bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TEMPERATURE REGULATING POLYESTER SHORT STAPLE RING SPUN YARNS BY PCM NANOCAPSULE APPLICATION
Authors: Alay Aksoy Sennur , Yılmaz Demet
Published: December 2023

Phase change materials (PCMs) are thermal energy storage materials and therefore they are used for the manufacturing of heat-storage and thermo-regulated textiles. In this study, it was aimed to produce polyester spun yarns with thermo-regulation function via an alternative capsule application method. In the study, PMMA-co-MAA walled nanocapsules were synthesized by emulsion polymerization method and an alternative capsule application method was used to apply PCM nanocapsules into the staple polyester yarn structure during the yarn production process. Ne 30/1 polyester ring spun yarns with knitted twist were produced and some of the PCM nanocapsule and produced yarn properties were analyzed. According to the results, PCM nanocapsules had dimensions around 200-400 nm, uniform size distribution and spherical morphology. They could store approximately 100 j/g heat and had sufficient thermal resistance. With the developed capsule application method, nanocapsules were successfully applied to spun yarn structure and produced polyester yarns exhibited temperature differences in the range of 2-5 °C compared with undoped reference ring spun yarns. The results of the study indicated that this application method could be an alternative to fabricate thermo-regulating fabric surfaces and such integrated yarn materials have demonstrated promising potential for the production of thermoregulating textile material.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AN UNGAUGED BASIN MODELLING RESULTS BY THREE CONCEPTUAL HYDROLOGICAL MODELS
Authors: Blagojević Borislava , Topalović Žana , Praštalo Petar
Published: December 2023

The hydrometeorological data availability is the main issue for hydrological modeling, especially pronounced in ungauged basins. The research presented in the paper attempts at overcoming the data availability issue by applying three different hydrological models, and observing the most acceptable basin response from an ungauged basin. The calibration and validation of models is performed on flow duration curves from nearby gauged catchments, and the agreement of simulated and ′observed′ flows is compared visually and quantitively for characteristic flows. An annual distribution of monthly to mean flow ratio is also observed. The best performing model is HBV light, although the studied annual flow ratio and the ratio pattern cannot be achieved by any of the applied models in the periods of calibration and validation.
ENERGY AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF THE RENOVATION OF THE KINDERGARTEN IN BANJA LUKA ACCORDING TO THE CURRENT RULEBOOK AND NZEB
Authors: Gajić Darija , Zečević Saša , Kotur Milovan , Janković Aleksandar
Published: December 2023

In the subject area, the term nZEB standard appears in 2011 in the legislative framework, but it never came to life, nor in the construction of new buildings, and completely unknown in the renovation of buildings. The reasons for this are insufficiently researched possibilities, i.e., unanalysed energy savings and economic profitability during the building renovation according to the valid regulations and the nZEB standard. This research analysed a specific type of building, a kindergarten, which must also respect the rules and does not have its own classification related to energy classes. Analysis has shown that, depending on the type of building, all possibilities for improving construction should be explored, not only in energy but also in redesign shape, since in this way, it is possible to reduce energy consumption to a minimum.
CONTROL OF SUBSTRUCTURE CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAYS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA
Authors: Lukić Dragan , Rakić Dragoslav , Bašarić Ikodinović Irena
Published: December 2023

Control of compaction of natural soil (in excavation) or compacted in the embankment during the construction of roads is one of the basic forms of quality control of the substructure. When building high-speed roads (highways and high-speed railways), the priority is to achieve a high level of control over the performed work. In order to prevent differential settlement (during the construction of the embankment), or to change the volume due to additional compaction of the material, which inevitably leads to deformations, it is necessary to perform optimal compaction of the material. Within this paper, the technical regulations governing the control of compaction in the construction of railway infrastructure in the Republic of Serbia are presented.
ANALYSIS AND EXPERIMENTAL TESTING OF PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FLOORING EPOXY
Authors: Prokopić Milan , Savić Aleksandar , Marjanović Stefan , Petronijević Predrag
Published: December 2023

Epoxy resins are a class of reactive oligomers and polymers with epoxide groups. Depending on the type of epoxy and the hardener used, the curing (hardening) process can be regulated. Consequently, epoxy resins can be characterized by the "working time" or pot-life - the time it provides for certain technological operations to be performed with it. In the hardened state, epoxies are characterized by high strengths and high chemical resistance. Among other applications, they are widely used as materials for industrial floors, and for waterproofing. Laboratory optimization tests have shown that high strengths can be achieved with a lower density, and that the use of quartz filler does not necessarily improve the strength of the epoxy.
Paradox of practical atheism in Raimund Lullus spiritual quests
Authors: Akimov Oleg Yur'evich
Published: December 2023

