bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation‐induced sarcomas following childhood cancer – A Canadian Sarcoma Research and Clinical Collaboration Study (CanSaRCC)
Authors: Dutra Marina Parisi , Rodrigues Caroline Mary , Peretz‐Soroka Hagit , Ribeiro Mauricio , Shultz David , Hodgson David , Tsang Derek S. , Gupta Abha A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Radiation‐induced sarcoma (RIS) is a late toxicity of radiation therapy (RT) usually associated with poor prognosis. Due to ongoing improvements in childhood cancer treatment and patient outcomes, RIS may become more prevalent notwithstanding evolving indications for RT. Due to limited reported studies, we sought to review our experience with RIS in survivors of pediatric cancer.

Methodology

Data were collected on RIS patients following treatment for childhood cancer (initial diagnosis <18 years) identified in the CanSaRCC database. Additionally, details on the protocol guidance at time of treatment were compared with current guidelines for the same disease.

Results

Among 12 RIS identified, median age at initial diagnosis was 3.5 years (range 0.16–14) and the latency from RT to RIS diagnosis was 24.5 (range 5.4–46.2) years. Initial diagnoses included neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, Wilms tumor, retinoblastoma and Hodgkin's Lymphoma. RIS histologies included osteosarcoma and soft tissue sarcomas. In comparison to protocols followed at time of diagnosis to current ones (2022), 7/12 (58%) patients would have required RT. RIS treatment included chemotherapy, radiation and surgery in 3/11 (27%), 10/11 (90%), and 7/11 (63%) patients, respectively. With a median follow‐up time of 4.7 years from diagnosis of RIS, 8 (66%) patients were alive and 4 (33%) had died of progressive RIS.

Conclusion

RIS is a serious late effect of radiotherapy in childhood cancer; however, radiation remains an integral component of primary tumor management and requires participation from a specialized multi‐disciplinary team, aiming to mitigate RIS and other potential late effects.
A Comparative Study of the Structural and Optical Properties of ZnS Films Deposited by Spray‐Pyrolysis Technique
Authors: Najim Abdessamad , Hartiti Bouchaib , Nkuissi Hervé Joël Tchognia , Labrim Hicham , Fadili Salah , Ertugrul Mehmet , Thevenin Philippe , Budak Hasan Feyzi , Kasapoğlu Ahmet Emre
Published: May 2023

This study aims at synthesizing zinc sulfide (ZnS) thin films using spray pyrolysis method. The effect of the Zn concentration on the physical properties of ZnS is investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), UV–Vis spectrophotometer, photoluminescence (PL), and Raman spectroscopy. XRD shows a preferential orientation along the (111) direction corresponding to the ZnS cubic structure. Based on the XRD results, it is seen that low zinc concentrations compared to sulfur content can increase the crystalline quality of films. Raman spectra confirm the presence of the ZnS cubic structure observed by XRD and show the presence of sprayed ZnS vibrational modes for all films. PL emission spectrum of ZnS confirms the presence of Zn and S atoms at all molar concentrations. SEM reveals densely packed and uniformly distributed grains with precise shapes. The elemental analysis confirms the growth of stochiometric Zn/S ratio. The optical analysis shows a high transmittance around 88% in the visible range of the solar spectrum with optical band gaps varying from 3.4 to 3.6 eV. These properties are interesting and show that ZnS thin films can be used as buffer layers in thin film solar cells applications.
Carbonized Nickel‐Loaded Spent Coffee Grounds Modified BiOCl Photocatalysts for Enhanced Degradation of Ofloxacin
Authors: Long Anchun , Yu Yongchang , Ge Xianlong , Song Yankai , Meng Minfeng , Hu Shaohua , An Yarui , Gu Yingying
Published: May 2023

Water pollution has posed a serious threat to the environment and human health. There is an urgent need to develop highly efficient and application‐convenient photocatalytic materials. To overcome this critical problem, the carbonized nickel‐loaded spent coffee grounds modified BiOCl (CNSCG‐BOC‐8) photocatalyst is prepared by using facile calcination and hydrolysis method. The optimum substrate carbonization temperature, the amount of substrate, and the loading amount of nickel ion are discussed. Further, the photocatalytic performance of the catalyst is tested using Ofloxacin (OFX) as target pollutant under ultraviolet and visible light (UV–vis light). The as‐obtained photocatalysts show the degradation efficiency of OFX in the prepared composite reaches 87% within 40 min under ultraviolet and visible light. Moreover, the results show that CNSCG‐BOC‐8 has better photoelectricity, excellent cycle stability, and is environment‐friendly. Therefore, this paper provides an important reference for the rational development and use of Ni‐loaded biomass‐derived carbon as the substrate to modify bismuth‐based photocatalyst for environmental remediation.
Ni−CeO2 Heterostructure Promotes Hydrogen Evolution Reaction via Tuning of the O−H Bond Length of Adsorbed Water at the Electrolyte/Electrode Interface
Authors: Yang Xiaoling , Xi Menghua , Guo Xing , Shen Jianhua , Liu Zhen , Jiang Hongliang , Zhu Yihua
Published: May 2023

