bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerium‐Organic Framework UiO‐66(Ce) as a Support for Nanoparticulate Gold for Use in Oxidation Catalysis
Authors: Zhao Baiwen , Kashtiban Reza J. , Huband Steven , Walker Marc , Walton Richard I.
Published: September 2024

An optimised synthesis of the metal‐organic framework (MOF) UiO‐66(Ce) is reported using a modulator‐free route, yielding ~5 g of material with high crystallinity and 22 % ligand defect. Two methods are developed for loading gold nanoparticles onto the MOF. The first uses a double‐solvent method to introduce HAuCl4 onto UiO‐66(Ce), followed by reduction under 5 % H2 in N2, while the second is a novel one‐pot method where HAuCl4 is added to the synthesis mixture, forming Au nanoparticles within the pores of the UiO‐66(Ce) during crystallisation. Analysis using powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), nitrogen adsorption isotherms, transmission electron microscopy and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) reveals that the two‐step double‐solvent method yields gold crystallites on the external surface of the MOF particles that are visible by PXRD. In contrast, the one‐pot method forms smaller gold crystallites, with a distribution of sizes centred on ~4 nm diameter as seen by SAXS, with evidence from PXRD for the smallest particles being present within the MOF structure. The Au‐loaded UiO‐66(Ce) materials are evaluated for the catalytic oxidation of vanillyl alcohol to vanillin at 60 °C. Our findings indicate that incorporating Au nanoparticles via the one‐pot synthesis method, enhances redox activity, achieving 43 % conversion and 90 % selectivity towards vanillin.
Development Overview and Perspective of Semi‐Solid Flow Batteries
Authors: Zheng Junjie , Zhu Qinpeng , Xian Jinglin , Liu Kang , Yang Peihua
Published: September 2024

The development of efficient and cost‐effective grid energy storage devices is crucial for advancing the future of renewable energy. Semi‐solid flow batteries, as an emerging energy storage technology, offer significantly higher energy density and lower costs compared to traditional liquid flow batteries. However, the complex interplay between rheology and electrochemistry poses challenges for in‐depth investigation. With a sketch of historical development of semi‐solid flow batteries, this minireview summarizes several key issues, including particle interactions, electron transport, and the sustainability of electrochemical reactions in slurry electrodes. By tracing the technological evolution of semi‐solid flow batteries, we provide a forward‐looking perspective on their potential applications in future large‐scale energy storage systems, highlighting their promising role in addressing the challenges of energy transition.
Facile, eco‐friendly and sensitive fluorimetric approach for detection of chlorpromazine: Application in biological fluids and tablet formulations as well as greenness evaluation of the analytical method
Authors: Mostafa Islam M. , Mohamed Abobakr A. , Alahmadi Yaser , Shehata Ahmed M. , Almikhlafi Mohannad A. , Omar Mahmoud A.
Published: September 2024

Monitoring antipsychotic drugs in biological fluids, such as human serum and urine, is important for ensuring the safety and efficacy of psychiatric treatments. This process helps maintain therapeutic drug levels, minimize side effects, and optimize patient well‐being. Chlorpromazine (CZ) is a widely prescribed antipsychotic drug used for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and acute psychosis. Almost all existing sensing techniques for CZ are either insensitive spectrophotometric methods or involve long and complex chromatographic procedures, limiting their routine use. In this work, we introduce a facile, green, and sensitive fluorimetric strategy with high reproducibility for detecting CZ in its pure form, tablet formulation, and spiked human plasma and urine without the need for derivatization reactions. The proposed method relies on the inhibition of the intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer (PET) effect by using 2.0 M acetic acid. This approach enables the linear detection of CZ from 3.0 to 600 ng/mL with remarkably low quantitation and detection limits of 1.51 and 0.49 ng/mL, respectively. Moreover, the developed method's greenness was evaluated.
Confucian culture, environmental innovation, and family firms' performance: The moderating role of market competition
Authors: Liao Zhongju , Liu Yan
Published: September 2024

Environmental innovation has become an important way for family firms to meet institutional requirements and market demands. Based on the dual perspectives of informal institution and environmental innovation, this study constructs a research framework of “culture‐innovation‐performance” to explore the relationship between Confucian culture, environmental innovation, and family firm performance as well as the moderating role of market competition intensity. A total of 529 family firms in the manufacturing industry listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A‐share stock markets between 2015 and 2021 were selected as the research sample to test the hypotheses using multiple regression analysis. The results indicate that Confucian culture significantly promotes the quality of environmental innovation but does not have a significant effect on the quantity of environmental innovation; moreover, both the quantity and quality of environmental innovation can promote the performance of family firms, and this promoting effect is stronger in an environment with lower market competition intensity. This study not only enriches the application of Confucian culture in environmental innovation but also provides guidance on how firms can improve the quality of environmental innovation.
A pan‐cancer analysis of Wnt family member 7B in human cancers
Authors: Wang Rui , Wu Ni‐sha , Wang Li , Zhang Zhi‐zhao , Wang Cheng‐fang , Wang Yan , Liang Yan , Zhang Yi , Qi Xiao‐wei
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have highlighted the crucial role of Wnt7B in the development of various cancers, including breast, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. However, research into the involvement of Wnt7B is often confined to specific tumor types, with a noticeable lack of comprehensive studies spanning multiple cancer forms. The potential of Wnt7B as a diagnostic or prognostic cancer biomarker has not been fully explored.

