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In order to investigate the effect of silicon-containing precursors on the facile synthesis of Ni-phyllosilicate, Stöber SiO 2 , tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), sodium metasilicate (Na 2 SiO 3 ⋅9H 2 O) was used. Na 2 SiO 3 successfully reacts with the nickel nitrate to form nickel phyllosilicate at ambient temperature, owing to its strong basicity and easy hydrolysis to generate intermediates of H 4 SiO 4 and Ni(OH) 2. Stöber SiO 2 and TEOS can only convert to Ni-phyllosilicate with the assistance of NH 4 F and urea, because of the limitation of intermediates formation. The Na 2 SiO 3 -based Ni-phyllosilicate NiPs-M-12 shows the highest catalytic activity for CO 2 methanation among all the samples, whose maximum CO 2 conversion reaches 71.0% at 450 °C, 0.1 MPa, 60 L g−1·h−1 with a TOF CO2 of 2.6 ± 0.1 × 10−3 s−1 and activation energy of 83.19 kJ mol−1. The active intermediates of *HCOO and *CO are observed by in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (in-situ DRIFTS) analysis, which can be hydrogenated to CH 3 O species with the further hydrogenation to produce the target products CH 4 and H 2 O. It also displays high long-term stability up to 100 h with high anti-sintering property. In conclusion, the recognition of the interrelationships of silicon-containing precursors and the formation of intermediates can shed light on the facile synthesis of Ni-phyllosilicate with high catalytic performance. • The room-temperature synthesis of Ni-phyllosilicate was proposed. • The properties of silicon-containing precursors were important for Ni-phyllosilicate synthesis. • The strong basicity and easy hydrolysis of Na 2 SiO 3 were the main reasons for the formation of intermediates of H 4 SiO 4 and Ni(OH) 2. • The Na 2 SiO 3 -based Ni-phyllosilicate showed high catalytic activity and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: In colorectal cancer, the morphological categorization of fibrotic cancer stroma in the invasive frontal zone of the primary tumor is well reflected in the prognosis. Conversely, the histological characteristics of pancreatic cancer (PC) reveal fibrotic hyperplasia of stroma known as desmoplasia; however, its characterization is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the prognostic factors according to the histological categorization of desmoplastic reactions in PC. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 167 patients who underwent curative resection for PC. The desmoplastic pattern was histologically classified as mature, intermediate, or immature. Clinicopathological features were evaluated, and disease‐free and overall survival (OS) were analyzed in the three groups. Prognostic factors were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: In total, 19 mature, 87 intermediate, and 61 immature desmoplastic patterns were evaluated. Jaundice decompression, white blood cell count, and platelet/lymphocyte ratio were significantly different among the groups. The mature group had a better disease‐free survival (DFS) prognosis than the other two groups; however, OS did not differ between the groups. Desmoplastic patterns showed significant differences between the three groups for DFS. Conclusions: Desmoplastic patterns are a prognostic factor of DFS for PC, with mature desmoplastic reactions associated with good prognosis. Thus, they may aid in individualized therapeutic approaches in patients with PC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk management should run through the entire process of method development, utilization, and maintenance. Based on the analytical quality by design (AQbD) concept, various integrated risk management techniques were used in this study to develop an analysis method for the percolation solution of Xiaochaihu capsules. During the development of the analysis method, risk assessment was conducted using an Ishikawa diagram and failure mode effects analysis, followed by method optimization using experimental design. The probability of nonconformance calculated via an exhaustive Monte Carlo method quantitatively characterized the risk magnitude of method parameter failures, leading to the establishment of a operable design region method based on risk magnitude. Validation experiments and robustness tests of the data were utilized for model refinement and initial risk review. Methodological validation of the developed method was performed, and control strategies for the analysis method were presented through a decision tree. Stability experiments demonstrated that the samples remained stable at 4 °C for 24 h. The average recovery rate fell between 98.8% and 105%, with relative standard deviations ranging from 2.73% to 4.48%. The results showed that the established analysis method exhibited robustness. This analysis method can simultaneously determine the contents of uridine, adenine, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and guanosine. This method can also be employed for process control during percolation. This study integrated various risk management techniques to develop and maintain the analysis method, and this approach can potentially be extended to other analytical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is widely utilized as a fluorescent tag in biochemical fields. Whereas the intermediate (I) state has been proposed in the photoreaction cycle in addition to the A and B states, until now the structure of I has only been estimated by computational studies. In this paper, we report the crystal structures of the I stabilizing variants of GFP at high resolutions where respective atoms can be observed separately. Comparison with the structures in the other states highlights the structural feature of the I state. The side chain of one of the substituted residues, Val203, adopts the gauche- conformation observed for Thr203 in the A state, which is different from the B state. On the other hand, His148 interacts with the chromophore by ordinary hydrogen bonding with a distance of 2.85 Å, while the weaker interaction by longer distances is observed in the A state. Therefore, it was indicated that it is possible to distinguish three states A, B and I by the two hydrogen bond distances Oγ-Thr203···Oη-chromophore and Nδ1-His148···Oη-chromophore. We discuss the characteristics of the I intermediate of wild-type GFP on the bases of the structure estimated from the variant structures by quantum chemical calculations.

Differential diagnosis of uveitis, the role of immunosuppressives and biologics in the management.

