bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
POSSIBILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE USE OF ESSENTIAL OILS IN DOGS AND CATS
Authors: ŠTRBAC Filip , PETROVIĆ Kosta , STOJANOVIĆ Dragica , RATAJAC Radomir
Published: May 2023

Essential oils have numerous medicinal properties which include antiseptic, antiinflammatory, anticancer but also antiviral, antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects. Although researches have highlighted different possible application of these oils, little is known about their use in animals including dogs and cats. Specifically, essential oils showed effects against various bacterial (Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus spp.), fungal (Malassezia pachydermatis, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes), endoparasitic (Giardia duodenalis, Echinococcus granulosus, Toxocara canis) and ectoparasitic (Otodectes cynotis, Demodex canis, Ctenocephalides felis, some ticks etc) pathogens in dogs and cats. In addition, essential oils exhibit numerous positive properties such as complex chemical composition (high efficacy, less susceptibility to resistance), their natural origin etc. Therefore, certain essential oils based formulations are already in use, such as different shampoos. However, the main limitation for the use of these plant products is the insufficiently tested safety of use. Thus, some essential oils are considered toxic to pets, especially when used on cats. The main reason for this is most likely the deficiency of some liver enzymes that are involved in metabolic processes (as UDP-glucuronosyltransferase in cats), which leads to the accumulation of some active ingredients in the organism and their toxicity. Therefore, caution and rational application are needed in terms of adequate selection of plant species, dosage, concentration and the methods of use. In addition, since essential oils are prone to evaporation and instability, the encapsulation technique can further increase their in vivo efficacy as well as enable controlled release. That can reduce the required dose and additionally increase safety of their application.
Nina Nikolaevna Belova and ancient city studies at the Ural University
Authors: Kapsalykova Karina Ramazanovna
Published: May 2023

Interest in biography is steadily growing in modern Russian society. Mythologized concepts, stamps and "dark spots" are increasingly discredited by archival data. The article is devoted to the scientific biography of the candidate of Historical Sciences, associate professor of the Department of General History N. N. Belova (1917-2012). The author reconstructs the course of work of the Soviet epigraphist on the problems of dialectical continuity based on archival materials. In the second half of the 1960s, N. N. Belova worked on a set of problems concerning the Gallo–Roman villa as an economic unit connected with the city. N. N. Belova considered the history of the late Roman Republic and the Gallia of the principate era as the history of the relationship between Rome and Italians, i.e., the struggle of Italian communities against Roman-Italian slavery. The author used a biobibliographic method, as well as developments in the field of everyday history. The article presents for the first time a letter from M. Ja. Sjuzjumov to N. N. Belova. The materials presented in this article allow us to highlight an important aspect of the scientific work of the outstanding Soviet historian M. Ja. Sjuzjumov (1893-1982) - the study of the genesis of the ancient city. The most important result of the work was the formation of the most important milestones of the scientific biography of N. N. Belova, a historian who is part of the "inner circle" of M. Ja. Sjuzjumov.
Full-length transcriptome analysis of Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC.
Authors: Zhu Yanxia , Huang Yanfen , Wei Kunhua , Yu Junnan , Jiang Jianping
Published: May 2023

Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC. (Z. nitidum) is a type of Chinese Dao-di herb, also called Liangmianzhen, which is widely used to treat arthralgia, rheumatic arthralgia, and stomach pain. However, genomic resources for Z. nitidum are still scarce. This study provides transcriptomic resources for Z. nitidum by applying single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology. In total, 456,109 circular consensus sequencing (CCS) reads were generated with a mean length of 2,216 bp from Z. nitidum roots, old stems, young branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits. Of these total reads, 353,932 were full-length nonchimeric (FLNC) reads with an average length of 1,996 bp. A total of 16,163 transcripts with a mean length of 1,171 bp were acquired. Of these transcripts, 14,231 (88%) were successfully annotated using public databases. Across all the 16,163 transcripts, we identified 6,255 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and 22,780 simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Furthermore, 3,482 transcription factors were identified. Among the SSR loci, 1–3 nucleotide repeats were dominant, occupying 99.36% of the total SSR loci, with mono-, di-, and tri-nucleotide repeats accounting for 61.80%, 19.89%, and 5.02% of the total SSR loci, respectively. A total of 36 out of 100 randomly selected primer pairs were verified to be positive, 20 of which showed polymorphism. These findings enrich the genetic resources available for facilitating future studies and research on relevant topics such as population genetics in Z. nitidum.
Shear Bond Strength, Bonding Time and Adhesive Remnant Index of Adhesive Precoated Flash Free Adhesive System vs Conventional Adhesive System using Metal Brackets: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Borgikar Hrishikesh , Agrawal Jiwan Asha , Agrawal Manish , Fulari Sangamesh , Nanjannawar Lalita , Shetti Shraddha , Kagi Vishwal , Shirkande Amol
Published: May 2023

