bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanoparticles of CdCl2 with closed cage structures
Authors: Tenne Reshef , Popovitz‐Biro Ronit , Twersky Anton , Rosenfeld Hacohen Yaron
Published: April 2004

Nanoparticles of various layered compounds having a closed cage or nanotubular structure, designated also inorganic fullerene‐like (IF) materials, have been reported in the past. In this work IF‐CdCl2 nanoparticles were synthesized by two methods. In one technique, a high temperature evaporation and subsequent condensation of dried cadmium chloride powder was used. In the other method, electron beam irradiation of the source powder led to its recrystallization into closed nanoparticles with a nonhollow core. The two methods are shown to produce nanoparticles of different topologies. While mostly spherical nested structures are obtained from the high temperature process, polyhedra with hexagonal or elongated rectangular characters are obtained by the electron beam induced process. The analysis also shows that, while the source (dried) powder is orthorhombic cadmium chloride monohydrate, the crystallized IF cage consists of the anhydrous 3R polytype which is not stable as bulk material in ambient atmosphere. Consistent with previous observations, this study shows that the seamless structure of the IF materials can stabilize phases, which are otherwise unstable in ambient conditions.
The relationship between electron transfer rate and molecular conduction 2. The sequential hopping case
Authors: Nitzan Abraham
Published: April 2004

This note discusses the relationship between a given bridge‐assisted electron transfer rate and the corresponding zero‐bias molecular conduction of the same molecular species, in the limit where both processes occur by sequential hopping. It follows a previous publication (A. Nitzan,J. Phys. Chem. A2001,105, 2677‐2679) in which the same issue was discussed for coherent tunneling transfer.
Favre-Racouchot Syndrome
Authors: Wei Zhendong , Wang Fan , Zheng Song
Published: January 2024

This case report describes multiple solitary open black comedones located bilaterally on the malar cheeks and temples as well as yellowish, smooth-surfaced papulonodular lesions in close association with the comedones.
Prevalence of Pretreatment Testing Recommended for Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Schneeweiss Maria C. , Shay Denys , Ly Sophia , Wyss Richard , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Glynn Robert J. , Mostaghimi Arash
Published: January 2024

Importance

Laboratory testing for the presence of tuberculosis, hepatitis, and other conditions before starting most systemic immunomodulatory agents is recommended in patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases (CISD) but current testing patterns in the US are unclear.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of pretreatment testing that is recommended for patients with CISD (psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, or atopic dermatitis).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This descriptive analysis of US commercial insurance claims databases from December 31, 2002, to December 31, 2020, included adult patients with CISD (psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, or atopic dermatitis) who started an immunomodulatory agent, including methotrexate, tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors, interleukin (IL)–17Ai, ustekinumab, IL-23i, dupilumab, or apremilast.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The proportion of patients who underwent the screening tests as suggested by professional societies—including for tuberculosis, hepatitis, and liver function; complete blood cell counts; and lipid panels—were determined within 6 months before and during 2 years after treatment start.

Results

A total of 122 308 patients with CISDs (median [IQR] age, 49 [38-58] years; 63 663 [52.1%] male) starting systemic immunomodulatory treatment in the US were included. Treatment for patients with CISDs comprised methotrexate (28 684), tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors (40 965), ustekinumab (12 841), IL-23i (6116), IL-17Ai (9799), dupilumab (7787), or apremilast (16 116). Complete blood cell count was the most common test, performed in 41% (3161/7787) to 69% (19 659/28 684) of individuals before initiation across treatments. Between 11% (889/7787) and 59% (3613/6116) of patients had tuberculosis screening within 6 months before treatment, and 3% (149/4577) to 26% (1559/6097) had updated tests 1 year later. Between 13% (1006/7787) and 41% (16 728/40 965) had hepatitis panels before treatment. Low pretreatment testing levels before apremilast (15% [2331/16 116] to 45% [7253/16 116]) persisted a year into treatment (9% [816/8496] to 36% [2999/8496]) and were similar to dupilumab (11% [850/7787] to 41% [3161/7787] vs 3% [149/4577] to 25% [1160/4577]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this descriptive analysis of patients with CISDs starting systemic immunomodulatory treatment in the US, less than 60% received the recommended pretreatment testing. Additional research is required to understand whether variations in testing affect patient outcomes.
Trajectories of Postoperative Depressive Symptoms in Older Patients Undergoing Major Surgery
Authors: Cenzer Irena , Inouye Sharon K. , Raue Patrick J. , Keny Christina , Cooper Zara , Tang Victoria L.
Published: January 2024

This cohort study examines the trajectories of postoperative depressive symptoms in older patients undergoing major surgery and the differences in patient characteristics between the trajectory groups.
Utilizing Gradient Oxidized Alloys to Establish a Highly Stable Interfacial Chemical Environment for Aqueous Zinc‐ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Tiantian , Wang Yu Ao , Wang Xiaomei , Chang Mengwei , Zhang Yue , You Junhua , Hu Fang , Zhu Kai
Published: January 2024

