bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activities of Fe‐ and V‐Doped and Co‐Doped TiO2
Authors: Garg Alok
Published: July 2022

Doping and co‐doping of TiO2 nanoparticles was performed using iron and vanadium by an impregnation method and the as‐synthesized samples were characterized. The redesigned photocatalyst mainly covered the anatase phase in the presence of metal ions in the lattice of the TiO2 photocatalyst. The UV‐vis extinction coefficient and Raman spectroscopy revealed a redshift with an increase in the concentration of metal ions. The synthesized photocatalysts did not change the shape of the nanoparticles. The anticancer and antibacterial activities were checked using doped and co‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles on a lung cancer cell line and E. coli, respectively. The results indicated effective cell inhibition using the co‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles and maximum antibacterial activity in TiO2 doped with ferric ions.
Translational and Clinical Relevance of PDX‐Derived Organoid Models in Oncology Drug Discovery and Development
Authors: Kumari Rajendra , Xu Xiaoxi , Li Henry Qi‐Xang
Published: July 2022

Patient‐derived cancer disease models conserve many key features of the original human cancers, potentially allowing higher predictive power than traditional cell line models. Accordingly, in vivo patient‐derived xenografts (PDX) are frequently utilized in preclinical and translational oncology studies as patient surrogates for population‐based screens (“mouse clinical trials”), for which large PDX biobanks have been generated over the last decade from various cancer types. In vitro patient‐derived organoids (PDO) have recently emerged as a disruptive technology, enabling early “patient in a dish” clinical trials. Like PDX, PDOs retain the histology/genomics of the original tumor and are highly predictive of the clinical response. Organoids derived from adult stem cells (ASC) in patient tissue can function as mini‐organs. They have greater advantages over other 3D in vitro systems, making them highly predictive, reliable, and consistent in vitro models. Large biobanks enable the adoption of organoids in early drug screening and patient selection. PDX biobanks, as a source of human material, have been used to create 3D in vitro screens, but with limitations. However, creating organoids from the ASCs residing in PDXs has been successfully used as a rapid and cost‐effective way to enable higher throughput in vitro screens and generate matched in vitro/in vivo model pairs that retain genomic, histopathological, and pharmacology profiles. This overview summarizes the generation of matched in vitro/in vivo models from patient material, the advantages over other systems, and the applications to drug discovery. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Optimizing the test locations and replicates in multi‐environmental cotton registration trials in southern Xinjiang, China
Authors: Xu Naiyin , Qiao Yintao , Zhao Suqin , Yang Xiaoni , Li Jian , Fok Michel
Published: July 2022

Multi‐environment trials are routinely conducted around the world to select superior cultivars; the numbers of replicates and locations remains insufficiently studied despite their effects on trial efficiency and cost. The objective of the present study was to compensate for the mentioned lack by dealing with the specific case of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in arid conditions of China and by estimating the optimal numbers of locations and/or replicates in a more comprehensive way than implemented so far, that is, optimizing with regard jointly to three criteria, namely, genotype ranking, location evaluation, and environment investigation. Trial heritability and the optimal numbers of locations and replicates were estimated through adapted genotype plus genotype × environment biplot analysis from data of cotton variety registration trials in the fringes of the Taklimakan Desert in Southern Xinjiang in China over the 2011–2020 period when three replicate trials were generally conducted in nine locations. Despite the identification of two mega‐environments (MEs) through location grouping biplot analysis, our study showed robust results of genotype ranking, correlation among test locations, and location grouping that were not affected by reducing the number of replicates. It was concluded that two replicates (instead of three) were sufficient for reliable genotype evaluation, test location evaluation, and ME classification in the studied trial scheme. The implied savings justifies similar study on other schemes.
Integrated analysis of genes encoding ATP‐dependent chromatin remodellers identifies CHD7 as a potential target for colorectal cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Xingyan , Zhou Yaoyao , Shi Zhenyu , Liu Zhenfeng , Chen Hao , Wang Xiaochen , Cheng Yiming , Xi Lishan , Li Xuanyuan , Zhang Chunze , Bao Li , Xuan Chenghao
Published: July 2022

Background

Genes participating in chromatin organization and regulation are frequently mutated or dysregulated in cancers. ATP‐dependent chromatin remodelers (ATPCRs) play a key role in organizing genomic DNA within chromatin, therefore regulating gene expression. The oncogenic role of ATPCRs and the mechanism involved remains unclear.

Methods

We analyzed the genomic and transcriptional aberrations of the genes encoding ATPCRs in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort. A series of cellular experiments and mouse tumor‐bearing experiments were conducted to reveal the regulatory function of CHD7 on the growth of colorectal cancer cells. RNA‐seq and ATAC‐seq approaches together with ChIP assays were performed to elucidate the downstream targets and the molecular mechanisms.