Introduction: With advances in materials for bonding in orthodontics, errors regarding amount of adhesive to be used can be controlled. Adhesive Precoated (APC™) Brackets were introduced to reduce the step of applying conventional adhesive on base of the bracket. Moreover, APC™ Flash Free Adhesive System (FFAS) eliminated the step of removal of excessive adhesive around the brackets. Aim: To compare Shear Bond Strength (SBS), Bonding Time (BT) and Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) between Conventional Adhesive System (CAS) and APC™ FFAS using metal brackets Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was carried out in the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Sangli, Maharashtra, India. A total of 78 teeth with metal braces were split into two groups, with 39 samples each receiving treatment with the CAS and the APCTM FFAS. Shear bond forces were applied to each sample using a universal testing machine and recorded in Megapascals (MPa) to provide an indication of SBS. Both Groups’ BT was quantified in terms of seconds. The stereomicroscope indexes of Artun J and Bergland S were used to determine ARI. Microsoft Excel was used for data entry, while Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was used for analysis. The normality of the data was tested using two different t-tests. In terms of mean and standard deviation, descriptive statistics were represented. A significant level of 0.05 was used. Results: SBS values were 10.35±3.55 MPa and 11.23±3.82 MPa in CAS and FFAS respectively. No significant difference was found among the two groups (p≤0.29) in SBS. BT was significantly (p≤0.001) less in FFAS (95.54±8.72 seconds) compared to CAS (140.85±16.62 seconds). ARI was significantly (p≤0.002) less in FFAS (1.79±0.80) in comparison with CAS (1.23±0.74). Conclusion: FFAS brackets perform better in comparison to CAS in case of BT and ARI. Both groups show no significant difference in SBS.
Histomorphological Study of Acalculus and Calculus Gall Bladder in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Western Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Sharma Purva , Bali Deepak , Kumar Naveen , Bhargava Ruchika , Siwach Nitin , Sharma Dushyant
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Gall bladder is the most common surgically resected specimen as gallstones are one of the major causes of morbidity. There is increasing incidence of gall stones in India and more so in North India. It can be due to changes in life style such as fat rich food and sedentary life style. Stones can produce a wide variety of mucosal changes ranging from inflammatory, metaplastic, dysplastic and neoplastic lesions. Aim: This study was performed to find out the spectrum of histopathological lesions in gall bladder in cholecystectomy specimens with or without stones. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based cross- sectional study conducted on 415 cholecystectomy specimens received between 1st November 2019 to 31st October 2020 in the department of Pathology of NCR Institute of Medical Sciences, Meerut. The specimens were received in 10% formalin, the gross details of specimens and stones were studied. Sections were taken from the representative areas, processed and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. These sections were studied meticulously. Demographic data was expressed as percentages. The p-value was calculated by chi-square test. Results: Of the 415 cholecystectomy specimens 337 were from females and 78 were from males with female to male ratio of 4.3:1. The most common histopathological finding was chronic cholecystitis followed by cholesterolosis observed in 206/231 (89.17%) and 28/31 (90.32%) respectively in gall bladders with stones and in 25/231 (10.82%) and 3/31 (9.36%) of gall bladders without stones. Metaplasia and dysplasia was found in 81/83 (97.59%) and 15/16 (93.75%) of cases with stones, and in 2/83 (2.40%) and 1/16 (6.25%) cases without stones. Conclusion: Cholelithiasis produces diverse mucosal alterations some of which are precancerous and can progress to cancer. So, histopathological examination of all the gall bladders is essential for the detection of premalignant and malignant conditions.
Design of Topology‐Controlled Polyethers toward Robust Cooperative Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Kim Junhee , Choi Soonyoung , Baek Jinsu , Park Yong Il , Kim Jin Chul , Jeong Ji‐Eun , Jung Hyocheol , Kwon Tae‐Hyuk , Kim Byeong‐Su , Lee Sang‐Ho
Published: May 2023

Topology control of polymers is critical for determining their physical properties and potential applications; in particular, topologies that incorporate numerous hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) donors and acceptors along the polymer chains considerably influence the formation of different inter‐ and intramolecular H‐bonding motifs. In this study, the high‐level control of inter‐ and intramolecular H‐bonding is investigated in topology‐controlled poly(glycidoxy carbonyl benzoic acid)s (PGCs). Three types of topology‐controlled PGCs (i.e., linear, hyperbranched, and branched cyclic structures having a similar degree of polymerization) are prepared by introducing aromatic carboxylic acids into the corresponding polyglycidols (PGs) via quantitative post‐polymerization modification with phthalic anhydride. The obtained three types of PGCs demonstrated the high‐level interplay between the inter‐ and intramolecular H‐bonding in polymer chains by exhibiting the pH‐dependent self‐association properties in the solution state and the strong adhesion properties in the bulk state with high transparency. Interestingly, the dramatically enhanced adhesive property by 2.6‐fold is demonstrated by simple mixing of branched cyclic PGC and topology‐controlled PGs to promote the cooperative H‐bonding between polymer chains. The new class of cooperative H‐bonding is anticipated between topology‐controlled polymers to contribute to the development of advanced adhesive and the high potential in biological and biomedical applications due to its excellent biocompatibility.
Awakening Allies for Breaking Microenvironment Barriers: NIR‐II Guided Orthogonal Activation of Tumor‐Infiltrating Mast Cells for Efficient Nano‐Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Qingyuan , Yang Haiyan , Liu Yuan , Zhou Zhaoxi , Zhang Xu , Sang Mingyi , Xu Feng , Song Lebin , Xia Tiansong , Zhang Yue , Wei Jifu , Zhang Xiaobo , Ding Qiang
Published: May 2023