Understanding the properties and structure of reactant water molecules at the electrolyte solution/electrode interface is relevant to know the mechanisms of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, this approach has rarely been implemented due to the elusive local microenvironment in the vicinity of the catalyst. Taking the Ni−CeO2 heterostructure immobilized onto carbon paper (Ni−CeO2/CP) as a model, the dynamic behavior of adsorbed intermediates during the reaction was measured by in situ surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection configuration (ATR‐SEIRAS). Theoretical calculations are used in combination to comprehend the potential causes of increased HER activity. The results show that the O−H bond of adsorbed water at the electrolyte solution/electrode interface becomes longer for promoting the dissociation of water and accelerating the kinetically slow Volmer step. In addition, forming the Ni−CeO2 heterostructure interface optimizes the hydrogen adsorption Gibbs free energy, thus increasing HER activity. Therefore, the Ni−CeO2/CP electrode exhibits remarkably low HER overpotentials of 37 and 119 mV at 10 and 100 mA cm−2, which are close to commercial Pt/C (16 and 102.6 mV, respectively).
Validation of multiparametric panels for bovine mesenchymal stromal cell phenotyping
Authors: Heyman Emma , Meeremans M. , Van Poucke M. , Peelman L. , Devriendt B. , De Schauwer Catharina
Published: May 2023

Bovine mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) display important features that render them valuable for cell therapy and tissue engineering strategies, such as self‐renewal, multi‐lineage differentiation, as well as immunomodulatory properties. These cells are also promising candidates to produce cultured meat. For all these applications, it is imperative to unequivocally identify this cell population. The isolation and in vitro tri‐lineage differentiation of bovine MSCs is already described, but data on their immunophenotypic characterization is not yet complete. The currently limited availability of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for bovine MSC markers strongly hampers this research. Following the minimal criteria defined for human MSCs, bovine MSCs should express CD73, CD90, and CD105 and lack expression of CD14 or CD11b, CD34, CD45, CD79α, or CD19, and MHC‐II. Additional surface proteins which have been reported to be expressed include CD29, CD44, and CD106. In this study, we aimed to immunophenotype bovine adipose tissue (AT)‐derived MSCs using multi‐color flow cytometry. To this end, 13 commercial Abs were screened for recognizing bovine epitopes using the appropriate positive controls. Using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy, cross‐reactivity was confirmed for CD34, CD73, CD79α, and CD90. Unfortunately, none of the evaluated CD105 and CD106 Abs cross‐reacted with bovine cells. Subsequently, AT‐derived bovine MSCs were characterized using multi‐color flow cytometry based on their expression of nine markers. Bovine MSCs clearly expressed CD29 and CD44, and lacked expression of CD14, CD45, CD73, CD79α, and MHCII, while a variable expression was observed for CD34 and CD90. In addition, the mRNA transcription level of different markers was analyzed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Using these panels, bovine MSCs can be properly immunophenotyped which allows a better characterization of this heterogenous cell population.
Automation in flow cytometry: Guidelines and review of systems
Authors: Al‐Attar Ahmad , Kumar Kirthi R. , Untersee Dorian , O'Driscoll Marci , Ventura Miguel Francoise S. , Lin Leo
Published: May 2023

Automation in flow cytometry has recently advanced from the partial laboratory automation and robotics islets, to more fully integrated systems. This article reviews three manufacturers' newest sample preparation systems: the Beckman CellMek, the Sysmex PS‐10, and the BD FACSDuet. These three instruments are capable of performing many of the manual steps in flow cytometry sample processing (pipetting, staining, lysing, washing, fixing). General description, capabilities, advantages, and disadvantages of each system are compared. Overall, these systems have the potential to become mainstay items in today's busy clinical flow cytometry laboratories, and save a significant amount of hands‐on time for laboratory staff.
Adaptive plasticity and fitness costs of endangered, nonendangered, and invasive plants in response to variation in nitrogen and phosphorus availabilities
Authors: Minden Vanessa , Verhoeven Koen , Olde Venterink Harry
Published: May 2023

Global change drivers such as eutrophication and plant invasions will create novel environments for many plant species. Through adaptive trait plasticity plants may maintain their performance under these novel conditions and may outcompete those showing low‐adaptive trait plasticity. In a greenhouse study, we determined if plasticity in traits is adaptive or maladaptive in endangered, nonendangered, and invasive plant species in response to variation of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability (N:P ratios 1.7, 15, and 135) and whether plastic trait responses are adaptive and/or costly for fitness (i.e., biomass). Species choice comprised 17 species from three functional groups (legumes, nonlegume forbs, and grasses), either classified as endangered, nonendangered, or invasive. After 2 months, plants were harvested and nine traits related to carbon assimilation and nutrient uptake were measured (leaf area, SLA, LDMC, SPAD, RMR, root length, SRL, root surface area, and PME activity). We found more traits responding plastically to variation in P than in N. Plasticity only created costs when P was varied. Plasticity in traits was mostly adaptively neutral toward fitness, with plasticity in three traits being similarly adaptive across all species groups: SPAD (as a measure of chlorophyll content, adaptive to N and P limitation), leaf area, and root surface area (adaptive to P limitation). We found little differences in trait plasticity between endangered, nonendangered, and invasive species. Synthesis. Along a gradient from N limitation, balanced N:P supply, and P limitation, we found that the type of fluctuating nutrient (i.e., if N or P is varied) is decisive for the adaptive value of a trait. Variation in P availability (from balanced supply to P limitation) created both a stronger reduction in fitness as well as created plasticity costs in more traits than variation in N availability (from balanced supply to N limitation). However, the patterns observed in our study may change if nutrient availability is altered, either by nutrient inputs or by a shift in nutrient availabilities, for example, by decreasing N input as foreseen by European Legislation, but without simultaneously decreasing P input.
Establishing environmental DNA and RNA protocols for the simultaneous detection of fish viruses from seawater
Authors: Ip Yin Cheong Aden , Chen Jing , Tan Li Ying , Lau Clara , Chan Ying Hui , Shanmugavelu Balasubramaniam Ravendrakumar , Wong Wan Yen Jovinc , Ng Kaitlyn , Tan Zi Yan Brian , Fernandez Charlene Judith , Chang Siow Foong , Yap Him Hoo
Published: May 2023

