bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unlocking a Sustainable Future for Plastics: A Chemical‐Enzymatic Pathway for Efficient Conversion of Mixed Waste to MHET and Energy‐Saving PET Recycling
Authors: Li Anni , Wu Luxuan , Cui Haiyang , Song Yibo , Zhang Xing , Li Xiujuan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe heterogeneous monomers obtained from plastic waste degradation are unfavorable for PET recondensation and high‐value derivative synthesis. Herein, we developed an efficient chemical‐enzymatic approach to convert mixed plastic wastes into homogeneous mono‐2‐hydroxyethyl terephthalate (MHET) without downstream purification, benefiting from three discovered BHETases (KbEst, KbHyd, and BrevEst) in nature. Towards the mixed plastic waste, integrating the chemical K2CO3‐driven glycolysis process with the BHETase depolymerization technique resulted in an MHET yield of up to 98.26 % in 40 h. Remarkably, BrevEst accomplished the highest BHET hydrolysis (~87 % efficiency in 12 h) for yielding analytical‐grade MHET compared to seven state‐of‐the‐art PET hydrolases (18 %–40 %). In an investigation combining quantum theoretical computations and experimental validations, we established a MHET‐initiated PET repolymerization pathway. This shortcut approach with MHET promises to strengthen the valorization of mixed plastics, offering a substantially more efficient and energy‐saving route for PET recycling.
Determinants of spring migration departure dates in a New World sparrow: Weather variables reign supreme
Authors: Byrd Allison J. , Talbott Katherine M. , Smiley Tara M. , Verrett Taylor B. , Gross Michael S. , Hladik Michelle L. , Ketterson Ellen D. , Becker Daniel J. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractNumerous factors influence the timing of spring migration in birds, yet the relative importance of intrinsic and extrinsic variables on migration initiation remains unclear. To test for interactions among weather, migration distance, parasitism, and physiology in determining spring departure date, we used the Dark‐eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) as a model migratory species known to harbor diverse and common haemosporidian parasites. Prior to spring migration departure from their wintering grounds in Indiana, USA, we quantified the intrinsic variables of fat, body condition (i.e., mass ~ tarsus residuals), physiological stress (i.e., ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes), cellular immunity (i.e., leukocyte composition and total count), migration distance (i.e., distance to the breeding grounds) using stable isotopes of hydrogen from feathers, and haemosporidian parasite intensity. We then attached nanotags to determine the timing of spring migration departure date using the Motus Wildlife Tracking System. We used additive Cox proportional hazard mixed models to test how risk of spring migratory departure was predicted by the combined intrinsic measures, along with meteorological predictors on the evening of departure (i.e., average wind speed and direction, relative humidity, and temperature). Model comparisons found that the best predictor of spring departure date was average nightly wind direction and a principal component combining relative humidity and temperature. Juncos were more likely to depart for spring migration on nights with largely southwestern winds and on warmer and drier evenings (relative to cooler and more humid evenings). Our results indicate that weather conditions at take‐off are more critical to departure decisions than the measured physiological and parasitism variables.
Environmental DNA reveals temporal variation in mesophotic reefs of the Humboldt upwelling ecosystems of central Chile: Toward a baseline for biodiversity monitoring of unexplored marine habitats
Authors: Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo , Ramirez Paula , Beldade Ricardo , Campoy Ana N. , Garmendia Vladimir , Search Francesca V. , Fernández Miriam , Wieters Evie A. , Navarrete Sergio A. , Landaeta Mauricio F. , Pérez‐Matus Alejandro 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTemperate mesophotic reef ecosystems (TMREs) are among the least known marine habitats. Information on their diversity and ecology is geographically and temporally scarce, especially in highly productive large upwelling ecosystems. Lack of information remains an obstacle to understanding the importance of TMREs as habitats, biodiversity reservoirs and their connections with better‐studied shallow reefs. Here, we use environmental DNA (eDNA) from water samples to characterize the community composition of TMREs on the central Chilean coast, generating the first baseline for monitoring the biodiversity of these habitats. We analyzed samples from two depths (30 and 60 m) over four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) and at two locations approximately 16 km apart. We used a panel of three metabarcodes, two that target all eukaryotes (18S rRNA and mitochondrial COI) and one specifically targeting fishes (16S rRNA). All panels combined encompassed eDNA assigned to 42 phyla, 90 classes, 237 orders, and 402 families. The highest family richness was found for the phyla Arthropoda, Bacillariophyta, and Chordata. Overall, family richness was similar between depths but decreased during summer, a pattern consistent at both locations. Our results indicate that the structure (composition) of the mesophotic communities varied predominantly with seasons. We analyzed further the better‐resolved fish assemblage and compared eDNA with other visual methods at the same locations and depths. We recovered eDNA from 19 genera of fish, six of these have also been observed on towed underwater videos, while 13 were unique to eDNA. We discuss the potential drivers of seasonal differences in community composition and richness. Our results suggest that eDNA can provide valuable insights for monitoring TMRE communities but highlight the necessity of completing reference DNA databases available for this region.
