bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Synthesis of Trisubstituted Oxazoles and Imines from β‐Diketones and Amines
Authors: Wang Yangli , Zhao Xiao‐Jing , Wu Xi , Zhang Lizhu , Li Ganpeng , He Yonghui
Published: June 2022

An electrochemical oxidation reaction was developed for the synthesis of trisubstituted oxazoles and imines. The use of external oxidant and transition‐metal catalyst was avoided in the methodology. Various trisubstituted oxazoles and imines were obtained in moderate to excellent yields. The mechanism studies propose the electrochemical reaction involves a radical process.
Direct Comparison of Subvalent, Polycationic Group 13 Cluster Compounds: Lessons learned on Isoelectronic DMPE Substituted Gallium and Indium Tetracation Salts
Authors: Barthélemy Antoine , Scherer Harald , Krossing Ingo
Published: June 2022

The tetracationic, univalent cluster compounds [{M(dmpe)}4]4+ (M=Ga, In; dmpe=bis(dimethylphosphino)ethane) were synthesized as their pf salts ([pf]−=[Al(ORF)4]−; RF=C(CF3)3). The four‐membered ring in [{M(dmpe)}4]4+ is slightly puckered for M=Ga and almost square planar for M=In. Yet, although structurally similar, only the gallium cluster is prevalent in solution, while the indium cluster forms temperature dependent equilibria that include even the monomeric cation [In(dmpe)]+. This system is the first report of one and the same ligand inducing formation of isoelectronic and isostructural gallium/indium cluster cations. The system allows to study systematically analogies and differences with thermodynamic considerations and bonding analyses, but also to outline perspectives for bond activation using cationic, subvalent group 13 clusters.
Bench‐Stable Dinuclear Mn(I) Catalysts in E‐Selective Alkyne Semihydrogenation: A Mechanistic Investigation**
Authors: Abhyankar Preshit C. , MacMillan Samantha N. , Lacy David C.
Published: June 2022

Dinuclear manganese hydride complexes of the form [Mn2(CO)8(μ‐H)(μ‐PR2)] (R=Ph, 1; R=iPr, 2) were used in E‐selective alkyne semi‐hydrogenation (E‐SASH) catalysis. Catalyst speciation studies revealed rich coordination chemistry and the complexes thus formed were isolated and in turn tested as catalysts; the results underscore the importance of dinuclearity in engendering the observed E‐selectivity and provide insights into the nature of the active catalyst. The insertion product obtained from treating 2 with (cyclopropylethynyl)benzene contains a cis‐alkenyl bridging ligand with the cyclopropyl ring being intact. Treatment of this complex with H2 affords exclusively trans‐(2‐cyclopropylvinyl)benzene. These results, in addition to other control experiments, indicate a non‐radical mechanism for E‐SASH, which is highly unusual for Mn−H catalysts. The catalytically active species are virtually inactive towards cis to trans alkene isomerization indicating that the E‐selective process is intrinsic and dinuclear complexes play a critical role. A reaction mechanism is proposed accounting for the observed reactivity which is fully consistent with a kinetic analysis of the rate limiting step and is further supported by DFT computations.
Adipocytes contribute to tumor progression and invasion of peritoneal metastasis by interacting with gastric cancer cells as cancer associated fibroblasts
Authors: Hamabe‐Horiike Toshihide , Harada Shin‐ichi , Yoshida Kyoko , Kinoshita Jun , Yamaguchi Takahisa , Fushida Sachio
Published: June 2022

Background

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is one of the most common causes of noncurative surgery and the most frequent recurrence pattern in gastric cancer (GC). During the process of PM, GC cells detached from primary tumor interact with human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) overlapped with adipose tissues such as the omentum or mesentery. Although the interaction with HPMC promotes the malignancy of GC, the role of adipose tissues remains unclear.

Aims

We aimed to clarify how adipose tissue are affected by adjacent primary tumors during the expression of adipokines and to elucidate whether GC cells transform adipocytes into CAFs in vitro. In addition, we investigated whether GC cells are affected by adipocytes in their ability to infiltrate.

Methods

We investigated the phenotypic conversion of adipocytes during the malignant process of GC cells in vivo and in vitro. We evaluated the expression levels of adiponectin in the omental adipose tissue of gastric cancer patients by western blotting. Following adipocytes/gastric cancer cells coculture, adipocyte markers, adiponectin receptors, and inflammatory cytokine markers were detected by real‐time PCR and/or western blotting in the single‐cultured and co‐cultured adipocytes; cancer‐associated fibroblast (CAF) markers were detected by immunofluorescence and western blotting in the single‐cultured and co‐cultured adipocytes; invasion assays were performed in single cultured and co‐cultured MKN45 and OCUM.

Results

In omental adipose tissues that are situated close to the primary tumors, the expression of adiponectin tended to decrease in patients with subserosal or serosal invasion. By co‐culturing with GC cells, adipocytes were dedifferentiated and the expression levels of CAF marker FSP1 and inflammatory cytokines, PAI‐1 and IL‐6, significantly increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, GC cells co‐cultured with adipocytes showed enhanced invasion ability.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the phenotypic conversion of adipocytes may promote the malignancy of GC in the construction of the cancer microenvironment of PM.
YTHDF2 promotes intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma progression and desensitises cisplatin treatment by increasing CDKN1B mRNA degradation
Authors: Huang Chen‐Song , Zhu Ying‐Qin , Xu Qiong‐Cong , Chen Siyun , Huang Yue , Zhao Guangyin , Ni Xuhao , Liu Bo , Zhao Wei , Yin Xiao‐Yu
Published: June 2022

Background

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is an aggressive cancer with exceedingly poor prognosis, and chemoresistance is a huge challenge for treatment. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification plays an important role in the progression and chemoresistance of cancers. We aimed to investigate the oncogenic function and therapeutic significance of the m6A binding protein, YTH domain family 2 (YTHDF2), in ICC progression and cisplatin‐based chemotherapy.