Mast cells (MCs), powerful immune cells that heavily infiltrate cancer cells, play a crucial role in tumor formation. Activated MCs can release histamine and a family of proteases through degranulation effects, concurrently achieving endothelial junction weakening and stromal degradation of the tumor microenvironment, thereby clearing the obstacles for nano‐drug infiltration. To achieve precise activation of tumor‐infiltrating MCs, orthogonally excited rare earth nanoparticles (ORENP), with two channels, are introduced for the controllable stimulating drugs release wrapped in “photocut tape”. The ORENP can emit near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) for image tracing for tumor localization in Channel 1 (808/NIR‐II) and allows energy upconversion to emit ultraviolet (UV) light for releasing drugs for MCs stimulation in Channel 2 (980/UV). Finally, the combined use of chemical and cellular tools enables clinical nano‐drugs to achieve a significant increase in tumor infiltration, thereby enhancing the efficacy of nano‐chemotherapy.
Entangling of Peptide Nanofibers Reduces the Invasiveness of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Yang Pei‐Pei , Ye Xin‐Wei , Liu Mei‐Qin , Yang Jin‐Xuan , Feng Xiao‐Li , Li Yi‐Jing , Zhang Kuo , Liang Hong‐Wen , Yi Yu , Wang Lei , Liu Yi‐Xuan , Yang Xing‐Lou , Shi Zheng‐Li , Feng Li‐Qiang , Chen Ling , Xue Yintong , Pan‐Hammarström Qiang , Wang Hao , Zhao Yuliang
Published: May 2023

The viral spike (S) protein on the surface of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) binds to angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors on the host cells, facilitating its entry and infection. Here, functionalized nanofibers targeting the S protein with peptide sequences of IRQFFKK, WVHFYHK and NSGGSVH, which are screened from a high‐throughput one‐bead one‐compound screening strategy, are designed and prepared. The flexible nanofibers support multiple binding sites and efficiently entangle SARS‐CoV‐2, forming a nanofibrous network that blocks the interaction between the S protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 and the ACE2 on host cells, and efficiently reduce the invasiveness of SARS‐CoV‐2. In summary, nanofibers entangling represents a smart nanomedicine for the prevention of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Excimer‐Mediated Ultrafast Intermolecular Nonradiative Decay Enables Giant Photothermal Performance for Optimized Phototheranostic
Authors: Miao Xiaofei , Yao Weiyun , Chen Ruizhe , Jia Mingxuan , Ren Can , Zhao Hui , He Tingchao , Fan Quli , Hu Wenbo
Published: May 2023

Developing organic photothermal materials (OPMs) with high photothermal performance for phototheranostic mainly focus on the manipulation of intramolecular nonradiative (intraNR) decay, which often requires quite complicated and time‐consuming molecular engineering. In addition to intraNR decay, intermolecular nonradiative (interNR) decay is equally important and more convenient in governing photothermal performance. However, controlling interNR decay remains challenging due to the limited understanding of their origin and dynamics. Here, systemic investigation of intraNR and interNR decay directs the first demonstration of simple manipulation of interNR decay to produce a giant photothermal performance for optimized phototheranostic. Among three designed polymers with varying fluorine substitution, structure–performance studies reveal a dimer‐initiated interNR decay to improve photothermal performance. Dimer is formed by intermolecular CF···H hydrogen bond. This finding inspires a simple aggregation control strategy to form excited dimer, namely, excimer. It initiates an ≈100‐fold enhancement in interNR decay rate over conventional intraNR decay to produce ultrahigh photothermal conversion efficiency of 81% for efficient photoacoustic imaging‐guided photothermal therapy in vivo. This study provides insights into interNR decay in achieving a giant photothermal effect and paves a convenient way to develop high‐performance OPMs.
High‐Throughput CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated Gene Editing of Primary Human T Cells in a Microfluidic Device for Cellular Therapy Manufacturing
Authors: Welch Michaela , Flusberg Deborah A. , Hsi Peter , Haroutunian Nerses J. , Santos Jose A. , Kim Ernest S. , Markovic Stacey , Coppeta Jonathan R. , Lissandrello Charles A. , Balestrini Jenna L. , Tandon Vishal
Published: May 2023

Autologous cellular therapies have been highly successful in treating hematological cancers and have the potential to be used for a variety of indications. Manufacturing these therapies rapidly and at low cost remains a major challenge. A key bottleneck in cellular therapy manufacturing is genetic modification of target cells, which is often done using viral vectors. Because vectors are expensive to develop and produce, non‐viral gene transfer using electroporation is emerging as a preferred transfection method for next‐generation therapies. However, most commercial electroporation systems are built for research use rather than large‐scale clinical manufacturing. The microfluidic, continuous‐flow electroporation device presented here offers several advantages including large‐scale and high throughput processing, high performance, and the potential for automation. It transfects primary human T cells with Cas9‐guide ribonucleic acid (RNA) ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNP) and messenger RNA (mRNA) with up to 99–100% efficiency and minimal impact on viability. In addition, this device transfects 3.5 kbp plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid with up to 86% efficiency after preliminary optimization studies. A single microchannel can deliver a total cellular processing throughput of up to 9.6 billion per hour. The combination of high throughput and high performance enables the scale of processing required for future “off‐the‐shelf” allogeneic cellular therapies.
High‐Entropy Surface Complex Stabilized LiCoO2 Cathode
Authors: Tan Xinghua , Zhang Yongxin , Xu Shenyang , Yang Peihua , Liu Tongchao , Mao Dongdong , Qiu Jimin , Chen Zhefeng , Lu Zhaoxia , Pan Feng , Chu Weiguo
Published: May 2023

