bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypical Characterization of Gastroenterological and Metabolic Manifestations in Patients With Williams–Beuren Syndrome
Authors: Bedeschi Maria Francesca , Baldassarri Annarita , Villa Roberta , Tanzi Federico , Salera Simona , Lombardo Vincenza , Draghi Alessandro , O'Sed Nicole Piazza , Casazza Giovanni , Vecchi Maurizio , Fraquelli Mirella
Published: January 2025

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in patients with Williams–Beuren syndrome (WBS), but their prevalence and possible causes are not yet fully known. This study assessed GI symptoms' prevalence and their possible origin by performing a predefined set of tests in adult WBS patients. Laboratory tests and a questionnaire were administered to assess GI symptoms and dietary habits. All the patients underwent the urea breath test, H2‐lactose and H2‐glucose breath tests, and intestinal ultrasound (IUS) and vibration‐controlled transient elastography for liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP, dB/m). Thirty‐one patients were enrolled (72% of the whole cohort, 17 males, median age 32 years). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms were reported in 29% of the patients, abdominal pain in 26%, and altered bowel habits in 48%. Pathologic signs at (IUS) were present in 60% of the cases. Prevalence was 0.26 (95% CI 0.12–0.44) for Helicobacter pylori infection and 0.61 (95% CI 0.42–0.78) for lactose intolerance. LSM was > 6 kPa (in the range of a fibrosis score > F1) in three patients, and CAP values were > 268 dB/m (corresponding to a steatosis score > S2, e.g., moderate steatosis) in nine. The presence of altered bowel habits was significantly related to chronic abdominal pain (OR 13.1, p = 0.03). Increased BMI (> 28 kg/m2) (OR 10.8, p = 0.04) was associated with the presence of moderate–severe hepatic steatosis. After specific treatment and dietary counseling, most patients reported resolution/improvement of symptoms, whereas a few retained/developed symptoms during follow‐up. Chronic abdominal pain, GERD symptoms, and unbalanced metabolic parameters were common in our WBS patients, together with an increased prevalence of lactose intolerance/colonic diverticula. Specific counseling and treatment improved symptoms for most patients.
MYRF Variants in Patients With 46,XY Differences/Disorders of Sex Development and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Xi , Mao Jiangfeng , Cao Yaqing , Zhang Xiaoxia , Nie Min , Wu Xueyan
Published: January 2025

46,XY differences/disorders of sex development (DSD) are genetically heterogeneous conditions characterized by atypical development of the reproductive system. MYRF, a gene encoding a transcription factor, has been identified as a potential causative gene for DSD and cardiac urogenital syndrome (CUGS). This study aims to delineate the clinical manifestations of patients with 46,XY DSD and MYRF mutations, encompassing both from our cohort and cases reported in the literature. Patients with 46,XY DSD were recruited from Peking Union Medical College Hospital and identified through a comprehensive review of published literature. Whole‐exome sequencing was conducted to elucidate the genetic etiology. Comprehensive clinical data, including physical examination findings, hormonal profiles, and imaging results, were retrospectively gathered from medical records and published sources. Three of our patients with 46,XY DSD were found to harbor heterozygous loss‐of‐function mutations in the MYRF gene, including the recurrent variant c.789dup and two novel variants c.1915C>T and c.2154del. The patients exhibited underdeveloped testicular tissue, inadequate masculinization, and the persistence of Müllerian ducts. A review of the literature indentified 31 MYRF‐linked 46,XY DSD patients and two 46,XX DSD patients. Among these, 11 cases presented with isolated testicular dysgenesis, 20 cases exhibited severe cardiopulmonary issues, and the majority of patients had congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Genetic analysis revealed 26 distinct MYRF variants among these patients, including 10 missense, 8 frameshift, 5 nonsense, and 3 splice site alterations, affecting critical domains of the MYRF gene. Our study broadens the spectrum of MYRF mutations in 46,XY DSD patients and highlighting the gene's indispensable role in gonadal development. However, a clear genotype–phenotype correlation in MYRF‐related DSD remain elusive.
Association of rapid eye movement sleep latency with multimodal biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Jin Jiangli , Chen Jiong , Cavaillès Clémence , Yaffe Kristine , Winer Joseph , Stankeviciute Laura , Lucey Brendan P. , Zhou Xiao , Gao Song , Peng Dantao , Leng Yue
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Sleep disturbances are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), but the relationship between sleep architecture, particularly rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and AD/ADRD biomarkers remains unclear.

METHODS

We enrolled 128 adults (64 with Alzheimer's disease, 41 with mild cognitive impairment [MCI], and 23 with normal cognition [NC]), mean age 70.8 ± 9.6 years, 56.9% female, from a tertiary hospital in China. Participants underwent overnight polysomnography (PSG), amyloid β (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET), and plasma biomarker analysis: phosphorylated tau at threonine 181 (p‐tau181), neurofilament light (NfL), and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

RESULTS

After adjusting for demographics, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 status, cognition, and comorbidities, the highest tertile of REM latency was associated with higher Aβ burden (β = 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03 to 0.13, p = 0.002), elevated p‐tau181 (β = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.13, p = 0.002), and reduced BDNF levels (β = ‐0.47, 95% CI: –0.68 to –0.13, p = 0.013), compared to the lowest tertile.

