bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability evaluation of earth‐abundant metal‐based polyoxometalate electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction towards industrial PEM electrolysis at high current densities
Authors: Vetter Kim‐Marie , Aring da Silva Ramos Mauro Camila , Reinisch David , Reichbauer Thomas , Martić Nemanja , Jandl Christian , Hinrichsen Olaf , Schmid Günter
Published: July 2021

We investigated the cobalt polyoxometalate catalyst Ba8[Co9(H2O)6(OH)3(HPO4)2(PW9O34)3] in oxygen evolution reaction for large‐scale water electrolysis. The catalyst was characterized, yielding BET surfaces (8.37 m2/g), crystal water content (8.38%, 44 H2O), elemental analyses and single crystal structures (space group P1̅, a = 19.901(4) Å, b = 21.177(4) Å, c = 24.036(5) Å, α = 92.689(7)°, β = 108.73(7)°, γ = 117.137(6)°, Co9Na16O196.05P5W27, V = 8310(3) Å2 with z = 2; R2final = 0.001).

The catalyst was integrated in an industrially applicable membrane electrode assembly and electrochemically characterized. Polarization studies revealed catalyst dissolution in situ, visible as a current density peak (32.2 mA/cm2, 2.2 V) with subsequent collapse (<5 mA/cm2). Galvanostatic experiments showed voltage increase from 2.5 to > 10 V at 10 mA/cm2 tracing back to acid‐mediated decomposition of the anionic POM oxide framework. We deduced insufficient thermodynamic as well as kinetic stability for industrial requirements in PEM water electrolysis.
Device Optimization and Large‐Scale Roll‐to‐Roll Manufacturability of Flexible Thin‐Film Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Tao Xudong , Zhang Kai , Gregory Daniel , Liu Junliang , Assender Hazel E.
Published: July 2021

The optimization of flexible thin‐film thermoelectric generators (TEGs) suitable for large‐area roll‐to‐roll (R2R) processing is investigated. The selection of suitable contact materials, in‐line patterning of connections, and dimension of the thermoelectric (TE) strip are studied. As a result, copper is selected for contacts because it possesses a similar performance to gold while being cheaper. Both in‐series‐ and in‐parallel‐connected devices are found to work well and provide a voltage‐dominant and current‐dominant power source, respectively. The Seebeck coefficient and internal resistance of a device are extracted from the fit line to the measured power data. The in‐parallel‐connected TEG has a much smaller internal resistance and is thus suitable for wearable/portable devices with a small load resistance. A shorter and wider TE strip generates more power. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that experimentally proves a downward trend of power output with increasing strip length. In addition, an industrially feasible/continuous process is proposed for large‐scale manufacture of flexible TEGs, by R2R sputtering TE materials on polymer webs, inkjet printing contacts, and segmenting using a laser. A segmented configuration is able to relieve internal strains in the device, while subjected to bending (e.g., within a wristband) to retain performance.
Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Carbon Nanosheets with Ultrahigh Capacity and Quasicapacitive Energy Storage Performance for Lithium and Sodium Storage Applications
Authors: Song Ranran , Dong Yue , Zhang Di , Sheng Jun , Yang Shubin , Song Huaihe
Published: July 2021

One of the great challenges in the development of rechargeable batteries is developing electrode materials with high capacities and good rate performance. Herein, thin carbon nanosheets with hierarchical porous structure and high nitrogen content (10.6 at%) are elaborately designed and fabricated from phenolic resin through a two‐step method including N2 carbonization and NH3 annealing. The as‐obtained nitrogen‐doped porous carbon nanosheets (NPCNs) exhibit abundant electroactive sites from large surface area and nitrogen species for lithium/sodium storage, and short diffusion channels from unique porous 2D structure for rapid charge transfer. As a result, the optimal NPCNs show outstanding lithium storage capacities of 2065 and 300 mAh g−1 at current densities of 0.05 and 200 A g−1, respectively, as well as good cycle stability. Moreover, the NPCNs also carry out an excellent sodium storage performance of 222 and 134 mAh g−1 at 1 and 10 A g−1, respectively. Further electrochemical analysis demonstrates that the superior rate capability of NPCNs might attribute to the surface‐dominated energy storage process. A new route for the preparation and development of high‐performance electrode materials for new‐generation energy storage devices is provided.
Seismic response distribution expressions for on‐ground rigid rocking blocks under ordinary ground motions
Authors: Kazantzi Athanasia K. , Lachanas Christos G. , Vamvatsikos Dimitrios
Published: July 2021

Predictive relationships are offered for the response of on‐ground 2D rigid blocks undergoing rocking. Among others, this is pertinent to (1) modern or classical antiquity structures that utilize rocking as a seismic protection mechanism and (2) freestanding contents (e.g., cabinets, bookcases, and museum artifacts) located on the ground or lower floors of stiff buildings. Blocks of varying dimensions were subjected to a full range assessment of seismic response under increasing intensity levels of ordinary (no‐pulse and no‐long‐duration) ground motions, parameterized by peak ground acceleration or velocity. Both response and intensity were normalized, allowing the fitting of general‐purpose parametric expressions to determine the mean and dispersion of response for an arbitrary block of interest. These can be utilized in the same way as conventional strength‐ratio/ductility/period relationships of yielding oscillators, to enable the rapid assessment or design of simple rocking systems.
Rethinking strategies for coexistence with bark beetles in Mexico and beyond
Authors: Pacheco‐Aquino Guadalupe , Duran Elvira
Published: July 2021

