bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry‐Breaking Triplet Excited State Enhances Red Afterglow Enabling Ubiquitous Afterglow Readout
Authors: Sk Bahadur , Hirata Shuzo
Published: February 2024

Molecular vibrations are often factors that deactivate luminescence. However, if there are molecular motion elements that enhance luminescence, it may be possible to utilize molecular movement as a design guideline to enhance luminescence. Here, the authors report a large contribution of symmetry‐breaking molecular motion that enhances red persistent room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) in donor‐π‐donor conjugated chromophores. The deuterated form of the donor‐π‐donor chromophore exhibits efficient red persistent RTP with a yield of 21% and a lifetime of 1.6 s. A dynamic calculation of the phosphorescence rate constant (kp) indicates that the symmetry‐breaking movement has a crucial role in selectively facilitating kp without increasing nonradiative transition from the lowest triplet excited state. Molecules exhibiting efficient red persistent RTP enable long‐wavelength excitation, indicating the suitability of observing afterglow readout in a bright indoor environment with a white‐light‐emitting diode flashlight, greatly expanding the range of anti‐counterfeiting applications that use afterglow.
Biocidal activities of nickel oxide nanoparticles modified by copper and manganese, synthesized by green process
Authors: Ganapathy Kavina , Pandey Sri Prakash , Bishnoi Sunita , Suriyaprakash Jagadeesh , Alarfaj Abdullah A. , Hirad Abdurahman Hajinur , Thangavelu Indumathi
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the development of dual dopant‐based nanoparticles (NPs) has gained significant attention as they possess exceptional physico‐chemical and biomedical properties, making them potential candidates for antimicrobial and anticancer uses. In this research, we successfully synthesized nickel oxide (NiO) and copper, manganese‐doped NiO (CuMn:NiO) NPs using a green synthesis method. The synthesis process involved Trigonella foenum‐graecum (T.f.graecum) leaves extract as a nucleating agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were confirmed by various physico‐chemical studies. Based on X‐ray diffraction analysis, the median size was determined as 36 nm for NiO and 32 nm for CuMn:NiO NPs. The antibacterial study revealed that CuMn:NiO NPs exhibited a higher zone of inhibition in contrast to both Gram‐positive (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium) and Gram‐negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae) compared with NiO NPs and commercial amoxicillin. The antifungal studies conducted against Candida albicans demonstrated that CuMn:NiO NPs exhibited enhanced efficacy in comparison to NiO NPs. In vitro testing against human breast cancer cells (MCF‐7) demonstrated the anticancer potential of NiO and CuMn:NiO NPs, supported by IC50 concentrations of 11 and 9 μg/mL, respectively. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of NiO and CuMn:NiO NPs exhibited a green emission at 508 and 518 nm, respectively, which indicated the generation of active free radicals by the NPs. These findings suggest that CuMn:NiO NPs hold promise in the healthcare industry.
Regional MRI volumetry using NeuroQuant versus visual rating scales in patients with cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Persson Karin , Barca Maria L. , Edwin Trine Holt , Cavallin‐Eklund Lena , Tangen Gro Gujord , Rhodius‐Meester Hanneke F. M. , Selbæk Geir , Knapskog Anne‐Brita , Engedal Knut
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

The aims were to compare the novel regional brain volumetric measures derived by the automatic software NeuroQuant (NQ) with clinically used visual rating scales of medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA), global cortical atrophy‐frontal (GCA‐f), and posterior atrophy (PA) brain regions, assessing their diagnostic validity, and to explore if combining automatic and visual methods would increase diagnostic prediction accuracy.

Methods

Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations from 86 patients with subjective and mild cognitive impairment (i.e., non‐dementia, n = 41) and dementia (n = 45) from the Memory Clinic at Oslo University Hospital were assessed using NQ volumetry and with visual rating scales. Correlations, receiver operating characteristic analyses calculating area under the curves (AUCs) for diagnostic accuracy, and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

The correlations between NQ volumetrics and visual ratings of corresponding regions were generally high between NQ hippocampi/temporal volumes and MTA (r = −0.72/−0.65) and between NQ frontal volume and GCA‐f (r = −0.62) but lower between NQ parietal/occipital volumes and PA (r = −0.49/−0.37).

AUCs of each region, separating non‐dementia from dementia, were generally comparable between the two methods, except that NQ hippocampi volume did substantially better than visual MTA (AUC = 0.80 vs. 0.69). Combining both MRI methods increased only the explained variance of the diagnostic prediction substantially regarding the posterior brain region.