Results

Our data showed that many ATPCRs represented a high frequency of somatic copy number alterations, widespread somatic mutations, remarkable expression abnormalities, and significant correlation with overall survival, suggesting several somatic driver candidates including chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 7 (CHD7) in colorectal cancer. We experimentally demonstrated that CHD7 promotes the growth of colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. CHD7 can bind to the promoters of target genes to maintain chromatin accessibility and facilitate transcription. We found that CHD7 knockdown downregulates AK4 expression and activates AMPK phosphorylation, thereby promoting the phosphorylation and stability of p53 and leading to the inhibition of the colorectal cancer growth. Our muti‐omics analyses of ATPCRs across large‐scale cancer specimens identified potential therapeutic targets and our experimental studies revealed a novel CHD7‐AK4‐AMPK‐p53 axis that plays an oncogenic role in colorectal cancer.
Detection of erythropoiesis stimulating agent Luspatercept after administration to healthy volunteers for antidoping purposes
Authors: Marchand Alexandre , Miller Geoff , Martin Laurent , Gobbo Coralie , Crouch Andre K. , Eichner Daniel , Ericsson Magnus
Published: July 2022

Luspatercept (Reblozyl®) is a newly approved anti‐anemic drug prohibited by the World Anti‐Doping Agency. It promotes erythropoiesis by limiting apoptosis of immature erythroblasts and the risk of misuse by athletes for doping is high. Proposed detection methods have been published recently but only evaluated in vitro. The objective of this study was to perform the first administration of luspatercept in healthy volunteers for antidoping purpose and to evaluate the detectability in serum, dried capillary blood spots (DBS, collected using TASSO M20 device), and urine. Indirect detection was also evaluated by analyzing hematological parameters for the Athlete Biological Passport. Four volunteers (two males, two females) received one subtherapeutic dose of luspatercept (0.25 mg/kg) followed 3 weeks after by a second dose. Samples were collected from before administration until 7 weeks after the second dose. After immunopurification, electrophoretic separation SDS‐/SAR‐/IEF‐ polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), and immunodetection, luspatercept was detected at high levels in serum until the end of the collection, sign of a very slow elimination and similarly detected unchanged at lower levels in urine from 2 days after the first administration until 7 weeks postadministration. DBS showed also the same long window of detection. Luspatercept effects were however of limited amplitude on hematological markers, and only two subjects presented atypical points outside the physiological limits during the study. The direct detection method was very efficient, and change of electrophoretic method and detection antibody can be used for confirmation of suspicious samples.
Use of road underpasses by mammals and a monitor lizard in eastern Australia and consideration of the prey‐trap hypothesis
Authors: Goldingay Ross L. , Rohweder David , Taylor Brendan D. , Parkyn Jonathan L.
Published: July 2022

Road networks continue to expand globally with predictable effects on ecological systems. Research into the effectiveness of road underpasses and overpasses for wildlife has been concentrated in North America and Europe. In Australia, most studies of underpasses have been of relatively short duration and without reference sites to give context to the measured rates of use. We studied 5–7 road underpasses at two locations in eastern Australia over 2–3 years, comparing camera trap detections of animals in underpasses with those at nearby forest sites. Three species of large macropod (wallabies and kangaroos) were frequently detected in the underpasses, with some underpasses traversed 1–4 times per week, and in many cases exceeded detections in the forest. The lace monitor (Varanus varius) was detected in all underpasses, often once per week during spring and summer, and infrequently in the forest. At each location, a different small macropod species, including one regionally threatened, showed a higher probability of detection in one underpass compared with several of the forest sites. The vulnerable koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) was detected infrequently in underpasses and in the adjoining forest. The short‐beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) had a high probability of detection in a single underpass. The “prey‐trap hypothesis” postulates that predators will exhibit increased activity at underpasses as a consequence of prey being funneled. We found the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) had high activity in some underpasses. However, its activity coincided less than expected with the activity of the mammals most at risk to it. Our results provide no consistent support for the “prey‐trap hypothesis.” Instead, our study confirms the generic value of underpasses for a range of medium‐large mammals as well as one large reptile. Habitat adjoining underpasses exert a strong influence on their use and require greater consideration to maximize underpass use.
Surface modulated Fe doping of β‐Ni(OH)2 nanosheets for highly promoted oxygen evolution electrocatalysis
Authors: Hu Shuisheng , Li Yong , Kim Daekyu , Liu Mengjie , Lee Lawrence Yoon Suk , Wong Kwok‐Yin
Published: July 2022

Active yet low‐cost electrocatalysts for water oxidation are crucial for the development of hydrogen energy economy. The Fe doping into Ni(OH)2 dramatically enhances catalytic activity toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) but fabricating Ni(OH)2 of high Fe loading is still challenging. Herein, we report a one‐pot strategy to prepare disordered β‐Ni(OH)2 nanosheets with a high Fe doping level (9.9 at%, D‐Fe‐Ni(OH)2). By engaging 1,4‐phenylenediphosphonic acid (BDPA), FexBDPAy precursors are in situ generated in a growth solution containing Fe3+ ions, which decrease the reaction kinetics of Ni2+ and Fe3+ ions at the surface of Ni foam. This prevents the deconstructive hydrolysis by Fe3+ ions and enables a high Fe‐doping in D‐Fe‐Ni(OH)2. The as‐prepared D‐Fe‐Ni(OH)2 affords 10 mA cm−2 at an ultralow OER overpotential of 194 mV in alkaline media. This work offers a promising strategy of engaging organic ligands to achieve high‐doping levels for the construction of efficient electrocatalysts.

