bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solvent‐Free Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol Using Modified Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) Catalysts
Authors: Arrozi Ubed S. F. , Pratama Rafi , Soraya Fathimah , Permana Yessi , Hartina Siti , Salduna Eunike , Lestari Witri Wahyu , Ciptonugroho Wirawan , Budiman Yudha P.
Published: June 2024

Selective oxidation of alcohols towards carbonyl‐based products, such as aldehydes, is a subject of significant interest in the field of catalysis. Herein, a Zn‐based MOF with 2‐methylimidazolate linker (ZIF‐8) is modified and introduced as catalysts in a selective oxidation of alcohol with benzyl alcohol as the model of the reaction. Modification of ZIF‐8 includes the inclusion of Co(II), Cu(II) or Ni(II) ions as partial replacements for the original Zn(II) metal ions during the synthesis process. The resulting modified ZIF‐8 displays similar PXRD patterns to that of ZIF‐8, indicating no alteration of structures after the introduction of Co(II), Cu(II) or Ni(II) ions. However, the addition of Co(II) was found to modify the resulting ZIF‐8 composition to a higher extent compared to that of Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions. The catalytic test of benzyl alcohol oxidation was performed in a solvent‐free condition with TBHP as the oxidant. Reaction optimization includes reaction temperature, mass of catalysts, TBHP concentration, and reaction time. Among all the catalysts employed in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol, Co(II)‐ and Cu(II)‐modified ZIF‐8 show the highest catalytic activity with 64 % and 62 % conversion, respectively. Furthermore, the catalyst leaching and recyclability tests show that the reactions proceed in heterogeneous systems.
Lead‐Free Perovskite‐Based Photocatalysts for Solar‐Driven Chemistry Technologies
Authors: Segura Camilo , Flores Mario E. , Osorio‐Román Igor , Jara‐Quinteros Danilo H. , Yoon Seog Joon , Gualdrón‐Reyes Andrés F.
Published: June 2024

The high consumption of fossil fuels and concomitant contamination of the environment have promoted the search for new, low‐cost, and cleaner energy sources to satisfy the current energy demand around the world, decreasing the levels of greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. One of the promising strategies to facilitate the generation of renewable energy involves solar‐driven chemical reactions, by using photocatalysts with improved sunlight absorption and carrier transfer abilities. Lead‐free halide perovskites (LFHPs) are good candidates, showing mesmerizing optical features, modulable band structure, oxidizing/reducing capability, and less toxicity compared to their Pb‐analogous. However, the literature reporting the photo(electro)chemical (PEC) properties of the LFHPs‐based materials for solar energy production is scarce. This review describes the current state‐of‐the‐art exhibiting the influence of the dimensionality, chemical composition and the formation of heterojunctions based on LFHPs on their photo(electro)activity for conducting solar‐driven hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction, and the degradation of recalcitrant pollutants to obtain added‐value chemicals. In this way, it is also included the main challenges to be faced. Furthermore, we address some potential LFHPs to be explored in PEC systems, opening up the gamut of possibilities to consolidate the solar‐to‐chemical transformation as an innovative alternative to favor environmentally friendly energy production.
Solution Combustion Synthesised Cu‐CeO2 Catalysts For CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol‐ the Effect of the Fuel
Authors: Xaba Bongokuhle S. , Friedrich Holger B. , Singh Sooboo , Mahomed Abdul S.
Published: June 2024

The tunability of structural properties such as oxygen vacancies, Cu surface composition, reducibility of CuO, and basicity by solution combustion synthesised (SCS) Cu‐CeO2 catalysts was investigated. Five different fuels, viz. urea (U), tartaric acid (TA), citric acid (CA), ethylene glycol (EG) and oxalyl dihydrazide (ODH), were employed in the synthesis of the catalysts. Raman spectroscopy, O2‐TPD and XPS revealed that the urea synthesised catalyst had the highest concentration of oxygen vacancies, the amount of which was controlled by the fuel used. The oxygen vacancies were the catalytic sites for CO2 adsorption and promoted electron donation to Cu at the Cu‐CeO2 junction, thus improving H2 adsorption and spillover, which was beneficial for methanol synthesis. The better catalytic performance of the urea synthesised Cu‐CeO2 catalyst with a methanol STY of 163 gCH3OH kg−1cat h−1 compared to the other solution combustion synthesis fuels, was attributable to higher oxygen vacancies, more facile Cu reduction, larger Cu surface area and higher Cu surface composition. Based on the absence of the Cu+ species capable of directing the methanol synthesis reaction through the CO intermediate based on XPS data, we surmised that the formate route was the preferred pathway for the studied Cu‐CeO2 catalysts.
Antimicrobial Nanocomposites from Chitosan and Squash Synthesized Nano‐Selenium Eradicate Skin Pathogens
Authors: Meshref Esraa M. , Omar Amira A. E.‐D. , Moussa Shaaban H. , Alabdalall Amira H. , Al‐Saggaf Mohammed S. , Alalawy Adel I. , Almutairi Fahad M. , Gad Hend A. , Tayel Ahmed A.
Published: June 2024

