bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Reaction Modulated Low‐Dimensional Phase Toward Highly Efficient Sky‐Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wang Bin , Lou Yan‐Hui , Xia Yu , Hu Fan , Li Yu‐Han , Wang Kai‐Li , Chen Jing , Chen Chun‐Hao , Su Zhen‐Huang , Gao Xing‐Yu , Wang Zhao‐Kui
Published: July 2024

Blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are crucial avenues for achieving full‐color displays and lighting based on perovskite materials. However, the relatively low external quantum efficiency (EQE) has hindered their progression towards commercial applications. Quasi‐two‐dimensional (quasi‐2D) perovskites stand out as promising candidates for blue PeLEDs, with optimized control over low‐dimensional phases contributing to enhanced radiative properties of excitons. Herein, the impact of organic molecular dopants on the crystallization of various n‐phase structures in quasi‐2D perovskite films. The results reveal that the highly reactive bis(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)phosphine oxide (BTF‐PPO) molecule could effectively restrain the formation of organic spacer cation‐ordered layered perovskite phases through chemical reactions, simultaneously passivate those uncoordinated Pb2+ defects. Consequently, the prepared PeLEDs exhibited a maximum EQE of 16.6 % (@ 490 nm). The finding provides a new route to design dopant molecules for phase modulation in quasi‐2D PeLEDs.
Lithiation Induced Hetero‐Superlattice Zn/ZnLi as Stable Anode for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Chao , Yang Zefang , Zhang Qi , Zhang Mingze , Wu Tingqing , Xie Chunlin , Wang Hao , Tang Yougen , Wang Haiyan
Published: July 2024

Three dimensional (3D) framework structure is one of the most effective ways to achieve uniform zinc deposition and thus inhibit the Zn dendrites growth in working Zn metallic anode. A major challenge facing for the most commonly used 3D zincophilic hosts is that the zincophilic layer tends to peel off during repeatedly cycling, making it less stable. Herein, for the first time, a hetero‐superlattice Zn/ZnLi (HS−Zn/ZnLi) anode containing periodic arrangements of metallic Zn phase and zincophilic ZnLi phase at the nanoscale, is well designed and fabricated via electrochemical lithiation method. Based on binding energy and stripping energy calculation, and the operando optical observation of plating/stripping behaviors, the zincophilic ZnLi sites with a strong Zn adsorption ability in the interior of the 3D ZnLi framework structure can effectively guide uniform Zn nucleation and dendrite‐free zinc deposition, which significantly improves the cycling stability of the HS−Zn/ZnLi alloy (over 2800 h without a short‐circuit at 2 mA cm−2). More importantly, this strategy can be extended to HS−Zn/ZnNa and HS−Zn/ZnK anodes that are similar to the HS−Zn/ZnLi microstructure, also displaying significantly enhanced cycling performances in AZIBs. This study can provide a novel strategy to develop the dendrite‐free metal anodes with stable cycling performance.
Perylene with Split‐Azulene Embedding
Authors: Zhou Laiyun , Qiu Fei , Ding Yeda , Liang Jianwei , Zhou Bingdi , Zhou Zheng , Zhang Lei , Chi Chunyan , Wang Qing
Published: July 2024

Splitting the five and seven‐membered rings of azulene and embedding them separately into a conjugated backbone provides azulene‐like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are of great interest in quantum and material chemistry. However, the synthetic accessibility poses a significant challenge. In this study, we present the synthesis of a novel azulene‐like PAH, Pery‐57, which can be viewed as the integration of a perylene framework into the split azulene. The compact structure of Pery‐57 displays several intriguing characteristics, including NIR II absorption at 1200 nm, a substantial dipole moment of 3.5 D, and head‐to‐tail alternating columnar packing. Furthermore, Pery‐57 exhibits remarkable redox properties. The cationic radical Pery‐57⋅+ readily captures a hydrogen atom. Variable‐temperature NMR (VT NMR ) and variable‐temperature EPR (VT‐EPR) studies reveal that the dianion Pery‐572− possesses an open‐shell singlet ground state and demonstrates significant global anti‐aromaticity. The dication Pery‐572+ is also predicted to exhibit diradical character. Despite bearing three bulky substituents, Pery‐57 displays p‐type transport characteristics with a mobility of 0.03 cm2 V−1 s−1, attributed to its unique azulene‐like structure. Overall, this work directs interest in azulene‐like PAHs, a unique member of nonalternant PAHs showcasing exceptional properties and applications.
A Soft, Fatigue‐free, and Self‐healable Ionic Elastomer via the Synergy of Skin‐like Assembly and Bouligand Structure
Authors: Jiang Xinyuan , Cheng Yin , Shi Liangjing , Sun Jing , Wang Ranran
Published: July 2024