Aquatic viruses are major threats to global aquacultural productivity. While conventional diagnostic methods for disease investigation are laborious, time‐consuming, and often involve the sacrifice of animals, environmental DNA and RNA (eDNA/eRNA) tools have the potential in being non‐invasive alternatives for the effective and early detection of various pathogens simultaneously. In this study, three seawater filtration methods—Sterivex syringe filtration, centrifugal ultrafiltration, and vacuum pump filtration with iron flocculation—were assessed for the recovery rates in co‐detecting fish virus eDNA/eRNA from natural seawater that was spiked with fish red seabream iridovirus (RSIV, DNA virus) and nervous necrosis virus (NNV, RNA virus). The centrifugal ultrafiltration method was the most effective for the capture of small‐sized viruses like NNV with a recovery rate of 63.23%, while the method of vacuum pump filtration with iron flocculation and chloroform disintegration of filter membranes had the highest RSIV recovery rate of 32.61%. We also optimized both automated and manual nucleic acid extraction methods and found comparable eDNA/eRNA extraction efficiencies. Our findings from the systematic comparison of seawater filtration and extraction methods suggest that each seawater filtration/nucleic acid extraction method can cater to different aquatic animal virus surveillance and disease investigation scenarios. These highlight the potential of virus eDNA/eRNA approaches for advancing the field of disease ecology and safeguarding aquatic animal health.
Exopolysaccharide from Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus induces IgA production in airways and alleviates allergic airway inflammation in mouse model
Authors: Srutkova Dagmar , Kozakova Hana , Novotna Tereza , Gorska Sabina , Hermanova Petra Petr , Hudcovic Tomas , Svabova Tereza , Sinkora Marek , Schwarzer Martin
Published: May 2023

The currently observed high prevalence of allergic diseases has been associated with changes in microbial exposure in industrialized countries. Defined bacterial components represent a new strategy for modulating the allergic immune response. We show that intranasal administration of exopolysaccharide (EPS) isolated from Lacticaseibacillus (L.) rhamnosus LOCK900 induces TGF‐β1, IgA, and regulatory FoxP3+ T‐cells in the lungs of naïve mice. Using the ovalbumin mouse model, we demonstrate that intranasal administration of EPS downregulates the development of allergic airway inflammation and the Th2 cytokine response in sensitized individuals. At the same time, EPS treatment of sensitized mice, similar to EPS‐induced responses in naïve mice, significantly increased the level of total, OVA‐specific, and also bacteria‐specific IgA in bronchoalveolar lavage and the number of IgA‐producing B‐cells in the lung tissue of these mice. Thus, EPS derived from L. rhamnosus LOCK900 can be considered a safe candidate for preventing the development of allergic symptoms in the lungs of sensitized individuals upon exposure to an allergen.
Characterizing the Volatile Profile and Flavor of Four Kinds of Hotpot Seasonings in China Using HS‐GC‐MS, HS‐GC‐IMS, and Sensory Evaluation
Authors: Han Jiajia , Fu Chenggang , Wan Yilai , Guo Jiahao , Wei Changqing , Liu Wenyu
Published: May 2023

Hotpot is a distinctive dish of East Asian cuisine, especially in China. Herein, headspace‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, headspace‐gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry, and sensory evaluation are applied to compare the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of four types of hotpot seasoning oils (HSOs) and establish their characteristic fingerprints. A total of 203 VOCs are detected by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). Among them, linalool, anethole, and estragole contribute to the overall aroma of all four HSOs (relative odor activity value ≥ 0.1). Gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry (GC‐IMS) results reveal that 77 VOCs are identified, comprising 19 terpenoids, 18 aldehydes, 14 alcohols, 13 esters, 6 ketones, 3 acids, 2 furans, 1 pyrazine, and 1 sulfide. Meanwhile, principal component analysis demonstrates that GC‐IMS is an important tool for the rapid classification of hotpot seasonings. Finally, the sensory evaluation team concludes that the horse fat hotpot seasoning has promising development prospects. This study validates the applicability of GC‐IMS and GC‐MS for distinguishing VOCs in hotpots, and the findings provide a theoretical basis for flavor differentiation in HSOs.

