bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating knowledge, habits, and beliefs regarding dietary supplements as a protective measure against COVID‐19 in Malaysia and Iraq: A postsecond wave cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Mohammed Ali Haider , Hassan Bassam Abdul Rasool , Blebil Ali , Dujaili Juman , Wayyes Abdulrasool M. , Abdulhamid Osama Ayad , Salih Humam Saadi , AL‐Jewari Watheq Mohammed , Hassan Hawar Sardar , Lim Angelina
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic brought to the forefront various public health approaches, including the consumption of dietary supplements (DS) as a protective measure. With misinformation regarding the virus and the associated benefits of DS prevalent, this study aimed to understand knowledge, habits, and beliefs related to DS usage as a protective measure during the pandemic in Malaysia and Iraq, two countries with deep‐rooted traditions in herbal and supplement usage.

Methods

A cross‐sectional research study was conducted between September 2021 and March 2022 using a validated online survey. The participants included Malaysians and Iraqis aged 18 years and above who currently consume DS. Using the SurveyMonkey® platform, data were collected from 2425 respondents (response rate = 60.6%), with analysis carried out using SPSS version 28.

Results

Demographically, the sample had an almost equal distribution of Malaysians (51%) and Iraqis (49%), with a mean age of 30.61. The majority had tertiary education (78.6%), and only a fraction had been infected with COVID‐19 (26.2%). Concerning knowledge, a significant portion exhibited poor understanding (84.2%) of DS's functioning and implications. Regarding habits, many respondents consumed multivitamins (75.2%), with influence largely coming from peers (23.5%) and product leaflets (46.7%). Belief‐wise, about half (49.2%) utilized herbal or supplemental products as a protective measure during the pandemic, with vitamin C with zinc being the most commonly used (45.4%).

Conclusion

The study underlines a significant inclination towards DS usage in Malaysia and Iraq, influenced by societal connections and available information. While many believe in the protective capacities of DS against COVID‐19, a substantial knowledge gap persists. It emphasizes the need for evidence‐based awareness campaigns and policies to guide public health decisions.
Effect analysis on waste recycling by introducing a new policy, “Environmental Assessment of Recycling,” for establishment of the ESG management system in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Yoo Heung-Min , Kang Jang-Hyun , Lee Sun-Ju , Jang Su-Han , Yoon Young-Sam , Kang Youngyeul
Published: February 2024

To move away from linear system mining–manufacture–production–disposal, most countries have been trying to establish a circular economy, by reusing waste as resources. Responding to this paradigm change, the Ministry of Environment of Korea amended the Wastes Control Act in the 2010s. To increase the recycling rate in Korea, the environmental assessment of recycling (EAR) has been introduced to improve the Wastes Control Act. The whole process of new recycling technologies can be assessed in terms of environmental or technical aspects by assessment institutes of the EAR. Finally, the governmental research institute can approve of an application case, which proves environmental friendliness, even if the technology is not defined in the current act. Recently, 17 companies have been coassessed and approved to recycle steel codes in waste tires as resources for iron smelting via assessments of the whole process, such as environmental analysis and quality assessment. The EAR has been enforcing recycling materials for six years, and the total profit of the companies that were approved was estimated to be approximately 55 million USD. However, many amendments to the EAR continue to be requested by stakeholders. In this study, the effect of the EAR was evaluated, and additional tasks were found to enhance the EAR. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1473–1485. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

After the amendment of the Wastes Control Act, the number of assessment institutes increased from one to three. The amounts of recycled materials are 2.4 Mt of contact media type and 0.69 Mt/year of noncontact media type, and the profit of the companies was estimated at approximately 55 million USD.
Three cases of systemic lupus erythematosus presenting with ischemic stroke as the initial symptom: Case reports and literature review
Authors: Li Na , Liu Xiaoxia , Wu Pengjia , Liu Jun , Chen Pengyu , Zeng Jiashun
Published: February 2024

Background

Ischemic stroke constitutes a grave complication within the context of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), typically manifesting several years postdiagnosis of SLE. Incidents where ischemic stroke precedes and acts as an initial symptom of SLE are comparatively rare in its early stages, and such presentations are frequently misdiagnosed as ischemic cerebrovascular diseases, posing significant diagnostic challenges.

Case Reports

This article presents three cases of young females in whom ischemic stroke emerged as the initial manifestation of SLE. It incorporates a review of 17 case reports published over the past two decades, focusing on patients with SLE where ischemic stroke was a primary symptom. This discussion encompasses the clinical presentation, outcomes, and therapeutic approaches for these patients.

