bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The meningitis outbreak returns to Niger: Concern, efforts, challenges, and recommendations
Authors: Sibomana Olivier , Hakayuwa Clyde Moono
Published: July 2023

Meningitis, a disease that commonly manifests in African meningitis belt, continues to be a public health problem as it is a fatal disease that leave survivors with long‐term effects. Most cases of meningitis are due to bacterial and viral infection, although parasites, fungus, cancer, drugs, and immune disorders can rarely cause meningitis. Stiff neck, high temperature, light sensitivity, disorientation, headaches, and vomiting are the most typical symptoms of meningitis. Niger, being in African meningitis belt, has been affected by many meningitis outbreaks. Since 2015, a total of 20,789 cases and 1369 fatalities (CFR 6.6%) have been documented in Niger. In contrast to earlier seasons, the current outbreak of meningitis in Niger exhibits both an increase in the number of cases and a rise in the growth rate. A total of 559 cases of meningitis, including 18 fatalities (overall CFR 3.2%), were reported in the Zinder Region, southeast of Niger, from 1 November 2022 to 27 January 2023, compared to 231 cases reported from 1 November 2021 to 31 January 2022. In the current outbreak, the Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C (NmC) is responsible for the majority of laboratory confirmed cases (104/111; 93.7%). To organize the response to the outbreak, a global team of WHO and other partners, including MSF and UNICEF, has been sent to Niger. Even though there are many challenges in battle against meningitis in Niger, immunization, antibiotics administration and strong disease surveillance are recommended techniques to cope with the current meningitis outbreak in Niger.
Insights into layered–tunnel dynamic structural evolution based on local coordination chemistry regulation for high‐energy‐density and long‐cycle‐life sodium‐ion oxide cathodes
Authors: Xiao Yao , Liu Yi‐Feng , Li Hong‐Wei , Li Jia‐Yang , Wang Jing‐Qiang , Hu Hai‐Yan , Su Yu , Jian Zhuang‐Chun , Yao Hu‐Rong , Chen Shuang‐Qiang , Zeng Xian‐Xiang , Wu Xiong‐Wei , Wang Jia‐Zhao , Zhu Yan‐Fang , Dou Shi‐Xue , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: July 2023

The pursuit of high energy density while achieving long cycle life remains a challenge in developing transition metal (TM) oxide cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Here, we present a concept of precisely manipulating structural evolution via local coordination chemistry regulation to design high‐performance composite cathode materials. The controllable structural evolution process is realized by tuning magnesium content in Na0.6Mn1−xMgxO2, which is elucidated by a combination of experimental analysis and theoretical calculations. The substitution of Mg into Mn sites not only induces a unique structural evolution from layered–tunnel structure to layered structure but also mitigates the Jahn–Teller distortion of Mn3+. Meanwhile, benefiting from the strong ionic interaction between Mg2+ and O2−, local environments around O2− coordinated with electrochemically inactive Mg2+ are anchored in the TM layer, providing a pinning effect to stabilize crystal structure and smooth electrochemical profile. The layered–tunnel Na0.6Mn0.95Mg0.05O2 cathode material delivers 188.9 mAh g−1 of specific capacity, equivalent to 508.0 Wh kg−1 of energy density at 0.5C, and exhibits 71.3% of capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 5C as well as excellent compatibility with hard carbon anode. This work may provide new insights of manipulating structural evolution in composite cathode materials via local coordination chemistry regulation and inspire more novel design of high‐performance SIB cathode materials.

image
JAK Inhibitors in Solid Organ Transplantation
Authors: Assadiasl Sara , Mojtahedi Hanieh , Nicknam Mohammad Hossein
Published: July 2023

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are a novel group of immunosuppressive drugs approved to treat certain rheumatic and allergic disorders; however, their efficacy in the regulation of alloimmune responses after solid organ transplantation has not yet been elucidated. In the present review, we have summarized the results of in vitro, in vivo, experimental, and clinical trial studies about the efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitors in improving allograft survival in solid organ transplantations, including kidney, heart, lung, and liver transplants. Moreover, reports on administering JAK inhibitors to steroid‐resistant patients with graft versus host disease (GvHD) after solid organ transplantation have been reviewed. Overall findings are suggestive of a beneficial role for JAK inhibitors in organ transplantation: for example, they have been shown to improve allograft function, reduce the rate and score of acute rejection, downregulate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules, and decrease oxidative stress. However, the adverse effects of these drugs, in particular bone marrow suppression and infection, remain an obstacle.
Walking for water and fuelwood: Welfare implications for women and children in Ghana
Authors: Lambon‐Quayefio Monica P.
Published: July 2023

In most sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries, the burden of collecting fuelwood and water is gendered. Competing needs for women's time compel them to make choices, which present challenges for poverty reduction. The study investigates the impact of women's limited access to clean fuel and water on children's and women's welfare outcomes using the third wave of the Ghana socio‐economic panel survey. An instrumental variable approach is employed to address the endogeneity of women's time allocation and results suggest that limited access to safe water and clean fuel has significant implications for children's human capital development. I find similar negative effects for women's own health and labour market outcomes. Findings from the study have important policy implications regarding the provision of basic infrastructure for improved welfare outcomes.
Multitask Deep Learning‐Based Whole‐Process System for Automatic Diagnosis of Breast Lesions and Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis Discrimination from Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced‐MRI: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Zhou Heng , Hua Zhen , Gao Jing , Lin Fan , Chen Yuqian , Zhang Shijie , Zheng Tiantian , Wang Zhongyi , Shao Huafei , Li Wenjuan , Liu Fengjie , Li Qin , Chen Jingjing , Wang Ximing , Zhao Feng , Qu Nina , Xie Haizhu , Ma Heng , Zhang Haicheng , Mao Ning
Published: July 2023

Background

Accurate diagnosis of breast lesions and discrimination of axillary lymph node (ALN) metastases largely depend on radiologist experience.