Spatial distribution dynamics for Epimedium brevicornum Maxim. from 1970 to 2020
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Wang Yan , Du Xiaojuan , Zhao Chunying , He Ping , Meng Fanyun 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAt different time scales, a species will experience diverse distribution changes. For Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, the phenomenon is obvious, but the understanding of the spatial dynamics of E. brevicornum under distinct time scales is poor. In this study, we modeled the potential distribution for E. brevicornum for five time scales, 1970–1979, 1980–1989, 1990–1999, 2000–2009, and 2010–2019, with different occurrence data, and the Kuenm package was used to optimize the parameter combination. Then, SDM tools and a Venn diagram were utilized to simulate the changes in highly suitable areas and spatial dynamics, respectively. Comprehensive results show that temperature seasonality (BIO4, 37.54%) has the greatest effect on the distribution of E. brevicornum, followed by minimum temperature (TMIN, 21.42%). The areas of distribution for E. brevicornum are 35.06 × 105 km2, 25.7 × 105 km2, 67.64 × 105 km2, 27.29 × 105 km2, and 9.87× 105 km2, which are mainly concentrated in Gansu, Shaanxi, Shanxi, and Henan, respectively. In addition, the largest regions for expansion, stability, and contraction under various time scales are 5.6 × 105 km2, 3.54 × 105 km2, and 3.47 × 105 km2, respectively. These changes indicate that approximately 7.96% of the regions are highly stable, and three critical counties, Wanyuan, Chenggu, and Hechuan, and Xixiang, have become significant areas for migration. Overall, our results indicate that there are different spatial distribution patterns and dynamics for E. brevicornum for different time scales. Given these results, this study also proposes comprehensive strategies for the conservation and management of E. brevicornum, which will further improve the current resource utilization status.
The influence of climate oscillations and geological events on population differentiation of Camponotus japonicus in the Chinese mainland
Authors: Ma Ruoqing , Zhang Liangliang , Xu Yang , Wei Cong , He Hong 
Published: February 2024

AbstractCamponotus japonicus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is an omnivorous social insect which builds sizable colonies in sparse woodlands or cropland and spreads across multiple climatic zones in the Chinese mainland. This study aims to reveal the role of climate changes and geological events in driving the genetic structure of social insect populations by investigating the phylogenetics and historical demography of C. japonicus in the Chinese mainland. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on the mitochondria DNA dataset using MrBayes and IQ‐TREE. We constructed a haplotype network, calculated analyses of molecular variance, estimated the divergence time, and reconstructed the maximum clade credibility tree. Mismatch distribution and Bayesian skyline plots were used to infer historical population fluctuations. Additionally, ecological niche modeling was employed to predict the potential distribution of the species during the present, mid‐holocene, and last glacial maximum periods in the Chinese mainland. The phylogenetic tree and median‐joining network analyses support the presence of four distinct lineages in C. japonicus. These lineages exhibit significant genetic differentiation and limited gene flow. The divergence among the four lineages began in the early Pleistocene, approximately 1.41 million years ago (Ma). Subsequently, the central lineage diverged from both the northern and southern lineages around 1.16 Ma, while the northern and southern lineages diverged from each other at approximately 1.07 Ma. Population expansion was observed in the southern, central, and northern lineages prior to the last glacial maximum, while the Yunnan‐Sichuan lineage experienced a slight increase in population size in more recent times. The predicted distribution of the species corresponds well with the actual distribution. Furthermore, the current suitable habitat areas in northern Xinjiang, southern Tibet, and the southeast coastal regions have significantly decreased compared to the last glacial maximum and the mid‐holocene periods. Our results suggest that climate oscillations and geological events play an important role in driving genetic patterns and differentiation of C. japonicus. Mountain barriers isolate populations from each other, hinder the flow of genes, and effectively prevent the spread of this species. But at the same time, it also formed refugia at low altitudes areas such as Qinling‐Bashan Mountains and Yanshan‐Taihang Mountains and provide suitable habitats during glaciation. This study provides a good model for understanding how complex climate changes and geological events affect population genetic differentiation of social insects in the Chinese mainland.