Soft ionic elastomers that are self‐healable, fatigue‐free, and environment‐tolerant are ideal structural and sensing materials for artificial prosthetics, soft electronics, and robotics to survive unpredictable service conditions. However, most synthetic strategies failed to unite rapid healing, fatigue resistance, and environmental robustness, limited by their singular compositional/structural designs. Here, we present a soft, tough, fatigue‐resistant, and self‐healable ionic elastomer (STFSI elastomer), which fuses skin‐like binary assembly and Bouligand helicoidal structure into a composite of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibers and a supramolecular ionic biopolymer. The interlocked binary assembly enables skin‐like softness, high stretchability, and strain‐adaptive stiffening through a matrix‐to‐scaffold stress transfer. The Bouligand structure contributes to superhigh fracture toughness (101.6 kJ m−2) and fatigue resistance (4937 J m−2) via mechanical toughening by interlayer slipping and twisted crack propagation path. Besides, the STFSI elastomer is self‐healable through a “bridging” method and environment‐tolerant (−20 °C, strong acid/alkali, saltwater). To demonstrate the versatile structural and sensing applications, we showcase a safety cushion with efficient damping and suppressed rebounding, and a robotic sensor with excellent fatigue crack tolerance and instant sensation recovery upon cutting‐off damage. Our presented synthetic strategy is generalizable to other fiber‐reinforced tough polymers for applications involving demanding mechanical/environmental conditions.
Intrauterine growth in chromatinopathies: A long road for better understanding and for improving clinical management
Authors: Avagliano Laura , Castiglioni Silvia , Lettieri Antonella , Parodi Chiara , Di Fede Elisabetta , Taci Esi , Grazioli Paolo , Colombo Elisa Adele , Gervasini Cristina , Massa Valentina
Published: July 2024

Background

Chromatinopathies are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders caused by pathogenic variants in genes coding for chromatin state balance proteins. Remarkably, many of these syndromes present unbalanced postnatal growth, both under‐ and over‐, although little has been described in the literature. Fetal growth measurements are common practice in pregnancy management and values within normal ranges indicate proper intrauterine growth progression; on the contrary, abnormalities in intrauterine fetal growth open the discussion of possible pathogenesis affecting growth even in the postnatal period.

Methods

Among the numerous chromatinopathies, we have selected six of the most documented in the literature offering evidence about two fetal overgrowth (Sotos and Weaver syndrome) and four fetal undergrowth syndromes (Bohring Opitz, Cornelia de Lange, Floating‐Harbor, and Meier Gorlin syndrome), describing their molecular characteristics, maternal biochemical results and early pregnancy findings, prenatal ultrasound findings, and postnatal characteristics.

Results/Conclusion

To date, the scarce data in the literature on prenatal findings are few and inconclusive, even though these parameters may contribute to a more rapid and accurate diagnosis, calling for a better and more detailed description of pregnancy findings.
Graphical Arduino IDE system with wiring layout and flowchart functions for physical computing education
Authors: Hwang Il‐Kyu , Kong Tae‐Woong , Park Jin‐Hyuk
Published: July 2024

Arduino, a widely used tool for physical computing, is favored for its affordability and easy availability. However, a drawback for beginners is the requirement of prior knowledge of C programming language and circuit theory for effectively utilizing Arduino. In this research, we address this issue by developing a Graphical Arduino IDE system that allows users to control Arduino without the need for prior knowledge of C language and circuit theory. Users can create node graph‐based scripts in the Wiring Tab of the Graphical Arduino IDE and develop flowchart‐based scripts in the Algorithm Tab. The scripts created in the Wiring Tab serve as guidelines for wiring, thus preventing users from making wiring mistakes. Additionally, users without knowledge of C language can control Arduino by creating flowchart‐based scripts in the Algorithm Tab. The finalized scripts are converted into Arduino code and uploaded to the Arduino board using the built‐in Code Upload feature. Finally, a paired t test was conducted between the Graphical Arduino IDE and Scratch for Arduino, confirming that the Graphical Arduino IDE required fewer user inputs.
Design and Realization of Visual and Contact‐Type Fast Charging Power Source
Authors: Huang Yuxin , Yu Fei , Yang Xijia , Wang Liying , Lü Wei
Published: July 2024

Charging power supplies with both fast and visualization functions have a wide range of applications in the information and new energy industries. In this paper, the visualized and contact‐type fast charging power supply based on WO3 film and Zn sheet is presented, and the prototype devices are fabricated. Different with the charging method of conventional batteries, charging is achieved by a Zn sheet contacting with a WO3 film moistened with water, resulting in a rapid discoloration of WO3. Theoretical investigation indicates that the interaction between Zn sheet and water molecules is the primary cause of the color change in the WO3 film. The WO3 film completes the colouring state within 10 s in the presence of Zn sheet and water, and the open‐circuit voltage of the device is 0.7 V, which can be used to drive various electronics by series‐parallel connection. This research introduces a novel method to induce colouring of WO3 films and proposes a fast charging mode different from traditional power sources. It provides valuable insights for the future development of fast charging in the field of electrical energy.
Identifying design criteria for implementing inherent safety in chemical process industries part 1: Design reasoning
Authors: Zakaria Zafirah , Kidam Kamarizan , Hassim Mimi H.
Published: July 2024

