bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soft‐sphere continuum solvation models for nonaqueous solvents
Authors: Si Pradip , Jayanth Ajay , Andreussi Oliviero
Published: December 2023

Solvation effects profoundly influence the characteristics and behavior of chemical systems in liquid solutions. The interaction between solute and solvent molecules intricately impacts solubility, reactivity, stability, and various chemical processes. Continuum solvation models gained prominence in quantum chemistry by implicitly capturing these interactions and enabling efficient investigations of diverse chemical systems in solution. In comparison, continuum solvation models in condensed matter simulation are very recent. Among these, the self‐consistent continuum solvation (SCCS) and the soft‐sphere continuum solvation models (SSCS) have been among the first to be successfully parameterized and extended to model periodic systems in aqueous solutions and electrolytes. As most continuum approaches, these models depend on a number of parameters that are linked to experimental or theoretical properties of the solvent, or that can be tuned based on reference data. Here, we present a systematic parameterization of the SSCS model for over 100 nonaqueous solvents. We validate the model's efficacy across diverse solvent environments by leveraging experimental solvation‐free energies and partition coefficients from comprehensive databases. The average root means square error over all the solvents was calculated as 0.85 kcal/mol which is below the chemical accuracy (1 kcal/mol). Similarly to what has been reported by Hille et al. (J. Chem. Phys. 2019, 150, 041710.) for the SCCS model, a single‐parameter model accurately reproduces experimental solvation energies, showcasing the transferability and predictive power of these continuum approaches. Our findings underscore the potential for a unified approach to predict solvation properties, paving the way for enhanced computational studies across various chemical environments.
How much magnesium sulfate is needed to “keep total serum magnesium above 2.0 mg/dL”?
Authors: Kwon JooEun , Lucas Brian P. , Evans Arthur T.
Published: December 2023

For patients at increased risk of life‐threating ventricular arrythmias, hospitalists often administer intravenous magnesium sulfate to maintain total serum magnesium concentration (TsMg) above 2 mg/dL. How long each dose keeps TsMg above this threshold is not well known, however. We collected TsMg values from 12,618 veterans who were given 24,363 doses of intravenous magnesium sulfate during 14,901 hospitalizations for acute heart failure. Across dose amounts, the average TsMg dropped below 2.0 mg/dL within 24 h of administration. When we limited our analysis to 2 g doses (the most common dose) and adjusted for baseline TsMg, estimated glomerular filtration rate, oral magnesium supplementation, and loop diuretic dosing, we found that less than half of the adjusted TsMg values remained above 2.0 mg/dL just 12 h after dose administration. Hospitalists should expect, on average, to administer 2 g intravenous magnesium sulfate at least twice daily to maintain total serum magnesium above 2 mg/dL.
Polysaccharides from Dendrobium officinale improve obesity‐induced insulin resistance through the gut microbiota and the SOCS3‐mediated insulin receptor substrate‐1 signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Wei , Tan Jin , Zhang Jiacheng , Deng Xin , He Xinyue , Zhang Jin , Liu Tong , Sun Rong , Sun Mengxun , Chen Kuo , Xu Tingjia , Yan Yuling , Moazzami Ali , Wu E‐Jiao , Zhan Jiasui , Hu Binhong
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Obesity induces insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, impacting human health. The relationship between obesity, gut microbiota, and regulatory mechanisms has been studied extensively. Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, potentially reduces insulin resistance. However, the mechanism through which DOP affects gut microbiota and alleviates obesity‐induced insulin resistance in rats requires further investigation.

RESULTS

The current study aimed to assess the impact of DOP on gut microbiota and insulin resistance in rats on a high‐fat diet. The results revealed that DOP effectively reduced blood lipids, glucose disorders, oxidative stress, and inflammatory infiltration in the liver of obese Sprague Dawley rats. This was achieved by downregulating SOCS3 expression and upregulating insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1) by regulating the JAK/STAT/SOCS3 signaling pathway. Notably, DOP intervention enhanced the abundance of beneficial gut microbiota and reduced harmful microbiota. Correlation analysis demonstrated significant associations among intestinal microbiota, SOCS3‐mediated IRS‐1 expression, and inflammatory factors.

CONCLUSION

Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide regulated the gut microbiota, enhanced IRS‐1 expression, and mitigated liver injury and insulin resistance due to a high‐fat diet. These findings depict the potential anti‐insulin resistance properties of DOP and offer further evidence for addressing obesity and its complications. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing the vulnerability trifecta: species, climate, and anthropogenic pressures on protected areas of the Central Indian Highlands
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Moharir Kanak
Published: December 2023

Efficient management of protected areas (PAs) is important to ensure conservation and long‐term sustenance of threatened species. It is therefore essential to understand the vulnerability of PAs in a multi‐pronged approach by considering the cumulative effects of species, climatic, and anthropogenic attributes. We assessed the overall vulnerability of PAs in the Central Indian Highlands (CIH), which is a landscape of high biodiversity value. Over 81% of PAs experienced medium to high vulnerability due to anthropogenic pressures, and 68.75% of PAs faced medium to high vulnerability due to climate change and conservation status of species within the PA. Our categorization of PAs revealed that 50% of PAs were vulnerable to all 3 attributes. Further, there was a strong correlation between species and anthropogenic vulnerability indices in the PAs of the CIH landscape. Our results may help local policy makers in prioritizing the optimal and cost‐effective conservation management of existing PAs, which can be extended for cost‐effectiveness and efficient resource allocation of PAs, through this multipronged approach, beyond the CIH landscape.
Not all sanctuaries are created equal: variation in protected area selection by wintering mallards
Authors: Dittmer Ethan M. , Askren Ryan J. , Hagy Heath M. , Hitchcock Jay , Osborne Douglas C.
Published: December 2023

