bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating multi‐index determination coupled with hierarchical cluster analysis to evaluate the quality consistency of PVE30, an anti‐HSV “glycoprotein” macromolecule of Prunellae Spica
Authors: Luo Xiaomei , Yuan Man , Lu Ping , Zhong Xuanlei , Zhang Yibo , Li Yang , Xi Zhichao , Zhang Hongmei , Li Songlin , Xu Hongxi
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Prunellae Spica (PS), derived from the dried fruit spikes of Prunella vulgaris L., is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. Our previous studies found that PVE30, a water‐extracting ethanol‐precipitating “glycoprotein” macromolecule of PS, was a potential anti‐herpes simplex virus (HSV) candidate. However, due to the complex structure and diverse bioactivity of the “glycoprotein”, ensuring its quality consistency across different batches of PVE30 becomes particularly challenging. This poses a significant hurdle for new drug development based on PVE30.

Objective

Our study aimed to integrate multi‐index determination coupled with hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) to holistically profile the quality consistency of “glycoprotein” in PVE30.

Methods

High‐performance gel permeation chromatography with refractive index detector (HPGPC‐RID) was used to characterise the molecular weight (Mw) distribution, HPLC‐PDA was used to quantitatively analyse the composed monosaccharides and amino acids, and UV‐VIS was used to quantify the contents of polysaccharides and proteins. Qualitative and quantitative consistency was analysed for each single index in 16 batches of PVE30, and a 16 × 38 data matrix, coupled with HCA, was used to evaluate the holistic quality consistency of PVE30.

Results

The newly developed and validated methods were exclusive, linear, precise, accurate, and stable enough to quantify multi‐indexes in PVE30. Single‐index analysis revealed that 16 batches of PVE30 were qualitatively consistent in Mw distribution, polysaccharides and proteins, and the composition of composed monosaccharides and amino acids but quantitatively inconsistent in the relative contents of some “glycoprotein” macromolecules, as well as the composed monosaccharides/amino acids. HCA showed that the holistic quality of PVE30 was inconsistent, the inconsistency was uncorrelated with the regions where PS was commercially collected, and the contents of 17 amino acids and 2 monosaccharides contributed most to the holistic quality inconsistency.

Conclusion

Multi‐index determination coupled with HCA was successful in evaluating the quality consistency of PVE30, and the significant difference in quantitative indices was not caused by the origin of PS. The cultivating basis should be confirmed for PVE30‐based new drug development.
Development and validation of a novel fetal vesico‐amniotic shunt, the vortex shunt
Authors: Blumenfeld Yair J. , Sheth Kunj R. , Johnson Eric , Wall James K. , Deprest Jan A. , Russo Francesca M. , Danzer Enrico
Published: November 2023

Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a severe malformation associated with an up to 80% mortality risk as well as significant renal and pulmonary morbidity in survivors. Fetal vesico‐amniotic shunts (VAS) bypass the bladder obstruction, improve amniotic fluid volume and enhance in‐utero pulmonary development. VAS has been shown to reduce respiratory morbidity and mortality in the neonatal period without proven benefit on long‐term renal and bladder function. Clinically available shunts are associated with an up to 80% dislodgement rate, leading to repeat invasive procedures which increase fetal and maternal risks. We developed a novel “Vortex” shunt, which incorporates enhanced fixation to reduce dislodgement, a one‐way valve to optimize in‐utero bladder function, and enhanced sonographic echogenicity that optimizes the accurate deployment. Following the validation of these characteristics in initial benchtop experiments we have moved to feasibility studies in the fetal lamb model. We hope that the Vortex shunt may ultimately facilitate shunt deployment, reduce dislodgement risk, improve neonatal morbidity and mortality, and decrease the significant healthcare expenditures associated with long‐term morbidity in LUTO survivors. In this manuscript, we review the natural history of LUTO, the risks and benefits of clinically available fetal shunts, and our development and early validation experiments.
Computational phenotyping within electronic healthcare data to identify transgender people in the United States: A narrative review
Authors: Beltran Theo G. , Lett Elle , Poteat Tonia , Hincapie‐Castillo Juan M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

With the expansion of research utilizing electronic healthcare data to identify transgender (TG) population health trends, the validity of computational phenotype (CP) algorithms to identify TG patients is not well understood. We aim to identify the current state of the literature that has utilized CPs to identify TG people within electronic healthcare data and their validity, potential gaps, and a synthesis of future recommendations based on past studies.

Methods

Authors searched the National Library of Medicine's PubMed, Scopus, and the American Psychological Association PsycInfo's databases to identify studies published in the United States that applied CPs to identify TG people within electronic healthcare data.

Results

Twelve studies were able to validate or enhance the positive predictive value (PPV) of their CP through manual chart reviews (n = 5), hierarchy of code mechanisms (n = 4), key text‐strings (n = 2), or self‐surveys (n = 1). CPs with the highest PPV to identify TG patients within their study population contained diagnosis codes and other components such as key text‐strings. However, if key text‐strings were not available, researchers have been able to find most TG patients within their electronic healthcare databases through diagnosis codes alone.

