bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DKK1 Impairs the Tumor Response to αPD‐1 Immunotherapy by Inactivating CD8+ T Cells and Recruiting MDSC Cells in HNSC
Authors: Li Huisheng , Wu Chao , Sun Zhenxing , Yu Xin , Liu Weishuai , Liu Dongying , Li Ping
Published: October 2023

The utilization of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has received authorization for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) and various other tumor types. However, a large proportion of HNSC patients exhibit unresponsiveness to ICIs. Dickkopf‐1, a secreted protein with pivotal functions in Wnt signaling pathways, is increasingly recognized for its role in modulating anti‐tumor immunity. In this study, the authors employed TCGA and GEO datasets to investigate the correlation between tumoral DKK1 expression and survival outcomes, as well as the suppressive nature of the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) in HNSC patients. The findings reveal a strong association between elevated DKK1 expression in HNSC tumors and poorer survival rates, along with an immunosuppressive TIME. In vivo studies utilizing subcutaneous tumor graft mouse models demonstrate that knockdown of DKK1 inhibit the growth of HNSC tumor cells in a CD8+ T cell‐dependent manner. Additionally, an inverse relationship between DKK1 expression and CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation is observed, while a positive correlation is observed with infiltration of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and CD8+ T cell exhaustion. Moreover, combining DKK1 knockdown with neutralizing antibodies against PD‐1 significantly suppress the growth of HNSC cells. Consequently, The study proposes DKK1 as a promising target for immunotherapy to enhance PD‐1 blockade therapy in HNSC. These findings show that DKK1 can thus be regarded as a potential target for immunotherapy and need further study.
Impact of Morphological Dimensions in Carbon‐Based Interlayers on Lithium Metal Anode Stabilization
Authors: Guan Wanqing , Wang Tian , Liu Yuhang , Du Hongfang , Li Siyu , Du Zhuzhu , Ai Wei
Published: October 2023

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) offer high energy density and promise as a future technology. Yet, their adoption is hindered by safety concerns and cycle life stability, arising from Li dendrite formation, solid electrolyte interphase instability, and volume changes during cycling. In response to these challenges, carbon‐based materials have been utilized as an artificial interface layer for modifying the surface of copper current collector in LMBs. Among the diverse carbon‐based materials, 0D carbon, with its high specific surface area, is advantageous for enhancing Li ion transport rates and ensuring uniform current distribution. 1D carbon structures foster a network that facilitates Li ion diffusion, while 2D carbon establishes a protective layer, mitigating side reactions. 3D carbon structures promote Li deposition within their internal cavities, effectively controlling volume fluctuations. With this understanding, this review delves into the latest advancements in carbon‐based materials for modifying copper current collectors. It offers a detailed exploration of how each dimension of carbon‐based materials contributes to regulating Li deposition. Furthermore, the ongoing challenges and potential avenues in the development of carbon‐modified copper current collectors for LMBs are spotlighted, aiming to provide insightful guidance for the design of anode‐free Li metal batteries.
Vigilance has mainly a social function in a wild group of spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi)
Authors: Bernardi‐Gómez Chiara , Valdivieso‐Cortadella Sara , Llorente Miquel , Aureli Filippo , Amici Federica
Published: October 2023

Vigilance is a widespread behavior that allows individuals to socially acquire information and/or effectively detect potential risks posed by predators and conspecifics. In this study, we aimed to investigate how social factors (i.e., subgroup size, number of males and immatures in the subgroup, presence of fission and fusion events, subgroup activity), individual characteristics (i.e., sex, presence of dependent offspring) and possible vulnerability to predation (i.e., being in smaller subgroups or lower in the canopy) explain variation in vigilance behavior in a wild group of spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi). We collected vigilance data during focal samples of all adults, subadults and juveniles of the group (N = 38), and ran generalized linear mixed models with a Bayesian approach. We found that the proportion of time both sexes spent in vigilance increased with subgroup size and during fusion events. Individuals also spent more time in vigilance when the subgroup was resting or socializing compared to other activities. Moreover, the proportion of time spent in vigilance increased in subgroups with more immatures. An alternative model with similar fit suggested that the proportion of time spent in vigilance increased in females when subgroups included more adult and subadult males. Overall, these results suggest that our study group mainly directed vigilance toward conspecifics (i.e., social vigilance), probably as a result of the relatively low predation pressure experienced, and contribute to the understanding of the multiple social factors affecting vigilance in group‐living primates.
Increased physical activity is not related to markers of cardiometabolic health in two lemur species
Authors: Rimbach Rebecca , Pontzer Herman
Published: October 2023

