bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Origin of Strain Effects on Sulfur Redox Electrocatalyst for Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhao Chenghao , Huang Yang , Jiang Bo , Chen Zhaoyu , Yu Xianbo , Sun Xun , Zhou Hao , Zhang Yu , Zhang Naiqing
Published: December 2023

Introducing strain is considered an effective strategy to enhance the catalytic activity of host material in lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSB). However, the introduction of strain through chemical methods often inevitably leads to changes in chemical composition and phase structure, making it difficult to truly reveal the essence and root cause of catalytic activity enhancement. In this paper, strain into MoS2 is introduced through a simple heat treatment and quenching. Experimental research and theoretical analysis show that the strain raises parts of antibonding orbitals in Mo─S bonds above the Fermi level and weakens Li─S and S─S bonds, resulting in tight anchoring and accelerating the conversion for lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). The cells based on the MoS2 with high strain delivers an initial discharge specific capacity as high as 1265 mAh g−1 under 0.2 C and a low average capacity fading of 0.041% per cycle during 1500 cycles under 1 C. This research work deeply reveals the origin of strain effects in the reaction process of LSB, providing important design principles and references for the rational design of high‐performance catalytic materials in the future.
Hole Transporting Bilayers for Efficient Micrometer‐Thick Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yueming , Akel Samah , Klingebiel Benjamin , Kirchartz Thomas
Published: December 2023

Achieving high efficiencies in halide perovskite solar cells with thicknesses >1 µm is necessary for developing perovskite‐Si tandem cells based on small pyramidal structures. To achieve this goal, not only is the perovskite layer quality to be optimized but also the properties of the charge‐transport layers must be tuned to reduce charge‐collection losses. The transport layers provide a non‐ohmic resistance that modulates the Fermi‐level splitting inside the perovskite absorber. The finite conductivity of the transport layers can lead to losses in the fill factor (FF) and short‐circuit current, even at infinite charge‐carrier mobility in the absorber layer. These losses notably scale with the absorber layer thickness, which implies that higher‐conductivity transport layers are required for thicker perovskite absorbers. One strategy to improve charge collection and thereby FFs in thick inverted perovskite solar cells is to use bilayers of hole‐transport layers. In this study, the combination of poly[bis(4‐phenyl) (2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] with self‐assembled monolayers provides the best photovoltaic performance in single‐junction devices.
An In situ Proton Filter Covalent Organic Framework Catalyst for Highly Efficient Aqueous Electrochemical Ammonia Production
Authors: Ranjeesh Kayaramkodath C. , Kaur Sukhjot , Mohammed Abdul K. , Gaber Safa , Gupta Divyani , Badawy Khaled , Aslam Mohamed , Singh Nirpendra , Skorjanc Tina , Finšgar Matjaž , Raya Jésus , Nagaiah Tharamani C. , Shetty Dinesh
Published: December 2023

The electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) driven by renewable electricity provides a green synthesis route for ammonia (NH3) production under ambient conditions but suffers from a low conversion yield and poor Faradaic efficiency (F.E.) because of strong competition from hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the poor solubility of N2 in aqueous systems. Herein, an in situ proton filter covalent organic framework catalyst (Ru‐Tta‐Dfp) is reported with inherent Ruthenium (Ru) sites where the framework controls reactant diffusion by suppressing proton supply and enhancing N2 flux, causing highly selective and efficient catalysis. The smart catalyst design results in a remarkable ammonia production yield rate of 2.03 mg h−1 mgcat−1 with an excellent F.E. of ≈52.9%. The findings are further endorsed with the help of molecular dynamics simulations and control COF systems without in situ proton filter feasibility. The results point to a paradigm shift in engineering high‐performance NRR electrocatalysts for more feasible green NH3 production.
Exploring the characteristics and health outcomes of working from home: Analysis of 2021 California Health Interview Survey data
Authors: Park Sungwon , Park Chang Gi , Hong OiSaeng
Published: December 2023

Background

Working from home (WFH) may affect health behaviors and mental health. The coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic saw many US employees transition to WFH, which has persisted in various job sectors and significantly impacted employees. However, its effects on health outcomes have remained unclear. We aimed to explore the characteristics and health outcomes of, and health‐related differences between, WFH and not‐WFH groups.

Methods

Using the 2021 California Health Interview Survey data, we analyzed health behaviors (smoking, alcohol consumption, and fruit‐related nutrition) and the mental health status of 12,438 individuals using descriptive statistics, Pearson's χ2 test, and regressions.

Results

A total of 39% were WFH and 61% were not‐WFH. Overall, the WFH group had worse health behaviors and mental health than the not‐WFH group. Age was associated with smoking in both groups (WFH: b = 0.37; not‐WFH: b = 0.35), but with fruit‐related nutrition only in the WFH group. Household income and occupation were associated with alcohol consumption in both groups. Age (WFH: b = −1.58; not‐WFH: b = −1.39), household income (WFH: b = −0.75; not‐WFH: b = −0.34), and job duration (WFH: b = −0.34; not‐WFH: b = −0.40) were associated with mental health in both groups; those who were younger and had lower household incomes and job durations had worse mental health.