Methods

Several independent data sets were used to assess the expression of YTHDF2 in ICC, particularly in chemoresistant ICC. Knockdown and overexpression were used to evaluate the effects of YTHDF2 on tumourigenesis and cisplatin response in ICC. Multi‐omics sequencing was performed to identify target genes. RIP, dual luciferase reporter, RNA stability experiment and loss‐of‐function assays were conducted to study the mechanisms underlying the oncogenic function of YTHDF2. Furthermore, patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) model was established to determine the effect of combination treatment of YTHDF2 siRNA and cisplatin in ICC.

Results

Our study showed that YTHDF2 was upregulated in ICC tissues, particularly in chemoresistant ICC tissues, and correlated with poor prognosis. Furthermore, silencing YTHDF2 led to inhibited proliferation, promoted apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Its downregulation also enhanced DNA damage and sensitised ICC cells to cisplatin. YTHDF2 overexpression exerted the opposite results. Integration analysis using RNA‐seq, MeRIP‐seq and anti‐YTHDF2 RIP‐seq elucidated the role of YTHDF2 in tumourigenesis and cisplatin‐desensitising function by promoting the degradation of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B) mRNA in an m6A‐dependent manner. Downregulation of CDKN1B increased the YTHDF2 silencing‐induced influence on tumourigenesis and cisplatin response to ICC. In addition, the combination treatment of YTHDF2 siRNA and cisplatin significantly enhanced the anti‐tumour effect of cisplatin in a chemoresistant ICC PDX model.

Conclusions

YTHDF2 exhibits tumour oncogenic and cisplatin‐desensitising properties, which may offer insight into the development of novel combination therapeutic strategies for ICC.
Genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 screening for therapeutic targets in NSCLC carrying wild‐type TP53 and receptor tyrosine kinase genes
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Li Jun , Zhu Jing , Mao Jiaqi , Duan Chao , Liang Xiao , Zhu Lingyun , Zhu Mengyan , Zhang Zhihong , Lin Fan , Guo Renhua
Published: June 2022

Background

Targeted drugs have greatly improved the therapeutic outcome of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients compared with conventional chemotherapy, whereas about one‐third of patients are so far not suitable for targeted therapy due to lack of known driver oncogenes such as a mutated receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genes. In this study, we aimed to identify therapeutic targets for this subgroup of NSCLC patients.

Methods

We performed genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 screens in two NSCLC cell lines carrying wild‐type TP53 and receptor tyrosine kinase (wtTP53‐RTK) genes using a GeCKO v2.0 lentiviral library (containing 123411 sgRNAs and targeting 19050 genes). MAGeCKFlute was used to analyse and identify candidate genes. Genetic perturbation and pharmacological inhibition were used to validate the result in vitro and in vivo.

Results

The Genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 screening identified MDM2 as a potential therapeutic target for wtTP53‐RTK NSCLC. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of MDM2 reduced cell proliferation and impaired tumour growth in the xenograft model, thus confirming the finding of the CRISPR/Cas9 screening. Moreover, treatment by a selective MDM2 inhibitor RG7388 triggered both cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in several NSCLC cell lines. Additionally, RG7388 and pemetrexed synergistically blocked the cell proliferation and growth of wtTP53‐RTK tumours but had limited effects for other genotypes.

Conclusions

We identified MDM2 as an essential gene and a potential therapeutic target in wtTP53‐RTK NSCLC via a genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 screening. For this subgroup, treatment by RG7388 alone or by its combination with pemetrexed resulted in significant tumour inhibition.
Plot size matters: Toward comparable species richness estimates across plot‐based inventories
Authors: Portier Jeanne , Zellweger Florian , Zell Jürgen , Alberdi Asensio Iciar , Bosela Michal , Breidenbach Johannes , Šebeň Vladimír , Wüest Rafael O. , Rohner Brigitte
Published: June 2022

To understand the state and trends in biodiversity beyond the scope of monitoring programs, biodiversity indicators must be comparable across inventories. Species richness (SR) is one of the most widely used biodiversity indicators. However, as SR increases with the size of the area sampled, inventories using different plot sizes are hardly comparable. This study aims at producing a methodological framework that enables SR comparisons across plot‐based inventories with differing plot sizes. We used National Forest Inventory (NFI) data from Norway, Slovakia, Spain, and Switzerland to build sample‐based rarefaction curves by randomly incrementally aggregating plots, representing the relationship between SR and sampled area. As aggregated plots can be far apart and subject to different environmental conditions, we estimated the amount of environmental heterogeneity (EH) introduced in the aggregation process. By correcting for this EH, we produced adjusted rarefaction curves mimicking the sampling of environmentally homogeneous forest stands, thus reducing the effect of plot size and enabling reliable SR comparisons between inventories. Models were built using the Conway–Maxell–Poisson distribution to account for the underdispersed SR data. Our method successfully corrected for the EH introduced during the aggregation process in all countries, with better performances in Norway and Switzerland. We further found that SR comparisons across countries based on the country‐specific NFI plot sizes are misleading, and that our approach offers an opportunity to harmonize pan‐European SR monitoring. Our method provides reliable and comparable SR estimates for inventories that use different plot sizes. Our approach can be applied to any plot‐based inventory and count data other than SR, thus allowing a more comprehensive assessment of biodiversity across various scales and ecosystems.
Cyclization Strategies Using Imide Derivatives for the Synthesis of Polycyclic Nitrogen‐Containing Compounds
Authors: Quevedo‐Acosta Yovanny , Jurberg Igor D. , Gamba‐Sánchez Diego
Published: June 2022

