bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D digital polarization‐holographic wavelet histology in determining the duration of mechanical damage to the myocardium
Authors: Ushenko Alexander , Zheng Jun , Litvinenko Alexandra , Gorsky Mykhaylo , Wanchuliak Oleh , Dubolazov Alexander , Ushenko Yuriy , Soltys Iryna , Salega Olexander , Chen Zhebo
Published: November 2023

We aimed developing and experimentally validating methods for 3D scale‐selective polarimetry of multiply scattered fields in diffuse myocardium layers for mechanical myocardial injury prescription histological differential diagnostics. We used the synthesis of diffuse object field polarization‐interference registration and polarization‐inhomogeneous field digital holographic reconstruction and layer‐by‐layer complex amplitudes distributions The method for selection single and diffuse object field multiply scattered components polarization maps is proposed. The conditions for eliminating the distorting influence of a depolarized background high level are found. On the basis of еру object field single scattered component polarization maps a large‐scale selective wavelet analysis the criteria (markers) for mechanical myocardial injury different prescription diagnosis was determinate. Excellent accuracy mechanical injury myocardium necrotic changes with different duration using polarization‐interference wavelet differentiation were achieved.
Valorization of coffee bean husk via pressurized liquid extraction for production of physicochemical extract
Authors: Costa Arielli Juliane Neres , Stevanato Natália , Raspe Djéssica Tatiane , Cardozo‐Filho Lúcio , da Silva Camila
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

In this study, obtaining phytochemical compounds from coffee bean husk (Arabica variety) under pressurized conditions (PLE) was investigated. For this, an experimental design was applied to evaluate the efficiency of the extraction in different conditions of temperature, solvent to husk ratio, and composition of the hydroethanolic solvent, and to determine the maximum extraction conditions of total phenolic acids (TPA). The dry extract obtained under different conditions and by Soxhlet extraction was characterized.

RESULTS

The conditions evaluated in the PLE showed that the composition of the hydroethanolic solvent had a greater influence on the results and the maximum extraction of TPA in the liquid extract (3.61 mg CAE 100 ghusk−1) was achieved with 50% (v/v) ethanol in solvent, 45 mL g−1 and 80 °C. Under these operational conditions, the extract obtained showed high mass yield (GY) and antioxidant activity (AA). Under pressurized conditions, synergism between operational variables and the presence of phytochemical compounds could be observed. Comparing the techniques, PLE provided a higher GY and AA, demonstrating the efficiency and selectivity of this technique in obtaining biologically active compounds. The main phenolic acids identified in the dry extract were gallic and chlorogenic, indicating an important role as an antioxidant and suggesting potential for its use.

CONCLUSION

PLE is a potential method for green extraction to obtain a phytochemical extract from coffee bean husk; when associated with the recovery of compounds by obtaining the dry extract, PLE presents advantages related to storage and handling, thus representing a starting point for the development of nutraceuticals that can be easily used as ingredients or additives in the chemical industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography in bacterial meningitis: A systematic review
Authors: Batino Laurence Kristoffer J. , Cinco Mark Timothy T. , Navarro Jose C. , Badillo Stephanie Patricia J. , Qureshi Adnan I. , Sharma Vijay K.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Bacterial meningitis remains a global threat due to its high mortality. It is estimated that >1.2 million cases of bacterial meningitis are reported annually. Intracranial vasculopathy is an important, under‐documented complication, easily detected by transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography. Following the PRISMA Guidelines, we reviewed the utility of TCD in bacterial meningitis.

Methods

This is a systematic review of observational studies on the use of TCD in patients with CSF‐proven bacterial meningitis. Characteristic changes in TCD parameters along the course of the disease, correlation of TCD findings with neuroimaging, and functional outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Nine studies were included with a total of 492 participants (mean age of 42). The most common TCD finding was intracranial arterial stenosis of the MCA (50%–82%) and ischemia (33%) was the predominant neuroimaging finding. The presence of an abnormal TCD finding increased the risk of poor outcomes as high as 70%.

Conclusions

Patients diagnosed with bacterial meningitis who underwent TCD show alterations in cerebral blood flow, correlating with imaging findings and poor outcomes. It aids in the diagnosis of its sequelae and can predict the prognosis of its outcome. TCD is a cost‐effective, reliable modality for diagnosing vasculopathy associated with bacterial meningitis. It may prove useful in our armamentarium of management. Large prospective studies with long‐term follow‐up data may help establish the use of TCD in bacterial meningitis.
Laparoscopic versus open liver resection for multiple hepatocellular carcinoma within and beyond the Milan criteria: An Eastern‐Western propensity score–matched analysis
Authors: Cassese Gianluca , Han Ho‐Seong , Lee Eunhye , Lee Boram , Lee Hae Won , Cho Jai Young , Montalti Roberto , Troisi Roberto Ivan
Published: November 2023

Background

There is still little knowledge about the outcomes of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) for multiple hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). The aim of this study was to assess the short‐ and long‐ term outcomes of LLR versus open liver resection (OLR) for patients with multiple HCC within and beyond the Milan criteria, and in both BCLC‐A and ‐B stage.

Methods

Data regarding all consecutive patients undergoing liver resection for multiple HCC were retrospectively collected from Asian (South Korean) and European (Italian) referral HPB centers. The cases were propensity‐score matched for age, BMI, center, extent of the resection, postero‐superior location of the lesion, underlying liver condition, BCLB staging and the Milan criteria.

