bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate allosteric site in human pyridox(am)ine 5′‐phosphate oxidase
Authors: Barile Anna , Graziani Claudio , Antonelli Lorenzo , Parroni Alessia , Fiorillo Annarita , di Salvo Martino Luigi , Ilari Andrea , Giorgi Alessandra , Rosignoli Serena , Paiardini Alessandro , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela
Published: January 2024

Adequate levels of pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP), the catalytically active form of vitamin B6, and its proper distribution in the body are essential for human health. The PLP recycling pathway plays a crucial role in these processes and its defects cause severe neurological diseases. The enzyme pyridox(am)ine 5′‐phosphate oxidase (PNPO), whose catalytic action yields PLP, is one of the key players in this pathway. Mutations in the gene encoding PNPO are responsible for a severe form of neonatal epilepsy. Recently, PNPO has also been described as a potential target for chemotherapeutic agents. Our laboratory has highlighted the crucial role of PNPO in the regulation of PLP levels in the cell, which occurs via a feedback inhibition mechanism of the enzyme, exerted by binding of PLP at an allosteric site. Through docking analyses and site‐directed mutagenesis experiments, here we identified the allosteric PLP binding site of human PNPO. This site is located in the same protein region as the allosteric site we previously identified in the Escherichia coli enzyme homologue. However, the identity and arrangement of the amino acid residues involved in PLP binding are completely different and resemble those of the active site of PLP‐dependent enzymes. The identification of the PLP allosteric site of human PNPO paves the way for the rational design of enzyme inhibitors as potential anti‐cancer compounds.
AlphaFold2‐guided description ofCoBaHMA, a novel family of bacterial domains within the heavy‐metal‐associated superfamily
Authors: Gaschignard Geoffroy , Millet Maxime , Bruley Apolline , Benzerara Karim , Dezi Manuela , Skouri‐Panet Feriel , Duprat Elodie , Callebaut Isabelle
Published: January 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) structure information, now available at the proteome scale, may facilitate the detection of remote evolutionary relationships in protein superfamilies. Here, we illustrate this with the identification of a novel family of protein domains related to the ferredoxin‐like superfold, by combining (i) transitive sequence similarity searches, (ii) clustering approaches, and (iii) the use of AlphaFold2 3D structure models. Domains of this family were initially identified in relation with the intracellular biomineralization of calcium carbonates by Cyanobacteria. They are part of the large heavy‐metal‐associated (HMA) superfamily, departing from the latter by specific sequence and structural features. In particular, most of them share conserved basic amino acids  (hence their name CoBaHMA forConservedBasic residuesHMA), forming a positively charged surface, which is likely to interact with anionic partners. CoBaHMA domains are found in diverse modular organizations in bacteria, existing in the form of monodomain proteins or as part of larger proteins, some of which are membrane proteins involved in transport or lipid metabolism. This suggests that the CoBaHMA domains may exert a regulatory function, involving interactions with anionic lipids. This hypothesis might have a particular resonance in the context of the compartmentalization observed for cyanobacterial intracellular calcium carbonates.
Asymmetric Gate and SiC Substrate Grooved InGaN Back‐Barrier AlGaN/GaN HEMTs for High‐Power RF Applications
Authors: Parvez Bazila , Sahu Jyoti , Basak Subhajit , Patil Mahalaxmi , Sahu Arpit , Garg Gaurav , Ganguly Swaroop , Saha Dipankar
Published: January 2024

We report high‐power InGaN back‐barrier AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors with the gate placed closer to the source with an Au‐filled groove in the SiC substrate near the drain end. An InGaN back‐barrier is known to reduce short‐channel effects at high drain‐to‐source (VDS) voltage. However, the improvement is realized at the cost of reduced two‐dimensional electron gas density (ns) and saturation drain‐to‐source (IDS,SAT) current. Here, we demonstrate that bothnsandIDS,SATare recovered when the gate is appropriately delineated near the source. The junction temperature increases at higherVDS,which tends to deteriorate the power performance and suppress the benefits from higherIDS,SAT. This problem is contained by further thinning down the SiC substrate near the drain by creating a backside groove using deep reactive‐ion‐etching and filling it with Ti/Au. An enhanced thinned‐down substrate distributes the lateral electric field uniformly near the drain end, compounding its benefits with an asymmetric gate and lower junction temperature. The proposed device shows an output power ofPout = 6.7 W mm−1atVDS = 28 V at 15 GHz for a 200 nm gate length (LG).
Thin‐section‐ and matrix‐free mass spectrometry imaging: Reproducible sample transfer using novel platinum‐coated porous plate formed of glass beads
Authors: Ikeda Takamasa , Kotani Masahiro
Published: January 2024

Rationale

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) typically requires sample preparation such as sectioning and spraying of the matrix. Sample transfer using a Pt‐coated porous plate formed of glass beads simplifies preparation and enables reproducible MSI measurements.

Methods

The surface of a sintered‐glass‐bead porous plate was coated with Pt on one side of the plate. Polymer additives and the cross‐section of a strawberry were chosen as the sample and transferred to the Pt‐coated surface of the plate. This process was completely thin‐section‐ and matrix‐free. The prepared plates were analyzed using a commercial MALDI time‐of‐flight instrument.