Temperate forests in Mexico are often inhabited by humans and as such function as social–ecological systems (SES). As elsewhere in the world, these forests are increasingly under threat from bark beetle pests, outbreaks of which will be exacerbated by climate change. Current strategies for confronting bark beetle infestations are typically more technical and reactive, and technology and science have not yet provided economic and practical solutions. Taking into consideration future climate‐change scenarios, forest policy agendas must embrace more holistic strategies focused on improving resistance, resilience, and adaptive capacity of forest SES. Forest landowners are crucial stakeholders worldwide, and when provided with reliable information, training, and incentives, can perform the complex and highly demanding responsibilities of forest monitoring, sanitation logging, and restoration. Participatory sanitation logging in Mexico highlights the opportunities and challenges of dealing with bark beetles, from which lessons can be drawn. A holistic strategy that includes management and public policy recommendations for Mexico and elsewhere is proposed as a potential means of coexisting with this challenge to forest health.
Rapid and simultaneous determination of trigonelline, caffeine, and chlorogenic acid in green coffee bean extract
Authors: Atlabachew Minaleshewa , Abebe Atakilt , Alemneh Wubieneh Tessera , Tefera Habtemariam Yilak
Published: July 2021

A simple, inexpensive, and rapid method for simultaneous determination of trigonelline, caffeine, and chlorogenic acid from green coffee bean extract was proposed based on salting‐out assisted liquid–liquid extraction, using QuEChERS salt and acetonitrile followed by UV‐Vis analysis. The proposed method represents acceptable linearity for trigonelline (0.9978), caffeine (0.9995), and chlorogenic acid (0.9996) with excellent correlation (0.93 and 0.83) for trigonelline and caffeine, respectively, when compared to RP‐HPLC‐DAD. The proposed method could be used in coffee industries for quality control and geographical origin traceability studies of green coffee samples.
Increasing female participation on boards: Effects on sustainability reporting
Authors: Buallay Amina , Hamdan Reem , Barone Elisabetta , Hamdan Allam
Published: July 2021

Utilizing data on 2,116 stock‐exchange‐listed banks over a 10‐year period (2007–2016), this study examines the relationship between board gender diversity and sustainable reporting. Findings from descriptive analysis show that board diversity tends to be higher with banks endowed with low financial leverage and high assets. Cross‐country analysis shows that Central America evinces the highest levels of board diversity among banks. In Europe, however, repose the highest levels of environmental and social disclosure among banks. In contrast, the highest level of governance disclosure among banks obtains in Australia. A regression model partially corroborates the gender board diversity as a causal factor of the corporate governance disclosure inasmuch as, when female board members account for 22–50% of the board, a positive significant effect on the level of ESG disclosure results. However, at levels above 50%, negative returns to scale manifest on ESG disclosure from female board participation. Given the effect on the latter on the former uncovered by this research, regulators ought to mandate quotas of female participation on bank boards to engender sustainable increases in the level of ESG reporting on the part of banks.
Blood compatibility and cell response improvement of poly glycerol sebacate/poly lactic acid scaffold for vascular graft applications
Authors: Mokhtari Niloofar , Zargar Kharazi Anousheh
Published: July 2021

Plasma surface modification is one of the new methods for improving the surface properties of the scaffold and accelerating tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to create poly glycerol sebacate/poly lactic acid (PGS/PLA) composite scaffold by electrospun method and modified the scaffold by oxygen plasma for use as a vascular graft. Plasma surface modified PGS/PLA scaffold morphology study showed relatively uniform fibers with an average diameter of 637 ± 149.4 nm and porosity of 82%. The mechanical evaluation of the PGS/PLA scaffold showed properties close to the natural vessels. Atomic force microscopy images exhibited an increase in the roughness of the scaffold after plasma surface modification; however, hemocompatibility studies revealed that it had no adverse effect on blood compatibility. Wettability studies revealed the superhydrophilic property of the modified scaffold (contact angle near to zero). Besides, the human umbilical vein endothelial cells proliferation and adhesion were improved significantly. Obtaining mechanical properties near to the natural vessels due to the suitable composition and significant improvement in blood compatibility and cell growth make the modified PGS/PLA composite a suitable candidate for vascular tissue regeneration.
Controlled release of resveratrol from a composite nanofibrous scaffold: Effect of resveratrol on antioxidant activity and osteogenic differentiation
Authors: Karimi‐Soflou Reza , Mohseni‐Vadeghani Elham , Karkhaneh Akbar
Published: July 2021

Biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and osteogenesis properties of three‐dimensional scaffolds are critical for bone tissue engineering. In addition, reactive oxygen species accumulate around bone defects and limit the activities of surrounding cells and bone formation. Therefore, the presence of an antioxidant in a bone tissue scaffold is also essential to address this issue. This study aimed to evaluate a composite nanofibrous scaffold similar to the natural extracellular matrix with antioxidant and osteogenic properties. To this end, polylactic acid (PLA)/organophilic montmorillonite (OMMT)/resveratrol (RSV) nanofibers were fabricated using the electrospinning method and characterized. RSV was used as an antioxidant, which promotes osteogenic differentiation, and OMMT was used as a mineral phase to increase the mechanical strength and control the release of RSV. The scaffolds' antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH assay and found 83.75% for PLA/OMMT/RSV nanofibers. The mechanical strength was increased by adding OMMT to the neat PLA. The biocompatibility of the scaffolds was investigated using an MTT assay, and the results did not show any toxic effects on human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs). Moreover, the Live/Dead assay indicated the appropriate distribution of live cells after 5 days. Cell culture results displayed that hASCs could adhere and spread on the surface of composite nanofibers. Meanwhile, the level of alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and osteopontin was increased for hASCs cultured on the PLA/OMMT/RSV nanofibrous scaffold. Therefore, this study concludes that the RSV‐loaded composite nanofibers with antioxidant and osteogenesis properties and appropriate mechanical strength can be introduced for bone tissue regeneration applications.
A comprehensive account of insulin and LDL receptor activity over the years: A highlight on their signaling and functional role
Authors: Chandra Nimai C.
Published: July 2021

Insulin receptor (IR) was discovered in 1970. Shortcomings in IR transcribed signals were found pro‐diabetic, which could also inter‐relate obesity and atherosclerosis in a time‐dependent manner. Low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) was discovered in 1974. Later studies showed that insulin could modulate LDLR expression and activity. Repression of LDLR transcription in the absence or inactivity of insulin showed a direct cause of atherosclerosis. Leptin receptor (OB‐R) was found in 1995 and its resistance became responsible for developing obesity. The three interlinked pathologies namely, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and obesity were later on marked as metabolic syndrome‐X (MSX). In 2012, the IR–LDLR inter‐association was identified. In 2019, the proficiency of signal transmission from this IR–LDLR receptor complex was reported. LDLR was found to mimic IR‐generated signaling path when it remains bound to IR in IR–DLR interlocked state. This was the first time LDLR was found sending messages besides its LDL‐clearing activity from blood vessels.
Inhibition of NFAM1 suppresses phospho‐SAPK/JNK signaling during osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption
Authors: Ethiraj Purushoth , Haque Ishraq A. , Alford Anna K. , Gou Wenyu , Singh Toolika , Sambandam Yuvaraj , Hathaway‐Schrader Jessica D. , Reddy Sakamuri V.
Published: July 2021

We have recently demonstrated NFAT activating protein with ITAM motif 1 (NFAM1) signaling increases osteoclast (OCL) formation/bone resorption associated with the Paget's disease of bone, however, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the NFAM1 regulation of OCL differentiation and bone resorption remains unclear. Here, we showed that RANK ligand stimulation enhances NFAM1 expression in preosteoclast cells. Conditioned media collected from RANKL stimulated RAW264.7 NFAM1 knockdown (KD) stable cells showed inhibition of interleukin‐6 (2.5‐fold), tumour necrosis factor‐α (2.2‐fold) and CXCL‐5 (3‐fold) levels compared to wild‐type (WT) cells. Further, RANKL stimulation significantly increased p‐STAT6 expression (5.5‐fold) in WT cells, but no significant effect was observed in NFAM1‐KD cells. However, no changes were detected in signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 levels in either of cell groups. Interestingly, NFAM1‐KD suppressed the RANKL stimulated c‐fos, p‐c‐Jun and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) activity in preosteoclasts. We further showed that the suppression of JNK activity is through inhibition of p‐SAPK/JNK in these cells. In addition, NFATc1 expression, a critical transcription factor associated with osteoclastogenesis is significantly inhibited in NFAM1‐KD preosteoclast cells. Interestingly, NFAM1 inhibition suppressed the OCL differentiation and bone resorption capacity in mouse bone marrow cell cultures. We also demonstrated inhibition of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase expression in RANKL stimulated NFAM1‐KD preosteoclast cells. Thus, our results suggest that NFAM1 control SAPK/JNK signaling to modulate osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption.
Shake tube perfusion cell cultures are suitable tools for the prediction of limiting substrate, CSPR, bleeding strategy, growth and productivity behavior
Authors: Mayrhofer Patrick , Castan Andreas , Kunert Renate
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Scale‐down models (SDM) are crucial for efficient setting of different experimental conditions in cell culture media‐ or clone‐screening applications and to predict the expected performance in larger bioreactor cultivations. However, the availability of such models for continuous bioprocessing are scarce and hampered by the requirement for proper cell retention in perfusion applications.

RESULTS

In this study, perfusion scale‐down models were optimized for increased cell performance in shake tubes by a semi‐continuous operation mode without any instrumental monitoring. A 40 L perfusion bioreactor was simulated with 10 mL shake tubes by daily medium exchange with or without cell bleeding for process fine‐tuning. Specifically, the optimal cell‐specific perfusion rate (CSPR) was efficiently identified using the perfusion SDM. The cellular growth and productivity were nearly identical to those of the large‐scale experiments. The 24‐h interval of metabolite analysis identified the limits of the SDMs and underscores the need for perfusion processes in large‐scale animal cell bioprocesses.