Cyclization strategies employing imides and their derivatives have attracted the attention of several organic chemists interested in synthesizing polycyclic alkaloids. Numerous strategies have been developed, mostly focused on i) the use of masked iminium ions, ii) addition of weak nucleophiles onto the carbonyl group of the imide being activated by a Lewis or Brønsted acid, iii) addition of strong nucleophiles onto the imide carbonyl, iv) radical‐based processes and v) miscellaneous methods. This review is not comprehensive. It aims to provide the reader with a selection of representative synthetic strategies available in the area up to date.
Rapid Determination of Hydrogen Peroxide in Milk with Non‐enzymatic Amperometric Sensor Based on Porous Gold Modified Screen‐printed Electrode in Online Dialysis System
Authors: Maksuk Chakkarin , Tinala Chonnatee , Somboot Wasin , Jakmunee Jaroon , Marken Frank , Kanyanee Tinakorn
Published: June 2022

A rapid method for determination of hydrogen peroxide based on a non‐enzymatic amperometric sensor with an online dialysis unit was developed for analysis of sample with complicated matrices. A porous gold modified gold screen‐printed electrode was prepared by a simple method using 9 V‐battery electrodeposition. Based on data from amperometry, a linear dynamic range can be obtained in the range of 10 to 1000 μmol L−1, with a limit of detection of 0.37 μmol L−1. The proposed system was successfully applied to determine H2O2 in various milk samples with rapid analysis, high electrode stability, and excellent repeatability (1.95 % RSD with 100 replications).
Reconstruction of past human land use from pollen data and anthropogenic land cover changes
Authors: Pirzamanbein Behnaz , Lindström Johan
Published: June 2022

Accurate maps of past land cover and human land use are necessary for studying the impact of anthropogenic land‐cover changes, such as deforestation, on the climate. The maps of past land cover should ideally be separated into naturally occurring vegetation and human‐induced changes, thereby enabling the quantification of the effect of human land use on the past climate. We developed a Bayesian hierarchical model that combines fossil pollen‐based reconstructions of actual land cover with estimates of past human land use. The model interpolates the fractions of unforested land as well as coniferous and broadleaved forest from the pollen data, and uses the human land‐use estimates to decompose the unforested land into natural vegetation and human deforestation. This results in maps of both natural and human‐induced vegetation, which can be used by climate modelers to quantify the influence of deforestation on the past climate. The model was applied to five time periods from 1900 CE to 4000 BCE over Europe. The model uses a latent Gaussian Markov random field (GMRF) for the interpolation and Markov chain Monte Carlo for the estimation. The sparse precision matrix of the GMRF, together with an adaptive Metropolis‐adjusted Langevin step, allows for rapid inference.
Performance enhancement of a solar still using magnetic powder as an energy storage medium‐exergy and environmental analysis
Authors: Dhivagar Ramasamy , Shoeibi Shahin , Kargarsharifabad Hadi , Ahmadi Mohammad Hossein , Sharifpur Mohsen
Published: June 2022

The use of different energy storage materials can have a high effect on the water productivity of solar desalination. This study evaluates the impact of magnetic powders on modified solar still (MPSS) performance and compares the results with conventional solar still (CSS). Black iron oxide magnetic powder was selected to increase solar radiation absorption. The black iron magnetic powder simultaneously acts as a thermal storage material and a porous absorber medium. The thermal energy stored in the magnetic powder improved the performance of the MPSS during peak solar irradiation hours, resulting in higher productivity. The results showed that the thermal performance of MPSS was higher than CSS. The MPSS exhibited a 39.8% higher evaporative and 14.5% higher convective heat transfer rate compared with CSS. Results showed that the cumulative water productivity of MPSS was 31.2% greater than CSS. Also, the energy and exergy efficiencies of MPSS were improved by 18.9% and 19.04%, respectively, compared with CSS. Moreover, the predicted payback period in MPSS and CSS were 3.2 and 4.3 months. Additionally, the CO2 reduction of MPSS was improved by approximately 45.53% compared with that of CSS. The results also showed that the exergoeconomic parameter of MPSS and CSS with energy base was equal to 33.1 and 24.56 kWh/$, respectively.
Generations
Authors: Ghosh Sahana , Sehdev Megha Sharma
Published: June 2022

