bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Built for success: Distribution, morphology, ecology and life history of the world's skinks
Authors: Chapple David G. , Slavenko Alex , Tingley Reid , Farquhar Jules E. , Camaiti Marco , Roll Uri , Meiri Shai
Published: December 2023

In animals, the success of particular lineages can be measured in terms of their number of species, the extent of their geographic range, the breadth of their habitats and ecological niches, and the diversity of their morphological and life‐history traits. Here, we review the distribution, ecology, morphology and life history of skinks, a diverse lineage of terrestrial vertebrates. We compared key traits between the three subfamilies of skinks, and between skinks and non‐scincid lizards. There are currently 1743 described species of skink, which represent 24% of global lizard diversity. Since 2010, 16% of lizard descriptions have been of skinks. The centres of skink diversity are in Australia, New Guinea, southeast Asia, Oceania, Madagascar and central Africa. Compared with non‐scincid lizards, skinks have larger distributional ranges, but smaller body sizes. Sexual size dimorphism is rare in skinks. Almost a quarter (23%) of skinks exhibit limb reduction or loss, compared with just 3% of non‐scincid lizards. Skinks are more likely to be viviparous (34% of species) compared with non‐scincids (13%), and have higher clutch/litter sizes than non‐scincids. Although skinks mature later than non‐scincids, their longevity is similar to that exhibited by other lizard groups. Most skinks (88%) are active foragers, and they are more likely to be carnivorous than non‐scincids. Skinks are more likely to be diurnal or cathemeral than other lizard groups, but they generally have lower field body temperatures compared with non‐scincids. The success of skinks appears to be both a result of them hitting upon a winning body plan and ecology, and their capacity to regularly deviate from this body plan and adapt their ecology and life history (e.g. repeated limb reduction and loss, transitions to viviparity) to prevailing conditions.
Experimental performance analysis of photovoltaic/thermal hybrid system cooled by forced ventilation
Authors: Boutina Lyes , Khelifa Abdelkrim , Lebbi Mohamed , Bedaouche Fatah , Touafek Khaled , Kherrour Sofiane , Borni Abdelhalim
Published: December 2023

Solar panels' efficiency is highly affected by high‐operating temperatures, especially in semi‐arid and arid regions. This outdoor experimental study aimed to enhance the energy performance of the photovoltaic module by integrating two fans at the outlet of the thermal/photovoltaic hybrid system to ensure forced ventilation. The work novelty depending on achieving low energy consumption by DC fans, so that there is a proportional relationship between the intensity of solar radiation and the energy produced and consumed. The influence of the reduced temperature, operating temperature, and solar radiation intensity on the energy performance of the photovoltaic/thermal hybrid system was analyzed experimentally. The obtained results showed an improvement in electrical and overall efficiency of the new hybrid system by about 4% and 60%, respectively, compared to the conventional photovoltaic module. On the contrary, a decrease in the temperature of the PV module installed in the hybrid system was measured by about 9°C, compared to the conventional photovoltaic module. In addition to the effectiveness of the new technology air cooling proposed at the lowest consumption cost, the thermal energy generated from the proposed system can be invested in solar drying and building applications.
Elucidating survival and functional outcomes in patients with primary head and neck malignancies treated in academic versus community settings
Authors: Choi Karen Y. , Patel Shivam D. , Lane Ciaran , Tucker Jacqueline , Chan Kimberly , Pradhan Sandeep , Mahase Sean S. , Tam Samantha H. , King Tonya S.
Published: December 2023

Background

Differences in treatment outcomes between community or academic centers are incompletely understood.

Methods

Retrospective review of head and neck cancer patients between 2010 and 2020 in a rural health region. Kaplan–Meier curves and log‐rank tests were used to evaluate survival outcomes, along with bivariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. Linear regression was used for functional outcomes of tracheotomy and gastrostomy tube dependence.

Results

Two hundred and forty‐eight patients treated at an academic center were compared with 94 patients treated in community centers. In multivariable analysis, the risk of death (HR = 0.60, p = 0.019), and risk of recurrence were lower (HR = 0.29, p < 0.001) for patients treated in academic centers. Patients treated in community centers had longer gastrostomy tube dependence (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that treatment at an academic center was associated with a lower risk of recurrence and shorter gastrostomy tube dependence compared to treatment in the community.
Development and optimization of platforms of wise information technology of med based on medical internet of things and blockchain technology
Authors: Cai Xiaohua
Published: December 2023

As society evolves and the aging population grows, there is an increasing demand for healthcare. Traditional medical service models no longer suffice, leading to issues like uneven distribution of medical resources and varying medical standards. Wise Information Technology in Medicine (WITMED) platforms have emerged in response to this challenge. This study addresses the limitations of conventional medical service models, including resource imbalance, cumbersome procedures, and low informatization. Leveraging Medical Internet of Things (MIoT) and blockchain technology, we researched the development and enhancement of WITMED platforms. To assess the effectiveness of MIoT and blockchain‐based WITMED compared to traditional medical platforms, we evaluated data security, data interoperability, platform response time, and user satisfaction scores. The findings indicate that MIoT and blockchain‐based WITMED outperformed traditional platforms with a 0.13 higher user satisfaction score, improved data security and interoperability, and faster response times. WITMED based on MIoT and blockchain enhances efficiency, convenience, and personalization of medical services, ultimately elevating healthcare quality. Optimizing this platform should focus on improving user experience, data processing capabilities, performance, stability, response time, privacy protection, scalability, interoperability, and technical proficiency to provide superior medical services to users.
Cationic micelle delivery of a multi‐epitope vaccine candidate derived from tumor‐associated antigens, causing regression in established CT26 colorectal tumors in mice
Authors: Sabzehei Faezeh , Taromchi Amir Hossein , Ramazani Ali , Nedaei Keivan , Feizi Abdolamir , Arsang‐Jang Shahram , Danafar Hossein
Published: December 2023