The intuitions of Raimundus Lullus religious metaphysics are in this article explicated according to the opportunities of the convergence between the medieval and the new time philosophy. Such approach to the creativity of the thinker is possible, because his conception is one sides associated with the mystical symbolic theologism, that is typical for the medieval tradition, over sides develops Lullus the new understanding of the infinity of the world, inherent in the newtime philosophy. This opposition conditions some of the features of Lullus spiritual quest. This quest connected the respect to the past, that causes the homesickness to the lost ideals, together with the progressivity – the presentation of the future. This presentiment is by Lullus expressed as the desire to change the external world. The aim of this change is the approximation of the rational theological base – the model for the real life. Lullus experiences the combination and the unrealized synthesis of this intentions as the tragedy. The acute and intensive conflict of this intentions triggers the practical atheism, when the stimulation of the external distraction of the evil leads causes the appearance and the activation of the new evil. This disaster of life is determined with some aspects of Lullus metaphysics, in that the infinity of God is realized as the infinity of the world. The infinity of the world is by Lullus given as the rational hierarchical order, leading to the creator of the world. The tragedy of life is for Lullus the marker, that emphasizes the crisis of the medieval philosophy, that was based on the revelation. This crisis discovers the land of new philosophy. This philosophy stresses the autonomy of the human personality.
Synovial macrophage diversity and activation of M-CSF signaling in post-traumatic osteoarthritis
Authors: Knights Alexander J , Farrell Easton C , Ellis Olivia M , Song Michelle J , Appleton C Thomas , Maerz Tristan
Published: December 2023

Synovium is home to immune and stromal cell types that orchestrate inflammation following a joint injury; in particular, macrophages are central protagonists in this process. We sought to define the cellular and temporal dynamics of the synovial immune niche in a mouse model of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), and to identify stromal-immune crosstalk mechanisms that coordinate macrophage function and phenotype. We induced PTOA in mice using a non-invasive tibial compression model of anterior cruciate ligament rupture (ACLR). Single-cell RNA-sequencing and flow cytometry were used to assess immune cell populations in healthy (Sham) and injured (7 and 28 days post-ACLR) synovium. Characterization of synovial macrophage polarization states was performed, alongside computational modeling of macrophage differentiation, as well as implicated transcriptional regulators and stromal-immune communication axes. Immune cell types are broadly represented in healthy synovium, but experience drastic expansion and speciation in PTOA, most notably in the macrophage portion. We identified several polarization states of macrophages in synovium following joint injury, underpinned by distinct transcriptomic signatures, and regulated in part by stromal-derived macrophage colony-stimulating factor signaling. The transcription factors Pu.1, Cebpα, Cebpβ, and Jun were predicted to control differentiation of systemically derived monocytes into pro-inflammatory synovial macrophages. In summary, we defined different synovial macrophage subpopulations present in healthy and injured mouse synovium. Nuanced characterization of the distinct functions, origins, and disease kinetics of macrophage subtypes in PTOA will be critical for targeting these highly versatile cells for therapeutic purposes.
A pyroptosis-related signature in colorectal cancer: exploring its prognostic value and immunological characteristics
Authors: Jiang Peicheng , Fan Jin , Huang Shenglin , Liu Luying , Bai Minghua , Sun Quanquan , Shen Jinwen , Zhang Na , Liu Dong , Zhou Ning , Feng Yanru , Jiang Jin , Zhu Ji
Published: December 2023

Background

The heterogeneity of colorectal cancer (CRC) is the main cause of the disparity of drug sensitivity and the variability of prognosis. Pyroptosis is closely associated with the development and prognosis of various tumors, including CRC. Dividing CRC into distinct subgroups based on pyroptosis is a worthwhile topic for improving the precision treatment and prognosis prediction of CRC.

Methods

We classified patients into two clusters using the consensus clustering based on the pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs). Next, the prognostic signature was developed with LASSO regression analysis using the screened genes from differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. According to the pyroptosis-related score (PR score) calculated with the signature, patients belonged to two groups with distinct prognosis. Moreover, we assessed the immune profile to explore the relationship between the signature and immunological characteristics. Two single cell sequencing databases were adopted for further exploration of tumor immune microenvironment (TME). In addition, we applied our own cohort and Drugbank to explore the correlation of the signature and clinical therapies. We also studied the expression of key genes by immunohistochemistry.

Results

The signature performed well in predicting the prognosis of CRC as the high area under curve (AUC) value demonstrated. Patients with a higher PR score had poorer prognosis and higher expression of immune checkpoints but more abundant infiltration of immune cells. Combining with the indicator of therapeutic analysis, they might benefit more from immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and neo-adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT).

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study is based on genomics and transcriptomics to investigate the role of PRGs in CRC. We have established a prognostic signature and integrated single-cell data to study the relationship between the signature with the TME in CRC. Its clinical application in reliable prediction of prognosis and personalized treatment was validated by public and own sequencing cohort. It provided a new insight for the personalized treatment of CRC.
Calculia: an innovative game to assist individuals with learning difficulties in basic mathematics operations
Authors: Ribeiro Francisco Adelton Alves , Pereira Alvaro Itauna Schalcher , Da Silva Neto Otilio Paulo , Nery Júnior Elmo de Jesus , Oliveira Graciliano Paiva , Nascimento Dina Karla Placido , Pereira Aldemir da Guia Schalcher , Da Silva Claudete de Jesus Ferreira , Da Cruz Abias Rodrigues , Gomes Neto José Júlio , Macedo Felipe Santos Rodrigues , Lima Gustavo Enzo dos Santos
Published: December 2023