Recurrence of similar accidents is evidenced by past accidents, which show that accidents are not decreasing globally. It is recommended to implement the concept of inherent safety design (ISD) in the chemical process industry as a component of accident prevention strategies. This study aims to identify potential indicators of ISD for each inherent safety (IS) keyword, which will be referred to later as design reasoning (DR), based on 529 selected cases that suggest design changes that enhance the safety of processes, materials, or equipment. The cases were collected from accident cases, IS handbooks, chemical engineering journals, new product brochures, and chemical engineering magazines. The cases have to demonstrate that the new design is safer than the previous design. The design changes were evaluated to extract the corrective action and determine the common strategy employed. This information was then interpreted as DR. The collected DR were subsequently categorized and measured in terms of frequency according to IS keywords. From the statistical analysis, the highest percentage of DR is improve mixing (18%) which accounted from 95 out of 529 cases. The second is loose proximity (15.5%) and the third is fewer equipment (14.9%). For the IS keyword ranking, it can be summarized that: moderation (40%) >minimization (27%) >simplification (21%) >substitution (12%). Results showed that moderation inherent safety is a popular strategy used to implement IS. The findings serve as a valuable reference for designers or engineer attempting to implement ISD in their design task.
Versatile Synthesis of α‐Oxygen Organoboron Compounds via Photo‐Induced Siloxycarbene†
Authors: Lu Xiongxiong , Zhao Qingbin , Cao Dehai , Xu Pan , Chen Xuenian , Liu Zhenxing
Published: July 2024

Comprehensive Summary

A novel method for synthesizing α‐oxygen organoboron compounds has been developed through acylsilane‐based carbene insertion reactions into C—B bonds. As coupling partners, readily available organoboron compounds (alkenyl, allyl, and allenyl B(pin)) were employed. Based on the substrates, pure insertion into C—B bonds or insertion followed by a siloxy group rearrangement process (from carbon to boron) would occur, delivering the α‐oxygen organoboron compounds with great diversities. Control experiments demonstrated that the electronic effect of the substituents mainly controlled the rearrangement process. Besides, no matter which isomer of substrate (Z or E) was used, the reaction with β‐aryl‐substituted alkenyl B(pin) affords both isomers of products (Z and E, separable through column chromatography). Trapping experiments indicated the triplet energy transfer process was involved.
Cell‐free DNA in recurrent and metastatic endometrial cancer: The future is now? Promises and potential pitfalls
Authors: MacKay Helen , Fernandes Italo
Published: July 2024

Blanc‐Durand and colleagues present a prospective analysis of cell‐free DNA in patients with recurrent, advanced, or metastatic endometrial cancer, which offers insights into its potential application in molecular classification and the evolving targeted therapy landscape of this disease. More research is needed to validate cell‐free DNA's clinical utility but its potential to guide therapy and improve patient outcomes warrants ongoing exploration.
Pharmacokinetics and Exposure–Response Analyses to Support Dose Selection of Upadacitinib in Crohn's Disease
Authors: Bhatnagar Sumit , Schlachter Louisa , Eckert Doerthe , Stodtmann Sven , Liu Wei , Lacerda Ana P. , Mohamed Mohamed‐Eslam F.
Published: July 2024

Upadacitinib, a selective Janus kinase inhibitor, is the first orally administered therapy approved for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD). This work characterized the pharmacokinetics of upadacitinib in CD patients and evaluated the relationships between upadacitinib steady‐state plasma exposures and efficacy as well as safety parameters during the 12‐week induction and the 52‐week maintenance periods, to provide dosing recommendations for the treatment of CD. Upadacitinib pharmacokinetics in CD patients administered the extended‐release formulation were consistent with patient populations in other approved indications. None of the evaluated CD‐specific patient characteristics (e.g., disease location and prior gastrointestinal surgeries) had a meaningful impact on upadacitinib pharmacokinetics. Exposure–response analyses during 12‐week induction treatment showed that response across all evaluated efficacy end points were approaching a plateau at median plasma exposures associated with 45 mg QD. Analyses for the maintenance period demonstrated that 30 mg QD is predicted to provide an additional 8% to 10% benefit for endoscopic response and endoscopic remission compared with 15 mg QD in patients who failed biologics. The analyses for safety showed a statistically significant relationship between increasing upadacitinib plasma exposures and the percentage of patients experiencing >2 g/dL decrease in hemoglobin from Baseline during induction and showed shallow relationships for serious infections and herpes zoster during the maintenance period. These results demonstrated adequate absorption of the extended‐release formulation of upadacitinib in CD patients. The exposure–response analyses confirmed that 45 mg QD dose maximized efficacy as induction treatment and supported the selection of 15 mg QD or 30 mg QD as the maintenance doses.
Compact broadband dual‐polarized omnidirectional array with rotational subarray
Authors: Dong Qing , Chen Yue Shan , Ye Liang Hua , Wu Zehai
Published: July 2024

A broadband ±45° dual‐polarized omnidirectional array with small size is presented. A crossed‐arranged dipole element is proposed to generate a wide unidirectional radiation beam. A crossed‐arranged parasitic strip is used to dramatically widen the impedance bandwidth of the dipole element. Based on the dipole element, a rotational two‐unit subarray, which comprises a small number of dipole elements and occupies a small space, is originally proposed to generate excellent omnidirectional radiation performance. Then a four‐unit array with a simple feed network is designed based on the rotational subarray. The array obtains a wide bandwidth of 59.4% (1.55–2.86 GHz) for reflection coefficient <−10 dB and an isolation beyond 21 dB between the two polarizations. Meanwhile, a very low gain variation of below 3 dB, as well as a stable and high realized gain of 5.1 ± 0.5 dBi are achieved over the operating band.
Potential analgesic effect of a novel cannabidiol nanocrystals powder for the treatment of neuropathic pain
Authors: Wang Yu , Fu Xinzhen , Zheng Meihua , Liu Qian , Gan Hailin , Song Zeyu , Yang Mingyan , Liu Ke , Xie Zeping , Fan Huaying
Published: July 2024