Enhanced potency of immunotherapy against B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia by combination of an Fc‐engineered CD19 antibody and CD47 blockade
Authors: Schewe Denis M. , Vogiatzi Fotini , Münnich Ira A. , Zeller Tobias , Windisch Roland , Wichmann Christian , Müller Kristina , Bhat Hilal , Felix Elisa , Mougiakakos Dimitrios , Bruns Heiko , Lenk Lennart , Valerius Thomas , Humpe Andreas , Peipp Matthias , Kellner Christian 
Published: February 2024

AbstractCD19‐directed immunotherapy has become a cornerstone in the therapy of B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL). CD19‐directed cellular and antibody‐based therapeutics have entered therapy of primary and relapsed disease and contributed to improved outcomes in relapsed disease and lower therapy toxicity. However, efficacy remains limited in many cases due to a lack of therapy response, short remission phases, or antigen escape. Here, BCP‐ALL cell lines, patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) samples, human macrophages, and an in vivo transplantation model in NOD.Cg‐PrkdcscidIl2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ (NSG) mice were used to examine the therapeutic potency of a CD19 antibody Fc‐engineered for improved effector cell recruitment (CD19‐DE) and antibody‐dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), in combination with a novel modified CD47 antibody (Hu5F9‐IgG2σ). For the in vivo model, only samples refractory to CD19‐DE monotherapy were chosen. Hu5F9‐IgG2σ enhanced ADCP by CD19‐DE in various BCP‐ALL cell line models with varying CD19 surface expression and cytogenetic backgrounds, two of which contained the KMT2A‐AFF1 fusion. Also, the antibody combination was efficient in inducing ADCP by human macrophages in pediatric PDX samples with and adult samples with and without KMT2A‐rearrangement in vitro. In a randomized phase 2‐like PDX trial using seven KMT2A‐rearranged BCP‐ALL samples in NSG mice, the CD19/CD47 antibody combination proved highly efficient. Our findings support that the efficacy of Fc‐engineered CD19 antibodies may be substantially enhanced by a combination with CD47 blockade. This suggests that the combination may be a promising therapy option for BCP‐ALL, especially in relapsed patients and/or patients refractory to CD19‐directed therapy.
Evaluation of the hematological inflammatory parameters in the patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura: A case–control study
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad Hossein , Maleknia Mohsen , Khoshbakht Reza , Rezaeeyan Hadi 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsInflammation is one of the immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)'s aggravating elements due to inflammatory cells' function. This study aims to identify and evaluate hematological inflammatory parameters, including neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and hemoglobin‐to‐platelet ratio (HPR), in patients with ITP compared to the control group.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the profile of 190 ITP patients from August 2019 to January 2021 at Imam Reza Hospital of Mashhad, Iran, along with 100 healthy individuals who had no ITP‐related clinical or laboratory symptoms. Immune cell counts, NLR, PLR, and HPR were calculated using the complete blood count at the time of diagnosis and after the treatment. The results were analyzed through MedCalc, SPSS software, and the receiver operating characteristic curve.ResultsThe result showed that white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil counts were higher in ITP patients (WBC: p: 0.001, neutrophil: p: 0.001), and conversely, platelet and lymphocyte counts were higher in the control group compared to ITP patients (platelets: p: 0.001, lymphocytes: p: 0.001). The indices analysis between the two groups revealed that NLR was significantly increased in ITP patients (p: 0.001), but PLR was significantly reduced in ITP patients (with the mean platelet count of 23.44 ± 35.26 × 109/L) compared to the control group (with the mean platelet count of 234.04 ± 55.88 × 109/L). The HPR index also significantly increased in ITP patients (p: 0.001).ConclusionAn increase in NLR, PLR, and a decrease in HPR can be considered a valuable diagnostic algorithm in patients with ITP.
