bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raúl Zurita. "Ensayos reunidos"
Authors: Parra Bañón José Joaquín
Published: January 2024

Sin resumen
Investigation of usability of mineral fiber in stone mastic asphalt
Authors: Rasekh M.A. , Haldenbilen S. , Zengin D.
Published: January 2024

Stone mastic asphalt (SMA) pavements were developed to prevent rutting, abrasion, and various pavement deteriorations and to increase the life of the superstructure. They certainly stand out with their high grain contact, stone-stone interlocking ability, and high bitumen ratio on heavy-traffic roads with heavy axle loads. This study aimed to investigate the effects of basalt fiber in different sizes, partly cellulose, and partly basalt fiber addition, on the drain down of the performance of bitumen and the changes in rutting performance as additives to stone mastic asphalt pavements. To determine the absorption performance of bitumen fiber additives, 19 mixtures were pre-pared and the Schellenberger drain down test was carried out. The results, including the witness mixture, showed that the Schellenberger test result was below the value specified in the motorway technical specification by a maximum of 0.3%. For the Hamburg wheel tracking test (HWTT) additive and witness mixtures were prepared at optimum bitumen ratios using a gyratory compactor. HWTT was applied to the mixtures numbered 1, 4, 10 and 14, which have the best the Schellenberger drain down performance, and the witness sample. As a result of the experiments, the highest rutting deformation was measured at the samples using 12mm basalt fiber at the rate of 0.2%. The lowest rut deformation was measured in samples containing 12mm basalt fiber at the rate of 0,3% and cellulose fiber at the rate of 0.2%. It was determined that the combined use of cellulose and basalt fiber mixture improved the resistance against rutting by 37%. As a result of the HWTT, it was determined that stone mastic asphalt mixtures with basalt and cellulose fiber additives were more resistant to rutting than the witness and basalt-only mixtures.
WHO-modified Partogram versus Paperless Partogram for Effective Management of Labour: A Research Protocol
Authors: . Saloni , Potdar Jyotsana
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The partograph is a simple, inexpensive tool that provides a continuous pictorial overview of labour. It helps to identify obstructed or prolonged labour and determines when appropriate actions should be taken to prevent complications. The partograph is a valuable tool for making early decisions, including transferring patients to higher-level centres when labour is not progressing. Need for the study: This research aims to contribute to the development of a standardised approach for healthcare personnel to ensure accuracy and reliability in observations and data collection. Aim: This study will compare the efficacy of the World Health Organisation (WHO)-modified partograph versus the paperless partograph. Materials and Methods: This will be a prospective interventional study conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, JNMC, Wardha, Maharashtra, India over a two-year duration from January 2024 to January 2026. The study will include 200 pregnant women who will be divided into two groups. One group will use the WHO-modified partograph, while the other group will use the paperless partograph. The comparison will be based on the effective management of labour using the action and alert line Estimated Time of Delivery (ETD) between the two partographs. The overall usefulness will be evaluated using the Chi-square test/Fisher’s-exact test, with a statistical value of <0.05 considered significant.
Impact of Insecurity on Access to Maternal Health Services by Women of Reproductive Age in Selected Rural Communities in Zamfara State, Nigeria
Authors: Akor Linus , Dajo Ugba , Anthony-Ekpe Helen
Published: January 2024

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy is of late, enmeshed in monumental security challenges, to the extent that no section of the country is insulated from the activities of criminal elements. The most prominent of Nigeria's security hiccups is the Boko-Haram sect in the northeastern region of the country. Besides the Boko-Haram menace, the northwestern zone, particularly Zamfara State, has been under persistent bandit attacks with 16,086 persons abducted between 2015 and 2022. Similarly, 9,490 were killed while 1,385,625 persons were displaced within the period under review. This paper examined the impact of insecurity on access to maternal health services by women of reproductive age in selected local government areas of Zamfara State, Nigeria. Questionnaire and Key Informant Interview were the primary data collection instruments while the Subcultural theory served as the theoretical framework. A total of 382 respondents were used for the study while 30 key informants were interviewed. The study found out that respondents travel 10 to 15km kilometres and 2 to 3 hours to arrive at the nearest maternal health facility leading to a remarkable decline in the rate of utilisation of health services. It was also discovered that insecurity has led to massive relocation of medical personnel, destruction of rural health facilities, decline in hospital patronage and dearth of essential drugs. The paper recommends the adoption of kinetic and non-kinetics strategies to stem insecurity; reconstruction of destroyed medical infrastructures; and location of health care centres within accessible distance to encourage patronage and rehabilitation of persons displaced by bandits in the State.
Prediction by in silico Tools of Non-synonymous Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (nsSNP) and 3-d Protein Structure Prediction in the Female MED12 Gene Associated with Uterine Leiomyomas
Authors: Keneme Bineta , Sembene Mbacké
Published: January 2024

Aims: Uterine leiomyomas are one of the most common benign gynecologic tumors, but the exact causes are not completely understood. Mutations at exon 2 MED12 gene was discovered in approximately 71% of uterine leiomyomas. Our recent studies confirmed the high frequency of MED12 exon 2 deleterious mutations in uterine leiomyoma in senegalese patients. In this context, molecular dynamics simulations of wild-type and non synonymous variants were conducted to access their structural dynamic and stability characteristics.

