bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of Hepatitis B and C Viruses in the General Population of Dera Ismail Khan District (D.I. Khan) Pakistan
Authors: Najm Ud Din  , Muhammad Saqib  , Dawood Khan  , Laila Parveen  , Muhammad Kamal Shah  , Muhammad Fareed  , Rubab Khalil  , Hameed ur Rehman  , Amarat Khan  , Abdul Samad Khan
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and epidemiology of hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) in the general population of Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, and to identify demographic and biochemical associations. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,244 individuals randomly selected across various age groups and genders. Blood samples were collected and analyzed using immunochromatographic testing (ICT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HCV-specific antibodies. Biochemical analysis of alanine transaminase (ALT) was performed using Microlab 300 (Merck, USA). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25 to evaluate associations between demographic variables and disease prevalence. Results: The overall prevalence of HBV and HCV was 25.72%. HBV was detected in 228 (29%) individuals, with a higher prevalence in males (34.31%) compared to females (19.20%) and the 16-30 years age group (43.17%). HCV was identified in 92 (20.08%) individuals, with males (22.05%) more affected than females (17.43%), and the 46-60 years age group showing the highest prevalence (27.82%). ALT levels were significantly elevated in infected individuals, with mean values of 111.63 ± 101.38 in males and 143.50 ± 52.50 in females. Conclusion: The study highlights the substantial burden of HBV and HCV, emphasizing the need for enhanced public health interventions, including vaccination, early screening, and community education, to mitigate the disease burden.
Assessment of Infection Control Practices Among Caregivers of Daycare Centers
Authors: Mehwash Ajmal  , Hira Iman  , Naila Mushtaq  , Nasreen Sharif  , Sehrish Ajmal
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aimed to assess infection control practices among caregivers in daycare centers across Punjab, Pakistan, to identify gaps and recommend improvements for reducing disease transmission. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in private, public, and NGO-run daycare centers in Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi. Data were collected from 150 caregivers using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic, hygiene practices, and environmental factors. Observational data on infection control practices were also recorded. The questionnaire included a 5-point Likert scale for hygiene assessments, while immunization and child health data were self-reported. Descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with p-values <0.05 considered significant. Ethical approval was obtained, and participant confidentiality was maintained per the Declaration of Helsinki. Results: Female caregivers constituted 71.3%, with a mean age of 39.91 years (SD = 11.75). Adequate hygiene facilities were reported in 72.7% of centers (p=0.012*), and regular sanitation practices were maintained in 83.3% (p=0.002**). Hand hygiene scored a mean of 3.04 (SD = 1.12), while PPE usage was 2.98 (SD = 1.10). Immunization was complete for 86.0% of children, while illness episodes averaged 2.12 (SD = 1.09, p=0.013*). Conclusion: Significant gaps in infection control practices necessitate regular training, facility improvements, and policy interventions to enhance child health and safety in daycare centers.
Comparative Study of Preservation Methods for Berberis Lycium Juice: A Laboratory Approach at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir Upper, Pakistan
Authors: Aziz Un Nabi  , Atta Ullah  , Jaweria Gu  , Abdullah  , Muhammad Siab
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effects of diverse preservation techniques on the shelf life, nutritional importance, microbiological safety, and sensory behavior of Berberis lycium juice. These techniques consist of vacuum sealing, freezing, refrigeration, and adding natural preservatives such as sugar and honey. Berries were harvested from Pakistan's Upper Dir highlands and turned into juice in a lab. Samples were stored and examined using each technique at intervals of 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 21, 24, 27, and 30 days. Microscopy was used to inspect microbial development, and other parameters like pH, TSS, ascorbic acid concentration, microbial load, and sensory attributes were assessed. For long-standing preservation, vacuum sealing and refrigeration were not as much of successful as freezing, which deeply enhanced microbiological safety and sensory quality, predominantly when paired with honey or sugar. Three days passed previous to the control sample going bad. The study concludes that the best way to preserve Berberis lycium juice is by freezing it with natural preservatives. An evergreen plant aboriginal to the Himalayan region, Berberis lycium belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It has long been utilized for food and medicine, as well as for its roots, bark, stems, leaves, and fruits. The plant is well-identified in Ayurvedic medicine for its capability to prevent harm to the liver, abdomen, skin, cough, and eyes. Pharmacological research highlights its hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antipyretic, hypoglycemic, and hyperlipidemic characteristics. The fruits which are consumed in raw or processed into juices, jams, and preserves by local communities, are profuse in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anthocyanins. An impression of the plant's many qualities is the target of this paper. Berberis lycium and other plants take action as biosynthetic laboratories for substances that are superior for human health. Medicinal plant extracts habitually exhibit antibacterial action, productively preventing the enlargement of bacteria and fungi.
Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomic Analysis of Cellular Stress Responses: Elucidating Metabolic Pathways and Regulatory Networks
Authors: Gul Rukh Askary  , Zafar Ahmad Khan  , Syeda Samira Azim  , Syeda Asiya Parveen  , Shayan Zufishan  , Syed Munawar Alam
Published: December 2024

Cellular stress responses are vital for maintaining homeostasis and enabling adaptation to environmental and physiological challenges. This study employed an integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic approach to investigate the regulatory networks and metabolic pathways underlying these responses. Conducted between July 2023 and December 2024 in Karachi, Pakistan, the research utilized cutting-edge technologies, including real-time PCR, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Biological samples representing various stress conditions, such as oxidative stress, nutrient deprivation, and environmental stressors, were collected and analyzed under strict ethical protocols.

RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) revealed 1,250 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with notable upregulation of GPX1 and SOD2, indicating enhanced detoxification pathways under oxidative stress. Concurrently, metabolomic profiling identified significant alterations in metabolites, such as elevated glutathione, lactate, and proline, highlighting adaptive shifts in glycolysis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification, and osmoprotection. Integrative analysis using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) pinpointed key regulatory hubs, including HIF1A and succinate, as central nodes in stress-specific networks.

This comprehensive multi-omics approach provided actionable insights into the molecular and metabolic mechanisms of cellular stress. The findings hold significant translational potential in agriculture and medicine, particularly for enhancing crop resilience and developing targeted therapies for stress-related disorders. Despite the limitations of in vitro models, this study underscores the value of multi-layered omics analyses in elucidating stress adaptation and lays the groundwork for future integrative research
Python-Based Hybrid Ai Models For Real-Time Grid Stability Analysis In Solar Energy Networks
Authors: Akhter Nur Farhana , Mia Arif , Talukder Md Jakaria
Published: December 2024

The growing reliance on renewable energy, particularly solar power, presents significant challenges to grid stability due to the variability and intermittency of energy generation. Hybrid Artificial Intelligence (AI) models have emerged as a transformative solution, integrating multiple AI techniques to address these challenges effectively. This study systematically reviewed 130 peer-reviewed articles, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure a transparent and rigorous process. The review highlights how hybrid AI models, by combining neural networks, reinforcement learning, evolutionary algorithms, and advanced architectures like transformers, achieve superior performance in predictive modeling, fault detection, load balancing, and scalability. Predictive modeling for solar power variability saw up to a 30% improvement in mean absolute error (MAE), while fault detection systems exhibited enhanced precision and recall, diagnosing multiple simultaneous faults in real time. Hybrid AI models also excel in load balancing and demand forecasting, reducing energy wastage by 20% and enabling dynamic resource allocation. Furthermore, their scalability and adaptability make them ideal for large-scale, distributed energy networks, addressing the complexities of modern smart grids. Despite these advancements, persistent challenges such as real-time data integration, standardization, and deployment barriers remain. The study underscores the need for future research to address these limitations through innovations like federated learning and decentralized AI frameworks. This comprehensive review demonstrates the critical role of hybrid AI in advancing grid stability, optimizing renewable energy integration, and paving the way for sustainable, resilient energy infrastructures.
COMBINED EFFECTS OF ACBT AND BUTEYKO TECHNIQUES ON AIRWAY CLEARANCE IN POST STERNOTOMY PATIENTS
Authors: Saeed Amina , Muhammad Ashir Rehman Malik  , Subayyal Iftikharq  , Neelum Mehmood  , Anam Waris  , Iqra Ghafor
Published: December 2024

Background: Sternotomy, a surgical incision through the sternum, is commonly performed in various cardiopulmonary procedures. Despite its significance in facilitating surgical access, sternotomy is associated with post-operative complications such as respiratory failure, atelectasis, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Effective respiratory rehabilitation is crucial to mitigate these risks. The Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT) and Buteyko breathing techniques have shown potential in improving lung function and clearing respiratory secretions, reducing the likelihood of post-surgical complications.
Objective: To evaluate the combined effects of ACBT and Buteyko breathing techniques on airway clearance in post-sternotomy patients.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 44 post-sternotomy patients selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received a combination of ACBT and Buteyko techniques, while Group B was treated with Buteyko techniques and conventional therapy. Both male and female patients aged 40–60 years were included. Pulmonary function tests and the Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale (BCSS) were used as outcome measures. Data were analyzed using SPSS, applying parametric and non-parametric tests as appropriate.
Results: Group A consisted of 22 patients (15 males, 7 females; mean age 53.77±4.99), while Group B included 22 patients (13 males, 9 females; mean age 54.40±4.89). Significant improvements were observed in both groups. For FVC, Group A improved from 0.86±0.12 L pre-treatment to 1.08±0.12 L post-treatment (p<0.0001), while Group B increased from 0.81±0.92 L to 1.01±0.13 L (p<0.0001). BCSS scores decreased significantly in both groups, from 52.31±14.81 to 16.22±8.91 in Group A and from 48.81±11.47 to 12.86±7.12 in Group B (p<0.0001). Group A showed greater improvement in pulmonary outcomes compared to Group B.
Conclusion: Both ACBT and Buteyko breathing techniques were effective for post-sternotomy patients. However, the combination of ACBT with Buteyko techniques proved superior, demonstrating greater efficacy in improving lung function, enhancing airway clearance, and reducing pulmonary complications.
Comparison of Nutraceuticals Use and Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients Vs Non-COVID-19 Population
Authors: Anza Ahmad  , Ahmad Ibne Yousaf  , Neelam Bibi  , Momina Akram  , Maida Khalid  , Faiza Jamshaid  , Azzah Khadim Hussain  , Saleha Hameed
Published: December 2024