Micronutrients status as a contributing factor in secondary burning mouth syndrome: A review of the literature
Authors: Gholizadeh Narges , Sheykhbahaei Nafiseh 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsPatients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS) experience an annoying feeling without clinical evidence of any mucosal lesion. Deficiency or excess of micronutrients is a common feature in secondary BMS. There is limited knowledge among oral healthcare providers regarding the significance of micronutrients in oral health, so the current review focuses on the critical role of these elements in oral health implications as secondary BMS.MethodsFor the data collection, the authors searched for key terms without time limitation (1900–2021) in databases comprised of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science (SCI), and Embase.ResultsThe total number of matched articles with inclusion criteria involved in this review article was 59 original articles. Among these, 20 randomized clinical trials (RCT), 31 case‐control or Crossectional, and 8 case reports/series are reviewed in this review article.ConclusionOne of the important etiological factors in patients with secondary BMS is micronutrient imbalance. The iron, zinc, vitamin B family, vitamin D deficiency and increased levels of homocysteine and oxidant agents were examined in secondary BMS patients. In addition, oral medicine specialists must consider the possible toxic effects of some elements in restorations and dental prostheses. Further studies, such as RCTs in the future, are recommended.
Sucrase‐Isomaltase Deficiency: Changing Pattern over Two Decades
Authors: Baudon J. J. , Veinberg F. , Thioulouse E. , Morgant G. , Aymard P. , Charritat J. L. 
Published: February 2024

SummaryTwenty‐two cases of sucrase‐isomaltase deficiency (SID) were observed over a period of 20 years. Since 1977 delay of introduction of sucrose and its decrease in infants' diets have modified the symptomatology. In general, onset of diarrhea has not taken place immediately but 15 days to 2 months after introduction of sucrose. Out of 12 cases with dehydration, five occurred 3 to 7 months after the beginning of sucrose diet. Hypotrophy was not constant (11 of 22 cases), thus diagnosis was delayed in 17 of 22 cases. A yellow complexion due to rising carotene levels in the blood is a striking feature. Because of falsely positive sucrose load tests (four out of 14 nonSID infants) and failure of the hydrogene breath test (one out of five studied cases), disaccharidase determination remains the key to diagnosis. Despite the genetic difference symptoms seem to depend on infant feeding practices.
Frequency and Clinical Pattern of Celiac Disease Among Siblings of Celiac Children
Authors: Bonamico M. , Mariani P. , Mazzilli M. C. , Triglione P. , Lionetti P. , Ferrante P. , Picarelli A. , Mesturino A. , Gemme G. , Imperato C. 
Published: February 2024

SummaryTo investigate the prevalence and clinical and genetic patterns of celiac disease (CD) among siblings of CD patients, 103 siblings and one twin of 80 celiac children were evaluated by means of their clinical history, physical examination, blood indices of nutritional status, and antigliadin antibodies (AGA). Antiendomysium antibody (AEA) levels were determined in 70 patients and 85 subjects were human leucocyte antigen (HLA) typed. On the basis of clinical or laboratory data or both, 21 siblings (20.2%) were submitted to intestinal biopsy, whereas intestinal biopsy in six siblings with positive serologic screening (AGA lgA or AEA or both) was not performed because of parental refusal. In a high percentage of cases (18%), all on a gluten‐containing diet, the intestinal mucosa was atrophic, and CD was subsequently diagnosed. Because we could not submit all the siblings to intestinal biopsy, this figure could underestimate the real prevalence of the disease in our series; consequently, it was not possible to calculate accurately the sensitivity and specificity of AGA and AEA. Nevertheless, AEA (positive in all the nine siblings with mucosal atrophy), followed by AGA IgA, proved to be the best screening for CD. Eighteen of 19 CD siblings showed HLA‐predisposing antigens. Among the 19 CD siblings, one showed a typical form with gastrointestinal symptoms, two had short stature, one suffered from recurrent vomiting, and in 15, the disease was clinically silent. On the contrary, among siblings who were first diagnosed (index cases), the majority (73.7%) had a typical from of CD, and no clinically silent cases were observed. We did not find any difference between index cases and CD siblings in food habits and distribution of HLA antigens. In 15 of 18 cases, the sibling diagnosed subsequently was the older one. Finally, the typical form of CD was significantly more frequent among the younger brother than the older. In conclusion, the high prevalence of the silent form of CD in our cases indicates that siblings of CD subjects should always be screened for CD. The combination of AGA IgA and AEA represent a good screening method to use in selecting children for the intestinal biopsy.
