bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TP53 and RB1 alterations characterize poor prognostic subgroups in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Hara Yusuke , Shiba Norio , Yoshida Kenichi , Yamato Genki , Kaburagi Taeko , Shiraishi Yuichi , Ohki Kentaro , Shiozawa Yusuke , Kawamura Machiko , Kawasaki Hirohide , Sotomatsu Manabu , Takizawa Takumi , Matsuo Hidemasa , Shimada Akira , Kiyokawa Nobutaka , Tomizawa Daisuke , Taga Takashi , Ito Etsuro , Horibe Keizo , Miyano Satoru , Adachi Souichi , Taki Tomohiko , Ogawa Seishi , Hayashi Yasuhide
Published: April 2023

Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a poor prognostic subtype of pediatric leukemia. However, the detailed characteristics of many genetic abnormalities are yet to be established in this disease. Although TP53 and RB1 are established as representative tumor suppressor genes in various cancers, alterations of these two genes, especially RB1, have not been characterized in pediatric AML. We performed next‐generation sequencing in 328 pediatric AML patients from the Japanese AML‐05 trial to ascertain TP53 and RB1 alterations, and their prognostic implications. We identified seven patients with TP53 alterations (2.1%) and six patients with RB1 alterations (1.8%). These alterations were found in only patients without RUNX1::RUNX1T1, CBFB::MYH11, or KMT2A rearrangements. TP53 and RB1 were frequently co‐deleted with their neighboring genes PRPF8 and ELF1, respectively. Patients with TP53 alterations had significantly lower 5‐year overall survival (OS; 14.3% vs. 71.4%, p < 0.001) and lower 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS; 0% vs. 56.3%, p < 0.001); similarly, patients with RB1 had significantly lower 5‐year OS (0% vs. 71.8%, p < 0.001) and lower 5‐year EFS (0% vs. 56.0%, p < 0.001) when compared to patients without these alterations. In gene expression analyses, oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis, and protein secretion were upregulated in patients with TP53 and/or RB1 alterations. Additionally, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that high expressions of SLC2A5, KCNAB2, and CD300LF were related to poor OS of non‐core‐binding factor AML patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.021, respectively). This study will contribute to the development of risk‐stratified therapy and precision medicine in pediatric AML.
Optimum chain desalination process design for treatment of high TDS brine: A case assessment for future treatment of extracted brine from Shenhua CO2storage site
Authors: Harandi Hesam Bazargan , Zhang Liwei , Kargari Ali , Sui Pang‐Chieh , Wang Yan , Mutailipu Meiheriayi , Lu Hao , Li Qi
Published: April 2023

Carbon dioxide‐enhanced water recovery (CO2‐EWR) is a promising strategy for managing reservoir pressure build‐up and mitigating the risk of fault activation resulting from CO2injection in deep saline aquifers. CO2‐EWR can also be employed for supplying the required water for different applications after a treatment stage for the produced saline water. In this study, a brief review on CO2‐EWR technology and its necessities are first carried out. After that, the feasibilities, advantages, and challenges of various available treatment technologies that can potentially be used to treat high total dissolved solids (TDS) brine are comprehensively assessed. Based on comprehensive evaluation on technologies, a chain desalination process, consisting of pretreatment, main treatment, and post treatment, is proposed as a strategic path for the treatment of high TDS brine extracted from the Shenhua CCS site. It is concluded that coagulation‐flocculation and gravity filtration are needed as primary stages to remove suspended particles, while membrane distillation (MD) is selected as a suitable main treatment technology for high TDS Shenhua brine. Then, MD treatment is comprehensively discussed for a small‐scale treatment of extracted Shenhua brine assuming that the pretreated brine is free of suspended solids. After presenting the heat and mass transfer equations for direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD), a mathematical thermodynamic model is programmed in EES (Engineering Equation Solver) software to briefly analyze the performance parameters of DCMD. The results indicate that the designed DCMD, in the absence of auxiliary systems and considering the inherent temperature of extracted brine from different formations, has the capability of producing 15.1 kg m−2hr of freshwater from the extracted brine of the Shihezi formation layer. In the case of employing the auxiliary system of flat‐plate collector (FPC) combined with heat exchanger (HX) to heat up the extracted Shenhua brine to the desired temperature of 80°C, the amounts of produced flux are enhanced by 133%, 72%, and 45% for the brine extracted from Liujiagou, Shiqianfeng, and Shihezi formations, respectively. Using the yearly solar radiation model in TRNSYS software, the maximum solar radiation on the tilted surface at the location of Shenhua project in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China reaches 3800 kJ m−2hr at 1 PM on April 1. Considering maximum solar radiation on the tilted surface, it is proved that a small‐surface FPC can supply the required energy to heat up the extracted brine from its inherent temperature to the desired temperature of 80°C. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Update on adherence to guidelines for time to initiation of postoperative radiation for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lorenz F. Jeffrey , Mahase Sean S. , Miccio Joseph , King Tonya S. , Pradhan Sandeep , Goyal Neerav
Published: April 2023

Background

A prior study reported that over half of patients with HNSCC initiated PORT after 6 weeks from surgery during 2006–2014. In 2022, the CoC released a quality metric for patients to initiate PORT within 6 weeks. This study provides an update on time to PORT in recent years.