Skin health and protection are paramount in the pursuit of well‐being and beauty. In this study, we introduce an innovative approach to develop skin protectant agents by nanocomposites derived from natural sources, involves the synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using squash plant mucilage (SqM), and their integration with nano chitosan (NCht) to create a stable, antimicrobial and efficacious composite. The interactions between nanomaterials were proved via infra‐red analysis and electron microscopy. The SqM‐biosynthesized SeNPs had 11.47 nm diameter. Different blends were nanocomposited from NCht and SqM/SeNPs; the NC‐2 nanocomposite (with equal ratios from them) had mean diameter of 241.38 nm and negatively charged. The antimicrobial actions of produced nanomaterials/nanocomposites were validated against skin pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, using antimicrobial assays and electron microscopy. The most effectual antimicrobial was NC‐2; the loading of it onto cotton textile provided potent antimicrobial fabrics toward both skin pathogens. The innovative biosynthesis of SeNPs using SqM and their nanocompositing with NCht provided pioneering powerful antimicrobial complexes to control skin pathogens, either through direct interaction or by fabricating hygienic antimicrobial textiles.
Impact of Organic Sulfur on Coal Graphitization
Authors: Li Ruiqing , Tang Yuegang , Liu Suning , Che Qili , Luo Peng , Chen Cong , Xue Liping , Xu Xiaoting
Published: June 2024

The utilization of high‐sulfur coal, especially high‐organic coal, has always been a difficult hot spot in the energy field. To study the influence of sulfur in coal on coal‐based graphite products, a series of coal samples with different sulfur content and different degrees of coalification were collected for proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, and sulfur species analysis. The structural characteristics of coal‐based graphite products were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The relationships between the sulfur in coal and the yield (Y), graphitization degree (G), cell diameter (La), and stacking height (Lc) of coal‐based graphite products were explored. The yield of coal‐based graphite ranges from 8.92 % to 64.45 %, and it was found that the yield of coal‐based graphite is not only affected by the degree of coalification, fixed carbon content, and volatile matter content of coal but also significantly inhibited by organic sulfur in coal when the reflectance is less than 2.00 %. The graphitization degree (G) of coal‐based graphite is distributed between 76.02 % and 91.02 %, and positively related to the degree of coalification, and negatively related to the content of volatile matter. Organic sulfur in coal is an unfavorable factor for the graphitization degree (G) of coal‐based graphite. Both the cell diameter (La) and stacking height (Lc) of coal‐based graphite are positively correlated with the degree of coalification and negatively correlated with the volatile matter content in coal. Organic sulfur in coal plays an important inhibitory role on the cell diameter (La) of coal‐based graphite. Still, it has almost no effect on the stacking height (Lc) of coal‐based graphite, resulting in a low ratio of horizontal‐to‐vertical (La/Lc), which is not conducive to the horizontal development of coal‐based graphite cells.
Cover Picture: (ChemistrySelect 25/2024)
Authors: Muratov Dmitry S. , Luchnikov Lev O. , Saranin Danila S. , Ishteev Artur R. , Kurichenko Vladislav , Kolesnikov Evgeniy A. , Kuznetsov Denis V. , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: June 2024

no Abstract
Non‐Fullerene Organic Electron Transport Materials toward Stable and Efficient Inverted Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Wang Han , Zhang Chenyang , Yao Yiguo , Cheng Caidong , Wang Kai
Published: June 2024

Inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) attract continuing interest due to their low processing temperature, suppressed hysteresis, and compatibility with tandem cells. Considerable progress has been made with reported power conversion efficiency (PCE) surpassing 26%. Electron transport Materials (ETMs) play a critical role in achieving high‐performance PSCs because they not only govern electron extraction and transport from the perovskite layer to the cathode, but also protect the perovskite from contact with ambient environment. On the other hand, the non‐radiative recombination losses at the perovskite/ETM interface also limits the future development of PSCs. Compared with fullerene derivatives, non‐fullerene n‐type organic semiconductors feature advantages like molecular structure diversity, adjustable energy level, and easy modification. Herein, the non‐fullerene ETM is systematically summarized based on the molecular functionalization strategy. Various types of molecular design approaches for producing non‐fullerene ETM are presented, and the insight on relationship of chemical structure and device performance is discussed. Meantime, the future trend of non‐fullerene ETM is analyzed. It is hoped that this review provides insightful perspective for the innovation of new non‐fullerene ETMs toward more efficient and stable PSCs.
Nest‐Scheme RuIrLa Nanocrystals by NP‐to‐NP Oriented Assembly: Coherent Strain Fields‐Driven Band Structure Splitting for Efficient Acidic Water Oxidation
Authors: Li Rongchao , Liu Jingjun , Yin Guanwang , Sun Yanhui , Liu Feng , Gan Jun , Gao Shixin
Published: June 2024