Purpose

To develop a deep learning‐based whole‐process system (DLWPS) for segmentation and diagnosis of breast lesions and discrimination of ALN metastasis.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

1760 breast patients, who were divided into training and validation sets (1110 patients), internal (476 patients), and external (174 patients) test sets.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T/dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI sequence.

Assessment

DLWPS was developed using segmentation and classification models. The DLWPS‐based segmentation model was developed by the U‐Net framework, which combined the attention module and the edge feature extraction module. The average score of the output scores of three networks was used as the result of the DLWPS‐based classification model. Moreover, the radiologists' diagnosis without and with the DLWPS‐assistance was explored. To reveal the underlying biological basis of DLWPS, genetic analysis was performed based on RNA‐sequencing data.

Statistical Tests

Dice similarity coefficient (DI), area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and kappa value.

Results

The segmentation model reached a DI of 0.828 and 0.813 in the internal and external test sets, respectively. Within the breast lesions diagnosis, the DLWPS achieved AUCs of 0.973 in internal test set and 0.936 in external test set. For ALN metastasis discrimination, the DLWPS achieved AUCs of 0.927 in internal test set and 0.917 in external test set. The agreement of radiologists improved with the DLWPS‐assistance from 0.547 to 0.794, and from 0.848 to 0.892 in breast lesions diagnosis and ALN metastasis discrimination, respectively. Additionally, 10 breast cancers with ALN metastasis were associated with pathways of aerobic electron transport chain and cytoplasmic translation.

Data Conclusion

The performance of DLWPS indicates that it can promote radiologists in the judgment of breast lesions and ALN metastasis and nonmetastasis.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

3
Glutamate Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (GluCEST) MRI to Evaluate the Rapid Antidepressant Effects of Ketamine in the Hippocampus of Rat Depression Model
Authors: Li Hao , Luo Xunrong , Qi Kai , Lv Yijie , Kan Junnan , Yang Changfeng , Lin Xiaoqian , Tao Jin , Zhang Wei , Liu Yan , Rong Kang , Wang Ailing , Jiang Zhongde , Li Xianglin
Published: July 2023

Background

Ketamine is a quick acting antidepressant drug, and an accurate detection method is lacking. Ketamine's effects in a rat depression model have not previously been well explored using glutamate chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST).

Purpose

To investigate the GluCEST changes of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats after receiving either ketamine or saline injection.

Study Type

Randomized animal model trial.

Animal Model

12 CUMS and 6 Sprague–Dawley rats. Divided into three groups: ketamine (N = 6), saline (N = 6), and control (N = 6).

Field Strength/Sequence

7.0 T/the sequence is GluCEST and 1H MR spectroscopy (MRS).

Assessment

The CUMS rats were exposed to different stress factors for 8 weeks. The glutamate concentration in the hippocampus was assessed by the GluCEST,1H MRS, and the high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Statistical Tests

The t‐test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Pearson's correlation.

Results

In depression conditions, GluCEST signals were lower in the bilateral hippocampus than in control group. Thirty minutes after ketamine injection, the GluCEST signals in the bilateral hippocampus were higher compared with the saline group (left: 2.99 ± 0.34 [Control] vs. 2.44 ± 0.20 [Saline] vs. 2.85 ± 0.11 [Ketamine]; right: 2.97 ± 0.28 [Control] vs. 2.49 ± 0.25 [Saline] vs. 2.86 ± 0.19 [Ketamine]). In 1H MRS, significant changes were only observed in the left hippocampus (2.00 ± 0.16 [Control] vs. 1.81 ± 0.09 [Saline] vs. 2.04 ± 0.14 [Ketamine]). Furthermore, HPLC results showed similar trends to those observed in the GluCEST results (left: 2.32 ± 0.22 [Control] vs. 1.96 ± 0.11 [Saline] vs. 2.18 ± 0.11 [Ketamine]; right: 2.35 ± 0.18 [Control] vs. 1.87 ± 0.16 [Saline] vs. 2.09 ± 0.08 [Ketamine]).

Data Conclusion

GluCEST can sensitively evaluate the ketamine's antidepressant effects by detecting the fast increase in glutamate concentration.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
Peptide fractions from Sacha inchi induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells via P53 activation and a mitochondria‐mediated pathway
Authors: He Zhilin , Lin Jinming , Peng Dong , Zeng Jieyu , Pan Xiangmin , Zheng Rui , Li Pan , Du Bing
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Sacha inchi is known for its high protein content and medicinal properties. Bioactive peptides have been reported to have therapeutic potential in various human diseases. However, there is a lack of research evaluating the pharmacological value of peptides derived from Sacha inchi. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the anti‐hepatoma effect of Sacha inchi peptides (SPs) and their underlying mechanism.

