bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological Activities of Plant‐Derived Fraxin with Molecular Mechanisms: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ferdous Jannatul , Bhuia Md. Shimul , Chowdhury Raihan , Rakib Asraful Islam , Aktar Mst. Asma , Al Hasan Md. Sakib , Melo Coutinho Henrique Douglas , Islam Muhammad Torequl
Published: March 2024

Fruits and vegetables serve not only as sources of nutrition but also as medicinal agents for the treatment of diverse diseases and maladies. These dietary components are significant resources of phytochemicals that demonstrate therapeutic properties against many illnesses. Fraxin is a naturally occurring coumarin glycoside mainly present in various species of Fraxinus genera, having a multitude of therapeutic uses against various diseases and disorders. This study focuses to investigate the pharmacological activities, botanical sources, and biopharmaceutical profile of the phytochemical fraxin based on different preclinical and non‐clinical studies to show the scientific evidence and to evaluate the underlying molecular mechanisms of the therapeutic effects against various ailments. For this, data was searched and collected (as of February 15, 2024) in a variety of credible electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Springer Link, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The findings demonstrated favorable outcomes in relation to a range of diseases or medical conditions, including inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders such as cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) and depression, viral infection, as well as diabetic nephropathy. The phytochemical also showed protective effects such as osteoprotective, renoprotective, pulmoprotective, hepatoprotective, and gastroprotective effects due to its antioxidant capacity. Fraxin has a great capability to diminish oxidative stress‐related damage in different organs by stimulating the antioxidant enzymes, downregulating nuclear factor kappa B and NLRP3, and triggering the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathways. Fraxin exhibited poor oral bioavailability because of reduced absorption and a wide distribution into tissues of different organs. However, extensive research is required to decipher the biopharmaceutical profiles, and clinical studies are necessary to establish the efficacy of the natural compound as a reliable therapeutic agent.
Ameliorative Effect of Morinda Officinalis Oligosaccharides on LPS‐Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Qing Cheng , Wu Yanrong , Liu Binbin , Wang Cheng , Zeng Zhenguo
Published: March 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a disease characterized by extensive lung damage and rampant inflammation, with a high mortality rate and no effective treatments available. Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOOs), derived from the root of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Morinda officinalis, known for its immune‐boosting properties, presents a novel therapeutic possibility. To date, the impact of MOOs on ALI has not been explored. Our study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of MOOs against ALI and to uncover the underlying mechanisms through an integrated approach of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation. We discovered that MOOs significantly mitigated the pathological damage and decreased the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in LPS‐induced ALI in mice. Complementary in vitro studies further demonstrated that MOOs effectively attenuated the M1 polarization induced by LPS. Network pharmacology analysis identified HSP90AA1, HSP90AB1, and NF‐κB as key overlapping targets within a protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses elucidated the biological processes and signaling pathways implicated in MOOs′ therapeutic action on ALI. Subsequently, molecular docking affirmed the binding of MOOs to the active sites of these identified targets. Corroborating these findings, our in vivo and in vitro experiments consistently demonstrated that MOOs significantly inhibited the LPS‐induced upregulation of HSP90 and NF‐κB. Collectively, these findings suggest that MOOs confer protection against ALI through a multi‐target, multi‐pathway mechanism, offering a promising new therapeutic strategy to mitigate this severe pulmonary condition.
Stereoselective Synthesis of the Gal‐α‐(1→3)‐Gal‐β‐(1→3)‐GlcNAc Trisaccharide: a new Ligand for DCAR and Mincle C‐Type Lectin Receptors
Authors: Tricomi Jacopo , Aoun Mike , Xu Bingze , Holmdahl Rikard , Richichi Barbara
Published: March 2024

In this work, we have discovered that the Gal‐α‐(1→3)‐Gal‐β‐(1→3)‐GlcNAc trisaccharide, a fragment of the B antigen Type‐1, is a new ligand of two C‐type lectin receptors (CLRs) i. e. DCAR and Mincle which are key players in different types of autoimmune diseases. Accordingly, we report here on a straightforward methodology to access pure Gal‐α‐(1→3)‐Gal‐β‐(1→3)‐GlcNAc trisaccharide. A spacer with a terminal primary amine group was included at the reducing end of the GlcNAc residue thus ensuring the further functionalization of the trisaccharide Gal‐α‐(1→3)‐Gal‐β‐(1→3)‐GlcNAc.
Advance of Single‐Atom Catalysts Confined into Pristine Metal‐Organic Frameworks and their Energy‐Related Applications
Authors: Mo Qijie , Chen Chunying , Li Sihong , Liu Jiewei , Zhang Li , Su Cheng‐Yong
Published: March 2024

Metal single‐atom catalysts (SACs) play an essential role in small molecule related energy conversion. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), which contain the highly ordered arrays of organic linkers and metal nodes, as well as the clearly defined pore structures, are considered as an ideal platform to fabricate atomically dispersed metal sites. In this review, we summarize the approaches for fabricating MOF‐based SACs by utilizing their structure characteristics. A brief discussion is also given about the feasible techniques to characterize SACs. A series of representative examples of MOF‐based SACs and their energy‐related applications, mainly in photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, are discussed. The challenges and future development opportunities of MOF‐based SACs are highlighted.
Driving inward growth of lithium metal in hollow microcapsule hosts by heteroatom‐controlled nucleation
Authors: Kim Siwon , Shin Hong Rim , Kim Ki Jae , Park Min‐Sik , Lee Jong‐Won
Published: March 2024