Conclusions

The findings of this study encourage the use of regional automatic volumetry in locations lacking neuroradiologists with experience in the rating of atrophy typical of neurodegenerative diseases, and in primary care settings.
Hydrogen bond interaction derived homogeneous graphene coating on submicron silicon anode
Authors: Li Liewu , Yang Yizhao , Huang Zhencheng , Huang Tao , Chen Weibin , Gong Xiaoyu , Ye Shenghua , Li Hao , Huang Shaoluan , Xiong Wei , Chen Jing , Wang Hongbin , Ren Xiangzhong , Ouyang Xiaoping , Wang Jionghui , Zhang Qianling , Hu Jiangtao , Liu Jianhong
Published: February 2024

Silicon (Si) has emerged as a promising anode material in the pursuit of higher energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The large‐scale applications of Si anode, however, are hindered by its significant swelling, severe pulverization, and continuous electrode–electrolyte reaction. Therefore, the development of an efficient approach to mitigate Si particle swelling and minimize interface parasitic reactions has emerged as a prominent research focus in both academia and industry. Here, a facile and scalable strategy is reported for the preparation of a double‐layer coated submicron Si anode, comprising ceramic (silicon oxide) and graphene layers, denoted as Si@SiOx@G. In this approach, SiOx is in situ synthesized on the surface of Si and bonded with graphene through hydrogen bond interactions. The prepared Si electrode shows exceptional structural integration and demonstrates outstanding electrochemical stability, with a capacity retention of 92.58% after 540 cycles at 1 A g−1, as well as remarkable rate capability, achieving a specific capacity of 875 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1. This study presents a straightforward yet pragmatic approach for the widespread implementation of high‐energy‐density silicon‐based batteries.
Sex‐dependent improvement in traumatic brain injury outcomes after liposomal delivery of dexamethasone in mice
Authors: Baudo Gherardo , Flinn Hannah , Holcomb Morgan , Tiwari Anjana , Soriano Sirena , Taraballi Francesca , Godin Biana , Zinger Assaf , Villapol Sonia
Published: February 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have long‐lasting physical, emotional, and cognitive consequences due to the neurodegeneration caused by its robust inflammatory response. Despite advances in rehabilitation care, effective neuroprotective treatments for TBI patients are lacking. Furthermore, current drug delivery methods for TBI treatment are inefficient in targeting inflamed brain areas. To address this issue, we have developed a liposomal nanocarrier (Lipo) encapsulating dexamethasone (Dex), an agonist for the glucocorticoid receptor utilized to alleviate inflammation and swelling in various conditions. In vitro studies show that Lipo‐Dex were well tolerated in human and murine neural cells. Lipo‐Dex showed significant suppression of inflammatory cytokines, IL‐6 and TNF‐α, release after induction of neural inflammation with lipopolysaccharide. Further, the Lipo‐Dex were administered to young adult male and female C57BL/6 mice immediately after controlled cortical impact injury (a TBI model). Our findings demonstrate that Lipo‐Dex can selectively target the injured brain, thereby reducing lesion volume, cell death, astrogliosis, the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and microglial activation compared to Lipo‐treated mice in a sex‐dependent manner, showing a major impact only in male mice. This highlights the importance of considering sex as a crucial variable in developing and evaluating new nano‐therapies for brain injury. These results suggest that Lipo‐Dex administration may effectively treat acute TBI.
Are YouTube videos about skull bone anatomy useful for students?
Authors: Cuglan Songul , Gas Selin
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the content, quality, and functionality of YouTube videos on the anatomy of skull bones and to measure their educational usefulness. In this cross‐sectional study, the keywords “skull bones” and “skull anatomy” were searched in the YouTube search tab. Demographic data such as type, source, duration, upload date, and view rates of the videos were recorded. The quality and content of the videos were measured using the total content score (TCS), modified DISCERN scale, JAMA score, and Global Quality Scale (GQS). SPSS 26.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Twenty‐five (34.7%) of the first 72 videos found by keyword searches were included in the study. According to the GQS criteria, six of them (24%) were considered useful and 19 (76%) not useful. There was a strong statistically significant correlation between the GQS and DISCERN scores (r = 0.813, p < 0.001). There were strong statistically significant positive correlations between TCS and GQS scores (r = 0.887, p < 0.001) and between TCS and modified DISCERN scores (r = 0.691, p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a moderately strong statistically significant positive correlation between GQS and JAMA scores (r = 0.507, p < 0.05). There were also moderately strong statistically significant correlations between JAMA score and DISCERN score (r = 0.521, p < 0.001), video length (r = 0.416, p < 0.05), number of comments (r = 0.457, p < 0.05), and number of “likes” (r = 0.608, p < 0.001). There was a moderately strong statistically significant positive correlation between TCS and JAMA scores (r = 0.431, p < 0.05). Most YouTube videos have insufficient information about skull bones to meet the expectations of medical and dental school curricula. Anatomists and institutions should be encouraged to prepare and present YouTube videos using assessment systems such as DISCERN, JAMA, GQS, and TCS, in line with current anatomy curricula.
Genomic disparity impacts variant classification of cancer susceptibility genes in Turkish breast cancer patients
Authors: Agaoglu Nihat B. , Unal Busra , Hayes Connor P. , Walker McKenzie , Ng Ozden Hatirnaz , Doganay Levent , Can Nisan D. , Rana Huma Q. , Ghazani Arezou A.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Turkish genome is underrepresented in large genomic databases. This study aims to evaluate the effect of allele frequency in the Turkish population in determining the clinical utility of germline findings in breast cancer, including invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), mixed invasive ductal and lobular carcinoma (IDC‐L), and ductal carcinoma (DC).