Methods

The NCDB and TriNetX Research Network were queried to identify patients with HNSCC who received PORT during 2015–2019 and 2015–2021, respectively. Treatment delay was defined as initiating PORT beyond 6 weeks after surgery.

Results

In NCDB, PORT was delayed for 62% of patients. Predictors of delay included age >50, female sex, black race, nonprivate insurance/uninsured status, lower education, oral cavity site, negative surgical margins, increased postoperative length of stay, unplanned hospital readmissions, IMRT radiation modality, treatment at an academic hospital or in the Northeast, and surgery and radiation at different facilities. In TriNetX, 64% experienced treatment delay. Additional associations with prolonged time to treatment included never married/divorced/widowed marital status, major surgery (neck dissection/free flaps/laryngectomy), and gastrostomy/tracheostomy dependence.

Conclusions

There continue to be challenges to timely initiation of PORT.
Challenges in last mile distribution of family planning commodities: Effects on product availability and accessibility in Nigeria
Authors: Chukwu Otuto Amarauche , Adibe Maxwell
Published: April 2023

Background

Family planning (FP) reduces maternal and child mortality risk. Despite policies and plans to improve FP in Nigeria, access remains poor leading to high unmet need. Contraceptive use is still as low as 4.9% in some regions. Thus, this study assessed challenges in FP commodities distribution and its effect on accessibility.

Methods

Descriptive survey was used to explore last mile distribution of FP commodities in 287 facilities across various levels of FP service provision. Also, 2528 end users of FP services were assessed to ascertain their attitudes towards FP services. Data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25.

Results

Only 16% of the facilities had all the basic infrastructure requirements assessed with majority of the facilities having inadequate human resource capacity on logistics and supply chain management of health commodities. The study also identified positive attitudes towards FP (80%) and low incidence of stigmatising attitudes (5.4%).

Conclusions

The study identified challenges in distribution of FP commodities including frequent stock out of commodities and socio‐cultural barriers. Increased positive attitude and limited stigmatising attitudes provides policy directions that are relevant for decision makers to align FP policies and strategies to improve last mile distribution of FP commodities.
Returns and volatility connectedness among the Eurozone equity markets
Authors: Umar Zaghum , Adekoya Oluwasegun Babatunde , Gubareva Mariya , Boubaker Sabri
Published: April 2023

The rising degree of integration among different countries around the world calls for the examination of cross‐country connectedness across equity markets. Moreover, the interconnection among some countries – bound by their common economic policies, treaties and agreements, such as Eurozone countries – is stronger than among others. Strong inter‐country ties may cause an intense connectedness among their financial systems. This study examines the returns and volatility connectedness among the equity markets of the Eurozone countries. Using the TVP‐VAR model, we document strong connectedness among their stock markets. The net transmitters of shocks are the most developed Eurozone stock markets, while Lithuania, Slovenia and Slovakia are among the most vulnerable to risks from the more developed Eurozone economies. Thus, for any event that triggers risk transmission across the Eurozone equity markets, equity investors in less developed countries will be more vulnerable to risks from the nine more developed economies.
Strategies to reduce COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy among pregnant individuals: Data from a prospective survey of unvaccinated pregnant women
Authors: Binger Kole , Cui Yiwen , Kelly Jeffrey A. , Palatnik Anna
Published: April 2023

Objective

To explore strategies that could reduce coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccine hesitancy in pregnancy.

Methods

In 2021, the authors conducted a survey of pregnant women assessing attitudes and beliefs regarding COVID‐19 vaccination. The present analysis reviewed trusted sources of information about COVID‐19 vaccination that could reduce vaccine hesitancy among pregnant respondents.

Results

A total of 295 surveys were analyzed. Using 10‐point Likert scales, intentions to accept COVID‐19 vaccine were split between individuals with low (n = 126, 43%) and high (n = 141, 48%) intentions to receive the vaccine, with only a small percentage of women having midrange vaccination intentions (n = 28, 10%). When asked what would reduce their COVID‐19 vaccine concerns, published data was the leading answer in both low (46.2%) and medium (35.7%) intention groups followed by personally knowing someone who got vaccinated during pregnancy (21.0% and 28.6% for low and medium groups, respectively). In contrast, an obstetrician's recommendation was the most common answer in the group with high intention to vaccinate (37.2%). Knowing someone who received the vaccine in pregnancy was the leading response for reducing concerns of COVID‐19 vaccination among Black respondents.

Conclusion

The survey identified several innovative and culturally specific approaches to address vaccine confidence and complacency and improve vaccine uptake in pregnant people.
Predicting binding between 55 cannabinoids and 4,799 biological targets by in silico methods
Authors: Santillo Michael F. , Sprando Robert L.
Published: April 2023

