bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognosis and risk factors for ASXL1 mutations in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Yang Liqing , Wei Xiaoyu , Gong Yuping
Published: December 2023

Objective

The objective of the study was to determine the prognosis and risk factors for additional sex combs like 1 (ASXL1) mutations in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Population and Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 219 adult patients with newly diagnosed AML and MDS, who were treated in West China Hospital from October 2018 to January 2022. The primary clinical outcome was evaluated by overall survival (OS) followed up to January 2023. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox multivariate regression analysis were performed to identify potential prognostic parameters in patients with ASXL1 mutations (mt).

Results

A total of 34 (15.53%) ASXL1mt were detected, which occurred more frequently in the elderly and MDS cohorts (p < 0.001). Significantly lower blasts% (p < 0.001) and higher frequencies of mutant RUNX1, SRSF2, STAG2, EZH2, and SETBP1 (p < 0.02) were observed in the ASXL1mt cohort. Patients with ASXL1mt manifested with a worse complete remission rate (p = 0.011), and an inferior OS was shown in subgroups with MDS, co‐mutations of RUNX1, SRSF2, or NRAS, as well as mutations in G646W (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis considering age, diagnosis, co‐mutations, and mutation site confirmed an independently adverse prognosis of mutations in G646W (HR = 4.302, 95% CI: 1.150–16.097) or RUNX1 co‐mutations (HR = 4.620, 95% CI: 1.385–15.414) in the ASXL1mt cohort.

Conclusion

Our study indicated that mutations in G646W or RUNX1 co‐mutations are closely associated with a dismal clinical outcome in patients with AML and MDS harboring ASXL1mt. Considering the poor prognosis and risk factors in patients with ASXL1mt, more available treatments should be pursued.
Phosphorylation Modification, Structural Characterization, Antioxidant and DNA Protection Capacities of Polysaccharides from Asarum Sieboldii Miq
Authors: Yang Shun‐He , Wang Xiao‐Li , Zhang Hao‐Nan , Zhu Li‐Fei , Qu Shu‐Hao , Zhang Ming‐Yue , Zhang Hong , Liu Peng‐Fei
Published: December 2023

Polysaccharide from Asarum sieboldii Miq (ASP) was extracted and five phosphorylation polysaccharides with different degree of substitution were obtained, namely ASPP1, ASPP2, ASPP3, ASPP4, and ASPP5 (ASPPs). The physical and chemical structure and biological activities were studied. The results suggested that the carbohydrate and protein content were reduced while uronic acid was increased after phosphorylation modification. The molecular weight of ASPPs was significantly lower than that of ASP. ASPPs were acidic heteropolysaccharides mainly composed of galacturonic acid, galactose, glucose, fructose, and arabinose. The UV‐vis spectrum indicated that the polysaccharides did not contain nucleic acid or protein after modification. The Fourier transform infrared spectrum demonstrated that ASPPs contained characteristic absorption peaks of P=O and P−O‐C near 1270 and 980 cm−1. ASPPs presented a triple helix conformation, but it was not presented in ASP. The scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the surface topography and particle structure of ASP were different after modification. Compared with ASP, ASPPs enhanced the activity to scavenge DPPH and ABTS free radicals and possessed more protective ability to DNA oxidation caused by OH⋅, GS⋅, and AAPH free radicals. These results suggest that chemical modification is beneficial for the exploitation and utilization of natural polysaccharides.
Patent Literature on Epoxidation of Propylene Over Silver Catalysts Using Molecular Oxygen – A Critical Industrial Review
Authors: Chojecki Adam , Ho Christopher R. , Sussman Victor J.
Published: December 2023

We summarize the patent literature related to the direct oxidation of propylene‐to‐propylene oxide (DOPO) over silver catalysts. Inventions claiming new compositions, preparation methods, and/or alternative process options are illustrated with data sampled from patent documents. Early claims focused on powders of silver (silver oxide) alloyed with and/or surface‐modified with one‐two promoterswhere silver was in large excess (>80 wt%). In the following decades, inventors refined their approach and pursued alternative bulk synthetic methods supplemented with impregnation to produce formulationscontaining lower amounts of silver in combination with various other transition metals, halides, alkalis and/or alkaline earth elements. Simultaneously, process development has facilitated increased PO selectivity via the co‐feeding of water and/or carbon dioxide at volume percent levels combined with smaller ppmV concentrations of organic chlorides and nitrogenoxides. At the end we briefly discuss how non‐catalytic oxidative routes to propylene oxide provide additional insights for new catalyst development. While these approaches hardly exceed 60 % PO selectivity, they may shed light on design criteria for catalysts capable of achieving that goal. Success in the field will require strong fundamental understanding of the activation of dioxygen on catalytic surfaces to define design requirements for silver catalystswith high selectivity to PO via direct oxidation.
Oligo‐Condensation Reactions of Silanediols with Conservation of Solid‐State‐Structural Features.
Authors: Kannengießer Jan‐Falk , Morgenstern Bernd , Janka Oliver , Kickelbick Guido
Published: December 2023