Conclusion

Health management is a clear necessity for the WFH group. Irrespective of WFH status, young workers with shorter than 5 years' job duration reported mental distress, highlighting a need for distress assessment and management for the young workforce.
Point‐of‐care ultrasound to diagnose acute cholecystitis in the emergency department: A scoping review
Authors: Joyce Alexander , Snelling Peter J , Elsayed Tarek , Keijzers Gerben
Published: December 2023

Introduction/Purpose

Ultrasound is the first‐line imaging modality for suspected acute cholecystitis. This can be radiology‐performed ultrasound or point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS). POCUS can potentially streamline patient assessment in the emergency department (ED). The primary objective was to evaluate the literature for the diagnostic accuracy of POCUS performed for acute cholecystitis in the ED. Secondary objectives were to assess the effect of POCUS operator training on diagnostic accuracy for acute cholecystitis, utility of POCUS measurement of the common bile duct and POCUS impact on resource utilisation.

Methods

A systematic scoping review of articles was conducted using Medline, Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL. Original studies of adults with POCUS performed for the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis in the ED were included. The study was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist (PRISMA‐ScR).

Results

A total of 1090 publications were identified. Forty‐six met the eligibility criteria. Studies were thematically grouped into categories according to specified objectives. Point‐of‐care ultrasound was of acceptable but variable accuracy, contributed to by the absence of a consistent reference standard and uniform training requirements. It may positively impact ED resource utilisation through reduced ED length of stay and radiology‐performed imaging, whilst improving patient experience.

Conclusion

This review highlights the heterogeneity of existing research, emphasising the need for standardisation of training and reference standards in order to precisely define the utility of POCUS for acute cholecystitis in the ED and its benefits on ED resource utilisation.
Disparate Dementia Risk Factors Are Associated with Cognitive Impairment and Rates of Decline in African Americans
Authors: Lachner Christian , Craver Emily C. , Babulal Ganesh M. , Lucas John A. , Ferman Tanis J. , White Richard O. , Graff‐Radford Neill R. , Day Gregory S.
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate the frequency of modifiable dementia risk factors and their association with cognitive impairment and rate of decline in diverse participants engaged in studies of memory and aging.

Methods

Modifiable dementia risk factors and their associations with cognitive impairment and cognitive decline were determined in community‐dwelling African American (AA; n = 261) and non‐Hispanic White (nHW; n = 193) participants who completed ≥2 visits at the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer Disease Research Center in Jacksonville, Florida. Risk factors and their associations with cognitive impairment (global Clinical Dementia Rating [CDR] ≥ 0.5) and rates of decline (CDR Sum of Boxes) in impaired participants were compared in AA and nHW participants, controlling for demographics, APOE ɛ4 status, and Area Deprivation Index.

Results

Hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, and diabetes were overrepresented in AA participants, but were not associated with cognitive impairment. Depression was associated with increased odds of cognitive impairment in AA (odds ratio [OR] = 4.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.13–8.67) and nHW participants (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.21–6.44) but uniquely associated with faster decline in AA participants (β = 1.71, 95% CI = 0.69–2.73, p = 0.001). Fewer AA participants reported antidepressant use (9/49, 18%) than nHW counterparts (57/78, 73%, p < 0.001). Vitamin B12 deficiency was also associated with an increased rate of cognitive decline in AA participants (β = 2.65, 95% CI = 0.38–4.91, p = 0.023).

Interpretation

Modifiable dementia risk factors are common in AA and nHW participants, representing important risk mitigation targets. Depression was associated with dementia in AA and nHW participants, and with accelerated declines in cognitive function in AA participants. Optimizing depression screening and treatment may improve cognitive trajectories and outcomes in AA participants. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:518–529
FXTAS Neuropathology Includes Widespread Reactive Astrogliosis and White Matter Specific Astrocyte Degeneration
Authors: Dufour Brett D. , Bartley Trevor , McBride Erin , Allen Erik , McLennan Yingratana A. , Hagerman Randi J. , Martínez‐Cerdeño Verónica
Published: December 2023

Objective

Fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a late‐onset progressive genetic neurodegenerative disorder that occurs in FMR1 premutation carriers. The temporal, spatial, and cell‐type specific patterns of neurodegeneration in the FXTAS brain remain incompletely characterized. Intranuclear inclusion bodies are the neuropathological hallmark of FXTAS, which are largest and occur most frequently in astrocytes, glial cells that maintain brain homeostasis. Here, we characterized neuropathological alterations in astrocytes in multiple regions of the FXTAS brain.

Methods

Striatal and cerebellar sections from FXTAS cases (n = 12) and controls (n = 12) were stained for the astrocyte markers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1L1 (ALDH1L1) using immunohistochemistry. Reactive astrogliosis severity, the prevalence of GFAP+ fragments, and astrocyte density were scored. Double label immunofluorescence was utilized to detect co‐localization of GFAP and cleaved caspase‐3.