CONCLUSION

Optimized perfusion scale‐down models in semi‐continuous operation mode are highly suitable tools to define important process parameters of larger perfusion bioreactor cultures and are predictive of cellular growth and production behavior.
Detection of Prostate Cancer Using Biparametric Prostate MRI, Radiomics, and Kallikreins: A Retrospective Multicenter Study of Men With a Clinical Suspicion of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Montoya Perez Ileana , Merisaari Harri , Jambor Ivan , Ettala Otto , Taimen Pekka , Knaapila Juha , Kekki Henna , Khan Ferdhos L. , Syrjälä Elise , Steiner Aida , Syvänen Kari T. , Verho Janne , Seppänen Marjo , Rannikko Antti , Riikonen Jarno , Mirtti Tuomas , Lamminen Tarja , Saunavaara Jani , Falagario Ugo , Martini Alberto , Pahikkala Tapio , Pettersson Kim , Boström Peter J. , Aronen Hannu J.
Published: July 2021

Background

Accurate detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa), Gleason Grade Group ≥ 2, remains a challenge. Prostate MRI radiomics and blood kallikreins have been proposed as tools to improve the performance of biparametric MRI (bpMRI).

Purpose

To develop and validate radiomics and kallikrein models for the detection of csPCa.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 543 men with a clinical suspicion of csPCa, 411 (76%, 411/543) had kallikreins available and 360 (88%, 360/411) did not take 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitors. Two data splits into training, validation (split 1: single center, n = 72; split 2: random 50% of pooled datasets from all four centers), and testing (split 1: 4 centers, n = 288; split 2: remaining 50%) were evaluated.

Field strength/Sequence

A 3 T/1.5 T, TSE T2‐weighted imaging, 3x SE DWI.

Assessment

In total, 20,363 radiomic features calculated from manually delineated whole gland (WG) and bpMRI suspicion lesion masks were evaluated in addition to clinical parameters, prostate‐specific antigen, four kallikreins, MRI‐based qualitative (PI‐RADSv2.1/IMPROD bpMRI Likert) scores.

Statistical Tests

For the detection of csPCa, area under receiver operating curve (AUC) was calculated using the DeLong's method. A multivariate analysis was conducted to determine the predictive power of combining variables. The values of P‐value < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The highest prediction performance was achieved by IMPROD bpMRI Likert and PI‐RADSv2.1 score with AUC = 0.85 and 0.85 in split 1, 0.85 and 0.83 in split 2, respectively. bpMRI WG and/or kallikreins demonstrated AUCs ranging from 0.62 to 0.73 in split 1 and from 0.68 to 0.76 in split 2. AUC of bpMRI lesion‐derived radiomics model was not statistically different to IMPROD bpMRI Likert score (split 1: AUC = 0.83, P‐value = 0.306; split 2: AUC = 0.83, P‐value = 0.488).

Data Conclusion

The use of radiomics and kallikreins failed to outperform PI‐RADSv2.1/IMPROD bpMRI Likert and their combination did not lead to further performance gains.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Clinical features and outcome of COVID‐19 positive children from a tertiary healthcare hospital in Karachi
Authors: Shahid Saba , Raza Mohammad , Junejo Samina , Maqsood Sidra
Published: July 2021

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic continues to evolve, differences in epidemiological and clinical features among pediatrics have been noticed across different countries. We describe the spectrum of COVID‐19 in pediatric patients treated in tertiary health care. We conducted a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients admitted to Indus Hospital & Health care network, Korangi campus, Karachi; from April 1st, 2020 to July 31st, 2020. A total of 141 COVID‐19 cases were reported, males were 81 (57%) and the median age was 8 (0.3–17) years. Moderate and severe infections were noted in 36(26%), and 17(12%) children respectively. Fever (50%) was the most common clinical feature. The SF ratio less than 264 was significantly associated with severe disease (p < .05). Lab investigations that differed significantly across disease severity groups included IL‐6 levels (p < .01) and Prothrombin time (p < .05). Majority of children were advised home isolation 89 (63%), 29 (20.5%) were admitted while mortality was observed in 10 (7%) children. No significant difference was observed between children with and without malignancy. Pre‐existing comorbidities are significantly associated with COVID‐19 infections among children. Reduced SF ratio, elevated Prothrombin time, and interleukin‐6 levels are associated with greater disease severity.
Rhinovirus spread in children during the COVID‐19 pandemic despite social restrictions—A nationwide register study in Finland
Authors: Kuitunen Ilari , Artama Miia , Haapanen Marjut , Renko Marjo
Published: July 2021

Social restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic strongly affected the epidemiology of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). As rhinovirus seemed to spread despite the restrictions, we aimed to analyze rhinovirus epidemiology in children during the pandemic. This register‐based study used data from the Finnish Infectious Disease Register. Nationwide rhinovirus findings from July 2015 to March 2021 were included and stratified by age (0–4, 5–9, and 10–14). Cumulative 14‐day incidence per 100000 children was calculated. Four thousand five hundred and seventy six positive rhinovirus findings were included, of which 3788 (82.8%) were among children aged 0–4. The highest recorded incidence was 36.2 among children aged 0–4 in October 2017. The highest recorded incidence during the pandemic period was 13.6 in November 2020. The impact of the restrictions was mostly seen among children aged 0–4 years of age in weeks 14–22 in 2020. The incidence has since remained near reference levels in all age groups. Strict restrictions temporarily interrupted the circulation of rhinovirus in spring 2020. Rhinovirus incidence returned to normal levels soon after the harsh restrictions were lifted. These looser social restrictions prevented RSV and influenza seasons but failed to prevent the spread of rhinovirus.
Biological and chemical characterization of antimicrobial activity in Arthrobacter spp. isolated from disease‐suppressive compost
Authors: Ramlawi Serine , Abusharkh Sawsan , Carroll Alexa , McMullin David R. , Avis Tyler J.
Published: July 2021

