bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zirconium‐2‐Imidazolidinethione Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Aerogel for Efficient Removal of Fluoride Ions and Anionic Dyes from Aqueous Solutions: Multivariate Process Optimization
Authors: Islam Aminul , Fatima Sana
Published: March 2023

A multifunctional aerogel (zirconium‐2‐imidizalodinethione‐reduced graphene oxide aerogel, Zr‐IMDT/rGOA) is synthesized by functionalizing graphene oxide with ZrCl4 and 2‐imidazolidinethione through one‐pot hydrothermal reduction and subsequent freeze drying. The aerogel is employed for the removal of anionic pollutants. Zr‐IMDT/rGOA shows good removal performance for both fluoride ions (F−) and anionic dyes (Alizarin Red S (ARS) and Eosin Y (EY)). The removal efficiency of F− is 97.96% at pH 4.6, time 30 min, an initial concentration of 10 mg L−1, and an adsorbent dosage of 0.01 g as optimized by the Box Behnken Design in response surface methodology. . Brouers‐Sotolongo isotherm model fits well with the equilibrium sorption data and maximum sorption capacity (Qmax) of 328.28, 694.00, and 1449.28 mg g−1 is obtained for F−, ARS, and EY, respectively. Fractal‐like pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model is best suited to the kinetic data and >50% removal is attained for all analytes within 5 min indicating fairly fast kinetics. Zr‐IMDT/rGOA shows good selectivity for F− in the presence of counter ions (Cl−, NO3−, SO42−, HCO3−, and H2PO4−) and could be regenerated up to five cycles with >90% removal. The synthesized aerogel is successfully applied to remove F− from groundwater, river water, and tea infusion.
Restorative validity and healing through inquiry: A visual ethnographic case study in Guatemala
Authors: Dazzo Giovanni P. , Cúmez Carmencita , Henderson Erica , Peccerelli Fredy
Published: March 2023

This case study is an exploration of the potential restorative and healing qualities of inquiry. The co‐authors—a university‐affiliated researcher, a Kaqchikel Maya community leader, and forensic anthropologists—document their stories navigating a participatory action research project as co‐researchers. Using visual ethnography, we illustrate how we approached inquiry from a place ofrestorative validity, which challenges inquirers to reclaim and restore the humanity of researcher, researched, and the research process itself. Through a culturally sustaining frame, we grounded our interpretations in the Maya cultural elements of land, community, and attachment to place. We demonstrate how we intertwined our various ways of knowing and methods, from Indigenous oral tradition to interactive techniques such as ripples of change, to co‐create a form of inquiry rooted in relationships, justice, and liberation. As peace, conflict, and justice researchers and practitioners work with those who have been subjected to and witnessed atrocities, we problematize whether our methodological practices are in line with our values as a community of care. In moving toward restorative validity, we ask: If the outside world robs people of their humanity, identities, and memories, do we simply observe and document these injustices; or can our inquiry work toward reclamation and restoration?
Granulocyte development, tissue recruitment, and function during allergic inflammation
Authors: Radtke Daniel , Voehringer David
Published: March 2023

Granulocytes provide a fast innate response to pathogens and allergens. In allergy and anti‐helminth immunity, epithelial cells of damaged barriers release alarmins like IL‐25, IL‐33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) but also chemokines like CXCL1 or CCL11 to promote cell recruitment and inflammation. In addition, mast cells positioned at barrier tissue sites also quickly release mediators upon specifically sensing antigens through IgE bound to FcεR1 on their surface. Released mediators induce the recruitment of different granulocytes in a timely ordered manner. First, neutrophils extravasate from the blood vasculature to the side of alarmin release and promote a potent inflammatory response. Alarmins and activated mast cells further promote activation of ILC2s and recruitment of basophils and eosinophils, which inhibit neutrophil recruitment and enhance tissue type 2 immunity. In addition to their potent pro‐inflammatory effector functions, granulocytes can also contribute to termination and resolution of inflammation. Here, we summarize the development and tissue recruitment of granulocyte subsets, and describe general effector functions and aspects of their increasingly appreciated role in limiting tissue damage. We further discuss targeting approaches for therapeutic interventions in allergic disorders.
Treatment of status epilepticus: Physiology, pharmacology, and future directions
Authors: Sankar Raman
Published: March 2023

The review presents retrospective, present views and future perspectives on the treatment of status epilepticus (SE). First, presynaptic, postsynaptic, and extrasynaptic mechanisms underlying sustaining ongoing seizure activity are highlighted. Next, mechanism‐based choices of antiseizure medications capable of promptly arresting SE are introduced. Finally, challenges associated with translating the advances in laboratory research in clinical practice are discussed.
Study on the nonuniform mechanical degradation of membranes considering temperature and relative humidity distribution in proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Liu Wenqing , Qiu Diankai , Peng Linfa , Lai Xinmin
Published: March 2023