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How do large wildfires impact sediment redistribution over multiple decades?
Authors: Follmi Dante , Baartman Jantiene , Benali Akli , Nunes Joao Pedro
Published: July 2022

Wildfires have become an increasing threat for Mediterranean ecosystems, due to increasing climate change‐induced wildfire activity and changing land management practices. In addition to the initial risk, wildfires can alter the soil in various ways—depending on fire severity—and cause enhanced post‐fire erosion. Usually, post‐fire erosion studies focus on a short time window and lack the attention for sediment dynamics at larger spatial scales. Yet, these large spatial and temporal scales are fundamental for a better understanding of long‐term destructive effects of multiple recurring wildfires on post‐fire erosion processes and catchment sediment dynamics. In this study the landscape evolution model LAPSUS was used to simulate erosion and deposition in the 404 km2 Águeda catchment in north‐central Portugal over a 41‐year (1979–2020) timespan, including eight wildfires each burning >1000 ha. To include variation in fire severity and its impact on the soil, four burn severity classes, represented by the difference normalized burn ratio (dNBR), were parameterized. Although model calibration was difficult due to lack of spatial and temporal measured data, the results show that long‐term post‐fire net erosion rates were significantly higher in the wildfire scenarios (5.95 ton ha−1 yr−1) compared to those of a non‐wildfire scenario (0.58 ton ha−1 yr−1). Furthermore, erosion values increased with burn severity and multiple wildfires increased the overall catchment sediment build‐up. Simulated erosion patterns showed great spatial variability, with large deposition and erosion rates inside streams. This variability made it difficult to identify land uses that were most sensitive for post‐fire erosion, because some land uses were located in more erosion‐sensitive areas (e.g. streams, gullies) or were more affected by high burn severity levels than others. Despite these limitations, LAPSUS performed well on addressing spatial sediment processes and can contribute to pre‐fire management strategies, by identifying locations at risk of post‐fire erosion.
Sex differences in predictors and regional patterns of brain age gap estimates
Authors: Sanford Nicole , Ge Ruiyang , Antoniades Mathilde , Modabbernia Amirhossein , Haas Shalaila S. , Whalley Heather C. , Galea Liisa , Popescu Sebastian G. , Cole James H. , Frangou Sophia
Published: July 2022

The brain‐age‐gap estimate (brainAGE) quantifies the difference between chronological age and age predicted by applying machine‐learning models to neuroimaging data and is considered a biomarker of brain health. Understanding sex differences in brainAGE is a significant step toward precision medicine. Global and local brainAGE (G‐brainAGE and L‐brainAGE, respectively) were computed by applying machine learning algorithms to brain structural magnetic resonance imaging data from 1113 healthy young adults (54.45% females; age range: 22–37 years) participating in the Human Connectome Project. Sex differences were determined in G‐brainAGE and L‐brainAGE. Random forest regression was used to determine sex‐specific associations between G‐brainAGE and non‐imaging measures pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics and mental, physical, and cognitive functions. L‐brainAGE showed sex‐specific differences; in females, compared to males, L‐brainAGE was higher in the cerebellum and brainstem and lower in the prefrontal cortex and insula. Although sex differences in G‐brainAGE were minimal, associations between G‐brainAGE and non‐imaging measures differed between sexes with the exception of poor sleep quality, which was common to both. While univariate relationships were small, the most important predictor of higher G‐brainAGE was self‐identification as non‐white in males and systolic blood pressure in females. The results demonstrate the value of applying sex‐specific analyses and machine learning methods to advance our understanding of sex‐related differences in factors that influence the rate of brain aging and provide a foundation for targeted interventions.
Essential lipid autacoids rewire mitochondrial energy efficiency in metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease
Authors: López‐Vicario Cristina , Sebastián David , Casulleras Mireia , Duran‐Güell Marta , Flores‐Costa Roger , Aguilar Ferran , Lozano Juan José , Zhang Ingrid W. , Titos Esther , Kang Jing X. , Zorzano Antonio , Arita Makoto , Clària Joan
Published: July 2022

Background and Aim:

Injury to hepatocyte mitochondria is common in metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease. Here, we investigated whether changes in the content of essential fatty acid–derived lipid autacoids affect hepatocyte mitochondrial bioenergetics and metabolic efficiency.

Approach and Results:

The study was performed in transgenic mice for the fat‐1 gene, which allows the endogenous replacement of the membrane omega‐6–polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) composition by omega‐3–PUFA. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that hepatocyte mitochondria of fat‐1 mice had more abundant intact cristae and higher mitochondrial aspect ratio. Fat‐1 mice had increased expression of oxidative phosphorylation complexes I and II and translocases of both inner (translocase of inner mitochondrial membrane 44) and outer (translocase of the outer membrane 20) mitochondrial membranes. Fat‐1 mice also showed increased mitofusin‐2 and reduced dynamin‐like protein 1 phosphorylation, which mediate mitochondrial fusion and fission, respectively. Mitochondria of fat‐1 mice exhibited enhanced oxygen consumption rate, fatty acid β‐oxidation, and energy substrate utilization as determined by high‐resolution respirometry, [1‐14C]‐oleate oxidation and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride/dihydroflavine‐adenine dinucleotide production, respectively. Untargeted lipidomics identified a rich hepatic omega‐3–PUFA composition and a specific docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)–enriched lipid fingerprint in fat‐1 mice. Targeted lipidomics uncovered a higher content of DHA‐derived lipid autacoids, namely resolvin D1 and maresin 1, which rescued hepatocytes from TNFα‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction, and unblocked the tricarboxylic acid cycle flux and metabolic utilization of long‐chain acyl‐carnitines, amino acids, and carbohydrates. Importantly, fat‐1 mice were protected against mitochondrial injury induced by obesogenic and fibrogenic insults.