Antagonistic bacteria can act as biocontrol agents against various phytopathogens. Recently, Arthrobacter spp. demonstrated antifungal activity, but were not further characterized. In this study, the antimicrobial activity of Arthrobacter humicola strains M9‐1A, M9‐2, and M9‐8, and Arthrobacter psychrophenolicus strain M9‐17 were evaluated against nine plant pathogens in vitro, and their cell‐free filtrates were additionally assessed for inhibition of Alternaria alternata and suppression of black mold disease on tomato fruit. Results indicated that A. humicola M9‐1A and A. psychrophenolicus M9‐17 were the most inhibitory, reducing growth of seven of the pathogens studied. Cell‐free filtrates of A. psychrophenolicus M9‐17 reduced the growth of most pathogens. All cell‐free bacterial filtrates, except those from A. humicola M9‐2, suppressed black mold on tomato fruit. Disk diffusion assays with ethyl acetate soluble culture filtrate extracts of all bacteria reduced the mycelial growth of A. alternata. Clear inhibition zones were observed for A. psychrophenolicus M9‐17 extracts using drop bioassays. The antifungal compound N‐acetyltryptamine was purified and characterized from the A. psychrophenolicus M9‐17 cell‐free ethyl acetate soluble extract. This study suggests that antibiosis may play a key role in the antimicrobial activity of Arthrobacter spp.
Identification of sustainable trypsin active‐site inhibitors from Nigrospora sphaerica strain AVA‐1
Authors: Kallingal Anoop , Thachan Kundil Varun , Ayyolath Aravind , Muringayil Joseph Tomy , Kar Mahapatra Debarshi , Haponiuk Józef T. , Variyar E. Jayadevi
Published: July 2021

Trypsin is a protein‐digesting enzyme that is essential for the growth and regeneration of bone, muscle, cartilage, skin, and blood. The trypsin inhibitors have various role in diseases such as inflammation, Alzheimer's disease, pancreatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer prognosis, metastasis and so forth. From 10 endophytic fungi isolated, we were able to screen only one strain with the required activity. The fungus with activity was obtained as an endophyte from Dendrophthoe falcata and was later identified as Nigrospora sphaerica. The activity was checked by enzyme assays using trypsin. The fungus was fermented and the metabolites were extracted and further purified by bioassay‐guided chromatographic methods and the compound isolated was identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The compound was identified as quercetin. Docking studies were employed to study the interaction. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion analysis showed satisfactory results and the compound has no AMES and hepatotoxicity. This study reveals the ability of N. sphaerica to produce bioactive compound quercetin has been identified as a potential candidate for trypsin inhibition. The present communication describes the first report claiming that N. sphaerica strain AVA‐1 can produce quercetin and it can be considered as a sustainable source of trypsin active‐site inhibitors.
Oleanolic acid reshapes the gut microbiota and alters immune‐related gene expression of intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Xue Chenyu , Lv Hao , Li Ying , Dong Na , Wang Yanhui , Zhou Jiale , Shi Baoming , Shan Anshan
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Oleanolic acid (OA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound that is present at high levels in olive oil and has several promising pharmacological effects, such as liver protection and anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. The purpose of the present study was to assess whether OA treatment affects gut health compared to a control condition, including gut microbiota and intestinal epithelial immunity.

RESULTS

Illumina MiSeq sequencing (16S rRNA gene) was used to investigate the effect of OA on the microbial community of the intestinal tract, while Illumina HiSeq (RNA‐seq) technology was used to investigate the regulatory effect of OA on gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells, which allowed for a comprehensive analysis of the effects of OA on intestinal health. The results showed that the consumption of OA initially controlled weight gain in mice and altered the composition of the gut microbiota. At the phylum level, OA significantly increased the relative abundances of cecum Firmicutes but decreased the abundance of Actinobacteria, and at the genus level it increased the relative abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria such as Oscillibacter and Ruminiclostridium 9. Oleanolic acid treatment also altered the expression of 12 genes involved in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes（KEGG）pathways of complement and coagulation cascades, hematopoietic cell lineage, and leukocyte transendothelial migration in intestinal epithelial cells to improve gut immunity.

CONCLUSION

Intake of OA can contribute beneficial effects by optimizing gut microbiota and altering the immune function of intestinal epithelial cells, potentially to improve intestinal health status. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Free vascularized iliac periosteal graft for bilateral forearm nonunion reconstruction in a child with bilateral transfemoral amputation
Authors: Soldado Francisco , Barrera‐Ochoa Sergi , Campillo‐Recio David , Nguyen‐Saint‐Paul Quynh , Cherqaoui Abdelmounim , Knörr Jorge
Published: July 2021