Recently, there has been an increase in cannabis‐derived products being marketed as foods, dietary supplements, and other consumer products. Cannabis contains over a hundred cannabinoids, many of which have unknown physiological effects. Since there are large numbers of cannabinoids, and many are not commercially available for in vitro testing, an in silico tool (Chemotargets Clarity software) was used to predict binding between 55 cannabinoids and 4,799 biological targets (enzymes, ion channels, receptors, and transporters). This tool relied on quantitative structure activity relationships (QSAR), structural similarity, and other approaches to predict binding. From this screening, 827 cannabinoid‐target binding pairs were predicted, which included 143 unique targets. Many cannabinoids sharing core structures (cannabinoid “types”) had similar binding profiles, whereas most cannabinoids containing carboxylic acid groups were similar without regards to their core structure. For some of the binding predictions (43), in vitro binding data were available, and they agreed well with in silico binding data (median fourfold difference in binding concentrations). Finally, clinical adverse effects associated with 22 predicted targets were identified from an online database (Clarivate Off‐X), providing important insights on potential human health hazards. Overall, in silico biological target predictions are a rapid means to identify potential hazards due to cannabinoid‐target interactions, and the data can be used to prioritize subsequent in vitro and in vivo testing.
Rapid detection of cholecystitis by serum fluorescence spectroscopy combined with machine learning
Authors: Dou Jingrui , Dawuti Wubulitalifu , Zhou Jing , Li Jintian , Zhang Rui , Zheng Xiangxiang , Lin Renyong , Lü Guodong
Published: April 2023

While cholecystitis is a critical public health problem, the conventional diagnostic methods for its detection are time consuming, expensive and insufficiently sensitive. This study examined the possibility of using serum fluorescence spectroscopy and machine learning for the rapid and accurate identification of patients with cholecystitis. Significant differences were observed between the fluorescence spectral intensities of the serum of cholecystitis patients (n = 74) serum and those of healthy subjects (n = 71) at 455, 480, 485, 515, 625 and 690 nm. The ratios of characteristic fluorescence spectral peak intensities were first calculated, and principal component analysis (PCA)‐linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and PCA‐support vector machine (SVM) classification models were then constructed using the ratios as variables. Compared with the PCA‐LDA model, the PCA‐SVM model displayed better diagnostic performance in differentiating cholecystitis patients from healthy subjects, with an overall accuracy of 96.55%. This exploratory study showed that serum fluorescence spectroscopy combined with the PCA‐SVM algorithm has significant potential for the development of a rapid cholecystitis screening method.
Coxa Vara Deformity in Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune‐Albright Syndrome: Prevalence, Natural History and Risk Factors: A Two‐Center Study
Authors: Meier Maartje E. , Appelman‐Dijkstra Natasha M. , Collins Michael T. , Geels Raya E.S. , Stanton Robert P. , de Witte Pieter Bas , Boyce Alison M. , van de Sande Michiel A.J.
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for coxa vara deformity in patients with fibrous dysplasia/McCune‐Albright syndrome (FD/MAS). This study was conducted at the National Institutes of Health and Leiden University Medical Center. All patients with any subtype of FD/MAS, FD involving the proximal femur, one or more X‐rays available and age <30 years were included. X‐rays were scored for the neck‐shaft angle (NSA). Varus deformity was defined as NSA <110 degrees or >10 degrees below age‐specific values. Risk factors for deformity were assessed by nested case–control analysis, comparing patients and femurs with and without deformity, and by linear mixed effects model, modeling temporal NSA decrease (the natural course of the NSA) in non‐operated femurs with two or more X‐rays. Assessed variables included growth hormone excess, hyperthyroidism, hypophosphatemia, >25% of the femur affected, calcar destruction, radiolucency, and bilateral involvement. In total 180 patients were studied, 57% female. Mean ± SD baseline age was 13.6 ± 7.5 years; median follow‐up 5.4 (interquartile range [IQR], 11.1) years. Sixty‐three percent (63%) were diagnosed with MAS. A total of 94 patients were affected bilaterally; 274 FD femurs were analyzed; 99 femurs had a varus deformity (36%). In the nested case–control analysis, risk factors were as follows: presence of MAS (p < 0.001), hyperthyroidism (p < 0.001), hypophosphatemia (p < 0.001), high percentage of femur affected (p < 0.001), and calcar destruction (p < 0.001). The linear mixed effects model included 114 femurs, identified risk factors were: growth hormone excess (β = 7.2, p = 0.013), hyperthyroidism (β = 11.3, p < 0.001), >25% of the femur affected (β = 13.2, p = 0.046), calcar destruction (β = 8.3, p = 0.004), radiolucency (β = 3.9, p = 0.009), and bilateral involvement (β = 9.8, p = 0.010). Visual inspection of the graph of the model demonstrated most progression of deformity if NSA <120 degrees with age < 15 years. In conclusion, in tertiary care centers, the prevalence of FD/MAS coxa vara deformity was 36%. Risk factors included presence of MAS, high percentage of femur affected, calcar destruction, radiolucency, NSA <120 degrees and age < 15 years. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Clemizole hydrochloride, a potent TRPC5 calcium channel inhibitor, prevents cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity in Spraque–Dawley rats
Authors: Kumaş‐Kulualp Meltem , Gepdiremen Akçahan , Karataş Ersin , Eşrefoğlu Mukaddes
Published: April 2023

