bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amino‐Acid‐Assisted Synthesis of Hollow Hierarchical FER Zeolite with Improved Catalytic Performance
Authors: Jiao Feng , Li Hao , Hu Qing , Xu Yanan , Guo Hailing , Du Hongbin
Published: August 2023

Hierarchical zeolites are highly‐desired catalysts in the petrochemical industry due to their shorter diffusion length, faster diffusion rate, and better accessibility to active acid sites compared with conventional zeolites. Herein, we report a simple amino‐acid‐assisted method to synthesize urchin‐like hollow hierarchical FER zeolites with abundant mesopores and macroporous inner cavities. An amino acid (i. e. L‐lysine) is used to facilitate the agglomeration of primary gel nanoparticles. The preferential nucleation and crystal growth at the external surfaces together with the lagged crystallization of the inner core of the agglomerates results in the formation of hollow inner cavities after the exhaustion of interior materials. Thanks to the unique hierarchical structure and more accessible acid sites, the hollow hierarchical FER zeolite exhibits improved catalytic performance over the conventional one in the skeletal isomerization of 1‐butene to isobutene.
Determination of the Handedness of Urea Inclusion Compounds
Authors: Wang Bo , Xu Chaofan , Liang Wenli , Pongkulapa Pasaorn , Lin Yiqing
Published: August 2023

Since the discovery of urea inclusion compounds (UICs) in 1940, the handedness of this chiral helical system has not been established experimentally. Here three UIC systems containing only light atoms were studied. The optical rotations were first measured, and the absolute structures of the enantiomorphic domains of three UICs were determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD). The correlation between the optical rotation and the absolute configuration of the UICs was finally established, showcasing the power of absolute structure determination by SCXRD, which is essential in structural chemistry and pharmaceutical research.
Linear (−)‐Zampanolide: Flexibility in Conformation–Activity Relationships
Authors: Umaña Christian A. , Henry Jeffrey L. , Saltzman Claire T. , Sackett Dan L. , Jenkins Lisa M. , Taylor Richard E.
Published: August 2023

Through an understanding of the conformational preferences of the polyketide natural product (−)‐zampanolide, and the structural motifs that control these preferences, we developed a linear zampanolide analogue that exhibits potent cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. This discovery provides a set of three structural handles for further structure‐activity relationship (SAR) studies of this potent microtubule‐stabilizing agent. Moreover, it provides additional evidence of the complex relationship between ligand preorganization, conformational flexibility, and biological potency. In contrast to medicinal chemistry dogma, these results demonstrate that increased overall conformational flexibility is not necessarily detrimental to protein binding affinity and biological activity.
Mathematical and numerical analyses of cellular, molecular and angiogenic parameters of a rat skin wound healing model
Authors: Oliveira Marta H. , Gushiken Lucas F. S. , Pellizzon Cláudia H. , Ferreira Francini P. , Mancera Paulo F. A.
Published: August 2023

The inflammatory phase is an important event in the skin wound healing process. The deposition of granulation tissue in the wound bed and the rebuilding of the vascular network occur as inflammation diminishes. An angiogenic component in the formation of granulation tissue is the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor, which assists in the chemotaxis, proliferation, and replication of fibroblasts. In this paper, we develop a mathematical model of skin wound healing angiogenic factors based on inflammatory cells (macrophages and neutrophils) and mediators (interleukin 6 and interleukin 10). We highlight the importance of this process in vascular endothelial growth factor release and in the formation of new capillary tips. We used a mathematical model of partial differential equations based on the reaction‐diffusion‐advection equations. In order to calibrate the parameters, we considered an in vivo model composed by four treatments: hydroalcoholic extract and oil‐resin of Copaifera langsdorffii at 10% concentration, collagenase, and Lanette cream. Using the laboratory data for the wound edge, our mathematical model estimated the values of vascular endothelial growth factor concentration, and tips density in the center of the wound with a maximum error of 2.9%, and predicted healing time required for each treatment. The region of viability for the parameters, in the proposed model, was found through numerical simulations from the Interleukin 6 and 10 dysregulation and we obtained that, among the parameters analyzed, the greatest influencer in the dynamics of the system is the one, which represents the production of Interleukin 10 during phagocytosis.
Mercaptoalkyl Groups Anchored on the Layer Surface of New α‐Zirconium Phosphate Phosphonates for the Stabilization of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Pica Monica , Lixi Simone , Donnadio Anna , Casciola Mario , Nocchetti Morena
Published: August 2023

Layered zirconium phosphate mercaptoalkylphosphonates, with general composition Zr(O3POH)2‐x(O3P(CH2)11SH)x, where x=0.4–1.4, are prepared according to two procedures: direct reaction between a zirconyl salt and a mixture of phosphoric/phosphonic acid in propanol, or topotactic ion exchange reaction of phosphate groups of nanocrystalline α‐Zr(O3POH)2 with mercaptoundecylphosphonate groups. FT‐IR analysis and XPS proves the presence of the mercapto groups and, according to X‐Ray diffraction analysis, they result randomly distributed on the layer surface. The solids are used as supports for gold nanoparticles synthesized according to three different methods: reaction of HAuCl4 with NaBH4, added after 24 hours (Procedure A), or concomitantly (Procedure B) to the addition of the Au(III) salt to the solid suspension, or by mixing the solid suspension with a colloidal dispersion of gold nanoparticles prepared according to the Turkevich method (Procedure C). The best results were obtained with Procedure B, that provided composites with gold nanoparticles having an average size of (6±2) nm.
FRET causing misleading signal from fluorescein excited by the violet laser in flow cytometry
Authors: Waeckel Louis , Khenine Hana , Berger Anne‐Emmanuelle , Lambert Claude
Published: August 2023