Results

FXTAS cases showed widespread reactive gliosis in both grey and white matter. GFAP staining also revealed remarkably severe astrocyte pathology in FXTAS white matter – characterized by a significant and visible reduction in astrocyte density (−38.7% in striatum and − 32.2% in cerebellum) and the widespread presence of GFAP+ fragments reminiscent of apoptotic bodies. White matter specific reductions in astrocyte density were confirmed with ALDH1L1 staining. GFAP+ astrocytes and fragments in white matter were positive for cleaved caspase‐3, suggesting that apoptosis‐mediated degeneration is responsible for reduced astrocyte counts.

Interpretation

We have established that FXTAS neuropathology includes robust degeneration of astrocytes, which is specific to white matter. Because astrocytes are essential for maintaining homeostasis within the central nervous system, a loss of astrocytes likely further exacerbates neuropathological progression of other cell types in the FXTAS brain. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:558–575
Photocatalytic Production of Ethanolamines and Ethylenediamines from Bio‐Polyols over a Cu/TiO2 Catalyst
Authors: Liu Meijiang , Li Hongji , Zhang Jian , Liu Huifang , Wang Feng
Published: December 2023

Valorization of biomass‐derived polyols into high‐value‐added ethanolamines and ethylenediamines is highly attractive. Herein, we report a one‐step photocatalytic protocol to convert bio‐polyols into a 60 % yield of ethanolamines and ethylenediamines over a multifunctional Cu/TiO2 catalyst. This catalyst enables a tandem process of photocatalytic polyol C−C bond cleavage and reductive amination in one pot at room temperature, and also allows the selective conversion of various bio‐polyols and amines. Mechanistic studies revealed that photogenerated holes in TiO2 promote the retro‐aldol C−C bond cleavage or oxidative dehydrogenation of polyols, and photogenerated electrons accumulate on small‐sized Cu clusters, which facilitate the reductive amination via hydrogen transfer and prevent the H2 generation. This strategy provides new opportunities for the development of non‐noble metal photocatalysts and methods of biomass conversion under mild conditions.
Defluorinative Alkylboration of Alkenes Enabled by Dual Photoredox and Copper Catalysis
Authors: Fan Yanmin , Huang Zhonghou , Lu Yi , Zhu Shengqing , Chu Lingling
Published: December 2023

A regioselectivity reversed three‐component defluorinative alkylboration of alkenes with trifluoromethyls and bis(pinacolato)diboron via dual photoredox/copper catalysis is reported. The mild conditions are compatible with a wide array of nonactivated trifluoromethyl aromatics bearing electron‐donating or electron‐neutral substituents, trifluoroacetamides, and various nonactivated terminal and internal alkenes, enabling straightforward access to synthetically valuable γ‐gem‐difluoroalkyl boronates with high efficiency. Furthermore, this protocol is applicable to alkene‐tethered trifluoromethyl aromatics to furnish gem‐difluoromethylene‐containing cyclic compounds. Synthetic applications and preliminary mechanistic studies are also presented.
Carbonyl Olefin Metathesis and Dehydrogenative Cyclization of Aromatic Ketones and gem‐Difluoroalkenes
Authors: Zhang Yunxiao , Wang Jiaxin , Guo Youyuan , Liu Shanshan , Shen Xiao
Published: December 2023

The beauty of one‐pot cascade reaction lies in the efficient disconnection and construction of several bonds in a single reaction flask, without the isolation of any intermediates. Herein, we report the first photoinduced thermally promoted cascade reactions of readily available aromatic ketones and aromatic gem‐difluoroalkenes for the synthesis of phenanthrenes which possess potential utility in drug design and materials science. The reaction combines carbonyl‐olefin metathesis (cascade photoinduced [2+2] cyclization and thermally controlled retro [2+2] cyclization) and dehydrogenative cyclization (cascade photoinduced conrotatory 6π electrocyclization and collidine‐promoted dehydrogenative aromatization) together in one pot. The oxidant‐free, acid‐free and metal‐free reaction shows broad substrate scope and wide functional group tolerance.
Catalytic HF Shuttling between Fluoroalkanes and Alkynes**
Authors: Farley Shannon E. S. , Mulryan Daniel , Rekhroukh Feriel , Phanopoulos Andreas , Crimmin Mark R.
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we report BF3 ⋅ OEt2 as a catalyst to shuttle equivalents of HF from a fluoroalkane to an alkyne. Reactions of terminal and internal aliphatic alkynes led to formation of difluoroalkane products, while diarylalkynes can be selectively converted into fluoroalkenes. The method tolerates numerous sensitive functional groups including halogen, protected amine, ester and thiophene substituents. Mechanistic studies (DFT, probe experiments) suggest the catalyst is involved in both the defluorination and fluorination steps, with BF3 acting as a Lewis acid and OEt2 a weak Lewis base that mediates proton transfer. In certain cases, the interconversion of fluoroalkene and difluoroalkane products was found to be reversible. The new catalytic system was applied to demonstrate proof‐of‐concept recycling of poly(vinylidene difluoride).
Removing atrazine herbicide from water with an efficient metal–organic framework
Authors: Algethami Faisal K. , Abdelrahman Ehab A. , Abou El‐Reash Yasmeen G. , Shahat Ahmed
Published: December 2023