Cis‐diamminedichloroplatinum (II) (cisplatin, Cis) is widely employed to treat several types of cancer. It has many important toxic side effects; one of the most important of which is nephrotoxicity. Clemizole hydrochloride (Clem) as the most potent inhibitor of TRPC5 channels was tested in an animal model of Cis‐induced nephrotoxicity. Rats were divided into the following groups: control; Cis (8 mg/kg); Cis + 1 mg/kg Clem; Cis + 5 mg/kg Clem; Cis + 10 mg/kg Clem. Kidney injury was detected by histopathological and biochemical analysis. Urine urea nitrogen (UUN), creatinine, urine neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL), serum catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) were studied using a colorimetric assay. Nephrin, synaptopodin, and Rac family small GTPase 1 (RAC1) expressions were detected by Western blot analysis. Cis was found to induce histopathological alterations, including tubular degeneration, congestion, hemorrhage, hyaline casts, glomerular collapse, and apoptotic cell death. Clem at a dose of 1 and 5 mg/kg attenuated histopathological alterations. UUN, creatinine, and NGAL levels increased in the Cis‐administered group, while all doses of Clem decreased in those. CAT and TAS levels decreased, while TOS and oxidative stress index levels increased in the Cis‐treated group. A dose of 1 and 5 mg Clem showed antioxidant effects against oxidative stress. Cis induced lipid peroxidation by increasing MDA levels. All doses of Clem reduced MDA levels. Nephrin and synaptopodin expressions were decreased by Cis, and all doses of Clem increased that. All doses of Clem successfully depressed RAC1 expression. Clem showed a highly ameliorating effect on toxicity caused by Cis by blocking TRPC5 calcium channels.
Genetic counseling for fetal sex prediction by NIPT: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Stevens Chelsea , Llorin Hannah , Gabriel Camila , Mandigo Chelsea , Gochyyev Perman , Studwell Courtney
Published: April 2023

Non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has grown in ubiquity in the last decade and is now endorsed by Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as a screening tool for aneuploidy in all patients. Past studies have demonstrated a tendency among obstetrics patients to focus on the ability of NIPT to predict fetal sex chromosomes; however, data on the experiences of genetic counselors (GCs) counseling on NIPT and fetal sex prediction are limited. This mixed‐methods study aimed to explore how GCs counsel about NIPT and fetal sex prediction, as well as the use of gender‐inclusive language in this setting. A 36‐item survey with multiple choice, Likert scale, and open‐ended questions was distributed to GCs who currently offer NIPT to patients. Quantitative data were analyzed using R and qualitative data were manually analyzed and coded via inductive content analysis. A total of 147 individuals completed at least some portion of the survey. A majority of participants (68.5%) reported frequent interchangeable use of the terms ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ by patients. A majority (72.9%) of participants reported that they rarely or never discuss the difference between these terms in sessions (Spearman's rho = 0.17, p = 0.052). Seventy‐five respondents (59.5%) indicated that they had taken continuing education courses on inclusive clinical practices for trans and gender‐diverse (TGD) patients. Several themes arose from free responses; the most frequently identified themes were the need for thorough pretest counseling that properly describes the scope of NIPT and the challenge of discrepant pretest counseling by other healthcare providers. Results from our research identified challenges and misconceptions GCs face when offering NIPT and various tactics implemented to mitigate these. Our study highlighted the need for the standardization of pretest counseling regarding NIPT, additional guidance from professional organizations, and continuing education focused on gender‐inclusive language and clinical practices.
Association of CYP4A22 gene polymorphisms with cerebral stroke risk in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhuo Qingqing , Zhong Xiaoji , Wen Jiangling , Ding Yipeng
Published: April 2023

Background

Cerebral stroke (stroke) is an acute cerebrovascular disease with high incidence and mortality. This study aimed to explore the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CYP4A22 and stroke risk in the Chinese Han population.

Methods

A total of 550 stroke patients and 545 healthy people were recruited. Four candidate SNPs (rs76011927 T/C, rs12564525 C/T, rs2056900 A/G and rs4926581 T/G) of CYP4A22 were screened. The association between CYP4A22 SNPs and stroke risk was assessed using genetic models and the relationship between SNPs and clinical biochemical indicators was analyzed by one‐way analysis of variance (one‐way ANOVA).

Results

The overall analysis showed that rs12564525 could significantly reduce stroke risk only under the recessive model (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.53–0.99), but rs2056900 and rs4926581 were significantly associated with increased stroke risk under the homozygote (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.06–2.09; OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.06–2.10), heterozygote (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.11–2.00; OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.11–1.99), additive (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.03–1.45; OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.03–1.45) and dominant (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.13–1.97; OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.13–1.96) models (all p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses further indicated that rs2056900 and rs4926581 could significantly increase stroke risk in participants aged >63 years and females. In addition, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels differed considerably among different genotypes of rs12564525, rs2056900 and rs4926581.

Conclusions

This study revealed that CYP4A22 SNPs are associated with stroke risk in the Chinese Han population, and in particular, rs2056900 and rs4126581 have a significant correlation with increased stroke risk.
Systemic chemical characterization of Lemna minor by UHPLC‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap MS coupled with parallel reaction monitoring
Authors: Zhang Min , Li Qing , Yu Kaiquan , Li Jiaxin , Wu Jili , Li Shani , Chen Yuqi , Cai Wei , Ma Jieyao
Published: April 2023