Public lands managed for wildlife frequently provide various forms of sanctuary to increase residency times and allow access to energetic and other habitat resources for waterfowl. The influence of sanctuary type and disturbance regime on resource use and fine‐scale movements of waterfowl has not been investigated extensively using currently available transmitter technologies. We examined mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) use of various types of waterfowl sanctuary and non‐sanctuary areas in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley region of eastern Arkansas, USA, during winters of 2019–2021. We deployed 105 global positioning system transmitters on mallards at 4 closed‐access spatial sanctuaries on or adjacent to Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge. We used hourly transmitter locations to examine mallard use of public sanctuary areas, public hunt areas, and private lands using integrated step selection analysis. Public sanctuary areas provided varying levels of protected status, public hunt areas allowed for varying levels of hunting intensity by duck hunters, and private lands were open to waterfowl hunting and other forms of private uses but may or may not have been hunted at any specific frequency. Mallards selected spatial sanctuary and avoided public hunt areas, other sanctuary types, and private lands during the day. In contrast, mallards selected for private lands over spatial sanctuary at night. Mallards tended to avoid areas that allowed duck hunting or used them during the night when risk of harvest mortality was removed. After the hunting season closed, mallards began using areas that previously allowed duck hunting during the day, suggesting that risk was the primary factor influencing site use. Moreover, mallards were 1.6 times more likely to use public daily hunt areas and 2.1 times more likely to use private lands potentially open to hunting during the day than spatial sanctuary 2 weeks after the close of duck hunting season in February. Spatial sanctuaries appear more effective in influencing mallard use than temporal sanctuaries or inviolate sanctuaries, which are commonly used by state and federal agencies. Partial daily, daily, or activity‐specific (e.g., no hunting past noon, no hunting 3 days/week, no waterfowl hunting) closures to encourage mallard use of temporal sanctuaries do not appear to reduce the perceived harvest‐related risk to mallards enough for them to view these areas as accessible or significantly increase their use.
The Minimal Important Difference of Acoustic Voice Quality Index in the Treatment of Voice Disorders
Authors: Hosokawa Kiyohito , Iwahashi Toshihiko , Iwahashi Mio , Iwaki Shinobu , Yoshida Misao , Kitayama Itsuki , Miyauchi Akira , Ogawa Makoto , Inohara Hidenori
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The acoustic voice quality index (AVQI) is a reliable tool that objectively assesses dysphonia levels using six acoustic parameters. Despite its high criterion‐related concurrent validity, diagnostic accuracy, and minimal detectable change derived from test–retest reliability, the minimal important difference (MID) of the AVQI has not been tested before. This study aimed to estimate the MIDs of AVQI for improvement audibly perceived by clinicians and self‐reported improvement by patients.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 110 patients who received treatment for voice disorders. Patients completed AVQI and Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) questionnaires before and after the therapy. The MIDs of the AVQI were estimated using the anchor of either auditory–perceptual judgment of total dysphonia levels by clinicians or the VHI‐10 questionnaire by patients. A distribution‐based approach was also used to complement the results.

Results

First, using the auditory–perceptual anchor, a decrease of 0.95 in the AVQI was estimated as the MID for clinicians' perception, as a result of the receiver operating curve. Then, using the patient‐reported anchor, an improvement of 1.36 in the AVQI was estimated as the MID for patients' voice‐related disability. The distribution‐based approach also ensured the anchor‐based results of both the MIDs.

Conclusions

The AVQI is a reliable and valid tool for evaluating voice quality, and a 0.95 decrease in the AVQI represents a meaningful improvement for clinicians' perception, whereas a 1.36 decrease in the AVQI influences patients' self‐reported disability. This study contributes to understanding the minimal change necessary for clinicians to make informed decisions and ensure patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:2805–2811, 2024
Single‐use versus reusable rhinolaryngoscopes for inpatient otorhinolaryngology consults: Resident and patient experience
Authors: Bowen Andrew Jay , Macielak Robert James , Fussell Wanda , Yeakel Sarah , McMillan Ryan , Goates Andrew , Awadallah Andrew , Ekbom Dale C.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Single‐use rhinolaryngoscopes were brought to market in 2019 as an alternative to traditional reusable scopes and have garnered interest across settings given portability and potential cost advantages. While single‐use was previously evaluated compared to traditional devices, the overall impact to the consult experience for both users and patients has not been captured.

Methods

Eighteen residents performed consults with both single‐use and reusable rhinolaryngoscope systems on alternating weeks. A five‐question cumulative survey administered across three assessment points over a 12‐week period using a five‐point rating system to rate favorability. Residents and patients also completed four‐point scale surveys following procedure(s) to capture the consult experience. Statistical analyses were performed to measure significance differences between survey responses between the two systems.