Oligo‐ and polysiloxanes are usually prepared by condensation reactions in solvents without control of stereochemistry. Here we present a solventless thermal condensation of stable organosilanols. We investigated the condensation reactions of organosilanediols with different organic substituents, having in common at least one aromatic group. The condensation kinetics of the precursors observed by NMR spectroscopy revealed a strong dependence on temperature, time, and substitution pattern at the silicon atom. SEC measurements showed that chain length increases with increasing condensation temperature and time and lower steric demand of the substituents, which also influences the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the resulting oligo‐ or polymers. X‐ray diffraction studies of the crystalline silanediols and their condensation products revealed a structural correlation between the substituent location in the crystalline precursors and the formed macromolecules induced by the hydrogen bonding pattern. In certain cases, it is possible to carry out topotactic polymerization in the solid‐state, which has its origin in the crystal structure.
The Phosphidosilicates AE2Li4SiP4 (AE=Ca, Sr, Eu) Ba4Li16Si3P12
Authors: Weidemann Martin L. , Calaminus Robert , Menzel Nina , Johrendt Dirk
Published: December 2023

The quaternary phosphidosilicates AE2Li4SiP4 (AE=Ca, Sr, Eu) and Ba4Li16Si3P12 were synthesized by heating the elements and Li3P under argon atmosphere. Their crystal structures were determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. AE2Li4SiP4 crystallize in a new layered structure type (P21/m, Z=2) with CdI2‐analoguos layers. Edge sharing CaP6 octahedra are separated by layers of vertex‐sharing SiP4 and LiP4 tetrahedra, which contain additional chains of LiP6 octahedra. Ba4Li16Si3P12 forms likewise a new structure type (P21/c, Z=16) with a three‐dimensional network of SiP4, Si2P6 and LiP4 entities as well as one phosphorus site not bonded to silicon. Barium is located in capped trigonal prisms of phosphorus which form strongly corrugated layers. 31P and 29Si solid‐state NMR spectra confirm the crystal structures of the compounds AE2Li4SiP4. 7Li spectra show only one signal in spite of quite different crystallographic positions, which indicate possible Li+ mobility. However, this signal is much broader compared to the known Li+ conducting phosphidosilicates. Accordingly, electrochemical impedance measurements show low Li+ conductivities.
Recent Advances in Deuteration Reactions†
Authors: Li Hao , Shabbir Muhammad , Li Wu , Lei Aiwen
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The deuteration of organic compounds has attracted more attentions in recent years for the potential applications in new drug discovery and synthetic chemistry. For this purpose, many efficient deuterium labeling methodologies have been developed, including hydrogen isotope exchange (HIE), reductive deuteration, and dehalogenative deuteration that allow for the synthesis of selectively deuterated compounds. In the last few years, great breakthroughs in selective isotope labeling have been achieved and the interest in new methodologies for the deuteration of organic molecules is rising. In this review, we summarized the recent developments in the selective deuteration of organic molecules since 2021. Several types of key processes in deuterium incorporation reactions, including H/D exchange, reductive deuteration and dehalogenative deuteration, are introduced and discussed.

Key Scientists

In the 2000s, Derdau and Atzrodt's group have made great contributions to the directing group assisted noble‐metal catalyzed hydrogen isotope exchange of arenes and applications of labeled compounds. During the same period, Sajiki and co‐workers completed a series of deuteration reactions by heterogeneous platinum‐group metal catalysts. Since 2015, Gregory Pieters and co‐workers have developed ruthenium catalysts for selective hydrogen isotope exchange. In 2016, Chirik's group achieved hydrogen isotope exchange in the presence of a homogeneous iron complex. David MacMillan and coworkers have made breakthroughs in photocatalyzed HIE reactions for α‐amino C(sp3)–H bonds. From 2020, a series of nanoelectrodes were designed for selective dehalogenative deuterations and reductive deuteration of unactivated unsaturated bonds by Zhang's group. Recently, Beller's group developed several efficient strategies for isotopic labeling using heterogeneous earth‐abundant catalysts. Our review summarized the latest and important developments since 2021.
Ni‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Difunctionalization of Alkynes to Azepine Derivatives Bearing a Quaternary Center and an Unprotected Imine†
Authors: Long Jian , Lu Zhiwu , Li Xiao‐Lin , Xue Peng , Liu Wen‐Bo
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The azepine ring is a prominent structural scaffold in biologically significant molecules. In this study, we present a Ni(II)‐catalyzed asymmetric difunctionalization of alkynes, involving intermolecular regioselective arylation and intramolecular nitrile addition, enabling the synthesis of enantioenriched azepine derivatives. This reaction simultaneously installs an all‐carbon quaternary stereocenter and introduces an unprotected imine functionality, showing great promise for subsequent transformations. The reaction exhibits good tolerance toward various functional groups, resulting in high yields and enantioselectivities. The synthetic utility of this methodology is further demonstrated through gram‐scale synthesis and product derivatization. This research offers an efficient approach to the synthesis of seven‐membered nitrogen heterocycles.
Electrochemical Dearomative Spirocyclization of N‐Acyl Sulfonamides in a Continuous‐Flow Cell†
Authors: Liu Ting , Shi Zhaojiang , Yuan Yaofeng , Lin Yuqi , Ye Ke‐Yin
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The development of efficient and sustainable methods to obtain spirocyclic compounds is of significance as these structures are widely found in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Herein, we disclose an electrochemical dearomative spirocyclization of N‐acyl sulfonamides in a continuous‐flow cell. The reaction is simple and efficient without external catalysts or supporting electrolytes and could be applied in a decagram‐scale synthesis.
Fish Skin‐Inspired Janus Hydrogel Coating for Drag Reduction†
Authors: Zhang Yurong , Li Lijun , Wang Ruteng , Liu Junwei , Lin Zhen , Li Gang , Liu Hongtao , Lei Yifeng , Xiong Yunhe , Zhao Yan , Xue Longjian
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

