bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigation of corrosion of zinc with amylopectin: Electrochemical, adsorption, and surface studies
Authors: Pais Mikitha , Rao Padmalatha
Published: September 2022

Carbohydrate polymers are proven to be potential green corrosion inhibitors because of their outstanding structural features and eco‐friendliness. Work undertaken reflects the effectiveness of biopolymer amylopectin (AMP) as an eco‐friendly green inhibitor to mitigate the deterioration of zinc in 0.1 M sulphamic acid (NH2SO3H). Electrochemical studies like potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were applied for corrosion rate measurement in the absence and presence of AMP. Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were calculated and described in detail. The results were fitted into a suitable adsorption isotherm model, and an appropriate mechanism was proposed for the corrosion inhibition process. A detailed surface morphology study was done using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. The inhibition efficacy of AMP increased with an increase in its concentration and temperature. Upon the addition of the inhibitor, corrosion potential shifted more towards the positive side, indicating more control of the anodic process. The adsorption of AMP over zinc conformed to the Freundlich adsorption isotherm. For the concentration of 0.1 gL−1, maximum corrosion inhibition efficiency of 74% could be accomplished. Surface studies reaffirmed the adsorption of AMP on the surface of the metal. Thus, AMP turned out to be an effective green inhibitor with economic benefits.
Effects of Activation Conditions on the Characteristics, Adsorption Capacity, and Energy Sorage of Carbon Aerogel from Watermelon Rind
Authors: Minh Tu Phan , Nam Phat La , Hoang Lin Tong , Cam Nguyen Huynh , Thao Tram Trinh Dinh , Ngoc Lam Hoang Dang , Dang Khoa Bui Dang , Quang Cong Che , Truong Son Nguyen , Thanh Phong Mai , Huu Hieu Nguyen
Published: September 2022

In this work, a watermelon rind‐derived carbon aerogel (WRCA) was synthesized via a facile and green procedure including hydrothermal combined freeze‐drying and pyrolysis technique. The influences of pyrolysis conditions on the characteristics, adsorption capacity, and energy storage of the produced WRCA were thoroughly investigated under two distinctive pyrolysis conditions in N2 and CO2 media to obtain the corresponding WRCA‐N and WRCA‐C products, respectively, at different temperatures (600, 700, and 800 °C). As a result, WRCA‐N samples exhibited notable hydrophobicity with a wetting angle of 127°, showing excellent concordance with the adsorbent field. Furthermore, the maximum adsorption capacity of used coconut oil, hexane, butanol, and chloroform for WRCA‐N pyrolyzed at 800 °C (WRCA‐N800) reached 70.521, 53.506, 58.102, and 59.913 g/g, respectively, whilst the adsorption process also followed the pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model. On the other hand, WRCA‐C held up considerable hydrophilic traits and cannot be used to adsorb organic matters. Nonetheless, WRCA‐C activated at 600 °C (WRCA‐C600) indicated the best physicochemical properties and energy storage capacity with better specific capacitance (190 F/g) compared to WRCA‐N600 (31.40 F/g), thanks to its large specific surface area, high porosity (91.27 %), and higher hetero‐element O content (9.79%) than other samples. Additionally, the electrochemical characteristics of WRCA‐C600 electrode were alternatively confirmed using the 2‐electrode supercapacitor model, demonstrating a high energy density (26.38 Wh/kg) and power density (2374.50 W/kg). The obtained results demonstrate the promising applications of carbon aerogel synthesized from the watermelon rind in the adsorption and energy storage sectors.
Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers Evidentiary Considerations for Biosimilar Development and Approval
Authors: Strauss David G. , Wang Yow‐Ming , Florian Jeffry , Zineh Issam
Published: September 2022

A biosimilar is a biological product that is highly similar to and has no clinically meaningful differences from a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved reference product. The development and approval of biosimilars is critical to enhancing the availability of safe, effective, and affordable treatment options for patients. Utilization of pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarkers can help streamline biosimilar development programs as the current process can be costly and time‐consuming. Whereas PD biomarkers have not been prominently used across biosimilar approvals to date, moving forward, there is ample opportunity to increase the use of PD biomarkers in biosimilar development programs in place of comparative clinical studies with efficacy end point(s). This includes utilizing PD biomarkers that were not used as surrogate end points in approval of reference products. This mini‐review summarizes how PD biomarkers have been used in biosimilar development programs to date and then discusses evidentiary considerations for PD biomarkers. In addition, study design considerations for clinical pharmacokinetic and PD assessment of proposed biosimilars are discussed. Finally, the FDA's applied regulatory science activities related to PD biomarkers for biosimilars conducted in support of the FDA's Biosimilars Action Plan are reviewed. This included conducting three clinical studies to address information gaps about PD biomarkers for biosimilars and inform general methodological best practices. In summary, enhancing our understanding of key evidentiary considerations and optimal study designs for incorporating PD biomarkers in the evaluation of proposed biosimilars can help bring more treatment options to patients faster.
Comprehensive methylome sequencing reveals prognostic epigenetic biomarkers for prostate cancer mortality
Authors: Pidsley Ruth , Lam Dilys , Qu Wenjia , Peters Timothy J. , Luu Phuc‐Loi , Korbie Darren , Stirzaker Clare , Daly Roger J. , Stricker Phillip , Kench James G. , Horvath Lisa G. , Clark Susan J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Prostate cancer is a clinically heterogeneous disease with a subset of patients rapidly progressing to lethal‐metastatic prostate cancer. Current clinicopathological measures are imperfect predictors of disease progression. Epigenetic changes are amongst the earliest molecular changes in tumourigenesis. To find new prognostic biomarkers to enable earlier intervention and improved outcomes, we performed methylome sequencing of DNA from patients with localised prostate cancer and long‐term clinical follow‐up.

