bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AuNP/MIL‐88B‐NH2 Nanocomposite for the Valorization of Nitroarene by Green Catalytic Hydrogenation
Authors: Lelouche Sorraya N. K. , Lemir Ignacio , Biglione Catalina , Craig Tim , Bals Sara , Horcajada Patricia
Published: March 2024

The efficiency of a catalytic process is assessed based on conversion, yield, and time effectiveness. However, these parameters are insufficient for evaluating environmentally sustainable research. As the world is urged to shift towards green catalysis, additional factors such as reaction media, raw material availability, sustainability, waste minimization and catalyst biosafety, need to be considered to accurately determine the efficacy and sustainability of the process. By combining the high porosity and versatility of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and the activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), efficient, cyclable and biosafe composite catalysts can be achieved. Thus, a composite based on AuNPs and the nanometric flexible porous iron(III) aminoterephthalate MIL‐88B‐NH2 was successfully synthesized and fully characterized. This nanocomposite was tested as catalyst in the reduction of nitroarenes, which were identified as anthropogenic water pollutants, reaching cyclable high conversion rates at short times for different nitroarenes. Both synthesis and catalytic reactions were performed using green conditions, and even further tested in a time‐optimizing one‐pot synthesis and catalysis experiment. The sustainability and environmental impact of the catalytic conditions were assessed by green metrics. Thus, this study provides an easily implementable synthesis, and efficient catalysis, while minimizing the environmental and health impact of the process.
Boosting Electrocatalytic N2 Reduction to NH3 by Enhancing N2 Activation via Interaction between Au Nanoparticles and MIL‐101(Fe) in Neutral Electrolytes
Authors: Ni Ziyang , Yin Fengxiang , Zhang Jie , Kofie Gideon , Li Guoru , Chen Biaohua , Guo Pengju , Shi Liuliu
Published: March 2024

Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has attracted much attention as a sustainable ammonia production technology, but it needs further exploration due to its slow kinetics and the existence of competitive side reactions. In this research, xAu/MIL‐101(Fe) catalysts were obtained by loading gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) onto MIL‐101(Fe) using a one‐step reduction strategy. Herein, MIL‐101(Fe), with high specific surface area and strong N2 adsorption capacity, is used as a support to disperse Au NPs to increase the electrochemical active surface area. Au NPs, with a high NRR activity, is introduced as the active site to promote charge transfer and intermediate formation rates. More importantly, the strong interaction between Au NPs and MIL‐101(Fe) enhances the electron transfer between Au NPs and MIL‐101(Fe), thereby enhancing the activation of N2 and achieving efficient NRR. Among the prepared catalysts, 15 %Au/MIL‐101(Fe) has the highest NH3 yield of 46.37 μg h−1 mg−1cat and a Faraday efficiency of 39.38 % at −0.4 V (vs. RHE). In‐situ FTIR reveals that the NRR mechanism of 15 %Au/MIL‐101(Fe) follows the binding alternating pathway and also indicates that the interaction between Au NPs and MIL‐101(Fe) strengthens the activation of the N≡N bond in the rate‐limiting process, thereby accelerating the NRR process.
One‐Dimensional View of the Structural Changes in the Filtering Layer during Continuous Dust Deposition – A New Approach to a Holistic View of the Filtration Process
Authors: Zhang Qian
Published: March 2024

The overall filtration process is viewed from a new perspective: There is a continuous, systematic change in the structure of the active deposition zone of a given filter layer, here as the so‐called active filtering layer. During the overall filtration process, the filtering layer is transformed from the initial clean filter medium, via continuous particle deposition under the given filtration conditions, to a new, dynamically preserved stable porous structure, i.e. the active deposition zone on the upstream side of the dust cake. Based on 3D simulations of cake formation on model filters for fabric filters, 1D deposition profiles during the continuous filtration process are evaluated and converted into a dimensionless form, to describe the structural changes in the filtering layer. The stable 1D deposition profile during the phase of surface filtration can be well described with a logistic function.
NaWuReT Colloquium: Career Pathways and Opportunities for Reaction Engineers in Industry
Authors: Kreitz Bjarne , Börnhorst Marion , Friedland Jens , Moioli Emanuele
Published: March 2024

The Nachwuchs Reaktionstechnik (NaWuReT) is an organization of early‐career chemical engineers of the DECHEMA/VDI subject division Reaction Engineering. In the spring of 2023, we organized a series of online lectures involving five invited speakers from industry to shed light on different career opportunities. The speakers gave insights into their individual career pathways and presented their current projects, both of which sparked active discussions among speakers and attendees.
Long non‐coding RNAFOXD1‐AS1 modulated CTCs epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and immune escape in hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro by sponging miR‐615‐3p
Authors: Guo Bao‐ling , Zheng Qiu‐xiang , Jiang Yun‐shan , Zhan Ying , Huang Wen‐jin , Chen Zhi‐yong
Published: March 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is widely recognized as a globally prevalent malignancy. Immunotherapy is a promising therapy for HCC patients. Increasing evidence suggests that lncRNAs are involved in HCC progression and immunotherapy.