Methodology: Tumour tissues were collected from 50 senegalese patients with uterine leiomyomas. We sequenced 226 bp for exon 2 region after DNA extraction and amplification. To understand the mutation’s role in this gene, we utilized computational tools based on different algorithms, including missense tools to predict pathogenic variants such as Alamut™ Visual Plus, ProtParam, Missense 3D; stability tools to analyze the impression of a mutated gene on the function of the protein like Dynamut2 and NetSurfP - 3.0, and post translational modifications using MutPred2.

Results: Out of 50 patients with uterine fibroids, 88% have mutations in exon 2 of the MED12 gene. All this mutations are missense mutations. They are L36R, Q43P, G44C, GDDR, G44S, G44A, G44V, G44D, F45V, K60M and N61Y. A significant impact of the MED12 mutations has showed with a high frequency in codon 44. It was identified that all residues in codon 44 were identified to fall in disallowed regions. Our results show that all nsSNP except G44D, K60M and N61Y are associated with molecular mechanisms such as intrinsic disorder, altered disorder interface, gain or loss of helix, gain or loss of loop and post-translational modifications such as gain or loss of methylation, loss of ubiquitylation.

Conclusion: Deleterious mutations identified in exon 2 MED12 gene show their implication in uterine leiomyomas. Given that the mutants identified are associated with protein instability, this opens up avenues for reflection on possible alterations of protein function in cases of uterine fibroids.
Vertical Farming: The Future of Controlled-environment Agriculture and Food-production System
Authors: Kumar Raja , Fayaz Asma , Kaundal Munish
Published: January 2024

Vertical Farming is the advanced technique for the proper growth of plants and herbs on small land. The continuous growth of population, shortage of water supply, climate changes, and urbanization can be a big challenge to 8 billion of lives. In this technique, we required less land but skilled labour for proper cultivation. The amount of land per person has also decreased with respect to time and the population is continuously growing. It is expected that by 2050 the population of the world will be 9.7 billion. It is very challenging to feed all of them with decreasing land per person. Vertical Farming aims that it is capable to fulfill the need by adopting Vertical Farm. It requires less land and we can also adjust the climate conditions according to crop requirements which will result in higher production. It provides us with organic and healthy food. This review paper focuses on the food security problem and the development of a sustainable agriculture initiative of vertical farming. It suggests some techniques by which we can overcome food shortages and maintain a proper diet. It also talks about opportunities and challenges which will come after adopting vertical farming.
Planting Geometry and Nutrient Management on Productivity and Quality of Rainfed Sunflower in Deep Vertisol of Northern Karnataka, India
Authors: Umesh, M. R.  , Shanwad U. K.  , Ghante V. N. , Kulkarni Vikas V. , Poornima
Published: January 2024

Maintenance of optimum population and balanced fertilizer application are most critical to achieve greater productivity of sunflower under rain-fed condition. Experiment was conducted during Kharif 2015, 2016 and 2017 to know the response of rainfed sunflower by varying planting geometry and fertilizer levels under different land configurations. Results showed 31.7% higher seed yield by seeds planting on ridges and furrows at 60 cm x 30 cm over flatbed sowing at 60 cm x 30 cm. Further, yield improvement upto 20.9% was observed by application of additional 50% RDF as compared to 75% RDF. However, application of 125% RDF was found on par with the application of RDF. Economic returns in terms of gross returns (Rs. 63539/ha), net returns (Rs. 37601/ha) and B:C ratio (2.48) was higher from ridge and furrow sowing at 60 cm x 30 cm followed by broad bed and furrow with paired row planting at 45 cm x 40 cm. Among fertilizer levels, application of 125% RDF recorded higher monetary returns and B: C ratio comparable with application of 100% RDF. Results confirmed that sunflower planted on ridges and furrows at 60 cm x 30 cm was found to enhance yield and economics than existing traditional method of flatbed sowing at 60 cm x 30 cm spacing. Further, sunflower yield improvement was also observed by application of graded fertilizers of 25% higher than existing recommendations.
Application of Integrated Geophysical Methods in Groundwater Exploration in Adamawa State University, Mubi
Authors: Kasidi S. , Ndatuwong L. G. , Kamureyina E.
Published: January 2024

Mubi area falls within the Hawal Precambrian basement terrain where groundwater occurs within the overburden, fractures and weathered basement. In this area a lot of boreholes were drilled and failed due to the geology and ambiguity in geophysical data interpretation. Based on these challenges and the increase in population of students on campus necessitated the application of integrated geophysical methods to investigate groundwater potentials in Adamawa State University Mubi campus. The survey is to locate potential areas for borehole drilling. The method employed are Audio Magnetic Telluric (ADMT 600S-X) with powerful software ZondMT 1D and   Electrical resistivity with IXD interpex software for data interpretation. The technique has provided information on the subsurface lithology & structures up to 300 m deep (Passive). While the electrical resistivity is an active geophysical method, this was used to confirm the potential areas identify by magnetotelluric profiles. In this study forty three (43) profiles were sounded using the magnetotelluric in which only nine (9) profiles indicates potential for groundwater. The nine (9) profiles were later confirmed with electrical resistivity method, this is to validate the results obtained from ADMT 600S-X. The results obtained are as follows: ADMT 600S-X for the nine (9) profile are;185 m, 210-300 m, 210 m, 210-300 m, 175 m, 195-300 m, 190-270 m, 215-300 m and 185 m and results from RESISTIVITY for VES (1-9) are; 150 m, 200-400 m, 300 m, 210-300 m, 180 m, 180m, 200 m, 250 m and 215. The study shows that the groundwater occurrence in  the  study area  is  confined  to over burden, fractured and weathered zones.  The results obtained from both case correlate well and these nine (9) points are recommended for drilling borehole to alleviate water scarcity on campus for students.
Assessment of Claimants’ Attitudes towards Compulsory Land Acquisition and Compensation in Osogbo, Nigeria
Authors: Adebisi Oluwasola Stephen , Afolabi Kabiru Kolawale , Audu Adedamola Fisayo
Published: January 2024

