bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exosomal lncRNA HEIH, an essential communicator for hepatocellular carcinoma cells and macrophage M2 polarization through the miR‐98‐5p/STAT3 axis
Authors: Ai Jun‐Hua , Wen Yu‐Zhong , Dai Shi‐Jie , Zhang Li‐Dong , Huang Zhong‐Jing , Shi Jun 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPart of human long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been elucidated to play an essential role in the carcinogenesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of malignant tumor with poor outcomes. Tumor‐derived exosomes harboring lncRNAs have also been implicated as crucial mediators to orchestrate biological functions among neighbor tumor cells. The recruitment of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) exerting M2‐like phenotype usually indicates the poor prognosis. Yet, the precise involvement of tumor‐derived lncRNAs in cross‐talk with environmental macrophages has not been fully identified. In this study, we reported the aberrantly overexpressed HCC upregulated EZH2‐associated lncRNA (HEIH) in tumor tissues and cell lines was positively correlated with poor prognosis, as well as enriched exosomal HEIH levels in blood plasma and cell supernatants. Besides, HCC cell‐derived exosomes transported HEIH into macrophages for triggering macrophage M2 polarization, thereby in turn promoting the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. Mechanistically, HEIH acted as a miRNA sponge for miR‐98‐5p to up‐regulate STAT3, which was then further verified in the tumor xenograft models. Collectively, our study provides the evidence for recognizing tumor‐derived exosomal lncRNA HEIH as a novel regulatory function through targeting miR‐98‐5p/STAT3 axis in environmental macrophages, which may shed light on the complicated tumor microenvironment among tumor and immune cells for HCC treatment.
Study on the influence mechanism of carbothermal reduction and selective leaching of valuable metals in spent lithium batteries
Authors: Qin Shiteng , Yang He , Li Yuhuan , Klein Bern , Yin Shenghua , Xu Pengyun , Zhao Hongyu 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDExploring an innovative method for precious metal recovery from spent batteries, our study combines hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy, focusing on pivotal carbothermal reduction. This crucial phase enhances the leachability of metals by significantly reducing their valence. To evaluate the effect of novel carbon (C) materials on this reduction process, our study synthesized two types of nanoporous Cs, Al‐PCP‐800 and ZIF‐8‐800, found in electrode materials. Their carbothermal reduction efficacy was compared to activated (A)C using thermogravimetric analysis.RESULTSThe experimental findings revealed that ZIF‐8‐800 exhibits superior reducibility, initiating and reaching peak weight loss rate at a lower temperature of 692.01 °C with a peak of 32.27%/°C. Under the optimized conditions (roasting temperature 750 °C, time 3 h, C content 20%, 2.75 mol L−1 H3PO4 concentration, 40 °C leaching temperature, liquid‐to‐solid ratio of 6 mL g−1, leaching time 10 min) the leaching efficiency of lithium (Li) and manganese (Mn) reached 100%, indicating complete extraction with ZIF‐8‐800. However, cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) leaching with ZIF‐8‐800 was low (3.22%, 2.06%). Al‐PCP‐800 showed slightly less leaching efficiency for Li and Mn, but higher efficiency for Co and Ni. Activated C led to incomplete Li and Mn extraction, with higher Co and Ni leaching, diminishing the process's selectivity.CONCLUSIONThe study confirms that the C material in carbothermal reduction significantly impacts metal leaching efficiency and selectivity. ZIF‐8‐800 was the most effective for Li and Mn leaching, outperforming Al‐PCP‐800 and AC in selectivity. This underscores ZIF‐8‐800's potential to improve metal recovery from spent batteries. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Assessing dental student knowledge on cannabis and demonstrating the need for cannabis education
Authors: Kruger Jessica S. , Lepore John , Mascaro Madelyn , Mersereau Gina , Tzetzo Alyssa , Kruger Daniel J. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPurposeThe American Dental Association advocates for dentists' education on therapeutic and legal issues related to medical cannabis. It is important to understand current knowledge of cannabis and cannabinoids and to have a practical knowledge assessment instrument. This exploratory study is the first of its kind to assess dental students' knowledge of cannabis and aims to determine if there is a need for more instruction regarding cannabis in a dental school's curriculum.MethodsPredoctoral dental students at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine were recruited to participate. A validated, anonymous 22‐item online survey was adapted and administered to students in all 4 years of the dental program. There was a total of 56 knowledge points.ResultsThe average knowledge score was 21.6 points (SD = 5.2, range: 7–34), corresponding to 38.5% (SD = 9.2) of the answers correct. There were no overall differences in knowledge by gender, years in dental school, or by any reported source of formal education on cannabis. Those who reported doing their own research had higher knowledge scores. Most participants knew that there is an endogenous cannabinoid system (72.3%) and that Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is responsible for the “high” experienced with cannabis (76.6%). Most participants reported that they did not know the effective doses of THC (58.2%) and Cannabidiol (CBD) (66.7%); few provided an answer for THC (34%) or CBD (17%) in the acceptable range of 2–10 mg.ConclusionDental students did not have adequate knowledge on cannabis and cannabinoids. Given the rapid expansion of cannabis legalization, additional efforts are needed to integrate cannabis topics into coursework and learning experiences.