Aim

The study reveals the mechanistic role of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) FOXD1‐AS1 in regulating migration, invasion, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and immune escape in HCC in vitro.

Methods

This study employed real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR) to measure FOXD1‐AS1, miR‐615‐3p, and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1). The interactions of FOXD1‐AS1, miR‐615‐3p, and PD‐L1 were validated via dual‐luciferase reporter gene and ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. In vivo experimentation involves BALB/c mice and BALB/c nude mice to investigate the impact of HCC metastasis.

Results

The upregulation of lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 in malignant tissues significantly correlates with poor prognosis. The investigation was implemented on the impact of lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 on the migratory, invasive, and EMT of HCC cells. It has been observed that the lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 significantly influences the generation and metastasis of MCTC in vivo analysis. In mechanistic analysis, lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 enhanced immune escape in HCC via upregulation of PD‐L1, which acted as a ceRNA by sequestering miR‐615‐3p. Additionally, lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 was found to modulate the EMT of CTCs through the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Conclusion

This study presents compelling evidence supporting the role of lncRNA FOXD1‐AS1 as a miRNA sponge that sequesters miR‐655‐3p and protects PD‐L1 from suppression.
Co‐Solutes Induced Changes in the Properties of Polymeric Solution and Water Dynamics
Authors: Bhattacharjee Sanyukta , Pandit Souvik , Seth Debabrata
Published: March 2024

In this paper we are addressing the co‐solute‐induced changes in the properties of an aqueous solution of a block copolymer. Due to the preferential interaction of different co‐solute with different regions of the block copolymer, the changes were observed in both the physical properties and water dynamics. The modulation of both the physical properties and water dynamics was monitored using different spectroscopic techniques. Different co‐solutes affect micellar properties of copolymer to a different extent signifying their interactions with different regions within the copolymer. The solvent relaxation dynamics were also modulated with the additions of different co‐solutes. The change in free‐energy (ΔGbf) and rate constant for bound to free water interconversion (kbf) in a copolymeric micelle was calculated which gets affected by the addition of co‐solutes. The calculated kbf suggests that betaine, sarcosine, TMAO, and GnHCl favor the ordering of water molecules around the micelle and are excluded from the micellar surface whereas, urea favors the formation of free‐water molecules rather than the structurally ordered bound water molecules around the micelle by accumulating at the micellar surface. Among the added methylamines trimethylamine N‐oxide affected the water dynamics and its kinetics most profoundly. The protective property of GnHCl was revealed.
The Noble Addendum of a Phosphenium Ligand to a Base Metal: Coordination, Activation, and Hydrogenation of Alkenes and Alkynes on a Chromium Complex
Authors: Birchall Nicholas , Nieger Martin , Gudat Dietrich
Published: March 2024

The synthesis of a new bis‐NHP complex (NHP=N‐heterocyclic phosphenium) of chromium via salt metathesis and studies of its reactivity are reported. Photochemical reactions with H2 and selected olefins give rise to non‐isolable H2‐ and π‐alkene complexes identified spectroscopically, while internal alkynes react via activation of the triple bond to yield isolable metalla‐phospha‐cyclobutenes characterized by spectroscopic and XRD data. DFT studies give a preliminary account of the bonding in H2‐ and alkene‐complexes and explain the different reactivity towards alkenes and alkynes as the consequence of kinetic effects. Photolysis of the bis‐NHP‐complex in the presence of H2 and olefins or alkenes enables the catalytic hydrogenation of the organic substrates, while the π‐ethene complex mediates the catalytic hydrogenation of ethene in a dark reaction. The similarities and differences between both catalytic processes are shortly discussed.
Misacylation of tRNA with Ser‐Pro Dipeptide for In Vitro Transcription‐Translation
Authors: Piedl Karla N. , Arcoria Paul J. , Etzkorn Felicia A.
Published: March 2024

Serine‐proline (Ser‐Pro) backbone‐modified dipeptide analogues are powerful tools to investigate the role of cis‐trans isomerization in the regulation of the cell cycle and transcription. These studies have previously been limited to synthetic peptides, whose synthesis is a challenge for larger peptides due to the compounding yield loss incurred in each step. We now introduce a method for the aminoacylation of tRNA with dipeptides and dipeptide analogs to permit the installation of cis‐ and trans‐locked Ser‐Pro analogues into full‐length proteins. To that end, we synthesized the 3,5‐dinitrobenzyl (DNB)‐activated esters of a native Ser‐Pro dipeptide and its cis‐ and trans‐locked alkene analogs. Murakami et al. created the DNB flexizyme (dFx), a ribozyme that acylates tRNA with DNB esters of amino acids to permit unnatural amino acids to be incorporated into proteins. A tRNA from yeast that recognizes the amber stop codon, along with the dFx flexizyme, were generated by in vitro transcription with T7 RNA polymerase. dFx was used to successfully catalyze the chemical misacylation of truncated amber tRNA with the Ser‐Pro‐DNB activated dipeptide. This method allows the introduction of non‐native Ser‐Pro dipeptide mimics into full‐length proteins by in vitro transcription‐translation. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of 3,5‐dinitrobenzyl activated esters of Ser‐Pro