Insufficient physical activity is a major risk factor for cardiometabolic disease (i.e., unhealthy weight gain, heart disease, and diabetes) in humans and may also negatively affect health of primates in human care. Effects of physical activity on energy expenditure and cardiometabolic health are virtually unstudied in nonhuman primates. We investigated physical activity and metabolic markers in 15 adult ring‐tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) and 11 Coquerel's sifakas (Propithecus coquereli) at the Duke Lemur Center during a period of low activity in winter when the animals were housed in buildings (with outdoor access) and a period of high activity when individuals were free‐ranging in large, outdoor, forested enclosures. We compared body mass, blood glucose, triglycerides, HDL‐ and LDL‐cholesterol, physical activity via accelerometry, and total energy expenditure (TEE) via the doubly labeled water method (in ring‐tailed lemurs only) between both conditions. Both species were more active and had a lower body mass in summer. Ring‐tailed lemurs had a higher TEE and lower triglyceride levels in summer, whereas sifaka had higher triglyceride levels in summer. Individuals that increased their activity more, also lost more body mass. Individuals that lost more body mass, also had a positive change in HDL‐cholesterol (i.e., higher values in summer). Changes in activity were not associated with changes in markers of metabolic health, body fat percentage and TEE (both unadjusted and adjusted for body composition). Older age was associated with lower activity in both species, and decreased glucose in ring‐tailed lemurs, but was otherwise unrelated to metabolic markers and, for ring‐tailed lemurs, adjusted TEE. Overall, body mass was lower during summer but the increase in physical activity did not strongly influence metabolic health or TEE in these populations.
How can we apply decision‐making theories to wild animal behavior? Predictions arising from dual process theory and Bayesian decision theory
Authors: Teichroeb Julie A. , Smeltzer Eve A. , Mathur Virendra , Anderson Karyn A. , Fowler Erica J. , Adams Frances V. , Vasey Eric N. , Tamara Kumpan Ludmila , Stead Samantha M. , Arseneau‐Robar T. Jean M.
Published: October 2023

Our understanding of decision‐making processes and cognitive biases is ever increasing, thanks to an accumulation of testable models and a large body of research over the last several decades. The vast majority of this work has been done in humans and laboratory animals because these study subjects and situations allow for tightly controlled experiments. However, it raises questions about how this knowledge can be applied to wild animals in their complex environments. Here, we review two prominent decision‐making theories, dual process theory and Bayesian decision theory, to assess the similarities in these approaches and consider how they may apply to wild animals living in heterogenous environments within complicated social groupings. In particular, we wanted to assess when wild animals are likely to respond to a situation with a quick heuristic decision and when they are likely to spend more time and energy on the decision‐making process. Based on the literature and evidence from our multi‐destination routing experiments on primates, we find that individuals are likely to make quick, heuristic decisions when they encounter routine situations, or signals/cues that accurately predict a certain outcome, or easy problems that experience or evolutionary history has prepared them for. Conversely, effortful decision‐making is likely in novel or surprising situations, when signals and cues have unpredictable or uncertain relationships to an outcome, and when problems are computationally complex. Though if problems are overly complex, satisficing via heuristics is likely, to avoid costly mental effort. We present hypotheses for how animals with different socio‐ecologies may have to distribute their cognitive effort. Finally, we examine the conservation implications and potential cognitive overload for animals experiencing increasingly novel situations caused by current human‐induced rapid environmental change.
Resection of positive tissue on methionine‐PET is associated with improved survival in glioblastomas
Authors: Ohmura Kazufumi , Daimon Takashi , Ikegame Yuka , Yano Hirohito , Yokoyama Kazutoshi , Kumagai Morio , Shinoda Jun , Iwama Toru
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose

The volume of excised tumor in contrast‐enhanced areas evaluated via magnetic resonance imaging is known to have a strong influence on the survival of patients with glioblastoma (GBM). In this study, we investigated the effect of tumor resection on the survival of patients with GBM in the 11C‐methionine (MET) accumulation area using MET‐positron emission tomography (MET‐PET).

Methods

A total of 26 patients (median age, 69 years; 15 males) who had undergone tumor resection and MET‐PET before and after surgery, after being newly diagnosed with GBM, were included in the study. MET‐PET before and after tumor resection were compared. The association between the decrease in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of the tumor divided by the normal cortical mean SUV (%; ΔT/N), the MET extent of resection (MET‐EOR) from the % reduction in the MET accumulation area (%), and residual MET accumulation area (in cm3; MET‐residual tumor volume [RTV]), as well as the survival time of patients with GBM, were evaluated via univariate analysis.

Results

ΔT/N were positively associated with survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.98 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.97–0.99], p = .02). MET‐RTV revealed a negative association with survival (HR, 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01–1.04], p = .04). Additionally, MET‐EOR showed a strong trend with survival (HR, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.97–1.01], p = .06).

Conclusions

Surgical resection of MET‐accumulated areas in GBM significantly prolongs the survival of patients with GBM. However, a prospective large‐scale multicenter study is needed to confirm our findings.
Innovation Process of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Storage Technology Using the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ)
Authors: Abdul Rahim Zulhasni , Iqbal Muhammad Saqib
Published: October 2023

The innovation of hydrogen fuel cells is essential for the sustainability of the future environment, which requires technical support as a medium to achieve the goal. This study proposes a strategic patent innovation framework to transform the innovation process for inventors in developing breakthrough innovations. Using the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) in the framework's foundation is changing the approach, method, strategy, and tools for the inventor to be more systematic in the innovation process. Also, a case study is presented on how the framework is applied to developing hydrogen fuel cell storage tanks. Several TRIZ methods and tools are used to increase the value of the system innovation from the selected patent and solve the trimming problem to produce the breakthrough innovation from a technical perspective. Furthermore, the study shares the patent strategy from a legal standpoint in strengthening the portfolio of the new patent system. The proposed framework is recommended to be applied beyond the scope of hydrogen fuel cell technological areas, and it will be the catalyst for developing breakthrough solutions for clean energy systems.
Late‐Stage C−H Activation of Drug (Derivative) Molecules with Pd(ll) Catalysis
Authors: Shim Su Yong
Published: October 2023