The membrane usually breaks down at a specific local position due to the mechanical degradation caused by nonuniform hygrothermal conditions in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Many studies have been carried out analyzing the stress and strain on membrane along thickness direction, but few of them considered the stress along the surface. By imposing uneven temperature and water profiles according to experiments and simulation, this study systematically investigated effects of varying temperatures, relative humidity, and gas flow directions on the membrane stress/strain in a comprehensive 3D model. The results proved that nonuniform temperature and water content affect the response of the membrane a lot. Although the membrane at the inlet of the flow field suffers higher stress, the membrane at the outlet is easier to fail because higher humidity leads to lower yield stress. For the operating condition, the stress range of cells under the counter‐flow reactant gas is 0.2 MPa less than those under co‐flow direction. And increasing humidity to near‐saturated condition would reduce the stress range from 1.2 to 0.49 MPa. The study contributes to achieving better fatigue resistance for membranes in terms of controlling anisotropic heat and relative humidity for fuel cells.
Microglial IL‐1RA ameliorates brain injury after ischemic stroke by inhibiting astrocytic CXCL1‐mediated neutrophil recruitment and microvessel occlusion
Authors: Huang Xiaoyan , Guo Mingyan , Zhang Yangfan , Xie Jiatian , Huang Rong , Zuo Zhiyi , Saw Phei Er , Cao Minghui
Published: March 2023

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS), one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, is characterized by a rapid inflammatory cascade resulting in exacerbation of ischemic brain injury. Microglia are the first immune responders. However, the role of postischemic microglial activity in ischemic brain injury remains far from being fully understood. Here, using the transgenic mouse line CX3CR1creER:R26iDTR to genetically ablate microglia, we showed that microglial deletion exaggerated ischemic brain injury. Associated with this worse outcome, there were increased neutrophil recruitment, microvessel blockade and blood flow stagnation in the acute phase, accompanied by transcriptional upregulation of chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1). Our study showed that microglial interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RA) suppressed astrocytic CXCL1 expression induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation and inhibited neutrophil migration. Furthermore, neutralizing antibody therapy against CXCL1 or the administration of recombinant IL‐1RA protein reduced brain infarct volume and improved motor coordination performance of mice after ischemic stroke. Our study suggests that microglia protect against acute ischemic brain injury by secreting IL‐1RA to inhibit astrocytic CXCL1 expression, which reduces neutrophil recruitment and neutrophil‐derived microvessel occlusion.
The potential role of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in acute coronary syndrome and type 2 myocardial infarction (T2MI): Intertwining spread
Authors: Alsaidan Aseel Awad , Al‐Kuraishy Hayder M. , Al‐Gareeb Ali I. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Alsayed Khalid Adel , Saad Hebatallah M. , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber
Published: March 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a novel pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). It has been shown that SARS‐CoV‐2 infection‐induced inflammatory and oxidative stress and associated endothelial dysfunction may lead to the development of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Therefore, this review aimed to ascertain the link between severe SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and ACS. ACS is a spectrum of acute myocardial ischemia due to a sudden decrease in coronary blood flow, ranging from unstable angina to myocardial infarction (MI). Primary or type 1 MI (T1MI) is mainly caused by coronary plaque rupture and/or erosion with subsequent occlusive thrombosis. Secondary or type 2 MI (T2MI) is due to cardiac and systemic disorders without acute coronary atherothrombotic disruption. Acute SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is linked with the development of nonobstructive coronary disorders such as coronary vasospasm, dilated cardiomyopathy, myocardial fibrosis, and myocarditis. Furthermore, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is associated with systemic inflammation that might affect coronary atherosclerotic plaque stability through augmentation of cardiac preload and afterload. Nevertheless, major coronary vessels with atherosclerotic plaques develop minor inflammation during COVID‐19 since coronary arteries are not initially and primarily targeted by SARS‐CoV‐2 due to low expression of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 in coronary vessels. In conclusion, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection through hypercytokinemia, direct cardiomyocyte injury, and dysregulation of the renin‐angiotensin system may aggravate underlying ACS or cause new‐onset T2MI. As well, arrhythmias induced by anti‐COVID‐19 medications could worsen underlying ACS.
Adverse events following COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines: A systematic review of cardiovascular complication, thrombosis, and thrombocytopenia
Authors: Yasmin Farah , Najeeb Hala , Naeem Unaiza , Moeed Abdul , Atif Abdul Raafe , Asghar Muhammad Sohaib , Nimri Nayef , Saleem Maryam , Bandyopadhyay Dhrubajyoti , Krittanawong Chayakrit , Fadelallah Eljack Mohammed Mahmmoud , Tahir Muhammad Junaid , Waqar Fahad
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Since publishing successful clinical trial results of mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines in December 2020, multiple reports have arisen about cardiovascular complications following the mRNA vaccination. This study provides an in‐depth account of various cardiovascular adverse events reported after the mRNA vaccines' first or second dose including pericarditis/myopericarditis, myocarditis, hypotension, hypertension, arrhythmia, cardiogenic shock, stroke, myocardial infarction/STEMI, intracranial hemorrhage, thrombosis (deep vein thrombosis, cerebral venous thrombosis, arterial or venous thrombotic events, portal vein thrombosis, coronary thrombosis, microvascular small bowel thrombosis), and pulmonary embolism.

Methods

A systematic review of original studies reporting confirmed cardiovascular manifestations post‐mRNA COVID‐19 vaccination was performed. Following the PRISMA guidelines, electronic databases (PubMed, PMC NCBI, and Cochrane Library) were searched until January 2022. Baseline characteristics of patients and disease outcomes were extracted from relevant studies.