Elevating the charge voltage of LiCoO2 increases the energy density of batteries, which is highly enticing in energy storage implementation ranging from portable electronics to e‐vehicles. However, hybrid redox reactions at high voltages facilitate oxygen evolution, electrolyte decomposition and irreversible phase change, and accordingly lead to rapid battery capacity decay. Here significantly improved high‐voltage cycling stability of Mg‐Al‐Eu co‐doped LiCoO2 is demonstrated. It is found that element co‐doping induces a near‐surface high‐entropy zone, including an innately thin disordered rock‐salt shell and a dopant segregation surface. The high‐entropy complex can effectively suppress oxygen evolution and near‐surface structure deconstruction. The phase change reversibility between O3 and H1‐3 and thermal stability of the cathode are greatly enhanced as well. As a result, the co‐doped LiCoO2 exhibits a remarkable cycling performance, retaining 86.3% and 72.0% of initial capacity over 800 and 2000 cycles, respectively, with a high cut‐off voltage of 4.6 V. The feasible co‐doping approach broadens the perspective for the development of stable lithium‐ion batteries with high operating voltages.
Prognosis and long‐term outcomes in type I cryoglobulinemia: A multicenter study of 168 patients
Authors: Ghembaza Amine , Boleto Gonçalo , Bommelaer Marin , Karras Alexandre , Javaugue Vincent , Bridoux Frank , Alyanakian Marie‐Alexandra , Molinier Frenkel Valérie , Ghillani‐Dalbin Pascale , Musset Lucile , Barete Stéphane , Roosweil Damien , Choquet Sylvain , Le Joncour Alexandre , Mirouse Adrien , Lipsker Dan , Faguer Stanislas , Vieira Matheus , Cacoub Patrice , Biard Lucie , Saadoun David ,   from the French Cryoglobulinemia Network
Published: May 2023

Type I cryoglobulinemia (CG) accounts for 10%–15% of all cryoglobulinemias and are exclusively seen in clonal proliferative hematologic conditions. In this multicenter nationwide cohort study, we analyzed the prognosis and long‐term outcomes of 168 patients with type I CG (93 (55.4%) IgM and 75 [44.6%] IgG). Five‐ and 10‐year event‐free survivals (EFS) were 26.5% (95% CI 18.2%–38.4%) and 20.8% (95% CI 13.1%–33.1%), respectively. In multivariable analysis, factors associated with poorer EFS were renal involvement (HR: 2.42, 95% CI 1.41–4.17, p = .001) and IgG type I CG (HR: 1.96, 95% CI 1.13–3.33, p = 0.016), regardless of underlying hematological disorders. IgG type I CG patients had higher cumulative incidence of relapse (94.6% [95% CI 57.8%–99.4%] vs. 56.6% [95% CI 36.6%–72.4%], p = .0002) and death at 10 years (35.8% [19.8%–64.6%] vs. 71.3% [54.0%–94.2%], p = .01) as compared to IgM CG, respectively. Overall, complete response of type I CG at 6 months was 38.7%, with no significant difference between Igs isotypes. In conclusion, renal involvement and IgG CG were identified as independent poor prognostic factors of type I CG.
Craniofacial and dental characteristics of three Japanese individuals with genetically diagnosed SATB2‐associated syndrome
Authors: Kurosaka Hiroshi , Yamamoto Sayuri , Hirasawa Kyoko , Yanagishita Tomoe , Fujioka Kaoru , Yagasaki Hideaki , Nagata Miho , Ishihara Yasuki , Yonei Ayumi , Asano Yoshihiro , Nagata Namiki , Tsujimoto Takayuki , Inubushi Toshihiro , Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Sakai Norio , Yamashiro Takashi
Published: May 2023

Craniofacial defects are one of the most frequent phenotypes in syndromic diseases. More than 30% of syndromic diseases are associated with craniofacial defects, which are important for the precise diagnosis of systemic diseases. Special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2)‐associated syndrome (SAS) is a rare syndromic disease associated with a wide variety of phenotypes, including intellectual disability and craniofacial defects. Among them, dental anomalies are the most frequently observed phenotype and thus becomes an important diagnostic criterion for SAS. In this report, we demonstrate three Japanese cases of genetically diagnosed SAS with detailed craniofacial phenotypes. The cases showed multiple dental problems, which have been previously reported to be linked to SAS, including abnormal crown morphologies and pulp stones. One case showed a characteristic enamel pearl at the root furcation. These phenotypes add new insights for differentiating SAS from other disorders.
The superiority and feasibility of 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride–stained brain tissues for molecular biology experiments based on microglial properties
Authors: Wang Yajuan , Zhang Qingrong , Zhang Shuchi , Qi Jiangtao , Li Li
Published: May 2023

Background

TTC (2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride) staining is the most commonly used method in identifying and assessing cerebral infarct volumes in the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model. Given that microglia exhibit different morphologies in different regions after ischemic stroke, we demonstrate the superiority and necessity of using TTC‐stained brain tissue to analyze the expression of various proteins or genes in different regions based on microglia character.

Methods

We compared brain tissue (left for 10 min on ice) from the improved TTC staining method with penumbra from the traditional sampling method. We identified the feasibility and necessity of the improved staining method using real time (RT)‐PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analysis.

Results

There was no protein and RNA degradation in the TTC‐stained brain tissue group. However, the TREM2 specifically expressed on the microglia showed a significant difference between two groups in the penumbra region.