This review comprehensively analyses representative examples of Pd(II)‐catalyzed late‐stage C−H activation reactions and demonstrates their efficacy in converting C−H bonds at multiple positions within drug (derivative) molecules into diverse functional groups. These transformative reactions hold immense potential in medicinal chemistry, enabling the efficient and selective functionalization of specific sites within drug molecules, thereby enhancing their pharmacological activity and expanding the scope of potential drug candidates. Although notable articles have focused on late‐stage C−H functionalization reactions of drug‐like molecules using transition‐metal catalysts, reviews specifically focusing on late‐stage C−H functionalization reactions of drug (derivative) molecules using Pd(II) catalysts are required owing to their prominence as the most widely utilized metal catalysts for C−H activation and their ability to introduce a myriad of functional groups at specific C−H bonds. The utilization of Pd‐catalyzed C−H activation methodologies demonstrates impressive success in introducing various functional groups, such as cyano (CN), fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), aromatic rings, olefin, alkyl, alkyne, and hydroxyl groups, to drug (derivative) molecules with high regioselectivity and functional‐group tolerance. These breakthroughs in late‐stage C−H activation reactions serve as invaluable tools for drug discovery and development, thereby offering strategic options to optimize drug candidates and drive the exploration of innovative therapeutic solutions.
Validation in type 2 diabetes of a metabolomic signature of all‐cause mortality
Authors: Copetti Massimiliano , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Buzzetti Raffaella , Cavallo Maria Gisella , Cossu Efiso , D’Angelo Paola , Cosmo Salvatore De , Leonetti Frida , Morano Susanna , Morviducci Lelio , Napoli Nicola , Prudente Sabrina , Pugliese Giuseppe , Savino Antonio Fernando , Trischitta Vincenzo ,   SUMMER Study in Diabetes Group
Published: October 2023

Context

Mortality in type 2 diabetes is twice that of the normoglycemic population. Unravelling biomarkers that identify high‐risk patients for referral to the most aggressive and costly prevention strategies is needed.

Objective

To validate in type 2 diabetes the association with all‐cause mortality of a 14‐metabolite score (14‐MS) previously reported in the general population and whether this score can be used to improve well‐established mortality prediction models.

Methods

This is a sub‐study consisting of 600 patients from the “Sapienza University Mortality and Morbidity Event Rate” (SUMMER) study in diabetes, a prospective multicentre investigation on all‐cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes. Metabolic biomarkers were quantified from serum samples using high‐throughput proton nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics.

Results

In type 2 diabetes, the 14–MS showed a significant (p < 0.0001) association with mortality, which was lower (p < 0.0001) than that reported in the general population. This difference was mainly due to two metabolites (histidine and ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids to total fatty acids) with an effect size that was significantly (p = 0.01) lower in diabetes than in the general population. A parsimonious 12‐MS (i.e. lacking the 2 metabolites mentioned above) improved patient discrimination and classification of two well‐established mortality prediction models (p < 0.0001 for all measures).

Conclusions

The metabolomic signature of mortality in the general population is only partially effective in type 2 diabetes. Prediction markers developed and validated in the general population must be revalidated if they are to be used in patients with diabetes.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the relationship between obsessive‐compulsive symptoms and symptoms of proposed orthorexia nervosa: The contribution of assessments
Authors: Huynh Phillipa Ann , Miles Stephanie , de Boer Kathleen , Meyer Denny , Nedeljkovic Maja
Published: October 2023

Objective

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to update the literature on orthorexia nervosa (ON), a proposed diagnosis of pathologically ‘healthy’ eating, by critically analysing the current evidence for the relationship between ON and obsessive‐compulsive (OC) symptoms. Further, this paper aimed to compare the ON/OC relationship significance and strength based on when the ON measurement tool was developed.

Method

PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science databases were queried for quantitative, peer‐reviewed studies recruiting adult participants, published in English up to April 2023. Studies not directly comparing ON and OC symptoms were excluded. After full‐text review and quality assessment, 40 studies were included in the systematic review and 31 studies in the meta‐analysis.

Results

ON assessments created prior to the 2016 revised ON diagnostic criteria do not appear to fully capture OC symptoms. Studies using earlier developed ON assessments demonstrated inconsistent ON/OC relationships whereas studies implementing more recent assessments (from 2018 onwards) found consistently significant, larger relationships, highlighting a previously underrated OC component of ON.