Practical Applications: Horse oil is significantly lower in cholesterol than butter, and thus possesses potential benefits for human health. This study provides a basis to produce horse oil hotpots and a reference for identifying the VOCs in HSOs.
Kdo Glycosylations and Their Application in Oligosaccharide Synthesis**
Authors: Kumar Pradhan Tapan
Published: May 2023

Higher carbon saccharide 3‐deoxy‐d‐manno‐oct‐2‐ulosonic acid (Kdo) is a structural unit of bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and capsular polysaccharides (CPSs). Kdo is present in the inner core region of LPSs, and this region is structurally conserved. Being non‐mammalian in origin, Kdos are effectively recognized by the native and adaptive immune systems. Therefore, the synthesis of new Kdo derivatives and neoglycoconjugates is highly important for the development of vaccines. This review highlights recent accomplishments related to α‐glycosylations, β‐glycosylations and C‐glycosylations of Kdos and their application to the stereoselective synthesis of inner core oligosaccharides.
Thermo‐Economic Analysis of a Novel Power System Including Medical‐Waste Plasma Gasification, SOFC, Biomass‐Fired Power Generation, and CCS
Authors: Lu Di , Chen Heng , Li Bo , An Jizhen , Pan Peiyuan , Xu Gang , Zhao Qinxin , Liu Tong
Published: May 2023

For environmentally friendly treatment and efficient utilization of medical waste, a coupling of medical‐waste‐based plasma gasification, fuel‐cell power generation, and biomass power is implemented, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) unit is integrated to achieve low carbon emissions. The clean syngas obtained from the plasma gasification of medical waste is first utilized by the fuel cell and drives a gas turbine to produce power after supplementary combustion. The exhaust gas is used to heat the feed stream of the biomass power station. CCS unit is heated by exhaust gases and the extracted steam from the biomass power station, and the thermal energy of the pressurized carbon dioxide is recovered. Thermodynamic and economic analyses are conducted to examine the project's performance based on a 1.00 kg s−1 plasma gasifier and a 34 MW biomass power station. The analysis indicates that medical‐waste‐generation energy and exergy efficiency reaches 35.10% and 33.58%. CO2 of 59.84 kilotons can be fixed and sequestered yearly. The initial investment in the project can be recovered in 5.95 years, with a net present value of 44.72 M$. It is shown in the conclusions that the project is advantageous and beneficial in medical‐waste utilization.
Real‐Time Smartphone Charging from Recycled Aluminum Foil–Based Electromagnetic Energy Harvester
Authors: Saini Dalip , Kumar Ajay , Mishra Hari Krishna , Gupta Varun , Mandal Dipankar
Published: May 2023

Harvesting energy from waste resources shows significant potential in low‐power electronics, self‐powered devices, and waste‐energy management. Herein, a possible mechanism is demonstrated to harvest waste electromagnetic (EM) energy produced by the induction heater where recycled aluminum foil is utilized as an energy‐harvester unit. As a consequence, ≈5.34 μW of harvested power is manifested under the operating condition of the induction heater. In this connection, a demonstration of the real‐time calculator operation, 26 blue light‐emitting diode lighting, and smartphone battery charging are presented. It indicates an excellent opportunity to harvest the abundantly available waste EM energy using the recycled and widely used food‐packaging Al foil. Thus, it is expected that the waste EM energy can be utilized to power up consumer electronic appliances.
Narrow Line Width Ni–Cu–Sn Front Contact Metallization Patterns for Low‐Cost High‐Efficiency Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells using Nano‐Imprint Lithography
Authors: Aleem Mahaboobbatcha , Vishnuraj Ramakrishnan , Krishnan Balachander , Ashok Anuradha , Pullithadathil Biji
Published: May 2023

An in‐house‐developed nanoimprint lithography system is designed and developed to demonstrate a commercially viable method for creating Ni–Cu–Sn‐based narrow linewidth finger patterns capable of effectively reducing shadow loss in the front contact metallization on industrial silicon solar cells. Finite element analysis simulation studies estimate that an optimal force of 138 MPa is required to generate damage‐free patterns during nanoimprinting process. The poly (methyl methacrylate) residual layer is removed using reactive ion etching, which enhances the adhesion strength of Ni–Cu–Sn metallization. A low ohmic contact layer at the Si/Ni interface develops after sintering at 420 °C and formation of NiSi layer is confirmed through X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis as a function of Ar+ ion etching time. An average cell efficiency of 18.10% is achieved for silicon solar cells with micropatterned Ni/Cu/Sn‐based narrow linewidth front contact grid design, which can exhibit ≈1% enhancement in cell efficiency compared to commercial Ag screen‐printed solar cells. The Ni/Cu/Sn‐based front contact metallization can improve the cell performance by ≈6% compared to the commercial Ag screen‐printed metallization by reducing shadow loss and thereby indicating its suitability toward deploying for cost‐effective industrial solar cell manufacturing.
Thermodynamic Modeling and Multi‐Objective Optimization of a New System Presented for Reutilization of the Lost Heat in Combined‐Cycle Power Plants
Authors: Peng Wei , Karimi Sadaghiani Omid
Published: May 2023