Metal–organic framework (MOF) synthesis has been studied for over 50 years, yet its use in adsorbing herbicides is still under investigation. This study examined the effects of amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) on the adsorption and removal of atrazine (AZ). The novel amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) nanoadsorbent has been completely characterized after and before the adsorption process using Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy‐dispersive X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of the novel amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) nanoadsorbent before and after five‐time reuse were 1222 and 1038 m2/g, respectively. The amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) nanoadsorbent was found to have the greatest adsorption capacity (qmax) of 321.55 mg/g. Variables such as herbicide concentration, pH, adsorbent dosage, and temperature that affect the adsorption process have been investigated. It was found that the ideal conditions for high adsorption capacity were pH 4 and a dose of 0.02 g. The adsorption isotherm and the kinetic isotherm were fitted to the Langmuir equation and the pseudo‐second‐order equation, respectively. The chemisorption mechanism was identified as the driving force. According to adsorption thermodynamics, the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The quantities of AZ adsorbed grew along with the temperature. The amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) nanoadsorbent can be reused up to five times with no change in its chemical composition and identical results from XRD before and after reuse. The mechanism of interaction by which the amino‐MIL‐101(Fe) interacted with the AZ has been represented.
Combination of Oridonin and Chlorin e6 with the metal–organic frameworks MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL for tumor chemo‐photodynamic therapy
Authors: Liao Shilang , Cai Mengru , Zhu Rongyue , Fu Tingting , Yin Dongge , Du Yuji , Zhang Yongqiang , Kong Jiahui , Ni Jian , Yin Xingbin
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a metal–organic skeleton material MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL was prepared for loading the chemotherapeutic drug Oridonin (Ori) and photosensitizer Chlorin e6 (Ce6). A drug delivery system for synergistic chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy was constructed. At the same time, we evaluated MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL as a drug therapy carrier, including drug loading, cytotoxicity, and safety, verified the photodynamic efficiency of MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL@Ori@Ce6 in vitro, and studied the ability of MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL@Ori@Ce6 cancer cells to produce reactive oxygen species, cell uptake, cytotoxicity, and so on. Experiments have confirmed that MIL‐101‐NH2‐AL, as a nano‐carrier, encapsulated Oridonin and Ce6, the combination of PDT and chemotherapy showed enhanced tumor inhibition and high biosafety. The killing effect on cells was caused by reactive oxygen species produced by photosensitizers and apoptosis of tumor cells induced by Oridonin. The drug delivery system demonstrates enormous potential for synergistic anti‐tumor effects of photodynamic and chemotherapy.
Influence of aluminum nanoparticles in epoxy resin and epoxy coating for anticorrosion and antibacterial protection in pipeline industry
Authors: Samardžija Marina , Stojanović Ivan , Kurtela Marin , Alar Vesna
Published: December 2023

In the present work, the effect of aluminum nanoparticles inside epoxy resin and epoxy paint for the purpose of extending the service life of drainage pipes. The nanocomposite samples were analyzed with scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x‐ray analysis (EDX) to evaluate the dispersion of nanoparticles. Performed quantitative tests including electrochemical techniques, such as the method of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) to determine impedance resistance on macro and micro levels. The antibacterial resistance of the nanocomposite samples was tested in the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis. All nanocomposite samples show an improvement in the measurement of impedance resistances and an increase in antibacterial effect by about 60% compared to the sample without nanoparticles.
Agarose‐sodium alginate hydrogel beads enhanced with zeolitic imidazolate frameworks/multiwalled carbon nanotubes nanoparticles for efficient adsorption and selective separation of methylene blue
Authors: Fu Chunli , Zhou Meng , Fu Heqing
Published: December 2023

The urgent problem to solve is how to design a kind of green and porous adsorbent that can effectively remove dye pollutants in the field of the sewage treatment. The objectives of this investigation are to incorporate zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) particles in situ onto the surface of multiwalled carbon tubes (MWCNTs) and integrate them into an agarose‐sodium alginate (ASA) double network hydrogel. The resulting composite hydrogel beads, denoted as MWCNTs/ZIF‐8/ASA (MZASA), are synthesized using calcium ion crosslinking. The addition of agarose is employed to create a dual‐crosslinked hydrogel, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties of the ASA hydrogel. By incorporating MWCNTs/ZIF‐8 nanoparticles, the surface area of the MZASA hydrogel is augmented, leading to an enhancement in dye adsorption capacity. In batch sorption mode, the maximum absorbency of the resulting hydrogel beads for methylene blue (MB) is 493.799 mg/g, which was a third greater than that of pure SA beads. Absorption of MB obeys the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, suggesting monolayer chemisorption adsorption. Analysis of the thermodynamics proves that the entire adsorption process is exothermic and spontaneous. Moreover, the MZASA hydrogel beads show high selectivity for cationic dyes in the mixed dye test. Hence, the synthesized MZASA hydrogel beads serve as a highly effective, innovative, and reusable adsorbent for eliminating cationic dyes from water‐based solutions.
In situ flow state characterization of molten resin at the inner mold in injection molding
Authors: Zhao Nanyang , Liu Junfeng , Bi Mingcheng , Xu Zhongbin , Zhou Jing , Ding Jisong , Wu Qiong
Published: December 2023