Methods

In this study, we combined bioinformatics and immunohistochemistry analyses to examine the expression patterns and functions of Wnt7B in cancerous and adjacent noncancerous tissues across a range of tumors.

Results

Our data indicate that Wnt7B may serve as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in certain cancers.

Conclusion

We found significant upregulation of Wnt7B expression levels in the majority of cancer cases examined. Furthermore, Wnt7B can influence cancer prognosis by modulating the tumor microenvironment, immune cell infiltration, and tumor stemness, among other factors. Additionally, we examined the associations between anticancer drug sensitivity and Wnt7B expression, which could aid in the development of more precise clinical therapies.
Therapeutic alliance rupture and resolution in a brief psychiatric treatment for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Nadel Isabella , Glassier Sofia , de Roten Yves , Kramer Ueli
Published: September 2024

Background

The focus of this case study was to explore the development of the therapeutic alliance in relation to alliance rupture and resolution and the effect of motive‐focussed psychotherapeutic techniques on this process in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Methods

Therapeutic alliance rupture and resolution processes were analysed in relation to outcomes over the course of a 10 week, short‐term generalist psychiatric treatment for BPD in two patients, hereby referred to as Clara and Rebecca. Clara received treatment in the form of good psychiatric management (GPM) with the addition of motive‐oriented therapeutic relationship (MOTR) techniques. Rebecca received treatment in the form of GPM.

Results

Both patients experienced a clinically significant reduction in symptoms. Ruptures and resolution processes occurred at low frequencies in Clara's treatment, while ruptures and resolution processes were numerous in Rebecca's treatment. The focus in Clara's treatment was on rupture prevention because of the added presence of MOTR techniques, while the focus in Rebecca's treatment was on rupture identification and resolution.

Discussion

Results support the hypothesis that symptom reduction was achieved through two distinct pathways of change as a function of the treatment condition, which suggests the potential presence of multiple effective psychotherapeutic techniques for alliance development. Limitations of this study and clinical implications for the treatment of BPD in psychotherapy, with a special focus on the therapeutic alliance, are discussed.
Tread carefully, consider Title IX when implementing revenue‐sharing with student‐athletes
Authors: Romano Robert
Published: September 2024

The NCAA, together with the Power Conferences, settled a series of federal antitrust lawsuits this past May by agreeing to establish a pay‐for‐play system for its Division I student‐athletes.
Degradation of Argan Oils Used in Edible and Cosmetic Applications After Exposure to UV Light
Authors: El Idrissi Yousra , El Moudden Hamza , Belhoussaine Oumayma , El Ouafy Youssef , Mghazli Najoua , El Guezzane Chakir , Bouyahya Abdelhakim , Ullah Riaz , Bari Ahmed , Iqbal Zafar , Zhang Wei , Zengin Gokhan , Zarrouk Abdelkader , Harhar Hicham , Tabyaoui Mohamed
Published: September 2024

This study investigates for the first time the effects of UV light exposure on the chemical composition of artisanal and cold‐pressed culinary and cosmetic argan oils, as well as their quality and biological activities. We ascertained the oxidative stability of both types of oil through measurements of the peroxide value, acidity, UV‐spectrophotometric indexes (E232 and E270), and iodine value. Over the course of eight hours at room temperature, the impact of UV light on the breakdown of tocopherols, polyphenols, chlorophylls, and carotenoid pigments was examined. The findings showed that during photo‐oxidation, acidity, peroxide value, and particular extinction coefficients (E232 and E270) gradually increased. On the other hand, a decline in the content of polyphenols, tocopherols, carotenoid, and chlorophyll was noted. Interestingly, iodine levels failed to improve. Although after an eight‐hour degradation, the physicochemical profile of Argan oils remained exceptional. DPPH• (1,1‐Diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl) antioxidant activity tests showed a gradual decrease in radical inhibition over time, which was attributed to lower levels of tocopherol and polyphenol. However, roasted oils showed antifungal action against Botrytis cinerea fungus, while Argan vegetable oils showed no activity against Escherichia coli, Microbacterium resistens, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Raoultella ornithinolytica, according to antimicrobial assays.
Concurrent and prolonged embedded earring at the earlobe as a possible factor of erosive lichen planus
Authors: Wichyanrat Sutthinun
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Embedded earrings in adults have been reported to be a possible cause of erosive oral lichen planus.