In nature, fishes have evolved functional skins with effective hydrodynamic performance and anti‐fouling, facilitating predation and escaping from predators. Although a large number of fish scale‐inspired structured surfaces have been explored, the incorporation of mucus on the structured surfaces has been largely ignored. Inspired by the skin of Osteichthyes fishes, a Janus hydrogel coating (JHC) is successfully prepared by a two‐step UV light irradiation at room temperature. The bottom side of JHC (STH) achieves a shear adhesive strength of 103.3 ± 17.5 kPa and can strongly adhere to a large variety of surfaces, including metals, ceramic and polymers. The top surface of JHC (SLH) replicates the structure of cycloid scales, while the nature of hydrogel mimics the mucus on fish skin. SLH possesses prominent mechanical, anti‐swelling, anti‐fouling and drag reduction properties. The design strategy for JHC has potential applications in numerous fields, like, pipeline transportation, bioengineering, and shipping industry.
Surface Modification Engineering Enabling LiMnxFe1−xPO4 Cathode Against Aggressive Cathode Chemistries for Excellent Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Congli , Yu Xiang , Liao Cenjing , Cui Zhe , Zhu Jinqi , Gao Mengluan , Wang Wenqing , Weng Fuming , Zou Rujia , Liu Qian
Published: December 2023

As an indispensable cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries, LiMnxFe1−xPO4 (LMFP) has garnered significant attention among scholars due to its considerable energy density and remarkable safety characteristics. However, the further advancement of LMFP is hindered by its poor conductivity and limitations in terms of cycle stability. Herein, LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4@C@Al2O3 (LMFP64/CA) composite materials with core‐shell structure were prepared through simple solvothermal and liquid phase coating methods. The carbon layer can further bolster the structural robustness of the active material, increase conductivity, and facilitate ion and electron transfer; while the Al2O3 layer can function as a protective interface, effectively mitigating the detrimental electrochemical side effects arising from hydrofluoric acid (HF) generated during electrolyte decomposition within a wide voltage range. Consequently, the LMFP64/CA electrode exhibits impressive electrochemical performance including notable reversible capacity (125.1 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C), exceptional rate performance (111.2 mAh g−1 at 1 C), and remarkable cycle stability at 5 C (0.021 % decay rate over 500 cycles).
Generation of Bispecific Antibodies by Functionalized Poly‐ADP‐Ribose Polymers
Authors: Kim Hyo Sun , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2023

Bispecific antibodies have drawn considerate research interests for therapeutic development. Numerous genetic and chemical methods are established to produce bispecific antibodies with varied formats. This protocol describes a novel approach to the synthesis of bispecific antibodies by utilizing chemically functionalized poly‐ADP‐ribose polymers derived from post‐translational poly‐ADP‐ribosylation. Basic Protocol 1 includes experimental procedures for expressing and purifying recombinant full‐length human poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1) as well as monoclonal antibodies targeting T‐cell CD3 and breast cancer tumor‐associated human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) molecules. Basic Protocol 2 details methods for enzymatic preparation of functionalized poly‐ADP‐ribose polymers by PARP1 and chemical conjugation of antibody molecules for bispecific antibody production. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Expression and purification of PARP1 and antibodies

Basic Protocol 2: PARP1 auto‐modification and antibody conjugation
External hair contamination from cannabis and “light cannabis” delivered by smoking and vaping: An in vitro study
Authors: Giorgetti Arianna , Fais Paolo , Pascali Jennifer Paola , Mohamed Susan , Rossi Francesca , Garagnani Marco , Pelletti Guido
Published: December 2023

External contamination of hair by cannabis smoking requires a careful evaluation in forensic toxicology. Medical and recreational cannabis are increasingly consumed by e‐cigarettes, which give rise to side‐stream vapor. Moreover, products containing low Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC) and rich in cannabidiol (CBD) started spreading legally. The goal of the present study was to assess whether hair analysis could allow to distinguish the type of delivered product, with low or high Δ9‐THC, and the delivering mode, by smoking or vaping. Contamination of blank hair was mimicked by in vitro exposure to low‐ (0.4%) and high‐Δ9‐THC (9.7%) products delivered by smoking and vaping within a small confined system. Cannabis vaping extracts were prepared to deliver identical target Δ9‐THC doses. Eighty samples were analyzed by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and quantified for Δ9‐THC and CBD. After contamination by cannabis smoking, THC levels were in line with past in vitro and in vivo studies. Samples exposed to cannabis (169.30 ng/mg) showed significantly higher Δ9‐THC than hair exposed to “light cannabis” (35.54 ng/mg), and the opposite was seen for the CBD/Δ9‐THC ratio. Hair contaminated by vaping or smoking did not show a statistically different Δ9‐THC content.