Background

The current analgesics often prevent patients from getting effective treatment due to their adverse effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) is well tolerated, has few side effects and has been extensively investigated in analgesia. However, its oral bioavailability is extremely low. In order to solve this problem, we developed the cannabidiol nanocrystals (CBD‐NC) in the earlier stage.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated the nociceptive behaviours associated with neuropathic pain (NP) induced by the spared nerve injury (SNI) model. Assessment of pain threshold was evaluated by paw withdraw threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL). The improving effect on the motor dysfunction was determined by rota‐rod testing. To assess the neuroprotective effect, nerve demyelination and expression of peripheral myelin protein PMP22 were measured with myelin sheath staining and western blotting. Protein expressions in microglia of spinal cord were tested by western blot to explore the underlying mechanism.

Results

Compared with the CBD oil solution, CBD‐NC significantly reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in rats. CBD‐NC could improve motor dysfunction induced by SNI in rats, significantly reverse the demyelination and increase the expression of the marker protein of peripheral myelin. Underlying spinal analgesic mechanism of microglia and related factors were preliminarily confirmed.

Conclusions

CBD‐NC administration is an effective treatment for NP associated with SNI, and the analgesic effect of CBD‐NC was significantly better than that of CBD oil sol. By contrast, CBD‐NC has a fast‐acting and long‐term effect in the treatment of NP. Our study further supports the potential therapeutic effect of CBD‐NC on NP.

Significance

The absolute bioavailability of the CBD‐NC intramuscular injection formulation can reach 203.31%, which can solve the problem of low oral bioavailability. This research evaluated the therapeutic effect of CBD‐NC on NP associated with the SNI model for the first time. All available date showed that whatever the analgesic or neuroprotective effect of CBD‐NC, it was significantly better than that of CBD oil sol., which was consistent with the results of the pharmacokinetic. This research supports the initiation of more trials testing the efficacy of CBD‐NC for treating NP.
Validation of a scaled dynamic test system for simulating a high‐speed train passing bridges under seismic excitation
Authors: Zeng Chen , Guo Wei , Jiang Lizhong , Yu Zhiwu , Huang Renqiang , Wang Yang , Yang Shun , Liang Guangyue , Wu Sirun
Published: July 2024

This study presents the validation of a dynamic test system to simulate a high‐speed train passing bridges under seismic excitation. The system comprises scaled models of a CRH380A high‐speed train and an 11‐span simply supported bridge on a shake table array. This innovative apparatus combines seismic loading with the moving train load to replicate train‐track‐bridge interaction (TTBI) during earthquakes. It allows investigation of various train speeds and seismic excitations, providing invaluable insights into TTBI. First, the detailed similarity design principle based on the equations of motion was discussed, and its applicability to the wheel‐rail contact relationship was verified. Then, the dynamic characteristics of the scaled model were identified, and the impact of the error between the scaled model and the theoretical model on the TTBI response was assessed. Furthermore, the comparison of the dynamic test model and the numerical simulation in acceleration responses validated the accuracy of the rigid‐flexible coupling model method for the actual TTBI system. Test cases without external excitation, with simple harmonic excitation and with seismic excitation were conducted on the dynamic test system. Results showed that the influence of track irregularity and running speed on train response aligns with the classical train‐bridge interaction theory. The successful implementation of this test system marks a significant advance in understanding TTBI mechanics and has significant implications for seismic safety enhancement of railway infrastructure.
Resting‐state brain activity as a biomarker of chronic pain impairment and a mediator of its association with pain resilience
Authors: You Beibei , Wen Hongwei , Jackson Todd
Published: July 2024

Past cross‐sectional chronic pain studies have revealed aberrant resting‐state brain activity in regions involved in pain processing and affect regulation. However, there is a paucity of longitudinal research examining links of resting‐state activity and pain resilience with changes in chronic pain outcomes over time. In this prospective study, we assessed the status of baseline (T1) resting‐state brain activity as a biomarker of later impairment from chronic pain and a mediator of the relation between pain resilience and impairment at follow‐up. One hundred forty‐two adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain completed a T1 assessment comprising a resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan based on regional homogeneity (ReHo) and self‐report measures of demographics, pain characteristics, psychological status, pain resilience, pain severity, and pain impairment. Subsequently, pain impairment was reassessed at a 6‐month follow‐up (T2). Hierarchical multiple regression and mediation analyses assessed relations of T1 ReHo and pain resilience scores with changes in pain impairment. Higher T1 ReHo values in the right caudate nucleus were associated with increased pain impairment at T2, after controlling for all other statistically significant self‐report measures. ReHo also partially mediated associations of T1 pain resilience dimensions with T2 pain impairment. T1 right caudate nucleus ReHo emerged as a possible biomarker of later impairment from chronic musculoskeletal pain and a neural mechanism that may help to explain why pain resilience is related to lower levels of later chronic pain impairment. Findings provide empirical foundations for prospective extensions that assess the status of ReHo activity and self‐reported pain resilience as markers for later impairment from chronic pain and targets for interventions to reduce impairment.

Practitioner Points

Resting‐state markers of impairment: Higher baseline (T1) regional homogeneity (ReHo) values, localized in the right caudate nucleus, were associated with exacerbations in impairment from chronic musculoskeletal pain at a 6‐month follow‐up, independent of T1 demographics, pain experiences, and psychological factors.