Conclusions

TTC‐stained brain tissue can be used for molecular biology experiments without any restrictions. In addition, TTC‐stained brain tissue shows greater superiority due to its precise positioning.
Methane Carboxylation Using Electrochemically Activated Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Yuan Yucheng , Zhang Yuhan , Li Haoyi , Fei Muchun , Zhang Hongna , Santoro John , Wang Dunwei
Published: May 2023

Direct synthesis of CH3COOH from CH4 and CO2 is an appealing approach for the utilization of two potent greenhouse gases that are notoriously difficult to activate. In this Communication, we report an integrated route to enable this reaction. Recognizing the thermodynamic stability of CO2, our strategy sought to first activate CO2 to produce CO (through electrochemical CO2 reduction) and O2 (through water oxidation), followed by oxidative CH4 carbonylation catalyzed by Rh single atom catalysts supported on zeolite. The net result was CH4 carboxylation with 100 % atom economy. CH3COOH was obtained at a high selectivity (>80 %) and good yield (ca. 3.2 mmol g−1cat in 3 h). Isotope labelling experiments confirmed that CH3COOH is produced through the coupling of CH4 and CO2. This work represents the first successful integration of CO/O2 production with oxidative carbonylation reaction. The result is expected to inspire more carboxylation reactions utilizing preactivated CO2 that take advantage of both products from the reduction and oxidation processes, thus achieving high atom efficiency in the synthesis.
Preparation of modified hydroxyapatite and its effect on natural latex film
Authors: Gong He , Zhong Kai , Chen Fanfan , Yi Mingyuan , Wan Lihong , Wang Zhifen , Liao Jianhe
Published: May 2023

To effectively screen pathogens or eliminate allergy symptoms caused by the protein in natural latex products, the strength of the natural latex film must be improved and the water‐soluble protein content in the latex products must be reduced. In this article, response surface methodology was used to optimize the reaction conditions for the preparation of hydroxyapatite (HA), and the reinforcement and adsorption of water‐soluble proteins on natural rubber latex (NRL) by HA modified by coupling agent KH550 were studied. Modified HA was homogenously dispersed in the NRL, and the tensile and tear strengths of the rubber film were increased by 37.45% and 40.86%, respectively. In addition, modified HA adsorbs the water‐soluble protein from the latex film. Compared with pure NR film, its protein content is reduced by 50.79%. This article has a reference value for the preparation of high‐performance natural latex film with low protein content.
Effect of adduct synthesis parameters on the ethylene polymerization kinetics of Ziegler Natta catalysts
Authors: Nouri‐Ahangarani Farshid , Bahri‐Laleh Naeimeh , Abedini Hossein , Nekoomanesh Mehdi
Published: May 2023

Here, it is aimed to clarify the structure‐performance relationship in MgCl2 based Ziegler Natta catalysts toward ethylene polymerizations. In this regard, 11 different adduct precursors were prepared through industrially appreciated melt quenching method employing various: (i) reaction times for dissolving magnesium chloride inside ethanol; (ii) ethanol/MgCl2 molar ratios in the feed; (iii) heating rates during thermal dealcoholation; (iv) N2 flows during thermal dealcoholation and (v) alcohol content after thermal dealcoholation. Among the studied parameters, heating rate and N2 flow during thermal dealcoholation have the most pronounced effect on the porosity and particle size of the resulted adducts. Related Ziegler Natta catalysts were subsequently employed in ethylene polymerizations. According to the kinetic curves, catalyst productivity and form of kinetic curve (as decay or build‐up type) can be precisely tailored by proper choosing of the mentioned variables during adduct synthesis. Microstructure analysis of the prepared polyethylenes reveals that alcohol content in the final adduct has the most significant effect on the H2 response, in terms of molar mass and its distribution, of the related Ziegler Natta catalysts. The overall results help polyethylene producers in choosing proper reaction conditions during adduct synthesis for the production of different polymer grades, when productivity or H2 response is targeted.
Experimental design for combined abatement of organic compounds present in urine
Authors: Tonhela Marquele Amorim , Vernillo Natalia , Cardoso Laura Rezende , Almeida Maria Emília Veloso , Malpass Ana Claudia Granato , Malpass Geoffroy Roger Pointer
Published: May 2023

Organic compounds contained in urine, such as urea and creatinine, can compete with pharmaceuticals for the electro‐generated oxidants during electrochemical treatment. In addition, urine has a large amount of chloride ions, creating opportunities to produce chlorine and aqueous‐free chlorine species via electrolysis. The aim of the present study is to analyze artificial urine as a supporting electrolyte, while studying the removal of the organic components present (urea and creatinine) by employing an experimental design approach. A 2³ factorial design was employed to evaluate the efficiency of the photo‐assisted sonoelectrochemical (EC/UV/US) process. Operating conditions were optimized using response surface methodology (MRS), namely: 11.44 mL min−1 flow, 1.940 A at 160 min. The pH was analyzed and a predominance of HOCl (pH < 7.0) can be observed. Response surface methodology was used to investigate the effects and interactions of flow rate, time, and current to track the removal efficiency of organic compounds contained in artificial urine (TOC, creatinine, and urea). Over prolonged electrolysis, the EC/US/UV process achieved removal of TOC (25.7%), creatinine (68.2%), and urea (33.3%), due to the large contribution of highly reactive radical species (•OH, •Cl, ClO−).
Finite‐time dissipative control for semi‐Markovian jump systems with time‐varying delays and generally uncertain transition rates
Authors: Wan Zijing , Zhu Quanxin
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we mainly address the issue of finite‐time stochastic boundedness (FTSB) and finite‐time stochastic dissipation for semi‐Markovian jump systems (SMJSs) with generally uncertain transition rates (TRs). Firstly, by resorting to linear matrix inequities (LMIs), some sufficient conditions on FTSB for SMJSs with uncertain TRs are introduced, which includes two cases. Then, dissipative control is developed and a state feedback controller is designed to ensure the FTSB of the closed‐loop system by solving a series of LMIs. Finally, two examples are used to illustrate the results.
Treatability of 18 taste and odor compounds in drinking water using oxidation
Authors: Pochiraju Susheera , Adams Craig , Hoppe‐Jones Christiane , Maalouf Samar , Weinrich Lauren
Published: May 2023