Conclusion

In young patients, particularly females presenting with ischemic stroke and especially in cases accompanied by hematologic or multisystemic involvement, there should be heightened vigilance for SLE‐induced ischemic stroke. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly enhance patients' quality of life and survival rates.
An empirical study of micro‐ and small‐enterprise bankruptcy protection under the COVID‐19 pandemic: New evidence from China
Authors: Yuxia Song , Mei Sun , Congyuan Yu , Zhiya Liao
Published: February 2024

Micro‐ and small‐enterprises (MSEs) serve as a strong foundation for sustainable and stable economic and social development in countries worldwide. However, they are highly susceptible to bankruptcy crises, a phenomenon that has been significantly amplified by the COVID‐19 pandemic. The article presents an empirical investigation of the application of the bankruptcy system to MSEs, using data on MSE bankruptcies published by the Sichuan courts in China in 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic as evidence. The article reveals that MSEs face a triple dilemma when applying bankruptcy procedures. Firstly, the legal system for bankruptcy is unsound. Secondly, the institutional mechanism for bankruptcy is imperfect. And thirdly, the social environment surrounding bankruptcy is not conducive. The article presents a novel approach to address bankruptcy issues by suggesting the implementation of streamlined bankruptcy procedures, a reorganization system for small and micro‐enterprises and a personal bankruptcy system. Additionally, it proposes enhancing the institutional framework for the selection, evaluation and oversight of bankruptcy judges and administrators, as well as the establishment of third‐party institutions. Furthermore, it advocates for a modernized understanding of bankruptcy, the provision of pre‐bankruptcy services and the creation of a bankruptcy protection system. The article presents a unique sample of international comparative studies on MSEs and proposes a new approach to examining bankruptcy protection for MSEs in China.
Blue light aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy downregulates cell division and proliferation pathways in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Austin Evan , Mineroff Jessica , Dana Isabella , Jagdeo Jared
Published: February 2024

5‐Aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment for actinic keratosis (AK) and has been studied as a treatment for noninvasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). PDT induces apoptosis and necrosis in AKs and cSCC. 5‐ALA blue light PDT may modulate gene expression and pathways in surviving cells. In this study, differential gene expression and pathway analysis of cSCC and human dermal fibroblasts were compared before and after 5‐ALA blue light PDT using RNA sequencing. No genes were differentially expressed after correcting for multiple testing (false discovery rate < 0.05). As a result, transcription factor, gene enrichment, and pathway analysis were performed with genes identified before multiple testing (p < 0.05). Pathways associated with proliferation and carcinogenesis were downregulated. These findings using 5‐ALA blue light PDT are similar to previously published studies using methyl‐aminolevulinic and red light protocols, indicating that surviving residual cells may undergo changes consistent with a less aggressive cancerous phenotype.
Repair of a rat calvaria defect with injectable strontium (Sr)‐doped polyphosphate dicalcium phosphate dehydrate (P‐DCPD) ceramic bone grafts
Authors: Markel David C. , Dietz Paula R. , Wu Bin , Chen Liang , Bou‐Akl Therese , Shi Tong , Ren Weiping
Published: February 2024

The trace element strontium (Sr) enhances new bone formation. However, delivering Sr, like other materials, in a sustained manner from a ceramic bone graft substitute (BGS) is difficult. We developed a novel ceramic BGS, polyphosphate dicalcium phosphate dehydrate (P‐DCPD), which delivers embedded drugs in a sustained pattern. This study assessed the in vitro and in vivo performance of Sr‐doped P‐DCPD. In vitro P‐DCPD and 10%Sr‐P‐DCPD were nontoxic and eluents from 10%Sr‐P‐DCPD significantly enhanced osteoblastic MC3T3 cell differentiation. A sustained, zero‐order Sr release was observed from 10%Sr‐P‐DCPD for up to 70 days. When using this BGS in a rat calvaria defect model, both P‐DCPD and 10% Sr‐P‐DCPD were found to be biocompatible and biodegradable. Histologic data from decalcified and undecalcified tissue showed that 10%Sr‐P‐DCPD had more extensive new bone formation compared with P‐DCPD 12‐weeks after surgery and the 10%Sr‐P‐DCPD had more organized new bone and much less fibrous tissue at the defect margins. The new bone was formed on the surface of the degraded ceramic debris within the bone defect area. P‐DCPD represented a promising drug‐eluting BGS for repair of critical bone defects.
How activist investors value target firms: Evidence from hedge fund presentations
Authors: Pfirrmann Maximilian , Eichner Korbinian
Published: February 2024

This research study provides insights on how activist hedge funds perform valuation analyses of target firms. Relevant data was hand‐collected from a sample of activist hedge fund presentations. Based on the hedge funds’ valuation analyses, the undervaluation of the target firms amounts to approximately 30%, compared to the targets’ current share price. Besides, activist investors derive a value enhancement potential from their proposed strategies of approximately 70% to the targets’ current share price. These valuation results rely predominately on trading multiples. The dominant multiples are Enterprise value/EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) and Price/Earnings (P/E). Further, applied multiples are mainly forward‐looking, and the predicted performance measures are primarily consensus estimates. Besides, hedge funds sometimes adjust multiples arbitrarily to increase the comparability. Our results confirm that short‐term investors rely predominately on pricing analyses in their valuations.
Long‐term retention on antiretroviral treatment after enrolment in prevention of vertical HIV transmission services: a prospective cohort study in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Urrio Roseline Faustine , Lyatuu Goodluck Willey , Sando David , Mahande Michael J. , Philipo Emmanuel , Naburi Helga , Lyaruu Peter , Kimonge Amanda , Mayogu Kasasi , Simba Brenda , Kibao Ayoub Muhamed , Msangi Michael , Zeebari Zangin , Biberfeld Gunnel , Ekström Anna Mia , Kilewo Charles , Kågesten Anna E.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

To prevent vertical HIV transmission and ensure healthy mothers and children, pregnant women with HIV must remain on antiretroviral treatment (ART) for life. However, motivation to remain on ART may decline beyond the standard 2‐year breastfeeding/postpartum period. We assessed attrition and retention in ART care among women with HIV up to 6 years since enrolment in vertical transmission prevention services in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 22,631 pregnant women with HIV were enrolled in vertical transmission prevention services between January 2015 and December 2017 in routine healthcare settings and followed‐up to July 2021. Kaplan−Meier was used to estimate time to ART attrition (died, stopped ART or was lost to follow‐up [no show ≥90 days since scheduled appointment]) and the proportion retained in care. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) of ART attrition in relation to predictors.