The educational application entitled “CALCULIA: An innovative game to help people with learning difficulties in basic Mathematics operations” was developed by a multidisciplinary team from the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão and Piauí – IFMA and IFPI, together with the Department of Education of the Government of the State of Maranhão – SEDUC-MA, formed by teachers, students and volunteers, to be used in formal and non-formal learning spaces, aiming to teach basic mathematical operations, as well as numerical symbolic understanding, targeting people with dyscalculia. Gamification was inserted as a teaching-learning strategy to acquire mathematical knowledge such as: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, in addition to understanding mathematical symbols: figures, proportions, concepts and formulas. The methodological path adopted was Applied Behavior Analysis – ABA, for which bibliographical surveys, document analysis, prior search and field research were carried out, followed by the computational steps for the prototyping process, character creation, application development process, creation levels, prototype testing, adjustments and application validation. Its approach focused on verbal and operational dyscalculia with the aim of helping professionals in the field of Education and Health, improving the quality of life of individuals with dyscalculia. The evidence found reinforces the need to expand the project to cover practical, lexical, graphic and ideognostic dyscalculia.
Evaluation of Lycium Shawii Schult & Roem Eye Drops as a Novel Treatment for Old Corneal Scars in Rabbits
Authors: Ziad Nabeel Muhsin , Faisel Khalid M. , Ziad Mohammed Mohsen , Abudunia Abdul-Malik , Al-Kaf Ali
Published: December 2023

Purpose: to evaluate the efficacy of eye drops extracted from Lycium Shawii Roem&Schult leaves in treating old corneal scars in rabbit corneas. A corneal scar is a condition in which the cornea becomes opaque. The cornea is a transparent, avascular tissue. Corneal opacity/scar is the fifth leading causes of  blindness and vision impairment worldwide.

Methods: In a randomized controlled trial. twelve European pigmented rabbits with a twenty four eyes with a mean weight of 1.12 kg (Standared Deviation ± 0.16 kg), aged 5 to 6 months old, were subjected to a partial thickness (120–180 μm) sterile surgical excision on the anterior central part of the cornea with a 7 mm diameter. After the surgical procedures, we waited six weeks for stable old corneal scars to develop, after that rabbits received topical drops as one eye drops three times per day for two months, lycium shawii leaves extract for treatment group (10%; n=12), placebo (normal saline 9% ;n=10) for control group. Therapy effects on corneal scar and ocular safety were evaluated by slit-lamp microscope, Modified Fantes haze scale for grading.

Results: The treatment group showed a significant reduction in corneal scar (P <0.000), mean 2.75 score , standard deviation ± 0.45, and a 68.75% improvement in corneal clarity (P <0.000), mean 0.25 score, standard deviation ± 0.45.

Conclusion:  The therapy is effective and safe in treating old corneal scar in rabbit and restores the transparency without ocular toxicity even after 2.5 years of follow up.
Vanadium
Authors: Gad Shayne C.
Published: December 2023

Vanadium (V) is the most biologically active and the most naturally present of the group V transition metals forming a range of compounds and acting as either a cation or an anion. It is widely used in steel alloys. It has antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antihyperglycemic activities, and since the mid‐2010s, it has come to be used in a number of therapeutics. It has antioxidant properties and influences the metabolism of carbohydrates and at low levels, is an essential nutrient in mammals. Recently, it has become popular in use in nanoparticle form. On the adverse side, it can cause lipid peroxidation and adversely affect mitochondrial respiration. Vanadium pentoxide particulates do cause cancer by a nongenotoxic mechanism.
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Rushton Erik K. , Kocabas Neslihan A. , Barranco Wade
Published: December 2023

The aliphatic hydrocarbons discussed in this chapter are open‐chain compounds that may be saturated or unsaturated. The saturated compounds, known as
paraffin hydrocarbons
or
alkanes,
include methane and its homologs having the empirical formula C

n

H

2
n
+2

. The unsaturated compounds fall into a number of homologous series: (
1
) those containing one double bond (ethene and its homologs) and having the formula C

n

H

2n

are known as
olefins
or
alkenes;
(
2
) those containing one triple bond (acetylene and its homologs) are called
acetylenes
or
alkynes
and have the formula C

n

H

2
n
−2

; (
3
) those having two double bonds (allene, 1,3‐butadiene, and 1,4‐pentadiene represent three types) are
diolefins
or
alkadienes
and also have the formula C

n

H

2
n
−2

; (
4
) those having a large number of double or triple bonds or both double and triple bonds are named in analogous fashion as
alkatrienes
,
alkatetraenes
,
alkadiynes
,
alkenynes
, and
alkadienynes
.

Aliphatic hydrocarbons have the potential to act as asphyxiants and central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Serious toxic effects of aliphatic hydrocarbons include asphyxia and chemical pneumonitis for many of the compounds in this category. There is evidence in humans of axonal neuropathy for
n
‐hexane and cancer for 1,3‐butadiene. The hepatic and renal systems can be impacted by target organ toxicity, some of which may not be relevant to human.
Synthetic Polymers: Polyesters, Polyethers, Polysulfones, and Other Polymers
Authors: Kim Sang‐Tae , Hamilton Ryan
Published: December 2023

Commercial use of polyester resins dates from the early twentieth century, when alkyd resins were first used in surface coatings. The polyesters are found today as fibers, films, laminating resins, molding resins, and engineering plastics. Many high‐molecular‐weight polyethers are used as engineering plastics, as are the polysulfides and the polysulfones. The available basic properties are provided. Many of the high‐molecular‐weight polyethers are used as engineering plastics, as are the polysulfides and the polysulfones. Important properties of these compounds and production data for the general categories are provided. Processing techniques vary widely and are also discussed.