Atomic substructure engineering provides new opportunities for the designing newly and efficient catalysts with diverse atom ensembles, trimmed electron bands, and way‐out coordination environments, creating unique contributing to concertedly catalyze water oxidation, which is of great significance for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE). Herein, nest‐scheme RuIrLa nanocrystals with dense coherent interfaces as built‐in substructures are firstly fabricated by using commercial ZnO particles as acid‐removable templates, through a La‐stabilized coherent epitaxial growth of nanoparticles (NPs). The obtained nests exhibit a low overpotential of 198 mV at 10 mA cm−2, and the RuIrLa||Pt/C module equipped in PEMWE operates stably at a cell voltage potential of 1.69 V at 100 mA cm−2 in 0.5 M H2SO4 for 55 h, which is far beyond the current IrO2||Pt/C. Within the nests, the position at the interface shows high tensile/compressive strain, significantly reducing the OER activation energy. More importantly, the La termination‐stabilized coherent interfaces within the nests creates a unique self‐healing process for the outstanding long‐term stability. This work provides a promising substructure engineering to develop efficient catalysts with abundant substructures, such as coherent interfaces, dislocations, or grain boundaries, thereby realizing concerted improvement of activity and durability toward water oxidation.
Highly Sensitive 3D‐Nanoplasmonic‐Based Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutation Multiplex Assay Chip for Liquid Biopsy
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Jeong Byeong‐Ho , Jung Ho Sang , Kang Taejoon , Park Yeonkyung , Rho Jin Kyung , Park Sung‐Gyu , Lee Min‐Young
Published: June 2024

Economical mutation detection method with high analytical and clinical sensitivity is necessary for early cancer diagnosis and screening. In this study, a novel 3D‐nanoplasmonic‐based multiplex mutation assay chip is developed to detect epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. This assay kit comprises a 3D‐nanoplasmonic substrate immobilized with capture probes and primer–probe sets for recombinase polymerase amplification, wild‐type inhibition, and fluorescence detection, enabling multiplex detection of EGFR exon 19 deletions, exon 20 insertions, and exon 21 L858R point mutations. The strategy facilitates the detection of all deletions and insertions within the target region with extremely high analytical sensitivity, detecting as low as 1 × 10−9% mutation frequency, implying three copies/reactions and 100 zM. The synergistic effects of plasmon‐enhanced fluorescence from the 3D‐nanoplasmonic substrate and wild‐type inhibitor contribute to this high analytical sensitivity. Moreover, the developed chip exhibits 100% accuracy in the clinical testing of plasma samples from normal individuals and patients with benign lung tumor and malignant lung tumor. With high sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities, this assay operates at a low reaction temperature (around 37 °C) and requires a short processing time, ≈70 min post‐cell‐free DNA extraction. These features make the chip a valuable tool for easy and widespread cancer screening.
Nanotechnology‐Fortified Manipulation of Cell Ca2+ Signaling
Authors: Zhou Yaofeng , Zhang Zherui , Zhou Chen , Ma Yuanhong , Huang Haoye , Liu Junqiu , Zhu Dingcheng
Published: June 2024

The manipulation of cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) plays a crucial role in the study of Ca2+ signaling and the therapy of its affected diseases. Nanotechnology enables the development of nanotransducers for targeted, non‐invasive, highly spatiotemporal, and on‐demand [Ca2+]i regulation by responding to external energy fields to activate Ca2+ channels, in situ deliver Ca2+, or release the payload of chemical modulators. As considerable strides have been made in Ca2+ signaling‐related fundamental research and applications in recent years, in this article, it is tried to present a thorough review of nanotransducer‐based [Ca2+]i manipulation, from the working principle to specific applications. Focusing on the design rationale and constructions of nanotransducers, the interactions between nanotransducers and Ca2+ channels are highlighted, as well as the downstream effectors of Ca2+ signaling pathways, followed by their representative biomedical applications in disease treatment and neuromodulation. Moreover, despite the enormous progress made to date, nanotransducer‐regulated Ca2+ signaling still confronts obstacles, and several scientific issues urgently need to be resolved. Thus, to provide brief and valid instructions for the development of nanotransducers for the regulation of Ca2+ signaling, proposals on how to improve the nanotransducer‐based [Ca2+]i manipulation as well as future challenges and prospects are discussed.
Cost‐Effective Synthesis Method: Toxic Solvent‐Free Approach for Stable Mixed Cation Perovskite Powders in Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Nambiraj Balagowtham , Kunka Ravindran Acchutharaman , Muthu Senthil Pandian , Perumalsamy Ramasamy
Published: June 2024

Organometallic lead halide perovskite powders have gained widespread attention for their intriguing properties, showcasing remarkable performance in the optoelectronic applications. In this study, formamidinium lead iodide (α‐FAPbI3) microcrystals (MCs) is synthesized using retrograde solubility‐driven crystallization. Additionally, methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr3) and cesium lead iodide (δ‐CsPbI3) MCs are prepared through a sonochemical process, employing low‐grade PbX2 (X = I & Br) precursors and an eco‐friendly green solvent (γ‐Valerolactone). The study encompasses an analysis of the structural, optical, thermal, elemental, and morphological characteristics of FAPbI3, MAPbBr3, and CsPbI3 MCs. Upon analysing phase stability, a phase transition in FAPbI3 MCs is observed after 2 weeks. To address this issue, a powder‐based mechanochemical method is employed to synthesize stable mixed cation perovskite powders (MCPs) by subjecting FAPbI3 and MAPbBr3 MCs with varying concentrations of CsPbI3. Furthermore, the performance of mixed cation perovskites are examined using the Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS‐1D) software. The impact of cesium incorporation in the photovoltaic characteristics is elucidated. All mixed cation absorbers exhibited optimal device performance with a thickness ranging between 0.6–1.5 µm. It's worth noting that the MCPs exhibit impressive ambient stability, remaining structurally intact and retaining their properties without significant degradation for 70 days of ambient exposure.
Who is to put the bell on the cat? Democracy, dictatorship, and James M. Buchanan's early 1980s involvement with Pinochet's Chile
Authors: Farrant Andrew , Tarko Vlad
Published: June 2024