The occurrence of taste and odor (T&O) compounds in drinking water can lead to public concern about quality when left unaddressed, therefore suitable treatment is needed. This study evaluated the treatability of 18 T&O compounds using chlorine, permanganate, and ozone in MilliQ and river water. Nine T&O compounds showed complete oxidation (>99% removal) in all water matrices by ozone. Most of the remaining T&O compounds were removed to >50% by ozone. Alkalinity, pH, and natural organic matter (NOM) had a significant impact on the decay of ozone. Chlorine and permanganate were ineffective (removal <30%) for 2‐methylisoborneol (2‐MIB), geosmin, hexanal, pyrazines, and haloanisoles. Although chlorine achieved complete removal for alkyl sulfides and indole, it was only partially effective for aldehydes and ketones. Permanganate was more effective than chlorine in oxidizing unsaturated aldehydes and ketones. Increased NOM and pH reduced oxidation effectiveness for chlorine, but not permanganate.
Obsessive‐compulsive disorder: Etiology, neuropathology, and cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Jalal Baland , Chamberlain Samuel R. , Sahakian Barbara J.
Published: May 2023

Background

This review provides an overview of obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms, including the four partially distinct subtypes of the disorder, current diagnostic criteria, and common comorbidities. Critically, it focuses on the etiology of OCD, including its underlying neuropathology, and examines cognitive dysfunction in OCD.

Methods

This review study was conducted by library method.

Results

We show how dysfunction in cortico‐striato‐thalamo‐cortical (CSTC) circuits may underpin symptoms; and shed light on the putative neurochemistry within these loops such as the role of serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate systems. We also show how OCD is characterized by cognitive dysfunction including problems in cognitive flexibility, visuospatial memory, response inhibition, and goal‐directed behavior, linked to aberrant activity within CSTC circuits.

Conclusions

In brief, research questions we shed light on include (1) what are the symptoms in OCD; (2) what is the etiology of the disorder and do existing models explain OCD; and (3) what are key cognitive deficits in OCD and do these improve with treatment?
Inflammation and endothelial function‐related gene polymorphisms are associated with carotid atherosclerosis—A study of community population in Southwest China
Authors: Lu Jing , Peng Wei , Yi Xingyang , Fan Daofeng , Li Jie , Wang Chun , Luo Hua , Yu Ming
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To investigate the relationships between 18 single nucleotide polymorphisms with carotid atherosclerosis and whether interactions among these genes were associated with an increased risk of carotid atherosclerosis.

Methods

Face‐to‐face surveys were conducted with individuals aged 40 or older in eight communities. A total of 2377 individuals were included in the study. Ultrasound was used to detect carotid atherosclerosis in the included population. 18 loci of 10 genes associated with inflammation and endothelial function were detected. Gene‐gene interactions were analyzed using generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR).

Results

Among the 2377 subjects, 445 (18.7%) subjects had increased intima‐media thickness in the common carotid artery (CCA‐IMT), and 398 (16.7%) subjects were detected with vulnerable plaque. In addition, NOS2A rs2297518 polymorphism was associated with increased CCA‐IMT, IL1A rs1609682, and HABP2 rs7923349 polymorphisms were associated with vulnerable plaque. Besides, GMDR analysis showed significant gene‐gene interactions among TNFSF4 rs1234313, IL1A rs1609682, TLR4 rs1927911, ITGA2 rs1991013, NOS2A rs2297518, IL6R rs4845625, ITGA2 rs4865756, HABP2 rs7923349, NOS2A rs8081248, HABP2 rs932650.

Conclusion

The prevalences of increased CCA‐IMT and vulnerable plaque were high in Southwestern China's high‐risk stroke population. Furthermore, inflammation and endothelial function‐related gene polymorphisms were associated with carotid atherosclerosis.
Boosting sulfur‐based cathode performance via confined reactions in covalent organic frameworks with polarized sites
Authors: Zhu Da , Sheng Li , Wang Jin , Wang Li , Xu Hong , He Xiangming
Published: May 2023

The widespread promotion of the sulfur‐based cathode is continuously threatened by the dissolution or slow kinetic reactions of polysulfides, resulting in a deterioration of capacity and volume expansion. Herein, a hierarchical imine‐based covalent organic framework (COFs) with AA stacking structure is constructed as a sulfur host matrix. The one‐dimensional channels in COF are decorated with polarized methoxy groups which can confine and immobilize sulfur species through weak interactions, alleviating the shuttle effect during the battery tests. The composite electrode (COF@S) is fabricated through the melt‐diffusion method in one‐pot synthesis and exhibits a slow fading rate (0.20% each cycle) in a 0.5 C stability test. A promising mechanism for constructing the cathode composite is demonstrated in lithium‐sulfur chemistry in this work.
Preliminary analysis of double‐negative T, double‐positive T, and natural killer T‐like cells in B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Valvano Luciana , Nozza Filomena , D'Arena Giovanni , D'Auria Fiorella , De Luca Luciana , Pietrantuono Giuseppe , Mansueto Giovanna , Villani Oreste , D'Agostino Simona , Lamorte Daniela , Calice Giovanni , Statuto Teodora
Published: May 2023

Background

B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL) is characterized by the expansion of CD5+ malignant B lymphocytes. Recent discoveries have shown that double‐negative T (DNT) cells, double‐positive T (DPT) cells, and natural killer T (NKT)‐cells may be involved in tumor surveillance.