Introduction: Despite numerous successful cases, there are still some challenges in using analytical quality by design (AQbD) for the development of analytical methods. Knowledge organization helps to enhance the objectivity of risk assessment, reduce the number of preliminary exploratory experiments, identify potential critical method parameters (CMPs) and their scope. Objective: In the present study, we aimed to develop a simple, rapid, and robust analytical method for detecting phenolic compounds in Xiaochaihu capsule intermediates utilizing knowledge organization. Methods: Knowledge organization and AQbD were combined to obtain the initial analytical conditions through knowledge collection, extraction, reorganization, and analysis. The quantitative relationship between critical method attributes (CMAs) and CMPs was then established by a definitive screening design. The method operable design region was calculated using an exhaustive Monte Carlo approach based on the probability of reaching the standard. Robustness investigation and methodological validation were finally performed. Results: Analytical target profiles, CMAs, potential CMPs, and initial analytical conditions were initially identified, and the optimized ranges of operating parameters were obtained. A UHPLC method was successfully established for the analysis of phenolic compounds in ginger–ginger pinellia percolate, and the method validation outcomes were also satisfactory. Conclusion: The developed method can be a reliable means to detect the phenolic compounds of Xiaochaihu capsule intermediates. Knowledge organization provides a new approach for making better use of prior knowledge, significantly enhancing the efficiency of analytical method development. The approach is versatile and can be similarly applied to the development of other methods. This study employed an AQbD process based on knowledge organization to develop an analytical method for detecting phenolic compounds in Xiaochaihu capsule intermediate, improving the efficiency of conducting single‐factor experiments and identifying potential CMPs in the early stage of method development. Simultaneously, it offers a new approach for utilizing prior knowledge effectively. This analytical method can be used for quality control of intermediate in Xiaochaihu capsule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ligand‐protected heterometallic nanoclusters in contrast to homo‐metal counterparts show more broad applications due to the synergistic effect of hetero‐metals but their controllable syntheses remain a challenge. Among heterometallic nanoclusters, monovalent Ag‐Cu compounds are rarely explored due to much difference of Ag(I) and Cu(I) such as atom radius, coordination habits, and redox potential. Encouraged by copper‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction, comproportionation reaction of Cu(II)X2 and Cu(0) in the presence of (PhC≡CAg)n complex and molybdate generated a core‐shell peanut‐shaped 66‐nuclear Ag(I)‐Cu(I) heterometallic nanocluster, [(Mo4O16)2@Cu12Ag54(PhC≡C)50] (referred to as Ag54Cu12). The structure and composition of Ag‐Cu heterometallic nanocluster are fully characterized. X‐ray single crystal diffraction reveals that Ag54Cu12 has a peanut‐shaped silver(I)/copper(I) heterometallic nanocage protected by fifty phenylacetylene ligands in µ3–modes and encapsulated two mutually twisted tetramolybdates. Heterometallic nanocage contains a 54‐Ag‐atom outer ellipsoid silver cage decorated by 12 copper inside wall. Nanosized Ag54Cu12 is a n‐type narrow‐band‐gap semiconductor with a good photocurrent response. Preliminary experiments demonstrates that Ag54Cu12 itself and activated carbon supported Ag54Cu12/C are effective catalysts for 1,3‐dipole cycloaddition between alkynes and azides at ambient conditions. The work provides not only a new synthetic route toward Ag(I)‐Cu(I) nanoclusters but also an important heterometallic intermediate in CuAAC catalytic reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CD14++CD16+ monocytes are susceptible to HIV-1 infection, and cross the blood-brain barrier. HIV-1 subtype C (HIV-1C) shows reduced Tat protein chemoattractant activity compared to HIV-1B, which might influence monocyte trafficking into the CNS. We hypothesized that the proportion of monocytes in CSF in HIV-1C is lower than HIV-1B group. We sought to assess differences in monocyte proportions in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and peripheral blood (PB) between people with HIV (PWH) and without HIV (PWoH), and by HIV-1B and -C subtypes. Immunophenotyping was performed by flow cytometry, monocytes were analyzed within CD45 + and CD64 + gated regions and classified in classical (CD14++CD16-), intermediate (CD14++CD16+), and non-classical (CD14lowCD16+). Among PWH, the median [IQR] CD4 nadir was 219 [32-531] cell/mm3; plasma HIV RNA (log10) was 1.60 [1.60-3.21], and 68% were on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Participants with HIV-1C and -B were comparable in terms of age, duration of infection, CD4 nadir, plasma HIV RNA, and ART. The proportion of CSF CD14++CD16+ monocytes was higher in participants with HIV-1C than those with HIV-1B [2.00(0.00-2.80) vs. 0.00(0.00-0.60) respectively, p = 0.03 after BH correction p = 0.10]. Despite viral suppression, the proportion of total monocytes in PB increased in PWH, due to the increase in CD14++CD16+ and CD14lowCD16+ monocytes. The HIV-1C Tat substitution (C30S31) did not interfere with the migration of CD14++CD16+ monocytes to the CNS. This is the first study to evaluate these monocytes in the CSF and PB and compare their proportions according to HIV subtype.

ABSTRACTH6N6 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) have been widely detected in wild birds, poultry, and even mammals. Recently, H6N6 viruses were reported to be involved in the generation of H5 and H7 subtype viruses. To investigate the emergence, evolutionary pattern, and potential for an epidemic of H6N6 viruses, the complete genomes of 198 H6N6 viruses were analyzed, including 168 H6N6 viruses deposited in the NCBI and GISAID databases from inception to January 2019 and 30 isolates collected from China between November 2014 and January 2019. Using phylogenetic analysis, the 198 strains of H6N6 viruses were identified as 98 genotypes. Molecular clock analysis indicated that the evolution of H6N6 viruses in China was constant and not interrupted by selective pressure. Notably, the laboratory isolates reassorted with six subtype viruses: H6N2, H5N6, H7N9, H5N2, H4N2, and H6N8, resulting in nine novel H6N6 reassortment events. These results suggested that H6N6 viruses can act as an intermediary in the evolution of H5N6, H6N6, and H7N9 viruses. Animal experiments demonstrated that the 10 representative H6N6 viruses showed low pathogenicity in chickens and were capable of infecting mice without prior adaptation. Our findings suggest that H6N6 viruses play an important role in the evolution of AIVs, and it is necessary to continuously monitor and evaluate the potential epidemic of the H6N6 subtype viruses.