Results

A total of 203 patients were included in the study: 27% of patients had undergone hemi‐hepatectomy, 26.6% atypical resections, 20.6% sectionectomy and 16.2% segmentectomy. After PSM two cohorts of 57 patients were obtained, with no significant differences in all preoperative characteristics. The length of hospital stay was significantly lower after LLR (median 7 vs. 9 days, p < .01), with no statistically significant differences in estimated blood loss, operation time, transfusions, postoperative bile leak, ascites, severe complications and R1 resection rates. After a median follow‐up of 61 (±7) months, there were no significant differences between OLR and LLR in both median OS (69 vs. 59 months, p = .74, respectively) and median DFS (12 vs. 10 months, p = .48, respectively).

Conclusion

LLR for multiple HCC can be safe and effective in selected cases and is able to shorten median hospital stay without affecting perioperative and long‐term oncological outcomes.
SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF7a blocked autophagy flux by intervening in the fusion between autophagosome and lysosome to promote viral infection and pathogenesis
Authors: Li Shun , Li Xiaobo , Liang Haowei , Yu Kuike , Zhai Jingbo , Xue Mengzhou , Luo Zhuojing , Zheng Chunfu , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) continues to pose a major threat to public health worldwide. Although many studies have clarified the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection process, the underlying mechanisms of viral invasion and immune evasion were still unclear. This study focused on SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF7a (open reading frame‐7a), one of the essential open reading frames (ORFs) in infection and pathogenesis. First, by analyzing its physical and chemical characteristics, SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF7a is an unstable hydrophobic transmembrane protein. Then, the ORF7a transmembrane domain three‐dimensional crystal structure model was predicted and verified. SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF7a localized in the endoplasmic reticulum and participated in the autophagy‐lysosome pathway via interacting with p62. In addition, we elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms by which ORF7a intercepted autophagic flux, promoted double membrane vesicle formation, and evaded host autophagy‐lysosome degradation and antiviral innate immunity. This study demonstrated that ORF7a could be a therapeutic target, and Glecaprevir may be a potential drug against SARS‐CoV‐2 by targeting ORF7a. A comprehensive understanding of ORF7a's functions may contribute to developing novel therapies and clinical drugs against COVID‐19.
Fabrication and characterization of soy protein isolation–ferulic acid antioxidant hydrogels
Authors: Zhao Ran , Wu Liang , Gao Yue , Wang Chuyan , Bai Xiaohui , Luo Shuizhong , Zheng Zhi
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Soy protein gel products are prone to direct oxidation by reactive oxygen during processing and transportation, thus reducing their functional properties and nutritional values. A covalent complex was prepared with soy protein isolate (SPI) and ferulic acid (FA) catalyzed by laccase (LC). The complex was further treated with microbial transglutaminase (TGase) to form hydrogels. The structural changes of the covalent complex (SPI‐FA) and the properties and antioxidant stability of hydrogel were investigated.

RESULTS

The SPI‐FA complexes were demonstrated to be covalently bound by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and they had the least hydrophobic and free sulfhydryl groups at a 1.0 mg mL−1 FA concentration. The α‐helix of complexes increased from 11.50% to 27.39%, and random coil dropped from 26.06% to 14.44%. The addition of FA caused SPI fluorescence quenching and redshift. The hydrogel was formed after the complex was induced with TGase, and its hardness and water holding capacity was increased by 50.61% and 26.21%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy showed that a layered and ordered gel structure was formed. After in vitro digestion, the complex hydrogels maintained stable antioxidant activity, and the free radical scavenging rates of DPPH and ABTS reached 87.65% and 84.45%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

SPI‐FA covalent complexes were prepared under laccase catalysis, and complex hydrogels were formed by TGase. Hydrogels have stable antioxidant activity, which provides application prospects for the antioxidant development of food. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ultrasonographic Findings of Catheter‐Related Bloodstream Infection in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Hosokawa Takahiro , Deguchi Kuntaro , Takei Haruka , Sato Yumiko , Tanami Yutaka , Oguma Eiji
Published: November 2023

Background

Catheter removal is essential for treating catheter‐related bloodstream infection (CRBSI); however, clinicians are sometimes hesitant to remove catheters in pediatric patients due to the difficulty of securing vascular access. Confirming the diagnosis of CRBSI is important to justify catheter removal. The purpose of this study was to describe the sonographic findings of CRBSI.

Materials and Methods

We included patients with a central venous catheter (CVC) or peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) who had a positive blood culture and underwent ultrasound. The patients were classified as with or without CRBSI. Sonographic findings, such as the presence/absence of thrombus, venous wall thickening, hyperechogenicity, and fluid collection around the vein were compared using Fisher's exact test.

Results

Of the 58 patients, 38 (66%) were diagnosed with CRBSI. The presence of thrombus (19/38 vs 3/20, P = .011); and hyperechogenicity around the vein (14/38 vs 2/20, P = .035) differed significantly, but There was no significant difference in the presence of venous wall thickening (10/38 vs 1/20, P = .077), and fluid collection around the vein (5/38 vs 0/20, P = .153), did not differ significantly in patients with and without CRBSI, respectively. One‐third of patients with CRBSI, including 11 (42.3%) patients with CVC, and 2 (16.7%) patients with PICC, did not have abnormal sonographic findings.