Results

Several constituents of the polymer additives (Irgafos 168 and Irganox 1010) and strawberry metabolites (hexose, citric acid, and sucrose) were detected without organic matrices. These ion images were obtained with a special distribution of the retained constituents. Duplicate prepared plates using the same strawberry cross‐section reproduced the ion images.

Conclusions

A sample transfer process using a Pt‐coated porous plate formed of glass beads was demonstrated as an alternative preparation method for MSI. This process has the potential to simplify MSI preparation and achieve easily reproducible MSI measurements.
Ion‐Exchange Enabled Dual‐Functional Swarms with Reconfigurability and Magnetic Controllability
Authors: Chen Ling , Feng Kai , Zhang Xinle , Gong Jiang , Qu Jinping , Niu Ran
Published: January 2024

In nature, many organisms are capable of self‐organizing into collective groups through local communications to perform complex tasks that individuals cannot complete. To date, the reported artificial microswarms either rely on toxic chemical reactions for communication or lack the hierarchical controllability and functionality, which is unfavorable for practical applications. To this end, this exploits the ion‐exchange reaction enabled hierarchical swarm composed of cationic ion exchange resin and magnetic microspheres of internal information exchange. The swarm is reconfigurable under magnetic fields, generating ordered structures of controllable mobilities and even reversed hierarchy, able to navigate in confined and complex environments. Moreover, the swarm shows interesting communications among each other, such as merging, splitting, and member exchange, forming multi‐leader groups, living crystals, and complex vortices. Furthermore, the swarm functions as a dual‐functional microreactor, which can load, transport, and release drugs in a pH‐enhanced manner, as well as effectively degrade antibiotics via light‐enhanced Fenton‐like reaction in polluted water. The organized structure of the swarm greatly improves the drug loading/transport efficiency and the local concentration of catalysts for fast pollutant removal. This design lays the foundation for the design of dual‐functional micro/nanorobots for intelligent drug delivery and advanced environmental remediation.
Multi‐Functional Regulation on Buried Interface for Achieving Efficient Triple‐Cation Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ding Yang , Feng Xiangxiang , Feng Erming , Chang Jianhui , Li Hengyue , Long Caoyu , Gao Yuanji , Lu Siyuan , Yang Junliang
Published: January 2024

Mixed‐cation perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted much attention because of the advantages of suitable bandgap and stability. It is still a challenge to rationally design and modify the perovskite/tin oxide (SnO2) heterogeneous interface for achieving highly efficient and stable PSCs. Herein, a strategy of one‐stone‐for‐three‐birds is proposed to achieve multi‐functional interface regulation via introducing N‐Chlorosuccinimide (NCS) into the solution of SnO2: i) C═O functional group in NCS can induces strong binding affinity to uncoordinated defects (oxygen vacancies, free lead ions, etc) at the buried interface and passivate them; ii) incomplete in situ hydrolysis reactions can occur spontaneously and adjust the pH value of the SnO2 solution to achieve a more matchable energy level; iii) effectively releasing the residual stress of the underlying perovskite. As a result, a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.74% is achieved with a device structure of ITO/SnO2/Perovskite/Spiro‐OMeTAD/Ag, which is one of the highest values for cesium‐formamidinium‐methylammonium (CsFAMA) triple cation PSCs. Furthermore, the device without encapsulation can sustain 94.6% of its initial PCE after the storage at room temperature and relative humidity (RH) of 20% for 40 days. The research provides a versatile way to manipulate buried interface for achieving efficient and stable PSCs.
IGZO/WO3−x‐Heterostructured Artificial Optoelectronic Synaptic Devices Mimicking Image Segmentation and Motion Capture
Authors: Wu Tong , Gao Song , Li Yang
Published: January 2024

Currently, artificial neural networks (ANNs) based on memristors are limited to recognizing static images of objects when simulating human visual system, preventing them from performing high‐dimensional information perception, and achieving more complex biomimetic functions is subject to certain limitations. In this work, indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO)/tungsten oxide (WO3−x)‐heterostructured artificial optoelectronic synaptic devices mimicking image segmentation and motion capture exhibiting high‐performance optoelectronic synaptic responses are proposed and demonstrated. Upon electrical and optical stimulations, the device shows a variety of fundamental and advanced electrical and optical synaptic plasticity. Most importantly, outstanding and repeatable linear synaptic weight changes are attained by the developed memristor. By taking advantage of the notable linear synaptic weight changes, ANNs have been constructed and successfully utilized to demonstrate two applications in the field of computer vision, including image segmentation and object tracking. The accuracy attained by the memristor‐based ANNs is similar to that of the computer algorithms, while its power has been significantly reduced by 105orders of magnitude. With successful emulations of the human brain reactions when observing objects, the demonstrated memristor and related ANNs can be effectively utilized in constructing artificial optoelectronic synaptic devices and show promising potential in emulating human visual perception.
Tungsten–Iron–Ruthenium Ternary Alloy Immobilized into the Inner Nickel Foam for High‐Current‐Density Water Oxidation
Authors: Fan Xiyue , Zhang Chunyu , Chen Zhigang , Liu Tong , Yang Guang , Hou Shuang , Zhu Chengfeng , Liu Jinxun , Xu Jiaqiang , Qiao Fen , Cui Yi
Published: January 2024

