bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dermal Substitutes for Clinical Management of Severe Burn Injuries: Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Vo Van , Haidari Hanif , Cowin Allison J. , Wagstaff Marcus , Dearman Bronwyn , Kopecki Zlatko
Published: January 2025

Despite significant advances in recent decades, severe burns remain a formidable challenge, with high morbidity and mortality rates. The immunocompromised state following severe burn injuries, compounded by the loss of the protective skin barrier, increases the risk of bacterial colonization and invasion. Without appropriate management, infections in burn patients can progress to sepsis, a life‐threatening complication. Current burn care often fails to achieve optimal tissue regeneration and infection prevention, necessitating a combination of different approaches. Developing innovative and safer strategies to mitigate burn infections is essential for improving patient outcomes. This review provides updated insights into various biomaterials tailored for managing infections in severe burns, offering comprehensive insights and a summary of emerging technologies for potential clinical application. Additionally, an in‐depth discussion on current research and clinical areas that warrant further investigation is presented. Potential avenues for next‐generation dermal substitutes aimed at improving regeneration and preventing burn wound infections are then explored.
Billion‐Scale Expansion of Functional hiPSC‐Derived Cardiomyocytes in Bioreactors Through Oxygen Control and Continuous Wnt Activation
Authors: Vicente Pedro , Inocêncio Lara R. , Ullate‐Agote Asier , Louro Ana F. , Jacinto João , Gamelas Beatriz , Iglesias‐García Olalla , Martin‐Uriz Patxi San , Aguirre‐Ruiz Paula , Ríos‐Muñoz Gonzalo R. , Fernández‐Santos María Eugenia , van Mil Alain , Sluijter Joost P. G. , Prósper Felipe , Vega Manuel M Mazo , Alves Paula M. , Serra Margarida
Published: January 2025

Generation of upscaled quantities of human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CM), for therapeutic or testing applications, is both expensive and time‐consuming. Herein, a scalable bioprocess for hiPSC‐CM expansion in stirred‐tank bioreactors (STB) is developed. By combining the continuous activation of the Wnt pathway, through perfusion of CHIR99021, within a mild hypoxia environment, the expansion of hiPSC‐CM as aggregates is maximized, reaching 4 billion of pure hiPSC‐CM in 2L STB. In particular, the importance of i) controlling the dissolved oxygen at 10% O2 to reduce reactive oxygen species production and upregulate genes involved in cell proliferation, resulting in higher expansion rates (tenfold) compared to normoxic conditions, and ii) maintaining constant power input per volume as a scale‐up criteria is demonstrated. After expansion, hiPSC‐CM further mature in culture, revealing more mature transcriptional signatures, higher sarcomere alignment and improved calcium handling. This new bioprocess opens the door to time‐ and cost‐effective generation of hiPSC‐CM.
Biomolecular Microneedle Initiates Fe3O4/MXene Heterojunction‐Mediated Nanozyme‐Like Reactions and Bacterial Ferroptosis to Repair Diabetic Wounds
Authors: You Wenjie , Cai Zichao , Xiao Feng , Zhao Jiaxin , Wang Guanyi , Wang Wang , Chen Zesheng , Hu Weikang , Chen Yun , Wang Zijian
Published: January 2025

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a dual role in wound healing. They act as crucial signaling molecules and antimicrobial agents when present at moderate levels. However, excessive levels of ROS can hinder the healing process for individuals with diabetes. As a result, targeting ROS levels to maintain redox balance has become a promising strategy for improving wound recovery. Currently, no biomaterials have been reported to simultaneously up‐regulate and down‐regulate ROS to achieve broad‐spectrum antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Inspired by the site‐dependent effect of nanomaterials, a micron‐sized ferroferric oxide (Fe3O4)/MXene (FM) heterojunction is synthesized using a hydrothermal method. The FM heterojunction could scavenge extracellular ROS by activating catalase (CAT)‐like and superoxide dismutase (SOD)‐like nanozyme activities. Meanwhile, FM heterojunction could release ferric ions and ferrous ions by defect engineering to induce bacterial ferroptosis, up‐regulating intercellular ROS, and lipid peroxidation. For applications in vivo, FM heterojunction is incorporated into the tips of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)‐based microneedle (termed as GFM microneedle) using a two‐step casting technique. The results showed that GFM microneedle combined with photothermal therapy could improve S. aureus‐infected skin regeneration in diabetic rats. The effectiveness and safety of GFM microneedle are not less favorable than that of a commercial wound dressing. This study provides a proof‐of‐concept for heterojunction‐mediated regenerative medicine via a site‐dependent ROS‐targeting strategy.
Targeting signaling pathways in neurodegenerative diseases: Quercetin's cellular and molecular mechanisms for neuroprotection
Authors: Islam Md. Rezaul , Al‐Imran Md. Ibrahim Khalil , Zehravi Mehrukh , Sweilam Sherouk Hussein , Mortuza Mohammad Rakib , Gupta Jeetendra Kumar , Shanmugarajan Thukani Sathanantham , Devi Kadirvel , Tummala Tanuja , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Rajagopal Kalirajan , Asiri Mohammed , Ahmad Irfan , Emran Talha Bin
Published: January 2025