DISCUSSION

Prolonged REM latency may serve as a novel marker or risk factor for AD/ADRD pathogenesis.

Highlights

Rapid eye movement latency (REML) may be a potential marker for Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) pathogenesis.

Prolonged REML was associated with higher amyloid beta (Aβ) burden, phosphorylated tau‐181 (p‐tau181), and lower brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.

Intervention trial is needed to determine if targeting REML can modify AD/ADRD risk.

Slow‐wave sleep was not associated with AD/ADRD biomarkers.
Pharmacokinetic analysis on compatibility of Atractylodes macrocephala and Paeoniae radix herb pair ameliorates functional constipation model rats using microdialysis with ultra‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Wang Xiaoting , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Rui , Hong Yin , Guan Jiaqi
Published: January 2025

Background

In a previous study, we found that Atractylodes macrocephala and Paeoniae radix (AM‐PR) was useful for the alleviation of functional constipation (FC). However, the precise mechanism underlying the compatibility between AM and PR in the treatment of FC remains uncertain. This study aims to analyze the pharmacokinetic differences in the active ingredients in the blood of rat models with FC when applied individually and in combination with AM‐PR. It also seeks to compare the changes in the content of the active ingredient when applied individually and in combination with in vitro AM‐PR, further in‐depth investigation into its material foundation in terms of pharmacokinetics, as well as the composition of the substance.

Methods

Blood microdialysis samples were collected using microdialysis technology. These samples from rats with FC were compared after administration of AM, PR, and AM‐PR. The concentration of the main active ingredients was determined using the Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Tunable Ultraviolet (UPLC‐TUV) method. The concentration of the main active ingredients of the decoction compatibility before and after combining AM‐PR was also determined using the UPLC‐TUV method.

Results

Our findings reveal that upon combination, the time to maximum concentration (Tmax) of isochlorogenic acid A (ICA‐A) and ataridolide II (ATR‐II) Tmax was prolonged, terminal elimination half‐life (T1/2) was reduced, and maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) increased. The Tmax of ataridolide III (ATR‐III) remained consistent, whereas its T1/2 and Cmax were significantly reduced. Conversely, for peoniflorin (PAE), Tmax occurred sooner, T1/2 was shortened, and Cmax increased. The Tmax for albiflorin (ALB) remained consistent, whereas T1/2 and Cmax witnessed significant increases. The area under the moment curve (AUMC) (0–t) and AUMC (0–∞) of PAE, ALB, ICA‐A, ATR‐II experienced an increase after AM‐PR administration in rats, attributable to the heightened Cmax. In comparison to individual herb administration, the Tmax of ALB was advanced in combination, the Tmax of PAE remained unchanged, and the Tmax of ICA‐A and ART‐II was delayed, with an increased area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) (0–t), indicating enhanced Cmax and bioavailability. Furthermore, the dissolution rates of PAE, ICA‐A, and ATR‐II significantly improved after compatibility.

Conclusions

This study partially clarifies the rationale and compatibility of AM‐PR in treating FC and offers a new perspective on the pharmacokinetic interactions of AM‐PR in FC treatment.
Design of Fractional‐Order Sliding Mode Controller for an Unstable Three‐State Model Jacketed CSTR
Authors: Maurya Parmanand , Prasad Durga , Singh Ram Sharan
Published: January 2025

Control of a jacketed continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) is challenging due to nonlinear dynamics, complexity, and rapid reactor dynamics under imperfect mixing in the jacket. Current controller designs mainly focus on the two‐state model, neglecting the potential of three‐state models in scenarios with nonperfect mixing and fast reactor dynamics. This study proposes a sliding mode controller (SMC) design scheme based on the transfer function model using a newly developed jellyfish optimisation algorithm. Further, a fractional‐order sliding mode control (FO‐SMC) strategy is proposed, which integrates modifications to the SMC to mitigate chattering, enhance control robustness, and provide better disturbance rejection capability. PID and fractional‐order PID (FOPID) controllers were also designed for comparative analysis. The simulation results demonstrated that FO‐SMC outperformed other designed controllers, shown by a 37.14% reduction in settling time, 10.69% reduction in integral absolute error (IAE), and 19.06% reduction in time‐weighted absolute error (ITAE) compared to SMC and various other improved performance indicators. Parameter variation and noise analysis highlighted the ability of the controller to maintain stability and performance under dynamic conditions.
Risk Assessment of Cyclaniliprole Resistance in Peach‐Potato Aphid Myzus persicae: Laboratory Selection, Inheritance, and Cross‐Resistance Patterns
Authors: Liang Pingzhuo , Zhang Zihao , Zhen Congai , Li Dapeng , Cheng Shenhang , Li Ren , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2025