Results

A total of 81 articles analyzed confirmed cardiovascular complications post‐COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines in 17,636 individuals and reported 284 deaths with any mRNA vaccine. Of 17,636 cardiovascular events with any mRNA vaccine, 17,192 were observed with the BNT162b2 (Pfizer−BioNTech) vaccine, 444 events with mRNA‐1273 (Moderna). Thrombosis was frequently reported with any mRNA vaccine (n = 13,936), followed by stroke (n = 758), myocarditis (n = 511), myocardial infarction (n = 377), pulmonary embolism (n = 301), and arrhythmia (n = 254). Stratifying the results by vaccine type showed that thrombosis (80.8%) was common in the BNT162b2 cohort, while stroke (39.9%) was common with mRNA‐1273 for any dose. The time between the vaccination dosage and the first symptom onset averaged 5.6 and 4.8 days with the mRNA‐1273 vaccine and BNT162b2, respectively. The mRNA‐1273 cohort reported 56 deaths compared to the 228 with BNT162b2, while the rest were discharged or transferred to the ICU.

Conclusion

Available literature includes more studies with the BNT162b2 vaccine than mRNA‐1273. Future studies must report mortality and adverse cardiovascular events by vaccine types.
The Chemistry of [1,1′‐bis(o‐Carboranyl)]Borane η2‐σ‐Silane Adduct
Authors: Diab Mohanad , Jaiswal Kuldeep , Bawari Deependra , Dobrovetsky Roman
Published: March 2023

We report here a new route for the preparation of [1,1′‐bis(o‐carboranyl)]borane, a 3D analogue of 9‐borafluorene, η2‐σ‐silane adduct (1‐H‐SiEt3) in high yields (>80 %). The nature of B−H−Si bonding was studied by density functional theory (DFT) computations. Preliminary reactivity study of 1‐H‐SiEt3 with small molecules was carried out. Interestingly, 1‐H‐SiEt3 reacts with benzophenone in hexane producing the deoxygenation product Ph2CH2. While in benzene, 1‐H‐SiEt3 reacts with benzophenone leading to mixture of Ph2CH2 and Ph3CH (3 : 1). Ph3CH is formed via addition of benzene to the carbonyl followed by deoxygenation. In contrast, the reaction of benzophenone with Et3SiH in presence of a catalytic amount of 1‐H‐SiEt3 leads to hydrosilylation product Ph2(H)C−OSiEt3.
DeepChestNet: Artificial intelligence approach for COVID‐19 detection on computed tomography images
Authors: Ağralı Mahmut , Kilic Volkan , Onan Aytuğ , Koç Esra Meltem , Koç Ali Murat , Büyüktoka Raşit Eren , Acar Türker , Adıbelli Zehra
Published: March 2023

The conventional approach for identifying ground glass opacities (GGO) in medical imaging is to use a convolutional neural network (CNN), a subset of artificial intelligence, which provides promising performance in COVID‐19 detection. However, CNN is still limited in capturing structured relationships of GGO as the texture and shape of the GGO can be confused with other structures in the image. In this paper, a novel framework called DeepChestNet is proposed that leverages structured relationships by jointly performing segmentation and classification on the lung, pulmonary lobe, and GGO, leading to enhanced detection of COVID‐19 with findings. The performance of DeepChestNet in terms of dice similarity coefficient is 99.35%, 99.73%, and 97.89% for the lung, pulmonary lobe, and GGO segmentation, respectively. The experimental investigations on DeepChestNet‐Lung, DeepChestNet‐Lobe and DeepChestNet‐COVID datasets, and comparison with several state‐of‐the‐art approaches reveal the great potential of DeepChestNet for diagnosis of COVID‐19 disease.
Ultrastable and highly efficient CsPbBr3 composites achieved by dual‐matrix encapsulation for display devices
Authors: Fan Chao , Liu Haipeng , Zhou Jianwu , Dai Xingliang , He Haiping , Ye Zhizhen
Published: March 2023

Perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) with high stabilities and excellent optical performances are crucial for display applications. However, to date, perovskite emitters with both high photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (PLQY) and high stabilities under harsh synergistic humidity–heat–light aging conditions have not been reported. The promising high‐temperature solid‐state sintering with single oxide matrices cannot ensure high PLQY and synergistic aging stabilities of perovskites. Herein, both the PLQY and overall (thermal, moisture, and photo) stabilities of all‐inorganic perovskite (CsPbBr3) NCs are improved by dual‐matrix encapsulation, which is accomplished by in situ crystallization of CsPbBr3@Cs4PbBr6 nanocomposites in silica molecular sieve (MS) templates via advanced solid‐state synthesis a using precisely controlled molar ratio of precursor components and cooling rates. The Cs4PbBr6 matrix effectively passivates the surfaces of CsPbBr3 NCs, and the MS matrix insulates CsPbBr3@Cs4PbBr6 from the external environment. The resulting CsPbBr3@Cs4PbBr6/MS composites exhibit the highest PLQY (>90%) among those of the solid‐state perovskite NCs and significant stabilities against water, heat, and blue light irradiation, maintaining more than 80% of their initial PL intensities after being aged for 1000 h under synergistic high‐humidity (85%), high‐temperature (85°C), and strong blue light irradiation (350 mW cm−2) conditions. To the best of our knowledge, these CsPbBr3@Cs4PbBr6/MS composites represent the most stable perovskite emitters under synergistic humidity–heat–light aging conditions. The liquid crystal display backlight module fabricated using these stable composites demonstrates a wide color gamut of 131% of the National Television Standards Committee standard. We speculate that this dual‐matrix encapsulation can be used for industrial mass production.