Background

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer‘s disease, Parkinson‘s disease, and Huntington‘s disease, are complex and challenging due to their intricate pathophysiology and limited treatment options.

Methods

This review systematically sourced articles related to neurodegenerative diseases, neurodegeneration, quercetin, and clinical studies from primary medical databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science.

Results

Recent studies have included quercetin to impact the cellular and molecular pathways involved in neurodegeneration. Quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in vegetables and fruits, is gaining attention for its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. It regulates signaling pathways such as nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), sirtuins, and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt). These pathways are essential for cellular survival, inflammation regulation, and apoptosis. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that quercetin improves symptoms and pathology in neurodegenerative models, indicating promising outcomes.

Conclusions

The study explores the potential of incorporating laboratory research into practical medical treatment, focusing on quercetin‘s neuroprotective effects on NDs and its optimal dosage.
Robust Mechanically Interlocked Network Ionogels
Authors: Yang Mengling , Li Jinhao , Wang Chunyu , Yang Li , Fan Zhiwei , Wang Wenbin , Liu Guoquan , Cheng Lin , Qu Shaolei , Zhang Zhaoming , Zou Jiang , Yu Wei , Gu Guoying , Yan Xuzhou
Published: January 2025

Ionogels have attracted considerable attention as versatile materials due to their unique ionic conductivity and thermal stability. However, relatively weak mechanical performance of many existing ionogels has hindered their broader application. Herein, we develop robust, tough, and impact‐resistant mechanically interlocked network ionogels (IGMINs) by incorporating ion liquids with mechanical bonds that can dissipate energy while maintain structural stability. Profiting from the dynamic yet stable nature of the mechanically interlocked networks, IGMINs exhibit high tensile strength (9.6 MPa), fracture energy (39 kJ/m2), and toughness (25.9 MJ/m3), along with a high elongation rate (473 %) and excellent impact resistance and shape memory, resulting in overall performance that surpasses most reported ionogels. Furthermore, in the application of strain sensors for monitoring the gait of crawling robots, the toughness and robustness of IGMINs ensure their ability to consistently output stable electrical signals during the stretching and contraction processes, thereby highlighting their practical application potential. Our work provides a new research strategy for toughening ionogels and promotes the development of mechanically interlocked materials.
Tackling Fish Passage Problems: Conservation Implications of Fish Ascending Hypobaric Pressure Gradients in a Pipe
Authors: Jeremy Yoel , Martino Jasmin , Felder Stefan , Kingsford Richard T. , Suthers Iain M.
Published: January 2025

Instream barriers disrupt the connectivity of rivers worldwide, threatening fish communities by limiting access to essential habitats. Innovative conduit fishways, such as the siphon fishway with flow regulators, have potential for improving native fish passage in Australian rivers but necessitate fish to negotiate pressure reduction below ambient atmospheric pressure. We investigated the volitional passage of juvenile silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus) against hypobaric pressure gradients to 1‐m (~91.5 kPa) and 2‐m (~81.8 kPa) elevations inside a pipe, with and without flow. Fish negotiated both elevations (~20% maximum pressure reduction relative to ambient atmospheric pressure) without adverse impacts, and the presence of flow resulted in faster passage across elevations. The probability for a proportion of the group of five fish passing within an hour ranged from 38% to 80% across four treatments, with a predicted 50% chance of passage of three out of five individuals occurring under 45 min for three treatment groups. A reliable comparison of passage performance between treatments, however, was complicated by the possible effect of fish conditioning. In demonstrating fish ability to negotiate hypobaric pressure gradients, we provided a foundation for using the siphon fishways as a cost‐effective fish passage for threatened native species. These findings present significant conservation opportunities for improving connectivity at sites affected by low head barriers globally.
Substituent‐driven ESIPT in Chromeno‐pyrroloquinoline probe for differentiating normal and cancer cells
Authors: Choudhary Savita , Paulkar Suraj , Shukla Adarash Kumar , Wadkar Ajit G. , Nirmal Jayabalan , Bhattacharya Anupam
Published: January 2025