Lemna minor L. (LM) has been used for measles opacity, rubella itching, edema, and oliguria, and the main active ingredients were flavonoids, namely, apigenin, apigenin‐7‐O‐glucoside, and luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside. However, few systematic analyses of their constituents have been performed; thus, it was necessary to establish a fast and efficient method to identify the chemical composition of LM. In this study, the UHPLC‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry coupled with parallel reaction monitoring was established. Finally, a total of 112 constituents, including 30 dipeptides, 28 nucleosides, 11 amino acids, 10 organic acids, 10 flavonoids, and 23 other compounds, were identified by MS, diagnostic fragment ions, and retention time. One hundred one of those chemicals were first found in LM, which was very beneficial for the further development and utilization of nutriments and the medicinal use of LM.
Metagenomics characterization of respiratory viral RNA pathogens in children under five years with severe acute respiratory infection in the Free State, South Africa
Authors: Ogunbayo Ayodeji E. , Mogotsi Milton T. , Sondlane Hlengiwe , Sabiu Saheed , Nyaga Martin M.
Published: April 2023

Prompt detection of viral respiratory pathogens is crucial in managing respiratory infection including severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). Metagenomics next‐generation sequencing (mNGS) and bioinformatics analyses remain reliable strategies for diagnostic and surveillance purposes. This study evaluated the diagnostic utility of mNGS using multiple analysis tools compared with multiplex real‐time PCR for the detection of viral respiratory pathogens in children under 5 years with SARI. Nasopharyngeal swabs collected in viral transport media from 84 children admitted with SARI as per the World Health Organization definition between December 2020 and August 2021 in the Free State Province, South Africa, were used in this study. The obtained specimens were subjected to mNGS using the Illumina MiSeq system, and bioinformatics analysis was performed using three web‐based analysis tools; Genome Detective, One Codex and Twist Respiratory Viral Research Panel. With average reads of 211323, mNGS detected viral pathogens in 82 (97.6%) of the 84 patients. Viral aetiologies were established in nine previously undetected/missed cases with an additional bacterial aetiology (Neisseria meningitidis) detected in one patient. Furthermore, mNGS enabled the much needed viral genotypic and subtype differentiation and provided significant information on bacterial co‐infection despite enrichment for RNA viruses. Sequences of nonhuman viruses, bacteriophages, and endogenous retrovirus K113 (constituting the respiratory virome) were also uncovered. Notably, mNGS had lower detectability rate for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (missing 18/32 cases). This study suggests that mNGS, combined with multiple/improved bioinformatics tools, is practically feasible for increased viral and bacterial pathogen detection in SARI, especially in cases where no aetiological agent could be identified by available traditional methods.
Comparison of the reactogenicity and immunogenicity between two‐dose mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine and inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine followed by an mRNA vaccine in children aged 5−11 years
Authors: Wanlapakorn Nasamon , Kanokudom Sitthichai , Phowatthanasathian Harit , Chansaenroj Jira , Suntronwong Nungruthai , Assawakosri Suvichada , Yorsaeng Ritthideach , Nilyanimit Pornjarim , Vichaiwattana Preeyaporn , Klinfueng Sirapa , Thongmee Thanunrat , Aeemjinda Ratchadawan , Khanarat Nongkanok , Srimuan Donchida , Thatsanatorn Thaksaporn , Chantima Warangkana , Pakchotanon Pattarakul , Duangchinda Thaneeya , Sudhinaraset Natthinee , Poovorawan Yong
Published: April 2023

To compare the reactogenicity and immunogenicity between the two‐dose mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine regimen and one or two doses of inactivated vaccine followed by an mRNA vaccine regimen in healthy children between 5 and 11 years of age, a prospective cohort study was performed at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Thailand between March to June 2022. Healthy children between 5 and 11 years of age were enrolled and received the two‐dose mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine (BNT162b2) regimen or the inactivated (CoronaVac) vaccine followed by the BNT162b2 vaccine regimen. In addition, healthy children who received two doses of BBIBP‐CorV between 1 and 3 months prior were enrolled to receive a heterologous BNT162b2 as a third dose (booster). Reactogenicity was assessed by a self‐reported online questionnaire. Immunogenicity analysis was performed to determine binding antibodies to wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2. Neutralizing antibodies to Omicron variants (BA.2 and BA.5) were tested using the focus reduction neutralization test. Overall, 166 eligible children were enrolled. Local and systemic adverse events which occurred within 7 days after vaccination were mild to moderate and well‐tolerated. The two‐dose BNT162b2, CoronaVac followed by BNT162b2, and two‐dose BBIBP‐CorV followed by BNT162b2 groups elicited similar levels of anti‐receptor‐binding domain (RBD) IgG. However, the two‐dose BNT162b2 and two‐dose BBIBP‐CorV followed by BNT162b2 groups elicited higher neutralizing activities against the Omicron BA.2 and BA.5 variant than the CoronaVac followed by BNT162b2 group. The CoronaVac followed by BNT162b2 group elicited low neutralizing activities against the Omicron BA.2 and BA.5 variant. A third dose (booster) mRNA vaccine should be prioritized for this group.
An unprecedented control of 3‐phase grid tied solar photovoltaic‐hydrogen/bromine‐supercapacitor composite storage microgrid for pulse power load regulation under nonideal grid conditions
Authors: Behera Manoja Kumar , Saikia Lalit Chandra
Published: April 2023