The pursuit of highly‐active and stable catalysts in anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is desirable for high‐current‐density water electrolysis toward industrial hydrogen production. Herein, a straightforward yet feasible method to prepare WFeRu ternary alloying catalyst on nickel foam is demonstrated, whereby the foreign W, Fe, and Ru metal atoms diffuse into the Ni foam resulting in the formation of inner immobilized ternary alloy. Thanks to the synergistic impact of foreign metal atoms and structural robustness of inner immobilized alloying catalyst, the well‐designed WFeRu@NF self‐standing anode exhibits superior OER activities. It only requires overpotentials of 245 and 346 mV to attain current densities of 20 and 500 mA cm−2, respectively. Moreover, the as‐prepared ternary alloying catalyst also exhibits a long‐term stability at a high‐current‐density of 500 mA cm−2 for over 45 h, evidencing the inner‐immobilization strategy is promising for the development of highly active and stable metal‐based catalysts for high‐density‐current water oxidation process.
Energizing Co Active Sites via d‐Band Center Engineering in CeO2‐Co3O4 Heterostructures: Interfacial Charge Transfer Enabling Efficient Nitrate Electrosynthesis
Authors: Li Shuyuan , Li Jingxian , Wang Xiaoxuan , Sun Yanfei , Tang Zheng , Gao Xueying , Zhang Huiying , Xie Jiangzhou , Yang Zhiyu , Yan Yi‐Ming
Published: January 2024

The electrochemical nitrogen oxidation reaction (NOR) holds significant potential to revolutionize the traditional nitrate synthesis processes. However, the progression in NOR has been notably stymied due to the sluggish kinetics of initial N2 adsorption and activation processes. Herein, the research embarks on the development of a CeO2‐Co3O4 heterostructure, strategically engineered to facilitate the electron transfer from CeO2 to Co3O4. This orchestrated transfer operates to amplify the d‐band center of the Co active sites, thereby enhancing N2 adsorption and activation dynamics by strengthening the Co─N bond and diminishing the resilience of the N≡N bond. The synthesized CeO2‐Co3O4 manifests promising prospects, showcasing a significant HNO3 yield of 37.96 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and an elevated Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 29.30% in a 0.1 m Na2SO4 solution at 1.81 V versus RHE. Further substantiating these findings, an array of in situ methodologies coupled with DFT calculations vividly illustrate the augmented adsorption and activation of N2 on the surface of CeO2‐Co3O4 heterostructure, resulting in a substantial reduction in the energy barrier pertinent to the rate‐determining step within the NOR pathway. This research carves a promising pathway to amplify N2 adsorption throughout the electrochemical NOR operations and delineates a blueprint for crafting highly efficient NOR electrocatalysts.
Identifying High Gleason Score Prostate Cancer by Prostate Fluid Metabolic Fingerprint‐Based Multi‐Modal Recognition
Authors: Peng Zehong , Wang Yuning , Wu Xinrui , Yang Shouzhi , Du Xinxing , Xu Xiaoyu , Hu Cong , Liu Wanshan , Zhu Yinjie , Dong Baijun , Pan Jiahua , Bao Qingui , Qian Kun , Dong Liang , Xue Wei
Published: January 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer in males worldwide. The Gleason scoring system, which classifies the pathological growth pattern of cancer, is considered one of the most important prognostic factors for PCa. Compared to indolent PCa, PCa with high Gleason score (h‐GS PCa, GS ≥ 8) has greater clinical significance due to its high aggressiveness and poor prognosis. It is crucial to establish a rapid, non‐invasive diagnostic modality to decipher patients with h‐GS PCa as early as possible. In this study, ferric nanoparticle‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (FeNPALDI‐MS) to extract prostate fluid metabolic fingerprint (PSF‐MF) is employed and combined with the clinical features of patients, such as prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), to establish a multi‐modal diagnosis assisted by machine learning. This approach yields an impressive area under the curve (AUC) of 0.87 to diagnose patients with h‐GS, surpassing the results of single‐modal diagnosis using only PSF‐MF or PSA, respectively. Additionally, using various screening methods, six key metabolites that exhibit greater diagnostic efficacy (AUC = 0.96) are identified. These findings also provide insights into related metabolic pathways, which may provide valuable information for further elucidation of the pathological mechanisms underlying h‐GS PCa.
Metal‐Free Organic Dyes with Double Auxiliary Acceptors for High‐Performance Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Wubie Gebremariam Zebene , Lu Man‐Ning , Desta Mekonnen Abebayehu , Weldekirstos Hulugirgesh Degefu , Lee Mandy M. , Wu Wen‐Ti , Li Sie‐Rong , Wei Tzu‐Chien , Sun Shih‐Sheng
Published: January 2024

Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have continuously received attentions in the field of photovoltaics due to their charming properties and promising performance under the indoor dim‐light environment. Herein, two organic photosensitizers (GZ121 and GZ124) are designed with the insertion of double auxiliary acceptors in a donor‐acceptor‐π‐acceptor‐π‐acceptor (D‐A‐π‐A‐π‐A) design. The devices fabricated from these photosensitizers are investigated under one sun and dim‐light (300–6000 lux) conditions with N719 dye for comparison. The GZ124 dye achieves power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 9.43% (photocurrent density (Jsc) = 14.79 mA cm−2, photovoltage (Voc) = 0.85 V, and fill factor (FF) = 0.75) under one sun irradiation and 28.62% (Jsc = 0.99 mA cm−2, Voc = 0.68 V, and FF = 0.77) under dim‐light illumination at 6000 lux, which is far better than the reference N719 dye. Moreover, the PCE under dim light is ranked among the top as compared to DSSCs devices sensitized by a single dye. The GZ124 dye also demonstrates outstanding stability for more than 1000 h under prolonged one sun sensitization. The current studies affirm that the design of a D‐A‐π‐A‐π‐A structural framework by introducing double auxiliary acceptors in a single sensitizer is a promising approach to boost the performance of DSSCs.
Effect of Ce Addition on Inclusions and Primary Carbide Network in AISI 440C Bearing Steel
Authors: Ma Shuai , Li Yang , Jiang Zhouhua , Sun Meng , Niedeng Yunfei , Yang Rui , Wang Yucheng , Li Tianci , Chen Changyong , Liu Hang
Published: January 2024

The effects of Ce on inclusions and the primary carbide network of AISI 440C bearing steel are experimentally and theoretically investigated. Adding Ce improves the cleanliness and refinement of primary carbide networks in AISI 440C bearing steel ingots. The addition of Ce substantially reduces the contents of total oxygen (T.O) and S in the steel, and MnS and Al2O3 inclusions are modified into finer Ce‐containing inclusions (Ce2O2S and Ce2O3). When Ce is added, the average equivalent diameter of the inclusions decreases from 1.82 to 1.33 μm, and the number of inclusions per unit area (mm2) increases from 59 to 105. Moreover, the addition of Ce reduces the secondary dendrite spacing from 33.82 to 24.2 μm, and the proportion of primary carbide is reduced from 22.08% to 11.17%. The 2D lattice disregistry theory confirms that Ce2O2S and Ce2O3 inclusions can be utilized as effective heterogeneous nucleation cores for γ‐Fe, thus refining the solidification microstructure and also the primary carbide. This study provides theoretical guidelines for the fabrication of domestic AISI 440C bearing steel ingots.
Carbon Nanotubes Facilitate Silk Hierarchical Assembly by Dry Drawing
Authors: Wan Quan , Farr Nicholas T. H. , Li Peng , Batey Darren , Rau Christoph , Rodenburg John , Lu Leihao , Laity Peter R. , Xu Zongpu , Holland Chris , Rodenburg Cornelia , Yang Mingying
Published: January 2024

Biologically derived hierarchical structural materials not only boast energy‐efficient processing but also exhibit impressive mechanical performance. Silk stands as the gold standard in hierarchical fiber production, leveraging a unique combination of advantages. Nevertheless, the artificial replication of silk poses technical challenges related to precision processing and comprehensive molecular control. To address such issues, this study investigates the hierarchical assembly of solid regenerated silk in an air atmosphere, facilitated by the incorporation of carbon nanotube (CNT) seeding. Results obtained highlight that this CNT seeding facilitates multiscale structure development in response to post‐spin tensile stress. Such CNT bridged structure assembly bypasses some natural processing control variables (pH, ions) and the necessary solvent immersed state for conventional silk post‐drawing. Combining secondary electron hyperspectral imaging and 3D synchrotron X‐ray ptychotomography, this study reports silk protein conversion from a disordered as‐spun state to a longitudinal orientated semi‐crystalline nano structure during drawing. The development of microscale structure during the drawing process is attributed to the presence of CNTs, yielding mechanical properties comparable to, and frequently surpassing, those exhibited by native fibers. These findings collectively propose a framework for exploring novel processing routes and offer a practical means controlling self‐assembly in silk materials.
Revised taxonomy for two species complexes of Western Australian Isopogon (Proteaceae) using RADseq
Authors: Anderson Benjamin M. , Binks Rachel M. , Byrne Margaret , Davis Robert , Hislop Michael , Rye Barbara L.
Published: January 2024

The Australian genus Isopogon (Proteaceae) consists of approximately 39 species, most of which occur in southwestern Australia, a region of considerable endemism and biodiversity. Unresolved taxonomic issues exist for two species complexes (nine suspected taxa) allied to I. spathulatus and I. polycephalus. There is uncertainty in how to delimit species in these two complexes due to unclear or overlapping morphological characters, although recognition of four phrase‐named taxa provide starting hypotheses for potential new taxa. We used a genomic approach (ddRAD) to generate SNPs for 146 samples from 32 populations across the two complexes to evaluate the genomic distinction of taxa and delimit species. We used an optimised ipyrad assembly of the sequenced libraries, followed by custom filtering of samples and SNPs for ordination, genetic structure, distance and concatenation and coalescent phylogenetic analyses. Population genetic and phylogenetic analyses consistently supported three geographically overlapping yet genomically distinct groups, two of which showed additional genomic divergence consistent with multiple distinct species. Existing morphological hypotheses were congruent with genomic groupings in some cases but discordant in others, where genomic admixture suggested existing taxa were conspecific. Evaluating morphological characters, geographic distribution and genomic distinction, we recognise five species and three subspecies from nine original taxa. We provide a key to species in the complexes and related taxa, updated descriptions for existing taxa, and describe two new species, I. elatus sp. nov. and I. pallidus sp. nov., and two new subspecies, I. spathulatus subsp. obovatus stat. nov. and I. spathulatus subsp. elongatus subsp. nov.
Substrate promiscuity of Dicer toward precursors of the let-7 family and their 3′-end modifications
Authors: Dadhwal Gunjan , Samy Hebatallah , Bouvette Jonathan , El-Azzouzi Fatima , Dagenais Pierre , Legault Pascale
Published: January 2024