Methods

We used whole‐genome bisulphite sequencing (WGBS) to comprehensively map and compare DNA methylation of radical prostatectomy tissue between patients with lethal disease (n = 7) and non‐lethal (n = 8) disease (median follow‐up 19.5 years). Validation of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) was performed in an independent cohort (n = 185, median follow‐up 15 years) using targeted multiplex bisulphite sequencing of candidate regions. Survival was assessed via univariable and multivariable analyses including clinicopathological measures (log‐rank and Cox regression models).

Results

WGBS data analysis identified cancer‐specific methylation patterns including CpG island hypermethylation, and hypomethylation of repetitive elements, with increasing disease risk. We identified 1420 DMRs associated with prostate cancer‐specific mortality (PCSM), which showed enrichment for gene sets downregulated in prostate cancer and de novo methylated in cancer. Through comparison with public prostate cancer datasets, we refined the DMRs to develop an 18‐gene prognostic panel. Applying this panel to an independent cohort, we found significant associations between PCSM and hypermethylation at EPHB3, PARP6, TBX1, MARCH6 and a regulatory element within CACNA2D4. Strikingly in a multivariable model, inclusion of CACNA2D4 methylation was a better predictor of PCSM versus grade alone (Harrell's C‐index: 0.779 vs. 0.684).

Conclusions

Our study provides detailed methylome maps of non‐lethal and lethal prostate cancer and identifies novel genic regions that distinguish these patient groups. Inclusion of our DNA methylation biomarkers with existing clinicopathological measures improves prognostic models of prostate cancer mortality, and holds promise for clinical application.
Good Tidings for Saudi Women? Techno‐Orientalism, Gender, and Saudi Politics in Global Media Discourse
Authors: Abdelmoez Joel W.
Published: September 2022

Gender equality in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is still a contentious and hotly debated issue, both within the country and in global news media as well as social media. Not least has the government app “Absher” drawn attention and criticism, due to features that allow male guardians to track their female dependants, issue or withdraw travel permits, and file for divorce at the click of a button. This study aims to explore the campaigns and debates around the app, and how it has been represented in global media. Focusing mainly on social media campaigning by journalists, activists, as well as the Saudi government, I hope to shed light on the different sides of the debate, and what the representation of Saudi Vision 2030, the reforms and the app, particularly in European and American media discourse, tell us about popular imaginations of Islam, technology, and gender.
The Role of the Internet in the Formation of Muslim Subjectivity Among Polish Female Converts to Islam
Authors: Piela Anna , Krotofil Joanna , Górak‐Sosnowska Katarzyna , Abdallah‐Krzepkowska Beata
Published: September 2022

In this article, we discuss the main arguments related to female Muslim converts' formation of a religious subjectivity in the context of studying Islam in online spaces. In distinguishing between Western and Eastern Europe, it is our purpose to highlight the significance of online sources for converts who inhabit geographic “peripheries” of Islam. After giving an overview of the literature that discusses Muslim subject formation among converts, we analyse 35 in‐depth, qualitative interviews with Polish female converts to Islam in reference to a theoretical framework that integrates Belenky et al.'s model of epistemological categories of knowledge and the concept of Muslim subjectivity formation. We argue that for the Polish female converts we interviewed, the process of acquiring and revising their knowledge about Islam, through online engagement with individuals, groups, texts, and multimedia content, is vital for developing an ontologically secure Muslim subjectivity.
Palliative stenting for malignant colorectal stenosis in the elderly
Authors: Ohno Masashi , Nishida Atsushi , Nishino Kyohei , Hirayama Hisashi , Takahashi Kenichiro , Morita Yukihiro , Kishi Yuki , Morita Yasuhiro , Bamba Hiromichi , Shiomi Hisanori , Imaeda Hirotsugu
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Self‐expandable metal stents are widely used for the treatment of malignant colorectal stenosis (MCS). In elderly individuals with MCS, self‐expandable metal stents are often used as a palliative treatment, but prophylactic stent placement is not recommended. We investigated the efficacy and safety of self‐expandable metal stents for the elderly in a palliative setting, specifically in a prophylactic setting.

Methods

Elderly patients with MCS who received a palliative stent (the stent group) or palliative stoma (the stoma group) were retrospectively enrolled between April 2017 and June 2022, and the prognosis and complication rates were assessed. Additionally, patients in the stent group were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic subgroups, and prognosis, stent patency, and complication rates were evaluated.