Multiple immunolabeling introduces high risks of interferences between fluorescences. As an example, in analyzing T cell clonality, we recently reported a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect providing an unexpected signal on B770 (PE‐Cy7) detector, on the Vβ‐PE positive CD3 APC‐Alexa750+ T cell subsets. Here, we report another FRET effect produced by the violet laser in Vβ‐FITC positive CD3‐Pacific Blue (PB) T cells providing signal on V550 (Krome Orange; KrO) detector. The study was performed on fresh whole blood, labeled with anti‐CD3‐PB, CD8‐KrO, Vbeta FITC, Vbeta PE, CD4 AA750 then fixed, treated for erythrolysis, and washed before analysis on DxFlex cytometer from Beckman Coulter. Data were analyzed using Kaluza software. Using this panel, we repeatedly observed an added CD8dim‐KrO (V550) cell population on all Vβ FITC positive T cells. The unexpected green signal excited by the violet laser was still observed after removing anti‐CD8‐KrO (FMO) but disappeared where either anti‐CD3‐PB or anti‐Vβ‐FITC was removed. The effect was also observed with an anti‐TCR gamma delta‐FITC labeling, but not with another FITC labeled antibody targeting a protein out of the CD3‐TCR complex. The analysis of fluorochrome spectra confirms that PB emission and FITC excitation spectra partly overlap. This observation clearly reminds users that FRET can give misleading results in case of labeling of very close markers with complementary fluorochromes. This risk has to be considered in panel design. These observations clearly highlight the potential for FRET to give misleading results in cases where very close markers are labeled with complementary fluorochromes. This risk must be considered when designing panels. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a FRET between PB and FITC as acceptor thus excited by the violet laser.
Water‐limited environments affect the association between functional diversity and forest productivity
Authors: Lammerant Roel , Rita Angelo , Borghetti Marco , Muscarella Robert
Published: August 2023

The link between biodiversity and ecosystem function can depend on environmental conditions. This contingency can impede our ability to predict how biodiversity‐ecosystem function (BEF) relationships will respond to future environmental change, causing a clear need to explore the processes underlying shifts in BEF relationships across large spatial scales and broad environmental gradients. We compiled a dataset on five functional traits (maximum height, wood density, specific leaf area [SLA], seed size, and xylem vulnerability to embolism [P50]), covering 78%–90% of the tree species in the National Forest Inventory from Italy, to test (i) how a water limitation gradient shapes the functional composition and diversity of forests, (ii) how functional composition and diversity of trees relate to forest annual increment via mass ratio and complementarity effects, and (iii) how the relationship between functional diversity and annual increment varies between Mediterranean and temperate climate regions. Functional composition varied with water limitation; tree communities tended to have more conservative traits in sites with higher levels of water limitation. The response of functional diversity differed among traits and climatic regions but among temperate forest plots, we found a consistent increase of functional diversity with water limitation. Tree diversity was positively associated with annual increment of Italian forests through a combination of mass ratio and niche complementarity effects, but the relative importance of these effects depended on the trait and range of climate considered. Specifically, niche complementarity effects were more strongly associated with annual increment in the Mediterranean compared to temperate forests. Synthesis: Overall, our results suggest that biodiversity mediates forest annual increment under water‐limited conditions by promoting beneficial interactions between species and complementarity in resource use. Our work highlights the importance of conserving functional diversity for future forest management to maintain forest annual increment under the expected increase in intensity and frequency of drought.
Policy integration by implementation: Lessons from frontline staff policy practices around small‐scale gold mining in Liberia
Authors: Fallah Rebecca K. , Evers Jaap , Hermans Leon M.
Published: August 2023

Environmental policy integration is needed to ensure environmental policy goals are being realized, given their cross‐sectoral nature. Most of the published research has focused on integration and coherence of (inter)national policies, plans, and programs. The implementation practices for these policies, however, are at least as important. This paper therefore looks at policy implementation for the case of artisanal gold mining in Liberia. This is studied through a lens of frontline staff (street‐level bureaucrats) who operate in networks of local government agencies, civil society organizations, and communities. Results of interviews and field observations in Grand Gedeh county show how the policy context and local realities create specific dilemmas, resulting from the combination of limited resources of local frontline staff, low‐income security for local communities and traditional local practices around protected forest areas. In response local frontline bureaucrats use their discretionary power and network to mobilize support, pool resources, combine mandates, and find creative solutions to both regulate and support community residents. Although these implementation strategies are neither necessarily sufficient to realize the official policy goals, nor are guaranteed to have the desired effects, they do show how local frontline staff act as de facto policymakers. Recognizing frontline staff as environmental policy integrators therefore is a crucial element toward more successful policies for sustainable development.
A Dual Photoredox‐ and Cp2TiCl2‐Catalyzed Approach for the Direct Access to α‐Vinyl‐β‐hydroxy Esters
Authors: Pinosa Emanuele , Gualandi Andrea , Fermi Andrea , Ceroni Paola , Cozzi Pier Giorgio , Calogero Francesco
Published: August 2023