Conclusion:

Our data uncover the importance of a lipid membrane composition rich in DHA and its lipid autacoid derivatives to have optimal hepatic mitochondrial and metabolic efficiency.
COVID‐19's impact on type 1 diabetes management: A mixed‐methods study exploring the Peruvian experience
Authors: Zafra‐Tanaka Jessica Hanae , Najarro Lizzete , Tenorio‐Mucha Janeth , Lazo‐Porras Maria , Bartra Diego , Bazán Gina , Berghusen Anteparra María Claudia , Bonilla Ursula , Motta Vicky , Beran David
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic has negatively impacted health services, especially in low‐and‐middle‐income countries, where care for chronic conditions such as diabetes was disrupted. Our study aims to describe the challenges faced by people living with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) to access care during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Peru.

Methods

A sequential explanatory mixed‐method study was conducted between May and September 2020 including health professionals involved in T1DM care, people with T1DM and their caregivers. The study consisted of a quantitative strand to gather general information through electronic surveys and a qualitative strand that involved in‐depth interviews.

Results

For the quantitative study, we included 105 people with T1DM, 50 caregivers and 76 health professionals. The qualitative study included a total of 31 interviews; 16 people with T1DM, 14 health care professionals, and one representative from the Peruvian Ministry of Health (MoH). People with T1DM faced difficulties accessing consultations, insulin, monitoring devices and laboratory testing during the pandemic. Different phases of the Peruvian health system response were found. Firstly, an initial informal response to addressing T1DM care during the pandemic characterised by local initiatives to ensure continuity of care for people with T1DM. Following from this, a formal response was implemented by the MoH which focussed on reinforcing the primary level of care. Measures included teleconsultations and delivery of medicines, although these were not implemented in all health care establishments. Throughout the pandemic patient associations played an important role in organising and helping to counteract the impact of COVID‐19 on people with T1DM.

Conclusions

The Peruvian health care system slowly adapted to the COVID‐19 pandemic to provide care for people with T1DM. However, people with T1DM had difficulties to access care. Thus, reinforcement of interventions such as communication between levels of care, teleconsultations and delivery of medicines was urgently needed. Patient associations' capacity to respond should be considered by local authorities and civil society should be part of the health system response.
Multidisciplinary management of a pregnant woman with uncorrected transposition of the great arteries at term pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Castillo Reyther Roberto Arturo , Ling Garcia Jose Pablo , Krebs Larraga Karla , Alvarado Jalomo Silvia Andrea , Romero Becerra Ileana Marlene , Guerra Hernandez Mauricio , Urbina Gonzalez Hugo , Vazquez Morales Karla Guadalupe , Morales Montesinos Erick , Kway Venance Basil
Published: July 2022

A case of successful management of a pregnant patient with a diagnosis of uncorrected transposition of the great arteries from 32 weeks to cesarean delivery at 37 weeks.
Setting Current Context for Security in the Future of Systems Engineering
Authors: Dove Rick
Published: July 2022

Security in the Future of Systems Engineering (FuSE) is one of the topic areas under the INCOSE FuSE initiative. A roadmap for starting the journey published at the 2021 INCOSE International Symposium offered eleven strategic concepts appropriate and ready for further movement toward standard practice. Initial work in that direction enticed several practitioners and researchers to address selected concepts in this special issue of the INCOSE's INSIGHT publication. The purpose of this lead‐off article is to provide a contextual backdrop for the articles that follow.
Measuring Stakeholder Alignment to Overcome Control System Cyber Vulnerability
Authors: Scalco Aleksandra , Simske Steve
Published: July 2022

Disagreement exists among professionals due to variances in engineering practice, paradigms, processes, and culture. Understanding the whole picture and what can improve things is a continuous science and engineering challenge. This challenge holds particularly true for systems that control the physical world, such as power systems that oversee occupational health and safety issue resources—stakeholder disagreement results in measurable misalignment that leads to vulnerability. The vulnerability induced by stakeholder misalignment may be greater than any innate system design vulnerability. It is possible to measure the uncertainty of agreement through statistical analysis and use an analytical model to identify pain points where different sets of stakeholders disagree. The same measure can assess stakeholder sources beginning with a vulnerability assessment to help drive better alignment and, eventually, agreement. It is the disagreement that ends up in vulnerability. This paper describes the analytic model and methodology as a new means of assessing uncertainty and interpreting Likert scores to overcome control system cybersecurity vulnerability.
Modeling for Trustworthiness
Authors: Winstead Mark
Published: July 2022