Results

Single‐use rhinolaryngoscopes received higher overall ratings compared with reusables across each metric captured including overall consult time (4.3 vs. 2.2, p < .001), multiscope consults (4.4 vs. 3.1, p < .001), patient communication (4.6 vs. 2.1, p < .001), teaching opportunities (4.6 vs. 2.1, p < .001), and overall ease of use (4.7 vs. 2.6, p < .001). Residents rated single‐use higher than reusable after each procedure in terms of ease of use (1.07 vs. 2.68, p < .001) and visual clarity (1.27 vs. 1.89, p = .003), while patients rated single‐use higher for understanding of illness (3.9 vs. 3.1, p < .001) and understanding of treatment rationale (3.9 vs. 3.1, p < .001).

Conclusion

Resident and patient experience feedback favored single‐use rhinolaryngoscopes compared to reusable scope technology across multiple surveyed measurables. Single‐use rhinolaryngoscopes provide a viable tool for otorhinolaryngologist and other clinicians to perform rhinolaryngoscopy consults.

Level of Evidence

4.
Recycling and deposition of inorganic carbon from calcium carbonate encrustations of charophytes
Authors: Strzałek Małgorzata , Kufel Lech , Apolinarska Karina , Becher Marcin , Biardzka Elżbieta , Brzozowski Michał , Kiełczewski Rafał , Kowalewski Grzegorz , Pukacz Andrzej , Woszczyk Michał , Pełechaty Mariusz
Published: December 2023

Many aquatic primary producers can use bicarbonates as a carbon source for photosynthesis. Charophytes of the two genera: Chara and Nitellopsis are quite efficient in this process. Some species of these macroalgae produce carbonate encrustations, mainly calcium carbonate, constituting up to 86% of the summer maximum dry weight of the standing crop. In this study, we analyzed the fate of inorganic carbon accumulated this way in Chara spp. and Nitellopsis obtusa from six Polish lakes located in two regions (warmer W Poland and cooler NE Poland). Our study distinguished two groups of charophyte species that differed in the way of CaCO3 release from their summer standing crops. On average, the corticate Chara rudis and C. tomentosa belonging to the first group were less efficient in depositing CaCO3 from summer to autumn than the less corticate C. contraria and ecorticate N. obtusa of the second group. The latter two species were more efficient in inorganic carbon burial in sediments. On the contrary, dissolution of encrustation was more typical of the first species group and was facilitated by decreasing the pH and saturation index of calcite in lake water. The final output of CaCO3 loss mainly resulted from combined species‐specific features, lake water properties and overwintering patterns. Our study revealed that inorganic carbon cycling through charophytes involves burial and dissolution and is more complex than previously thought.
Safety and Efficacy of IPX203 in Parkinson's Disease: The RISE‐PD Open‐Label Extension Study
Authors: Espay Alberto J. , Hauser Robert A. , Dhall Rohit , Thakkar Sandeep , Cloud Leslie , Zeitlin Leonid , Banisadr Ghazal , Fisher Stanley , Visser Hester
Published: December 2023

Background

IPX203 is a novel oral extended‐release formulation of carbidopa/levodopa (CD/LD) developed to address the short half‐life of immediate‐release CD/LD. In the phase 3 RISE‐PD trial, IPX203 significantly improved “Good On” time in patients with Parkinson's disease compared with immediate‐release CD/LD.

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of IPX203 in an open‐label extension of the pivotal phase 3 study.

Methods

This 9‐month extension enrolled patients who completed the randomized, double‐blind trial. Key efficacy endpoints included Movement Disorder Society‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and Patient and Clinical Global Impression scores. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded.

Results

Improvements in efficacy were maintained and dosing frequency and total daily dose remained stable through the trial. A total of 52.7% of patients experienced ≥1 treatment‐emergent AE, mostly mild or moderate and occurred within the first 90 days of treatment.

Conclusions

In this phase 3 open‐label extension, IPX203 exhibited a favorable safety and tolerability profile and sustained efficacy of comparable magnitude to the end of the double‐blind study. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Novel compound heterozygous mutations of the FBP1 gene in a patient with hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis: A case report
Authors: Xin Bin , Chen Haiming , Liu Tianyi , Wu Yue , Hu Qingyang , Dong Xue , Li Zhong
Published: December 2023

Background

Fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase) deficiency, caused by an FBP1 mutation, is an autosomal recessively inherited metabolic disorder characterized by impaired gluconeogenesis. Due to the rarity of FBPase deficiency, the mechanism by which the mutations cause enzyme activity loss still remains unclear.

Methods

We report a pediatric patient with typical FBPase deficiency who presented with hypoglycemia, hyperlactatemia, metabolic acidosis, and hyperuricemia. Whole‐exome sequencing was used to search for pathogenic genes, Sanger sequencing was used for verification, and molecular dynamic simulation was used to evaluate how the novel mutation affects FBPase activity and structural stability.