Erosive lichen planus is rare and its cause cannot be determined. Embedded earring in the earlobes is rare clinical presentation in adult. The concurrent nature of these two conditions has not been previously, described in the published literature. Unexpectedly, we removed the earring from the earlobe and successfully treated erosive oral lichen planus. We hypothesized that prolonged embedded earring is a possible factor that induced erosive lichen planus in this case.
Substituent Effects in Scholl‐Type Reactions of 1,2‐Terphenyls to Triphenylenes
Authors: Reinhard Dennis , Schuldt Moritz P. , Elbert Sven M. , Ueberricke Lucas , Hengefeld Karsten , Rominger Frank , Mastalerz Michael
Published: September 2024

A series of 3,3’’‐ and 4,4’’‐dimethoxy terphenyls with different second substituents on their ortho‐positions have been synthesized and investigated upon the possibility to be oxidatively cyclodehydrogenated to the corresponding triphenylenes under Scholl‐type conditions. The experimentally obtained selectivities were supported and explained by quantum chemical calculations and conclusions on the involved mechanisms (acid catalyzed arenium‐ion mechanism (AIM) vs radical cation mechanism) were drawn.
To Maximize Luminescence for an Efficient Organic Solar Cell†
Authors: Geng Yifei , Li Tengfei , Zhang Zhenzhen , Lin Yuze
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

With the continuous development of photovoltaic materials, organic solar cells (OSCs) have made remarkable advancements, surpassing a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20%. However, the PCEs of OSCs remain lower than that of inorganic solar cells due to significant energy losses, mainly stemming from the relatively large non‐radiative recombination losses (usually be expressed as ∆E3), resulting in low open‐circuit voltages. This can be achieved by reducing non‐radiative recombination, and hereby increasing the electroluminescence quantum efficiency (EQEEL) of the photo‐active layer. This review analyzes the significance of luminescence efficiency in achieving high‐performance OSCs by examining the reciprocal relationship between ∆E3 and EQEEL. High‐efficiency organic solar cells can also be used as effective organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). The discussion provides insights into the influencing factors of EQEEL and the mechanisms for adjusting various parameters, which include enhancements in photoluminescence quantum yield and the proportion of radiative excitons. The objective is to offer insights into the crucial role of luminescence performance in OSC development, guiding researchers toward developing novel photovoltaic materials or optimization strategies to enhance the luminescence performance of the active layer in OSCs, fostering the simultaneous advancement of OSCs and OLEDs.

Key Scientists
Tailoring language for genitourinary function in patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer to facilitate discussions in diverse populations and overcome health literacy barriers
Authors: Kilbridge Kerry L. , Patil Dattatraya , Filson Christopher Paul , Shelton Joseph W. , Thomson Sierra Williams , Rosenbaum Cecilia H. , Rothmann Emily C. , Martin‐Doyle William , Trinh Quoc‐Dien , Narayan Vikram M. , Master Viraj A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Poor comprehension of prostate cancer (PCa) medical terms can create barriers to PCa treatment discussions. The authors measured comprehension of PCa terms and its relationship to health literacy in a group of Black men who were newly diagnosed with PCa. They examined whether tailoring communication with alternative colloquial words would be helpful and acceptable.

Methods

Patients were recruited from urology clinics (N = 152). After they met with their providers to discuss PCa treatment options, they participated in an educational supplement delivered as a structured interview. The supplement tailored PCa treatment information by allowing men to choose between colloquial and medical terms for genitourinary (GU) function. Health literacy was measured using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine, and comprehension of common PCa terms was assessed using published methods. Pearson correlation was used to estimate the association between health literacy and comprehension of PCa terms. Spearman rank correlation (r) was used to assess the relation between the total number of medical terms preferred (range, 0–10) and Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine scores (range, 0–66).

Results

Most patients (62%) had low health literacy, which was strongly correlated with their understanding of PCa terms (r = 0.526; p < .001). Poor comprehension of many PCa terms established the need to use alternative language for GU function (only 20% knew the word incontinence). There was a statistically significant positive association between the number of medical terms preferred and health literacy (r = 0.358; p < .001). A majority of patients (91%) preferred a mixture of medical and colloquial terms.

Conclusions

Tailoring communications with colloquial terms for GU function was preferred by most patients regardless of health literacy.
Enhancement of Circularly Polarized Luminescence Brightness of Schiff‐Base Diphenylboron and 9‐Borafluoren‐9‐yl Complexes
Authors: Ikeshita Masahiro , Watanabe Shinya , Oka Taichi , Kuroda Ayumu , Suzuki Seika , Suzuki Daiya , Imai Yoshitane , Tsuno Takashi
Published: September 2024

A series of diphenylboron and 9‐borafluoren‐9‐yl complexes with chiral Schiff‐base ligands was synthesized and characterized by NMR spectroscopy. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that their boron centers were adapted to tetrahedral coordination geometry. Although boron complexes with salicylideneimine backbones exhibited a weak circularly polarized luminescence (CPL), the CPL brightness (BCPL) was enhanced more than 9‐fold by the π‐extension of the Schiff base ligands. Time‐resolved emission decay analysis and theoretical calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) were conducted to further understand their luminescent properties.
How do female CEOs affect corporate pay dispersion? The perspective of risk aversion and competition avoidance
Authors: Guo Yuting , Zhang Ying , Ruan Hongfei , Xiang Yi , Du Yongzhi
Published: September 2024