Background: Nutraceuticals, representing a synergy between nutrition and pharmaceuticals, are gaining traction due to increasing awareness of their health benefits. As dietary supplements become integrated into pharmacological treatments, their role in managing health conditions, including COVID-19, is of significant interest.
Objective: This study aims to explore the use of nutraceuticals among individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 compared to those who have never contracted the virus, focusing on the patterns of usage and associated side effects.
Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from April to June 2023, targeting a diverse population of COVID-19 survivors and non-infected individuals. The survey captured data on demographics, vaccination status, nutraceutical use, and any adverse effects experienced. A total of 250 participants were recruited to provide a broad perspective on the dietary supplementation habits among these groups.
Results: Of the total participants, 65.1% (n=163) were non-COVID-19 individuals, and 34.9% (n=87) had recovered from COVID-19. Nutraceuticals were more commonly used by non-COVID-19 individuals, with multivitamins and folates being the most frequently consumed supplements. Notably, 77% of non-COVID-19 individuals reported side effects, predominantly an unpleasant taste, compared to 23% of COVID-19 survivors experiencing similar issues.
Conclusion: The findings indicate a higher utilization of nutraceuticals among non-COVID-19 individuals, with multivitamins and folates being predominant. Side effects were more prevalent in non-COVID-19 participants. Future research should further investigate the specific benefits and risks of nutraceuticals to better understand their role in health management and recovery post-COVID-19.
The eternal theme of the seasons in the dialogue of the past and the present in the music of the late XX-early XXI century
Authors: SHibinskaya Anastasiya Aleksandrovna
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to musical works on the theme of the seasons, created in the late XX – early XXI century on the basis of already existing well-known masterpieces on this eternal theme. The purpose of the study is to analyze the writings of previous years in comparison with new, updated works on the theme of the seasons. The subject of the study is the musical and stylistic features of the interaction of the original source and the new composition. The object of the research is the compositions on the theme of the seasons by modern composers, written on the basis of masterpieces of past eras: A. Raskatova «The Seasons. Digest», M. Bronner's «The Seasons. A wreath to Tchaikovsky», M. Richter «The seasons. Recomposed», transcription of A. Piazzolla's tango cycle «The Seasons in Buenos Aires», created by L. Desyatnikov, ballet «The Seasons» by V. Martynov, which traces the technique of stylization and quoting. The study used a comparative analytical, historical and theoretical methods. The main conclusions of the study are: the appeal to musical masterpieces of past eras in the context of postmodernism is not a rare phenomenon. Composers recreate ancient genres, music-making practices. A musical masterpiece preserves the enduring values inherent in its idea. He becomes a kind of standard for creating new, relevant works for his time. In this context, the eternal theme of the seasons harmoniously fit into the new cultural paradigm of the late XX - early XXI century. The immortal masterpieces of A. Vivaldi, P. Tchaikovsky, A. Piazzolla have received a new life in the conditions of modern composing and performing arts. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the fact that some of these works are analyzed for the first time in the context of a dialogue between different centuries.
THE PROBLEMS OF PRESERVING THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THE GUNA INDIANS
Authors: Atencio Roman Alexis , Kargovskaia Elena Aleksandrovna , Kuznetsova Viktoriia Vladimirovna
Published: December 2024