Conclusion

CPs with the highest accuracy to identify TG patients contained diagnosis codes along with components such as procedural codes or key text‐strings. CPs with high validity are essential to identifying TG patients when self‐reported gender identity is not available. Still, self‐reported gender identity information should be collected within electronic healthcare data as it is the gold standard method to better understand TG population health patterns.
Neuer Blick auf die Bildung des Sonnensystems
Authors: Altwegg Kathrin , Rubin Martin
Published: November 2023

Auch wenn sieben Jahre nach Ende der Rosetta‐Mission die Datenanalyse noch nicht beendet ist, haben die bisherigen Resultate die Vorstellung, dass Kometen primitive Körper sind, die hauptsächlich aus Wasser, CO und CO2 bestehen, klar widerlegt. Die chemischen und physikalischen Eigenschaften des Kometen lassen auf eine sanfte Agglomeration in einer kalten Umgebung schließen, wobei viele der Moleküle einen präsolaren Ursprung haben, insbesondere auch Wasser. Die chemische Zusammensetzung eines Kometen ist höchst komplex. Darunter sind etliche präbiotische Moleküle, die die These stützen, dass Kometeneinschläge möglicherweise die Entstehung des Lebens auf der Erde befördert haben.
Cell wall‐localized Bt protein endows rice high resistance to Lepidoptera pests
Authors: Li Hua , Deng Lihua , Weng Lvshui , Li Jinjiang , Hu Wenbin , Yu Jianghui , Xiao Youlun , Xiao Guoying
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The commercialized Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) crops accumulate Bt protein within cells, but the intracellular interactions of foreign protein with endogenous protein inevitably result in large or small unintended effects. In this study, the Bt gene Cry1Ca was linked with the sequences of extracellular secretion signal peptide and carbohydrate binding module 11 to constitute a fusion gene SP‐Cry1Ca‐CBM11, and the fusion gene driven by constitutive promoters was used for secreting and anchoring onto the cell wall to minimize unintended effects.

RESULTS

The transient expression in tobacco leaves demonstrated that the fusion protein was anchored on cell walls. The Cry1Ca contents of five homozygous rice transformants of single‐copy insertion were different and descended in the order leaf > root > stem. The maximum content of Cry1Ca was 17.55 μg g−1 in leaves of transformant 21H037. The bioassay results revealed that the transformants exhibited high resistance to lepidopteran pests. The corrected mortality of pink stem borer (Sesamia inferens) and striped stem borer (Chilo suppressalis) ranged from 96.33% to 100%, and from 83.32% to 100%, respectively, and the corrected mortality of rice leaf roller (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) was 92.53%. Besides, the agronomic traits of the five transformants were normal and similar to that of the recipient, and the transformants were highly resistant to glyphosate at the germination and seedling stages.

CONCLUSION

The fusion Bt protein was accumulated on cell walls and endowed the rice with high resistance to lepidopteran pests without unintended effects in agronomic traits. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Design and Characterization of New 3D Reentrant Rhombic Auxetic Structures with Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Xue Yingying , Mu Jianhui , Wang Xingfu
Published: November 2023

In this study, a new reentrant rhombic auxetic structure is first designed by replacing the reentrant strut of the regular reentrant structure with a rhombic structure. A simulation calculation method verified by experimental results is comprehensively developed to reveal the compressive behavior of the proposed structures in terms of deformation pattern, compression strength, Poisson's ratio, and energy absorption (EA). Based on the validated simulation method, the results indicate that compression load can give rise to an “X” deformation pattern of the rhombic auxetic structures. In the structure parametric study, it is further proved that the unit configuration exhibits a significant influence on the compression stress and EA of the structures. Furthermore, the rhombic auxetic structures present diverse Poisson's ratios with the structure parameters and compression global strain, that is, the structures with larger H, smaller D, and θ are found to present more pronounced auxetic effect. The compression direction also exhibits a remarkable effect on the performance of the structure, which accordingly indicates the anisotropic characteristic of the proposed structures. Moreover, compared with the other regular auxetic structures, the rhombic auxetic structures exhibit superior mechanical behavior and EA feature due to the introduction of the rhombic structure.
Excitation‐Selective and Double‐Emissive Lead‐Free Binary Hybrid Metal Halides for White Light‐Emitting Diode and X‐Ray Scintillation
Authors: Ju Dianxing , Zhou Ming , Liu Zhichao , Ran Peng , Dong Zhiwen , Hou Shuo , Li Hao , Xiao Wenge , Xu Xuhui , Li Huifang , Yang Yang (Michael) , Jiang Tingming
Published: November 2023

