bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Health Care Access and Diagnosis of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Among Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Callisto Alicia , Hansen Dylan , Walker Jenny , Ngian Gene Siew , Apostolopoulos Diane , Liew David , Chand Vibhasha , Hill Catherine L. , Griggs Kim , Calderone Alicia , Nikpour Mandana , Sahhar Joanne , Stevens Wendy , Proudman Susanna
Published: September 2023

Objective

Regular clinical assessment for complications of systemic sclerosis (SSc) such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is essential for early institution of therapy and improved outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic‐related restrictions on health care access of patients with SSc, including screening for PAH.

Methods

South Australian and Victorian patients enrolled in the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study were surveyed about their perceptions of the impact of the pandemic on mental well‐being, access to medications, investigations, and management of SSc. Frequency of annual rheumatology assessments, pulmonary function tests (PFT), and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to screen for PAH were compared with rates from before the pandemic.

Results

A total of 312 of 810 patients with SSc responded (38.5% response); 273 were female (87.5%), the median age was 64.7 years, 77.2% had limited disease, the median illness duration was 15.6 years, 15.7% were immunosuppressed, 32.1% had interstitial lung disease, and 6.4% had PAH. A total of 65.7% of consultations were by telehealth, of which 81.2% were by telephone. Compared with respondents in South Australia (n = 109), Victorian respondents (n = 203) experiencing prolonged lockdown, reported reduced access to their rheumatologist (49.3% vs 27.9%; P = 0.004), greater use of consultation by video (17.3% vs 2.1%; P = 0.008), greater health care disruption (49.0% vs 23.2%; P < 0.001), and worse mental health (P = 0.002). Respondents reported reduced access to PFT and TTE (31.7% and 22.5%, respectively). Annual visits, PFT, TTE, and new diagnoses of PAH were reduced in 2020 to 2022 compared with 2011 to 2019.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic–related disruption to health care for patients with SSc was associated with worse mental health and reduced screening and diagnosis of PAH, which may impact long‐term outcomes.
2D Perovskite Single‐Crystalline Photodetector with Large Linear Dynamic Range for UV Weak‐Light Imaging
Authors: Dong Kailian , Zhou Hai , Gao Zheng , Xu Min , Zhang Louwen , Zhou Shun , Cui Hongsen , Wang Shuxin , Tao Chen , Ke Weijun , Yao Fang , Fang Guojia
Published: September 2023

Weak‐light imaging holds immense significance in various imaging applications. Recently, there has been significant research focused on 2D perovskites for photodetectors (PDs), owing to their superior photoelectric properties. However, the utilization of 2D perovskites for high‐performance weak‐light detection remains limited, and there is a notable absence of demonstration in weak‐light ultraviolet (UV) imaging. Herein, a high‐sensitive UV detectors with an ultra‐low detection limit for weak‐light imaging are demonstrated, utilizing 2D perovskite (PA)2PbBr4 (PPB) single crystals (SCs). Leveraging the exceptional quality of SCs, the PPB‐based PD exhibits outstanding operational performances, including a low dark current of 0.735 pA, high on/off ratio of 4150 under 263.3 mW cm−2 illimitation,  and extensive linear dynamic range of 153.61 dB, which is currently the highest reported value among 2D perovskite SC detectors. Notably, PPB PDs demonstrate a remarkable response under 5.49 nW cm−2 illumination, enabling it to exhibit outstanding photo‐response with an excellent detectivity of 2.3 × 1013 Jones and responsivity of 2.22 A W−1. Importantly, high‐resolution images are successfully obtained under weak‐light illumination. These findings underscore the immense potential of 2D perovskite for UV weak‐light imaging.
Tuneable Topography and Hydrophobicity Mode in Biomimetic Plant‐Based Wax Coatings
Authors: Dent Francis J. , Tyagi Gunjan , Esat Faye , Cabral João T. , Khodaparast Sepideh
Published: September 2023

Across diverse natural surfaces, remarkable interfacial functionalities emerge from micro and nanoscale self‐assemblies of wax components. The chemical composition of the epicuticular wax prescribes the intrinsic crystal morphology and resultant topography of the natural surfaces, dictating their interfacial wetting properties. The potential of regulating the topography of identical wax compositions through various crystallization routes is tested here. Crystallization through solvent evaporation produces diverse topographies with enhanced surface hydrophobicity compared to the slow cooling of the wax melt. Further, the microscale interfacial crystalline structure can be deliberately designed to operate in sticky or slippery hydrophobic regimes through control of the supersaturation level during the crystallization process. While the supersaturation level significantly impacts surface wettability by modulating the microscopic aggregation of rice bran wax crystals, the crystal structure at the molecular scale remains effectively unchanged. The relationships between the supersaturation level, surface topography and hydrophobicity modes, primarily derived for rice bran wax, are qualitatively validated for a wider range of plant‐based waxes. Crystallization of inherently hydrophobic plant‐based waxes from thermodynamically isotropic solutions offers an affordable single‐step approach for the fabrication of biodegradable hydrophobic coatings, applicable to versatile materials and geometries.
Controllable Growth of 2D V3S5 Single Crystal by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Wang Ping , Feng Qi , Dong Weikang , Kong Denan , Yang Yang , Jia Lin , Liu Jijian , Zhao Chunyu , Guo Dan , Tian Ruifeng , Zheng Shoujun , Duan Junxi , Zhou Jiadong
Published: September 2023