Conclusion

Ultrasound findings are useful for diagnosing CRBSI. However, the sensitivity of sonographic findings is low and abnormal sonographic findings are sometimes absent in children with CRBSI; therefore, physicians should not rule out CRBSI based on normal sonographic findings, especially in patients a CVC and a positive blood culture.
EGFR‐mediated hyperacetylation of tubulin induced docetaxel resistance by downregulation of HDAC6 and upregulation of MCAK and PLK1 in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Pu Yeong‐Shiau , Huang Chao‐Yuan , Wu Hung‐Lin , Wu Jyun‐Hong , Su Ying‐Fang , Yu Chang‐Tze Ricky , Lu Chi‐Yu , Wu Wen‐Jeng , Huang Shu‐Pin , Huang Ying‐Tang , Hour Tzyh‐Chyuan
Published: November 2023

Docetaxel‐based chemotherapy has generally been considered as one of the effective treatments for castration‐resistant prostate cancer (PCa). However, clinical treatment with docetaxel often encounters a number of undesirable effects, including drug resistance. Tubulin isoforms have been previously examined for their resistance to docetaxel in many cancers, but their real mechanisms remained unclear. In this study, a series of docetaxel‐resistant PC/DX cell sublines were established by chronically exposing PC3 to progressively increased concentrations of docetaxel. Western blotting results showed significantly higher expression of acetyl‐tubulin, α‐tubulin, β‐tubulin, γ‐tubulin, and βIII‐tubulin in PC/DX25 than in parental PC3 cells. PC/DX25 with greater resistance to docetaxel had higher levels of acetyl‐tubulin and mitotic centromere‐associated kinesin (MCAK) than PC3 cells. This study found that docetaxel induced the expression of acetyl‐tubulin and MCAK in PC3 cells at a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Both mRNA and protein levels of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) were significantly decreased in PC/DX25 compared with PC3 cells. PC3 increased the resistance to docetaxel by HDAC6 knockdown and Tubastatin A (HDAC6 inhibitor). Conversely, PC/DX25 reversed the sensitivity to docetaxel by MCAK knockdown. Notably, flow cytometry analysis revealed that MCAK knockdown induced significantly sub G1 fraction in PC/DX cells. Overexpression of polo‐like kinase‐1 increased the cell survival rate and resistance to docetaxel in PC3 cells. Moreover, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation induced the upregulation of acetyl‐tubulin in docetaxel‐resistant PCa cells. These findings demonstrated that the EGFR‐mediated upregulated expression of acetyl‐tubulin played an important role in docetaxel‐resistant PCa.
Safety and Adverse Events of Medialization Thyroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Valley Zachary A. , Karp Avrohom , Garber David
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Unilateral vocal fold paralysis or paresis (UVFP) is a condition that causes significant morbidity due to dysphonia, dysphagia, and aspiration. Type I medialization thyroplasty (MT) is the current mainstay surgical treatment for UVFP. Though widely considered a safe procedure, concerns exist over possible airway complications which can lead to overnight observation. Herein, we report a systematic review of the safety and adverse events of MT to aid in determining the safety of same‐day discharge.

Data Sources

PubMed and Embase databases.

Review Methods

Our search identified studies investigating complications associated with MT. Articles were selected if published between January 1, 1989 and March 15, 2023. Abstracts were screened, and data were extracted from included studies. Only Type I MT procedures were included; case reports were excluded. Participant characteristics, intervention details, results, and adverse events were extracted.

Results

The database query identified 751 abstracts, of which 46 studies met eligibility criteria. A total of 2426 patients underwent MT. The most common implant was Silastic (n = 898, 37.0%) followed by Gore‐Tex (n = 664, 27.4%). There were 254 (10.5%) total complications reported; 110 (4.5%) were considered major. The most common complication was nonobstructive hematoma (n = 59, 2.4%) followed by hemorrhage (n = 36, 1.5%). Implant extrusion (n = 24, 0.99%) or displacement (n = 15, 0.62%) occurred mostly in Silastic and Gore‐Tex implants. Same‐day discharge occurred with 429 patients and was not associated with adverse events.

Conclusions

UVFP can be reliably improved by MT with a low risk of complications. Outpatient MT is a promising treatment with a favorable safety profile. Laryngoscope, 134:1994–2004, 2024
BLOOM: A NEW LEADERSHIP DUTY OF CARE
Authors: Pontefract Dan
Published: November 2023

The author, a leadership strategist, discusses the concept of bloom, and its meanings for leadership. “Several factors,” he states, “influence the ability (or inability) of people to flourish at work. But the same is true for their lives. Thus, the relationship between work and life has become more critical than ever. Leaders: you have a responsibility for this work‐life outcome.” He suggests renouncing three familiar organizational terms: Work‐life balance, bring your best self to work, and employee engagement. As a replacement concept: “What is that new philosophy? I call it bloom. At the intersection of work and life, you should begin aspiring to reach a state of blooming. As a leader, you must begin applying the same thinking while leading your team members.” A table contrasts work‐factors (trust, belonging, valued, purpose, strategy, norms) and life‐factors (relationships, skills, well‐being, meaning, agency, respect). He develops four work‐life personas (renewal, budding, stunted, blooming). Blooming is described as “I am prospering fully in both work and life.” He concludes: “When we work, we bring our lives into our jobs every day, and our work creeps into our lives every day as well. There is no escaping the relationship between work and life. It is time to enact a new leadership duty of care.”
THE FIVE KEY QUALITIES OF LEVEL 5 LEADERS AND HOW WE CAN DEVELOP THEM IN FUTURE LEADERS
Authors: Taylor David , McArthur Sarah
Published: November 2023