Extant gender‐compensation literature has dominantly held a passive perspective on female leaders' compensation contracts. However, scant attention has been paid to the proactive aspect of this gender‐compensation relationship. This study fills this gap by incorporating female leaders' initiatives and integrating their proactive preferences to establish a link between gender and corporate pay dispersion. We first develop the theoretical argument that firms with female CEOs (SHE'‐E‐Os) have low pay dispersion due to their behavioral preferences—risk aversion and competition avoidance. Furthermore, we investigate how these preferences change over time—heterogeneous life‐cycle stages—which provides a long‐term perspective further enriching our understanding of the gender and organizational compensation structure. Using a 1992–2014 panel dataset from multiple sources, we find SHE'‐E‐Os are negatively associated with pay dispersion, particularly in firms during introduction, growth, or decline stages, as opposed to mature stages. Implications for literature on female leadership and pay dispersion are discussed.
Collaborations with nonprofit organizations: Signals or agents of operational change? Empirical evidence from Italian listed enterprises
Authors: Garrone Paola , Rizzuni Andrea
Published: September 2024

Collaborations with nonprofits are an avenue for firms to tackle social and environmental issues, and their disclosure is one way through which firms can inform stakeholders of the sustainability of their operations. This paper investigates their signaling function, disentangling it from their transformative role in spurring sustainable operational changes. Econometric analyses on collaborations reported by 118 Italian listed firms in their non‐financial disclosures in 2017–2019 confirm their signaling function. Most reported collaborations do not imply firms' operational engagements. Firms' propensity to collaborate is higher when their activities are less observable, institutional monitoring is weak, and alternative signaling mechanisms are absent. However, signaling determinants are weaker when collaborations involve firm‐level operational engagements. The study offers exploratory evidence that firms disclose collaborations with nonprofits as signals of sustainability. It offers insights on their dual role, showing that collaborations which spur sustainable operational changes are less likely to be employed as signals.
Catalytic Pyrolysis of Polyethylene with Microporous and Mesoporous Materials: Assessing Performance and Mechanistic Understanding
Authors: van de Minkelis Johan H. , Hergesell Adrian H. , van der Waal Jan C. , Altink Rinke M. , Vollmer Ina , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: September 2024

Testing the catalytic performance for the catalytic pyrolysis of plastic waste is hampered by mass transfer limitations induced by a size mismatch between the catalyst′s pores and the bulky polymer molecules. To investigate this aspect, the catalytic behaviour of a series of microporous and mesoporous materials was assessed in the catalytic pyrolysis of polyethylene (PE). More specifically, a mesoporous material, namely sulfated zirconia (Zr(SO4)2) on SBA‐15, was synthesized to increase the pore accessibility, which reduces mass transfer limitations and thereby enables to better assess the effect of active site density on catalyst activity. To demonstrate the potential of this approach, the mesoporous SBA‐15 catalysts were compared to a series of microporous zeolite Y catalysts. Using the degradation temperature during thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) as a measure of activity, no correlation between acidity and activity was observed for microporous zeolite Y. However, depending on the Mw of PE, the reactivity of the mesoporous catalysts increased with increasing Zr(SO4)2 weight loading, showing that utilizing a mesoporous catalyst can overcome the accessibility limitations at least partially, which was further confirmed by polymer melt infiltration and in situ X–ray diffraction. Detailed product analysis revealed that more aromatics and coke deposits were produced with the more acidic zeolite Y materials. The mesoporous material remained active and structurally intact over multiple cycles and catalyses PE degradation via acid‐ and radical‐based pathways.
Recycling of Rare Earth Elements: From E‐Waste to Stereoselective Catalytic Reactions
Authors: Donato Emanuela , Medici Fabrizio , Chiroli Valerio , Puglisi Alessandra , Rogoli Clemens , Fröhlich Peter , Bertau Martin , Zanoni Giuseppe , Benaglia Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Raw mixtures of Rare Earths Elements, REE, recovered by E‐waste, were used as catalysts to promote the (stereoselective) synthesis of highly valuable compounds. Y2O3, the major species that is recovered by the E‐waste, can be easily converted into the catalytically active Y(OTf)3 that is able to efficiently promote the Michael addition of indoles to benzylidene malonates and the stereoselective Diels‐Alder cycloaddition between cyclopentadiene and 4‐(S)‐3 acryloyl 4‐tert‐butyl 2‐oxazolidinone. Additionally, the raw mixtures were immobilissed onto silica and used to construct packed reactors, resulting in values for Productivity and Space‐Time Yields that were significantly higher than those of the corresponding batch conversions. Notably, the prepared cartridge employed in the model Michael reaction maintained its catalytic efficiency for more than 4 days of continuous running.
An efficient cluster head selection in WSNs using transient search optimization (TSO) algorithm
Authors: Subramanian Sumithra , Muthusamy Dhurgadevi , Kulandaivelu Gunasekaran , Subramanian Karpaga Selvi
Published: September 2024