One concept within Security in the Future of Systems Engineering, a Roadmap of Foundation Concepts (Dove et al. 2021) is that of modeling trust – providing a level of system security through evidence‐based assurance. This paper discusses some leverage points for progressing to such an end, using methods and techniques from other engineering disciplines, specifically safety, to model trust and evaluate assurance and assurance deficits (i.e., risk).
Quantum computing in pharma: A multilayer embedding approach for near future applications
Authors: Izsák Róbert , Riplinger Christoph , Blunt Nick S. , de Souza Bernardo , Holzmann Nicole , Crawford Ophelia , Camps Joan , Neese Frank , Schopf Patrick
Published: July 2022

Quantum computers are special purpose machines that are expected to be particularly useful in simulating strongly correlated chemical systems. The quantum computer excels at treating a moderate number of orbitals within an active space in a fully quantum mechanical manner. We present a quantum phase estimation calculation on F2 in a (2,2) active space on Rigetti's Aspen‐11 QPU. While this is a promising start, it also underlines the need for carefully selecting the orbital spaces treated by the quantum computer. In this work, a scheme for selecting such an active space automatically is described and simulated results obtained using both the quantum phase estimation (QPE) and variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) algorithms are presented and combined with a subtractive method to enable accurate description of the environment. The active occupied space is selected from orbitals localized on the chemically relevant fragment of the molecule, while the corresponding virtual space is chosen based on the magnitude of interactions with the occupied space calculated from perturbation theory. This protocol is then applied to two chemical systems of pharmaceutical relevance: the enzyme [Fe] hydrogenase and the photosenzitizer temoporfin. While the sizes of the active spaces currently amenable to a quantum computational treatment are not enough to demonstrate quantum advantage, the procedure outlined here is applicable to any active space size, including those that are outside the reach of classical computation.
Experimental investigation on recovery of bio‐based protocatechuic acid using ionic liquids
Authors: Antony Fiona Mary , Wasewar Kailas L
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

The production of protocatechuic acid (PCA) (which has significant applications in organic intermediates, chemical reagents, pharmaceuticals, dye synthesis, etc.) by fermentation is a potential replacement to the conventional petrochemical routes of carboxylic acid production. However, the extraction processes of these carboxylic acids from fermentation broths and dilute waste water using organic solvents imply additional environment hazards. Ionic liquids (ILs) have come to the focus because of their superior properties as well as environmentally friendly nature, and are being intensively used for separation processes. The equilibrium extraction efficiency for bio PCA using two imidazolium ILs – 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (bmimBF4) and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (bmim‐PF6) – was investigated under isothermal conditions in diluent octanol. The distribution coefficient and extraction efficiency were determined to be much greater than those obtained with traditional extractants and diluents.

RESULTS

This work is the first of its type to use ILs for PCA isolation. From the equilibrium extraction experiments conducted it was observed, in octanol, that the average distribution coefficients (KD) values for bmimBF4 and bmim‐PF6 were 5.3 and 5.36, respectively, with average extraction efficiencies of 83.84% and 84.08% at a lower IL concentration of 10% by volume, and the findings may be utilised to develop an extraction purification system for PCA separation from aqueous streams. Multiple stages of separation may lead to almost 100% recovery.

CONCLUSION

PCA was efficiently extracted from aqueous solutions using bmimBF4 and bmim‐PF6 in octanol, providing preliminary practical information and theoretical support for PCA separation, purification and recovery. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Application of dye saturated clay adsorbent from dyeing wastewater as textile printing pigment
Authors: Rahimi Abd Allah , Alihosseini Farzaneh
Published: July 2022

Background

Adsorption by cheap materials (like clay and activated carbon) is one of the most effective methods for treating dye wastewaters, especially for cationic dyes. Although activated carbon has a black residue, the unique nanostructure of clay adsorbs dye molecules between its layers and produces a colored sludge. Dye intercalated clays were also introduced as possible coloring pigments. This work tries to combine the wastewater treatment and hybrid pigment production processes so that the remaining sludge of the process can be used as a printing pigment.

Results

Bentonite clay was examined for treating real dye wastewater from the textile industry containing four cationic dyes. The adsorption mechanism of all dyes was studied individually, and the results show that bentonite has a minimum adsorption capacity of 467 mg/g for Basic Red 46 dye based on the Langmuir model. The adsorption process decreased the turbidity by about 86% and reduced the total dissolved solids (TDS) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of wastewater. The produced hybrid showed a nano‐layer structure according to the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Differential thermal analysis (DTA) shows that the thermal stability of the pigment improved by about 30 °C compared to the pristine dye. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the dye: bentonite ratio should be adjusted at a medium level to control the hydrophilicity of the hybrid and improve its miscibility in binders.