Among all the cancers, colorectal cancer (CRC) has the third mortality rank in both genders. Cancer vaccines have shown promising results in boosting patients' immune systems to fight cancer. Using the IEDB database, we predicted mouse MHC‐I (H2‐Ld) binding epitopes from four tumor‐associated antigens (APC, KRAS, TP53, and PIK3CA) and designed a multi‐epitope vaccine. We expressed the candidate vaccine and encapsulated it into the cationic micelle with polyethyleneimine conjugated to oleic acid as its building blocks. We studied tumor inhibition effect, cytokine production, and lymphocyte proliferation in the mouse CRC model after vaccination. Our finding illustrated significant tumor growth inhibition in mouse models treated with the candidate nanovaccine. Besides the significant release of IFN‐γ and IL‐4 by immunized mouse spleen T‐lymphocytes, T‐cell proliferation assay results confirmed effective immune response after the vaccination. These results demonstrate the potential therapeutic effects of nanovaccines and could be a possible approach to CRC immunotherapy.
Luteolin: Nature's promising warrior against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease
Authors: Goyal Ahsas , Solanki Kunal , Verma Aanchal
Published: December 2023

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) are defined as the slow loss of a group of neurons that are particularly sensitive. Due to the intricate pathophysiological processes underlying neurodegeneration, no cure exists for these conditions despite the extensive research and advances in our knowledge of the onset and course of NDs. Hence, there is a medical need for the creation of a novel therapeutic approach for NDs. By focusing on numerous signaling pathways, some natural substances derived from medicinal herbs and foods have demonstrated potent activity in treating various NDs. In this context, flavonoids have recently attracted increased popularity and research attention because of their alleged beneficial effects on health. By acting as antioxidant substances, nutritional supplements made up of flavonoids have been found to lessen the extent of NDs like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Luteolin is a flavone that possesses potent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. As a consequence, luteolin has emerged as an option for treatment with therapeutic effects on many brain disorders. More research has focused on luteolin's diverse biological targets as well as diverse signaling pathways, implying its potential medicinal properties in several NDs. This review emphasizes the possible use of luteolin as a drug of choice for the treatment as well as the management of AD and PD. In addition, this review recommends that further research should be carried out on luteolin as a potential treatment for AD and PD alongside a focus on mechanisms and clinical studies.
A mixed methods study of Black/African American counselor wellness
Authors: Erby Adrienne N. , Jones Connie T.
Published: December 2023

Using a mixed methods sequential explanatory design, the researchers investigated coping and wellness in a purposive, snowball sample of Black/African American counselors (n = 86). A simple linear regression measured the relationship between Africultural coping and wellness followed by an interpretative phenomenological analysis of focus group data. While Africultural coping was not a significant predictor of wellness, there was a statistically significant gender difference in Africultural coping with a small effect size. Gendered focus groups of men (n = 3) and women (n = 7) created from within the survey sample resulted in five themes addressing: (a) distinctive stressors, (b) coping, (c) having to do it all, (d) wellness as important, and (e) the role of connection. Implications and recommendations for the counseling profession are provided.
Efficacy of lenvatinib versus sorafenib in the primary treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Jaiswal Vikash , Hameed Maha , Naz Sidra , Roy Poulami , Deb Novonil , Ukrani Janta , Krishna Mohan Gautham Varun , Taha Amira M , Huang Helen , Kumar Vikash , Vachhani Bhavyakumar , Attia Abdelrahman M , Nath Supti D , Solimn Mostafa A , Mukherjee Dattatreya
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Molecular‐targeted agents such as lenvatinib and sorafenib have been approved to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the choice between these two agents in the primary treatment for advanced HCC is still under debate with conflicting results. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of lenvatinib and sorafenib in patients with HCC.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus for relevant articles from inception until February 10, 2023. The primary outcome of this meta‐analysis was overall survival (OS). The secondary outcomes were progression‐free survival (PFS), time to progression, objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR).

Results

A total of 13 studies with 3705 patients (1635 on lenvatinib and 2070 on sorafenib) were included in our analysis. The mean age of the patients in both groups was comparable (66.81 vs 65.9 years). Pooled analysis of primary outcomes showed that, compared with sorafenib, lenvatinib was associated with significantly better OS in patients treated with these drugs (HR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.97, P = 0.02). Pooled analysis also showed that PFS (HR 0.67, 95% CI: 0.57–0.78, P < 0.00001) and time to progression (HR 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31–0.79; P = 0.004) were significantly better in the lenvatinib group compared to the sorafenib group. It also showed that the lenvatinib group had significantly better ORR (odds ratio [OR] 5.43, 95% CI: 3.71–7.97; P < 0.00001) and DCR (OR 2.35, 95% CI: 1.75–3.16; P < 00001) than the sorafenib group.

