bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomic Indium‐Doped Copper‐Based Catalysts for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to C2+ Products
Authors: Yao Ting , Han Shitao , Xia Wei , Jia Shuaiqiang , He Mingyuan , Wu Haihong , Han Buxing
Published: April 2024

The electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) holds substantial promise for producing high‐value chemicals and fuels, drawing significant attention from both academia and industry. This work proposes an in‐situ electrodeposition method to prepare indium‐doped copper (Cu)‐based catalysts on carbon paper (Cu100Inx−CP, x=3.9, 4.5, 4.8, 5.1, and 7.6, denoting the molar ratio of In to Cu in the catalyst.). The catalysts Cu100Inx−CP were used for CO2RR to produce multi‐carbon (C2+) products. Characterization results showed that In was highly dispersed in the Cu particles at x<5.1. The Cu100In5.1−CP (containing 0.95 wt % In based on Cu) was very efficient for electrocatalytic CO2RR. The in‐situ Raman spectroscopy showed that Cu100In5.1−CP enhanced *CO intermediate adsorption and promoted the production of C2+ products due to the synergistic effect between In and Cu. In doping could suppress HER, enhanced *CO intermediate adsorption, and C−C coupling for the production of C2+ products in CO2RR.
Nanoporous Copper for the Electrosynthesis of Cyclic Carbonates from CO2 and Epoxides
Authors: Ibrahim Sawsan , Crespo Daniel , Blaseio Sonja , Hockmann Andre , Hilt Gerhard , Oezaslan Mehtap
Published: April 2024

Cyclic carbonates are often produced through catalytic coupling reactions of CO2 with epoxides under harsh conditions. Here, we present a highly active nanoporous copper (np‐Cu) cathode material for the electrosynthesis of cyclic carbonates in mild environments. Np−Cu material was drop casted on glassy carbon (np‐Cu/GC) as cathode electrode to perform galvanostatic electrosynthesis using a magnesium anode in CO2‐saturated acetonitrile with 0.1 M tetraethylammonium iodide. Very good yields have been obtained for 1,2‐butylene carbonate (BC, 74 ± 4 %) and propylene carbonate (PC, 62 ± 6 %). By varying the cathode electrode materials, low yields (≤ 20 %) on bare GC, but similar yields (76 ± 4 % BC and 63 ± 5 % PC) on polycrystalline Cu were achieved. Although the pore‐ligament structure is beneficial to enhance the CO2RR performance, its impact on the yield of cyclic carbonate is minimal. This implies that the activation of CO2 to the CO2⋅− radical anion is not the rate‐limiting step, but rather the ring closure of the final intermediate to form cyclic carbonates. Moreover, the np‐Cu/GC shows very good stability and reusability for the electrochemical‐organic test reaction. This study provides deeper insights into the reaction mechanism of cyclic carbonates formation on Cu‐based electrodes.
Effect of COVID‐19 lockdown on ambient air quality
Authors: Çalik Özge Nur , Çetin Doğruparmak Şenay
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pandemic‐related lockdown on Turkey's air quality throughout time and space. For this purpose, statistical techniques were used to assess daily particulate matter (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides and nitrogen dioxide (NOx and NO2), ozone (O3), and carbon monoxide (CO). The study's findings showed that, while the lockdown improved air quality in terms of air pollutant emissions, the most notable reduction was in NO2 and NOx emissions. When comparing the months prior to the pandemic (November 2019 to January 2020) with the months during the pandemic (November 2020 to January 2021), the declines in NO2 were 20%, 3%, and 0.5%, respectively. NOx emissions decreased by an average of 19% and 5% in November and December, respectively, and increased by an average of 16% in January during the pandemic. When the data for the 33 days of lockdown were compared to the data for the same 33 days the previous year, significant differences were determined at several Clean Air Centers, which were two for PM10, two for SO2, seven for NOx, four for NO2, two for CO, and three for O3, respectively. In this study, pollutant concentrations were found in the following ranges from November 2019 to January 2021: PM10: 3–208 µg m–3, SO2: 1–56 µg m–3, NOx: 6–600 µg m–3, NO2: 4–155 µg m–3, CO: 1–3921 µg m–3, and O3: 2–119 µg m–3. There were days that exceeded the limit values for PM10.
Numerical simulation and fast method for the 0D‐1D multi‐scale coupled model and its application in ischemic brain tissue blood flow problems
Authors: Liu Yi , Jia Junqing , Zeng Fanhai , Jiang Xiaoyun
Published: April 2024