The research on rechargeable aqueous Zinc(Zn)‐ion batteries has expanded exponentially. However, the performance of Zn anodes during cycling and their commercial application is restricted by severe corrosion and dendritic formation. In this study, a facile approach is presented to address these challenges by introducing minute quantities of Zr(NO3)4 into the 3 m ZnSO4 electrolyte. The Zr(NO3)4 additive facilitates the creation of a protective layer comprising spatial gradient oxidation alloy (GOA) particles. The insulating zirconium‐based materials provide the necessary potential gradient to induce the Zn plate under the covering film. As a proof of concept, the in situ GOA coating anode exhibits exceptional cycling stability for 8000 cycles and an ultralow hysteresis voltage of 41 mV at current density of 5 mA cm−2. Furthermore, Density Functional Theory analyses reveal that the GOA coating anode homogenizes the electric field surrounding the Zn anode surface providing abundant zincophilic sites for Zn nucleation compared to bare Zn plates. This ensures uniform Zn deposition, preventing dendritic growth. In addition, the in situ characterization and computation of Gibbs free energy (ΔGH*) reveal that the GOA coating anode may effectively suppress the hydrogen evolution reaction.
High‐performance Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production Using Asymmetric Quantum Dots
Authors: Wang Kanghong , Wang Chao , Tao Yi , Tang Zikun , Benetti Daniele , Vidal François , Liu Yu , Rummeli Mark H. , Zhao Haiguang , Rosei Federico , Sun Xuhui
Published: January 2024

Solar‐driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) reactions using colloidal quantum dots (QDs) as photoabsorbers have shown great potential for the production of clean fuels. However, the low H2 evolution rate, consistent with low values of photocurrent density, and their limited operational stability are still the main obstacles. To address these challenges, the heterostructure engineering of asymmetric capsule‐shaped CdSe/CdxZn1‐xSe QDs with broad absorption and efficient charge extraction compared to pure‐shell QDs is reported. By engineering the shell composition from pure ZnSe shells into CdxZn1‐xSe gradient shells, the electron transfer rate increased from 4.0 × 107 s−1 to 32.7 × 107 s−1. Moreover, the capsule‐shaped architecture enables more efficient spatial carrier separation, yielding a saturated current density of average of 25.4 mA cm−2 under AM 1.5 G one sun illumination. This value is the highest ever observed for QDs‐based devices and comparable to the best‐known Si‐based devices, perovskite‐based devices, and metal oxide‐based devices. Furthermore, PEC devices based on heterostructured QDs maintained 96% of the initial current density after 2 h and 82% after 10 h under continuous illumination, respectively. The results represent a breakthrough in hydrogen production using heterostructured asymmetric QDs.
Hepatic Stellate Cell‐Targeting Micelle Nanomedicine for Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhou Jieying , Wang Jian , Wang Xiaotang , Dong Haijuan , Zhao Lingzhi , Wu Junchen , Peng Juanjuan
Published: January 2024

Diagnosing and treating liver fibrosis is a challenging yet crucial endeavor due to its complex pathogenesis and risk of deteriorating into cirrhosis, liver failure, and even hepatic cancer. Herein, a silica cross‐linked micelles (SCLMs) based nano‐system is developed for both diagnosing and treating liver fibrosis. The SCLMs are first modified with peptide CTCE9908 (CT‐SCLMs) and can actively target CXCR4, which is overexpressed in activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). To enable diagnosis, an ONOO−‐responded near‐infrared fluorescent probe NOF2 is loaded into the CT‐SCLMs. This nano‐system can target the aHSCs and diagnose the liver fibrosis particularly in CCl4‐induced liver damage, by monitoring the reactive nitrogen species. Furthermore, a step is taken toward treatment by co‐encapsulating two anti‐fibrosis drugs, silibinin and sorafenib, within the CT‐SCLMs. This combined approach results in a significant alleviation of liver injury. Symptoms associated with liver fibrosis, such as deposition of collagen, expression of hydroxyproline, and raised serological indicators show notable improvement. In summary, the CXCR4‐targeted nano‐system can serve as a promising theragnostic system of early warning and diagnosis for liver fibrosis, offering hope against progression of this serious liver condition.
Autoantigen‐Dexamethasone Conjugate‐Loaded Liposomes Halt Arthritis Development in Mice
Authors: Benne Naomi , ter Braake Daniëlle , Porenta Deja , Lau Chun Yin Jerry , Mastrobattista Enrico , Broere Femke
Published: January 2024

There is no curative treatment for chronic auto‐inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, and current treatments can induce off‐target side effects due to systemic immune suppression. This work has previously shown that dexamethasone‐pulsed tolerogenic dendritic cells loaded with the arthritis‐specific antigen human proteoglycan can suppress arthritis development in a proteoglycan‐induced arthritis mouse model. To circumvent ex vivo dendritic cell culture, and enhance antigen‐specific effects, drug delivery vehicles, such as liposomes, provide an interesting approach. Here, this work uses anionic 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoglycerol liposomes with enhanced loading of human proteoglycan‐dexamethasone conjugates by cationic lysine tetramer addition. Antigen‐pulsed tolerogenic dendritic cells induced by liposomal dexamethasone in vitro enhanced antigen‐specific regulatory T cells to a similar extent as dexamethasone‐induced tolerogenic dendritic cells. In an inflammatory adoptive transfer model, mice injected with antigen‐dexamethasone liposomes have significantly higher antigen‐specific type 1 regulatory T cells than mice injected with antigen only. The liposomes significantly inhibit the progression of arthritis compared to controls in preventative and therapeutic proteoglycan‐induced arthritis mouse models. This coincides with systemic tolerance induction and an increase in IL10 expression in the paws of mice. In conclusion, a single administration of autoantigen and dexamethasone‐loaded liposomes seems to be a promising antigen‐specific treatment strategy for arthritis in mice.
Diffusion‐Optimized Long Lifespan 4.6 V LiCoO2: Homogenizing Cycled Bulk‐To‐Surface Li Concentration with Reduced Structure Stress
Authors: Wu Kang , Ran Peilin , Wang Baotian , Wang Fangwei , Zhao Jinkui , Zhao Enyue
Published: January 2024