Zero‐dimensional (0D) organic metal halides comprising heterogeneous metal cations in single phase can achieve multiple luminous emissions enabling them toward multifunctional light‐emitting applications. Herein, A novel single crystal of (C8H20N)4SbMnCl9 containing two luminescent centers of [SbCl5]2− pentahedrons and [MnCl4]2− tetrahedrons is reported. The large distance between Sb–Sb, Mn–Mn, and Sb–Mn as well as theory calculation indicate negligible interaction between individual centers, thus endowing (C8H20N)4SbMnCl9 with excitation‐dependable and efficient luminescence. Under near‐UV excitation, only orange emission originates from self‐trapped excitons recombination in [SbCl5]2− pentahedron occurs with photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 91.5%. Under blue‐light excitation, only green emission originating from 4T1‐6A1 transition of Mn2+ in [MnCl4]2− tetrahedrons occurs with PLQY of 66.8%. Interestingly, upon X‐ray illumination, both emissions can be fully achieved due to the high‐energy photon absorption. Consequently, (C8H20N)4SbMnCl9 is employed as phosphors to fabricate white light‐emitting diodes optically pumped by n‐UV chip and blue‐chip thanks to its excitation‐dependable property. Moreover, it also shows promising performance as X‐ray scintillator with low detection limit of 60.79 nGyair S−1, steady‐state light yield ≈54% of commerical scintillaotr LuAG:Ce, high resolution of 13.5 lp mm−1 for X‐ray imaging. This work presents a new structural design to fabricate 0D hybrids with multicolor emissions.
Band Structure Optimized by Electron‐Acceptor Cations for Sensitive Perovskite Single Crystal Self‐Powered Photodetectors
Authors: Huang Yu‐Hua , Wang Xu‐Dong , Li Wen‐Guang , Zou Su‐Yan , Yang Xin , Kuang Dai‐Bin
Published: November 2023

Low‐dimensional perovskites afford improved stability against moisture, heat, and ionic migration. However, the low dimensionality typically results in a wide bandgap and strong electron–phonon coupling, which is undesirable for optoelectronic applications. Herein, semiconducting A‐site organic cation engineering by electron‐acceptor bipyridine (bpy) cations (2,2'‐bpy2+ and 4,4'‐bpy2+) is employed to optimize band structure in low‐dimensional perovskites. Benefiting from the merits of lower lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy for 4,4'‐bpy2+ cation, the corresponding (4,4'‐bpy)PbI4 is endowed with a smaller bandgap (1.44 eV) than the (CH3NH3)PbI3 (1.57 eV) benchmark. Encouragingly, an intramolecular type II band alignment formation between inorganic Pb‐I octahedron anions and bpy2+ cations favors photogenerated electron–hole pairs separation. In addition, a shortening distance between inorganic Pb‐I octahedral chains in (4,4'‐bpy)PbI4 single crystal (SC) can effectively promote carrier transfer. As a result, a self‐powered photodetector based on (4,4'‐bpy)PbI4 SC exhibits 131 folds higher on/off ratio (3807) than the counterpart of (2,2'‐bpy)2Pb3I10 SC (29). The presented result provides an effective strategy for exporting novel organic cation‐based low‐dimensional perovskite SC for high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Pneumonic Plague Protection Induced by a Monophosphoryl Lipid A Decorated Yersinia Outer‐Membrane‐Vesicle Vaccine
Authors: Majumder Saugata , Das Shreya , Li Peng , Yang Nicole , Dellario Hazel , Sui Haixin , Guan Ziqiang , Sun Wei
Published: November 2023

A new Yersinia pseudotuberculosis mutant strain, YptbS46, carrying the lpxE insertion and pmrF‐J deletion is constructed and shown to exclusively produce monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) having adjuvant properties. Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) isolated from YptbS46 harboring an lcrV expression plasmid, pSMV13, are designated OMV46‐LcrV, which contained MPLA and high amounts of LcrV (Low Calcium response V) and displayed low activation of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4). Intramuscular prime‐boost immunization with 30 µg of of OMV46‐LcrV exhibited substantially reduced reactogenicity than the parent OMV44‐LcrV and conferred complete protection to mice against a high‐dose of respiratory Y. pestis challenge. OMV46‐LcrV immunization induced robust adaptive responses in both lung mucosal and systemic compartments and orchestrated innate immunity in the lung, which are correlated with rapid bacterial clearance and unremarkable lung damage during Y. pestis challenge. Additionally, OMV46‐LcrV immunization conferred long‐term protection. Moreover, immunization with reduced doses of OMV46‐LcrV exhibited further lower reactogenicity and still provided great protection against pneumonic plague. The studies strongly demonstrate the feasibility of OMV46‐LcrV as a new type of plague vaccine candidate.
Extending the Operational Lifetime of Electrochemiluminescence Devices by Installing a Floating Bipolar Electrode
Authors: Yee Hyeono , Lee Jong Ik , Park Dong Mok , Jung Keonhee , Lee Seunghan , Kim Nam Hun , Kim Jungwook , Kim Hyeong Jun , Kang Moon Sung
Published: November 2023

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) holds significant promise for the development of cost‐effective light‐emitting devices because of its simple structure. However, conventional ECL devices (ECLDs) have a major limitation of short operational lifetimes, rendering them impractical for real‐world applications. Typically, the luminescence of these devices lasts no longer than a few minutes during operation. In the current study, a novel architecture is provided for ECLDs that addresses this luminescence lifespan issue. The device architecture features an ECL active layer between two coplanar driving electrodes and a third floating bipolar electrode. The inclusion of the floating bipolar electrode enables modulating the electrical‐field distribution within the active layer when a bias is applied between the driving electrodes. This, in turn, enables the use of opaque yet electrochemically stable noble metals as the driving electrodes while allowing ECL light to escape through the transparent floating bipolar electrode. A significant extension on operational lifetime is achieved, defined as the time required for the initial luminance (>100 cd m−2) to decrease by 50%, surpassing 1 h. This starkly contrasts the short lifetime (<1 min) attained by ECLDs in a conventional sandwich‐type architecture with two transparent electrodes. These results provide simple strategies for developing durable ECL‐based light‐emitting devices.
Anhydrous Proton Conduction Through a Chemically Robust Electrolyte Enabling a High‐Temperature Non‐Precious Metal Catalyzed Fuel Cell
Authors: Zou Junyan , Zhao Yu , Mollart Catherine , Peach Michael J G , Fayon Pierre , Heasman Patrick , Fletcher Peter A T J , Xu Jinchang , Liang Wanli , Trewin Abbie , Ben Teng
Published: November 2023

