bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crystallization‐Based Separation of ε‐Caprolactam from a Depolymerization Reaction Mixture – Fundamentals and Potential Separation Strategies
Authors: Schultheis Axel , Tenberg Vico , Rihko‐Struckmann Liisa , Sundmacher Kai , Lorenz Heike 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDepolymerization and subsequent capture of monomers is of interest for process efficiency and sustainability. Polyamide‐6 (PA‐6) can be depolymerized in aqueous solution using a homogeneous catalyst. To purify the ε‐caprolactam (CPL) monomer and recycle the catalyst, two potential crystallization‐based strategies are studied: direct crystallization from the reaction mixture and liquid‐liquid extraction prior to crystallization. Solubilities in water and promising organic solvents were measured and compared to predictions using perturbed‐chain statistical associating fluid theory (PC‐SAFT) or conductor‐like screening model for real solvents (COSMO‐RS). Detailed solid‐liquid equilibria (SLE) of the CPL/water system were investigated utilizing DSC and PXRD. This work provides an overview of important factors of PA‐6 depolymerization including recycling of tungstophosphoric acid (TPA) and purification of CPL monomers. A first conceptual process design to be further developed is derived.
GA2LEN ANACARE consensus statement: Potential of omalizumab in food allergy management
Authors: Zuberbier Torsten , Muraro Antonella , Nurmatov Ulugbek , Arasi Stefania , Stevanovic Katarina , Anagnostou Aikaterini , Bonaguro Roberta , Chinthrajah Sharon , Lack Gideon , Fiocchi Alessandro , Le Thuy‐My , Turner Paul , Lozano Montserrat Alvaro , Angier Elizabeth , Barni Simona , Bégin Phillippe , Ballmer‐Weber Barbara , Cardona Victoria , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten , Cianferoni Antonella , de Jong Nicolette , de Silva Debra , Deschildre Antoine , Galvin Audrey Dunn , Ebisawa Motohiro , Fleischer David M. , Gerdts Jennifer , Giovannini Mattia , Gradman Josefine , Halken Susanne , Arshad Syed Hasan , Khaleva Ekaterina , Lau Susanne , Loh Richard , Mäkelä Mika J. , Marchisotto Mary Jane , Morandini Laura , Mortz Charlotte G. , Nilsson Caroline , Nowak‐Wegrzyn Anna , Podestà Marcia , Poulsen Lars K. , Roberts Graham , Rodríguez del Río Pablo , Sampson Hugh A. , Sánchez Angel , Schnadt Sabine , Smith Peter K. , Szajewska Hania , Mitrevska Natasa Teovska , Toniolo Alice , Venter Carina , Warner Amena , Wong Gary W. K. , Wood Robert , Worm Margitta 
Published: November 2024

AbstractImmunoglobulin E (IgE)‐mediated food allergies are the most common type of food allergy, often causing rapid symptoms after exposure to allergens posing a serious health risk and a high impact on patient's and caregiver's quality of life. Omalizumab, a humanized anti‐IgE monoclonal antibody, reduces allergic reactions by binding to circulating IgE. Omalizumab has been successfully used in allergic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and chronic urticaria, and was recently approved for treating IgE‐mediated food allergies by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This GA2LEN ANACARE Consensus Statement presents our position on the use of omalizumab for treating IgE‐mediated food allergies, based on a systematic review and meta‐analysis, experience with use for other conditions, and expert consensus achieved via an eDelphi process. Following publication of the recent OUtMATCH study (stage 1) results and subsequent FDA approval, we propose that there is now sufficient evidence to recommend omalizumab as the only drug currently available that can mechanistically reduce IgE‐mediated food allergic reactions. We acknowledge that the evidence does not reach the highest level of evidence which would be needed for a guideline recommendation.