In combined‐cycle power plants, a large amount of thermal energy is lost when the boiler and steam unit are out of order and the gas unit is operated in single mode. For the first time, this work suggests every combined‐cycle power plants should be equipped with this kind of energy system to recover the waste heat by producing hydrogen and generating electricity. This system combines a Rankine cycle with a thermoelectric generator, a finned‐tube heat exchanger, and a proton exchange membrane to produce hydrogen. Having been designed, the suggested energy system is assessed by energy, exergy, and exergo‐economy laws. Furthermore, the impacts of some effective factors on the efficiency and the costs are precisely analyzed. Eventually, the presented system is optimized considering two main purposes of exergy efficiency and costs. The achieved results show that the proposed system can effectively link to the gas unit to restore and even save the lost thermal energy in the single‐mode condition. The conducted optimization attenuates the objective parameter of exergy efficiency from 48.39% to 41.65% and diminishes the costs from 550.14 to 480.82 $ GJ−1. Eventually, the optimization causes to rise from 1.2 to 1.32 kg h−1.
Recent Progress on Emerging Porous Materials for Solar‐Driven Interfacial Water Evaporation
Authors: Ma Chuang , Wang Weike , Jia Zhen , Zhang Jing , Wang Chengbing
Published: May 2023

Solar‐driven interfacial water evaporation (SDIWE) offers a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and promising solution to the global water and energy crisis. Over the last decades, desalination, wastewater purification, power generation, and metal ion recovery and reuse based on SDIWE have been extensively investigated. In particular, considerable attention has been devoted to photothermal materials, as they are a key element of the SDIWE. As a class of crystalline porous materials, featuring diversified and customized structures, precise and tuneable functions, large specific surface area, low thermal conductivity and good light absorption, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolite imidazolium frameworks (ZIFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and their derived composites have been proven to possess great potential in the field of SDIWE. In this review, first the photothermal conversion mechanisms of MOFs, ZIFs, COFs, and their derived photothermal composites (M–Z–Cs) are briefly summarized, and then their structure design strategies and preparation methods from the perspectives of energy intake, energy management, and energy utilization are analyzed. Finally, based on the summary of their practical applications, an outlook in future research on these materials systems is provided, taking into account the current several challenges in the field of SDIWE.
Recent progress on nature‐derived biomaterials for eco‐friendly triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Song Kyo Yong , Kim Sun‐Woo , Nguyen Dinh Cong , Park Ji Young , Luu Thien Trung , Choi Dukhyun , Baik Jeong Min , An Seongpil
Published: May 2023

Eco‐friendly triboelectric nanogenerator (eco‐TENG) is considered as a next‐generation renewable kinetic energy‐harvesting technology, especially for its potential use as a power supply unit for self‐powered electronics. For eco‐TENGs, nature‐derived biomaterials, which are non‐toxic to human and environment, highly biocompatible, and abundant in nature, are used for tribopositive or tribonegative materials, or both. Here, recent progress in nature‐derived biomaterials exploited for eco‐TENGs and their energy‐harvesting performances are reviewed, focusing on refined, hybridized, post‐treated, or not. Since biomaterials that exist in nature have evolved over hundreds of years to hundreds of thousands of years, their diversity, novelty in physicochemical structure, and high safety to nature hold enormous potential as carbon‐neutral energy materials. Furthermore, scalability and cost‐effectiveness of their fabrication methods make them promising as industrially viable eco‐materials.

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Decay of ignimbrite fairy chimneys of Arizona's Basin and Range Province, USA
Authors: Dorn Ronald I.
Published: May 2023

Fairy chimneys of ignimbrite are well studied in Cappadocia in central Anatolia, Turkey. The ignimbrite landforms of Arizona's Basin and Range, USA, in contrast, remain relatively unexplored in geomorphic scholarship, despite decades of geological research on the characteristics of the ignimbrites themselves. This research focuses on the rock‐decay processes that modify Arizona's Basin and Range fair chimneys. Dissolution of glass and groundmass, measured along joints using digital image processing of back‐scattered electron microscope imagery, reveal a 3× higher porosity than inside the rock interior. This method also measured a 3‐4× increase in dissolution near the base of the chimney compared with the rock interior, leading to notch development that promotes chimney mass wasting and subsequent ballistic impacts. Epilithic organisms studied with electron microscopy both enhance rock decay and promote case hardening. These observations are consistent with prior understanding of how fairy chimneys evolve over time: columnar joints exposed on cliff faces experience enough decay to allow erosion of joint material, this erosion separates the chimney from the rock face and notch development near the chimney base promotes mass wasting. The rock‐decay processes studied here likely operate on very different timescales. Mass wasting events leading to ballistic impacts occur at observable timescales. Varnish microlamination dating, using ultrathin sections of rock varnish formed on fairy chimneys, indicates that the case hardening of the top of fairy chimneys are much more stable than the sides; the tops last experienced surface detachment during the early Holocene, as opposed to the sides that experienced flaking throughout the late Holocene. The timescale of basal notch development is not known, with the exception that the very surface of notches erode at rates too fast to accumulate rock varnish. The timescales of epilithic organisms enhancing rock decay and dissolution of columnar joints are not known.
Nickel Oxide Decorated Halloysite Nanotubes as Sulfur Host Materials for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Elibol Meltem Karaismailoglu , Jiang Lihong , Xie Dongjiu , Cao Sijia , Pan Xuefeng , Härk Eneli , Lu Yan
Published: May 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries with high energy density still confront many challenges, such as polysulfide dissolution, the large volume change of sulfur, and fast capacity fading in long‐term cycling. Herein, a naturally abundant clay material, halloysite, is introduced as a sulfur host material in the cathode of Li–S batteries. Nickel oxide nanoparticles are embedded into the halloysite nanotubes (NiO@Halloysite) by hydrothermal and calcination treatment to improve the affinity of halloysite nanotubes to polysulfides. The NiO@Halloysite composite loaded with sulfur (S/NiO@Halloysite) is employed as the cathode of Li–S batteries, which combines the physical confinements of tubular halloysite particles and good chemical adsorption ability of NiO. The S/NiO@Halloysite electrode exhibits a high discharge capacity of 1205.47 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. In addition, it demonstrates enhanced cycling stability, retaining ≈60% of initial capacity after 450 cycles at 0.5 C. The synthesized NiO@Halloysite can provide a promising prospect and valuable insight into applying natural clay materials in Li–S batteries.
Discourses of work life in narrative identities of people with advanced dementia
Authors: Kłosińska Urszula , Ziółkowska Justyna
Published: May 2023