In this paper, we determine all intermediate modular curves X Δ (N) that admit infinitely many cubic points over the rational field ℚ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A semi-analytical solution for the time dependence of the concentration of the intermediate is derived, in the case of two parallel mixed second order reactions followed by a first order reaction. The solution is restricted to equal initial concentrations for the reactants, and it is connected to the exponential integral. From the solution and through a proper choice of the dimensionless time (u) and concentration of the intermediate (y) one obtains a very simple relation between the maximum concentration of the intermediate (ymax) and the time associated with this concentration (umax). This relation is governed by a parameter (β) which depends on the three rate constants and on the initial concentration. The smaller is β the larger are umax and ymax, and the slower is the decay of y. An approximate expression connecting umax and β, has also been obtained, and it yields maximum errors of ~ 8% and ~ 15% for umax and ymax, respectively. The obtained expression can be very useful from the experimental point of view, as it allows an a priori selection of the most suitable experimental technique to detect the intermediate, simply comparing its time resolution with tmax (that is, umax transformed to a time unit). An illustrative calculation is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The one-pot three-component condensation of benzaldehyde, 1,3-indenedione, and indole was investigated at the B3LYP/6-311G level to explore the best reaction mechanism for the gas phase. All of routes were studied and structure of intermediates (IM) were optimized and all of respective transition states were found. Nine different mechanism paths were proposed and relevant calculations and investigations were performed. The calculation results proved that the proposed mechanism consists of three-step, enolic form of 1,3-indenedione, benzaldehyde and indole is more suitable than other mechanism routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ligand‐protected heterometallic nanoclusters in contrast to homo‐metal counterparts show more broad applications due to the synergistic effect of hetero‐metals but their controllable syntheses remain a challenge. Among heterometallic nanoclusters, monovalent Ag‐Cu compounds are rarely explored due to much difference of Ag(I) and Cu(I) such as atom radius, coordination habits, and redox potential. Encouraged by copper‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction, comproportionation reaction of Cu(II)X2 and Cu(0) in the presence of (PhC≡CAg)n complex and molybdate generated a core‐shell peanut‐shaped 66‐nuclear Ag(I)‐Cu(I) heterometallic nanocluster, [(Mo4O16)2@Cu12Ag54(PhC≡C)50] (referred to as Ag54Cu12). The structure and composition of Ag‐Cu heterometallic nanocluster are fully characterized. X‐ray single crystal diffraction reveals that Ag54Cu12 has a peanut‐shaped silver(I)/copper(I) heterometallic nanocage protected by fifty phenylacetylene ligands in µ3–modes and encapsulated two mutually twisted tetramolybdates. Heterometallic nanocage contains a 54‐Ag‐atom outer ellipsoid silver cage decorated by 12 copper inside wall. Nanosized Ag54Cu12 is a n‐type narrow‐band‐gap semiconductor with a good photocurrent response. Preliminary experiments demonstrates that Ag54Cu12 itself and activated carbon supported Ag54Cu12/C are effective catalysts for 1,3‐dipole cycloaddition between alkynes and azides at ambient conditions. The work provides not only a new synthetic route toward Ag(I)‐Cu(I) nanoclusters but also an important heterometallic intermediate in CuAAC catalytic reaction.

PURPOSE This study investigates the effectiveness of biomechanics information on intermediate golfers driver swing learning. It analyzes changes in center of pressure (COP) patterns, GRF Direction Inclination, driver performance, and learners psychological responses to determine the learning effects. METHODS Subjects were 32 right-handed male golfers (handicap 15-23) who had no difficulty in performing the golf driver swing (Full swing). Four groups were selected, BF (Biomechanics Feedback group), BVC (Biomechanics Verbal Cue group), CB (Combination group), and CT (Control group), and assigned randomly. Driver swing learning showed results after 6 weeks,and a transfer test was conducted 1 week after the completion of the learning. RESULTS Analysis of COP patterns and GRF Direction Inclination indicated changes in the BF, BVC, and CB groups. Furthermore, analysis of driver distance (m), club head speed (km/h), and ball spin rate (rpm) revealed that during the 6-week acquisition phase, all three groups (excluding the control group) showed improvements in driver distance, club head speed, and ball spin rate. However, there were no statistically significant differences among the groups. In contrast, the transfer test showed statistically significant differences among the groups, with the CB group exhibiting the highest driver distance. Learners' psychological responses during the learning process were trust, understanding, and satisfaction. The understanding factor was relatively higher in the CB and BVC groups compared to the BF group. CONCLUSIONS In summary, biomechanics information (BI) was effective in improving driver performance, and changesappeared in the COP pattern and GRF Direction Inclination, indicating a change in movement. Therefore, BI can be fully utilized for athletes or high-level advanced players and for motor learning for intermediate-level students.However, BI can only improve learning effects by strengthening learners' “understanding” when visual feedback forms and verbal cues are provided together.