Increasing the charging cut‐off voltage (e.g., 4.6 V) to extract more Li ions are pushing the LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode to achieve a higher energy density. However, an inhomogeneous cycled bulk‐to‐surface Li distribution, which is closely associated with the enhanced extracted Li ions, is usually ignored, and severely restricts the design of long lifespan high voltage LCO. Here, a strategy by constructing an artificial solid–solid Li diffusion environment on LCO's surface is proposed to achieve a homogeneous bulk‐to‐surface Li distribution upon cycling. The diffusion optimized LCO not only shows a highly reversible capacity of 212 mA h g−1 but also an ultrahigh capacity retention of 80% over 600 cycles at 4.6 V. Combined in situ X‐ray diffraction measurements and stress‐evolution simulation analysis, it is revealed that the superior 4.6 V long‐cycled stability is ascribed to a reduced structure stress leaded by the homogeneous bulk‐to‐surface Li diffusion. This work broadens approaches for the design of highly stable layered oxide cathodes with low ion‐storage structure stress.
The high‐pressure response of trans‐cinnamic acid crystals studied by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Marinopoulou Anna , Christopoulou Vasiliki , Karabinaki Olga , Christofilos Dimitris , Arvanitidis John
Published: January 2024

The pressure response of crystalline trans‐cinnamic acid is studied by means of Raman spectroscopy up to 6 GPa. Pressure application causes the reversible shift of all the observed Raman peaks to higher frequencies and changes in their relative intensities, with the intermolecular vibrational modes being by far more sensitive to pressurization compared to the intramolecular ones. The present high‐pressure Raman data indicate the structural stability of the trans‐cinnamic acid crystal and molecular conformation up to the highest pressure attained in the experiments, the importance of the hydrogen bonding, as well as the considerable strengthening of the intermolecular interactions at elevated pressures.
Pnictocatalysis
Authors: Garnes‐Portolés Francisco , Congost‐Escoin Pau , Abellán Gonzalo , Leyva‐Pérez. Antonio
Published: January 2024

2D materials based on Group 15 elements (pnictogens) have appeared during the last ten years, with a rich surface chemistry characterized by a plethora of dangling electron pairs, ready to interact with outer molecules. These molecular interactions enable catalytic properties beyond any external electro‐ or photo‐stimulus. In analogy with carbocatalysis, defined as thermal catalytic processes over extended carbon surfaces (graphene, nanotubes, etc.), we propose here the term “pnictocatalysis”, defined as thermal catalytic processes over extended pnictogen surfaces (which include phospho‐, arsene‐, antimony‐ and bismuth‐catalysis). Pnictocatalysis consitutes a new field in catalysis, with unexplored latent reactions to be encountered. In this minireview, we show the few examples found to date (not more than ten), which mark the pathway to find new pnictocatalyzed reactions, not exclusive with two‐dimensional (2D) materials but also with other pnictogen nanostructures.
Porous Transport Photoelectrodes Fabricated on Felt Substrates and Applications to Polymer Electrolyte Photoelectrochemistry
Authors: Amano Fumiaki , Surya Rizki Marcony , Singh Surya Pratap
Published: January 2024

