhibitor, plays a promising therapeutic role in multiple inflammatory disease models. However, the effect of THL on psoriasis has not been reported so far.

Methods

A psoriasiform dermatitis model was prepared by applying 5% imiquimod (IMQ) cream on mice. A total of 36 mice were randomly divided into six groups: control, model, model + THL‐L/M/H (THL, 1/2.5/5 mg/kg/day), model + methotrexate (1 mg/kg/day). Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores were observed and calculated. The histological changes in skin, liver, and kidney tissues were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, and blood creatinine were measured by automatic biochemistry analyzer. The size of the spleens was determined, and the proportion of Foxp3 + CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells in the spleens was tested by flow cytometry. The proinflammatory factors and nucleotide oligomerization domain nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome protein levels were examined by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results

THL administration preeminently reduced the thickness, scaling, and erythema of the skin lesions, alleviated IMQ‐induced psoriasiform lesions in mice, reduced the PASI score, and ameliorated histopathological changes in mouse skin. The spleen index was decreased by almost half and the proportion of Foxp3 + CD4+ Treg cells was increased after intervention by THL. THL intervention did not affect liver and kidney function, but decreased the expression levels of proinflammatory factors and NLRP3 inflammasome in the skin of psoriatic mice.

Conclusions

THL may alleviate IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like manifestations in mice by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome.
Buyang Huanwu Decoction promotes the neurological recovery of traumatic spinal cord injury via inhibiting apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress
Authors: Li Xu , Song Yingjun , Yang Yang , Zhang Guofu
Published: July 2023

Background

The incidence rate of spinal cord injury (SCI) is increasing, and the mortality or disability rate caused by SCI remains high in the world. Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD) is a kind of Traditional Chinese medicine, and it is believed to be effective in several kinds of nervous system diseases. Whether BYHWD could improve SCI and the potential function mechanism remain unclear.

Methods

SCI animal model was established by damaging T10 spinal cord. Animals experiments included five groups as follows: Sham, SCI, SCI+BYHWD, SCI+mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), and SCI+BYHWD+MSCs. H2O2‐treated cells (100 µM, 6 h) were used to simulate SCI damage in vitro, which included five groups as follows: control, H2O2, H2O2+BYHWD, H2O2+MSCs, and H2O2+BYHWD+MSCs. The behavioral function was evaluated with Tarlov and inclined plated test score. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect protein expression. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondiadehyde (MDA), interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and IL‐6 in serum were measured with commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits. terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining and flow cytometry were performed to measure apoptosis in vivo and in vitro levels. Gene expression profiling analysis was performed to analyze differential expression genes.

Results

BYHWD suppressed apoptosis and accelerating cell proliferation after SCI. Recovery of neurofunction, inhibition of inflammatory response, and oxidative condition were achieved by BYHWD and MSCs. The expression levels of gp130/Janus kinase/signal transducers and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) were suppressed by BYHWD and MSCs, both in vivo and in vitro. BYHWD and MSCs markedly promoted cells viability and inhibited apoptosis. Greater gene expression difference was observed between group control and H2O2 through gene expression profiling analysis. The recovery effects of traumatic SCI by BYHWD were similar to MSCs, and synergies effects were observed in several items.

Conclusion

BYHWD could increase Tarlov score and Basso, Beatie, and Bresnahan functional score, inhibit apoptosis, inflammatory response, and oxidative condition after SCI. The expression level of gp130/JAK/STAT axis was suppressed by BYHWD. BYHWD might be a new therapeutic strategy for the prevention or treatment of SCI.
The relationship between loneliness and problematic smartphone use among adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The mediating role of negative emotions and maladaptive coping
Authors: Du Xiaoli , Xiang Guangcan , Xiao Mingyue , Liu Xinyuan , Sun Jiayi , Ding Cody , Chen Hong
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Given the observed increased feelings of loneliness and problematic smartphone use among adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic, further research was needed to determine whether and how the increased loneliness of adolescents during such major public health crisis events affects the risk of problematic smartphone use among adolescents. This study aimed to examine the relationship between loneliness and problematic smartphone use among Chinese adolescents (aged 10–16 years) during the COVID‐19 pandemic and to investigate the possible mediating role of negative emotions and maladaptive coping.

Methods

A total of 672 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 13.05, SD = 1.51, 50.4% boys, 93.8% from rural areas, 22.5% of whom were only children) took part in this cross‐sectional study in April 2022 by completing the Chinese adolescent version of the Loneliness Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Scale (subscale), the Ways of Coping Questionnaire, and the Mobile Phone Addiction Index Scale.