Risk management should run through the entire process of method development, utilization, and maintenance. Based on the analytical quality by design (AQbD) concept, various integrated risk management techniques were used in this study to develop an analysis method for the percolation solution of Xiaochaihu capsules. During the development of the analysis method, risk assessment was conducted using an Ishikawa diagram and failure mode effects analysis, followed by method optimization using experimental design. The probability of nonconformance calculated via an exhaustive Monte Carlo method quantitatively characterized the risk magnitude of method parameter failures, leading to the establishment of a operable design region method based on risk magnitude. Validation experiments and robustness tests of the data were utilized for model refinement and initial risk review. Methodological validation of the developed method was performed, and control strategies for the analysis method were presented through a decision tree. Stability experiments demonstrated that the samples remained stable at 4 °C for 24 h. The average recovery rate fell between 98.8% and 105%, with relative standard deviations ranging from 2.73% to 4.48%. The results showed that the established analysis method exhibited robustness. This analysis method can simultaneously determine the contents of uridine, adenine, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and guanosine. This method can also be employed for process control during percolation. This study integrated various risk management techniques to develop and maintain the analysis method, and this approach can potentially be extended to other analytical methods.

PurposeTo report a case of bilateral anterior intermediate uveitis after recovery from SARS-CoV-2 associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C).Case reportA 9-year-old male presented with bilateral anterior intermediate uveitis with fluorescein angiography (FA) leakage of the disc and peripheral vasculature 1 month after recovery from MIS-C. He was treated with difluprednate 0.05% in both eyes with resolution of FA leakage, but our patient has required an extended treatment of topical therapy and the need long term immunosuppression.ConclusionsThis is a case of uveitis presenting after recent MIS-C related to SARS-CoV-2. Ongoing follow up and monitoring is required, and it is important for the ophthalmologist and rheumatologist to be aware of this rare complication during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

To report the causes of childhood-onset uveitis in a tertiary pediatric ophthalmology hospital in Egypt. Retrospective study of the medical records of all uveitis patients following up at a tertiary pediatric ophthalmology hospital in Egypt from January 2017 to December 2020. The present study included 388 patients. The most common anatomical category was intermediate uveitis (30.4%), and around half of these children had pars planitis. This was followed by panuveitis (25.5%), posterior uveitis (23.5%), and anterior uveitis (20.6%), in decreasing frequency. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, toxoplasmosis, and Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada syndrome were the most common causes of anterior uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis respectively. Cataract (40.5%), glaucoma (33.8%), and cystoid macular edema (31.6%) were the most frequent ocular complications. The present report provides the relative prevalence of the different anatomical types of uveitis, as well as their main causes in a cohort of Egyptian patients with childhood-onset uveitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uveitis is inflammation of the iris, ciliary body, and/or choroid and accounts for 10% to 15% of legal blindness cases in Europe and the United States, and particularly affects working-age people. Systemic steroids are the first-line treatment for intermediate and posterior non-infectious uveitis (NIU), whereas topical steroids are reserved for anterior uveitis. However, systemic steroids can lead to complications such as hypertension, diabetes, and secondary infection. Local use of steroids can suppress intraocular inflammation and cystic macular edema with fewer systemic risks. Intravitreal dexamethasone, fluocinolone acetonide, and/or triamcinolone acetonide implants can improve visual acuity and reduce central retinal thickness. Additionally, suprachoroidal injections of triamcinolone acetonide can reduce central subfield thickness in patients with uveitis. Subtenon injections of triamcinolone acetonide reduce central macular thickness more than periocular injections. Systemic intravenous methylprednisolone pulses can rapidly suppress uveal tract inflammation. Topical use of dexamethasone-cyclodextrin nanoparticles can penetrate the anterior segment to resolve vitritis and macular edema, but cataract progression, elevated intraocular pressure, and deterioration of glaucoma may still occur. During the COVID-19 pandemic, uveitis specialists preferred to use local corticosteroids rather than systemic immunosuppressants and biologics. They advocated dose tapering in patients taking high-dose corticosteroids to reduce their susceptibility to viral infection. NIU is increasingly managed with local steroids to reduce infection risk. This article highlights different routes for steroidal treatments of NIU, including intravitreal, suprachoroidal, periocular, systemic, and topical routes. It also discusses how NIU was managed during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically addressing the use of immunosuppressants and biologics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the approach of the late Professor Sheikh Wahba Al-Zuhayli through his exegesis titled "Al-Tafsir Al-Wasit" (The Intermediate Exegesis). The aim is to elucidate his methodology and reveal significant aspects of Al-Zuhayli's life that influenced his intermediate exegesis. The study defines his scholarly persona, unveils his academic contributions, and highlights his intellectual and educational role in serving the religion. The research addresses the linguistic and terminological aspects of exegesis, elucidating the methodology employed by Sheikh Wahba Al-Zuhayli in his interpretation. It emphasizes explicating the meaning of verses, his distinctive style, reasons for revelation, and interpreting the Quran with the Quran, with a focus on essential grammatical considerations. The Quranic verses are categorized according to themes, with special attention given to avoiding Israeli narratives and stories. In the concluding section of the research, specific examples are presented to illustrate the practical application of the intermediate exegesis methodology as demonstrated by Sheikh Al-Zuhayli in his exegesis. The study follows a descriptive-analytical approach adhering to the scientific research methodology guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbiota–gut–brain axis denotes a two-way system of interactions between the gut and the brain, comprising three key components: (1) gut microbiota, (2) intermediates and (3) mental ailments. These constituents communicate with one another to induce changes in the host's mood, cognition and demeanor. Knowledge concerning the regulation of the host central nervous system by gut microbiota is fragmented and mostly confined to disorganized or semi-structured unrestricted texts. Such a format hinders the exploration and comprehension of unknown territories or the further advancement of artificial intelligence systems. Hence, we collated crucial information by scrutinizing an extensive body of literature, amalgamated the extant knowledge of the microbiota–gut–brain axis and depicted it in the form of a knowledge graph named MMiKG, which can be visualized on the GraphXR platform and the Neo4j database, correspondingly. By merging various associated resources and deducing prospective connections between gut microbiota and the central nervous system through MMiKG, users can acquire a more comprehensive perception of the pathogenesis of mental disorders and generate novel insights for advancing therapeutic measures. As a free and open-source platform, MMiKG can be accessed at http://yangbiolab.cn:8501/ with no login requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of oxidation states and coordination numbers of complexing cations, various redox properties, high stability of the coordination center, as well as a unique electronic structure determine the catalytic activity of porphyrin complexes of noble metals in various reactions with organic substrates. This review presents the types of catalytic reactions involving compounds of ruthenium, rhodium, iridium, palladium, platinum, and gold with porphyrins, with an emphasis on the features of intermediates depending on the nature of the metal, electronic and steric effects of peripheral substituents of the macrocycle. The presented data provide a theoretical basis that can contribute to the development of innovative materials for catalysis based on metalloporphyrins, as well as the creation of new homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the role of metaphor in the process of teaching and learning a second language (L2), more specifically, L2 Spanish. As part of one of the most popular research lines in the field of Ap-plied Linguistics, i.e., L2 teaching and learning, this research is based on a Cognitive Linguistics approach to language. It presents metaphors not as mere stylistic and rhetorical mechanisms, but as critical com-ponents of everyday language and fundamental mechanisms of conceptualization of the world (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980). After providing a summary of the literature exploring the relationship between metaphor and L2 pedagogy and learning, focusing on conceptual metaphor theory and metaphorical competence, we will present the results of a case study with intermediate learners. The empirical investigation exam-ines whether their metaphoric competence is enhanced after the intervention and whether there is a rela-tionship between learners’ general metaphorical competence and linguistic competence –comprehension and production– of a complex metaphorical linguistic construction that expresses emotions.