Industrial hygiene concerns with these polymers depend on the type of resin in use and processing techniques. As an example, the use of styrene in polyester resins that are fabricated into glass‐reinforced plastics can provide the greatest intensity of exposure to styrene in workplace situations. Toxic vapors can also be released by solvent systems at elevated temperatures and during fabrication of engineering resins. Sulfur‐containing engineering resins typically have a high resistance to thermal deterioration but may yield toxic hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide if heated to decomposition temperatures.

No specific standards are available that pertain to ordinary industrial use of the finished polymeric products. However, there are occupational exposure limits for the monomers and additives used to synthesize or process these polymers. In addition, there are occupational exposure limits for dust and particles that may be applicable.
Organic Sulfur Compounds
Authors: Arrieta Daniel E. , Régnier Jean‐François
Published: December 2023

Organic sulfur compounds are sulfur‐based chemicals that are used in a variety of industrial applications such as manufacturing, agriculture, the environment, and pharmaceuticals. The compounds included in this chapter have been grouped according to chemical classes and were selected based on their common industrial uses and commercial importance, with a major focus on mercaptans (also called thiols or sulfhydryls). The other classes include sulfides, disulfides, chemicals with both sulfur and oxygen atoms (sulfoxides, sulfones, sulfonates, and sulfonyl chlorides), miscellaneous groups (thiophenes and benzothiazoles), and sulfur mustards. Industrial uses for these compounds include intermediates in chemical synthesis, gas odorants (especially C
2
to C
4
mercaptans), chelating or complexing agents, catalysts, solvents, and accelerators or components of synthetic rubber products. The sulfonates are used in the production of anionic detergents, surfactants, and wetting agents, and in some cases, as lubricant additives. The only use for the very toxic sulfur mustards is for chemical warfare. For many of these compounds, there is limited toxicological data in the open literature; however, the majority of data is available from unpublished industry‐sponsored documents that are referred to in the text so that this information is available to the scientific and industrial communities interested in learning more about the hazards associated with these classes of compounds.
Engineered Nanomaterials
Authors: Lin Hazel
Published: December 2023

Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are intentionally designed materials of ≤100 nm such as titanium dioxide nanoparticles, cerium oxide nanoparticles, iron oxide nanoparticles, silver or gold nanoparticles, carbon family nanomaterials (graphene, quantum dots, nanohorns, nanotubes, fullerene/buckyballs), transitional metal dichalcogenide nanoparticles, or silica nanoparticles. These have entered our lives through industrial and consumer products, or workplace exposure. As learned industrial professionals, we can deal with this influx through a better understanding of ENMs themselves, and their underlying potential toxicity. In spite of ever‐changing rules due to an improved understanding of the toxicological and environmental impact of ENMs, it is also extremely important to understand current EU and U.S. regulations with regard to workplace exposure limits as well as how to better measure and manage the health risks. In this updated chapter, we cover the various types of ENMs, potential health effects such as cardiovascular, pulmonary, skin, gut, and immune toxicity, exposure assessment, and occupational risk management.
Biotransformation
Authors: Eaton David L. , Cui Julia
Published: December 2023

Biotransformation—or the process by which the body changes the chemical structure of an exogenous chemical—is an essential component in the development of toxic responses to chemicals found in the workplace and general environment. There are hundreds of biotransformation enzymes that act on chemicals to change their chemical structure within the body. Many of these biotransformation enzymes (often called “drug‐metabolizing enzymes,” or DMEs) also play essential roles in the formation and elimination of important endogenous biomolecules, such as steroid hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules. However, a subset of these enzymes appears to exist primarily for the purposes of detoxifying exogenous chemicals (xenobiotics). Because most of these enzymes are not essential to life, genetic polymorphisms are common and can impart large differences in susceptibility to certain chemicals found in our workplace, diet, or general environment. This chapter discusses the large multi‐gene families of enzymes that are involved in oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, and conjugation of xenobiotics. Although the purpose of biotransformation processes is to facilitate both the detoxication and elimination of xenobiotics from the body, it often happens that short‐lived, reactive intermediates are formed in the process, and these may be more toxic than the parent molecule. Understanding the pathways of biotransformation, and how these pathways can contribute to both acute and chronic toxic effects of xenobiotics, is an important part of the field of toxicology as it pertains to workplace and environmental exposures to toxic substances.
Tantalum
Authors: Campbell Sarah C.
Published: December 2023

The number of scientific articles published on tantalum has increased exponentially over the last 20 years. Electronic, optical, mechanical, and medical devices are just a few examples of modern applications of tantalum. Due to its use in electronic equipment such as mobile phones, DVD players, video game systems, and computers, it is considered a technology‐critical element. Tantalum is a hard blue–gray, lustrous transition metal from group Va. Tantalum is less abundant than other transition elements in the Earth's crust and occurs in the same minerals as niobium.