Despite significant advancements in the structural flexibility and functional diversity of fluorescent molecular sensors, the chromophores often require complex synthetic processes and are typically designed to perform only a specific function. Herein, we have demonstrated the unique features of fluorophores based on a fused coumarin‐indole scaffold, which are synthetically available via a one‐step reaction. Four fluorophores (ICH, ICEst, ICOMe, and ICNMe2) with varying substituents were synthesized and characterized. Subsequently, their response towards aggregation, solvent polarity, and viscosity was studied. Probe ICNMe2 exhibited aggregation‐induced emission (AIE), while others displayed aggregation‐caused quenching. The viscosity‐sensitive nature of these fluorophores was evaluated using the Froster‐Hoffman equation. ICNMe2 displayed the highest sensitivity towards polarity and polarity‐independent viscosity. The plausible mechanism involved is intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) in probes ICH, ICEst, and ICOMe, whereas excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) coupled ICT in the case of ICNMe2. Based on the distinct AIE‐viscosity responses and large stokes shift (~175 nm), ICNMe2 was utilized for distinguishing normal (RAW 264.7) cells and cancer (A549) cells using confocal microscopy. Results demonstrated that ICNMe2 could effectively extend its photophysical activity in the cellular milieu with an enhanced emission in channel‐1 (λem = 460–530 nm) for A549 compared to RAW 264.7 cells.
Practice‐based educational and theatre research: A scoping review
Authors: Lewandowska Kamila , Bojnarowicz Mikołaj
Published: January 2025

Practice‐based research (PBR) has emerged as a valuable alternative to traditional scientific methods by generating knowledge through practice and enhancing the relevance of research to practitioners. However, knowledge about PBR has largely been developed within disciplinary silos, leading to its limited cross‐disciplinary understanding. This paper addresses this gap by analysing 116 PBR studies in Educational Research and Theatre, two fields with very active but separately analysed PBR traditions. Our analysis produces a framework that categorises PBR into four distinct types based on key dimensions: the ‘Aim of research’ and the ‘Model of practice involvement’. The framework reveals discipline‐specific patterns, including divergent tendencies in how PBR is utilised across these fields: in Educational Research, PBR is often employed to improve professional practice, whereas in Theatre, it is central to exploring and theorising practice itself. The proposed framework holds potential for broader applicability across other fields, contributing to a more cohesive understanding of PBR as a versatile research strategy.
Photoinduced Chemiluminescence Determination of Prednisolone Using Lucigenin‐Cobalt 5,10,15,20‐Tetra(4‐Pyridyl)‐21H,23H‐Porphine System
Authors: Kazemi Sayed Yahya
Published: January 2025

Sensitive and precise assay of prednisolone, a steroid hormone, has received great attention due to its significant role in the treatment of a series of diseases. In this study, we have developed a simple, quick, and accurate technique in this part to measure prednisolone. Cobalt 5,10,15,20‐tetra(4‐pyridyl)‐21H,23H‐porphine (CoTPyP) as a mimic peroxidase catalyzes the chemiluminescence (CL) reaction of lucigenin for the first time. CoTPyP has a great impact on the CL signal. Furthermore, the CL system has been successfully used for the prednisolone flow‐injection test. The findings showed that the UV irradiation of prednisolone led to an unimolecular photochemical reaction that could enhance yield of high‐energy intermediate and cause higher CL emission. Under ideal experimental circumstances, CL intensity was shown to be proportionate to prednisolone concentration in the range of 0.1–170 μg mL−1 (r = 0.9925, n = 4). A detection limit of 0.072 μg mL−1 was observed. Compared with the HPLC approach, our proposed method provides a sensitive, fast, and efficient analysis of prednisolone in pharmaceutical formulations and biological fluids.
Rituals of Harm: Castration and Genealogies of Sacred Wound Cultures in the Hijra Communities of India
Authors: Goel Ina
Published: January 2025

Existing within hierarchical kinship networks, requiring patronage of gurus, hijras, a ‘third’ gender community, undergo mandatory apprenticeship to a commune life through a discipleship‐lineage system where castration is seen as a necessary truth and final rite of passage to achieve a virtuous hijra identity. This article examines the subjectivities of hijras from working‐class backgrounds and narrows its focus to analyse how individual hijras develop an understanding of themselves from their occupied subject positions in the larger hijra community shaped by internal hijra cultural traditions (parampara) manifested through rituals of harm. Based on long‐term ethnographic fieldwork of 10 years in New Delhi and its neighbouring states, this article discusses the genealogies of wound cultures through castration in the hijra community acquired through their experiential and vernacular knowledge systems of self‐flagellation as a practice of ethical self‐making for their sacred rebirth in a nirvana (a state of freedom from all suffering) body.
Milk extracellular vesicles: A burgeoning new presence in nutraceuticals and drug delivery
Authors: Marsh Spencer R. , Beard Claire E. , Gourdie Robert G.
Published: January 2025