Conclusion

The produced pigment was printed on cotton fabric with a desirable visual color appearance and showed acceptable rubbing and light fastnesses. The result indicates that wastewater sludge from this adsorption process could be applicable as an industrial pigment. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Coprinopsis afrocinerea (Agaricales, Psathyrellaceae): First record from Asia (Pakistan)
Authors: Ullah Tauseef , Saba Malka , Syed Mahrukh Farid
Published: July 2022

In this work, we introduced a new report, Coprinopsis afrocinerea, a coprinoid mushroom from Pakistan. This species was collected several times during the monsoon season; it was found growing on animal dung and on sandy soil mixed with wood chips and leaf litter. This taxon was identified through morphological (macro‐ and micromorphology) techniques and molecular (ITS‐region) markers. Results showed that Pakistani collection's macro‐ and micro‐morphological characters match the type specimen of Coprinopsis afrocinerea. In the phylogenetic tree, sequences of our collections fall within section Cinereae and are clustered with type sequences of Coprinopsis afrocinerea with strong statistical support. This species has already been reported from Africa and is described here for the first time from Asia. Previously, only seven species of Coprinopsis have been reported from Pakistan, and in this study, the number of known taxa has increased to eight. This paper provides a detailed morphological and molecular analysis of this species to differentiate it from closely related taxa.
感染性心内膜炎による脾炎からの脾臓破裂を来した1例(A case of splenic rupture owing to splenitis caused by infective endocarditis)
Authors: (Tomonori Kaburaki) 蕪木 友則 , (Naoshige Harada) 原田 尚重 , (Syunsuke Hara) 原 俊輔
Published: July 2022

感染性心内膜炎の合併症として，まれではあるが脾臓破裂がある。脾臓破裂は，感染性心内膜炎のために，脾臓に梗塞，膿瘍，感染性動脈瘤を形成し，その後破裂することが多いとされる。しかし，今回我々は，梗塞，膿瘍，感染性動脈瘤形成が認められず，感染性心内膜炎からの脾炎による脾臓破裂というまれな症例を経験したので報告する。症例は55歳の男性。発熱を主訴に入院し，血液培養でStreptococcus oralisが検出され，心臓超音波検査で僧帽弁に15mm大の疣贅を認め感染性心内膜炎と診断され，抗菌薬治療を行っていた。重度の僧帽弁逆流症を認めており，早期手術の方針であった。しかし，術前検査中に急性期脳梗塞，脳出血を認めたため，待機的手術の方針に変わった。その後の入院中に突然左側腹部痛と血圧低下を認め，ショック状態となり，CTで脾臓出血の診断で緊急脾臓摘出術が行われた。摘出脾臓の病理診断では，梗塞，膿瘍，感染性動脈瘤は認められず，びまん性に好中球浸潤が散見され，急性脾炎からの脾臓破裂と診断された。
Neuroimaging of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and its relation to Parkinson's disease
Authors: Valli Mikaeel , Uribe Carme , Mihaescu Alexander , Strafella Antonio P.
Published: July 2022

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a parasomnia characterized by polysomnography‐confirmed REM sleep without atonia and dream‐enacting behaviors. This disorder is considered a prodromal syndrome of alpha‐synucleinopathies like Parkinson's disease (PD), where it affects more than 50% of PD patients. The underlying pathology of RBD has been generally understood to involve the pontine nuclei within the brainstem. However, the complete pathophysiology beyond the brainstem remains unclear as does its relationship with PD pathology. Therefore, this review aims to survey the neuroimaging literature involving PET, SPECT, and MR imaging techniques to provide an updated understanding of the neuro‐chemical, structural, and functional changes in both RBD and PD patients comorbid with RBD. This review found neuroimaging evidence that indicate alterations to the dopaminergic and cholinergic system, blood perfusion, and glucose metabolism in both RBD patients and PD patients with RBD. Beyond the brainstem, structural and functional changes were found to involve the nigrostriatal system, limbic system, and the cortex—suggesting that RBD is a multi‐systemic neurodegenerative process. Future investigations are encouraged to follow RBD patients longitudinally using multimodal imaging techniques to enhance our understanding of this parasomnia disorder. Uncovering which individuals are most likely to develop an alpha‐synuclein disorder in the prodromal phase will improve patient outcomes and potentially aid in the development of novel treatments for patients affected by RBD.
Interaction mechanism between cereal phenolic acids and gluten protein: protein structural changes and binding mode
Authors: Feng Yulin , Feng Xuejia , Liu Shuchang , Zhang Huijuan , Wang Jing
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Phenolic acids are antioxidant nutrients in cereals and affect the quality of wheat products and the properties of gluten protein. Gallic acid (GA), caffeic acid (CA), syringic acid (SA), and p‐coumaric acid (p‐CA) were selected to study the interaction mechanism between cereal phenolic acids and gluten protein.

RESULTS

The results showed that adding GA significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the content of free sulfhydryl in gluten proteins by 70–87.26% compared with the control group. The aggregates’ behavior of gluten protein induced by adding the phenolic acids would produce oversized particles (>5000 nm). Adding the selected phenolic acids changed the hydrogen‐bond linkage of protein secondary structure. Zeta potential values of gluten protein increased significantly (P < 0.05) by 14.41%, 26.49%, 30.77%, and 57.93% for CA, p‐CA, GA, and SA respectively added at 0.03 g kg−1. Moreover, the gluten protein surface hydrophobicity increased when the phenolic acids were added at 0.03 g kg−1, displaying the effect of the phenolic acid on the hydrophobic interaction of protein. Molecular docking results showed that the selected phenolic acids could interact with glutenin and gliadin using hydrogen‐bond formation, and SA had the strongest binding with glutenin and gliadin.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that the selected phenolic acids could interact with gluten protein via covalent cross‐linking as well as by hydrogen bonding, thereby changing the structure of the gluten protein. This exploration is expected to provide theoretical support for the development and utilization of whole‐grain foods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Sparkle measurements for an automotive specification: Evaluation method for flexible setup conditions
Authors: Rotscholl Ingo , Schlipf Andreas , Rickers Christoph , Krüger Udo
Published: July 2022