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of truncated amber tRNA

Basic Protocol 3: Acylation of amber‐tRNA by the dFx flexizyme

Basic Protocol 4: PAGE electrophoresis of tRNASerPro
Aligning multinational corporate strategies with Sustainable Development Goals: A case study of an Italian energy firm's initiatives in developing markets
Authors: Nasta Luigi , Cundari Veronica
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the strategic role of multinational corporations (MNCs) in realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of creating shared value (CSV) strategies. It presents a comprehensive case study of a prominent Italian multinational energy corporation, demonstrating its application in the energy sector. The paper explores the nuances of CSV implementation, particularly in developing markets like Chile, Brazil, and Colombia, guided by Institutional and Stakeholder theories. It examines the corporation's responsive adaptation to local needs and challenges, and its alignment of business operations with sustainable development objectives. The findings underscore the significance of local stakeholder engagement and the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization. This study expands on previous literature by offering insights into the practical implementation of CSV strategies by MNCs in developing markets. It sheds light on the complexities of integrating global sustainability standards with local institutional dynamics and stakeholder collaboration, enriching the understanding of how MNCs can contribute meaningfully to the SDGs.
Unveiling the Role of Electrografted Carbon‐Based Electrodes for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Kogler Matthias , Rauh Nikolai , Gahlawat Soniya , Ashraf Muhammad Adeel , Ostermann Markus , Valtiner Markus , Pichler Christian M.
Published: March 2024

Carbon‐based electrodes are used in flow batteries to provide active centers for vanadium redox reactions. However, strong controversy exists about the exact origin of these centers. This study systematically explores the influence of structural and functional groups on the vanadium redox reactions at carbon surfaces. Pyridine, phenol and butyl containing groups are attached to carbon felt electrodes. To establish a unique comparison between the model and real‐world behavior, both non‐activated and commercially used thermally activated felts serve as a substrate. Results reveal enhanced half‐cell performance in non‐activated felt with introduced hydrophilic functionalities. However, this cannot be transferred to the thermally activated felt. Beyond a decrease in electrochemical activity, a reduced long‐term stability can be observed. This work indicates that thermal treatment generates active sites that surpass the effect of functional groups and are even impeded by their introduction.
Long‐term cost‐effectiveness of transcatheter mitral valve repair in HF patients with secondary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Yao Younan , Zhou Ziyou , Geng Tian , Cai Anping , Li Tian , Yang Junqing , Chen Jiyan , Li Liwen
Published: March 2024

Aims

The long‐term cost‐effectiveness of MitraClip in heart failure patients with secondary mitral regurgitation is still unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term cost‐effectiveness of MitraClip added to guideline‐directed medical therapy vs. guideline‐directed medical therapy alone in heart failure patients with secondary mitral regurgitation from the perspective of the healthcare systems of mainland China, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States.

Methods and results

A two‐stage (decision + Markov) model was built. Health utilities were defined by the New York Heart Association class, heart failure re‐hospitalization, and death and were calculated based on the 5 year follow‐up results of the Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients With Functional Mitral Regurgitation trial. Direct healthcare costs were derived from the nationally representative data. Future utilities and costs were discounted at country‐specific rates. The primary outcome was the lifetime incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio. The mean age of the base case in our model was 72.2 years. Over a lifetime horizon, treatment with MitraClip was associated with 829 fewer heart failure re‐hospitalizations per 1000 treated patients. The MitraClip treatment was associated with incremental quality‐adjusted life‐year gains of 0.71, 0.76, 0.78, and 0.78, as well as incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios of ¥468 462, £28 910, €26 045, and $71 199 per quality‐adjusted life‐year for a lifetime horizon in mainland China, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States, respectively. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, 0.2%, 59.4%, 99.6%, and 84.7% of patients were cost‐effective in mainland China, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States at the country‐specific willingness‐to‐pay thresholds.

Conclusions

MitraClip + guideline‐directed medical therapy was cost‐effective in heart failure patients with secondary mitral regurgitation in the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States, but not in mainland China from the perspective of the national healthcare system.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Chiral Allenes via Asymmetric 1,4‐Difunctionalization of 1,3‐Enynes
Authors: Li Sijia , Yuan Kaiyao , Zhang Guozhu , Guo Rui
Published: March 2024

Allenes represent a distinctive class of organic molecules characterized by their unique physical and chemical properties. Among them, chiral allenes play a significant role in modern chemistry. They not only serve as pivotal frameworks for natural products and drug molecules but also are essential building blocks in organic synthesis. Over the years, numerous remarkable and efficient methods have been developed for the synthesis of chiral allenes. Notably, the catalytic synthesis of chiral allenes using transition metals in conjunction with chiral ligands has garnered considerable attention. This review paper aims to provide an overview of recent advancements in the synthesis of chiral allenes through asymmetric 1,4‐difunctionalization of 1,3‐enynes, in which two distinct strategies including non‐radical and radical processes are highlighted.
Exposure of Male Farmers and Nonfarmers to Neonicotinoid Pesticides in the South-West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon: A Comparative Study
Authors: Manfo Faustin Pascal Tsagué , Nimako Collins , Nantia Edouard Akono , Suh Christian Fusi , Chenwi Shu Policap , Cho-Ngwa Fidelis , Moundipa Paul Fewou , Nakayama Shouta M. M. , Ishizuka Mayumi , Ikenaka Yoshinori
Published: March 2024