Conclusions

Early ON studies, and studies utilising early ON assessments should be interpreted with caution, particularly in relation to OC symptom involvement in ON. Future research should validate novel ON assessments and investigate common underlying factors.
115 years of sediment deposition in a reservoir in Central Europe: Topographic change detection
Authors: Stauch Georg , Dörwald Lukas , Esch Alexander , Walk Janek
Published: October 2023

Reservoirs have become an important component in the worldwide river sediment flux. Reservoirs prevent downstream sediment transport and have become a major sediment sink. In this study, sediment deposition during the last 115 years in the Urft Reservoir in western Germany is reconstructed. The Urft Reservoir is the oldest reservoir in the Eifel Mountains and was almost completely drained in 2020. This enabled a detailed mapping of the lake bottom using an unmanned aerial system and the computation of a high‐resolution digital surface model. Topographic maps with a nominal resolution of 1:1000 from the time prior to the construction of the dam (around 1900) were used to construct a pre‐reservoir elevation model. A digital elevation model of difference (DoD) was calculated from these two datasets for the reservoir floor (0.72 km2). Based on the DoD, a net sediment accumulation of 1.16 × 106 m3 was calculated alongside a propagated volume error of 6.91 × 105 m3, resulting in a mean accumulation of 1.54 m. Conservative vertical error propagation results in an average level of detection (LoD) of 1.8 m. In contrast, the comparison of the DoD with 47 cores in the upper part of the reservoir showed a mean difference of −0.11 m, indicating a high, independently assessed accuracy of the DoD. Three depositional hotspots were identified in the reservoir. One is close to the Urft dam where very fine sediments are draped across the pre‐reservoir topography. Two areas are related to reservoir management. Sediment deposition in the Urft Reservoir has been comparably low in comparison to other regions globally, resulting in a 3.25% ± 1.93% loss of reservoir volume between 1905 and 2020. To analyse the effect of strong flooding events, a subset of the reservoir was analysed after an extreme event in July 2021, but accumulation did almost entirely not exceed the LoD.
The pass‐through effects of oil price shocks on sovereign credit risks of GCC countries: Evidence from the TVP‐SVAR‐SV framework
Authors: Maghyereh Aktham , Ziadat Salem Adel , Al Rababa'a Abdel Razzaq A.
Published: October 2023

We implement a two‐stage methodology based on the structural vector autoregressive and time‐varying parameter vector autoregressive models to examine the time‐varying effect of distinct types of oil‐price shocks on sovereign credit risks measured by credit default swap (CDS) spreads in Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Using monthly data for the period from May 2011 to February 2022, our results show time‐varying responses to structural oil shocks in the short‐ and medium‐run periods, with more fluctuations in responses detected over the full sample period in the former. Overall, we detect a break in the contagious impacts of oil shocks during and in the aftermath of, the 2014–2015 oil crisis and COVID‐19 crisis. Specifically, the Bahraini market is found to exhibit a positive (negative) reaction to the oil supply shocks (OS) and oil market‐specific demand shocks (OSD) throughout the pandemic period. Furthermore, we uncover a transient response from the Saudi and Qatari CDS spreads to the aggregate demand shocks (ADS) and the OSD over the full sample period, indicating the need for portfolio rebalancing. In the UAE, we detect a positive impact over the three sampled years of OSD since 2011. Moreover, a notable decoupling pattern continues to appear between short‐ and medium‐term innovations in the ADS. Our results suggest adopting more conservative trading in the CDS markets while understanding the oil price and the economic state. The complexity of the trading strategy should also depend on the target Gulf market itself and that seems essential when it comes to investing in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Changes in bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and polyphenols of red beetroots dehydrated in oven, microwave, and infrared systems
Authors: Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan
Published: October 2023

Backround

The antioxidant capacity of red beetroot has an important role in promoting human health and preventing degenerative diseases and cancer. Beetroot and colorful root vegetables are rich in phenol compounds with antioxidant properties.

Results

In this study, changes in total phenolic and flavonoid amounts and antioxidant activities and phenolic constituents of red beets heated in oven, microwave (MW), and infrared (IR) systems were investigated. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the red beetroots heated in oven, MW, and IR were determined between 327.85 (IR) and 619.27 mg GAE/100 g (oven) to 674.03 (IR) and 1089.24 mg/100 g (MW), respectively. Also, the antioxidant activity values of dehydrated red beet samples varied between 0.02 (IR) and 4.73 mmol/kg (Oven). The values of total phenolic, total flavonoid values, and antioxidant activities of the red beet samples were most affected by infrared. Gallic acid and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid amounts of red beet samples were identified between 47.54 (Oven) and 438.65 mg/100 g (MW) to 15.98 (IR) and 45.44 mg/100 g (MW), respectively. Also, the highest p‐coumaric acid (8.50 mg/100 g), ferulic acid (6.26 mg/100 g), resveratrol (2.55 mg/100 g), quercetin (4.69 mg/1000 g), cinnamic acid (0.21 mg/100 g), and kaempferol (0.64 mg/100 g) were established in red beets dehydrated in MW system.

Conclusion

When the red beet is desired to be rich in total phenolic and total flavonoid components, conventional and microwave oven cooking should be preferred, respectively. The phenolic components of the red beets dehydrated in the microwave were found to be high (except caffeic acid) compared with oven and IR.
Plasmonic nanophotothermal therapy for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma with gold nanoparticles
Authors: Pesnel Sabrina , Ben Haddada Maroua , Duquenne Sébastien , Mortier Laurent , Bertolotti Antoine , Perrot Jean L. , Morel Anne‐Laure
Published: October 2023

Background

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, typically developing in sun‐exposed areas such as the face. Surgery is the treatment of choice, with a overall good prognosis. However, some scars can be unsightly or bothersome, and some tumours are too large or badly located to be eligible for surgery. Plasmonic photothermal therapy is presented here as an alternative treatment. Our team has developed green gold nanoparticles that have demonstrated their efficacy in inducing hyperthermia in the tumour‐microenvironment when combined with near‐infrared laser (NIR laser).