Results

The serial mediation model revealed that negative emotions and maladaptive coping independently mediated the relationship between adolescents' loneliness and problematic smartphone use. In addition, the mediation effects of “negative emotions‐maladaptive coping” could also mediate the relationship between loneliness and problematic smartphone use.

Conclusions

Loneliness may be positively related to problematic smartphone use through negative emotions and maladaptive coping among adolescents during major public health crisis events, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Evaluation of the Effect of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibition on Fracture Risk: Evidence From Mendelian Randomization and Genetic Association Study
Authors: Dai Huajie , Zheng Longyi , Zhu Zheng , Geng Xin , Hou Tianzhichao , Wang Qi , Zhu Yijie , Lin Hong , Wang Shuangyuan , Zheng Ruizhi , Zhao Zhiyun , Li Mian , Lu Jieli , Xu Yu , Wang Tiange , Liu Jianmin , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing , Bi Yufang , Zheng Jie , Xu Min
Published: July 2023

This study aims to evaluate the causal effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition on bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis, and fracture risk using genetics. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed utilizing two sets of genetic variants as instruments (six and two single-nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]) associated with SLC5A2 gene expression and glycated hemoglobin A1c levels. Summary statistics of BMD from the Genetic Factors for Osteoporosis consortium (BMD for total body, n = 66,628; femoral neck, n = 32,735; lumbar spine, n = 28,498; forearm, n = 8143) and osteoporosis (6303 cases, 325,717 controls) and 13 types of fracture (≤17,690 cases, ≤328,382 controls) data from the FinnGen study were obtained. One-sample MR and genetic association analyses were conducted in UK Biobank using the individual-level data of heel BMD (n = 256,286) and incident osteoporosis (13,677 cases, 430,262 controls) and fracture (25,806 cases, 407,081 controls). Using six SNPs as the instrument, genetically proxied SGLT2 inhibition showed little evidence of association with BMD of total body, femoral neck, lumbar spine, and forearm (all p ≥ 0.077). Similar results were observed using two SNPs as instruments. Little evidence was found for the SGLT2 inhibition effect on osteoporosis (all p ≥ 0.112) or any 11 major types of fracture (all p ≥ 0.094), except for a nominal significance for fracture of lower leg (p = 0.049) and shoulder and upper arm (p = 0.029). One-sample MR and genetic association analysis showed that both the weighted genetic risk scores constructed from the six and two SNPs were not causally associated with heel BMD, osteoporosis, and fracture (all p ≥ 0.387). Therefore, this study does not support an effect of genetically proxied SGLT2 inhibition on fracture risk. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Amelioration of neurobehavioral, biochemical, and morphological alterations associated with silver nanoparticles exposure by taurine in rats
Authors: Njoku Chiwueze A. , Ileola‐Gold Ayomitan V. , Adelaja Uthman A. , Ikeji Cynthia N. , Owoeye Olatunde , Adedara Isaac A. , Farombi Ebenezer O.
Published: July 2023

The adverse effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the nervous system is an emerging concern of public interest globally. Taurine, an essential amino acid required for neurogenesis in the nervous system, is well‐documented to possess antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. Yet, there is no report in the literature on the effect of taurine on neurotoxicity related to AgNPs exposure. Here, we investigated the neurobehavioral and biochemical responses associated with coexposure to AgNPs (200 µg/kg body weight) and taurine (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) in rats. Locomotor incompetence, motor deficits, and anxiogenic‐like behavior induced by AgNPs were significantly alleviated by both doses of taurine. Taurine administration enhanced exploratory behavior typified by increased track plot densities with diminished heat maps intensity in AgNPs‐treated rats. Biochemical data indicated that the reduction in cerebral and cerebellar acetylcholinesterase activity, antioxidant enzyme activities, and glutathione level by AgNPs treatment were markedly upturned by both doses of taurine. The significant abatement in cerebral and cerebellar oxidative stress indices namely reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, hydrogen peroxide, and lipid peroxidation was evident in rats cotreated with AgNPs and taurine. Further, taurine administration abated nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha levels cum myeloperoxidase and caspase‐3 activities in AgNPs‐treated rats. Amelioration of AgNPs‐induced neurotoxicity by taurine was confirmed by histochemical staining and histomorphometry. In conclusion, taurine via attenuation of oxido‐inflammatory stress and caspase‐3 activation protected against neurotoxicity induced by AgNPs in rats.