Comprehending the attitudes of claimants towards compulsory land acquisition and compensation is crucial in assessing the overall efficacy of the process. This exploration aids not only in gauging public sentiment but also in shaping policies and approaches that foster cooperation and equitable outcomes. This study focused on the assessment of claimants’ attitudes towards compulsory land acquisition in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. Data on claimants were obtained from 244 landholders whose lands were compulsorily acquired for rail track construction at Phase I, Osogbo. Frequency distribution, weighted mean scores, and factor analysis were employed to analyze the collected data in order to examine the behaviors exhibited by claimants and the factors contributing to those behaviors. The study revealed that the lack of a resettlement plan, inadequate time given for relocation, and insufficient compensation award to replace assets were triggers for the various behaviors exhibited by claimants. Factor analysis was used to analyse a 14-item factor instrument employed to examine the factors influencing claimants' behavioral attitudes toward compulsory land acquisition and compensation in the study area. The result   yielded four distinct factors which include “Preliminary Factors leading to Inadequate Compensation” as Factor 1, "Factors Leading to Resistance by Claimants," as Factor 2, "Factors Leading to Inadequate Relay of Notices," and  "Inadequacies in the provisions of the Land Use Act on Valuation Methods for Compulsory Land Acquisition and Compensation," as Factors 3 and 4 respectively. The study recommended that the Land Use Act be amended to align with present-day realities, incorporating considerations for land values and associated impacts, including the costs of claimants' relocation. This would alleviate the stress and social challenges faced by those affected by land acquisition, dousing the society tensions associated with it.
The Effect of Government Policies on the Success of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Regional Development in North Tapanuli Regency
Authors: Sitompul Monica Dwi Putri , Lubis Satia Negara , Rahmanta
Published: January 2024

This research delves into the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in North Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, focusing on the impact of government policies on the success of MSMEs. The research, conducted from October 2023, utilizes interviews and documentation as data collection methods. From a total of 39,856 MSME units, a simple random sample of 100 respondents was selected using the slovin pattern. Key variables include Monetary Policy (X1), Fiscal Policy (X2), and MSME Success (Y1). Monetary Policy is related to People's Business Credit, while Fiscal Policy includes aspects of taxation and financing. MSME success is measured through growth, product value, funding access, information, business expansion, market penetration, and social, cultural, and economic impact. Data analysis employs Partial Least Square (PLS) to identify the impact of government policies. Results reflect a positive contribution of fiscal and monetary policies to MSME success. Model evaluation considers validity and reliability, while the contribution of MSMEs to the Regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is analyzed through Proportional Analysis. This research adopts a holistic approach, combining qualitative and quantitative elements to provide an in-depth understanding of the role of MSMEs in North Tapanuli Regency and its implications for the regional GDP. The findings aim to serve as a policy foundation for the local government in supporting the growth and sustainability of MSMEs.
Automated External Defibrillator Use After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest at Recreational Facilities
Authors: Kolkailah Ahmed A. , Chan Paul S. , Li Qiang , Uzendu Anezi , Khan Mirza S. , Girotra Saket
Published: January 2024

This cohort study examines bystander automated external defibrillator (AED) application and survival outcomes for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest at recreational facilities in US states with and without AED legislation.
Advance Provision of Mifepristone and Misoprostol via Online Telemedicine in the US
Authors: Aiken Abigail R. A. , Starling Jennifer E. , van Blitterswijk Daniëlle C. , Looijen Carlijn , van Vliet Thijs , Essink Dirk R. , Gomperts Rebecca
Published: January 2024

This cross-sectional study examines trends in the demand and characteristics and motivations of individuals who requested advance provision of abortion medications.
Outcomes Following Adherence to a Randomized Stroke Trial Protocol
Authors: Blauenfeldt Rolf Ankerlund , Simonsen Claus Z. , Valentin Jan B. , Johnsen Søren P. , Hjort Niels , Andersen Grethe
Published: January 2024

This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial assesses whether compliance with the study protocol is associated with a better functional outcome even among participants in the sham-control group.
Geographic Dialysis Facility Density and Early Dialysis Initiation
Authors: Hemmige Vagish , Deshpande Priya , Norris Keith C. , Shen Jenny I. , Erickson Kevin F. , Johansen Kirsten L. , Golestaneh Ladan
Published: January 2024

Importance

The decision of when to start maintenance hemodialysis may be affected by health system–level support for high-intensity care as manifested by area dialysis facility density. Yet an association between early hemodialysis initiation and higher area density of dialysis facilities has not been shown.