For the first time, a dual photoredox‐ and titanocene‐catalyzed methodology for the regioselective access to α‐vinyl‐β‐hydroxy esters towards aldehyde allylation with 4‐bromobut‐2‐enoate is reported. The protocol is based on the Barbier‐type properties of the inexpensive and available Cp2TiCl2 in catalytic amount (5 mol%). The developed mild reaction conditions gave access to a library of differently functionalized α‐vinyl‐β‐hydroxy esters in moderate diastereoselectivity, employing the commercially available ethyl 4‐bromobut‐2‐enoate and both aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes. The reaction was realized under visible light irradiation, in the presence of an organophotocatalyst (3DPAFIPN, 2 mol%) combined with Hantzsch's ester as the sacrificial reductant. In contrast to other Barbier‐type reactions employing ethyl 4‐bromobut‐2‐enoate, the photoredox system ensures a better regioselectivity. Moreover, the use of preformed organometallic nucleophilic species (e. g., dienolborinates), and the need of metal reductants or stoichiometric amount of transition metals in low oxidation state for Barbier‐type reactions, is avoided. To support the experimental evidence, a detailed photophysical study shed light on the mechanism of the reaction.
BF3 ⋅ Et2O‐Mediated Annulation of 2‐Alkynyl Biaryls with N‐(Arylthio) Succinimides: An Efficient Approach to Access 9‐Sulfenylphenanthrenes
Authors: Jin Haoru , Zhou Chao , Li Hongji , Li Pinhua , Wang Lei , Miao Tao
Published: August 2023

A simple and effective method for the synthesis of 9‐sulfenylphenanthrenes was developed via BF3 ⋅ OEt2‐mediated annulation of 2‐alkynyl biaryls with N‐arylthio succinimides at room temperature. Through this methodology, a series of 9‐sulfenylphenanthrenes could be efficiently and conveniently obtained in good to excellent yields under mild and metal‐free conditions.
Response spectrum method for structures subjected to vertical ground motions: Absolute acceleration method
Authors: Acosta Andrés A. , Miranda Eduardo , Deierlein Gregory G.
Published: August 2023

Although a wide variety of response spectrum methods have been developed to estimate peak horizontal building responses, much less attention has been devoted to study the applicability of those methods for the vertical direction or to develop new methods to estimate peak vertical building responses. Vertical building responses can be significant for structures located close to the earthquake rupture, and for buildings with fundamental period of vibration within the range of most energy content of the vertical component of the ground motion (typically 0.05 to 0.15 s). The frequency content of the vertical component is significantly different to that in the horizontal components; thus, it is not clear if previous methods are applicable. We present a new alternative response spectrum analysis (RSA) method to estimate absolute accelerations in the vertical direction, which is a modified version of a previously studied modal combination rule developed for the horizontal components of motion. This formulation is derived based on the use of modal absolute accelerations, and we compare it to the traditional complete quadratic combination (CQC). In the proposed method, we develop simplified equations to estimate the necessary correlation coefficients for the vertical direction which are calibrated to fit empirical correlations computed from the vertical response of single degree of freedom systems subjected to a set of 90 vertical components of recorded ground motions. We also compute these correlations by using an improved power spectral density (PSD) function, which is as an enhanced version of the modified Kanai‐Tajimi PSD to represent the frequency content in the vertical direction which differs from that in the horizontal direction. To evaluate the proposed modal combination rule, we compare the RSA results to those obtained using response history analyses (RHA) of peak responses for a simplified model consisting of a prismatic bar fixed only at one end, as well as for 2D frames. We show that the proposed modal combination rule can estimate peak building responses with higher accuracy than the commonly used CQC modal combination rule, for any general building configuration at any structural location.
Revisiting Utricularia triphylla Ule
Authors: da Silva Nílber Gonçalves , da Silva de Menezes Ana Clara , Bernardo João Pedro , Kessous Igor Musauer , Batista Lais Mendonça , Alves Ruy José Valka
Published: August 2023

The nomenclatural history, morphology, and typification of Utricularia triphylla Ule are discussed. We preferred to follow the current classification that the species is a synonym of U. geminiloba Benj., as more evidence and new conclusions will only be possible with new fresh material. A lectotype and an epitype are selected here.
Processing overwhelms biostimulant‐induced vitamin E improvement in lentils
Authors: Campillos Sílvia , Jené Laia , Munné‐Bosch Sergi
Published: August 2023