Under our in vitro conditions, hair analysis might allow to discriminate whether external contamination is determined by products containing low or high Δ9‐THC, but not the delivering mode. More research is needed in real‐life conditions, to see whether the same also applies to the interpretation of forensic casework.
Nonlinear dynamic response analysis of a hybrid concrete‐filled steel tubular truss lightweight bridge under strong earthquakes
Authors: Huang Yufan , Chen Lingjie , Wu Qingxiong , Yuan Huihui , Chen Baochun , Nakamura Shozo
Published: December 2023

Concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) trusses have seen recent development and application in bridges found in mountainous regions with deep valleys, and especially in seismic zones. In this study, a hybrid CFST truss lightweight bridge was selected as the research object. This bridge is composited of CFST composite truss girders (superstructure) and CFST lattice piers (substructure). Two different finite element models (FEM) for nonlinear seismic response analysis, one is detailed model and the other is simplified model, were established. By comparing with the detailed model, the results of the shaking table test as well as the real bridge test, the simplified model was found to be accurate. Considering the CFST columns' edge strain, the most unfavorable input direction of horizontal ground motion was perpendicular to the connection line of the bearings at both ends of the main girder. Also, the simultaneous influence of vertical ground motion and horizontal ground motion needs to be taken into consideration. By increasing the intensity of input ground motion, the yielding order of CFST lattice piers and its effect on the seismic response were also discussed. Results indicated that the bridge was in the elastic stage for the designed seismic ground motion. After the CFST lattice piers reached the plastic stage, the displacement and in‐plane bending moment had larger amplification coefficients compared to the increase coefficient of the input ground motion, while had a much smaller axial force amplification coefficient. Moreover, the in‐plane bending moment had a larger amplification coefficient in high piers compared to short piers.
Scaling method for small sized model testing of steel‐reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Yang Xu , Lu Wensheng , Ren Xiangxiang , Xue Bin
Published: December 2023

The shaking table testing method on small sized models is one of the most effective approaches to study the overall seismic performance of various structures. Effective design of the scale model based on a rational scaling method can ensure the reliability of the test results. In this paper, the scaling methods are summarized into three levels: material similarity, component similarity, and structure similarity. A scaling method for steel‐reinforced concrete composite structures is proposed based on the component similarity, and experiments are conducted to verify the proposed method. The results show the flexural bearing capacity error between the model columns and prototype columns is within 20%, and both their force‐displacement curves and failure modes are consistent, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the scaling method. A 1/25 scale model of a steel‐reinforced concrete composite structure is designed based on the proposed method and tested on a shaking table to evaluate the seismic performance of its prototype. This research aims to provide a reference for the scaling method for shaking table tests.
Social cues influence perception of others' pain
Authors: Zhang Lanlan , Wager Tor D. , Koban Leonie
Published: December 2023

Background

Accurately perceiving other people's pain is important in both daily life and healthcare settings. However, judging other's pain is inherently difficult and can be biased by various social and cultural factors. Here, we examined whether perception of others' pain and pain management recommendations are socially influenced by seeing the opinions of other raters.

Methods

In Experiment 1 (N = 50), participants rated pictures depicting injured hands or feet of pre‐selected high, medium and low intensities. Each picture was preceded by cues indicating ratings of 10 previous participants. Cues were randomized to indicate low (SocialLOW) or high (SocialHIGH) pain judgements and were not predictive of actual normative pain intensity. In Experiment 2 (N = 209), participants viewed facial video clips of patients with chronic shoulder pain making painful movements. They estimated patients' pain intensity and provided pain management recommendations.

Results

Experiment 1 revealed that perceivers' pain estimates were significantly and substantially higher for stimuli following SocialHIGH than SocialLOW cues (Cohen's d = 1.26, p < 0.001) and paralleled by increased skin conductance responses. Experiment 2 replicated the effect of social cues on pain judgements (d = 0.58, p < 0.001). However, social cues did not influence post‐study pain management recommendations, potentially due to memory limitations.

Conclusions

Together, these studies reveal that judgements of others' pain are robustly modulated by information about others' opinions. Future research could test the prevalence and strength of such effects in clinical settings.

Significance

The present study shows that even arbitrary opinions of other raters influence the perception of others' pain. This finding adds new insight into the growing evidence of social and cultural biases in pain estimation.
Sustainable supercapacitor with a natural rubber‐based electrolyte and natural graphite‐based electrodes
Authors: Perera Kumudu S. , Vidanapathirana Kamal P. , Adams Lewis J. , Balakrishnan Nilanthy
Published: December 2023

Supercapacitors are at the forefront of energy storage devices due to their ability to fulfill quick power requirements. However, safety and cost are important parameters for their real‐world applications. Green materials‐based electrodes and electrolytes can make them safer and cost‐effective. Herein, a supercapacitor based on a methyl‐grafted natural rubber/salt‐based electrolyte and natural graphite (NG)‐based electrodes are fabricated and characterized. Zinc trifluoromethanesulfonate [Zn(CF3SO3)2] is used as the salt for the electrolyte. A mixture of NG, activated charcoal, and polyvinylidenefluoride is used for electrodes. Our supercapacitor shows a single electrode specific capacitance, Csc of 4.2 Fg−1 from impedance measurement. Moreover, the capacitive and resistive features are dominant at low and high frequencies, respectively. The cyclic voltammetry test shows the dependence of Csc on the scan rate with a high value at slow scan rates. Performance of the supercapacitor during 5000 charge and discharge cycles at a constant current of 90 μA shows a rapid decrease of single electrode specific discharge capacitance at the beginning, but it starts to stabilize after about 2500 cycles. These findings are relevant to further developments of green materials‐based supercapacitors, offering opportunities to expand the functionalities of supercapacitors in green technologies.
Non‐destructive thickness measurement of optically scattering polymer films using image processing
Authors: McAllister Noah M. , Green‐Warren Robert A. , Arkhipov Maxim , Lee Jae‐Hwang , Pelegri Assimina A. , Singer Jonathan P.
Published: December 2023