Mammalian milk, a multifaceted developmental biofluid, has attracted new attention due to its diverse constituents and their implications for health and disease. Among these constituents, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as focal points of investigation. EVs, including exosomes and small EVs, have demonstrated biological activity in preclinical studies—including reports of enhancement of cognition and neural complexity, promotion of gastrointestinal development, barrier function and microbiome richness, the bolstering of immune response, and facilitation of musculoskeletal maturation in neonates. The richness of milk as a source of EVs is noteworthy, with hundreds of milliliters (at >1012 EVs/mL) of nanovesicles extractable from a single liter of milk (>1014 EVs/starting liter of milk). Techniques such as tangential flow filtration hold promise for scalable production, potentially extending to thousands of liters. Together with the scale and increasing sophistication of the dairy industry, the abundance of EVs in milk underscores their commercial potential in various nutraceutical applications. Beyond natural bioactivity, milk EVs (mEVs) present intriguing possibilities as orally deliverable, non‐immunogenic pharmaceutical carriers, with burgeoning interest in their utilization for heart disease and cancer chemotherapy and as vectors for gene‐editing modules such as CrispR. This review synthesizes current knowledge on mEV biogenesis, characterization, isolation methodologies, and cargo contents. Moreover, it delves into the therapeutic potential of mEVs, both as inherently bioactive nanovesicles and as versatile platforms for drug delivery. As efforts progress toward large‐scale implementation, rigorous attention to safe, industrial‐scale production and robust assay development will be pivotal in harnessing the translational promise of small EVs from milk.
Psychometric Properties of the Critical Appraisal Tool for Anatomical Meta‐Analysis
Authors: D'Antoni Anthony V. , Kamel Nancy , Tubbs R. Shane , McCartan Morgan G. , Strobel Laine W. , Bubb Kathleen C.
Published: January 2025

The hallmark of evidence‐based anatomy (EBA) is the anatomical meta‐analysis (AMA). The Critical Appraisal Tool for Anatomical Meta‐Analysis (CATAM) was recently published to enable users to appraise AMAs quickly and effectively. The tool is valuable for students and clinicians who need to judge the quality of AMAs, which informs clinical decision making and results in better patient care. Subjective measures of the tool's face and content validity have been established, but establishing its reliability provides a more objective measure of the instrument's dependability. This study investigated the interrater reliability (IRR) of the CATAM between novice and expert raters. Three graduate students and three professors (two anatomists and one pharmacist) read the original CATAM paper, and then had a post hoc meeting to discuss scoring with the tool. Three recent AMAs (published between 2017 and 2022) were randomly chosen from PubMed, and all six raters scored the papers blindly. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) statistic was used to calculate the interrater reliability (IRR) between all scores, and then the ICCs between novice and expert scores were compared. Cronbach's alpha (internal consistency) of the CATAM was also calculated (SPSS 25, Armonk, NY). ICC for AMA‐1 was 0.999 (95% CI, 0.997–0.999), p = 0.000, and alpha was 0.999. ICC for AMA‐2 was 0.994 (95% CI, 0.988–0.998), p = 0.000, and alpha was 0.994. ICC for AMA‐3 was 0.998 (95% CI, 0.995–0.999), p = 0.000, and alpha was 0.998. ANOVA showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in mean ICCs between raters. The CATAM is a robust tool with excellent IRR (ICC > 0.990) and internal consistency (alpha > 0.990). No significant difference in ICC scores between novices and experts suggests the tool does not require prior expert knowledge to be effective. Now that the reliability of the CATAM is established, it can be more widely adopted by students and physicians worldwide to evaluate the quality of AMAs. The CATAM offers widespread applicability, and can be adopted in medical education, journal clubs, and clinical seminars to critically evaluate AMAs.
A Cascade of Abscess, Fasciitis, and Obstruction: Rare Presentation of Perforated Appendicitis
Authors: Bozorgmehr Ramin , Shiroudi Nastaran Hossein , Bastan Fatemeh , Jalali Mehrsa , Alibeik Nazanin , Rashidian Maryam
Published: January 2025

Fasciitis and abdominal abscess, followed by bowel obstruction could be the first manifestation of a silent perforated appendicitis. So, clinicians should evaluate the patient's complete clinical picture to prevent misdiagnoses and delays in care.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 (ERCO2) on Pb Electrocatalysts using Mn3O4 as Anode
Authors: Yadav V. S. K. , Saad Mohammed A. H. S. , Al‐Marri Mohammed J. , Kumar Anand
Published: January 2025