Objective

To examine whether there is an association between area dialysis facility density and earlier dialysis initiation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cross-sectional analysis was conducted of publicly reported claims and geographic-based population data collected in the Medical Evidence files of the US Renal Data System (USRDS), a comprehensive registry of all patients initiating hemodialysis in the US, from calendar years 2011 through 2019. Data were linked to the American Community Survey, using residential zip codes, and then to health service area (HSA) primary care and hospitalization benchmarks, using the Dartmouth Atlas crosswalk. Data were analyzed from November 1, 2021, to August 31, 2023.

Exposure

Dialysis facility density at the level of HSA (number of dialysis facilities per 100 000 HSA residents) split into 5 categories.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The odds of hemodialysis initiation at an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) greater than 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 vs less than or equal to 10 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results

Hemodialysis was initiated in a total of 844 466 individuals at 3397 HSAs at a mean (SD) eGFR of 8.9 (3.8) mL/min/1.73 m2. Their mean (SD) age was 63.5 (14.7) years, and 484 346 participants (57.4%) were men. In the HSA category with the highest facility density, individuals were younger (63.3 vs 65.2 years in least-dense HSAs), poorer (mean percent of households living in poverty, 10.4% vs 8.4%), and more commonly had a higher percentage of Black individuals (40.6% vs 11.3%). More individuals in the dialysis-dense HSAs than least-dense HSAs had diabetes (60.1% vs 58.5%) and fewer had access to predialysis nephrology care (60.8% vs 64.1%); the rates of heart failure and immobility varied, but not in a consistent pattern, by HSA dialysis density. The mean (SD) facility density was 4.1 (1.89) centers per 100 000 population in the most dialysis-dense HSAs. Compared with patients in HSAs with a mean of 1.0 per 100 000 population, the odds of hemodialysis initiation at eGFR greater than 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 were 1.07 (95% CI, 1.03-1.11) for patients in the densest HSAs, and compared with HSAs with 0 facilities, the odds of early hemodialysis initiation were 1.06 (95% CI, 1.02-1.10) for patients in the densest HSAs.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of USRDS- and HSA-level data, HSA dialysis density was associated with early hemodialysis initiation.
Practical Guide to Surgical Simulation Research
Authors: Gardner Aimee K. , Kaji Amy H. , Boermeester Marja
Published: January 2024

This Guide to Statistics and Methods provides an overview of simulation-based education and its impact on surgeon performance.
Esters of Carbonic and Orthocarbonic Acid, Organic Phosphorous, Monocarboxylic Halogenated Acids, Haloalcohols, and Organic Silicon
Authors: Christensen Catherine D.
Published: January 2024

This chapter covers (1) esters of carbonic and orthocarbonic acid, (2) esters of organic phosphorous compounds, (3) esters of monocarboxylic halogenated acids, alkanols, or haloalcohols, and (4) organic silicon esters.
Long Chain Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Acids (C8 and Above)
Authors: Dourson Michael L. , Kougias Daniel G. , Anderson Janet , Onyema Chijioke
Published: January 2024

This chapter is about a series of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that can also be described as “long‐chain” perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs). The overall structure of PFAAs is a lengthy carbon chain with fluorine atoms substituting for hydrogen atoms and either a carboxylic or sulfonate head group. PFAAs are unusually chemically stable, water and oil resistant, and useful for many industrial applications, such as in the formation of polymers. In biological systems, these chemicals are generally well‐absorbed, resistant to metabolism, but also have the unusual property of widely different elimination kinetics among and within mammalian species. The range of estimated elimination half‐lives in humans for the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), for example, is quite large ranging from one‐half to as much as 14 years, although a recent estimate from an international collaboration places this value closer to 1 year.

The available literature on PFAAs is voluminous. This chapter will not attempt to review all this literature. Rather human studies will be emphasized, but since these studies nearly always suggest associations between PFAA exposure and health outcomes, this will be followed by studies in experimental animals that give insights into the human evidence. Afterward, a summary of attempts to estimate potential human risk by various international agencies will be described. What will become obvious, however, is that the overall uncertainty in the database of these chemicals has led to widely divergent risk assessment positions that need to be resolved. Risk management decisions on this class of chemistries are seen to be premature without such scientific resolution.
High Refractive Index Carbonized Polymer Dots Acting as Light Scattering Units in Nanocomposites for Full‐Screen Light Guide Plate
Authors: Zhu Zhicheng , Liu Chongming , Li Rui , Pan Kaibo , Yue Da , Zhou Yutong , Zhang Kai , Yang Bai
Published: January 2024

The full‐screen mobile phone can be fabricated by integrating the camera beneath the screen, which needs the nanocomposite light guide plate (nano‐LGP) with exceptional transparency and light‐guiding properties simultaneously. Choosing an appropriate nanoparticle with a high refractive index and exceptional compatibility within the polymer matrix is crucial for producing the nano‐LGP. In this study, the high refractive index carbonized polymer dots (HRI‐CPDs) are synthesized through the solvothermal treatment, achieving a refractive index value of 1.7220 at 450 nm. Subsequently, the modified HRI‐CPDs (mHRI‐CPDs)/polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) nanocomposites are fabricated by copolymerizing the mHRI‐CPDs with methyl methacrylate . Due to the high visible light transmittance and Rayleigh scattering characteristics when light passes through the nanocomposites, this kind of nanocomposites is suitable for serving as nano‐LGPs. The potential of carbonized polymer dots as light‐scattering unit is originally explored to improve surface illuminance and uniformity of nano‐LGPs. The best‐performing 4.3‐inch LGP with 1.0 wt.% doping content shows 15.8 times higher surface illuminance and 2.1 times higher uniformity than pure PMMA. This new type of LGP based on mHRI‐CPDs/PMMA nanocomposite holds tremendous promise in conjunction with advanced liquid crystal display technology.
Enhanced Electrochemical Characterization of the Immune Checkpoint Protein PD‐L1 using Aptamer‐Functionalized Magnetic Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Ma Ying , Wu Maoqiang , Mo Fayin , Chen Zuanguang , Lu Jing , Sun Duanping
Published: January 2024

Programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) is highly expressed in cancer cells and participates in the immune escape process of tumor cells. However, as one of the most promising biomarkers for cancer immunotherapy monitoring, the key problem ahead of practical usage is how to effectively improve the detection sensitivity of PD‐L1. Herein, an electrochemical aptasensor for the evaluation of tumor immunotherapy is developed based on the immune checkpoint protein PD‐L1. The fundamental principle of this method involves the utilization of DNA nanotetrahedron (NTH)‐based capture probes and aptamer‐modified magnetic metal‐organic framework nanocomposites as signaling probes. A synergistic enhancement is observed in the electrocatalytic effect between Fe3O4 and UiO‐66 porous shells in Fe3O4@UiO‐66 nanocomposites. Therefore, the integration of aptamer‐modified Fe3O4@UiO‐66@Au with NTH‐assisted target immobilization as an electrochemical sensing platform can significantly enhance sensitivity and specificity for target detection. This method enables the detection of targets at concentrations as low as 7.76 pg mL−1 over a wide linear range (0.01 to 1000 ng mL−1). The authors have successfully employed this sensor for in situ characterization of PD‐L1 on the cell surface and for monitoring changes in PD‐L1 expression during drug therapy, providing a cost‐effective yet robust alternative to highly expensive and expertise‐dependent flow cytometry.
Antioxidant Hydrogels: Antioxidant Mechanisms, Design Strategies, and Applications in the Treatment of Oxidative Stress‐Related Diseases
Authors: Hu Bin , Ouyang Yongliang , Zhao Tong , Wang Zhengyue , Yan Qiling , Qian Qinyuan , Wang Wenyi , Wang Shige
Published: January 2024

Oxidative stress is a biochemical process that disrupts the redox balance due to an excess of oxidized substances within the cell. Oxidative stress is closely associated with a multitude of diseases and health issues, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, inflammatory conditions, and aging. Therefore, the developing of antioxidant treatment strategies has emerged as a pivotal area of medical research. Hydrogels have garnered considerable attention due to their exceptional biocompatibility, adjustable physicochemical properties, and capabilities for drug delivery. Numerous antioxidant hydrogels have been developed and proven effective in alleviating oxidative stress. In the pursuit of more effective treatments for oxidative stress‐related diseases, there is an urgent need for advanced strategies for the fabrication of multifunctional antioxidant hydrogels. Consequently, the authors' focus will be on hydrogels that possess exceptional reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species scavenging capabilities, and their role in oxidative stress therapy will be evaluated. Herein, the antioxidant mechanisms and the design strategies of antioxidant hydrogels and their applications in oxidative stress‐related diseases are discussed systematically in order to provide critical insights for further advancements in the field.
Ultrastrong and High Thermal Insulating Porous High‐Entropy Ceramics up to 2000 °C
Authors: Wen Zihao , Tang Zhongyu , Liu Yiwen , Zhuang Lei , Yu Hulei , Chu Yanhui
Published: January 2024

High mechanical load‐carrying capability and thermal insulating performance are crucial to thermal‐insulation materials under extreme conditions. However, these features are often difficult to achieve simultaneously in conventional porous ceramics. Here, for the first time, it is reported a multiscale structure design and fast fabrication of 9‐cation porous high‐entropy diboride ceramics via an ultrafast high‐temperature synthesis technique that can lead to exceptional mechanical load‐bearing capability and high thermal insulation performance. With the construction of multiscale structures involving ultrafine pores at the microscale, high‐quality interfaces between building blocks at the nanoscale, and severe lattice distortion at the atomic scale, the materials with an ≈50% porosity exhibit an ultrahigh compressive strength of up to ≈337 MPa at room temperature and a thermal conductivity as low as ≈0.76 W m−1 K−1. More importantly, they demonstrate exceptional thermal stability, with merely ≈2.4% volume shrinkage after 2000 °C annealing. They also show an ultrahigh compressive strength of ≈690 MPa up to 2000 °C, displaying a ductile compressive behavior. The excellent mechanical and thermal insulating properties offer an attractive material for reliable thermal insulation under extreme conditions.
Growth of Wafer‐Scale Single‐Crystal 2D Semiconducting Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Monolayers
Authors: Singh Jitendra , Astarini Nadiya Ayu , Tsai Meng‐Lin , Venkatesan Manikandan , Kuo Chi‐Ching , Yang Chan‐Shan , Yen Hung‐Wei
Published: January 2024