This contribution proposes a sparkle evaluation based on a spatial frequency filter, taking into account various setup influences. Furthermore, the effect of flexible setup conditions on the reproducibility of measurement results is investigated. The procedure and concepts are derived for sampling resolutions between 15 and 30 cpx/mm with display pixel pitches between 183 and 224 ppi and validated by a round‐robin experiment with different test devices, including glass and foil‐based Anti‐Glare Layers. The findings serve as a basis for the measurement conditions of an automotive display sparkle measurement specification.
NIR‐Responsive Polyurethane Nanocomposites Based on PDA@FA Nanoparticles with Synergistic Antibacterial Effect
Authors: Zou Yuke , Yan Rui , Wang Haibo , Zhong Kai , Wang Shuang
Published: July 2022

At present, high‐performance antibacterial polymer materials have attracted widespread attention, possessing huge application prospects in the fields of medical and biological science, and packaging. In this work, polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) with photothermal ability and active sites are designed to adsorb fusidic acid (FA) molecules with targeted antibacterial capability; then, polydopamine@fusidic acid (PDA@FA) is introduced into the polyurethane (PU) to obtain multifunctional and antibacterial PU materials (PUDA@FA). The structures and morphologies of PDA NPs and PDA@FA are successfully characterized by Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. With the introduction of PDA@FA, the nano‐sized reinforcement not only greatly improves the mechanical properties (tensile strength 19.31 MPa and toughness 10.6 MJ m−3) of PU film but also due to the photothermal effect of PDA NPs and the antibacterial of FA, the scavenging activities of DPPH and ABTS reach 70–85% and 55–70%, respectively. The antibacterial rate of Staphylococcus aureus reaches more than 99.9% and presents long‐term antibacterial ability. In this way, this work provides new guidance for the preparation of high‐performance PU materials with both antibacterial and anti‐oxidation properties, broadening the application scope of antibacterial materials.
Deep learning methods for enhancing cone‐beam CT image quality toward adaptive radiation therapy: A systematic review
Authors: Rusanov Branimir , Hassan Ghulam Mubashar , Reynolds Mark , Sabet Mahsheed , Kendrick Jake , Rowshanfarzad Pejman , Ebert Martin
Published: July 2022

The use of deep learning (DL) to improve cone‐beam CT (CBCT) image quality has gained popularity as computational resources and algorithmic sophistication have advanced in tandem. CBCT imaging has the potential to facilitate online adaptive radiation therapy (ART) by utilizing up‐to‐date patient anatomy to modify treatment parameters before irradiation. Poor CBCT image quality has been an impediment to realizing ART due to the increased scatter conditions inherent to cone‐beam acquisitions. Given the recent interest in DL applications in radiation oncology, and specifically DL for CBCT correction, we provide a systematic theoretical and literature review for future stakeholders. The review encompasses DL approaches for synthetic CT generation, as well as projection domain methods employed in the CBCT correction literature. We review trends pertaining to publications from January 2018 to April 2022 and condense their major findings—with emphasis on study design and DL techniques. Clinically relevant endpoints relating to image quality and dosimetric accuracy are summarized, highlighting gaps in the literature. Finally, we make recommendations for both clinicians and DL practitioners based on literature trends and the current DL state‐of‐the‐art methods utilized in radiation oncology.
Performance characteristics of code‐based algorithms to identify urinary tract infections in large United States administrative claims databases
Authors: Fortin Stephen P. , Swerdel Joel , Sarnecki Michal , Doua Joachim , Colasurdo Jamie , Geurtsen Jeroen
Published: July 2022

Background

In real‐world evidence research, reliability of coding in healthcare databases dictates the accuracy of code‐based algorithms in identifying conditions such as urinary tract infection (UTI). This study evaluates the performance characteristics of code‐based algorithms to identify UTI.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of adults contained within three large U.S. administrative claims databases on or after January 1, 2010. A targeted literature review was performed to inform the development of 10 code‐based algorithms to identify UTIs consisting of combinations of diagnosis codes, antibiotic exposure for the treatment of UTIs, and/or ordering of a urinalysis or urine culture. For each database, a probabilistic gold standard was developed using PheValuator. The performance characteristics of each code‐based algorithm were assessed compared with the probabilistic gold standard.