We establish a sample‐ and data‐processing pipeline that allows for high‐throughput optical microscope measurement of porous films, provided they are sufficiently optically scattering. Here, self‐limiting electrospray deposition (SLED) is used to manufacture scattering films of different morphologies. This technique compensates for the scattering of the films through background subtraction of the reflection image with the transmission image. This process is implemented through a combination of an ImageJ and MATLAB data pipeline; the Canny edge‐detector is used as the image‐processing algorithm to identify the boundaries of the film. This process is verified against manually measured images; a comparative study between cross‐sectional scanning electron microscopy (where scattering effects are diminished) and optical microscopy also verifies that our optical microscopy technique can be used to consistently, non‐destructively measure film thickness regardless of film morphology. In addition, this technique can be used in combination with dense film measurements to measure film porosity.
Dynamic performance of structures with clutching inertia‐damping system: Theoretical study
Authors: Liang Qigang , Bai Xiaoyu , Yu Delei , Li Luyu , Ou Jinping
Published: December 2023

This paper addresses performance limitations in passive clutching inertia devices due to the absence of flywheel deceleration damping. A solution introducing viscous damping to serve as the flywheel deceleration mechanism is proposed, thus forming the “CIDS” (Clutching Inertia‐Damping System). The study establishes a multi‐body motion analysis model for the CIDS within a single‐degree‐of‐freedom structure. Simulations investigate the impact of control force model parameters on the computation. The impact of additional damping on structural dynamic responses and the system's relative motion is thoroughly elucidated and revealed through dynamic simulations and multi‐body motion decomposition. The “ELS” (Equivalent Linear System) is introduced for the simplified performance assessment of CIDS. Expressions for equivalent damping and inertance are derived based on the equivalence of vibration period and energy in sinusoidal steady‐state vibration. The feasibility and accuracy of ELS for assessing CIDS's performance are validated through response analyses under harmonic and seismic excitations. Notably, displacement indicators exhibit higher precision than acceleration. When subjected to seismic excitation, selecting a more suitable excitation frequency to determine the corresponding equivalent damping can enhance the accuracy of ELS. Considering the frequency dependence of equivalent damping, a frequency‐domain‐based random response evaluation method is proposed. The influence of additional rotational damping, flywheel inertia, and structural natural period on random response is evaluated and analyzed. In CIDS with similar rotational damping and inertia, its control effect is related to the excitation. In summary, this study offers a structured framework for comprehending and evaluating the performance of CIDS, offering valuable insights into its potential engineering design, applications, and analysis.
Co‐generation and GHG emission from agricultural waste based on pyrolysis/gasification: Experimental and LCA approaches
Authors: Wang Shengnan , Cheng Jiangke
Published: December 2023

In this study, co‐generation from rice straw based on pyrolysis and gasification was studied by experimental and modeling approaches. Pyrolysis experiment results show that improving pyrolysis temperature will benefit the yield of gas and bio‐oil, while reducing the yield of bio‐char. The BET (Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller) surface area of bio‐char reached a maximum of 143.26 m2/g when the temperature was increased to 550°C. For co‐generation in this study, an optimized pyrolysis temperature of 500°C was selected. With respect to gasification, air equivalence ratio (ER) largely influenced the syngas yield and composition. At ER = 0.25, the concentration of H2 and CO reached a maximum of 17.8 wt% and 16.2 wt%. Based on the experimental results, an Aspen Plus model was built to evaluate the mass and energy balance during co‐generation. Furthermore, a life cycle assessment method was used to evaluate the greenhouse gas emission during co‐generation process initialed from rice straw planting. Results show that the greenhouse gas emission intensities of the two co‐generation systems were 2.92 and 3.51 g CO2/MJ respectively, which were much lower than traditional fossil fuels.
Cooperative optimal operation of hybrid energy integrated system considering multi‐objective dragonfly algorithm
Authors: Gope Sadhan , Roy Rakesh , Sharma Sharmistha , Dawn Subhojit , Reddy Galiveeti Hemakumar
Published: December 2023