Pesticides, especially the newly developed neonicotinoids, are increasingly used in many countries around the world, including Cameroon, to control pests involved in crop destruction or disease transmission. Unfortunately, the pesticides also pose tremendous environmental problems because a predominant amount of their residues enter environmental matrices to affect other nontargeted species including humans. This therefore calls for continuous biomonitoring of these insecticides in human populations. The present study sought to assess the neonicotinoid insecticide exposures in two agrarian regions of Cameroon, the South-West region and Littoral region. The study involved 188 men, including 125 farmers and 63 nonfarmers. Spot urine samples were obtained from these subjects and subjected to liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometric analysis for concentrations of neonicotinoid compounds, including acetamiprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, thiacloprid, nitenpyram, thiamethoxam, and N-dm-acetamiprid. Neonicotinoid compounds were detected in all study participants, and residues of all the screened pesticides were detected among participants. N-dm-Acetamiprid and imidacloprid were the most prevalent among the subjects (100.0% and 93.1%, respectively), whereas nitenpyram was less common (3.2%). The median values of imidacloprid and total urinary neonicotinoid concentrations were elevated among farmers (0.258 vs. 0.126 µg/L and 0.829 vs. 0.312 µg/L, respectively). Altogether the findings showed that both the farmer and nonfarmer study populations of Cameroon were exposed to multiple residues of neonicotinoids, with relatively higher levels of pesticides generally recorded among farmers. Although exposure levels of the neonicotinoids were generally lower than their respective reference doses, these results warrant further research on the health risk evaluation of multiple residues of the pesticides and reinforcement of control measures to minimize the exposure risks, especially among farmers. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:952–964. © 2024 SETAC
Tamoxifen exerts direct and microglia‐mediated effects preventing neuroinflammatory changes in the adult mouse hippocampal neurogenic niche
Authors: Crisci Isabella , Bonzano Sara , Nicolas Zinter , Dallorto Eleonora , Peretto Paolo , Krezel Wojciech , De Marchis Silvia
Published: March 2024

Tamoxifen‐inducible systems are widely used in research to control Cre‐mediated gene deletion in genetically modified animals. Beyond Cre activation, tamoxifen also exerts off‐target effects, whose consequences are still poorly addressed. Here, we investigated the impact of tamoxifen on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced neuroinflammatory responses, focusing on the neurogenic activity in the adult mouse dentate gyrus. We demonstrated that a four‐day LPS treatment led to an increase in microglia, astrocytes and radial glial cells with concomitant reduction of newborn neurons. These effects were counteracted by a two‐day tamoxifen pre‐treatment. Through selective microglia depletion, we elucidated that both LPS and tamoxifen influenced astrogliogenesis via microglia mediated mechanisms, while the effects on neurogenesis persisted even in a microglia‐depleted environment. Notably, changes in radial glial cells resulted from a combination of microglia‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms. Overall, our data reveal that tamoxifen treatment per se does not alter the balance between adult neurogenesis and astrogliogenesis but does modulate cellular responses to inflammatory stimuli exerting a protective role within the adult hippocampal neurogenic niche.
Comparing accuracy of clinical prediction rules to predict pneumonia in children and adolescents with acute febrile respiratory illness
Authors: Wu Yuet Hong , Chiu Jeremy Ho Hei , Tse Choi Fung , Chan Yuet Yan Fiona , Poon Kin Ming , Lui Chun Tat
Published: March 2024

Background

It is a common challenge for emergency physicians to differentiate pneumonia from simple upper respiratory tract infections. Several clinical prediction rules exist to assist the diagnosis process and guide the clinical decisions of ordering investigations such as chest X‐ray (CXR).

Objective

This study aims to validate and compare the accuracy of various prediction rules in the setting of children and adolescents presenting with acute febrile respiratory illness (AFRI).

Method

This was a prospective multicentre study. Three hundred and fifty‐five patients, aged 6–18 years, were recruited. Patients with immunocompromised state or hypoxia were excluded. Pneumonia was defined as diagnosis by CXR or subsequent diagnosis of pneumonia upon re‐attendance within 7 days. Clinical rules including Diehr rule, Heckerling rule, Bilkis simpler rule, the AFRI rule, the paediatric acute febrile respiratory illness rule (PAFRI) were compared in terms of accuracy of predicting pneumonia in the recruited subjects and presented as receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

Five patients were excluded. In the 350 patients included, 38 were diagnosed as pneumonia by CXR and 1 was subsequently diagnosed as pneumonia upon re‐attendance. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of Diehr rule, Heckerling rule, Bilkis simpler rule, AFRI rule and PAFRI rule were 0.703, 0.565, 0.59, 0.807 and 0.846 respectively. The PAFRI rule is superior to other prediction rules in terms of diagnostic accuracy. At the cut‐off of PAFRI ≥0, the rule has high sensitivity of 97.44% and negative predictive value of 99.09%.