Results

During the study period, 31 patients with a mean age of 85.4 years and 12 patients with a mean age of 82.0 years were enrolled in the stent and stoma groups, respectively. While overall survival and complication rates were comparable, the length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the stent group. Of the 31 patients in the stent group, 16 asymptomatic patients received prophylactic stenting, which was not associated with increased complication rates.

Conclusions

Palliative stents for MCS appear to be effective and safe even in the elderly, and thus, prophylactic stents can be considered for asymptomatic patients.
Long‐term Spartina alterniflora invasion simplified soil seed bank and regenerated community in a coastal marsh wetland
Authors: Jia Peng , Qu Guojuan , Jia Jing , Li Dezhi , Sun Yuming , Liu Lu
Published: September 2022

The coastal wetland is easily invaded by alien species due to locating in the land and sea transitional area. As a potential driving regeneration force, the soil seed bank is vital to the community restoration and species diversity protection. To reveal the long‐term Spartina alterniflora invasion impact on the soil seed banks and regenerated communities, we investigated the seed banks under the different vegetation types (S. alterniflora, Phragmites australis, Scirpus mariqueter, ruderal and unvegetated site) and soil depths (0–5 and 5–10 cm) in the coastal salt marsh wetland, Chongming island, eastern China. The results showed that the soil seed bank richness and species density under different vegetation types were higher than the aboveground vegetation, and those of 0–5 cm seed banks were higher than 5–10 cm, except for the unvegetated site. The species richness and S. alterniflora seed proportion in the seed banks under S. alterniflora communities (S.AS) were lower and larger respectively than those of other sites. The species composition between S.AS and the aboveground communities showed high similarity with aggregation phylogenetic structures in two soil depths. The seed bank variations at 0–5 and 5–10 cm depths were interpreted 3.03% and 2.25% by the aboveground communities, while 4.92% and 5.55% were interpreted by the soil microbial biomass. The SEM model explained 98.1% and 91.8% of the seed banks richness at the 0–5 cm depth and 5–10 cm depth, respectively, and explained 98.8% and 46.1% of the seed banks species density at the 0–5 cm depth and 5–10 cm depth, respectively. The aboveground vegetation biomass and abundance directly affected the 0–5 cm seed banks richness and species density, while its height and biomass only affected the 5–10 cm seed banks species density. The 0–10 cm soil depth microbial biomass indirectly affected the 0–5 cm seed banks richness and species density, while affected the 5–10 cm seed banks richness. Soil physical and chemical properties only indirectly affected the 0–5 cm seed banks species density. The results provided a reference for the ecological evaluation of the impacts of S. alterniflora invasion into the coastal salt marsh wetland of eastern China, and guidance for the protection and restoration of the native plant communities.
Cardiovascular and metabolic determinants of quality of life in patients with cancer
Authors: Evertz Ruben , Gödde Katharina , Diehl Christine , Valentova Miroslava , Garfias‐Veitl Tania , Braulke Friederike , Wulf Gerald G. , Overbeck Tobias R. , Bleckmann Annalen , König Alexander O. , Weinländer Pia , Potthoff Sophia , Hadzibegovic Sara , Lena Alessia , Keller Ulrich , Landmesser Ulf , Schuster Andreas , Anker Markus S. , Hasenfuß Gerd , von Haehling Stephan
Published: September 2022

Aims

Maintaining quality of life (QoL) in patients with cancer has gathered significant interest, but little is known about its major determinants. We sought to identify determinants of QoL in patients undergoing cancer treatment as well as in treatment‐naïve patients about to commence such therapy.

Methods and results

QoL was assessed in 283 patients with cancer using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 questionnaire. All patients underwent a battery of tests including physical examination, resting electrocardiogram, hand grip strength, and biochemistry assessment. Using multivariable logistic regression, we found that age [odds ratio (OR) 0.954, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.916–0.994], resting heart rate (OR 1.036, 95% CI 1.004–1.068), hand grip strength (OR 0.932, 95% CI 0.878–0.990), and the presence of cachexia (OR 4.334, 95% CI 1.767–10.631) and dyspnoea (OR 3.725, 95% CI 1.540–9.010; all P < 0.05) remained independently predictive of reduced QoL.

Conclusions

Therefore, it may be reasonable to address circumstances that are affecting muscle mass, body weight, and heart rate to maintaining QoL; however, prospective studies to test these endpoints are required.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with heart failure and ST‐segment elevation of the lateral wall
Authors: Bai Lin , Wang Yali , Chen Fei , Peng Yong
Published: September 2022

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common cardiovascular disease that is inherited from a single gene. Its clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic mutant gene carriers to patients with severe left ventricular effluent tract obstruction and end‐stage HCM with motor restriction. In this case, we present a patient with the main presentation of heart failure and ST‐segment elevation of the lateral wall, as determined by electrocardiogram. The patient was finally diagnosed with HCM because of genetic testing and the presentation of extensive myocardial fibrosis with reduced systolic function on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The patient's clinical findings, electrocardiogram, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were different from those of typical patients with HCM.
Synthesis and Tuning of Gold Nanoparticles Supported on Polymorphic Semicrystalline Nanoporous Polymer for Catalytic Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Buonerba Antonio , Canton Patrizia , Capacchione Carmine , Grassi Alfonso
Published: September 2022