Indigenous cultures around the world face unprecedented challenges and are often in danger of extinction. The preservation of the cultural heritage of these peoples is an important task not only for themselves, but also for all mankind. These cultures possess valuable knowledge and traditions that have developed over the millennia and open unique prospects for the development of the world. The loss of indigenous knowledge and practices is an irreparable loss for all of us, as we are losing part of the cultural heritage of all mankind. The indigenous peoples of Panama have a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in their traditions and beliefs. The Guna people living in Panama and Colombia represent one of the most sovereign indigenous communities in the world, with extensive land holdings and self-government rights. They are known for their colorful traditional clothes, intricate manners, beliefs, and strong sense of community. The relevance of the topic is since in a world that is becoming increasingly homogenized, the preservation of indigenous cultures ensures that this cultural diversity will not be lost due to the impact of globalization. This article is devoted to the problems of preserving the material and spiritual heritage of the Guna people living in Panama and Colombia. The lifestyle of the Guna Indians, their traditions, worldview and definition of the role of man in the world are unique and of great interest for research. The authors of the article analyze the distinctive features of the Guna cultural heritage and highlight current phenomena and processes that pose a threat to the preservation of the traditional way of life of this people. Understanding the history and traditions of the indigenous Guna people is essential to preserve their culture.
Problems of realization of the right to pension provision for certain categories of citizens in conditions of international political instability
Authors: Rukoleev Vitalii Aleksandrovich , Zadorina Mariia Andreevna
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the problems of realization of the right to pension provision by certain categories of citizens of the Russian Federation who are entitled to an early old-age insurance pension, whose work was carried out on the territories of the states that are part of the USSR. The topic is relevant due to the fact that pension legislation is dynamically developing. Modern geopolitical conditions, when citizens of the former Soviet republics acquire citizenship of the Russian Federation due to various circumstances, give the chosen topic great relevance. The study pays special attention to the impact of the current international political situation on the realization of the right to pension provision by such citizens. The subject of the study is the norms of the legislation of the Russian Federation on pension provision, judicial practice, as well as the works of domestic legal scholars on this issue. The methodological basis of the research was made up of general scientific (analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, generalization), as well as special legal (formal legal) methods of scientific cognition. Based on the analysis of judicial practice, problems have been identified in the realization of the right to an early old-age insurance pension by citizens of the Russian Federation whose work was carried out in the territories of the states that were part of the USSR: difficulties in confirming the existence of a special work experience associated with the adverse effects of various factors due to the reorganization or liquidation of the employer organization; absence (loss) of documents on work experience; ignoring by organizations and authorities of the states of the former Soviet republics requests for information on the provision of information on the duration, nature and working conditions of persons living in Russia, in the territories of the former Soviet Union. It has been established that employees of pension authorities make mistakes in the application (interpretation) of the norms of pension legislation, evade the obligation to request documents necessary for the appointment of a pension from authorities and organizations, shifting this burden on citizens themselves and forcing them to defend their rights and legitimate interests in court. Based on the results of the study, the authors proposed measures aimed at optimizing the procedure for exercising the right to an early retirement insurance pension, taking into account modern geopolitical conditions.
Investigating antioxidant activity of carotenoid compound from Paracoccus haeundaensis SAB E11 at the cellular level in Schizosaccaromyces pombe ARC039 yeast model
Authors: Abubakar Hermawaty , Astuti Rika Indri , Batubara Irmanida , Listiyowati Sri , Wahyudi Aris Tri
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to investigate the presence, characterization, and antioxidant properties of carotenoid compounds at the cellular level in the bacteria Paracoccus haeundaensis SAB E11. Furthermore, carotenoid synthesis was determined based on the presence of the crtY gene. Characterization of the carotenoid isolated was performed through thin-layer chromatography (TLC), UV-Vis spectrum, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Meanwhile, cellular antioxidant activity was examined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and the organism model yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe ARC039. The results showed that P. haeundaensis SAB E11 had a band on the chromatogram at 163 bp, representing 54 amino acid residues of lycopene β-cyclase crtY. TLC, UV-Vis, HPLC, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed carotenoid presence, while the DPPH radicals assay identified antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 203.90 ± 3.12 μg.ml−1 At the cellular level, carotenoid concentrations of 28 μg.ml-1 and 56 μg.ml-1 could enhance the stress tolerance phenotype of S. pombe ARC039 against 2 mM H2O2. Strong induction of mitochondrial activity was obtained following treatment with the 28 μg.ml-1 concentration. After H2O2 treatment, there was a 3.18 and 2.55-fold increase in the relative expression of catalase (ctt1) and superoxide dismutase (sod2) genes of S. pombe ARC039, respectively. These data showed that P. haeundaensis SAB E11 produced carotenoids with potential antioxidant capabilities manifested at the cellular level by inducing an adaptive oxidative response and mitochondrial activity, as well as increasing the expression of ctt1 and sod2 genes.
Exploring antimycobacterial potential and profiling secondary metabolite gene clusters in the whole genome of Bacillus isolated from dogfruit (Archidendron pauciflorum)
Authors: Priyanto Jepri Agung , Prastya Muhammad Eka , Widhia Hening Egiyanti Nur , Astuti Rika Indri
Published: December 2024

Bacillus spp. associated with tropical medicinal plants are potential sources of secondary metabolites possessing antimycobacterial properties. This study evaluated the antimycobacterial activity of endophytic Bacillus species against Mycobacterium smegmatis and analyzed putative secondary metabolite gene clusters (SMGCs) in the complete genome sequence of the selected isolate. Among the four isolates tested, colony and metabolite extract from Bacillus sp. strain DJ4 strongly inhibited the growth of M. smegmatis, a surrogate bacterium for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The extract was categorized as bactericidal, since the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and MBC of the bacterial extract were 31.25 μg/ml and 125 μg/ml, respectively. The most effective inhibition of biofilm formation and eradication of M. smegmatis cells’ biofilm was shown by the 2 × MIC extract treatment. Eighteen volatile compounds (VOCs) were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Some VOCs found in the extract have been reported to act as antibacterial agents. Whole-genome analysis revealed that Bacillus sp. strain DJ4 is similar to Bacillus velezensis strain KCTC 13012. Eight SMGCs were identified in the bacterial genomes. In conclusion, the present study indicates that endophytic Bacillus species, especially Bacillus sp. strain DJ4, are a new source of antimycobacterial compounds. This discovery may allow further exploration of secondary metabolites and genomic features of this endophytic bacterium to open up great prospects in the pharmaceutical industry to combat Mtb infection.
The Case for Critical Literacy: A History of Reading in Writing Studies
Authors: Horning Alice S.
Published: December 2024