In this manuscript, a nature‐inspired optimization method, named transient search optimization (TSO), is proposed. Energy‐based monetary custom is a serious issue on the wireless sensor network (WSN). Here, the network clustering is an effectual technique to reduce node energy depletion and increased network lifetime. The proposed method aims to improve the efficiency of sensor nodes (SNs) by reducing their detachment, minimizing energy transmission, and protecting excessive energy stored in the nodes. This approach helps decrease delays, reduce traffic flow, and optimize network performance. The execution is implemented on the NS2 software. The experimental outcomes exhibit that the proposed system performs better based on two wireless sensor architectures, such as 50 nodes and 100 nodes. The parameter produces 52.24%, 54.38%, and 56.37% better network lifetime; 44.71%, 46.24%, and 49.45% higher alive node; and 39.26%, 36.26%, and 28.65% lesser dead SNs compared with existing techniques like multi‐objective cluster head (CH)–based energy‐aware optimized routing approach in wireless sensor network (MOCH‐ORR‐WSN), energy effective CH selection with improved sparrow search algorithm in WSN (ECH‐ISS‐WSN), and energy effectual cluster basis routing protocol under butterfly optimization along ant colony optimization algorithms for WSN (EEC‐BOA‐ACO‐WSN).
What's New in Diode Laser Hair Removal?
Authors: Pillai Rahul , Pillai Jisha
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Laser hair removal remains one of the most common procedures in cosmetic dermatology. It has always been challenging because of the higher competing epidermal melanocyte as the targeted hair chromophore is also melanin. As a result, to avoid unwanted side effects from laser therapy while maintaining high efficacy levels, the use of the right laser device, appropriate settings, and customized pre and posttreatment care are crucial. With more efficient versions of existing lasers in the market, the safety profile has been taken care of without compromising the efficacy. Diode lasers along with long pulsed Nd:YAG and alexandrite are considered as the safest hair removal lasers.

Objective

To summarize recent developments in diode laser hair reduction focusing on improvements in efficiency, safety, and patient compliance with recent innovations.

Materials and Methods

A review of recent literature updates in diode laser hair reduction technology focusing on multiwavelength systems, safety profiles, and innovations in laser device was searched using keywords diode laser hair removal and mutliwavelength diode laser devices.

Results

Currently, 810 nm diode laser is the most extensively used technology for the long term elimination of unwanted hair, thus establishing itself as an efficacious and safe modality. The rapid multiple pass in motion technique with lesser fluence and gradual heating of the skin epidermis was more well tolerated in patients than the higher fluence single shot method. Most popular combination of triple wavelength was 755, 810, and 1064 nm, which is considered most effective with least complications.

Conclusion

Diode lasers still remain the gold standard in laser hair removal especially on darker skin types. Recent innovations in diode laser have significantly improved the efficacy, safety, and patient compliance with hair reduction. Multiwavelength platforms seems to be the way forward, however the basic principles and certain problems like minimal pain, treating thin hair, paradoxical hair growth, white hair removal still remains a challenge.
Assessing the Potential of Environmental DNA for Monitoring Nature‐Like Bypasses: Erroneous Surveillance Owing to DNA Flow‐Through
Authors: Tolonen Kimmo T. , Lehtinen Anne , Laamanen Tiina , Koljonen Saija
Published: September 2024

Nature‐like bypasses refer to fishways that simulate natural streams. Apart from facilitating fish migrations, bypasses possess the capacity to enhance biodiversity in dammed rivers. Feasibility of environmental DNA (eDNA) as a tool for bypass assessments is unknown. This study investigated fish eDNA in 10 bypasses and their main channels. Initially, the relative DNA flow‐through was estimated in bypasses. Subsequently, the impact of environmental factors and bypasses on fish assemblages was evaluated, and the robustness of the eDNA and electrofishing methods was assessed pertaining to bypass monitoring. The eDNA flow‐through was computed using an equation to estimate the residual DNA at specified distances downstream of the source site. The relative DNA flow‐through was lowest in the longest bypass with low flow rate and highest in the shortest bypass with higher flow rate and was dependent on the DNA decay rate coefficient used. The redundancy analysis revealed significant effects of spatial location, agriculture, catchment area, and bypass length on the species composition. The within‐river analyses indicated significant and nonsignificant bypass effects on species composition and total species richness, respectively. Higher richness and DNA abundance of migratory and threatened species were observed in the bypasses than in the main channels. The eDNA samples displayed higher species richness compared to electrofishing. The species composition of the bypass eDNA samples was intermediate between that of the main channel eDNA and bypass electrofishing samples, which further corroborated performance of eDNA flow‐through in bypasses. Therefore, bypass eDNA samples represented variable mixtures of local and main channel assemblages, indicating relatively low robustness of eDNA for quantitative and spatially accurate bypass assessments. Nevertheless, these results demonstrate practical applicability of eDNA in surveying the presence of desired species and evidence of the benefits of bypasses in supporting biodiversity and species threatened by damming.
Development of eDNA Protocols for Detection of Endangered White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) in the Wild
Authors: Crossman James A. , Flores Anne‐Marie , Messmer Amber , Nelson R. John , McAdam Steve O. , Johnson Peter , Reece Pamela , Koop Ben F.
Published: September 2024