As living standards rise, more and more people are paying attention to their own health, especially issues such as cerebral thrombosis, cerebral infarction, and other cerebral blood flow problems. An accurate simulation of blood flow within cerebral vessels has emerged as a crucial area of research. In this study, we focus on microcirculatory blood flow in ischemic brain tissue and employ a 0D‐1D geometric multi‐scale coupled model to characterize this process. Given the intricate nature of human cerebral vessels, we apply a numerical method combining the finite element method and the third‐order Runge–Kutta method to resolve the coupled model. To enhance computational efficiency, we introduce a fast method based on the reduced‐order extrapolation algorithm. Our numerical example underscores the stability of the method and convergence accuracy to , while significantly improving the accuracy and efficiency of blood flow simulation, making the mechanism analysis more accurate. Additionally, we present examples detailing variations and distribution of intracranial pressure and blood flow in ischemic brain tissue throughout a cardiac cycle. Both reduced vascular compliance and vascular stenosis can have adverse effects on intracranial cerebral pressure and blood flow, leading to insufficient local oxygen supply and negative effects on brain function. Meanwhile, there will also be corresponding changes in volume flow and pulsatile blood pressure.
Resource allocation in paired users: Optimization‐assisted user grouping for fairness improvement of NOMA
Authors: Louis A. Bamila Virgin , Dalton G. Arul
Published: April 2024

The solution of resource allocation is based on NOMA and OMA structures that are suboptimal to satisfy the demanding QoS and higher data rate requirements compared to EE requirements in 5G cellular networks. In this work, the resource allocation problem in the hybrid MC‐NOMA system is solved. The system achieves the trade‐off between spectral and energy efficiency (EE) with the lowest rate of user requirements. The system's resource allocation, including power allocation, is considered the crucial factor and is identified as a single‐objective problem. The suggested work focuses on user pairing and allocation on paired users following processing. The user grouping is designed to connect near‐ and far‐users with high C3 to increase the fairness of NOMA. As a result, this work considers multiple goals, such as C3 maximization, spectrum efficiency, and energy efficiency. This paper aims to present a novel hybrid optimization model with the combination of coati and bald eagle optimization algorithms, to solve the defined optimization problem. The experimental results show that the suggested system outperforms the conventional algorithms by evaluating different performance measures such as channel correlation, spectrum efficiency, energy efficiency, and power allocation.
Suboptimal self‐reported sleep efficiency and duration are associated with faster accumulation of brain amyloid beta in cognitively unimpaired older adults
Authors: Pivac Louise N. , Brown Belinda M. , Sewell Kelsey R. , Doecke James D. , Villemagne Victor L. , Doré Vincent , Weinborn Michael , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Gardener Samantha L. , Bucks Romola S. , Laws Simon M. , Taddei Kevin , Maruff Paul , Masters Colin L. , Rowe Christopher , Martins Ralph N. , Rainey‐Smith Stephanie R.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated whether self‐reported sleep quality is associated with brain amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation.

METHODS

Linear mixed effect model analyses were conducted for 189 cognitively unimpaired (CU) older adults (mean ± standard deviation 74.0 ± 6.2; 53.2% female), with baseline self‐reported sleep data, and positron emission tomography‐determined brain Aβ measured over a minimum of three time points (range 33.3–72.7 months). Analyses included random slopes and intercepts, interaction for apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele status, and time, adjusting for sex and baseline age.

RESULTS

Sleep duration <6 hours, in APOE ε4 carriers, and sleep efficiency <65%, in the whole sample and APOE ε4 non‐carriers, is associated with faster accumulation of brain Aβ.

DISCUSSION

These findings suggest a role for self‐reported suboptimal sleep efficiency and duration in the accumulation of Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology in CU individuals. Additionally, poor sleep efficiency represents a potential route via which individuals at lower genetic risk may progress to preclinical AD.

Highlights

In cognitively unimpaired older adults self‐report sleep is associated with brain amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation.

Across sleep characteristics, this relationship differs by apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype.

Sleep duration <6 hours is associated with faster brain Aβ accumulation in APOE ε4 carriers.

Sleep efficiency < 65% is associated with faster brain Aβ accumulation in APOE ε4 non‐carriers.

Personalized sleep interventions should be studied for potential to slow Aβ accumulation.
Fluoroalkoxylating Reagents in Organic Synthesis: Recent Advances
Authors: Chen Mingxi , Wang Quande
Published: April 2024

The fluoroalkoxy groups (ORf) are widely used motifs in pharmaceutical and agrochemical fields due to their unique physicochemical properties including higher lipophilicity and increased metabolic stability. Thus, the high value of ORf‐containing derivatives has stimulated the development of fluoroalkoxylation reactions. In this review, we highlight the recent progress of various trifluoroalkoxylating reagents and their applications in organic synthesis in the past five years.
Ba2MgXO6 (X = S, Se), Chalcogenide‐Based Double Perovskite Materials for Green Optoelectronics and Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Ali Malak Azmat , Alodhayab Abdullah , Mohammad Saikh , Faizan Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Chalcogenide‐based double perovskite materials have recently attracted attention of researchers because of their excellent properties and eco‐friendly nature. These compounds have proven to comprise better oxidation resistance, high‐temperature stability, and lower processing cost. In this report, the first‐principles study on chalcogenides double perovskites Ba2MgXO6 (X = S, Se) is described. It is shown that these perovskites can be synthesized, as they satisfy the structural, dynamical, and thermodynamical stability criteria. It is revealed that these double perovskites are inherently semiconductors in nature with low bandgap values, 0.33 eV for Ba2MgSO6 and 0.66 eV for Ba2MgSeO6 along Γ symmetry point. The absorption coefficient ≈105 cm−1 and the reflectivity below 12% in visible region are calculated. Therefore, the Ba2MgXO6 for solar cell applications is recommended. Also, on the basis of calculated larger values of figure of merit, these perovskites are proposed for thermoelectric applications at high temperatures.
Long‐Term Stability of Ammonia Decomposition over Nickel‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Purcel Maximilian , Müller Astrid Sophie , Diehl Patrick , Kappis Konstantinos , Trunschke Annette , Muhler Martin
Published: April 2024