The application of Li metal anodes in rechargeable batteries is impeded by safety issues arising from the severe volume changes and formation of dendritic Li deposits. Three‐dimensional hollow carbon is receiving increasing attention as a host material capable of accommodating Li metal inside its cavity; however, uncontrollable and nonuniform deposition of Li remains a challenge. In this study, we synthesize metal–organic framework‐derived carbon microcapsules with heteroatom clusters (Zn and Ag) on the capsule walls and it is demonstrated that Ag‐assisted nucleation of Li metal alters the outward‐to‐inward growth in the microcapsule host. Zn‐incorporated microcapsules are prepared via chemical etching of zeolitic imidazole framework‐8 polyhedra and are subsequently decorated with Ag by a galvanic displacement reaction between Ag+ and metallic Zn. Galvanically introduced Ag significantly reduces the energy barrier and increases the reaction rate for Li nucleation in the microcapsule host upon Li plating. Through combined electrochemical, microstructural, and computational studies, we verify the beneficial role of Ag‐assisted Li nucleation in facilitating inward growth inside the cavity of the microcapsule host and, in turn, enhancing electrochemical performance. This study provides new insights into the design of reversible host materials for practical Li metal batteries.
Aerosol deposition and emission from a United States Pharmacopeia‐induction port when using a pressurized metered‐dose inhaler with and without a valved holding chamber
Authors: de Charras Yamila L. , Ramírez Rigo M. Verónica , Bertin Diego E.
Published: March 2024

The testing of pharmaceutical aerosols includes measuring the aerodynamic particle size distribution, which is usually performed on cascade impactors. In the next generation impactor (NGI), the aerosol dose is introduced through an induction port (IP), being separated into different aerodynamic diameter ranges by seven stages and a micro‐orifice collector. The IP plays an important role in estimating the oropharyngeal deposition fraction. While the IP retains mainly large particles, it also tends to retain particles in the respirable range. In this work, the deposition of particles in the IP of an NGI is studied, both experimentally and through computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations. Experimental tests are conducted both with the pressurized metered‐dose inhaler (pMDI) alone and in conjunction with a cylindrical valved holding chamber (VHC). For each case, the total mass deposition that occurs in the VHC, IP, and NGI stages is measured, as well as the mass median aerodynamic diameter of the aerosol leaving the IP. The CFD simulations show minimal variations in results regardless of the injection method due to the relatively low velocity and spray angle of the pMDI‐generated aerosol. If the flap‐valve is removed from the VHC, significant particle deposition occurs upstream or within the valve region, with downstream air recirculation contributing to small particle deposition. Based on the CFD results, a correlation is proposed to accurately predict the particle escape fraction of the IP and VHC, which allows estimation of the tannin distribution of particles collected in the NGI stages, especially those corresponding to the range of respirable particles.
Identification of prognostic factors and construction of nomogram to predict cancer‐specific survival for patients with ovarian granulosa cell tumors
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Zhen , Ding Xinyao , Zhang Keyi , Dai Youren , Cheng Wenjun , Luo Chengyan
Published: March 2024

Background

Ovarian granulosa cell tumors (OGCTs) feature low incidence, indolent growth and late recurrence. Treatment for recurrent OGCTs is challenging.

Methods

The present study was designed to explore the prognostic factors and establish a nomogram to predict cancer‐specific survival (CSS) for OGCTs patients. Enrolled in the study were 1459 eligible patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, who were randomized to the training (n = 1021) or testing set (n = 438) at a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were employed to screen the prognostic factors. The predictors were determined by using the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. The model was constructed via the Cox proportional hazards risk regression analysis. The performance and clinical value of the nomograms was assessed with C‐index, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis.

Results

Age, pTNM stage, tumor size, surgery of the primary tumor, surgery of regional lymph nodes (LNs), residual disease after surgery, and chemotherapy were considered as significant predictive factors for CSS in OGCTs patients. After screening, the prognostic factors except surgery of regional LNs and chemotherapy were employed to build the nomogram. With desirable discrimination and calibration, the nomogram was more powerful in predicting CSS than the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system in clinical use.