To date, over 70 different chemical compositions of tantalum minerals have been identified. Those of greatest economic importance are tantalite, microlite, and wodginite.

Tantalum compounds have been considered to be nontoxic with LD
50
values reported in the several thousand mg/kg body weight. Tantalum compounds are absorbed from the respiratory tract and eliminated through the kidneys. Their absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is poor and can be distributed to internal organs.

Tantalum implants have been used in more than 500,000 orthopedic patients to date. Tantalum has also been used for dental and other medical device applications. Tantalum can enhance neovascularization, wound healing, and osteogenesis; implants containing tantalum may also enhance the initial healing by modifying gene expression profiles. Tantalum has also been investigated as a therapeutic for the treatment and prevention of osteoarthritis, intraoperative bleeding, and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

In consideration of tantalum's minimal absorption and effective elimination from the body, it is thought to be innocuous and no human diseases from tantalum exposure are known.
Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein and disability progression in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Abdelhak Ahmed , Antweiler Kai , Kowarik Markus C. , Senel Makbule , Havla Joachim , Zettl Uwe K. , Kleiter Ingo , Skripuletz Thomas , Haarmann Axel , Stahmann Alexander , Huss Andre , Gingele Stefan , Krumbholz Markus , Benkert Pascal , Kuhle Jens , Friede Tim , Ludolph Albert C. , Ziemann Ulf , Kümpfel Tania , Tumani Hayrettin
Published: December 2023

Objective

Progression prediction is a significant unmet need in people with progressive multiple sclerosis (pwPMS). Studies on glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) have either been limited to single center with relapsing MS or were based solely on Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), which limits its generalizability to state‐of‐the‐art clinical settings and trials applying combined outcome parameters.

Methods

Serum GFAP and NfL (neurofilament light chain) were investigated in EmBioProMS participants with primary (PP) or secondary progressive MS. Six months confirmed disability progression (CDP) was defined using combined outcome parameters (EDSS, timed‐25‐foot walk test (T25FW), and nine‐hole‐peg‐test (9HPT)).

Results

243 subjects (135 PPMS, 108 SPMS, age 55.5, IQR [49.7–61.2], 135 female, median follow‐up: 29.3 months [17.9–40.9]) were included. NfL (age‐) and GFAP (age‐ and sex‐) adjusted Z scores were higher in pwPMS compared to HC (p < 0.001 for both). 111 (32.8%) CDP events were diagnosed in participants with ≥3 visits (n = 169). GFAP Z score >3 was associated with higher risk for CDP in participants with low NfL Z score (i.e., ≤1.0) (HR: 2.38 [1.12–5.08], p = 0.025). In PPMS, GFAP Z score >3 was associated with higher risk for CDP (HR: 2.88 [1.21–6.84], p = 0.016). Risk was further increased in PPMS subjects with high GFAP when NfL is low (HR: 4.31 [1.53–12.13], p = 0.006).

Interpretation

Blood GFAP may help identify pwPPMS at risk of progression. Combination of high GFAP and low NfL levels could distinguish non‐active pwPMS with particularly high progression risk.
Engineering Hyaluronic Acid Microneedles Loaded with Mn2+ and Temozolomide for Topical Precision Therapy of Melanoma
Authors: Jiang Yechun , Jin Yu , Feng Chengcheng , Wu Yayun , Zhang Weinan , Xiao Liang , Chu Zhaoyou , Chen Benjin , Ma Yan , Qian Haisheng , Xu Lingling
Published: December 2023

Topical therapy has received worldwide attention for in situ tumors owing to its higher efficacy of drug delivery. Herein, this work reports a dissolvable multifunctional hyaluronic acid microneedles (HMNs) patch coloaded with temozolomide (TMZ) and MnCl2 (TMZ/MnCl2@HMN) for chemoimmunotherapy of melanoma. HMNs can ensure the stability of TMZ over time, and exhibit fewer side effects with a localized release way. In particular, TMZ not only promotes dendritic cell maturation by triggering immunogenic cell death in tumor cells, but also induces DNA damage that can further enhance the Mn2+‐activated cGAS‐STING (stimulator of interferon genes pathway). As a result, the TMZ/MnCl2@HMN multifunctional platform significantly inhibits lung metastases for melanoma, providing a practical strategy for precision therapy of melanoma.
Synergistic Chemoimmunotherapy Augmentation via Sequential Nanocomposite Hydrogel‐Mediated Reprogramming of Cancer‐Associated Fibroblasts in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Wang Hui , Chen Yu , Wei Ran , Zhang Jinlong , Zhu Jiahui , Wang Wenbin , Wang Zhenfei , Wupur Zulpikar , Li Yujing , Meng Huan
Published: December 2023