Conclusion

Among the rules compared, the PAFRI rule has the highest diagnostic accuracy in assisting emergency physicians to identify pneumonia among children and adolescents aged 6–18 years presenting with AFRI.
Familial congenital lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) suggested by screening for lower urinary tract dysfunction in parents of patients: A descriptive study
Authors: Ebach Fabian , Wagner Pauline , Stein Raimund , Dolscheid‐Pommerich Ramona , Reutter Heiko , Hilger Alina C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Congenital lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) describes a heterogeneous group of congenital malformations. Posterior urethral valves (PUV) represent the most common entity. Familial occurrence has been described, suggestive of underlying genetic factors. LUTO can occur in various degrees of severity. In severe forms, oligohydramnios, pulmonary hypoplasia, and renal damage can occur resulting in high pre‐ and postnatal mortality. On the contrary, mild forms may become apparent through recurrent urinary tract infections. Such high phenotypic variability has been described even within the same family. Here, we systematically screened parents of affected children for symptoms of LUTO.

Methods

The study population consisted of parents of LUTO patients. Fathers over 50 years of age were excluded, to avoid inclusion of male phenocopies due to early prostatic hypertrophy. Uroflowmetry, ultrasonography for residual urine and hydronephrosis, and laboratory examination of standard renal retention parameters were assessed, and a detailed patient history was taken, including the assessment of the International Prostate Symptom Score.

Results

Twenty‐nine of 42 LUTO families enrolled were found eligible for the present study. Of these, we identified five families in which the father had already been diagnosed with infravesical obstruction (17%). Of the remaining families, nine agreed to participate in our study. Of these nine families, eight families had a child affected with PUV and one family had a child with urethral stenosis. Here, we found two fathers and one mother with symptoms of LUTO suggestive of mild LUTO and one family, in which the unborn male fetal brother of the affected index patient was also diagnosed prenatally with LUTO.

Conclusion

Our observations suggest that LUTOs have a higher heritability than previously thought and that first‐degree relatives of the affected should be clinically assessed for symptoms of LUTO.
Cost effectiveness analysis for commonly used human cell and tissue products in the management of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Nherera Leo M. , Banerjee Jaideep
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

This study considers the cost‐effectiveness of commonly used cellular, acellular, and matrix‑like products (CAMPs) of human origin also known as human cell and tissue products (HCT/Ps) in the management of diabetic foot ulcers.

Methods

We developed a 1‐year economic model assessing six CAMPs [cryopreserved placental membrane with viable cells (vCPM), bioengineered bilayered living cellular construct (BLCC), human fibroblast dermal substitute (hFDS), dehydrated human amnion chorion membrane (dHACM), hypothermically stored amniotic membrane (HSAM) and human amnion membrane allograft (HAMA) which had randomized controlled trial evidence compared with standard of care (SoC). CAMPs were compared indirectly and ranked in order of cost‐effectiveness using SoC as the baseline, from a CMS/Medicare's perspective.

Results

The mean cost, healed wounds (hw) and QALYs per patient for vCPM is $10,907 (0.914 hw, 0.783 QALYs), for HAMA $11,470 (0.903 hw, 0.780 QALYs), for dHACM $15,862 (0.828 hw, 0.764 QALYs), for BLCC $18,430 (0.816 hw, 0.763 QALYs), for hFDS $19,498 (0.775 hw, 0.757 QALYs), for SoC $19,862 (0.601 hw, 0.732 QALYs) and $24, 214 (0.829, 0.763 QALYs) for HSAM respectively. Over 1 year, vCPM results in cheaper costs overall and better clinical outcomes compared to other CAMPs. Following probabilistic sensitivity analysis, vCPM has a 60%, HAMA 40% probability of being cost‐effective then dHACM, hFDS, BLCC, and lastly HSAM using a $100,000/healed wound or QALY threshold.

Conclusions

All CAMPs were shown to be cost‐effective when compared to SoC in managing DFUs. However, vCPM appears to be the most cost‐effective CAMP over the modelled 52 weeks followed by HAMA, dHACM, hFDS, BLCC, and HSAM. We urge caution in interpreting the results because we currently lack head‐to‐head evidence comparing all these CAMPs and therefore suggest that this analysis be updated when more direct evidence of CAMPs becomes available.
Improvement of Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) wetland module for modelling of ephemeral pond hydrology
Authors: Bizhanimanzar Mohammad , Larocque Marie , Roux Marjolaine
Published: March 2024