Understanding the distribution and habitat use of endangered species is essential for conservation efforts. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has become a more common approach to defining species habitat occupancy through identification of residual DNA in water samples and has potential to detect populations that are in low abundance or use habitats over a large geographical range. Here, we optimized an eDNA protocol to detect the presence of the endangered white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus). We implemented lab‐based experiments to understand the sensitivity and persistence of white sturgeon eDNA and then applied these methods to habitats with known white sturgeon abundances categorized as high, low, or not present. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and a modified StrAci1N‐flap primer set, white sturgeon eDNA was detected in water collected from tanks holding white sturgeon down to a dilution of 10,000× (estimated eDNA concentration of 0.00035 μg/L—0.00176 μg/L). Following the removal of white sturgeon from the tanks, the eDNA signal decreased with time but could be detected for up to 7 days. In the field, all sites with high abundances of white sturgeon returned positive eDNA detections. We did not detect white sturgeon eDNA at sites with low abundance or in areas where they were not expected to be present. Results from this work further advance our interpretation of eDNA from wild populations and provide a noninvasive method to advance recovery efforts by identifying species presence in areas of suspected use or to guide additional inventory efforts.
Factors associated with stellate ganglion block success in recurrent ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Chouairi Fouad , Fudim Marat , Benak Ales , Piccini Jonathan P. , Toman Jakub , Kautzner Josef , Ganesh Arun , Sramko Marek
Published: September 2024

Aims

One treatment option for refractory ventricular arrythmias is stellate ganglion block (SGB). We examined differences in SGB success by patient and arrhythmia characteristics and predictors of successful SGB.

Methods and results

This was a multicenter analysis of patients treated for refractory ventricular arrythmias in the Czech Republic and the United States. The primary outcome was absence of ventricular arrythmias at 24 h post SGB. SGB effectiveness was examined according to aetiology of cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia type, laterality of SGB, presence of inotropes, and presence of mechanical circulatory support. Binary logistic regression was used to examine variables associated with the primary outcome. In total there were 117 patients with refractory ventricular arrythmias treated with SGB. Overall, the mean age was 63.5 ± 11.0 years, majority of patients were male (94.0%), White (87.2%), and had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator in situ (70.1%). There were no differences in efficacy of SGB based on aetiology of cardiomyopathy (P = 0.623), arrhythmia type (0.852), laterality of block (P = 0.131), and presence of inotropes (P = 0.083). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that increased age was associated with decreased odds of SGB success (odds ratio: 0.96, confidence interval: 0.92–0.99, P = 0.039) whereas increased left ventricular ejection fraction trended towards increased odds of SGB success (odds ratio: 1.05, confidence interval: 0.995–1.11, P = 0.077).

Conclusions

In this multicentre experience, SGB was similarly effective despite the aetiology of cardiomyopathy, type of arrhythmia, laterality, and inotropic or mechanical support. SGB was less effective for the suppression of ventricular arrythmias at 24 h for the elderly.
Bilateral Todd's paralysis in a patient with left fronto‐opercular epilepsy
Authors: Oliveira Daniela Santos , Rocha Helena , Vieira Duarte , Rito Manuel , Rego Ricardo
Published: September 2024

Postictal paresis (“Todd's paralysis”) is commonly observed as a unilateral, transient motor weakness, lasting minutes to hours, after focal or focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizures, contralateral to the epileptogenic zone. Bilateral postictal paresis is exceedingly rare and could be misinterpreted, especially if the preceding convulsive phase was not witnessed. An 18‐year‐old right‐handed male patient with refractory focal epilepsy with seizure onset at age 3 years, was admitted for presurgical video‐EEG monitoring. His seizures were predominantly nocturnal, consisting of a laryngeal somatosensory aura, occasionally evolving to bilateral tonic or tonic–clonic seizures with occasional asymmetrical limb extension during the tonic phase (right arm extension). Postictally, consciousness recovery was fast, if ever lost. At that stage, we documented severe dysarthria and bilateral symmetrical arm paresis lasting several minutes. The ictal pattern and interictal epileptiform activity were projected on the fronto‐central midline. Brain MRI was highly suggestive of a bottom‐of‐sulcus dysplasia with underlying transmantle sign on the left premotor, fronto‐opercular region and an FDG‐PET‐CT showed a concordant left fronto‐operculo‐insular hypometabolism. A complete lesionectomy was performed, with the additional guidance of intraoperative electrocorticography, resulting in sustained seizure freedom. Anatomo‐pathology confirmed a type 2b focal cortical dysplasia. We speculate that, in our patient, a left fronto‐opercular ictal onset with an early spread to both primary motor cortices and relative sparing of consciousness networks allowed the emergence of a clinically detectable postictal bilateral paresis.
Awareness and willingness to use pre‐exposure prophylaxis among the University of Zambia students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kampamba Martin , Nelumbu Natalia N. , Hikaambo Christabel N. , Mudenda Steward , Hangoma Jimmy M. , Kunda Mwape , Mufwambi Webrod , Hamachila Audrey , Mukosha Moses
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Despite a quick rollout of PrEP as a preventive method against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections in Zambia, adolescent and young adult populations have remained very vulnerable to HIV infection. This study assessed the awareness and willingness to use PrEP among University of Zambia (UNZA) students.

Methods

Three hundred forty‐six students participated in this cross‐sectional study at UNZA between March and June 2021. A previously validated questionnaire assessed willingness to use PrEP. We tested the hypothesized pathways between sexual risk behavior and willingness to use PrEP using the structural equation model. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with willingness to use PrEP. Variables with a p‐value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Of the 346 students, 271 (78.3%) were aware of PrEP, and 59 (17.1%) of the participants were willing to use PrEP. Only 17 (4.9%) of the participants had used PrEP before. In the multivariable logistic regression model, students who were aware of PrEP compared to those who were not (AOR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.10, 8.40, p) were more likely to be willing to use PrEP. Sexual risk behavior indirectly and positively affected willingness to use PrEP through awareness of PrEP.