To meet the recent energy demand, hybrid energy systems (HESs) play an important role in providing more stable power as well as backup power to the grid. It is always preferable for the power system network to be operated in a secure, dependable, stable, and cost‐effective manner. The optimal power flow (OPF) problem is used to determine the ideal power system network control parameter settings. The majority of the OPF problem, fuel cost reduction is treated as an objective function, but the environmental impact of the generating is ignored. Both fuel expense and emission are treated as objective functions of the work in this case. This research describes a solution for multi‐objective optimal power flow (MOOPF) with a HES integrated conventional power system. HES in this work is made up of a wind park and a compressed air energy storage system (CAES). In this case, locational marginal pricing (LMP) is employed to determine the best location of HES in the power system. To achieve the goals of this work, the multi‐objective dragonfly algorithm (MODA) is used. The IEEE 30 bus system is used to evaluate the MODA. The MODA method findings are validated against other well‐known optimization algorithms such as the multi‐objective ant colony system (MOACS) algorithm, multi‐objective enhanced self‐adaptive differential evolution (MOESDE) algorithm, modified multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm‐based decomposition (MOEA/D), multi‐objective particle swarm algorithm (MOPOSO), and non‐dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II).
Left‐digit biases: Individual and institutional investors
Authors: Yu Jinyoung , Kim Young‐Chul , Ryu Doojin
Published: December 2023

This study examines the left‐digit bias of individual and institutional investors using the microstructural data set from a highly liquid index futures market. Both investor groups exhibit excess buying after the ask falls with a tens‐digit decrement, whereas excess selling (buying) is observed only for institutions (individuals) after the bid rises with a tens‐digit increment. Such excess buying is generally pronounced when price uncertainty is high. Institutional excess selling is evident when uncertainty is low and immediately after the market opens. While both investor groups focus on cognitive reference points, our findings imply that investors heterogeneously respond to the bias and that individuals experience investment losses as they trade on the bias.
Increasing health care providers' knowledge of tracheostomy and laryngectomy
Authors: Sykes John J. , Edwards Kaitlyn , Danan Deepa
Published: December 2023

Background

The differences between tracheostomy and total laryngectomy are frequently misunderstood by healthcare professionals. Insufficient knowledge can potentially result in life‐threatening consequences in the event of an emergent airway situation.

Methods

A seven‐question assessment of providers' anatomical knowledge and airway management was completed prior to and following a standardized one‐hour didactic lecture.

Results

Forty‐six participants completed the pre‐ and post‐assessment. There were 20 (43.5%) ENT ICU/IMC Staff (EBU), 20 (43.5%) Florida Surgical Center Staff (FSC), and 6 (13%) Anesthesia providers (Anes). Pre‐lecture score average was 44.7% across all providers, significantly improving to 83.8% post‐lecture (p < 0.001). Nursing staff from the Otolaryngology ICU, and OR staff, had significant improvement in knowledge base (p < 0.001). Anesthesia providers showed improvement, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.052).

Conclusions

Didactic lectures are a simple and low‐cost option with significant potential in improving provider knowledge on these critical topics and improve patient care by non‐otolaryngology providers.
Effects of different inhalant allergens on lung functions in adult patients with bronchial asthma
Authors: Liu Jiangbo , Qian Xuejiao , Jie Xueyan , Jiang Ping
Published: December 2023

Objective

To analyze the effects of different types of inhalant allergens on the lung functions of adult patients with bronchial asthma.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included a total of 47 adults diagnosed with bronchial asthma at the Respiratory Outpatient Department of Tianjin First Central Hospital. Patients were divided into non‐sensitized and sensitized groups based on the number of positive allergens detected and classified into four groups (the dust mite mixed group, animal dander mixed group, pollen‐mixed group, and mold mixed group) based on the type of positive allergen detected. They were tested for the serum concentration of allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) using a fluorescence immunoassay analyzer, and lung function was assessed using a pulmonary function testing machine. One‐way analysis of variance was used to compare normally distributed data, while the rank sum test was utilized for non‐normally distributed data.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in lung function indicators between these two groups (p > .05). There were statistically significant differences in forced expiratory volume in one second as a percentage of the predicted value (FEV1%pred) (p = .028), FEV1/forced vital capacity as a percentage of the predicted value; (FVC%pred) (p = .016), peak expiratory flow as a percentage of the predicted value (PEF%pred) (p = .001), forced expiratory flow at 50% of the predicted value of forced vital capacity (FEF50%pred) (p = .003), forced expiratory flow at 75% of the predicted value of forced vital capacity (FEF75%pred) (p = .023), and maximal midexpiratory flow (MM)EF75/25%pred (p = .002) among the four groups. The pollen‐mixed group had higher PEF%pred (pollen vs. animal dander, p = .067; pollen vs. dust‐mites, p = .008; pollen vs. molds, p = .001) and MMEF75/25%pred (pollen vs. animal dander, p = .048; pollen vs. dust‐mites, p = .003; pollen vs. molds, p = .001) than the other three groups. The pollen‐mixed group had higher FEF50%pred than the dust‐mites mixed group (p = .008) and molds‐mixed group (p = .001). The pollen‐mixed group had higher FEF75%pred (p = .005), FEV1%pred (p = .001), and FEV1/FVC%pred (p = .001) than the molds‐mixed group.

Conclusion

Different inhalant allergens had different effects on lung functions in adults with asthma.
Vaccination willingness, vaccine hesitancy, and estimated coverage of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine among healthcare workers in Tanzania: A call for action
Authors: Kessy Suzan Joseph , Wei Tingting , Zhou Yiguo , Zhang Wan‐Xue , Alwy Al‐Beity Fadhlun M. , Zhang Shan‐Shan , Du Juan , Cui Fuqiang , Lu Qing‐Bin
Published: December 2023

Background

The global COVID‐19 pandemic presented an immense obstacle to public health, with vaccination emerging as a crucial measure to curb transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the willingness, hesitancy, and coverage of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Tanzania and reveal their concerns about SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines and the reasons that might prevent them from getting vaccinated.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study using an anonymous online survey from October to November 2022. The multivariate logistic regression model explored the factors associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine willingness, hesitancy, and coverage.