Although biostimulants are used in crop cultivation to improve productivity and/or quality of fruit and vegetables, their effect is rarely investigated up to processed food. Here, we investigated whether vitamin E content in lentils can be influenced by caffeine used as a biostimulant in a greenhouse‐controlled experiment, and how cooking influences its intake in our diet. Results showed that contents of γ‐tocopherol, the most abundant vitamin E homologue, increased by 27% upon biostimulant application during cultivation in raw lentils. However, these positive effects were completely abolished in the processed food, so cultivation differences had no effect on the cooked lentils. Cooking reduced by 43% and 50% of the contents of α‐ and γ‐tocopherols, respectively. A comparative study of vitamin E contents revealed that our lentil variety (variety ‘Pardina’ from ecological origin) contained more vitamin E than any other variety described thus far, with α‐ and γ‐tocopherol contents of 0.86 and 6.83 mg/100 g FW in raw lentils, and 0.49 and 3.42 mg/100 g FW in cooked lentils, respectively. A bowl of cooked ‘Pardina’ lentils, which are very typical in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets, can therefore represent a substantial proportion of the daily intake of vitamin E.
Quinic acid ameliorates ulcerative colitis in rats, through the inhibition of two TLR4‐NF‐κB and NF‐κB‐INOS‐NO signaling pathways
Authors: Ghasemi‐Dehnoo Maryam , Lorigooini Zahra , Amini‐Khoei Hossein , Sabzevary‐Ghahfarokhi Milad , Rafieian‐Kopaei Mahmoud
Published: August 2023

Objective

In this study, the therapeutic effect of quinic acid (QA), which has anti‐inflammatory activity, was investigated on acetic acid‐induced colitis in male Wistar rats.

Methods

Ulcerative colitis (UC) was induced in rats by acetic acid intrarectally, and the protective effects of QA in 10, 30, 60, and 100 mg/kg doses were investigated. Rats were treated for 5 days and their colon tissues were dissected out at the end. Macroscopic and histopathological examinations were performed in colon tissues. Also, the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, including TLR4, IL‐1β, INOS, IL‐6, TNF‐α, NF‐κB, Caspase‐3, Caspase‐8, Bax, and Bcl‐2, was measured. Biochemistry indices, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite oxide (NO) content, in addition to, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and enzymes activities were also assessed.

Results

Colitis increased the levels of MDA and NO, and enhanced the inflammatory and apoptotic gene expressions, while reducing the SOD and CAT enzymes activity, and TAC levels in the colitis rats. Also, results showed that colitis was associated with the infiltration of inflammatory cells, epithelium damage, and edema in colon tissue. QA significantly ameliorated histopathological indices, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in colitis rats.

Conclusion

QA ameliorated UC through the inhibition of two TLR4‐NF‐κB and NF‐κB‐INOS‐NO signaling pathways, which results in the reduction of colitis complications, including oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and histopathological injuries in rats. Therefore it can be concluded, that QA exerts its therapeutic effects through antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory properties.
The characteristics of chest HRCT and pulmonary function tests in lung‐onset primary sjogren's syndrome
Authors: Dong Xin , Gao Yanli , Li Man , Wang Dong , Li Jifeng , Zhang Yongfeng
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can manifest before the diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of lung‐onset pSS using chest high‐resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs).

Methods

The data of 102 patients with pSS‐ILD were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups: lung‐onset group and the nonlung‐onset group. The chest HRCT, PFTs, and clinical and laboratory data were evaluated and compared.

Results

Among the 102 patients with pSS‐ILD, 59 (57.8%) were lung‐onset and 43 (42.2%) were nonlung‐onset. Chest HRCT in the lung‐onset group showed higher percentage of usual interstitial pneumonia and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia, the difference did not reach statistical significance. The total HRCT score was higher in the lung‐onset group, compared with the nonlung‐onset group (2 [2, 3], vs. 2 [1, 2], p = .014). Total lung capacity (TLC) (%pred) [(75.4 ± 16.2) versus (82.8 ± 19.4), p = .049] and forced vital capacity (FVC) (%pred) [(82.2 ± 19.9) versus (91.6 ± 28.3), p = .050] were significantly lower in the lung‐onset group, compared with the nonlung‐onset group. Residual volume (RV)/TLC (%) significantly increased more than 40% in the lung‐onset group (p = .015). Restricted ventilation disorder, small airway obstruction and reduced diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide/alveolar volume (%Pred) were more common in the lung‐onset group (p = .038, p = .050, and p = .050, respectively). Correlation analysis showed that HRCT score was positively correlated with the interval between the onset of pulmonary symptoms and the diagnosis of ILD, serum CA125, and serum CEA. TCL (%pred), VC (%pred), FVC (%pred) were negatively correlated with serum CA125.

Conclusion

Lung‐onset is common in pSS patients with more severe lung function impairments. Serum biomarkers, such CA125, CEA, and ALB, were associated with the severity of lung damage.
Preoperative vaginal cleansing with chlorhexidine and cetrimide solution for reduction of postoperative infectious morbidity at a tertiary care center in North India: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kumari Ankita , Suri Jyotsna , Bharti Rekha , Pandey Divya , Bachani Sumitra
Published: August 2023

Objective

To determine the effect of preoperative vaginal cleansing with chlorhexidine and cetrimide solution on postoperative infectious morbidity.

Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted over a period of 18 months in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India. Women undergoing cesarean section were alternately allotted to study and control groups. Women with chorioamnionitis, antepartum hemorrhage, rupture of membranes for more than 24 h, and fever in the preoperative period were excluded. The study group received preoperative vaginal cleansing with antiseptic solution (7.5% chlorhexidine w/v and 15% cetrimide w/v); the control group did not receive vaginal cleansing. Both groups were followed for the presence of any infectious morbidity until they were discharged from the hospital.