Methods

Two clinic‐based cohorts from the Umraniye Research and Training Hospital (URTH) were used in this study: a cohort consisting of 132 women with breast cancer and a non‐cancer cohort consisting of 492 participants. The evaluation of the germline landscape was performed by analysis of 27 cancer genes. The frequency and type of variants in the breast cancer cohort were compared to those in the non‐cancer cohort to investigate the effect of population genetics. The variant allele frequencies in Turkish Variome and gnomAD were statistically evaluated.

Results

The genetic analysis identified 121 variants in the breast cancer cohort (actionable = 32, VUS = 89) and 223 variants in the non‐cancer cohort (actionable = 25, VUS = 188). The occurrence of 21 variants in both suggested a possible genetic population effect. Evaluation of allele frequency of 121 variants from the breast cancer cohort showed 22% had a significantly higher value in Turkish Variome compared to gnomAD (p < 0.0001, 95% CI) with a mean difference of 60 times (ranging from 1.37–354.4). After adjusting for variant allele frequency using the ancestry‐appropriate database, 6.7% (5/75) of VUS was reclassified to likely benign.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study of population genetic effects in breast cancer subtypes in Turkish women. Our findings underscore the need for a large genomic database representing Turkish population‐specific variants. It further highlights the significance of the ancestry‐appropriate population database for accurate variant assessment in clinical settings.
Delivery Strategies, Structural Modification, and Pharmacological Mechanisms of Honokiol: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pan Congying , Li Qing , Xiong Shuxin , Yang Yan , Yang Yi , Huang Chao , Wang Zhi‐Peng
Published: February 2024

Honokiol (HK) is a traditional Chinese herbal bioactive compound that originates mainly from the Magnolia species, traditionally used to treat anxiety and stroke, as well as alleviation of flu symptoms. This natural product and its derivatives displayed diverse biological activities, including anticancer, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antimicrobial activities. However, its poor bioavailability and pharmacological activity require primary consideration in the development of HK‐based drugs. Recent innovative HK formulations based on the nanotechnology approach allowed for improvement in both bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Chemical derivation and drug combination are also effective strategies to ameliorate the drawbacks of HK. In recent years, studies on HK derivatives and compositions have made great progress in the treatment of cancer, inflammation, bacterial infection, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular diseases, demonstrating better activity than HK. The objective of this review is an examination of the recent developments in the field of pharmacological activity of HK and its drug‐related issues, and approaches to improve its physicochemical and biological properties, including solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Recent patents and the ongoing clinical trials in HK are also summarized.
Light‐off Performance of Three‐Way Catalysts Before and After Accelerated Aging Test with an Engine‐Dynamometer
Authors: Asakura Hiroyuki , Hosokawa Saburo , Miki Takeshi , Tanaka Tsunehiro
Published: February 2024

This study demonstrates the reaction behavior during the purification of model automotive exhaust gases over Pd catalysts before and after thermal degradation. In particular, to investigate the relationship between the Pd state and the reaction behavior of Pd/Al2O3 and Pd/CeO2−ZrO2 (CZ), operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy measurements were performed during purifying exhaust gases over real and model catalysts mimicking the degradation of Pd particles and CZ supports after accelerated aging tests. The NO reduction activity of the aggregated Pd metal species was as high as that of the highly dispersed Pd species, but hydrocarbon (HC) poisoning was significantly enhanced by the aggregation of Pd metal particles caused by thermal aging. The existence of a three‐phase boundary (TPB) between the CZ, the Pd particles, and the gas phase strongly affected the catalytic activity at low temperatures, and the presence of a sufficient TPB facilitated the combustion of unburned HCs owing to the oxygen storage performance of CZ. Thus, the TPB reduced the poisoning of the precious metal surface by HC species at low temperatures. Therefore, the findings of this study will facilitate the development of next‐generation gas purification catalysts with high activity and durability.
Effect of wall thickness of 3D‐printed models on resisting deformation from thermal forming in‐office aligners
Authors: Bennett Gregory W. , DiGiovanni Tia
Published: February 2024

Background

Fabricating clear aligners by thermoforming three‐dimensional printed dental models requires a high degree of accuracy. It is unknown whether model thickness affects the accuracy when used to thermoform aligners.

Purpose

This research utilizes three‐dimensional printed models made with differing wall thicknesses to determine its effect on their ability to withstand deformation during aligner fabrication.

Methods

A total of 50 models of different wall thickness (10 each of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mm, and solid) were printed using model resin (Model V2, Formlabs) on a low‐force stereolithography printer (Form 3B, Formlabs). Aligners were then fabricated using a thermal pressure forming machine (Biostar V, Great Lakes Dental Technologies) utilizing 25 s cycles to adapt 0.030″ acrylic sheets (Invisacryl, Great Lakes Dental Technologies), then removed from the models and sprayed with a contrast powder (Optispray, Dentsply Sirona) to aid in scanning with an intraoral scanner (CEREC Primescan, Dentsply Sirona). Each aligner's data was then compared to the original file used for printing with 3D comparison software (Geomagic Control X, 3D Systems).

Results

The results show model thickness greater than or equal to 2.0 mm produced clinically acceptable results within the margin of error (0.3 mm). A total of 0.5 mm thickness failed to withstand thermal forming in 4 of the 10 trials. A total of 0.5 mm produced 27.56% of results in tolerance, 1.0 mm produced 75.66% of results in tolerance, 1.5 mm had 80.38% of results in tolerance, 86.82% of 2 mm models were in tolerance, and solid had 96.45% of results in tolerance.