The wide and complex tunability of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) supported on nanoporous, semicrystalline, and polymorphic polymer matrices consisting of syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) or multiblock syndiotactic polystyrene‐co‐cis‐1,4 poly(butadiene) (sPSB) is herein described and correlated with the performances in aerobic oxidation of (±)‐1‐phenylethanol. Impregnation or deposition‐impregnation synthetic methods yielded AuNPs of middle size (10–20 nm) on the surface of polymer grains. The co‐precipitation method leads to small AuNPs (4–5 nm) homogenously dispersed in the support with quantitative entrapment of the gold. Thermal or solvent annealing afforded modifications of polymer crystalline phase and AuNPs morphology. The annealing with chloroform/water mixture increases the crystallinity of the nanoporous forms and converts compact γ and β phases into the nanoporous ϵ and δ phases. The thermal treatment of the AuNPs‐sPS(B) catalysts afford defective NPs with enhanced catalytic activity. The solvent‐induced formation of the nanoporous forms improves permeability to solvents and reactants and, in turn, the catalytic properties.
CFD analysis on optimizing the annular fin parameters toward an improved storage response in a triple‐tube containment system
Authors: Bahlekeh Abdullah , Mohammed Hayder I. , Al‐Azzawi Waleed Khalid , Dulaimi Anmar , Majdi Hasan Sh. , Talebizadehsardari Pouyan , Mahdi Jasim M.
Published: September 2022

Due to the low thermal conductivity of the phase change material and low thermal diffusion inside the phase change material, this study seeks to improve the melting response of a triple‐tube latent heat storage system via employing annular fins by optimizing their structural parameters, including the fin number, location, and dimensions. Natural convection effects are numerically evaluated considering different numbers and the locations of the fins, including fin numbers of 4, 10, 16, 20, and 30 in a vertical system orientation. The fins are attached to the inner and outer sides of the annulus, accommodating the phase change material between the inner and center tubes. The fins' number and location are identical on both sides of the annulus, and the volume of the fins is the same across all scenarios evaluated. The results show that the higher the number of fins used, the greater the heat communication between the fins and the phase change material layers in charge, resulting in faster melting and a higher rate of heat storage. Due to the limited natural convection effect and lower heat diffusion at the heat exchanger's bottom, an additional fin is added, and its thickness is assessed. The results show that the case with equal fin thickness, that is, both original fins and the new fin, performs the best performance compared with that for the cases with an added fin with thicknesses of 0.5, 1, and 2 mm. Eliminating an extra fin from the base of the system for the case with 30 fins increases the charging time by 53.3%, and reduces the heat storage rate by 44%. The overall melting time for the case with an added fin to the bottom is 1549 s for the case with 30 fins which is 85.8%, 34.2%, 18%, and 8.8% faster than the cases with 4, 10, 16, and 20 fins, respectively. This study reveals that further attention should be given to the position and number of annular fins to optimize the melting mechanism in phase‐changing materials‐based heat storage systems.
Paleo‐denudation rates suggest variations in runoff drove aggradation during last glacial cycle, Crete, Greece
Authors: Ott Richard F. , Scherler Dirk , Wegmann Karl W. , D'Arcy Mitch K. , Pope Richard J. , Ivy‐Ochs Susan , Christl Marcus , Vockenhuber Christoph , Rittenour Tammy M.
Published: September 2022

Fluvial aggradation and incision are often linked to Quaternary climate cycles, but it usually remains unclear whether variations in runoff or sediment supply or both drive channel response to climate variability. Here we quantify sediment supply with paleo‐denudation rates and provide geochronological constraints on aggradation and incision from the Sfakia and Elafonisi alluvial‐fan sequences in Crete, Greece. We report seven optically stimulated luminescence and ten radiocarbon ages, eight10Be and eight36Cl denudation rates from modern channel and terrace sediments. For five samples,10Be and36Cl were measured on the same sample by measuring10Be on chert and36Cl on calcite. Results indicate relatively steady denudation rates throughout the past 80 kyr, but the aggradation and incision history indicates a link with climate shifts. At the Elafonisi fan, we identify four periods of aggradation coinciding with Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) 2, 4, 5a/b, and likely 6, and three periods of incision coinciding with MIS 1, 3, and likely 5e. At the Sfakia fan, rapid aggradation occurred during MIS 2 and 4, followed by incision during MIS 1. Nearby climate and vegetation records show that MIS 2, 4, and 6 stadials were characterized by cold and dry climates with sparse vegetation, whereas forest cover and more humid conditions prevailed during MIS 1, 3, and 5. Our data thus suggest that past changes in climate had little effect on landscape‐wide denudation rates but exerted a strong control on the aggradation–incision behaviour of alluvial channels on Crete. During glacial stages, we attribute aggradation to hillslope sediment release promoted by reduced vegetation cover and decreased runoff; conversely, incision occurred during relatively warm and wet stages due to increased runoff. In this landscape, past hydroclimate variations outcompeted changes in sediment supply as the primary driver of alluvial deposition and incision.
Data assimilation with higher order finite element interpolants
Authors: Jolly Michael S. , Pakzad Ali
Published: September 2022