The notion of generations runs through feminist theory, rendering it singular and disciplining its proper subjects—but might there be modes of generational thought that explode the bounds of linearity and propriety, offering ways to think of kinship and generativity amid and despite conditions of violence? Drawing on ethnography situated in South Asia, and the gendered insights that emerge from it, we reflect on feminist knowledge as a site of kinship that complicates any simple picture of inheritance and lineage. Affiliations of thought, practice, and relating might be characterized instead by a range of gendered practices which are constituted by, and draw attention to, modes and processes such as gathering and dispersal; impasse and reconnection; and recognition and uncertainty.
Ballistocardiogram suppression in concurrent EEG‐MRI by dynamic modeling of heartbeats
Authors: Lee Hsin‐Ju , Graham Simon J. , Kuo Wen‐Jui , Lin Fa‐Hsuan
Published: June 2022

The ballistocardiogram (BCG), the induced electric potentials by the head motion originating from heartbeats, is a prominent source of noise in electroencephalography (EEG) data during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although methods have been proposed to suppress the BCG artifact, more work considering the variability of cardiac cycles and head motion across time and subjects is needed to provide highly robust correction. Here, a method called “dynamic modeling of heartbeats” (DMH) is proposed to reduce BCG artifacts in EEG data recorded inside an MRI system. The DMH method models BCG artifacts by combining EEG points at time instants with similar dynamics. The modeled BCG artifact is then subtracted from the EEG recording to suppress the BCG artifact. Performance of DMH was tested and specifically compared with the Optimal Basis Set (OBS) method on EEG data recorded inside a 3T MRI system with either no MRI acquisition (Inside‐MRI), echo‐planar imaging (EPI‐EEG), or fast MRI acquisition using simultaneous multi‐slice and inverse imaging methods (SMS‐InI‐EEG). In a steady‐state visual evoked response (SSVEP) paradigm, the 15‐Hz oscillatory neuronal activity at the visual cortex after DMH processing was about 130% of that achieved by OBS processing for Inside‐MRI, SMS‐InI‐EEG, and EPI‐EEG conditions. The DMH method is computationally efficient for suppressing BCG artifacts and in the future may help to improve the quality of EEG data recorded in high‐field MRI systems for neuroscientific and clinical applications.
Foreign exchange market asymmetries in Pacific small island developing states: Evidence from Fiji
Authors: Jain Devendra Kumar , Singh Rup , Patel Arvind , Chand Ronal
Published: June 2022

After abandoning Bretton Wood, the foreign exchange market has been dominated by three types of economies: export‐oriented economies (China and other Asian countries), commodity economies (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and oil exporting nations) and reserve‐currency economies (US, EU, UK, and Swiss). As a result, the asymmetric development of the foreign exchange market has reduced the monetary and fiscal space for PSIDS, which face structural challenges such as a low population base, import dependence, aid dependency, climate risk, and political uncertainty. The ‘Exchange Market Pressure Index’ (EMPI) for Fiji is developed in this article to quantify the pressure on the exchange rate and monetary authorities' responses to micromanaging balance sheet impacts. The calculated EMPI accurately reflects four instances of financial distress in Fiji, including significant exchange market pressure in response to growing trade deficits and external debt, the global financial crisis's contagion effect, and political uncertainty. Our EMP Index's robustness is attributed in part to the employment of a dynamic time series estimate method, a time‐varying weighing scheme, and a high‐frequency monthly dataset.
Placental pathology and neonatal encephalopathy
Authors: Fox Aine , Doyle Emma , Geary Michael , Hayes Breda
Published: June 2022

Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide; however, there remain gaps in our knowledge about its pathogenesis. The placenta has been implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease but conclusive evidence related to the placental factors that influence it is sparse. This review aims to outline the current knowledge on the role of the placenta with particular attention to its role in NE as a consequence of hypoxia‐ischemia. A total of 26 original articles/review papers were used to compile this review. Three themes were identified from these publications: fetal vascular malperfusion including umbilical cord pathology, inflammatory changes in the placenta, and maternal vascular malperfusion including placental weight. These features were identified as being significant in the development of NE. Advancing our understanding of this relationship between placental pathology and NE may facilitate the development of additional antenatal screening to better identify at‐risk fetuses. We highlight areas for further research through antenatal screening and placental histology.
Non‐immune‐mediated anaphylaxis to synthetic oxytocin during labor
Authors: Srinivasan Shyam Prakaash Bhagavata , Seth Ishith , Bulloch Gabriella , Mills Alexander , Dhupar Nita
Published: June 2022

We presented a rare case of non‐immune‐mediated anaphylaxis to synthetic oxytocin during labor in a healthy 26‐year‐old. Further immunological testing of concomitant ingredients used with synthetic oxytocin were unremarkable, indicative of a true non‐immune‐mediated anaphylaxis reaction.
Longitudinal associations between parent degree/occupation, parent support, and adolescent motivational beliefs in STEM
Authors: Hsieh Ta‐Yang , Simpkins Sandra D.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The United States struggles with racial/ethnic disparities in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) degrees and occupations. According to situated expectancy‐value theory, the experience and knowledge parents gain through STEM degrees and occupations shape the STEM support they provide and relatedly their adolescents' STEM motivational beliefs.

Methods

We analyzed data from the High School Longitudinal Study (N = 14,000; 50% female; Mage = 14 years old at 9th grade), which is a recent U.S. data set that surveyed a nationally representative sample of adolescents.