Photoelectrochemistry is used to develop solar energy technologies for fuel production and chemical transformations. Semiconductor materials such as TiO2, WO3, BiVO4, Fe2O3, and Cu2O are often investigated in devices designed to convert light energy into chemical energy, including for the production of hydrogen by photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. The oxide electrodes are of significant interest due to their potential for efficient PEC reactions with high durability and their relatively low costs compared to other semiconductor materials. This review highlights the roles played by macroporous photoelectrodes in the development of highly efficient photoelectrodes and advanced PEC systems using polymer electrolytes. Three‐dimensional conductive fiber substrates, such as titanium felt and carbon paper, outperform their two‐dimensional counterparts owing to their larger interfacial areas that enhance PEC properties. The macroporous structures facilitate mass‐transport‐limited reactions when integrated with polymer electrolytes in membrane electrode assemblies. Such configurations are promising for PEC splitting of pure water, and for transforming gaseous molecules such as water vapor, volatile organic compounds, and methane. Optimizing the configuration, including electrode materials selection and ionomer‐coating treatment, can potentially improve the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane PEC cells. Porous transport photoelectrodes integrated with proton/anion‐exchange membranes offer significant opportunities for advanced PEC applications.
A high temperature resistance and hyper‐dispersed nanoparticle grafted by multi‐monomer via in‐situ polymerization: Preparation, characterization, and its imbibition performance
Authors: Yue Lei , Zhang Mian , Zuo Ting , Yang JiaHui , Zhou YiNing
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the excellent cleaning‐oil capacity of nanofluid has attracted extensive attention and it has been widely used in oilfields as an imbibition agent. To solve the poor dispersion stability of nanoparticles in high‐temperature and high‐salt reservoir, this paper has prepared a hyper‐dispersed nanoparticle, polymer grafted nanosilica (PNS) that is anti‐salt monomer and anti‐temperature monomer simultaneously grafting on the surface of nanosilica via in‐situ polymerization reaction. Its imbibition performance has been discussed. Results show that (1) The two monomers are all successfully grafted on the surface of nanosilica via optimization of in‐situ polymerization reaction conditions. This hyper‐dispersed nanoparticle has 14.5% final grafting rate, approximately 18 nm in particle size, and −41.2 mV of zeta potential; (2) PNS fluid has excellent dispersion stability and its grain size has no obvious change in 20 wt.% of NaCl or 4 wt.% of CaCl2 fluids at room temperature (25°C), as well as in 18 wt.% of NaCl or 4 wt.% of CaCl2 fluids at 130°C after 1 week; (3) Crude oil–water interface tension can be decreased and the hydrophilicity is significantly boosted by this PNS fluid. Meanwhile, the 10−3 mN/m of interface tension can be obtained and the contact angle of water phase is decreased to 12.8° by surfactant erucamide propyl hydroxysulfobetaine (EHSB) synergizing with PNS fluid; (4) Oil recovery efficiency replaced by PNS in surfactant fluid has reached 39.3%. That is mainly because the hyper‐dispersed nanoparticle provides a stronger spreading force to enhance the efficiency of cleaning oil.
Decision tree‐based task offloading in vehicle edge computing
Authors: Tay Muhammet , Şentürk Arafat
Published: January 2024

There are significant developments in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) field, and the requirements needed in this area are increasing rapidly. When these needs are examined in the near future, it appears that the demand for connected, autonomous, shared, and electric vehicles will increase. Therefore, fundamental problems such as big data flow and storage will arise in the IoV field. Another problem is the delay sensitivity of IoVs and the need to minimize data loss. The use of edge computing (EC) tools can play an important role in obtaining effective solutions to overcome these problems. Delay, bandwidth, and energy consumption rate, which are important qualities in EC systems, emerge as a problem that needs to be improved for delay‐sensitive systems. These improvements belong to the category of nonlinear challenging problems. Effective optimization or machine learning methods can be used to improve these types of problems. In this study, a two‐stage machine learning method is proposed for a more efficient task completion rate and service time. According to the proposed method, in the first stage, the decision tree algorithm is used to select the computing tool to which the task will be sent, and the decision is made on which computing tool to send it to. In the second stage, a linear regression‐based classification method is used to select a delay‐sensitive computing tool. The performance analysis of the proposed method was made using the edgeCloudSim simulation tool, and according to the results obtained, the proposed method provides better results than other algorithms in the literature.
Synthesis and characterization of mesoporous zinc oxide nanoparticles and evaluation of their biocompatibility in L929 fibroblasts
Authors: Jowkar Zahra , Moaddeli Ali , Shafiei Fereshteh , Tadayon Tara , Hamidi Seyed Ahmadreza
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to synthesize and characterize mesoporous zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and also to evaluate the cytotoxicity of mesoporous ZnO NPs on L929 mouse fibroblast cell lines using 3‐(4,5‐ dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

Materials and Methods

The synthesized mesoporous ZnO NPs were extensively characterized using X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectra (EDAX), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The cytotoxicity of mesoporous ZnO NPs was assessed by MTT assay. The study groups for cytotoxicity assay were normal saline, 0.1% calcined mesoporous ZnO NP solution, 1% calcined mesoporous ZnO NP solution, 0.1% noncalcined mesoporous ZnO NP solution, 1% noncalcined mesoporous ZnO NP solution, 0.1% ZnO NP solution, 1% ZnO NP solution, 2% chlorhexidine, and phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). The percentages of mean ± standard deviation of viable cells were analyzed.

Results

Characterization of mesoporous ZnO NPs revealed that all the particles were in a more or less spherical shape with a wide particle size distribution of 70–100 nm. TEM image showed the uniformed and aggregated ZnO NPs with a typical size of 10–15 nm. BET analysis showed a mesoporous structure for the prepared mesoporous ZnO NPs. According to the MTT assay, chlorhexidine had the lowest cell viability percentage. Cell viability percentages of 0.1% mesoporous ZnO NP solutions (calcined and noncalcined) were statistically, significantly higher than 0.1% ZnO NP solution (p < .05). Cell viability percentages of 0.1% calcined and noncalcined mesoporous ZnO NP solutions and 0.1% ZnO NP solution were statistically, significantly higher than the 1% solutions (p < .05).

Conclusion

Mesoporous ZnO NPs exhibited less cytotoxicity against L929 mouse fibroblast cell lines compared to CHX and ZnO NPs, hence are safe to use.
The impact of sociodemographic determinants and diabetes type‐2 on oral health outcomes: An analytical cross‐sectional study
Authors: Alkahtani Ashwaq , Anderson Paul , Baysan Aylin
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study compared adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and those without diabetes (ND) from East London in terms of sociodemographic characteristics, oral health behaviors, dietary practices, and alcohol and tobacco‐related habits.