Results

Direct and allele‐specific sequence analysis of the FBP1 gene (NM_000507) revealed that the proband had a compound heterozygote for the c. 490 (exon 4) G>A (p. G164S) and c. 861 (exon 7) C>A (p. Y287X, 52), which he inherited from his carrier parents. His father and mother had heterozygous G164S and Y287X mutations, respectively, without any symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Conclusion

Our results broaden the known mutational spectrum and possible clinical phenotype of FBP1.
Corrections for Rabi oscillations in cardiac chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI under the influence of very short preparation pulses
Authors: Schache Daniel , Peddi Ajay , Nahardani Ali , Faber Cornelius , Hoerr Verena
Published: December 2023

Very short chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) pulses are beneficial in cardiac continuous wave (cw) CEST MRI, especially in small animals because of their rapid heartbeat; however, they result in signal modulations caused by Rabi oscillations. Therefore, we implemented two different filter techniques, DOwnsampling by SEparation of CEST spectrum into two parts (DOSE) and time domain (TD)‐based filtering, to correct for these signal corruptions, allowing a reliable quantification of glucose‐weighted CEST (glucoCEST) MRI contrast. In our study, cw CEST measurements were performed on a 9.4‐T small animal BioSpec system using CEST pulses in the range of 10 to 200 ms. Experimental dependencies of Rabi oscillations on key MRI parameters were validated by Bloch–McConnell (BM) simulations. Filter efficiency was explored in a glucose concentration series as well as in the myocardium of healthy mice (n = 8), and glucoCEST contrast was subsequently quantified. The experimental results showed that the impact of Rabi oscillations on CEST spectra increased with decreasing CEST pulse length, optimized B0 homogeneity, and shorter T2 relaxation time, in accordance with results from BM simulations. Both investigated filter techniques reduced these signal modulations significantly, with DOSE filtering preserving the amplitude and TD filtering the spectral information of CEST data more accurately. Upon filter application, a significant decrease in glucoCEST contrast in the myocardium of healthy mice was observed after glucose infusion (pTD = 0.0079, pDOSE = 0.0044). To conclude, this study offers comprehensive experimental insights into Rabi oscillations within CEST MRI data along with methodological considerations that could be further advanced into a robust and precise cardiac cw CEST protocol by integrating DOSE and TD filtering into the standard CEST analysis pipeline.
Fetuin B in white adipose tissue induces inflammation and is associated with peripheral insulin resistance in mice and humans
Authors: Pasmans Kenneth , Goossens Gijs H. , Groenhuijzen Evi , Kemper Esther J. , Reijnders Dorien , Most Jasper , Blaak Ellen E. , Watt Matthew J. , Meex Ruth C. R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Fetuin B is a steatosis‐responsive hepatokine that causes glucose intolerance in mice, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely described. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of fetuin B by investigating its putative effects on white adipose tissue metabolism.

Methods

First, fetuin B gene and protein expression was measured in multiple organs in mice and in cultured adipocytes. Next, the authors performed a hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp in mice and in humans to examine the link between white adipose tissue fetuin B content and indices of insulin sensitivity. Finally, the effect of fetuin B on inflammation was investigated in cultured adipocytes by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and full RNA sequencing.

Results

This study demonstrated in adipocytes and mice that fetuin B was produced and secreted by the liver and taken up by adipocytes and adipose tissue. There was a strong negative correlation between white adipose tissue fetuin B content and peripheral insulin sensitivity in mice and in humans. RNA sequencing and polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that fetuin B induced an inflammatory response in adipocytes.

Conclusions

Fetuin B content in white adipose tissue strongly associated with peripheral insulin resistance in mice and humans. Furthermore, fetuin B induced a proinflammatory response in adipocytes, which might drive peripheral insulin resistance.
Biallellic variants in CACNA1S cause fetal akinesia sequence, progressive hydrops and stillbirth
Authors: Seed Emma , Noon Fallon , Milnes Di , Roscioli Tony , Kristensen Karl , Ellwood David , DaSilva Costa Fabricio
Published: December 2023

Fetal arthrogryposis is a well‐recognised ultrasonographic phenotype, caused by both genetic, maternal and extrinsic factors. When present with fetal growth restriction, pulmonary hypoplasia and multiple joint contractures, it is often referred to as fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS). Historically, elucidating genetic causes of arthryogryposis/FADS has been challenging; there are now more than 150 genes known to cause arthrogryposis through myopathic, neuromuscular and metabolic pathways affecting fetal movement. FADS is associated with over 400 medical conditions making prenatal diagnosis challenging. Here we present a case of FADS diagnosed at 19 weeks gestation with progression to severe fetal hydrops and stillbirth at 26‐weeks gestation. Initial investigations including combined first trimester screening, TORCH (infection) screen and chromosomal microarray were normal. Trio whole exome sequencing (WES) detected compound heterozygous likely pathogenic CACNA1S gene variants associated with autosomal dominant (AD) and autosomal recessive (AR) congenital myopathy and FADS. To our knowledge, this is the first prenatal diagnosis of this condition.
Structure‐based development of a canine TNF‐α‐specific antibody using adalimumab as a template
Authors: Lee Cheng‐Chung , Kuo Wen‐Chih , Chang Ya‐Wen , Hsu Shu‐Fang , Wu Chia‐Hung , Chen Ya‐Wen , Chang Jui‐Jen , Wang Andrew H.‐J.
Published: December 2023