In osteosarcoma, immunotherapy often faces hurdles posed by cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that secrete dense extracellular matrix components and cytokines. Directly removing CAFs may prove ineffective and even promote tumor metastasis. To address this challenge, a sequential nanocomposite hydrogel that reshapes CAF behavior is developed, enhancing tumor‐infiltrating T‐cells in osteosarcoma. The approach utilizes an injectable blend of carboxymethyl chitosan and tetrabasic polyethylene glycol, forming a hydrogel for controlled release of a potent CAF suppressor (Nox4 inhibitor, Nox4i) and liposomal Doxorubicin (L‐Dox) to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) upon in situ administration. Nox4i effectively counters CAF activation, overcoming T‐cell exclusion mechanisms, followed by programmed L‐Dox release for ICD induction in stroma‐rich osteosarcoma models. Combining the co‐delivery gel with αPD‐1 checkpoint inhibitor further enhances its effectiveness in an orthotopic osteosarcoma model. Immunophenotyping data underscore a significant boost in tumor T‐cell infiltration and favorable anti‐tumor immunity at the whole‐animal level.
Sales performance of direct food marketers: African American‐led operations
Authors: Park Timothy , Martinez Steve , Ibrahim Mohammed
Published: December 2023

This paper examines the impact of participation in direct marketing on the entire distribution of farm sales for African American (AA) operations using the unconditional quantile regression (UQR) estimator. Our analysis yields unbiased estimates of the unconditional impact of direct marketing on farm sales and reveals the heterogeneous effects that occur across the distribution of farm sales. The sales gap for AA‐led operations is about 11% across all quantiles when we control for farming and marketing experience along with key features of the farm operation such as crop choice and geographic location. The relative sales gap for AA operations declines across the distribution of farm sales and actually disappears for the largest operations. The network effect that we identify is associated with a sales premium for AA‐led operations relative to other operations engaged in direct marketing. Marketing experts and extension professionals can use this information to guide farmers who are considering initiating or expanding direct marketing activities.
Agroeconomic differences among alternative cotton row spacings and row patterns
Authors: Hall Steven , Dodds Darrin , Pieralisi Brian , Raper Tyson B. , Sandlin Tyler , Crow Whitney D. , Catchot Angus , Irby Trent , Krutz L. J. , Spencer G. D. , Mills B. E.
Published: December 2023

Crop growth and development is affected by intraspecies competition. This study was conducted to determine whether cotton productivity and profitability could be manipulated through planting geometry. The effects of row spacing, planting pattern, and variety on cotton fruit distribution, yield, and net returns were investigated near Bella Mina, AL, on a Decatur silt loam (fine, kaolinitic, thermic Rhodic Paleudults); Jackson, TN, on a Calhoun silt loam (fine‐silty, mixed, active, thermic Typic Glossaqualfs); Starkville, MS, on a Leeper silty clay loam (fine, smectitic, nonacid, thermic Vertic Epiaquepts); and Stoneville, MS, on a Bosket very fine sandy loam (fine‐loamy, mixed, active, thermic Mollic Hapludalfs). For both the 76‐ and 97‐cm row spacing, transitioning from a solid to a 2 × 1 skip row pattern reduced cotton lint yield by 19%. Reduced lint yield in the 2 × 1 skip row pattern was attributed primarily to a 7% decrease in the number of Zone 1 and first‐position bolls. Consequently, planting on a solid rather than skip row pattern increased net returns by 21%. Planting cotton in either 76‐ or 97‐cm rows using a solid rather than skip row pattern likely increases crop productivity and profitability across the US cotton belt.
Association mapping for image‐based root traits in tropical maize under water stress in semi‐arid regions
Authors: de Souza Silveira Maria Valnice , de Pontes Fernanda Carla Ferreira , Machado Ingrid Pinheiro , Lobo Antônio Lucas Aguiar , Fritsche‐Neto Roberto , DoVale Júlio César
Published: December 2023

The root system is an organ that indicates signs of stress when a plant is subjected to water‐deficit conditions. However, its assessment is challenging. An alternative has been to obtain variables through image processing. In this way, it allows the rapid evaluation of genetic diversity panels. It contributes to identifying genomic regions or genes associated with the expression of the root system under water‐deficit conditions. Hence, a public diversity panel of 360 inbred lines of maize was evaluated under well‐watered (WW) and water stress (WS) conditions. Roots were phenotyped through image‐based processing. Then, genome‐wide association studies were conducted in WW and WS for each trait, using the Fixed and random model Circulating Probability Unification method. We found 23 genes or genomic regions with significant associations, of which eleven are exclusive to the WW condition, seven to the WS condition, and four are simultaneously associated with both WW and WS. All genomic regions related to the root system in the WS condition are associated with physiological mechanisms and molecular responses related to tolerance to water‐deficit conditions that can be explored in subsequent studies and by breeding programs to obtain varieties that are more tolerant and water efficient to this condition.
Strategies to alleviate pH stratification and subsurface acidity in a no‐tillage system
Authors: Pellissier J. P. , Swanepoel P. A. , Hardie A. G. , Labuschagne J.
Published: December 2023