Online viscosity information on processing lines can reflect the material flow resistance and offer valuable guidance for manufacturing across various industries. Considering the accuracy, devices, and processes involved in injection molding, characterizing the melt's flow state during material processing poses a significant challenge. To reduce investment in viscometers, avoid influencing the components' surface aesthetics due to the installation of sensors, and make the flow state detect online in mold, this study designs a rheometric mold with cylindrical runners for identifying the in situ viscosity of molten resin during injection molding. The detection conditions of injection speed and cavity pressure variations, the entrance effect, and the viscous dissipation for Polycarbonate are analyzed under various conditions. The in situ viscosity is identified and compared with the standard cross‐WLF model. The result shows that the melt velocity and cavity pressure variations during the filling process create a stable environment for in situ rheological characterization and the detected viscosity is related to the shear rate, melt temperature, and channel dimension in injection molding. The designed mold with cylindrical runners for determining the in situ thermal‐rheological behavior of polymer is distinguished successfully and exhibits prospects for the development of low‐cost, nondestructive, and inner‐mold measurement in manufacturing applications.
Ensuring asset safety abroad: A vital imperative for nonprofit board members
Authors: Konrad Scott
Published: December 2023

A lapse in duty of care can spell disaster for any nonprofit.
Physical frailty deteriorates after a 5‐day dexamethasone course in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, results of a national prospective study
Authors: Verwaaijen Emma J. , van Hulst Annelienke M. , Hartman Annelies , Pieters Rob , Fiocco Marta , Pluijm Saskia M. F. , van Litsenburg Raphaële R. L. , Grootenhuis Martha A. , van den Akker Erica L. T. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Dexamethasone is important in the treatment for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) but induces muscle atrophy with negative consequences for muscle mass, muscle strength, and functional abilities. The aim of this study was to establish the effect of a dexamethasone course on sarcopenia and physical frailty in children with ALL, and to explore prognostic factors.

Methods

Patients with ALL aged 3–18 years were included during maintenance therapy. Patients had a sarcopenia/frailty assessment on the first day of (T1) and on the day after (T2) a 5‐day dexamethasone course. Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle strength in combination with low muscle mass. Prefrailty and frailty were defined as having two or ≥three of the following components, respectively: low muscle mass, low muscle strength, fatigue, slow walking speed, and low physical activity. Chi‐squared and paired t‐tests were used to assess differences between T1 and T2. Logistic regression models were estimated to explore patient‐ and therapy‐related prognostic factors for frailty on T2.

Results

We included 105 patients, 61% were boys. Median age was 5.3 years (range: 3–18.8). At T1, sarcopenia, prefrailty, and frailty were observed in respectively 2.8%, 23.5%, and 4.2% of patients. At T2, the amount of patients with frailty had increased to 17.7% (p = 0.002), whereas the number of patients with sarcopenia and prefrailty remained similar. Higher ASMM (odds ratio [OR]: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.28–0.83), stronger handgrip strength (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22–0.77) and more physical activity minutes per day (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–0.99) decreased the risk of frailty at T2. Slower walking performance (OR: 2, 95% CI: 1.2–3.39) increased the risk. Fatigue levels at T1 were not associated with frailty at T2.

Conclusion

Physical frailty increased strikingly after a 5‐days dexamethasone course in children with ALL. Children with poor physical state at start of the dexamethasone course were more likely to be frail after the course.
‘Like I'd been listened to without actually saying words’: Picturing the nurturer in compassion‐focused therapy
Authors: Crone Rachel Louise , Brown Richard James , Bell Tobyn
Published: December 2023

Objective

A core component of compassion‐focussed therapy (CFT) is imagery. This study aimed to explore the experiences of ‘compassionate other’ imagery practice in individuals with social anxiety.

Method

Eight individuals were interviewed about their experiences of the imagery practice as part of CFT in NHS primary care services, and interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Three group experiential themes were identified as follows: uncovering obstacles and resistances, revealing compassionate other qualities and imagery as a vehicle to self‐discovery.