Green hydrogen can be used as the backbone of a novel energy system and as a feedstock for renewable chemistry. H2 storage and transport are challenging, but ammonia as a hydrogen carrier could potentially solve these inefficiencies. Many studies focus on high catalytic activities, but the long‐term stability is often insufficiently investigated. This work reports on the stability of a nickel‐based reference catalyst and a coprecipitated Ni/Al2O3 catalyst over 800 h time on stream (TOS) in 98% NH3 at atmospheric pressure. An automated temperature control is necessary to adjust the temperature of the heat source to compensate for the changing heat demand resulting from catalyst activation or deactivation. Under reaction conditions the reference catalyst first undergo an activation phase before reaching its maximum conversion of 91.9% after 250 h TOS followed by a minor decrease in conversion. In comparison, the Ni/Al2O3 catalyst shows lower activity and undergo a continuous deactivation due to sintering. Overall, the activity loss at 534 °C amounted to only 1.5% for the reference catalyst and to 13.5% for the Ni/Al2O3 catalyst compared with the maximum conversion level. Thus, the Ni‐based reference catalyst proves to be very stable under industrially relevant NH3 decomposition conditions.
Effects of different amounts of okara on texture, digestive properties, and microstructure of noodles
Authors: Cao Zhongwen , Zhou Lingchen , Gao Sumin , Yang Cheng , Meng Xiangren , Liu Zhao
Published: April 2024

As a byproduct of manufacturing soybeans, okara is high in dietary fiber, protein, and fats, and it contains all of the essential amino acids. Wheat, the primary ingredient in noodles, will lose nutrients during manufacturing, creating an imbalance in nutrients. This experiment is for the purpose of studying the effects of okara on quality, antioxidant properties, amino acid content, resistant starch (RS) content, and microstructure of noodles. The results indicate that the addition of 9% okara noodles increased hardness and adhesiveness by 107.19% and 132.14%, respectively, and improved ABTS free radical scavenging activity by 60.78%. The addition of 12% okara noodles increased the DPPH free radical scavenging ability by 23.66%, reduced the rapidly digestible starch (RDS) content of the noodles to 21.21%, and the resistant starch content increased to 44.85% (p < .05). Therefore, to address the issue of nutritional imbalance in wheat noodles without compromising the quality of the noodles, it is recommended to add 9% or 12% okara for the preparation of nutritionally fortified noodles.
A cross‐sectional study of outcomes for patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for pulmonary embolism during 2018–2022: Insights from the PINC AI Healthcare Database
Authors: Gandhi Ripal T. , Gibson C. Michael , Jaber Wissam A.
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) treatments for pulmonary embolism (PE) have yet to be compared directly. We aimed to determine if patient outcomes varied following treatment of PE with different MT devices.

Methods

All PE encounters with an index treatment of MT between January 2018 and March 2022 were analyzed for in‐hospital mortality, discharge to home, and 30‐day readmission outcomes in the PINC AI™ Healthcare Database. MT devices used in each encounter were extracted from hospital charge description free‐text fields using keyword text and fuzzy matching. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression was used to model outcomes by device.

Results

A total of 5893 encounters were identified using MT as the sole index PE treatment and 1812 using MT with another treatment. Of these, 41% had insufficient information to identify the devices used (unspecified MT), 33% used the FlowTriever System (large‐bore volume‐controlled aspiration MT), 23% the Indigo System (continuous aspiration MT), and 3% some other MT. Large‐bore volume‐controlled aspiration MT was used with other treatments 13% of the time compared with 23% and 39% for unspecified MT and continuous aspiration MT, respectively. Adjusted logistic regression modeling revealed the odds of in‐hospital mortality were significantly higher for patients treated with unspecified MT ([OR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.10–1.83], p = 0.008) or continuous aspiration MT (OR = 1.63, 95% CI: [1.21–2.19], p = 0.001) compared with large‐bore volume‐controlled aspiration MT. Discharge to home was significantly lower in these same groups (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: [0.73–0.96], p = 0.01, and OR = 0.63, 95% CI: [0.53–0.74], p < 0.001, respectively), but readmission risks at 30 days were comparable (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: [0.84–1.38], p = 0.56, and OR = 1.20, 95% CI: [0.89–1.62], p = 0.24, respectively).