Mediating role of ReHo values: ReHo values in the right caudate nucleus also mediated the relationship between baseline pain resilience levels and later pain impairment among participants.

Therapeutic implications: Findings provide empirical foundations for research extensions that evaluate (1) the use of resting‐state activity in assessment to identify people at risk for later impairment from pain and (2) changes in resting‐state activity as biomarkers for the efficacy of treatments designed to improve resilience and reduce impairment among those in need.
Oxygenated carbon nitride‐based high‐energy‐density lithium‐metal batteries
Authors: Shen Mengnan , Wei Ying , Ge Man , Yu Shengdong , Dou Ronghui , Chen Liuhua , Wang Feng , Huang Yunhui , Xu Henghui
Published: July 2024

Lithium (Li)‐metal batteries with polymer electrolytes are promising for high‐energy‐density and safe energy storage applications. However, current polymer electrolytes suffer either low ionic conductivity or inadequate ability to suppress Li dendrite growth at high current densities. This study addresses both issues by incorporating two‐dimensional oxygenated carbon nitride (2D OCN) into a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)‐based composite polymer electrolyte and modifying the Li anode with OCN. The OCN nanosheets incorporated PVDF electrolyte exhibits a high ionic conductivity (1.6 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 25°C) and Li+ transference number (0.62), wide electrochemical window (5.3), and excellent fire resistance. Furthermore, the OCN‐modified Li anode in situ generates a protective layer of Li3N during cycling, preventing undesirable reactions with PVDF electrolyte and effectively suppressing Li dendrite growth. Symmetric cells using the upgraded PVDF polymer electrolyte and modified Li anode demonstrate long cycling stability over 2500 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. Full cells with a high‐voltage LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode exhibit high energy density and long‐term cycling stability, even at a high loading of 8.2 mg cm−2. Incorporating 2D OCN nanosheets into the PVDF‐based electrolyte and Li‐metal anode provides an effective strategy for achieving safe and high‐energy‐density Li‐metal batteries.
Morphophysiological indicators, phenophase and cutting time in an irrigated forage cactus–sorghum intercropping system under strategies of agricultural resilience and agriculture biosaline
Authors: Alves Cleber Pereira , da Silva Thieres George Freire , Araújo Júnior George do Nascimento , de Souza Luciana Sandra Bastos , Jardim Alexandre Maniçoba da Rosa Ferraz , de Araújo Gherman Garcia Leal , Queiroz Mário Adriano Avila , Silva Sérvulo Mercier Siqueira e , Pinheiro Antonio Gebson , Salvador Kaique Renan da Silva
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate growth and development in an irrigated forage cactus–sorghum intercropping system under different strategies for improving agricultural resilience. The research was carried out from 2018 to 2020 in Serra Talhada, Pernambuco, Brazil, in four experiments in a randomized block design, each with four replications. The first experiment consisted of different configurations for the cactus–sorghum intercropping system (Orelha de Elefante Mexicana [OEM]‐single crop [SNG], IPA Sertânia [IPA]‐SNG, Miúda [MIU]‐SNG, OEM–SF11, OEM–Progenitor 288 [P.288], OEM–467, IPA–SF11, IPA–P.288, IPA–467, MIU–SF11, MIU–P.288 and MIU–467); in the second and third experiments, the cactus–sorghum system was planted under different planting densities (100,000; 50,000; 33,333; 25,000 and 20,000 plants ha−1 for forage cactus and 200,000 plants ha−1 for sorghum) in east–west and north–south orientations, respectively; and the fourth experiment consisted of different planting densities for the cactus and sorghum (50,000; 40,000; 33,333; and 28,571 plants ha−1 and 200,000; 160,000; 133,333; and 114,285 plants ha−1, respectively). The maximum values of the dry matter accumulation rate were observed in the cultivation configurations that contained the OEM clone and at the highest densities. The different cultivation configurations affected the duration and number of phenophases. The cutting time increases as the planting density increases (50,000 and 100,000 plants ha−1) and when the OEM clone is used.
Injectable vancomycin‐loaded silk fibroin/methylcellulose containing calcium phosphate‐based in situ thermosensitive hydrogel for local treatment of osteomyelitis: Fabrication, characterization, and in vitro performance evaluation
Authors: Phewchan Premchirakorn , Laoruengthana Artit , Lamlertthon Supaporn , Tiyaboonchai Waree
Published: July 2024

The conventional treatment of osteomyelitis with antibiotic‐loaded nondegradable polymethylmethacrylate (ATB‐PMMA) beads has certain limitations, including impeded bone reconstruction and the need for secondary surgery. To overcome this challenge, this study aimed to develop and characterize an injectable vancomycin‐loaded silk fibroin/methylcellulose containing calcium phosphate‐based in situ thermosensitive hydrogel (VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs). The VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs solution can be easily administered at room temperature with a low injectability force of ≤30 N and a high vancomycin (VC) content of ~96%. Additionally, at physiological temperature (37 °C), the solution could transform into a rigid hydrogel within 7 minutes. In vitro drug release performed under both physiological (pH 7.4) and infection conditions (pH 4.5) revealed a prolonged release pattern of VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs following the Peppas–Sahlin kinetic model. In addition, the released VC from VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs hydrogels exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus for a period exceeding 35 days, as characterized by the disk diffusion assay. Furthermore, at pH 7.4, the VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs demonstrated >60% degradation within 35 days. Importantly, when exposed to physiological pH conditions, CAPs are transformed into bioactive hydroxyapatite, which benefits bone formation. Therefore, VC‐SF/MC‐CAPs showed significant potential as a local drug delivery system for treating osteomyelitis.
Injectable hydrogel scaffold incorporating microspheres containing cobalt‐doped bioactive glass for bone healing
Authors: Ghiasi Tabari Parmida , Sattari Amirmohammad , Mashhadi Keshtiban Mohsen , Karkuki Osguei Nushin , Hardy John G. , Samadikuchaksaraei Ali
Published: July 2024