Conclusion

Hollow models of thicknesses 2.0 mm and solid models produced clinically acceptable aligners while utilizing less resin per unit compared to solid models, thus being more cost effective, time efficient and eco‐friendly. Therefore, a recommendation can be made to print hollow models with a shell thickness of greater than 2.0 mm for aligner fabrication.
Association of physical activity metrics with glucose variability in people with type 1 diabetes: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Al Kandari Jumana , Al Ozairi Ebaa , Irshad Mohammad , Varghese Anisha , Gray Stuart R.
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the association of physical activity metrics with measures of glucose variability in people with type 1 diabetes. From August 2019 to January 2022, people with type 1 diabetes, attending clinics or participating in ongoing research at the Dasman Diabetes Institute in Kuwait, were invited to participate in the study. Physical activity was measured over a 7‐day period using a wrist‐worn accelerometer, and glucose variability data were measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) of the same period. Three hundred and eleven participants were recruited (age 33 (10) years, BMI 27(5) kg/m2 and n = 311 (169 female and 142 male)). Overall physical activity levels were not associated with any measure of glucose variability. The intensity gradient, which measures the distribution of physical activity intensity, was negatively associated with mean glucose (−1.01(−0.28, −1.74) and p = 0.007), CONGA (−1.00(−0.28, −1.72) and p = 0.007), J‐index (−11.7(−2.23, 21.2) and p = 0.016), HBGI (−2.73(−0.44, −5.02) and p = 0.020), GRADE (−2.27(−0.59, −3.95), p = 0.009) and GRADE – euglycaemia (−4.26(−0.46, −8.06) and p = 0–029) and the M‐value (−4.41 (−0.05, −8.77) and p = 0.049). Overall physical activity remains important, but it may be worth recommending people with type 1 diabetes to spend proportionately more of their day doing moderate to higher intensity physical activity, although this remains to be confirmed in an appropriately designed trial.
Incremental value relevancies in the development of reporting of sustainability performance
Authors: Donkor Augustine , Trireksani Terri , Djajadikerta Hadrian Geri
Published: February 2024

Sustainability reporting was introduced after financial reporting to meet the social and environmental informational needs of stakeholders, while integrated reporting was initiated to integrate financial reporting and sustainability reporting to advance the decision usefulness of corporate disclosure practices. Despite claims and evidence of the value relevance of each reporting framework exclusively, studies on the incremental value relevancies of these subsequent disclosure practices have been sparse. Using a sample of firms from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2020 and firms’ capital market liquidity performance, this study finds that sustainability reporting and integrated reporting are not only value‐relevant disclosure practices but also offer incremental value relevancies. Sustainability reporting provides incremental value relevance over financial reporting, and integrated reporting offers incremental value relevance over financial reporting and sustainability reporting. However, the findings do not find support for integrated reporting to replace the practices of financial reporting and sustainability reporting and affirm the contribution of each of the three reports in the corporate reporting space.
C‐peptide in diabetes: A player in a dual hormone disorder?
Authors: Dakroub Ali , Dbouk Ali , Asfour Aref , Nasser Suzanne A. , El‐Yazbi Ahmed F. , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Eid Assaad A. , Iratni Rabah , Eid Ali H.
Published: February 2024

C‐peptide, a byproduct of insulin synthesis believed to be biologically inert, is emerging as a multifunctional molecule. C‐peptide serves an anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atherogenic role in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and early T2DM. C‐peptide protects endothelial cells by activating AMP‐activated protein kinase α, thus suppressing the activity of NAD(P)H oxidase activity and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. It also prevents apoptosis by regulating hyperglycemia‐induced p53 upregulation and mitochondrial adaptor p66shc overactivation, as well as reducing caspase‐3 activity and promoting expression of B‐cell lymphoma‐2. Additionally, C‐peptide suppresses platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐beta receptor and p44/p42 mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase phosphorylation to inhibit vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) proliferation. It also diminishes leukocyte adhesion by virtue of its capacity to abolish nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐kB) signaling, a major pro‐inflammatory cascade. Consequently, it is envisaged that supplementation of C‐peptide in T1DM might ameliorate or even prevent end‐organ damage. In marked contrast, C‐peptide increases monocyte recruitment and migration through phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI‐3 kinase)‐mediated pathways, induces lipid accumulation via peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ upregulation, and stimulates VSMC proliferation and CD4+ lymphocyte migration through Src‐kinase and PI‐3K dependent pathways. Thus, it promotes atherosclerosis and microvascular damage in late T2DM. Indeed, C‐peptide is now contemplated as a potential biomarker for insulin resistance in T2DM and linked to increased coronary artery disease risk. This shift in the understanding of the pathophysiology of diabetes from being a single hormone deficiency to a dual hormone disorder warrants a careful consideration of the role of C‐peptide as a unique molecule with promising diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications.
Analysis of flavor substances in Shaoxing traditional hand‐made Jiafan wine with different amounts of ZaoShao liquor
Authors: Peng Qi , Meng Kai , Yang Xinyi , Xu Zhuoqin , Zhang Lili , Zheng Huajun , Yu Hefeng , Zhang Yuhao , Xie Guangfa
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Adding ZaoShao liquor (high‐concentration liquor) is one of the most important steps in the brewing process of Shaoxing Jiafan wine, a product protected by Chinese geographical indications. The focus of this study is the effect of different additive amounts of liquor on the flavor of end products.