Cyclaniliprole, a type of the third‐generation anthranilic diamide insecticide, was mainly used for management of various pests. Myzus persicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae), known as the peach‐potato aphid, is an economically essential pest with worldwide distribution. However, the risk assessment of cyclaniliprole in M. persicae is unclear. The cyclaniliprole risk assessment in M. persicae showed 2.56‐fold resistance to cyclaniliprole after 26 generation selection in comparison to the initial susceptible population. The cross‐resistance experiment revealed that the low cross‐resistance to imidacloprid (4.2‐fold) in the cyclaniliprole‐selected strain was observed when comparing to the susceptible population. Realized heritability (h2) of cyclaniliprole resistance was 0.0362. When mean slope = 2.217 and h2 = 0.0362, then 31–69 generations would be required for an increase of LC50s with ten times at 90%–50% selection intensity. The fecundity (the number of offspring per female) of the cyclaniliprole‐selected strain had no significant difference with the susceptible population. The mRNA expression of the target gene ryanodine receptor was significantly enhanced in the cyclaniliprole‐selected strain. The absence of fitness costs, the minimal resistance risk, and very low levels of cross‐resistance in the cyclaniliprole‐selected strain provide strong support for designing the effective management strategies against M. persicae.
Efficacy, Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Immunogenicity of ABBV‐154 in Adults With Glucocorticoid‐Dependent Polymyalgia Rheumatica: A Phase 2, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Spiera Robert F. , Devauchelle‐Pensec Valerie , Owen Claire E. , Díaz‐González Federico , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Drescher Edit , Anderson Jaclyn , Arikan Dilek , D'Cunha Ronilda , Parmentier Julie , Kruzikas Denise T. , Zhao Weihan , Yang Yang , Stellpflug Karen , Buttgereit Frank
Published: January 2025

Objective

An unmet need exists for glucocorticoid‐sparing treatments for patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). The antibody‐drug conjugate ABBV‐154 comprises adalimumab conjugated to a glucocorticoid receptor modulator. We evaluated ABBV‐154 versus placebo in patients with glucocorticoid‐dependent PMR.

Methods

In this phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging study, eligible patients had confirmed PMR, glucocorticoid response and ≥2 unequivocal PMR flares while tapering glucocorticoids and still on ≥ 5 mg daily prednisone equivalent. Randomized patients received subcutaneous placebo or ABBV‐154 40, 150, or 340 mg once every other week. The primary efficacy endpoint was time to flare. The sponsor voluntarily terminated the study early.

Results

Overall, 181 patients were randomized (placebo, n = 50; ABBV‐154: 40 mg, n = 42; 150 mg, n = 45; 340 mg, n = 44) and 67.4% completed study drug at week 24 Time to flare was longer for patients receiving ABBV‐154 than those receiving placebo, with Kaplan‐Meier estimate of 24‐week flare‐free rate being lower for placebo. The hazard ratios of ABBV‐154 vs placebo (95% confidence interval) were 0.49 (0.27, 0.88), P = 0.017 for 40 mg; 0.44 [0.25, 0.79], P = 0.006 for 150 mg; 0.20 [0.09, 0.42], P < 0.001 for 340 mg. Incidences of treatment‐emergent adverse events were similar between groups, and the most common across ABBV‐154 cohorts was COVID‐19 (16.0%).

Conclusion

Treatment effects were observed for ABBV‐154 cohorts compared with placebo for time to flare. ABBV‐154 was generally well tolerated. Due to early study termination, results should be interpreted with caution.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04972968
Comorbidities and Healthcare Utilization Among Young Adults With Congenital Heart Defects by Down Syndrome Status—Congenital Heart Survey to Recognize Outcomes, Needs, and wellbeinG, 2016–2019
Authors: Villamil Vanessa I. , Downing Karrie F. , Oster Matthew E. , Andrews Jennifer G. , Galindo Maureen K. , Patel Jenil , Klewer Scott E. , Nembhard Wendy N. , Farr Sherry L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Almost half of individuals born with Down syndrome (DS) have congenital heart defects (CHDs). Yet, little is known about the health and healthcare needs of adults with CHDs and DS. Therefore, we examined comorbidities and healthcare utilization of this population.

Methods

Data were from the 2016–2019 Congenital Heart Survey to Recognize Outcomes, Needs, and well‐beinG (CH STRONG), a survey of 19–38‐year‐olds with CHDs identified through birth defects registries in Arkansas, Arizona, and Atlanta. Outcome estimates were standardized to the CH STRONG eligible population. Multivariable Poisson regression generated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) for associations between DS and each outcome, adjusting for covariates, including CHD severity.

Results

Among 1500 respondents, 9.1% had DS. Compared to those without DS, respondents with DS were more commonly male (55.5% vs. 45.0%), < 25 years old (51.8% vs. 42.7%), non‐Hispanic White (72.3% vs. 69.3%), and publicly insured (77.4% vs. 22.8%; all p < 0.05). Of adults with CHDs and DS, 5.5% had cardiac comorbidities, 19.3% had emergency room (ER) visits, 6.2% had hospital admissions, and 1.2% had cost‐related delays in care in the last year; 0.1 to 0.6 times lower than adults with CHDs without DS. Additionally, 26.7% had non‐cardiac comorbidities (aPR = 1.25 [0.92–1.72]), most commonly sleep apnea (13.7% vs. 3.2%, aPR = 3.67 [2.02–6.67]). Receipt of cardiology care in the last 2 years was similarly low (52.7% vs. 44.7%).

