bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethanol‐Based Solution Synthesis of a Functionalized Sulfide Solid Electrolyte: Investigation and Application
Authors: Morino Yusuke , Takase Kentaro , Kamiguchi Kazuhiro , Ito Daisuke
Published: July 2024

A sulfide solid electrolyte was synthesized using a solution‐phase approach via the dissolution of Li3PS4 in ethanol followed by heat treatment (90–300 °C). This method yielded an electrolyte with a maximum lithium‐ion conductivity of 1.7×10−5 S cm−1 at 200 °C (down to 25 % of the pristine Li3PS4); however, increasing the heating temperature resulted in a significant decrease in conductivity. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed the decomposition of the PS43− unit into P2Sx dimers (P2S74− and P2S64−) at high temperatures. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy further confirmed a core‐shell structure in the solution‐phase‐synthesized electrolyte, with an enriched shell of oxygen‐substituted P(S/O)x phases. Both the P2Sx dimers in the core and the oxygen‐rich shell may have contributed to the reduction in lithium‐ion conductivity. Moreover, the oxygen‐rich shell unexpectedly suppressed undesirable side reactions at the solid electrolyte/cathode interface. This study demonstrates the functionalization of solution‐phase synthesis for sulfide solid electrolytes from ethanol, with a trade‐off between conductivity and interface stability. Further optimizing the heat treatment process and shell engineering are promising avenues for enhancing the performance of all‐solid‐state batteries.
Efficient generation of recombinant anti‐HER2 scFv with high yield and purity using a simple method
Authors: Yun Hanool , Kim Sun‐Hee , Kim Seung‐Hee , Park Hae‐Min , Jeong Hee‐Jin
Published: July 2024

We developed a method to produce a soluble form of a single‐chain fragment variable (scFv) targeting human epithelial growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in Escherichia coli. By optimizing the orientations of the variable heavy (VH) and variable light (VL) domains and the His‐tag, we identified the HL‐His type antibody with the highest HER2‐binding activity. Purification of HL‐His yielded 40.7 mg from a 1 L culture, achieving >99% purity. The limit of detection was determined to be 2.9 ng, demonstrating high production yield, purity, and sensitivity. Moreover, we successfully labeled HER2+ cell lines with fluorescent dye‐conjugated scFv, resulting in a significantly higher observed signal‐to‐background ratio, compared to that of HER2− cell lines. This highlights the potential of these fluorescent scFvs as valuable probes for HER2+ breast cancer diagnostics. Notably, the process for the complete scFv production was streamlined and required only 4–5 days. Additionally, the product maintained its activity after freeze storage, allowing for large‐scale production and a wide range of practical applications.
Development of a marker recyclable CRISPR/Cas9 system for scarless and multigene editing in Fusarium fujikuroi
Authors: Huang Lianggang , Li Ningning , Song Yixin , Gao Jie , Nian Lu , Zhou Junping , Zhang Bo , Liu Zhiqiang , Zheng Yuguo
Published: July 2024

Iterative metabolic engineering of Fusarium fujikuroi has traditionally been hampered by its low homologous recombination efficiency and scarcity of genetic markers. Thus, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated proteins (Cas9) system has emerged as a promising tool for precise genome editing in this organism. Some integrated CRISPR/Cas9 strategies have been used to engineer F. fujikuroi to improve GA3 production capabilities, but low editing efficiency and possible genomic instability became the major obstacle. Herein, we developed a marker recyclable CRISPR/Cas9 system for scarless and multigene editing in F. fujikuroi. This system, based on an autonomously replicating sequence, demonstrated the capability of a single plasmid harboring all editing components to achieve 100%, 75%, and 37.5% editing efficiency for single, double, and triple gene targets, respectively. Remarkably, even with a reduction in homologous arms to 50 bp, we achieved a 12.5% gene editing efficiency. By employing this system, we successfully achieved multicopy integration of the truncated 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase gene (tHMGR), leading to enhanced GA3 production. A key advantage of our plasmid‐based gene editing approach was the ability to recycle selective markers through a simplified protoplast preparation and recovery process, which eliminated the need for additional genetic markers. These findings demonstrated that the single‐plasmid CRISPR/Cas9 system enables rapid and precise multiple gene deletions/integrations, laying a solid foundation for future metabolic engineering efforts aimed at industrial GA3 production.
Quality by design approach to improve quality and decrease cost of in vitro transcription of mRNA using design of experiments
Authors: Boman Jimmy , Marušič Tjaša , Seravalli Tina Vodopivec , Skok Janja , Pettersson Fredrik , Nemec Kristina Šprinzar , Widmark Henrik , Sekirnik Rok
Published: July 2024