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (ERCO2) to chemical feedstock and fuels is a promising strategy for reducing excessive carbon dioxide emissions. There are various benefits of converting CO2 to a single product and Pb is one of the active and efficienct catalyst for reducing CO2 to HCOOH. The current work used the electro‐deposition method to produce manganese oxide (Mn3O4) (nano particle flakes) and highly active, low‐cost lead (Pb) catalysts with a variety of morphologies (Nano crystal Flakes, Nano wires, and Nano crystal sheets). For the first time, the Mn3O4 catalyst was employed as the anode in the water oxidation process to produce protons, and the electrocatalytic effects of Mn3O4 and Pb on the ERCO2 reaction were investigated. The influence of CO2 reduction on catalyst loading is investigated and the lone product HCOOH is detected on the produced Pb catalysts. Using a systematic electrochemical study, the final product of the ERCO2 reaction is identified and measured. The maximum Faradaic efficiency was measured on Pb (nano crystal flakes) at −1.003 V, yielding efficiency of 77.32 % (10 min) in 1 mg/cm2 catalyst loading and 78.4 % on nano wires (10 min) at −1.003 V in 2 mg/cm2 catalyst loading, respectively. More specifically, it is discovered that the reaction selectivity and efficiency of CO2 electroreduction to HCOOH are highly influenced by the morphology and loading of the catalyst. These results provide an intimate understanding of water oxidation on Mn3O4 and CO2 electroreduction on Pb catalyst.
Rare‐Earth Doping Induced Pinning Effect with Enhanced Chemo‐Mechanical Stability in Ni‐Rich Cathodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Hongyun , Su Yuefeng , Dong Jinyang , Yan Kang , Liu Jinzhong , Lu Yun , Wang Haoyu , Wang Chengzhi , Wu Feng , Chen Lai
Published: January 2025

Comprehensive Summary

The nickel‐rich layered ternary cathode material (NCM) has been extensively studied due to its high specific capacity and low cost. Nevertheless, with the increase of Ni content, the unstable structure of NCM material has gradually become prominent. Residual alkali on the surface and Li+/Ni2+ mixing before cycling, phase change, transition metal ions dissolution, microcracking, and other issues during the cycle, are the primary causes for the fast capacity fading of Ni‐rich materials. In this study, Sc3+ is doped into the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 material, which has been demonstrated to impede the Li+/Ni2+ mixing, while simultaneously increasing the layer spacing. This results in the stabilization of the material structure and an enhancement of both the cycling stability and the rate performance. Notably, single‐particle force testing and high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) imaging further demonstrate reduced stress accumulation and mitigated chemo‐mechanical failure. This study underscores the efficacy of a minor addition of multifunctional rare‐earth doping in enhancing the chemo‐mechanical stability of Ni‐rich cathodes, offering a straightforward and comprehensive solution to optimize the design and performance of energy storage cathodes.
Research of In0.48Ga0.52P/GaAs Heterojunction Interface Properties Improvement Deposited by MOCVD
Authors: Yu Dayang , Qiu Junjie , Liang Kang , Huang Yicang , Shen Wei
Published: January 2025

InGaP/GaAs heterojunction layers are commonly used as semiconductor materials in GaAs solar cells. Nevertheless, challenges endure in the form of poor quality InGaP/GaAs heterojunctions. This is attributed to the diffusion of P atoms caused by the memory effect in the GaAs absorption layer, as well as the As/P exchange and H2 etching effect in the InGaP window layer. In this work, the residual group‐V source evacuation (RSE) and stabilizing method have been utilized to InGaP/GaAs heterojunction interface quality, and these effects have been investigated. The variation of process gas concentrations in metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) reactor is numerically studied as an indicator of H2 etching and As/P exchange. Optimization of stabilizing and RSE period times is found to be necessary in order to achieve high‐quality heterojunction, balancing the memory effect, etching effect, As/P exchange effect, and GaAs crystal quality. When the RSE and stabilizing period times are both set to 0.5 s, it is observed that the photo luminescence (PL) performance of InGaP/GaAs reached its optimal level. These studies have great significance to the fabrication of InGaP/GaAs heterojunction‐based GaAs solar cell, which promotes the further development of multi‐junction and high photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) solar applications.
Supply–Demand Synergy Assessment of the Water–Energy–Food Nexus in the Hanjiang River Basin Under Future Land Scenarios
Authors: Yuan Weiqi , Wang Hongxiang , Guo Wenxian
Published: January 2025