Conclusions

The results highlighted not only the challenges in developing and utilising an imaginal caring figure but also the benefits of self‐discovery, specifically in terms of identifying unmet emotional needs. Links between the themes and processes underpinning the results are explored in relation to the existing theories and literature. Clinical implications and suggestions for further research are also discussed.
Preemptive inotuzumab ozogamicin eradicated measurable residual disease in Ph‐negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia relapsed post CD19 CART therapy
Authors: Huang Si‐Man , Wan Chao‐Ling , Cao Han‐Yu , Li Yan‐Yan , Qian Chong‐Sheng , Zhou Hai‐Xia , Xu Ming‐Zhu , Hu Xiao‐Hui , Dai Lan , Dai Hai‐Ping , Xue Sheng‐Li
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

There are no reports of application of inotuzumab ozogamicin (InO) for the treatment of MRD in r/r B‐ALL. We firstly report the efficacy of InO for a patient experienced morphological relapse after HSCT and molecular relapse after CART therapy.
Bilateral endogenous Candida albicans endophthalmitis following COVID‐19 infection and intravenous antibiotics use: A case report
Authors: Wu Shuang , Wang Cunbo , Zhang Yanbing
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Endogenous fungal endophthalmitis tends to occur in immunocompromised patients, including COVID‐19 infection. For high‐risk populations, timely tissue biopsy, fungal culture, and susceptibility testing can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, thereby improving the prognosis.

While endogenous fungal endophthalmitis is a rare condition, its incidence has recently been on the rise. A 48‐year‐old male presented with complaints of acute visual loss in his right eye for 2 weeks. He had a history of COVID‐19 infection, confirmed by a positive nucleic acid test, and was treated with intravenous antibiotics and glucocorticoids a week before the episode. A comprehensive eye examination revealed significant inflammatory cells floating in the anterior chamber and considerable cloudiness in the vitreous of the right eye, while few vitreous cells were visualized in the left eye. After pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) was performed in the right eye, a vitreous biopsy revealed an intravitreal infection of Candida albicans, which was susceptible to fluconazole. Endogenous fungal endophthalmitis occurs in patients with various underlying systemic conditions, such as those with diabetes, organ transplantation recipients, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, users of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, AIDS patients, and those engaged in intravenous drug use. In high‐risk populations associated with intravenous antibiotics, the timely identification of one or more well‐defined oval yellow‐white chorioretinal lesions, especially in the posterior pole of the retina, can contribute to an early diagnosis through tissue biopsy, fungal culture, and susceptibility testing. This approach enables targeted antifungal therapy, thereby improving the prognosis of visual function for the patient.
Unexpected coccidioidomycosis presenting as lung nodules with presumptive diagnosis of malignancy
Authors: Cai Jennifer , Sin David , Tomassetti Sarah
Published: December 2023

Key clinical message

Coccidioidomycosis can present as fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avid lung nodules which may be mistaken as relapse in patients with a history of malignancy. Detailed clinical history, relevant laboratory testing, and/or tissue biopsy with histologic evaluation are necessary for correct diagnosis.
Fluorescence color change of supramolecular polymer networks controlled by crown ether‐cation recognition
Authors: Han Weiwei , Tian Hailan , Qiang Taotao , Wang Hu , Wang Pi
Published: December 2023

We report a fluorescent supramolecular polymer networks (SPNs) system based on crown ether‐cation recognition. The polymer side chains bear ammonium cations, which can be recognized by host molecules with a B15C5 unit and a quinoline group at each end. The quinoline group makes the host molecule exhibit blue fluorescence. After the formation of SPNs, the recognition of the crown ether‐cation transforms the blue fluorescence into yellow fluorescence. The accompanying fluorescence color change during the formation of SPNs makes it with potential applications in the fields of display, printing, information storage, and bioimaging.
Molecular Nanoarchitectonics of Natural Photosensitizers and Their Derivatives Nanostructures for Improved Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Li Xiaochen , Liu Yilin , Wu Lili , Zhao Jie
Published: December 2023

Natural photosensitizers (PSs) and their derivatives have drawn ever‐increasing attention in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for their wild range of sources, desirable biocompatibility, and good photosensitivity. Nevertheless, many factors such as poor solubility, high body clearance rate, limited tumor targeting ability, and short excitation wavelengths severely hinder their applications in efficient PDT. In recent years, fabricating nanostructures by utilizing molecular assembly technique is proposed to solve these problems. This technique is easy to put into effect, and the assembled nanostructures could improve the physical properties of the PSs so as to meet the requirement of PDT. In this concept, we focus on the construction of natural PSs and their derivatives nanostructures through molecular assembly technique to enhance PDT efficacy (Figure 1). Furthermore, current challenges and future perspectives of natural PSs and their derivatives for efficient PDT are discussed.
Immunotherapy: Advancing glioblastoma treatment—A narrative review of scientific studies
Authors: Tiwari Sagun , Han Zhenxiang
Published: December 2023

Background

Glioblastoma (GB) is an aggressive and deadly brain tumor with a poor prognosis despite the current standard of care, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Recent Findings

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the potential of immunotherapies, seen to be effective in treating other cancers, in the treatment of GB. This comprehensive review presents an in‐depth analysis of the remarkable progress of immunotherapy in GB treatment, focusing on human clinical studies. It also analyzes the current findings, challenges, and limitations that underscore the transformative potential of immunotherapy in managing GB. Of particular significance, it delves into the intriguing interaction of the human microbiome with immunotherapy as a novel avenue for enhancing treatment outcomes of GB.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the complex GB therapy landscape and the cutting‐edge strategies that show promise for enhancing patient prognosis.
Building a metric of color reproduction difference by combining multiple observers in a modular online experiment
Authors: High Gregory , Nussbaum Peter , Green Phil
Published: December 2023