In vitro transcription (IVT) reaction is an RNA polymerase‐catalyzed production of messenger RNA (mRNA) from DNA template, and the unit operation with highest cost of goods in the mRNA drug substance production process. To decrease the cost of mRNA production, reagents should be optimally utilized. Due to the catalytic, multicomponent nature of the IVT reaction, optimization is a multi‐factorial problem, ideally suited to design‐of‐experiment approach for optimization and identification of design space. We derived a data‐driven model of the IVT reaction and explored factors that drive process yield (in g/L), including impact of nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) concentration and Mg:NTP ratio on reaction yield and how to optimize the main cost drivers RNA polymerase and DNA template, while minimizing dsRNA formation, a critical quality attribute in mRNA products. We report a methodological approach to derive an optimum reaction design, with which cost efficiency of the reaction was improved by 44%. We demonstrate the validity of the model on mRNA construct of different lengths. Finally, we maximized the yield of the IVT reaction to 24.9 ± 1.5 g/L in batch, thus doubling the highest ever reported IVT yield.
Nano/genetically engineered cells for immunotherapy
Authors: Shen Jingrui , Zhou Yang , Yin Lichen
Published: July 2024

Immunotherapy has recently emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. Despite its potential, immunotherapy faces challenges related to delivery efficiency and off‐target toxicity of immunotherapeutic drugs. Nano drug delivery systems offer improvements in drug biodistribution and release kinetics but still suffer from shortcomings such as high immunogenicity, poor penetration across biological barriers, and insufficient tissue permeability. Targeted delivery of drugs using living cells has become an emerging strategy that can take advantage of the inherent characteristics of cells to deal with the delivery defects of nano delivery systems. Furthermore, cells themselves can be genetically engineered into cellular drugs for enhanced immunotherapy. This review provides an in‐depth exploration of cell‐derived drug carriers, detailing their biological properties, functions, and commonly used drug loading strategies. In addition, the role of genetically modified cells in immunotherapy and their synergistic therapeutic effects with drug delivery are also introduced. By summarizing the main advancements and limitations in the field, this review offers insights into the potential of cell‐based drug delivery systems to address the existing challenges in immunotherapy. The introduction to recent developments and evaluation of ongoing research will pave the way for the optimization and widespread adoption of nano/genetically engineered cells for immunotherapy.
Diagnosis of pregnancy disorder in the first‐trimester patient plasma with Raman spectroscopy and protein analysis
Authors: Mathew Ansuja P. , Cutshaw Gabriel , Appel Olivia , Funk Meghan , Synan Lilly , Waite Joshua , Ghazvini Saman , Wen Xiaona , Sarkar Soumik , Santillan Mark , Santillan Donna , Bardhan Rizia
Published: July 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy disorder associated with short‐ and long‐term adverse outcomes in both mothers and infants. The current clinical test of blood glucose levels late in the second trimester is inadequate for early detection of GDM. Here we show the utility of Raman spectroscopy (RS) for rapid and highly sensitive maternal metabolome screening for GDM in the first trimester. Key metabolites, including phospholipids, carbohydrates, and major amino acids, were identified with RS and validated with mass spectrometry, enabling insights into associated metabolic pathway enrichment. Using classical machine learning (ML) approaches, we showed the performance of the RS metabolic model (cross‐validation AUC 0.97) surpassed that achieved with patients' clinical data alone (cross‐validation AUC 0.59) or prior studies with single biomarkers. Further, we analyzed novel proteins and identified fetuin‐A as a promising candidate for early GDM prediction. A correlation analysis showed a moderate to strong correlation between multiple metabolites and proteins, suggesting a combined protein‐metabolic analysis integrated with ML would enable a powerful screening platform for first trimester diagnosis. Our study underscores RS metabolic profiling as a cost‐effective tool that can be integrated into the current clinical workflow for accurate risk stratification of GDM and to improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Matrix metalloproteinase 2‐responsive dual‐drug‐loaded self‐assembling peptides suppress tumor growth and enhance breast cancer therapy
Authors: Ma Jihong , Yang Haiyan , Tian Xue , Meng Fanhu , Zhai Xiaoqing , Li Aimei , Li Chuntao , Wang Min , Wang Guohui , Lu Chunbo , Bai Jingkun
Published: July 2024

Conventional chemotherapeutic agents are limited by their lack of targeting and penetration and their short retention time, and chemotherapy might induce an immune suppressive environment. Peptide self‐assembly can result in a specific morphology, and the resulting morphological changes are stimuli responsive to the external environment, which is important for drug permeation and retention of encapsulated chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, a polypeptide (Pep1) containing the peptide sequences PLGLAG and RGD that is responsive to matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2) was successfully developed. Pep1 underwent a morphological transformation from a spherical structure to aggregates with a high aspect ratio in response to MMP‐2 induction. This drug delivery system (DI/Pep1) can transport doxorubicin (DOX) and indomethacin (IND) simultaneously to target tumor cells for subsequent drug release while extending drug retention within tumor cells, which increases immunogenic cell death and facilitates the immunotherapeutic effect of CD4+ T cells. Ultimately, DI/Pep1 attenuated tumor‐associated inflammation, enhanced the body's immune response, and inhibited breast cancer growth by combining the actions of DOX and IND. Our research offers an approach to hopefully enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment.
No lipiodol, no beads—another transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with fine cisplatin powder and porous gelatin particles for TACE‐naïve, multifocal, up‐to‐seven out hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sato Rui , Moriguchi Michihisa , Saiga Atsushi , Asahara Kazuhisa , Aramaki Takeshi
Published: July 2024

Aim

The Japanese Interventional oncology group (JIVROSG) showed the efficacy and safety of nonselective transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with fine cisplatin powder (diamminedichloroplatinum; DDP‐H) (65 mg/m2) and porous gelatin particles (DDP‐H TACE) without lipiodol for extensive multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are no studies on this method following the JIVROSG study. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this new DDP‐H TACE and its effect on liver function.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of TACE‐naïve patients with multifocal HCC (Child‐Pugh class A, up‐to‐seven out, no prior history of systemic therapy) who underwent whole‐liver DDP‐H TACE between January 2006 and December 2019.