BackgroundMonocytes are a heterogenous population of immune cells whose subsets and functions become substantially dysregulated with advanced age. Although much of our current understanding of the age-related changes in monocytes is derived from fasting blood samples, most people are predominately in the postprandial state during waking hours. As hormonal, metabolic, and immunological changes in response to the consumption of a meal are manifested in postprandial blood, it's unclear how age-dependent changes in peripheral monocytes at fasting are impacted by a dietary challenge.ObjectiveWe investigated the impact of age and meal consumption on circulating monocyte frequencies and subsets defined as classical (CD14 + CD16-), intermediate (CD14 + CD16 +), or non-classical (CD14dim CD16 +) in a cohort of 349 healthy adult volunteers grouped into categories based on their age: young adults (18-33 y, n = 123), middle adults (34-49 y, n = 115), and older adults (50-66 y, n = 111).ResultsFollowing 12-h fast total monocyte counts inversely correlated with subject age. Older adults had significantly fewer circulating monocytes along with elevated levels of TGs, cholesterol, glucose, IL-6, IL-8, TNF, neopterin, and CCL2 compared with young adults. Circulating monocyte pools in older adults consisted of smaller proportions of classical but larger proportions of intermediate and non-classical monocytes. Proportions of classical monocytes were inversely correlated with plasma TNF, IL-8, and neopterin while intermediate monocytes were positively correlated with plasma IL-6, TNF, and neopterin. Three hours after consuming a fat-containing meal postprandial monocyte counts increased in all age groups. Despite age-dependent differences in monocyte subsets at fasting, consumption of a meal induced similar changes in the proportions of classical and non-classical monocytes across age groups. Within the circulating postprandial monocyte pool, percentages of classical monocytes decreased while non-classical monocytes increased. However no change in precursory intermediate monocytes were detected. Our study confirms that ageing is associated with changes in monocyte frequencies and subsets and shows that consuming a fat-containing meal induces temporal changes in monocyte frequency and subsets independently of subject age.Clinical trialRegistered on ClincialTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02367287).

Desminopathy is the most common intermediate filament disease in humans. The most frequent mutation causing desminopathy in patients is a R350P DES missense mutation. We have developed a rat model with an analogous mutation in R349P Des. To investigate the role of R349P Des in mechanical loading, we stimulated the sciatic nerve of wild-type littermates (WT) (n = 6) and animals carrying the mutation (MUT) (n = 6) causing a lengthening contraction of the dorsi flexor muscles. MUT animals showed signs of ongoing regeneration at baseline as indicated by a higher number of central nuclei (genotype: P

The inherent toxic nature of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and its adverse effects pose a grave risk to both ecosystems and human health. HBCD has greatly influenced the soil-plant interface. The current investigation set out to examine the effects of strain Bacillus sp. HBCD-sjtu on HBCD degradation in soil, the morphophysiological traits, and antioxidative enzyme activity in wheat under different HBCD-stress conditions (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 mM HBCD). Wheat plants injected with strain HBCD-sjtu showed dramatically enhanced growth features in comparison to control plants. Plants inoculated with HBCD-sjtu showed homeostasis despite HBCD stress increasing total soluble sugars (TSS), free proline, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), protein content, malondialdehyde (MDA), and high activity of peroxidase (POD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in leaves. The formation of the new metabolite 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene (CDT) after HBCD degradation was identified on the basis of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses. The results indicated that HBCD-sjtu improved the growth of wheat plants under both HBCD and non-HBCD conditions. Additional research on the effect of HBCD on plant development, alongside the exploration of innovative, environmentally sustainable approaches for HBCD degradation and its conversion into alternative intermediates, could yield valuable insights and potential applications from this study.