2D intercalated vanadium chalcogenides have attracted intensive interest based on their physical properties and potential applications. However, controllable synthesis of the intercalated vanadium chalcogenides via chemical vapor deposition is still a big challenge. Here, a binary metal precursor co‐reaction growth mechanism to manipulate the evaporation rate of vanadium precursors is reported, thus the intercalated 2D V1+XS2 – V3S5 single crystal can be controllably synthesized. The quality of 2D V3S5 nanosheets is identified by Raman spectroscopy and high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. Interestingly, a phase transition in 2D metallic V3S5 nanosheets is observed at 20 K. Meanwhile, the resistance upturn and unsaturated negative magnetoresistance induced by electron–electron interaction is confirmed. This work proposes a new strategy to synthesize the 2D intercalated VxSy single crystals with different compositions for studying their excellent properties and potential applications.
Integrating Metal Complex Units and Redox Sites into Thorium‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks for Selective Photocatalytic Oxidation of Sulfides
Authors: Li Xiu‐Fen , Wu Pengfei , Kan Liang , Niu Qian , Sun Sheng‐Nan , Huang Qing , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: September 2023

A series of high‐symmetry Th6–metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are constructed using various metal complex units and the thorium (Th) cluster, and then being applied as a well‐defined catalyst model in the photocatalytic oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide reactions. The integration of Th6‐MOFs by incorporating metal complex units and redox sites (Th6 cluster and single‐metal site) can effectively modulate the conversion rate and selectivity. Among them, Ni–PBA–Th6 (PBA = 4‐pyridin‐4‐yl benzoic acid) achieves up to ≈99% conversion and ≈97% selectivity for methyl phenyl sulfone. Experiments and theoretical calculations further elucidate that Th6 cluster is the catalytic site for the oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide to methyl phenyl sulfone, while Ni–PBA is the catalytic site for the reduction of hydrogen peroxide. This work sheds new insight into the structural design and photocatalytic application of more efficient thorium‐based MOF catalysts.
A Functional Janus Ag Nanowires/Bacterial Cellulose Separator for High‐Performance Dendrite‐Free Zinc Anode Under Harsh Conditions
Authors: Zheng Ziyan , Guo Shaojie , Yan Mengyu , Luo Yanzhu , Cao Feifei
Published: September 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) offer promising prospects for large‐scale energy storage due to their inherent abundance and safety features. However, the growth of zinc dendrites remains a primary obstacle to the practical industrialization of AZIBs, especially under harsh conditions of high current densities and elevated temperatures. To address this issue, a Janus separator with an exceptionally ultrathin thickness of 29 µm is developed. This Janus separator features the bacterial cellulose (BC) layer on one side and Ag nanowires/bacterial cellulose (AgNWs/BC) layer on the other side. High zincophilic property and excellent electric/thermal conductivity of AgNWs make them ideal for serving as an ion pump to accelerate Zn2+ transport in the electrolyte, resulting in greatly improved Zn2+ conductivity, deposition of homogeneous Zn nuclei, and dendrite‐free Zn. Consequently, the Zn||Zn symmetrical cells with the Janus separator exhibit a stable cycle life of over 1000 h under 80 mA cm−2 and are sustained for over 600 h at 10 mA cm−2 under 50 °C. Further, the Janus separator enables excellent cycling stability in AZIBs, aqueous zinc‐ion capacitors (AZICs), and scaled‐up flexible soft‐packaged batteries. This study demonstrates the potential of functional separators in promoting the application of aqueous zinc batteries, particularly under harsh conditions.
Redistributing the Electronic States of 2D‐Covalent Organic Frameworks for Electrochemical Energy Applications
Authors: Jesudass Sebastian Cyril , Surendran Subramani , Janani Gnanaprakasam , Kim Tae‐Hoon , Sim Uk
Published: September 2023

Exploration of significantly active functional materials is highly valued for designing efficient electrochemical energy devices. 2D‐covalent organic frameworks (2D‐COF) have attracted significant interest in the context of important electrochemical applications due to their tunable structural and electronic properties, high thermal/chemical stability, and their carbon‐based motifs. The present review highlights the strategies and properties of modifying 2D‐COF electronically in detail and their prospects in electrochemical devices. The review clearly explains the electronic actuation methods of the COF skeletons by various synthetic and post‐synthetic strategies. The review crucially elucidates the importance of electroactive 2D‐COF as emerging functional materials in practical applications of electrochemical energy conversion devices. The review concludes by summarizing the effective strategies of 2D‐COF in improving electrocatalytic applications and suggests future research scope. The review orients the electroactive 2D‐COFs for critical analysis as advanced functional materials for a sustainable and reliable future.
Molecular Engineering of Polymer Enabling Stability of Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Bai Xuan , Zhang Xing , Zhang Bolei , Liu Guangsheng , Xie Lin , Sun Yan , Dai Ning , Hua Yong , Qiu Feng
Published: September 2023