Results

Sixty patients were included in this study. The median age of the patients was 71 (range, 35–88) years. The median maximum size of tumors was 26 (range, 8–184) mm; 86.7% of patients met the up‐to‐11 criteria out. The overall survival duration was 30.3 months. At the time of initial evaluation (median, 45 days), the overall response rate was 65.0%; the disease control rate was 86.7% based on the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors guideline. Although nine patients' liver function had deteriorated to Child‐Pugh class B at initial evaluation, six of them recovered to Child‐Pugh class A. Only three patients (5%) showed permanently impaired liver function.

Conclusions

Whole‐liver DDP‐H TACE without lipiodol or beads effectively reduced tumors and preserved liver function.
Soft frontal swelling in a young girl: Diagnostic nuances and surgical management of a rare case of sinus pericranii
Authors: Mokbul Mobin Ibne , Yesmin Farjana , Gupta Pukar , Rahman Aminur , Rana Md. Sumon , Islam Md. Shafiqul
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

A 17‐year‐old girl with a congenital, painless right forehead swelling obstructing her visual field was diagnosed with sinus pericranii. Radiological imaging confirmed extracalvarial arteriovenous malformation with serpentine vessels and bony erosion. Endovascular surgery was chosen for management, highlighting the necessity of considering SP in differential diagnosis for scalp swellings. Despite its rarity, awareness of it is essential to prevent complications from injury, misdiagnosis, or invasive procedures.
Not all maggots are created equal; not all maggots are therapeutic
Authors: Sherman Ronald A. , Nguyen Albert , Dastpak Vahab , Fonseca‐Muñoz Alicia , Parizad Naser , Siavash Mansour , Yusuf Mustapha Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Maggots in a wound (“myiasis”) cannot be considered maggot therapy (therapeutic myiasis) unless, at a minimum, the species is known to be safe and effective, and the maggots have been properly disinfected. Documenting treatment details is critical and allows us to determine the cause of problems, if they arise.
Sicca syndrome as complication of COVID‐19 infection: A case report
Authors: Tarcha Raghad , Khalayli Naram , Kudsi Maysoun
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Several reports of suspected oral and ocular manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has prompted investigations into ocular signs, symptoms, and transmission (5).11.2% of patients with COV19 infection had ocular symptoms, including ocular pain, conjunctivitis, dry eye, and floaters, meanwhile, many studies had documented oral symptoms such as dry mouth and dysgeusia in these patients. Our case reported a 39‐year‐old male, presented with symptoms of dry mouth and dry eye lasting more than 3 months. The patient had recovered from (PCR‐confirmed) COVID‐19 which lasted 10 days, 4 months ago. The physical examination was normal. Ocular findings include conjunctival hyperemia and superficial punctate keratitis. The anti‐nuclear antibody (ANA) was weekly positive at 1/80. Schirmer test considered positive. He continued on 200 mg/day of hydroxychloroquine, along with tear drops until now with remission. Sicca symptoms may be a sequel of COVID‐19 infection, and physicians should be aware of this sequel. The sequela of this infection is not understood, with limited data in the literature. Future prospective cohort studies are needed to reveal the impact of these features on oral health.
CDK4/6 and aromatase inhibitors as first‐line treatment in metastatic high‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast: A case report
Authors: Zouki Dionysia N. , Kardara Vasiliki‐Elpida , Ioannou Stephanie , Arvanitou Eleni , Exarchos Konstantinos , Gkikas Konstantinos , Konstantoudakis Stefanos , Lanitis Sophocles , Benakis Stylianos , Tryfonopoulos Dimitrios
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

There is no consensus regarding the therapeutic approach of breast neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). As most NECs are hormone receptor positive and HER‐2 negative, we suggest that endocrine‐based strategies may play a leading role. Here, we report a new treatment strategy by incorporating CDK4/6 inhibitors in the therapeutic armamentarium.