RESULTS

In this study, four kinds of Shaoxing Jiafan wine were brewed by changing the amount of ZaoShao liquor. Headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry were used to detect the flavor substances of four kinds of Jiafan wine. The difference in flavor of four kinds of Jiafan wine was evaluated by electronic nose analysis technology and verified by sensory evaluation. Finally, the reliability of the experimental results was verified through an aroma reconstruction experiment of rice wine. In this study, the differences in flavoring substances under different amounts of ZaoShao liquor were verified from various angles. The results showed that the flavors of the four kinds of wines were significantly different.

CONCLUSION

The composition of flavor substances in Shaoxing rice wine varies with the amount of ZaoShao liquor. This study provided a scientific basis for the improvement of production technology of Shaoxing wine. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The effect of probe density coverage on the detection of oenological tannins in quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM‐D) experiments
Authors: Gagliardi Mariacristina , Tori Giorgia , Sanmartin Chiara , Cecchini Marco
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Polyphenols are a group of compounds found in grapes, musts, and wines. Their levels are crucial for grape ripening, proper must fermentation, and final wine characteristics. Standard chemical analysis is commonly used to detect these compounds, but it is costly, time consuming, and requires specialized laboratories and operators. To address this, this study explores a functionalized acoustic sensor for detecting oenological polyphenols.

RESULTS

The method involves utilizing a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM‐D) to detect the target analyte by using a gelatin‐based probe layer. The sensor is functionalized by optimizing the probe coverage density to maximize its performance. This is achieved by using 12‐mercaptododecanoic acid (12‐MCA) to immobilize the probe onto the gold sensor surface, and dithiothreitol (DTT) as a reducing and competitive binding agent. The concentration of 12‐MCA and DTT in the solutions is varied to control the probe density. QCM‐D measurements demonstrate that the probe density can be effectively adjusted using this approach, ranging from 0.2 × 1013 to 2 × 1013 molecules cm−2. This study also investigates the interaction between the probe and tannins, confirming the ability of the sensor to detect them. Interestingly, the lower probe coverage achieves higher detection signals when normalized to probe immobilization signals. Moreover, significant changes in mechanical properties of the functionalization layer are observed after the interaction with samples.

CONCLUSION

The combination of QCM‐D with gelatin functionalization holds great promise for future applications in the wine industry. It offers real‐time monitoring capabilities, requires minimal sample preparation, and provides high sensitivity for quality control purposes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Untargeted metabolomics analysis of probiotic jujube juice and its anti‐obesity effects on high‐fat‐diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Pu Meixue , Wang Qi , Hui Yuanyuan , Zhao Aiqing , Wei Lusha , Chen Li , Wang Bini
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Dietary intervention, including polyphenol consumption, is recognized as an effective strategy to prevent obesity. Although fermented jujube juice (FJJ) with lactic acid bacteria has been shown to be rich in polyphenols and have strong antioxidant properties, little is known about its anti‐obesity properties.

RESULTS

Untargeted metabolomics was employed to identify and analyze the differential metabolites between FJJ and raw jujube juice. A total of 431 metabolites belonging to diverse classes and with various functional active ingredients were quantitatively identified. The animal experiments results showed that FJJ administration for 13 weeks significantly inhibited high‐fat‐diet‐induced body and epididymal adipose weight gain, and improved the serum lipid parameters in obese mice. Additionally, DNA‐sequencing results revealed that FJJ treatment increased Akkermansia abundance in the gut and changed the composition of fecal microbiota by decreasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio and Helicobacter pylori abundance.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that FJJ contributes to regulating lipid accumulation and gut microbiota composition in high‐fat‐diet‐induced obese mice, which helps to prevent obesity. Hence, FJJ has the potential to be a beneficial beverage for controlling obesity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The application of three‐dimensional custom‐made prostheses in chest wall reconstruction after oncologic sternal resection
Authors: Liu Chengxin , Sun Haipeng , Lin Feng
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

As one of the cutting‐edge advances in the field of reconstruction, three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology has been constantly being attempted to assist in the reconstruction of complicated large chest wall defects. However, there is little literature assessing the treatment outcomes of 3D printed prostheses for chest wall reconstruction. This study aimed to analyze the surgical outcomes of 3D custom‐made prostheses for the reconstruction of oncologic sternal defects and to share our experience in the surgical management of these rare and complex cases.

Methods

We summarized the clinical features of the sternal tumor in our center, described the surgical techniques of the application of 3D customized prosthesis for chest wall reconstruction, and analyzed the perioperative characteristics, complications, overall survival (OS), and recurrence‐free survival of patients.