Although Milton Friedman's mid‐1970s involvement with Pinochet's Chile has generated much controversy, the claim that James M. Buchanan was similarly eager to provide Pinochet's military dictatorship with early 1980s policy advice is increasingly reported as an established fact in the vast scholarly literature on neoliberalism. This article invokes a wealth of previously ignored primary source material that sheds significant new light on Buchanan's early 1980s involvement with Chile. In particular, we evaluate whether Buchanan's May 1980 visit to Chile was an integral part of the Pinochet junta's late 1970s and early 1980s efforts to draft a new constitution. Similarly, we evaluate whether Buchanan's ideas had any significant influence on the views of Pedro Ibáñez and Carlos Cáceres (the most anti‐democratic members of Pinochet's Council of State and the primary hosts of Buchanan's May 1980 visit to Chile). Finally, we shed important new light on Buchanan's participation in the highly controversial late 1981 Mont Pèlerin Society meeting in Chile.
Inhibiting Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase to Counteract Chemoresistance and Stem Cell‐Like Properties in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Tsai Hsiao‐Chi , Lien Ming‐Yu , Wang Shih‐Wei , Fong Yi‐Chin , Tang Chih‐Hsin
Published: June 2024

Osteosarcoma, a highly aggressive bone cancer, often develops resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics, leading to poor prognosis and survival rates. The malignancy and chemoresistance of osteosarcoma pose significant challenges in its treatment, highlighting the critical need for novel therapeutic approaches. Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays a pivotal role in B‐cell development and has been linked to various cancers, including breast, lung, and oral cancers, where it contributes to tumor growth and chemoresistance. Despite its established importance in these malignancies, the impact of BTK on osteosarcoma remains unexplored. Our study delves into the expression levels of BTK in osteosarcoma tissues by data from the GEO and TCGA database, revealing a marked increase in BTK expression compared with primary osteoblasts and a potential correlation with primary site progression. Through our investigations, we identified a subset of osteosarcoma cells, named cis‐HOS, which exhibited resistance to cisplatin. These cells displayed characteristics of cancer stem cells (CSCs), demonstrated a higher angiogenesis effect, and had an increased migration ability. Notably, an upregulation of BTK was observed in these cisplatin‐resistant cells. The application of ibrutinib, a BTK inhibitor, significantly mitigated these aggressive traits. Our study demonstrates that BTK plays a crucial role in conferring chemoresistance in osteosarcoma. The upregulation of BTK in cisplatin‐resistant cells was effectively countered by ibrutinib. These findings underscore the potential of targeting BTK as an effective strategy to overcome chemoresistance in osteosarcoma treatment.
Q&A: Methods for estimating genetic gain in sub‐Saharan Africa and achieving improved gains
Authors: Dieng Ibnou , Gardunia Brian , Covarrubias‐Pazaran Giovanny , Gemenet Dorcus C. , Trognitz Bodo , Ofodile Sam , Fowobaje Kayode , Ntukidem Solomon , Shah Trushar , Imoro Simon , Tripathi Leena , Mushoriwa Hapson , Mbabazi Ruth , Salvo Stella , Derera John
Published: June 2024

Regular measurement of realized genetic gain allows plant breeders to assess and review the effectiveness of their strategies, allocate resources efficiently, and make informed decisions throughout the breeding process. Realized genetic gain estimation requires separating genetic trends from nongenetic trends using the linear mixed model (LMM) on historical multi‐environment trial data. The LMM, accounting for the year effect, experimental designs, and heterogeneous residual variances, estimates best linear unbiased estimators of genotypes and regresses them on their years of origin. An illustrative example of estimating realized genetic gain was provided by analyzing historical data on fresh cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) yield in West Africa (https://github.com/Biometrics‐IITA/Estimating‐Realized‐Genetic‐Gain). This approach can serve as a model applicable to other crops and regions. Modernization of breeding programs is necessary to maximize the rate of genetic gain. This can be achieved by adopting genomics to enable faster breeding, accurate selection, and improved traits through genomic selection and gene editing. Tracking operational costs, establishing robust, digitalized data management and analytics systems, and developing effective varietal selection processes based on customer insights are also crucial for success. Capacity building and collaboration of breeding programs and institutions also play a significant role in accelerating genetic gains.
Transforming environmental sustainability: Lime‐treated used coffee grounds for innovative eco‐friendly epoxy composite materials
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh , Oanh Doan Thi Yen , Ngo Thuy Van , Nguyen Thi Huong , Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong , Bui Thi Thu Trang , Dam Xuan Thang , Nguyen Kim An , Nguyen Minh Viet , Nguyen Quang Tung
Published: June 2024