Alteration of Cytoskeletal Proteins Leads to Retinal Degeneration in Drosophila
Authors: Sahu Surajita , Mishra Monalisa 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe eye holds a special fascination for many neuroscientists because of its meticulously organized structure. Vertebrates typically possess a simple camera‐type eye, whereas the compound eye structure is predominantly observed in arthropods including model organism Drosophila melanogaster. Cell shape, cell polarization, and tissue integrity are the cell biological processes crucial for shaping the eye, which directly or indirectly depends on the cytoskeleton. Henceforth the cytoskeleton, specifically actin microfilaments, essentially has a dynamic role in the normal development and growth of eye structure. This review provides insight into the roles played by the actin cytoskeleton during the development and maintenance of the Drosophila eye.
Significant Pathologic Response Following Neoadjuvant Therapy and Curative Resection in Patients With Rectal Cancer: Surgical and Oncological Outcomes From a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shahabi Fatemeh , Ansari Majid , Najafi Ghobadi Khadijeh , Ghahramani Abolfazl , Parandeh Amiresmaeil , Saberi‐Karimian Maryam , Orafaie Ala , Abdollahi Abbas 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTAimThis study evaluated surgical complication rates, recurrence‐free survival, overall survival (OS), and stoma status of patients with rectal cancer after significant pathologic response following neoadjuvant treatment and curative resection. Pathologic complete response (pCR) and near‐pCR patients constitute patients in our study.MethodsIncluded was a retrospective cohort study of patients with rectal cancer who were diagnosed between July 2011 and September 2022 and who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and surgical resection.ResultsOf 696 patients with rectal cancer, 149 (21.4%) cases achieved significant pathologic response. During the 64 (70.5) months of follow‐up, recurrence occurred in 16.1% of patients and distant metastases account for the majority of them. Age (p = 0.014) and receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.016) were significantly related to the occurrence of recurrence. The five‐year recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and OS rates were obtained at 83% and 87%, respectively. Although age and surgical technique were significant factors in univariate Cox regression analysis, none of the candidate variables were significant prognostic factors for RFS in the multiple models. The risk of surgical complications remained in these patients. The most frequent complication attributed to infection (20.8%). Despite the 24.8% presence of permanent stoma at primary surgery, more than 50% of our patients lived without stoma at the last follow‐up.ConclusionOur recurrence rate was about 16%, and it was related to age and adjuvant chemotherapy. These patients achieved over 80% rates of five‐year RFS and OS. No significant prognostic factors were found on RFS in the multivariable model. As a matter of course, the risk of surgical complications and permanent stoma has still remained in these patients.
Assessment of genetic diversity and heterotic alignment of CIMMYT and IITA maize inbred lines adapted to sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Gonhi Tinovonga , Odong Thomas Lapaka , Dramadri Isaac Onziga , Ochwo‐Ssemakula Mildred , Chiteka Zvenhamo Albert , Adjei Emmanuel Amponsah , Muungani Dean , Menkir Abebe , Baffour Badu‐Apraku , Adejumobi Idris , Uwimana Brigitte , Dhliwayo Thanda , Wegary Dagne , Derera John 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDespite the breeding efforts by many institutions, maize (Zea mays L.) productivity in sub‐Saharan Africa is still low. A limited number of productive maize hybrids have been developed partly due to a lack of knowledge on the diversity and heterotic relationship of the germplasm, especially in public breeding programs. Understanding the extent of diversity, structure, and heterotic grouping of available maize germplasm originating from different breeding programs is important to enhance long‐term genetic gain in hybrid maize breeding programs by optimizing heterotic pools using modern breeding tools. Information about the genetic structure of the available germplasm could help breeders design effective breeding strategies to improve yield. This study was conducted to determine the genetic diversity, population structure, and heterotic alignment among 187 elite maize inbred lines from the IITA (International Institute of Tropical Agriculture) and CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) maize breeding programs. The inbred lines were genotyped with 9857 Diversity Array Technology sequencing based single nucleotide polymorphism markers. Hierarchical clustering revealed three major groups, with some subgroups consistent with the selection history, and pedigree of the inbred lines. Three broad groups were detected: two consisting of CIMMYT lines and a mixed group consisting of both CIMMYT and IITA inbred lines. The STRUCTURE analysis revealed six subpopulations (fixation index value = 0.58), which depicts a moderate genetic diversity among the materials. Population 2 comprises the highest number of genotypes (102) from both programs. More than 89% of the elite lines had homozygosity exceeding 95%, with the remaining lines requiring further inbreeding through repeated self‐pollination. There was inconsistency in the predetermined heterotic groups' alignment between CIMMYT and IITA elite inbred lines. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that 96% of the total variation was accounted for by differences within groups, with the remaining 4% representing the variation between groups. This suggests that the two programs can benefit from germplasm exchange for the improvement of maize productivity.
Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles: A focus on inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Clua‐Ferré Laura , Suau Roger , Vañó‐Segarra Irene , Ginés Iris , Serena Carolina , Manyé Josep 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundMesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (MSC‐EVs) have emerged as key regulators of intercellular communication, orchestrating essential biological processes by delivering bioactive cargoes to target cells. Available evidence suggests that MSC‐EVs can mimic the functions of their parental cells, exhibiting immunomodulatory, pro‐regenerative, anti‐apoptotic, and antifibrotic properties. Consequently, MSC‐EVs represent a cell‐free therapeutic option for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), overcoming the limitations associated with cell replacement therapy, including their non‐immunogenic nature, lower risk of tumourigenicity, cargo specificity and ease of manipulation and storage.Main Topics CoveredThis review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the therapeutic efficacy of MSC‐EVs in IBD, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and potential impact on treatment outcomes. We examine the advantages of MSC‐EVs over traditional therapies, discuss methods for their isolation and characterisation, and present mechanistic insights into their therapeutic effects through transcriptomic, proteomic and lipidomic analyses of MSC‐EV cargoes. We also discuss available preclinical studies demonstrating that MSC‐EVs reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair and restore intestinal homeostasis in IBD models, and compare these findings with those of clinical trials.ConclusionsFinally, we highlight the potential of MSC‐EVs as a novel therapy for IBD and identify challenges and opportunities associated with their translation into clinical practice.Highlights
The source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) strongly influences the composition and function of MSC‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), affecting their therapeutic potential. Adipose‐derived MSC‐EVs, known for their immunoregulatory properties and ease of isolation, show promise as a treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
MicroRNAs are consistently present in MSC‐EVs across cell types and are involved in pathways that are dysregulated in IBD, making them potential therapeutic agents. For example, miR‐let‐7a is associated with inhibition of apoptosis, miR‐100 supports cell survival, miR‐125b helps suppress pro‐inflammatory cytokines and miR‐20 promotes anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophage polarisation.
Preclinical studies in IBD models have shown that MSC‐EVs reduce intestinal inflammation by suppressing pro‐inflammatory mediators (e.g., TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6) and increasing anti‐inflammatory factors (e.g., IL‐4, IL‐10). They also promote mucosal healing and strengthen the integrity of the gut barrier, suggesting their potential to address IBD pathology.