The authors (Chartered Engineer & Business Leader at Rolls‐Royce and Editor‐in‐Chief of Leader to Leader) build on the concept of “level 5 leaders,” from Jim Collins's classic book Good to Great. They outline and describe the concept, and write that their “review of 7 out of 11 of the level 5 leaders in Jim's book showed the following 5 leadership qualities that created this combination of humility and will.” Those qualities, in their words, are: 1. Purpose before profits 2. Connection before critical thinking 3. Service before seniority 4. Creativity before control 5. Coaching for mastery. Each of these qualities is outlined in depth regarding recent leaders: Frances Hesselbein (Former CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA, Namesake of Frances Hesselbein Leadership Forum, Founder and longtime Editor‐in‐Chief of Leader to Leader, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient); Alan Mulally, (Former CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Boeing Defense and Space, and the Ford Motor Company); and Hubert Joly (Former Chairman and CEO of Best Buy, recognized top 10 U.S. CEO, Glassdoor: Unleashing Human Magic). They write that these leaders “advocate an approach where all stakeholders are included to create insights, implement change, and follow up to deliver sustainable and long‐term improvement.”
Cognitive Effects of Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson's Disease with GBA1 Pathogenic Variants
Authors: Pal Gian D. , Corcos Daniel M. , Metman Leo Verhagen , Israel Zvi , Bergman Hagai , Arkadir David
Published: November 2023

Genetic subtyping of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) may assist in predicting the cognitive and motor outcomes of subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS). Practical questions were recently raised with the emergence of new data regarding suboptimal cognitive outcomes after STN‐DBS in individuals with PD associated with pathogenic variants in glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA1‐PD). However, a variety of gaps and controversies remain. (1) Does STN‐DBS truly accelerate cognitive deterioration in GBA1‐PD? If so, what is the clinical significance of this acceleration? (2) How should the overall risk‐to‐benefit ratio of STN‐DBS in GBA1‐PD be established? (3) If STN‐DBS has a negative effect on cognition in GBA1‐PD, how can this effect be minimized? (4) Should PD patients be genetically tested before STN‐DBS? (5) How should GBA1‐PD patients considering STN‐DBS be counseled? We aim to summarize the currently available relevant data and detail the gaps and controversies that exist pertaining to these questions. In the absence of evidence‐based data, all authors strongly agree that clinicians should not categorically deny DBS to PD patients based solely on genotype (GBA1 status). We suggest that PD patients considering DBS may be offered genetic testing for GBA1, where available and feasible, so the potential risks and benefits of STN‐DBS can be properly weighed by both the patient and clinician. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Preparation of robust and light‐weight anisotropic polyimide/graphene composite aerogels for strain sensors
Authors: Zheng Shuai , Jiang Lei , Chang Fan , Zhang Changqi , Ma Ning , Liu Xueqiang
Published: November 2023

This study reports the fabrication of a serious of anisotropic composite aerogels comprising polyimide and graphene (PI/G) through a simple and eco‐friendly technique. Poly(amic acid) ammonium salt/graphene dispersion, which was produced through the mixture of poly(amic acid), graphene aqueous dispersion, triethylamine, and water, was utilized in the process of creating PI/G composite aerogels employing unidirectional freezing, freeze‐drying, and thermal imidization. The PI/G aerogels displayed anisotropic mechanical properties, thermal insulation, and electrical conductivity. The PI/G aerogels with an anisotropic microstructure demonstrated notable rigidity and a high compressive modulus (52.7 MPa) along the axial direction, while displaying favorable flexibility and a low modulus (18.2 MPa) along the radial direction. Furthermore, the PI/G aerogel exhibited anisotropic thermal conductivity (axial: 64 mW m−1 K−1; radical: 55 mW m−1 K−1). These properties enable the PI/G aerogel to have a wider range of potential applications, especially strain sensors. The research presented herein establishes a simple and eco‐friendly strategy for the production of anisotropic PI/G‐based composite aerogels.
Atmospheric pressure plasma application on the adhesive bonding improvement of CFRP via surface configuration comparison
Authors: Guo Weijia , Lim Yi Chang , Ong Cheng Huat , A. Senthil Kumar
Published: November 2023

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has a wide range of applications in aerospace, automobile, marine, and other industries, due to its remarkable mechanical properties and lightweight. It can enhance the performance of the structural components and has been presented to be a good alternative over conventional materials. Adhesive bonding has been widely employed, and research studies on the surface modification of CFRP have been conducted to improve the load resistance of adhesive bonding, of which atmospheric pressure (AP) plasma is the most preferred method. However, there is still a lack of study on the effectiveness and strategies of AP plasma surface modification. To gain more insight, possible sources that would have influence on the adhesive bonding were analyzed by preparation of different surface configurations of CFRP. It is confirmed that AP plasma can increase the surface polarity and wettability of the carbon fiber surface. It can contribute to the removal of surface contamination element as well. Although the surface morphology and surface roughness before and after the AP plasma treatment does not show noticeable changes, the single‐lap shear strength of the contaminated samples can be effectively improved. This study validates that AP plasma is effective on surface contamination removal and bonding quality improvement, which provides a potential alternative for the adhesive bonding improvement and surface modification of carbon fiber.