RESULTS

The study found that treatment with SPs significantly reduced the proliferation of HepG2 cells by inducing apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. SPs also induced HepG2 cell apoptosis by increasing the levels of proteins such as Bax, Caspase‐3 and P53. The study identified nine novel peptides in SPs, of which LLEPDVR, ALVEKAKAS and TGDGSLRPY exhibited higher cell proliferative inhibition rates compared to other peptides.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest that Sacha inchi peptides have potential pharmacological effects in the treatment of liver cancer. SPs effectively suppress the cell cycle and facilitate cell apoptosis, indicating their anti‐hepatoma effect. The novel peptides identified in SPs may have therapeutic value for liver cancer treatment. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of Grafting Maleic Anhydride onto Poly‐ɛ‐caprolactone on Facilitative Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Thangunpai Kotchaporn , Hu Donghao , Kajiyama Mikio , Neves Marcos A. , Enomae Toshiharu
Published: July 2023

Plastic waste is a global issue because it causes overflowing landfills and pollution, leading to environmental concerns. To address this crisis, materials that can be decomposed in the natural environment are introduced to replace conventional plastics. Poly‐ɛ‐caprolactone (PCL) is a commonly used plastic that can degrade in natural environments. However, owing to its hydrophobicity, its natural decomposition rate is low. In this study, PCL is modified with maleic anhydride (MA) (PCL‐g‐MA) to increase hydrophilicity and amorphous region for faster decomposition. To assess the hydrolysis in seawater, lipase hydrolysis is performed to compare the decomposition of PCL‐g‐MA and PCL. Consequently, in a Pseudomonas lipase‐containing PBS solution, it takes 72 and 120 h for complete hydrolyze of PCL‐g‐MA and PCL, respectively. MA grafted onto PCL increases the amorphous region, where lipase can easily diffuse into PCL‐g‐MA. Morphological (FESEM and POM images), thermal (TGA and DSC), and structural (FTIR, XRD, and XPS) analyzes support the hydrolysis reaction. The mechanisms proposed in this study confirm that lipase hydrolysis starts in the amorphous regions and then transfers to the crystal regions. This hydrolysis progress is expected to facilitate the creation of eco‐friendly low‐cost PCL‐g‐MA composites with high‐rate hydrolysis, such as bio‐plastics and bio‐fibers.
Inhibition of phosphodiesterase PDE8B reduces activation of primordial follicles in mouse ovaries
Authors: Madsen Julie Feld , Amoushahi Mahboobeh , Choi Christian Posselt , Bundgaard Stine , Heuck Anders , Lykke‐Hartmann Karin
Published: July 2023

In the ovaries, cyclic adenosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) is a second messenger supporting the generation of steroids. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are regulators of intracellular cAMP, and therefore, potential regulators of ovarian function. Interestingly, the family of PDE genes are differentially expressed in human oocytes and granulosa cells from primordial and primary follicles, suggesting diverse roles. In this study, we addressed the functions of PDE3B and PDE8B in primordial follicle regulation using inhibitors of PDE3B and PDE8B in murine ovary primary in vitro cultures. Inhibition of PDE8B in ovarian cultures prevented primordial follicle activation, while inhibition of PDE3B had no effect on follicle distribution in the ovary, under the tested conditions. As cAMP levels may increase steroid levels, we assessed the protein levels of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and aromatase enzymes, and found that inhibition of PDE3B reduced StAR protein levels, whereas inhibition of PDE8 did not alter StAR expression in our murine ovary culture system conditions. Our results showed that ketotifen‐induced inhibition of PDE8B can decrease primordial follicle activation, whereas we observed no effect of follicle distribution, when PDE3B was inhibited. Expression of the StaR enzyme was not altered when PDE8B was inhibited, which might reflect not sufficient inhibition by ketotifen to induce StAR alterations, or redundant mechanisms.
Secondary school Student's perspectives about nursing career and their motivations to become future nurses in Singida municipal: A qualitative study
Authors: Omari Rehema Bakari , Masanja Pendo Paschal , Masika Golden Mwakibo , Hussein Mahamudu Rashid
Published: July 2023

Aim

To explore secondary school students’ perspectives about nursing careers and their motivations to become future nurses.

Design

Qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted among secondary school students in Central Tanzania. Secondary school students who study science subjects and are eligible for nursing studies were selected from two schools. Two focus‐group discussions, comprising seven and eight students per group, one in each school, were conducted. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative thematic analysis.

Results

Two themes with seven sub‐themes emerged representing students’ perspectives about nursing and the factors that motivate them to choose nursing as their future career. These themes are as follows: (1) Perspectives about a nurse and nursing, with five sub‐themes: (i) nurses’ roles; (ii) qualities of nurses; (iii) workplace for nurses; (iv) nature of the job; and (v) position of a nurse or nursing; and (2) Motivations to become future nurses, with two sub‐themes: (i) extrinsic factors, and (ii) intrinsic factors.
Ambulatory Orbital Fracture Repair: An Analysis of ER Visits After Surgery From a Multistate Study
Authors: Yu Alison J. , Collet Casey , Su Peiyi , Ference Elisabeth , Moayer Roxana
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine the 30‐day postoperative emergency room (ER) visit rate following ambulatory orbital fracture repair with same‐day discharge, and the causes and risk factors associated with ER visit.