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Unveiling the main factors triggering the coagulation at the SiC‐blood interface
Authors: Parlak Zümray Vuslat , Labude‐Weber Norina , Neuhaus Kerstin , Schmidt Christina , Morgan Aaron David , Zybała Rafał , Gonzalez‐Julian Jesus , Neuss Sabine , Schickle Karolina
Published: March 2023

Hemocompatibility is the most significant criterion for blood‐contacting materials in successful in vivo applications. Prior to the clinical tests, in vitro analyses must be performed on the biomaterial surfaces in accordance with the ISO 10993‐4 standards. Designing a bio‐functional material requires engineering the surface structure and chemistry, which significantly influence the blood cell activity according to earlier studies. In this study, we elucidate the role of surface terminations and polymorphs of SiC single crystals in the initial stage of the contact coagulation. We present a detailed analysis of phase, roughness, surface potential, wettability, consequently, reveal their effect on cytotoxicity and hemocompatibility by employing live/dead stainings, live cell imaging, ELISA and Micro BCA protein assay. Our results showed that the surface potential and the wettability strongly depend on the crystallographic polymorph as well as the surface termination. We show, for the first time, the key role of SiC surface termination on platelet activation. This dependency is in good agreement with the results of our in vitro analysis and points out the prominence of cellular anisotropy. We anticipate that our experimental findings bridge the surface properties to the cellular activities, and therefore, pave the way for tailoring advanced hemocompatible surfaces.
Role of VPS39, a key tethering protein for endolysosomal trafficking and mitochondria–lysosome crosstalk, in health and disease
Authors: Li Hanbing , Gong Wenwen , Sun Weiyun , Yao Yuanfa , Han Yubing
Published: March 2023

The coordinated interaction between mitochondria and lysosomes, mainly manifested by mitophagy, mitochondria‐derived vesicles, and direct physical contact, is essential for maintaining cellular life activities. The VPS39 subunit of the homotypic fusion and protein sorting complex could play a key role in the regulation of organelle dynamics, such as endolysosomal trafficking and mitochondria–vacuole/lysosome crosstalk, thus contributing to a variety of physiological functions. The abnormalities of VPS39 and related subunits have been reported to be involved in the pathological process of some diseases. Here, we analyze the potential mechanisms and the existing problems of VPS39 in regulating organelle dynamics, which, in turn, regulate physiological functions and disease pathogenesis, so as to provide new clues for facilitating the discovery of therapeutic targets for mitochondrial and lysosomal diseases.
KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA mutation rates, clinicopathological association, and their prognostic value in Iranian colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Mirzapoor Abbasabadi Zohreh , Hamedi Asl Dariush , Rahmani Babak , Shahbadori Rozhin , Karami Sara , Peymani Amir , Taghizadeh Sara , Samiee Rad Fatemeh
Published: March 2023

Aim

Mutations in KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA genes are critical factors in clinical evaluation of colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. In Iran, however, the data regarding genetic profile of CRC patients is limited except for KRAS exon2 and BRAF V600F mutations. This study aimed to investigate the mutational spectrum and prognostic effects of these genes and explore the relationship between these mutations and clinicopathological features of CRC.

Method

To achieve these objectives, mutations in KRAS (exons 2, 3, and 4), NRAS (exons 2, 3, and 4), PIK3CA (exons 9 and 20), and BRAF (exon 15) was determined using PCR and pyrosequencing in a total of 151 patients with colorectal cancer.

Results

KRAS, BRAF, NRAS, and PIK3CA mutations were identified in 41%, 5.96%, 3.97%, and 13.24% of the cases, respectively. There were some significant correlations between clinicopathological features and KRAS, PIK3CA, BRAF, and NRAS mutations. Mutations in KRAS and PIK3CA were shown to be independent risk factors for poor survival of the patients at stage I‐IV (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001, respectively). No significant impact on prognosis was observed in patients with BRAF mutations.

Conclusion

Our study revealed the prevalence of CRC biomarkers mutations in Iranian patients and emphasized the role of KRAS and PIK3CA on shorter overall survival rates in this population.
CYLD inhibits osteoclastogenesis to ameliorate alveolar bone loss in mice with periodontitis
Authors: Cao Yuxin , Zhang Xinming , Hu Meilin , Yang Song , Li Xiaoyan , Han Ruohui , Zhou Jun , Li Dengwen , Liu Dayong
Published: March 2023

Periodontitis is a chronic immune inflammatory disease that can lead to the destruction and loss of the tooth‐supporting apparatus. During this process, the balance between bone absorption mediated by osteoclasts and bone formation mediated by osteoblasts is damaged. Consistent with previous studies, we observed that depletion of cylindromatosis (CYLD) resulted in an osteoporotic bone phenotype. However, the effect of CYLD deficiency on periodontitis is undetermined. Here, we investigated whether CYLD affects periodontal tissue homeostasis in experimental periodontitis in Cyld knockout (KO) mice, and we explored the underlying mechanisms. Interestingly, we discovered significant alveolar bone density loss and severely reduced alveolar bone height in Cyld KO mice with experimentally induced periodontitis. We observed increased osteoclast number and activity in both the femurs and alveolar bones, accompanied by the downregulation of osteogenesis genes and upregulation of osteoclastogenesis genes of alveolar bones in ligatured Cyld KO mice. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the deletion of CYLD in mice plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of periodontal bone loss and suggest that CYLD might exert an ameliorative effect on periodontal inflammatory responses.
A joint account with my future self: Self‐continuity facilitates adjustment of present spending to future income changes
Authors: Schanbacher Anja D. , Faro David , Botti Simona
Published: March 2023