Highlights

Surface polarity and wettability increase of CFRP by AP plasma.

Surface contamination removal and bonding quality improvement by AP plasma.

AP plasma provides a potential alternative method for adhesive bonding pre‐treatment.

AP plasma surface modification mechanism analysis via surface characterization.
The clinical condition rather than cerebrospinal fluid levels may guide the optimal duration of antimicrobial therapy among neonates with bacterial meningitis: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Hu Ya , Li Xingyuan , Wei Hong , Luo Yuanyuan , Li Hongdong
Published: November 2023

Neonatal bacterial meningitis is serious and accounts for high morbidity and mortality in developing countries, but the duration of antimicrobial treatment is not well established. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels are important factors for diagnosing and monitoring the occurrence and development of bacterial meningitis. In this study, we aimed to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of neonatal bacterial meningitis with normal CSF and abnormal CSF at discharge. We enrolled neonates with bacterial meningitis who were admitted to the neonatology department of the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between August 1, 2019 and January 1, 2021. The children's clinical data, laboratory data, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. Fifty‐five neonates met the inclusion criteria in our study. Other than CSF protein levels, there was no significant difference in clinical symptoms, blood levels (white blood cell [WBC] count, neutrophils, platelets, C‐reactive protein, and procalcitonin), CSF WBC counts at admission and discharge, duration of antibiotics, or hospital stays between the two groups (p > 0.05). For the sequelae of bacterial meningitis, short‐ and long‐term complications also showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups. The duration of antimicrobial therapy in neonatal bacterial meningitis may depend on the clinical condition of the patient rather than the CSF levels. This study may improve the reasonable utilization of antibiotics in neonatal bacterial meningitis.
Wie viel wiegt das Vakuum?
Authors: Kempf Achim , Jonsson Robert , Pye Jason , Rosa Luigi , Calloni Enrico
Published: November 2023

Das Vakuum ist nicht völlig leer, denn die Heisenbergsche Unschärferelation erzwingt Vakuumfluktuationen. Deren Existenz ist über Messungen der Casimir‐Kraft belegt. Folglich muss auch Energie in den Vakuumfluktuationen stecken, die sich nach E = mc2 in Form von Gravitation bemerkbar machen sollte. Nach der Allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie müsste ihre Gravitation die Expansion des Universums beschleunigen. Allerdings wäre die Gravitationswirkung, die sich theoretisch aus der quantenmechanisch ermittelten Grundzustandsenergie des Vakuums ergibt, um etwa 120 Größenordnungen zu groß. Dieser Widerspruch ist eine der grundlegenden, ungeklärten Fragestellungen der Physik. Auf der Suche nach einer Antwort soll das Archimedes‐Experiment als extrem empfindliche Waage die Energiedichte des Vakuums bestimmen. Das Resultat soll Hinweise auf die Ursache des „Problems der kosmologischen Konstante“ liefern.
Evaluation of sleep health documentation and sleep‐related intervention by physiatrists treating musculoskeletal disorders: A retrospective investigation
Authors: Deo Prabhav , Leupold Olivia , Rau Olivia , Cheng Jennifer , Prather Heidi
Published: November 2023

Background

Sleep health is linked to pain, function, and global health. Unfortunately, sleep health may not be consistently addressed as a part of musculoskeletal care.

Objective

To describe the frequency of sleep health documentation and intervention by musculoskeletal physiatrists. Additionally, patient‐reported outcome measures were compared between patients with and without sleep impairment. We hypothesized that sleep health is documented and addressed in less than half of initial patient encounters and that patients with a sleep impairment have worse patient‐reported outcomes scores compared to those without sleep impairment.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Tertiary orthopedic hospital.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measures

Frequency of provider documentation of sleep health, frequency and characteristics of sleep health intervention provided, and Patient‐Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS)‐10 mental health and physical health scores.

Results

Initial visits for a musculoskeletal condition of 39,452 patients from January 1, 2020 to October 1, 2022 were included. Documentation of sleep health was found in 33.0% (13,002/39,452) of patients. Of those with sleep health documentation, 59.2% (7697/13,002) were classified as having a sleep impairment. Only 19.0% of patients were provided with sleep‐related education or other intervention. Patients with a sleep impairment had worse PROMIS‐10 mental health and physical health scores (p < .001), as compared to those without a sleep impairment.