Results

Participants were followed‐up to 6 years for a median of 3 years (IQR: 0.1–4). The overall ART attrition rate was 13.8 per 100 person‐years (95% CI: 13.5–14.1), highest in the first year of enrolment at 27.1 (26.3–27.9), thereafter declined to 9.5 (8.9–10.1) in year 3 and 2.7 (2.1–3.5) in year 6. The proportion of women retained in care were 78%, 69%, 63%, 60%, 57% and 56% at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 years, respectively. ART attrition was higher in young women aged <20 years (aHR 1.63, 95% CI: 1.38–1.92) as compared to 30‐39 year‐olds and women enrolled late in the third versus first trimester (aHR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16–1.44). In contrast, attrition was lower in older women ≥40 years, women who initiated ART before versus during the index pregnancy and women attending higher‐level health facilities.

Conclusions

ART attrition among women with HIV remains highest in the first year of enrolment in vertical transmission prevention services and declines markedly following a transition to chronic HIV care. Targeted interventions to improve ART continuity among women with HIV during and beyond prevention of vertical transmission are vital to ending paediatric HIV and keeping women and children alive and healthy.
Tritium and deuterium labelling of a kainate receptor antagonist and evaluation as a radioligand
Authors: Chałupnik Paulina , Marek Aleš , Hovah Marie Emilie Leiticia , Pickering Darryl S. , Temperini Piero , Donbosco Stephanie , Szymańska Ewa , Johansen Tommy N.
Published: February 2024

Kainate receptors play a crucial role in mediating synaptic transmission within the central nervous system. However, the lack of selective pharmacological tool compounds for the GluK3 subunit represents a significant challenge in studying these receptors. Recently presented compound 1 stands out as a potent antagonist of GluK3 receptors, exhibiting nanomolar affinity at GluK3 receptors and strongly inhibiting glutamate‐induced currents at homomeric GluK1 and GluK3 receptors in HEK293 cells with Kb values of 65 and 39 nM, respectively. This study presents the synthesis of two potent GluK3‐preferring iodine derivatives of compound 1, serving as precursors for radiolabelling. Furthermore, we demonstrate the optimisation of dehalogenation conditions using hydrogen and deuterium, resulting in [2H]‐1, and demonstrate the efficient synthesis of the radioligand [3H]‐1 with a specific activity of 1.48 TBq/mmol (40.1 Ci/mmol). Radioligand binding studies conducted with [3H]‐1 as a radiotracer at GluK1, GluK2, and GluK3 receptors expressed in Sf9 and rat P2 membranes demonstrated its potential applicability for selectively studying native GluK3 receptors in the presence of GluK1 and 2‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor‐blocking ligands.
Effect of deacetylated konjac glucomannan on the 3D printing properties of minced pork
Authors: Li Junguang , Yue Xiaonan , Zhang Xuyue , Chen Bo , Han Ying , Zhao Jiansheng , Bai Yanhong
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The influences of deacetylated konjac glucomannan (DKGM) at different condition levels (0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%) on the 3D printing feasibility, printing properties, and the final gel characteristics of minced pork were investigated.

RESULTS

As the DKGM content increased, the printing accuracy and stability initially increased and then declined, and the printing stability and accuracy increased to their highest levels (98.16% and 98.85%) with a 1.5% addition of DKGM. Furthermore, the addition of DKGM significantly enhanced the texture of 3D‐printed meat after heat treatments. When the DKGM content reached 1.5%, the hardness and springiness were 1.19 and 1.06 times higher than those of the control group. The results of low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance and Raman spectra revealed that DKGM enhanced the amount of bound water in 3D‐printed meat and encouraged changes in protein structure. After the addition of DKGM at 1.5%, the contents of bound water and β‐sheets were 7.67% and 12.89% higher than those of the control group, respectively, facilitating the development of a better gel network of minced meat during heating.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that a concentration of 1.5% DKGM is the ideal setting for obtaining the desired rheological properties and textural characteristics (printability) of 3D‐printed minced meat products compared to other samples. In addition, the results showed that the addition of DKGM at 1.5% promotes the transition from α‐helix to β‐folding of proteins during heating, which facilitates the formation of gels. The results of the study contribute to the application potential of minced meat in the field of 3D food printing. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Oxygen dynamics in a deep‐silled fjord: Tight coupling to the open shelf
Authors: Hannah Charles G. , Johannessen Sophia C. , Wright Cynthia A. , Page Stephen J.
Published: February 2024