Is consumers' present spending influenced by future changes in their income? From an economic perspective, consumers should reduce present spending when anticipating a future income decrease and boost spending when anticipating a future income increase to maximize their welfare. We find that although consumers tend to adjust their spending to a future income decrease, they are less likely to do so to a future income increase. We show that this is, in part, due to a low sense of self‐continuity, a tendency to view the future self whose income increases as if it were a different person and, as a result, to categorize present and future income into two separate mental accounts. Enhancing self‐continuity leads consumers to combine present and future income in a single mental account, and thereby facilitates adjustment of present spending to a future income increase. Whereas prior work linked high self‐continuity to reduced present spending, we identify a context in which high self‐continuity can boost present spending. We discuss the implications of these findings for consumer well‐being.
A comparison of simulation and traditional local anesthesia teaching methods among dental hygiene students
Authors: Thelen Rachel M. , Hormann Jill C. , Uppgaard Rachel , Evans Michael D. , Flynn Priscilla M.
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic forced dental educators to quickly modify the teaching‐learning platform without testing outcomes of alternative teaching methods prior to implementation. One critical course affected was the teaching of local anesthesia (LA) that moved from practicing injections using the traditional student‐to‐student method to the simulation model using manikins.

Purpose

This study compared two LA teaching methods (student‐to‐student versus simulation) in two consecutive cohorts before and during the pandemic to assess differences in students’ skill level and self‐confidence.

Methods

This quasi‐experimental study recruited a convenience sample of dental hygiene students at the University of Minnesota during 2020 and 2021. Consent was collected prior to student‐to‐student injection practice and survey distribution. Data collected were clinical and summative clinical assessments to determine LA skill level, and student surveys to assess self‐confidence. Analyses included descriptive statistics, linear models within and between cohorts, and inductive analysis for qualitative survey responses.

Results

Fifty of 57 students (88%) completed the survey, and 54 (95%) consented access to their clinical assessments. Skill level was significantly higher for the simulation cohort compared to the student‐to‐student cohort on the LA summative clinical assessment (59.0 vs. 55.6, p = 0.004). No differences were found in self‐confidence between cohorts. A positive association was found between students’ self‐confidence and skill levels for both cohorts, but only student‐to‐student cohort results were statistically significant (student‐to‐student: r = 0.44, p = 0.02; simulation: r = 0.24, p = 0.26).

Conclusion

Results support incorporating simulation manikin teaching methods for LA with a student‐to‐student partner component.
Ultrastructure and histochemistry of the scolex of two Neotropical proteocephalidean species (Cestoda: Onchoproteocephalidea)
Authors: Mutti Leonardo Damián , Franzese Sebastián , Ivanov Verónica Adriana , Arredondo Nathalia Jaquelina
Published: March 2023

The internal ultrastructure of the scolex and the histochemical composition of the apical glands of two South American proteocephalideans cestodes, Monticellia magna and Proteocephalus pimelodi, were described for the first time. The study included the use of scanning and transmission electron microscopy to observe the tegumental ultrastructure, and histochemical techniques to detect types of gland secretion. Two types of glands were found in the scolex of M. magna and P. pimelodi. The pattern of microtriches described for M. magna was confirmed and that of P. pimelodi was described for the first time. Also, the internal ultrastructure of the microtriches in both species was described. Indications of the presence of sensory receptors were also found in M. magna. Finally, the systematic value of the characters studied is discussed, such as the internal structure of the gladiate spinitriches and the apocrine gland of M. magna.
KSHV hijacks FoxO1 to promote cell proliferation and cellular transformation by antagonizing oxidative stress
Authors: Li Tingting , Gao Shou‐Jiang
Published: March 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a group of a highly short‐lived molecules that control diverse behaviors of cells. Normal cells maintain ROS balance to ensure their functions. Because of oncogenic stress, cancer cells often have excessive ROS, also known as oxidative stress, which are often counteracted by enhanced antioxidant systems to maintain redox homeostasis. Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is an oncogenic virus associated with Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), which manifests hyper inflammation and oxidative stress as the hallmarks. We have previously shown that excessive ROS can disrupt KSHV latency by inducing viral lytic replication, leading to cell death. Paradoxically, most KS tumor cells are latently infected by KSHV in a highly inflammatory and oxidative stress tumor microenvironment, which is in part due to the activation of alternative complement and TLR4 pathways, indicating the existence of an enhanced antioxidant defense system in KS tumor cells. In this study, we show that KSHV upregulates antioxidant genes, including SOD2 and CAT by hijacking the forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), to maintain intracellular ROS level. Moreover, the fine‐tuned balance of ROS level in KSHV‐transformed cells is essential for cell survival. Consequently, KSHV‐transformed cells are extremely sensitive to exogenous ROS insult such as treatment with a low level of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Either chemical inhibition or knockdown of FoxO1 by short interfering RNAs decreases the expression of antioxidant genes and subsequently increases the intracellular ROS level in KSHV‐transformed cells, resulting in the inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation in soft agar. Mechanistically, KSHV‐encoded microRNAs and vFLIP upregulate FoxO1 by activating the NF‐κB pathway. These results reveal a novel mechanism by which an oncogenic virus counteracts oxidative stress by upregulating FoxO1, which is essential for KSHV‐induced cell proliferation and cellular transformation. Therefore, FoxO1 might be a potential therapeutic target for KSHV‐related malignancies.
Virome comparison (VC): A novel approach to comparing viromes based on virus species specificity and virome specificity diversity
Authors: Ma Zhanshan (Sam)
Published: March 2023