A web‐hosted online experiment was previously developed to find the visual difference between four reproduction gamuts using direct magnitude estimation (Proc. IS&T 29th Color and Imaging Conf, 2021:317–322). In order to increase the size of the data set, but without overburdening observers, a modular approach was adopted. The original methodology was therefore extended across 10 linked sub‐experiments to make comparisons between some 36 gamuts, which were designed to exhibit a variety of different gamut shapes, contrast ratios, and substrate colors within the constraints of a desktop display. In addition to each set of test images, a common normalization set was included in all sub‐experiments in order to adjust each observer's choice of modulus to a global average observer, and thus combine the results into a larger data set. Finally, an interval scale was inferred from the normalized magnitude data using a categorical judgment approach to calculate scale values. The fitted data revealed a power function close to a square‐root between the interval and magnitude scales.
Comparative physiological and transcriptomic analysis of two contrasting soybean genotypes reveals complex mechanisms involved in drought avoidance
Authors: Li Shengyou , Yan Chunjuan , Cao Yongqiang , Wang Changling , Sun Xugang , Zhang Lijun , Wang Wenbin , Song Shuhong
Published: December 2023

To overcome drought stress in soybean (Glycine max), it is strategically vital to improve drought resistance. Yet, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for drought resistance remain poorly defined. Here, we present comparative physiological and transcriptome analyses in seedlings of two contrasting genotypes, drought‐resistant (DR) L14 and drought‐sensitive (DS) L21 in response to polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐induced drought stress. Each genotype was subjected to 20% PEG along with control (0% PEG) in a greenhouse, and the leave samples were collected to determine the physiological traits and transcriptome profiling. With the accumulation of abscisic acid (ABA) under drought stress, the DR genotype exhibited higher water retention capability and slow‐wilting phenotype compared to DS genotype. As nonsignificant changes in oxidative damages and antioxidant defenses, overcoming drought stress in DR genotype was facilitated by drought avoidance rather than drought tolerance. There were 1567 and 4029 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified in the DR and DS genotypes, respectively. The DEGs were mostly enriched in photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, cell wall organization, and signaling pathways, which were less affected in DR genotype. However, most of the leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases (LRR‐RLKs) were uniquely downregulated in DS genotype but uniquely upregulated in DR genotype by drought stress. By protein–protein interaction network analysis and whole genome resequencing, six LRR‐RLKs were considered the potential candidate genes for drought avoidance. We suggested that these LRR‐RLKs may play a critical role in promoting ABA‐induced stomatal closure through enhancing ABA sensitivity, but this hypothesis needs further validation. Taken together, these findings could provide in‐depth insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms associated with drought avoidance and facilitate the breeding of drought‐resistant soybean cultivars.
Development of a strategy deployment framework combining corporate sustainability and operational excellence
Authors: Roche Katharina E. , Baumgartner Rupert J.
Published: December 2023

Operations management requires models, methods and tools that integrate both sustainability and operational excellence to support organizations in implementing long‐term sustainability. The purpose of this research is to provide a strategy deployment framework integrating both corporate sustainability and operational excellence. The research approach includes an explorative literature review, providing a background on operational excellence, sustainability, and hoshin kanri, a special form of strategy deployment. Comprehensive frameworks for both strategy deployment (hoshin kanri) and sustainability (Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development) were used as a foundation and adapted towards a strategy deployment framework linking sustainability with operational excellence. This was done by integrating both frameworks and by including operational excellence enablers. The resulting framework illustrates how strategic sustainability goals can be aligned and deployed within businesses. This research contributes towards supporting corporations in their efforts in becoming sustainable businesses and serves as a theoretical base for future research.
Charcot neuroarthropathy in persons with diabetes: It's time for a paradigm shift in our thinking
Authors: Wukich Dane K. , Frykberg Robert G. , Kavarthapu Venu
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to review the recent literature regarding the epidemiology and surgical management of Charcot neuro‐osteoarthropathy (CNO). We propose that a fundamental change in the approach and assumptions regarding the historical treatment of active CNO should be considered. Although the true incidence and prevalence of CNO in the US population with diabetes are not known, we estimated the incidence to be 27,602 per year and the prevalence to be 208,880 persons. In persons with diabetes, the incidence of CNO is higher than that of prostate, lung, kidney, and thyroid cancer, and in the entire US population, the incidence of CNO is higher than that of multiple myeloma, soft tissue sarcoma, and primary bone sarcoma. In persons with diabetes, the incidence of CNO is higher than fractures of the femoral shaft, distal femur, tibia, talus, calcaneus and Lisfranc ligament injuries. Surgical techniques have evolved over the past half century, and surgery is the standard for treating displaced fractures and intra‐articular injuries. Since CNO is a fracture, dislocation, or fracture dislocation in patients with neuropathy, why do we treat CNO differently? Elsewhere in the skeleton displaced osseous and ligament injuries are treated surgically. Based on the information presented in this manuscript, we suggest that it is time for a paradigm shift in the treatment of persons with CNO. While uncommon, CNO in persons with diabetes is not rare. Given the advances in surgical techniques, surgical intervention should be considered earlier in persons with CNO who are at risk for developing deformity related foot ulceration.
Longitudinal cardiovascular health measured by life's essential 8 metrics with incident diabetes: A 13‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Tian Xue , Chen Shuohua , Xu Qin , Xia Xue , Zhang Yijun , Zhang Xiaoli , Wang Penglian , Wu Shouling , Wang Anxin
Published: December 2023

Aims

To investigate the associations of baseline and longitudinal cardiovascular health (CVH) measured by ‘Life's Essential 8’ (LE8) metrics with the risk of diabetes in Chinese people with normoglycaemia or prediabetes.