Results

Thirty‐two patients with the sternal tumor who underwent chest wall resection were identified, among which 13 patients used 3D custom‐made titanium implants and 13 patients used titanium mesh for sternal reconstruction. 22 cases were malignant, and chondrosarcoma is the most common type. The mean age was 46.9 years, and 53% (17/32) of the patients were male. The average size of tumor was 6.4 cm, and the mean defect area was 76.4 cm2. 97% (31/32) patients received R0 resection. Complications were observed in 29% (9/32) of patients, of which wound infection (22%, 7/32) was the most common. The OS of the patients was 72% at 5 years.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that with careful preoperative assessment, 3D customized prostheses could be a viable alternative for complex sternal reconstruction.
Dark tourism through the lens of attachment theory and domestic tourists
Authors: Aggarwal Arun , Lim Weng Marc , Dandotiya Ravi , Kukreja Vinay
Published: February 2024

This study explores the factors that affect domestic tourist attachment to dark tourism destinations by developing a hybrid model using several methods, including structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), predicated on attachment theory. The study collected data from 60 tourism experts and 622 domestic tourists. The study found that tourist motivation, national identity, tourism impacts, and destination attachment are all crucial factors that explain domestic tourist behavior towards dark tourism. The results of the mediation analysis indicate that destination attachment mediates the relationship between tourist motivation, national identity, and negative tourism impact with tourist satisfaction. The FAHP results show that place identity has the highest influence while place dependence has the lowest influence in shaping domestic tourists' selection of dark tourist destinations. The study's findings provide valuable insights for tour operators and destination managers to meet domestic tourists' expectations of dark tourism, adding to the existing knowledge related to the factors that impact dark tourism.
Alias Transformation of Structured Beam and Holography in Real and Fourier Space Based on Dielectric Metasurface
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhu Shuangqi , Li Peijin , Li Yao , Li Junjie , Li Xiaowei , Wang Yongtian , Huang Lingling
Published: February 2024

Structured beams are analytical solutions to wave equations that possess specific spatial profiles and rigorous transmission properties. Holography enables wavefront reconstruction by recording objective wavefront information. In this study, comprehensive wavefront control by transforming a structured beam in real space is proposed and experimentally verified, and optical holography is reconstructed in Fourier space. To obtain an arbitrary profile of the structured beam, alias transformation is performed to rebuild the coordinate system to form arbitrary user‐defined shapes. Subsequently, the complex amplitude control of the metasurface to encode the alias‐transformed structured beam accordingly is applied. This allows the conventional standard Hermite–Gaussian and Laguerre–Gaussian modes to be transformed into their corresponding shapes while maintaining their distinct features. Holography is realized based on pure phase modulation by interleaving the information with a structured beam, which fully utilizes the space‐bandwidth product of the metasurface. These distinctive optical phenomena in both spaces expand the definition of conventional structured beams and enable further developments in laser fabrication, optical manipulation, and optical displays.
How should newer therapeutic agents be incorporated into the treatment of patients with myasthenia gravis?
Authors: Gwathmey Kelly G. , Ding Huanghe , Hehir Michael , Silvestri Nicholas
Published: February 2024

Generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) is a postsynaptic neuromuscular junction disorder that results in fatigable muscle weakness. The traditional treatment approach includes the use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, and steroid‐sparing immunosuppressant therapies (ISTs) for chronic management, whereas exacerbations and crises are managed with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and plasma exchange (PLEX). Over the past 6 years, four new therapeutic agents with novel immunological mechanisms of action—complement and neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibition—were approved as a result of clinically significant improvement in gMG symptoms of those treated with these newer agents in Phase 3 clinical trials. At present, it is unclear when and in whom to initiate these therapeutic agents and how to integrate them into the current treatment paradigm. When selecting a newer therapeutic agent, we use a simple equation: Value = Clinical Improvement/(Cost + Side Effects + Treatment Burden), which guides our decision‐making. We consider using these novel therapeutic agents in two specific clinical situations. Firstly, the newer agents are fast‐acting, suggesting they can be used in clinically unstable patients as “bridge therapy,” and secondly, they provide additional options for those patients considered treatment‐refractory. There are downsides, however, including treatment cost, unique side effect profiles, and intravenous and subcutaneous drug administration (though for some, this may be an advantage). As additional drugs enter the marketplace with unique mechanisms of action, routes of administration, and dosing schedules, the placement of the novel therapeutic agents in the gMG treatment algorithm will likely evolve.
Reliability of the original and brief versions of the Eating Disorder Examination in binge‐eating disorder
Authors: Lydecker Janet A. , Ivezaj Valentina , Wiedemann Ashley A. , Kerrigan Stephanie , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Psychometric studies evaluating the reliability of eating‐disorder assessment among individuals with binge‐eating disorder (BED) have been limited. The current study documents the interrater reliability and internal consistency of the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) interview when administered to adults with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition) (DSM‐5)‐defined BED.

Methods

Participants (N = 56) were adults seeking treatment for BED in the context of clinical trials testing pharmacological and psychological treatments. Doctoral‐level, trained, and supervised clinical researchers evaluated eating‐disorder psychopathology using the EDE interview and audio‐recorded the interview. A second doctoral‐level, trained, and supervised clinical researcher, who did not conduct the initial assessment, coded eating‐disorder psychopathology using the audio recording.