Conclusion

Our study shows that lenvatinib is superior to sorafenib regarding OS and PFS in patients with advanced HCC.
Integrating smart phone applications in the management of cirrhotic patients: A scoping review
Authors: Hasan Mohamed , Bidargaddi Niranjan , Muller Kate , Ramachandran Jeyamani , Narayana Sumudu , Wigg Alan J
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis is a significant cause of healthcare utilization and patient morbidity and mortality worldwide. Smartphone applications have high uptake in most communities and therefore have great potential to provide remote support solutions to this patient population. The aim of this scoping review was therefore to provide a comprehensive overview using narrative synthesis on the use of smartphone‐application‐based digital interventions in cirrhotic populations.

Materials and Methods

PRISMA guidelines were followed, with two independent researchers identifying 10 relevant studies. Patients studied were predominantly those with decompensated cirrhosis, and hepatic encephalopathy was the most common complication studied.

Results

Smartphones were the most common platform used, but training periods, prior to commencement of the study, were rarely offered. Patient engagement rates with the technology were reported only in three studies, but all reported high (>50%) rates of engagement. Only one study examined the clinical effects of their digital intervention, with a 38% reduction in readmission rate reported.

Conclusion

Overall, the use of smartphone apps in cirrhosis is in an early phase of development and evaluation but preliminary studies suggest significant potential as an adjunct to routine medical care. Further high‐quality studies of well‐designed digital interventions are needed to advance this promising early experience.
Competitive fitness and homologous recombination of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern
Authors: Chen Qi , Qin Si , Zhou Hang‐Yu , Deng Yong‐Qiang , Shi Pan‐Deng , Zhao Hui , Li Xiao‐Feng , Huang Xing‐Yao , Wu Ya‐Rong , Guo Yan , Pei Guang‐Qian , Wang Yun‐Fei , Sun Si‐Qi , Du Zong‐Min , Cui Yu‐Jun , Fan Hang , Qin Cheng‐Feng
Published: December 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) variants continue to emerge and cocirculate in humans and wild animals. The factors driving the emergence and replacement of novel variants and recombinants remain incompletely understood. Herein, we comprehensively characterized the competitive fitness of SARS‐CoV‐2 wild type (WT) and three variants of concern (VOCs), Alpha, Beta and Delta, by coinfection and serial passaging assays in different susceptible cells. Deep sequencing analyses revealed cell‐specific competitive fitness: the Beta variant showed enhanced replication fitness during serial passage in Caco‐2 cells, whereas the WT and Alpha variant showed elevated fitness in Vero E6 cells. Interestingly, a high level of neutralizing antibody sped up competition and completely reshaped the fitness advantages of different variants. More importantly, single clone purification identified a significant proportion of homologous recombinants that emerged during the passage history, and immune pressure reduced the frequency of recombination. Interestingly, a recombination hot region located between nucleotide sites 22,995 and 28,866 of the viral genomes could be identified in most of the detected recombinants. Our study not only profiled the variable competitive fitness of SARS‐CoV‐2 under different conditions, but also provided direct experimental evidence of homologous recombination between SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses, as well as a model for investigating SARS‐CoV‐2 recombination.
Differential effects of microRNAs miR‐21, miR‐99 and miR‐145 on lung regeneration and inflammation during recovery from influenza pneumonia
Authors: Ong Joe Wee Jian , Tan Kai Sen , Lee Joseph Jing Xian , Seet Ju Ee , Choi Hyung Won , Ler Siok Ghee , Gunaratne Jayantha , Narasaraju Teluguakula , Sham Lok‐To , Patzel Volker , Chow Vincent T.
Published: December 2023