Results and Conclusions

Results showed that parent STEM support in 9th grade and adolescent STEM motivational beliefs in 11th grade were lower in families where parents did not have a STEM degree/occupation than in families where at least one parent had a STEM degree/occupation. Our within‐group analyses suggested that parents' STEM support was generally positively related to adolescents' STEM motivational beliefs among families where parents did not have a STEM degree/occupation for all racial/ethnic groups except Black adolescents. However, these relations were not significant among adolescents who had a parent STEM degree/occupation. Furthermore, although Asian and White adolescents' parents were more likely to hold a STEM degree/occupation than Latina/o and Black adolescents' parents, the associations between parent STEM support and adolescents' STEM motivational beliefs emerged for Asian, Latina/o, and White adolescents.
Identification of several senescence‐associated genes signature in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhou Chong‐Chang , Sun Hong‐Cun , Li Qun , Hu Jian‐Dao , Jiang Tao , Zhou Shao
Published: June 2022

Background

As one of the core aging processes, cellular senescence is associated with tumorigenesis, growth, and immune modulation in cancers. Nevertheless, the prognosis of senescence‐associated genes (SAGs) signature in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains to be further evaluated.

Methods

The transcriptome and corresponding clinical datasets of SAGs in patients with HNSCC were downloaded from public databases. A new prognostic SAGs signature was established with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator discussion. Patients with HNSCC were fallen into two risk groups based on each sample's risk mark and the cutoff point. The survival analysis was extended to determine the predictive accuracy of the SAGs signature. Furthermore, the evaluation of SAGs signature was made according to clinicopathological characteristics, survival state, the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and efficacy of immunotherapy.

Results

41 SAGs were recognized and adopted to establish the forecast signature. The survival analysis indicated that patients with HNSCC in the high‐senescent score group had significantly reduced overall survival compared with those in the low‐senescent score group. It was certified that the risk score of SAGs signature was a separate predicting agent for HNSCC applying Cox regression analysis. According to functional analysis, some immune‐associated pathways were increased in the low‐senescent score group significantly. High‐senescent score group was correlated with poor clinicopathological characteristics, given less the infiltration of inflammatory cells state and worse immunotherapeutic effect.

Conclusion

A new SAG signature predicting result and response to immunotherapy of HNSCC was identified. Cellular senescence may be a hidden target for HNSCC.
Predictive value of the apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio in intracerebral hemorrhage outcomes
Authors: Alsamani Rasha , Limin Zhang , Jianwei Wu , Dan Wang , Yuehong Sun , Ziwei Liu , Huiwen Xu , Dongzhi Wang , Yijun Shi , Lingye Qian , Xingquan Zhao , Guojun Zhang
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims

The apolipoprotein B (apoB)/apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1) ratio is a key indicator in predicting future cardiovascular outcomes. However, it is still unclear whether the ratio of apoB/apoA1 is a better predictor of the outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Therefore, we aimed to assess the relationships between the ratio of apoB/apoA1 and functional outcomes, all‐cause mortality, and stroke recurrence in ICH patients.

Methods

Two hundred and sixteen Chinese ICH patients participated in this study from December 2018 to December 2019. Laboratory routine tests including hematology analysis, coagulation tests, and lipid levels were examined. The clinical outcomes included functional outcomes evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale score (mRS), all‐cause death, and stroke recurrence 1 year after discharge. Associations between the apoB/apoA1 ratio and the outcomes were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Based on multivariate analysis, we constructed a nomogram. Univariate survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test. All the patients were classified into two groups by the median value of the apoB/apoA1 ratio: B1 < 0.8 and B2 ≥ 0.8.

Results

Of the 216 patients, 107 had an apoB/apoA1 ratio ≥ 0.8. Eighty‐five patients had poor functional outcomes (mRS ≥ 3), and 32 patients had severe functional outcomes (mRS ≥ 4). During the 1‐year follow‐up, a total of 18 patients died, and 13 patients had apoB/apoA1 ratio levels ≥0.8 during the 1‐year follow‐up period. Moreover, 16 recurrent strokes were recorded. Adjustments for age, sex, smoking, alcohol, body mass index, lipid levels, and hematoma site and volume showed that a high apoB/apoA1 ratio was significantly related to adverse functional outcomes and all‐cause mortality. The ORs for B2 versus B1 were 3.76 (95% CI: 1.37 to 10.40, p = 0.010), 22.74 (95% CI: 1.08 to 474.65, p = 0.044), and 7.23 (95% CI: 1.28 to 40.88, p = 0.025) for poor functional outcomes with mRS ≥ 3, mRS ≥ 4, and all‐cause mortality, respectively.

Conclusion

An increased apoB/apoA1 ratio at admission was independently related to poor functional outcome and all‐cause mortality in ICH patients at the 1‐year follow‐up.
Effects of sugar cane extract on steroidogenesis in testicular interstitial cells of male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Pu Shaoxia , Kobayashi Shohei , Mizu Masami , Furuta Toma , Nagaoka Kentaro , Gore Andrea C. , Crews David , Watanabe Gen
Published: June 2022