Results

Age, body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters), gestational age, and the parity of the women in the study and control groups were comparable (n = 760). The rate of endometritis was lower in the study group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.054). Post‐cesarean febrile morbidity and wound sepsis were significantly lower in the study group (P = 0.017 and P = 0.02, respectively). On subgroup analysis, women in the study group with rupture of the membranes before cesarean delivery had lower wound sepsis and a reduced duration of hospital stay. Women in the study group with emergency cesarean delivery showed a significant reduction in wound sepsis, febrile morbidity, and length of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Preoperative vaginal cleansing with chlorhexidine and cetrimide solution before a cesarean section reduces postoperative infectious morbidity.
Integrating 2D layered materials with 3D bulk materials as van der Waals heterostructures for photodetections: Current status and perspectives
Authors: Liu Weijie , Yu Yiye , Peng Meng , Zheng Zhihua , Jian Pengcheng , Wang Yang , Zou Yuanchen , Zhao Yongming , Wang Fang , Wu Feng , Chen Changqing , Dai Jiangnan , Wang Peng , Hu Weida
Published: August 2023

In the last decade, two‐dimensional layered materials (2DLMs) have been drawing extensive attentions due to their unique properties, such as absence of surface dangling bonds, thickness‐dependent bandgap, high absorption coefficient, large specific surface area, and so on. But the high‐quality growth and transfer of wafer‐scale 2DLMs films is still a great challenge for the commercialization of pure 2DLMs‐based photodetectors. Conversely, the material growth and device fabrication technologies of three‐dimensional (3D) semiconductors photodetectors tend to be gradually matured. However, the further improvement of the photodetection performance is limited by the difficult heterogeneous integration or the inferior crystal quality via heteroepitaxy. Fortunately, 2D/3D van der Waals heterostructures (vdWH) combine the advantages of the two types of materials simultaneously, which may provide a new platform for developing high‐performance optoelectronic devices. Here, we first discuss the unique advantages of 2D/3D vdWH for the future development of photodetection field and simply introduce the structure categories, working mechanisms, and the typical fabrication methods of 2D/3D vdWH photodetector. Then, we outline the recent progress on 2D/3D vdWH‐based photodetection devices integrating 2DLMs with the traditional 3D semiconductor materials, including Si, Ge, GaAs, AlGaN, SiC, and so on. Finally, we highlight the current challenges and prospects of heterointegrating 2DLMs with traditional 3D semiconductors toward photodetection applications.

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Optical imaging of in vivo adoptive T‐cell therapy: State of the art and challenges
Authors: Li Qingshuang , Hu Dehong , Gao Duyang , Gao Guanhui , Zhang Can , Sheng Zonghai
Published: August 2023

Adoptive T‐cell therapy (ACT), which is an important type of live cell therapy, has achieved unprecedented success in treating hematological malignancies. Recent studies have shown that ACT is also a promising treatment for solid tumors. Visualizing the in vivo fates (distribution, homing, infiltration, proliferation, and exhaustion) of the immune cells used for ACT (ACT immune cells) is of great importance to promote basic research and clinical translation of ACT. Optical imaging techniques, including bioluminescence, fluorescence, and photoacoustic imaging, have the advantages of high sensitivity, high spatiotemporal resolution, minimal exposure to harmful radiation, and simple instrumentation. Recently, various types of optical imaging probes, including bioluminescence, fluorescence, and photoacoustic imaging probes, have been used to visualize ACT immune cells in vivo and evaluate the molecular mechanism, efficacy, and side effects of ACT. In this review, the optical imaging probes and labeling methods that have been used for in vivo visualization of ACT immune cells are summarized, and the opportunities and challenges of using optical imaging to visualize ACT immune cells in vivo are discussed.
Weight‐adjusted waist as an integrated index for fat, muscle and bone health in adults
Authors: Kim Kyoung Jin , Son Serhim , Kim Kyeong Jin , Kim Sin Gon , Kim Nam Hoon
Published: August 2023

Background

Unhealthy body composition, including high fat mass, low muscle mass and low bone mass, is a critical health issue in adults. The weight‐adjusted waist index (WWI) estimates fat and muscle mass and may have implications for bone health. We examined its association with body composition outcomes in a large Korean adult cohort.

Methods

This study used data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2008–2011). WWI was calculated as waist circumference (cm) divided by the square root of body weight (kg). Dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry was used to measure bone mineral density (BMD), appendicular lean mass (ALM) and total body fat percentage. Unhealthy body composition was defined as combined presence of high fat mass, low bone mass and low muscle mass.

Results

A total of 5983 individuals (3034 men [50.7%] and 2949 women [49.3%]; mean age: 63.5 ± 8.7 years) were included. WWI was positively correlated with total body fat percentage (r = 0.478, P < 0.001) and inversely with ALM/weight (r = −0.485, P < 0.001) and BMD at the lumbar spine (r = −0.187, P < 0.001), femoral neck (r = −0.269, P < 0.001) and total hip (r = −0.255, P < 0.001). Higher WWI quartiles correlated with lower BMD, T‐scores and ALM/weight, along with increased total body fat, evident in both genders and more pronounced in women, even after adjusting for confounders. This trend remained statistically significant across WWI quartiles for all analyses (P < 0.001). Higher WWI quartiles were also significantly associated with higher odds of unhealthy body composition, with adjusted odds ratio in the highest WWI group of 18.08 (95% CI, 4.32–75.61) in men and 6.36 (95% CI, 3.65–11.07) in women. The optimal cutoff values of WWI for unhealthy body composition were 10.4 cm/√kg in men and 10.5 cm/√kg in women.