In a mouse model of influenza pneumonia, we previously documented that proliferating alveolar type II (AT2) cells are the major stem cells involved in early lung recovery. Profiling of microRNAs revealed significant dysregulation of specific ones, including miR‐21 and miR‐99a. Moreover, miR‐145 is known to exhibit antagonism to miR‐21. This follow‐up study investigated the roles of microRNAs miR‐21, miR‐99a, and miR‐145 in the murine pulmonary regenerative process and inflammation during influenza pneumonia. Inhibition of miR‐21 resulted in severe morbidity, and in significantly decreased proliferating AT2 cells due to impaired transition from innate to adaptive immune responses. Knockdown of miR‐99a culminated in moderate morbidity, with a significant increase in proliferating AT2 cells that may be linked to PTEN downregulation. In contrast, miR‐145 antagonism did not impact morbidity nor the proliferating AT2 cell population, and was associated with downregulation of TNF‐alpha, IL1‐beta, YM1, and LY6G. Hence, a complex interplay exists between expression of specific miRNAs, lung regeneration, and inflammation during recovery from influenza pneumonia. Inhibition of miR‐21 and miR‐99a (but not miR‐145) can lead to deleterious cellular and molecular effects on pulmonary repair and inflammatory processes during influenza pneumonia.
Dynamically adjustable SVEIR(MH) model of multiwave epidemics: Estimating the effects of public health measures against COVID‐19
Authors: Yin Zuo‐jing , Xiao Han , McDonald Stuart , Brusic Vladimir , Qiu Tian‐yi
Published: December 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic was characterized by multiple subsequent, overlapping outbreaks, as well as extremely rapid changes in viral genomes. The information about local epidemics spread and the epidemic control measures was shared on a daily basis (number of cases and deaths) via centralized repositories. The vaccines were developed within the first year of the pandemic. New modes of monitoring and sharing of epidemic data were implemented using Internet resources. We modified the basic SEIR compartmental model to include public health measures, multiwave scenarios, and the variation of viral infectivity and transmissibility reflected by the basic reproduction number R0 of emerging viral variants. SVEIR(MH) model considers the capacity of the medical system, lockdowns, vaccination, and changes in viral reproduction rate on the epidemic spread. The developed model uses daily infection reports for assessing the epidemic dynamics, and daily changes of mobility data from mobile phone networks to assess the lockdown effectiveness. This model was deployed to six European regions Baden‐Württemberg (Germany), Belgium, Czechia, Lombardy (Italy), Sweden, and Switzerland for the first 2 years of the pandemic. The correlation coefficients between observed and reported infection data showed good concordance for both years of the pandemic (ρ = 0.84–0.94 for the raw data and ρ = 0.91–0.98 for smoothed 7‐day averages). The results show stability across the regions and the different epidemic waves. Optimal control of epidemic waves can be achieved by dynamically adjusting epidemic control measures in real‐time. SVEIR(MH) model can simulate different scenarios and inform adjustments to the public health policies to achieve the target outcomes. Because this model is highly representative of actual epidemic situations, it can be used to assess both the public health and socioeconomic effects of the public health measures within the first 7 days of the outbreak.
Spatial and temporal scaling of extreme rainfall in the United Kingdom
Authors: Wang Zijie , Wilby Robert L. , Yu Dapeng
Published: December 2023

Extreme rainfall estimates for ungauged areas contribute to improved resilience to flooding. This study applies a sub‐daily rainfall scaling method to annual daily maximum rainfall series from 102 UK weather stations. We analyse resultant parameters by season, homogenous rainfall region, urban area and geographic factors to investigate how scaling varies temporally and spatially. Dummy regression models are built using these variables to predict the sub‐daily scaling parameter for any location in the United Kingdom. Estimated rainfall intensities are validated with observations and yield Mean Absolute Errors of 3.0, 1.9 and 0.9 mm/h for 1‐, 2‐ and 6‐h events, respectively. We also demonstrate intensity‐duration‐frequency curves at a site in Oxfordshire for scaled and observed data and find that 1‐ to 6‐h, 20‐year rainfall intensities are estimated to be within 9.4%. With such unified scaling relationships, it is possible to derive extreme rainfall for specified durations and return periods at ungauged locations. According to our cross‐validation of estimated and observed intensities, more than 88% of sites fall within 10% error bounds. This method offers a means of generating design rainfall series as input to flood simulation models to evaluate pluvial flood risks in urban areas.
Development of a capillary electrophoresis method based on magnetic solid‐phase extraction for simultaneous and sensitive detection of eight biogenic amines in foods
Authors: Fan Yixuan , Yu Runze , Waterhouse Geoffrey I.N. , Wang Ruiqiang , Sun Yufeng , Xu Zhixiang
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Biogenic amines (BAs) in high concentrations are toxic and may cause a series of health symptoms. A sensitive measurement of BA levels is essential for human health. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has emerged for the separation of eight BAs due to simple sample preparation and highly efficient separation. However, an important drawback for CE is low sensitivity. Magnetic solid‐phase extraction (MSPE) has become a technique of interest owing to its brief operation and low solvent consumption. Hence, MSPE as a pretreatment has great potential to improve CE sensitivity for the analysis of BAs in complex food.

RESULTS

Results showed that the Pt‐Co‐MWCNTs‐COOH possessed strong magnetism, good reusability, and high adsorptive ability toward eight biogenic amines based on the hydrogen bonding between the −COOH of Pt‐Co‐MWCNTs‐COOH and −NH2 groups of BAs. Using it as an adsorbent, a magnetic solid‐phase extraction coupled with capillary electrophoresis (MSPE‐CE) method was developed to effectively extract and sensitively analyze eight BAs. Under optimal conditions, the MSPE‐CE method has wide linearities (10.0–1000.0 μg L−1) and low limits of detection (1.0–6.1 μg L−1). The accuracy of the developed method yielded recovery values from 82.07% to 102.58%. Meanwhile, the BAs contents in two samples were analyzed using the MSPE‐CE method, with the results consistent with those detected by a high‐performance liquid chromatography method.

CONCLUSION

Given those advantages, the established MSPE‐CE method promises the practical guidance of monitoring a variety of BAs and provides a foundation for the detection of other food hazards. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology to reveal the lipid‐lowering mechanisms of Qizha Shuangye granules in hyperlipidemic rats
Authors: Zhao Liang , Wang Shuyue , Xu Xiaohang , Guo Wenjun , Yang Jingxuan , Liu Yue , Xie Shengxu , Piao Guangchun , Xu Tunhai , Wang Yang , Xu Yajuan
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Qizha Shuangye granules (QSG) comprise six traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs), which have a long history of treating hyperlipidemia (HLP) in China. This study aimed to evaluate the potential lipid‐lowering effects of QSG in an HLP rat model and investigate possible mechanisms. The HLP rat model was induced by a high‐fat diet. Lipid‐related indicators in serum were detected. Serum and liver metabolites were investigated using a liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics approach. A herb–compound–target–metabolite (H‐C‐T‐M) network was further constructed to reveal the possible molecular mechanism of QSG to alleviate HLP.