Is it time for a paradigm shift? Inclusion of APOE on genetic dyslipidemia panels
Authors: Ison Hannah E. , Mowaswes Mohammad , Durst Ronen , Leucker Thorsten , Knowles Joshua W. , Brown Emily E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAPOE codes for apolipoprotein E (ApoE), which plays an important role in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and homeostasis of tissue lipid content. Several variants in APOE have been associated with inherited dyslipidemias, and a subsequent increased risk of developing premature coronary artery disease (CAD). However, these variants and their impact on risk can be thought of on a spectrum, with some being more monogenic in nature, and others contributing in a polygenic/multifactorial manner. Despite these known associations, there is often hesitancy around ordering APOE genetic testing due to the association with Alzheimer's disease. This paper aims to catalyze discussion around APOE testing and counseling strategies, highlight the nuances around this topic, and advocate for inclusion of APOE testing on dyslipidemia panels when an inherited dyslipidemia is suspected.
Practical synthesis of (S)‐pyroglutamic acid
Authors: Barretto Fernando Alves , Cunha Silvio 
Published: March 2024

AbstractA simple and rapid synthesis of (S)‐pyroglutamic acid was developed by the thermal cyclodehydration of (S)‐glutamic acid under solvent‐free conditions, with continuous swirling during heating (220°C) to ensure homogeneity of the melt. The reaction proceeds until the bubbles disappear, not exceeding 5 min. The heating immediately ceases, then cooling the reaction vessel to prevent degradation and racemization. (S)‐pyroglutamic acid is obtained in 70% yield, and the enantiomeric ratio is 97:3. The same reaction under microwave heating in an aqueous solution afforded a low yield of racemic product.
Prey capture kinematics of horned frogs (Anura: Ceratophryidae)
Authors: Duport‐Bru Ana Sofía , Abdala Virginia 
Published: March 2024

AbstractHorned frogs, members of the Ceratophryidae family, encompass a group of anurans varying in size and behavior, yet unified by morphological and behavioral traits enabling them to adopt a megalophagous diet (i.e., large prey feeding). Although the group has been the focus of numerous studies, our understanding of its feeding behavior remains limited. In this study, we characterize the feeding mechanism in five species representing the three extant genera of ceratophryid anurans, both in terrestrial and aquatic environments. We also explore the ability of Chacophrys pierottii to adjust feeding behavior based on prey type. Our findings show that all species are capable of wide mouth opening, displaying an asymmetric feeding cycle. While tongue usage is the primary method for capturing prey on land, ceratophryids may use their forelimbs to manipulate prey into their mouths, exhibiting different behavioral patterns. C. pierottii shows modulation of its feeding kinematics and is also capable of some modulation of its feeding in response to prey properties.