Objectives

There is no consensus as to whether people with advanced dementia can create a narrative identity. It is most often thought to be disturbed due to autobiographical memory disorders. In this paper, we examined how people with advanced dementia constructed their narrative identities in relation to their professional experience.

Methods

This qualitative study used data obtained from 8 semi‐structured interviews. The interviewees were people with advanced dementia aged between 66 and 89 years. We analyzed the dataset based on the textual‐oriented discourse analysis.

Results

The study participants created narrative identities. Their narrative identities were constructed within residual professional discourses learned during their lifespan. These discourses blended their narrative identities into coherent stories about who they are now, offered languages to describe current experiences, and emphasized important values for their self‐image. The participants built narrative identities by referring to the past and imagining a better present with the omission of the future. The past was valued positively and was a source of positive nostalgia. Projections of a better present served to reveal their needs and assess ways to meet them.

Conclusions

We argue that people with advanced dementia can create complex and coherent narrative identities. They are constructed around discourses and not only using autobiographical memories. Encouraging them to create narrative identities in the dialogue can be a simple therapeutic method by which they can maintain a sense of self‐cohesion and belonging to the world.
The predictive usefulness of the novel “combined hemoglobin‐to‐platelet ratio and maximum mouth opening index” on prevalence of radiation induced trismus in patients with nasopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Somay Efsun , Yilmaz Busra , Topkan Erkan , Kucuk Ahmet , Pehlivan Berrin , Selek Ugur
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To explore how well a unique combination of hemoglobin‐to‐platelet ratio (HPR) and pretreatment maximum mouth opening (MMO) predicts the prevalence of radiation‐induced trismus (RIT).

Patients and methods

HPR and MMO cutoff values (0.54 and 40.7 mm) divided patients into two groups. To develop the novel HPR‐MMO index, four combinations of these factors were tested for predictive power: Group 1: HPR > 0.54 and MMO > 40.7 mm; Group 2: HPR ≤ 0.54 but MMO > 40.7 mm; Group 3: HPR > 0.54 but MMO ≤ 40.7 mm; Group 4: HPR ≤ 0.54 and MMO ≤ 40.7 mm.

Results

Data of 198 patients with LA‐NPC was analyzed retrospectively. RIT rates for Groups 1 to 4 were 10.2%, 15.2%, 25%, and 59.4%. Groups 2 and 3 were merged to generate HPR‐MMO index because of statistically equivalent RIT rates: Low‐risk: HPR > 0.54 and MMO > 40.7 mm; Intermediate‐risk: HPR ≤ 0.54 but MMO > 40.7 mm or; HPR > 0.54 but MMO ≤ 40.7 mm; High‐risk: HPR ≤ 0.54 and MMO ≤ 40.7 mm. It was revealed that the low‐, high‐, and intermediate‐risk group's RIT rates; 10.2%, 59.4%, and 19.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

The novel HPR‐MMO index may to classify LA‐NPC patients into low, intermediate, and high‐risk RIT groups.
Binational confidential enquiry of maternal deaths due to postpartum hemorrhage in France and the Netherlands: Lessons learned through the perspective of a different context of care
Authors: de Vries P. L. M. , van den Akker T. , Bloemenkamp K. W. M. , Grossetti E. , Rigouzzo A. , Saucedo M. , Verspyck E. , Zwart J. , Deneux‐Tharaux C.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To learn lessons for maternity care by scrutinizing postpartum hemorrhage management (PPH) in cases of PPH‐related maternal deaths in France and the Netherlands.

Methods

In this binational Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths (CEMD), 14 PPH‐related maternal deaths were reviewed by six experts from the French and Dutch national maternal death review committees regarding cause and preventability of death, clinical care and healthcare organization. Improvable care factors and lessons learned were identified. CEMD practices and PPH guidelines in France and the Netherlands were compared in the process.

Results

For France, new insights were primarily related to organization of healthcare, with lessons learned focusing on medical leadership and implementation of (surgical) checklists. For the Netherlands, insights were mainly related to clinical care, emphasizing hemostatic surgery earlier in the course of PPH and reducing the third stage of labor by prompter manual removal of the placenta. Experts recommended extending PPH guidelines with specific guidance for women refusing blood products and systematic evaluation of risk factors. The quality of CEMD was presumed to benefit from enhanced case finding, also through non‐obstetric sources, and electronic reporting of maternal deaths to reduce the administrative burden.