Fuel cells offer great promise for portable electricity generation, but their use is currently limited by their low durability, excessive operating temperatures, and expensive precious metal electrodes. It is therefore essential to develop fuel cell systems that can perform effectively using more robust electrolyte materials, at reasonable temperatures, with lower‐cost electrodes. Recently, proton exchange membrane fuel cells have attracted attention due to their generally favorable chemical stability and quick start‐up times. However, in most membrane materials, water is required for proton conduction, severely limiting operational temperatures. Here, for the first time it is demonstrated that when acidified, PAF‐1 can conduct protons at high temperatures, via a unique framework diffusion mechanism. It shows that this acidified PAF‐1 material can be pressed into pellets with high proton conduction properties even at high temperatures and pellet thickness, highlighting the processibility, and ease of use of this material. Furthermore, a fuel cell is shown with high power density output is possible using a non‐precious metal copper electrode. Acid‐doped PAF‐1 therefore represents a significant step forward in the potential for a broad‐purpose fuel cell due to it being cheap, robust, efficient, and easily processible.
Bifunctional Square‐Planar NiO4 Coordination of Topotactic LaNiO2.0 Films for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Xiao Zhifei , Huang Haoliang , Hu Sixia , Weng Zhuanglin , Huang Yuping , Du Bing , Zeng Xierong , Meng Yuying , Huang Chuanwei
Published: November 2023

The high‐efficient and low‐cost oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is decisive for applications of oxide catalysts in metal‐air batteries, electrolytic cells, and energy‐storage technologies. Delicate regulations of active surface and catalytic reaction pathway of oxide materials principally determine thermodynamic energy barrier and kinetic rate during catalytic reactions, and thus have crucial impacts on OER performance. Herein, a synergistic modulation of catalytically active surface and reaction pathway through facile topotactic transformations switching from perovskite (PV) LaNiO3.0 film to infinite‐layer (IL) LaNiO2.0 film is demonstrated, which absolutely contributes to improving OER performance. The square‐planar NiO4 coordination of IL‐LaNiO2.0 brings about more electrochemically active metal (Ni+) sites on the film surface. Meanwhile, the oxygen‐deficient driven PV‐ IL topotactic transformations lead to a reaction pathway converted from absorbate evolution mechanism to lattice‐oxygen‐mediated mechanism (LOM). The non‐concerted proton–electron transfer of LOM pathway, evidenced by the pH‐dependent OER kinetics, further boosts the OER activity of IL‐LaNiO2.0 films. These findings will advance the in‐depth understanding of catalytic mechanisms and open new possibilities for developing highly active perovskite‐derived oxide catalysts.
Semi‐Embedded Structured Bi Nanospheres for Boosted Self‐Heating‐Induced Healing of Li‐Dendrites
Authors: Na Zhaolin , Li Lin , Li Wenjing , Wang Xinran , Sun Xudong , Wang Qingshuang , Huang Gang
Published: November 2023

It is reported that self‐heating‐induced healing on lithium metal anodes (LMAs) provides a mitigation strategy for suppressing Li dendrites. However, how to boost the self‐heating‐induced healing of Li‐dendrites and incorporate it into Li‐host design remains an imminent problem that needs to be solved. Herein, a new bismuth nanosphere semi‐buried carbon cloth (Bi‐NS‐CC) material with a 3D flexible host structure is proposed. The ultrasmall Bi nanospheres are uniformly and densely distributed on carbon fiber, providing active sites to form uniform Li3Bi alloy with molten lithium, thereby guiding the injection of molten metallic lithium into the 3D structure to form a self‐supporting composite LMAs. The ingenious semi‐embedded structure with strong interfacial C─Bi ensures superior mechanical properties. Interestingly, when the current density reaches up to 10 mA cm−2, the lithium dendrites undergo self‐heating. Carbon cloth as a host can quickly and uniformly transfer heat, which induces the uniform migration of Li on anodes. The semi‐embedded structure with strong C─Bi ensures Bi nanospheres guide the formation of smooth morphology even under these harsh conditions (high‐temperature, high‐rate, etc.). Consequently, at 10 mA cm−2/10 mAh cm−2, the Li/Li3Bi‐NS‐CC realizes ultra‐long cycles of 1500 h and ultra‐low overpotential of 15 mV in a symmetric cell.
Effects of Phosphate Fertilization Rates on Physicochemical Properties of Potato Starch
Authors: Morishita Ao , Kinoshita Rintaro , Tani Masayuki , Sugawara Masayuki , Ikeda Shinya
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study is to seek correlations between phosphate fertilization rates in potato cultivation and the chemical composition and physicochemical properties of the potato starch. Potato starches are prepared from the potato tubers cultivated in two different districts in Hokkaido, Japan, with different soil characteristics using varied phosphate fertilization rates. The chemical composition of the potato starches such as the amylose, phosphorus, and potassium contents and their physicochemical properties such as the swelling power, solubility, and pasting and thermal properties are evaluated. The results show that the phosphate fertilization rate has a moderate and positive correlation with the amylose content, while no correlations are found with any other chemical composition and physicochemical properties, including the phosphorus content. One plausible explanation for the lack of the correlation between the phosphate fertilization rate and the phosphorus content in the starch is that a sufficient amount of phosphorus has already been accumulated in the soils to phosphorylate the starch to the highest possible degree without further application of phosphate fertilizers. The present results imply that reducing the phosphate fertilization rate in potato cultivation in the studied fields has no negative impact on the chemical composition and physicochemical properties of potato starch.
Dissipative Cyclic Reaction Networks: Mechanistic Insights into a Minor Enantiomer Recycling Process
Authors: Margarita Cristiana , Nash Anna Laurell , Ahlstrand David A. , Ahlquist Mårten S. G. , Wendt Ola F. , Fransson Linda , Moberg Christina
Published: November 2023