The human let-7 miRNA family consists of thirteen members that play critical roles in many biological processes, including development timing and tumor suppression, and their levels are disrupted in several diseases. Dicer is the endoribonuclease responsible for processing the precursor miRNA (pre-miRNA) to yield the mature miRNA, and thereby plays a crucial role in controlling the cellular levels of let-7 miRNAs. It is well established that the sequence and structural features of pre-miRNA hairpins such as the 5′-phosphate, the apical loop, and the 2-nt 3′-overhang are important for the processing activity of Dicer. Exceptionally, nine precursors of the let-7 family (pre-let-7) contain a 1-nt 3′-overhang and get mono-uridylated in vivo, presumably to allow efficient processing by Dicer. Pre-let-7 are also oligo-uridylated in vivo to promote their degradation and likely prevent their efficient processing by Dicer. In this study, we systematically investigated the impact of sequence and structural features of all human let-7 pre-miRNAs, including their 3′-end modifications, on Dicer binding and processing. Through the combination of SHAPE structural probing, in vitro binding and kinetic studies using purified human Dicer, we show that despite structural discrepancies among pre-let-7 RNAs, Dicer exhibits remarkable promiscuity in binding and cleaving these substrates. Moreover, the 1- or 2-nt 3′-overhang, 3′-mono-uridylation, and 3′-oligo-uridylation of pre-let-7 substrates appear to have little effect on Dicer binding and cleavage rates. Thus, this study extends current knowledge regarding the broad substrate specificity of Dicer and provides novel insight regarding the effect of 3′-modifications on binding and cleavage by Dicer.
Stationsapotheker:innen in der Intensivmedizin: ökonomische Nutzenanalyse
Authors: Liebing Nadja , Ziehr Benjamin , Röber Susanne , Nibbe Lutz , Oppert Michael , Warnke Ulrich
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

Der positive Einfluss pharmazeutischer Betreuung auf die Verbesserung der Arzneimitteltherapiesicherheit gilt als belegt. Zum ökonomischen Nutzen klinisch pharmazeutischer Dienstleistungen in Deutschland ist bisher wenig bekannt.

Ziel der Arbeit

Im Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann wurde 2020 ein Pilotprojekt zur Einführung von Stationsapotheker:innen in der Intensivmedizin gestartet, in dem auch der finanzielle Nutzen des angebotenen Medikationsmanagements ermittelt werden sollte.

Methodik

Jeder pharmazeutischen Intervention (PI) wurde durch ein Team aus erfahrenen Intensivmediziner:innen und Stationsapotheker:innen im Konsensprinzip ein Wahrscheinlichkeitswert (Nesbit-probability-Score) zugeordnet, mit dem ein unerwünschtes Arzneimittelereignis (UAE) aufgetreten wäre. Unter der Annahme, dass pro UAE eine verlängerte Liegedauer resultiert, wurden die durchschnittlichen Fallkosten der Intensivstation/Tag als Einsparungspotenzial herangezogen. Das Modell kombiniert dabei die Ergebnisse zweier internationaler Publikationen, um eine ökonomische Bilanzierung pharmazeutischer Dienstleistungen zu ermöglichen.

Ergebnisse

Im Untersuchungszeitraum wurden 177 PI ausgewertet und entsprechende Wahrscheinlichkeitswerte für das Eintreten von UAE ermittelt. Daraus wurden durch vermiedene Kosten jährliche Einsparungen von 80.000 € berechnet.

Schlussfolgerung

In diesem Projekt konnte der ökonomische Nutzen pharmazeutischer Dienstleistungen in der Intensivmedizin belegt werden. Stationsapotheker:innen sind nun fester Bestandteil des intensivmedizinischen Behandlungsteams im Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann.
The physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of black cherry tree wood (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) and its susceptibility to fungal decomposition in areas where it is secondary and invasive: a case study in the Kampinos National Park (Poland)
Authors: Marciszewska Katarzyna , Szczepkowski Andrzej , Lachowicz Hubert , Antczak Andrzej , Szadkowska Dominika , Suchodolski Jakub
Published: January 2024

The properties of black cherry mature wood (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) and its susceptibility to fungal decay were studied in the invaded range of the species on six trees aged between 39 and 47 years old growing in poor, acidic soils with varying levels of moisture and organic carbon and nitrogen content. Wood from trees that grew in wetter and richer soil had better physical properties. Of the 95 parameters analyzed, 80 showed significant differences in favor of this wood. These differences included wider rings that averaged 3.25 mm, a higher density of 662.71 kg/m3 at 12% humidity, and 1.5 times higher content of extractives. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry revealed the presence of 44 extractives. Out of these, six had antifungal properties and were found in the wood of trees grown in richer soil, corresponding to 62.93% of the peaks area of all identified substances. Only three were found in trees grown in poorer soil, corresponding to 8.68% of the peaks area respectively. The wood of trees grown in more fertile soil was also less prone to fungal decay, which was generally low. Only Trametes versicolor caused a mass loss of more than 10% of the wood in both sites out of the four basidiomycete species tested. The results indicate that even slight variations in soil fertility and moisture can benefit black cherry, leading to differences in wood features and properties in its exotic range.
The BPHZ Theorem for Regularity Structures via the Spectral Gap Inequality
Authors: Hairer Martin , Steele Rhys
Published: January 2024