Conclusion

PE outcomes and treatment patterns differ significantly based on the type of MT utilized. Clinical studies directly comparing MT treatments are needed to further understand optimal treatment of PE.
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy in diabetic foot ulcer: An updated comprehensive review
Authors: Hetta Helal F. , Elsaghir Alaa , Sijercic Victor Coll , Akhtar Mahad S. , Gad Sayed A. , Moses Avinash , Zeleke Mahlet S. , Alanazi Fawaz E. , Ahmed Abdulrahman K. , Ramadan Yasmin N.
Published: April 2024

Background

Diabetes has evolved into a worldwide public health issue. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), which frequently creates a significant financial strain on patients and lowers their quality of life. Up until now, there has been no curative therapy for DFU, only symptomatic relief or an interruption in the disease's progression. Recent studies have focused attention on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which provide innovative and potential treatment candidates for several illnesses as they can differentiate into various cell types. They are mostly extracted from the placenta, adipose tissue, umbilical cord (UC), and bone marrow (BM). Regardless of their origin, they show comparable features and small deviations. Our goal is to investigate MSCs' therapeutic effects, application obstacles, and patient benefit strategies for DFU therapy.

Methodology

A comprehensive search was conducted using specific keywords relating to DFU, MSCs, and connected topics in the databases of Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. The main focus of the selection criteria was on English‐language literature that explored the relationship between DFU, MSCs, and related factors.

Results and Discussion

Numerous studies are being conducted and have demonstrated that MSCs can induce re‐epithelialization and angiogenesis, decrease inflammation, contribute to immunological modulation, and subsequently promote DFU healing, making them a promising approach to treating DFU. This review article provides a general snapshot of DFU (including clinical presentation, risk factors and etiopathogenesis, and conventional treatment) and discusses the clinical progress of MSCs in the management of DFU, taking into consideration the side effects and challenges during the application of MSCs and how to overcome these challenges to achieve maximum benefits.

Conclusion

The incorporation of MSCs in the management of DFU highlights their potential as a feasible therapeutic strategy. Establishing a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between DFU pathophysiology, MSC therapies, and related obstacles is essential for optimizing therapy outcomes and maximizing patient benefits.
Justifying the need for a recovery related surveillance system: Exploratory focused interviews
Authors: Ellis Joseph , Clancy Grace L. , Kizewski Amber , Jennings Tyler , Thompson Robin A. , Arnett Paula , Bunn Terry L.
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

No recovery related surveillance system exists but given the evidence of effectiveness and growing supply, a house‐ and resident‐ level recovery house (RH) surveillance system could be beneficial for data collection on recovery support service (RSS) engagement, and retention; for improved standardization of RH programs and services; and for identification of outcomes associated with long‐term recovery.

Methods

This study aimed to explore current data collection practices at the resident‐ and house‐ level through qualitative focus interviews of RH representatives. The 13 RH interviews were scheduled with 16 RH representative respondents.

Results

The most frequently collected resident data was at entry (92%) and departure (85%) and included demographics (n = 5), substance use history (n = 6), treatment and recovery history (n = 5), legal and correctional history (n = 6) and mental health information (n = 7). Recovery support data was collected by 85% of houses. Post‐stay data was only collected by four RHs (31%).

Conclusion

These results indicate that there is a lack of standardized systematic collection, analysis, and reporting of recovery related data in the RH field. A recovery related surveillance system has the potential to fill this gap and inform and improve standard of resident care to support long‐term recovery from substance use disorder.
Exploring the relationship between contextual factors and health‐promoting lifestyle profile (HPLP) among medical students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Karimian Zahra , Moradi Mehrvash , Zarifsanaiey Nahid
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between health‐promoting lifestyle profile (HPLP) among medical students and contextual factors such as gender, age, field of study, academic level, marital status, history of physical and mental illnesses, and smoking.

Methods

The present research was conducted in a cross‐sectional method in 2021 on 500 students of Shiraz University of Medical Students. An e‐questionnaire link was sent to them via email. The research tool was the HPLP questionnaire consisting of 52 questions in six domains in a 4‐point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24 with one‐sample t‐test, independent t‐test, analysis of variance, and Tukey's post hoc test.

Results

A total of 500 students fully answered the questions completely. All components of a healthy lifestyle—except for exercise—obtained a score higher than the cut‐off point. The component of Self‐Actualization (spiritual growth) (3.035 ± 0.68) had the highest score, while the lowest score was related to exercise and physical activity (2.126 ± 0.60). Married individuals had a better average health score compared to singles (p = 0.047). The average health score did not have a significant relationship with gender, but significantly related to age, field of study (p < 0.001), history of mental illnesses (p < 0.001) and Smoking (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

It seems that university officials should pay more attention to the health domain of students’ lifestyles, such as nutrition, the development of exercise and physical activities, and the management of stress and mental health. Additionally, providing necessary awareness and considering training courses, as well as developing sports and recreational facilities, can be effective in creating a better environment for the growth and development of students and ensuring their well‐being.
Age at natural menopause and development of chronic diseases in the female population of Kharameh, Iran: A historical cohort study
Authors: Pasokh Zahra , Seif Mozhgan , Ghaem Haleh , Rezaianzadeh Abbas , Johari Masoumeh Ghoddusi
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Declines in estradiol levels after menopause have been reported to be associated with several health outcomes. This study aimed to determine the effect of age at natural menopause (ANM) on some of the most common chronic diseases.

Methods

This historical cohort study was performed on 2636 postmenopausal women aged 40–70 years participating in phase one of the PERSIAN cohort study in Kharameh, Iran, during 2015–2017. The effect of early (<45 years), intermediate (45–53 years), and late menopause (>53 years) on chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart diseases, stroke, thyroid diseases, and depression was assessed using classic logistic regression for diseases with an incidence rate of more than 10% and Firth's logistic regression for diseases with an incidence of less than this amount.