Due to extraordinary electronic and optoelectronic properties, large‐scale single‐crystal two‐dimensional (2D) semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayers have gained significant interest in the development of profit‐making cutting‐edge nano and atomic‐scale devices. To explore the remarkable properties of single‐crystal 2D monolayers, many strategies are proposed to achieve ultra‐thin functional devices. Despite substantial attempts, the controllable growth of high‐quality single‐crystal 2D monolayer still needs to be improved. The quality of the 2D monolayer strongly depends on the underlying substrates primarily responsible for the formation of grain boundaries during the growth process. To restrain the grain boundaries, the epitaxial growth process plays a crucial role and becomes ideal if an appropriate single crystal substrate is selected. Therefore, this perspective focuses on the latest advances in the growth of large‐scale single‐crystal 2D TMD monolayers in the light of enhancing their industrial applicability. In the end, recent progress and challenges of 2D TMD materials for various potential applications are highlighted.
Momelotinib expands the therapeutic armamentarium for myelofibrosis: Impact on hierarchy of treatment choices
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew , Pardanani Animesh , Gangat Naseema
Published: January 2024

The primary objective of treatment in myelofibrosis (MF) is prolongation of life, which is currently accomplished only by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT). Determination of optimal timing for AHSCT is facilitated by molecular risk stratification. Non‐transplant treatment options in MF are palliative in scope and include Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitors (JAKi): momelotinib (FDA approved on September 15, 2023), ruxolitinib (November 16, 2011), fedratinib (August 16, 2019), and pacritinib (February 28, 2022); all four JAKi are effective in reducing spleen size and alleviating symptoms, considered a drug class effect and attributed to their canonical JAK–STAT inhibitory mechanism of action. In addition, momelotinib exhibits erythropoietic effect, attributed to alleviation of ineffective erythropoiesis through inhibition of activin A receptor type‐I (ACVR1). In transplant‐ineligible or deferred patients, the order of treatment preference is based on specific symptoms and individual assessment of risk tolerance. Because of drug‐induced immunosuppression and other toxicities attributed to JAKi, we prefer non‐JAKi drugs as initial treatment for MF‐associated anemia that is not accompanied by treatment‐requiring splenomegaly or constitutional symptoms. Otherwise, it is reasonable to consider momelotinib as the first‐line JAKi treatment of choice, in order to target the triad of quality‐of‐life offenders in MF: anemia, splenomegaly, and constitutional symptoms/cachexia. For second‐line therapy, we favor ruxolitinib, over fedratinib, based on toxicity profile. Pacritinib and fedratinib provide alternative options in the presence of severe thrombocytopenia or ruxolitinib‐resistance/intolerance, respectively. Splenectomy remains a viable option for drug‐resistant symptomatic splenomegaly and cytopenia.
Comparison of fludarabine‐based conditioning regimens in adult cord blood transplantation for myeloid malignancy: A retrospective, registry‐based study
Authors: Kurita Naoki , Imahashi Nobuhiko , Chiba Shigeru , Tanaka Masatsugu , Kobayashi Hikaru , Uchida Naoyuki , Kuriyama Takuro , Anzai Naoyuki , Nawa Yuichiro , Nakano Nobuaki , Ara Takahide , Onizuka Makoto , Katsuoka Yuna , Koi Satoshi , Kimura Takafumi , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kanda Junya ,   for the Donor/Source Working Group of the Japanese Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy
Published: January 2024

Fludarabine/busulfan and fludarabine/melphalan are viable options as conditioning regimens. However, the optimal fludarabine‐based conditioning in cord blood transplantation (CBT) remains unclear. Therefore, this retrospective, registry‐based study aimed to analyze the impact of five fludarabine‐containing conditioning regimens on 1395 adult patients (median age, 61 years) with acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and chronic myeloid leukemia who underwent their first CBT. Treatment outcomes of fludarabine combined with melphalan (100–140 mg/m2) and low‐dose total body irradiation (TBI; FM140T); melphalan (80–99 mg/m2) and TBI (FM80T); busulfan (12.8 mg/kg) and melphalan (FB4M); busulfan (12.8 mg/kg) and TBI (FB4T); and busulfan (6.4 mg/kg) and TBI (FB2T) were compared. The 3‐year survival rate was 67%, 53%, 44%, 36%, and 39%, respectively (p < .0001). The FM140T survival rate was the most favorable after adjusting for confounders, and the hazard ratios (vs. FM140T) for overall mortality were as follows: FM80T, 1.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–2.2); FB4M, 2.1 (95% CI, 1.6–2.8); FB4T, 2.7 (95% CI, 2.0–3.7); and FB2T, 2.2 (95% CI, 1.6–3.1). The better survival observed with FM140T, regardless of the disease, disease risk, age, or transplant year, was attributed to the lower relapse rate and lower non‐relapse mortality (NRM) associated with fewer infectious deaths. Conversely, FB4T was associated with a higher relapse rate and higher NRM. The findings indicate that the outcomes of CBT in myeloid malignancies were highly dependent on both the alkylating agent and its dose in combination with fludarabine. Therefore, compared with fludarabine/busulfan‐based conditioning, FM140T may be the preferred regimen.
Local Water Content in Polymer Gels Measured with Super‐Resolved Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
Authors: Jana Sankar , Nevskyi Oleksii , Höche Hannah , Trottenberg Leon , Siemes Eric , Enderlein Jörg , Fürstenberg Alexandre , Wöll Dominik
Published: January 2024