Conclusions

In community‐dwelling adults, high WWI values are associated with unfavourable body composition outcomes, indicating high fat mass, low muscle mass and low bone mass. WWI can potentially serve as an integrated index of body composition, underscoring the need for further research to validate its use in clinical settings.
Dexmedetomidine alleviates propofol‐induced neural injury in developing rats
Authors: Xiao Weiren , Chen Shouren , Chen Jinzhuan , Huang Jianzhong
Published: August 2023

Propofol, a commonly used intravenous anesthetic, has been associated with neurodegeneration in the developing brain upon repeated exposure. Dexmedetomidine is an α2 adrenoceptor agonist that was previously reported to possess neuroprotective properties. Here, we confirmed the impacts of dexmedetomidine on propofol‐induced neuroapoptosis and subsequent spatial learning and memory deficits in neonatal rats. We found that dexmedetomidine effectively mitigated propofol‐induced spatial learning and memory impairments and improved aversive memory in developing rats. Dexmedetomidine reduced propofol‐induced cell apoptosis in the hippocampus and modulated the mRNA expression of Bcl‐2 and Bax. Additionally, dexmedetomidine attenuated the propofol‐induced increase of inflammatory factors IL‐6 and TNF‐α. The reduced phosphorylation levels of Akt and CREB levels by propofol were re‐activated by dexmedetomidine. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that dexmedetomidine effectively mitigated propofol‐induced cognitive and memory impairments in developing rats by modulating apoptosis and reducing inflammation via activating the Akt/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway. These findings suggest potential strategies to protect the developing brain from the adverse effects of anesthetics and improve patient care in pediatric anesthesia practice.
Otherfathering and Black men's mental health: A phenomenological study
Authors: Hannon Michael D. , Ferguson Alfonso L. , Blanchard Raymond A. , Santiago‐Ataande Jasmine E.
Published: August 2023

The authors report the results of a phenomenological study to determine how otherfathering by Black men affects and the potential implications for their mental health. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, the men reported that otherfathering is rewarding (i.e., internally and externally) and challenging, which has a direct influence on their mental health. Recommendations for counseling practice are provided.
Rheology and delayed micellar formation process of novel tetrameric cationic surfactant fracturing fluid
Authors: Wu Huinan , Fang Bo , Yu Luyao , He Jinlan , Xu Wenting , Xin Hui , Tian Zhenrui , Han Xiaoyang , Lu Yongjun , Xu Ke
Published: August 2023

To enrich the clean fracturing fluid system with high temperature resistance, a novel tetrameric cationic surfactant (TET) was developed and used as a thickener and mixed with different concentrations of sodium salicylate (NaSal) to obtain a new clean fracturing fluid. The flow curves, thixotropy, viscoelasticity, temperature resistance property, and proppant‐suspending capacity were further investigated. The rheological study showed that the Casson model could be used to accurately describe the flow curve of TET/NaSal micelle solutions and the addition of NaSal improved the thixotropy and viscoelasticity of surfactant solution. The optimal mass ratio of TET/NaSal solution was 5/1.5 wt%, and it had good proppant‐suspending capacity. What is more, the retained viscosity of TET/NaSal (5/1.5 wt%) solution was 52.27 mPa·s after shearing at 140°C and 100.0 s−1 for 65 min, which met industry requirements (viscosity > 20 mPa·s) of viscoelastic surfactant fracturing fluids. Moreover, the combination of 10 wt% TET aqueous solution with pH value of 8.51 and 2.6 wt% salicylic acid (HSal) suspension of the same mass significantly delayed micellar formation. The four‐parameter rheo‐kinetics model can be used to fit the viscosity curves of micellar formation, which provided the rheological basis for the study of delayed viscoelastic micellar formation.
Magnetic covalent organic frameworks for extraction and determination of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals in beverage and water samples
Authors: Zhao Jie , Li Zi‐Yu , Yang Chun‐Xu , Li Ya‐Ping , Liu Yu‐Shen , Hu Zhen Hua , Pan Xiao‐Ming , Ma Xiu‐Li , Wang Wei , Yang Xiao‐Shuai , Wang Lu‐Liang
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Phenolic endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widespread and easily ingested through the food chain. They pose a serious threat to human health. Magnetic solid‐phase extraction (MSPE) is an effective sample pre‐treatment technology to determine traces of phenolic EDCs.

RESULTS

Magnetic covalent organic framework (COF) (Fe3O4@COF) nanospheres were prepared and characterized. The efficient and selective extraction of phenolic EDCs relies on a large specific surface and the inherent porosity of COFs and hydrogen bonding, π–π, and hydrophobic interactions between COF shells and phenolic EDCs. Under optimal conditions, the proposed magnetic solid‐phase extraction‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultra violet (MSPE‐HPLC‐UV) based on the metallic covalent organic framework method for phenolic EDCs shows good linearities (0.002–6 μg mL−1), with R2 of 0.995 or higher, and low limits of detection (6–1.200 ng mL−1).