Conclusion

This novel prognostic nomogram, which comprises a stationary nomogram and a web‐based calculator, offers convenience for clinicians in personalized decision‐making including optimal treatment plans and prognosis assessments for OGCTs patients.
Agreement about Availability of Alternative Treatments for Innovative Drugs Assessed by the EMA and HTA Organizations
Authors: Madrid Paredes Jorge , Versteeg Jan‐Willem , Vreman Rick A. , Bloem Lourens T.
Published: March 2024

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and European national/regional health technology assessment (HTA) organizations consider the availability of existing treatments when evaluating a new drug. Since disagreement about the availability of alternative treatments may impact patient access to new drugs, this study aimed to investigate whether the EMA and HTA organizations agreed on the availability of alternative treatments and whether a lack of alternative treatments was associated with HTA organizations' added benefit assessment outcomes. For 97 innovative drugs authorized in 2019–2021 (excluding vaccines and diagnostic tools), assessments by the EMA and AEMPS (Spain), AIFA (Italy), HAS (France), IQWiG/G‐BA (Germany), NICE (England and Wales), and ZIN (the Netherlands) were identified. Until 1 June 2022, 429 HTA drug‐indication combinations were identified for these 97 drugs, of which 205 exactly matched the EMA's indication. For those, the overall agreement between the EMA and HTA organizations on whether alternative treatments were available was 87%. The agreement of HTA organizations with the EMA on whether available treatments were either pharmacological on‐label, pharmacological off‐label, or non‐pharmacological was 87%, 21%, and 57%, respectively. For all 429 HTA drug‐indication combinations, absence of alternative treatments as considered by HTA organizations was associated with a higher chance to provide added benefit: risk ratio 1.8 (95%‐CI 1.4–2.3). In conclusion, although there was high overall agreement between the EMA and HTA organizations about whether alternative treatments exist, there were differences in the types of treatment considered. Parallel joint scientific consultations could inform drug developers about relevant alternative treatments to facilitate patient access to innovative drugs.
Genotypic variation in functional contributors to yield for a diverse collection of field‐grown cotton
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Snider John L. , Paterson Andrew H. , Virk Gurpreet , Parkash Ved , Roberts Phillip , Li Changying
Published: March 2024

Yield improvement in cotton could be accelerated through selection for functional yield drivers such as interception of cumulative photosynthetically active radiation (∑IPAR), radiation use efficiency (RUE), and harvest index (HI). However, information on the extent to which these traits vary in cotton in the southeastern United States is limited. It was hypothesized that functional yield drivers would vary significantly within a diverse cotton collection. This study was conducted in Tifton and Athens, GA, and included a total of 4 site‐years. Lint yield, total biomass production, ∑IPAR, RUE, and HI were all affected by genotype. Biomass was more strongly correlated with RUE than ∑IPAR. Even among the highest yielding genotypes, values for functional yield drivers (biomass and harvest index) differed significantly, indicating that high yields could be achieved by differentially manipulating these underlying traits. However, when considered for all genotypes, only HI exhibited a significant positive correlation with yield. Boll production and intra‐boll yield components were also affected by genotype. When considered across upland genotypes, lint per boll, lint per seed, and lint percent were strongly associated with HI and lint yield, whereas boll mass and seed number per boll were not. We conclude that the genotypes evaluated in the current study achieve high lint production per boll and lint yields by manipulating different yield drivers. However, lint yield was primarily maximized through an increase in HI due to increases in boll production and within‐boll distribution of biomass to fiber, not due to increases in total biomass production or boll size.
How does CEO ethical leadership transform Saudi SMEs into green firms? A moderated mediation model
Authors: Hameed Zahid , Naeem Rana Muhammad , Islam Tahir , Alshibani Safiya Mukhtar
Published: March 2024

In the aftermath of global warming, companies face huge pressure to minimize waste, reduce carbon emissions, and generally become more responsible in their operations. Against this backdrop, researchers argue that top management can significantly shape a firm's environmental performance (EP). This research aims to investigate the impact of CEO ethical leadership style on Saudi firms' EP in the presence of green human resource management (GHRM) practices as a mediator and stakeholder pressure as a moderator. We utilize the resource‐based view and stakeholder theory to develop hypotheses on these relationships. Multisourced data were collected from 272 small and medium‐sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) in Saudi Arabia. Our findings revealed that CEO ethical leadership positively influences firm EP via GHRM practices. The results also indicated that stakeholder pressure moderates the direct relationship between CEO ethical leadership and GHRM practices. Moreover, the stakeholder pressure moderates the indirect effect of CEO ethical leadership on firms' EP via GHRM. This study suggests that stakeholder pressure and GHRM practices are important mechanisms between CEO ethical leadership and firms' EP. Our research highlights essential theoretical and empirical contributions and provides insights for HR practitioners when and why SMEs engage in environment‐friendly practices.
An economical and simple strategy for overcoming the Hall sensor faults in three phase brushless DC motor drive
Authors: Verma Mriduwani , Mitra Arghya , Bhat Sunil , Garain Kanchan , Pal Saumitra , Wankhede A. K.
Published: March 2024

Brushless DC motors (BLDCs) are highly efficient and have the least maintenance requirement due to which they have replaced many conventional AC motors in various applications like electric vehicles, fans, water pumps, and home appliances. However, like all conventional motors, performance degradation of the BLDC motors can occur due to faults like Hall sensors failure, commutation switch failure, and stator‐winding failure. Among all these failures, this paper focuses on Hall sensor failures and the execution of fault tolerant control. Hall sensors produce an output after every 60° of rotation of the rotor, generating six sequences in one electrical cycle. In this study, each sequence is defined as a sector, which corresponds to the rotor position. Based only on this sector information in each electrical cycle, this paper proposes an uncomplicated detection strategy for Hall sensor fault, which is independent of motor loading and high‐performance processing unit. Along with the diagnosis, an improved faulty signal reconstruction is implemented, which bypasses the fault and continues a smooth performance of the motor. The proposed detection and reconstruction strategies have been simulated in MATLAB Simulink 2020, and the experimental analysis has been conducted to validate the proposed strategies.
Close to practice research as a means of rethinking elements of student–teacher's classroom practice
Authors: Blackmore Karen , Hatley Jenny
Published: March 2024