Dupilumab Efficacy and Safety Assessment in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Antoniou Valeria , Thomaidou Elena , Prokopiou Ekatherine 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackground/ObjectivesAtopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, commonly first occurring in early childhood. Although many treatments have currently been established, their effectiveness often varies, and it is not always adequate. The first biologic agent approved in the pediatric population, in severe AD cases, is dupilumab. In this review we aim to present the current data on dupilumab effectiveness and safety in the pediatric population.MethodsSystematic search was conducted throughout PubMed, ScienceDirect, and clinicaltrials.gov, from which three clinical trials and four real‐life studies were included. The studies were analyzed in terms of drug effectiveness (using EASI, IGA and SCORAD scoring systems) and safety profile (presence and occurrence of adverse events).ResultsEASI, SCORAD, and IGA scores were significantly improved in patients receiving dupilumab treatment irrespective of dosage. Conjunctivitis was the most consistently and commonly reported adverse event in both clinical trials (relative risk; RR = 2.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.20, 4.84], p = 0.01) and real‐life studies (10.8% of patients). Injection‐site reactions and nasopharyngitis demonstrated an increased, yet nonsignificant RR. Compared to placebo, dupilumab exhibited a reduced RR of 36% in AD exacerbations (95% CI [0.43, 0.94], p = 0.0234) and 44% in skin infections (95% CI [0.36, 0.88], p = 0.0106).ConclusionsDupilumab appears to be a promising drug in the treatment of moderate to severe AD in pediatric population, with noticeable improvement in outcome scores. Among the adverse events, conjunctivitis is the most common; however, no long‐term or life‐threatening events were reported.
Prenatal Zika Virus Exposure Alters the Interaction Between Affective Processing and Decision‐Making in Juvenile Rhesus Macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Cogo Patrick R. , Moadab Gilda , Bliss‐Moreau Eliza , Pittet Florent 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTMany challenges during pregnancy can disrupt fetal development and have varying consequences on the subsequent psychological development of infants. Notably, exposure to infectious pathogens during fetal development, such as those encountered in viral pandemics, has been associated with persistent developmental consequences on infants’ brains and behavior. However, the underlying mechanisms and the degree to which neural plasticity over infancy may accommodate fetal insults remain unclear. To address this gap, we investigated the interaction between affective processing and decision‐making in a cohort of rhesus monkey juveniles exposed to Zika virus (ZIKV) during fetal development, a pathogen known to profoundly disrupt central nervous system development. Ten juveniles exposed to ZIKV during their fetal development and nine procedure‐matched controls (CONs) completed a judgment bias task with and without a negative mood induction. Although ZIKV exposure did not impact the monkeys’ decision‐making processes during the task or the magnitude of their behavioral responses to the mood induction procedure, it did alter the influence of mood induction on decision‐making. Although CON monkeys exhibited significantly more conservative decision‐making following negative mood induction, the decision‐making of Zika‐exposed monkeys remained consistent among conditions. These findings suggest that fetal exposure to ZIKV impacts the neural systems involved in integrating affective and cognitive information, with potential long‐term implications for learning, memory, and emotion regulation.
Assessing the overlap between fishing and chondrichthyans exposes high‐risk areas for bycatch of threatened species
Authors: Maioli Federico , Weigel Benjamin , Lindmark Max , Manfredi Chiara , Zupa Walter , Bitetto Isabella , Russo Tommaso , Casini Michele 
Published: November 2024

AbstractChondrichthyans (sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras) make up one of the oldest and most ecologically diverse vertebrate groups, yet they face severe threats from fishing, necessitating improved management strategies. To effectively manage these species, we need to understand their spatial interactions with fisheries. However, this understanding is often challenged by limited data on chondrichthyan catches and species identification. In such cases, assessing potential risks from fishing activities can provide valuable insights into these spatial interactions. Here, we propose a method combining geostatistical models fitted to a fishery‐independent dataset with vessel monitoring system (VMS) data to estimate the spatial overlap between chondrichthyans and fishing. Our case study focuses on the western Adriatic Sea in the Mediterranean, examining the overlap between bottom trawling (including otter bottom trawling and beam trawling) and demersal chondrichthyans. We find that the northwestern part of the basin is a hotspot where threatened chondrichthyans (classified as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List) greatly overlap with bottom trawling activities. Moreover, some areas, such as the northernmost part of the Adriatic and the “area dei fondi sporchi” in the north‐central offshore part, exhibit minimal overlap between threatened chondrichthyans and bottom trawling, potentially serving as refuges. We recommend prioritizing the management of otter bottom trawling in the northwestern basin to protect these threatened species, while also paying attention to the possible impacts of beam trawling on skates and chondrichthyan habitats. Despite certain limitations, our findings demonstrate that combining geostatistical models of species distributions with VMS data is a promising method for identifying areas of concern for species vulnerable to fishing. This approach can inform targeted management measures and cost‐effective onboard monitoring programs.