RESULTS

The administration of QSG inhibited the HLP‐induced changes in total cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels. Additionally, QSG significantly attenuated the liver histopathological changes induced by HLP. Metabolomic analysis showed the serum and liver metabolic disorders presented in HLP rats. QSG can reverse the abnormal metabolism caused by HLP. Through network pharmacology analysis, key proteins such as androgen receptor, 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase, and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α were screened out, and they were speculated to be possible therapeutic targets for QSG to treat HLP.

CONCLUSION

The present study integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology analysis to reveal the efficacy and possible mechanism of QSG in treating HLP, which provides a new reference for the research and development of QSG as a functional food. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The impact of screening positive for hazardous alcohol use on the diagnostic accuracy of the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 among veterans
Authors: Sistad Rebecca E. , Kimerling Rachel , Schnurr Paula P. , Bovin Michelle J.
Published: December 2023

The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5) is a widely used self‐report measure of PTSD symptoms that has demonstrated strong psychometric properties across settings and samples. Co‐occurring hazardous alcohol use and PTSD are prevalent among veterans, and the effects of alcohol use may impact the performance of the PCL‐5. However, this possibility is untested. In this study, we evaluated the PCL‐5 diagnostic accuracy for veterans who did and did not screen positive for hazardous alcohol use according to the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test–Consumption (AUDIT‐C). Participants were 385 veterans recruited from Veterans Affairs primary care clinics. Results indicated that PCL‐5 performance, AUC = .904, 95% CI [.870, .937], did not differ as a product of hazardous alcohol use. PCL‐5 diagnostic utility was comparably high for veterans with, AUC = .904; 95% CI [.846, .962], and without, AUC = .904 95% CI [.861, .946], positive AUDIT‐C screens. Although optimally efficient cutoff scores for veterans who screened positive were higher (i.e., 34–36) than for those with negative screens (i.e., 30), neither were significantly different from the overall PCL‐5 cutoff score (i.e., 32), suggesting that neither veterans with nor without positive AUDIT‐C screens require differential PCL‐5 cutoff scores. The results do underscore the importance of using PCL‐5 cutoff scores in concert with clinical judgment when establishing a provisional PTSD diagnosis and highlight the need for additional study of the impact of comorbidities on PCL‐5 diagnostic accuracy and cutoff scores.
Frontiers in Green Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Yu Runnan , Li Changxiao , Zhao Biao , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: December 2023

Perovskite, as a star fluorescent material, has the characteristics of adjustable luminescence peak, high color purity, high photoluminescence quantum yield, and low cost, showing significant potential in the photoelectric field. Among the RGB colors for display devices, green is the most sensitive color for human eyes, and green perovskite light‐emitting diodes (GPeLEDs) have aroused much interest in recent years. In this work, the research history of GPeLEDs is reviewed, the perovskites of different dimensions are introduced, and the common synthesis methods of perovskites are discussed. Besides, the strategies to improve the stability and luminous efficiency of GPeLEDs are summarized, including component engineering, phase engineering, ligand engineering, additive engineering, interface engineering, and optical coupling structure strategy. Finally, the development state of GPeLEDs is summarized and prospected. This work is expected to stimulate more unprecedented achievements derived from GPeLEDs, thus promoting their practical applications in future ultra‐high‐definition displays.
Functional Zwitterionic Polyurethanes: State‐of‐the‐Art Review
Authors: Zhang Jinshuai , Lv Siyao , Zhao Xiaoduo , Ma Shuanhong , Zhou Feng
Published: December 2023

Recent advancements in bioengineering and medical devices have been greatly influenced and dominated by synthetic polymers, particularly polyurethanes (PUs). PUs offer customizable mechanical properties and long‐term stability, but their inherent hydrophobic nature poses challenges in practically biological application processes, such as interface high friction, strong protein adsorption, and thrombosis. To address these issues, surface modifications of PUs for generating functionally hydrophilic layers have received widespread attention, but the durability of generated surface functionality is poor due to irreversible mechanical wear or biodegradation. As a result, numerous researchers have investigated bulk modification techniques to incorporate zwitterionic polymers or groups onto the main or side chains of PUs, thereby improving their hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. This comprehensive review presents an extensive overview of notable zwitterionic PUs (ZPUs), including those based on phosphorylcholine, sulfobetaine, and carboxybetaine. The review explores their wide range of biomedical applications, from blood‐contacting devices to antibacterial coatings, fouling‐resistant marine coatings, separation membranes, lubricated surfaces, and shape memory and self‐healing materials. Lastly, the review summarizes the challenges and future prospects of ZPUs in biological applications.
Novel markers and networks related to restored skeletal muscle transcriptome after bariatric surgery
Authors: Ouni Meriem , Kovac Leona , Gancheva Sofiya , Jähnert Markus , Zuljan Erika , Gottmann Pascal , Kahl Sabine , de Angelis Martin Hrabĕ , Roden Michael , Schürmann Annette
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to discover novel markers underlying the improvement of skeletal muscle metabolism after bariatric surgery.