An analysis of an out‐of‐equilibrium cyclic reaction network which continuously converts a minor undesired product enantiomer to the desired major enantiomer by irreversible addition of chemical fuel and irreversible elimination of spent fuel is presented. The reaction network is maintained as long as fuel is added; interrupted fuel addition drives the system towards equilibrium, but the cyclic process restarts upon resumed fuel addition, as demonstrated by three consecutive fuel cycles. The process is powered by the hydrolysis of methyl cyanoformate to HCN and monomethyl carbonic acid, which decomposes to CO2 and MeOH. The time it takes to reach steady state depends on the rate of conversion of the fuel and decreases with increased conversion rate. Three catalysts, one metal catalyst and two enzymes, together constitute an efficient regulation system allowing control of the forward, backward and waste‐forming steps, thereby assuring the production of high yields of products with high enantiopurity.
Gastrointestinal parasitosis in cattle: Unveiling the landscape across diverse production systems in Bangladesh
Authors: Sayeed Md. Abu , Ungar Lauren , Chowdhury Yeasin Haider , Bari Md. Saiful , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Anwer M. Sawkat , Hoque Md. Ahasanul
Published: November 2023

Background

Factors influencing parasitosis in cattle in Bangladesh remain inadequately explored, necessitating a comprehensive investigation for interventions and sustainable livestock farming.

Objectives

We conducted this study to estimate the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites, exploring their intricate relationship with farm management practices across a spectrum of small‐, medium‐, and large‐scale commercial farms.

Methods

We conducted this study in the Chattogram district of Bangladesh. We collected a total of 189 freshly voided faecal samples from different farms. We recorded the age, breed, milking status, sex, body condition score, and anthelmintic use history of the sampled animals. We processed the samples using the direct smear method, with the identification of one egg per sample being considered positive.

Results

We estimated the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infection in large‐scale (52.1%), medium‐scale (54.5%), and small‐scale farms (70.0%), with statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.05). Both pregnant and lactating cows, as well as indigenous cattle, were more likely to have gastrointestinal parasites (p ≤ 0.05). The predominant parasites across farms of all sizes were trematodes (Paramphistomum spp. and Schistosomas spp.) and protozoa (Balantidium coli and Coccidia spp.).

Conclusion

Poor farm management practices, such as no pasture management and inadequate deworming regimens, may contribute to the elevated prevalence and infection load observed on small‐scale farms. The increased parasitosis in previously dewormed animals can be attributed to the development of anthelmintic resistance against gastrointestinal parasites. Implementing proper and effective deworming strategies is crucial to preventing gastrointestinal parasitosis and mitigating the risk of anthelmintic resistance.
Influence of ketamine, propofol or isoflurane on intraocular pressure, heart rate and blood pressure in healthy dogs premedicated with medetomidine and midazolam
Authors: Khaleghi Masoud , Sarchahi Ali Asghar , Kazemi Mehrjerdi Hossein , Rasekh Mehdi , Saadati Dariush
Published: November 2023

Background

According to the findings of several studies, sedatives and anaesthetics have different effects on the functioning of the cardiovascular system and intraocular pressure (IOP). For accurate diagnosis, treatment and surgery with minimal complications, it is necessary to be aware of the effects of sedatives and anaesthetics on the cardiovascular system and IOP.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sedatives (medetomidine and midazolam) and anaesthetics (ketamine, propofol and isoflurane) on IOP, heart rate (HR) and blood pressure in dogs.

Methods

In this study, 10 dogs participated in three treatments using a randomised cross‐over design, with a 1‐week washout period between each treatment. Dogs in all treatments were premedicated with medetomidine and midazolam. Anaesthesia was induced using ketamine, propofol, or isoflurane and maintained for 60 min with the appropriate doses of each drug. The cardiovascular variables (heart rate, and systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures) and IOP were measured at different timepoints: before premedication (baseline values, T‐Bas), 15 min after medetomidine administration (T‐Med), 20 min after midazolam administration (T‐Mid) and at 15 (T‐15), 30 (T‐30), 45 (T‐45) and 60 (T‐60) min after anaesthesia induction.