How to inhibit the formation of point defects in the preparation process of hybrid perovskite for improving the stability and photovoltaic characteristics has been a hot research issue in recent years. Herein, molecular engineering of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is focused as a Lewis base for an additive to improve the interface matching of hybrid perovskite solar cells. Based on the molecular binding strategy, the film crystallinity, bond binding, interfacial transport, and water resistance can be effectively regulated, resulting in preferred photovoltaic characteristics. Herein, the highest photoelectric conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells reaches 19.7% as well as the improved stability of solar cells. Moreover, combined with first‐principles calculation, the mechanism of PVP macromolecules inducing perovskite interfacial binding through molecular engineering is revealed, which provides a feasible route for using organic macromolecules to regulate the crystallinity and photovoltaic characteristics of hybrid perovskite devices.
Mechanism and kinetics investigation of reaction network: 1,3‐Dichloro‐2‐propanol with alkali to prepare epichlorohydrin
Authors: Zhang Liang‐Liang , Zhang Yi‐Dong , Zhu Wen‐Jing , Chen Xin‐Tuo , Chu Guang‐Wen , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: September 2023

Dehydrochlorination of 1,3‐dichloropropanol with alkali is a key step to industrially produce epichlorohydrin. But there are many side reactions involved in the synthesis process. In this work, a complete mechanism and kinetics investigation of the related reaction network was constructed. Density functional theory simulation method was first used to simulate the possible reactions so as to confirm the reaction mechanism and simplify the reaction network. Based on the simulation results, the complex reaction network was simplified into a three‐step consecutive reaction. The kinetic parameters of the three consecutive steps, including the order of the reaction, the pre‐exponential factor, and activation energy, were experimentally determined by conductance and other methods. All the experimental results are basically consistent with the simulation. The obtained kinetics data provide a basis for epichlorohydrin synthesis process optimization.
The Olink proteomics profile in nasal secretion of patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Zeng Haotao , Liu Jiangqi , Mo Lihua , Li Minyao , Tang Aifa , Zeng Xianhai , Zhao Miao , Yang Pingchang
Published: September 2023

Key Points

Nasal secretions of allergic rhinitis patients were analyzed by Olink proteomics.

Fifteen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified.

The DEPs were significantly correlated with the total nasal symptom scores of patients with allergic rhinitis.
Propagation Characteristics of a Partially Coherent Gaussian Schell‐model Array Vortex Beam in the Joint Turbulence Effect of a Jet Engine and Atmosphere
Authors: Nabil Hassan , Balhamri Adil , Bayraktar Mert , Belafhal Abdelmajid
Published: September 2023

This work investigates the joint effects of jet engine exhaust‐induced turbulence and atmospheric turbulence on the propagation of a partially coherent Gaussian Schell‐model Array (GSMA) vortex beam. Using the two‐process propagation method, analytical formulae are derived for the cross‐spectral density, spectral density, degree of coherence, and beam width of the considered beam. The results show that the considered beam takes different shapes; when the spatial coherence is large, the spectral density of the GSMA vortex beam takes an elliptical shape, whereas when the spatial coherence is smaller, the spectral density remains a Gaussian shape. The evolution profile of the degree of coherence weakens gradually when the propagation distance, topological charge, and turbulence strength increase. Moreover, the profile of the degree of coherence takes the Gaussian profile when the propagation distance is longer or turbulence atmospheric is stronger. Furthermore, the results reveal that the corresponding beam spreads faster with a larger propagation distance, lower spatial coherence, and high‐strength turbulence. This study also concludes from the results that the beam is affected more when its propagation is near the jet engine exhaust, which means that this latter has a significant impact.
Tough silk fibroin hydrogel via polypropylene glycol (PPG) blending for wearable sensors
Authors: Xiao Yetan , Wu Yun , Si Pengxiang , Zhang Dan
Published: September 2023

Regenerated silk fibroin is a promising bio‐material because of its sustainability, biocompatibility, degradability, and eco‐friendliness. However, silk fibroin hydrogel's intrinsic hard and brittle mechanical properties hinder its application on human skin as a wearable sensor. We used polypropylene glycol (PPG) as a plasticizer to physically blend with a silk fibroin solution, and designed a set of green and environmentally friendly preparation methods without organic solvents to obtain the hydrogel for wearable sensors. PPG molecules will aggregate into clusters to act as a plasticizer. Meanwhile, a large number of hydrogen bonds are formed between the hydroxyl groups in PPG and silk fibroin molecular chains. When the hydrogel is stretched, the hydrogen bond in the silk fibroin chain will release heat in an irreversible form to increase the toughness. The PPG/silk fibroin hydrogel exhibits mechanical strength of 16.6 MPa, breaking elongation of 160%, and toughness of 17.7 MJ/m3. The Ca2+ introduced during the sample preparation process gives the hydrogel ionic conductivity, which provides the possibility of using the hydrogel as a human skin sensing material.
Radiation assisted hydrophobization of jute fiber
Authors: Jha Atanu , Thite Amol , Chowdhury Subhendu Ray , Bhardwaj Yatender Kumar , Pant Harish Jagat
Published: September 2023