Conclusion

A binational CEMD revealed opportunities for improvement of care beyond lessons learned at the national level.
Serum CA125 as a biomarker for dysmenorrhea in adenomyosis
Authors: Tang Ying , Wen Ming‐bo , Xiang Ru‐mei , Yang Ming‐tao , Shu Bin , Xu Fan , Li Jun , Hu Hui‐quan , Shi Qiuling
Published: May 2023

Objective

To explore the association between CA125 and dysmenorrhea in adenomyosis, and the factors affecting CA125 in adenomyosis.

Methods

Patients were grouped a the presence of dysmenorrhea. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to assess the utility of CA125 for dysmenorrhea. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify the factors associating dysmenorrhea and CA125 level.

Results

Patients in the dysmenorrhea group had higher CA125 levels than those in the non‐dysmenorrhea group. For those with dysmenorrhea, CA125 levels of diffuse subtype group were higher than those of the focal subtype group. The CA125 level of 35 U/mL was validated as the optimal cut‐point for dysmenorrhea in ROC curves. Compared with patients whose CA125 was 35 U/mL or less, those with CA125 levels greater than 35 U/mL were more likely to have dysmenorrhea. Thereafter, the multiple regression analysis showed that adenomyotic lesion volume was positively correlated with CA125 level in the total cohort and subtype groups, while age was negatively correlated with CA125 level in the total cohort and diffuse subtype.

Conclusions

The pathogenesis of adenomyosis is not clear. CA125 was associated with dysmenorrhea in adenomyosis, and, furthermore, CA125 level is positively correlated with the severity of the disease.
Research progress of CRISPR/Cas systems in nucleic acid detection of infectious diseases
Authors: Dong Jinying , Du Yuguang , Zhou Lei
Published: May 2023

Infectious diseases are a serious threat to human health, and accurate, rapid and convenient early detection of pathogens is the first step of active treatment. Technologies that detect pathogens have advanced significantly because of the development of fundamental disciplines and the integration of multidisciplinary fields. Among these technologies, nucleic acid detection technology is preferred because of its rapid measurement, accuracy and high sensitivity. The CRISPR/Cas system, consisting of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR‐associated (Cas), is an adaptive immune system that specifically recognizes, binds and cleaves exogenous invasive nucleic acids. The CRISPR/Cas system is widely found in bacteria and archaea. Researchers have developed nucleic acid detection technologies with single‐molecule sensitivity, single‐base precision specificity, portability and low cost based on the specific cleavage and trans‐cleavage activities of the CRISPR/Cas system. The next generation of in‐vitro diagnostics is shifting to nucleic acid technology because this technology shows promise in a wide range of applications in resource‐constrained environments. In this review, the development and mechanism of the CRISPR/Cas system are presented together with representative CRISPR/Cas applications in nucleic acid detection. Additionally, the review summarizes future perspectives and trends of the CRISPR/Cas system in nucleic acid detection.
The role of the proteasome in mitochondrial protein quality control
Authors: Rödl Saskia , Herrmann Johannes M.
Published: May 2023

The abundance of each cellular protein is dynamically adjusted to the prevailing metabolic and stress conditions by modulation of their synthesis and degradation rates. The proteasome represents the major machinery for the degradation of proteins in eukaryotic cells. How the ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS) controls protein levels and removes superfluous and damaged proteins from the cytosol and the nucleus is well characterized. However, recent studies showed that the proteasome also plays a crucial role in mitochondrial protein quality control. This mitochondria‐associated degradation (MAD) thereby acts on two layers: first, the proteasome removes mature, functionally compromised or mis‐localized proteins from the mitochondrial surface; and second, the proteasome cleanses the mitochondrial import pore of import intermediates of nascent proteins that are stalled during translocation. In this review, we provide an overview about the components and their specific functions that facilitate proteasomal degradation of mitochondrial proteins in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Thereby we explain how the proteasome, in conjunction with a set of intramitochondrial proteases, maintains mitochondrial protein homeostasis and dynamically adapts the levels of mitochondrial proteins to specific conditions.
Exogenous IL‐10 posttreatment along with TLR4 and TNFR1 blockade improves tissue antioxidant status by modulating sepsis‐induced macrophage polarization
Authors: Sawoo Ritasha , Dey Rajen , Ghosh Rituparna , Bishayi Biswadev
Published: May 2023