Results

Medetomidine significantly reduced the IOP and HR and did not significantly change the mean arterial pressure (MAP). Midazolam significantly reduced the IOP while did not significantly change the HR and MAP. Ketamine and isoflurane significantly increased the IOP and HR while did not significantly change the MAP. Propofol significantly increased the HR, but did not cause significant changes in IOP and MAP.

Conclusions

Considering that anaesthetics are typically administered in conjunction with pre‐anaesthetic drugs, the increases in IOP induced by ketamine and isoflurane are not important, as the IOP did not exceed the baseline values. However, further studies are required to investigate these effects in patients with elevated IOP.
Sunnier climes in the UK
Authors: Spellman Greg , Bird Danielle
Published: November 2023

Even in the United Kingdom, with its mid‐latitude oceanic climate, solar energy is of increasing importance for maintaining energy supplies and moving towards net zero. Quantification of the solar resource therefore is critical. Measurements of sunshine duration, which are strongly correlated with insolation, indicate a continuation of a brightening trend first identified for other locations 20 years ago. Although there is likely to be some control by atmospheric pollution, decreasing cloudiness may be the main determinant. Application of Jenkinson–Collison surface synoptic indices indicates a strong synoptic control on sunshine duration but does not account for the observed trend in sunshine. This suggests that further research is warranted on circulation‐related cloud attributes.
Interleukin 4 improved adipose-derived stem cells engraftment via interacting with fibro/adipogenic progenitors in dystrophic mice
Authors: Li Huan , Lin Jinfu , Wang Liang , He Ruojie , Li Jing , Chen Menglong , Zhang Weixi , Zhang Cheng
Published: November 2023

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) therapy shows promise as an effective treatment for dystrophinopathy. Fibro-/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) play an essential role in the myogenesis of muscle satellite cells and contribute to muscle fibrosis and adipocyte infiltration. The interleukin 4 (IL-4) pathway acts as a switch that regulates the functions of FAPs. The interaction between FAPs and engrafted cells remains unclear. In this study, we used a co-culture system to investigate possible crosstalk between the FAPs of dystrophic mice and ADSC overexpressing IL4 (IL4-ADSC) and control ADSC. Systemic transplantation of IL4-ADSC and control ADSC in dystrophic mice was conducted for 16 weeks, after which motor function and molecular improvements were evaluated. Overexpression of IL4 in ADSC significantly promoted myogenesis in vitro, increasing the expression of Pax7, Myogenin, and MyHC. Co-culture indicated that although myoblasts derived from control ADSC promoted adipogenic and fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs, FAPs did not significantly affect myogenesis of ADSC-derived myoblasts. However, overexpression of IL4 in ADSC inhibited their myotube-dependent promotion of FAPs differentiation on the one hand and promoted FAPs to enhance myogenesis on the other. Dystrophic mice administered with IL4-ADSC-derived myoblasts displayed significantly better motor ability, more engrafted cells showing dystrophin expression, and less muscle fibrosis, intramuscular adipocytes, and macrophage infiltration than mice administered control-ADSC-derived myoblasts. In conclusion, IL4 activation enhanced the therapeutic potential of ADSC transplantation in dystrophic mice, possibly by improving the myogenesis of IL4-ADSC and altering the crosstalk between engrafted stem cells and resident FAPs.
Particle Trajectories for Quantum Maps
Authors: Borns-Weil Yonah , Oltman Izak
Published: November 2023

We study the trajectories of a semiclassical quantum particle under repeated indirect measurement by Kraus operators, in the setting of the quantized torus. In between measurements, the system evolves via either Hamiltonian propagators or metaplectic operators. We show in both cases the convergence in total variation of the quantum trajectory to its corresponding classical trajectory, as defined by the propagation of a semiclassical defect measure. This convergence holds up to the Ehrenfest time of the classical system, which is larger when the system is “less chaotic.” In addition, we present numerical simulations of these effects. In proving this result, we provide a characterization of a type of semi-classical defect measure we call uniform defect measures. We also prove derivative estimates of a function composed with a flow on the torus.
Higher Siegel–Weil formula for unitary groups: the non-singular terms
Authors: Feng Tony , Yun Zhiwei , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2023

We construct special cycles on the moduli stack of hermitian shtukas. We prove an identity between (1) the $r^{\mathrm{th}}$

r
th

central derivative of non-singular Fourier coefficients of a normalized Siegel–Eisenstein series, and (2) the degree of special cycles of “virtual dimension 0” on the moduli stack of hermitian shtukas with $r$
r
legs. This may be viewed as a function-field analogue of the Kudla-Rapoport Conjecture, that has the additional feature of encompassing all higher derivatives of the Eisenstein series.
The solid solution in the system NaMgAl(SO4)3–KMgAl(SO4)3
Authors: Jensen Peter Grouleff , Balic-Zunic Tonci , Nielsen Ulla Gro , Kofoed Philip Miguel
Published: November 2023

We synthesized six samples in the compositional field NaMgAl(SO4)3–KMgAl(SO4)3 in 20 mol% increments from pure Na to pure K compounds. We investigated them by Powder X-Ray diffraction, 23Na, and 27Al Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy. The results confirm NaMgAl(SO4)3 as a unique phase identical to a presumed new mineral found in the fumaroles of Eldfell and Hekla volcanoes in Iceland. It tolerates less than 10 mol% K substitution for Na. There exists a compositional gap to approximately Na0.65K0.35MgAl(SO4)3 from where a solid solution extends to KMgAl(SO4)3. The mineral koryakite [NaKMg2Al2(SO4)6] is a member of the latter solid solution series. The crystal structures of all (Na,K)MgAl(SO4)3 phases are akin to NASICON (NA Super Ionic CONductor). NaMgAl(SO4)3 has $$R\overline{3}c$$