Study Design

Database study.

Setting

State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Database (SASD) and State Emergency Department Database (SEDD) for California, New York, and Florida for 2011.

Methods

We identified orbital fracture repair procedures among adults from the SASD, which was linked to the SEDD to identify the incidence and causes of ER visits within 30 days. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the factors associated with ER visit.

Results

Among 762 patients, the 30‐day postoperative ER visit rate was 4.5%. Most ER visits (58.9%) occurred during the first week after surgery. The most common reasons for ER visits were related to pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, and fatigue (29.4%), followed by ophthalmologic etiologies including visual disturbances and infection of the eye (14.7%). There was no case of retrobulbar hematoma. In the multivariate analysis, patients living in Florida were at a significantly higher risk for ER visit compared to those in California (odds ratio: 4.48 [1.43‐14.10], p = .010).

Conclusion

Ambulatory orbital fracture repair appears to be safe. Common reasons for ER visit included pain, swelling, and ophthalmic symptoms. An increased risk for ER visit was seen with certain geographic regions but not with medical comorbidities or concurrent facial fractures or procedures.
Structural and biochemical insights into the bacteriophage PlyGRCS endolysin targeting methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and serendipitous discovery of its interaction with a cold shock protein C (CspC)
Authors: Krishnappa Gopinatha , Mandal Mitali , Ganesan Saranya , Babu Sudhagar , Padavattan Sivaraman , Haradara Bahubali Veena Kumari , Padmanabhan Balasundaram
Published: July 2023

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes life‐threatening human infections. Bacteriophage‐encoded endolysins degrade the cell walls of Gram‐positive bacteria by selectively hydrolyzing the peptidoglycan layer and thus are promising candidates to combat bacterial infections. PlyGRCS, the S. aureus‐specific bacteriophage endolysin, contains a catalytic CHAP domain and a cell‐wall binding SH3_5 domain connected by a linker. Here, we show the crystal structure of full‐length PlyGRCS refined to 2.1 Å resolution. In addition, a serendipitous finding revealed that PlyGRCS binds to cold‐shock protein C (CspC) by interacting with its CHAP and SH3_5 domains. CspC is an RNA chaperone that plays regulatory roles by conferring bacterial adaptability to various stress conditions. PlyGRCS has substantial lytic activity against S. aureus and showed only minimal change in its lytic activity in the presence of CspC. Whereas the PlyGRCS‐CspC complex greatly reduced CspC‐nucleic acid binding, the aforesaid complex may downregulate the CspC function during bacterial infection. Overall, the crystal structure and biochemical results of PlyGRCS provide a molecular basis for the bacteriolytic activity of PlyGRCS against S. aureus.
Exposure‐safety and exposure‐efficacy analyses for tisotumab vedotin for patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors
Authors: Passey Chaitali , Voellinger Jenna , Gibiansky Leonid , Gunawan Rudy , Nicacio Leonardo , Soumaoro Ibrahima , Hanley William D. , Winter Helen , Gupta Manish
Published: July 2023

The antibody‐drug conjugate (ADC) tisotumab vedotin (TV) received accelerated approval from the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of adults with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer (r/mCC) with disease progression on or after chemotherapy. A population pharmacokinetic (PK) model, developed using dosing data from four clinical TV studies, was used to estimate individual exposure and explore safety and efficacy exposure‐response (ER) relationships. Because PK analysis showed no appreciable accumulation of TV and monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) with repeated dosing, cycle 1 exposure metrics and predicted average concentrations from time zero until end of the cycle in which an event occurred (CavgLast) were used for ER analyses. The probability of achieving objective response increased significantly as the ADC cycle 1 maximum serum concentration (Cmax) increased. The probability of treatment‐related adverse events (AEs) leading to dose modification increased significantly as ADC cycle 1 area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) increased. Number of grade 2+ ocular AEs increased significantly as ADC cycle 1 AUC, Cmax, and ADC CavgLast increased. MMAE cycle 1 AUC predicted risk of serious treatment‐related AEs. The relationship between ADC exposure and efficacy end points suggests ADC treatment was associated with clinically meaningful response across the observed exposures; greater exposure was associated with increased efficacy. The relationship between ADC and MMAE exposure and safety end points suggests increased exposure was associated with increased AE risk. These results align with clinical findings showing TV 2 mg/kg (≤200 mg for patients ≥100 kg) every 3 weeks is efficacious and tolerable for patients with r/mCC.
Warm conveyor belts as amplifiers of forecast uncertainty
Authors: Pickl Moritz , Quinting Julian F. , Grams Christian M.
Published: July 2023