Results

The mean age of women was 53.48 ± 8.59. Respectively, early and intermediate menopause was associated with ischemic heart disease (odds ratio [OR = 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–2.42; p = 0.020), (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.13–2.21; p = 0.008) and thyroid diseases (OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.64–6.24; p < 0.001), (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.02–3.57; p = 0.042). furthermore, early menopause was a risk factor for diabetes (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.07–2.00; p = 0.018), depression (OR = 4.79, 95% CI: 2.20–11.79; p = <0.001) and stroke (OR = 3.00, 95% CI: 1.08–9.32; p = 0.034).

Conclusions

In this study, women with diabetes, ischemic heart diseases, stroke, thyroid disorders, and depression had a younger ANM compared to their healthy counterparts. Therefore, applying appropriate strategies to postpone the age of menopause, can reduce the incidence of these types of chronic diseases.
Safety and efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants in comparison to warfarin in obese patients with atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Adelkhanova Alla , Oli Prakash Raj , Shrestha Dhan Bahadur , Shtembari Jurgen , Jha Vivek , Shantha Ghanshyam , Bodziock George Michael , Biswas Monodeep , Zaman Muhammad Omer , Patel Nimesh K.
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Obesity affects nearly 650 million adults worldwide, and the prevalence is steadily rising. This condition has significant adverse effects on cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation (AF). While anticoagulation for obese patients with AF is a well‐established therapy for the prevention of thromboembolism, the safety and efficacy of different anticoagulants in this specific population are not well explored. This meta‐analysis aimed to compare direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) to vitamin K antagonists in obese populations with AF.

Methods

The PRISMA guidelines were followed for this meta‐analysis, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023392711). PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases were searched for relevant articles from inception through January 2023. Two independent authors screened titles and abstracts, followed by a full‐text review in Covidence. Data were extracted in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using RevMan v5.4 using odds ratio as an effect measure.

Results

Two thousand two hundred fifty‐nine studies were identified from the database search, and 18 were included in the analysis. There were statistically significant reductions in the odds of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in the DOAC group compared with the VKA group (OR 0.70, CI 0.66–0.75) and (OR 0.47, CI 0.35–0.62), respectively. In addition, the DOAC group exhibited lower odds of systemic embolism (OR 0.67, CI 0.54–0.83), major bleeding (OR 0.62, CI 0.54–0.72), and composite outcome (OR 0.72, CI 0.63–0.81).

Conclusion

Based on the findings from this meta‐analysis, DOACs demonstrate superior safety and efficacy in obese patients with AF compared with VKAs. These results may have significant implications for guiding anticoagulation strategies in this patient population.
Potassium permanganate in treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Haghdoost Afrooz , Mobayen Mohammadreza , Baghi Iraj , Haghani‐Dogahe Zahra , Zarei Reza , Pirooz Amir , Balou Heydar Ali , Feizkhah Alireza
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a severe complication in diabetes patients, often resulting in significant morbidity and mortality due to non‐healing. This study investigated the effectiveness of 5% topical potassium permanganate on these ulcers.

Methods

A clinical trial was conducted on 23 patients with Wagner grade I and II DFU. Patients in the control group received standard treatment, while those in the intervention group also received 5% potassium permanganate topically. Data were recorded at 0, 7, 14, and 21 days for analysis.

Results

Among 23 patients studied, 7 (30.4%) were male and 16 (43.7%) female, with an average age of 59 ± 4 years. Both groups showed a statistically significant decrease in wound size and infection over time (p < 0.001). The intervention group, however, had a more substantial reduction in wound size and infection rate (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Potassium permanganate, when applied topically, is both well‐tolerated and effective in enhancing wound healing and reducing infection in DFU, suggesting its potential as a complementary treatment.
Effectiveness of self‐sampling human papillomavirus test on precancer detection and screening uptake in Japan: The ACCESS randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fujita Misuzu , Nagashima Kengo , Shimazu Minobu , Suzuki Misae , Tauchi Ichiro , Sakuma Miwa , Yamamoto Setsuko , Hanaoka Hideki , Shozu Makio , Tsuruoka Nobuhide , Kasai Tokuzo , Hata Akira
Published: April 2024