Objectives

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of gold nanoparticles combined with laser treatment against BCC.

Methods

In vitro, BCC cells were exposed to gold nanoparticles, both with and without laser treatment, to study the effects of this therapy on skin cells. Subsequently, mice bearing BCC were treated with photothermal therapy to assess tumour growth.

Results

Gold nanoparticles were found to be nontoxic to the cell line, and photothermal therapy induced apoptosis. In vivo studies showed complete regression of tumours without unsightly scarring and no recurrence after 40 days.

Conclusions

Plasmonic photothermal therapy using gold nanoparticles proved its efficacy in the destruction of BCC.
Obinutuzumab‐Based Drug‐Free Macromolecular Therapeutics Synergizes with Topoisomerase Inhibitors
Authors: Gambles M. Tommy , Sborov Douglas , Shami Paul , Yang Jiyuan , Kopeček Jindřich
Published: October 2023

Drug‐free macromolecular therapeutics (DFMT) utilizes modified monoclonal antibodies (or antibody fragments) to generate antigen‐crosslinking‐induced apoptosis in target cells. DFMT is a two‐component system containing a morpholino oligonucleotide (MORF1) modified antibody (Ab‐MORF1) and human serum albumin conjugated with multiple copies of complementary morpholino oligonucleotide (MORF2), (HSA‐(MORF2)x). The two components recognize each other via the Watson–Crick base pairing complementation of their respective MORFs. One HSA‐(MORF2)x molecule can hybridize with multiple Ab‐MORF1 molecules on the cell surface, thus serving as the therapeutic crosslink‐inducing mechanism of action. Herein, various anti‐neoplastic agents in combination with the anti‐CD20 Obinutuzumab (OBN)‐based DFMT system are examined. Three different classes of chemotherapies are examined: DNA alkylating agents; proliferation pathway inhibitors; and DNA replication inhibitors. Chou–Talalay combination index mathematics is utilized to determine which drugs engaged synergistically with OBN‐based DFMT. It is determined that OBN‐based DFMT synergizes with topoisomerase inhibitors and DNA nucleotide analogs but is antagonistic with proliferation pathway inhibitors. Cell mechanism experiments are performed to analyze points of synergism or antagonism by investigating Ca2+ influx, mitochondrial health, lysosomal stability, and cell cycle arrest. Finally, the synergistic drug combinatorial effects of OBN‐based DFMT with etoposide in vivo are demonstrated using a human xenograft non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma mouse model.
Extraction and Purification of a Phycocolloid from Chaetomorpha aerea
Authors: Niedrist Dennis , Rousset Aurelie , Pierre Ronan , Papenkordt Niklas , Shastri Venkatram Prasad , Forget Aurelien
Published: October 2023

Phycocolloids are gelling polysaccharides extracted from algae that have found applications as microbiological culture media, food thickener, and cosmetic rheological modifiers. The extensive use of algae species that have not yet been domesticated has led to overexploitation or supply shortages. Thus, extending the library of phycocolloids would permit to support the industrial changes toward renewable polymer feedstocks but if the source of algae is limited to wild algae species, this may raise issue on the scalability and hinder the creation of a reliable supply chain. In this study, a new phycocolloid extracted from Chaetomorpha aerea, a green seaweed that can be cultivated in open ponds, is identified. Through elucidation of its chemical structure, a gelation mechanism for an extracted sulfated polysaccharide fraction that form stable, transparent hydrogels that can be used for microbiological culture, is proposed
Biological Activity of Poly(1,3‐propanediol citrate) Films and Nonwovens: Mechanical, Thermal, Antimicrobial, and Cytotoxicity Studies
Authors: Bandzerewicz Aleksandra , Wierzchowski Kamil , Mierzejewska Jolanta , Denis Piotr , Gołofit Tomasz , Szymczyk‐Ziółkowska Patrycja , Pilarek Maciej , Gadomska‐Gajadhur Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

Polymers are of great interest for medical and cosmeceutical applications. The current trend is to combine materials of natural and synthetic origin in order to obtain products with appropriate mechanical strength and good biocompatibility, additionally biodegradable and bioresorbable. Citric acid, being an important metabolite, is an interesting substance for the synthesis of materials for biomedical applications. Due to the high functionality of the molecule, it is commonly used in biomaterials chemistry as a crosslinking agent. Among citric acid‐based biopolyesters, poly(1,8‐octanediol citrate) is the best known. It shows application potential in soft tissue engineering. This work focuses on a much less studied polyester, poly(1,3‐propanediol citrate). Porous and non‐porous materials based on the synthesized polyesters are prepared and characterized, including mechanical, thermal, and surface properties, morphology, and degradation. The main focus is on assessing the biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties of the materials.
Dwell time and bloodstream infection incidence of umbilical venous catheterization in China
Authors: Zheng Xu , He Dan , Yang Zixin , Chen Lu , Jiang Min , Qi Yujie , Qin Fei , Yu Jie , Peng Yaguang , Liu Ling , Hei Mingyan
Published: October 2023

Importance

Central line‐associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is one of the most serious complications of central venous access devices. Reducing the risk of CLABSI is of utmost significance in efforts to improve neonatal mortality rates and enhance long‐term prognosis.