Methods

Skeletal muscle transcriptome data of lean people and people with obesity, before and 1 year after bariatric surgery, were subjected to weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Results of LASSO were confirmed in a replication cohort.

Results

The expression levels of 440 genes differing between individuals with and without obesity were no longer different 1 year after surgery, indicating restoration. WGCNA clustered 116 genes with normalized expression in one major module, particularly correlating to weight loss and decreased plasma free fatty acids (FFA), 44 of which showed an obesity‐related phenotype upon deletion in mice. Among the genes of the major module, 105 represented prominent markers for reduced FFA concentration, including 55 marker genes for decreased BMI in both the discovery and replication cohorts.

Conclusions

Previously unknown gene networks and marker genes underlined the important role of FFA in restoring muscle gene expression after bariatric surgery and further suggest novel therapeutic targets for obesity.
NADPH oxidase 4 in mouse β cells participates in inflammation on chronic nutrient overload
Authors: Holendová Blanka , Benáková Štěpánka , Křivonosková Monika , Pavluch Vojtěch , Tauber Jan , Gabrielová Eva , Ježek Petr , Plecitá‐Hlavatá Lydie
Published: December 2023

Objective

By exposing mice carrying a deletion of NADPH oxidase isoform 4, NOX4, specifically in pancreatic β cells (βNOX4−/−) to nutrient excess stimulated by a high‐fat diet (HFD), this study aimed to elucidate the role of β‐cell redox status in the development of meta‐inflammation within the diabetic phenotype.

Methods

The authors performed basic phenotyping of βNOX4−/− mice on HFD involving insulin and glycemic analyses, histochemistry of adipocytes, indirect calorimetry, and cytokine analyses. To characterize local inflammation, the study used caspase‐1 activity assay, interleukin‐1β immunochemistry, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction during coculturing of β cells with macrophages.

Results

The phenotype of βNOX4−/− mice on HFD was not associated with hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia but showed accumulation of excessive lipids in epididymal fat and β cells. Surprisingly, mice showed significantly reduced systemic inflammation. Decreased interleukin‐1β protein levels and downregulated NLRP3‐inflammasome activity were observed on chronic glucose overload in βNOX4−/− isolated islets and NOX4‐silenced INS1‐E cells resulting in attenuated proinflammatory polarization of macrophages/monocytes in vitro and in situ and reduced local islet inflammation.

Conclusions

Experimental evidence suggests that NOX4 pro‐oxidant activity in β cells is involved in NLRP3‐inflammasome activation during chronic nutrient overload and participates in local inflammatory signaling and perhaps toward peripheral tissues, contributing to a diabetic inflammatory phenotype.

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Development of biodegradable filaments based on agro‐industrial waste and evaluation of process parameters in final properties
Authors: da Silva Fortes Allef Gabriel , de Abreu Iago Rodrigues , de Sousa Nascimento Junior Renato , de França Railha Antunes , dos Santos Rosa Ana Carolina Ferreira , de Farias Braz Cristiano José , de Carvalho Laura Hecker , Barbosa Renata , Alves Tatianny Soares
Published: December 2023

Additive manufacturing, which has become popular in recent years, is the process of joining materials through the deposition of layers to form parts based on data from a 3D model and fused deposition modeling. The search for biodegradable materials for the production of filaments for 3D printing is increasing and opening up possibilities for the development of new sustainable products, including the use of lignocellulosic waste in the formulation. Therefore, the present work aims to develop polymeric filaments based on polybutylene adipate terephthalate and low content (2.5 and 5 wt%) of peanut and soybean shells and evaluate their potential for 3D printing. The charges were characterized in terms of chemical composition. Tensile and dimensional variation tests were performed on samples manufactured from two different filling orientations: −45/45° and 0/90°. The printability of the filament was based on the manufacture of prototypes of agricultural tubes that were also characterized by thermogravimetry and their morphology through scanning electron and optical microscopy. Both natural residues significantly (p < 0.05) affected the sample dimensions and mechanical properties. However, the filling orientation difference was insignificant (p > 0.05). The filaments produced showed good processability, thermal and dimensional stability. The samples produced showed a satisfactory surface finish without exposing load agglomerates. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using lignocellulosic fillers, such as peanut and soybean shells, in additive manufacturing and indicate the possibility of producing parts with varied geometries.

Highlights

Use of lignocellulosic residues in biodegradable filaments.

The filament produced with fillers of peanut and soybean shells showed good processability.

Filament fracture depends on the raster angle.

It was possible to produce tubes with good surface quality and mechanical properties.
Prenatal diagnosis of autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis caused by variants in the ACE gene: Two fetuses with anhydramnios
Authors: Nguyen Thi Sim , Nguyen Duy Anh , Luong Thi Lan Anh , Pho Hong Diep , Thu Huong Nguyen , Huu Bay Luong , Nguyen Duc Anh , Thi Huong Ngo , Thi Canh Thu Than
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis (ARRTD) is a rare genetic disorder with a very high mortality rate. The typical symptoms of the disease during pregnancy are oligohydramnios, anhydramnios, and nearly all affected fetuses die after birth or have a stillbirth in late gestation, which can adversely increase maternal risks.