Primary neuroendocrine neoplasms of the breast constitute a rare entity. They are characterized by predominant neuroendocrine differentiation and are further divided into well‐differentiated neuroendocrine tumors and poorly differentiated (high‐grade) neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). Regarding their therapeutic approach, there are no standardized guidelines. Herein, we present the first case ever reported, concerning a female patient with de novo metastatic breast NEC who received hormonal therapy, a combination of a CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib with letrozole and triptorelin, as first‐line treatment with significant clinical and radiological response. As most NECs are estrogen receptor and/or progesterone receptor positive and HER‐2 negative, we suggest that hormonal therapy may play a leading role even in the first‐line setting. The present report provides a new treatment strategy by incorporating CDK4/6 inhibitors in the therapeutic armamentarium of breast NECs.
Improving Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance of High‐Density Polyethylene Grades by Comonomer Addition and Nanocomposite Approach
Authors: Mansouri AmirMohammad , Ghasemi Hamedani Nona , Zou Chen , Mousavi Saber , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Bahri‐Laleh Naeimeh , Rodríguez‐Pizarro Montserrat , Brotons‐Rufes Artur , Posada‐Pérez Sergio , Poater Albert
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper is to determine the effect of polymer density, correlated to the comonomer content, and nanosilica addition on the mechanical and Environmental Stress Cracking Resistance (ESCR) characteristics of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). In this regard, five HDPE samples with similar Melt Flow Index (MFI) and molar mass but various densities were acquired from a petrochemical plant. Two polymerization reactors work in series and differ only in the amount of 1‐buene comonomer fed to the second reactor. To ascertain the microstructure of the studied samples, GPC and SSA (successive self‐nucleation and annealing) analyses were accomplished. All samples resulted having similar characteristics but slightly various SCB/1000 C=7.26–9.74 (SCB=Short Chain Branching). Consequently, meanwhile studied HDPEs reveal similar notched impact and stress at yield values, the tensile modulus, stress‐at‐break, and elongation‐at‐break tend to demonstrate different results with the SCB content. More significantly, ESCR characteristic varied considerably with SCB/1000 C extent, so that higher amount of SCB acknowledged advanced ESCR. Notably, blending HDPE sample containing higher amount of SCB/1000 C, with 3 wt.% of chemically modified nanosilica enhanced ESCR characteristic by 40 %. DFT (Density Functional Theory) calculations unveiled the role of the comonomer, quantitatively by binding energies and qualitatively by Non Covalent Interaction (NCI) plots.
Purification of Steel Mill Gases under Changing Feed Stock Conditions
Authors: Büker Karsten , von Morstein Olaf , Yildirim Ömer , Daheim Nicolai , Frey Andreas , Voss Christian , Geisbauer Andreas
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the operation and results of the gas treatment pilot plant for the purification and conditioning of steel mill gases, a key element of the Carbon2Chem® Technical Center in Duisburg, Germany. Using highly sensitive analytics, it is demonstrated that steel mill gas impurities which are detrimental to downstream catalytic conversion are reduced to single‐digit ppb levels. Strategies for adapting the gas purification process to take account of the transformation of steelmaking towards direct reduction are also discussed.
Selenophosphate Pb2P2Se6 Single Crystals Growth by Chemical Vapor Transport (CVT) Method for Radiation Detection
Authors: Ji Leilei , Yin Ziang , Xiao Bao , Ge Bangzhi , Xu Yadong , Jie Wanqi
Published: July 2024

The heavy metal selenophosphate Pb2P2Se6 emerges as a promising room‐temperature X‐ray/γ‐ray detectors due to its high resistivity, robust radiation‐blocking capability, and outstanding carrier mobility‐lifetime product, etc. However, the high activity of phosphides poses significant impediment to the synthesis and single crystal growth. In this work, we have prepared high‐quality Pb2P2Se6 single crystals with using the chemical vapor transport (CVT) method. The XRD analysis combined with EDS result confirmed the uniform composition of the resulting as‐grown single crystals, while UV‐Vis‐NIR transmittance spectra revealed the bandgap of 1.89 eV. Selected area electron diffraction patterns indicated the crystal belonged to the P21/c(14) space group. Additionally, the Au/Pb2P2Se6/Au device is fabricated, which exhibits a robust X‐ray response with a sensitivity of 648.61 μC Gy−1 cm−2 at 400 V mm−1 under 50 kVp. Notably, the device also excels in alpha particle detection, boasting a resolution of ~14.48 % under a bias of 400 V bias. The hole mobility‐lifetime product (μτ)h of Pb2P2Se6 is estimated to be ~2.58×10−5 cm2 V−1. The results underscore potential applications of Pb2P2Se6 crystal is in the field of the semiconductor radiation detectors.
Integrated Population Exposure–Response of Dolutegravir in HIV‐1 Supports Bridging of Clinical Response Influenced by Relevant Intrinsic and Extrinsic Patient Characteristics
Authors: Chandasana Hardik , Bush Mark , Vavro Cindy , Huang Jenny , Ait‐Khaled Mounir , Wynne Brian , Min Sherene , Mehta Rashmi
Published: July 2024

Dolutegravir (DTG) is a human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) integrase strand transfer inhibitor indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV‐1 infection in adults and pediatric subjects aged at least 4 weeks. The present work aimed to characterize the viral response based on a pooled analysis of exposure–response (E–R) from five studies in treatment‐experienced and integrase‐resistant (INI‐r) patients infected with HIV‐1. Importantly, model‐based simulations of the E–R relationships with DTG provided insight into the clinical relevance of known intrinsic (e.g., sub‐population with Q148‐driven integrase mutation) and extrinsic (food, enzyme inducers, and metal cation‐containing products) factors expected to influence the DTG E–R relationship. Model‐based post hoc exposure metrics (C
min and C
avg) were incorporated into a mechanistic population viral dynamic model describing the short‐term effect of DTG on log10 HIV‐1 RNA viral load over 8 or 10 days. In addition, the impact of DTG in combination with background ARTs on the 24‐week HIV RNA response was also assessed using logistic regression. There was good concordance between model‐based predictions and observed virologic response on day 10 and week 24. The E–R model‐based simulations exploring the potential impact of a higher dose (100 mg b.i.d.) of DTG in subpopulations experiencing exposure changes due to covariates did not show clinically relevant changes in virological response compared with the approved 50 mg b.i.d. clinical dose. Overall, our study confirmed the current recommendation of dolutegravir 50 mg b.i.d. in the integrase inhibitor‐resistant (INI‐r) population.
Building Trust in AI Farming Tools
Authors: Joosse Tess
Published: July 2024