Objective

To determine the dwell time and incidence of CLABSI of umbilical venous catheterization (UVC) for preterm infants in China.

Methods

Preterm infants with UVC admitted to 44 tertiary neonatal intensive care units in 24 provinces in China were enrolled. Study period was from November 2019 to August 2021. The end point of observations was 48 h after umbilical venous (UV) catheter removal. The primary outcomes were dwell time of UV catheter and UVC‐associated CLABSI. Data between infants with UV catheter dwell time ≤7 days and >7 days, and with birth weight (BW) ≤1000 g and >1000 g were compared.

Results

In total, 2172 neonates were enrolled (gestational age 30.0 ± 2.4 weeks, BW 1258.5 ± 392.8 g). The median UV catheter dwell time was 7 (6–10) days. The incidence of UVC‐associated CLABSI was 3.03/1000 UV catheter days. For infants with UV catheter dwell time ≤7 days and >7 days, the UVC‐associated CLABSI incidence was 3.71 and 2.65 per 1000 UV catheter days, respectively, P = 0.23. For infants with UVC dwell times of 3–6, 7–12, and 13–15 days, the UVC‐associated CLABSI rates were 0.14%, 0.68%, and 2.48% (P < 0.01). The Kaplan–Meier plot of UV catheter dwell time to CLABSI showed no difference between infants with BW ≤1000 g and >1000 g (P = 0.60).

Interpretation

The median dwell time of UV catheter was 7 days, and the incidence of UVC‐associated CLABSI was 3.03/1000 catheter days in China. The daily risk of UVC‐associated CLABSI and other complications increased with the dwell time.
Disability after breast cancer surgery: Proposal of linkage between the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and the Grocery Shelving Task Test
Authors: Silva Conceição Aparecida Vitoriano Souza , Pires Grasiani Breggue , Pereira Gabriela Santos , Silva Soraia Micaela , Sampaio Luciana Maria Malosá
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To link the concepts measured by the Grocery Shelving Task Test (GST) to the codes and qualifiers of the activity and participation component of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Methods

The linkage was performed by two professionals who applied the 10 standardized binding rules. The linking process was performed through the model of extraction and identification of the concepts that were found in each item of the GST Test.

Results

The GST test includes 1 domain of the activity and participation component (d4 mobility). The link with the qualifiers allowed quantifying the impairment of the limitations of activities in the postoperative period, being observed that 21.27% of the sample did not present any problem, 61.70% presented the qualifier “0.1” (mild problem), 8.50% had a moderate problem (qualifier ‘0.2’) and 8.50% had a severe problem (qualifier ‘0.3’). No complete impairment was observed in any study participant.

Discussion

The linking of the GST to the ICF codes and qualifiers allowed quantifying the functional impairment in the postoperative period of breast cancer, allowing a comprehensive and standardized view, and being a guiding tool for treatment plans.
Epitaxial Lateral Overgrowth of Wafer‐Scale Heteroepitaxial Diamond for Quantum Applications
Authors: Lebedev Vadim , Engels Jan , Luo Tingpeng , Kustermann Jan , Weippert Jürgen , Giese Christian , Kirste Lutz , Quellmalz Patricia , Jeske Jan , Cimalla Volker , Knittel Peter
Published: October 2023

Wafer‐scale heteroepitaxial diamond thin films demonstrate multiple advantages for a further development of integrated optical and quantum devices based on impurity–vacancy color centers. The main obstacle here is a high structural defect density characteristic for heteroepitaxial epilayers. In this work, technological methods of stress control, NV formation, and defect density reduction in diamond epilayers, which are based on principles of epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) are reported on. Herein, material and quantum properties of NV‐doped diamond thin films obtained by patterned nucleation growth and by ELO of microstructured epilayers, are compared. It is demonstrated that a combination of both methods might have a significant potential for the wafer‐scale production of heteroepitaxial diamond for quantum devices.
Electronic, Magnetic, and Optical Tunability of SiP Monolayers via 3d Transition‐Metal Doping
Authors: Peng Xudong , Xiang Gang , Nie Ya , Zhang Xi
Published: October 2023

Herein, the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of direct‐band semiconducting SiP monolayers (MLs) doped with 3d transition‐metal (TM) atoms are investigated using first‐principles calculations. The results indicate that TM (TM = Sc, Ti, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn)‐doped SiP MLs are nonmagnetic, while TM (TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe)‐doped ones exhibit prominent magnetic moments. Specifically, V‐, Cr‐, and Fe‐doped SiP MLs are magnetic semiconductors and Mn‐doped SiP ML is a spin gapless semiconductor, where the contributions of the TM atoms to magnetic moments are dominant and the contributions of the nearest Si and P atoms are either small or negligible. Furthermore, the TM (TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) doping can enhance the carrier mobility in certain directions and result in highly in‐plane anisotropic mobility behaviors. In addition, the TM (TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) doping can not only broaden the optical absorption range of SiP ML to the infrared region, but also enhance the optical absorption coefficients of SiP ML in the visible region. These results provide insights into the TM doping effect on the electronic, spintronic, and optical properties of SiP MLs and may be useful for related applications based on SiP MLs.
Influence of A‐Site Doping on the Local Structure and Magnetic Behavior of BiFeO3 Nanoparticles Investigated by X‐Ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Yan
Published: October 2023