Materials and Methods

A total of 182 participants (n = 91 for each group) were recruited and requested to complete the validated questionnaire with 33 items.

Results

Results showed that the mean ± SD age was 61 ± 11.7 in the T2DM, while 51 ± 11.2 in the ND group. The mean ± SD age at T2DM diagnosis was 43 ± 10. There was a significant gender difference, with more males in the T2DM group (67.7%) and more females in the ND group (64.8%). Asian‐British (38.4%) were significantly high in the T2DM group when compared to other ethnicities. 92.3% of T2DM participants were significantly more likely to use medications in comparison to the ND group (29.7%). The T2DM participants' personal statements on general health were fair (34%) and good (46.2%) when compared with the ND group (15.4% and 59.3%, respectively). The majority of T2DM and ND participants (98%) lacked dental insurance. In the T2DM group, 31.8% were receiving benefits, and 39.5% were retired, while 46% of the ND group were full‐time employees. Tooth brushing twice a day was slightly less common in T2DM (68%) when compared to the ND group (78%). Nearly half of the participants in both groups failed to carry out interdental cleaning (T2DM = 52%; ND = 47%), and 38.5% of the T2DM group used mouthwash occasionally, while 30% of the ND group had it twice daily. There was a weak association between chewing paan and annual income in ND participants (r = .90, p = .49). There were significant differences in the presence of removable prostheses, juice, and sweetened juice consumptions between the two groups (p < .05).

Conclusion

Within the confines of this study, being male, Asian British, retired due to disability, polypharmacy, and the presence of removable prostheses were all significant factors for T2DM.
Ole Miss student employment program delivers more than a job
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2024

When students become employed in the campus recreation department at the University of Mississippi, they sign on for much more than just a job. And that's thanks to Peter Tulchinsky, Ed.D., who launched the student employment professional competency program when he became Director of Campus Recreation at Ole Miss in September 2014.
Pilot study on the filling rate of parallel AA‐MBBR fillers in plateau areas
Authors: Peng Xianpai , Zong Yongchen , You Junhao , Wang Jun , Fu Chunhui , Ji Jiaao , Zhang Dongyan
Published: January 2024

Comparative analysis of the effects of different filling rates of polypropylene filler on the operational effectiveness, microbial abundance and diversity, and metabolism of the AA‐MBBR system for the treatment of domestic wastewater. The results showed that under the condition of the optimal filling rate of 40%, the average removal rates of BOD5, COD, NH3‐N, TN, and TP in the AA‐MBBR system were 93.63%, 90.02%, 81.25%, 80.07%, and 74.51%, respectively, and the effluent COD was 143.05 mg/L and the effluent NH3‐N was 37.03 mg/L; the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in the AA‐MBBR system with the optimal fill rate was 595, which was higher than 10%, 20%, 30%, and 50%, and it was also found that the relative abundance of denitrifying bacteria (DNB) and polyphosphate bacteria (Paos) increased with the increase of biofilm fill rate, DNB increased by about 32.9% at TCL (fill rate) 40 compared to TCL10, Paos increased by about 21.6% at TCL30 compared to TCL10. the AA‐MBBR system with a fill rate of 40% showed better pollutant removal than the other systems with other fill rates The bacterial diversity was higher than that of the systems with other filling rates.
Experimental study on rock strata movement and stope stress distribution law under mining height regulation
Authors: Shi Zhanshan , Zhao Hanwei , Qin Bing , Liang Bing , Hao Jianfeng
Published: January 2024

When pressure relief mining of a non‐all‐coal protective layer, to realize the accurate regulation of the pressure relief range and pressure release value of mining height, it is necessary to carry out research on the migration of overburden and the stress distribution law of stope under mining height control. Through similar material simulation experiments, four groups of similar material simulation experimental models were established. The laws of rock strata movement and stress distribution at 2, 4, and 5 m mining heights under different geological conditions, and the laws of rock strata movement and stress distribution at 5 and 8 m mining heights under the same geological conditions were obtained. The research results show that the geological conditions and mining height do not affect the evolution of the rock strata movement range. The highest position of the strata movement and deformation is linearly related to the advancing distance of the coalface. The maximum height of rock strata movement increases abruptly when encountering the key strata, but it still has a linear relationship. The highest position of each expansion of the fracture zone has an exponential relationship with the advancing distance of the coalface. When the key strata are encountered, the maximum height of the fracture zone increases abruptly. The change in mining height only affects the distribution range of the “three zones.” The mining height controls the stress distribution of stope by adjusting the “three zones” of the roof. With the increase in mining height, the caving zone and fracture zone range increase. The corresponding pressure relief range and pressure relief value show the change law of first increasing and then decreasing. There is an optimal mining height, which can make the pressure relief effect of stope best.
The convenience yield under commodity financialization
Authors: Milonas Nikolaos T. , Photina Evangelia K.
Published: January 2024