This study proposes an innovative method to recycle used coffee grounds into environmentally friendly epoxy composite materials while emphasizing the sustainability of this process. This approach focuses on using lime‐treated coffee grounds as a reinforcing agent for epoxy composites. Diverse analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and mechanical testing according to international standards have been used to evaluate the properties of materials. Coffee grounds have been treated by soaking in Ca(OH)2 solution with different concentrations (0.1 m, 0.3 m) and processing times (1, 3 and 5 days), then combined with epoxy resin to form composite materials. The results showed that using coffee grounds treated with Ca(OH)2 significantly improved the stability and performance of epoxy composites. The best fire retardant performance was achieved with a Ca(OH)2 solution with a concentration of 0.3 m and a treatment time of 3 days, with a limiting oxidation index (LOI) of 21.6%. Furthermore, the compressive strength increased by about 20.79% compared to pure epoxy resin. This study highlights the potential of optimizing coffee grounds treatment parameters with Ca(OH)2 to improve the properties and performance of epoxy composites, thereby promoting practical application and environmental protection.
Computational methods for climate change frame analysis: Techniques, critiques, and cautious ways forward
Authors: Hirsbrunner Simon David
Published: June 2024

Frame analysis is a popular methodological paradigm to investigate how climate change is reported in the media, how it is negotiated by political actors, and perceived by publics. Its scope of application extends across various academic disciplines and transcends traditional boundaries of research such as those between quantitative and qualitative methods. Recent transformations of the media landscape have a strong influence on how frame analysis is conducted and how it is used to investigate climate change communication. Online data mining and computational methods have now become increasingly mainstream to investigate discursive elements in online media. Scholars have highlighted the potential, but also the risks associated with sophisticated computational methods, such as machine learning, increasingly used in the context of frame analysis. This advanced review gathers the scientific literature on computational frame analysis for analyzing climate change communication and discusses ways of dealing with associated risks and caveats by incorporating ideas from Science & Technology Studies (STS) and other stances of critical scholarship. Recommended ways forward include combining methods, practicing theoretical interdisciplinarity, infrastructuring reflexivity in research constellations, and embracing transparency, documentation, and accessibility of methods.

This article is categorized under:

The Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge

Perceptions, Behavior, and Communication of Climate Change > Communication

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Technological Aspects and Ideas
Celestial holography from chiral strings
Authors: Krishna Hare , Wang Yu-Ping
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we studied the relationship between celestial holography and chiral strings. Chiral strings differ from the usual string theory by a change of boundary conditions on the string propagators. It is shown that chiral strings would reproduce graviton amplitudes and could serve as an alternative description of Einstein’s gravity. Celestial holography is a proposed duality between gravity in asymptotically flat space-time and a CFT living on its conformal boundary. Since both are CFT descriptions of gravity, we investigate the potential connection between these two formalisms.

In this paper, we find that both the energetic as well as conformal soft theorems could be derived from the OPEs of vertex operators of chiral strings. All operators in the CCFT can be described by Mellin transforming the vertex operators in the chiral string theories, and the OPE coefficients of CCFT can also be obtained from the world-sheet description.
Evaluation of Neonatal Cerebral Circulation Under Hypoxic Ischemic Risk Factors Based on Quantitative Analysis of Cerebral Veins with Magnetic Resonance Susceptibility Weighted Imaging
Authors: Xie Qi , Liao Yan-Hui , He Wen-juan , Han Peng-peng , Wu Jun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To observe the regulation of cerebral circulation in vivo based on image segmentation algorithms for deep learning in medical imaging to automatically detect and quantify the neonatal deep medullary veins (DMVs) on susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) images. To evaluate early cerebral circulation self-rescue for neonates undergoing risk of cerebral hypoxia-ischaemia in vivo.

Methods

SWI images and clinical data of 317 neonates with or without risk of cerebral hypoxia-ischaemia were analyzed. Quantitative parameters showing the number, width, and curvature of DMVs were obtained using an image segmentation algorithm.

Results

The number of DMVs was greater in males than in females (p < 0.01), and in term than in preterm infants (p = 0.001). The width of DMVs was greater in term than in preterm infants (p < 0.01), in low-risk than in high-risk group (p < 0.01), and in neonates without intracranial extracerebral haemorrhage (ICECH) than with ICECH (p < 0.05). The curvature of DMVs was greater in term than in preterm infants (P < 0.05). The width of both bilateral thalamic veins and anterior caudate nucleus veins were positively correlated with the number of DMVs; the width of bilateral thalamic veins was positively correlated with the width of DMVs.

Conclusion

The DMVs quantification based on image segmentation algorithm may provide more detailed and stable quantitative information in neonate. SWI vein quantification may be an observable indicator for in vivo assessment of cerebral circulation self-regulation in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.
Tibial plateau fractures are associated with ligamentous and meniscal injuries. Preoperative evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging influences surgical treatment
Authors: Risitano Salvatore , Giustra Fortunato , Bosco Francesco , Rea Antonio , Cacciola Giorgio , Rizzolo Raffaella , Sabatini Luigi , Capella Marcello , Massè Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Background

Tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) are usually associated with ligamentous or meniscal injuries that could remain misdiagnosed. An appropriate and early recognition may change the surgical management of these soft tissue injuries (STIs) that could be addressed concomitantly with TPF treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an efficient diagnostic test to identify all associated STIs in TPFs. This study aims to analyze the MRI impact in identifying and guiding the STIs treatment in TPFs.