Conclusions

Patients with sleep impairment had worse mental and physical health scores than those without sleep impairment, and only 19.0% received sleep health intervention. These data suggest that sleep impairment is common in patients presenting for evaluation of a musculoskeletal condition, and advanced provider education and tools to help patients improve their sleep health are needed.
TNT and RDX extraction from B explosives**
Authors: Liu Zhiyu , Wang Quan , Su Haoxiang , Li Rui , Zhang Kai , Liu Quan
Published: November 2023

The recycling of discarded military bombs holds significant importance in improving energy efficiency within the military field. In this study, we employed first‐principles calculations (DFT) to compute the affinity of toluene, acetone, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) towards TNT and RDX, highlighting the solubility differences that enable their effective separation. Furthermore, through recovery and separation experiments, we successfully obtained TNT and RDX samples, which were then characterized using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to experimentally validate the results obtained from molecular simulation experiments. The results revealed that using toluene for the extraction and recovery of TNT and RDX from waste B explosives yielded the highest recovery efficiency and component purity. SEM analysis showed that TNT extracted with toluene exhibited a regular layered surface, while RDX particles demonstrated a more uniform distribution. This study provides a theoretical basis for the separation and recovery of TNT and RDX from waste B explosives using extraction methods, from the perspective of molecular simulation.
Study on synthesis and characterization of spherical copper(I) 5‐nitrotetrazolate (DBX‐1)
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Mao , Lai Jia‐Tong , Li Wen‐Hsiang , Peng Cheng‐Hsiung , Li Jin‐Shuh , Lu Kai‐Tai
Published: November 2023

Traditional primary explosives often contain heavy metals, especially toxic lead, such as lead azide (LA) and lead styphnate (LS) that can cause environmental pollution problems. Copper(I) 5‐nitrotetrazolate (DBX‐1) is a green primary explosive without toxic heavy metals, which is considered as one of the most promising alternatives to LA. DBX‐1 is usually synthesized from sodium 5‐nitrotetrazolate dihydrate (NaNT ⋅ 2H2O) and copper(I) chloride (CuCl). However, most of the synthesized products are irregular flakes with poor flowability, which affects the loadability. In this study, dextrin was used as a crystal shape modifier to improve the morphology of the synthesized product. Taguchi analysis method was used to determine the optimal experimental conditions for obtaining the spherical DBX‐1 with smaller particle size. The synthesized products were characterized by SEM, FTIR, UV‐Vis, STA TG‐DSC and VST, and their sensitivity was determined by BAM fallhammer, BAM friction tester and electrostatic spark sensitivity tester. The experiment results showed that the optimal combination of synthesis parameters was the NaNT ⋅ 2H2O concentration of 4.4 wt.%, the reaction temperature of 100 °C, the reaction time of 75 min and the additional dextrin solution of 5.0 mL. The average particle size of the synthesized spherical DBX‐1 was 33.0 μm. The decomposition activation energy was calculated by Kissinger method and Ozawa method to be 178.5 and 178.8 kJ/mol, respectively. The compound had good chemical stability. In addition, the sensitivity of spherical DBX‐1 was lower compared to that of flaky DBX‐1 and LA.
Lectin‐anticancer peptide fusion demonstrates a significant cancer‐cell‐selective cytotoxic effect and inspires the production of “clickable” anticancer peptide in Escherichia coli
Authors: Pasupuleti Rajeev , Riedl Sabrina , Saltor Núñez Laia , Karava Marianna , Kumar Vajinder , Kourist Robert , Turnbull W. Bruce , Zweytick Dagmar , Wiltschi Birgit
Published: November 2023

Targeted killing of tumor cells while protecting healthy cells is the pressing priority in cancer treatment. Lectins that target a specific glycan marker abundant in cancer cells can be valuable new tools for selective cancer cell killing. The lectin Shiga‐like toxin 1 B subunit (Stx1B) is an example that specifically binds globotriaosylceramide (CD77 or Gb3), which is overexpressed in certain cancers. In this study, a human lactoferricin‐derived synthetic retro di‐peptide R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 with antitumor efficacy was fused to the lectin Stx1B to selectively target and kill Gb3+ cancer cells. We produced lectin‐peptide fusion proteins in Escherichia coli, isolated them by Gb3‐affinity chromatography, and assessed their ability to selectively kill Gb3+ cancer cells in a Calcein AM assay. Furthermore, to expand the applications of R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 in developing therapeutic bioconjugates, we labeled R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 with the unique reactive non‐canonical amino acid Nε‐((2‐azidoethoxy)carbonyl)‐L‐lysine (AzK) at a selected position by amber stop codon suppression. The R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 20AzK and the unlabeled R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 parent peptide were produced as GST‐fusion proteins for soluble expression in E. coli for the first time. We purified both variants by size‐exclusion chromatography and analyzed their peptide masses. Finally, a cyanin 3 fluorophore was covalently conjugated to R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 20AzK by strain‐promoted alkyne‐azide cycloaddition. Our results showed that the recombinant lectin‐peptide fusion R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215‐Stx1B killed >99% Gb3+ HeLa cells while Gb3‐negative cells were unaffected. The peptides R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 and R‐DIM‐P‐LF11‐215 20AzK were produced recombinantly in E. coli in satisfactory amounts and were tested functional by cytotoxicity and cell‐binding assays, respectively.
Energetic and structural insights behind calcium induced conformational transition in calmodulin
Authors: Halder Ritaban , Warshel Arieh
Published: November 2023