An Oxidative SNH Alkylamination of 5(6,7,8)‐Nitroquinoline N‐Oxides in Aqueous Dioxane Medium
Authors: Larin Alexander N. , Avakyan Elena K. , Demidov Oleg P. , Borovleva Anastasia A. , Zubenko Alexander A. , Pobedinskaya Diana Yu. , Ermolenko Artem P. , Kolosov Stepan E. , Borovlev Ivan V. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractA novel and efficient method for the synthesis of 2‐alkylamino and 2‐dialkylamino derivatives of N‐oxides of 5‐, 6‐, 7‐ and 8‐nitroquinolines, which can potentially exhibit biological activity, as containing a pharmacophoric quinoline fragment, is described herein. The reactions of 5(6,7,8)‐nitroquinoline N‐oxides with various primary or secondary amines in the presence of potassium ferricyanide at in aqueous dioxane medium afforded the corresponding secondary and tertiary amines in moderate to excellent yields. This reaction is the first example of a Chichibabin reaction leading to the formation of 2‐alkylaminoquinoline derivatives at position 2 under mild conditions. A study of the antibacterial activity of some products was carried out.
Fire parameters of recycled plastic pellets
Authors: Devine Courtney , Flores‐Quiroz Natalia , Walls Richard , Kuhn Carlo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDuring the recycling process, waste plastic undergoes various processes that change its geometry. The thermal properties and fire behaviour of plastic in different geometries has not been widely studied. This paper aims to determine critical thermal properties of plastic pellets made of recycled plastic. For this paper, cone calorimeter tests of various volumes of recycled plastic pellets of low‐ and high‐density polyethylene and polypropylene were conducted. During these tests, the heat release rate (HRR), mass loss rate and time‐to‐ignition were measured, thereafter the heat of combustion (HOC) was calculated. A calibration of suitable time‐to‐ignition equations is carried out. The average HRR is between 353 and 581 kW/m2 with an external heat flux of 50 kW/m2. The measured time‐to‐ignition values ranged between 27 s at 50 kW/m2 and just more than 90 s at 25 kW/m2. Values obtained analytically from the thermally thin time‐to‐ignition equations for these materials describe ignition well, which appears to be due to the particulate nature of the samples. The HOC (40–41 MJ/kg) shows good agreement with the HOC for virgin plastic found in literature. These properties can be used as a basis for material characterisation, and further testing will be done before using this as simulation inputs to determine how bulk stored plastic pellets will behave in the event of a fire.
Duckweed: Growth factor and applications in nonfood, food, and health
Authors: Hau Eng Huan , Mah Siau Hui 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDuckweeds are aquatic plants and mainly constitute of five genera, Lemna, Spirodela, Wolffia, Wolffiella, and Landoltia. These are the smallest plants yet having a rapid growth rate. Hence, duckweeds are sustainable food sources for humans and animals, as well as sustainable feedstocks for biochemical production. Previously, duckweeds were discovered for their vital role in water purification by metabolizing chemicals and waste. However, many recent studies have discovered that duckweeds have a high amount of nutrients, which makes them a great substitute in human diets and animal feed. Their nutrient composition and growth rate are greatly affected by environmental factors. Hence, this review summarizes the characteristics of duckweeds, growth rate factors, and their applications in nonfood, food, and health. Duckweeds could improve health due to their large amounts of macro‐ and micronutrients. Future studies on the safety measures and duckweed culture are strongly recommended to safeguard the quality of the plants. Besides that, duckweeds have great potential to be used as heavy metals or contaminants absorbent, as well as a sustainable feedstock for biofuel production.