The evolution of European agriculture is a result of the numerous paradigm transformations and reforms occurring during the time. The intensification and specialization of the agricultural sector have determined a set of challenges and changes which has imposed a dramatic shift from the traditional European agricultural model. The main aim of this paper is to assess and evaluate in a draft manner the European Union`s agricultural sectorial dynamics from the Romanian perspective. In order to identify main trends and gaps in the European agricultural sector and argue the aims and scope of the research some of representative indexes were analyzed and presented in the specific context: nominal. Using the descriptive analysis of indexes such as: value, price, and volume of the agricultural production, farm specializations, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A) and key components, agricultural output, and intermediate consumption, this current research provides an insight introduction to the agricultural sector of the European Union (EU). The main analysis results could serve as inputs for policymakers in drafting the agricultural guidelines in terms of functionality and application in understanding the sectorial evolutions.

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The evolution of European agriculture is a result of the numerous paradigm transformations and reforms occurring during the time. The intensification and specialization of the agricultural sector have determined a set of challenges and changes which has imposed a dramatic shift from the traditional European agricultural model. The main aim of this paper is to assess and evaluate in a draft manner the European Union's agricultural sectorial dynamics from the Romanian perspective. In order to identify main trends and gaps in the European agricultural sector and argue the aims and scope of the research some of representative indexes were analyzed and presented in the specific context: nominal. Using the descriptive analysis of indexes such as: value, price, and volume of the agricultural production, farm specializations, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A) and key components, agricultural output, and intermediate consumption, this current research provides an insight introduction to the agricultural sector of the European Union (EU). The main analysis results could serve as inputs for policymakers in drafting the agricultural guidelines in terms of functionality and application in understanding the sectorial evolutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alluvial aquifer, which is sensitive to atmospheric pollution, is considered the appropriate repository for the activity of bacteria and germs that live in the water. It is therefore favorable to the propagation of bacteria requiring protection from the risks of pollution. The direct source water points that can pollute this water reserve are the wells located in it, and to protect them, the Wyssling method, which is based on the determination of the degree of vulnerability, makes it possible to define the perimeters of protection according to the direction and the zone of contact depending on the distance traveled by the water particles around the point of collection upstream and downstream. The protection perimeters are determined according to the distance traveled by the water during a time indicated by the isochrones of 50, 100 and 200 days. The results show a very high vulnerability equal to 14; the immediate, intermediate and extended protection perimeters are 107, 159 and 239 m upstream and 85, 115 and 152 m downstream, respectively. These distances must be respected to protect catchments from polluting activities that cause the water to lose its natural physico-chemical quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomimetic oxidation using synthetic iron‐porphyrin (F20TPPFeCl) as a catalyst eliminated a xylene moiety of the fungicide mandestrobin, uniformly labeled with carbon‐14 at the benzyl ring, to produce the corresponding radiolabeled metabolite 1. This reaction mechanism was investigated by identifying chemical structures of intermediate 5 and p‐xyloquinone derivatives 6 and 7, as by‐products. Optimization of reaction factors based on the mechanism improved the yield of 1 from mandestrobin up to 87%. Finally, various carbon‐14 labeled metabolites of mandestrobin were prepared from 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ester hydrates, as the intermediates of the esterification between acid and alcohol, are very short-lived and challenging to be trapped. Therefore, the crystal structures of ester hydrates have rarely been characterized. Herein, we present that the mono-deprotonated ester hydrates [CH3OSO2(OH)2]−, serving as the template for the self-assembly of a π-stacked boat-shaped macrocycle (CH3OSO2(OH)2)0.67(CH3OSO3)1.33@{[ClLCoII]6}·Cl4·13CH3OH·9H2O (1) (L = tris(2-benzimidazolylmethyl) amine), can be trapped in the host by multiple NH···O hydrogen bonds. In the solution of CoCl2, L, and H2SO4 in MeOH, HSO4− reacts with MeOH, producing [CH3OSO3]− via the ester hydrate intermediate of [CH3OSO3(OH)2]−. Both the product and the intermediate serve as the template directing the self-assembly of the π-stacked macrocycle, in which the short-lived ester hydrate is firmly trapped and stabilized, as revealed by single-crystal analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pekar et al. (2022) propose that SARS-CoV-2 was a zoonotic spillover that first infected humans in the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan, China. They propose that there were two separate spillovers of the closely related lineages A and lineage B in a short period of time. The two lineages are differentiated by two SNVs; hence, a single-SNV A-B intermediate must have occurred in an unsampled animal host if the two-spillover hypothesis is correct. Consequently, confirmation of the existence of an intermediate A-B genome from humans would falsify their hypothesis of two spillovers. Pekar et al. identified and excluded 20 A-B intermediate genomes from their analysis. A variety of exclusion criteria were applied, including low read depth and the assertion of repeated erroneous base calls at lineage-defining positions 8782 and 28144. However, data from GISAID show that most of the genomes were sequenced to high average sequencing depth, appearing inconsistent with these criteria. The decision to exclude the majority of genomes was based on personal communications, with raw data unavailable for inspection. Multiple errors, biases, and inconsistencies were observed in the exclusion process. For example, 12 intermediate genomes from one study were excluded; however, 54 other genomes from the same study were included, indicating selection bias. Puzzlingly, two intermediate genomes from Beijing were discarded despite an average sequencing depth of 2175X; however, four genomes from the same sequencing study were included in the analysis. Lastly, we discuss 14 additional possible intermediate genomes not discussed by Pekar et al. and note that genome sequence filtration is inappropriate when considering the presence or absence of a specific SNV pair in an outbreak. Consequently, we find that the exclusion of many of the intermediate genomes is unfounded, leaving the conclusion of two natural zoonoses unsupported.