Conclusions

Adults with CHDs and DS comprise a substantial percentage of adults with CHDs and have unique health and healthcare needs. Half of adults with CHDs and DS are not receiving recommended routine cardiac care.
Investigation of Thermal Management Capacity of Casson Electrolytes in Porous Electrodes in Lithium‐Ion Battery Applications
Authors: Manzoor Tareq , Iqbal S. , Anwer Tauseef , Manzoor Sanaullah , Mustafa Ghulam , Manzoor Habib Ullah
Published: January 2025

The study of the Casson electrolyte in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is important because of their complexities due to tougher operational conditions and other challenges during charging–discharging challenges with their improved thermal management capacity and enhanced safety. This further optimizes the thermal management avoiding chances of hot spots or thermal runaway, thereby making LIBs safer. In this investigation, convective loads for non‐Newtonian fluid as electrolyte Casson‐type boundary layer flow related to plate and flat surfaces in non‐Darcy permeable porous electrodes have been deliberated. We have employed the Optimal Homopotic Asymptotic Method technique to solve the equation of the system. The effects and influences of Casson factors, permeability, flow constraints, Prandtl values related to flow and thermal dissipation, and boundary layer profiles have been studied. From the results, it is concluded that thermal parameters and porousness have affected the system, and the upsurge in the porousness actually decreases heat transport effects and proportions. The results of this study are relevant to the development of more effective porous electrodes for achieving high performance with long cycle life. These studies help improve the utilization of mass and heat transfer properties, as affected by the non‐Newtonian behavior of the electrolyte, to help in the design of next‐generation LIBs with higher energy density along with fast charge/discharge rates.
Reusable chemical catalysts for sustainable biodiesel production: The role of metallic elements
Authors: Gholami Ali , Pourfayaz Fathollah , Rodygin Konstantin
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, biodiesel has emerged as a renewable and environmentally benign fuel compared with its fossil counterpart. From an industrial perspective, homogeneously‐catalyzed transesterification has been established as the principal method for biodiesel synthesis owing to the moderate reaction conditions. However, homogeneous catalysts cannot be reused, and large amounts of wastewater accompany their separation from the products, making the production process detrimental to the environment and contrary to the sustainable development objectives. This grim reality confronting green fuel can be avoided by using heterogeneous catalysts that can be recycled and reused several times. Metal elements have played a crucial role in the development of such catalysts. These species are readily available in the environment and provide solid catalysts with high activity. Due to their significant contribution to achieving a sustainable production method for biodiesel, this paper reviews the role of metallic elements in fabricating functional materials, including metal oxides, mixed metal oxides, and metal‐doped porous frameworks. The optimized reaction conditions focused on reusability were reported and analyzed for each class of catalysts. Challenges and future requirements for boosting the catalysts’ activity and reusability in the production process were also discussed. Leaching of active sites and pore blockage were the primary factors detrimental to reusability. These issues could be minimized by supported metal atoms on porous materials, providing a stronger bond of the metal sites and the support, and utilizing membrane reactors to continuously remove the products from a reaction mixture.
Image‐Based Analysis of Correlation Between Valve Stent Deformation and Valve Function in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Jin Min , Zhou Qing , li Shuchun , Zhang Haitao , Wang Dongjin
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

Currently, there remains a paucity of research on the deformation and valve function of transcatheter heart valves (THV) in patients with aortic regurgitation (AR) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This study aimed to thoroughly explore the correlation between THV deformation and postoperative hemodynamics in these patients.

Methods

In this study, we assessed 39 AR patients treated with the J‐Valve THV system during TAVR. We utilized postoperative cardiac‐enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) to examine the extent of stent deformation, correlating these measurements with concurrent echocardiographic data.

Results

Among patients with AR, the J‐Valve exhibited three distinct configurations: rectangular, trapezoidal, and inverted trapezoidal shapes. The rectangular configuration showed a trend toward a larger effective orifice area (EOA) compared to the trapezoidal and inverted trapezoidal configurations (rectangular: 2.20 ± 0.11 cm², trapezoidal: 1.88 ± 0.08 cm², inverted trapezoidal: 2.04 ± 0.08 cm²; p = 0.068). Stratified analysis of the degree of inclined commissural posts indicated that THVs with all three commissural angles < 5° exhibited the highest standard EOA (sEOA). An increase in the number and degree of inclined commissural posts correlated with a decrease in sEOA. Furthermore, a higher EOA was observed when the expansion in the mid and transition level exceeded 80%.

Conclusions

During the TAVR procedure, ensuring sufficient expansion in the mid and transition level of the stent, maintaining the stent in a rectangular configuration, and avoiding tilting of the commissural posts contribute to achieving favorable postoperative hemodynamics.
Left Main Coronary Occlusion During TAVI Procedure: Calcium Embolization Matters
Authors: Vijayvergiya Rajesh , Kumar Basant , Bose Arghadip , Negi Sunder
Published: January 2025

Acute coronary occlusion during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an unwarranted complication associated with high mortality. The current TAVI practices recommend a multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) evaluation of the aortic valve, the left ventricular outflow tract, and the aortic root to determine the conventional risk factors for coronary obstruction like low‐lying coronary ostia and narrow sinuses of Valsalva, mandating prophylactic coronary protection or native valve leaflet modification in high‐risk patients. Despite optimal anatomy, acute coronary occlusion can still occur due to multiple mechanisms, one of which is coronary embolism due to thrombus, calcium, or native aortic valve fragments. A sudden hemodynamic collapse during a TAVI procedure in the absence of apparent causes always raises the suspicion of coronary occlusion, which requires a prompt percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to save the patient's life. This report describes a case of acute coronary occlusion during TAVI in a seemingly low‐risk patient salvaged with an emergent left main (LM) bifurcation PCI.
Genetic analysis of forage, seed, and turf quality in tall fescue: Unraveling inheritance patterns and interrelationships
Authors: Pirnajmedin Fatemeh , Majidi Mohammad Mahdi , Safari Maryam
Published: January 2025

Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb. syn. Lolium arundinaceum), an important cool‐season grass, has limited understanding regarding its genetic inheritance patterns and the potential for simultaneous selection across forage, seed, and turf traits. In this study, 24 half‐sib families derived from polycrosses, along with their corresponding parental genotypes, were assessed for different agro‐morphological, seed, and turf quality characteristics in the field for 2 years (2019–2020). High genotypic variation was observed for all the measured traits. Moderate narrow‐sense heritability (h2PFM) for turf quality and seed‐related traits indicated that genetic variance predominates in total phenotypic variance of these traits. Low value of h2PFM (0.25) for dry forage yield (DFY) shows the high environmental influence on the expression of this economic trait. Indirect selection to improve DFY was more effective through its components, such as crown diameter (h2PFM = 0.43) and plant height (h2PFM = 0.48), which had higher heritability and positive correlation with forage yield. However, for seed and turf quality traits, direct selection would be possible during recurrent selection programs. The simultaneous selection for both forage yield and seed yield would be possible due to the positive correlation between them. Based on the application of multivariate analysis, parental genotypes and half‐sib families with possible utility as forage and seed use or turf application were recognized, which can be used in the future breeding programs for developing synthetic varieties.
Slit tube responses and rock fracture characteristics in slit charge blasting under high in situ stress
Authors: Sui Zhe , Yang Liyun , Wu Lijun , Ding Chenxi
Published: January 2025

Deep mining of natural resources, like coal, is increasingly utilizing directional blasting technology with slit charge for rock blasting at greater depths. This study, based on numerical simulation methods, analyzes the dynamic behavior of slit charge blasting in three aspects: slit tube dynamic response, hoop stress evolution, and crack propagation. According to research findings, the failure mode of the slit tube mainly manifests as a tensile fracture of the inner wall and a shear fracture at the end connection, where the end connection of the slit tube is the weak point of the overall structure. The dynamic response of the slit tube mainly exhibits radial response in the vertical direction of the slit and hoop response in the slit direction. The hoop tensile stress plays a crucial role in determining the spread of cracks caused by explosions. As the in situ stress increases, the peak hoop tensile stress reduces, and the peak hoop compressive stress increases. This hinders the propagation of cracks. In addition, the directional impact is most pronounced in the middle of the borehole, with the longest primary directional crack observed. Conversely, the directional impact is least favorable near the bottom of the borehole. When the in situ stress reaches 60 MPa, the purpose of directional fracture has not been achieved, suggesting combining presplit blasting for in situ stress relief to improve rock breaking efficiency.
Investigation of Fe(III) Complexes with Aminoguanidine Schiff Base Ligands as Biomimetic Catalysts and Sulphide Sensors
Authors: Ghosh Anwesha , Mondal Antu , Sengupta Swaraj , Jagličić Zvonko , Frontera Antonio , Kumar Chattopadhyay Shyamal
Published: January 2025

Two high spin Fe(III) complexes, [Fe(L1)2]Cl ⋅ H2O (1) and [Fe(L2)2]Cl ⋅ 4H2O ⋅ 0.5MeOH (2), of Schiff base ligands of aminoguanidine with salicylaldehyde and pyridoxal (isolated as the hydrochloride salts L1H2+Cl− and L2H32+Cl−2 respectively) are reported. X‐ray crystal structure of both the complexes along with their spectroscopic and variable temperature magnetic properties are also investigated. It is found that complex 2 shows stronger zero field splitting (D=9.5 cm−1) than complex 1 (D=5.5 cm−1), probably due to greater distortion of the Fe(III) coordination polyhedron in complex 2. TD‐DFT calculations are used to assign the electronic spectra of the complexes. Both the ligands show fluorescence at 450–460 nm with lifetime of nanosecond order and quantum yield of 0.04–0.07 at room temperature. Both the Fe(III) complexes are found to efficiently catalyze the aerial oxidation of DTBC to DTBQ with the turn over numbers 100–155 h−1, which is among the highest for mononuclear Fe(III) complexes. The complexes also act as very good fluorometric sensor for S2−, and the limit of detection (LOD) is in the octa‐molar region. The pH and temperature dependences of the sensing are also investigated.
Integrated Planning Model for Optimizing Investments in Hydrogen Infrastructure Deployment: A Case Study of Yangtze River Delta Region, China
Authors: Shen Weijie , Li Hua , Ding Hongjian , Zeng Ming , Xie Chuansheng , Zhang Xiaochun
Published: January 2025