Vascularized periosteal flaps have been reported as very effective for treating biologically complex bone nonunion in pediatric patients, owing to their high angiogenic and osteogenic potentials. The purpose of this article is to report a case of a 6‐year‐old patient with nonunion involving both forearms and a very limited bone flap donor site in the context of prior bilateral transfemoral amputation due to meningococcal sepsis. Two free vascularized iliac periosteal flaps (VIPF), supplied by the deep circumflex iliac vessels, were used in two stages to reconstruct the forearms. In the first stage, the left forearm, which had a diaphyseal bone defect of 5 cm diameter in the ulna and 4 cm in the radius, was combined with an iliac‐crest bone allograft, fixed with two longitudinal 1.8 mm Kirschner wires and surrounded with a free VIPF of 24 cm2. Consolidation was achieved 3 months after left forearm surgery, while complete allograft revascularization and remodeling was observed at 12 months. In the second stage, the right forearm, which had a diaphyseal bone defect of 3 cm diameter in the ulna and 1 cm in the radius, was fixed the radius with a 2.7 mm plate and surrounded with a free VIPF of 24 cm2. The radius nonunion healed 6 weeks after surgery. There were no postoperative complications. Two years postoperatively, the patient had again resumed his arm gait painlessly and without a splint. VIPF may be considered a valuable and reliable surgical option for nonunion reconstruction in complex clinical scenarios in children.
Oromandibular reconstruction with double‐skin paddle fibular free flap: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lucattelli Elena , Brogi Mattia , Cipriani Federico , Innocenti Marco , Cannamela Giacomo , Innocenti Alessandro
Published: July 2021

Background

Reconstruction of complex head and neck defects is challenging, especially when more than one soft‐tissue subunit is involved. The osteocutaneous fibular flap underwent continual evolution to improve its soft‐tissue characteristics, such as including a second skin island. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes regarding oromandibular reconstruction with a double‐skin paddle fibular free flap (DSPFFF) using three different techniques: central de‐epithelialized skin paddle, distally‐based double‐skin paddle (DSP), or proximally and distally‐based DSP.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in December 2020 using Pubmed and MedLine Ovid databases according to the PRISMA guidelines. A meta‐analysis of functional outcome and complications was performed to estimate single incidence rates.

Results

A total of 449 patients were included, with a follow‐up of 1–84 months, where 330 patients underwent reconstruction with the first technique, 23 patients with the second technique, and 96 patients with the third technique. The meta‐analysis showed an overall good functional outcome and a low‐complication rate for oromandibular reconstruction with DSPFFF. A better functional outcome and a lower complication rate were found when a distally‐based DSPFFF was harvested compared to a proximally and distally‐based DSPFFF.

Conclusion

The DSPFFF was found to be useful and reliable for reconstructing composite and extensive head and neck defects, with an overall good functional outcome and a low‐complication rate. The meta‐analysis showed a better positive outcome on distally‐based DSPFFF rather than proximally and distally‐based DSPFFF. In addition, distally‐based DSPFFF showed a lower complications rate when compared with proximally and distally‐based DSPFFF.
Comprehensive Human Milk Patterns Are Related to Infant Growth and Allergy in the CHMP Study
Authors: Jiang Shilong , Pan Jiancun , Li Yuanyuan , Ju Mengnan , Zhang Wei , Lu Jing , Lv Jiaping , Li Kaifeng
Published: July 2021

Scope

The aim of the present study is to identify human milk pattern using multi‐omics datasets and to explore association between patterns, infant growth, and allergy using data from the Chinese Human Milk Project (CHMP) study.

Methods and Results

Three patterns are identified from integrative analysis of proteome, lipidome, and glycome profiles of 143 mature human milk samples. Factor 1 is positively associated with 128 proteins, phospholipids, and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) including lacto N‐neohexaose (LNnH) and lacto‐N‐difucohexaose II (LNDFH II); factor 2 is negatively associated with as1‐casein, phospholipids while positively associates with HMOs including LNnH, lactosialyl tetrasaccharide c (LSTc), and 2’‐fucosyllactose (2'FL); factor 3 is positively associated with lysophospholipids while negatively associates with 27 proteins, triglycerides with two saturated fatty acids, 6'‐sialyllactose (6'SL) and 2'FL. In general, factor 1 and factor 2 are associated with slower while factor 3 is associated with faster growth rate (p < 0.044). One unit higher in loadings of factor 2 is associated with 34% lower risk of allergies (p ≤ 0.017). Associations are not significant after adjustment for city except for factor 1.

Conclusions

Three possible human milk patterns with varying degree of stability are identified. Future work is needed to understand these patterns in terms of generalization, biologic mechanisms, and genotype influences.
An optimization‐based congestion control for constrained application protocol
Authors: Akpakwu Godfrey A. , Hancke Gerhard P. , Abu‐Mahfouz Adnan M.
Published: July 2021

The Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) is a lightweight web transfer protocol designed based on the REST architecture standardized by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) to meet and accommodate the requirements of the constrained Internet of Things (IoT) environments. Managing congestion control in a resource‐constrained lossy network with a high bit error rate is a significantly challenging task that needs to be addressed. The primary congestion control mechanism defined by CoAP specification leverages on basic binary exponential backoff and often fails to utilize the network dynamics to the best of its traffic conditions. As a result, CoCoA has been introduced for better IoT resource utilization. In addition, CoCoA retransmission timeout (RTO) for network dynamics is based on constant coefficient values. The resource‐constrained nature of IoT networks poses new design challenges for congestion control mechanisms. In this paper, we propose a new particle swarm optimization (PSO)‐based congestion control approach called psoCoCoA as a variation of CoCoA. The psoCoCoA applies random and optimal parameter‐driven simulation to optimize default CoAP parameters and update the fitness and velocity positions to adapt to the traffic conditions. This process is performed for different traffic scenarios by varying the retransmission and max‐age values by using the optimization‐based algorithm. We carried out extensive simulations to validate the congestion control performance for CoAP with Observe, CoCoA, and psoCoCoA with different network topologies. The results indicate that psoCoCA outperforms or very similar to CoCoA and achieves better performance compared to CoAP with Observe under different network scenarios.
Effect of para‐Substituents in Ethylene Copolymerizations with 1‐Decene, 1‐Dodecene, and with 2‐Methyl‐1‐Pentene Using Phenoxide Modified Half‐Titanocenes‐MAO Catalyst Systems
Authors: Kitphaitun Suphitchaya , Yan Qing , Nomura Kotohiro
Published: July 2021