Oxygen is declining globally in subsurface seawater. Fjords are particularly susceptible to hypoxia, because entrance sills restrict water circulation. We studied the oxygen dynamics of the Kitimat Fjord System on the west coast of Canada, using 3 yr of data from moored sensors and water column profiles. Subsurface oxygen within the fjord system is principally controlled by the connection to Hecate Strait on the outer shelf. Variations in oxygen concentration in Hecate Strait are reflected in the water that is drawn into the fjord system year‐round at mid‐depth (50–150 m). Deep water is renewed annually, beginning in May/June. Remineralization results in a seasonal decline in oxygen at depth. In the absence of deep‐water renewal, the bottom water in the system could become hypoxic in 1–2 yr. Mixing over a shallow inner sill (100 m) replenishes the oxygen in the deep water of Gardner Canal year‐round. The decadal trends in oxygen concentration show an increase from the 1950s to a maximum in the late 1970s, followed by a decline through 2016. The decline over the period 1977–2016 is 0.018 mL L−1 yr−1 (~ 0.83 μmol L−1 yr−1), which is consistent with the decline observed over the upper continental shelf over the same period.
Probing Laser‐Driven Structure Formation at Extreme Scales in Space and Time
Authors: Bonse Jörn , Sokolowski‐Tinten Klaus
Published: February 2024

Irradiation of solid surfaces with high intensity, ultrashort laser pulses triggers a variety of secondary processes that can lead to the formation of transient and permanent structures over a large range of length scales from mm down to the nano‐range. One of the most prominent examples are LIPSS – Laser‐Induced Periodic Surface Structures. While LIPSS have been a scientific evergreen for of almost 60 years, experimental methods that combine ultrafast temporal with the required nm spatial resolution have become available only recently with the advent of short pulse, short wavelength free electron lasers. Here, the current status and future perspectives in this field are discussed by exploiting the unique possibilities of these 4th‐generation light sources to address by time‐domain experimental techniques the fundamental LIPSS‐question, namely why and how laser irradiation can initiate the transition of a “chaotic” (rough) surface from an aperiodic into a periodic structure.
Isomaltulose Enhances GLP‐1 and PYY Secretion to a Mixed Meal in People With or Without Type 2 Diabetes as Compared to Saccharose
Authors: Zhang Jiudan , Sonnenburg Dominik , Tricò Domenico , Kabisch Stefan , Mari Andrea , Theis Stephan , Kemper Margrit , Pivovarova‐Ramich Olga , Rohn Sascha , Pfeiffer Andreas F. H.
Published: February 2024

Scope

Secretion of the gut hormones glucagon‐like peptide (GLP‐1) and peptide YY (PYY) are induced by nutrients reaching the lower small intestine which regulate insulin and glucagon release, inhibit appetite, and may improve β‐cell regeneration. The aim is to test the effect of a slowly digested isomaltulose (ISO) compared to the rapidly digested saccharose (SAC) as a snack given 1 h before a standardized mixed meal test (MMT) on GLP‐1, PYY, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and metabolic responses in participants with or without type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods and results

Fifteen healthy volunteers and 15 patients with T2DM consumed either 50 g ISO or SAC 1 h preload of MMT on nonconsecutive days. Clinical parameters and incretin hormones are measured throughout the whole course of MMT. Administration of 50 g ISO as compared to SAC induced a significant increase in GLP‐1, GIP, and PYY responses over 2 h after intake of a typical lunch in healthy controls. Patients with T2DM showed reduced overall responses of GLP‐1 and delayed insulin release compared to controls while ISO significantly enhanced the GIP and almost tripled the PYY response compared to SAC.

Conclusion

A snack containing ISO markedly enhances the release of the metabolically advantageous gut hormones PYY and GLP‐1 and enhances GIP release in response to a subsequent complex meal.
Laser power stabilization system based on variable universe fuzzy proportional‐integral‐differential
Authors: Ma Hong‐Liang , Zhang Yu , Yang Tao , Guo Yu‐Xiang , Ji Juan‐Juan , Zhang Qi‐Lei , Zha Shen‐Long , Liu Qiang , Jiang Gui‐Sheng
Published: February 2024

A variable universe fuzzy proportional‐integral‐differential (PID) algorithm was designed and first application for a laser power stabilization system. To validate the algorithm's effectiveness, it is applied to the simulation model of Simulink and the experimental system based on an acousto‐optic modulator. The results demonstrate that the variable universe fuzzy PID presents higher control precision, better robustness, and can suppress long‐term drift phenomena compared with the traditional feedback control algorithm. The algorithm design method in this paper has significant reference and guidance value for laser power stabilization system.
Three‐element ultrawideband MIMO antenna based on shared‐radiator structures with high efficiency and gain
Authors: Xue Yan Mei , Li Yuan Jun , Du Zhi‐Xia , Ye Liang Hua
Published: February 2024