Ephemeral ponds (EPs) are seasonally flooded isolated wetlands that provide a variety of hydroecological benefits, including the provision of breeding habitat for several amphibian and invertebrate species. However, the lack of their explicit representation in hydrological models limits a comprehensive understanding of their interaction with surrounding landscapes and their vulnerability in the context of human interventions and climate change. The purpose of this research was to improve the isolated wetland module of the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to better represent EP hydrology. The changes include (1) representation of groundwater and hypodermic flow as the only inflows from the pond drainage surface, due to the intermittent and negligible presence of inflow from surface runoff in forested ponds, (2) revision of how evapotranspiration within EPs is represented and (3) implementation of distinct volume‐area‐depth relationships for ponds based on their geometrical shape. The accuracy of these improvements was assessed against that of a previous isolated wetland formulation in replicating water depth observations of 10 EPs of a portion of the Kenauk forest (68 km2) in the Canadian Shield of the Outaouais region (Québec, Canada). The comparison results show that the revised SWAT model presented here significantly improves the distinct filling and drying water cycle of EPs (average root mean square error of 0.1 m of the revised model vs. 0.23 m for the original model). Besides, the new module allowed to identify that hypodermic flow, evapotranspiration and seepage to the underlying soil are the main EP source and sinks. The new module also allowed to explicitly quantify the differences in filling/drying pattern of the EPs of the Kenauk forest and unlike the original model structure, the new module was able to closely replicate the interannual variation of spring and annual hydroperiod duration.
CAB‐Net: Convolutional attention BLSTM network for enhanced leukocyte classification
Authors: Zonyfar Candra , Kim Jeong‐Dong
Published: March 2024

In recent years, deep learning techniques have been increasingly utilized to automate and reduce human errors in leukocyte classification. However, reliability and accuracy issues remain a challenge. This paper proposes CAB‐Net, an end‐to‐end deep learning‐based model that integrates a convolutional neural network with an attention mechanism and BLSTM. The model uses a stack of convolutional and pooling layers to extract initial features from input images, which are then fed into the attention block to generate class‐specific discriminative features and BLSTM employed to model deterministic class correlations between highlighted discriminative features and labels. Experimental results show that CAB‐Net outperforms state‐of‐the‐art methods in term of accuracy, precision, recall, F1‐Score, and AUC‐ROC. In addition, the CAB‐Net model demonstrates good performance even with low‐resolution images. Consequently, CAB‐Net can be considered as the current state‐of‐the‐art prediction model for improving leukocyte classification in clinical environments.
Multi‐objective prairie dog optimization algorithm for IoT‐based intrusion detection
Authors: Sharma Shubhkirti , Kumar Vijay , Dutta Kamlesh
Published: March 2024

Detecting unauthorized access, unusual activities, and data is significant for the security of IoT networks as it helps identify malfunctioning, faults, and intrusions. Intrusion detection methods analyze network information to identify potential misuse or intrusion attacks. This research proposes a multi‐objective prairie dog optimization algorithm (MPDA) to improve its ability to deal with feature selection problems. The proposed algorithm is modified by incorporating the concepts of an archive, grid, and non‐dominance. An archive and a grid are used to save intermediate best results and improve the diversity, respectively. The non‐dominance concept is employed to deal with multiple objectives. On the NSL‐KDD, CIC‐IDS2017, and IoTID20 datasets, MPDA achieves fewer features, higher accuracy, and lower false alarm rates. MPDA outperforms simple classifiers and state‐of‐art multiobjective optimization algorithms in intrusion detection.
First‐in‐Human Phase 1 Study Evaluating the Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of DISC‐0974, an Anti‐Hemojuvelin Antibody, in Healthy Participants
Authors: Novikov Natasha , Buch Akshay , Yang Hua , Andruk Michelle , Liu Guowen , Wu Min , Howell Haley , MacDonald Brian , Savage Will
Published: March 2024

Pathologic elevations in hepcidin, a key regulator of iron homeostasis, contribute to anemia of inflammation in chronic disease. DISC‐0974 is a monoclonal antibody that binds to hemojuvelin and blocks bone morphogenetic protein signaling, thereby suppressing hepcidin production. Reduction of systemic hepcidin levels is predicted to increase iron absorption and mobilize stored iron into circulation, where it may be utilized by red blood cell (RBC) precursors in the bone marrow to improve hemoglobin levels and to potentially alleviate anemia of inflammation. We conducted a first‐in‐human, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single‐ascending dose study to evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of DISC‐0974 in healthy participants. Overall, 42 participants were enrolled and received a single dose of placebo or DISC‐0974 at escalating dose levels (7‐56 mg), administered intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (SC). DISC‐0974 was well tolerated, with a safety profile comparable to that of placebo. Pharmacokinetic data was dose and route related, with a terminal half‐life of approximately 7 days. The bioavailability of SC dosing was ∼50%. Pharmacodynamic data showed dose‐dependent decreases in serum hepcidin, with reductions of nearly 75% relative to baseline at the highest dose level tested, and corresponding increases in serum iron in response to DISC‐0974 administration. Dose‐dependent changes in serum ferritin and hematology parameters were also observed, indicating mobilization of iron stores and downstream effects of enhanced hemoglobinization and production of RBCs. Altogether, these data are consistent with the mechanism of action of DISC‐0974 and support the selection of a biologically active dose range for evaluation in clinical trials for individuals with anemia of inflammation.
Disparities in pediatric hospital use during transition to adult healthcare for young adults with childhood‐onset chronic conditions
Authors: Jenkins Ashley M. , Lanzkron Sophie , Auger Katherine A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Young adults (YA) with childhood‐onset chronic conditions—particularly YA with cystic fibrosis (CF), congenital heart disease (CHD), and sickle cell disease (SCD)—continue to have pediatric hospital admissions. Factors associated with this continued pediatric hospital use remain underexplored.

Objective

To determine if pediatric hospital use by YA differed (1) across condition and (2) within each condition by sociodemographic factors.