The human virome, or the viral communities distributed on or in our body, is estimated to contain about 380 trillion of viruses (individuals), which has far reaching influences on our health and diseases. Obviously, the sheer numbers of viruses alone make the comparisons of two or multiple viromes extremely challenging. In fact, the theory of computation in computer science for so‐termed NP‐hard problems stipulates that the problem is unsolvable when the size of virome is sufficiently large even with fastest supercomputers. Practically, one has to develop heuristic and approximate algorithms to obtain practically satisfactory solutions for NP‐hard problems. Here, we extend the species‐specificity and specificity‐diversity framework to develop a method for virome comparison (VC). The VC method consists of a pair of metrics: virus species specificity (VS) and virome specificity diversity (VSD) and corresponding pair of random search algorithms. Specifically, the VS and VS permutation (VSP) test can detect unique virus species (US) or enriched virus species (ES) in each virome (treatment), and the VSD and VSD permutation (VSDP) test can further determine holistic differences between two viromes or their subsets (assemblages of viruses). The test with four virome data sets demonstrated that the VC method is effective, efficient, and robust.
Anticipating the transmissibility of the 2022 mpox outbreak
Authors: Liu Tuoyu , Yang Shan , Luo Boyu , Fan Xinyue , Zhuang Yingtan , Gao George F. , Bi Yuhai , Teng Yue
Published: March 2023

An ongoing outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) was first reported in the United Kingdom on 6 May 2022. As of 17 November, there had been a total of 80 221 confirmed MPXV cases in over 110 countries. Based on data reported between 6 May and 30 June 2022 in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Germany, we applied a deep learning approach using convolutional neural networks to evaluate the parameters of the 2022 MPXV outbreak. The basic reproduction number (R0) of MPXV was estimated to be 2.32 in the United Kingdom, which indicates the active diffusion of MPXV since the beginning of the outbreak. The data from Spain and Germany produced higher median R0 values of 2.42 and 2.88, respectively. Importantly, the estimated R0 of MPXV in the three countries tends to the previously calculated R0 of smallpox (3.50 to 6.00). Furthermore, the incubation (1/ε) and infectious (1/γ) period was predicted between 9 and 10 days and 4−5 days, respectively. The R0 value derived from MPXV is consistent with the significantly increasing number of cases, indicating the risk of a rapid spread of MPXV worldwide, which would provide important insights for the prevention and control of MPXV epidemic.
Derotational femoral osteotomy locations and their influence on joint reaction forces in dysplastic hips
Authors: Shepherd Molly C. , Clohisy John C. , Nepple Jeffrey J. , Harris Michael D.
Published: March 2023

Femoral version (FV) deformities are common in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and may contribute to cartilage damage due to abnormal joint loading. Derotational femoral osteotomy (DFO) surgery corrects FV deformities. However there is little consensus about the femoral transection location for DFO, and its influence on joint loads is unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two common DFO locations on muscle forces and hip joint reaction forces (JRFs) in patients with DDH. DFO was simulated in nine patients with DDH and abnormal FV using patient‐specific musculoskeletal models. Femoral transection for DFO was separately simulated proximal and distal to the lesser trochanter and FV values were corrected to an idealized 15°. JRFs during early and late stance of gait were compared between the two simulated transection locations. Most changes to JRFs were similar between proximal and distal DFO, however, statistically significant differences were found for the medial JRF component during late stance among patients with femoral anteversion (p = 0.01). Force changes from five hip muscles were significantly different between DFO locations, however, changes were minimal. Most changes after DFO in patients with femoral retroversion were opposite of those with femoral anteversion, with anteroposterior and superior JRFs increasing after retroversion correction. After DFO correction, superior and medial JRFs in DDH patients remained elevated compared to controls. Understanding the influence of DFO location on muscle‐generated hip forces can help surgeons justify decisions and potentially standardize surgical correction of FV deformities in patients with DDH.
Preparation of open tubular capillary column covalently coated with polystyrene sulfonate with 4,4′‐Azobis(4‐cyanopentanoyl chloride) as polymerization initiator for electrochromatographic separation of alkaloids, sulfonamides, and peptides
Authors: Naithani Vinay , Cheddah Soumia , Yang Kaige , Xia Zihang , Wang Weiwei , Wang Yan , Yan Chao
Published: March 2023