This letter presents a novel three‐port ultrawideband (UWB) multi‐input‐multi‐output (MIMO) antenna that covers the sub‐6 GHz (between 1.7 and 6 GHz) frequency band for wireless device applications. The proposed antenna consists of two parts: a dipole and two centrosymmetric slot antennas with shared structures. The radiating arm of the dipole can be reused as the large slot ground without increasing the size. The novel circular slot antenna etched on the radiator and circular microstrip feed line are designed to achieve wide impedance bandwidth. Meanwhile, four chamfers are loaded at the corners of the dipole to further optimize the impedance match in the whole frequency band. The physical dimension of the proposed three‐port MIMO antenna is 70 × 45 × 0.762 mm3. Experimental results validate that the reflection coefficient remains lower than −12 dB and the port isolation is better than 12 dB in the entire operational bandwidth without any decoupling network. The measured average peak gains are up to 5.6 dBi for all three ports, accompanied by a radiation efficiency of 90% across the frequency spectrum. With the advantages of simple design, high gain and high radiation efficiency, the proposed three‐element MIMO antenna design is well‐suited for implementation in UWB applications.
A stochastic variance reduced gradient method with adaptive step for stochastic optimization
Authors: Li Jing , Xue Dan , Liu Lei , Qi Rulei
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we propose a stochastic variance reduction gradient method with adaptive step size, referred to as the SVRG‐New BB method, to solve the convex stochastic optimization problem. The method could be roughly viewed as a hybrid of the SVRG algorithm and a new BB step mechanism. Under the condition that the objective function is strongly convex, we provide the linear convergence proof of this algorithm. Numerical experiment results show that the performance of the SVRG‐New BB algorithm can surpass other existing algorithms if parameters in the algorithm are properly chosen.
Dynamic control of circumrotation of a [2]catenane by acid‐base switching
Authors: Shi Kelun , Jia Guohui , Wu Ying , Zhang Shilong , Chen Jiawen
Published: February 2024

Dynamic control of the motion in a catenane remains a big challenge as it requires precise design and sophisticated well‐organized structures. This paper reports the design and synthesis of a donor‐acceptor [2]catenane through mechanical interlocking, employing a crown ether featuring two dibenzylammonium salts on its side arms as the host and a cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene) (CBPQT ⋅ 4PF6) ring as the guest molecule. By addition of external acid or base, the catenane can form self‐complexed or decomplexed compounds to alter the cavity size of the crown ether ring, consequently affecting circumrotation rate of CBPQT ⋅ 4PF6 ring of the catenane. This study offers insights for the design and exploration of artificial molecular machines with intricate cascading responsive mechanisms.
Ribbon‐like microfiber of vulcanized and non‐vulcanized natural rubber obtained by the solution blow spinning
Authors: Sousa Eliraldrin Amorin , Sanches Alex Otávio , Vilches José Luiz , da Silva Michael Jones , de Paula Fernando Rogério , McMahan Colleen Marie , Malmonge José Antonio
Published: February 2024

Natural rubber (NR) microfibers were obtained from NR/chloroform solutions with or without vulcanization agents, by a solution blow spinning (SBS) technique. The microfibers showed a ribbon‐like morphology with average widths ranging from 15 to 45 μm, depending on the processing conditions. Concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% (wt/vol) of NR/chloroform were compared; at 4% wt/vol the spinning process was most stable, and fiber width was the most homogeneous. Microfibrous NR membranes incorporating vulcanizing agents were treated at temperatures of 70, 80, and 90°C for 1, 2, 3, and 4 h. Membrane tensile strength and elongation at break varied with temperature and treatment time. The best result was found with the sample treated at 90°C for 3 h. In this case, the tensile strength and elongation at break was (4.9 ± 0.8) MPa and (867 ± 18) % which is about 310% and 330% higher than the values found for the same sample without the incorporation of vulcanizing agents. This expressive increase was attributed to the vulcanization of the rubber, which also provided a shift to a higher value of the glass transition temperature. Overall properties of the blow‐spun films, especially the high elasticity‐contraction, suggest they are attractive candidates for use in robotics, and biobased electronics including wearable sensors.
Enhanced mechanical properties of MWCNT reinforced ABS nanocomposites fabricated through additive manufacturing process
Authors: Singh Phool , Singari Ranganath M. , Mishra R. S.
Published: February 2024

Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) can be spread out in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) using a twin‐screw micro‐compounding extruder. It can significantly improve the mechanical properties of 3D‐printed objects. Dispersed MWCNTs in pure ABS to develop the nanocomposites through a two‐time micro compounding extruding process. 3D printed filaments with a diameter of 1.75 mm have been prepared by processing the acquired composite structure through a filament extruder. The mechanical and other properties of 3D printed pure ABS and 1, 2, and 3 wt.% of the fused deposition modeling (FDM) process were studied for MWCNTs/ABS composites. Compared with pure ABS, the tensile and thermal properties were significant for 1, 2, and 3 wt.% of MWCNTs/ABS composites. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were also analyzed for 0, 1, 2, and 3 wt.% MWCNTs/ABS composites. Additive manufacturing (AM) processes have recently been emphasized for their applications in electronics, aerospace, biomedical, and automobile engineering.
Gene therapy with AAV9‐SGPL1 in an animal model of lung fibrosis
Authors: Bhattacharyya Aritra , Khan Ranjha , Lee Joanna Y , Tassew Gizachew , Oskouian Babak , Allende Maria L , Proia Richard L , Yin Xiaoyang , Ortega Javier G , Bhattacharya Mallar , Saba Julie D
Published: February 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive scarring disease of the lung that leads rapidly to respiratory failure. Novel approaches to treatment are urgently needed. The bioactive lipid sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is increased in IPF lungs and promotes proinflammatory and profibrotic TGF‐β signaling. Hence, decreasing lung S1P represents a potential therapeutic strategy for IPF. S1P is degraded by the intracellular enzyme S1P lyase (SPL). Here we find that a knock‐in mouse with a missense SPL mutation mimicking human disease resulted in reduced SPL activity, increased S1P, increased TGF‐β signaling, increased lung fibrosis, and higher mortality after injury compared to wild type (WT). We then tested adeno‐associated virus 9 (AAV9)‐mediated overexpression of human SGPL1 (AAV‐SPL) in mice as a therapeutic modality. Intravenous treatment with AAV‐SPL augmented lung SPL activity, attenuated S1P levels within the lungs, and decreased injury‐induced fibrosis compared to controls treated with saline or only AAV. We confirmed that AAV‐SPL treatment led to higher expression of SPL in the epithelial and fibroblast compartments during bleomycin‐induced lung injury. Additionally, AAV‐SPL decreased expression of the profibrotic cytokines TNFα and IL1β as well as markers of fibroblast activation, such as fibronectin (Fn1), Tgfb1, Acta2, and collagen genes in the lung. Taken together, our results provide proof of concept for the use of AAV‐SPL as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of IPF. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Plasma proteome analysis and validation of patients with community‐acquired pneumonia: A cohort study
Authors: Zhao Lili , Bian Wenjie , Shang Ying , Zhi Hui , Ma Xinqian , He Yukun , Yu Wenyi , Liu Chunyu , Xu Yu , Gong Pihua , Gao Zhancheng
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic potential of plasma biomarkers of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) and their severity grading.