Treatment of Intractable Constipation in Children: Experience with Cisapride
Authors: Nurko Samuel , Garcia‐Aranda Jose Alberto , Guerrero Vania Yolena , Worona Liliana Beatriz 
Published: February 2024

SummaryTo establish whether cisapride is beneficial in children with intractable constipation, an open trial was performed. Chronically constipated children who had failed at least 12 weeks of medical therapy received cisapride at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg/dose TID for 12 weeks. Children with pelvic floor dyssynergia were excluded. Patients were followed prospectively for at least 12 months. Thirty children were initially enrolled, and 27 (14 boys, 13 girls) completed the study. At the end of 12 weeks of cisapride treatment, there was a significant increase in the number of bowel movements per week (1.43 ± 0.52 to 6.48 ± 4.16; p < 0.05) and significant decreases in the number of accidents per day (2.86 ± 2.71 to 0.52 ± 1.23; p < 0.05) and doses of laxatives used per week (14.33 ± 5.84 to 3.37 ± 7.10; p < 0.05). Encopresis disappeared in 65.2% of cases (p < 0.0001) and improved in 26%. Sixtynine percent of the patients stopped using laxatives (p < 0.001). After 12 weeks 18 patients (66.6%) were asymptomatic, seven (25.9%) showed some improvement in bowel movement frequency and number of accidents, and two (7.4%) showed no improvement. The cisapride was well tolerated. After long‐term follow‐up (20 ± 9.8 months), 37% of patients had recovered (asymptomatic and off laxatives and cisapride) and 29.6% were still asymptomatic but were using laxatives or cisapride. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between recovered and nonrecovered patients. We conclude that cisapride is effective in the treatment of some children with intractable constipation without pelvic floor dyssynergia.
Colonoscopy Preparation in Children: Safety, Efficacy, and Tolerance of High‐ Versus Low‐Volume Cleansing Methods
Authors: da Silva Mary M. , Briars Graham L. , Patrick Mark K. , Cleghorn Geoffrey J. , Shepherd Ross W. 
Published: February 2024

Background:The use of large‐volume electrolyte balanced solutions as preparation for colonoscopy often results in poor patient compliance and acceptance. The tolerance, safety, and efficacy of high‐versus low‐volume colon‐cleansing methods as preparation for colonoscopy in children were compared by randomized operator‐blinded trial.Methods:Twenty‐nine children ages 3.6‐14.6 years had either high‐volume nasogastric balanced polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage (20 ml/kg/h) until the effluent was clear (n = 15), or two oral doses of sodium phosphate solution (22.5‐45 ml) separated by oral fluid intake (n = 14).Results:Both preparations were equally effective. The low‐volume preparation was better tolerated and caused less discomfort that the high‐volume preparation, judging by serial nurse observations. The incidence of abdominal symptoms, diarrhea, sleep disturbance, and vomiting was not significantly different between the two groups. Both groups had a small reduction in mean hematocrit and serum calcium levels. The sodium phosphate preparation caused increases in mean serum sodium concentrations from 140 to 145 mmol/L and serum phosphate concentrations from 1.41 to 2.53 mmol/L. Ten hours after the commencement of the preanesthetic fast, these concentrations had returned to normal.Conclusions:There are advantages in terms of tolerance, discomfort, and case of administration with acceptable colonic cleansing with the use of the less‐invasive oral sodium phosphate low‐volume colon‐cleansing preparation in children. Safe use requires ensuring an adequate oral fluid intake during the preparation time and avoidance of use in patients with renal insufficiency.