bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hair analysis: Assessment of homemade hair treatment effects on drug concentrations in the keratin matrix
Authors: Mestria Serena , Odoardi Sara , Biosa Giulia , Valentini Valeria , Strano Rossi Sabina 
Published: July 2023

AbstractHair is the matrix of choice for investigating a subject's drug history over time, usually with specific forensic applications (license renewal, workplace drug testing, toxicological evaluation), and it is generally considered difficult to be tampered with. Nevertheless, some treatments promising to lower drug concentrations in hair are described online as how to “pass” a drug test. We selected three of these practices, claiming to be effective in decreasing drug concentrations—Treatment 1: (A) baking soda, (B) salicylic acid, (C) bleach; Treatment 2: (A) bleaching and (B) dyeing; Treatment 3: (A) white vinegar, (B) salicylic acid moisturizer, (C) liquid cleanser, and (D) dyeing. Quantitative results were compared with those of untreated hair strands, used as reference. We evaluated the efficacy of the treatment on drugs of abuse and benzodiazepines. Treatment 1 proved to be the most effective, since drug concentrations in treated hair were significantly lower than in untreated ones, although methadone and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) seemed to be less affected than cocaine and 6‐monoacetylmorphine (MAM). The mean percentage values of treatment‐induced decrease were up to 90% for cocaine, 81% for benzoylecgonine, 77% for morphine, 89% for MAM, 37% for methadone, 67% for ketamine, 80% for MDMA, 76% for methamphetamine, and 60% for THC, compared with the reference samples. There was no noticeable damage or discoloration of the keratin matrix, making it difficult for the technicians to determine if there was a treatment. This could be an issue for the application of cutoffs or when low concentrations of drugs are incorporated into the keratinic matrix.
Lakeshore vegetation: More resilient towards human recreation than we think?
Authors: Meyer Nora , Swiatloch Anna , Dittrich Sebastian , von Oheimb Goddert 
Published: July 2023

AbstractLakes and their shoreline vegetation are rich in biodiversity and provide multiple functions and habitats for fauna and flora. Humans are attracted by the scenic beauty of these ecosystems and the possibilities for recreational activities they offer. However, the use of lakes for recreational activities can lead to disturbance of vegetation, threatening the integrity and functionality of shoreline areas. Recent literature reviews revealed that impacts of the seemingly harmless activities bathing and lingering on the shore on lakeshore vegetation are poorly understood. In this study, we analysed the effects of shoreline use connected with bathing on the structure, composition and diversity of lakeshore vegetation. Vegetation relevés were recorded in 10 bathing and 10 adjacent control sites in the nature park ‘Dahme‐Heideseen’ (Brandenburg, Germany). In addition visitor counts were performed. The species composition and the cover of herbaceous and shrub vegetation differed between bathing and control sites, but all sites had a high percentage of plant species not typical for the community. The vegetation parameters did not correlate with visitor counts. The results indicate that the present visitor intensity in the nature park does not impact the vegetation severely.
Biodegradability and biotoxicity of the modified starch matrix with biologically synthesized ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Szymanski Marcin , Nowicka Joanna , Dobrucka Renata 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn the present study, the starch films with biosynthesized ZnO nanoparticles were obtained. The films obtained were examined for mechanical properties, environmental toxicity and biodegradation. It was observed that the addition of the ZnO nanoparticles to the polymer matrix caused an increase in the tensile strength and elongation at break. The STEZHP film was characterized by the elongation value at 306 (%). The addition of the nanoparticles had a positive influence on the degradation improvement of the films in question under the three different conditions applied. In turn, the presence of ZnONPs caused an increase in the toxicity of the materials investigated. In the case of the tests for toxicity towards plants, it was observed that the films (SAZ, SAZHP, SAEZ, and STZ) showed very little toxicity, as well as a weak correlation between the parameters of the film quantity and the shoot growth inhibition.
Exploring the oral‐gut microbiota during thyroid cancer: Factors affecting the thyroid functions and cancer development
Authors: Kun Yao , Xiaodong Wei , Haijun Wang , Xiazi Nie , Dai Qiang 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThyroid cancer (TC) is categorized into papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The TC is increasing in several countries, including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Australia, Germany, Japan, Spain, and Italy. Thus, this review comprehensively covers the factors that affect thyroid gland function, TC types, risk factors, and symptoms. Lifestyle factors (such as nutrient consumption and smoking) and pollutants (such as chemicals and heavy metals) increased the thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) levels which are directly related to TC prevalence. The conventional and recent TC treatments are also highlighted. The role of the oral and gut microbiota as well as the application of probiotics on TC are also discussed. The variations in the composition of oral and gut microbes influence the thyroid function indirectly through alteration in metabolites (such as short‐chain fatty acids) that are eminent for cellular energy metabolism. Maintenance of healthy gut and oral microbiota can help in regulating thyroid function by regulating iodine uptake. Oral or gut microbial dysbiosis can be considered as an early diagnosis factor or TC marker. High TSH during TC can increase the oral microbial diversity while disrupting the high ratio of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in the gut. Supplementation of probiotics as an adjuvant in TC treatment is beneficial. However, needs more extensive research to explore the direct effect of probiotics on thyroid function.