The efficiency of a nudging data assimilation algorithm using higher order finite element interpolating operators is studied. Numerical experiments are presented for the 2D Navier–Stokes equations in three cases: shear flow in an annulus, a forced flow in a disk with an off‐center cavity, and a forced flow in a box all satisfying Dirichlet boundary conditions. In all three cases, second order interpolation of coarse‐grain data is shown to outperform first order interpolation. Convergence of the nudged solution to that of a direct numerical reference solution is proved. The analysis points to a trade‐off in the estimates for higher order interpolating operators
White matter microstructure shows sex differences in late childhood: Evidence from 6797 children
Authors: Lawrence Katherine E. , Abaryan Zvart , Laltoo Emily , Hernandez Leanna M. , Gandal Michael J. , McCracken James T. , Thompson Paul M.
Published: September 2022

Sex differences in white matter microstructure have been robustly demonstrated in the adult brain using both conventional and advanced diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging approaches. However, sex differences in white matter microstructure prior to adulthood remain poorly understood; previous developmental work focused on conventional microstructure metrics and yielded mixed results. Here, we rigorously characterized sex differences in white matter microstructure among over 6000 children from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study who were between 9 and 10 years old. Microstructure was quantified using both the conventional model—diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)—and an advanced model, restriction spectrum imaging (RSI). DTI metrics included fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean, axial, and radial diffusivity (MD, AD, RD). RSI metrics included normalized isotropic, directional, and total intracellular diffusion (N0, ND, NT). We found significant and replicable sex differences in DTI or RSI microstructure metrics in every white matter region examined across the brain. Sex differences in FA were regionally specific. Across white matter regions, boys exhibited greater MD, AD, and RD than girls, on average. Girls displayed increased N0, ND, and NT compared to boys, on average, suggesting greater cell and neurite density in girls. Together, these robust and replicable findings provide an important foundation for understanding sex differences in health and disease.
Gaps in hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance among insured patients with hepatitis B infection without cirrhosis in the United States
Authors: Nguyen Mindie H. , Roberts Lewis R. , Engel‐Nitz Nicole M. , Bancroft Tim , Ozbay A. Burak , Singal Amit G.
Published: September 2022

Suboptimal adherence to guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance among high‐risk patients is a persistent problem with substantial detriment to patient outcomes. While patients cite cost as a barrier to surveillance receipt, the financial burden they experience due to surveillance has not been examined. We conducted a retrospective administrative claims study to assess HCC surveillance use and associated costs in a US cohort of insured patients without cirrhosis but with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, monitored in routine clinical practice. Of 6831 patients (1122 on antiviral treatment, 5709 untreated), only 39.3% and 51.3% had received any abdominal imaging after 6 and 12 months, respectively, and patients were up to date with HCC surveillance guidelines for only 28% of the follow‐up time. Completion of surveillance was substantially higher at 6 and 12 months among treated patients (51.7% and 69.6%, respectively) compared with untreated patients (36.9% and 47.6%, respectively) (p < 0.001). In adjusted models, treated patients were more likely than untreated patients to receive surveillance (hazard ratio [HR] 1.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53–2.01, p < 0.001), and the proportion of those up to date with surveillance was 9.7% higher (95% CI 6.26–13.07, p < 0.001). Mean total and patient‐paid daily surveillance‐related costs ranged from $99 (ultrasound) to $334 (magnetic resonance imaging), and mean annual patient costs due to lost productivity for surveillance‐related outpatient visits ranged from $93 (using the federal minimum wage) to $321 (using the Bureau of Labor Statistics wage). Conclusion: Use of current HCC surveillance strategies was low across patients with HBV infection, and surveillance was associated with substantial patient financial burden. These data highlight an urgent need for accessible and easy‐to‐implement surveillance strategies with sufficient sensitivity and specificity for early HCC detection.
Kohn–Sham potentials by an inverse Kohn–Sham equation and accuracy assessment by virial theorem
Authors: Kato Tsuyoshi , Saito Shinji
Published: September 2022

In the recent study, the authors have proposed an integral equation for solving the inverse Kohn–Sham problem. In the present paper, the integral equation is numerically solved for one‐dimensional model of a He atom and an H2 molecule in the electronic ground states. For this purpose, we propose an iterative solution algorithm avoiding the inversion of the kernel of the integral equation. To quantify the numerical accuracy of the calculated exchange‐correlation potentials, we evaluate the exchange and correlation energies based on the virial theorem as well as the reproduction of the exact ground‐state electronic energy. The results demonstrate that the numerical solutions of our integral equation for the inverse Kohn–Sham problem are accurate enough in reproducing the Kohn–Sham potential and in satisfying the virial theorem.
Association between the quality of plant‐based diets and risk of frailty
Authors: Sotos‐Prieto Mercedes , Struijk Ellen A. , Fung Teresa T. , Rodríguez‐Artalejo Fernando , Willett Walter C. , Hu Frank B. , Lopez‐Garcia Esther
Published: September 2022

Background

The Mediterranean diet and other dietary patterns rich in fruits and vegetables have been linked to lower risk of frailty in older adults. However, not all plant‐based diets are necessarily healthful, and no previous study has evaluated the role of the quality of plant‐based dietary patterns in frailty risk. Our aim was to assess the association between plant‐based diet quality and risk of frailty.