Precision agriculture tools like decision support systems increasingly use machine‐learning algorithms and other types of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze large quantities of agricultural data and provide recommendations to producers and crop advisers. However, several barriers threaten adoption of these tools. Three papers in the recent Agronomy Journal special section, “Machine Learning in Agriculture,” explore this phenomenon and offer solutions and opportunities for building trust in these technologies. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Crop Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Managerial practices and firms' environmental performance: An international evidence
Authors: Doan Thang Ngoc , Vu Chi Thi Kim
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the impact of managerial practices on environmental performance using firm‐level data from Eastern European and Central Asian regions collected during the 2019–2020 period through the World Bank Enterprise Surveys. Utilizing principal component analysis, we evaluate managerial practices across four key dimensions: targets, monitoring, incentives, and operations. Concurrently, we assess environmental performance through indicators encompassing energy efficiency, energy intensity, and disclosure practices. Our empirical findings highlight a strong correlation between higher scores in managerial practices and improved environmental performance within firms. These positive effects are transferred through environmental targets and adoptions, with moderation observed based on firm size. Robustness is evident in our results across various measures of environmental performance and managerial practices, as well as when accounting for potential endogeneity issues. This research offers valuable insights with implications for both policy development and managerial decision‐making, fostering sustainability and responsible practices.
Secured and energy aware cluster‐based routing in cross‐layer–cross‐domain WSN
Authors: Lahane Shivaji R. , Lahane Priti S.
Published: July 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are becoming increasingly important and well liked for delivering pervasive computing environments for a range of applications. Extending the networking life lifetime in WSNs is an important issue that must be addressed. Effective techniques for conserving the WSN's limited energy resources must be developed. Cross‐layer protocols are employed in WSNs to solve network lifespan difficulties. This paper proposes a new cross‐layer–cross‐domain routing scheme with stages such as “(1) network association stage, (2) nearer node detection phase, and (3) consistent state phase.” In the consistent stage, the optimal cluster head selection (CHS) is carried out by taking into account risk, delay, energy, trust, and distance. A new model called manta ray collided dwarf mongoose optimization (MRC‐DMO) is introduced to help with this. Furthermore, the routing is accomplished by dependable data communication. The results obtained establish the effectiveness of the MRC‐DMO scheme for SEACRCLCD in WSN over varied methods.
SDR implementation of wideband spectrum sensing using machine learning
Authors: Sabrina Zeghdoud , Camel Tanougast , Djamal Teguig , Ammar Mesloub , Said Sadoudi , Belqassim Bouteghrine
Published: July 2024

New cognitive radio (CR) systems require high throughput and bandwidth. Hence, CR users need to detect wide frequency bands of the radio spectrum to exploit unused frequency channels. This paper proposes a new wideband spectrum sensing (WBSS) detection approach based on machine learning (ML) for scanning subchannels. The originality of the proposed approach is to detect spectrum opportunities using a narrowband spectrum sensing (NBSS) method‐based support vector machine (SVM) classification and two features: energy and goodness of fit (GoF). The simulation results show that the proposed WBSS approach‐based ML presents a higher probability of detection than the WBSS approach‐based conventional detectors, even at low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). Finally, the software defined radio (SDR) implementation validates the proposed WBSS approach for real detection scenarios.
Plasma p‐tau217 concordance with amyloid PET among ethnically diverse older adults
Authors: Asken Breton M. , DeSimone Jesse C. , Wang Wei‐En , McFarland Karen N. , Arias Franchesca , Levy Shellie‐Anne , Fiala Jacob , Velez‐Uribe Idaly , Mayrand Robin P. , Sawada Luana Okino , Freytes Christian , Adeyosoye Michael , Barker Warren W. , Crocco Elizabeth A. , DeKosky Steven T. , Adjouadi Malek , Rosselli Monica , Marsiske Michael , Armstrong Melissa J. , Smith Glenn E. , Cid Rosie Curiel , Loewenstein David A. , Vaillancourt David E. , Duara Ranjan
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Commercially available plasma p‐tau217 biomarker tests are not well studied in ethnically diverse samples.

METHODS

We evaluated associations between ALZPath plasma p‐tau217 and amyloid‐beta positron emission tomography (Aβ‐PET) in Hispanic/Latino (88% of Cuban or South American ancestry) and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults. One‐ and two‐cutoff ranges were derived and evaluated to assess agreement with Aβ‐PET.

RESULTS

A total of 239 participants underwent blood draw and Aβ‐PET (age 70.8 ± 7.8, 55.2% female, education 15.6 ± 3.4 years, 48.9% Hispanic/Latino, 94.9% white). Plasma p‐tau217 showed excellent discrimination of Aβ‐PET positive and negative participants (visual read: AUC = 0.91 [0.87–0.95], p < 0.001; Centiloids quantification: AUC = 0.90 [0.86–0.94]). There was a greater percent agreement between low p‐tau217 and negative Aβ‐PET (95.8%) than high p‐tau217 and positive Aβ‐PET (86.3%). Analyses within ethnicity‐specific subgroups suggested similar p‐tau217 performance.