Effect of para‐substituents in the ethylene (E) copolymerization with 1‐decene (DC), 1‐dodecene (DD), and with 2‐methyl‐1‐pentene (2M1P) using a series of Cp*TiCl2(O‐2,6‐iPr2‐4‐R‐C6H2) [R=H (1), tBu (2), Ph (3), CHPh2 (4), CPh3 (5), SiMe3 (6), SiEt3 (7), and newly prepared 4‐tBuC6H4 (8) and 3,5‐Me2C6H3 (9)]‐MAO catalyst systems has been studied. The activities in these copolymerization reactions were affected by the para‐substituent, and the SiMe3 (6), SiEt3 (7) and 3,5‐Me2C6H3 (9) analogues showed the higher activities at 50 °C in the E copolymerization reactions with DC (1.06–1.44×106 kg‐polymer/mol‐Ti⋅h), DD (1.04–1.88×106 kg‐polymer/mol‐Ti⋅h) than the others, whereas no significant differences were observed in the comonomer incorporations. Complexes 6 and 7 also showed the higher activities at 50 °C in the E/2M1P copolymerization, and the 2M1P incorporation was affected by the para‐substituent and the polymerization temperature; complex 9 showed better 2M1P incorporation at 25 °C.
Simple fabrication of gelatin–polyvinyl alcohol bilayer hydrogel with wound dressing and nonadhesive duality
Authors: Barba Bin Jeremiah D. , Oyama Tomoko G. , Taguchi Mitsumasa
Published: July 2021

Persistence of postoperative adhesions can lead to fatal complications in patients undergoing abdominal and pelvic surgery, even years after the operation. Thus, effective barrier materials are majorly required for reducing peritoneal adhesions. In the present study, a novel bilayer hydrogel achieving both wound dressing and antiadhesion capabilities was developed from gelatin and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using simultaneous reagent‐free radiation‐induced crosslinking with γ‐rays. The gelatin presents wound dressing ability, whereas the PVA reveals nonadhesive capability. Layers were sufficiently bonded via a small “mixed” interface, as supported via scanning electron microscopy and 2D‐infrared spectroscopy. Cell culture of 3T3‐Swiss fibroblasts exhibited good cell proliferation on the gelatin, which can further facilitate tissue regeneration, whereas PVA exhibited limited cell adhesion and growth. Cell viability suggests that the bilayer is noncytotoxic. Enzymatic degradation test indicated a complete breakdown of gelatin by proteases, leaving the PVA layer mostly intact. These in vitro assessments of the developed bilayer hydrogel demonstrated its potential as a novel medical material with wound dressing and nonadhesive duality.
Oral etoposide as a single agent in childhood and young adult cancer in England: Still a poorly evaluated palliative treatment
Authors: Fraser Jess , Wills Lorna , Fardus‐Reid Fahmina , Irvine Lucy , Elliss‐Brookes Lucy , Fern Lorna , Cameron Alison L. , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Feltbower Richard G. , Shelton Jon , Stiller Charles , McCabe Martin G.
Published: July 2021

Background

Oral etoposide is commonly used in palliative treatment of childhood and young adult cancer without robust evidence. We describe a national, unselected cohort of young people in England treated with oral etoposide using routinely collected, population‐level data.

Methods

Patients aged under 25 years at cancer diagnosis (1995–2017) with a treatment record of single‐agent oral etoposide in the Systemic AntiCancer Dataset (SACT, 2012–2018) were identified, linked to national cancer registry data using NHS number and followed to 5 January 2019. Overall survival (OS) was estimated for all tumours combined and by tumour group. A Cox model was applied accounting for age, sex, tumour type, prior and subsequent chemotherapy.

Results

Total 115 patients were identified during the study period. Mean age was 11.8 years at cancer diagnosis and 15.5 years at treatment with oral etoposide. Median OS was 5.5 months from the start of etoposide; 13 patients survived beyond 2 years. Survival was shortest in patients with osteosarcoma (median survival 3.6 months) and longest in CNS embryonal tumours (15.5 months). Across the cohort, a median of one cycle (range one to nine) of etoposide was delivered. OS correlated significantly with tumour type and prior chemotherapy, but not with other variables.

Conclusions

This report is the largest series to date of oral etoposide use in childhood and young adult cancer. Most patients treated in this real world setting died quickly. Despite decades of use, there are still no robust data demonstrating a clear benefit of oral etoposide for survival.
Green NP‐HPTLC and green RP‐HPTLC methods for the determination of thymoquinone: A contrast of validation parameters and greenness assessment
Authors: Foudah Ahmed I. , Shakeel Faiyaz , Alqarni Mohammed H. , Ross Samir A. , Salkini Mohammad A. , Alam Prawez
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a naturally derived bioactive compound with several therapeutic effects.