CONCLUSION

Magnetic covalent organic frameworks (Fe3O4@COFs) with good MSPE performance for phenolic EDCs were synthesized by the solvothermal method. The magnetic covalent organic framework‐based MSPE‐HPLC‐UV method was applied successfully to determine phenolic EDCs in beverage and water samples with satisfactory recoveries (90.200%–123%) and relative standard deviations (2.100%–12.100%). © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Efficacy and tolerance of photodynamic therapy with methyl‐aminolevulinic acid in early‐stage mycosis fungoides: A real‐life retrospective study
Authors: Barrachin Chloé , Labau Diane , Kolontee Andréa , Debu Anca , Girard Céline , Du Thanh Aurélie , Dereure Olivier
Published: August 2023

Background

Methyl‐aminolevulinate‐based photodynamic therapy (MAL‐PDT) has been successfully used in early‐stage mycosis fungoides (MF) lesions. However, the long‐term outcome of initially responding lesions has not been systematically investigated to date. To address this issue, we hereby report a large series of early‐stage MF lesions treated with MAL‐PDT and followed up for 1 year after initial treatment.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to retrospectively evaluate short‐ and middle‐term clinical results of MAL‐PDT on early‐stage MF lesions (patches and plaques) and to identify characteristics possibly predictive of effectiveness.

Methods

Data from all early‐stage MF lesions (plaques and patches) treated with MAL‐PDT between 2010 and 2017 in a tertiary referral centre were retrospectively collected. Primary endpoints were initial clinical response rated as complete response (CR) or partial response (PR), and the rate of relapse of initially responding lesions was further evaluated 1 year after the last PDT session. Secondary endpoints addressed tolerance and the relevancy of predefined parameters possibly predictive of CR achievement.

Results

A total of 62 lesions from 30 patients with early‐stage MF (21 Ia, nine Ib) were treated and analysed. At the 6‐week evaluation, the overall clinical response rate (RR) was 87.25% (55% CR and 32.25% PR) with a mean of 2.7 PDT sessions per lesion. Twenty‐five percent of initially responding lesions relapsed locally within 1 year. Transient, although significant, pain occurred at least once in 30% of patients. In univariate analysis, the location of lesions on sun‐protected areas was the only parameter statistically related to CR, a result confirmed in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Overall, these data confirm the interest in the use of MAL‐PDT in early‐stage MF even for deep (folliculotropic) lesions with a higher efficiency on sun‐protected areas. Furthermore, this study demonstrates for the first time that the response is often sustained over time. Accordingly, MAL‐PDT should be considered in the management of early‐stage MF, especially in oligolesional forms or in residual lesions refractory to systemic treatment.
Acute Taste Dysfunction in Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients after Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Tharakan Theresa , Piccirillo Jay F. , Miller Brevin , Reed Danielle R. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Paniello Randall , Puram Sidharth V. , Jackson Ryan S.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To compare taste changes after transoral robotic surgery (TORS) to taste changes in healthy controls.

Methods

Oropharyngeal cancer patients receiving TORS and healthy controls were recruited. Participants underwent posterolateral and whole‐mouth psychophysical taste testing (identification, intensity, and hedonics) at baseline and at 2 weeks postoperatively (patients) or follow‐up (controls). Surgeons reported suspension time and glossopharyngeal nerve injury (GNI) based on the identification and sacrifice of the nerve. A Clinical Global Impression (CGI) of taste symptoms was completed at each session (“My sense of taste bothers me” on a 5‐point scale from Never [1] to Always [5]). A taste disorder (TD) was a CGI of 3 (Sometimes) or worse. Within‐subject changes in CGI and psychophysical scores were computed. “Worsened taste” was a CGI increase by ≥1 point at follow‐up.

Results

Of 69 participants, most (33/37 tumor, 31/32 controls) had normal baseline taste (CGI < 3). 14/33 (42%) TORS patients and no controls developed new TDs at follow‐up. More smokers (7/9) had worsened taste than nonsmokers (19/60, difference = 46% [95% CI 16%–76%]). More patients without GNI (6/22) than with GNI (0/15) had postoperative phantogeusia (difference = 27% [95% CI 9–45%]). Tumor‐ipsilateral taste identification (TI) decreased more in patients (−11.3%) than controls (0.8%, difference = 12.2% [95% CI 5.0–19.3%]). Suspension time was not associated with worsened taste symptoms or psychophysical changes.

Conclusions

Patient‐reported taste changes after TORS are frequent. Compared to healthy controls, TORS patients have decreased tumor‐ipsilateral TI. Suspension time and GNI are unlikely to cause symptomatic TDs. Further investigations of the etiology and long‐term symptom burden of TORS‐associated TDs will aid in the management of oropharyngeal cancer patients.