Japan is lagging in cervical cancer prevention. The effectiveness of a self‐sampling human papillomavirus (HPV) test, a possible measure to overcome this situation, has not yet been evaluated. A randomized controlled trial was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of a self‐sampling HPV test on detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) and screening uptake. Women between 30 and 58 years old who did not participate in the cervical cancer screening program for ≥3 years were eligible and assigned to the intervention group (cytology or self‐sampling HPV test) or control group (cytology). Participants assigned to the intervention group were sent a self‐sampling kit according to their ordering (opt‐in strategy). A total of 7337 and 7772 women were assigned to the intervention and control groups, respectively. Screening uptake in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group (20.0% vs. 6.4%; risk ratio: 3.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.82, 3.42). The compliance rate with cytology triage for HPV‐positive women was 46.8% (95% CI: 35.5%, 58.4%). CIN2+ was detected in five and four participants in the intervention and control groups, respectively; there was no difference for intention‐to‐screen analysis (risk ratio: 1.32; 95% CI: 0.36, 4.93). Self‐sampling of HPV test increased screening uptake; however, no difference was observed in the detection of CIN2+, probably due to the low compliance rate for cytology triage in HPV‐positive women. Efforts to increase cytology triage are essential to maximize precancer detections.
Injectable bioactive poly(propylene fumarate) and polycaprolactone based click chemistry bone cement for spinal fusion in rabbits
Authors: Liu Xifeng , Astudillo Potes Maria D. , Serdiuk Vitalii , Dashtdar Babak , Schreiber Areonna C. , Rezaei Asghar , Lee Miller A. , Hamouda Abdelrahman M. , Shafi Mahnoor , Elder Benjamin D. , Lu Lichun
Published: April 2024

Degenerative spinal pathology is a widespread medical issue, and spine fusion surgeries are frequently performed. In this study, we fabricated an injectable bioactive click chemistry polymer cement for use in spinal fusion and bone regrowth. Taking advantages of the bioorthogonal click reaction, this cement can be crosslinked by itself eliminating the addition of a toxic initiator or catalyst, nor any external energy sources like UV light or heat. Furthermore, nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHA) and microspheres carrying recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) and recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (rhVEGF) were used to make the cement bioactive for vascular induction and osteointegration. After implantation into a rabbit posterolateral spinal fusion (PLF) model, the cement showed excellent induction of new bone formation and bridging bone, achieving results comparable to autograft control. This is largely due to the osteogenic properties of nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHA) and the released rhBMP‐2 and rhVEGF growth factors. Since the availability of autograft sources is limited in clinical settings, this injectable bioactive click chemistry cement may be a promising alternative for spine fusion applications in addressing various spinal conditions.
Therapeutic plasma exchange as an intervention for gemtuzumab ozogamicin impaired hemoglobin scavenging: A case and systematic review
Authors: Adkins Brian D. , Noland Daniel K. , Slone Tamra , Sadanand Arhanti
Published: April 2024

Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO) is a CD33 monoclonal antibody‐drug conjugate currently in use to treat myeloid malignancies. A unique adverse effect of this medication is destruction of CD33 positive macrophages resulting in reduced clearance of free hemoglobin leading to grossly red plasma. This build‐up of free hemoglobin can potentially lead to end organ damage and prevent performance of clinically necessary laboratory evaluation. We present a case of a pediatric patient who developed this adverse effect and was successfully treated with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). We also present results from a systematic review of the medical literature and share data from a query of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting system for GO‐related hemoglobin scavenging impairment. Among reported cases, patients undergoing TPE and those receiving steroids had improved outcomes. Practitioners should be aware of this rare drug side‐effect and the potential utility of TPE for these patients.
Ab initio multireference calculation of electronic spectra of the osmium complexes, [Os(bpy) 3] 2+ and [Os(phen) 3] 2+
Authors: Terek Saša , Milovanović Milan
Published: April 2024

The spin‐orbit coupling corrected absorption spectra of osmium complexes, [Os(bpy)] and [Os(phen)], were calculated by using ab initio multireference perturbation method (NEVPT2) with relativistic effects taken into account throughout ZORA approximation and corresponding all‐electron basis sets. For the same purpose, the time‐dependent DFT techniques were used. A very good agreement between NEVPT2 and experimental spectra should be highlighted, especially for the MLCT transitions that occur in visible and near‐UV regions ( cm). Moreover, the present study offers description of excited states of titled osmium complexes and their spectra interpretation using molecular orbitals.
Carboxymethylated Desmodium styracifolium polysaccharide reduces the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stone formation by inhibiting crystal adhesion and promoting crystal endocytosis
Authors: Wang Zhi , Liu Li , Zhao Yao‐Wang , Tong Xin‐Yi , Tang Gu‐Hua , Ouyang Jian‐Ming
Published: April 2024

The inhibition of cell surface crystal adhesion and an appropriate increase in crystal endocytosis contribute to the inhibition of kidney stone formation. In this study, we investigated the effects of different degrees of carboxymethylation on these processes. An injury model was established by treating human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK‐2) cells with 98.3 ± 8.1 nm calcium oxalate dihydrate (nanoCOD) crystals. The HK‐2 cells were protected with carboxy (‐COOH) Desmodium styracifolium polysaccharides at 1.17% (DSP0), 7.45% (CDSP1), 12.2% (CDSP2), and 17.7% (CDSP3). Changes in biochemical indexes and effects on nanoCOD adhesion and endocytosis were detected. The protection of HK‐2 cells from nanoCOD‐induced oxidative damage by carboxymethylated Desmodium styracifolium polysaccharides (CDSPs) is closely related to the protection of subcellular organelles, such as mitochondria. CDSPs can reduce crystal adhesion on the cell surface and maintain appropriate crystal endocytosis, thereby reducing the risk of kidney stone formation. CDSP2 with moderate ‐COOH content showed the strongest protective activity among the CDSPs.
The impact of three learning methods on dental students’ satisfaction and knowledge acquisition
Authors: Toema Sara M. , Amer Nihal S. , Jones Paul C.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Health professionals’ education presents unique challenges including clinical application of knowledge and interprofessional collaboration. Additionally, institutions suffer from faculty shortages while class sizes increase. Therefore, educators seek innovative andragogical techniques utilizing minimal resources. Several active learning methods have been introduced as a solution. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of lecture (LBL), case (CBL), and team (TBL) based learning on the students’ satisfaction and knowledge attainment.