Structural transformation and magnetic change of pure and 1% La/Nd‐doped multiferroic BiFeO3 (BFO) nanoparticles are presented to study the influence of introducing rare‐earth elements at the A‐site in BFO. All samples are successfully produced by the conventional hydrothermal method. Scanning electron microscopy picture demonstrates that doping has an impact on the surface and size of particles, and the magnetic properties of BFO also are improved, even significant ferromagnetism is observed in the Nd‐doped sample. Though the room‐temperature X‐ray diffraction patterns reveal the rhombohedral R3c symmetry for all samples, further identified by the Bi L3‐edge and Fe K‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectra, the nanoscale secondary orthorhombic phase is only detected in Bi0.99Nd0.01FeO3 when analyzing the doped elements according to the La and Nd L3‐edge XAFS spectra. The different magnetic behavior is speculated to be in connection with the orthorhombic symmetry around the Nd atom.
Establishing the Financial Burden of Alopecia Areata and its Predictors
Authors: Zucchelli Fabio , Harries Matthew , Messenger Andrew , Montgomery Kerry
Published: October 2023

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) can have a significant impact on wellbeing. Consequently, individuals with AA often seek treatments or products to promote hair regrowth or camouflage their hair loss that incur a financial cost to the individual.

Objectives

The current study aimed to examine the direct financial burden of AA to understand the wider impact of the condition and the factors which influence spending on products and services.

Methods

A total of 829 United Kingdom based participants completed an online survey. Demographic and condition-specific data were collected, alongside spending on AA-related products and services. Participants were asked about their use of products and services, the associated costs, how they financed these costs, and their household income to determine what percentage of income they spent on products and services.

Results

Participants predominantly identified as female (85.9%), white (92.7%) with a mean age of 42.7 years and a median AA duration of 10.94 years. Female gender, Asian ethnicity, lower income, and worse AA symptoms predicted higher spend from income. Wigs were the most common product used and incurred the greatest cost (median £700). The highest cost for men was private dermatology services (median = £550). On average people spent 3% of their disposable income (prior to housing costs) on AA-related products and services.

Conclusions

This study outlines the risk factors associated with higher financial burden from managing AA which require consideration by health providers, commissioners, and policy makers when designing services to support the wellbeing of people living with AA.
Regulation Strategy of Nanostructured Engineering on Indium‐Based Materials for Electrocatalytic Conversion of CO2
Authors: Wu Wenbo , Tong Yun , Chen Pengzuo
Published: October 2023

Electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction (CO2RR), as an emerging technology, can combine with sustainable energies to convert CO2 into high value‐added products, providing an effective pathway to realize carbon neutrality. However, the high activation energy of CO2, low mass transfer, and competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) leads to the unsatisfied catalytic activity. Recently, Indium (In)‐based materials have attracted significant attention in CO2RR and a series of regulation strategies of nanostructured engineering are exploited to rationally design various advanced In‐based electrocatalysts, which forces the necessary of a comprehensive and fundamental summary, but there is still a scarcity. Herein, this review provides a systematic discussion of the nanostructure engineering of In‐based materials for the efficient electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 to fuels. These efficient regulation strategies including morphology, size, composition, defects, surface modification, interfacial structure, alloying, and single‐atom structure, are summarized for exploring the internal relationship between the CO2RR performance and the physicochemical properties of In‐based catalysts. The correlation of electronic structure and adsorption behavior of reaction intermediates are highlighted to gain in‐depth understanding of catalytic reaction kinetics for CO2RR. Moreover, the challenges and opportunities of In‐based materials are proposed, which is expected to inspire the development of other effective catalysts for CO2RR.
Layered Double Hydroxides as the Unique Product of Target Ionic Construction for Energy, Chemical, Foods, Cosmetics, Medicine and Ecology Applications
Authors: Kovalenko Vadym , Kotok Valerii , Murashevych Bohdan
Published: October 2023

Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) is an α‐modification of the M‐host (M2+) hydroxide, in which some part of the M‐host cations is replaced by M‐guest cations (M3+ or M4+). The emerging excess positive charge is compensated by the intercalation of anions into the interlayer space, which also contains water molecules. LDHs exhibit anion exchange properties. Targeted ionic design of LDHs via combining three components (M‐host, M‐guest cations, intercalated anions) allows the creation of a very wide range of highly efficient electrochemical, electrocatalytic, electrochromic substances, catalysts, ion exchangers, sorbents, color pigments, pharmacological drugs, food, and cosmetic additives. In this review, the structure and areas of application of LDHs are considered from the perspective of the targeted ionic design of a substance for a specific application.
Preoperative Weight Loss Program for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with High Body Mass Index in Hepatectomy
Authors: Saito Yu , Morine Yuji , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Yamada Shinichiro , Teraoku Hiroki , Yasui‐Yamada Sonoko , Nishi Maki , Sakaue Hiroshi , Kamada Motomu , Matsuura Tetsuya , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of a weight‐loss program (WLP) in patients with a high body mass index (BMI) prior to liver resection (Hx) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Among 445 patients with HCC who underwent initial Hx between 2000 and 2020, 19 with a high BMI (≥25.0) were enrolled in our WLP since 2014. For calorie restriction, the amount of energy consumed was calculated as the standard body weight (SBW) kg × 20–25 kcal/day. Protein mass was calculated as SBW kg × 1.0–1.2 g/day to maintain skeletal muscle mass. Patients also performed both aerobic and resistance exercises. The before‐and‐after changes were compared, and the effect of WLP on the short‐ and long‐term results was investigated.