Sugar cane extract (SCE) is the end product of glucose, fructose, and sucrose elimination in molasses. SCE has various biological effects, such as anti‐inflammation and antioxidation, and it is commonly found in animal feed. The present research is aimed at investigating the reproductive endocrine influence of SCE in male Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) by feeding SCE containing food. In addition, in vitro Leydig cell culture was conducted to clarify the mechanism of SCE's influence. Our results showed that SCE feed extended the latency to the first neck grab, decreased male quail testis and epididymis weights, cloaca gland size, and reduced serum testosterone concentrations. Steroidogenic enzymes 3βHSD, 17βHSD, P450c17, and P450scc gene expression in the testis were decreased in the SCE groups. Western blot analysis showed decreased 3βHSD in the testis after feeding SCE. Isolated testicular interstitial cells cultured with SCE and ovine‐LH suppressed testosterone secretion and 3βHSD gene expression. In conclusion, SCE as a feed additive has an impact on the sexual behavior and reproductive function of male Japanese quail, with the suppression of steroidogenesis in the Leydig cell. Our results may provide beneficial information to the livestock management and the poultry industry.
Oncoviruses and melanomas: A retrospective study and literature review
Authors: Ciccarese Giulia , Drago Francesco , Broccolo Francesco , Pastorino Angela , Pizzatti Laura , Atzori Laura , Pilloni Luca , Santinelli Davide , Urbani Alice , Parodi Aurora , Tomasini Carlo , Rongioletti Franco
Published: June 2022

The role of human oncoviruses in melanoma has been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between oncoviruses and melanomas searching for human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV), and human herpesvirus 8DNA in melanoma specimens. Formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens of cutaneous, mucosal, and ocular melanomas (OM) were selected from the Pathology Departments of the Galliera Hospital (Genoa) and the University Hospitals of Turin and Cagliari. Cutaneous and mucosal nevi have been collected as controls. The oncoviruses search has been performed with different polymerase chain reaction reagent kits. Fifty‐four melanomas (25 mucosal, 12 ocular, and 17 cutaneous) and 26 nevi (15 cutaneous and 11 mucosal) specimens were selected. The detection rate for one of the investigated oncoviruses was 17% in mucosal, 20% in ocular, and 0% in cutaneous melanomas (CMs). Despite the differences between groups seeming remarkable, there was no statistical significance (p > 0.5). Our data do not support a primary role of oncoviruses in melanoma carcinogenesis; however, the finding of HPV and EBV DNA in a considerable fraction of mucosal and OMs suggests that these viruses may act as cofactors in the development of extra‐CMs.
The beauty of diversity in cognitive neuroscience: The case of sex‐related effects in language production networks
Authors: Marini Andrea
Published: June 2022

Over the past few decades, several studies have focused on potential sex‐related differences in the trajectories of language development and functioning. From a behavioral point of view, the available literature shows controversial results: differences between males and females in language production tasks may not always be detectable and, even when they are, are potentially biased by sociological and educational confounding factors. The problem regarding potential sex‐related differences in language production has also been investigated at the neural level, again with controversial results. The current minireview focuses on studies assessing sex‐related differences in the neural networks of language production. After providing a theoretical framework of language production, it is shown that the few available investigations have provided mixed results. The major reasons for discrepant findings are discussed with theoretical and methodological implications for future studies.
Exploring the structure of pure germanophospate glasses with different concentrations probed by magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Hussein A. Wahab M. A. , Rekik Najeh , Farooq Umer , Chebaane Saleh , Affan Hira , Albaid Abdelhamid , Aslam Affia , Alfhaid Latifah H. K.
Published: June 2022

Phosphate‐based glasses such as pure germanophosphate can be achieved at moderately low temperature by means of affordable chemical substances. Nowadays, they become more stimulating because they can be easily doped with alkali, transition metal ions, and rare earth oxides to afford the anticipated physical and/or chemical features for nanoscience applications. Herein, we report an experimental study dealing with the structure of pure germanophosphate glass samples of
prepared with different concentrations ranging from 20 up to 70 mole%. 31P magic angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has been employed to characterize the co‐formed glasses by two different glass‐forming oxides. The components of the phosphate species (
) in each sample were determined by analyzing the MAS NMR spectra. Interestingly, 31P MAS NMR spectrum for each sample was found to be characteristic powder patterns of the middle units Q2. Q2  unit found herein has one oxygen atom bonded towards one germanium atom (non‐bridging) and the other two oxygens are bonding towards two phosphorus atoms (bridging) of phosphate group (PO4). The results show that Q2 split into two units, Q2I and Q2II, due to different shielding of the phosphorus nucleus provided by the next nearest neighbor atoms. The chemical shift is interpreted in terms of the structure of each building unit of the phosphate group. The results obtained herein shed light on the way how to explore the revealed structure of the prepared glasses for the development of supported catalysts. Indeed, owing to their high chemical/thermal stability, the co‐formed germanophosphate glasses obtained may prove as useful substrates for potential nanocatalysts.
Accelerating Brain Imaging Using a Silent Spatial Encoding Axis
Authors: Versteeg Edwin , Klomp Dennis W. J. , Siero Jeroen C. W.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To characterize the acceleration capabilities of a silent head insert gradient axis that operates at the inaudible frequency of 20 kHz and a maximum gradient amplitude of 40 mT/m without inducing peripheral nerve stimulation.

Methods

The silent gradient axis' acquisitions feature an oscillating gradient in the phase‐encoding direction that is played out on top of a cartesian readout, similarly as done in Wave‐CAIPI. The additional spatial encoding fills k‐space in readout lanes allowing for the acquisition of fewer phase‐encoding steps without increasing aliasing artifacts. Fully sampled 2D gradient echo datasets were acquired both with and without the silent readout. All scans were retrospectively undersampled (acceleration factors R = 1 to 12) to compare conventional SENSE acceleration and acceleration using the silent gradient. The silent gradient amplitude and the readout bandwidth were varied to investigate the effect on artifacts and g‐factor.