Understanding the supply–demand matching and trade‐offs of ecosystem services is crucial for formulating land use policies. However, there remains a lack of clear understanding on how to coordinate the supply–demand mismatch of ecosystem services under different future scenarios. In examining the Hanjiang River Basin (HJRB), this study utilizes the PLUS and InVEST models to evaluate present spatiotemporal changes in water yield (WY), carbon storage (CS) and food provision (FP) within the water–energy–food nexus context. It further explores the spatiotemporal patterns and correlation analysis of the WEF nexus across varying scenarios. The findings suggest the following: (1) Between 2000 and 2020, there was a notable rise in both forest and built‐up land. Compared to the year 2020, in the cropland protection scenario (CPS), cropland increased by 2.19%. In the ecological protection scenario (EPS), forest area increased significantly by 4.06%. In the natural growth scenario (NGS), the largest increase was observed in construction land, which expanded by 26.31%. (2) Land use and cover change (LUCC) has a limited impact on the WEF nexus supply, accounting for about 1%. From 2000 to 2020, both WY and CS's ESDR exhibited a ‘decrease‐followed‐by‐increase’ trend, while FP's ESDR gradually increased, with only the mismatched area between supply and demand for WY decreasing. (3) Unlike the grid scale, the WEF nexus correlation at the county/city scale has significantly increased, and intense LUCC will alter the synergy and trade‐offs within the WEF nexus. Additionally, there exists a pronounced spatial misalignment between CS and WY. Therefore, this study can provide a comprehensive reference for land use planning aimed at achieving the coordinated development of humans and nature.
Assessing Temporal Variability of Turbidity in Pampean Shallow Lakes (Argentina) Using Three Decades of Landsat Imagery
Authors: Gayol Maira Patricia , Sánchez María Laura , Dogliotti Ana Inés
Published: January 2025

The Pampean region (Argentina) encompasses thousands of permanent shallow lakes, which can be either in turbid or clear water regimes. The intensification of human activities in this region has led to a general deterioration of their water quality. Remote sensing allows the monitoring of water quality in lakes over large areas and extended periods. The objectives of this study were to analyse temporal variations in turbidity in six shallow lakes using Landsat satellite data (5‐TM, 7‐ETM+ and 8‐OLI) for the period 1987–2020 and to evaluate the impact of total crop area and El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on these variations. A semi‐analytical turbidity algorithm using reflectance in the red and near‐infrared bands was tested against in situ turbidity measurements. The Floating Algal Index (FAI) was used to discard pixels with above‐water vegetation. The best performance of the algorithm was achieved using only the near‐infrared band for the four turbid lakes, and the red band for the two clear lakes. High vegetation coverage in clear lakes prevented the estimation of the complete turbidity series. A significant positive turbidity trend was observed for turbid lakes during the 2000s, coinciding with a sharp increase in cultivated area. Regarding ENSO, a statistically significant relationship with turbidity was observed for the entire period in one lake, but turbidity peaks coincided with La Niña events in all lakes. This study emphasizes the utility of remote sensing in complementing field studies and thus monitoring regional changes in aquatic systems over long periods.
Association between the Tpeak‐Tend interval on admission and coronary microvascular dysfunction in Takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Onishi Kyohei , Ueno Masafumi , Yamada Nobuhiro , Kakehi Kazuyoshi , Fujita Kosuke , Matsumura Koichiro , Nakazawa Gaku
Published: January 2025

Aims

The Tpeak‐Tend interval on electrocardiogram may be a predictor of worse outcomes in Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), but the mechanisms have not been fully determined. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between the corrected Tpeak‐Tend (cTp‐e) interval and coronary microvascular‐dysfunction (CMD) assessed by the angiography‐derived index of microvascular resistance (Angio‐IMR) and the in‐hospital prognosis in patients with TTS.