Level of Evidence

3 (non‐randomized controlled cohort study) Laryngoscope, 133:3520–3528, 2023
The response of soil respiration to land‐use change depends on soil microbial community being regulated by edaphic factors in the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Qiang , Lv Junping , Zhang Chao
Published: August 2023

Land‐use change has significant influences on soil respiration (Rs) in terrestrial ecosystems. Soil microbes play critical roles in soil carbon cycling. Nevertheless, the specific mechanism of how changes in soil microbial properties are linked to the variation of Rs rate during land‐use change still remains poorly understood, especially in the Loess Plateau, China. Here, the characteristics of Rs rate and soil microbial community following the land‐use change from farmland to plantation/grassland were analyzed via an automated soil CO2 flux system and high‐throughput 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The afforestation altered soil microbial diversity and community composition, which was mainly explained by soil pH, temperature, organic matter, nitrate, alkali‐hydrolyzed nitrogen, and available phosphorus. The biomarkers of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Thaumarchaeota were found in farmland soil at the phylum level. The afforestation also significantly decreased Rs rate, which was closely related to Shannon's index, Simpson's index, and some microbial taxa, such as Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Nitrospirae, and Acidobacteria. Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes were particularly expected to be important drivers of high Rs rate in farmland soil. Moreover, the microbial interaction was probably also an important factor affecting Rs rate. Our results indicate that the response of Rs to land‐use change depends on soil microbial community being regulated by soil physicochemical properties in the Loess Plateau, China.
Organic substitution accumulates more nitrogen in soil while maintaining unchanged nitrogen use efficiency in rice‐fava bean rotation system
Authors: Wang Panlei , Wang Bin , Chen Anqiang , Sun Xi , Du Caiyan , Zhu Hongye , Pan Yanhua , Tang Li
Published: August 2023

Organic substitution management (OSM) is critical for soil conservation and nitrogen efficiency. However, integrated assessment of soil quality and crop productivity under paddy‐upland rotation systems after OSM introduction is still lacking. Here, soil nitrogen‐related properties and crop nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) were evaluated in 2018, 2019, and 2020, based on a long‐term rice‐fava bean rotation experiment started in 2015. In comparison to chemical fertilization, OSM increased total soil nitrogen (TN) and available nitrogen (AN) by 13.1% and 13.8%, respectively, during the rice season, and by 16.3% and 15.9% during the fava bean season. However, NUE, nitrogen recovery efficiency (NRE), and nitrogen agronomic efficiency (NAE) all showed season‐specific responses to OSM. OSM decreased NUE, NRE, and NAE by 18.2%, 37.5%, and 26.2% in the rice season but increased by 8.0%, 231.0%, and 184.1% in the fava bean season. From the rotation system scale, there were no significant differences in NUE and nitrogen surplus between the treatments. We suggest that the differences in soil conditions and crop requirements between seasons play significant roles in the response of nitrogen accumulation and nitrogen utilization to OSM. Based on these differences, OSM achieves inter‐seasonal synergy in soil N pools and crop uptake, and results in yield stabilization and soil nitrogen accumulation. Because of its high capacity for improving soil quality while ensuring no yield reduction, OSM has the potential to curb regional soil degradation in paddy‐upland rotation areas where there is increasing demand for food and chemical fertilizers are currently abused.
Lipid‐based nanoparticles as drug delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Hao Yang , Ji Zhonghao , Zhou Hengzong , Wu Dongrun , Gu Zili , Wang Dongxu , ten Dijke Peter
Published: August 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown remarkable success in cancer treatment. However, in cancer patients without sufficient antitumor immunity, numerous data indicate that blocking the negative signals elicited by immune checkpoints is ineffective. Drugs that stimulate immune activation‐related pathways are emerging as another route for improving immunotherapy. In addition, the development of nanotechnology presents a promising platform for tissue and cell type‐specific delivery and improved uptake of immunomodulatory agents, ultimately leading to enhanced cancer immunotherapy and reduced side effects. In this review, we summarize and discuss the latest developments in nanoparticles (NPs) for cancer immuno‐oncology therapy with a focus on lipid‐based NPs (lipid‐NPs), including the characteristics and advantages of various types. Using the agonists targeting stimulation of the interferon genes (STING) transmembrane protein as an exemplar, we review the potential of various lipid‐NPs to augment STING agonist therapy. Furthermore, we present recent findings and underlying mechanisms on how STING pathway activation fosters antitumor immunity and regulates the tumor microenvironment and provide a summary of the distinct STING agonists in preclinical studies and clinical trials. Ultimately, we conduct a critical assessment of the obstacles and future directions in the utilization of lipid‐NPs to enhance cancer immunotherapy.
Evolutionary mechanism of green technology innovation behavior in the operation period of construction and demolition waste recycling public–private partnership projects
Authors: Xu Shiqi , Yin Wenjun , Li Xingwei , Chen Weihong , Yi Beiyu , Wang Yongquan
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to disclose the evolutionary mechanism of banks' green credit and construction and demolition waste (CDW) recycling enterprises' green technology innovation behavior during the operation period of CDW recycling public–private partnership projects with absorptive capacity theory. The conclusions are as follows. First, the government subsidy coefficient has a positive effect on the evolution of banks to participate in green credit. Second, absorptive capacity and the level of collaboration have a positive effect on the evolution of CDW recycling enterprises to collaborative innovation. Third, CDW recycling enterprises' green technology innovation behavior interacts with banks' green credit participation strategy.