Results

The silent readout reduced the g‐factor for all acceleration factors when compared to SENSE acceleration. Increasing the silent gradient amplitude from 31.5 mT/m to 40 mT/m at an acceleration factor of 10 yielded a reduction in the average g‐factor (gavg) from 1.3 ± 0.14 (gmax = 1.9) to 1.1 ± 0.09 (gmax = 1.6). Furthermore, reducing the number of cycles increased the readout bandwidth and the g‐factor that reached gavg = 1.5 ± 0.16 for a readout bandwidth of 651 Hz/pixel and an acceleration factor of R = 8.

Conclusion

A silent gradient axis enables high acceleration factors up to R = 10 while maintaining a g‐factor close to unity (gavg = 1.1 and gmax = 1.6) and can be acquired with clinically relevant readout bandwidths.
Automated detection of vascular remodeling in tumor‐draining lymph nodes by the deep‐learning tool HEV‐finder
Authors: Bekkhus Tove , Avenel Christophe , Hanna Sabella , Franzén Boger Mathias , Klemm Anna , Bacovia Daniel Vasiliu , Wärnberg Fredrik , Wählby Carolina , Ulvmar Maria H
Published: June 2022

Vascular remodeling is common in human cancer and has potential as future biomarkers for prediction of disease progression and tumor immunity status. It can also affect metastatic sites, including the tumor‐draining lymph nodes (TDLNs). Dilation of the high endothelial venules (HEVs) within TDLNs has been observed in several types of cancer. We recently demonstrated that it is a premetastatic effect that can be linked to tumor invasiveness in breast cancer. Manual visual assessment of changes in vascular morphology is a tedious and difficult task, limiting high‐throughput analysis. Here we present a fully automated approach for detection and classification of HEV dilation. By using 12,524 manually classified HEVs, we trained a deep‐learning model and created a graphical user interface for visualization of the results. The tool, named the HEV‐finder, selectively analyses HEV dilation in specific regions of the lymph nodes. We evaluated the HEV‐finder's ability to detect and classify HEV dilation in different types of breast cancer compared to manual annotations. Our results constitute a successful example of large‐scale, fully automated, and user‐independent, image‐based quantitative assessment of vascular remodeling in human pathology and lay the ground for future exploration of HEV dilation in TDLNs as a biomarker. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Recognition of monocarboxylic acids by imidazole‐containing receptors
Authors: Prajapati Sunita , Sinha Puspita , Suryavanshi Kishor Kumar , Jana Subrata
Published: June 2022

The recognition of different monocarboxylic acids by a group of substituted imidazoles containing pyridyl moiety has been studied. This work highlights the substituent effects as well as the position of “nitrogen” in the attached pyridine moiety of the hosts during the recognition process. The strongest recognition ability is observed if the receptor contains the 2‐pyridyl moiety. The binding ability is weak for the imidazoles with a 3‐pyridyl unit, and it is close to the phenyl‐substituted imidazoles. The size of the monocarboxylic acids also plays a crucial role in the formation of the host–guest complexes. In all the cases, host and guest bind in 2:1 mode of complexation. This type of interaction is due to the angular supramolecular arrangement of two host molecules generating a cavity to bind the carboxylic acid through three‐ or four‐point hydrogen bonding. The phenyl substituents at the imidazole also slightly enhance the association of hosts and guests. The 1H NMR studies clearly demonstrate a host–guest interaction without any proton transfer in a neutral organic medium.
Evaluation of novel 3D-printed and conventional thermoplastic stereotactic high-precision patient fixation masks for radiotherapy
Authors: Miron Veronika M. , Etzelstorfer Tanja , Kleiser Raimund , Raffelsberger Tobias , Major Zoltan , Geinitz Hans
Published: June 2022

Purpose

For stereotactic radiation therapy of intracranial malignancies, a patient’s head needs to be immobilized with high accuracy. Fixation devices such as invasive stereotactic head frames or non-invasive thermoplastic mask systems are often used. However, especially stereotactic high-precision masks often cause discomfort for patients due to a long manufacturing time during which the patient is required to lie still and because the face is covered, including the mouth, nose, eyes, and ears. To avoid these issues, the target was to develop a non-invasive 3D-printable mask system with at least the accuracy of the high-precision masks, for producing masks which can be manufactured in the absence of patients and which allow the eyes, mouth, and nose to be uncovered during therapy.

Methods

For four volunteers, a personalized 3D-printed mask based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data was designed and manufactured using fused filament fabrication (FFF). Additionally, for each of the volunteers, a conventional thermoplastic stereotactic high-precision mask from Brainlab AG (Munich, Germany) was fabricated. The intra-fractional fixation accuracy for each mask and volunteer was evaluated using the motion-correction algorithm of functional MRI measurements with and without guided motion.

Results

The average values for the translations and rotations of the volunteers’ heads lie in the range between ±1 mm and ±1° for both masks. Interestingly, the standard deviations and the relative and absolute 3D displacements are lower for the 3D-printed masks compared to the Brainlab masks.