We provide a relatively compact proof of the BPHZ theorem for regularity structures of decorated trees in the case where the driving noise satisfies a suitable spectral gap property, as in the Gaussian case. This is inspired by the recent work (Linares et al. in A diagram-free approach to the stochastic estimates in regularity structures, 2021. arXiv:2112.10739) in the multi-index setting, but our proof relies crucially on a novel version of the reconstruction theorem for a space of “pointed Besov modelled distributions”. As a consequence, the analytical core of the proof is quite short and self-contained, which should make it easier to adapt the proof to different contexts (such as the setting of discrete models).
Control of motor output during steady submaximal contractions is modulated by contraction history
Authors: Darendeli Abdulkerim , Enoka Roger M.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of contraction history on force steadiness and the associated EMG activity during submaximal isometric contractions performed with the dorsiflexor muscles. The key feature of the protocol was a triangular ramp contraction performed in the middle of a steady contraction at a lower target force. The target force during the ramp contraction was 20% MVC greater than that during the steady contraction. Thirty-seven healthy individuals (21 men and 16 women) performed the submaximal tasks with the ankle dorsiflexors. Electromyography (EMG) signals were recorded from tibialis anterior with a pair of surface electrodes. The coefficient of variation for force was significantly greater during the second steady contraction compared with the first one at each of the seven target forces (p < 0.015; d = 0.38–0.92). Although the average applied force during the steady contractions before and after the triangular contraction was the same (p = 0.563), the mean EMG amplitude for the steady contractions performed after the triangular contraction was significantly greater at each of the seven target forces (p < 0.0001; d = 0.44–0.68). Also, there were significant differences in mean EMG frequency between the steady contractions performed before and after the triangular contraction (p < 0.01; d = 0.13–0.82), except at 10 and 20% MVC force. The greater force fluctuations during a steady submaximal contraction after an intervening triangular contraction indicate a change in the discharge characteristics of the involved motor units.
Canine Mucosal Artificial Colon: development of a new colonic in vitro model adapted to dog sizes
Authors: Deschamps Charlotte , Denis Sylvain , Humbert Delphine , Priymenko Nathalie , Chalancon Sandrine , De Bodt Jana , Van de Wiele Tom , Ipharraguerre Ignacio , Alvarez-Acero Inma , Achard Caroline , Apper Emmanuelle , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie
Published: January 2024

Differences in dog breed sizes are an important determinant of variations in digestive physiology, mainly related to the large intestine. In vitro gut models are increasingly used as alternatives to animal experiments for technical, cost, societal, and regulatory reasons. Up to now, only one in vitro model of the canine colon incorporates the dynamics of different canine gut regions, yet no adaptations exist to reproduce size-related digestive parameters. To address this limitation, we developed a new model of the canine colon, the CANIne Mucosal ARtificial COLon (CANIM-ARCOL), simulating main physiochemical (pH, transit time, anaerobiosis), nutritional (ileal effluent composition), and microbial (lumen and mucus-associated microbiota) parameters of this ecosystem and adapted to three dog sizes (i.e., small under 10 kg, medium 10–30 kg, and large over 30 kg). To validate the new model regarding microbiota composition and activities, in vitro fermentations were performed in bioreactors inoculated with stools from 13 dogs (4 small, 5 medium, and 4 large). After a stabilization period, microbiota profiles clearly clustered depending on dog size. Bacteroidota and Firmicutes abundances were positively correlated with dog size both in vitro and in vivo, while opposite trends were observed for Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. As observed in vivo, microbial activity also increased with dog size in vitro, as evidenced from gas production, short-chain fatty acids, ammonia, and bile acid dehydroxylation. In line with the 3R regulation, CANIM-ARCOL could be a relevant platform to assess bilateral interactions between food and pharma compounds and gut microbiota, capturing inter-individual or breed variabilities.

Key points

• CANIM-ARCOL integrates main canine physicochemical and microbial colonic parameters

• Gut microbiota associated to different dog sizes is accurately maintained in vitro

• The model can help to move toward personalized approach considering dog body weight
Antimicrobial activity of lipids extracted from Hermetia illucens reared on different substrates
Authors: Franco Antonio , Scieuzo Carmen , Salvia Rosanna , Pucciarelli Valentina , Borrelli Luca , Addeo Nicola Francesco , Bovera Fulvia , Laginestra Ambrogio , Schmitt Eric , Falabella Patrizia
Published: January 2024