Injectable in situ‐forming scaffolds that induce both angiogenesis and osteogenesis have been proven to be promising for bone healing applications. Here, we report the synthesis of an injectable hydrogel containing cobalt‐doped bioactive glass (BG)‐loaded microspheres. Silk fibroin (SF)/gelatin microspheres containing BG particles were fabricated through microfluidics. The microspheres were mixed in an injectable alginate solution, which formed an in situ hydrogel by adding CaCl2. The hydrogel was evaluated for its physicochemical properties, in vitro interactions with osteoblast‐like and endothelial cells, and bone healing potential in a rat model of calvarial defect. The microspheres were well‐dispersed in the hydrogel and formed pores of >100 μm. The hydrogel displayed shear‐thinning behavior and modulated the cobalt release so that the optimal cobalt concentration for angiogenic stimulation, cell proliferation, and deposition of mineralized matrix was only achieved by the scaffold that contained BG doped with 5% wt/wt cobalt (A‐S‐G5Co). In the scaffold containing higher cobalt content, a reduced biomimetic mineralization on the surface was observed. The gene expression study indicated an upregulation of the osteogenic genes of COL1A1, ALPL, OCN, and RUNX2 and angiogenic genes of HIF1A and VEGF at different time points in the cells cultured with the A‐S‐G5Co. Finally, the in vivo study demonstrated that A‐S‐G5Co significantly promoted both angiogenesis and osteogenesis and improved bone healing after 12 weeks of follow‐up. These results show that incorporation of SF/gelatin microspheres containing cobalt‐doped BG in an injectable in situ‐forming scaffold can effectively enhance its bone healing potential through promotion of angiogenesis and osteogenesis.
Telapheresis: One institution's experience
Authors: Irani Mehraboon , Jefcik Sorelle , Knight Susan
Published: July 2024

Telemedicine in its most common form is the use of videoconferencing to consult with a patient and telapheresis is telemedicine in the form of videotelephony applied to consult with a patient for apheresis. The article discusses how a large apheresis program in a metropolitan area provided physician coverage for apheresis in a more remote hospital using telapheresis with local physician “partners” and local nurses employed by and trained by the apheresis program that perform the procedure. Consent for the procedure was obtained, and orders were placed by the local physician after consultation with the apheresis physician, or the apheresis physician him/herself, having obtained privileges at the remote hospital. This allowed patients access to apheresis procedures nearer to their place of residence and in familiar surroundings which generally made them feel more positive about their health care experience.
Synthesis and histone deacetylases inhibitory activity of pyrimidine‐based 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles
Authors: Jakubkiene V. , Labalaukyte I. , Schweipert M. , Zubriene A. , Meyer‐Almes F.‐J. , Matulis D. , Tumkevicius S.
Published: July 2024

The histone deacetylases (HDACs) are being explored as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of various diseases. Here, the synthesis of a series of pyrimidine‐based 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles, in which the oxadiazole scaffold is attached to the pyrimidine ring via a methyleneoxy spacer, is described and their HDAC inhibitory activity studied. The target compounds were synthesized by sequence of reactions involving O‐alkylation of 2‐(methylthio)pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐ones with ethyl 2‐bromoethanoate followed by oxidation of the 2‐methylthio group, displacement of the obtained 2‐methylsulfonyl group with amines, hydrazinolysis of the obtained ethyl (2‐amino‐substituted pyrimidin‐4‐yloxy)acetates to give the corresponding hydrazides and their cyclization under the treatment with ethyl O‐ethyl xanthate or carbonyldiimidazole to 1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2(3H)‐thiones and 1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2(3H)‐one, correspondingly. In addition, two 1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2(3H)‐thiones were converted into (N3)‐morpholinomethyl derivatives by the Mannich reaction with formaldehyde and morpholine. The yields of intermediates and target compounds ranged from moderate to excellent. The synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectra and HRMS data, their purity was controlled by TLC. The synthesized pyrimidine‐based 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles (18 compounds) were tested as inhibitors of the HDAC4 and HDAC8 isoforms and their inhibitory activity was compared with that of Vorinostat. Most of the oxadiazolethiones containing methyl group at the position 6 of the pyrimidine moiety were found to be more selective towards HDAC8, while oxadiazolethiones with propyl group in the pyrimidine ring were active against HDAC4. Among the tested compounds, 5‐((2‐(dibutylamino)‐6‐propylpyrimidin‐4‐yloxy)methyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2(3H)‐thione (48) was found to have the strongest inhibitory activity for HDAC4 isoform (IC50 = 4.2 μM vs. IC50 = 59 μM for Vorinostat) while 5‐((2‐(cyclopentylamino)‐6‐propylpyrimidin‐4‐yloxy)methyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2(3H)‐thione (50) was the most potent HDAC8 inhibitor (IC50 = 6.8 μM).
Structure–activity relationship investigations probing the cytotoxicity of 9‐aminoacridine derivatives with PC3 and A549
Authors: Blount Grace S. , Seymour Austin , Williams Dylan , Douglas Daylon , Miller Joshua , Sejoro Sarah , Peace Karl E. , Kocerha Jannet , Aiken Karelle S.
Published: July 2024