Results

The average length of WLP was 21 days, and weight loss was successfully achieved in all patients. Body fat mass was reduced during the program, while skeletal muscle mass was maintained. WLP led to improvements in liver function and fibrotic markers, without tumor progression. There were no postoperative complications (≥Clavien–Dindo [CD] III). A retrospective comparison between with and without WLP using propensity score‐matching analysis revealed that WLP group showed better NLR value, however, there were no significant differences in both short and long‐term outcomes after Hx based on participation in the WLP.

Conclusions

WLP with multidisciplinary intervention improved immune‐nutrition status and liver function of obese patients. WLP had not affected both short and long‐term outcomes after Hx.
Is restoration of vertebral body height after vertebral body fractures and minimally-invasive dorsal stabilization with polyaxial pedicle screws just an illusion?
Authors: Thelen Simon , Oezel Lisa , Hilss Lena , Grassmann Jan-Peter , Betsch Marcel , Wild Michael
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Thoracolumbar spine fractures often require surgical treatment as they are associated with spinal instability. Optimal operative techniques and treatment are discussed controversially. Aim of our prospective cohort study was to investigate the sagittal alignment after reduction, the secondary loss of reduction and the subjective outcome as well as the causal correlation of these parameters after minimally invasive stabilization of thoracic and lumbar fractures with polyaxial pedicle screws.

Materials and methods

In a single-center study, a total of 78 patients with an average age of 61 ± 17 years who suffered a fracture of the thoracic or lumbar spine were included and subjected to a clinical and radiological follow-up examination after 8.5 ± 8 months. The kyphotic deformity was measured by determining the vertebral body angle, the mono- and bi-segmental wedge angle at three time points. The patients’ subjective outcome was evaluated by the VAS spine score.

Results

After surgical therapy, a significant reduction of the traumatic kyphotic deformity was shown with an improvement of all angles (vertebral body angle: 3.2° ± 4.4°, mono- and bi-segmental wedge angle: 3.1° ± 5.6°, 2.0° ± 6.3°). After follow-up, a significant loss of sagittal alignment was observed for all measured parameters with a loss of correction. However, no correlation between the loss of reduction and the subjective outcome regarding the VAS spine scale could be detected.

Conclusion

The minimally invasive dorsal stabilization of thoracic and lumbar spine fractures with polyaxial pedicle screws achieved a satisfactory reduction of the fracture-induced kyphotic deformity immediately postoperatively with a floss of reduction in the further course. However, maybe the main goal of this surgical procedure should be the prevention of a complete collapse of the vertebral body instead of a long-lasting restoration of anatomic sagittal alignment.

Level of evidence

II.
Longitudinal predictors of health-related quality of life in isolated dystonia
Authors: Junker Johanna , Hall James , Berman Brian D. , Vidailhet Marie , Roze Emmanuel , Bäumer Tobias , Malaty Irene A. , Shukla Aparna Wagle , Jankovic Joseph , Reich Stephen G. , Espay Alberto J. , Duque Kevin R. , Patel Neepa , Perlmutter Joel S. , Jinnah H. A. ,   Dystonia Coalition Study Group, Brandt Valerie , Brüggemann Norbert
Published: October 2023

Objective

To determine longitudinal predictors of health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in an international multicenter cohort of patients with isolated dystonia.

Methods

Out of 603 dystonia patients prospectively enrolled in the Natural History Dystonia Coalition study, 155 were assessed three times within 2 years for HR-QoL, symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD), as well as dystonia severity and dystonic tremor. In addition, the impact of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injections on HR-QoL was evaluated after 1 year.

Results

Depressive symptoms at baseline predicted lower HR-QoL on all subscales after 2 years (all p ≤ 0.001). Higher GAD scores at baseline predicted lower HR-QoL related to general health, pain and emotional well-being, whereas higher SAD scores predicted higher pain-related QoL after 2 years (all p ≤ 0.006). Dystonia severity at baseline predicted social functioning (p = 0.002). Neither dystonic tremor, age, or sex predicted HR-QoL at 2 years. Two latent categories were revealed across the three-time points: Category 1 with higher total HR-QoL scores (mean HR-QoL = 74.4% ± 16.1), susceptible to symptoms of depression and SAD, and Category 2 with lower total HR-QoL scores (mean HR-QoL = 45.5% ± 17.6), susceptible to symptoms of GAD. HR-QoL improved over the course of 1 year irrespective of the use of BoNT.

Conclusion

The longitudinal impact of psychiatric symptoms on HR-QoL emphasizes the importance of incorporating mental health treatment, in particular also the therapy of anxiety disorders, into treatment regimens for dystonia.