Methods

Prospective cohort consisted with 82 234 women aged ≥60 years from the Nurses' Health Study, who were followed from 1990 through 2014. The dates of analysis were April 14 to June 23, 2021. Dietary data were collected every 4 years using a validated semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The plant‐based diet quality was assessed with two indices (range 18–90 points): (a) healthful plant‐based diet index (hPDI), where healthy plant foods (whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, vegetable oils and tea/coffee) received positive scores, while less healthy plant foods (fruit juices, sweetened beverages, refined grains, potatoes, and sweets/desserts) and animal foods received reverse scores; and (b) unhealthful plant‐based diet index (uPDI) where positive scores were given to less healthy plant foods and reverse scores to healthy plant foods and animal foods. Frailty incidence was assessed every 4 years, being defined as having three or more of the following five criteria from the FRAIL scale: fatigue, low strength, reduced aerobic capacity, having ≥5 illnesses and weight loss ≥5%. Multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional‐hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We identified 12 910 incident cases of frailty over 1 176 401 person‐year follow‐up. In the multivariable analysis, the hPDI was inversely associated with the risk of frailty (hazard ratio [HR] for the highest vs. lowest quintile: 0.77, 95% confidence interval: 0.72–0.81; P trend <0.001). In addition, a 10‐unit increment in the hPDI was associated with a relative 15% lower risk of frailty. Conversely, a direct association was found between the uPDI and risk of frailty (HR highest vs. lowest quintile: 1.24 [1.17, 1.32], P trend <0.001). These associations were consistent for each frailty criterion, among participants with no frailty criteria at baseline, after excluding participants with diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease at baseline, for alternative versions of the plant‐based diet indices (PDIs), in subgroup analysis by categories of potential confounders, and in latency analysis.

Conclusions

A healthful plant‐based diet was associated with lower risk of frailty whereas an unhealthful plant‐based diet was associated with higher risk.
Copper catalyzed co‐pyrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate with low and high density polyethylene for liquid fuel production
Authors: Gulab Hussain , Malik Shahi , Hussain Khadim , Haleem Muhammad Abdul
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Municipal waste contains low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in enormous amount. As these plastics are non‐biodegradable and pose serious threats to the environment, efforts have been made towards their safe disposal with energy recovery and value added chemicals by subjecting them to heat under oxygen deficient conditions. This study deals with the co‐pyrolysis of the three types of waste polymers, with special focus on the conversion of PET into liquid fuel by its interaction with the other two polymers.

Results

The individual pyrolysis of LDPE and HDPE produced pyrolysis oil, whereas PET produced only wax. The co‐pyrolysis of the three polymers with different mixing ratios showed that PET hindered oil formation and increasing its amount more than 20 wt% in the polymer mixture resulted in wax formation. The thermal process produced 8 wt% pyrolysis oil, 32.3 wt% wax, 39.7 wt% pyro‐gases and 20 wt% coke while the catalytic process with copper catalyst produced 32.5 wt% pyrolysis oil, 3 wt% wax, 46.5 wt% pyro‐gases, and 18 wt% coke under optimum conditions.

Conclusion

The thermal pyrolysis oil contained long chain paraffins as major components, while short chain isoparaffin and naphthenes were predominant in the catalytic pyrolysis oil owing to which marked differences were observed in the physicochemical properties of both oils. The fractionally distilled fractions of catalytic pyrolysis oil in gasoline, kerosene, and diesel range showed profound similarities with standard fuels in terms of fuel properties particularly the gasoline range fraction. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Solution blowing spinning of polylactate/polyvinyl alcohol/ZnO nanocomposite toward green and sustainable preparation of wound dressing nanofibrous films
Authors: Snari Razan M. , Bayazeed Abrar , Ibarhiam Saham F. , Alnoman Rua B. , Attar Roba , Abumelha Hana M. , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M.
Published: September 2022