Methods

Oligohydramnios/anhydramnios can make both amniocentesis for diagnostic testing and morphological evaluation via ultrasound more difficult. In cases of oligohydramnios/anhydramnios suspicious for urinary tract anomalies, amnioinfusion is a meaningful technique that facilitates sampling of amniotic fluid for genetic diagnosis.

Results

We report two cases of fetuses with anhydramnios and invisible urinary bladder. Clinical exome sequencing from amniotic fluid revealed a biparentally inherited homozygous pathogenic nonsense ACE variant c.2503G 〉 T [p.Glu853Ter] in proband 1 and a biparentally inherited homozygous pathogenic nonsense ACE variant c.2992C 〉 T [p.Gln998Ter] in proband 2. The prognosis was poor and the patients elected to terminate the pregnancies. Additional post‐mortem histopathological examination from the renal tissue of the second fetus showed renal tubular hypoplasia.

Conclusion

To our knowledge for the first time, we describe the prenatal diagnosis of ARRTD in Vietnam, and highlight the benefit of detecting ACE variants associated with ARRTD in fetuses with oligohydramnios/anhydramnios through amnioinfusion and amniocentesis, which improves genotype‐phenotype correlations and provides valuable information for reproductive counseling.
Clinical outcomes associated with anti‐Xa‐monitored enoxaparin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis
Authors: Saunders John A. , Vazquez Sara R. , Hill Joseph A. , Witt Daniel M.
Published: December 2023

Study Objective

The objective of the study was to assess clinical outcomes (composite of any venous thromboembolism [VTE], any bleeding, and mortality) associated with anti‐Xa monitoring in the 30 days following enoxaparin initiation for VTE prophylaxis.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Hospital within an academic healthcare system.

Patients

Propensity score‐matched hospitalized adults receiving enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.

Intervention

Low‐molecular‐weight heparin anti‐Xa monitoring.

Measurements and Main Results

During the 13‐month study period, a total of 6611 patients received enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis, 301 in the anti‐Xa monitored group and 6310 in the unmonitored group (4.6% received monitoring). The mean age was 52.9 years and 52% of patients were male. The mean body mass index was 31 kg/m2 and the mean creatinine clearance was 109 mL/min. Twenty percent of patients had active cancer. The most common indication for enoxaparin prophylaxis was hospitalization for medical illness (52%) followed by nonorthopedic surgery (37%). The adjusted odds ratio for the primary outcome comparing monitored to unmonitored patients was 1.26 (95% confidence interval, 0.75–2.11). None of the between‐group differences in the individual components of the composite outcome were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Thirty‐day clinical outcomes in patients receiving enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis were not improved by anti‐Xa monitoring. Our results support current evidence‐based guideline recommendations against anti‐Xa monitoring for patients receiving enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis.
Highly loaded carbon fiber filaments for 3D‐printed composites
Authors: Ramanathan Arunachalam , Thippanna Varunkumar , Kumar Abhishek Saji , Sundaravadivelan Barath , Zhu Yuxiang , Ravichandran Dharneedar , Yang Sui , Song Kenan
Published: December 2023

Composites play progressively significant roles across a spectrum of applications involving high‐performance materials and products within industries such as aerospace, naval, automotive, construction, missiles, and defense technology. Notably, oriented fiber composites have garnered substantial attention due to their advantageous attributes like a high strength‐to‐weight ratio and controlled anisotropy. Nonetheless, challenges persist in uneven fiber alignment, fiber clustering within the matrix material, and constraints on fiber volume, impeding the mass production of oriented fiber‐reinforced composites. In this study, we present a novel approach to 3D printing of uniformly aligned short fiber reinforcement in a composite of heavily loaded carbon and nylon. Capitalizing on the additive manufacturing potential of rapidity and precision, the extrusion process induces carbon fiber (CF) alignments in filaments via shear forces. The 3D‐printed structures that were created displayed impressive potential for customization. They consistently demonstrated improved mechanical and thermal properties when compared to the original nylon structures. Our methodology for producing uniformly dispersed and aligned short fiber reinforcement in polymer composites promises to propel the advancement of design and manufacturing for high‐performance composite materials and components.
Flexible bronchoscopy findings and management impact in children with oropharyngeal dysphagia
Authors: Simpson Ryne C. , Ale Guillermo Beltran , Harris William T
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) are frequently performed in children with known or suspected aspiration, however, the additive value of FB in conjunction with direct laryngoscopy and rigid bronchoscopy (DLB) has not been previously quantified. This study details the common endoscopic/cytological findings and associated management impact of FB and BAL in pediatric Aerodigestive patients undergoing combined airway evaluation (FB and DLB) for oropharyngeal dysphagia.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed in children <3 years of age followed through a large Aerodigestive center undergoing outpatient, combined airway endoscopy for dysphagia. Patient and procedural characteristics, endoscopic and BAL findings, and management metrics were collected and analyzed. A secondary analysis evaluated the association between endoscopic findings and medication changes.