Photovoltaic (PV) power penetration into the distribution grid has increased. PV power fluctuations, abrupt load changes, nonlinear loading, growing usage of portable electronic devices, electric cars low average power and comparatively high pulse power needs, and other factors translate into severe grid instability. As a result, in these circumstances, power exchange between PV and the utility grid becomes a difficult task. Therefore, this article proposes a hydrogen/bromine (H2/Br2) redox flow battery and supercapacitor composite energy storage for a three phase grid tied PV system with multifunctional active power filter support to ensure grid codes. Further, the system is equipped with an unprecedented control technique that encompasses: an adaptive frequency tuned complex coefficient filter‐phase locked loop that provides grid frequency and phase angle information under adverse grid conditions, a modified sparrow search algorithm tuned tilt integral derivative with filter plus double integral controllers are employed to regulate the control errors under various system dynamic and disturbance conditions, fractional order incremental conductance maximum power point tracking is incorporated to efficiently track the PV peak power irrespective of atmospheric variations, a holistic fast‐acting power based energy management control employed for efficient regulation of load power and smooth out the PV power variation, and PV feedforward control dynamics to enhances system dynamics by reducing oscillations under various atmospheric conditions. The aim is to attain a smooth power transition with the grid at the unit power factor under normal and nonideal grid conditions. With reactive power injection, the control also maintains the voltage profile. During all these operations, no trade‐off occurs with the system power quality. Matlab simulations and the real time simulation test bench results under unfavorable grid circumstances demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, and system harmonics are well within bounds in all the scenarios undertaken.
Validation of Raman spectroscopy as a tool for mapping transport parameters in inhomogeneous N‐doped 4H‐SiC
Authors: Hergert Hannes , Elm Matthias T. , Klar Peter J.
Published: April 2023

We assess Raman spectroscopy as a tool for fast and non‐invasive mapping of charge carrier density and carrier mobility in inhomogeneously doped 4H‐SiC. For this purpose, we compare values of these transport parameters obtained by magneto‐transport and Raman measurements of N‐doped 4H‐SiC. The comparison is not straightforward. The effective charge density and mobility, which are obtained from resistivity and Hall measurements by employing the commonly used effective one‐band model, deviate from the values extracted by applying the established line‐shape models for describing the longitudinal optical phonon coupled (LOPC) modes in the Raman spectra. Differentiating between free and localized carriers in the framework of a three‐band transport model confirms that only the free charge carriers in the conduction band of N‐doped 4H‐SiC contribute to the LOPC Raman signal and their density agrees well with that obtained by the line shape analysis. The agreement of the mobility values is good keeping in mind that different frequencies of the applied electric fields are used in the two approaches, i.e., dc‐transport measurements at 0 Hz and ac‐fields of the exciting laser at about 500 THz. Moreover, the excitation of electrons into the conduction band by the laser, which is inherent to the Raman experiment, causes differences in the temperature dependence of the carrier density compared with the electrical transport data.
Effects of cereal grain cell wall composition and structure on starch digestion
Authors: Xie Hui , Ying Ruifeng , Tang Zhenxing , Wu Caie , Huang Meigui
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Wheat is an important food crop, and its characteristics vary depending on the region of cultivation; different environments have varying effects on the composition of the grains. We previously reported the effects of environmental factors on wheat grain cell wall composition and structure. The variations in the structure of aleurone cell walls between different wheat samples were examined to determine the effects of aleurone cell walls on grain starch digestion properties. Ten different varieties of wheat grains with different aleurone cell wall structure and composition constituted a simple research system used to investigate their effect on the starch digestion of bread.

RESULTS

The aleurone cell wall thickness ranged from 3.05 μm to 4.67 μm, and the arabinose to xylose ratio of water‐extractable arabinoxylan was in the range 0.79–0.97. With the increase in arabinoxylans content or cell wall thickness, the total digestibility of starch within the bread decreased; this phenomenon may be related to the changes in the interaction between polysaccharides and starch granules in this process.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study showed that the wheat cell wall structure has a great impact on starch hydrolysis, indicating that the change in the digestibility of starch in flour and bread may be a result of changes in the cell wall structure leading to different combinations, thus affecting digestibility. The present study showed that the cell wall combines the starch granules during the bread‐making process; thus, the diffusion of enzymes through the cell wall was hindered. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Treatment of canister corrosion in Posiva's safety case for the operating licence application
Authors: Koho Petri , King Fraser , Prihti Tomi , Salonen Timo , Koskinen Lasse , Pastina Barbara
Published: April 2023

Posiva Oy have submitted an operating licence application to the Finnish government which, if approved, would permit the disposal of spent fuel in a deep geological repository at Olkiluoto. The license application is based on 40 years of site investigations, design and development work by Finnish, Swedish, and international experts. The canister is a key component of the overall multi‐barrier system and the treatment of the long‐term corrosion performance in the safety case is described in this paper. The importance of relating laboratory observations to the expected environmental conditions in the repository is highlighted, as is the use of complementary models to build confidence in long‐term predictions. Canister lifetime prediction is based on a combination of corrosion allowances for processes that will occur to a limited extent and mass‐transport calculations for the long‐term corrosion by sulphide. Examples of canister lifetime predictions for various scenarios and climate lines of evolution are given.
Electrochemical investigation of ceria nanoparticles as a corrosion inhibitor for steel in alkaline medium
Authors: Bourenane Nadjette , Hamlaoui Youcef , Pedraza Fernando
Published: April 2023