Explores the history of reading within writing studies, and lays the foundation for understanding how the impact of this critical skill is far-reaching, repeatedly showcased in classrooms across the nation by students’ inability to understand or articulate ideas and arguments.
A Research on the Recycling of Waste Materials and Sustainability in the Textile and Fashion Design Teaching Program of Universities
Authors: Tuğba ARABALI KOŞAR Sevim , GEZİCİOĞLU Fatma Yelda , YALÇIN Mine BEŞEN
Published: December 2024

Son yıllarda tekstil tasarımı, giysi tasarımı, aksesuar tasarımı ve tekstil sanatı alanlarında geri dönüşüm, geri kazanım ve sürdürebilirlik kavramları sıklıkla rastlanan birer olgu olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Çevre kirliliğinin
artması, küresel ısınma ile ilgili sorunların insan sağlığını tehdit edecek boyuta ulaşması, insanları çevreye karşı daha duyarlı olmaları konusunda uyarmaktadır. Bilinçsiz ve hızlı tüketim alışkanlıklarıyla kaybettiğimiz doğal
kaynaklarımızın yok olmasının yanı sıra çevre kirliliği de önlem alınması gereken konuların başında yer almaktadır. Bilim insanları ve sanatçılar sürekli olarak bu konuya dikkat çekmek amacıyla çevre dostu yeni malzemeler, teknolojiler
ve üretim yollarını aramakta, çeşitli araştırmalar ve çalışmalar yürütmektedirler. Ülkemizde de tekstil sektöründe bu konuya karşı duyarlı yaklaşımların sergilenmeye başlamış olması da ümit vericidir. Bu konuyla ilişkili olarak,
tekstil sektörüne bilinçli kumaş, giysi, aksesuar tasarımcıları ve sanatçıları yetiştiren üniversitelerin Güzel Sanatlar Fakülteleri Tekstil/Tekstil ve Moda tasarımı bölümlerinde uzun yıllardır geri dönüşüm, geri kazanım ve sürdürülebilirlik
kavramlarının farkındalığına işaret eden projelerin devam ettiği gözlemlenmiştir. Bu çalışmada, belirlenen üniversitelerin Tekstil ve Moda Tasarım Bölümlerinde 2010-2020 yılları arası Eğitim/Öğretim programında yer alan sanat ve
tasarım derslerinde lisans öğrencilerinin geri dönüşebilen ve geri kazanılan malzemelerle deneysel tasarımlarına, farkındalık yaratacak dokuma, örme, baskı, aksesuar ve giyilebilir/giyilemez projelerine yer verilerek, ülke koşulları
ölçeğinde eğitim alanında geri kazanım, sürdürülebilirlik önerilerinin sunulması amaçlanmaktadır. Bu makalede kullanılan tüm görsel materyaller kişilerin izni alınarak kullanılmıştır.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Substance Use Disorder in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kowalec Kaarina , Carney Heather , Patel Mitulkumar , Hitchon Carol , Bolton James M. , Patten Scott B. , Graff Lesley A. , Bernstein Charles N. , Peschken Christine , Marrie Ruth Ann ,   for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Team in Defining the Burden and Managing the Effects of Psychiatric Comorbidity in Chronic Immunoinflammatory Disease
Published: September 2021

Objective

In this study, we aimed to determine the lifetime prevalence of substance use disorder (SUD) in a Canadian rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cohort and factors associated with SUD in RA.

Methods

Participants with RA (N = 154) were recruited via rheumatology clinics as part of a larger cohort study of psychiatric comorbidity in immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases. SUD is defined as the uncontrolled use of a substance despite the harmful consequences of its use. To identify lifetime SUD, the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition was administered to participants. Participants’ sociodemographic and RA clinical characteristics were also assessed. We examined factors associated with lifetime SUD using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression modeling.

Results

Twenty‐three (14.9%) of 154 participants with RA met the criteria for a lifetime diagnosis of SUD. The majority of the participants were women, were White, had postsecondary education, and were on a disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug. Factors associated with increased odds of SUD were male sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03‐12.73), younger age (aOR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90‐0.98), and ever smoking (aOR: 6.44, 95% CI: 1.53‐27.07).