This article explores a form of classroom inquiry linked to postgraduate primary student–teachers’ education, whilst on practicum in England. The inquiry model is congruent with Stenhouse's’ notions of ‘teachers as researchers’ undertaking ‘systematic’ inquiry in a ‘naturalistic’ environment. Feldman further develops Stenhouse's conception into a definition of action research, where teachers come to a better understanding of their practice. The inquiry bases itself on the central tenants of close to practice (CtP), which is defined as research that: focuses on issues defined by practitioners as relevant to their practice and involves collaboration between people whose main expertise is research, practice, or both. As teacher educators, we evaluated the potential of CtP inquiry, by undertaking a critical discourse analysis (CDA) of sixteen student–teacher research reports. CDA revealed that several socio‐cognitive processes took place as a result of, student–teachers engaging in CtP research, including explorations of identity, beliefs and values and negotiation of power relationships and structures. Further analysis provided insights into Stenhouses' conceptualisation, firstly, how student–teachers committed to developing their understanding of the curriculum with respect to teaching design. Secondly, the findings resonate with student–teachers rejecting acting as ‘docile agents’ within existing structures and developing ‘pathways to emancipation and autonomy’. Thirdly, testimony revealed that student–teachers valued this mode of learning and developed critical attitudes to educational research. This study has clear implications for the design of initial teacher education programs and the continued professional development of teachers in England and potentially further afield.
Invasive‐dominated grasslands in Hawaiʻi are resilient to disturbance
Authors: Yelenik Stephanie , Rose Eli , Cordell Susan
Published: March 2024

Non‐native‐dominated landscapes may arise from invasion by competitive plant species, disturbance and invasion of early‐colonizing species, or some combination of these. Without knowing site history, however, it is difficult to predict how native or non‐native communities will reassemble after disturbance events. Given increasing disturbance levels across anthropogenically impacted landscapes, predictive understanding of these patterns is important. We asked how disturbance affected community assembly in six invaded habitat types common in dryland, grazed landscapes on Island of Hawai‘i. We mechanically disturbed 100 m2 plots in six vegetation types dominated by one of four invasive perennial grasses (Cenchrus ciliaris, Cenchrus clandestinus, Cenchrus setaceus, or Melinis repens), a native shrub (Dodonaea viscosa), or a native perennial bunchgrass (Eragrostis atropioides). We censused vegetation before disturbance and monitored woody plant colonization and herbaceous cover for 21 months following the disturbance, categorizing species as competitors, colonizers, or a combination, based on recovery patterns. In addition, we planted individuals of the native shrub and bunchgrass and monitored survival to overcome dispersal limitation of native species when exploring these patterns. We found that the dominant vegetation types showed variation in post‐disturbance syndrome, and that the variation in colonizer versus competitor syndrome occurred both between species, but also within species among different vegetation types. Although there were flushes of native shrub seedlings, these did not survive to 21 months within invaded habitats, probably due to regrowth by competitive invasive grasses. Similarly, survival of planted native individuals was related to the rate of regrowth by dominant species. Regardless of colonization/competitor syndrome, however, all dominant vegetation types were relatively resilient to change. Our results highlight that the altered post‐agricultural, invaded grassland landscapes in Hawaiʻi are stable states. More generally, they point to the importance of resident communities and their effects on species interactions and seed availability in shaping plant community response to disturbance.
Novel SCN5A gene mutation in a patient affected by multifocal ectopic premature Purkinje‐related contractions syndrome
Authors: Ventrella Nicoletta , Bianchini Lorenzo , Riva Stefania , Pizzamiglio Francesca , Dessanai Maria Antonietta , Tundo Fabrizio , Sattin Tommaso , De Lio Francesca , Cellucci Selene , Tondo Claudio
Published: March 2024

We report the case of a 36‐year‐old woman who presented to the emergency department complaining of palpitations and asthenia. Investigations showed frequent ventricular ectopy and severe left ventricular ejection fraction impairment. She was diagnosed with a peculiar condition defined multifocal ectopic premature Purkinje‐related contractions syndrome, which in some cases can be associated with a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype. Genetic testing showed a novel mutation in the SCN5A gene (c.673C > G). In the context of acute left ventricular dysfunction in a young patient, we discuss the clinical presentation of this rare condition and its clinical management, as well as its genetic substrate.
Phosphine‐Catalyzed 1,6‐Addition and Tandem Addition/Self‐Aldol Condensation Reactions of Para‐Quinone Methides with Thiols
Authors: Zhong Yuan , Li Guichen , Zhang Dan , Xie Yuxuan , Hao Long , Cai Zhengjun , Wang Xin
Published: March 2024