Objective

The highly sensitive, rapid and green normal‐phase (NP)/reversed‐phase (RP) high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) densitometry technique was developed for the determination of TQ in various plant extracts of different geographical regions, commercial capsules, creams and essential oils.

Methodology

The NP densitometry estimation of TQ was performed using a cyclohexane–ethyl acetate (90:10, v/v) green solvent system, while, the RP‐densitometry estimation of TQ was performed using an ethanol–water (80:20, v/v) green solvent system. The estimation of TQ was conducted at 259 nm.

Results

The NP and RP densitometry techniques were observed linear in the range of 25–1000 and 50–600 ng/band, respectively. All validation parameters such as accuracy, precision, robustness and sensitivity of NP/RP densitometry were observed within the limit of regulatory requirements and hence found to be suitable for the determination of TQ. The TQ contents were found to be highest in the Saudi Arabian extract followed by the Syrian extract, Indian extract, commercial capsules, commercial creams, Jordanian extract, Egyptian extract, Palestinian extract and commercial essential oils using NP densitometry. The TQ contents were found in same order using RP densitometry, but they were much lower than those recorded using NP densitometry. The Analytical GREEnness (AGREE) scores of NP and RP densitometry were found to be 0.82 and 0.84, respectively, suggesting an excellent greenness profile.

Conclusions

Based on these results, NP/RP densitometry was found to be suitable for the pharmaceutical assay of TQ.
Differential frequency in imaging‐based outcome measurement: Bias in real‐world oncology comparative‐effectiveness studies
Authors: Adamson Blythe J. S. , Ma Xinran , Griffith Sandra D. , Sweeney Elizabeth M. , Sarkar Somnath , Bourla Ariel B.
Published: July 2021

Background

Comparative‐effectiveness studies using real‐world data (RWD) can be susceptible to surveillance bias. In solid tumor oncology studies, analyses of endpoints such as progression‐free survival (PFS) are based on progression events detected by imaging assessments. This study aimed to evaluate the potential bias introduced by differential imaging assessment frequency when using electronic health record (EHR)‐derived data to investigate the comparative effectiveness of cancer therapies.

Methods

Using a nationwide de‐identified EHR‐derived database, we first analyzed imaging assessment frequency patterns in patients diagnosed with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC). We used those RWD inputs to develop a discrete event simulation model of two treatments where disease progression was the outcome and PFS was the endpoint. Using this model, we induced bias with differential imaging assessment timing and quantified its effect on observed versus true treatment effectiveness. We assessed percent bias in the estimated hazard ratio (HR).

Results

The frequency of assessments differed by cancer treatment types. In simulated comparative‐effectiveness studies, PFS HRs estimated using real‐world imaging assessment frequencies differed from the true HR by less than 10% in all scenarios (range: 0.4% to −9.6%). The greatest risk of biased effect estimates was found comparing treatments with widely different imaging frequencies, most exaggerated in disease settings where time to progression is very short.

Conclusions

This study provided evidence that the frequency of imaging assessments to detect disease progression can differ by treatment type in real‐world patients with cancer and may induce some bias in comparative‐effectiveness studies in some situations.
Clickable 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid‐derived AB2 monomers: Hyperbranched polyesters through the CuAAC cycloaddition (click) reaction
Authors: Pacini Aurora , Nitti Andrea , Sangiovanni Guido , Vitale Marcello , Pasini Dario
Published: July 2021

We present the synthesis and characterization of two aliphatic AB2 monomers derived from the readily available 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid and containing one alkyne group and two azide functionalities. The distance between the polymerizable groups differs in the two monomers by the insertion of an additional carbon atom in the aliphatic structure that addresses the steric demand during polymerization. The synthetic procedure for the monomers is relatively simple and scalable, and the monomers are able to polymerize through the Copper(I)‐catalyzed Azide‐Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC reaction). The polymerization affords hyperbranched polymers in good yields and molecular weights and moderate degrees of branching. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Working under pressure: Managing overpressure hazards with high integrity protective systems
Authors: Summers Angela E.
Published: July 2021

The process industrial sector has accepted the use of high integrity protective systems (HIPS) to prevent overpressure of vessels and pipelines. The most common use cases are where a pressure relief device is considered impractical by the owner/operator due to application‐specific factors or where emergency venting causes significant safety consequences. HIPS can also be used to eliminate or minimize the environmental impact of emergency venting. The effectiveness of HIPS is limited by the skill applied in the identification of the overpressure hazards and in the implementation of the HIPS to stop those scenarios. Ultimately, it is the owner/operator who must ensure that the HIPS is designed, installed, operated, and maintained in a manner that prevents overpressure of process equipment.
Identification of Point Defects in Multielement Compounds and Alloys with Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Tuomisto Filip
Published: July 2021

Three topical materials systems are discussed from the point of view of point defect characterization with positron annihilation spectroscopy. The family of III‐nitride semiconductors and device structures made thereof poses interesting challenges for data interpretation due to preferential localization and annihilation with various elements. Semiconducting oxides with relatively complex crystal lattice structures further highlight the need for combining systematically designed experiments with state‐of‐the‐art theoretical calculations. High‐entropy alloys generate another challenge due to the large number of randomly distributed elements, combining chemical disorder with structural order.