An open tubular capillary electrochromatography column covalently bonded with polystyrene sulfonate was prepared via in situ polymerization using functionalized Azo‐initiator 4,4′‐Azobis(4‐cyanopentanoyl chloride). Scanning electron, fluorescence, and atomic force microscopy techniques showed the formation of a relatively rough layer of polymer. In addition, –CN and C = O stretching vibrations from infrared spectroscopy proved the successful immobilization of the azo‐initiator through covalent bonding and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the elemental composition of the formed polymer layer. The prepared column was found to be appropriate for small and medium‐sized molecules separation. Compared to bare fused silica capillary column higher selectivity and resolution were obtained for the separation of alkaloids, sulfonamides, and peptides as a result of the electrostatic and pi‐pi stacking interactions between the small organic molecules and the coated column without compromising the electroosmotic flow mobility. Separation efficiency was also increased compared to the bare capillary for the separation of alkaloids (about 1.5 times). Moreover, intraday, inter‐day, intra‐batch, and inter‐batch relative standard deviation values of retention time and peak area of peptides were within 2% and 10%, respectively, indicating good repeatability of the column preparation procedure. The developed method for the covalent bonding of polymers through a functionalized azo‐initiator could represent a promising stable method for the preparation of an open tubular column.
Highly Efficient Broadband Near‐Infrared Emission from Sn2+ Alloyed Lead‐Free Cesium Zinc Halides
Authors: Zhang Gangyi , Wang Deyin , Ren Jiejun , Zhou Xiaopeng , Wang Yuhua
Published: March 2023

Luminescent metal halides have attracted increasing attention because of their tunable emission and superior photoelectric properties. However, it is still challenging to achieve near‐infrared (NIR) emission from metal halides, which is important in applications such as food quality analysis and night vision. In this work, the broadband NIR emission is achieved by alloying Sn2+ into zero‐dimensional (0D) Cs2ZnBr4. The incorporating of Sn2+ cations enables the originally weakly luminescent Cs2ZnBr4 to exhibit an efficient broadband NIR emission. Upon photoexication, the optimized Sn2+ alloyed Cs2ZnBr4 (Cs2Zn0.875Sn0.125Br4) exhibits a highly efficient broadband NIR emission peaked around 700 nm, with a large Stokes shift of 323 nm, a full width at maximum of 177 nm, and a high quantum efficiency of around 41%. Spectroscopic and theoretical calculations unveil that the efficient NIR emission originates from the self‐trapping emission introduced by the Sn alloying. In addition to the high efficient broadband emission, the Sn2+ alloyed Cs2ZnBr4 also exhibits high thermal stability, retaining 78% of its initial intensity at 150 °C. The night vision application is demonstrated by using a light source fabricated by combining Sn2+ alloyed Cs2ZnBr4 phosphor with a 365 nm LED chip in the dark.
Hypoxic nasopharyngeal carcinoma‐derived exosomal miR‐455 increases vascular permeability by targeting ZO‐1 to promote metastasis
Authors: Xie Lixiao , Zhang Kaiwen , You Bo , Yin Haimeng , Zhang Panpan , Shan Ying , Gu Zhifeng , Zhang Qicheng
Published: March 2023

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), the most frequent reason for treatment failure in head and neck tumors, has the greatest incidence of distant metastases. Increased vascular permeability facilitates metastasis. Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the development of the premetastatic niche and are emerging as prospective biomarkers in cancer patients. We discovered that a higher level of miR‐455 was connected to a larger propensity for NPC metastasis based on deep sequencing and RT‐qPCR. We found that hypoxia promoted NPC exosomes release and increased miR‐455 expression in a way that was hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha (HIF‐1α) dependent. Exosomes from NPC cells with high levels of miR‐455 were found to specifically target zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1), increasing the permeability of endothelial monolayers in vitro vascular permeability and transendothelial invasion experiments. Additional in vivo studies showed that zebrafish with sustained miR‐455‐overexpressing NPC cell xenografts displayed increased tumor cell mass throughout the body. In vivo, zebrafish vascular tight junction integrity was disrupted by exosomes produced by NPC cells with elevated miR‐455 expression. Mice‐bearing xenografts further supported the finding that exosomes containing miR‐455 might reduce ZO‐1 expression in addition to promote NPC cell growth. These findings suggest that in a hypoxic microenvironment, exosomal miR‐455 released by NPC cells enhances vascular permeability and promotes metastasis by targeting ZO‐1. The HIF‐1α‐miR‐455‐ZO‐1 signaling pathway may be a promising predictor and potential therapeutic target for NPC with metastasis.
Venture capital's portfolio network and portfolio firm's innovation performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Cao Ting , Li Wanli
Published: March 2023

We examine how VC's portfolio network shapes portfolio firms' innovation. Through empirical research of the panel data of Chinese listed firms from 2009 to 2016, we find that competitive network ties exert negative impact on portfolio firms' innovation which complements existing research from the perspective of portfolio network. Second, considering the heterogeneity of innovation, we find that the progressive innovation is easier to be impaired by competitive network ties. Third, employing Chinese VC data can open a window to see the role of VC's portfolio network after the invested firm goes public and improve our understanding of VC's role in the latter half of investment cycle.
Activation Profile of TAS2R2, the 26th Human Bitter Taste Receptor
Authors: Lang Tatjana , Di Pizio Antonella , Risso Davide , Drayna Dennis , Behrens Maik
Published: March 2023

Scope

To avoid ingestion of potentially harmful substances, humans are equipped with about 25 bitter taste receptor genes (TAS2R) expressed in oral taste cells. Humans exhibit considerable variance in their bitter tasting abilities, which are associated with genetic polymorphisms in bitter taste receptor genes. One of these variant receptor genes, TAS2R2, is initially believed to represent a pseudogene. However, TAS2R2 exists in a putative functional variant within some populations and can therefore be considered as an additional functional bitter taste receptor.