Phosphine‐catalyzed chemodivergent reactions of para‐quinone methides (p‐QMs) affording a wide variety of diarylmethyl thioether derivatives have been reported. In the transformation presented in this work, P(4‐FC6H4)3 catalyzed the direct 1,6‐addition of p‐QMs with thiols, whereas P(4‐MeC6H4)3 promoted the tandem addition/self‐aldol condensation reactions of p‐QMs with 1,4‐dithiane‐2,5‐diol. Moreover, some of the obtained products were screened against cancer cell lines HepG2, NB4, and K562, and one was found to inhibit the proliferation of all the tested cancer cell types.
Numerical modeling and experimental optimization of Taylor dispersion analysis with and without an electric field
Authors: Chenyakin Yuri , Chen David Da Yong
Published: March 2024

Numerical modeling of Taylor dispersion analysis (TDA) was performed using COMSOL Multiphysics to facilitate better and faster optimization of the experimental conditions. Parameters, such as pressure, electric field, diameter, and length of capillary on the TDA conditions, were examined for particles with hydrodynamic radius (Rh) of 2.5–250 Å. The simulations were conducted using 25, 50, and 100 cm length tubes with diameters of 25, 50, and 100 µm. It was shown that particles with larger diffusion coefficients gave more accurate results at higher velocities, and in longer and wider columns; particles with smaller diffusion coefficients gave more accurate results at smaller velocities, and in shorter and thinner columns. Moreover, the effect of electric field on the validity and the applicability of TDA was studied using TDA in conjunction with capillary electrophoresis. Diffusion coefficients were obtained using a pressure and the TDA equation and compared with those obtained with a pressure in combination of an electric field for fluorescein, FD4, FD20, FD70, and FD500. We found that TDA can be used with the presence of moderate electrophoretic migration and electroosmotic flow, when appropriate conditions were met.
Synergistic Effect of Trimetallic PdCuIn Nanoparticles in Ethanol and Formate Oxidation Reaction for Remarkable Catalytic Performance
Authors: Qiu Lizhu , Tao Yi , Ma Tao , Liang Feng
Published: March 2024

Direct liquid fuel cells (DLFC) are regarded as attractive energy devices with their advantages of sustainability and eco‐friendly operation. Pd‐based materials have been recognized as ideal catalysts for anodic oxidation of DLFC. Although reasonably regulating the structure of Pd‐based catalysts to achieve remarkable catalytic performance, it is not clear about the combined effects of d‐band center and charge transfer, which are the crucial impactors for catalytic activity. Herein, a facile method to synthesize trimetallic PdCuIn nanoparticles (PdCuIn NPs) for ethanol and formate oxidation reactions (EOR and FOR, respectively) is reported. PdCuIn NPs exhibits bifunctional catalytic activities for both EOR and FOR, with mass activities of 16 000 and 15 500 mA mgPd−1, respectively, which are much better than those of commercial Pd/C catalysts. Comparing to the bimetallic nanoparticles (PdCu or PdIn NPs), additional Cu or In enhances the electron transfer and achieves a suitable d‐band center, resulting in excellent performance. This work synthesizes a highly active catalyst for both EOR and FOR, but also provides facile strategy of balancing the d‐band center and charge transfer for high catalytic performance.
Thermal Management of Proton‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells with Enhanced Fuzzy Control via an Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Shi Yanyun , Sun Zhendong , Wang Yujie , Li Mince , Chen Zonghai
Published: March 2024

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) require an appropriate operating temperature to achieve high performance and longevity. In addressing the critical need for effective thermal management in PEMFCs for vehicle propulsion systems, this study has developed and introduced a novel thermal management system model equipped with dual‐cooling loops. Addressing the issues of slow response and poor dynamic performance inherent in traditional control strategies, as well as the computational complexity that hinders the practical application of existing advanced control strategies, this research proposes a fuzzy proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controller optimizing the improved whale optimization algorithm (IWOA‐FPID) aimed at enhancing fan side control. By simulating step changes in current load and designing dynamic operating conditions based on the most basic and simple energy management system, the performance of IWOA‐FPID in temperature control is validated. The final results indicate that the IWOA‐FPID strategy significantly outperforms existing control methods, notably reducing adjustment time and minimizing temperature overshoot to ≈0.5 K. The proposed framework achieves efficient temperature control, highlighting its potential for broader application in vehicular fuel cells and offering a promising solution to the challenges of PEMFC thermal management.
Modelling the impact of a dam‐break wave on a vertical wall
Authors: Del Gaudio Andrea , La Forgia Giovanni , Constantinescu George , De Paola Francesco , Di Cristo Cristiana , Iervolino Michele , Leopardi Angelo , Vacca Andrea
Published: March 2024