As the problem of antimicrobial resistance is constantly increasing, there is a renewed interest in antimicrobial products derived from natural sources, particularly obtained from innovative and eco-friendly materials. Insect lipids, due to their fatty acid composition, can be classified as natural antimicrobial compounds. In order to assess the antibacterial efficacy of Hermetia illucens lipids, we extracted this component from the larval stage, fed on different substrates and we characterized it. Moreover, we analyzed the fatty acid composition of the feeding substrate, to determine if and how it could affect the antimicrobial activity of the lipid component. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Gram-positive Micrococcus flavus and Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. Analyzing the fatty acid profiles of larval lipids that showed activity against the two bacterial strains, we detected significant differences for C4:0, C10:0, C16:1, C18:3 n3 (ALA), and C20:1. The strongest antimicrobial activity was verified against Micrococcus flavus by lipids extracted from larvae reared on strawberry, tangerine, and fresh manure substrates, with growth inhibition zones ranged from 1.38 to 1.51 mm, while only the rearing on manure showed the effect against Escherichia coli. Notably, the fatty acid profile of H. illucens seems to not be really influenced by the substrate fatty acid profile, except for C18:0 and C18:2 CIS n6 (LA). This implies that other factors, such as the rearing conditions, larval development stages, and other nutrients such as carbohydrates, affect the amount of fatty acids in insects.

Key points

• Feeding substrates influence larval lipids and fatty acids (FA)

• Generally, there is no direct correlation between substrate FAs and the same larvae FAs

• Specific FAs influence more the antimicrobial effect of BSF lipids

Graphical abstract
Meniscus root tears: state of the art
Authors: Hantouly Ashraf T. , Aminake Ghislain , Khan Anfal Sher , Ayyan Muhammad , Olory Bruno , Zikria Bashir , Al-Khelaifi Khalid
Published: January 2024

Background

Meniscus root tears represent significant pathology that, historically, has been underdiagnosed and undertreated. However, the recognition of their clinical and functional significance has recently surged, mainly due to their frequent association with anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

Aim

This comprehensive review discusses various aspects of meniscal root tears, including their epidemiology, biomechanics, etiology, clinical and radiological findings, classification, management and surgical techniques.
Graphical representation of data prediction potential: correlation graphs and correlation chains
Authors: Dudáš Adam
Published: January 2024

The correlation of the set of attributes is a crucial statistical value for the measuring of prediction potential present in a dataset. The correlation coefficient, which measures the correlation between the values of two attributes, can be used in order to measure the prediction potential between two-element subsets of a dataset containing a high number of attributes. In this way two common summary visualizations of prediction potential in datasets are formed—correlation matrices and correlation heatmaps. Both of these visualizations are focused on the presentation of correlation between pair of attributes but not much more regarding the context of correlations in the dataset. The main objective of this article is the design and implementation of graphical models usable in a visual representation of data prediction potential—correlation graphs and correlation chains—which emphasize the pseudo-transitivity of prediction potential in a dataset.
Neonatal intubation: what are we doing?
Authors: Maglio Sabina , Cavallin Francesco , Sala Chiara , Bua Benedetta , Villani Paolo Ernesto , Menciassi Arianna , Tognarelli Selene , Trevisanuto Daniele
Published: January 2024

How and when the forces are applied during neonatal intubation are currently unknown. This study investigated the pattern of the applied forces by using sensorized laryngoscopes during the intubation process in a neonatal manikin. Nine users of direct laryngoscope and nine users of straight-blade video laryngoscope were included in a neonatal manikin study. During each procedure, relevant forces were measured using a force epiglottis sensor that was placed on the distal surface of the blade. The pattern of the applied forces could be divided into three sections. With the direct laryngoscope, the first section showed either a quick rise of the force or a discontinuous rise with several peaks; after reaching the maximum force, there was a sort of plateau followed by a quick drop of the applied forces. With the video laryngoscope, the first section showed a quick rise of the force; after reaching the maximum force, there was an irregular and heterogeneous plateau, followed by heterogeneous decreases of the applied forces. Moreover, less forces were recorded when using the video laryngoscope.

    Conclusions: This neonatal manikin study identified three sections in the diagram of the forces applied during intubation, which likely mirrored the three main phases of intubation. Overall, the pattern of each section showed some differences in relation to the laryngoscope (direct or video) that was used during the procedure. These findings may provide useful insights for improving the understanding of the procedure.

What is Known:• Neonatal intubation is a life-saving procedure that requires a skilled operator and may cause direct trauma to the tissues and precipitate adverse reactions.• Intubation with a videolaryngoscope requires less force than with a direct laryngoscope, but how and when the forces are applied during the whole neonatal intubation procedure are currently unknown.

What is New:• Forces applied to the epiglottis during intubation can be divided into three sections: (i) an initial increase, (ii) a sort of plateau, and (iii) a decrease.• The pattern of each section shows some differences in relation to the laryngoscope (direct or videolaryngoscope) that is used during the procedure.
Negative interaction effect of heat and drought stress at the warm end of species distribution
Authors: Schepers Judith R. , Heblack Jessica , Willi Yvonne
Published: January 2024