Abstract Background A new generation of enhanced monofocal IOLs has been introduced to slightly increase the depth of focus as compared to standard monofocal IOLs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of pupil size on the through-focus optical performance of three new enhanced monofocal IOLs, designed to improve the range of vision as compared to standard monofocal IOLs. Methods Optical bench testing in white light was performed for different pupils, using an average cornea eye. Distance image quality was evaluated using Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measurements. Through-focus Visual Acuity (VA) was simulated from these measurements (sVA). Three enhanced monofocal IOLs (ICB00, ISOPure, and RayOne-EMV) and three standard monofocal IOLs: two aspheric (ZCB00 and SN60WF) and one spherical (AAB00) were included. Results The enhanced monofocal IOLs provided an improvement in the intermediate sVA as compared to standard monofocal IOLs. For ICB00, the improvement was independent of the pupil size, while for the ISOPure and RayOne-EMV, the intermediate sVA improved with increased pupil size. Similar to the spherical monofocal IOL, the ISOPure and RayOne-EMV showed a strong correlation between improvement in intermediate sVA and reduction of distance sVA and MTF, and increasing pupil size. ICB00 provided the same distance sVA as the aspheric monofocal IOLs and the lowest variability in MTF with pupil size. Conclusion Optical bench results showed that the ISOPure and RayOne-EMV provide similar performance to a spherical monofocal IOL, with a strong pupil dependency for distance and intermediate vision. The other enhanced monofocal IOL, ICB00, provided a sustained improvement in simulated intermediate VA and maintained distance image quality comparable to that of the standard aspheric monofocal IOLs, even for larger pupils.

Abstract Background New intraocular lenses (IOLs) have emerged since the originally coined monofocal and multifocal IOLs. The extended depth of focus (EDoF) and enhanced monofocal IOLs (mono-EDoF) that have appeared in the last decade have caused some confusion in their classification. The aim of this review was to summarize the outcomes provided by mono-EDOF IOLs and to determine which of the endpoints, described by the American National Standard (ANSI) for EDoF IOLs, are fulfilled. Methods The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and WEB OF SCIENCE databases were searched. Two independent reviewers screened the studies for inclusion and data extraction. The search strategy was limited to studies published between 2020 and 2022, but not by language. The results are presented as a narrative summary accompanied by tables, in alignment with the objectives of this scoping review. Compliance with the endpoints for clinical outcomes described in the American National Standard Z80.35–2018 (ANSI) for EDoF lenses was checked and additional endpoints were defined. Results Two systematic reviews, 13 laboratory, 21 clinical, and two mixed studies were included. Tecnis Eyhance was the mono-EDOF with the highest volume of evidence to date. Although laboratory studies included other IOLs, clinical evidence for them is still scarce, with only one study of IsoPure compared to a standard monofocal IOL. Evidence in comparison to EDoF lenses is also scarce, even for Tecnis Eyhance, with only three studies including this lens in comparison to an EDoF lens. After evaluation of the ANSI criteria, agreement was found in the failure for the increase in depth of field equal to or greater than 0.5 D for a visual acuity (VA) level of 0.2 logMAR and none of the studies supported that the median monocular VA at intermediate distance was at least 0.2 logMAR. Conclusions Additional clinical evidence is required for other mono-EDOF IOLs beyond Tecnis Eyhance. Until the arrival of a standard classification, mono-EDOF should be better still classified as monofocal because the ANSI standards were not fully met.

Metal hydrides (M–H) on solid surfaces, i.e., surface M–H, are ubiquitous but critical species in heterogeneous catalysis, and their intermediate roles have been proposed in numerous reactions such as (de)hydrogenation and alkanes activation, etc., however, the detailed spectroscopic characterizations remain challenging. Solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy has become a powerful tool in surface studies, as it provides access to local structural characterizations at atomic level from multiple views, with comprehensive information on chemical bonding and spatial structures. In this review, we summarized and discussed the latest research developments on the successful application of ssNMR to characterize surface M–H species on solid catalysts including supported single-site heterogeneous catalysts, bulk metal oxides and metal-modified zeolites. We also discussed the opportunities and challenges in this field, as well as the potential application/development of state-of-the-art ssNMR technologies to enable further exploration of metal hydrides in heterogeneous catalysis.

This report form is to be completed by intermediate (age 11–13) 4-H members as a record of their 4-H project completion. Project Reports should be turned in annually at the end of the 4-H year to their county 4-H agent. This 10-page major revision was compiled by the Florida 4-H Awards and Recognition Task Force; Geralyn Sachs and Laura Cash, chairs. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/4h034