Water molecules play an important role in the structure, function, and dynamics of (bio‐) materials. A direct access to the number of water molecules in nanoscopic volumes can thus give new molecular insights into materials and allow for fine‐tuning their properties in sophisticated applications. The determination of the local water content has become possible by the finding that H2O quenches the fluorescence of red‐emitting dyes. Since deuterated water, D2O, does not induce significant fluorescence quenching, fluorescence lifetime measurements performed in different H2O/D2O‐ratios yield the local water concentration. We combined this effect with the recently developed fluorescence lifetime single molecule localization microscopy imaging (FL‐SMLM) in order to nanoscopically determine the local water content in microgels, i.e. soft hydrogel particles consisting of a cross‐linked polymer swollen in water. The change in water content of thermo‐responsive microgels when changing from their swollen state at room temperature to a collapsed state at elevated temperature could be analyzed. A clear decrease in water content was found that was, to our surprise, rather uniform throughout the entire microgel volume. Only a slightly higher water content around the dye was found in the periphery with respect to the center of the swollen microgels.
Tuning Nanopore Structure of Hard Carbon Anodes by Zinc Gluconate for High Capacity Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Zongliang , Li Guanjie , Liang Gemeng , Zhao Pei , Gong Xuerong , Dai Jiaxin , Xiong Hesen , Zhang Zonghan , Mao Jianfeng , Zhang Shilin , Wang Baofeng
Published: January 2024

Hard carbon serves as a highly promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries due to its stable structure and cost‐effectiveness. Although the hard template method is commonly employed to enhance the sodium storage capacity, the reported process steps are complicated. In this study, we introduced a facile approach by utilizing ZnO as a self‐sacrificed template to engineer pore structures with one step for template removal without using harmful chemicals. Our investigations reveal that pretreatment of the material before carbonization can reduce the specific surface area and defect degree of the final hard carbon. When utilized as an anode material, the as‐prepared hard carbon demonstrated a reversible capacity of 334 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 with an initial Coulombic efficiency of 84 %. Even at a high current density of 2 A g−1, the capacity stabilized at 183 mAh g−1 after 1000 continuous cycles. Electrochemical storage behavior and ex‐situ Raman spectroscopy unveiled insights into the potential sodium storage mechanism. These findings present a new approach to enhancing the reversible properties of hard carbon anode materials for high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries.
Concomitant antihypertensive medication and outcome of patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer receiving enzalutamide or abiraterone acetate
Authors: Fiala Ondřej , Hošek Petr , Korunková Hana , Hora Milan , Kolář Jiří , Šorejs Ondřej , Topolčan Ondřej , Filipovský Jan , Liška Václav , Santoni Matteo , Buti Sebastiano , Fínek Jindřich
Published: January 2024

Background

The introduction of novel hormonal therapies represented by enzalutamide (ENZ) and abiraterone acetate (ABI) has reached a great progress in the treatment of metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The majority of mCRPC patients are elderly suffering from chronic co‐morbidities requiring use of various concomitant medications. In the present study, we focused on impact of concomitant antihypertensive medication on the outcomes of mCRPC patients treated with ENZ or ABI.

Methods

In total, 300 patients were included and their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) represented the only concomitant medication significantly associated with survival. The median radiographic progression‐free survival (rPFS) and overall survival (OS) for patients using ACEIs were 15.5 and 32.3 months compared to 10.7 and 24.0 months for those not using ACEIs (p = 0.0053 and p = 0.0238, respectively). Cox multivariable analysis revealed the use of ACEIs a significant predictive factor for both rPFS (HR = 0.704, p = 0.0364) and OS (HR = 0.592, p = 0.0185).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest an association between the concomitant use of ACEIs and longer survival of mCRPC patients receiving ENZ or ABI therapy.
Electrochemical Redox Conversion of Formate to CO via Coupling Fe−Co Layered Double Hydroxides and Au Catalysts
Authors: Zheng Xia , Wu Qianbao , Xiao Mengjun , Li Lei , Zhao Ruijuan , Cui Chunhua
Published: January 2024

Formate has been considered an inactive molecule and thus cannot be further reduced under CO2 reduction conditions, which limits its widespread application as feedstock. Here we present an electrochemical redox conversion of formate to CO through the potential‐dependent generation of carbon dioxide radical anions (CO2⋅−) on Fe−Co layered double hydroxides (Fe−Co LDHs) and the subsequent reduction of CO2⋅− to CO on Au catalysts. We present an electrodeposition protocol for the synthesis of Fe−Co LDHs with precise composition control and find that Fe1Co4 exhibits a promising potential window for CO2⋅− formation between 1.14 and 1.4 V and an optimized potential at 1.24 V at a neutral pH condition. We further determined the formation of CO2⋅− at 1.24 V via electron paramagnetic resonance and CO2 at >1.4 V through differential electrochemical mass spectrometry. This work provides a redox chemistry route for converting formate into CO through a coupled slit parallel‐plate electrode system.
A kinetic model of the cycloaddition reactions between cyclopentadiene and 1,3‐butadiene for synthesis of 5‐vinyl‐2‐norbornene
Authors: Li Hao , Liu Xue , Zhang Yan , Xiao Yang , Cao Kun
Published: January 2024