Updates on Hydrogen Value Chain: A Strategic Roadmap
Authors: Garcia‐Navarro Julio , Isaacs Mark A. , Favaro Marco , Ren Dan , Ong Wee‐Jun , Grätzel Michael , Jiménez‐Calvo Pablo 
Published: July 2023

AbstractA strategic roadmap for noncarbonized fuels is a global priority, and the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions is a key focus of the Paris Agreement to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures. In this context, hydrogen is a promising noncarbonized fuel, but the pace of its implementation will depend on the engineering advancements made at each step of its value chain. To accelerate its adoption, various applications of hydrogen across industries, transport, power, and building sectors have been identified, where it can be used as a feedstock, fuel, or energy carrier and storage. However, widespread usage of hydrogen will depend on its political, industrial, and social acceptance. It is essential to carefully assess the hydrogen value chain and compare it with existing solar technologies. The major challenge to widespread adoption of hydrogen is its cost as outlined in the roadmap for hydrogen. It needs to be produced at the levelized cost of hydrogen of less than $2 kg−1 to be competitive with the established process of steam methane reforming. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of each step of the hydrogen value chain, outlining both the current challenges and recent advances.
Advancing the weight of evidence approach to enable chemical environmental risk assessment for decision-making and achieving protection goals
Authors: Lee Kuan-Chun , Guiney Patrick D. , Menzie Charles A. , Belanger Scott E. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The weight of evidence (WoE) approach conflates the aspects of quality, reliability, relevance, and consistency of data and information to systematically strengthen the body of evidence and enable credible communication and decision-making on chemical risk assessment. Between 2015 and 2019, the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) held several workshops in all the geographical units with scientists and managers from academia, government, and business sectors focusing on the chemical risk-assessment approach. This article summarizes the knowledge that informs the needs concerning application of WoE, especially in the context of developing countries. This effort supports the use of existing data and test strategies for assessing chemical toxicity, exposure, and risk, and highlights the critical process for risk assessors to convey and discuss information sufficiency and uncertainty mitigation strategy with risk managers. This article complements the four articles in the special series that provide a critical review of existing frameworks for chemical risk screening and management, and applications of the WoE approach for assessing exposure in the aquatic environment, prediction of fish toxicity, and bioaccumulation. Collectively, the articles exemplify the use of WoE approaches to evaluate chemicals that are data rich and/or data poor for decision-making. They integrate the WoE concepts and approaches into practical considerations and guidance, and help to scale the value of WoE in supporting sound chemical risk assessment and science-based policy implementation. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:1188–1191. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
A new retinal OCT‐angiography diabetic retinopathy dataset for segmentation and DR grading
Authors: Ma Fei , Wang Shengbo , Dai Cuixia , Qi Fumin , Meng Jing 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPurposeDiabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common diseases caused by diabetes and can lead to vision loss or even blindness. The wide‐field optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography is non‐invasive imaging technology and convenient to diagnose DR.MethodsA newly constructed Retinal OCT‐Angiography Diabetic retinopathy (ROAD) dataset is utilized for segmentation and grading tasks. It contains 1200 normal images, 1440 DR images, and 1440 ground truths for DR image segmentation. To handle the problem of grading DR, we propose a novel and effective framework, named projective map attention‐based convolutional neural network (PACNet).ResultsThe experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our PACNet. The accuracy of the proposed framework for grading DR is 87.5% on the ROAD dataset.ConclusionsThe information on ROAD can be viewed at URL https://mip2019.github.io/ROAD. The ROAD dataset will be helpful for the development of the early detection of DR field and future research.Translational RelevanceThe novel framework for grading DR is a valuable research and clinical diagnosis method.