Some no‐tillage systems necessitate amelioration of subsurface acidity. A 2‐year field trial was conducted on a no‐tillage sandy loam Cambisol, with a pH(KCl) of 4.20 in the 10‐ to 30‐cm depth. The aim was to evaluate one‐time tillage, calcitic lime forms, and lime plus gypsum combinations on soil chemical parameters, and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and canola (Brassica napus) production. Incorporation of lime (1.67 Mg ha−1) through one‐time chisel plowing increased soil pH(KCl) and soil exchangeable calcium in the 20‐ to 30‐cm depth by 9.1% and 210.1%, respectively, after 18 months. Conventional one‐time tillage treatments resulted in 15.0%–18.1% reduced wheat seedling establishment in the subsequent season. Surface‐applied hydrated lime (1.56 Mg ha−1) and microfine pelletized lime (1.75 Mg ha−1) both caused over‐liming (pH(KCl) > 6.5) effects in the 0‐ to 5‐cm depth after 6 months, which attenuated from 12 to 18 months. Surface‐applied lime (1.67 Mg ha−1) showed a 2.9% and 5.6% pH(KCl) reduction in the 10‐ to 20‐cm and 20‐ to 30‐cm depths, respectively, after 18 months. While combined surface application of lime (0.55 Mg ha−1) plus gypsum (1.25 Mg ha−1) showed a 3.7% and 0.5% pH(KCl) reduction in the 10‐ to 20‐cm and 20‐ to 30‐cm depths, respectively, after 18 months. Wheat (year 1) and canola (year 2) yield and seed quality parameters were unaffected (p > 0.05) by the treatments. Subsurface acidity amelioration in no‐tillage systems is best achieved through chisel lime incorporation or combined surface application of lime plus gypsum on moderately or highly weathered soils.
Overseeding oat into limpograss: The effect of trees on animal performance and profitability
Authors: Pontes Laíse da Silveira , Rodrigues Debora , Stafin Giliardi , Higashi Gabriel Eiji , Carneiro Luiza de Souza , Nitsche Pablo Ricardo , Telles Tiago Santos
Published: December 2023

The overseeding of cool‐season species into dormant warm‐season species and tree inclusion in open pastures are potential options for improving forage quality and extending the grazing period, thus contributing to sustainable livelihoods. However, warm‐season species respond differently to cool‐season overseeding. To our knowledge, there are no reports concerning the use of the overseeding method in limpograss [Hemarthria altissima (Poir.) Stapf & Hubb.] pastures, particularly in silvopastoral systems. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the suitability of oat (Avena sativa L.) overseeding into a limpograss pasture in two systems located in a subtropical region, silvopastoral versus open pasture, for 3 consecutive years. The presence of trees had a significant impact on dry matter yield and animal gain per hectare (Gha) during periods of drought. A maximum Gha of 363 kg live weight (LW) ha−1 was observed on limpograss pasture, over 139 days of grazing, after oat overseeding. In contrast, the maximum Gha on oat pasture was only 174 kg LW ha−1. However, it was still possible to obtain up to 112 grazing days in an area that would be fallow in winter. The maximum annual profit obtained was $673.0 ha−1 in the second year, with no differences between systems. To increase economic profits, farmers may search for strategies that add value to silvopastoral products.
Biomarker Qualification for Neurofilament Light Chain in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Theory and Practice
Authors: Benatar Michael , Ostrow Lyle W. , Lewcock Joseph W , Bennett Frank , Shefner Jeremy , Bowser Robert , Larkin Paul , Bruijn Lucie , Wuu Joanne
Published: December 2023

Objective

To explore whether the utility of neurofilament light chain (NfL), as a biomarker to aid amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) therapy development, would be enhanced by obtaining formal qualification from the US Food and Drug Administration for a defined context‐of‐use.

Methods

Consensus discussion among academic, industry, and patient advocacy group representatives.

Results

A wealth of scientific evidence supports the use of NfL as a prognostic, response, and potential safety biomarker in the broad ALS population, and as a risk/susceptibility biomarker among the subset of SOD1 pathogenic variant carriers. Although NfL has not yet been formally qualified for any of these contexts‐of‐use, the US Food and Drug Administration has provided accelerated approval for an SOD1‐lowering antisense oligonucleotide, based partially on the recognition that a reduction in NfL is reasonably likely to predict a clinical benefit.

Interpretation

The increasing incorporation of NfL into ALS therapy development plans provides evidence that its utility—as a prognostic, response, risk/susceptibility, and/or safety biomarker—is already widely accepted by the community. The willingness of the US Food and Drug Administration to base regulatory decisions on rigorous peer‐reviewed data‐absent formal qualification, leads us to conclude that formal qualification, despite some benefits, is not essential for ongoing and future use of NfL as a tool to aid ALS therapy development. Although the balance of considerations for and against seeking NfL biomarker qualification will undoubtedly vary across different diseases and contexts‐of‐use, the robustness of the published data and careful deliberations of the ALS community may offer valuable insights for other disease communities grappling with the same issues. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:211–216
Engineered polymer‐based scaffold as an implantable therapeutic vaccine against melanoma
Authors: Unnikrishnan Anjana , Menon Meera , K. G. Gopika , Sam Reba Elsa , Koyakutty Manzoor , Ashokan Anusha
Published: December 2023