The canine anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) monoclonal antibody is a potential therapeutic option for treating canine arthritis. The current treatments for arthritis in dogs have limitations due to side effects, emphasizing the need for safer and more effective therapies. The crystal structure of canine TNF‐α (cTNF‐α) was successfully determined at a resolution of 1.85 Å, and the protein was shown to assemble as a trimer, with high similarity to the functional quaternary structure of human TNF‐α (hTNF‐α). Adalimumab (Humira), a known TNF‐α inhibitor, effectively targets and neutralizes TNF‐α to reduce inflammation and has been used to manage autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. By comparing the structure of cTNF‐α with the complex structure of hTNF‐α and adalimumab‐Fab, the epitope of adalimumab on cTNF‐α was identified. The significant structural similarities of epitopes in cTNF‐α and hTNF‐α indicate the potential of using adalimumab to target cTNF‐α. Therefore, a canine/human chimeric antibody, Humivet‐R1, was created by grafting the variable domain of adalimumab onto a canine antibody framework derived from ranevetmab. Humivet‐R1 exhibits potent neutralizing ability (IC50 = 0.05 nM) and high binding affinity (EC50 = 0.416 nM) to cTNF‐α, comparable to that of adalimumab for both hTNF‐α and cTNF‐α. These results strongly suggest that Humivet‐R1 has the potential to provide effective treatment for canine arthritis with reduced side effects. Here, we propose a structure‐guided antibody design for the use of a chimeric antibody to treat canine inflammatory disease. Our successful development strategy can speed up therapeutic antibody discovery for animals and has the potential to revolutionize veterinary medicine.
Greedy maximal independent sets via local limits
Authors: Krivelevich Michael , Mészáros Tamás , Michaeli Peleg , Shikhelman Clara
Published: December 2023

The random greedy algorithm for finding a maximal independent set in a graph constructs a maximal independent set by inspecting the graph's vertices in a random order, adding the current vertex to the independent set if it is not adjacent to any previously added vertex. In this paper, we present a general framework for computing the asymptotic density of the random greedy independent set for sequences of (possibly random) graphs by employing a notion of local convergence. We use this framework to give straightforward proofs for results on previously studied families of graphs, like paths and binomial random graphs, and to study new ones, like random trees and sparse random planar graphs. We conclude by analysing the random greedy algorithm more closely when the base graph is a tree.
Effects of dry aging and heating on the structural characteristics and transformation of hexagonal turbostratic birnessite
Authors: Yin Hui , Zhang Shuang , Xiang Yongjin , Zuo Wenbin , Hou Jingtao , Zhang Jing , Hong Mei , Feng Xionghan , Tan Wenfeng , Liu Fan
Published: December 2023

Natural birnessite‐like minerals are commonly enriched in various transition metals, such as iron (Fe). Though the fates of metals associated with birnessites during mineral transformation in aqueous conditions are thoroughly studied, we determined the Fe behaviors in Fe‐doped hexagonal turbostratic birnessites during mineral evolution in dry state at room temperature for 8 years and upon thermal treatments at temperatures ranging from 323 to 773 K, covering the temperatures in extreme environments such as wildfires. These Fe‐containing birnessites were very stable upon aging in the dry state. Upon thermal treatment, the birnessite sample with a small amount of Fe (≤2.8 wt.%) was transformed to cryptomelane at 573–673 K, while for the sample with ∼5.6 wt.% Fe, the transformation temperature increased to 673–773 K. This indicated that Fe adsorption enhanced the birnessite's thermal stability. Further, there was a linear relationship between the fraction of edge‐sharing Fe–Fe(Mn) pairs and temperature over 298–473 K. This implied the migration of Fe adsorbed on vacancies into birnessite layers and/or increased edge‐sharing of Fe around vacancies from adjacent layers during heating. The average manganese (Mn) valences in the Mn dioxides were almost constant with the increase in temperature when the layer structure was kept, but greatly increased when the tectomanganate was formed. These results provided deep insights into the mechanisms of Mn dioxide mineral transformation and the fates of associated metals under extreme conditions in terrestrial environments.
A Zinc Oxide Nanowire‐Modified Mineralized Collagen Scaffold Promotes Infectious Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Li Zixin , Guo Bowen , Wang Qibo , Chen Liyuan , Zhu Lisha , Zhang Ting , Wang Ruoxi , Li Weiran , Luo Dan , Liu Yan
Published: December 2023

Bone infection poses a major clinical challenge that can hinder patient recovery and exacerbate postoperative complications. This study has developed a bioactive composite scaffold through the co‐assembly and intrafibrillar mineralization of collagen fibrils and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires (IMC/ZnO). The IMC/ZnO exhibits bone‐like hierarchical structures and enhances capabilities for osteogenesis, antibacterial activity, and bacteria‐infected bone healing. During co‐cultivation with human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), the IMC/ZnO improves BMMSC adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation even under inflammatory conditions. Moreover, it suppresses the activity of Gram‐negative Porphyromonas gingivalis and Gram‐positive Streptococcus mutans by releasing zinc ions within the acidic infectious microenvironment. In vivo, the IMC/ZnO enables near‐complete healing of infected bone defects within the intricate oral bacterial milieu, which is attributed to IMC/ZnO orchestrating M2 macrophage polarization, and fostering an osteogenic and anti‐inflammatory microenvironment. Overall, these findings demonstrate the promise of the bioactive scaffold IMC/ZnO for treating bacteria‐infected bone defects.
Self‐Powered and Broadband Photodetectors Based on High‐performance Mixed Dimensional Sb2O3/PdTe2/Si Heterojunction for Multiplex Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Wang Jingyao , Ling Cuicui , Xue Xin , Ji Hongguang , Rong Chen , Xue Qingzhong , Zhou Peiheng , Wang Chuanke , Lu Haipeng , Liu Wenpeng
Published: December 2023