Experimental design

Plasma proteomes from cohort I (n = 32) with CAP were analyzed by data‐independent acquisition mass spectrometry (MS). MetaboAnalyst 5.0 was used to statistically evaluate significant differences in proteins from different samples, and demographic and clinical data were recorded for all enrolled patients. Cohort II (n = 80) was used to validate candidate biomarkers. Plasma protein levels were determined using quantitative enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Correlations were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to verify the association between the variables, CAP diagnosis, and prognosis.

Results

121 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were obtained between CAP and controls. These DEPs were mainly aggregated in pathways of phagosome(hsa04145) and complement and coagulation cascades (hsa04610). No significant differential proteins were detected in bacterial, viral, and mixed infection groups. The plasma levels of fetuin‐A, alpha‐1‐antichymotrypsin (AACT), α1‐acid glycoprotein (A1AG), and S100A8/S100A9 heterodimers detected by ELISA were consistent with those of MS. AACT, A1AG, S100A8/S100A9 heterodimer, and fetuin‐A can potentially be used as diagnostic predictors, and fetuin‐A and AACT are potential predictors of SCAP.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Plasma protein profiling can successfully identify potential biomarkers for CAP diagnosis and disease severity assessment. These biomarkers should be further studied for their clinical application.
The experimental and theoretical study on the spatial‐temporal distribution of electromagnetic radiation from JO‐8 explosions.
Authors: Xu Pengzhao , Zhao Ning , Chang Yukun , Cui Shaokang , Ma Guangsong , Shi Kunlin , Zhang Bao
Published: February 2024

The detonating fuse in the multistage warhead will be subjected to strong electromagnetic interference, derived from electromagnetic radiation generated by explosion of the shaped charge warhead, which may cause premature detonation or misfire. In order to explore the possible electromagnetic environment surrounded the detonating fuse, the spatial‐temporal distribution of electromagnetic radiation after the explosion of JO‐8 explosive was investigated in this paper. The electromagnetic radiation signal was collected and its frequency coverage was analyzed in the far‐field area by the field blast test. Moreover, based on electromagnetic theory, a theoretical model of electromagnetic radiation generated by the explosion of JO‐8 explosive was established, and the spatial‐temporal distribution of the electric field intensity was illustrated in detail for several typical positions after the explosion. The better agreement between experimental and theoretical results indicates that the proposed theoretical model and computational method are reasonable. On this basis, the distributions of electric field intensity for different positions and various explosive weights were predicted respectively by using distance and explosive weight as variables. This study is expected to provide a reference for the research on the electromagnetic radiation for explosive explosion and anti‐explosive electromagnetic interference.
Clinical Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Radiation‐induced Bladder Injury
Authors: Wang Weiping , Zhang Fuquan , Yuan Shuanghu
Published: February 2024

Radiation‐induced bladder injury is a common complication after pelvic radiotherapy. Few studies exist on diagnosing and treating radiation‐induced bladder injury, with no established guidelines or consensus in China or internationally. Clinical physicians' diagnosis and treatment of radiation‐induced bladder injury are primarily based on their own clinical experience, and there is an urgent need for unified guidelines to standardize clinical diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the Chinese Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, China Anti‐Cancer Association Tumor Support Therapy Committee, and China Anti‐Cancer Association Tumor Radiation Protection Committee gathered experts to develop Chinese clinical practice guidelines, guiding diagnosing and treating radiation‐induced bladder injury. The development of these guidelines adopted the grading system of evidence quality and recommendation strength (GRADE).
Role of G protein‐coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) in β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated glucose uptake
Authors: Ham Seungmin , Mukaida Saori , Sato Masaaki , Keov Peter , Bengtsson Tore , Furness Sebastian , Holliday Nicholas D. , Evans Bronwyn A. , Summers Roger J. , Hutchinson Dana S.
Published: February 2024