The outstanding biodegradability, biocompatibility, affordability, and renewability of polylactic acid have made it a prominent biomaterial. Herein, an innovative, easy, and eco‐friendly technique is used to prepare sodium polylactate (SP)‐based nanofibers. Solution blowing spinning (SBS) was used to create fibrous mats of SP and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). SBS's SP nanfibers were crosslinked using an aqueous solution of calcium chloride to produce moisture‐resistant calcium polylactate nanofibrous spun mats. Both of UV–visible absorption spectra and transmission electron microscopy were utilized to study the produced zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) to indicate a diameter of around 15–23 nm with a high intensity absorption intensity at 370 nm. New polylactate copolymer was synthesized and characterized by infrared and NMR spectroscopic techniques. In order to prepare SP/PVA/ZnO nanocomposite nanofibers, various ZnO ratios were used. The morphologies of the composite nanofibers were investigated by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy‐dispersive X‐ray analyzer, and scanning electron microscopy. The cytotoxicity tests of the prepared mat were studied by conducting experiments with L‐929 cells at various time intervals. The prepared composite SP/PVA/ZnO nanofibers were subjected to cytotoxicity tests to determine their cytocompatibility. Results showed that those with ZnO concentrations between 0.5% and 2% were found to be less harmful than those with higher concentrations. A variety of bacterial species, including Bacillus pumilus and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as Klebseilla pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, were used to test the antibacterial properties of SP/PVA/ZnO spun mats. The ZnO NPs integrated in the SP/PVA fibrous mats were responsible for their antibacterial properties. After finding the appropriate concentration of ZnO that is least harmful while yet giving a satisfactory antibacterial activity, this biomaterial might be perfect for wound dressing applications.

Highlights

New eco‐friendly biodegradable sodium polylactate (SP) copolymer was synthesized.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with a diameter of 15–23 nm were prepared.

High antibacterial SP/PVA/ZnO fibers were prepared by solution blowing spinning.

SP/PVA/ZnO nanofibers (180–220 nm) with various ratios of ZnO were presented.

Cytotoxicity results showed that the cell viability decreases with increasing ZnO.
Current role of endoscopic ultrasound for gastrointestinal and abdominal tuberculosis
Authors: Maulahela Hasan , Fauzi Achmad , Renaldi Kaka , Srisantoso Qorina P , Jasmine Amirah
Published: September 2022

A high incidence of tuberculosis (TB), especially in endemic countries, makes this infectious disease a concern. Abdominal TB contributes to 10% of extrapulmonary TB. Due to nonspecific clinical, radiological, and endoscopic findings, diagnosing abdominal TB continues to be a challenge. Hence, a precise diagnosis is needed. The diagnosis of gastrointestinal disease using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is often performed due to its high resolution and ability to provide a real‐time visual representation of the gastrointestinal tract and extramural structures. EUS‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) have helped diagnose TB as they offer an adequate specimen for cytology or histopathological examination. This method is considered safer, more effective, and more efficient. The capacity of EUS to diagnose abdominal TB based on the affected organs was examined via a literature search. We reviewed the role of EUS in diagnosing esophageal, gastric, pancreatic, peripancreatic, hepatosplenic, peritoneal, and intestinal TB. Generally, EUS aids in diagnosing abdominal TB. In some organs, it is superior to other diagnostic modalities. However, further examinations, such as cytology or histopathology and microbial, are still needed. We also studied the roles of EUS‐FNA and EUS‐FNB. EUS‐FNA has shown a high diagnostic yield in esophageal (94.3–100%), pancreatic and peripancreatic (76.2%), and intestinal TB (84.1%). As minimally invasive methods, EUS‐FNA and EUS‐FNB can successfully provide sufficient samples. EUS is a functional diagnostic modality for abdominal TB. EUS‐FNA and EUS‐FNB provide sufficient samples safely and efficiently for further cytology, histopathology, and microbial examinations.
Selinexor‐based regimens in patients with multiple myeloma after prior anti‐B‐cell maturation antigen treatment
Authors: Baljevic Muhamed , Gasparetto Cristina , Schiller Gary J. , Tuchman Sascha A. , Callander Natalie S. , Lentzsch Suzanne , Monge Jorge , Kotb Rami , Bahlis Nizar J. , White Darrell , Chen Christine I. , Sutherland Heather J. , Madan Sumit , LeBlanc Richard , Sebag Michael , Venner Christopher P. , Bensinger William I. , Biran Noa , DeCastro Andrew , Van Domelen Dane R. , Zhang Chris , Shah Jatin J. , Shacham Sharon , Kauffman Michael G. , Bentur Ohad S. , Lipe Brea
Published: September 2022

There is a lack of consensus on therapy sequencing in previously treated multiple myeloma, particularly after anti‐B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA) therapy. Earlier reports on selinexor (X) regimens demonstrated considerable efficacy in early treatment, and after anti‐BCMA‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor‐T cell therapy. Here, we present data from 11 heavily pretreated patients who predominantly received BCMA‐antibody‐drug conjugate therapy. We observe that X‐containing regimens are potent and achieve durable responses with numerically higher overall response and clinical benefit rates, as well as median progression free survival compared to patients’ prior anti‐BCMA therapies, despite being used later in the treatment course. In an area of evolving unmet need, these data reaffirm the efficacy of X‐based regimens following broader anti‐BCMA therapy.
Clinical evaluation of an automated, rapid mariPOC antigen test in screening of symptomatics and asymptomatics for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Gunell Marianne , Rantasärkkä Kaisa , Arjonen Rita , Sandén Antti , Vuorinen Tytti
Published: September 2022