Results

Agreement among raters on the number of binge‐eating episodes was near perfect. There was excellent interrater reliability for nearly all scales of the EDE interview. Agreement among raters for behavioral indicators of loss of control and marked distress regarding binge eating ranged from moderate to perfect. Internal consistency was variable for all scales, ranging from unacceptable to good.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the EDE can be administered reliably by multiple interviewers to assess adults with BED. However, internal consistency was mostly subpar. Tests of reliability and other psychometric properties (e.g., validity) in other patient groups such as children with BED are warranted.
Intratympanic Gels for Inner Ear Disorders: A Scoping Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Brotto Davide , Greggio Marco
Published: February 2024

Objective

Intratympanic injections are a safe, well tolerated procedure routinely performed by ENT's specialists. Intratympanic injections of gels have the potential to deliver therapeutics into the cochlea through the round window membrane prolonging the release of drugs in the inner ear compartment. Aim of the present review is to summarize clinical trials testing pharmacological treatments for inner ear pathologies through intratympanic gel formulations.

Data Sources

Online databases (Google scholar and PubMed) and registers (Clinicaltrials.gov and Euclinicaltrial) were used to identify clinical trials performed between 1990 and 2022.

Review Methods

PRISMA criteria have been followed. Clinical trials testing gel formulations administered through local intratympanic injections and targeting inner ear disorders were included. All the reports were identified by the authors working in pairs sequentially selecting only studies respecting the inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 45 clinical studies have been noticed; the gels for intratympanic injection are in the form of poloxamers or hyaluronic acid combinations; the trials found target different kind of inner ear disorders: acquired‐stable SNHL, tinnitus, acute sudden SNHL, Meniere disease, cisplatin induced ototoxicity and hearing preservation in patients undergoing cochlear implant surgery.

Conclusion

Few studies listed do not provide the specific kind of gel formulation used but only report the intratympanic delivery vehicle as “gel” or “thermogel”. Multiple clinical studies have been targeting several forms of inner ear disorders by injecting different compounds through poloxamer and hyaluronic acid formulations. Larger and more advanced clinical stages are necessary to confirm the efficacy of these chemical compounds.
The glutathione biosynthesis is involved in metamorphosis, antioxidant function, and insecticide resistance in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Kim KumChol , Gao Han , Li Chengjun , Li Bin
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Reduced glutathione (GSH) synthesis is vital for redox homeostasis, cell‐cycle regulation and apoptosis, and immune function. The glutamate–cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (Gclc) is the first and rate‐limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis, suggesting the potential use of Gclc as a pesticide target. However, the functional characterization of Gclc, especially its contribution in metamorphosis, antioxidant status and insecticide resistance, is unclear in Tribolium castaneum.

RESULTS

In this study, we identified and cloned Gclc from T. castaneum (TcGclc) and found that its expression began to increase significantly from the late larvae (LL) stage (3.491 ± 0.490‐fold). Furthermore, RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of TcGclc resulted in three types of aberration (100% total aberration rate) caused by the downregulation of genes related to the 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) pathway. This deficiency was partially rescued by exogenous 20E treatment (53.1% ± 3.2%), but not by antioxidant. Moreover, in the TcGclc knockdown group, GSH content was decreased to 62.3%, and total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase and total superoxide dismutase activities were reduced by 14.6%, 83.6%, and 82.3%, respectively. In addition, treatment with different insecticides upregulated expression of TcGclc significantly compared with a control group during the late larval stage (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that TcGclc has an extensive role in metamorphosis, antioxidant function and insecticide resistance in T. castaneum, thereby expanding our understanding of GSH functions and providing a scientific basis for pest control. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring the Contribution of Intelligent Nanomaterials in Gas Sensing
Authors: Onyinye Okechukwu Viola , Olayiwola Idris Azeez , Umukoro Eseoghene H. , Azizi Shohreh , Maaza Malik
Published: February 2024

Gas sensors are crucial in various industries like chemicals, food processing, pharmaceuticals, health monitoring through breath analysis, as well as in household and environmental monitoring to ensure human safety. Chemo‐resistive gas sensors based on metal oxides convert gas information into electrical signals by interacting with adsorption and desorption processes. For metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors, sensitivity and selectivity enhancements are achieved through doping, functionalization, composite formations, heterojunction creation, and morphological adjustments. The formation of heterojunctions notably boosts the efficacy of the sensing material, leveraging synergistic effects to reinforce adsorption rates, catalytic activity acceleration, and the depletion interface for electrons and holes. Over the past few decades, nanomaterials have played a critical role in gas sensing applications. They have enabled the detection of a wide array of harmful and polluting gases, as well as volatile organic compounds serving as disease biomarkers. Additionally, incorporating heterostructure nanomaterials into heterojunctions significantly impacts sensing performance and detection speed. This review discussed various types of gas sensing devices, categorizing them based on the sensing elements employed, each possessing its own set of unique advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, the review underscored the importance of several key parameters and factors that influence the performance of gas sensors. Additionally, recent advancements in the utilization of nanomaterial composites for gas sensor applications, particularly in the detection of gases such as ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, and sulphur dioxide vapours, were discussed. Furthermore, the review highlights recent research endeavours and fundamental parameters, including sensitivity, detection limits, selectivity, response times, and recovery times.
Unleashing the Power of Sn2S3 Quantum Dots: Advancing Ultrafast and Ultrastable Sodium/Potassium‐Ion Batteries with N, S Co‐Doped Carbon Fiber Network
Authors: Wu Hui , Li Shuang , Yu Xuebin
Published: February 2024