Solar‐blind ultraviolet (SBUV) to near‐infrared (NIR) broadband photodetectors (BB‐PD) have important applications in environmental monitoring and other applications. However, it is challenging to prepare SBUV–IR photosensitive materials via simple steps and to construct SBUV–IR broadband devices for multiplex detection with high sensitivity at different wavelengths. Here, self‐powered and broadband photodetectors using a high‐performance mixed dimensional Sb2O3 nanorod 1‐dimension (1D)/monodisperse microdiamond‐like PdTe2 3‐dimension (3D)/Si (3D) heterojunction for multiplex detection of environmental pollutants with high sensitivity at broadband wavelength are developed. The 1D/3D mixed dimensional Sb2O3/PdTe2/Si structure combines the advantages of strong light absorption, high carrier transport efficiency of 1D Sb2O3 nanorods, and expansion of interface barrier caused by 3D microdiamond‐like PdTe2 interlayer to improve the photocurrent density and self‐powered ability. The efficient photogenerated charge separation enables anon/off ratio of more than 5 × 106. The device exhibits excellent photoelectric properties from 255 to 980 nm with the responsivity from 4.56 × 10−2 to 6.55 × 10−1 AW−1, the detectivity from 2.36 × 1012 to 3.39 × 1013 Jones, and the sensitivity from 3.90 × 107 to 1.10 × 1010 cm2 W−1 without external bias. Finally, the proposed device is applied for the multiplex monitoring of environmental pollution gases NO2 with the detection limit of 200 ppb and PM2.5 particles at mild pollution at broadband wavelength. The proposed BB‐PD has great potential for multiplex detection of environmental pollutants and other analytes at broadband wavelength.
The inter‐history iteration method for seismic response analysis of seismically isolated structures and its secondary development based on ABAQUS
Authors: Jia Chuanguo , Li Yutao , Su Hongchen , Gan Min , Chen Longchang , Guo Weinan
Published: December 2023

In seismic response analysis of seismically isolated structures (SISs), the nonlinearity is concentrated in the isolation layer while the upper structure behaves linearly, making SISs locally nonlinear systems. This paper proposed a novel seismic analysis method based on equivalent linearization (EL) and iterative solution for SISs. In this method, the equilibrium equations of an SIS are expressed by the second‐order ordinary differential equations of the structural system as well as the hysteretic force of seismic isolation bearings (SIBs). Based on EL theory, the linearized equilibrium equations of the overall system were reconstructed in which the EL parameters are derived theoretically. The inter‐history iteration (IHI) method was proposed to solve the linearized equation system and calculate the EL parameters in sequence iteratively for seismic response analysis of SISs, thus reducing computational cost without excessive loss of accuracy. In addition, the secondary development of the proposed method was programmed in ABAQUS for ease of engineering applications. Finally, the convergence and accuracy of the method were investigated through numerical simulation of an SIS case study. As the numerical investigation indicates, the proposed method considers the coupling between structural response and the EL parameters, achieving a high convergence rate and satisfactory solution accuracy. The ABAQUS secondary development program utilizes the powerful pre‐processor, post‐processor, and solvers of ABAQUS, making the IHI method more appropriate for engineering applications.
Shaking table test of the shock absorbing performance of a new cable‐damper stopper for coal‐fired thermal power plants
Authors: Jiang Yuheng , Duan Liping , Yue Feng , Zhao Jincheng
Published: December 2023

Coal‐fired thermal power plants play important roles in daily life but are vulnerable to earthquakes. This paper presents a novel cable‐damper stopper with linear damping and carries out a series of shaking table tests to evaluate its performance on a 1/25‐scaled coal‐fired thermal power plant. The stopper consists of a cable, a linear viscous damper and a steel block attached to the boiler. The seismic responses of the structure equipped with different sets of cable‐damper stoppers which are of different damping coefficients and diameters of cables were studied and evaluated, where three seismic ground motions with two intensities were selected as input motions. The obtained acceleration and displacement responses of the support structure and the boiler reveal that the stopper cable effectively restrains the relative displacement between the boiler and the support structure. Furthermore, it can be found that the damping affects the seismic protection performance of the stopper depending on the intensity of the boiler vibration. In the paper, the working mechanism of the stopper is also analyzed based on the test data. It turns out that the stopper is more effective when it works under severe earthquakes.
Seismic performance evaluation of reinforced concrete hilly buildings under sequence of earthquakes
Authors: Aggarwal Yati , Kulariya Mahipal , Saha Sandip Kumar
Published: December 2023

The present study investigates the effect of earthquake sequences on the response of reinforced concrete hilly buildings having typical configurations, that is, stepback and split‐foundation, with three different story ratios. A set of 30 as‐recorded mainshock‐aftershock sequence of earthquake ground motions is considered for this study. Mainshock acceleration time histories are scaled at two distinct intensity levels to obtain the mainshock‐damaged building. These mainshock‐damaged hilly buildings are then subjected to aftershocks. A comparative study is performed for various response quantities, such as peak interstory drift ratio, peak floor acceleration, and peak roof displacement of undamaged and mainshock‐damaged buildings under aftershocks. Further, fragility analysis is carried out to study the effect of aftershocks on undamaged and mainshock‐damaged hilly buildings. Subsequently, component‐wise seismic loss estimation due to damage in the non‐structural and structural components is performed. It is concluded from the study that the building components that contribute maximum to the expected repair cost ratio vary with respect to the intensity of the aftershocks. Also, the estimated seismic loss is higher in mainshock‐damaged split‐foundation buildings in comparison to stepback buildings.
Etiology and management outcomes of adult mechanical bowel obstruction in Nigeria: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Falola Adebayo Feranmi , Dada Oluwasina Samuel , Ndong Abdourahmane , Akande Damilola Grace
Published: December 2023