Determination of cyclic adenosine phosphate and protein content in dormant chlamydospore and nondormant chlamydospore of Arthrobotrys flagrans
Authors: Wang Feng‐hui , Wang Bo‐bo , Gao Jie , Yang Xiao‐jun , Jia Yi‐Bo , Tian Shu‐yue , Li Xin , Zhang Nan , Zhang Xi‐chen , Wei Yan‐ming , Zhang Jing , Cai Kui‐zheng 
Published: March 2024

AbstractArthrobotrys flagrans, a nematode‐eating fungus, is an effective component of animal parasitic nematode biocontrol agents. In the dried formulation, the majority of spores are in an endogenous dormant state. This study focuses on dormant chlamydospore and nondormant chlamydospore of A. flagrans to investigate the differences in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and protein content between the two types of spores. cAMP and soluble proteins were extracted from the nondormant chlamydospore and dormant chlamydospore of two isolates of A. flagrans. The cAMP Direct Immunoassay Kit and Bradford protein concentration assay kit (Coomassie brilliant blue method) were used to detect the cAMP and protein content in two types of spores. Results showed that the content of cAMP in dormant spores of both isolates was significantly higher than that in nondormant spores (p < 0.05). The protein content of dormant spores in DH055 bacteria was significantly higher than that of nondormant spores (p < 0.05). In addition, the protein content of dormant spores of the SDH035 strain was slightly higher than that of nondormant spores, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). The results obtained in this study provide evidence for the biochemical mechanism of chlamydospore dormancy or the germination of the nematophagous fungus A. flagrans.
Optimization of ultrasound‐assisted pectin recovery from cocoa by‐products using response surface methodology
Authors: Mounya K Sumana , Chowdary Akkina Rajani 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDThis study aimed to address the significant challenges associated with agricultural and cocoa waste disposal within the context of global food waste concerns. The magnitude of global food waste is staggering, estimated at 1.6 Gt of primary product equivalents, with 1.3 Gt attributed specifically to the edible parts of food. Focusing on cocoa waste, which constitutes around 80% of total cocoa production, management poses a considerable environmental challenge, with over 60% of this waste either burnt or left to rot in plantations.METHODUltrasound‐assisted extraction of pectin from cocoa pulp mucilage (CPM), cocoa pod husk (CPH), and cocoa bean shell (CBS) was achieved with a central composite design (CCD) using response surface methodology (RSM).RESULTSUltrasound‐assisted extraction takes into consideration independent factors such as temperature, sonication time, pH, solid–liquid ratio, and ultrasonic power intensity. This study achieved the highest yield, anhydrouronic acid content, and degree of esterification under optimum conditions – sonication time of 20 min, pH of 2.5, solid‐solvent ratio of 1:40 g mL−1, and ultrasonic power intensity of 64 W cm−2. The composition and characterization of pectin showed that its anhydrouronic acid content was 68.59 ± 0.2% when extracted from CPH, 50.7 ± 0.5% when extracted from CBS, and 43.97 ± 0.17% when extracted from CPM with citric acid.CONCLUSIONThis study underscored the potential to reduce the environmental impact of cocoa waste, offering improved pectin extraction and sustainable methods for handling agricultural by‐products. It is relevant for individuals interested in waste reduction and resource efficiency within the broader agricultural industry, showcasing the potential for practical and sustainable solutions in cocoa waste management. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Decadal changes in surface CO2 concentrations and CO2 fluxes in a mountain lake
Authors: Obertegger Ulrike , Corradini Stefano , Cerasino Leonardo , Weiss Linda C. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractClimate warming impacts biogeochemical cycles in lakes. However, the factors controlling CO2 dynamics in mountain lakes over multidecadal scales are poorly understood. Here, we capitalized on long‐term monthly data (1995–2022) of oligotrophic mountain Lake Tovel and calculated surface CO2 concentrations and flux by applying geochemical relationships and the thin boundary layer approach. Advanced time‐series and regression modeling was used to determine temporal patterns and environmental parameters explaining surface CO2 concentrations and flux. Surface CO2 concentrations were highest from 2009 to 2017 (annual mean: 109.1 μmol CO2 L−1) but lower before and after this period. Concomitantly, the air–water CO2 flux (μmol CO2 m−2 d−1) showed a period of lowest (mean1995–2010: 6.4 ± 0.7), highest (mean2011–2017: 35.7 ± 2.1), and intermediate emissions (mean2018–2022: 19.3 ± 4.7). Temporal modeling showed that hypolimnetic and deep hypolimnetic dissolved oxygen (DO) had the same change points and trends as surface CO2 concentrations. In multiple linear regression, hypolimnetic DO, silica, and the standardized precipitation index (pseudo‐R2adj. = 0.62; p < 0.01) best predicted annual mean surface CO2 concentrations. Regression results and the overlap between temporal trend patterns indicated that surface CO2 concentrations of Lake Tovel were positively influenced by external (loading of allochthonous carbon) and internal (lake autumn mixing) factors. The recent decline in surface CO2 concentrations from the year 2018 was attributed to increased stratification that offset lake autumn mixing and thus lead to the observed decline. These results help us to better understand the carbon cycle in mountain lakes in a changing climate.