The hydrogen industry is of great significance for global energy system transition and decarbonization; thus, the holistic planning of hydrogen infrastructure from a supply chain level is necessary. To this end, first, the framework and methods in the hydrogen infrastructure deployment research were investigated systematically. Second, a hydrogen supply chain design (HSCD) model and a hydrogen refueling station location (HRSL) model were constructed. In view of the limitations of the two models, this paper reformulated the HRSL model through alternating the objective function and constraint, then proposed an integrated planning model using the ‐constraint method, which relaxed the assumption condition and expanded the decision‐making boundary of the original model, realizing the reasonable equilibrium of multiple segments. Finally, a case study was conducted using the Yangtze River Delta region as an example, and the main findings were as follows: (1) To meet the hydrogen demand of 25494t/d, the Yangtze River Delta region needs to build 94 coal gasification hydrogen plants, storage facilities with capacity of 12747t, transmission modes with capacity of 2333t/d, and 150 hydrogen refueling stations. (2) Railways have more advantages in large capacity and long‐distance hydrogen transmission. (3) Road segments with higher traffic flow often have a higher capture proportion. (4) The investment cost accounts for the majority of hydrogen production plant construction, which is 43.80%.
Meta‐Analysis of Consumer Willingness to Pay for Short Food Supply Chain Products
Authors: Mustapa Muhammad Adzran Che , Kallas Zein
Published: January 2025

Due to their perceived benefits for health, the environment, the economy, and sustainability, in recent years there has been a growing interest on the part of researchers and policymakers in short‐food supply chains (SFSCs). However, a systematic review of the literature on this topic remains lacking. To address this gap, the study conducts a meta‐analysis to examine consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for SFSC products, taking into account various sociodemographic factors and sustainability attributes. On average, consumers are willing to pay a 34.5% premium for SFSC products. Key factors influencing WTP include gender, education, study year, age, region, product category, and sustainability attributes. Women exhibit higher WTP, and individuals with higher education levels also demonstrate increased WTP. Notably, WTP for SFSC products is lower before 2014, while younger consumers exhibit higher WTP overall. Consumers in Western Europe present higher WTP estimates compared to those in North America and other regions. In terms of sustainability attributes, organic products receive the highest WTP, with food categories such as meat, poultry, dairy products, and honey showing the highest estimates. These findings offer valuable insights for SFSC producers, marketers, and policymakers, guiding effective strategies to promote SFSC products within sustainable agri‐food systems.
Virucidal and Bactericidal Properties of Biocompatible Copper Textiles
Authors: Sandu Andrei‐Florin , Danilova Sofya , Acton Lauren , Cobley Andrew , Gould Phillip
Published: January 2025

The COVID‐19 pandemic highlights the global threat posed by emerging viruses, emphasizing the critical need for effective strategies to combat pathogen transmission. Moreover, alongside emerging viruses, the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance further reinforces the need to develop novel methods for infection control. Anti‐pathogenic coatings on textiles offer a promising solution; in this study, three electroless copper‐plated fabrics are evaluated for their antipathogenic properties following International Standards Organisation (ISO) standards. Prior to electroless plating, materials are activated either by immersion in a Pd catalyst solution (material A) or by ink‐jet printing Cu/Ag catalyst along the weft (material B) or warp thread (material C). This study demonstrates that activation method influences the materials antipathogenic performance, with all materials achieving complete bactericidal/fungicidal neutralization within 30 min of incubation. Material B exhibits up to 4‐log virucidal effects within 1 h against viruses such as coronavirus (OC43, 229E), Influenza A (H1N1), and Rotavirus A. Furthermore, biocompatibility testing indicates that material B exhibited low in vitro cytotoxicity. Textile B demonstrates strong antibacterial results even after one year of accelerated aging with no significant difference (P = 0.74) in efficiency against MRSA, highlighting promising applications for infection control in clinical settings reducing pathogen transmission, nosocomial infections and the associated economic burden.
Distinguishing Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders Subtypes: A Study on AQP4 and C3d Epitope Expression in Cytokine‐Primed Human Astrocytes
Authors: Alisch Marlen , Foersterling Franziska , Zocholl Dario , Muinjonov Bakhrom , Schindler Patrick , Duchnow Ankelien , Otto Carolin , Ruprecht Klemens , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Jarius Sven , Paul Friedemann , Siffrin Volker
Published: January 2025

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are severe autoimmune conditions affecting the central nervous system. In a subset of cases, no autoantibodies are detectable with the currently used routine assays. This study aimed to determine whether the levels of expression of aquaporin‐4 (AQP4), excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2), or complement C3/C3d and C5b‐9 in human astrocytes following incubation with patient sera under inflammatory conditions differ between the various NMOSD subtypes and whether such differences can help to identify autoantibody‐mediated cases of NMOSD. Levels of AQP4, EAAT2, complement C3/C3d and C5b‐9 epitope expression on human astrocytes pretreated with various cytokines were quantitatively analyzed via indirect immunofluorescence after exposure to sera from patients with AQP4‐IgG seropositive, MOG‐IgG seropositive, and AQP4/MOG‐IgG double seronegative NMOSD. Significant differences in AQP4 and C3d epitope expression were observed, with IL‐17A, IL‐10, and IL‐6 pre‐treatment notably influencing astrocytic responses. Using uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP), patients were classified into clusters corresponding to AQP4‐IgG seropositive, MOG‐IgG seropositive, or double seronegative NMOSD. These results demonstrate distinct astrocytic staining patterns across NMOSD subtypes, providing a potential diagnostic tool for distinguishing between autoantibody‐mediated astrocytopathy and other cases. These findings suggest specific pathogenic mechanisms linked to each NMOSD subtype, which may have implications for tailoring therapeutic strategies based on cytokine involvement and astrocyte reactivity.
Achieving Pressure Consistency in Mechanochemical Simulations of Chemical Reactions Under Pressure
Authors: Bentrup Jonas , Weiß Rahel , Zeller Felix , Neudecker Tim
Published: January 2025