DISCUSSION

Plasma p‐tau217 (ALZPath) relates to brain Aβ in Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults. Independent validation and replication are necessary to establish reference ranges and inform appropriate contexts of use across ethno‐racially diverse populations.

HIGHLIGHTS

Plasma p‐tau217 (ALZPath) and Aβ‐PET were measured in Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino older adults.

Plasma p‐tau217 accurately discriminated Aβ‐PET positive and negative participants.

Applying a two‐cutoff “intermediate” plasma p‐tau217 approach could reduce need for more invasive and costly testing.

Plasma p‐tau217 associations with Aβ‐PET were strong within both Hispanic/Latino and non‐Hispanic/Latino groups.
Effects of dapagliflozin according to QRS duration across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction: An analysis of DAPA‐HF and DELIVER
Authors: Abdin Amr , Kondo Toru , Böhm Michael , Jhund Pardeep S. , Claggett Brian L. , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Hernandez Adrian F. , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Martinez Felipe A. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Desai Akshay S. , Køber Lars , Sabatine Marc S. , Petersson Magnus , Bachus Erasmus , Solomon Scott D. , McMurray John J.V. ,   on behalf of the DAPA‐HF and DELIVER Committees and Investigators
Published: July 2024

Aims

The primary aim was to evaluate the effect of dapagliflozin according to QRS duration across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), given that prolongation of QRS duration is associated with less favourable ventricular remodelling with pharmacological therapy and worse outcomes.

Methods and results

A pooled analysis of the DAPA‐HF and DELIVER trials, excluding patients with a paced rhythm and cardiac resynchronization therapy. Overall, 4008 patients had heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and 5816 had HF with mildly reduced/preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF). QRS duration was <120 ms in 7039 patients (71.7%), 120–149 ms in 1725 (17.6%), and ≥150 ms in 1060 patients (10.8%). The median follow‐up time was 23 months. The rate of the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death or worsening HF was 9.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.7–9.7), 14.3 (13.0–15.7), and 15.9 (14.1–17.9) per 100 patient‐years in the <120, 120–149, and ≥150 ms groups, respectively. This gradient in event rates was observed both in HFrEF and HFmrEF/HFpEF. Dapagliflozin, compared with placebo, reduced the risk of the primary outcome consistently across the QRS duration subgroups (hazard ratio [95% CI] 0.75 [0.67–0.85], 0.79 [0.65–0.96], and 0.89 [0.70–1.13] in the <120, 120–149, and ≥150 ms groups, respectively; p for interaction = 0.28). The effect of dapagliflozin on the primary outcome was consistent across the QRS duration regardless of HF phenotype that is, HFrEF or HFmrEF/HFpEF.

Conclusions

Prolongation of QRS duration is associated with worse outcomes irrespective of HF phenotype. Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary outcome, regardless of QRS duration, in DAPA‐HF and DELIVER.
Short‐ and medium‐term effects of a single session of pain neuroscience education on pain and psychological factors in patients with chronic low back pain. A single‐blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Tomás‐Rodríguez Mª. Isabel , Asensio‐García María Del Rosario , García Rauf Nouni , Delicado‐Miralles Miguel , Sánchez Sergio Hernández , Segura‐Heras Jose Vicente
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Biopsychosocial approach in patients suffering chronic low back pain (CLBP) promotes pain self‐management strategies. Current evidence recommends high dose of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) for clinically significant differences. However, the workload and time constraints experienced by healthcare providers impede the application of the recommended treatment regimen. In fact, Back School with a biomechanical model is the main approach to manage CLBP in public systems.

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore the effect of a 60 min single session of PNE as an adjunct to back school on pain intensity and psychological variables patients with CLBP.

Methods

A double‐blind, two‐arm randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in patients with CLBP who attended back school sessions held in a Spanish public hospital. A total of 121 patients were randomized into control group, who received the Back School program during 5 weeks, and intervention group, who additionally received a single session of PNE. Patient‐reported outcomes were the Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Central Sensitization Inventory, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, with a 12‐week follow‐up.

Results

A total of 113 patients were analysed. Intervention and control group presented similar effects on pain and kinesiophobia. At follow‐up, intervention group exhibited reduced sensitization and catastrophism scores compared with control, including the subscales. Additionally, PNE reduced the percentage of participants classified as having central sensitization compared with control.

Conclusions

Adding a single PNE session in the back school program did not reduce pain but improved psychological factors as central sensitization and pain catastrophizing at medium‐term. This study highlights the potential of PNE to optimize treatment strategies for CLBP, especially in public health centres where time resources are scarce.