A number of papers have dealt with commodity financialization finding strong evidence for its existence and its effect on commodity prices and volatility. We chose convenience yield (CY) to study the effect of commodity financialization based on the theory of storage and on the argument that CY resembles a call option. Using quarterly data in the period 1995–2018, on soybeans stocks, cash and futures prices, a dynamic Autoregressive Distributed Lag with Exogenous model is estimated to measure the effects of independent variables from both the financial and commodity markets on CY. The evidence reveals that financial markets volatility along macroeconomic global variables affect soybeans CY giving support to the existence of commodity financialization. Besides, we find a statistically significant and negative relation between volatility index and CY. Support for this evidence rests on the theory of storage, Real Option Analysis, and behavioral finance.
Early coronary angioplasty fails to lower all‐cause mortality in patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest without ST‐segment elevation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rashid Khalid , Waheed Muhammad Aamir , Ansar Farrukh , Makram Abdelrahman M. , Hasan Ahmedyar , Ahmed Shahab , Khan Saad Tariq , Ubaid Aamer , Ibad Ahmad Al , Basri Rabia , Makram Omar Mohamed , Khan Yahya , Rashad Nabhan , Elzouki Abdelnaser
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is defined as the loss of functional mechanical activity of the heart in association with an absence of systemic circulation, occurring outside of a hospital. Immediate coronary angiography (CAG) with percutaneous coronary intervention is recommended for OHCA with ST‐elevation. We aimed to evaluate the effect of early CAG on mortality and neurological outcomes in OHCA patients without ST‐elevation.

Methods

This meta‐analysis and systemic review was conducted as per principles of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis (PRISMA) group. A protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, Ref No. = CRD42022327833). A total of 674 studies were retrieved after scanning several databases (PubMed Central, EMBASE, Medline, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials).

Results

A total of 18 studies were selected for the final analysis, including 6 randomized control trials and 12 observational studies. Statistically, there was no significant difference in primary outcome, i.e., mortality, between early and delayed CAG. In terms of the grade of neurological recovery as a secondary outcome, early and delayed CAG groups also showed no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion

Early CAG has no survival benefits in patients with no ST elevations on ECG after OHCA.
Evaluation of optimal interpolation and segmentation of the optic nerves on magnetic resonance images for cross‐sectional area measurement
Authors: Chow Li Sze , Paley Martyn N. J. , Hickman Simon J.
Published: January 2024

This study investigated nine combination methods produced from three interpolation (Lanczos, iterative curvature based interpolation, and contrast‐guided) and three segmentation (spatial fuzzy C‐means, modified fuzzy C‐means [mFCM], and level set method) models from optic nerve magnetic resonance images (MRI). The aim was to produce sharp edges of the optic nerves for cross‐sectional area measurement. Lanczos‐mFCM was identified as the best combination in terms of: image quality; Dice similarity coefficient; a similar area compared with measurements from raw images but with higher reproducibility; and the highest signal‐to‐noise and contrast‐to‐noise ratios. It was then applied to ten normal datasets. The mean cross‐sectional areas were 12.57 ± 1.92mm2from proton density images, 12.98 ± 2.18mm2from T2‐weighted (T2W) images including the optic nerve sheath, and 1.68 ± 0.69mm2from the T2W images of the optic nerve only. The Lanczos‐mFCM method is recommended for future quantitative studies on optic nerve MRI.
Therapeutic strategies for drug‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Zhan Yujuan , Hu Huiting , Yu Ying , Chen Cuimei , Zhang Jingwen , Jarnda Kermue Vasco , Ding Ping
Published: January 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is a widely prevalent opportunistic pathogen. Multiple resistant strains of PA have emerged from excessive or inappropriate use of antibiotics, making their eradication increasingly difficult. Therefore, the search for highly efficient and secure novel antimicrobial agents is crucial. According to reports, there is an increasing exploration of nanometals for antibacterial purposes. The antibacterial mechanisms involving the nanomaterials themselves, the release of ions, and the induced oxidative stress causing leakage and damage to biomolecules are widely accepted. Additionally, the study of the cytotoxicity of metal nanoparticles is crucial for their antibacterial applications. This article summarizes the types of metal nanomaterials and metal oxide nanomaterials that can be used against PA, their respective unique antibacterial mechanisms, cytotoxicity, and efforts made to improve antibacterial performance and reduce toxicity, including combination therapy with other materials and antibiotics, as well as green synthesis approaches.
Zirconia–sugarcane bagasse fly ash as a novel solid acid nanocatalyst for selective dehydration of methanol to dimethyl ether
Authors: Abd El‐Aal Mohamed , Goda Mohamed N. , Abd El‐Wahab Mohamed M. M. , El‐Gamal Nadia O. , Said Abd El‐Aziz A.
Published: January 2024

In the current study, two series of catalysts were synthesized and characterized by various physicochemical techniques. In the first series of catalysts, a chemical precipitation method was used for loading 1–20 wt. % ZrO2 on the surface of sugarcane bagasse fly ash (SCBFA) with the goal of finding out the optimal ZrO2 loading. In the second series, the 20% ZrO2/SCBFA composition was modified by (1–10 wt. %) SO42− by wet impregnation method. The acidity of these catalysts was determined through the dehydration of isopropyl alcohol and the chemisorption of pyridine and 2,6‐dimethyl pyridine. The catalytic efficiency for the dehydration of methanol to dimethyl ether (DME) in a fixed‐bed reactor at atmospheric pressure was investigated. A ~ 95% yield toward DME is maximized over the 10% SO42−/20% ZrO2/SCBFA catalyst at a reaction temperature of 400°C. Additionally, it maintained nearly the same efficiency over a 90‐h period and demonstrated outstanding long‐term stability. The specific surface area and the acidity are the most important factors responsible for enhancing the catalytic performance in this reaction. Our study reflects that SCBFA‐supported zirconia and that modified with SO42− are low‐cost, effective, eco‐friendly, and recyclable catalysts that are highly suited to apply for production of DME from methanol.
Tumour tissue‐derived small extracellular vesicles reflect molecular subtypes of bladder cancer
Authors: Dong Liang , Feng Mingxiao , Kuczler Morgan D. , Horie Kengo , Kim Chi‐Ju , Ma Zehua , Lombardo Kara , Lyons Heather , Amend Sarah R. , Kates Max , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , McConkey David , Xue Wei , Choi Woonyoung , Pienta Kenneth J.
Published: January 2024