Effect of extracorporeal photopheresis on survival in acute graft versus host disease
Authors: Kaya Ahmet , Erkurt Mehmet Ali , Kuku İrfan , Kaya Emin , Berber İlhami , Biçim Soykan , Hidayet Emine , Cırık Salih , Arslan Süleyman , Yagın Fatma Hilal , Sarıcı Ahmet 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundExtracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is the main non‐pharmacological approach accompanying systemic medical treatments in steroid‐resistant acute or chronic graft versus host disease. The study aimed to examine the effect of ECP on survival in acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD).MethodsA total of 35 patients who were followed up in the adult hematology clinic of İnönü University Turgut Özal Medical Center for aGVHD were included in the study. Stem cell transplantation and ECP application parameters that may affect the survival of the patients were examined.ResultsIn aGVHD using ECP, the degree of involvement affects survival. Involvements with a clinical and laboratory score (Glucksberg system) of 2 and above significantly reduced survival. The duration of ECP use is associated with survival. Especially, 45 days and longer use increases survival (hazard ratio, P‐value <.05). The duration of steroid use was found to be effective in survival in aGVHD (P < .001). ECP administration day (P = .003), duration of steroid use (P < .001), duration of ECP use (P = .001), and grade of aGVHD (P < .001) affect survival.ConclusionECP use is effective in survival in patients with aGVHD score ≥2. In patients with aGVHD, especially the use of 45 days and longer has a positive effect on survival. The duration of steroid use is associated with survival in aGVHD.
A rapid, high‐yield and bioinspired synthesis of colloidal silver nanoparticles using Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract and assessment of antibacterial and phytostimulatory activity
Authors: Kim Min , Sung Jung‐Suk , Atchudan Raji , Syed Asad , Nadda Ashok Kumar , Kim Dae‐Young , Ghodake Gajanan Sampatrao 
Published: July 2023

AbstractSilver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as highly effective antimicrobial agents against multidrug‐resistant (MDR) pathogens. This study aims to employ green chemistry principles for AgNP synthesis involving phytochemical‐rich extract from Glycyrrhiza glabra roots. The approach highlights using renewable feedstocks, safer chemicals, minimum byproducts, and process scale‐up. The synthesis of AgNPs was assessed using a surface plasmon resonance band at 420 nm, and structural properties were characterized using TEM, x‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This method enables the production of high‐yield dispersions of AgNPs with desired physicochemical characteristics, including dark yellow solution, size (~20 nm), spherical to an oval shape, crystal structure, and stable colloidal properties. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was investigated against the MDR bacteria strains of gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli). This work reveals that the antimicrobial activity of AgNPs can be influenced by bacterial cell wall components. The results demonstrate the strong interaction between AgNPs and E. coli, exhibiting a dose‐dependent antibacterial response. The green approach facilitated the safer, facile, and rapid synthesis of colloidal dispersions of AgNPs, providing a sustainable and promising alternative to conventional chemical and physical methods. Furthermore, the effect of AgNPs on various growth parameters, including seed germination, root and shoot elongation, and dry weight biomass, was assessed for mung bean seedlings. The results revealed phytostimulatory effects, suggesting the promising prospects of AgNPs in the nano‐priming of agronomic seeds.Research Highlights
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract enabled rapid, high‐yield, and eco‐friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).
Spectrophotometric analysis examined the optical properties, scalability, and stability of AgNPs.
Transmission electron microscopy provided insights into the size, shape, and dispersity of AgNPs.
Scanning electron microscopy revealed significant damage to gram‐negative bacterial cell morphology and membrane integrity.
AgNPs were found to enhance seed germination, seedling growth, and biomass yield of Vigna radiata.
The utilization of genetic counselors by patient support groups
Authors: Roulston Sadie , Raraigh Karen , Malinowski Amy , MacCarrick Gretchen 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe theoretical benefits of collaboration between patient support groups and genetic counselors have been discussed in the literature. However, no study has quantified the rate or ways that support groups utilize genetic counselors. This study surveyed one person in a leadership role at genetic support organizations to determine how many of the organizations have a relationship with genetic counselors, their utilization of genetic counselors, and their satisfaction with that relationship. It was found that 64.8% of organizations had a relationship with genetic counselors. Relationships were more likely to exist when organizations had full‐time workers, had a primary focus on research, or offered a number and variety of services to members. Ways in which organizations utilized genetic counselors included as speakers at conferences, answering patient inquiries, and serving on expert panels. These relationships were supported through funding, networking, and patients connecting the two parties. Overall, representatives from organizations that had a relationship of any sort with genetic counselors were more likely to indicate satisfaction with that relationship than dissatisfaction (χ2(4, n = 89) = 45.053, p < 0.001). Even so, many respondents indicated that they wanted to continue to grow their relationship with genetic counselors but were hindered by the lack of funding or access to genetic counselors who could be engaged in their cause. Thus, while relationships and satisfaction with the relationship to genetic counselors were generally high, this study highlights access, outreach, and funding as areas of focus to improve utilization of genetic counselors in the support group sector.