Methods

Conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of admissions for YA 22–35 years with CF, CHD, and SCD from 2016 to 2020 in the National Inpatient Sample. Admissions for YA with CF, CHD, and SCD were identified by international classification of diseases, 10th revision‐clinical modification diagnosis codes. To determine if conditions or sociodemographic factors were associated with YA pediatric hospital use, we used multivariable logistic regression with separate models for the different objectives.

Results

YA with SCD had lower odds of pediatric hospital use compared to YA with CF. Relationships between sociodemographic factors and pediatric hospital use varied. Black YA with both CF and CHD had lower odds of pediatric hospital use than white YA with CF and CHD. For YA with SCD, despite 17,810 (6.5%) having rural residence, zero (0) had pediatric hospital use; whereas YA with CF living in a rural area had greater odds of pediatric hospital use compared to urban residents.

Conclusion

YA with SCD used pediatric hospitals less than YA with either CF or CHD. Coupled with our findings that Black YA with CF and CHD had less pediatric hospital use, these data may reflect systematic racial differences within pediatric to adult healthcare transition programs.
Significance of lung nodules detected on chest CT among adult Aboriginal Australians – a retrospective descriptive study
Authors: Ng Lai Yun , Howarth Timothy P. , Doss Arockia X. , Charakidis Michail , Karanth Narayan V. , Mo Lin , Heraganahally Subash S.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

There are limited data on chest computed tomography (CT) findings in the assessment of lung nodules among adult Aboriginal Australians. In this retrospective study, we assessed lung nodules among a group of adult Aboriginal Australians in the Northern Territory of Australia.

Methods

Patients who underwent at least two chest CT scans between 2012 and 2020 among those referred to undergo lung function testing (spirometry) were included. Chest CT scans were assessed for the number, location, size and morphological characteristics of lung nodules.

Results

Of the 402 chest CTs assessed, 75 patients (18.7%) had lung nodules, and 57 patients were included in the final analysis with at least two CT scans available for assessment over a median follow‐up of 87 weeks. Most patients (68%) were women, with a median age of 58 years and smoking history in 83%. The majority recorded only a single nodule 43 (74%). Six patients (10%) were diagnosed with malignancy, five with primary lung cancer and one with metastatic thyroid cancer. Of the 51 (90%) patients assessed to be benign, 64 nodules were identified, of which 25 (39%) resolved, 38 (59%) remained stable and one (1.8%) enlarged on follow‐up. Nodules among patients with malignancy were typically initially larger and enlarged over time, had spiculated margins and were solid, showing no specific lobar predilection.

Conclusions

Most lung nodules in Aboriginal Australians are likely to be benign. However, a proportion could be malignant. Further prospective studies are required for prognostication and monitoring of lung nodules in this population.
Cerumen impaction: Prevalence and associated factors in the United States population
Authors: Tolan McKenzie M. , Choi Janet S. , Tibesar Maria T. , Adams Meredith E.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To examine the prevalence of cerumen impaction in a nationally representative sample of the US population and the association of cerumen impaction with sociodemographic factors, hearing loss, and tinnitus.

Methods

The cohort included 14,230 individuals aged ≥12 years who completed otoscopy and audiometry in NHANES (2005–2016). Cerumen impaction (partial/complete) was determined by otoscopy. Hearing level was defined by speech‐frequency pure‐tone average (PTA). Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with cerumen impaction.

Results

The prevalence of any cerumen impaction was 18.6% [95% CI: 17.3%–19.9%] among individuals ≥12 years and 32.4% [29.9%–35.1%] among those ≥70 years. The prevalence of bilateral partial and complete cerumen impaction was 6.3% [5.6%–7.1%] and 1.2% [1.0%–1.9%], respectively. Any cerumen impaction was associated with male sex (OR 1.77 [1.5–2.1]), identifying as Black race (vs. Caucasian, OR: 1.78 [1.5–2.9]), lower level of education (OR: 0.84 [0.71–0.98]), and older age (OR: 1.02 [1.01–1.03]). After adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors, complete impaction was associated with increased PTA (right ear: β = 4.1 dB [2.4–5.8 dB], left ear: β = 1.9 dB [0.46–3.4 dB]), but not with tinnitus.

Conclusions

Cerumen impaction is highly prevalent in the US population, especially among older adults, and has disproportionate sociodemographic impacts. Complete impaction is associated with a small, statistically significant elevation in PTA, but there is no association with tinnitus. These findings emphasize the need to implement and disseminate best practices for ear hygiene and cerumen management broadly and equitably.

Level of Evidence

2B
Six‐week postoperative opioid use and pain following a randomized controlled trial evaluating multimodal analgesia for head and neck free flap patients
Authors: Wagoner Sarah F. , Lawrence Amelia S. , Alapati Rahul , Renslo Bryan , Hamill Chelsea S. , Bon Nieves Antonio , Baumanis Maraya , Bur Andrés M. , Kakarala Kiran , Sykes Kevin J. , Shnayder Yelizaveta
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Head and neck malignancy treatment often involves invasive surgeries, necessitating effective postoperative pain control. However, chronic reliance on opioid medications remains a challenge for many patients after surgery. Multimodal analgesia (MMA) within enhanced recovery after surgery protocols has shown success in limiting narcotic pain medications for other cancer types. In a prior study, MMA comprising acetaminophen, ketorolac, gabapentin, and a neurogenic block reduced opioid use in the 7‐day postoperative period for major head and neck reconstructive surgery. This study investigates the impact of multimodal analgesia on opioid prescription and pain during the 6‐week postoperative period for patients undergoing major head and neck oncologic surgeries, aiming to understand the longer‐term effects of narcotic use.