Conclusion

We found that approximately 1 in 7 individuals with RA had a lifetime diagnosis of SUD, highlighting the importance of identifying and treating SUD in those with RA. In particular, the following factors were associated with higher odds of SUD: male sex, younger age, and smoking behaviors.
Advances in Microwave Synthesis of Nanoporous Materials
Authors: Głowniak Sylwia , Szczęśniak Barbara , Choma Jerzy , Jaroniec Mietek
Published: September 2021

Usually, porous materials are synthesized by using conventional electric heating, which can be energy‐ and time‐consuming. Microwave heating is commonly used in many households to quickly heat food. Microwave ovens can also be used as powerful devices in the synthesis of various porous materials. The microwave‐assisted synthesis offers a simple, fast, efficient, and economic way to obtain many of the advanced nanomaterials. This review summarizes the recent achievements in the microwave‐assisted synthesis of diverse groups of nanoporous materials including silicas, carbons, metal–organic frameworks, and metal oxides. Microwave‐assisted methods afford highly porous materials with high specific surface areas (SSAs), e.g., activated carbons with SSA ≈3100 m2 g−1, metal–organic frameworks with SSA ≈4200 m2 g−1, covalent organic frameworks with SSA ≈2900 m2 g−1, and metal oxides with relatively small SSA ≈300 m2 g−1. These methods are also successfully implemented for the preparation of ordered mesoporous silicas and carbons as well as spherically shaped nanomaterials. Most of the nanoporous materials obtained under microwave irradiation show potential applications in gas adsorption, water treatment, catalysis, energy storage, and drug delivery, among others.
Manipulating Intratumoral Fenton Chemistry for Enhanced Chemodynamic and Chemodynamic‐Synergized Multimodal Therapy
Authors: Zhou Yaofeng , Fan Siyu , Feng Lili , Huang Xiaolin , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: September 2021

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) uses the tumor microenvironment‐assisted intratumoral Fenton reaction for generating highly toxic hydroxyl free radicals (•OH) to achieve selective tumor treatment. However, the limited intratumoral Fenton reaction efficiency restricts the therapeutic efficacy of CDT. Recent years have witnessed the impressive development of various strategies to increase the efficiency of intratumoral Fenton reaction. The introduction of these reinforcement strategies can dramatically improve the treatment efficiency of CDT and further promote the development of enhanced CDT (ECDT)‐based multimodal anticancer treatments. In this review, the authors systematically introduce these reinforcement strategies, from their basic working principles, reinforcement mechanisms to their representative clinical applications. Then, ECDT‐based multimodal anticancer therapy is discussed, including how to integrate these emerging Fenton reinforcement strategies for accelerating the development of multimodal anticancer therapy, as well as the synergistic mechanisms of ECDT and other treatment methods. Eventually, future direction and challenges of ECDT and ECDT‐based multimodal synergistic therapies are elaborated, highlighting the key scientific problems and unsolved technical bottlenecks to facilitate clinical translation.
Urbach‐Energy‐Dictated Spatial Propagation of Electrons in Thermodynamically Tuned Amorphous Zirconia Thin Films
Authors: Kwon Jin‐Hyuk , Lee Hyeonju , Kim Bokyung , Zhang Xue , Jang Jaewon , Bae Jin‐Hyuk , Park Jaehoon
Published: September 2021

Thermodynamically tuned zirconia thin films are fabricated for diverse Urbach energies in a homogeneous condensed system. In the analysis, the electrical breakdown of zirconia thin films is ascribed to the tunneling‐driven electron propagation involving virtual photons. An externally applied electric field is considered to expand the Urbach‐energy‐characterized energy distribution of sub‐bandgap states into their spatial distribution. In this expansion, the virtual‐photon energies activate the tunneling‐driven electron propagation through localized observer states. The integral of the virtual‐photon energies over the entire tunneling path is equal to the initial energy barrier.
Selective α‐Deuteration of Cinnamonitriles using D2O as Deuterium Source
Authors: Guo Beibei , de Vries Johannes G. , Otten Edwin
Published: September 2021

The selective α‐deuteration of α,β‐unsaturated nitriles using the strong base tBuOK or a metal‐ligand cooperative Ru pincer catalyst is described. With D2O as deuterium source and glyme as solvent at 70 °C, tBuOK is an efficient catalyst for deuteration at the α‐C(sp2) position of cinnamonitriles, providing access to a broad range of deuterated derivatives in good to excellent yields and with very high levels of deuterium incorporation. While the tBuOK‐catalysed protocol does not tolerate base‐sensitive functional groups, cinnamonitrile derivatives containing a benzylic bromide or ester moiety were deuterated in excellent yields using Milstein's ruthenium PNN pincer catalyst. Moreover, the activity for H/D exchange of the metal‐ligand cooperative Ru catalyst is found to be significantly higher than that of tBuOK, allowing reactions to proceed well even at room temperature. A mechanistic proposal is put forward that involves deprotonation of the cinnamonitrile α‐CH position when using tBuOK as catalyst, whereas H/D exchange catalysis with the Ru PNN pincer likely proceeds via (reversible) oxa‐Michael addition of D2O.