This work investigates the synthesis and the corrosion inhibitor efficiency ceria nanoparticles may exert on steel reinforcement in an alkaline solution of saturated Ca(OH)2 + 0.5 M CaCl2 up to 50°C. The corrosion mechanisms are thoroughly investigated by electrochemical and various characterization techniques. The electrochemical results show that ceria nanoparticles act as an anodic inhibitor and provide maximum inhibition efficiency (80%) at a concentration of 800 ppm. The resulting surface is smooth and free from corrosion products due to the formation of a physically adsorbed film according to the thermodynamic calculations.
Polyether Synthesis through Reductive Etherification Reaction Strategy
Authors: Luleburgaz Serter , Tunca Umit , Durmaz Hakan
Published: April 2023

The reductive etherification reaction (RER) of carbonyl groups (aldehydes or ketones) through silane as a reducing agent together with Bronsted or Lewis acid affords the synthesis of symmetrical and unsymmetrical ethers. This strategy is applied at the macromolecular level for the first time in 1993, and isophthalaldehyde is self‐polymerized in the presence of triethylsilane (Et3SiH)/ tritylperchlorate (TrClO4) to yield polyethers with low to moderate molecular weights. Next, the polyethers with alternating structures are achieved by reacting isophthalaldehyde with bis(trimethylsilyl) ethers or diols as comonomers using reducing agent silane and Lewis acid. Moreover, in recent years, it is shown that polyether synthesis and post‐polymerization modification (PPM) of polymers proceeds smoothly and effectively with the RER strategy in the presence of chlorodimethylsilane (CDMS), which acts as both a reducing agent and a Lewis acid.
Responses of Anabaena sp. PCC7120 to lindane: Physiological effects and differential expression of potential lin genes
Authors: Guío Jorge , Fillat Maria F. , Peleato Maria L. , Sevilla Emma
Published: April 2023

Lindane (γ‐HCH) is an organochlorine pesticide that causes huge environmental concerns worldwide due to its recalcitrance and toxicity. The use of the cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 in aquatic lindane bioremediation has been suggested but information relative to this process is scarce. In the present work, data relative to the growth, pigment composition, photosynthetic/respiration rate, and oxidative stress response of Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 in the presence of lindane at its solubility limit in water are shown. In addition, lindane degradation experiments revealed almost a total disappearance of lindane in the supernatants of Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 culture after 6 days of incubation. The diminishing in lindane concentration was in concordance with an increase in the levels of trichlorobenzene inside the cells. Furthermore, to identify potential orthologs of the linA, linB, linC, linD, linE, and linR genes from Sphingomonas paucimobilis B90A in Anabaena sp. PCC 7120, a whole genome screening was performed allowing the identification of five putative lin orthologs (all1353 and all0193 putative orthologs of linB, all3836 putative orthologs of linC, and all0352 and alr0353 putative orthologs of linE and linR, respectively) which could be involved in the lindane degradation pathway. Differential expression analysis of these genes in the presence of lindane revealed strong upregulation of one of the potential lin genes of Anabaena sp. PCC 7120.
A recombinant spike‐XBB.1.5 protein vaccine induces broad‐spectrum immune responses against XBB.1.5‐included Omicron variants of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: He Cai , Alu Aqu , Lei Hong , Yang Jingyun , Hong Weiqi , Song Xiangrong , Li Jiong , Yang Li , Wang Wei , Shen Guobo , Lu Guangwen , Wei Xiawei
Published: April 2023

The XBB.1.5 subvariant has drawn great attention owing to its exceptionality in immune evasion and transmissibility. Therefore, it is essential to develop a universally protective coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine against various strains of Omicron, especially XBB.1.5. In this study, we evaluated and compared the immune responses induced by six different spike protein vaccines targeting the ancestral or various Omicron strains of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in mice. We found that spike‐wild‐type immunization induced high titers of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against ancestral SARS‐CoV‐2. However, its activity in neutralizing Omicron subvariants decreased sharply as the number of mutations in receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of these viruses increased. Spike‐BA.5, spike‐BF.7, and spike‐BQ.1.1 vaccines induced strong NAbs against BA.5, BF.7, BQ.1, and BQ.1.1 viruses but were poor in protecting against XBB and XBB.1.5, which have more RBD mutations. In sharp contrast, spike‐XBB.1.5 vaccination can activate strong and broadly protective immune responses against XBB.1.5 and other common subvariants of Omicron. By performing correlation analysis, we found that the NAbs titers were negatively correlated with the number of RBD mutations in the Omicron subvariants. Vaccines with more RBD mutations can effectively overcome the immune resistance caused by the accumulation of RBD mutations, making spike‐XBB.1.5 the most promising vaccine candidate against universal Omicron variants.
Three‐dimensional diffusion MRI using simultaneous multislab with blipped‐CAIPI in a 4D k‐space framework
Authors: Liu Simin , Zhang Jieying , Shi Diwei , Guo Hua
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To develop an efficient simultaneous multislab imaging method with blipped‐controlled aliasing in parallel imaging (blipped‐SMSlab) in a 4D k‐space framework, and to demonstrate its efficacy in high‐resolution diffusion MRI (dMRI).