Hydrophobization of hydrophilic jute fiber, is of great importance as it can expand the applications of jute fiber in many fields. This work reports the hydrophobization of jute fiber by high‐energy radiation treatment which is an easy, single‐step, economical, and environment friendly method. Surface wettability of hydrophilic jute fiber is tuned by attaching long chain hydrocarbon molecules, namely butyl methacrylate, octyl acrylate and lauryl methacrylate, using gamma radiation. Lauryl methacrylate is found to be the most suitable agent among the molecules used for generating desired extent of hydrophobicity. Important reaction parameters, namely total dose, dose rate, monomer concentration, and solvent composition are optimized to achieve the desired degree of modification, for imparting hydrophobicity. Mechanical and thermal analysis reveals that there is no considerable damage to the base structure of fibers during modification. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is supporting evidence of the intactness of fiber after modification. The successful grafting of jute fiber has also been evidenced by SEM. This lauryl methacrylate modified jute can separate oily toxic liquids from aqueous media. The modified jute fiber may get enhanced applications in various fields.
Electrooxidation using SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti and IrO2–Ta2O5|Ti anodes as tertiary treatment of oil refinery effluent
Authors: Treviño‐Reséndez José , Medel Alejandro , Cárdenas Jesús , Meas Yunny
Published: September 2023

In the present work, treatability studies were carried out with oil refinery wastewater (effluent from the secondary treatment) using electrooxidation (EO) process employing two mixed oxide anodes: SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti and IrO2–Ta2O5|Ti. Both electrodes' performance were compared by their capacity to generate active chlorine in a synthetic solution and organic matter mineralization of a sample with an average phenol (C6H6O) concentration of 100 mg L−1. Before degradation experiments, surface analysis, and linear sweep voltammetry tests were performed. SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti anode yielded higher active chlorine, reaching an average concentration of 340 mg L−1 at 90 min of electrolysis and 25 mA cm−2. On the other hand, IrO2–Ta2O5|Ti anode only generated an average concentration of 200 mg L−1 at 90 min and 40 mA cm−2. Regarding the degradation experiments, SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti anode showed the highest dissolved organic carbon removal, ranging from 26% to 40%. In addition, through a three‐dimensional excitation–emission matrix fluorescence analysis, it was possible to elucidate the degradation of C6H6O and some possible polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons present in the effluent. The results suggested that 65%–90% of the hydrocarbons and C6H6O present in the effluent were degraded with the SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti anode applying 25 mA cm−2 within the first 30 min of electrolysis, reaching almost 99% degradation at 90 min. The EO process using SnO2–RuO2–IrO2|Ti can be an alternative for tertiary treatment of oil refinery wastewater for degradation and mineralization of the remaining organic matter of secondary effluents (biological processes) via active chlorine species.
Insights into the genetic makeup of French Polynesian peripheral populations of the small giant clam Tridacna maxima
Authors: Riquet Florentine , Horaud Mathilde , Dubousquet Vaimiti , Tiavouane Josina , Lopes Carmela , Raharivelomanana Phila , Berteaux‐Lecellier Véronique , Planes Serge , Grulois Daphné , Andréfouët Serge , Van Wynsberge Simon , Borsa Philippe , Lecellier Gaël , Fauvelot Cécile
Published: September 2023

The small giant clam, Tridacna maxima, is distributed from the Red Sea and East African coast to French Polynesia. Across this widespread Indo‐Pacific range, T. maxima shows strong population structure, in agreement with its limited dispersal abilities.

Peripheral populations may have smaller effective population sizes, increasing their vulnerability under any environmental changes. Understanding evolutionary processes at play in such regions located at the edges of T. maxima distribution is a prerequisite in the context of transfers and restocking programmes.

In this study, giant clams were sampled from 14 atolls and islands within four archipelagos in the peripheral region of French Polynesia, in 2001–2002 and/or in 2012–2013, then genotyped at the COI gene and at nine microsatellite loci.

Mitochondrial lineages of T. maxima from French Polynesia diverged from those sampled in Micronesia, Melanesia, the Coral Triangle and the Red Sea by 6.6–7.3%. Within French Polynesia, significant genetic structure was found, indicating restricted gene flow, and it was stable through time. Most of the genetic variation at microsatellite loci was between archipelagos. The most differentiated archipelago was the most geographically isolated (the Austral Islands).

The current patterns of genetic structuring of T. maxima in French Polynesia probably result from long‐term genetic isolation with limited dispersal ability. In addition, these results underlined that sufficiently large populations of T. maxima have persisted in the Central Pacific during the last sea‐level regression.

Strategies to optimize transfers and restocking programmes should be designed to preserve the genetic diversity and structure observed here, to avoid the risks of altering the genetic structure, allele loss and/or introduction of maladapted alleles in the receiving populations.
Hwiccewyrm trispiculum gen. et sp. nov., a new leptopleuronine procolophonid from the Late Triassic of southwest England
Authors: Butler Richard J. , Meade Luke E. , Cleary Terri J. , McWhirter Kai T. , Brown Emily E. , Kemp Tom S. , Benito Juan , Fraser Nicholas C.
Published: September 2023