Methods and results

To learn more about the function of the experimentally neglected TAS2R2, a functional screening with 122 bitter compounds is performed. The study observes responses with eight of the 122 bitter substances and identifies the substance phenylbutazone as a unique activator of TAS2R2 among the family of TAS2Rs, thus filling one more gap in the array of cognate bitter substances.

Conclusions

The comprehensive characterization of the receptive range of TAS2R2 allows the classification into the group of TAS2Rs with a medium number of bitter agonists. The variability of bitter taste and its potential influences on food choice in some human populations may be even higher than assumed.
Complete 1H and 13C assignments of two new sesquiterpenoids from Dendrobium aduncum
Authors: Huang Lang , Meng Yu‐Fan , Wang Gang , Yang Jian‐wen , Zhang Mao‐Sheng , Dong Min‐Jian , Sun Cheng‐Xin , Xiao Shi‐Ji
Published: March 2023

Two new sesquiterpenoids, dendroaduoid A (1) and dendroaduol (2), together with four known sesquiterpenoids were isolated from the stems of Dendrobium aduncum. Their structures were identified by HR‐ESI‐MS and NMR experiments, and the complete assignments of 1H and 13C NMR data for two new sesquiterpenoids were obtained by the aid of HSQC, HMBC, 1H‐1H COSY, NOESY, and ECD techniques. The cytotoxic effects of the isolated compounds on four tumor cell lines (HCT‐116, HepG2, A549, and SW1990) were evaluated using MTT assay. Otherwise, the inhibitory activity of these six sesquiterpenoids on glycosidase was also evaluated.
Assignment of molecular origins of NOE signal at −3.5 ppm in the brain
Authors: Zhao Yu , Sun Casey , Zu Zhongliang
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Nuclear Overhauser enhancemen mediated saturation transfer effect, termed NOE (−3.5 ppm), is a major source of CEST MRI contrasts at 3.5 ppm in the brain. Previous phantom experiments have demonstrated that both proteins and lipids, two major components in tissues, have substantial contributions to NOE (−3.5 ppm) signals. Their relative contributions in tissues are informative for the interpretation of NOE (−3.5 ppm) contrasts that could provide potential imaging biomarkers for relevant diseases, which remain incompletely understood.

Methods

Experiments on homogenates and supernatants of brain tissues collected from healthy rats, that could isolate proteins from lipids, were performed to evaluate the relative contribution of lipids to NOE (−3.5 ppm) signals. On the other hand, experiments on ghost membranes with varied pH, and reconstituted phospholipids with different chemical compositions were conducted to study the dependence of NOE (−3.5 ppm) on physiological conditions. Besides, CEST imaging on rat brains bearing 9 L tumors and healthy rat brains was performed to analyze the causes of the NOE (−3.5 ppm) contrast variations between tumors and normal tissues, and between gray matter and white matter.

Results

Our experiments reveal that lipids have dominant contributions to the NOE (−3.5 ppm) signals. Further analysis suggests that decreased NOE (−3.5 ppm) signals in tumors and higher NOE (−3.5 ppm) signals in white matter than in gray matter are mainly explained by changes in membrane lipids, rather than proteins.

Conclusion

NOE (−3.5 ppm) could be exploited as a highly sensitive MRI contrast for imaging membrane lipids in the brain.
Flexible force‐bearing liquid crystalline elastomer component toward a dynamic braille platform
Authors: Gablier Alexandra , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: March 2023

Liquid Crystalline Elastomers (LCEs) are elastomeric actuators capable of reversible shape change under external stimulation such as heat or light. This ability makes them prime candidates for use in the field of soft robotics, with examples of explored applications ranging from heart patches to active yarn. Here, we apply LCE actuation to the field of dynamic Braille displays, with the small Braille pins capable of being either flat or protruding on demand. We demonstrate that the complex and numerous moving parts of a dynamic Braille device could be replaced by a single sheet of LCEs embossed with small actuating bumps. A simple molding procedure produces a surface patterned with at‐scale Braille bumps, as a result of a precise and complex internal organization within the elastomer sample that emerges during polymerization. Unlike in previous attempts to use LCEs for Braille technology, our millimeter‐scale protruding features are generated out of the bulk of the material, resulting in structural integrity, and high resistance to compression force. The localized bump‐to‐flat reversible actuation occurs on a timescale of seconds. The potential of this development for application into a complete Braille dynamic display are discussed.
Stochastic modeling and performance analysis in balancing load and traffic for vehicular ad hoc networks: A review
Authors: Ravi Banoth , Kumar Manoj , Hu Yu‐Chen , Hassan Shamsul , Kumar Bittu
Published: March 2023

The rapid growth of vehicular applications has resulted in high demand for Internet technology, which demands an unprecedented network capacity and a high quality of service (QoS). In vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), since nodes (vehicles) are highly mobile. The dynamic nature of the network topology in the VANET system changes due to frequent changes in link connectivity. The vehicles‐to‐vehicles (V2V), vehicles‐to‐infrastructure (V2I), and QoS, as well as the heterogeneity of applications within the VANET. VANETs have been introduced to make driving comfortable by providing safety and support to drivers. Due to the flexibility and offloading schemes available in‐vehicle applications, there are some limitations. However, there are many issues in providing optimum service provisioning and scheduling in the vehicular environment. In VANETs, BSs and roadside units (RSUs) improve QoS. However, Internet services transmit packets to vehicles using stochastic models, and it predicts the traffic on a VANET. We provide open challenges to drive stochastic models in this direction.