Truncation of the C‐terminal tail of the β2‐AR, transfection of βARKct or over‐expression of a kinase‐dead GRK mutant reduces isoprenaline‐stimulated glucose uptake, indicating that GRK is important for this response. We explored whether phosphorylation of the β2‐AR by GRK2 has a role in glucose uptake or if this response is related to the role of GRK2 as a scaffolding protein. CHO‐GLUT4myc cells expressing wild‐type and mutant β2‐ARs were generated and receptor affinity for [3H]‐CGP12177A and density of binding sites determined together with the affinity of isoprenaline and BRL37344. Following receptor activation by β2‐AR agonists, cAMP accumulation, GLUT4 translocation, [3H]‐2‐deoxyglucose uptake, and β2‐AR internalization were measured. Bioluminescence resonance energy transfer was used to investigate interactions between β2‐AR and β‐arrestin2 or between β2‐AR and GRK2. Glucose uptake after siRNA knockdown or GRK inhibitors was measured in response to β2‐AR agonists. BRL37344 was a poor partial agonist for cAMP generation but displayed similar potency and efficacy to isoprenaline for glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation. These responses to β2‐AR agonists occurred in CHO‐GLUT4myc cells expressing β2‐ARs lacking GRK or GRK/PKA phosphorylation sites as well as in cells expressing the wild‐type β2‐AR. However, β2‐ARs lacking phosphorylation sites failed to recruit β‐arrestin2 and did not internalize. GRK2 knock‐down or GRK2 inhibitors decreased isoprenaline‐stimulated glucose uptake in rat L6 skeletal muscle cells. Thus, GRK phosphorylation of the β2‐AR is not associated with isoprenaline‐ or BRL37344‐stimulated glucose uptake. However, GRKs acting as scaffold proteins are important for glucose uptake as GRK2 knock‐down or GRK2 inhibition reduces isoprenaline‐stimulated glucose uptake.
A survey of westward‐propagating mixed Rossby–Gravity waves and quantification of their association with extratropical disturbances
Authors: Shreya K. , Suhas E.
Published: February 2024

In this study we have conducted a survey of westward‐propagating mixed Rossby–Gravity (MRG) wave events in the upper troposphere and quantified their association with the intrusions of extratropical disturbances for the period 1979–2019. MRG wave events are identified by imposing the meridional structure of theoretical MRG waves onto the equatorial meridional winds at 200 hPa. In all, 2390 MRG wave events are identified and the majority (61%) of them occurred during the months of May–October, and 65% of the total MRG wave events occurred over the central–east Pacific and Atlantic Ocean domains. Not only the frequency of occurrence but also the amplitude, wavenumber and trapping scale of the MRG wave events are found to exhibit a clear seasonality. MRG wave events associated with intrusions of extratropical disturbances are identified as when the potential vorticity on the 350‐K isentropic surface at 15° latitude exceeded 1 Potential Vorticity Unit (PVU) in the vicinity of the MRG wave events. We find that 37% of the MRG wave events are intrusion MRG wave events and a large majority (88%) of such events occurred over the central–east Pacific and Atlantic Ocean domains. It is also noteworthy that nearly 70% of such intrusions occurred in the winter hemisphere where the westerly wind ducts are well developed. Over the central–east Pacific during northern hemispheric (NH) winter, it is observed that the intrusion MRG wave events have a bigger amplitude and have a larger meridional extent compared to non‐intrusion MRG wave events. They also exhibit a similar spatial scale as the extratropical disturbances implying that resonant interactions may be a primary mechanism for the genesis of MRG wave events. During NH summer, on the other hand, MRG wave events are primarily triggered by convective processes and the extratropical disturbances may be instrumental in amplifying their amplitude.
Efficient catalytic oxidative desulfurization of liquid fuels over tungsten oxide supported on metakaolin surface
Authors: Ijadi Sayeh , Moradi Gholamreza , Ghanadi Tanaz
Published: February 2024

A new high yield and inexpensive composite was fabricated by supporting tungsten oxide on metakaolin via the incipient wetness impregnation method to use in oxidative desulfurization reaction and produce ultra‐clean fuel. The prepared catalyst was characterized by various techniques like XRD, FTIR, FESEM, EDX and N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, which indicated the catalyst was properly constructed. Initially, desulfurization was examined by loading different amounts of tungsten on the metakaolin surface. Based on the results, 15 % W/metakaolin showed high catalytic activity for the model and real fuels. Moreover, the influence of the main operating variables was studied through the Box–Behnken experimental design. The maximum sulfur removal reached to 99.3 % at a reaction temperature of 60 °C, oxidant to sulfur molar ratio12, catalyst dosage 0.04 g and oxidation time 40 min. Desulfurization from gasoline and gas oil with initial sulfur contents of 300 ppm and 7550 ppm was done under optimum conditions, which represented an efficiency of 60 % and 74 %, respectively. Performing the recycling tests proved the great durability of the catalyst after five runs. This research sheds light that the employed catalyst has excellent activity for industrial applications in the desulfurization process.
Half‐sandwich ruthenium(II) and iridium(III) complexes of imidazole based phosphinite ligands: antioxidant and antibacterial activities as well as electrochemical properties
Authors: Işik Uğur , Rafikova Khadichakhan , Meriç Nermin , Güzel Remziye , Kerimkulova Aygul , Akimbek Arailym , Okumuş Veysi , Durap Feyyaz , Kayan Cezmi , Aydemir Murat
Published: February 2024