Ortho‐oncoplastic surgery in foot and ankle: A narrative overview on reconstruction of soft‐tissue defects after oncologic resections
Authors: Angelini Andrea , Tiengo Cesare , Cerchiaro Maria Chiara , Soto Fernando , Biz Carlo , Messana Francesco , Bassetto Franco , Ruggieri Pietro 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroductionMalignant tumors of the foot are rare, and treatment strategies are challenging considering the complex anatomy of this area. In recent years, dramatic advances in technology and collaborations between different specialties (such as orthopedic, oncology, radiology, plastic, and vascular surgery) significantly changed the approach to complex malignant tumors without resorting to limb removal. The combination of the strengths of both orthopedic surgery and plastic surgery constitutes the modern definition of “orthoplasty.” The aim of this review article is to provide treatment strategies that are available for reconstruction of foot and ankle in limb‐salvage surgery after tumor resection, with a specific focus on microsurgical techniques in plastic surgery.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive search for relevant papers across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. We included patient‐based studies reporting on procedures for soft‐tissue reconstruction with small and large soft tissue defects. Indications, pros and cons, and technique tips are discussed for each type of reconstructive technique.ResultsThe search was done using literature of the past 30 years (from 1990 to date), resulting in about 725 articles describing over 2000 cases. Cutaneous flaps included lateral supramalleolar flap, medial plantar flap, reverse sural neurocutaneous island flap, medial leg flap, and lateral leg flap. Free flaps included anterolateral thigh flap, radial forearm flap, latissimus dorsi flap, gracilis muscle flap, lateral arm flap, and rectus abdominis flap.ConclusionsThe orthoplastic approach in musculoskeletal oncology is a collaborative model of orthopedic and plastic surgeons working together, resulting in a higher rate of successful limb salvage in patients at risk for amputation. Protocols, biologic substitutes, and surgical techniques are largely improved in the last decades increasing the possibility of functional reconstruction. Microsurgical strategies represent the new frontiers in these demanding reconstructions.
Motor unit number estimation via MScanFit MUNE in spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Vacchiano Veria , Morabito Francesca , Faini Claudia , Nocera Giovanna , Not Riccardo , Scarpini Gaia , Romagnoli Martina , Pini Antonella , Liguori Rocco 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIntroduction/AimsMScanFit MUNE (MScanFit) is a novel tool to derive motor unit number estimates (MUNEs) from compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scans. Few studies have explored its utility in 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA5q) patients, assessing only the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle. We aimed to assess different distal muscles in pediatric and adult SMA5q patients, further evaluating clinical‐electrophysiological correlations.MethodsWe analyzed MScanFit parameters reflecting the extent of denervation (MUNE; N50) and parameters of collateral reinnervation in APB, abductor digiti minimi (ADM), and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles. SMA patients were clinically evaluated using standardized motor function clinical scales, including the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale – Expanded and the Revised Upper Limb Module.ResultsA total of 23 SMA5q (9 SMA type 2 and 14 SMA type 3) and 12 age‐matched healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. SMA patients showed lower MUNE and N50 values and higher parameters of collateral sprouting in all muscles compared to HC (p < .001). SMA type 2 patients demonstrated lower MUNE and higher collateral reinnervation values in APB and TA compared to SMA type 3 (p < .05). Walker patients showed higher values of MUNE and N50, and lower parameters of reinnervation in all muscles compared to sitters (p < .05). MScanFit parameters showed strong correlations (Rho‐values ranging from .72 to .83) with clinical measurements. MUNE values were abnormal in muscles that were not clinically affected.DiscussionMScanFit parameters showed promise as an outcome measure. Further studies, particularly longitudinal ones, are needed to evaluate MScanFit in measuring response to treatments.