Conclusion

It could be shown that the intra-fractional fixation accuracy of the 3D-printed masks was higher than for the conventional stereotactic high-precision masks.
Prevalence of coronary calcification on preoperative computed tomography and its management in thoracic surgery
Authors: Machino Ryusuke , Shimoyama Koichiro , Oku Koji , Yamasaki Kazumi , Tagawa Tsutomu
Published: June 2022

Purpose

We investigated the preoperative assessment of coronary artery calcification using computed tomography for appropriate intraoperative management to reduce the risk of perioperative cardiac complications during pulmonary resection.

Methods

Patients (n = 665) who underwent anatomical lung resection were examined. The extent of preoperative asymptomatic coronary artery stenosis or cardiac complications in patients with coronary artery calcification was assessed. In addition, the risk factors for perioperative cardiac complications were determined.

Results

Coronary artery calcification was detected in 233 (35.0%) asymptomatic patients. Nineteen (8.2%) patients with coronary artery calcification had coronary artery stenosis ≥ 75%. Percutaneous coronary intervention was performed preoperatively (n = 3) and postoperatively (n = 10), and preoperative drug intervention was performed in 10 cases. One case of severe postoperative cardiac complications and 20 cases of mild postoperative cardiac complications, including those without coronary artery calcification, occurred. Patients with calcified coronary arteries were at risk of cardiovascular complications in the perioperative period. However, patients with coronary artery calcification who underwent preoperative cardiology intervention had no significant perioperative cardiovascular complications.

Conclusions

Coronary artery calcification detected on preoperative computed tomography is a risk factor for perioperative cardiovascular complications. Early intervention may reduce the risk of such complications.
Development of a nanocopper-decorated laser-scribed sensor for organophosphorus pesticide monitoring in aqueous samples
Authors: Bahamon-Pinzon David , Moreira Geisianny , Obare Sherine , Vanegas Diana
Published: June 2022

Organophosphorus pesticides are widely used in industrial agriculture and have been associated with water pollution and negative impacts on local ecosystems and communities. There is a need for testing technologies to detect the presence of pesticide residues in water sources, especially in developing countries where access to standard laboratory methods is cost prohibitive. Herein, we outline the development of a facile electrochemical sensor for amperometric determination of organophosphorus pesticides in environmental water samples. A three-electrode system was fabricated via UV laser-inscribing on a polyimide film. The working electrode was functionalized with copper nanoparticles with affinity toward organophosphate compounds. The sensor showed a limit of detection (LOD) of 3.42 ± 1.69 µM for glyphosate, 7.28 ± 1.20 µM for glufosinate, and 17.78 ± 7.68 µM for aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). Sensitivity was highest for glyphosate (145.52 ± 36.73 nA⋅µM−1⋅cm−2) followed by glufosinate (56.98 ± 10.87 nA⋅µM−1⋅cm−2), and AMPA (30.92 ± 8.51 nA⋅µM−1⋅cm−2). The response of the sensor is not significantly affected by the presence of several ions and organic molecules commonly present in natural water samples. The developed sensor shows promising potential for facilitating environmental monitoring of organophosphorus pesticide residues, which is a current need in several parts of the world.

Graphical Abstract
Online teaching and copyright from the European Union perspective in COVID times
Authors: Maza Sebastián López
Published: June 2022

Teaching may involve the use of copyrighted works. It is very important that teachers and professors know two things: (1) what kind of contents they can use in their classes; (2) what are the necessary requirements for using them to avoid infringements of copyright. In this time of pandemic, where online teaching is a big focus in universities, high schools and schools, this knowledge is essential because, despite the alarm generated by COVID-19, copyright is still fully in force. However, copyright is not absolute, as the legislator has provided some limitations or exceptions to these rights. In these cases, it is not necessary to request the consent of the authors and other copyright holders, but the works and subject matters can be used provided that certain requirements are met. In the field of education and teaching, three limitations are applied in particular: (a) private copying; (b) quotation; (c) illustration for teaching.
Modelling and thermodynamic properties of pure CO2 and flue gas sorption data on South African coals using Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and extended Langmuir isotherm models
Authors: Mabuza Major , Premlall Kasturie , Daramola Michael O.
Published: June 2022

Carbon sequestration in unmineable coal seams has been proposed as one of the most attractive technologies to mitigate carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in which CO2is stored in the microporous structure of the coal matrix in an adsorbed state. The CO2adsorption process is hence considered one of the more effective methodologies in environmental sciences. Thus, adsorption isotherm measurements and modelling are key important scientific measures required in understanding the adsorption system, mechanism, and process optimization in coalbeds. In this paper, three renowned and reliable adsorption isotherm models were employed including Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin for pure CO2adsorption data, and the extended-Langmuir model for multicomponent, such as flue gas mixture-adsorption data as investigated in this research work. Also, significant thermodynamics properties including the standard enthalpy change ($$\Delta H^\circ$$ΔH∘), entropy change ($$\Delta S^\circ$$ΔS∘), and Gibbs free energy ($$\Delta G^\circ$$ΔG∘) were assessed using the van’t Hoff equation. The statistical evaluation of the goodness-of-fit was done using three (3) statistical data analysis methods including correlation coefficient (R2), standard deviation (σ), and standard error (SE). The Langmuir isotherm model accurately represent the pure CO2adsorption on the coals than Freundlich and Temkin. The extended Langmuir gives best experimental data fit for the flue gas. The thermodynamic evaluations revealed that CO2adsorption on the South African coals is feasible, spontaneous, and exothermic; and the adsorption mechanism is a combined physical and chemical interaction between the adsorbate and the adsorbent.