Although tumor‐antigen‐based therapeutic cancer vaccines are a potential cancer immunotherapy strategy, recent clinical trials show low efficacy for multiple reasons. One method that has been recently investigated to improve the efficacy of therapeutic cancer vaccines is the development of implantable vaccines for sustained delivery of antigens and CD8 T cell activation. Here, we optimized the composition for an implantable vaccine scaffold composed of alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, and poly(methyl vinyl ether‐ alt‐maleic anhydride) loaded with tumor antigens. Considering the adjuvant property of aluminum compounds, aluminum ion was used to crosslink alginate in the scaffold. The scaffold showed an effective antigen incorporation efficiency of 90.34 ± 0.55% using ovalbumin as the model antigen and 89.67 ± 2.8% using B16‐F10 cell lysate. SEM analysis of the scaffold showed pore size ranging from 5 to 10 μm. Cell viability analysis using mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages proved the cytocompatibility of the scaffold. In vitro antigen release studies using ovalbumin showed 8.42% release for a period of 14 days. In vivo antitumor analysis carried out in subcutaneous mouse B16‐F10 melanoma model demonstrated that the scaffold vaccine reduced the rate of tumor growth and improved survival in tested animals. The median survival time increased from 29 days in untreated animals to 58 days in scaffold vaccine‐implanted animals.
Structured polymer dispersant for efficient phthalocyanine blue dispersion and color paste preparation
Authors: Yang Chongyang , Song Liyang , Sun Yumiao , Han Yuheng , Wang Ting , Zeng En
Published: December 2023

To overcome challenges in pigment dispersion, especially for difficult‐to‐disperse pigments like phthalocyanine blue, the structure of dispersants has been studied in recent years. Herein, we present the development and performance evaluation of a structured polymer dispersant for efficient dispersion of phthalocyanine blue and color paste preparation. The dispersant was synthesized using a two‐step free radical polymerization process, allowing precise control over its structure. The study investigates the impact of key factors on dispersion, including the molecular weight of the hydrophilic long‐chain poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether (MPEG), the ratio of anchoring groups styrene (St) and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), and the dispersant dosage. Optimal stability was achieved with MPEG‐400 as the hydrophilic long chain and a St:DMAEMA ratio of 1:1, along with a MPEG‐400AA:AA ratio of 0.5:1 at 2000 r min−1. At a dispersant dosage of 25%, the particle size of the color paste measured 340 nm, with viscosity reaching 600 mPa·s. The structured dispersant effectively synergized spatial potential resistance and electrostatic effects to achieve stable pigment dispersion. These findings offer promising prospects for advancing dispersant technologies, with implications for improving color‐based applications across various industries, such as paints, coatings, and inks.
Characterization and RNA interference‐mediated silencing of tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase gene inCarpophilus hemipterus(L.) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Authors: Bansal Raman , Zhao Chaoyang , Burks Charles S. , Walse Spencer S. , Hunter Wayne B.
Published: December 2023

Dried fruit beetle,Carpophilus hemipterus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), is a serious pest of ripened fresh fruit in the orchard and dried fruit in postprocessing storage. Despite the economic impact and widespread distribution ofC. hemipterus, there is a lack of functional genomics research seeking to elucidate features of molecular physiology for improved pest management. Here, we report the characterization of the gene namedVermilioninC. hemipterus(ChVer) that encodes for tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase. TheVermilionis frequently used as a visual marker for genomics approaches as tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase is involved in the biosynthesis of eye coloration pigments in insects. We identified 1628 bp long full‐length transcript ofChVerfrom transcriptomic database ofC. hemipterus. The expression analysis among adult body parts revealed peakChVerexpression in head compared to thorax and abdomen, which is consistent with its role. Among theC. hemipterusdevelopmental stages, peakChVerexpression was observed in first instar larva, second instar larva, and adult male stages, whereas the lowest levels of expression were seen in third instar larva, prepupa, and pupa. The nanoinjection ofChVerdouble‐stranded RNA in larvalC. hemipterusresulted in a significant reduction inChVertranscript levels as well as caused a loss of eye color, that is, the white‐eyed phenotype in adults. Characterization of visually traceable marker gene and robust RNA interference response seen in this study will enable genomics research is this important pest.
The anti‐breast cancer therapeutic potential of 1,2,3‐triazole‐containing hybrids
Authors: Song Juntao , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Bo , Ma Junwei
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer, as one of the most common invasive malignancies and the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in women globally, poses a significant challenge in the world health system. Substantial advances in diagnosis and treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of breast cancer patients, but the number of incidences and deaths of breast cancer are projected to increase by 40% and 50%, respectively, by 2040. Chemotherapy is one of the principal treatments for breast cancer therapy, but multidrug resistance and severe side effects remain the major obstacles to the success of treatment. Hence, there is a vital need to develop novel chemotherapeutic agents to combat this deadly disease. 1,2,3‐Triazole, which can be effectively constructed by click chemistry, not only can serve as a linker to connect different anti‐breast cancer pharmacophores but also is a valuable pharmacophore with anti‐breast cancer potential and favorable properties such as hydrogen bonding, moderate dipole moment, and enhanced water solubility. Particularly, 1,2,3‐triazole‐containing hybrids have demonstrated promising in vitro and in vivo anti‐breast cancer potential against both drug‐sensitive and drug‐resistant forms and possessed excellent selectivity by targeting different biological pathways associated with breast cancer, representing privileged scaffolds for the discovery of novel anti‐breast cancer candidates. This review concentrates on the latest advancements of 1,2,3‐triazole‐containing hybrids with anti‐breast cancer potential, including work published between 2020 and the present. The structure–activity relationships (SARs) and mechanisms of action are also reviewed to shed light on the development of more effective and multitargeted candidates.