Significance Statement

Adding a single PNE session in the back school program did not reduce pain but improved psychological factors as central sensitization and pain catastrophism at medium‐term.
Improving oxidative stability of cream powder using pomegranate concentrate and peel extract
Authors: Khademi Seyed Ayuob , Eskandari Mohammad Hadi , Golmakani Mohammad Taghi , Niakousari Mehrdad , Hashemi Hadi
Published: July 2024

In this study, the influence of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) and pomegranate concentrate (PC) on improving the oxidative stability of cream powder in comparison with synthetic antioxidant (Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)) during the storage period at 20°C (8 weeks) and 45°C (4 weeks) was evaluated. The finding exhibited that peroxide, p‐anisidine, and total oxidation (TOTOX) values increased during the storage period. Samples containing PPE and PC showed suitable performance in controlling the cream powder oxidation. Also, PPE showed the highest antioxidant activity and can be proposed as a suitable replacement for a synthetic antioxidant (BHT). L* and b* values increased, while a* value decreased during the storage period. Also, the pH of the powders decreased significantly throughout the storage (reached nearly 6). Microbial counts of cream powders did not change during the storage period. The control sample showed the highest overall acceptability. Antioxidants of pomegranate can be proposed to control the oxidative stability of fat‐rich food products.
Brewing method‐dependent changes of volatile aroma constituents of green tea (Camellia sinensis L.)
Authors: Göksu Sürücü Canan , Tolun Aysu , Halisçelik Ozan , Artık Nevzat
Published: July 2024

The determination of optimal levels of green tea amount and brewing time would have a crucial role in the accumulation of desired aromatic volatile compounds to meet worldwide market demand. Aroma is the most important factor influencing tea consumers' choices along with taste, price, and brand. This study aims to determine how the brewing time and amount of green tea affect the aroma profile of green tea infusion. The effect of the amount of Turkish green tea (5–10 g) and brewing time (5–60 min) on aromatic volatile compounds was evaluated using solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technique. The SPME/GC–MS analysis identified 57 components in the aroma profile of green tea infusions including 13 esters, 12 alkanes, 7 unknowns, 6 ketones, 3 alcohols, 2 terpenes, 2 terpenoids, 1 alkaloid, 1 phenolic compound, 1 lactone, 1 pyrazine, and 1 norisoprenoid. The green tea amount and brewing time had significant effects on the number of chemical compounds. A total of 42, 47, and 36 aromatic volatile compounds were determined by brewing 5, 7.5, and 10 g of green tea. The most abundant constituents in green tea infusions were phytone, 2‐decenal, lauric acid, unknown 1, methoxy‐1‐methylethyl pyrazine, α‐ionone, β‐ionone, and diethyl phthalate (DEP). With this study, the aroma structures of green tea infusion have been revealed for the first time depending on the brewing time and quantity.
The potential protective effects of probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Results from NHANES 2007–2012
Authors: Hong Yu , Luo Ting
Published: July 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ranks among the world's three leading causes of mortality, owing to the increased smokers and aging populations. Previous studies showed that gut microbiota could help to ameliorate respiratory diseases. Hence, the current study aims to evaluate the effects of probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt on the prevalence of COPD. A cross‐sectional study was carried out by investigating data from three consecutive NHANES cycles during 2007–2012. Individuals who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were studied. Prescription medications and dietary were reviewed to identify the intake of probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt. The included participants were then divided into two groups depending on their consumption of probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to analyze the effects of probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt consumption on the prevalence of COPD. Out of 7486 enrolled participants, 1656 (22.12%) were categorized into the probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt intake group. This study indicated that consuming probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt were correlated with a lower incidence of COPD, even when factors like gender, age, education, moderate‐intensity activities, vigorous activities, hypertension, asthma, diabetes, smoking and alcohol consumption were accounted for (Model 1: OR, 0.68, 95% CI, 0.53–0.87; Model 2: OR, 0.77, 95% CI, 0.59–0.99; Model 3: OR, 0.75, 95% CI, 0.57–0.98). The findings reveal that consuming probiotics, prebiotics, or yogurt might play a beneficial role in preventing COPD.
Mixed convective heat transfer in an open cavity with fins
Authors: Abu‐Ghurban Mohammed , Al‐Farhany Khaled
Published: July 2024

This work numerically explores the mixed convective heat transfer in an open square enclosure containing conducting fins fixed to the heated vertical wall. This kind of work with fins has enormous potential due to its applications in research, engineering, and current industries. Therefore, the current work is highly significant to understand the impact of mixed convection. The external flow enters from the hole in the bottom wall and leaves from the hole in the upper wall. The left vertical wall of the enclosure is heated isothermally, and the fins are attached to the heated walls at a uniform height. Both the upper and lower walls are adiabatic, whereas the right sidewall is at a lower temperature. The non‐dimensional transport equations are resolved by using the finite element method. The study is accomplished for the wide control variables range, such as Reynolds number (50 ≤ Re ≤ 200), Richardson's number (0.1 ≤ Ri ≤ 10), the length of the fins (Lf = 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6), the size of the outlet opening (Wout = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3), and the gaps in between the outlet hole and left heated wall (S = 0, 0.45, and 0.9). The results show that the thermal performance of the open enclosure is meaningfully affected by the control parameters. The maximum and minimum heat transfer happens when the position of the outlet opening is at the left (S = 0) and right (S = 0.9), respectively. The heat transfer improves by raising the Ri and Re, whereas increasing the fin's length and distance between the outlet opening and left wall reduces heat transfer significantly. The rises 13% with a decrease in the fin's length from 0.6 to 0.2 at Re = 200, S = 0 due to the improvement of the convection on the heated wall. Also,  increases by 15% when Ri increases from 1 to 9.
Atypical artificial cells: Novel biomimetic materials for combating cancer
Authors: Ren Zhao‐yang , Wan Qian‐qian , Zhu Yi‐na , Li Ling , Wang Kai‐yan , Zhao Fei , Jiao Kai , Tang Michelle , Tay Franklin , Wan Mei‐chen , Niu Li‐na
Published: July 2024