Warm conveyor belts (WCBs) are rapidly ascending air streams associated with extratropical cyclones. WCBs exert a substantial influence on the evolution of the large‐scale midlatitude flow and have previously been related to increased forecast uncertainty in case studies. This study provides a first systematic investigation of the role of WCBs for errors in medium‐range ensemble forecasts in the Atlantic–European region. The study is enabled through a unique data set, allowing for a Lagrangian detection of WCBs in three years of operational ensemble forecasts from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts. By analysing the relationship between commonly used error metrics of variables that characterise the large‐scale flow and WCBs, the study aims to shed light on the question of the extent to which WCBs act as a source of forecast errors and as an amplifier of pre‐existing errors in a state‐of‐the‐art global operational numerical weather prediction model. We show that forecasts with high WCB activity are on average characterised by an amplified Rossby‐wave pattern and anticyclonic flow anomalies downstream. We find that the forecast skill is generally reduced when the WCB activity is high, and that WCB activity is particularly increased when the error growth is largest. To establish a causal relationship, we employ two composite approaches. The first focuses on the time of largest error growth and the second calculates normalised forecast error fields centered on WCB objects. Both approaches yield a consistent picture: anomalously high errors are initially associated with misrepresentations of an upstream trough. In regions of WCB ascent and outflow, the errors grow rapidly in terms of magnitude and scale and are projected onto the upper‐level large‐scale circulation. We also find indications that WCBs can cause errors even when the upstream flow is well represented. Notwithstanding, evidence is robust for WCBs acting as an amplifier of forecast uncertainty.
Modular autonomous strawberry picking robotic system
Authors: Parsa Soran , Debnath Bappaditya , Khan Muhammad Arshad , E. Amir Ghalamzan
Published: July 2023

Challenges in strawberry picking made selective harvesting robotic technology very demanding. However, the selective harvesting of strawberries is a complicated robotic task forming a few scientific research questions. Most available solutions only deal with a specific picking scenario, for example, picking only a single variety of fruit in isolation. Nonetheless, most economically viable (e.g., high‐yielding and/or disease‐resistant) varieties of strawberry are grown in dense clusters. The current perception technology in such use cases is inefficient. In this work, we developed a novel system capable of harvesting strawberries with several unique features. These features allow the system to deal with very complex picking scenarios, for example, dense clusters. Our concept of a modular system makes our system reconfigurable to adapt to different picking scenarios. We designed, manufactured, and tested a patented picking head with 2.5‐degrees of freedom (two independent mechanisms and one dependent cutting system) capable of removing possible occlusions and harvesting the targeted strawberry without any contact with the fruit flesh to avoid damage and bruising. In addition, we developed a novel perception system to localize strawberries and detect their key points, picking points, and determine their ripeness. For this purpose, we introduced two new data sets. Finally, we tested the system in a commercial strawberry growing field and our research farm with three different strawberry varieties. The results show the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed system. The designed picking head was able to remove occlusions and harvest strawberries effectively. The perception system was able to detect and determine the ripeness of strawberries with 95% accuracy. In total, the system was able to harvest 87% of all detected strawberries with a success rate of 83% for all pluckable fruits. We also discuss a series of open research questions in the discussion section.
Territorial Digital Twins: A key for increasing the community resilience of fragile mountain inner territories?
Authors: Chioni Chiara , Pezzica Camilla , Favargiotti Sara
Published: July 2023

Areas suffering territorial imbalances are at risk, as climate change and inherent social‐spatial vulnerabilities bring uncertainty over their capacity to achieve sustainable development. To enable policy‐makers' vision for them, the paper proposes adopting digitally‐enhanced disaster risk reduction practices which promote civic engagement and evidence‐based decision‐making. The study introduces the concept of Territorial Digital Twins (TDTs) demonstrating the potential benefits of networking distributed information resources and enabling their integration in two paradigmatic Italian inner mountain areas, which are linked to different priorities of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR). This contribution argues the importance of complementing the technical approach with the social perspective in the development of TDTs oriented at increasing the community resilience of territorially imbalanced areas. It then illustrates the usefulness of exploiting TDTs (from photogrammetry, GIS mapping, Space Syntax analysis) to overcome the barriers to the SFDRR, and enable its effective implementation in localities.
Promoting local food products for sustainability: Developing a taxonomy of best practices
Authors: Guillaumie Laurence , Vézina‐Im Lydi‐Anne , Boiral Olivier , Prescott Jacques , Bergeron Amélie , Yuriev Alexander
Published: July 2023

The number of practices promoting local food have been rapidly growing in recent years, mainly in response to the increasing interest from consumers and their sustainability benefits. The objective of this scoping review is to present a taxonomy of the most promising promotion practices in this domain. A targeted search within a database specialized in storing newspaper articles resulted in the identification of 78 documents that were published prior to COVID‐19 pandemic. Their analysis led to the development of a taxonomy containing four major categories regrouping 14 types of initiatives to promote local food products. The review also highlighted the principal strengths of these initiatives (e.g., facilitating access to local food products, promoting social diversity, integration, and solidarity), as well as some obstacles (e.g., funding, infrastructure, and volunteer recruitment). The taxonomy presented in this review can be used to guide the analysis of existing or the development of new local food promotion initiatives, thus encouraging sustainability in this domain.
Stabilize Sodium Metal Anode by Integrated Patterning of Laser‐Induced Graphene with Regulated Na Deposition Behavior
Authors: Xiao Hong , Li Yijuan , Chen Weizhao , Xie Tangchao , Zhu Hengji , Zheng Weitao , He Jialang , Huang Shaoming
Published: July 2023