Dam‐Break waves arise from the sudden release of the water stored behind a wall, and they cause destruction and losses on nearby areas. Characterisation of the impact force on obstacles is very important for risk assessment. In this work, we performed a series of lock‐release experiments to evaluate the wave‐induced impact force on a vertical end wall situated some distance from the lock. Laboratory data were used to evaluate the performance of several types of numerical models to predict the wave‐induced force on the vertical end wall. The selected models were as follows: the hydrostatic 1D De Saint‐Venant model, the multi‐layer hydrostatic model and the Navier–Stokes two‐phase flow. For the latter two models, both 2D (in the
‐
plane) and 3D simulations were performed. The results show that, independently of the hydrostatic assumption, the 2‐D simulations generate nonphysical oscillations which are not present in the measured temporal histories of the pressure and force values. By contrast, the predictions of both 3D numerical models better reproduce the temporal variation of the pressure forces on the end wall. The present study also shows that from a practical point of view, the 1D De Saint‐Venant model predicts with sufficient accuracy the impact time and the magnitude of the peak value of the impact force. Therefore, if the use of a fully 3D models is not a feasible option, in terms of a trade‐off between computation cost and accuracy, the use of a simple hydrostatic 1D De Saint‐Venant model is preferable to a 2D model.
Ovarian torsion–detorsion in a 10‐year premenarchial female with chronic recurrent abdominal pain misdiagnosed as ‘ama‐afo’ in a suburb: A case report
Authors: Igbodike Emeka Philip , Iwuala Ijeoma Chinyere , Maduako Rita Obiageli , Eleje George Uchenna , Akinjo Andrea Oludapo , Ubom Akaninyene Eseme , Ikechebelu Joseph Ifeanyichukwu , Onwudiegwu Uchenna , Anunobi Charles Chidozie
Published: March 2024

Synopsis

This case involved a 10‐year‐old female with recurrent abdominal pain misdiagnosed as ‘ama‐afo’. Intraoperative findings showed a left‐sided strangulated/gangrenous tubo‐ovarian mass twisted four times on its pedicle.
Vaginal microbiota are associated with in vitro fertilization during female infertility
Authors: Wang Tao , Li Penghao , Bai Xue , Tian Shilin , Yang Maosen , Leng Dong , Kui Hua , Zhang Sujuan , Yan Xiaomiao , Zheng Qu , Luo Pulin , He Changming , Jia Yan , Wu Zhoulin , Qiu Huimin , Li Jing , Wan Feng , Ali Muhammad A. , Mao Rurong , Liu Yong‐Xin , Li Diyan
Published: March 2024

The vaginal microbiome plays an essential role in the reproductive health of human females. As infertility increases worldwide, understanding the roles that the vaginal microbiome may have in infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment outcomes is critical. To determine the vaginal microbiome composition of 1411 individuals (1255 undergoing embryo transplantation) and their associations with reproductive outcomes, clinical and biochemical features are measured, and vaginal samples are 16S rRNA sequenced. Our results suggest that both too high and too low abundance of Lactobacillus is not beneficial for pregnancy; a moderate abundance is more beneficial. A moderate abundance of Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus iners (~80%) (with a pregnancy rate of I‐B: 54.35% and III‐B: 57.73%) is found beneficial for pregnancy outcomes compared with a higher abundance (>90%) of Lactobacillus (I‐A: 44.81% and III‐A: 51.06%, respectively). The community state type (CST) IV‐B (contains a high to moderate relative abundance of Gardnerella vaginalis) shows a similar pregnant ratio (48.09%) with I‐A and III‐A, and the pregnant women in this CST have a higher abundance of Lactobacillus species. Metagenome analysis of 71 samples shows that nonpregnant women are detected with more antibiotic‐resistance genes, and Proteobacteria and Firmicutes are the main hosts. The inherent differences within and between women in different infertility groups suggest that vaginal microbes might be used to detect infertility and potentially improve IVF outcomes.
Bacmethy: A novel and convenient tool for investigating bacterial DNA methylation pattern and their transcriptional regulation effects
Authors: Liu Ji‐Hong , Zhang Yizhou , Zhou Ning , He Jiale , Xu Jing , Cai Zhao , Yang Liang , Liu Yang
Published: March 2024

DNA methylation serves as the primary mode of epigenetic regulation in prokaryotes, particularly through transcriptional regulation. With the rapid implementation of third‐generation sequencing technology, we are currently experiencing a golden age of bacterial epigenomics. However, there has been a lack of comprehensive research exploring the versatility and consequential impact of bacterial DNA methylome on cellular and physiological functions. There is a critical need for a user‐friendly bioinformatics tool that can effectively characterize DNA methylation modification features and predict the regulation patterns. To address this gap, the current study introduces Bacmethy, an innovative tool that utilizes SMRT‐seq data and offers a range of analytical modules. First, the tool classifies methylation sites in the genome, highlighting the distinct regulations present under varying modification fractions and location enrichment. Furthermore, this tool enables us to identify regulatory region methylation and potential cis and trans interactions between methylation sites and regulatory effectors. Using benchmark data sets and our data, we show that our tool facilitates the understanding of the distinctive traits of DNA methylation modifications and predicts transcriptional regulation effects on important physiological and pathological functions. Bacmethy code is freely available, and the Docker image is downloadable. Bacmethy has been made available as a user‐friendly web server interface at https://bacmethy.med.sustech.edu.cn.
Assessment of Bone Marrow Involvement in B‐Cell non‐Hodgkin Lymphoma Using Immunoglobulin Gene Rearrangement Analysis with Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Jeon Min Ji , Yu Eun Sang , Kim Dae Sik , Choi Chul Won , Kim Ha Nui , Kwon Jung Ah , Yoon Soo‐Young , Yoon Jung
Published: March 2024