A novel automated mariPOC SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen test was evaluated in a Health Care Center Laboratory among symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals seeking SARS‐CoV‐2 testing. According to the national testing strategy, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was used as a reference method. A total of 962 subjects were included in this study, 4.8% (46/962) of their samples were SARS‐CoV‐2 RT‐PCR‐positive, and 87% (40/46) of these were from symptomatics. Among the symptomatics, the overall sensitivity of the mariPOC SARS‐CoV‐2 test was 82.5% (33/40), though the sensitivity increased to 97.1% (33/34) in samples with a Ct < 30. The mariPOC SARS‐CoV‐2 test detected two of six PCR‐positive samples among the asymptomatics, four cases that remained antigen test negative had Ct values between 28 and 36. The specificity of the mariPOC SARS‐CoV‐2 test was 100% (916/916). The evaluation showed that the mariPOC SARS‐CoV‐2 rapid antigen test is very sensitive and specific for the detection of individuals who most probably are contagious.
The interplay of career involvement and goal conflicts: An eight‐wave study with STEM professionals
Authors: Noppeney Ruth , Alisic Aida , Wiese Bettina S.
Published: September 2022

Based on a “whole‐life”‐perspective and integrating theories of self‐identity and resource management, the present longitudinal study examines the dynamic relationship between career involvement and conflicts between work and nonwork goals in a sample of 3095 German‐speaking doctoral students and doctorate holders (37.0% women) from various STEM fields. We expected increases in goal conflicts to decrease career involvement, and simultaneously tested reciprocal relationships, that is, from involvement on conflicts. The random intercept cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) was used to analyze within‐person associations across eight measurement occasions (6‐month time intervals) while controlling for between‐person effects. At the between‐person level, career involvement and goal conflicts were negatively correlated. At the within‐person level, results showed negative cross‐lagged effects from goal conflicts to career involvement as well as negative cross‐lagged effects from career involvement to goal conflicts. This indicates that the interplay of goal conflicts and career involvement can result in either an upward or a downward spiral. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Slaughter performance of the main goose breeds raised commercially in China and nutritional value of the meats of the goose breeds: a systematic review
Authors: Yan Xinxin , Xu Yaguang , Zhen Zongyuan , Li Jingjun , Zheng Haibo , Li Shenghe , Hu Qianqian , Ye Pengfei
Published: September 2022

A number of goose breeds are raised commercially in China. However, the data on the slaughter performance of the goose breeds and the nutritional value of their meats lack a thorough comparative analysis. In this systematic review, the slaughter performance of the goose breeds and nutritional value of their meats were comparatively analyzed to provide an overview of the characteristics of the goose breeds raised commercially in China. Fifteen goose breeds were selected from 27 research articles published up to January 2022 on the slaughter performance of the goose breeds raised commercially in China and their nutrient composition after literature searching, literature screening, variety selection, and data collation. The slaughter indexes of the goose breeds and the basic nutrient composition, amino acid composition, and fatty acid composition of the meats of the goose breeds were standardized using min–max normalization and compared. The results suggest that the slaughter indexes and nutritional indicators of the meats of Yangzhou white goose, Xupu goose, Landaise geese, and Sichuan white goose are more balanced than those of the meats of the other goose breeds. The results of this review can lay the foundation for optimizing the breeding methods of the commercially raised goose breeds and processing methods of the meats of the geese. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of low protein diet with a balanced amino acid pattern on growth performance, meat quality and cecal microflora of finishing pigs
Authors: Liu Shanghang , Xie Junyan , Fan Zhiyong , Ma Xiaokang , Yin Yulong
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of low protein diets balanced with four amino acids on growth performance, meat quality and cecal microflora of finishing pigs. Fifty‐four healthy hybrid barrows (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) with an average body weight of 70.12 ± 4.03 kg were randomly assigned to one of the three dietary treatments with six replicate pens per treatment (three barrows per pen). The three dietary treatments included a normal protein diet (NP), a low protein diet (LP) and a very low protein diet (VLP).

RESULTS

The average daily gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio of pigs were not significantly changed with the LP and VLP diets compared to the NP diet (P > 0.05). The water holding capacity and shear force of longissimus dorsi muscle were decreased, whereas the intramuscular fat content of the longissimus dorsi muscle was increased (P < 0.05) in pigs fed with the LP and VLP diets compared to the NP diet. The contents of saturated fatty acids in muscle were decreased (P < 0.05), whereas the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in muscle was increased (P < 0.01) with the VLP diet compared to the NP diet. The contents of histamine, spermidine, spermine and tyramine of muscle were decreased with the VLP diet compared to the NP diet (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of Turicibacter, Terrisporobacter, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and UCG‐005 was higher (P < 0.05), whereas the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Streptococcus was lower (P < 0.05) in pigs fed with the LP and VLP diets compared to the NP diet. Based on the correlation of cecal microbiota and cecal biogenic amine, the contents of tyramine, spermidine and histamine were negatively correlated with the abundance of Terrisporobacter (P < 0.01) and the content of histamine was positively correlated with the abundance of Lactobacillus (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Balanced with four essential amino acids, the VLP diet with crude protein levels decreased by > 4% increased the intramuscular fat content, changed the fatty acid and amino acid composition of longissimus dorsi muscle and the profile of cecum microbiota, and reduced the content of cecum bioamine, with no negative effect on the growth performance of pigs. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.