Metallic sodium is regarded as the most potential anode for sodium‐ion batteries due to its high capacity and earth‐abundancy. Nevertheless, uncontrolled Na dendrite growth and infinite volume change remain great challenges for developing high‐performance sodium metal batteries. This work provides a simple and general approach to stabilize sodium metal anode (SMA) by constructing Sn nanoparticles‐anchored laser‐induced graphene on copper foil (Sn@LIG@Cu) consisting of Sn@LIG composite, polyimide (PI) columns, and Cu current collector. The Sn‐based sodiophilic species effectively reduce the Na nucleation overpotential and regulate the dendrite Na‐free deposition. While the flexible PI columns act as binder and buffer the volume variation of Na during cycling. Besides, the unique patterned structure provides continuous and rapid channels for ion transportation, promoting the Na+ transport kinetics. Therefore, the as‐fabricated Sn@LIG@Cu electrode exhibits outstanding rate performance to 40 mA cm−2 and excellent cycling stability without dendrite growth, which is confirmed by in‐situ optical microscopy observation. Moreover, the practical full cell based on such an anode displays a favorable rate capability of up to 10 C and cycling performance at 5 C for 600 cycles. This work thus demonstrates a facile, highly‐efficient, and scalable approach to stabilize SMAs and can be extended to other battery systems.
From Pristine to Heteroatom‐Doped Graphene Quantum Dots: An Essential Review and Prospects for Future Research
Authors: Im Min Ji , Kim Jin Il , Hyeong Seok‐Ki , Moon Byung Joon , Bae Sukang
Published: July 2023

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are carbon‐based zero‐dimensional materials that have received considerable scientific interest due to their exceptional optical, electrical, and optoelectrical properties. Their unique electronic band structures, influenced by quantum confinement and edge effects, differentiate the physical and optical characteristics of GQDs from other carbon nanostructures. Additionally, GQDs can be synthesized using various top‐down and bottom‐up approaches, distinguishing them from other carbon nanomaterials. This review discusses recent advancements in GQD research, focusing on their synthesis and functionalization for potential applications. Particularly, various methods for synthesizing functionalized GQDs using different doping routes are comprehensively reviewed. Based on previous reports, current challenges and future directions for GQDs research are discussed in detail herein.
Cancer risk and mortality in patients with solitary juvenile polyps—A nationwide cohort study with matched controls
Authors: Jelsig Anne Marie , Wullum Laus , Kuhlmann Tine Plato , Ousager Lilian Bomme , Burisch Johan , Karstensen John Gásdal
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The risk of cancer in patients with solitary colorectal juvenile polyps (JPs) is poorly investigated and several studies have reported polyps with dysplastic and adenomatous alterations. We aimed to investigate the long‐term risk of cancer and mortality in these patients by merging data from national registers and comparing them to a matched control cohort.

Materials and Methods

Patients with a solitary JP were identified in The Danish National Pathology Register and Data Bank (DNPR). The included patients were matched on sex, age, and place of birth with 50 controls. The groups were then analyzed for risk of cancer using the Danish Cancer Registry and mortality using the Danish Cause of Death Registry.

Results

We identified 1781 patients with solitary JPs and matched them with 83,713 controls. The mean follow‐up time was 7.65 years for cases and 7.36 years for controls. The risk of cancer, including colorectal cancer, did not differ for the two groups and when adjusting for sex and year of birth, the hazard ratio (HR) was 1.15 (confidence interval [CI] 95% 0.94–1.41, p = 0.162). There was no increased risk of death (HR: 1.07, CI 95% 0.88–1.30, p = 0.486). The risk did not differ for different age groups or sex.

Conclusion

There is no increased risk of cancer or mortality for patients with solitary colorectal JPs. Thus, endoscopic follow‐up may be safely omitted in these patients.
CT anatomy and normal radiography of the skull of the Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Vajhi Ali Reza , Soroori Sarang , Soflaei Reihaneh , Zehtabvar Omid , Tonekabony Seyyed Hossein Modarres , Memarian Iman
Published: July 2023

Background

Considering the relationship between human morphology and physiology with the Rhesus monkey, this animal is the most prominent species of laboratory primate for human and animal health research. Moreover, sending Macaca mulatta monkey into space and simulating a living environment for humans shows the similarity of this animal's physiology with humans.

Objective

So far, no comprehensive study has been done on computed tomography (CT) scan and radiography of skulls in Rhesus monkeys. Therefore, providing accurate documents from the CT anatomy of the skull in these animals can help us to better understand normal conditions and diseases, and we can use a functional atlas of diagnostic imaging from the skull of this animal.

Methods

Ten mature monkeys weighing 6.5 kg were used for this project (five males and five females). A radiographic examination with standard views was performed during general anaesthesia. Then the monkeys were placed in a spherical CT scan during general anaesthesia with standard sternal recumbency.

Results

The frontal bone was seen as two parallel radiopaque lines coming forward and downward. The frontal sinus in the Rhesus monkey was not visible in both lateral and dorsoventral radiographs, which could indicate the degeneration of this sinus in this species. The number of teeth in an adult monkey was 32. Molar teeth had a bilophodont arrangement.