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Structural Odd–Even Effect Impacting the Dimensionality of Transport in BTBT‐CnOH Organic Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Roche Gilles H. , Bruckner Gudrun , Dumitrescu Dan G. , Moreau Joël J. E. , van der Lee Arie , Wantz Guillaume , Dautel Olivier J.
Published: September 2021

The synthesis and characterization of a series of [1]benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (BTBT) molecules disubstituted by hydroxy aliphatic chains in positions 2 and 7 (BTBT‐CnOH), where the intralayer molecular stacking alternates between a classical and an inverted herringbone mode as a function of whether the alkyl sides chains have an even or an odd number of carbon atoms are reported. This odd–even effect does not only affect the interlayer distance of the lamellar structures and the melting points, but also the electronic properties. The BTBT‐CnOH odd series develops a classical herringbone pattern with edge‐to‐edge S⋯S interaction chains linked together by face‐to‐edge S⋯S interaction chains with 2D mobility. However, the even series has only edge‐to‐edge interactions in an inverted herringbone organization and thus only a 1D conducting character. These two types of herringbone patterns have different field effect transistor characteristics and mobilities, those of the odd members being systematically higher than their even neighbors. This is the first example of an odd–even effect impacting the electronic properties of an organic semiconductor.
An Artificial Intelligence‐Based Motion Trajectory Prediction of Fibrous Matters
Authors: Yang Shuo , Ling Shengjie
Published: September 2021

Understanding and predicting the motion behavior of fibrous matters is critical for studying the structure, performance, function, and assembly behavior of fibrous matters. However, due to the limitation of characterization technology on a space−time scale, the existing technologies cannot provide real‐time in situ tracking of entire dynamic processes of fibrous matters. To address this shortcoming, an artificial intelligence‐based codebase, named the artificial intelligence‐based fiber motion tracking (AI‐FMT), is proposed for analyzing, studying, and predicting motion behaviors of fibrous matters. The proposed AI‐FMT can automatically extract morphology information of fibrous matters from a large number of pictures or video streams, which serve as an input for machine learning to predict the motion pattern of fibrous matters. Using a finite‐element concept in understanding the point−coordinate relationship, the AI‐FMT greatly simplifies the architecture of the neural network during motion prediction. For the case of 928 trainable parameters, an average accuracy of 97.8% is achieved in predicting variations in morphological parameters, such as mean square radius of gyration, end‐to‐end distance, and curvature in the movement process of animal hair. The presented results can help to understand the structure, assembly, performance, and function of fibrous matters.
Biomass allocation ofVincetoxicum rossicumandV. nigrumin contrasting competitive environments
Authors: DiTommaso Antonio , Averill Kristine M. , Qin Zhong , Ho Melanie , Westbrook Anna S. , Mohler Charles L.
Published: September 2021

Premise

Understanding how drought and biomass allocation patterns influence competitive ability can help identify traits related to invasiveness and guide management.Vincetoxicum nigrumandV. rossicumare increasingly problematic herbaceous perennial vines in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Methods

Using a greenhouse experiment, we investigated how biomass allocation and competition intensity ofVincetoxicumspp. responded to four competitive regimes at two levels of soil water availability in the presence of conspecific or congeneric neighbors.

Results

Soil moisture was the most important influence on growth and biomass allocation.Vincetoxicum nigrumhad a greater capacity for growth and reproduction thanV. rossicum, especially under drought. Drought reduced the probability of reproduction forV. rossicum.Vincetoxicum rossicumhad a higher root‐to‐shoot ratio thanV. nigrumunder adequate soil moisture. This difference more than doubled under drought. Under interspecific competition,V. nigrummaximized its biomass, whileV. rossicumlimited aboveground growth and reproduction. Root‐only competition increased shoot and root biomass relative to shoot‐only competition. The effects of root and shoot competition were additive under interspecific competition, but interacted under intraspecific competition (negative interaction under drought and positive interaction under sufficient soil moisture).

Conclusions

Management strategies targeting mixed populations ofV. rossicumandV. nigrumare most important under ample water availability. Under drought conditions, strategies focused onV. nigrumshould effectively limitVincetoxicumgrowth and seed reproduction. Phenotypic plasticity and the positive competition intensity associated with drought in monocultures may contribute to drought resistance in these invasive species.
The Large Power of Small Talk
Authors: Creo Robert A.
Published: September 2021

When I was in college, I was traveling to Pittsburgh from Boston when I stopped at a Howard Johnson's for a break. At the table next to me were seated two men who obviously were meeting for the first time and were exploring a business relationship.
Personalized prediction of progression in pre‐dementia patients based on individual biomarker profile: A development and validation study
Authors: Kühnel Line , Bouteloup Vincent , Lespinasse Jérémie , Chêne Geneviève , Dufouil Carole , Molinuevo José Luis , Raket Lars Lau ,   for the MEMENTO study group and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The prognosis of patients at the pre‐dementia stage is difficult to define. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a biomarker‐based continuous model for predicting the individual cognitive level at any future moment. In addition to personalized prognosis, such a model could reduce trial sample size requirements by allowing inclusion of a homogenous patient population.

Methods

Disease‐progression modeling of longitudinal cognitive scores of pre‐dementia patients (baseline Clinical Dementia Rating ≤ 0.5) was used to derive a biomarker profile that was predictive of patient's cognitive progression along the dementia continuum. The biomarker profile model was developed and validated in the MEMENTO cohort and externally validated in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.