Bilanz Bayer 2023: Verluste verschmerzen
Authors: Bulmahn Maren 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDer Bayer‐Konzern hat im Jahr 2023 weniger umgesetzt als im Jahr zuvor. Nun will er die eigene Bürokratie bekämpfen. Die drei Geschäftsbereiche sollen bestehen bleiben: Agrarchemie, rezeptfreie und rezeptpflichtige Medikamente.
Didaktik: Robuste Schulversuche
Authors: Klemeyer Horst 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBestimmte Kriterien helfen zu beurteilen, ob eine Einstufung als Gefahrstoff auf soliden Grundlagen beruht sowie ob sich Inhalieren und Bioverfügbarkeit der Substanz ausschließen lassen. Schulversuche sind robust zulässig, wenn alle dabei verwendeten Stoffe nicht von Tätigkeitsverboten betroffen sein können, weil sie nicht bioverfügbar sind.
Nachruf: Jae‐Il Kim (1936 – 2023)
Authors: Seibert Alice , Geckeis Horst , Altmaier Marcus 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAm 3. Dezember 2023 starb der Radio‐ und Nuklearchemiker Jae‐Il Kim, Gründungsvater der internationalen Fachkonferenz Migration.
Beyond boundaries: Neuroprotective effects of steroids and ecdysteroids in SH‐SY5Y cells ‐ A systematic review
Authors: Tayeb Bizhar Ahmed , Njangiru Isaac Kinyua , Minorics Renáta 
Published: March 2024

AbstractSteroids and ecdysteroids have been shown to exhibit a range of biological effects, including anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective. This systematic review aims to highlight the evidence‐based neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of steroids and ecdysteroids in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. A comprehensive literature search was conducted on May 11, 2023, without publication source restrictions, using various electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Of 103 articles, only 20 studies were included for investigating the neuroprotective effects of steroids and ecdysteroids in SH‐SY5Y cells exposed to oxidative stress or neurotoxic agents. The risk of bias and quality assessment of the included studies were evaluated in accordance with the Nature Publication Quality Improvement Project specific criteria. The selected studies reported the antioxidant effects of the tested compounds on SH‐SY5Y cells and demonstrated their ability to scavenge free radicals and prevent lipid peroxidation. These findings suggest that neurosteroids have potential therapeutic applications for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by oxidative stress and neuronal damage. Some studies have investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of steroids and ecdysteroids in SH‐SY5Y cells. These mechanisms include the activation of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and the modulation of various signaling pathways, including the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase B and mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase pathways. This review provides evidence that the tested compounds have remarkable neuroprotective and antioxidant effects in human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells.
Enhancing performance of interleaved KY converter control in single phase grid‐tied PV systems: A hybrid approach
Authors: Shobha R , Narmadhai N 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis paper proposes a hybrid COA‐QNN approach for an interleaved KY converter with closed‐loop control for a single‐phase grid‐connected photovoltaic (PV) system. The proposed strategy combines both Cheetah Optimizer algorithm (COA) and Quantum Neural Network (QNN), and it is commonly named the COA‐QNN technique. The interleaved KY converter is connected in the converter side. The primary goal of the COA‐QNN technique is to enhance PQ while maximizing PV electricity being transferred to the grid. The proposed COA is utilized to identify the optimal closed‐loop controller enhancements for on‐grid solar photovoltaic systems. The QNN is used to predict the optimal control parameter. The PV‐interleaved KY converter is managed by a predictive control mechanism to carry out both tasks of PQ enhancement. By then the COA‐QNN technique is implemented on the MATLAB platform and compared with existing methods. Finally, the proposed method shows better results in all methods, such as GWO, FF optimization and combined GWO‐FF.