mRNA‐based molecular subtypes have implications for bladder cancer prognosis and clinical benefit from certain therapies. Whether small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) can reflect bladder cancer molecular subtypes is unknown. We performed whole transcriptome RNA sequencing for formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tumour tissues and sEVs separated from matched tissue explants, urine and plasma in patients with bladder cancer. sEVs were separated using size‐exclusion chromatography, and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, nano flow cytometry and western blots, respectively. High yield of sEVs were obtained using approximately 1 g of tissue, incubated with media for 30 min. FFPE tumour tissue and tumour tissue‐derived sEVs demonstrated good concordance in molecular subtype classification. All urinary sEVs were classified as luminal subtype, while all plasma sEVs were classified as Ba/Sq subtype, regardless of the molecular subtypes indicated by their matched FFPE tumour tissue. The comparison within urine sEVs, which may exclude the sample type specific background, could pick up the different biology between NMIBC and MIBC, as well as the signature genes related to molecular subtypes. Four candidate sEV‐related bladder cancer‐specific mRNA biomarkers, FAM71E2, OR4K5, FAM138F and KRTAP26‐1, were identified by analysing matched urine sEVs, tumour tissue derived sEVs, and adjacent normal tissue derived sEVs. Compared to sEVs separated from biofluids, tissue‐derived sEVs may reflect more tissue‐ or disease‐specific biological features. Urine sEVs are promising biomarkers to be used for liquid biopsy‐based molecular subtype classification, but the current algorithm needs to be modified/adjusted. Future work is needed to validate the four new bladder cancer‐specific biomarkers in large cohorts.
Serum hepatitis B virus spliced RNA proportion increases with liver disease progression in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Lu Xingyu , Li Wanying , Deng Rui , Zhou Bin , Yu Rui , Hou Jinlin , Shen Sheng , Sun Jian , Liu Shi
Published: January 2024

Serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) spliced RNAs (spRNAs) are ubiquitous in HBV‐infected patients; however, their clinical significance remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to explore the relationship between HBV spRNAs and liver disease progression in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients; in vitro cell line assessment was also performed. The serum HBV wild‐type RNA (wtRNA) and spRNA levels were individually quantified in a cohort of 279 treatment‐naïve, hepatitis B e antigen positive CHB patients with or without cirrhosis. The spRNA proportion was determined as (spRNA × 100%)/(spRNAs + wtRNA). 20 patients' serum samples underwent spRNA species profiling using next‐generation sequencing. Serum spRNA species 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 were the most common variants. The spRNA proportion varied from 0.00% to 19.02%, with higher levels in HBV genotype C patients than in those with genotype B (1.76% vs. 0.84%, p < 0.001). The spRNA proportion was positively associated with the alanine aminotransferase levels (r = 0.144, p = 0.053) and significantly higher in cirrhotic than in non‐cirrhotic patients (1.69% vs. 1.04%, p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed a 2.566‐fold higher risk of cirrhosis in patients with elevated spRNA proportion (p = 0.024). In vitro experiments confirmed that spRNAs contributed to hepatic stellate cell activation, which is critical in liver fibrosis development. Therefore, increased HBV spRNA expression poses a risk for liver disease progression. Quantifying serum HBV spRNAs can aid in monitoring liver disease progression. Furthermore, the therapeutic targeting of spRNAs may improve the prognosis of patients with CHB.
Genetic characteristics involved in COVID‐19 severity. The CARGENCORS case‐control study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Camps‐Vilaró Anna , Pinsach‐Abuin Mel·lina , Degano Irene R. , Ramos Rafel , Martí‐Lluch Ruth , Elosua Roberto , Subirana Isaac , Solà‐Richarte Clàudia , Puigmulé Marta , Pérez Alexandra , Vilaró Ingrid , Cruz Raquel , Diz‐de Almeida Silvia , Nogues Xavier , Masclans Joan R. , Güerri‐Fernández Roberto , Marin Judith , Tizon‐Marcos Helena , Vaquerizo Beatriz , Brugada Ramon , Marrugat Jaume
Published: January 2024