Calmodulin (CaM) is a key signaling protein that triggers several cellular and physiological processes inside the cell. Upon binding with calcium ion, CaM undergoes large scale conformational transition from a closed state to an open state that facilitates its interaction with various target protein and regulates their activity. This work explores the origin of the energetic and structural variation of the wild type and mutated CaM and explores the molecular origin for the structural differences between them. We first calculated the sequential calcium binding energy to CaM using the PDLD/S‐LRA/β approach. This study  shows a very good correlation with experimental calcium binding energies. Next we calculated the calcium binding energies to the wild type CaM and several mutated CaM systems which were reported experimentally. On the structural aspect, it has been reported experimentally that certain mutation (Q41L‐K75I) in calcium bound CaM leads to complete conformational transition from an open to a closed state. By using equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation, free energy calculation and contact frequency map analysis, we have shown that the formation of a cluster of long‐range hydrophobic contacts, initiated by the Q41L‐K75I CaM variant is the driving force behind its closing motion. This study unravels the energetics and structural aspects behind calcium ion induced conformational changes in wild type CaM and its variant.
iNucRes‐ASSH: Identifying nucleic acid‐binding residues in proteins by using self‐attention‐based structure‐sequence hybrid neural network
Authors: Zhang Jun , Chen Qingcai , Liu Bin
Published: November 2023

Interaction between proteins and nucleic acids is crucial to many cellular activities. Accurately detecting nucleic acid‐binding residues (NABRs) in proteins can help researchers better understand the interaction mechanism between proteins and nucleic acids. Structure‐based methods can generally make more accurate predictions than sequence‐based methods. However, the existing structure‐based methods are sensitive to protein conformational changes, causing limited generalizability. More effective and robust approaches should be further explored. In this study, we propose iNucRes‐ASSH to identify nucleic acid‐binding residues with a self‐attention‐based structure‐sequence hybrid neural network. It improves the generalizability and robustness of NABR prediction from two levels: residue representation and prediction model. Experimental results show that iNucRes‐ASSH can predict the nucleic acid‐binding residues even when the experimentally validated structures are unavailable and outperforms five competing methods on a recent benchmark dataset and a widely used test dataset.
Differential drug response in pulmonary arterial hypertension: The potential for precision medicine
Authors: Miller Elise , Sampson Chinwuwanuju Ugo‐Obi , Desai Ankit A. , Karnes Jason H.
Published: November 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, complex, and deadly cardiopulmonary disease. It is characterized by changes in endothelial cell function and smooth muscle cell proliferation in the pulmonary arteries, causing persistent vasoconstriction, resulting in right heart hypertrophy and failure. There are multiple drug classes specific to PAH treatment, but variation between patients may impact treatment response. A small subset of patients is responsive to pulmonary vasodilators and can be treated with calcium channel blockers, which would be deleterious if prescribed to a typical PAH patient. Little is known about the underlying cause of this important difference in vasoresponsive PAH patients. Sex, race/ethnicity, and pharmacogenomics may also factor into efficacy and safety of PAH‐specific drugs. Research has indicated that endothelin receptor antagonists may be more effective in women and there have been some minor differences found in certain races and ethnicities, but these findings are muddled by the impact of socioeconomic factors and a lack of representation of non‐White patients in clinical trials. Genetic variants in genes such as CYP3A5, CYP2C9, PTGIS, PTGIR, GNG2, CHST3, and CHST13 may influence the efficacy and safety of certain PAH‐specific drugs. PAH research faces many challenges, but there is potential for new methodologies to glean new insights into PAH development and treatment.
Long‐term sequelae following acute pulmonary embolism: A nationwide follow‐up study regarding the incidence of CTEPH, dyspnea, echocardiographic and V/Q scan abnormalities
Authors: Andersson Therese , Nilsson Lars , Larsen Flemming , Carlberg Bo , Söderberg Stefan
Published: November 2023

We aimed to follow a nationwide cohort of patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) without any exclusions to generate information regarding long‐term symptoms, investigational findings and to determine the prevalence of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). We hypothesized that this approach would yield generalizable estimates of CTEPH prevalence and incidence. All individuals diagnosed with acute PE in Sweden in 2005 were identified using the National Patient Register. In 2007, survivors were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding current symptoms. Those with dyspnea were referred for further examinations with laboratory tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), and a ventilation/perfusion scan (V/Q scan). If CTEPH was suspected, a referral to the nearest pulmonary arterial hypertension‐center was recommended. Of 5793 unique individuals with PE diagnosis in 2005, 3510 were alive at the beginning of 2007. Altogether 53% reported dyspnea at some degree whereof a large proportion had V/Q scans indicating mismatched defects. Further investigation revealed 6 cases of CTEPH and in parallel 18 cases were diagnosed outside this study. The overall prevalence of CTEPH was 0.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2%–0.6%) and 0.7% (95% CI: 0.4%–1.0%) among the survivors. The cumulative incidence of CTEPH in the group of patients who underwent a V/Q scan was 1.1% (95% CI: 0.2%–2.0%). There was a high mortality following an acute PE, a high proportion of persistent dyspnea among survivors, whereof several had pathological findings on V/Q scans and echocardiography. Only a minority developed CTEPH, indicating that CTEPH is the tip of the iceberg of post‐PE disturbances.
A new adaptive CUSUM control chart based on Hampel function to monitor location parameter
Authors: Akhtar Noureen , Abid Muhammad , Zaman Babar , Riaz Muhammad
Published: November 2023