Methods

A detailed immunophenotypic analysis of the peripheral blood T‐cell compartment of 50 patients with B‐CLL (classified in three prognostic groups) and 38 healthy donors (as controls) matched for age was performed. The samples were analyzed by flow cytometry using a stain‐lyse‐no wash technique and a comprehensive six‐color antibody panels.

Results

Our data confirmed a reduction in percentage values and an increase in absolute values of T lymphocytes in patients with B‐CLL, as already reported. In particular, DNT, DPT, and NKT‐like percentages were significantly lower than in the controls, except for NKT‐like in the low‐risk prognostic group. Moreover, a significant rise in the absolute counts of DNT cells in each prognostic group and in the low‐risk prognostic group of NKT‐like cells was found. A significant correlation of the absolute values of NKT‐like cells in the intermediate‐risk prognostic group versus B cells was observed. Furthermore, we analyzed whether the increase in T cells was related to the subpopulations of interest. Only DNT cells were positively correlated with the increase in CD3+ T lymphocytes, regardless of the stage of the disease, supporting the hypothesis that this T‐cell subset plays a key role in the immune T response in B‐CLL.

Conclusion

These early results supported that DNT, DPT, and NKT‐like subsets may be related to disease progression and should encourage further studies aimed at identifying the potential immune surveillance role of these minority T subpopulations.
Fifteen‐year survival and conditional survival of women with breast cancer in Osaka, Japan: A population‐based study
Authors: Kato Mizuki , Nakata Kayo , Morishima Toshitaka , Kuwabara Yoshihiro , Fujisawa Fumie , Kittaka Nobuyoshi , Nakayama Takahiro , Miyashiro Isao
Published: May 2023

Background

In recent years, the survival of patients with breast cancer has improved. However, few published studies have a longer than 10‐year follow‐up. Conditional relative survival (CRS), which is relative survival (RS) of patients who have survived beyond a certain period after diagnosis, is useful for assessing excess mortality among long‐term survivors compared with the general population.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study. Population‐based cancer registry data in Osaka, Japan were used to determine 15‐year RS and 5‐year CRS of women with breast cancer diagnosed between 2001 and 2002 and followed up for at least 15 years. Fifteen‐year RS and age‐standardized RS (ASR) were calculated by Ederer II and cohort methods. Five‐year CRS according to age group and extent of disease (localized, regional, and distant) was estimated for every year from diagnosis to 10 years.

Results

In the cohort of 4006 patients, the ASR declined progressively, the 5‐year ASR being 85.8%, 10‐year ASR 77.3%, and 15‐year ASR 71.6%. The overall 5‐year CRS exceeded 90% at 5 years after diagnosis, reflecting a small excess mortality compared with the general population. The 5‐year CRS of patients with regional and distant disease did not reach 90% within 10 years of follow‐up (89.4% for regional and 72.9% for distant disease 10 years after diagnosis), indicating that these patients had substantial excess mortality.

Conclusion

Long‐term survival data can help cancer survivors plan their lives and receive better medical care and support.
When trauma is stigmatized: Disidentification and dissociation in people affected by adverse childhood experiences
Authors: Lashkay Anna‐Mariya , Kinsella Elaine L. , Muldoon Orla T.
Published: May 2023

Survivors of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can experience dissociation because of their trauma. Those survivors can also experience stigma stemming from their traumatic experiences, which may encourage disidentification from the stigmatized group (i.e., other survivors of ACEs). However, the relationships between disidentification and dissociation have not been empirically tested. Using a social identity framework, we examined whether stigmatized trauma perceptions (the degree to which a trauma is perceived as a stigmatized experience) predicted dissociative symptoms and disidentification using cross‐sectional survey data. An online community sample of ACEs survivors (N = 181) completed measures of disidentification and dissociation. Stigmatized trauma perceptions were measured by respondents rating the extent to which they perceived ACEs are a stigmatizing experience. Path analysis revealed higher stigmatized trauma perceptions predicted more disidentification which resulted in greater dissociative symptoms, after controlling for ACEs and gender. The results show that survivors are more likely to disidentify from people with similar experiences when they feel their trauma is stigmatized. This disidentification was associated with greater dissociation. The findings demonstrate a link between social disidentification and personal dissociation. Further research can explore this link in other types of stigmatized traumas (e.g., suicide).
Bivalent Metal Chelates with Pentadentate Azo‐Schiff Base Derived from Nicotinic Hydrazide: Preparation, Structural Elucidation, and Pharmacological Activity
Authors: Abouel‐Enein Saeyda A. , Emam Sanaa M. , Abdel‐Satar Eman M.
Published: May 2023

Azo‐Schiff base ligand (N′‐((E)‐2‐hydroxy‐5‐((E)‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)diazenyl)benzylidene)nicotinohydrazide) and its Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Pd(II) chelates were prepared and elucidated. The geometrical structures of the prepared chelates were characterized by several spectroanalytical techniques and thermogravimetric analysis. The obtained data revealed that the chelates have (1M:1L), (1M:2L), (1M:3L), and (1M:4L) molar ratios. The infrared spectra displayed that the H2L ligand behaves in a pentacoordinate fashion in chelates of Mn(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) ions. However, in Zn(II) and Pd(II) chelates, the ligand is coordinated as a tetradentate species (NONO) through nitrogen atoms of azomethine and azo groups as well as oxygen atoms of phenolic hydroxy, and carbonyl groups. Besides, it was concluded that the oxygen atoms of carbonyl and hydroxy groups along with the azomethine nitrogen atom of the ligand are bounded with Co(II) ion in metal chelate (2). According to the measured molar conductance values, the chelates of Cu(II), Zn(II), and Pd(II) are weak electrolytes, but Mn(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) chelates are ionic. The azo‐Schiff base ligand and its prepared metal chelates were tested for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The Ni(II) chelate was found to be considered an effective antioxidant agent. In addition, the available antibacterial data suggest that the Ni(II) and Co(II) chelates may be employed as inhibitor agents against Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis bacteria. Furthermore, the data showed that, in comparison to the ligand and other metal chelates, copper(II) chelate (4) exhibited higher action against Bacillus subtilis bacteria.
Significant impact of redox regulation of estrogen‐metabolizing proteins on cellular stress responses
Authors: Maiti Smarajit , Nazmeen Aarifa , Banerjee Amrita
Published: May 2023