R

3
¯

c

symmetry and a disordered distribution of Mg and Al among the octahedral sites with only one unique site for the alkali atom. The members of the solid solution have $$R\overline{3}$$

R

3
¯

symmetry with ordered Mg–Al distribution and two unique alkali sites with different preferences for Na and K. In the crystal structure, the coordination of Na and/or K is trigonal antiprismatic, and these share bases with two octahedral Mg (Na) or Al (K) coordinations. These polyhedra are arranged in columns parallel to [001] and interconnected by SO4 tetrahedral groups. The alkali atoms from a column lie in the same (001) layers as the octahedrally coordinated atoms from the three neighboring rows. On the same level, parallel to (001), there are gaps in the other three neighboring columns forming channels containing Na+ or K+ ions.
Vibrational entropy of disordering in omphacite
Authors: Benisek Artur , Dachs Edgar , Carpenter Michael A. , Joachim-Mrosko Bastian , Vielreicher Noreen M. , Wildner Manfred
Published: November 2023

The cations of an ordered omphacite from the Tauern window were gradually disordered in piston cylinder experiments at temperatures between 850 and 1150 °C. The samples were examined by X-ray powder diffraction and then investigated using low-temperature calorimetry and IR spectroscopy. The low-temperature heat capacity data were used to obtain the vibrational entropies, and the line broadening of the IR spectra served as a tool to investigate the disordering enthalpy. These data were then used to calculate the configurational entropy as a function of temperature. The vibrational entropy does not change during the cation ordering phase transition from space group C2/c to P2/n at 865 °C but increases with a further temperature increase due to the reduction of short-range order.
Pharmacodynamic effects of the PARP inhibitor talazoparib (MDV3800, BMN 673) in patients with BRCA-mutated advanced solid tumors
Authors: Mittra Arjun , Coyne Geraldine H. O’ Sullivan , Zlott Jennifer , Kummar Shivaani , Meehan Robert , Rubinstein Lawrence , Juwara Lamin , Wilsker Deborah , Ji Jiuping , Miller Brandon , Navas Tony , Ferry-Galow Katherine V. , Voth Andrea Regier , Chang Ting-Chia , Jiwani Shahanawaz , Parchment Ralph E. , Doroshow James H. , Chen Alice P.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Talazoparib is an inhibitor of the poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) family of enzymes and is FDA-approved for patients with (suspected) deleterious germline BRCA1/2-mutated, HER2‑negative, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer. Because knowledge of the pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of talazoparib in patients has been limited to studies of PARP enzymatic activity (PARylation) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, we developed a study to assess tumoral PD response to talazoparib treatment (NCT01989546).

Methods

We administered single-agent talazoparib (1 mg/day) orally in 28-day cycles to adult patients with advanced solid tumors harboring (suspected) deleterious BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. The primary objective was to examine the PD effects of talazoparib; the secondary objective was to determine overall response rate (ORR). Tumor biopsies were mandatory at baseline and post-treatment on day 8 (optional at disease progression). Biopsies were analyzed for PARylation, DNA damage response (γH2AX), and epithelial‒mesenchymal transition.

Results

Nine patients enrolled in this trial. Four of six patients (67%) evaluable for the primary PD endpoint exhibited a nuclear γH2AX response on day 8 of treatment, and five of six (83%) also exhibited strong suppression of PARylation. A transition towards a more mesenchymal phenotype was seen in 4 of 6 carcinoma patients, but this biological change did not affect γH2AX or PAR responses. The ORR was 55% with the five partial responses lasting a median of six cycles.

Conclusion

Intra-tumoral DNA damage response and inhibition of PARP enzymatic activity were confirmed in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring BRCA1/2 mutations after 8 days of talazoparib treatment.
Study of the electroosmotic flow of a structured fluid with a new generalized rheological model
Authors: Herrera-Valencia E. E. , Sánchez-Villavicencio M. L. , Soriano-Correa C. , Bautista O. , Ramírez-Torres L.A. , Hernández-Abad V. J. , Calderas F.
Published: November 2023

The electroosmotic flow of a viscoelastic fluid in a capillary system was investigated analytically. The rheology of the fluid was characterized by a novel generalized exponential model equation. The charge density obeys the Boltzmann distribution, which governs the electrical double-layer field and body force generated by the applied electrical field. Mathematically, this scenario can be modeled by the Poisson-Boltzmann partial differential equation, by assuming that the zeta potential is small, i.e., less than 25 mV (Debye-Hückel approximation). Considering a pulsating electric field, the shear viscosity and the alteration in the volumetric flow were presented as a function of the material parameters through the characteristic dimensionless numbers by using an exponential-type generalized rheological model. Thixotropy, shear thinning, yield stress mechanisms, and weight concentration were analyzed through numerical results. Finally, the flow properties and rheology were predicted using experimental data reported elsewhere for worm-like micellar solution of cetyl trimethyl ammonium tosilate (CTAT). The rheological equation of state proposed in this study describes the alterations in the structure resulting from applied forces (tangential and normal). These forces induced a structural evolution (kinetic model) due to the relaxation processes caused by shear strain. It is important to mention that in electroosmotic flows, complex behavior such as (i) thixotropy, (ii) rheopexy, and (iii) shear banding flow is scarcely explained in terms of the change in the structure of the fluid under flow.