Tin sulfide (Sn2S3) has been recognized as a potential anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) due to its high theoretical capacities. However, the sluggish ion diffusion kinetics, low conductivity, and severe volume changes during cycling have limited its practical application. In this study, Sn2S3 quantum dots (QDs) (≈1.6 nm) homogeneously embedded in an N, S co‐doped carbon fiber network (Sn2S3‐CFN) are successfully fabricated by sequential freeze‐drying, carbonization, and sulfidation strategies. As anode materials, the Sn2S3‐CFN delivers high reversible capacities and excellent rate capability (300.0 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1 and 250.0 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1 for SIBs; 165.3 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 and 100.0 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1 for PIBs) and superior long‐life cycling capability (279.6 mAh g−1 after 10 000 cycles at 5 A g−1 for SIBs; 166.3 mAh g−1 after 5 000 cycles at 2 A g−1 for PIBs). According to experimental analysis and theoretical calculations, the exceptional performance of the Sn2S3‐CFN composite can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the conductive carbon fiber network and the Sn2S3 quantum dots, which contribute to the structural stability, reversible electrochemical reactions, and superior electron transportation and ions diffusion.
Ligand‐Induced In Situ Epitaxial Growth of PbI2 Nanosheets/MAPbI3 Heterojunction Realizes High‐Performance HTM‐Free Carbon‐Based MAPbI3 Solar Cells
Authors: Sang Kaihang , Wu Dongqi , Zhao Suxin , Zhou Huanyi , Zhang Junfang , Tong Zhensang , Ding Feifei , Pang Qi , Zhang Xinguo , Zhou Liya , Chen Peican
Published: February 2024

Hole‐transporting layer‐free carbon‐based perovskite solar cells (HTL‐free C‐PSCs) hold great promise for photovoltaic applications due to their low cost and outstanding stability. However, the low power conversion efficiency (PCE) of HTL‐free C‐PSCs mainly results from grain boundaries (GBs). Here, epitaxial growth is proposed to rationally design a hybrid nanostructure of PbI2 nanosheets/perovskite with the desired photovoltaic properties. A post‐treatment technique using tri(2,2,2‐trifluoromethyl) phosphate (TFEP) to induce in situ epitaxial growth of PbI2 nanosheets at the GBs of perovskite films realizes high‐performance HTL‐free C‐PSCs. The structure model and high‐resolution transmission electron microscope unravel the epitaxial growth mechanism. The epitaxial growth of oriented PbI2 nanosheets generates the PbI2/perovskite heterojunction, which not only passivates defects but forms type‐I band alignment, avoiding carrier loss. Additionally, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, 31P NMR, and 1H NMR spectra reveal the passivation effect and hydrogen bonding interaction between TFEP and perovskite. As a result, the VOC is remarkably boosted from 1.04 to 1.10 V, leading to a substantial gain in PCE from 14.97% to 17.78%. In addition, the unencapsulated PSC maintains the initial PCE of 80.1% for 1440 h under air ambient of 40% RH. The work offers a fresh perspective on the rational design of high‐performance HTL‐free C‐PSCs.
Improved Interfacial Contact Between “Perovskite/Electron‐Transport Layer” by Hydrophilic Molecule to Achieve Efficiency >14%, Carbon Electrode‐Based, Hole‐Conductor‐Free, Low‐Temperature Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Guo De'en , Yu Xiaohan , Fang Zhenxing , Peng Heng , Xie Haipeng , Huang Han , Kong Deming , Zhou Conghua
Published: February 2024

Interfacial contact between “perovskite/electron‐transport layer” (PVSK/ETL) has appeared as a bottleneck for the hole‐conductor‐free, mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (meso‐CPSCs) based on carbon electrode, especially for the low‐temperature devices. To solve this problem, hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin is imported to TiO2‐based ETL. It is observed that this treatment improves the wettability of ETL, enhances the crystallization processes of PVSK in the mesoporous skeleton, and strengthens the interfacial contact between “PVSK/ETL”. Besides, defects are reduced at the interface. Accordingly, charge extraction is accelerated, while recombination is retarded. Transient photovoltage/photocurrent decay curve test shows that the charge‐extraction time decreases from 3.75 (±0.38) to 3.42 (±0.22) μs, while lifetime of photogenerated charges in device is prolonged from 10.00 (±2.38) to 12.23 (±1.86) μs, which helps to upgrade power μconversion efficiency from 9.38 (±1.28)% to 11.42 (±0.80)% (optimized at 12.44%). The efficiency is further upgraded to 14.04% after modifying the carbon electrode with octylammonium iodide. Such efficiency catches up with 85% of that of high‐temperature meso‐CPSCs (prepared at 450 °C) when using (5‐AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 as light absorber. The study paves the way to further upgrade the efficiency of the low‐temperature meso‐CPSCs.