Pre‐existing coronary artery disease (CAD), and thrombotic, inflammatory, or virus infectivity response phenomena have been associated with COVID‐19 disease severity. However, the association of candidate single nucleotide variants (SNVs) related to mechanisms of COVID‐19 complications has been seldom analysed. Our aim was to test and validate the effect of candidate SNVs on COVID‐19 severity. CARGENCORS (CARdiovascular GENetic risk score for Risk Stratification of patients positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 [COVID‐19] virus) is an age‐ and sex‐matched case‐control study with 818 COVID‐19 cases hospitalized with hypoxemia, and 1636 controls with COVID‐19 treated at home. The association between severity and SNVs related to CAD (n = 32), inflammation (n = 19), thrombosis (n = 14), virus infectivity (n = 11), and two published to be related to COVID‐19 severity was tested with adjusted logistic regression models. Two external independent cohorts were used for meta‐analysis (SCOURGE and UK Biobank). After adjustment for potential confounders, 14 new SNVs were associated with COVID‐19 severity in the CARGENCORS Study. These SNVs were related to CAD (n = 10), thrombosis (n = 2), and inflammation (n = 2). We also confirmed eight SNVs previously related to severe COVID‐19 and virus infectivity. The meta‐analysis showed five SNVs associated with severe COVID‐19 in adjusted analyses (rs11385942, rs1561198, rs6632704, rs6629110, and rs12329760). We identified 14 novel SNVs and confirmed eight previously related to COVID‐19 severity in the CARGENCORS data. In the meta‐analysis, five SNVs were significantly associated to COVID‐19 severity, one of them previously related to CAD.
Nutritional status and feeding difficulties in children up to 2 years of age with cow's milk allergy
Authors: Dziechciarz Piotr , Stróżyk Agata , Horvath Andrea , Cudowska Beata , Jedynak‐Wąsowicz Urszula , Mól Nina , Jarocka‐Cyrta Elżbieta , Zawadzka‐Krajewska Anna , Krauze Agnieszka
Published: January 2024

Background/Objectives

To assess the nutritional status and incidence of feeding difficulties in Polish children up to 2 years of age with cow's milk allergy (CMA) on cow's milk proteins‐free diet.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, multi‐center study included children aged 6 months to 2 years with confirmed or suspected (without oral food challenge) diagnosis of CMA on the elimination diet for at least 1 month. The primary outcomes were an assessment of proportion of children with impaired nutritional status (with the weight for length and body mass index (BMI) z‐score > 1 and <−1), and feeding difficulties according to the Montreal Children's Hospital Feeding Scale. Children with confirmed and suspected CMA were assessed separately.

Results

A 144 children with confirmed CMA and 88 with suspected CMA were included (57 and 78% with multiple food allergies, respectively). Among children with confirmed CMA, one‐third (35.5%) of participants had any nutritional status impairment regardless of definition. Among those, most of children had mild malnutrition (10.4 vs. 9%) and possible risk of overweight (11.1 vs. 9.7%; following respectively BMI for age and weight for length z‐scores). Only 16.0% of children had feeding difficulties. Feeding difficulties was identified to be a risk factor for moderate malnutrition compared to children without feeding difficulties (odds ratio 10, 95% confidence interval: 4−27).

Conclusions

Mild malnutrition and possible risk of overweight are concern in children up to 2 years of age on cow's milk proteins‐free diet. Feeding difficulties are less common, however, may affect the nutritional status.
Sustainable business models: Researchers as design thinkers for problem‐driven research
Authors: Bastian Bob , Caputo Andrea
Published: January 2024

In this article, which has an exploratory, conceptual nature, we discuss the challenges for sustainable business model (SBM) practitioners to include a broader range of stakeholders in developing value‐creation logic. This is of relevance as it is not clear how the process of enrolling stakeholders to create value unfolds for SBMs. We argue that researchers should be included as key stakeholders and propose using design thinking as an approach for engagement to co‐create sustainable business solutions. By incorporating design thinking, researchers and practitioners can collaborate on addressing sustainable problems in their business model to improve mutual understanding about the problem‐solution evolution. Including researchers also helps contextualize and align sustainable business model research to design practical testing of solutions. We illustrate this with a model representing the cognitive process of co‐creation between researchers and practitioners in SBM design.
Effect of mixed fermentation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus on phytochemical and flavor characteristics of Wallace melon juice
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Zhong Yu , Wang Danfeng , Deng Yun , Li Yuncheng , Liu Cong , Wang Ji‐Li‐Te
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Melons (Cucumis melo L.) are among the most commonly consumed fruits but they are highly susceptible to mechanical damage and rot during storage and transportation. New processed products are needed to avoid postharvest fruit loss and to increase health benefits. Fermentation is an effective means of utilizing the nutrients and improving flavor.

RESULTS

Fermented melon juice (MJ) was prepared using three potential probiotics Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CICC21824 (LP), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GB3‐2 (LG), and Lactiplantibacillus pentosus XZ‐34 (LX). The nutrition, flavor characteristics, and digestive properties of different fermented MJs were compared. The results demonstrated that, in comparison with mono‐fermentation, mixed fermentation by LG and LX could increase the level of organic acids and phenolic acids. Correspondingly, antioxidant capacity was improved significantly and positively correlated with p‐coumaric acid and cinnamic acid content. The production of alcohols and acids was more strongly enhanced by mixed culture fermentation, whereas mono‐fermentation reduced the content of esters, especially ethyl acetate and isopropyl acetate. Aldehydes and ketones increased significantly in fermented MJ, and damascenone and heptanal could be the characteristic aroma compounds.

CONCLUSION

Mixed fermented MJ provides more beneficial phytochemicals, better flavor, and stronger antioxidant properties than mono‐fermentation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.