Methods and results

We retrospectively evaluated 111 consecutive patients admitted for TTS who underwent coronary angiography at Kindai University Hospital from October 2009 to July 2023. The Tpeak‐Tend interval was defined as the time interval between the peak and the end of the T wave in electrocardiogram lead V5 on admission. Angio‐IMR was assessed from aortic pressure, quantitative flow ratio (QFR), vessel length and hyperemic velocity using the formula described in validation studies. QFR, vessel length and hyperemic velocity was derived from coronary angiography and QAngio XA 3D software package. The degree of CMD was assessed by the maximum Angio‐IMR value in each of the three coronary arteries. The primary endpoint was the relationship between the grade of a prolonged cTp‐e interval on admission and Angio‐IMR. The secondary endpoint was the relationship between the grade of a prolonged cTp‐e interval on admission and in‐hospital adverse cardiovascular events (composite of acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, life‐threatening arrhythmia, thrombotic events, stroke and all‐cause death). The median age was 77.5 [71.0–83.0] years, and most patients were women (82.0%). The median cTp‐e interval was 114.5 [91.2–147.0] ms. The patients were categorized according to the tertiles of the cTp‐e interval (T1: 52.4–96.9 ms; T2: 100.1–129.1 ms; T3: 131.7–309.8 ms). There was a stepwise increment in the values of maximum Angio‐IMR in each of the three coronary arteries in tertiles of the cTp‐e interval (T1 vs. T2 vs. T3: 16.1 [14.7–19.3] vs. 21.8 [16.0–31.1] vs. 29.0 [27.2–31.9], P < 0.001). In‐hospital adverse cardiovascular events occurred in 53 of 111 patients (47.7%). There was a stepwise increment in the incidence of in‐hospital adverse cardiovascular events in tertiles of the cTp‐e interval (T1 vs. T2 vs. T3: 27.1% vs. 54.1% vs. 62.2%, P = 0.007). The multivariable analysis showed that prolonged cTp‐e interval (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.12–1.56; P < 0.001) was independent predictors of in‐hospital adverse cardiovascular events.

Conclusions

The Tpeak‐Tend interval on admission reflected CMD and predicts in‐hospital adverse cardiovascular events in patients with TTS.
Cardiac myosin binding protein C correlate with cardiac troponin I during an exercise training program in patients with HFrEF
Authors: Riveland E. , Ushakova A. , Valborgland T. , Karlsen T. , Dalen H. , Prescott E. , Omland T. , Linke A. , Halle M. , Marber M. , Ellingsen Ø. , Larsen A.I. ,   the SMARTEX‐HF Study Group
Published: January 2025

Background

Cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyC) is an emerging new biomarker of myocardial injury rising earlier and cleared faster than cardiac troponins. It has discriminatory power similar to high‐sensitive troponins in diagnosing myocardial infarction in patients presenting with chest pain. It is also associated with outcome in patients with acute heart failure. It is currently unclear how it relates to cardiac troponins in patients with chronic heart failure undergoing exercise training.

Methods and results

This is a post hoc analysis of symptomatic heart failure patients in the multicentre randomized SMARTEX trial. Patients were randomized to one of three arms: high‐intensity interval training, moderate continuous training and recommendation of regular exercise serving as control group (CG) for 12 weeks. As the training load in the two intervention arms was similar, these patients were merged and constituted the intervention group (IG). Clinical data and measurements were obtained at baseline and at 12 weeks. In 205 patients, serum was available for cMyC testing and in 196 patients, serum was available for hs‐cTni testing. Due to non‐normal distribution, cMyC and hs‐cTnI measurements were log‐transformed. A Bland–Altman plot was employed to evaluate the agreement of cMyC with hs‐cTnI measurements. Lastly, a linear regression model was applied. No significant differences were observed in the change of cMyC levels between the groups throughout the intervention period (∆ cMyC IG: −0.5 [IQR: −3.4; 2.1] vs. ∆ cMyC CG: −0.7 [IQR: −2.7; 2.6]). The change in log hs‐cTnI was significantly correlated with the change in log cMyC during the 12‐week intervention period, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of R = 0.52 (95% CI 0.37–0.66, P < 0.001). For every 10% increase in cMyC levels, hs‐cTnI levels rose by approximately 5%.

Conclusions

Changes in levels of the novel biomarker cMyC were significantly associated with hs‐cTnI serum levels in patients with symptomatic chronic HFrEF during a structured 12‐week exercise training programme. This may indicate that cMyC has a role as a future marker of subclinical myocardial damage.
Chemical Imaging Optimization of Light Addressable Potentiometric Sensor on Amplitude‐Phase Mode
Authors: Luo Jiezhang , Liu Shibin , Chen Yinghao , Tan Jie , Zhao Wenbo , Zheng Yaoxin , Yang Yongyi , Zhang Yun , Pan Yiming , Tan Yue , Li Guifang , Du Yongqian , Li Huijuan
Published: January 2025

Light‐addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) is one of the label‐free chemical imaging sensors and attractive for its flexible imaging capability coming from its unique addressing mechanism. Imaging quality of LAPS is limited by illumination intensity and stability of light source. In this study, the amplitude‐phase mode, which combines the advantages of constant‐bias mode and phase mode, is proposed. The role of amplitude‐phase mode in suppressing illumination interference and improving imaging quality has been theoretically proven. Better spatial resolution and the more realistic imaging effect are realized by LAPS in amplitude‐phase mode. The amplitude‐phase mode LAPS provides a feasible implementation for improving LAPS spatial resolution under a reducing illumination intensity.
Determination of Fluoroquinolones Antibiotics in Water by Polyrutin Film‐Modified Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: Qiu Jiao , Gou Wanglei , Chen Wen , Gao JingFeng
Published: January 2025