The fissure fill localities of southwest England and South Wales are well‐known for preserving rich assemblages of predominantly small‐bodied Late Triassic to Early Jurassic tetrapods, but many aspects of these assemblages remain contentious. The age of the Late Triassic fissures is disputed, with some lines of argument suggesting a latest Triassic (Rhaetian) age, whereas other evidence suggests they may be as old as Carnian. The fissures have been hypothesized by some workers to have formed on an archipelago, with island effects invoked to explain aspects of the assemblages such as the abundance of small‐bodied species. Procolophonids were a successful group of Triassic parareptiles, best known from Early to early Late Triassic assemblages, but have only recently been described from one of the fissure fill sites (Ruthin) based upon fragmentary remains. Here, we describe new procolophonid specimens from another fissure (Cromhall) that represent at least six individuals of different sizes, with much of the skeleton represented including well‐preserved skull material. The Cromhall procolophonid shows strong similarities to Late Triassic procolophonids from Scotland, Brazil and North America, but both autapomorphies and a unique character combination demonstrate that it represents a new species, which we name as Hwiccewyrm trispiculum gen. et sp. nov. Phylogenetic analysis places Hwiccewyrm in a derived clade within Leptopleuroninae, together with Leptopleuron, Hypsognathus, and Soturnia. The largest specimens of Hwiccewyrm demonstrate a body size that is similar to Leptopleuron and Hypsognathus, supporting other recent work that has questioned the insular dwarfism hypothesis for the fissure fill assemblages.
Indirect dating of secondary cave burials in the Massim region of Papua New Guinea reveals last millennium reorganisation of social practices
Authors: Boyd Zali , Shaw Ben
Published: September 2023

In the Massim Island region of southeastern Papua New Guinea secondary interment of skeletal remains was widely practiced historically, but its social context and regional expression in the deeper past remains uncertain. In this paper the chronology of secondary burial on Panaeati Island is established indirectly by reconstructing the cultural and spatiotemporal association of 21 clay pots placed with human skeletal remains at Biniwaga Cave, coincidently establishing the first whole vessel typology ofSouthern Massim Combed Pottery(SMCP) andSouthern Massim Pottery(SMP). Comparison with excavated pottery assemblages on Panaeati and elsewhere in the region demonstrates that the Biniwaga pots are consistent with SMCP and early SMP, dating from 740 to 470 calBP. Secondary burial practices on Panaeati are contemporary with those recorded elsewhere in the region and coincide with changes in pottery production centres. Compared to excavated pottery assemblages from contemporary sites, a relatively narrow range of pots are represented at Biniwaga. It is hypothesised that pots were selected to reflect the cultural affiliation of deceased individuals during a period of increasing inter‐island interaction.
Three‐Dimensional Chromosomal Landscape Revealing miR‐146a Dysfunctional Enhancer in Lupus and Establishing a CRISPR‐Mediated Approach to Inhibit the Interferon Pathway
Authors: Zhu Xinyi , Zhang Yutong , Yin Zihang , Ye Zhizhong , Qin Yuting , Cheng Zhaorui , Shen Yiwei , Yin Zhihua , Ma Jianyang , Tang Yuanjia , Ding Huihua , Guo Ya , Hou Guojun , Shen Nan
Published: September 2023

Objective

The diminished expression of microRNA‐146a (miR‐146a) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) contributes to the aberrant activation of the interferon pathway. Despite its significance, the underlying mechanism driving this reduced expression remains elusive. Considering the integral role of enhancers in steering gene expression, our study seeks to pinpoint the SLE‐affected enhancers responsible for modulating miR‐146a expression. Additionally, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms by which these enhancers influence the contribution of miR‐146a to the activation of the interferon pathway.

Methods

Circular chromosome conformation capture sequencing and epigenomic profiles were applied to identify candidate enhancers of miR‐146a. CRISPR activation was performed to screen functional enhancers. Differential analysis of chromatin accessibility was used to identify SLE‐dysregulated enhancers, and the mechanism underlying enhancer dysfunction was investigated by analyzing transcription factor binding. The therapeutic value of a lupus‐related enhancer was further evaluated by targeting it in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with SLE through a CRISPR activation approach.

Results

We identified shared and cell‐specific enhancers of miR‐146a in distinct immune cells. An enhancer 32.5 kb downstream of miR‐146a possesses less accessibility in SLE, and its chromatin openness was negatively correlated with SLE disease activity. Moreover, CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α, a down‐regulated transcription factor in patients with SLE, binds to the 32.5‐kb enhancer and induces the epigenomic change of this locus. Furthermore, CRISPR‐based activation of this enhancer in SLE PBMCs could inhibit the activity of interferon pathway.

Conclusion

Our work defines a promising target for SLE intervention. We adopted integrative approaches to define cell‐specific and functional enhancers of the SLE critical gene and investigated the mechanism underlying its dysregulation mediated by a lupus‐related enhancer.