Material/methods

This retrospective study included a consecutive series of 57 patients with TPFs treated between January 1st, 2022, and December 31st, 2022. All fracture patterns were classified according to the AO/OTA and Schatzker classification. The prevalence of STIs, including medial meniscus (MM), lateral meniscus (LM), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries, was assessed through the MRI evaluation.

Results

A statistical significance was found regarding the MRI detection of LM, ACL, PCL and MCL injuries that led to additional surgical procedures at the same time as the TPFs treatment (p < 0.05). In contrast, the amount of additional MM and LCL injuries identified by MRI, which resulted in other surgical procedures, was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Preoperative MRI has been demonstrated to be an effective procedure for diagnosing STIs in TPFs, significantly influencing and changing the surgical treatment.

Level of evidence: IV.
Multiple imputation with competing risk outcomes
Authors: Austin Peter C.
Published: June 2024

In time-to-event analyses, a competing risk is an event whose occurrence precludes the occurrence of the event of interest. Settings with competing risks occur frequently in clinical research. Missing data, which is a common problem in research, occurs when the value of a variable is recorded for some, but not all, records in the dataset. Multiple Imputation (MI) is a popular method to address the presence of missing data. MI uses an imputation model to generate M (M > 1) values for each variable that is missing, resulting in the creation of M complete datasets. A popular algorithm for imputing missing data is multivariate imputation using chained equations (MICE). We used a complex simulation design with covariates and missing data patterns reflective of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) to compare three strategies for imputing missing predictor variables when the analysis model is a cause-specific hazard when there were three different event types. We compared two MICE-based strategies that differed according to which cause-specific cumulative hazard functions were included in the imputation models (the three cause-specific cumulative hazard functions vs. only the cause-specific cumulative hazard function for the primary outcome) with the use of the substantive model compatible fully conditional specification (SMCFCS) algorithm. While no strategy had consistently superior performance compared to the other strategies, SMCFCS may be the preferred strategy. We illustrated the application of the strategies using a case study of patients hospitalized with AMI.
Role of curcumin on beta-amyloid protein, tau protein, and biochemical and oxidative changes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Ermiş Mustafa , Çiftci Gülay
Published: June 2024

Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine metabolic diseases and is associated with the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. Amyloid beta (Aβ) and abnormal tau proteins are effective in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic and protective effects of curcumin on beta-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation and tau protein expression levels, as well as biochemical and oxidative changes in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. The study comprised five groups, each consisting of eight rats: control, diabetic, curcumin, curcumin during diabetic induction, and curcumin post-diabetic induction. Groups 2 and 4 were administered a single dose of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin on day 1, while group 5 received it on day 28. Curcumin was orally administered via gavage at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day for 35 days to the third, fourth, and fifth groups. At the end of the trial (day 35), blood sugar levels and insulin resistance were similar between the control and curcumin-treated groups but significantly higher in the diabetic groups (P < 0.05). The protective effect of curcumin is tested during induction and active diabetes. The results indicated that diabetic rats displayed increased levels of Aβ, tau protein, and total oxidant capacity (TOS) compared to the curcumin-treated groups. Additionally, the total antioxidant capacity (TAS) levels were lower in the diabetic rats (P < 0.05). Aβ protein levels are lower in both the serum and brain of rats with active diabetes and treated with curcumin compared to control rats (P > 0.05). In addition, serum TAS levels were higher in rats treated with curcumin following the induction of diabetes than pre-induction of diabetes (P > 0.05). The TOS levels in the serum were higher in the rats treated with curcumin during active diabetes compared to the rats treated prior to the induction of diabetes (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in the brain. The above results show that curcumin has an effect on reducing oxidative stress caused by diabetes and increasing antioxidant activity.
Isolated cerebellar stroke in a paediatric patient with typical haemolytic uraemic syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Lo Bianco Manuela , Rinella Sergio , D’Arco Felice , Ioannidou Evangelia , Kaliakatsos Marios
Published: June 2024

Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS) is a rare medical condition characterised by microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. Neurological complications are documented but rarely involve the cerebellum. We present a unique case of a 23-month-old male with HUS triggered by Escherichia coli-O157 (E.coli-O157) infection leading to an isolated cerebellar stroke.

The patient initially presented with fever, bloody stools, and seizures. Confirmation of E.coli-O157 infection was obtained, and MRI revealed an isolated cerebellar stroke. Treatment included supportive care, anticoagulation for a right atrial thrombus, with gradual improvement observed.