Conclusion

Even though most students were aware of PrEP, the willingness to use this preventative measure is still low among UNZA students, resulting in low uptake. Therefore, concerted efforts are required to influence the willingness and uptake of PrEP, especially in high‐risk age groups such as university students.
An overview of sulbactam‐durlobactam approval and implications in advancing therapeutics for hospital‐acquired and ventilator‐associated pneumonia by acinetobacter baumannii‐calcoaceticus complex: A narrative review
Authors: Anand Ayush , Verma Amogh , Kaur Sarabjeet , Kathayat Priyangi , Manoj Rachel M. , Aakanksha Aakanksha , Turzin Justice K. , Satapathy Prakasini , Khatib Mahalaqua N. , Gaidhane Shilpa , Zahiruddin Quazi S. , Kukreti Neelima , Rustagi Sarvesh , Surana Arihant
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii, particularly those resistant to antibiotics such as carbapenem, have become a global health crisis with a significant mortality rate. Hospital‐acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) resulting from the A. baumannii‐calcoaceticus (ABC) complex represent a major clinical challenge. This review aimed to understand the approval process, mechanism of action, therapeutic potential, and future implications of sulbactam‐durlobactam therapy (SUL‐DUR).

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Clinical trials. gov, ICTRP, and CENTRAL were searched for studies on SUL‐DUR for the treatment of hospital‐acquired pneumonia and ventilator‐associated pneumonia. Also, World Health Organization, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites were searched for relevant information.

Results

SUL‐DUR, marketed as Xacduro, is a novel pharmaceutical combination that functions as a narrow‐spectrum parenterally administered antibiotic. Sulbactam acts as a β‐lactamase inhibitor, whereas durlobactam protects against degradation by A. baumannii enzymes. A phase 1 trial successfully established the safety and tolerability of SUL‐DUR in patients with normal and mild renal impairment. A phase 2 trial demonstrated the safety and tolerability of SUL‐DUR in a larger population with urinary tract infections. A phase 3 trial showed that SUL‐DUR was non‐inferior to colistin in terms of mortality in A. baumannii‐related VAP, HAP, and bacteremia.

Conclusion

The combination of sulbactam and durlobactam is a promising treatment option for HAP and VAP caused by ABC complex.
Dysregulation of lncRNA TFAP2A‐AS1 is involved in the pathogenesis of pulpitis by the regulation of microRNA‐32‐5p
Authors: Liu Mingming , Jia Weijing , Bai Lin , Lin Qiaolin
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate TFAP2A‐AS1 expression in the dental pulp of teeth with or without pulpitis and to determine the function of TFAP2A‐AS1 in pulp cells.

Methods

GSE92681 was analyzed to filter out differentially expressed lncRNAs. Pulp samples from teeth with pulpitis and healthy teeth (control) were examined using real‐time (RT) quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) were cultured in a specific medium for osteogenic induction, or treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate inflammation. The viability and apoptosis of human DPSCs (hDPSCs) were determined by XTT assay and apoptosis detection kit. Inflammation was induced by LPS and assessed by measuring the expression and release of inflammatory cytokines after TFAP2A‐AS1 knockdown. Osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs was investigated by determining expression levels of osteogenic markers and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity after TFAP2A‐AS1 overexpression. The downstream microRNA (miRNA) was predicted. Dual‐luciferase reporter was used to confirm the binding between miR‐32‐5p and TFAP2A‐AS1.

Results

The expression of TFAP2A‐AS1 was evaluated in inflamed pulp using RT‐qPCR. TFAP2A‐AS1 had a discriminatory ability for healthy individuals and patients with pulpitis. The expression of TFAP2A‐AS1 decreased upon the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs, and increased upon the LPS induction. TFAP2A‐AS1 can reverse the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs, as evidenced by decreased levels of dentine sialophosphoprotein, dentin matrix protein−1, and ALP activity. TFAP2A‐AS1 knockdown can promote cell proliferation of hDPSCs and relieve LPS‐induced inflammation, as evidenced by decreased levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6. miR‐32‐5p was identified as a downstream miRNA of TFAP2A‐AS1.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the expression and potential function of TFAP2A‐AS1 in the human dental pulp. TFAP2A‐AS1 can inhibit odontogenic differentiation but promote inflammation in pulp cells.
DNA methylation variations of DNA damage response correlate survival and local immune status in melanomas
Authors: Wang Min , Zhang Xiao‐dong , Yang Han‐qing , Li Yang , Chen Wen‐mei , Yin An‐an
Published: September 2024

Aim

We aimed to explore the impact of DNA methylation alterations on the DNA damage response (DDR) in melanoma prognosis and immunity.

Material & methods

Different melanoma cohorts with molecular and clinical data were included.