Geographic range limits of species are often a reflection of their ecological niche limits. In many organisms, important niche limits that coincide with distribution limits are warm and warm-dry conditions. We investigated the effects of heat and drought, as they can occur at the warm end of distribution. In a greenhouse experiment, we raised North American Arabidopsis lyrata from the centre of its distribution as well as from low- and high-latitude limits under average and extreme conditions. We assessed plant growth and development, as well as leaf and root functional traits, and tested for a decline in performance and selection acting on growth, leaf, and root traits. Drought and heat, when applied alone, lowered plant performance, while combined stress caused synergistically negative effects. Plants from high latitudes did not survive under combined stress, whereas plants originating from central and low latitudes had low to moderate survival, indicating divergent adaptation. Traits positively associated with survival under drought, with or without heat, were delayed and slowed growth, though plastic responses in these traits were generally antagonistic to the direction of selection. In line, higher tolerance of stress in southern populations did not involve aspects of growth but rather a higher root-to-shoot ratio and thinner leaves. In conclusion, combined heat and drought, as can occur at southern range edges and presumably more so under global change, seriously impede the long-term persistence of A. lyrata, even though they impose selection and populations may adapt, though under likely interference by considerable maladaptive plasticity.
A psychological evaluation method incorporating noisy label correction mechanism
Authors: Jin Zhigang , Su Renjun , Liu Yuhong , Duan Chenxu
Published: January 2024

Using machine learning and deep learning methods to analyze text data from social media can effectively explore hidden emotional tendencies and evaluate the psychological state of social media account owners. However, the label noise caused by mislabeling may significantly influence the training and prediction results of traditional supervised models. To resolve this problem, this paper proposes a psychological evaluation method that incorporates a noisy label correction mechanism and designs an evaluation framework that consists of a primary classification model and a noisy label correction mechanism. Firstly, the social media text data are transformed into heterogeneous text graphs, and a classification model combining a pre-trained model with a graph neural network is constructed to extract semantic features and structural features, respectively. After that, the Gaussian mixture model is used to select the samples that are likely to be mislabeled. Then, soft labels are generated for them to enable noisy label correction without prior knowledge of the noise distribution information. Finally, the corrected and clean samples are composed into a new data set and re-input into the primary model for mental state classification. Results of experiments on three real data sets indicate that the proposed method outperforms current advanced models in classification accuracy and noise robustness under different noise ratio settings, and can efficiently explore the potential sentiment tendencies and users’ psychological states in social media text data.
Evaluation of FRESH scores in predicting outcome and quality of life after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage in a European patient cohort
Authors: Hofmann Björn B. , Gundlach Evgenia P. , Fischer Igor , Muhammad Sajjad , Kram Rainer , Beseoglu Kerim , Cornelius Jan F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) patients often experiencing physical and mental disabilities impacting their quality of life (QoL), routine assessment of long-term QoL data and predictive tools are limited. This study evaluates the newly developed “functional recovery expected after subarachnoid haemorrhage” (FRESH) scores with long-term outcomes and QoL in European aSAH patients.

Methods

FRESH, FRESH-cog, and FRESH-quol scores were retrospectively obtained from aSAH patients. Patients were contacted, and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), extended short form-36 (SF-36), and telephone interview for cognitive status (TICS) were collected and performed. The prognostic and empirical outcomes were compared.

Results

Out of 374 patients, 171 patients (54.1%) completed the SF-36, and 154 patients completed the TICS. The SF-36 analysis showed that 32.7% had below-average physical component summary (PCS) scores, and 39.8% had below-average mental component summary (MCS) scores. There was no significant correlation between the FRESH score and PCS (p = 0.09736), MCS (p = 0.1796), TICS (p = 0.7484), or mRS 10–82 months (average 46 months) post bleeding (p = 0.024), respectively. There was also no significant correlation found for “FRESH-cog vs. TICS” (p = 0.0311), “FRESH-quol vs. PCS” (p = 0.0204), “FRESH-quol vs. MCS” (p = 0.1361) and “FRESH-quol vs. TICS” (p = 0.1608).

Conclusions

This study found no correlation between FRESH scores and validated QoL tools in a European population of aSAH patients. The study highlights the complexity of reliable long-term QoL prognostication in aSAH patients and emphasises the need for further prospective research to also focus on QoL as an important outcome parameter.
Spigelian hernia: a multi-site review of operative outcomes of surgical repair in the adult population
Authors: Clark C. R. , Kelly M. L. , Palamuthusingam P.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Spigelian hernias arise at the linear semilunaris and account for approximately 1–2% of abdominal hernias. The aetiology is due to a defect of the aponeurosis of the transverse abdominis and when discovered, management is surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to observe operative outcomes for open and minimally invasive repair.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted at two hospitals in Townsville, The Townsville University Hospital and The Mater Private Hospital over a 10-year period (2010 to 2020). A surgical database search (ORMIS & IEMR) was performed at both locations using key search terms, including “spigelian hernia”, “laparoscopic”, “open”. Descriptive statistics were utilised to analyse patient factors and operative outcomes in the public and private setting.

Results

43 cases of Spigelian hernias (25 female, 18 male) were reported over the study period. The average age was 66. There were 36 elective cases and 7 emergency cases. A laparoscopic approach was the preferred method of repair, occurring in 74% of cases. Of these cases, the predominant hernial content was fat only. 65% of cases had a history of prior abdominal surgery unrelated to the “Spigelian belt” location. Complications occurred in 19% of cases. Other variables, such as ethnicity, smoking status, defect size, predisposing factors and recurrence rate, were analysed and did not yield statistical significance.

Conclusion

Although a small sample size, the data suggest there is no statistically significant difference between operative outcomes, complication rate and predisposing factors between open and minimally invasive case groups.