Graphical Abstract
Metric evaluation of the anterior nasal spine to estimate sex and population group in South African individuals
Authors: Davidson Christy Lana , de Klerk Johan , Matejovsky Zina , Fabris-Rotelli Inger , Uys Andre
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The anterior nasal spine is a pointed, midline projection of the maxilla. This bony structure dictates the overlying soft tissues providing the phenotypic features of the nose and upper lip and determines the differences in the mid-face morphology. Little data is available on the metric features of the Anterior nasal spine (ANS). This study aimed to perform metric evaluations of the ANS of white and black South African males and females to ascertain if morphological variations exist and if the differences are viable for the use in sex and population identification.

Materials and methods

The sample included 100 CBCT images for each population and sex group. Linear and angular measurements of the ANS were recorded in both the sagittal and axial planes.

Results

Classification decision trees (pruned) were fitted to ascertain the relationship between population group, sex and the ANS measurements including and excluding age.

For population group, all the ANS measurements were statistically significant for females but in males, all the ANS measurements were significant when performed individually. However, when fitted to the classification tree, Sagittal 2 did not show any statistical significance. When considering sex, only 2 of the ANS measurements (Sagittal 2 and Axial 1) were found to be significant. The results did not differ significantly when comparing the decision trees including and excluding age.

Conclusions

White South African individuals presented with a longer ANS that produced a more acute angle whereas black South African individuals presented with a shorter ANS and a more obtuse angle. Additionally, males presented with a longer ANS compared to females. ANS measurements were found to be more relevant for population discernment than for sex.
Cortical thickness modeling and variability in Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Pérez-Millan Agnès , Borrego-Écija Sergi , Falgàs Neus , Juncà-Parella Jordi , Bosch Beatriz , Tort-Merino Adrià , Antonell Anna , Bargalló Nuria , Rami Lorena , Balasa Mircea , Lladó Albert , Sala-Llonch Roser , Sánchez-Valle Raquel
Published: November 2023

Background and objective

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) show different patterns of cortical thickness (CTh) loss compared with healthy controls (HC), even though there is relevant heterogeneity between individuals suffering from each of these diseases. Thus, we developed CTh models to study individual variability in AD, FTD, and HC.

Methods

We used the baseline CTh measures of 379 participants obtained from the structural MRI processed with FreeSurfer. A total of 169 AD patients (63 ± 9 years, 65 men), 88 FTD patients (64 ± 9 years, 43 men), and 122 HC (62 ± 10 years, 47 men) were studied. We fitted region-wise temporal models of CTh using Support Vector Regression. Then, we studied associations of individual deviations from the model with cerebrospinal fluid levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL) and 14–3-3 protein and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Furthermore, we used real longitudinal data from 144 participants to test model predictivity.

Results

We defined CTh spatiotemporal models for each group with a reliable fit. Individual deviation correlated with MMSE for AD and with NfL for FTD. AD patients with higher deviations from the trend presented higher MMSE values. In FTD, lower NfL levels were associated with higher deviations from the CTh prediction. For AD and HC, we could predict longitudinal visits with the presented model trained with baseline data. For FTD, the longitudinal visits had more variability.

Conclusion

We highlight the value of CTh models for studying AD and FTD longitudinal changes and variability and their relationships with cognitive features and biomarkers.
Pathologic approach to Neonatal cholestasis with a simple scoring system for biliary atresia
Authors: Ali Khadiga M. , Zalata Khaled R. , Barakat Tarik , Elzeiny Sherine M.
Published: November 2023

A liver biopsy is essential for the diagnostic workup of persistent neonatal cholestasis (NC). The differential diagnosis of NC is broad, including obstructive and non-obstructive causes. In addition, histologic features of certain disorders may be non-specific in the early course of the disease. To evaluate liver biopsies using a practical histopathologic approach for NC and to define a simple scoring system for biliary atresia (BA) for routine clinical practice. From June 2006 to December 2021, liver biopsy specimens from infants with persistent NC were examined by two independent pathologists. The cases diagnosed as BA were correlated with clinical, radiologic, and laboratory data to calculate the final score. Four hundred and fifty-nine cases were enrolled in the study. They had a mean age of 63.94 ± 20.62 days and were followed for a median time of 58 (1–191) months. They included 162 (35.3%) cases of BA. On multivariate analysis, portal edema, ductular proliferation, cholangiolitis, and bile duct/ductular plugs were the histopathologic predictors of BA. A liver biopsy did perform well with a 95.1% sensitivity, 91.6% specificity, 86% PPV, and 97.1% NPV. At a cutoff of 5 of the scoring system, diagnosis of BA could be done with a sensitivity of 95.1% and a specificity of 100%. We have shown detailed histopathologic features of BA with more depth to infants aged ≤ 6 weeks. We have developed a simple scoring system using a combination of liver biopsy with non-invasive methods to increase the diagnostic accuracy of BA.