Methods

A total of 134 sophomore dental students are taught pediatric dentistry course using LBL, CBL, and TBL techniques. At the end of the course, students are invited to participate in a satisfaction survey. Statistical analysis is conducted using a two‐sided chi‐square goodness of fit test. Students’ comments are used for qualitative analysis. Final exam analysis is administered via Examsoft software.

Results

A total of 98% of the students participated in the survey out of which 83% met the inclusion criteria (N = 110). Students chose LBL as the method that helped them learn in a comprehensive way, provided the most comfortable environment, and presented the overall highest satisfaction with statistically significant difference (p value = 0.001). LBL questions scored the highest point biserial and discrimination index. The percentage of correct answers and difficulty level was highest for TBL.

Conclusion

Students preferred LBL over the other learning methods. Final exam psychometrics showed favorable results for LBL and TBL. Students could potentially benefit from combining both techniques. However, more research is needed to assess the effectiveness of various teaching methods on the short‐ and long‐term learning outcomes.
EV‐COMM: A database of interspecies and intercellular interactions mediated by extracellular vesicles
Authors: Chen Jingyu , Lin Jing‐Jing , Wang Weiyi , Huang Haining , Pan Zhizhen , Ye Guozhu , Dong Sijun , Lin Yi , Lin Congtian , Huang Qiansheng
Published: April 2024

Intra‐ and inter‐organismal interactions play a crucial role in the maintenance and function of individuals, as well as communities. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been identified as effective mediators for the communication both within and between species. They can carry and transport molecular cargoes to transmit biological messages. Several databases (ExoBCD, ExoCarta, EVpedia, EV‐TRACK, Vesiclepedia) complied the cargoes information including DNA, RNA, protein, lipid and metabolite associated with EVs. Databases that refer to the complete records on both donor and recipient information are warranted to facilitate the understanding of the interaction across cells and species. In this study, we developed a database that compiled the records equipped with a structured process of EV‐mediated interaction. The sources of donor and recipient were classified by cell type, tissues/organs and species, thus providing an extended knowledge of cell‐cell, species‐species interaction. The isolation and identification methods were presented for assessing the quality of EVs. Information on functional cargoes was included, where microRNA was linked to a prediction server to broaden its potential effects. Physiological and pathological context was marked to show the environment where EVs functioned. At present, a total of 1481 data records in our database, including 971 cell‐cell interactions belonging to more than 40 different tissues/organs, and 510 cross‐species records. The database provides a web interface to browse, search, visualize and download the interaction records. Users can search for interactions by selecting the context of interest or specific cells/species types, as well as functional cargoes. To the best of our knowledge, the database is the first comprehensive database focusing on interactions between donor and recipient cells or species mediated by EVs, serving as a convenient tool to explore and validate interactions. The Database, shorten as EV‐COMM (EV mediated communication) is freely available at http://sdc.iue.ac.cn/evs/list/ and will be continuously updated.
Comparison of metronidazole versus clarithromycin in first‐line vonoprazan‐based triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori: A multicenter randomized trial in Japan
Authors: Sue Soichiro , Oka Hiroyuki , Kunishi Yosuke , Suzuki Yuichi , Suzuki Shingo , Kaneko Takashi , Komatsu Kazuo , Naito Makoto , Kato Yoshio , Sasaki Tomohiko , Kaneko Hiroaki , Irie Kuniyasu , Kondo Masaaki , Maeda Shin
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

To date, no randomized trials have compared the efficacy of 7‐day vonoprazan, amoxicillin, and metronidazole triple therapy (VAM) versus 7‐day vonoprazan, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin triple therapy (VAC) as a first‐line treatment for Helicobacter pylori eradication. This study was performed to compare the efficacy of VAM and VAC as first‐line treatments.

Methods

This prospective multicenter randomized trial was performed in Japan and involved 124 H. pylori‐positive patients without a history of eradication. Patients without antibiotic resistance testing of H. pylori were eligible. The patients were randomized to receive either VAC (vonoprazan 20 mg + amoxicillin 750 mg + clarithromycin 200 or 400 mg twice a day) or VAM (vonoprazan 20 mg + amoxicillin 750 mg + metronidazole 250 mg twice a day) for 7 days, with stratification by age and sex. Eradication success was evaluated using the 13C‐urea breath test. We evaluated safety using patient questionnaires (UMIN000025773).