Results

A total of 2 950 641, 1 831 405, and 2 294 929 patients meeting study criteria were identified in each database. Overall, the code‐based algorithm requiring a primary UTI diagnosis code achieved the highest positive predictive values (PPV; >93.8%) but the lowest sensitivities (<12.9%). Algorithms requiring three UTI diagnosis codes achieved similar PPV (>0.899%) and improved sensitivity (<41.6%). Algorithms requiring a single UTI diagnosis code in any position achieved the highest sensitivities (>72.1%) alongside a slight reduction in PPVs (<78.3%). All‐time prevalence estimates of UTI ranged from 21.6% to 48.6%.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, we recommend use of algorithms requiring a single UTI diagnosis code, which achieved high sensitivity and PPV. In studies where PPV is critical, we recommend code‐based algorithms requiring three UTI diagnosis codes rather than a single primary UTI diagnosis code.
Pioglitazone use in Australia and the United Kingdom following drug safety advisories on bladder cancer risk: An interrupted time series study
Authors: Kemp‐Casey Anna , Mintzes Barbara , Morrow Richard L. , Dormuth Colin R. , Souverein Patrick C. , Roughead Elizabeth E.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

National regulators in Australia and the United Kingdom issued safety advisories on the association between pioglitazone use and bladder cancer in July 2011. The Australian advisory noted that males were at higher risk of bladder cancer than females, while the UK advisory highlighted a new recommendation, suggest careful consideration in the elderly due to increasing risk with age. This study examined whether these differences in the advisories had different age‐ and sex‐based impacts in each country.

Methods

Interrupted time series analysis was used to compare pioglitazone use (prescriptions/100000 population) in Australia and the United Kingdom for the 24 months before and 11 months after the July 2011 safety advisories (study period July 2009–June 2012). Separate models were used to compare use by sex and age group (≥65 years vs. <65 years) in each country.

Results

Pioglitazone use fell in Australia (17%) and the United Kingdom (24%) following the safety advisories. Use of pioglitazone fell more for males (18%) than females (16%) in Australia, and more for females (25%) than males (23%) in the United Kingdom; however, neither difference was statistically significant (Australia p = 0.445, United Kingdom p = 0.462). Pioglitazone use fell to a similar extent among older people than younger people in the United Kingdom (23% vs. 26%, p = 0.354), and did not differ between age groups in Australia (both 18%, p = 0.772).

Conclusions

The results indicate that differences in the Australian and UK safety advisories resulted in substantial reductions in pioglitazone use at the population level in both countries, however, differences by sub‐groups were not observed.
Ameliorating potential of curcumin and its analogue in central nervous system disorders and related conditions: A review of molecular pathways
Authors: Joshi Priyanka , Bisht Akansha , Joshi Sushil , Semwal Deepak , Nema Neelesh Kumar , Dwivedi Jaya , Sharma Swapnil
Published: July 2022

Curcumin, isolated from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is one of the broadly studied phytomolecule owing to its strong antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential and has been considered a promising therapeutic candidate in a wide range of disorders. Considering, its low bioavailability, different curcumin analogs have been developed to afford desired pharmacokinetic profile and therapeutic outcome in varied pathological states. Several preclinical and clinical studies have indicated that curcumin ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress apoptosis‐mediated neural cell degeneration and could effectively be utilized in the treatment of different neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, in this review, we have summarized key findings of experimental and clinical studies conducted on curcumin and its analogues with special emphasis on molecular pathways, viz. NF‐kB, Nrf2‐ARE, glial activation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, SOCS/JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt, ERK1/2 /MyD88 /p38 MAPK, JNK, iNOS/NO, and MMP pathways involved in imparting ameliorative effects in the therapy of neurodegenerative disorders and associated conditions.
A scoping review of nutritional interventions and policy guidelines in the interconception period for prevention of noncommunicable diseases
Authors: Watson Daniella , Jacob Chandni M. , Giles Gareth , McAuliffe Fionnuala M. , Godfrey Keith , Hanson Mark
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The interconception period is considered a time when parents are likely to engage with health messages and are in frequent contact with healthcare professionals. Through this scoping review and policy analysis, we synthesized articles and guidelines on interconception care to provide recommendations to improve health outcomes for parents, infants and future generations.

Methods

Four databases were searched systematically, using Medical Subject Headings and free‐text terms based on ‘interconception’ and ‘postpartum.’ Selected articles included systematic reviews, pilot studies and guidelines on interconception and postpartum interventions published globally and in English by UK public health organizations and government agencies between 1 January 2010 and 12 January 2021. Thirty percent of titles, abstracts and full‐text papers were double‐screened. The description table of identified guidelines was used as a template to qualitatively generate key categories, which later developed into a framework of six domains. Findings are described using a narrative synthesis approach.

Results

We found 47 documents with guidelines, 29 systematic reviews and 6 pilot studies on interconception and postpartum care. Six domains were generated as follows: interconception care, nutrition‐specific, nutrition‐sensitive, personal‐centred care, health professional, and multistakeholder approach. Interconception care opportunities include the postpartum period, family planning, routine practice and risk assessments. Health and nonhealthcare professionals with roles to play in the interconception period include general pratitioners, health visitors, dieticians, nutritionists, health psychologists, community groups, local authorities and charities such as Tommy's and First Step Nutrition.

Conclusions

The interconception and postpartum periods offer crucial opportunities to intervene, to reduce possible long‐term effects of suboptimal nutrition. Although the policy analysis for this scoping review focused on the United Kingdom, the literature review had a global focus and the recommendations can have wider implications for other countries.