This study aims to examine the role of metaphor in the process of teaching and learning a second language (L2), more specifically, L2 Spanish. As part of one of the most popular research lines in the field of Applied Linguistics, i.e., L2 teaching and learning, this research is based on a Cognitive Linguistics approach to language. It presents metaphors not as mere stylistic and rhetorical mechanisms, but as critical components of everyday language and fundamental mechanisms of conceptualization of the world (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980). After providing a summary of the literature exploring the relationship between metaphor and L2 pedagogy and learning, focusing on conceptual metaphor theory and metaphorical competence, we will present the results of a case study with intermediate learners. The empirical investigation examines whether their metaphoric competence is enhanced after the intervention and whether there is a relationship between learners' general metaphorical competence and linguistic competence -comprehension and production-of a complex metaphorical linguistic construction that expresses emotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Chronotype varies from one individual to others and thus results in individual difference in physical performance and quality of sleep. Aims: This study's goal was to determine the chronotype and its relationship to sleep quality in university-level professional students. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional survey of professional students at university level. Subjects and Methods: A total of 240 students completed the Horne and Ostberg morningness–eveningness questionnaires (MEQs) to determine their chronotype and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to determine the quality of sleep at university students. Statistical Analysis: The data were analyzed with Spearman's correlation test and Chi-square test. Results: A total of 240 students, 72 (30%) females and 168 (70%) males, participated in this study (age 18–28 years): 137 (57.1%) intermediate types, 75 (31.3%) morning types, and 28 (11.7%) evening types. Morning typology was more common among Indian males. In terms of MEQ typology, there was no discernible gender difference (P = 0.06 > 0.05). A noteworthy inverse relationship has been observed between the chronotype score (MEQ) and the sleep quality (PSQI) (rho = −0.15). It was noted that 10.4% of individuals had poor sleep quality. Conclusion: The majority of Indian university professionals are of the intermediate type, and it appears that Indian students, particularly males, are slightly more likely to be morning type than people from some Western societies. Evening chronotype students have poor quality of sleep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CD14++CD16+ monocytes are susceptible to HIV-1 infection, and cross the blood–brain barrier. HIV-1 subtype C (HIV-1C) shows reduced Tat protein chemoattractant activity compared to HIV-1B, which might influence monocyte trafficking into the CNS. We hypothesized that the proportion of monocytes in CSF in HIV-1C is lower than HIV-1B group. We sought to assess differences in monocyte proportions in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and peripheral blood (PB) between people with HIV (PWH) and without HIV (PWoH), and by HIV-1B and -C subtypes. Immunophenotyping was performed by flow cytometry, monocytes were analyzed within CD45 + and CD64 + gated regions and classified in classical (CD14++CD16−), intermediate (CD14++CD16+), and non-classical (CD14lowCD16+). Among PWH, the median [IQR] CD4 nadir was 219 [32–531] cell/mm3; plasma HIV RNA (log10) was 1.60 [1.60–3.21], and 68% were on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Participants with HIV-1C and -B were comparable in terms of age, duration of infection, CD4 nadir, plasma HIV RNA, and ART. The proportion of CSF CD14++CD16+ monocytes was higher in participants with HIV-1C than those with HIV-1B [2.00(0.00–2.80) vs. 0.00(0.00–0.60) respectively, p = 0.03 after BH correction p = 0.10]. Despite viral suppression, the proportion of total monocytes in PB increased in PWH, due to the increase in CD14++CD16+ and CD14lowCD16+ monocytes. The HIV-1C Tat substitution (C30S31) did not interfere with the migration of CD14++CD16+ monocytes to the CNS. This is the first study to evaluate these monocytes in the CSF and PB and compare their proportions according to HIV subtype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a novel innovative monofocal intraocular lens (Tecnis Eyhance ICB00) compared with the standard monofocal lens (Tecnis-1-piece ZCB00) in terms of contrast sensitivity, postoperative refraction, intermediate visual acuity (VA), and uncorrected and best-corrected distance VA. Patients and methods This prospective comparative interventional clinical study was conducted from January 2021 to November 2021. It included 40 eyes of 20 patients who were divided into two groups, with 10 patients each. Candidates for bilateral cataract extraction by phacoemulsification were included in this study and underwent thorough preoperative examination and postoperative evaluation at 3 months after the second eye operation. The outcome measures included intermediate and distance VA, near add, contrast sensitivity, and incidence of photic phenomena, which was evaluated using a printed questionnaire. The binocular defocus curves were analyzed. Results The study included 20 patients (seven males and 13 females). Binocular and monocular uncorrected and corrected distance VAs were statistically similar in both groups. The Eyhance group demonstrated significantly higher binocular uncorrected and corrected intermediate VA compared with the TECNIS 1-piece group (P

The low (90 K) and room (298 K) temperature crystal structures of topiramate azidosulfate [systematic name 2,3:4,5-bis-O-(1-methylethylidene)-β-d-fructopyranose azidosulfate], C12H19N3O8S, an intermediate in the synthesis of the anti-convulsant drug topiramate, are described. Topiramate azidosulfate (I) finds use as a reference impurity standard for topiramate. A modified synthesis and some spectroscopic details are also presented.

Abstract Background Monocytes are a heterogenous population of immune cells whose subsets and functions become substantially dysregulated with advanced age. Although much of our current understanding of the age-related changes in monocytes is derived from fasting blood samples, most people are predominately in the postprandial state during waking hours. As hormonal, metabolic, and immunological changes in response to the consumption of a meal are manifested in postprandial blood, it’s unclear how age-dependent changes in peripheral monocytes at fasting are impacted by a dietary challenge. Objective We investigated the impact of age and meal consumption on circulating monocyte frequencies and subsets defined as classical (CD14 + CD16-), intermediate (CD14 + CD16 +), or non-classical (CD14dim CD16 +) in a cohort of 349 healthy adult volunteers grouped into categories based on their age: young adults (18–33 y, n = 123), middle adults (34–49 y, n = 115), and older adults (50–66 y, n = 111). Results Following 12-h fast total monocyte counts inversely correlated with subject age. Older adults had significantly fewer circulating monocytes along with elevated levels of TGs, cholesterol, glucose, IL-6, IL-8, TNF, neopterin, and CCL2 compared with young adults. Circulating monocyte pools in older adults consisted of smaller proportions of classical but larger proportions of intermediate and non-classical monocytes. Proportions of classical monocytes were inversely correlated with plasma TNF, IL-8, and neopterin while intermediate monocytes were positively correlated with plasma IL-6, TNF, and neopterin. Three hours after consuming a fat-containing meal postprandial monocyte counts increased in all age groups. Despite age-dependent differences in monocyte subsets at fasting, consumption of a meal induced similar changes in the proportions of classical and non-classical monocytes across age groups. Within the circulating postprandial monocyte pool, percentages of classical monocytes decreased while non-classical monocytes increased. However no change in precursory intermediate monocytes were detected. Our study confirms that ageing is associated with changes in monocyte frequencies and subsets and shows that consuming a fat-containing meal induces temporal changes in monocyte frequency and subsets independently of subject age. Clinical trial Registered on ClincialTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02367287)