The eXtended Hydrostatic Compression Force Field (X‐HCFF) is a mechanochemical approach in which a cavity is used to exert hydrostatic pressure on a target system. The cavity used in this method is set up to represent the van der Waals (VDW) surface of the system by joining spheres sized according to the respective atomic VDW radii. The size of this surface can be varied via a scaling factor, and it can be shown that the compression forces exerted in X‐HCFF in its current implementation depend on this factor. To address this dependency, we have developed a rescaling formalism for the applied forces, allowing us to drastically reduce the dependency of the compression forces on the chosen scaling factor. Independency from the scaling factor is important, as the scaling of the VDW spheres is often used to ensure an overlap of cavities in supramolecular complexes, which is necessary for the simulation of chemical reactions. Our rescaling formalism reduces the empiricism of the X‐HCFF approach and boosts its applicability in the field of computational high‐pressure chemistry.
Dirty Environment, Dark Mood: Exploring the Link Between Perceived Environmental Pollution and Depression Risk
Authors: He Yuhang , He Huawei , Li Haoyin , Yang Jinran
Published: January 2025

To explore the impact of perceived environmental pollution on individual depression risk and the mechanisms involved, particularly the mediating roles of health level and life confidence. Ordinary least squares, Ologit, and Oprobit models were employed to analyze data from the 2020 China Family Panel Studies to test the hypothesized relations outlined above. The findings indicate that perceived environmental pollution significantly increases depression risk (β = 0.052, p < 0.01). Both health level and life confidence serve as mediators in this relationship, forming a serial mediation mechanism. This study reveals the negative impact of perceived environmental pollution on mental health. It emphasizes the importance of improving public health levels and life confidence and provides an evidence base for related policies.
Extracellular Vesicles From Bone Marrow‐Derived Macrophages Enriched in ARG1 Enhance Microglial Phagocytosis and Haematoma Clearance Following Intracerebral Haemorrhage
Authors: Hu Libin , Chen Zihang , Lu Jianglong , Jiang Shandong , Lin Haopu , Zhou Jiayin , Wang Ning , Ding Chao , Ni Weifang , Peng Haitao , Li Yin , He Xuchao , Li Jianru , Jing Chaohui , Cao Yang , Zhou Hang , Yan Feng , Chen Gao
Published: January 2025

Microglial phagocytosis of haematomas is crucial for neural functional recovery following intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), a process regulated by various factors from within and outside the central nervous system (CNS). Extracellular vesicles (EVs), significant mediators of intercellular communication, have been demonstrated to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of CNS diseases. However, the regulatory role of endogenous EVs on the phagocytic capacity of microglia post‐ICH remains elusive. Utilising multi‐omics analysis of brain tissue‐derived EVs proteomics and single‐cell RNA sequencing, this study identified that bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) potentially enhance microglial phagocytosis via EVs following ICH. By blocking BMDMs and reducing ARG1 in BMDM‐derived EVs, we demonstrated that BMDMs facilitate erythrophagocytosis by delivering ARG1 to microglia via EVs post‐ICH. EVs‐carried ARG1 was found to augment phagocytosis by promoting RAC1‐dependent cytoskeletal remodelling in microglia. Collectively, this research uncovers an intercellular communication pathway from BMDMs to microglia mediated by EVs post‐ICH. This provides a novel paradigm for EV‐mediated intercellular communication mechanisms and suggests a promising therapeutic potential for BMDM‐derived EVs in the treatment of ICH.
The Presence of a Shelter in an Open Field Test Has Differential Effects on the Behavior and Stress Response of Two Mouse Species
Authors: Monarca Rita I. , Silva Ricardo F. B. , Gabriel Sofia I. , Cerveira Ana M. , von Merten Sophie
Published: January 2025

The open field test (OFT) is frequently used in research to assess anxiety‐like behavior and locomotor activity. Its simple design can lead to the misconception that it is a standardized procedure comparable between laboratories. However, some modifications in the setup can cause changes in behavior. Different species might also react differently to the modifications introduced. There is thus need for a better understanding of the impact of modifications and their value for the species in question. Here, we tested two closely related mouse species, Mus musculus and Mus spretus, in an OFT with and without the presence of a shelter. We assessed mouse exploratory behavior through the analysis of multiple behavioral traits, and stress response through the measurement of circulating cortisol levels. Both species had elevated cortisol levels during the OFT in contrast to control animals which were not exposed to the OFT. While the presence of a shelter in the OFT increased the exploratory behavior in both mouse species, M. spretus, but not M. musculus, showed a reduction in cortisol levels. Also, other measured behaviors show a rather proactive coping strategy of the commensal M. musculus in contrast to a reactive strategy of the non‐commensal M. spretus. Our study revealed a strong species‐specific influence of the OFT design on the resulting behavior and stress levels of mice, illustrating the importance of OFT designs to account for the characteristics of the species under study. The addition of a shelter might be considered to improve experimental results by promoting animal welfare.
Using an Oral Sugar Test to Biologically Validate the Use of a Commercial Enzyme Immunoassay to Measure Salivary Insulin in Western Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)
Authors: Tennant Kaylin S. , Less Elena H. , Raghanti Mary Ann , Amendolagine Laura A. , Lukas Kristen E. , Willis Mark A. , Dennis Patricia M.
Published: January 2025