Background

Adult mechanical bowel obstruction (AMBO) has been previously reported to be majorly caused by hernias in developing countries. In Nigeria, however, there has been a recent change in pattern with adhesions now being the leading cause. The aim of this systematic review is to examine the changing pattern of the causes, and outcomes of patients managed for AMBO in Nigeria.

Methods

Relevant keywords relating to AMBO were used to conduct a search on PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and AJOL. The search returned 507 articles, which were subjected to title, abstract, and full text screenings, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This generated 10 articles which were included in the final qualitative synthesis.

Results

The total sample size across the 10 studies was 1033. Adhesions, hernias, and intra‐abdominal tumors, responsible for 46.25%, 26.31%, and 12.23% of cases respectively, were the major causes of AMBO in Nigeria. 65.6% of cases were managed operatively and 34.4% were managed conservatively. The meta‐analysis revealed high morbidity and mortality rates of 31% (95% CI: 17; 44, 5) and 11% (95% CI: 6; 15, 5), respectively, among adult patients managed for mechanical bowel obstruction in Nigeria.

Conclusions

Adhesion, which results predominantly from appendicectomy is the most common cause of AMBO in Nigeria. This is unlike former reports where hernia was the most common cause. Morbidity results majorly from wound infection, recurrent adhesions, and postoperative enterocutaneous fistula. The mortality rate is similar to reports from various West African studies, and it is significantly influenced by surgical intervention time.
Long‐term outcome of retroperitoneoscopic partial versus total adrenalectomy in patients with Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Alesina P. F. , Kniazeva P. , Pinto G. , Pontin A. , Walz M. K.
Published: December 2023

Background

We analyze the long‐term outcome of surgery for Cushing's syndrome (CS) and the influence of the extent of surgical resection on the duration of postoperative cortisone substitution.

Methods

One‐hundred forty‐one patients (129 female, 12 males; mean age: 45.7 ± 12.8 years) operated between January 2000 to June 2020 were included in the analysis. Patients suffered from manifest (124) or subclinical (17) CS due to benign unilateral adrenal neoplasia. All tumors were removed by the posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach. 105 patients had total (TA) and 36 partial (PA) adrenalectomies. All patients were discharged with ongoing corticosteroid supplementation therapy.

Results

Follow‐up data could be obtained for 83 patients. Twenty‐four (1 male, 23 females; mean age 42.3 years) underwent PA and 59 TA (6 males, 53 females; mean age 44.6 years). Mean follow‐up time was 107 ± 68 months (range: 6–243 months). The median duration of postoperative corticosteroid therapy was 9.5 months after PA and 11 months after TA (p = 0.1). Significantly, more patients after total adrenalectomy required corticosteroid therapy for more than 24 months (25% vs. 4%; p = 0.03). Recurrent ipsilateral disease occurred in one case after partial adrenalectomy and was treated by completion adrenalectomy. A case of contralateral recurrence associated with subclinical Cushing's syndrome was observed after total adrenalectomy.

Conclusions

The risk of local recurrence after partial adrenalectomy in CS is low. Cortical‐sparing surgery may shorten corticosteroid supplementation therapy after surgery.
Relevance of spirituality and perceived social support to mental health of people with pre-existing mental health disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal investigation
Authors: Tutzer Franziska , Schurr Timo , Frajo-Apor Beatrice , Pardeller Silvia , Plattner Barbara , Schmit Anna , Conca Andreas , Fronthaler Martin , Haring Christian , Holzner Bernhard , Huber Markus , Marksteiner Josef , Miller Carl , Perwanger Verena , Pycha Roger , Schmidt Martin , Sperner-Unterweger Barbara , Hofer Alex
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and related measures have negatively impacted mental health worldwide. The main objective of the present longitudinal study was to investigate mental health in people living in Tyrol (Austria) and South Tyrol (Italy) during the COVID-19 pandemic and to report the prevalence of psychological distress among individuals with versus those without pre-existing mental health disorders (MHD) in the long-term (summer 2020–winter 2022). Here, we specifically focus on the relevance of spirituality and perceived social support in this regard.

Methods

161 individuals who had been diagnosed with MHD and 446 reference subjects participated in this online survey. Electronic data capture was conducted using the Computer-based Health Evaluation System and included both sociodemographic and clinical aspects as well as standardized questionnaires on psychological distress, spirituality, and the perception of social support.

Results

The prevalence of psychological distress was significantly higher in individuals with MHD (36.6% vs. 12.3%) and remained unchanged among both groups over time. At baseline, the perception of social support was significantly higher in healthy control subjects, whereas the two groups were comparable in regards of the subjective relevance of faith. Reference subjects indicated significantly higher spiritual well-being in terms of the sense of meaning in life and peacefulness, which mediated in large part the between-group difference of psychological distress at follow-up. Notably, both faith and the perception of social support did not prove to be relevant in this context.