Gene therapy for glycogen storage diseases
Authors: Koeberl Dwight D. , Koch Rebecca L. , Lim Jeong‐A. , Brooks Elizabeth D. , Arnson Benjamin D. , Sun Baodong , Kishnani Priya S. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractGlycogen storage disorders (GSDs) are inherited disorders of metabolism resulting from the deficiency of individual enzymes involved in the synthesis, transport, and degradation of glycogen. This literature review summarizes the development of gene therapy for the GSDs. The abnormal accumulation of glycogen and deficiency of glucose production in GSDs lead to unique symptoms based upon the enzyme step and tissues involved, such as liver and kidney involvement associated with severe hypoglycemia during fasting and the risk of long‐term complications including hepatic adenoma/carcinoma and end stage kidney disease in GSD Ia from glucose‐6‐phosphatase deficiency, and cardiac/skeletal/smooth muscle involvement associated with myopathy +/− cardiomyopathy and the risk for cardiorespiratory failure in Pompe disease. These symptoms are present to a variable degree in animal models for the GSDs, which have been utilized to evaluate new therapies including gene therapy and genome editing. Gene therapy for Pompe disease and GSD Ia has progressed to Phase I and Phase III clinical trials, respectively, and are evaluating the safety and bioactivity of adeno‐associated virus vectors. Clinical research to understand the natural history and progression of the GSDs provides invaluable outcome measures that serve as endpoints to evaluate benefits in clinical trials. While promising, gene therapy and genome editing face challenges with regard to clinical implementation, including immune responses and toxicities that have been revealed during clinical trials of gene therapy that are underway. Gene therapy for the glycogen storage diseases is under development, addressing an unmet need for specific, stable therapy for these conditions.
Hybrid whale optimization algorithm‐scaled cascade fractional order hybrid controller applied to renewable based Electric Vehicle generating systems
Authors: Mondal Basudeb , Biswas Soumen , Roy Provas Kumar , Dutta Susanta 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn the upcoming epochs, conventional energy may deplete soon. Thus, the use of conventional energy in the power industries need to be supplemented by non‐conventional energy resources. This would result in loss of synchronisms in the power grids owing to the fact that solar and wind alternate their attributes expeditiously with change in atmospheric phenomenon. To ameliorate frequency deviation within a specific range automatic generation control (AGC) implements forced allowance on system operation. A three area thermal with photovoltaic (PV), electric vehicle (EV), wind system is considered under deregulated environment to develop and to judge the efficacy of newly developed cascade fractional order hybrid controller combination of (FOTID & 3DOF‐PID). Comparing the aforementioned controller to other controllers such as the three degree of freedom proportional‐integral‐derivative (3DOF‐PID), the fractional order tilt‐integral‐derivative (FOTID) and the proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) justifies the system's effectiveness. This assessment has been accomplished by a trendy optimization technique such as hybrid whale optimization algorithm (HWOA). However, the main intent of this write‐up is to fabricate a cascade fractional order (CC‐FO) hybrid controller that would act as the new control mechanism for the proposed system under deregulated scenario. It has been found that the suggested CC‐FO hybrid controller stabilizes the system (i.e., Under step load disruptions, frequency deviation and tie‐line power become zero) in the shortest amount of time possible. Additionally, it is seen that the recommended controller can control a wide range of nominal loading circumstances and system characteristics, demonstrating its robustness.
Compatibility of a novel temperature‐controlled, irrigated radiofrequency catheter with ultra‐high‐density mapping
Authors: Rodriguez Muñoz Daniel , Marco del Castillo Álvaro , Ramos Jimenez Javier , Borrego Bernabe Luis , Madrid Montoya Alba , Lorenzo Balboa Adrián , Arribas Ynsaurriaga Fernando , Salguero‐Bodes Rafael 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundCompatibility of DiamondTemp (DT) radiofrequency (RF) catheter with the Rhythmia mapping system has not been manufacturer‐reported nor its tracking accuracy reported.MethodsConsecutive patients undergoing macroreentrant atrial tachycardia ablation guided by Rhythmia and ablated using DT were prospectively enrolled. Following catheter configuration, ablation lines were performed and remapped to measure the RF tag to effective‐ablation‐line‐center (RFT‐ALC) distance.ResultsAmong 20 consecutive patients (54 maps), 40 ablation lines were evaluated. Overall, the RFT‐ALC distance was 3.88 ± 2.95 mm, and the operator assessment of accuracy was high. No complications occurred.ConclusionThe use of DT catheter guided by the Rhythmia mapping system is feasible and accurate.