Under high temperature and pressure, a continuous tubular reactor was successfully utilized to investigate the kinetics of 5‐vinyl‐2‐norbornene (VNB) production. The process involved multiple cycloaddition reactions between cyclopentadiene (CPD) and 1,3‐butadiene (BD). The results, spanning a wide range of operating conditions, indicate that higher temperature (180°C) and proper residence time (72 min) were conducive to efficient synthesis of VNB. The apparent kinetic parameters, including activation energies and pre‐exponential factors, were acquired by fitting experimental data under integral operating conditions. The kinetic model was proven effective from a practical point of view in predicting the concentration changes of each product in the range 140 to 180°C and 30 to 80 wt.% concentration. This work provides a solid basis for the optimization of the VNB synthesis process.
Digital twin of a droplet microarray platform: Evaporation behavior for multiple droplets on patterned chips for cell culture
Authors: Wu Yanchen , Urrutia Gomez Joaquin E. , Zhang Hongmin , Wang Fei , Levkin Pavel A. , Popova Anna A. , Nestler Britta
Published: January 2024

Precise control of the evaporation of multiple droplets on patterned surfaces is crucial in many technological applications, such as anti‐icing, coating, and high‐throughput assays. Yet, the complex evaporation process of multiple droplets on well‐defined patterned surfaces is still poorly understood. Herein, we develop a digital twin system for real‐time monitoring of key processes on a droplet microarray (DMA), which is essential for parallelization and automation of the operations for cell culture. Specifically, we investigate the evaporation of multiple nanoliter droplets under different conditions via experiments and numerical simulations. We demonstrate that the evaporation rate is not only affected by the environmental humidity and temperature but is also strongly linked to the droplet distribution on the patterned surfaces, being significantly reduced when the droplets are densely distributed. Furthermore, we propose a theoretical method to aid in the experimental detection of volumes and pH variation of evaporating droplets on patterned substrates. This versatile and practical strategy allows us to achieve active maneuvering of the collective evaporation of droplets on a DMA, which provides essential implications for a wide range of applications including cell culture, heat management, microreactors, biochips, and so on.
Advanced Exergy Analysis of Cascade Rankine Cycle‐Driven Reverse Osmosis System
Authors: Raninga Milan , Mudgal Anurag , Patel Vivek K. , Patel Jatin
Published: January 2024

A novel solar‐assisted cascade Rankine cycle‐driven reverse osmosis (RO) system is proposed and evaluated using conventional and advanced exergy analysis. The system comprises a solar collector as a heat input, steam Rankine cycle (SRC), and organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to generate turbine work and RO units for brackish water treatment. Water and R1233zd(E) are used as the working fluid in the SRC and ORC, respectively. The RO system is proposed to produce 1 m3 h−1 of permeate water from each RO unit. Conventional exergy analysis shows that the solar collector exhibits the highest exergy destruction of 0.798 kW, followed by the RO unit. However, advanced exergy analysis reveals that only 16.16% of the avoidable exergy in solar collectors can be reduced due to technical constraints. Advanced exergy analysis identified that endogenous avoidable exergy destruction contributes 24% of overall exergy destruction, which can be reduced by optimizing operating parameters and making technical improvements. The RO unit has a higher exogenous avoidable exergy, potentially suggesting improvements in other system component parameters. The advanced exergy analysis also prioritized the components for improving system performance in a sequence of RO high‐pressure pumps, RO modules, solar collector, ORC condenser, evaporative condenser, ORC expander, and SRC turbine.
Identification of new diagnostic targets for hepatitis B virus‐induced liver fibrosis
Authors: Wang Ying , Qin Shuo , Yang Meng , Wang Xiaoling
Published: January 2024

Background

Liver fibrosis is a transitional stage from hepatitis to cirrhosis, and hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most common cause of liver disease. Transcriptome sequencing technology and bioinformatics analysis are increasingly being used to screen diagnostic targets for liver fibrosis.

Methods

The GSE171294 dataset of HBV‐induced liver fibrosis tissue and normal tissue was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) public database and used to screen for differentially expressed mRNAs using R software. mRNAs with |log fold change| >1 and p < 0.05 were considered to be differentially expressed. A heat map was drawn to visualize the expression patterns of the differentially expressed mRNAs. To screen for candidate target mRNAs, the differentially expressed mRNAs were annotated by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis. Finally, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to analyze the relationships between the differentially expressed mRNAs.

Results

A total of 243 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified (p < 0.05); 129 were up‐regulated and 114 were down‐regulated. The up‐regulated and down‐regulated mRNAs were significantly enriched in 16 and 8 KEGG pathways, respectively. The enriched KEGG pathways included Salmonella infection, Protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, IL‐17 signaling pathway, and Aldosterone synthesis and secretion. The enriched GO terms were related mainly to cell proliferation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum complex assembly, and myosin synthesis. The PPI network contained 161 nodes and 120 pairs of interactions. The top 10 key nodes were CAV1, CD4, NR3C1, PDIA3, EZR, IRF4, SOX9, HSP90AB1, CD40, and SEC13.

Conclusions

Bioinformatics analysis of the transcriptome sequencing data in the GSE171294 dataset identified CD4, NR3C1, and EZR and other genes at key nodes as new targets for the treatment of liver fibrosis caused by HBV. These results provide new insights for HBV‐induced liver fibrosis research and clinical treatment.