Results

Hierarchical clustering utilizing different combinations of DDR‐relevant CpGs yielded distinct melanoma subtypes, which were characteristic of different prognoses, transcriptional function profiles of DDR, and immunity and immunotherapy responses but were associated with similar tumor mutation burdens. We then constructed and validated a clinically applicable 4‐CpG risk‐score signature for predicting survival and immunotherapy response.

Conclusion

Our study describes the close interrelationship among DNA methylation, DDR machinery, local tumor immune status, melanoma prognosis, and immunotherapy response.
Culture dependent and independent approaches reveal the role of specific bacteria in human skin aging
Authors: Xia Jing‐jing , Zhong Qian , Li Zhi‐ming , Wei Qing‐zhen , Jiang Liu‐yi‐qi , Duan Cheng , Jia Hui‐jue , Tan Yi‐mei , Han Lian‐yi , Krutmann Jean , Wang Jiucun , Liu Xiao
Published: September 2024

Skin aging is a dynamic process involving a spectrum of phenotypic changes, making it an attractive model for studying microbiome‐phenotype interactions. Therefore, 822 facial microbial samples and 14 skin phenotypes from corresponding areas were assessed in a Chinese cohort. Porphyrins and the chronological age exhibited the most significant microbial variability. We further profiled the dynamics of the skin microbiome associated with age and aging phenotypes. Using a multiple linear regression model, we predicted premature/delayed aging‐related microbial species, mainly Moraxella osloensis and Cutibacterium acnes. We also validated the biological functions of the host‐microbe interactions in vitro. Moraxella osloensis isolated from healthy skin regulates collagen metabolism and extracellular matrix assembly, and promotes cell senescence in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts, making it potentially applicable in the development of antiaging interventions.
Novel insights into immunopathogenesis and crucial biomarkers between primary open‐angle glaucoma and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Liu Yixian , You Mengling , Zeng Zhou , Wang Jing , Rong Rong , Xia Xiaobo
Published: September 2024

Glaucoma is the primary factor underlying irreversible blindness. Recent studies suggest that the risk of glaucoma significantly increases in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, the mechanism underlying this association remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to identify novel common biomarkers and potential therapeutic drugs for SLE and glaucoma. GSE27276, GSE50772, and GSE148371 datasets were sourced from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. An integrated analysis of the datasets for both diseases identified biomarkers and thoroughly examined their biological roles and molecular mechanisms using differential expression analysis (DEA), weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA), gene enrichment analysis, machine learning, microRNA (miRNA) and transcription factor analyses, immune infiltration analyses, and single‐cell transcriptome analysis. Concurrently, molecular docking was used to forecast potential drugs targeting these biomarkers. Finally, reverse transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was performed in human trabecular meshwork stem cells to validate the five identified biomarkers. The 10 key genes identified through DEA and WGCNA were predominantly involved in immune, inflammatory, and autophagy pathways. Additionally, machine learning identified five biomarkers, and we established associated transcription factors and miRNA regulatory networks. Immune infiltration analysis indicated an elevated presence of immune cells, including macrophages, T cells, and B cells, in both conditions. Furthermore, the DSigDB database yielded 10 potential therapeutic agents, three of which showed strong binding potential to the biomarkers via molecular docking. The RT‐qPCR results confirmed the trend in gene expression. This study uncovered a new link between SLE and primary open‐angle glaucoma, identifying biomarkers and mechanisms of immunopathogenesis for future research and treatment strategies.
The role of long non‐coding RNA Maternally Expressed Gene 3 in cancer‐associated fibroblasts at single cell pan‐cancer level
Authors: Zhou Tao , Yan Huayun , Deng Yiqi , Zhu Yunfeng , Xia Xuyang , Wu Wanchun , Zhang Wei‐Han , Chen Hai‐Ning , Hu Jian‐Kun , Zhou Zong‐Guang , Shu Yang , Li Yuan , Xu Heng
Published: September 2024

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can crucially regulate activation and transformation of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) but have not been systematically investigated at single cell resolution. Here, by utilizing integrated single‐cell sequencing datasets, we screened the aberrantly expressed lncRNAs in CAFs, which are the major component of tumor microenvironment. Our findings revealed a consistent CAF‐specific downregulation of Maternally Expressed Gene 3 (MEG3) expression and increased MEG3+ proportion at the pan‐cancer level, which may be attributed to m6A‐related post‐transcriptional modifications. Through activation trajectory analysis of the major CAF subtypes, it was determined that elevated MEG3 expression in CAFs leads to an increase in PDGFRA expression. This, in turn, promotes CAF activation and transformation into an MEG3+ adipogenic CAF (MACAF) subtype, which is more sensitive to Dasatinib. MACAF‐related cell–cell interactions highlighted that MACAF could enhance the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process in tumor cells via the TGF‐β pathway, promoting tumor cell migration and possibly contributing to tumor progression and invasiveness. Notably, patients with higher MACAF scores experience unfavorable prognoses and poor response rates to checkpoint inhibitor‐based immunotherapy, suggesting a correlation between MACAF and immunosuppressive microenvironment shaping. Our findings provide novel insights of the MEG3 in CAF activation and highlight the potential value of the MACAF score for therapeutic strategies design involving Dasatinib and immunotherapy.