Results

The intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol eradication rates of VAM were 91.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 82.0–96.7%) and 92.6% (95% CI, 83.7–97.6%), respectively, and those of VAC were 89.1% (95% CI, 77.8–95.9%) and 96.1% (95% CI, 86.5–99.5%), respectively. No significant difference was observed between VAM and VAC in either analysis (P = 0.76 and P = 0.70, respectively). Abdominal fullness was more frequent in patients who received VAM than VAC.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that VAM as a first‐line treatment in Japan can be categorized as grade B (intention‐to‐treat cure rate of 90–95%) and have potential as a first‐line national insurance ‐approved regimen.
Simple, sensitive, and visual detection of 12 respiratory pathogens with one‐pot‐RPA‐CRISPR/Cas12a assay
Authors: Tan Qi , Shi Yaoqiang , Duan Chenlu , Li Qingyuan , Gong Tao , Li Shilin , Duan Xiaoqiong , Xie He , Li Yujia , Chen Limin
Published: April 2024

Respiratory infections pose a serious threat to global public health, underscoring the urgent need for rapid, accurate, and large‐scale diagnostic tools. In recent years, the CRISPR/Cas (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR‐associated) system, combined with isothermal amplification methods, has seen widespread application in nucleic acid testing (NAT). However, achieving a single‐tube reaction system containing all necessary components is challenging due to the competitive effects between recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and CRISPR/Cas reagents. Furthermore, to enable precision medicine, distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections is essential. Here, we have developed a novel NAT method, termed one‐pot‐RPA‐CRISPR/Cas12a, which combines RPA with CRISPR molecular diagnostic technology, enabling simultaneous detection of 12 common respiratory pathogens, including six bacteria and six viruses. RPA and CRISPR/Cas12a reactions are separated by paraffin, providing an independent platform for RPA reactions to generate sufficient target products before being mixed with the CRISPR/Cas12a system. Results can be visually observed under LED blue light. The sensitivity of the one‐pot‐RPA‐CRISPR/Cas12a method is 2.5 × 100 copies/μL plasmids, with no cross‐reaction with other bacteria or viruses. Additionally, the clinical utility was evaluated by testing clinical isolates of bacteria and virus throat swab samples, demonstrating favorable performance. Thus, our one‐pot‐RPA‐CRISPR/Cas12a method shows immense potential for accurate and large‐scale detection of 12 common respiratory pathogens in point‐of‐care testing.
Neuronal mechanisms regulating locomotion in adult Drosophila
Authors: Gowda Swetha B. M. , Banu Ayesha , Hussain Sadam , Mohammad Farhan
Published: April 2024

The coordinated action of multiple leg joints and muscles is required even for the simplest movements. Understanding the neuronal circuits and mechanisms that generate precise movements is essential for comprehending the neuronal basis of the locomotion and to infer the neuronal mechanisms underlying several locomotor‐related diseases. Drosophila melanogaster provides an excellent model system for investigating the neuronal circuits underlying motor behaviors due to its simple nervous system and genetic accessibility. This review discusses current genetic methods for studying locomotor circuits and their function in adult Drosophila. We highlight recently identified neuronal pathways that modulate distinct forward and backward locomotion and describe the underlying neuronal control of leg swing and stance phases in freely moving flies. We also report various automated leg tracking methods to measure leg motion parameters and define inter‐leg coordination, gait and locomotor speed of freely moving adult flies. Finally, we emphasize the role of leg proprioceptive signals to central motor circuits in leg coordination. Together, this review highlights the utility of adult Drosophila as a model to uncover underlying motor circuitry and the functional organization of the leg motor system that governs correct movement.
Reduced osseointegration in disuse and denervation rat models results from impaired cellular responses to multiscale microstructured titanium surfaces
Authors: Deng Jingyao , Joshua Cohen David , Matias Enrique B. , Olson Lucas C. , McClure Michael J. , Boyan Barbara D. , Schwartz Zvi
Published: April 2024

Immobilization‐induced skeletal unloading results in muscle atrophy and rapid bone loss, thereby increasing the risk of falling and the need for implant therapy in patients with extended bed rest or neuromuscular injuries. Skeletal unloading causes bone loss by altering bone growth and resorption, suggesting that implant performance might be affected. To test this, we focused on early events in implant osseointegration. We used the rat sciatic neurectomy‐induced disuse model under two different settings. In Study 1, 16 Sprague Dawley rats (SD) were separated into control, sham operated+cast immobilization, and sciatic neurectomy+casting groups; titanium implants with multiscale microtextured topography and hydrophilic chemistry (modSLA) were inserted in the distal femoral metaphysis. Neurectomy surgeries and casting were performed at the same surgical setting as implant placement; rats were euthanized 4 weeks post‐implantation. In Study 2, we established the unloaded condition before implantation. A total of 12 SD rats were divided into control and sciatic+femoral neurectomy groups. A total of 24 days after sciatic and femoral neurectomy surgery, rats received implants. Study 2 rats were euthanized at 4 weeks post‐implantation. MicroCT and histomorphometry showed that trabecular bone and osseointegration were reduced when disuse was established before implantation. Osteoblasts isolated from Study 1 sciatic neurectomy tibial bones exhibited impaired differentiation on modSLA culture disks, revealing a possible mechanism responsible for the decreased osseointegration observed in the Study 2 rats. This study addressed the importance of considering the mechanical unloading and muscle function history before implant insertion and suggests that implant performance was reduced due to poor cellular ability to regenerate.