Theory and Methods

First, the SMSlab 4D k‐space signal expression is formulated, and the phase interferences from intraslab and interslab encodings on the same physical z‐axis are analyzed. Then, the blipped‐SMSlab dMRI sequence is designed, with blipped–controlled aliasing in parallel imaging (blipped‐CAIPI) gradients for interslab encoding, and a 2D multiband accelerated navigator for inter‐kz‐shot phase correction. Third, strategies are developed to remove the phase interferences, by RF phase modulation and/or phase correction during reconstruction, thus decoupling intraslab and interslab encodings that are otherwise entangled. In vivo experiments are performed to validate the blipped‐SMSlab method and preliminarily evaluate its performance in high‐resolution dMRI compared with traditional 2D imaging.

Results

In the 4D k‐space framework, interslab and intraslab phase interferences of blipped‐SMSlab are successfully removed using the proposed strategies. Compared with non–CAIPI sampling, the blipped‐SMSlab acquisition reduces the g‐factor and g‐factor‐related SNR penalty by about 12%. In addition, in vivo experiments show the SNR advantage of blipped‐SMSlab dMRI over traditional 2D dMRI for 1.3‐mm and 1.0‐mm isotropic resolution imaging with matched acquisition time.

Conclusion

Removing interslab and intraslab phase interferences enables SMSlab dMRI with blipped‐CAIPI in a 4D k‐space framework. The proposed blipped‐SMSlab dMRI is demonstrated to be more SNR‐efficient than 2D dMRI and thus capable of high‐quality, high‐resolution fiber orientation detection.
The relationship between nutrition, gut dysbiosis, and pediatric sickle cell pain outcomes: A pilot study
Authors: Dike Chinenye R. , Hanson Corrine , Davies H. Dele , Obaro Stephen , Yu Fang , Harper James , Grace Helen , Lebensburger Jeffrey , Raulji Chittalsinh , Ma Jihyun , Mannon Peter
Published: April 2023

Background

Nutritional deficiencies are prevalent in sickle cell disease (SCD) and may be associated with worse pain outcomes. Gut dysbiosis has been reported in patients with SCD and may contribute to both nutritional deficiencies and pain.

Objectives

We tested the association of nutrition, fat‐soluble vitamin (FSV) deficiency, and gut microbiome composition on clinical outcomes in SCD. Second, we measured the association between diet and exocrine pancreatic function on FSV levels.

Methods

Using case control design, we enrolled children with SCD (n = 24) and matched healthy controls (HC; n = 17, age, sex, race/ethnicity). Descriptive statistics summarized demographic and clinical data. Wilcoxson‐rank tests compared FSV levels between cohorts. Regression modeling tested the association between FSV levels and SCD status. Welch's t‐test with Satterthwaite adjustment evaluated associations between microbiota profiles, SCD status, and pain outcomes.

Results

Vitamin A and D levels were significantly decreased in participants with HbSS as compared to HC (vitamin A, p = < .0001, vitamin D, p = .014) independent of nutritional status. FSV correlated with dietary intake in SCD and HC cohorts. Gut microbial diversity was reduced in hemoglobin SS (HbSS) compared to hemoglobin SC (HbSC) and HC, p = .037 and .059, respectively. The phyla Erysipelotrichaceae and Betaproteobacteria were higher in SCD children reporting the highest quality‐of‐life (QoL) scores (p = .008 and .049, respectively), while Clostridia were higher in those with lower QoL scores (p = .03).

Conclusion

FSV deficiencies and gut dysbiosis are prevalent in children with SCA. Gut microbial composition is significantly different in children with SCD with low QoL scores.
The utility of the self‐controlled study design for pharmacoepidemiological studies without an active comparator medication using a medical information database: An application to assess the risk of varenicline on cardiovascular outcomes
Authors: Yokoyama Ryo , Takeuchi Yoshinori , Kumamaru Hiraku , Matsuyama Yutaka
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To illustrate the utility of the self‐controlled study design for studies without an active comparator, we compared the results of a cohort design study with a non‐user comparator with those of a self‐controlled design study in evaluating the risk of varenicline on cardiovascular outcomes, using a Japanese medical claims database.

Methods

The participating smokers were identified from health‐screening results collected between May 2008 and April 2017. Using a non‐user‐comparator cohort study design, we estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of varenicline on initial hospitalization with cardiovascular outcomes using Cox's model adjusted for patients' sex, age, medical history, medication history, and health‐screening results. Using a self‐controlled study design, the within‐subject HR was estimated using a stratified Cox's model adjusted for medical history, medication history, and health‐screening results. The estimate from a recent meta‐analysis was considered the gold standard (risk ratio: 1.03).

Results

We identified 460 464 smokers (398 694 males [86.6%]; mean (standard deviation) age: 42.9 [10.8] years) in the database. Of these, 11 561 had been dispensed varenicline at least once, and 4511 had experienced cardiovascular outcomes. The estimate of the non‐user‐comparator cohort study design exceeded the gold standard (HR [95% CI]: 2.04 [1.22–3.42]), whereas that of the self‐controlled study design was close to the gold standard (within‐subject HR [95% CI]: 1.12 [0.27–4.70]).

Conclusions

The self‐controlled study design is useful alternative to a non‐user‐comparator cohort design when evaluating the risk of medications relative to their non‐use, based on a medical information database.