Results

The study included 560 HCWs, with the largest group being doctors (47.9%), followed by nurses (26.9%) and other HCWs (25.2%). A total of 70.5% of HCWs reported being vaccinated against SARS‐CoV‐2. The primary driver for SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination was collective responsibility. A total of 81.4% of HCWs reported being willing to accept SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines, while 62.5% of HCWs reported vaccine hesitancy. HCWs with higher educational qualifications were likelier to take the vaccine, while the respondents aged 18–30 years had the highest SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination refusal (71.9%). We also investigated the role of HCWs as a source of information to promote COVID‐19 vaccine uptake. 79.4% of HCWs provided information and advice on SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines.

Conclusion

To increase vaccine acceptance among HCWs and the general population, targeted messaging is needed to deliver transparent information on vaccine safety, efficacy, and development.
Mechanism of Rhodiola rosea–Euonymus alatus drug pair against rheumatoid arthritis: Network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Zheng Qiu‐han , Du Lian‐yun , Zhao Ying , Zhang Zhong , Piao Song‐lan , Wang Ying‐hang , Pan Zhi
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The present study aimed to explore the potential components and mechanisms of Rhodiola rosea–Euonymus alatus drug pair (TY) that ameliorate rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

The main active components, core targets, and important pathways of TY against RA were predicted by network pharmacology analysis. The binding activity between the main active components and the core targets was verified by the molecular docking technique. Collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) rat model and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α‐induced fibroblast‐like synovial cells in human RA (HFLS‐RA) model were established, respectively. The core targets were verified by cell counting kit‐8 assay, hematoxylin eosin, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis, and the therapeutic effect of TY was evaluated.

Results

A total of 18 possible components and 34 core targets were obtained by network pharmacology, among which inflammatory response, phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinases (PI3K)‐AKT and MAPK pathways were involved in the therapeutic effect of TY on RA. The results of molecular docking showed that kaempferol and quercetin had high binding affinity to interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)9, and TNF‐α. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that TY dose‐dependently inhibited the proliferation of HFLS‐RA cells induced by TNF‐α, and significantly reduced the paw swelling and arthritis scores in CIA rats. At the same time, TY inhibited the production of inflammatory factors in CIA rat serum and TNF‐α‐induced HFLS‐RA cells. It also decreased the expression of PI3K, phospho‐protein kinase B, MMP1, MMP3, MMP9, and increased the protein and mRNA levels of tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP)1 in synovial tissue.

Conclusion

TY can inhibit the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and regulate the balance between MMPs and TIMP, thus playing a therapeutic role in RA.
Number of embryos transferred could possibly be associated with angular pregnancy in in vitro fertilization‐embryo transfer
Authors: Chen Panyu , Shao Danqi , Liu Xiaoping , Zhao Weie , Fang Cong , Li Manchao , Jia Lei
Published: December 2023

Objective

The probability of embryo implantation in an abnormal location is significantly higher in assisted reproductive technology (ART) than in natural pregnancies. Angular pregnancy is an eccentric intrauterine pregnancy with embryo implantation in the lateral superior angle of the uterine cavity. Cycle‐level factors associated with angular pregnancy in patients conceived with ART needed to be explored.

Methods

A total of 11 336 clinical pregnancies cycles were included. Angular pregnancy rate was compared among groups according to the type of embryos transferred. Among them, 53 cases of angular pregnancy and 159 cases of normal intrauterine pregnancy were screened out using propensity score matching. Risk factors of angular pregnancy were explored.

Results

The angular pregnancy rate was 0.31% (14/4572) in the day 5 blastocyst transfer group, 0.58% (39/6764) in non‐day 5 embryo transfer group, with 0.55% (29/5280) in day 3 embryo transfer and 0.67% (10/1484) in the day 6 blastocyst group, respectively. A multifactor regression analysis was performed and indicated that the number of embryos transferred was significantly associated with angular pregnancy (P = 0.031, OR, 2.23, 95% CI: 1.09–4.68).

Conclusion

Multiple embryo transfer could possibly be associated with an increased incidence of angular pregnancy in patients conceived with ART.
Recurrent ovarian cancer in Africa: Rate and associated factors at a gynecologic oncology treatment center in Ethiopia—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Demissie Legesse , Birara Malede , Tolu Lemi Belay , Sium Abraham Fessehaye
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the recurrence rate of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and associated factors in an Ethiopian tertiary setting.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on recurrent ovarian cancer at St. Paul's College Millennium Medical College (Ethiopia). Data were collected through chart review using a structured questionnaire. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze the data. Descriptive analysis, bivariate, and multivariate regression analysis were performed as appropriate. Percentages, frequencies, odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to present the results' significance.

Results

A total of 202 patients with EOC were reviewed. The recurrence rate of ovarian cancer (OC) among these patients was 86.1% (a total of 173 patients developed recurrent disease). The commonest site of recurrence was the pelvis (89.1%, 180/202) and the majority of patients with recurrence were platinum sensitive, accounting for 63.8% (129/202) of cases. Age ≥40 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 23.3, CI: 4.3–31.5), macroscopic residual disease (AOR, 5.2, CI: 1.96–17.68), and FIGO Stage III/IV (AOR, 22.11, CI: 8.3–39.13) were associated with recurrence.