Results

Ninety‐one procedures (median patient age, 15 months) were identified. All procedures included both FB and DLB, and just over half (52.7%) included esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Common endoscopic findings included bronchitis (73.6%), adenoidal hypertrophy (31.9%), and tracheomalacia (10.8%). BAL cytology frequently identified neutrophilic inflammation (mean 39.6% neutrophils [interquartile range 6.5%–71%)]. Cultured pathogens commonly included Streptococcus viridans (46.6%), Hemophilus influenzae (36.3%), Moraxella catarrhalis (30.1%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (25.0%). FB and BAL results contributed to clinical decisions in 65 of 91 (71.4%) patients. Endoscopically‐diagnosed bronchitis (odds ratio [OR] 7.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.4–21.99) and tracheomalacia (OR 5.79, 95% CI 1.20–27.85) were significantly associated with increased odds of medication adjustments following FB.

Conclusion

In pediatric Aerodigestive patients undergoing combined airway evaluation for oropharyngeal dysphagia, FB and BAL are high‐yield and clinically impactful procedures.
Reduction of agglomeration effect by aluminum trihydride in solid propellant combustion
Authors: Gou Dongliang , Hu Xiang , Ao Wen , Liu Peijin , He Guoqiang
Published: December 2023

Aluminum trihydride (AlH3) has gained considerable attention as a substitute fuel for aluminum in solid propellants. In this study, we conducted a systematic investigation to evaluate the effects of AlH3 content, ranging from 0 % to 18 %, on propellant ignition, combustion, and agglomeration. Experimental methods such as thermogravimetry−differential scanning calorimetry (TG‐DSC), laser ignition, high‐speed photography, and collecting condensed combustion products (CCPs) were employed. The results indicate that AlH3 significantly promotes the high‐temperature decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP). Meanwhile, the addition of cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine (HMX) in propellant does not affect the hydrogen release reaction of AlH3. As the AlH3 content increases from 0 % to 18 %, the spectral emission intensity of the propellants decreases, and the ignition delay time initially increases from 253 ms to 321 ms, and then decreases to 258 ms. Furthermore, the burning rate increases with increasing the AlH3 content, while the pressure exponent is reduced from 0.551 to 0.460. The inclusion of AlH3 in propellants significantly inhibits aluminum agglomeration near the burning surface. Additionally, as the AlH3 content increases, the mean particle size D43 of the CCPs decreases from 50.95 μm to 8.28 μm at 1 MPa. The agglomeration degree of aluminum is very weak at 7 MPa, especially when the AlH3 content exceeds 9 %. The conclusions drawn from this study can serve as valuable guidance for optimizing propellant formulations.
Uncertainties in the observational reference: Implications in skill assessment and model ranking of seasonal predictions
Authors: Ramon Jaume , Lledó Llorenç , Ferro Christopher A.T. , Doblas‐Reyes Francisco J.
Published: December 2023

The probabilistic skill of seasonal prediction systems is often inferred using reanalysis data, assuming these benchmark observations to be error free. However, an increasing number of studies report non‐negligible levels of uncertainty affecting reanalysis observations, especially when it comes to variables like precipitation or wind speed. We consider different possibilities to account for such error in forecast quality assessment, either exploiting the newly produced ensemble reanalyses (e.g., European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis version 5–Ensemble of Data Assimilations, ERA5 ‐ EDA) or applying methodologies that use scores that take observational uncertainty into account. We illustrate the benefits of employing ensemble reanalyses over traditional reanalyses and show how the true skill can be approximated, whatever the observational reference. We ultimately emphasise the perils and quantify the error committed when the observational reference, either reanalysis or point dataset, is selected arbitrarily for verifying a seasonal prediction system.
Metal Selenide‐Based Superstructure Nanoarrays with Ultrahigh Capacity for Alkaline Zn Batteries
Authors: Zhang Chiyu , Xing Hanfang , Duan Xiaoyao , Pan Fuping , Chen Kai‐Jie , Wang Teng
Published: December 2023

Transition metal selenides (TMSs) have great potential as cathode materials for alkaline Zn batteries (AZBs) owing to their high theoretical capacity and metallic conductivity. However, achieving a high specific capacity remains a formidable challenge due to the low structural stability and sluggish reaction kinetics of single‐phase TMS. Herein, a facile method for fabricating a robust CoSe2@Ni3Se4@Ni(OH)2 superstructure nanoarray (CNSNA) as an AZB cathode is presented. The sophisticated design enables structural stability and abundant active surface sites for efficient charge storage. Furthermore, the redox mediator K3[Fe(CN)6] is employed to expedite the reaction kinetics and introduce supplementary redox reactions, further enhancing the charge storage capability. Consequently, the CNSNA electrode delivers an exceptional specific capacitance (609.08 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), surpassing all previously reported selenide‐based materials. High‐rate capability (239.37 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1) and long cycling stability have also been achieved. The comprehensive charge storage mechanism studies confirmed the structural integrity, kinetic improvement, and high reactivity of the CNSNA superstructure. Moreover, the corresponding AZB based on CNSNA demonstrates an extraordinarily high energy density of 516.58 Wh kg−1. The work offers guidance in the construction of superstructure‐based TMS electrode materials, paving the way for the development of high‐performance AZBs.