The functional concept of using synthetic entities to supplement or replace certain functions or structures of biological cells is realized by the development of atypical artificial cells using a bottom‐up approach. Tremendous progress has been achieved over the past 5 years that focuses on the therapeutic applications of atypical artificial cells, especially in the anticancer arena. Artificial cell‐based anticancer strategies have demonstrated eminent advantages over conventional anticancer tactics, with excellent biocompatibility and targeting capability. The present review commences with introducing the constructing principles and classification of artificial cells. Artificial cell‐based applications in cancer prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment are subsequently highlighted. These stimulating outcomes may inspire the development of next‐generation anticancer therapeutic strategies.
Biopsy‐verified vulvar lichen sclerosus and the risk of non‐vulvar cancer: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kaderly Rasmussen Emma L. , Hannibal Charlotte Gerd , Hertzum‐Larsen Rasmus , Kjær Susanne K. , Baandrup Louise
Published: July 2024

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease known to be associated with human papillomavirus‐independent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Evidence on the association with other types of cancer, however, is sparce. We conducted a large nationwide cohort study examining the incidence of non‐vulvar cancers among women with biopsy‐verified VLS compared with the general female population. By using the nationwide Pathology Registry, we identified all women in Denmark with a biopsy‐verified VLS diagnosis during 1978–2019 (n = 16,921). The cohort was followed up in the Danish Cancer Registry until 2022 for a subsequent non‐vulvar cancer diagnosis. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were computed with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as relative risk estimates of all specific non‐vulvar cancer sites. Compared with general female population rates, women with biopsy‐verified VLS had decreased rates of several non‐vulvar cancers, including HPV‐related cancers (combined estimate: SIR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.3–0.7), and lung (SIR = 0.6; 95% CI: 0.5–0.7), liver (SIR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.2–0.9), and thyroid cancer (SIR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.3–0.9). The decreased SIRs tended to sustain throughout the follow‐up period following the VLS diagnosis. This large nationwide cohort study shows that women with biopsy‐verified VLS may have a long‐term reduced risk of developing HPV‐related (cervical, vaginal, oropharyngeal, and anal) and smoking‐associated cancers (lung, liver, and cervical) as well as thyroid cancer. Future studies focusing on the mechanisms behind the decreased cancer risk are needed.
Multiscale Feature Fusion Method for Liver Cirrhosis Classification
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Jian Ling , Li Kaiyan , Zhou Pingping , Zeng Liang
Published: July 2024

Liver cirrhosis is one of the most common liver diseases in the world, posing a threat to people's daily lives. In advanced stages, cirrhosis can lead to severe symptoms and complications, making early detection and treatment crucial. This study aims to address this critical healthcare challenge by improving the accuracy of liver cirrhosis classification using ultrasound imaging, thereby assisting medical professionals in early diagnosis and intervention. This article proposes a new multiscale feature fusion network model (MSFNet), which uses the feature extraction module to capture multiscale features from ultrasound images. This approach enables the neural network to utilize richer information to accurately classify the stage of cirrhosis. In addition, a new loss function is proposed to solve the class imbalance problem in medical datasets, which makes the model pay more attention to the samples that are difficult to classify and improves the performance of the model. The effectiveness of the proposed MSFNet was evaluated using ultrasound images from 61 subjects. Experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves high classification accuracy, with 98.08% on convex array datasets and 97.60% on linear array datasets. Our proposed method can classify early, middle, and late cirrhosis very accurately. It provides valuable insights for the clinical treatment of liver cirrhosis and may be helpful for the rehabilitation of patients.
Grain boundary engineering: An emerging pathway toward efficient electrocatalysis
Authors: Xu Xiaomin , Zhong Yijun , Wajrak Magdalena , Bhatelia Tejas , Jiang San Ping , Shao Zongping
Published: July 2024

Electrochemical transformation processes involving carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and small‐molecule chemistries represent a promising means to store renewable energy sources in the form of chemical energy. However, their widespread deployment is hindered by a lack of efficient, selective, durable, and affordable electrocatalysts. Recently, grain boundary (GB) engineering as one category of defect engineering, has emerged as a viable and powerful pathway to achieve improved electrocatalytic performances. This review presents a timely and comprehensive overview of recent advances in GB engineering for efficient electrocatalysis. The beneficial effects of introducing GBs into electrocatalysts are discussed, followed by an overview of the synthesis and characterization of GB‐enriched electrocatalysts. Importantly, the latest developments in leveraging GB engineering for enhanced electrocatalysis are thoroughly examined, focusing on the electrochemical utilization cycles of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Future research directions are proposed to further advance the understanding and application of GB engineering for improved electrocatalysis.

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