Conclusions

The comparison between the size of the eye ball in human and Rhesus monkey, unlike other measured parameters, did not differ much, and this indicates that the volume ratio of the eye ball to the whole skull in Rhesus monkey is higher than that of humans.
Revisiting the frontier of the Zintl–Klemm approach for the examples of three Mo2FeB2‐type intermetallics by means of quantumchemical techniques
Authors: Steinberg Simon
Published: July 2023

The Zintl–Klemm idea is a remarkable formalism that can guide us through the crystal structure–electronic structure relationships of solids showing a particular correlation between charge transfers, (8–N) rule and the corresponding structural fragments. Accordingly, this approach has been applied to interpret the relationships between the crystal and electronic structures for numerous intermetallics; yet, are all of these applications of the Zintl–Klemm idea indeed helpful? To answer this question, quantumchemical means were used to explore the electronic structures of three prototypical intermetallics, i.e. LiY2Si2, Sc2Si2Al, and Y2Pd2In. These compounds crystallize with the Mo2FeB2 type of structure whose structure model may be derived from that of the widely encountered U3Si2‐type. The explorations of the electronic structures included examinations of the Mulliken charges, the projected crystal orbital Hamilton populations (pCOHP), the recently introduced crystal orbital bond indices (COBI) and the respective integrated pCOHP as well as COBI values (IpCOHP and ICOBI). The outcome of these investigations indicates that widely diverse types of bonding are evident for the inspected intermetallics so that the predictive power of the Zintl–Klemm idea is limited.
Synthesis, crystal and electronic structure of the Zintl phase Ba16Sb11. A case study uncovering greater structural complexity via monoclinic distortion of the tetragonal Ca16Sb11 structure type.
Authors: Baranets Sviatoslav , Ovchinnikov Alexander , Samarakoon S. M. Gayomi K. , Bobev Svilen
Published: July 2023

The binary Zintl phase Ba16Sb11 has been synthesized and structurally characterized. Detailed studies via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction methods indicate that although Ba16Sb11 appears to crystallize in the tetragonal Ca16Sb11 structure type (space group P
21m with a=13.5647(9) Å, c=12.4124(12) Å, Z=2, R1=3.14 %; wR2=4.77 %), there exists an extensive structural disorder. Some Ba16Sb11 crystals were found to be monoclinic and the structure was solved and refined in space group P21 (a=18.3929(12) Å, b=13.5233(8) Å, c=18.3978(12) Å, β=94.6600(10)°; Z=4, R1=5.84 %; wR2=9.58 %). The latter corresponds to a 2‐fold superstructure of the tetragonal one, which provides a disorder‐free structural model. In both descriptions, the disordered tetragonal and the ordered monoclinic superstructure, the basic building units that make up the structure of this Ba‐rich compound are pairs of face‐shared square antiprisms of Ba atoms, which are centered by Sb atoms. The dimerized antiprisms are linked into parallel chains via square prisms of Ba atoms, which are also centered by Sb atoms. The Zintl concept can be applied in a straightforward manner and as result, the structure of Ba32Sb22 (=2×Ba16Sb11) can be rationalized as (Ba2+)32(Sb3−)20[Sb2]4−. The partitioning of the valence electrons is done taking into an account the homoatomic Sb−Sb contacts (d=3.01 Å), which can be clearly distinguished in the lower symmetry space group. Electronic structure calculations of Ba16Sb11 are in good accordance with the Zintl rationalization and predict a semiconductor with a band gap of 0.77 eV.
Geopolitics of Oil and Gas in the MENA Region
Authors: Hafner Manfred , Raimondi Pier Paolo , Bonometti Benedetta
Published: July 2023

The chapter examines key geopolitical aspects related to oil and gas in the MENA region. By proposing several key case studies related to the Gulf, Mashreq and Maghreb, the chapter outlines how the entire MENA region has become a major geopolitical hotspot given its key role in the current global energy system. Furthermore, the chapter takes into account several regional and international developments in order to assess the role of natural resources in the growing global energy competition.
Geopolitics of the Energy Transformation in the MENA Region
Authors: Hafner Manfred , Raimondi Pier Paolo , Bonometti Benedetta
Published: July 2023

The energy transition both in MENA countries and at the international level entails massive consequences for the region. The chapter presents different factors determining the future geopolitical role for MENA oil and gas exporters as well as MENA hydrocarbon-poor countries. By doing so, the chapter identifies the possible strategies, competitive advantages and constraints that will define the future geopolitical relevance both in the hydrocarbon sector (for hydrocarbon-exporters) and in the clean energy sector (for all MENA countries).
National Histories, Private Memories: Indonesia and the Japanese Occupation
Authors: Wray Jacob
Published: July 2023