Noninvasive evaluations of hormones can contribute to the assessment of health and welfare of animals. Variations in insulin levels and sensitivity, for example, have been linked to health concerns in non‐human and human primates including insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease, the leading cause of death in zoo‐housed gorillas. Few published studies have assessed insulin concentrations in western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), and all did so using serum. Anesthesia is typically required to collect blood samples from zoo‐housed gorillas, limiting sampling frequency and restricting samples to the fasted state. The ability to measure insulin levels in saliva would eliminate these constraints and provide a minimally invasive means for monitoring this hormone. The purpose of this study was to analytically and biologically validate the measurement of insulin in saliva of western lowland gorillas using a commercially available enzyme immunoassay. For validation, an oral sugar test was conducted on five adult gorillas residing at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Such assessments are common practice in both human and equine medicine to evaluate the body's insulin response to ingestion of sugars. The test involved measuring salivary insulin at timed intervals before and after gorillas consumed doses of sugar. Salivary insulin levels increased from 15 min post‐sugar ingestion and peaked after 90 to 120 min. One female had a high response and peaked at 990.21 mU/L. The other four gorillas had peaks between 49.82 and 167.04 mU/L. The assessment provided a biological validation for the measurement of salivary insulin in western lowland gorillas.
Increasing trends of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in youth: The grass is not always greener
Authors: Jack Benjamin , Susi Apryl , Reeves Patrick , Nylund Cade M.
Published: January 2025

This study investigated trends in suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)‐related emergency department visits among youth (15–24 years old) in the United States between 2006 and 2020. Using data from the Nationwide Emergency Room Sample, over 55,000 suspected CHS‐related visits were identified, with an average annual increase of 28.1% per year. This aligns with rising cannabis use and potency across the nation. Subjects in the western region, males, and those with public insurance were more likely to present with suspected CHS. These findings highlight the growing public health concern of CHS and emphasize the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers, particularly regarding the potential link between CHS and chronic cannabis use in youth. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with CHS as well as the impact of cannabis public policy on health outcomes.
Hidden hunger: from a plant biologist's perspective
Authors: Kam Melissa Yit Yee
Published: January 2025

In recent years, changes in dietary patterns from an omnivore diet to a moderate‐to‐restrictive diet that includes more plant food are becoming popular for various reasons and the associated health benefits. Despite the increased consumption of plant food as recommended by these seemingly healthy diets, micronutrient deficiency is still prevalent particularly among the health‐conscious populations. The aim of this review is to help guide interventions by understanding micronutrient deficiency trends from a dietary habit and plant physiology context. In this review, the author discusses how modern agricultural practices coupled with climate change, and with particular emphasis on the extreme dietary habits that lack variation and excessive consumption, may contribute to an increased ingestion of antinutrients which in turn potentially exacerbate vitamin and mineral deficiencies. While plants possess a wide range of secondary metabolites that exert beneficial health effects, some of these compounds are also antinutrients that interfere with the digestion and absorption of nutrients and micronutrients. Furthermore, the article also raises questions concerning the fate of antinutrient traits in future crops that were to be redesigned with improved stress tolerance, and the impacts it may have on human nutrition and the environment. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Anticoagulant rodenticides may affect fisher population trends in the northeastern United States
Authors: Silveira Georgianna , Frair Jacqueline L. , Cohen Jonathan , Watson Mandy , Tate Patrick , Royar Kim , Bernier Chris , Schuler Krysten
Published: January 2025

Regrowth of forests across the northeastern United States in recent decades has allowed for range expansion of many forest‐dependent mammals in the region. However, these contemporary forests have smaller patch sizes, putting humans in closer proximity to previously remote forested areas, and different species compositions and structure compared to historical forests. These conditions pose an increased risk of exposure to anthropogenic disturbances and contaminants for forest‐dwelling wildlife. We evaluated the relationship between contemporary forest conditions and anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) on recent population trends for fishers (Pekania pennanti). We acquired a snapshot of recent population trends for fishers across New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire, USA, using standardized catch‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) data from the regulated fall harvest spanning 2016‐2020, when harvest regulations remained consistent across the states. We used regression models to relate the probability of CPUE increase to measures of forest habitat (age, structure, productivity), length of winter snow cover, and human disturbance (land use patterns and AR detection). The top model indicated that the probability of CPUE increase declined 43% for every 10% increase in the percent of the population exposed to at least 1 AR and by 24% for every 1‐day increase in the length of winter snow cover, while measures of forest conditions had no significant relationship. The relationship between AR detection and suppressed CPUE increase is compelling, as few mammalian studies effectively link the detection of AR residues in animal tissues to population‐level performance in the wild. Nevertheless, longer time frames are required to fully understand population trends and their drivers across heterogeneous landscapes. We recommend the fisher as a model species for longer‐term monitoring of AR detections and for comparing outcomes of measures potentially designed to reduce AR impacts on wildlife in this region.