Results

Of nine candidate biomarkers in the development analysis, three cerebrospinal fluid and two magnetic resonance imaging measures were selected to form the final biomarker profile. The model‐based prognosis of individual future cognitive deficit was shown to significantly improve when incorporating biomarker information on top of cognition and demographic data. In trial power calculations, adjusting the primary analysis for the baseline biomarker profile reduced sample size requirements by ≈10%. Compared to conventional cognitive cut‐offs, inclusion criteria based on biomarker‐profile cut‐offs resulted in up to 28% reduced sample size requirements due to increased homogeneity in progression patterns.

Discussion

The biomarker profile allows prediction of personalized trajectories of future cognitive progression. This enables accurate personalized prognosis in clinical care and better selection of patient populations for clinical trials. A web‐based application for prediction of patients’ future cognitive progression is available online.
New approach to develop functionalized polyelectrolyte tube using bacteria as template
Authors: Pawlak André , Belbekhouche Sabrina
Published: September 2021

Herein, we propose a new approach consisting of using bacteria as a starting point for the development of new material of interest. Indeed, we are interested in using bacteria as a template. We focus on Escherichia coli which are one of the best studied microorganisms. They are in the micrometer range size and present a tubular shape. We thus use E. coli cells as biotemplate for the design of polyelectrolyte tubes. Indeed, E. coli presents a negatively charged surface (−17 mV) which is then coated by charged polymer via the layer‐by‐layer process. We use chitosan as a polycation and a dextran sulfate as polyanion. First, we evidence the controlled coating of the surface of the bacteria via the measurement of zeta potential (+25 mV to −20 mV) and also by fluorescent microscopy using a fluorescently tagged polysaccharide (fluorescein isothiocyanate‐dextran). Secondly, we remove the bacteria core by using sodium hypochlorite and thus we obtain hollow polyelectrolyte tubes (dimensions of 1.1–1.5 μm × 2.0–6.0 μm). Such bioinspired materials are of major interest for a wide range of applications for the fabrication of polymeric tubes.
General guidelines for a successful joint determination of the diffusion and the partition coefficients in polymeric food contact materials based on optimal experimental design
Authors: Martinez‐Lopez Brais , Mauricio‐Iglesias Miguel
Published: September 2021

Three experimental methodologies that aim at giving general guidelines for a robust joint determination of the diffusion and the partition coefficients on polymeric food contact materials are presented and compared: One based on optimal experimental design, one based on taking samples at equally spaced concentrations, and one based on taking samples at equally spaced times. The three methodologies are tested for a wide range of mass transfer speeds (D between 0.0005 and 5 10−13 m2 s−1) and equilibrium conditions (K between 1 and 100), that mimic the behavior of high‐ and low‐barrier polymers, under constraints that affect the sampling technique (global or local measuring), maximum sampling number (3–5), minimum spacing between samples and maximum experiment time. Results show that even with slow kinetics (D ≈ 5∙10−15 m2 s−1), the joint determination is feasible under certain conditions, within a reasonable experiment running time and a lower uncertainty than the current recommendations given by the EU directive.
Modelling Critically Endangered marine species: Bias‐corrected citizen science data inform habitat suitability for the angelshark (Squatina squatina)
Authors: Noviello Nicola , McGonigle Christopher , Jacoby David M. P. , Meyers Eva K. M. , Jiménez‐Alvarado David , Barker Joanna
Published: September 2021

As an increasingly important resource in ecological research, citizen scientists have proven dynamic and cost‐effective in the supply of data for use within habitat suitability models. With predictions critical to the provision of effective conservation measures in cryptic marine species, this study delivers baseline ecological data for the Critically Endangered angelshark (Squatina squatina), exploring: (i) seasonal, sex‐differentiated distributions; (ii) environmental distribution predictors; and (iii) examining bias‐corrected, imperfect citizen science data for use in coastal habitat suitability models with cryptic species.

Citizen science presence data, comprising over 60,000 hours of sampling effort, were used alongside carefully selected open‐source predictor variables, withmaxentgenerating seasonal male and female habitat suitability models for angelsharks in the Canary Islands. A biased prior method was used, alongside two model validation measures to ensure reliability.

Citizen science data used withinmaxentsuggest that angelshark habitat suitability is low in coastal areas during warmer months, with fewer occurrences despite a negligible change in sampling effort. The prime importance of bathymetry may indicate the importance of depth for reproductive activity and possible diel vertical migration, whereas aspect may act as a proxy for sheltered habitats away from open ocean. Substrate as a predictor of female habitats in spring and summer could imply that soft sediment is sought for birthing areas, assisting in the identification of areas critical to reproductive activity and thus locations that may benefit from spatial protections.

Model outputs to inform recovery plan development and ecotourism are identified as plausible safeguards of population recovery, whereas the comparison of biased and bias‐corrected models highlights some variance between methodologies, with bias‐corrected models producing greater areas of habitat suitability. Accordingly, an adaptive framework is provided for the implementation of citizen science data within the modelling of cryptic coastal species distribution.