To identify small‐to‐moderate shifts (also known as outliers and anomalies) in the process parameters (location and/or dispersion), the classical cumulative sum (CUSUM) and exponential weighted moving average (EWMA) control charts are famous. The traditional CUSUM control chart is less capable to detect out‐of‐control signals of 1.0 standard deviation shifts. The advanced versions of the traditional CUSUM and EWMA control charts are ACUSUM (adaptive CUSUM) and AEWMA (adaptive EWMA) control charts, respectively. The aforementioned issue of the traditional CUSUM control chart can be addressed through the ACSUUM control chart. It also identifies various sizes of shifts in the process parameters. In order to efficiently identify and remove outliers and anomalies (i.e., shifts) from datasets, the score functions are typically used to establish ACUSUM control charts. The goal of the study is to propose a new ACUSUM control chart based on the Hampel (score) function and it is symbolized as control chart. Different sizes of shift in the process location parameter can be distinguished using the control chart. The primary novelty is the substitution of a proposed time‐varying parameter for the typical CUSUM control chart's prioritization of the process characteristic by appropriate weights. The proposed control chart's run length feature is obtained through the Monte Carlo simulation technique for zero‐state and steady‐states. For evaluating a single shift, performance measures like average run length (ARL), standard deviation of run length (RL), and different percentiles of run length are preferred. However, for evaluating a range of shifts, extra quadratic loss, relative average run length, and performance comparison index are used. Comparison based on performance measures shows the superiority of the proposed control chart against the classical CUSUM and EWMA, ACUSUM, AEWMA, mixed EWMA‐CUSUM, and mixed CUSUM‐EWMA control charts. Furthermore, the proposed control chart is also implemented with real‐life data which is taken from cost of medical insurance to demonstrate its competency in statistical process control field for quality engineers, practitioners, experts, and researchers.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Activities and Theoretical Study of Polyhydroquinoline Derivatives
Authors: Ismail Muhammad , Ahmad Rashid , Latif Abdul , Khan Adnan Ali , Alam Aftab , Ozdemir Fethi Ahmet , Ammara  , Ali Mumtaz
Published: November 2023

In the present study, novel bis‐Schiff base derivatives of polyhydroquinoline were synthesized through Hantzsch condensation reaction in excellent yields. Initially, a mixture of dimedone, ethyl acetoacetate, ammonium acetate and esterified aldehydes were refluxed in ethanol for 7–9 hrs. Then, hydrazine hydrate was treated with obtained polyhydroquinoline to form bis‐hydrazide of corresponding polyhydroquinoline. Finally, the bis‐hydrazide was independently refluxed with substituted aromatic aldehydes to get desired bis‐Schiff base derivatives of polyhydroquinoline. The new derivatives were confirmed by modern spectroscopic techniques such as 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS. The targeted compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial activity using disc diffusion method. The derivative with four OH‐group was found more effective against Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis IM, Bacillus subtilis ATCC, Salmonella enterica and Proteus vulgaris FMC II with zone of inhibition 8.3, 7.6, 7.3, 6.6 and 6.3 mm, respectively. DFT study of targeted compounds were performed on both materials studio and Gaussian 09 package, which showed good agreement with experimental data. The NLO of synthesized compounds were calculated and consider good candidates for NLO. The global reactivity, NBO and 1H‐NMR correlation were also studied, which showed good agreement. The cheap reagents, short reaction time and excellent yields are some features of current work.
Cross‐Linking Strategies for Silk‐Protein‐Based Inks for 3D Printing
Authors: Dong Xiaoyuan , Liu Fengqiang , Wang Liming , Xu Lihui , Pan Hong , Qi Junhong
Published: November 2023

Due to excellent biocompatibility, sufficient raw material, robust mechanical properties and easy cross‐linking, Silk Fibroin (SF) is a promising protein for 3D printing inks and an ideal candidate for 3D scaffolds in fields like regenerative medicine, bioelectronics and bio‐optics. In order to meet the requirements of print accuracy, mechanical properties and form retention capabilities, the first step is to prepare SF 3D printing inks using physical, chemical or other strategies of cross‐linking. The basic chemical groups and physical structure of SF determines its ability to form 3D networks under different conditions using various cross‐linking strategies. In the preparation of SF‐based 3D printing inks, physical, chemical or other strategies of cross‐linking improve the qualities of printing, but each strategy has its advantages and disadvantages. This paper discusses different crosslinking strategies for SF to support the development of exciting potential for SF‐based 3D printing inks to meet more needs in the future.
Ni‐Pt Bimetallic Alloy Nanoparticles Dispersed Uniformly on Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Electrooxidation Methanol
Authors: Wang Yizhong , Yan Ruiwen , Xiang Qun , Wu Chuanqiang
Published: November 2023

In this paper, Ni−Pt bimetallic alloy nanoparticles were loaded on carbon nanotubes to construct Ni−Pt nanoparticles/carbon nanotubes (Ni−Pt NPs/CNTs) composites as excellent catalytic materials for methanol electrooxidation reaction (MOR). X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and special aberration corrected transmission electron microscope (STEM) were employed to investigate the morphology of the material. It was confirmed that the Ni−Pt alloy nanoparticles dispersed uniformly on the surface of carbon nanotubes. The activity and stability of Ni−Pt NPs/CNTs composites were measured by chronoamperometry (CA), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The catalytic performance was explored by adjusting the ratio of Ni to Pt. The Ni1Pt2 NPs/CNTs composite showed excellent performance for MOR. Its mass activity for MOR was 1255 mA ⋅ mg−1Pt, which was 2.76, 2.56 times as that of commercial Pt/C, Pt black catalyst, respectively. Moreover, the resistance to CO toxicity of Ni1Pt2 NPs/CNTs composite was better than commercial Pt/C and Pt black catalyst.