Conclusion

The recurrence rate of OC in this study was higher than previous reports. Advanced age at first presentation, extent of residual disease after surgery, and FIGO Stage III and IV disease were associated with disease recurrence.
METTL14‐mediated lncRNA XIST silencing alleviates GDM progression by facilitating trophoblast cell proliferation and migration via the miR‐497‐5p/FOXO1 axis
Authors: Li Yanchuan , Liu Yanfeng , Yao Xiao , Wang Haili , Shi Ziyun , He Meiqing
Published: December 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a prevalent complication during the gestation period, has been linked to impaired proliferation and migration of trophoblasts causing placental maldevelopment. We previously found that lncRNA X‐inactive specific transcript (XIST) played an essential role in GDM progression. Here, we investigated the precise biological functions as well as the upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms of XIST in GDM. We found that XIST and forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) were conspicuously upregulated and miR‐497‐5p and methyltransferase‐like 14 (METTL14) were downregulated in the placentas of GDM patients. XIST silencing facilitated proliferation and migration and inhibited cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HG‐cultured HTR8/SVneo cells. METTL14 inhibited XIST expression through m6A methylation modification. XIST overexpression abrogated the positive effect of METTL14 overexpression on HG‐cultured HTR8/SVneo cell progression. MiR‐497‐5p and FOXO1 are downstream regulatory genes of XIST in HTR8/SVneo cells. Reverse experiments illustrated that XIST mediated HTR8/SVneo cell functions by regulating the miR‐497‐5p/FOXO1 axis. Additionally, XIST silencing augmented glucose tolerance and alleviated fetal detrimental changes in GDM rats. To conclude, METTL14‐mediated XIST silencing facilitated proliferation and migration and inhibited cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in HG‐cultured HTR8/SVneo cells via the miR‐497‐5p/FOXO1 axis, thereby alleviating GDM progression in rats.
PYGO2 increases proliferation and migration capacities through critical signaling pathways in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ardalan Moghadam Al Fatemeh , Forghanifard Mohammad Mahdi , Zarrinpour Vajiheh
Published: December 2023

Esophageal cancer, an increasingly prevalent malignancy, is a major concern for global health. The development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) involves various genetic abnormalities that affect key cell signaling pathways, including Wnt, Hh, Apoptosis, MAPK, EGFR, AKT, Notch, and EMT. Additionally, this malignancy involves some changes in the expression of long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs). The present study examines the relationship between PYGO2 gene expression and the activity of cell signaling pathways in KYSE‐30 and YM‐1ESCC cell lines. To this end, several cellular and molecular tests were performed, including cell migration, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Also, expression levels of CD133 and CD44 markers, real‐time PCR, and western blot were analyzed after inducing PYGO2 protein expression in the cells. Overexpression of the PYGO2 protein resulted in the upregulation of Wnt pathway‐related genes, leading to enhanced cell migration and proliferation and reduced apoptosis in both cell lines. Furthermore, PYGO2 gene expression induction analysis showed the correlation of several involved genes in Wnt, Hh, Apoptosis, MAPK, EGFR, AKT, and EMT pathways with various LncRNAs.
Beneficial effect of 5‐HT1b/1d agonist on Parkinson's disease by modulating glutamate and reducing deposition of α‐synuclein
Authors: Tripathi Alok Shiomurti , Fatima Needa , Tripathi Pankaj , Tripathi Rina , Alka  , Zaki Magdi E. A. , Mohapatra Lucy , Yasir Mohammad , Maurya Rahul K
Published: December 2023

The given investigation examined the neuroprotection role of 5‐HT1b/1d agonist in reserpine induced Parkinson's disease (PD) in male Wistar rats. PD was induced in rats by reserpine at 5 mg/kg ip for 3 days and thereafter the rats were provided with the following treatments for 4 days, zolmitriptan (ZLM) group (30 mg/kg ip); STD group (levodopa + carbidopa, 200 + 5 mg/kg ip); ZLM + GA group (zolmitriptan, 30 mg/kg ip and glutamic acid, 1.5 mg/kg); ZLM + DX group (zolmitriptan, 30 mg/kg ip and dextromethorphan, 20 mg/kg ip). All the groups were then assessed for cognitive and motor functions at the end of the protocol. Moreover, oxidative stress parameters and histopathological changes were observed in rats of all treatment groups. Deposition of α‐synuclein in the brain tissue was observed by silver staining. Data of this investigation revealed that motor and cognitive functions were improved in the ZLM‐treated group compared with the negative control group, which was observed to be reversed in ZLM + GA group. Treatment with ZLM ameliorated oxidative stress and histopathological changes in the brain tissue of PD rats. Further, ZLM reduced the deposition of α‐synuclein in PD rats, which reversed in ZLM + GA‐treated group. This study concludes by stating that 5‐HT1b/1d agonist can prevent neurodegeneration and reduce oxidative stress in PD rats. The probable underlying mechanism of such an effect of 5‐HT1b/1d agonist could be by regulating the deposition of α‐synuclein and reducing the expression of NMDA receptor.