Conclusions

These findings point to a consistently high prevalence of psychological distress among people suffering from MHD and underscore the prominent role of meaning in life and peacefulness as a protective factor in times of crisis. Therapeutic strategies that specifically target spirituality may have a beneficial impact on mental health.
Sex differences of sequential changes in coronary blood flow and microvascular function in patients with suspected angina
Authors: Kim So Ree , Kim Mi-Na , Cho Dong-Hyuk , Kim Hee-Dong , Bae Sung A. , Kim Hack-Lyoung , Kim Myung-A , Hong Kyung-Soon , Shim Wan Joo , Park Seong-Mi
Published: December 2023

Aims

This study evaluated the sex differences of sequential changes in coronary blood flows and microvascular function in patients with suspected angina but with no obstructed coronary arteries.

Methods

A total of 202 consecutive patients who experienced chest pain but had no significant coronary artery stenosis and who underwent adenosine stress echocardiography were included in the study. Coronary blood flow (CBF) velocities were measured at 1, 2, and 3 min after adenosine infusion.

Results

The mean age was 61 years, and 138 (68%) were women. Approximately 40% of patients had coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD, coronary flow velocity reserve < 2.3), with women exhibiting higher CMD prevalence. The left ventricular (LV) mass index was similar between men and women, while women exhibited higher baseline rate pressure products (RPP). At baseline, coronary blood flow velocities were similar between the sexes. However, CBF velocities in women gradually increased during the examination; and in men, the increase was abrupt and steep during the early stages of examination (p = 0.015 for interaction between time and sex), even with similar RPP in stress. Coronary flow velocity reserve was steadily lower in women compared to men (1 min, 2.09 ± 0.86 vs 2.44 ± 0.87; 2 min, 2.39 ± 0.72 vs 2.63 ± 0.85; 3 min, 2.45 ± 0.70 vs 2.68 ± 0.73).

Conclusions

In patients with suspected angina but with no obstructed coronary arteries, CMD was especially prevalent among women. Women exhibited higher oxygen consumption, while exhibiting slower and gradual increases in CBF velocities. Conversely, men exhibited faster and steeper increases in CBF velocities even with similar RPP in stress.

Graphical abstract
A multidisciplinary pulmonary embolism response team (PERT): first experience from a single center in Germany
Authors: Sagoschen Ingo , Scibior Barbara , Farmakis Ioannis T. , Keller Karsten , Graafen Dirk , Griemert Eva-Verena , Vosseler Markus , Treede Hendrik , Münzel Thomas , Knorr Maike , Gori Tommaso , Konstantinides Stavros , Hobohm Lukas
Published: December 2023

Background

Over the last few years, the concept of multidisciplinary pulmonary embolism response teams (PERTs) has emerged to encounter the increasing variety and complexity in managing acute pulmonary embolism (PE).

Purpose

To investigate PERT's composition and added clinical value in a university center in Germany.

Methods

Over 4 years (01/2019–11/2022), patients with confirmed PE were enrolled in a prospective single-center cohort study (PERT Mainz). We investigated the composition of PERT and compared, after propensity score matching, patients with acute PE before and after the initiation of PERT at our Medical University Centre. The primary outcome was in-hospital PE-related mortality.

Results

From 2019 to 2022, 88 patients with acute PE with a PERT decision were registered. Of those, 13 (14.8%) patients died during the in-hospital stay. Patients evaluated by a PERT had a median age of 68; 48.9% were females, and 21.7% suffered from malignancy. Right ventricular dysfunction was present in 76.1% of all patients. In total, 42.0% were classified as intermediate–high-risk PE and 11.4% as high-risk PE. First PERT contact mainly originated from emergency departments (33.3%) and intensive care units (30.0%), followed by chest pain units (21.3%) and regular wards (12.0%). The participation rate of medical specialties demonstrated that cardiologists (100%) or cardiac/vascular surgeons (98.6%) were included in almost all PERT consultations, followed by radiologists (95.9%) and anesthesiologists (87.8%). Compared to the PERT era, more patients in the pre-PERT era were classified as simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI) ≥ 1 (78.4% vs 71.6%) and as high-risk PE according to ESC 2019 guidelines (18.2% vs. 11.4%). In the pre-PERT era, low- and intermediate-low patients with PE received more frequently advanced reperfusion therapies such as systemic thrombolysis or surgical embolectomy compared to the PERT era (10.7% vs. 2.5%). Patients in the pre-PERT were found to have a considerably higher all-cause mortality and PE-related mortality rate (31.8% vs. 14.8%) compared to patients in the PERT era (22.7% vs. 13.6%). After propensity matching (1:1) by including parameters as age, sex, sPESI, and ESC risk classes, univariate regression analyses demonstrated that the PE management based on a PERT decision was associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality (OR, 0.37 [95%CI 0.18–0.77]; p = 0.009). For PE-related mortality, a tendency for reduction was observed (OR, 0.54 [95%CI 0.24–1.18]; p = 0.121).

Conclusion

PERT implementation was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality rate in patients with acute PE. Large prospective studies are needed further to explore the impact of PERTs on clinical outcomes.

Graphical abstract