The ultimate driving force, stress, promotes adaptability/evolution in proliferating organisms, transforming tumorigenic growth. Estradiol (E2) regulates both phenomena. In this study, bioinformatics‐tools, site‐directed‐mutagenesis (human estrogen‐sulfotransferase/hSULT1E1), HepG2 cells tested with N‐acetyl‐cysteine (NAC/thiol‐inducer) or buthionine‐sulfoxamine (BSO/thiol‐depletory) were evaluated for hSULT1E1 (estradiol‐sulphating/inactivating) functions. Reciprocal redox regulation of steroid sulfatase (STS, E2‐desulfating/activating) results in the Cys‐formylglycine transition by the formylglycine‐forming enzyme (FGE). The enzyme sequences and structures were examined across the phylogeny. Motif/domain and the catalytic conserve sequences and protein‐surface‐topography (CASTp) were investigated. The E2 binding to SULT1E1 suggests that the conserved‐catalytic‐domain in this enzyme has critical Cysteine 83 at position. This is strongly supported by site‐directed mutagenesis/HepG2‐cell research. Molecular‐docking and superimposition studies of E2 with the SULT1E1 of representative species and to STS reinforce this hypothesis. SULT1E1‐STS are reciprocally activated in response to the cellular‐redox‐environment by the critical Cys of these two enzymes. The importance of E2 in organism/species proliferation and tissue tumorigenesis is highlighted.
Effects of bran pigmentation and parboiling on rheological properties of waxy rice in neutral and acidic environments
Authors: Jannasch Annegret , Wang Ya‐Jane , Lee Sun‐Ok , McClung Anna M. , Brownmiller Cindi
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

Pigmented rice is a good source of polyphenols that can interact with proteins to affect starch rheological properties. Parboiling influences rice functional properties via starch gelatinization and protein denaturation, but its effects on polyphenol/protein/starch interactions are unknown. This study investigated the rheological properties of pigmented (HB‐1) and nonpigmented (Neches) waxy rice in neutral (water) and acidic (0.1 N HCl) environments as affected by soaking at room temperature or 5°C below onset gelatinization temperature (To) and steaming.

Findings

Whole grain rice and starch of both varieties shared similar pasting viscosities, whereas milled HB‐1 displayed a higher peak viscosity than its derived starch. Soaking at 5°C<To increased pasting viscosities of whole grain and milled Neches and whole grain HB‐1, but decreased those of milled HB‐1. Parboiled whole grain and milled HB‐1 after high‐temperature soaking showed lower storage (G’) and loss (G”) modulus in neutral environment, but enhanced viscoelastic properties in acidic environment.

Conclusion

The results provide evidence for the presence of inherent polyphenol/protein/starch interactions in pigmented rice. These interactions may be enhanced from protein denaturation during parboiling but disrupted when exposed to acid to increase starch swelling.

Significance and Novelty

Polyphenol/protein/starch interactions may help develop functional foods with increased viscosity in acidic environment.
F‐Doped Co−N−C Catalysts for Enhancing the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Xu Chao , Guo Peng‐Peng , Yang Kun‐Zu , Lu Chen , Wei Ping‐Jie , Liu Jin‐Gang
Published: May 2023

Zn‐air battery is a promising next‐generation energy storage device. Its performance, however, is limited by a high overpotential resulted from the slow kinetics of the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). This study reports a simple strategy for preparation of a fluorine‐doped Co−N−C composite as highly efficient electrocatalyst for ORR. The C@PVI‐(TPFC)Co‐800 catalyst was prepared by pyrolysis of F‐containing Co‐corrole that was assembled on PVI‐functionalized carbon black through the axial imidazole coordination (PVI=polyvinylimidazole, TPFC=5,10,15‐triperfluorophenyl‐21H, 22H‐corrole). The C@PVI‐(TPFC)Co‐800 catalyst exhibited much more positive ORR half‐wave potential (E1/2=0.88 V vs. RHE) than its counterpart C@PVI‐(TPC)Co‐800 (E1/2=0.82 V, TPC=5,10,15‐triphenyl‐21H, 22H‐corrole) without F‐doping in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte. C@PVI‐(TPFC)Co‐800 also achieved a greater kinetic current density and enhanced durability in alkaline media. In addition, a Zn‐air battery with C@PVI‐(TPFC)Co‐800 loaded at the cathode delivered much higher peak power density (Pmax=141 mW/cm2) and open‐circuit voltage (OCV=1.45 V) over the C@PVI‐(TPC)Co‐800 counterpart (Pmax=110 mW/cm2, OCV=1.39 V) and the commercial 20 % Pt/C (Pmax=119 mW/cm2, OCV=1.42 V) as well. The promoted catalyst performance for ORR was attributed to the increased specific surface area, more defects generated, and reduced electron density distribution around the Co metal center after F‐doping.