This case highlights the unusual occurrence of isolated cerebellar stroke in HUS patients, emphasising the importance of promptly recognizing manifestations of the central nervous system and the necessity for a multidisciplinary approach. Finally, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify cases of HUS patients with cerebellar involvement.
Quantitative and dynamic profiling of human gut core microbiota by real-time PCR
Authors: Yan Ziheng , Hao Tongyu , Yan Yanfeng , Zhao Yanting , Wu Yarong , Tan Yafang , Bi Yujing , Cui Yujun , Yang Ruifu , Zhao Yong
Published: June 2024

The human gut microbiota refers to a diverse community of microorganisms that symbiotically exist in the human intestinal system. Altered microbial communities have been linked to many human pathologies. However, there is a lack of rapid and efficient methods to assess gut microbiota signatures in practice. To address this, we established an appraisal system containing 45 quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays targeting gut core microbes with high prevalence and/or abundance in the population. Through comparative genomic analysis, we selected novel species-specific genetic markers and primers for 31 of the 45 core microbes with no previously reported specific primers or whose primers needed improvement in specificity. We comprehensively evaluated the performance of the qPCR assays and demonstrated that they showed good sensitivity, selectivity, and quantitative linearity for each target. The limit of detection ranged from 0.1 to 1.0 pg/µL for the genomic DNA of these targets. We also demonstrated the high consistency (Pearson’s r = 0.8688, P < 0.0001) between the qPCR method and metagenomics next-generation sequencing (mNGS) method in analyzing the abundance of selected bacteria in 22 human fecal samples. Moreover, we quantified the dynamic changes (over 8 weeks) of these core microbes in 14 individuals using qPCR, and considerable stability was demonstrated in most participants, albeit with significant individual differences. Overall, this study enables the simple and rapid quantification of 45 core microbes in the human gut, providing a promising tool to understand the role of gut core microbiota in human health and disease.

Key points

• A panel of original qPCR assays was developed to quantify human gut core microbes.

• The qPCR assays were evaluated and compared with mNGS using real fecal samples.

• This method was used to dynamically profile the gut core microbiota in individuals.
Partial dominance in branch-price-and-cut algorithms for vehicle routing and scheduling problems with a single-segment tradeoff
Authors: Faldum Stefan , Machate Sarah , Gschwind Timo , Irnich Stefan
Published: June 2024

For many variants of vehicle routing and scheduling problems solved by a branch-price-and-cut (BPC) algorithm, the pricing subproblem is an elementary shortest-path problem with resource constraints (SPPRC) typically solved by a dynamic-programming labeling algorithm. Solving the SPPRC subproblems consumes most of the total BPC computation time. Critical to the performance of the labeling algorithms and thus the BPC algorithm as a whole is the use of effective dominance rules. Classical dominance rules rely on a pairwise comparison of labels and have been used in many labeling algorithms. In contrast, partial dominance describes situations where several labels together are needed to dominate another label, which can then be safely discarded. In this work, we consider SPPRCs, where a linear tradeoff describes the relationship between two resources. We derive a unified partial dominance rule to be used in ad hoc labeling algorithms for solving such SPPRCs as well as insights into its practical implementation. We introduce partial dominance for two important variants of the vehicle routing problem, namely the electric vehicle routing problem with time windows with a partial recharge policy and the split-delivery vehicle routing problem with time windows (SDVRPTW). Computational experiments show the effectiveness of the approach, in particular for the SDVRPTW, leading to an average reduction of 20% of the total BPC computation time, with savings of 30% for the more difficult instances requiring more than 600 s of computation time.
Characterization of induced quasi-two-dimensional transport in n-type InxGa1−xAs1 − yBiy bulk layer
Authors: Aydin Mustafa , Yilmaz Selen Nur , Bork James , Zide Joshua , Erol Ayse , Donmez Omer
Published: June 2024

The temperature-dependent transport properties of n-type InGaAsBi epitaxial alloys with various doping densities are investigated by conducting magnetoresistance (MR) and Hall Effect (HE) measurements. The electronic band structure of the alloys and free electron distribution were calculated using Finite Element Method (FEM). Analysis of the oscillations in the transverse (Hall) resistivity shows that quasi-two-dimensional electron gas (Q-2D) in the bulk InGaAsBi epitaxial layer (three-dimensional, 3D) forms at the sample surface under magnetic field even though there is no formation of the spacial two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the interface between InGaAs and InP:Fe interlayer. The formation of Q-2D in the 3D epitaxial layer was verified by temperature and magnetic field dependence of the resistivity and carrier concentration. Analysis of Shubnikov-de Haas (SdH) oscillations in longitudinal (sample) resistivity reveals that the electron effective mass in InGaAsBi alloys are not affect by Bi incorporation into host InGaAs alloys, which verifies the validity of the Valence Band Anti-Crossing (VBAC) model. The Hall mobility of the nondegenerate samples shows the conventional 3D characteristics while that of the samples is independence of temperature for degenerated samples. The scattering mechanism of the electrons at low temperature is in long-range interaction regime. In addition, the effects of electron density on the transport parameters such as the effective mass, and Fermi level are elucidated considering bandgap nonparabolicity and VBAC interaction in InGaAsBi alloys.
Vaulting further: cranial vault expansion for craniocerebral disproportion without primary craniosynostosis
Authors: Ng Jinggang J. , Saikali Linda M. , Zapatero Zachary D. , Massenburg Benjamin B. , Wu Meagan , Romeo Dominic J. , Heuer Gregory G. , Bartlett Scott P. , Taylor Jesse A. , Swanson Jordan W. , Lang Shih-Shan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Treatment of subjects with refractory idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) or shunted hydrocephalus with chronic shunt complications is challenging. What is the role for cranial vault expansion, particularly utilizing posterior vault distraction osteogenesis (PVDO), in these cases? This study assesses medium-term efficacy of cranial vault expansion in this unique patient population.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who underwent cranial vault expansion from 2008 to 2023 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Subjects who did not have a diagnosis of primary craniosynostosis were included in the study. Demographic information, medical history, and perioperative details were collected from medical records. Primary outcomes were the rate of CSF diversion procedures and resolution of presenting signs and symptoms. Secondary outcomes were perioperative and 90-day complications and reoperation requirement.