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Profile of plasma free amino acids, carnitine and acylcarnitines, and JAK2v617fmutation as potential metabolic markers in children with type 1 diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Hassan Mohammed H. , Galal Omyma , Sakhr Hala M. , Kamaleldeen Eman B. , Zekry Nadia Farouk , Fateen Ekram , Toghan Rana
Published: September 2023

Fifty diabetic nephropathy (DN) children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and 50 healthy matched controls were included. Chromatographic assays of 14 amino acids, free carnitine and 27 carnitine esters using high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization–mass spectroscopy, and genetic testing for JAK2v617fmutation using real‐time PCR were performed. Patients had significantly lower levels of tyrosine, branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), and BCAA/AAA (aromatic chain amino acids) ratios, glycine, arginine, ornithine, free carnitine and some carnitine esters (C5, 6, 12 and 16) and higher phenylalanine, phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio and C18 compared with the controls and in the macro‐albuminuria vs. the microalbuminuria group (p < 0.05 for all) except for free carnitine. Plasma carnitine was negatively correlated with eGFR (r = −0.488,p = 0.000). There were significant positive correlations between tyrosine with UACR ratio (r = 0.296,p = 0.037). The plasma BCAA/AAA ratio showed significant negative correlations with UACR (r = −0.484,p = 0.000). There was a significantly higher frequency of the JAK2V617Fgene mutation in diabetic nephropathy patients compared with the control group and in macro‐albuminuria than the microalbuminuria group (p = 0.000) for both. When monitoring children with T1DM, plasma free amino acids and acylcarnitine profiles should be considered, especially if they have tested positive for JAK2V617Ffor the early diagnosis of DN.
Machine‐learning radiomics to predict bone marrow metastasis of neuroblastoma using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lv Lin , Zhang Zhengtao , Zhang Dongbo , Chen Qinchang , Liu Yuanfang , Qiu Ya , Fu Wen , Yin Xuntao , Chen Xiong
Published: September 2023

Background

Neuroblastoma is one common pediatric malignancy notorious for high temporal and spatial heterogeneities. More than half of its patients develop distant metastases involving vascularized organs, especially the bone marrow. It is thus necessary to have an economical, noninvasive method without much radiation for follow‐ups. Radiomics has been used in many cancers to assist accurate diagnosis but not yet in bone marrow metastasis in neuroblastoma.

Methods

A total of 182 patients with neuroblastoma were retrospectively collected and randomly divided into the training and validation sets. Five‐hundred and seventy‐two radiomics features were extracted from magnetic resonance imaging, among which 41 significant ones were selected via T‐test for model development. We attempted 13 machine‐learning algorithms and eventually chose three best‐performed models. The integrative performance evaluations are based on the area under the curves (AUCs), calibration curves, risk deciles plots, and other indexes.

Results

Extreme gradient boosting, random forest (RF), and adaptive boosting were the top three to predict bone marrow metastases in neuroblastoma while RF was the most accurate one. Its AUC was 0.90 (0.86–0.93), F1 score was 0.82, sensitivity was 0.76, and negative predictive value was 0.79 in the training set. The values were 0.82 (0.71–0.93), 0.80, 0.75, and 0.92 in the validation set, respectively.

Conclusions

Radiomics models are likely to contribute more to metastatic diagnoses and the formulation of personalized healthcare strategies in clinics. It has great potential of being a revolutionary method to replace traditional interventions in the future.
Study of hard red spring wheat millstreams on the correlation between protein molecular weight parameters and bread‐making quality
Authors: Simsek Senay , Baasandorj Tsogtbayar , Dykes Linda , Ohm Jae‐Bom
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives

Millstreams vary in quality due to the heterogeneous spatial distribution of biochemical components in the wheat kernel. The objective of this research was to investigate variations of protein parameters characterized using size‐exclusion high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with multiangle light scattering (SE‐HPLC‐MALS) and their correlations with bread‐making quality in various millstreams obtained from long‐flow experimental milling of hard red spring (HRS) wheat.

Findings

Quantitative variations for proteins, especially storage proteins such as gliadins and glutenin polymers, were primarily correlated with bread‐making quality in millstreams. Compositionally, a nonstorage protein fraction percentage was identified to be a complemental explanatory variable for prediction of bread loaf volume showing coefficient of determination of 0.936 in multiple regression with protein content. The molecular weight (MW) values of polymeric protein fractions determined by MALS varied significantly among millstreams showing negative correlations with bread quality traits.

Conclusion

The protein SE‐HPLC‐MALS parameters were effective for the evaluation of millstreams as demonstrated by significant correlations with bread‐making traits.

Significance and Novelty

Novel information was reported on the variation of protein MW characteristics analyzed by SE‐HPLC‐MALS in relation to end‐product quality for HRS wheat long‐flow millstreams. The information will be valuable to millers seeking to optimize the functionality of HRS flour blends.
Community‐acquired Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteremia in liver cirrhosis: A case report
Authors: Shirakura Kentaro , Saijo Masaji , Yamada Tatsuya , Song Myeongcheol , Constantine Shadia
Published: September 2023

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a Gram‐negative bacterium, usually considered a nosocomial pathogen. Its role in community‐acquired infections has been reported, but it is still not typically included in differential diagnoses of patients not exposed to the healthcare system. Recently, some reports suggested that liver diseases might also act as a possible risk factor for community‐acquired S. maltophilia bloodstream infection. We report a case of a 77‐year‐old woman with a history of cirrhosis who was diagnosed with community‐acquired S. maltophilia bloodstream infection. S. maltophilia not only causes hospital‐acquired infections but is also emerging as a pathogen in community settings. Although community‐onset infection is still rare and might have lower mortality, this antibiotic‐resistant bacterial species should be considered a possible pathogen in patients with liver cirrhosis. Although trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole is considered the first‐line treatment, a study in vitro and a 4‐year review of S. maltophilia susceptibility in our institution found that the bacteria were more susceptible to minocycline than to trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole. Therefore, minocycline might become the first‐line treatment in the future.
Reticular erythematous mucinosis: Relationship between its dermoscopic and histopathological findings
Authors: Takada Tomoaki
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

In reticular erythematous mucinosis, (1) the presence of dotted vessels and (2) uniform, structureless, yellowish‐white spots, and patches on dermoscopy correspond to histopathological findings of (1) vessels at the tips of the dermal papillae and (2) thickening and rupture of the collagen and fiber bundles with mucin deposition, respectively.