Background

Assessment of bone marrow involvement (BMI) in non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is crucial for determining patient prognosis and treatment strategy. We assessed the prognostic value of next‐generation sequencing (NGS)–based immunoglobulin (Ig) gene clonality analysis as an ancillary test for BMI evaluation in NHL.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 124 patients newly diagnosed with B‐cell NHL between 2019 and 2022 was included. NGS‐based Ig clonality analysis was conducted using LymphoTrak IGH FR1 Assay and IGK Assay (Invivoscribe Technologies, San Diego, CA, USA) on BM aspirate samples, and the results were compared with those of histopathological BMI (hBMI).

Results

Among the 124 patients, hBMI was detected in 16.9% (n = 21). The overall agreement of BMI between Ig clonality analyses and histopathological analysis for IGH, IGK, and either IGH or IGK was 86.3%, 92.7%, and 90.3%. The highest positive percent agreement was observed with clonal rearrangements of either IGH or IGK gene (90.5%), while the highest negative percent agreement was observed with clonal rearrangement of IGK gene (96.1%). For the prediction of hBMI, positive prediction value ranged between 59.1% and 80.0% and the negative prediction value ranged between 91.3% and 97.9%.

Conclusion

NGS‐based clonality analysis is an analytic platform with a substantial overall agreement with histopathological analysis. Assessment of both IGH and IGK genes for the clonal rearrangement analysis could be considered for the optimal diagnostic performance of BMI detection in B‐cell NHL.
Dissociation Phenomenon of Erythrocyte Agglutination and Its Application to Assay of Functional Activity of the Complement System in Clinical Laboratory
Authors: Ding Xuewei , Liu Lina , Yang Guang , Liu Hui
Published: March 2024

Objective

The objective of the study was to validate the dissociation phenomenon of erythrocyte agglutination which is based on erythrocyte fragments and to apply it in the functional activity assay of the complement system.

Methods

The dissociation–agglutination effect of erythrocyte fragments was validated by detecting the number of free erythrocytes after the action of erythrocyte fragments on agglutinated erythrocytes. The number of free erythrocytes produced after hemolysis of agglutinated erythrocytes caused by complements and complement activators(CAs) was detected by auto hematology analyzer and the results were indicated by mean hemoglobin concentration of erythrocytes (MCHC). We optimized the test conditions and validated the inter‐batch stability, explored the resolution of the assay method, and assayed for the total complement activity (AC) and the CAs activated complement activity (ACA) in serum from patients and healthy individual groups.

Results

Erythrocyte fragments have a dissociative effect on agglutinated erythrocytes. The auto hematology analyzer was able to detect AC and ACA, where AC showed an inverse correlation with MCHC, and ACA demonstrated a positive correlation with MCHC. The inter‐batch CV of AC, ACA, and ACA/AC was found to be 5%, 9%, and 11.7%, respectively, with good stability. The study found that serum samples from acute phase reaction patients showed significant differences in ACA compared with healthy individuals, with a p value of 0.018; serum samples from patients with nephrotic syndrome showed significant differences in AC, ACA, and ACA/AC compared with healthy individuals, with p values of 0.014, 0.002, and 0.041, respectively.

Conclusion

Erythrocyte fragments have dissociation–agglutination effect. The complement system immunological functional detection method, based on this effect, has potential clinical application value due to its sensitivity and accuracy.
Exploration of the prognostic prediction value of the PANoptosis‐based risk score and its correlation with tumor immunity in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhao Xiaojian , Zhang Xuefeng , Li Feng , Lu Caiping
Published: March 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a common cancer with high mortality worldwide. PANoptosis is a novel inflammatory programmed cell death modality with the characteristics of pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis. It is necessary to explore PANoptosis‐related genes in LUAD patients and offer evidence for prognosis prediction and therapeutic strategies. Single‐cell RNA sequencing data and RNA expression profiles of LUAD patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases are used to screen PANoptosis‐related differential genes for the construction of a risk model. Fifteen PANoptosis‐related markers with prognostic value were identified by Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO)–Cox regression analysis. Kaplan–Meier analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis further demonstrated the significant predictive capability. Immune infiltration, Single Nucleotide Variants (SNV) mutations, and clinical drug susceptibility were analyzed. In conclusion, a risk model of 15 PANoptosis‐related genes has significant value in prognostic prediction for LUAD and has potential to direct clinical therapeutic strategies during the treatment.
PCR testing for herpesviruses in aqueous humor samples from patients with and without clinical corneal endothelial graft rejection
Authors: Abu Dail Yaser , Daas Loay , Flockerzi Elias , Munteanu Cristian , Kahlert Julian , Smola Sigrun , Seitz Berthold
Published: March 2024