Multi‐organ dysfunction is one of the major reasons behind the high mortality of sepsis throughout the world. With the pathophysiology of sepsis remaining largely unknown, the uncontrolled reactive oxygen species (ROS) production along with the decreased antioxidants contributes to the progression toward septic shock. Being the effector cells of the innate immunity system, macrophages secrete both pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory mediators during inflammation. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding to toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) releases TNF‐α, which initiates pro‐inflammatory events through tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) signaling. However, it is counteracted by the anti‐inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL‐10) causing decreased oxidative stress. Our study thus aimed to assess the effects of exogenous IL‐10 treatment post‐neutralization of TLR4 and TNFR1 (by anti‐TLR4 antibody and anti‐TNFR1 antibody, respectively) in an in vivo murine model of LPS‐sepsis. We have also examined the tissue‐specific antioxidant status in the spleen, liver, and lungs along with the serum cytokine levels in adult male Swiss albino mice to determine the functional association with the disease. The results showed that administration of recombinant IL‐10 post‐neutralization of the receptors was beneficial in shifting the macrophage polarization to the anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype. IL‐10 treatment significantly downregulated the free radicals production resulting in diminished lipid peroxidase (LPO) levels. The increased antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GRX) conferred protection against LPS‐induced sepsis. Western blot data further confirmed diminished expressions of TLR4 and TNFR1 along with suppressed stress‐activated protein kinases/Jun amino‐terminal kinases (SAPK/JNK) and increased SOD and CAT expressions, which altogether indicated that neutralization of TLR4 and TNFR1 along with IL‐10 posttreatment might be a potential therapeutic measure for the treatment of sepsis.
School counseling prevention programming to address social determinants of mental health
Authors: Johnson Kaprea F. , Kim Hyunhee , Molina Citlali E. , Thompson Kaleb A. , Henry Sarah , Zyromski Brett
Published: May 2023

Social determinants of mental health (SDOMH) are conditions in which students live that significantly contribute to their mental health challenges. School counselors can utilize the Advocating Student‐within‐Environment (ASE) theoretical lens as a liberation approach to strengthening students’ capacity to overcome persistent adversity while addressing root causes of systemic oppression through policy change and advocacy at the school, community, and national levels. School counselors can use increased personal awareness of the oppressive nature of SDOMH and the bidirectional approach offered by ASE to influence systems and students through preventative programming and proactive advocacy to affect institutional change. This study provides school counselors with an overview of ASE as a theoretical foundation for addressing SDOMH in schools.
Social determinants of mental health: Informing counseling practice and professional identity
Authors: Pester Danielle A. , Jones Laura K. , Talib Zohray
Published: May 2023

The counseling field, with its grounding in wellness, social justice, and development, is well positioned to adopt a social determinants of mental health framework and lead initiatives to further integrate this type of framework into the larger mental health field. The purpose of this article is to bring together and apply two existing models, the social determinants of mental health and the social determinants of mental disorders, to the field of professional counseling. The authors argue that by adopting this framework, professional counselors will be better positioned to identify and address social determinants of mental health both proximal and distal to their clients and use this to inform direct clinical practice, the design and evaluation of counselor training programs, the development of community‐based intervention programs, counseling research, as well as policy initiatives ranging from the organizational to public policy levels.
Bonding and stability of elusive silaboryne (SiB) and germaboryne (GeB) with donor base ligands
Authors: Das Sujit , Devi Kavita , Suthar Sonam , Mondal Kartik Chandra
Published: May 2023

Stabilizing the exotic chemical species possessing multiple bonds is often extremely challenging due to insufficient orbital overlap, especially involving one heavier element. Bulky aryl groups and/or carbene as ligand have previously stabilized the SiSi, GeGe, and BB triple bonds. Herein, theoretical calculations have been carried out to shed light on the stability and bonding of elusive silaboryne/germaboryne (Si/GeB triple bond) stabilized by donor base ligands ((cAAC)BE(Me)(L); E = Si, L = cAACMe, NHCMe, PMe3; E = Ge, L = cAACMe). The heavier analogues (Sn, Pb) have been further studied for comparison. Additionally, the effects of bulky substituents at the Si and N atoms on the structural parameters and stability of those species have been investigated. Energy decomposition analysis coupled with natural orbital for chemical valence (EDA‐NOCV; for Si) showed that cAAC/NHC ligands could stabilize the exotic BSi‐Me species more efficiently than PMe3 ligands. The BSi partial triple bond of the corresponding species possesses a mixture of one covalent electron sharing BSi σ‐bond and two dative π‐bonds (B ← Si, B → Si).
Impact of Lisinopril on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Sisters of Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Krysiak Robert , Kowalcze Karolina , Okopień Bogusław
Published: May 2023

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrinopathy in reproductive age, are characterized by increased cardiometabolic risk. Similar hormonal and metabolic changes were found in their siblings. The purpose of our study was to compare blood pressure–lowering and pleiotropic effects of lisinopril between sisters of women with PCOS and their unrelated peers. The study included two age‐, body mass index–, and blood pressure–matched groups of women with grade 1 hypertension: 26 sisters of PCOS probands (Group 1) and 26 individuals without a family history of PCOS (Group 2), receiving 10–40 mg of lisinopril daily. Blood pressure, glucose homeostasis markers, plasma levels of lipids (androgens, estradiol, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), homocysteine, fibrinogen, and uric acid), and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR) were measured before lisinopril treatment and 6 months later. At baseline, the study groups differed in insulin sensitivity, testosterone, free androgen index (FAI), hsCRP, homocysteine, and UACR. Blood pressure–lowering properties of lisinopril did not differ between the groups. The decrease in homocysteine and UACR, although observed in both groups, was stronger in Group 2 than in Group 1. Only in women without a family history of PCOS lisinopril improved insulin sensitivity and reduce hsCRP, fibrinogen, and uric acid. The remaining markers did not change throughout the study. Cardiometabolic effects of lisinopril correlated with testosterone, free androgen index, and changes in insulin sensitivity. The obtained results suggest that cardiometabolic effects of lisinopril may be slightly less pronounced in sisters of women with PCOS than in women without a family history of this disorder.