Reticular erythematous mucinosis is a rare form of skin mucinosis that primarily affects middle‐aged women, typically appearing as papules and plaques in the upper chest or midline of the back. Here, we report the case of a 75‐year‐old woman with skin papules and plaques left untreated for 8 years. A gross skin examination was followed by histopathological and dermoscopic examinations. The main dermoscopic findings were (1) dotted vessels and (2) uniform structureless yellowish‐white spots and patches. The corresponding histopathological findings were (1) vessels at the tips of the dermal papillae and (2) thickening and rupturing of the collagen and fiber bundles with mucin deposition, respectively. Laboratory investigations revealed normal results, ruling out various autoimmune disorders. REM was diagnosed based on these findings. The study presents relevant evidence‐based findings in dermatology and cutaneous pathology as it is the first description of REM using dermoscopy. Dermoscopic diagnosis without other unnecessary tests would benefit both the clinician and the patient.
Proteus mirabilis: A rare cause of pneumonia, radiologically mimicking malignancy of the lung
Authors: ullah Saif , Saadaat Ramin , Hamidi Hidayatullah , Haidary Ahmed Maseh
Published: September 2023

Key clinical message

Lesions that are suspected for malignancy need be managed by a multidisciplinary team. Utilization of radiological as well as pathological diagnostic modalities ensures correct diagnosis and thus timely intervention.

Introduction

Proteus mirabilis is a Gram‐negative rod. It is a highly motile bacterium that belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae. Lung infection and pneumonia caused by p. mirabilis is extremely rare and occurs in patients with chronic debilitation or chronic lung disease.

Case Presentation

A 65‐year‐Old Woman presented with dry cough, dyspnoea on exertion, and chest pain of 4 months' duration. She received multiple medications including antibiotics but without any resolution of her symptoms. Computed Tomography scan of the chest was performed reported a tumor in the upper lobe of the left lung with multiple associated pulmonary nodules. The impression was that of metastatic lung disease with superimposed acute infection. Accordingly, the patient was reevaluated and a diagnostic bronchoscopy with multiple endobronchial biopsies and broncho‐alveolar lavage was done. The gram stain showed Gram‐Negative Bacilli and the bacteria identified P. mirabilis.

Conclusion

Mass lesions suspected for malignancy should be managed with involvement of multiple medical disciplines, to ensure correct and timely diagnosis. This is to avoid miss‐management.
Structural and Electronic Engineering of Co‐doped Ni3C Nanoparticles Encapsulated in Ultrathin Carbon Layers for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Wang Shensong , Zhou Fengling , Shanmugam Sangaraju , Kim Hasuck , Zhang Xinyi
Published: September 2023

With resurgent interest in green hydrogen as a key element in the transition to a renewable‐energy economy, developing efficient, earth‐abundant, and low‐cost catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is becoming increasingly important but is still very challenging. Herein, we report the synthesis of Co‐doped Ni3C nanoparticles encapsulated in ultrathin carbon layers (CNCC) by in‐situ thermal decomposition of organic‐inorganic hybrid as high‐performance HER electrocatalysts. Experimental and density functional theory studies evidence that the substantial high‐index (113) surfaces in synergy with a few atomic carbon layers contribute significantly to the activity and stability, while the electronic structure of Ni3C is optimized through tuning the Co content to enhance the intrinsic kinetics for HER. The CNCC exhibits excellent HER activities with overpotentials at 10 mA cm−2 (η10) of 102 and 69 mV and Tafel slopes of 74 and 43 mV dec−1 in respective neutral and alkaline media along with a superior stability without noticeable decay up to 100 h. More importantly, the CNCC outperforms the benchmark Pt/C catalyst under high current density (>38 mA cm−2) in an alkaline electrolyte, showing great potential for practical hydrogen production.
Fuel Property Enhancement of Jatropha Biodiesel by Blending with Nanoparticles
Authors: Prajapati Ajeet Kumar , Yadawa Yogendra , Dwivedi Deepak , Kumar Rakesh
Published: September 2023

The direct application of Jatropha biodiesel in engines is harmful because of the corrosivity of biodiesel, the emission of poisonous gases, and solid particulate matter. Therefore, it is of paramount important to enhance the biodiesel fuel properties via green routes to effectively utilize it for automotive applications. The synthesis and application of different nanoparticles (NPs) such as ZnO, Mg‐ZnO, TiO2, and SiO2, as fuel property enhancers for Jatropha biodiesel were investigated. The calorific value, oxidation stability, dynamic viscosity etc. were studied for the NP‐blended biodiesels and compared with the traditional biodiesel (B100). Mg‐ZnO was found to be a promising candidate as fuel property enhancer for biodiesels.
Exploring the Multifarious Role of the Ligand in Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Pathways
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Tyagi Vyom Prakash , Ghosh Munmun
Published: September 2023