In 1982, the Japanese Ministry of Education authorised the publication of a history textbook in which some of Imperial Japan’s most controversial acts of wartime aggression were significantly downplayed, if not altogether omitted. The publication of the textbook angered the governments and peoples of many former occupied territories. The governments of China and South Korea, for instance, accused Japan of attempting to rewrite history and thus denying responsibility for the brutalities it inflicted upon colonial subjects during the Second World War. Okinawans denounced the omission of the forced mass suicides which took place during the Battle of Okinawa, the Taiwanese government made representations over the depiction of the colonial administration in Formosa, and activists in Hong Kong organised large-scale protests at which a petition condemning the textbook collected some 400,000 signatures.
Dexamethasone improves thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis via the AKT-mTOR pathway
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Chen Si , Wang Yan , Zhang Zeyang , Zhang Hui , Wang Ziyi , Tao Ziyou , Wang Jianyao , Zhang Peng
Published: July 2023

Clinically, thymoma patients are often complicated with myasthenia gravis (MG). Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory effects, could be used as an immunosuppressant for thymoma-associated MG, but the mechanism of action remains to be explored. In this study, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of potential targets was performed by screening the intersection targets of dexamethasone and thymoma-associated MG from the database. Furthermore, the key targets and core active components were identified by topological analysis of the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. Molecular docking technology was applied to screen the complexes with stable binding of dexamethasone and core targets. Patients with thymoma were divided into two groups according to whether they received dexamethasone before operation, and immunohistochemistry and western blot were used to verify the selected target of dexamethasone in treating thymoma-associated MG. The results showed that the action pathway of dexamethasone on the disease was closely enriched to phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (PKB/AKT), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. The expressions of AKT1 and its downstream molecule mTOR in the thymoma microenvironment of thymoma-associated MG patients who did not receive dexamethasone before operation were higher than those in the group receiving dexamethasone before operation. This study demonstrates that dexamethasone can promote apoptosis through the AKT-mTOR pathway for the treatment of thymoma-associated MG, as validated by network pharmacology predictions and clinical specimen experiments, and can be verified by large-scale clinical trials in the future. This study also provides theoretical support and new research perspectives for this disease.
Adherence to oral anticoagulation measured by electronic monitoring in a Belgian atrial fibrillation population
Authors: Knaepen Lieselotte , Delesie Michiel , Vijgen Johan , Dendale Paul , Ector Joris , Desteghe Lien , Heidbuchel Hein
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Stroke prevention using oral anticoagulation (OAC) is the first management priority in atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite the importance of good therapy adherence, real-world adherence is still suboptimal. Patient education and adherence monitoring with new technologies are recommended. The main purpose of this sub-analysis of the AF-EduCare trial was to evaluate the effect of personalized follow-up strategies on adherence to OAC.

Methods

Regimen adherence was monitored by the electronic Medication Event Monitoring System cap at the start of the trial (M1) and after 12 months (M2), each for three months. Patients were part of one of three education groups (In-person, Online or App-based) or the standard care (SC) group. All are qualified for OAC therapy.

Results

A total of 768 patients were evaluated (11.8% SC vs. 86.8% any education group, mean age: 70.1 ± 7.9 years). Patients were taking non-vitamin K OAC (once daily 53.8%; twice daily 35.9%) or vitamin K antagonists (9.4%), equally distributed over the different study arms (p = 0.457). Mean therapy adherence was high (M1:93.8 ± 10.8%; M2:94.1 ± 10.1%). During both monitoring periods, the education group scored significantly higher than SC (M1:94.2 ± 10.0% vs. 91.3 ± 15.0%; p = 0.027; M2:94.4 ± 9.3% vs. 91.6 ± 14.0%; p = 0.006). More patients in the In-person and Online groups were able to keep or improve their adherence to > 90% compared to the SC.

Conclusion

Overall adherence to OAC in all study groups, even in SC, was very high, without attrition over time. Nevertheless, targeted education led to a small but significantly improved adherence compared to SC.

Graphical Abstract
AI-ChatGPT/GPT-4: An Booster for the Development of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in the New Era!
Authors: Peng Shengxin , Wang Deqiang , Liang Yuanhao , Xiao Wenshan , Zhang Yixiang , Liu Lei
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been driving the continuous development of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) fields. The latest release of ChatGPT/GPT-4 has shown us that AI can potentially transform the healthcare industry. In this study, we propose various ways in which ChatGPT/GPT-4 can display its talents in the field of PM&R in future. ChatGPT/GPT-4 is an essential tool for Physiatrists in the new era.
Distribution of the soft tick Carios vespertilionis in lowlands and low mountain regions of Germany
Authors: Fritzsche Anja , Zaenker Stefan , Gottwald Jannis , Keil Renate , Zaenker Christian , Bröker Michael , Chitimia-Dobler Lidia
Published: July 2023

In Germany, the knowledge about ticks infesting bats is limited, and is restricted only to a few studies, most of them dating back decades. To further improve our knowledge on ticks parasitising bats, healthy and sick bats in central Germany were examined for ticks. In total 519 larvae and one nymph of Carios vespertilionis were collected from nine bat species: Eptesicus nilssonii, Eptesicus serotinus, Myotis daubentonii, Myotis myotis, Nyctalus leisleri, Pipistrellus nathusii, Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Pipistrellus pipistrellus, and Vespertilio murinus. Either the presence of C. vespertilionis was new for some areas or it was confirmed in some federal states in central Germany. The infestation rate was mostly low (n = 1–5 larvae/bat). However, in two cases a high number of ticks was observed. The highest infestation of 97 C. vespertilionis larvae was recorded on one Parti-coloured bat (V. murinus).