Results

Among 13 included subjects, nine (69.2%) patients had a primary diagnosis of shunted hydrocephalus and 4 (30.8%) patients had IIH. Twelve (92.3%) subjects underwent posterior vault distraction osteogenesis (PVDO) and one (7.7%) underwent posterior vault remodeling (PVR). All 4 patients with IIH demonstrated symptomatic improvement following PVDO, including resolution of headaches, vomiting, and/or papilledema. Among 9 patients with shunted hydrocephalus, CSF diversion requirement decreased from 2.7 ± 1.6 procedures per year preoperatively to 1.2 ± 1.8 per year following cranial vault expansion (p = 0.030). The mean postoperative follow-up was 4.1 ± 2.1 years and four (30.8%) patients experienced complications within 90 days of surgery, including infection (n = 2), CSF leak (n = 1), and elevated ICP requiring lumbar puncture (n = 1). Four (30.8%) patients underwent repeat cranial vault expansion for recurrence of ICP-related symptoms. At most recent follow-up, 7 of 9 patients with shunted hydrocephalus demonstrated symptomatic improvement.

Conclusion

Cranial vault expansion reduced intracranial hypertension-related symptomology as well as the rate of CSF diversion-related procedures in patients with refractory IIH and shunted hydrocephalus without craniosynostosis, and should be considered in those who have significant shunt morbidity.
CCAAT Promoter element regulates transgenerational expression of the MHC class I gene
Authors: Weissman Jocelyn D. , Kotekar Aparna , Barbash Zohar , Mu Jie , Singer Dinah S.
Published: June 2024

Transgenerational gene expression depends on both underlying DNA sequences and epigenetic modifications. The latter, which can result in transmission of variegated gene expression patterns across multiple generations without DNA alterations, has been termed epigenetic inheritance and has been documented in plants, worms, flies and mammals. Whereas transcription factors binding to cognate DNA sequence elements regulate gene expression, the molecular basis for epigenetic inheritance has been linked to histone and DNA modifications and non-coding RNA. Here we report that mutation of the CCAAT box promoter element abrogates NF-Y binding and disrupts the stable transgenerational expression of an MHC class I transgene. Transgenic mice with a mutated CCAAT box in the MHC class I transgene display variegated expression of the transgene among littermates and progeny in multiple independently derived transgenic lines. After 4 generations, CCAAT mutant transgenic lines derived from a single founder stably displayed distinct patterns of expression. Histone modifications and RNA polymerase II binding correlate with expression of CCAAT mutant transgenic lines, whereas DNA methylation and nucleosome occupancy do not. Mutation of the CCAAT box also results in changes to CTCF binding and DNA looping patterns across the transgene that correlate with expression status. These studies identify the CCAAT promoter element as a regulator of stable transgenerational gene expression such that mutation of the CCAAT box results in variegated transgenerational inheritance. Considering that the CCAAT box is present in 30% of eukaryotic promoters, this study provides insights into how fidelity of gene expression patterns is maintained through multiple generations.
A scoping review of the effect of chronic stretch training on sleep quality in people with sleep disorders
Authors: Mohammad Alimoradi , Elham Hosseini , Andreas Konrad
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The widespread and health-detrimental sleep disorders have resulted in stretching exercises being investigated as a non-drug solution for enhanced sleep quality. However, a comprehensive understanding of the impact of stretching exercises on individuals with sleep disorders is lacking.

Methods

This scoping review systematically maps the existing literature and identifies research gaps on the impact of stretching exercises on sleep quality in individuals with sleep disorders.

Results

Sixteen eligible studies were included, where the weighted mean changes indicate a positive trend in sleep quality improvement, ranging from trivial to very large magnitudes. However, concerning the individual study results only 5 out of 16 studies reported significant improvements. Notable enhancements include a small 1.22% overall sleep quality improvement, a large 6.51% reduction in insomnia severity, a large 8.88% increase in sleep efficiency, a moderate 4.36% decrease in sleep onset latency, a large 8.27% decrease in wake after sleep onset, and a very large 14.70% improvement in total sleep time. Trivial changes are noted in sleep duration (0.58%), sleep disturbance reduction (0.07%), and daytime dysfunction reduction (0.19%). Likely mechanisms for the improvement of sleep include autonomic nervous system modulation, muscle tension relief, cortisol regulation, enhanced blood circulation, and psychological benefits such as stress reduction and mood enhancement.

Conclusion

There is little evidence that stretching exercises positively impact sleep quality in individuals with sleep disorders. Additionally, further research is vital for designing optimal protocols, understanding of the long-term effects, and clarification of the mechanisms.