In recent years, researchers have shifted their focus towards investigating the redox properties of ancillary ligand backbones for small‐molecule activation. Several metal complexes have been reported for the electrocatalytic H2 evolution reaction (HER), providing valuable mechanistic insights. This process involves efficient coupling of electrons and protons. Redox‐active ligands stipulate internal electron transfer and promote effective orbital overlap between metal and ligand, thereby, enabling efficient proton‐coupled electron transfer reactions. Understanding such catalytic mechanisms requires thorough spectroscopic and computational analyses. Herein, we summarize recent examples of molecular electrocatalysts based on 3d transition metals that have significantly influenced mechanistic pathways, thus, emphasizing the multifaceted role of metal–ligand cooperativity.
Graphitic carbon nitride nanomaterials for high‐performance supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Yunxuan , Lu Chao
Published: September 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride is a promising material as an electrode material for advanced electrochemical energy storage devices because of its controllable structure, physicochemical properties, and abundant active sites. However, its intrinsic properties as electrode materials can not be fully expressed owing to limited electrical properties, which impede charge transfer and material exchange inside devices. During the past decade, the challenge has been addressed through material engineering strategies, such as exfoliation and composition, and then advanced energy devices, such as supercapacitors, have been assembled. In this regard, a timely review of graphitic carbon nitride for high‐performance supercapacitors requires to be put forward for summarizing past studies and inspiring future research works as well. This review article summarizes recent progress in material synthesis and property regulation of graphitic carbon nitride nanomaterials and their application in assembling advanced supercapacitors with high energy density and superior working stability. Finally, based on existing research and our experimental experience, a perspective for directing future research has been presented concerning material synthesis and electrochemical application of graphitic carbon nitride.
Nickel Sulfide/Hierarchical Porous Carbon from Spent Residue Hydrocracking Catalyst as Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Xinhao , Hou Yunhui , Ge Shaohui , Hou Yuandong , Wu Zhijie , Chen Zhaojun , Gao Ruitong , Du Hui
Published: September 2023

Spent residue slurry‐phase hydrocracking catalyst coated with coke have been classified as hazardous solid waste, presenting serious economic and environmental issues to refiners. Herein, the spent catalysts with a nickel sulfide nanoparticle/coke hierarchical structure (NiSX/C) from our previous work were used to prepare nickel sulfide/hierarchical porous carbon (NiSX/HPC) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) through the method of carbonization, activation, and sulfurization. The results indicate that the NiSX/C converts into Ni/HPC after carbonization and activation, and then transform into NiSX/HPC by sulfurization. The optimized NiSX/HPC‐8 possesses the crystal phase of NiS2, and the high specific surface area of 1134.9 m2 g−1 with the hierarchical micro‐mesoporous structure. Besides, NiSX/HPC‐8 achieves a low overpotential of 236 mV at 10 mA cm−2, a low Tafel slope of 64.1 mV dec−1, and excellent stability. This work provides a viable method for upcycling spent catalysts to re‐constructed OER catalysts with high catalytic performance and durability.
The intersocietal IWGDF, ESVS, SVS guidelines on peripheral artery disease in people with diabetes and a foot ulcer
Authors: Fitridge Robert , Chuter Vivienne , Mills Joseph , Hinchliffe Robert , Azuma Nobuyoshi , Behrendt Christian‐Alexander , Boyko Edward J. , Conte Michael S. , Humphries Misty , Kirksey Lee , McGinigle Katharine C. , Nikol Sigrid , Nordanstig Joakim , Rowe Vincent , Russell David , van den Berg Jos C. , Venermo Maarit , Schaper Nicolaas
Published: September 2023

Diabetes related foot complications have become a major cause of morbidity and are implicated in most major and minor amputations globally. Approximately 50% of people with diabetes and a foot ulcer have peripheral artery disease (PAD) and the presence of PAD significantly increases the risk of adverse limb and cardiovascular events. The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) has published evidence based guidelines on the management and prevention of diabetes related foot complications since 1999. This guideline is an update of the 2019 IWGDF guideline on the diagnosis, prognosis and management of peripheral artery disease in people with diabetes mellitus and a foot ulcer. For this guideline the IWGDF, the European Society for Vascular Surgery and the Society for Vascular Surgery decided to collaborate to develop a consistent suite of recommendations relevant to clinicians in all countries. This guideline is based on three new systematic reviews. Using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework clinically relevant questions were formulated, and the literature was systematically reviewed. After assessing the certainty of the evidence, recommendations were formulated which were weighed against the balance of benefits and harms, patient values, feasibility, acceptability, equity, resources required, and when available, costs. Through this process five recommendations were developed for diagnosing PAD in a person with diabetes, with and without a foot ulcer or gangrene. Five recommendations were developed for prognosis relating to estimating likelihood of healing and amputation outcomes in a person with diabetes and a foot ulcer or gangrene. Fifteen recommendations were developed related to PAD treatment encompassing prioritisation of people for revascularisation, the choice of a procedure and post‐surgical care. In addition, the Writing Committee has highlighted key research questions where current evidence is lacking. The Writing Committee believes that following these recommendations will help healthcare professionals to provide better care and will reduce the burden of diabetes related foot complications.