Materials and Methods

A total 86,149 participants without diabetes were enroled from the Kailuan study and were stratified by baseline glycaemic status (normoglycaemia or prediabetes). Cardiovascular health score ranged from 0 to 100 points was categorised into low (0–49), middle (50–79), and high (80–100) CVH status. Cox regressions were used to assess the associations of baseline and time‐updated CVH status with incident diabetes in the overall cohort and across baseline glycaemic statuses.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 12.94 (interquartile rage: 12.48–13.16) years, we identified 13,097 (15.20%) cases of incident diabetes. Baseline and time‐updated high CVH status was associated with a lower risk of diabetes, the corresponding hazard ratio (HR) versus low CVH status was 0.27 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.23–0.31) and 0.26 (95% CI, 0.23–0.30) in the overall cohort, respectively. Additionally, the effect of high CVH on diabetes was more prominent in participants with normoglycaemia than those with prediabetes (P < 0.0001), with an HR of 0.26 (95% CI, 0.22–0.31) versus 0.50 (95% CI, 0.41–0.62) for baseline CVH, and 0.25 (95% CI, 0.21–0.30) versus 0.39 (95% CI, 0.32–0.48) for time‐updated CVH.

Conclusions

Elevated baseline and longitudinal CVH score assessed by LE8 metrics is associated with a lower risk of subsequent diabetes, especially in normoglycaemic adults.
Nonmuscular Troponin‐I is required for gastrulation in sea urchin embryos
Authors: Kamata Mai , Taniguchi Yuri , Yaguchi Junko , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Yaguchi Shunsuke
Published: December 2023

Background

Gastrulation is one of the most important events in our lives (Barresi and Gilbert, 2020, Developmental Biology, 12th ed.). The molecular mechanisms of gastrulation in multicellular organisms are not yet fully understood, since many molecular, physical, and chemical factors are involved in the event.

Results

Here, we found that one of muscle components, Troponin‐I (TnI), is expressed in future gut cells, which are not muscular cells at all, and regulates gastrulation in embryos of a sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus. When we block the function of TnI, the invagination was inhibited in spite that the gut‐cell specifier gene is normally expressed. In addition, blocking myosin activity also induced incomplete gastrulation.

Conclusion

These results strongly suggested that TnI regulates nonmuscular actin–myosin interactions during sea urchin gastrulation. So far, Troponin system is treated as specific only for muscle components, especially for striated muscle, but our data clearly show that TnI is involved in nonmuscular event. It is also reported that recent sensitive gene expression analysis revealed that Troponin genes are expressed in nonmuscular tissues in mammals (Ono et al., Sci Data, 2017;4:170105). These evidences propose the new evolutionary and functional scenario of the involvement of Troponin system in nonmuscular cell behaviors using actin‐myosin system in bilaterians including human being.
Generation of tamoxifen‐inducible Tfap2b‐CreERT2 mice using CRISPR‐Cas9
Authors: Zhang Mingyi , Feng Jifan , Li Yue , Qin Peter Z. , Chai Yang
Published: December 2023

Tfap2b, a pivotal transcription factor, plays critical roles within neural crest cells and their derived lineage. To unravel the intricate lineage dynamics and contribution of these Tfap2b+ cells during craniofacial development, we established a Tfap2b‐CreERT2 knock‐in transgenic mouse line using the CRISPR‐Cas9‐mediated homologous direct repair. By breeding with tdTomato reporter mice and initiating Cre activity through tamoxifen induction at distinct developmental time points, we show the Tfap2b lineage within the key neural crest‐derived domains, such as the facial mesenchyme, midbrain, cerebellum, spinal cord, and limbs. Notably, the migratory neurons stemming from the dorsal root ganglia are visible subsequent to Cre activity initiated at E8.5. Intriguingly, Tfap2b+ cells, serving as the progenitors for limb development, show activity predominantly commencing at E10.5. Across the mouse craniofacial landscape, Tfap2b exhibits a widespread presence throughout the facial organs. Here we validate its role as a marker of progenitors in tooth development and have confirmed that this process initiates from E12.5. Our study not only validates the Tfap2b‐CreERT2 transgenic line, but also provides a powerful tool for lineage tracing and genetic targeting of Tfap2b‐expressing cells and their progenitor in a temporally and spatially regulated manner during the intricate process of development and organogenesis.