To compare prevalence of positive PCR tests for herpesviruses between patients with and without a history of clinical corneal endothelial allograft rejection (AGR). Retrospective cross‐sectional study with two‐group comparison. A total of 307 aqueous humor (AH) samples from 235 Patients and 244 eyes who underwent penetrating keratoplasty or Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty or had a diagnostic AH aspiration due to clinical AGR between 2019 and 2023 were tested for DNA of herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella‐zoster virus (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV). PCR test results were compared between the two groups (with/without AGR). Another sub‐analysis examined the results of patients without a history of herpetic keratitis. A total of 8% of eyes with clinical AGR (9/108) had a positive PCR result for one of the herpesviruses (HSV:3, CMV:3, EBV:2, VZV:1). All patients in the group without AGR had negative PCR results for all previous viruses (0/136). The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The sub‐analysis of eyes without a history of herpetic keratitis also revealed significantly more positive herpes PCR results (7/87) in eyes with AGR than in eyes without AGR (0/42, p = 0.005). Clinical AGR after keratoplasty shows a significant correlation to viral replication. Herpetic infection and AGR could occur simultaneously and act synergistically. Timely differentiation between active herpetic infection and/or AGR is pivotal for proper treatment and graft preservation.
Letermovir use may impact on the Cytomegalovirus DNA fragmentation profile in plasma from allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Giménez Estela , Gozalbo‐Rovira Roberto , Albert Eliseo , Piñana José Luis , Solano Carlos , Navarro David
Published: March 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in plasma is mainly unprotected and highly fragmented. The size of the amplicon largely explains the variation in CMV DNA loads quantified across PCR platforms. In this proof‐of‐concept study, we assessed whether the CMV DNA fragmentation profile may vary across allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients (allo‐SCT), within the same patient over time, or is affected by letermovir (LMV) use. A total of 52 plasma specimens from 14 nonconsecutive allo‐SCT recipients were included. The RealTime CMV PCR (Abbott Molecular), was used to monitor CMV DNA load in plasma, and fragmentation was assessed with a laboratory‐designed PCR generating overlapping amplicons (around 90−110 bp) within the CMV UL34, UL80.5, and UL54 genes. Intrapatient, inter‐patient, and LMV‐associated qualitative and quantitative variations in seven amplicons were observed. These variations were seemingly unrelated to the CMV DNA loads measured by the Abbott PCR assay. CMV DNA loads quantified by UL34_4, UL54.5, and UL80.5_1 PCR assays discriminate between LMV and non‐LMV patients. Our observations may have relevant implications in the management of active CMV infection in allo‐SCT recipients, either treated or not with LMV, although the data need further validation.
Projected changes in daily precipitation, temperature and wet‐bulb temperature across Arizona using statistically downscaled CMIP6 climate models
Authors: Kim Taereem , Villarini Gabriele
Published: March 2024

To evaluate future changes in the climate system, the outputs from coarse‐resolution global climate models (GCMs) need to be downscaled to a finer scale, making them more directly applicable for impact assessment. Here we focus on examining the projected changes of three key climate variables (precipitation, air temperature, and wet bulb temperature) across Arizona (south‐western United States). We use daily outputs from GCMs from the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) and bias correct and downscale them to a 4‐km resolution. Through leave‐one‐out cross‐validation, we compare various bias correction methods and identify that the empirical quantile mapping approach performs the best regardless of the climate variable. Then, we analyse the projected bias‐corrected outputs for two future periods (Mid‐of‐Century: 2015–2048; End‐of‐Century: 2067–2100) with respect to the 1981–2014 period, under four shared socioeconomic pathway scenarios (SSP1‐2.6, SSP2‐4.5, SSP3‐7.0 and SSP5‐8.5). Our results show that Arizona's climate is projected to become overall warmer and wetter, more so towards the end of this century and for higher emission scenarios. Additionally, our findings project an increase in wet bulb temperature and cooling degree days, implying the ongoing warming climate's potential impacts on public health and the economy. These results provide a baseline understanding of climate change impacts in the state and highlight the projected changes in the future in response to the climate scenarios.
Application of fixed‐frequency ultrasound in the cultivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for rice wine fermentation
Authors: Hao Jing , Xu Haining , Yan Pengfei , Yang Mengyuan , Mintah Benjamin Kumah , Dai Chunhua , Zhang Rong , Ma Haile , He Ronghai
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Rice wine (RW) fermentation is limited by its long fermentation time, weak taste and unpleasant flavors such as oil and odor. In this study, a novel ultrasound technology of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was used with the aim of improving fermentation efficiency and volatile flavor quality of RW.

RESULTS

The results showed that fixed‐frequency ultrasonic treatment (28 kHz, 45 W L−1, 20 min) of S. cerevisiae seed culture at its logarithmic metaphase significantly increased the biomass and alcohol yield by 31.58% and 26.45%, respectively, and reduced fermentation time by nearly 2 days. Flavor analysis indicated that the flavor compounds in RW, specifically the esters and alcohols, were also increased in quantity after the ultrasonic treatment of S. cerevisiae seed liquid. Isobutyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate and phenethyl acetate contents were increased by 78.92%, 129.19%, 7.79% and 97.84%, respectively, as compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonic treatment of S. cerevisiae reduced fermentation time and enhanced the flavor profile of RW. This study could provide a theoretical and/or technological basis for the research and development of RW. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.