9‐Aminoacridine structures hold much potential for accessing small molecule therapeutics. This core is present in a range of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of ailments such as malaria, inflammation, viral and bacterial infections, and cancer. For the latter, there remains a need to develop and/or improve chemotherapeutics to counteract issues of uptake, drug resistance, and selectivity for cancer cells over healthy cells. In the design of molecules to address these issues, identifying structural units that present as promising leads for drug development is key. In this study, four 9‐aminoacridine derivatives under consideration as precursors for a drug design project are assessed for their cytotoxicity with representative cell lines PC3 and A549 and for their leadlikeness with SwissADME. Together, the cytotoxicity and in silico investigations coalesce around the same derivative as the most promising lead.
Excessive weight in pregnant women increases the chance of diagnosing periodontitis combined with tooth loss
Authors: Batista Josicélia Estrela Tuy , Figueiredo Ana Claudia Morais Godoy , Souza Elivan Silva , Lyrio Amanda Oliveira , Passos‐Soares Johelle Santana , Trindade Soraya Castro , Alves Claudia Maria Coêlho , Vianna Maria Isabel Pereira , Coelho Julita Maria Freitas , Conceição Sarah dos Santos , Cerqueira Eneida de Moraes Marcílio , Hintz Alexandre Marcelo , Seymour Gregory John , Scannapieco Frank Andrew , Loomer Peter Michael , Gomes‐Filho Isaac Suzart , Cruz Simone Seixas da
Published: July 2024

Background

Excess weight (EW), especially in women of childbearing age, those who are pregnant, as well as postpartum, is a problem worldwide. Fat accumulation deregulates the inflammatory response, contributing to the development of health problems, such as periodontitis. This study investigated the association between EW and periodontitis during pregnancy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, multicenter study involved 1745 postpartum women in Brazil. Socioeconomic‐demographic data, gestational history, lifestyle behavior, and general and oral health conditions were obtained. Pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was collected from medical records with EW being the exposure. Both tooth loss and clinical attachment level (CAL) were evaluated, and the presence of periodontitis was the outcome. Logistic regression, odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), and quantile regression, beta coefficient and 95% CI, estimated the association between EW (BMI) and periodontitis and its combined effect with tooth loss ≥3, as dichotomous and continuous variables (CAL and tooth loss), with 5% significance level.

Results

The EW was 27.7% prevalent and periodontitis was 11.7%. There was a positive association between EW and periodontitis: ORadjusted:1.39; 95% CI:1.01;1.92 and between EW and periodontitis combined with tooth loss ≥3: ORadjusted:1.73; 95% CI:1.36;2.20. The adjusted association between EW and periodontitis as continuous variables was also positive, showing that for each unit of increased BMI, there was an elevation in the mean CAL (p = 0.04) and tooth loss (p < 0.01), with statistical significance.

Conclusions

There was a moderate association between EW and periodontitis during pregnancy, with an even greater association of pregnant women with EW presenting periodontitis combined with tooth loss.
Anterior abdominal wall defects and their management outcomes in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Habtamu Abebe , Million Tenagne
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Gastroschisis and omphalocele are common malformations of the anterior abdominal wall and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in neonates. Despite advances in surgical care, these conditions remain challenging to manage effectively.

Objective

This retrospective institutional study aimed to assess the management outcomes of neonates with anterior abdominal wall defects, specifically gastroschisis and omphalocele, in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) (Tertiary Hospital).

Method

A retrospective review was conducted on cases of gastroschisis and omphalocele managed in the NICU of TASH from August 2018 to August 2022. Patient charts of neonates with omphalocele and gastroschisis were identified and retrieved from the NICU records. The collected data were analyzed using statistical software such as SPSS.

Results

The study included a total of 50 neonates with abdominal wall defects, consisting of 39 cases of omphalocele and 11 cases of gastroschisis. Maternal age ranged from 18 to 40 years, with a mean age of 27.6 ± 4.5 years. Associated malformations were documented in 33.3% of omphalocele cases and 18.2% of gastroschisis cases. Cardiac anomalies were the most frequently associated malformation with omphalocele. Surgical intervention was performed in 27.3% of gastroschisis cases (3 out of 11) and 41% of omphalocele cases (16 out of 39). The postsurgery mortality rate was 12.5% for both major and minor omphaloceles, with 11 deaths occurring in gastroschisis cases. Sepsis was identified as the cause of death in all neonates who did not survive.