Methods

The study retrospectively examined participants in a [hybrid type 1 effectiveness‐implementation pragmatic trial to assess multimodal analgesia's long‐term effectiveness in head and neck free flap surgery. Arm A received scheduled acetaminophen and as‐needed opioids, while Arm B received scheduled gabapentin, ketorolac, a regional nerve block at the donor site, scheduled acetaminophen, and as‐needed opioids. Retrospective data collection included opioid prescription use and pain scores up to 6 weeks after surgery, gathered from the Kansas prescription drug monitoring program, K‐TRACS.

Results

Thirty patients participated, 14 in Arm A and 16 in Arm B. The average morphine milligram equivalents per day of filled prescriptions were not significantly different between Arm A and Arm B (7.23 vs. 7.88, p = .845). Additionally, average pain scores at 6 weeks showed no significant difference between the two groups (1.4 vs. 1.9, p = .612).

Conclusion

Patients with head and neck cancer treated with multimodal analgesia during the perioperative period did not exhibit significant differences in opioid use and pain within 6 weeks after discharge. To confirm these findings, a re‐examination with strict measures of opioid use and scheduled pain assessments in a prospective manner is warranted.

Level of Evidence

4.
Effect of acid catalysts on amorphous graphene oxide aerogel production
Authors: Kariper S. E. B. , Kariper I. A. , Mercan S. , Özden P.
Published: March 2024

The acids utilized in the production of graphene oxide aerogel underwent testing, revealing variations from the ones documented in the literature. The powder samples were produced by drying under ambient conditions. They were characterized, and the effect of the graphene oxide aerogels produced using these different acids on sound insulation was investigated. All reaction steps were the same in the study, except that different acids were added in the same molar amounts. Measurements were performed at 200 Hz–6000 Hz frequencies for sound absorption. Samples for sound absorption were prepared in 0.1 mm thickness. According to the results, the aerogel produced with acetic acid provided the best sound insulation at approximately 2000 Hz. We also attempted to explain how these acids affect sound insulation.
Optimization of wire electrical discharge machining parameters of AA6063/Al2O3 nanocomposite processed by multi axial forging using Taguchi technique
Authors: Arya V. , Padap A. K.
Published: March 2024

The aluminium based matrix composites have excellent mechanical properties to use in automobile, aerospace, aviation, and military industries. The aluminium based matrix composite possesses desired characteristics like specific strength, excellent rigidity and wear resistance. The stir casting technique was used to fabricate the nanocomposite of AA6063 alloy reinforced with 5 weight % nano aluminium oxide particulate. To improve the microhardness of as cast and aluminium based nanocomposites, multiaxial forging was performed up to three passes for grain refinement. Wire electrical discharge machining was used to machine both as cast and “AA6063/Al2O3” (zero and three multi axial forging pass). The machining characteristics of samples were statistically examined using the Taguchi technique. The material removal rate in three multiaxial forging pass nanocomposite sample increased as peak current increases. However, increasing the pulse off time resulted in the lowest material removal rate. The surface roughness was found to be higher in the nanocomposite sample in comparison to as cast. The machining on nanocomposite multiaxial forged sample has a greater impact as compared to as cast. After machining, scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the surface morphology. The presence of different elements in the castings was validated using energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy.
Loss of PTPRS elicits potent metastatic capability and resistance to temozolomide in glioblastoma
Authors: Zhang Yihua , Chang Liugang , Huang Ping , Cao Min , Hong Rujun , Zhao Xinhu , He Xuzhi , Xu Lunshan
Published: March 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive brain tumor type with worse clinical outcome due to the hallmarks of strong invasiveness, high rate of recurrence, and therapeutic resistance to temozolomide (TMZ), the first‐line drug for GBM, representing a major challenge for successful GBM therapeutics. Understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive GBM progression will shed novel insight into therapeutic strategies. Receptor‐type tyrosine‐protein phosphatase S (PTPRS) is a frequently mutated gene in human cancers, including GBM. Its role in GBM has not yet been clarified. Here, inactivating PTPRS mutation or deficiency was frequently found in GBM, and deficiency in PTPRS significantly induced defects in the G2M checkpoint and limited GBM cells proliferation, leading to potent resistance to TMZ treatment in vitro and in vivo. Surprisingly, loss of PTPRS triggered an unexpected mesenchymal phenotype that markedly enhances the migratory capabilities of GBM cells through upregulating numerous matrix metalloproteinases via MAPK‐MEK‐ERK signaling. Therefore, this work provides a therapeutic window for precisely excluding PTPRS‐mutated patients who do not respond to TMZ.