Ruthenium(II) and iridium(III) complexes of phosphinites including imidazole moiety were synthesized and characterized by microanalysis, IR, MS, and NMR spectroscopies. Antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacterial strains was assessed in all complexes. The highest radical scavenging (72.2 %) was obtained for [3‐(3‐chloro‐2‐({[dichloro(η6‐benzene)ruthenium]diphenylphosphanyl}oxy)propyl)‐1‐butyl‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium chloride], 4 at 200 μg/mL concentration, while [3‐(3‐chloro‐2‐({[dichloro(η5‐pentamethylcyclopentadienyl)‐iridium]diphenylphosphanyl}oxy)pro‐pyl)‐1‐butyl‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium chloride], 6 demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity as 13 mm inhibition zone against E. hirea. Furthermore, optical and electrochemical featured of metal complexes containing imidazole phosphinite were investigated utilizing UV–vis absorption and cyclic voltammetry techniques. Consequently, all complexes can be proposed as metal‐based charge convertible phosphinite complexes which may be employed as new generation and synergistic Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) materials.
A Facile Electrosynthesis of Polysubstituted Oxazoles from Aromatic Ketones and Benzylamines under Mild Conditions
Authors: Xiao Haifan , Yuan Gaoqing
Published: February 2024

With KI as the supporting electrolyte and a mediator, DMSO as the solvent and KHCO3 as the base, a convenient and efficient electrochemical route was developed for the synthesis of polysubstituted oxazoles from aromatic ketones and benzylamines. The electrosynthesis was smoothly carried out in an undivided cell at room temperature, affording the target products in moderate to high yields.
Advancing Glucose Sensing Through Auto‐Fluorescent Polymer Brushes: From Surface Design to Nano‐Arrays
Authors: Aktas Eken Gozde , Huang Yuming , Prucker Oswald , Rühe Jürgen , Ober Christopher
Published: February 2024

Designing smart (bio)interfaces with the capability to sense and react to changes in local environments offers intriguing possibilities for new surface‐based sensing devices and technologies. Polymer brushes make ideal materials to design such adaptive and responsive interfaces given their large variety of functional and structural possibilities as well as their outstanding abilities to respond to physical, chemical, and biological stimuli. Herein, a practical sensory interface for glucose detection based on auto‐fluorescent polymer brushes decorated with phenylboronic acid (PBA) receptors is presented. The glucose‐responsive luminescent surfaces, which are capable of translating conformational transitions triggered by pH variations and binding events into fluorescent readouts without the need for fluorescent dyes, are grown from both nanopatterned and non‐patterned substrates. Two‐photon laser scanning confocal microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analyses reveal the relationship between the brush conformation and glucose concentration and confirm that the phenylboronic acid functionalized brushes can bind glucose over a range of physiologically relevant concentrations in a reversible manner. The combination of auto‐fluorescent polymer brushes with synthetic receptors presents a promising avenue for designing innovative and robust sensing systems, which are essential for various biomedical applications, among other uses.
Defect Engineering of Bi2WO6 for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotic Pollutants
Authors: Tai Ran , Gao Shuai , Tang Yao , Ma Xinbo , Ding Peiren , Wu Runjie , Li Peishen , Song Xingjian , Chen Shaowei , Wang Qiang
Published: February 2024

Infiltration of excessive antibiotics into aquatic ecosystems plays a significant role in antibiotic resistance, a major global health challenge. It is therefore critical to develop effective technologies for their removal. Herein, defect‐rich Bi2WO6 nanoparticles are solvothermally prepared via epitaxial growth on pristine Bi2WO6 seed nanocrystals, and the efficiency of the photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin, a common antibiotic, is found to increase markedly from 62.51% to 98.27% under visible photoirradiation for 60 min. This is due to the formation of a large number of structural defects, where the synergistic interactions between grain boundaries and adjacent dislocations and oxygen vacancies lead to an improved separation and migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers and facilitate the adsorption and degradation of ciprofloxacin, as confirmed in experimental and theoretical studies. Results from this work demonstrate the unique potential of defect engineering for enhanced photocatalytic performance, a critical step in removing antibiotic contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.
Challenges and solutions in the development of blockchain applications: Extraction from SLR and empirical study
Authors: Nabi Maria , Ilyas Muhammad , Ahmad Jamil
Published: February 2024

Data protection is the most prior and valuable concern as stealing personal/organizational data by cyber criminals may arise issues ranging from privacy disclosure to system hacking. Blockchain is considered a top leading technology with the influence to reshape future industries, but like other revolutionary technologies, blockchain has its merits and demerits as well. However, due to its nascent stage, blockchain technology poses numerous challenges that hinder the effective development of blockchain. To uncover this potential hindrance and group the relevant barriers, a total of 12 challenges that may hinder the progress of blockchain application development have been identified from a sample of 52 primary studies. Based on the results of our research, the six challenges are considered critical an account for more than 30% occurrence. The critical challenges are “Lack of Proper Development Tools and Technology,” “Security Precaution Measures,” “Lack of Governance and Standards,” “Lack of Professional Expertise with Essential Skills and Knowledge,” “Lack of Organizational Support,” and “Interoperability Integration.” Using a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR) and a questionnaire survey, a list of 65 solutions/practices has been identified to address the challenges that were identified. These solutions/practices will help blockchain developers to address the identified challenges and develop benign blockchain application in future. The results of our questionnaire survey largely align with the findings of the SLR. However, there are variations in the ranking of the challenges between the two datasets. The finding of this paper is to provide insights that can assist in streamlining and optimizing the development process of blockchain applications with greater ease and efficiency.