Conclusions

The study revealed a significantly higher mortality rate in gastroschisis cases compared to omphalocele cases. Sepsis was identified as the primary cause of death in the neonates. These findings underscore the importance of effective management strategies to prevent and manage sepsis in neonates with abdominal wall defects.
Improving blueberry cold storage quality: the effect of preharvest hexanal application on chilling injuries and antioxidant defense mechanisms
Authors: Sönmez Duygu Ayvaz , Öz Ayşe Tülin , Ali Md. Arfan , Kafkas Ebru , Bilgin Ömer Faruk
Published: July 2024

Blueberries are vulnerable to chilling injury (CI). This can lead to limited longevity when they are subjected to cold storage conditions. This study investigated the effectiveness of a preharvest spray containing 0.02% hexanal in reducing CI and improving the postharvest storage quality of ‘Star’ and ‘Biloxi’ blueberries. The blueberries were stored for a period of 5 weeks at 2 °C and in 90% relative humidity (RH). The findings revealed that the preharvest hexanal spraying of both cultivars delayed senescence by mitigating CI, as evidenced by the bolstering of the antioxidant defense system through increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzyme activity. The treated fruit also maintained elevated levels of total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), and vitamin C, demonstrating enhanced free radical scavenging capacity (FRSC), while exhibiting reduced polyphenoloxidase (PPO) activity, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), and H2O2 content in comparison with the control group. The preharvest hexanal treatment also suppressed fruit softening by maintaining greater firmness and higher membrane stability index (MSI) scores, inhibiting the activity of polygalacturonase (PG), pectinmethylesterase (PME), xylanase, and α‐amylase, and reducing microbial counts (MC) and incidence of decay (DI) in comparison with the control. Preharvest hexanal treatment also improved the overall storage quality by reducing weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, and the TSS/acid ratio, while increasing titratable acidity (TA) in comparison with the control during cold storage. The findings suggest that hexanal, as a preharvest application, delays senescence effectively and preserves overall quality by enhancing cold tolerance through antioxidant defense mechanisms in blueberry storage under cold conditions. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The effect of Lactobacillus reuteri on pulmonary function test and growth of cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Tabatabaii Seyed Ahmad , Khanbabaee Ghamartaj , Sadr Saeed , Farahbakhsh Nazanin , Modarresi Seyedeh Zalfa , Pourghasem Matin , Hajipour Mahmoud
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients frequently experience gut microbiota dysbiosis. Probiotic supplementation is a potential therapeutic approach to modify gut microbiota and improve CF management through the gut–lung axis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation on pulmonary function test, respiratory symptoms and growth in CF patients.

METHODS

A randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was carried out on 40 children with CF aged from 6 to 20 years. Participants were designated to receive either L. reuteri or placebo daily for 4 months. Pulmonary function tests, weight, height and body mass index (BMI) z‐scores were measured pre and post treatment.

RESULTS

The median baseline BMI of the patients was 16.28 kg m−2. A significant change in the probiotic group's BMI z‐score after the study period was observed (P = 0.034) but not for weight and height z‐scores (P > 0.05). After treatment, Pseudomonas aeruginosa grew in sputum cultures of seven in the placebo and one patient in the intervention group (P = 0.03) while at baseline it grew in the sputum of four patients in each group. There was no significant difference in forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced expiratory flow at 25–75% or forced vital capacity change between the two groups after the treatment period (P > 0.05). Additionally, no significant differences were found in pulmonary exacerbations, hospitalization frequencies or COVID‐19 infection between the two groups during the study (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that L. reuteri supplementation may impact the growth of severely malnourished CF patients. Furthermore, it may be concluded that this strain might reduce P. aeruginosa in the sputum culture of CF patients. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanically aligned total knee arthroplasty does not yield uniform outcomes across all coronal plane alignment of the knee (CPAK) phenotypes
Authors: Franceschetti Edoardo , Campi Stefano , Giurazza Giancarlo , Tanzilli Andrea , Gregori Pietro , Laudisio Alice , Hirschmann Michael T. , Samuelsson Kristian , Papalia Rocco
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Patient dissatisfaction rates following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reported in the literature reach 20%. The optimal coronal alignment is still under debate. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare clinical outcomes in different coronal plane alignment of the knee (CPAK) phenotypes undergoing mechanically aligned (MA) TKA. The hypothesis was that knees with preoperative varus arithmetic hip‐knee‐ankle angle (aHKA) would achieve inferior clinical outcomes after surgery compared to other aHKA categories. Additionally, another objective was to assess CPAK phenotypes distribution in the study population.

Methods

A retrospective selection was made of 180 patients who underwent MA TKA from April 2021 to December 2022, with a 1‐year follow‐up. Coronal knee alignment was classified according to the CPAK classification. Clinical outcome evaluations were measured using the Knee Society Score (KSS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Short Form Survey 12 and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS). Differences in clinical outcomes were considered statistically significant with a p value <0 .05.

Results

Patients with varus aHKA achieved significantly inferior outcomes at final follow‐up compared to other aHKA categories in KSS pt. 1 (79.7 ± 17.2 vs. 85.6 ± 14.7; p = 0.028), OKS (39.2 ± 9.2 vs. 42.2 ± 7.2; p = 0.019) and FJS (75.4 ± 31.0 vs. 87.4 ± 22.9; p =0 .003). The most common aHKA category was the varus category (39%). The most common CPAK phenotypes were apex distal Types I (23.9%), II (22.8%) and III (13.3%).

Conclusion

MA TKA does not yield uniform outcomes across all CPAK phenotypes. Varus aHKA category shows significantly inferior results at final follow‐up. The most prevalent CPAK categories are varus aHKA and apex distal JLO, with phenotypes I, II and III being the most common. However, their gender distribution varies significantly.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.