This study is aimed at the determination of a new pollutant, fluoroquinolones antibiotics (FQs). Taking ciprofloxacin (CIP) as the research representative, rutin polymer film‐modified sensor polyrutin modified glass carbon electrode (PRT/GCE) was prepared by electropolymerization, and a new analytical method for the determination of FQs was established, which is environmentally friendly, simple, efficient, and economical. The topography, elemental composition, and electrochemical behavior of the sensor were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The results showed that the linear range of the PRT/GCE sensor used for CIP was 0.8–50 μM, the detection limit was 0.050 μM, and the recovery rate was 94.9%–104%. In addition, when it was used to detect norfloxacin (NOR), enrofloxacin (ENR), pefloxacin (PEF), and rofloxacin (FLE) in FQs, the sensor similarly exhibited a broad linear range; its corresponding detection limits were 0.078, 0.16, 0.088, and 0.12 μM, respectively. The PRT/GCE sensor had a high active area, good catalytic performance for FQs, simple preparation, stable performance, and reusability. It has potential application value for routine determination of fluoroquinolones in real water.
Graphene Quantum Dot‐Based SEPSIS Immunosensor Using Procalcitonin as a Biomarker
Authors: Can Göksu , Özyurt Vasfiye Hazal , Çitil Burak Ekrem , Anik Ülkü
Published: January 2025

This study presents a targeted impedimetric immunosensor for the detection of procalcitonin (PCT), a biomarker associated with SEPSIS. The immunosensor was operated based on the interaction between PCT antibody (anti‐PCT) and PCT antigen, utilizing graphene quantum dot (GQD)‐modified carbon screen‐printed electrode (SPCE). Herein, GQDs, known for their large surface area and excellent electrical conductivity, served as the matrix for immobilizing anti‐PCT, thereby enhancing the electrochemical signal. Following the immobilization of anti‐PCT onto the GQD@SPCE, the interaction between anti‐PCT and with PCT antigen was monitored by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Experimental parameters were optimized, and the analytical characteristics were extensively evaluated. The developed impedimetric PCT immunosensor demonstrated a linear detection range of 0.1–10 ng/mL for PCT, with a detection limit of 0.01 ng/mL and a quantification limit of 0.03 ng/mL. Finally, developed GQD‐based impedimetric PCT immunosensor was applied to low‐ and high‐level original control serum samples of the selected kit and very promising recovery values were obtained.
Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube and Poly(Brilliant Cresyl Blue)‐Ternary Deep Eutectic Solvent‐Modified Electrodes for Simultaneous Determination of Acetaminophen and Dopamine
Authors: Liang Xizhen , Xinyi Liu , Yueming Zhou , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: January 2025

An electrochemical platform based on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNT) and poly(brilliant cresyl blue) (PBCB) modified glassy carbon electrodes has been fabricated with electropolymerization in ternary deep eutectic solvents (DES). The DES are composed of choline chloride as hydrogen bond acceptor and ethylene glycol and fructose as hydrogen bond donors, the proportions of which were optimized. Characterization was carried out by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The performance of the modified electrode as sensor was evaluated for simultaneous detection of dopamine (DA) and acetaminophen (APAP) in Britton–Robinson buffer aqueous solution by differential pulse voltammetry. The combination of CNT and PBCB formed in DES led to a synergistic effect resulting in improved electrochemical sensor performance. The electrochemical platform was successfully used for the simultaneous determination of APAP in pharmaceutical samples and of DA and APAP in human saliva and urine, with good recoveries.
Gadolinium‐Based Contrast Agents (GBCAs) for MRI: A Benefit–Risk Balance Analysis from a Chemical, Biomedical, and Environmental Point of View
Authors: Scarciglia Angelo , Papi Chiara , Romiti Chiara , Leone Andrea , Di Gregorio Enza , Ferrauto Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

Gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs) have revolutionized medical imaging, enhancing the accuracy and diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The increasing use of GBCAs has raised concerns about the release of gadolinium (Gd)(III) into the environment and potential risks for human health. Initially, multiple administrations of GBCAs were associated only with nephrogenic system fibrosis disease in individuals with impaired kidney function. Even if the Gd(III) retention in tissues has not yet been correlated with any specific disease, caution is required for the extensive use of GBCAs. The concerns related to the employment of GBCAs, due to the possible deposition and retention, should be extended also to healthy individuals without renal impairments. To ensure the well‐being of patients, there is a need to develop even more stable and better‐performing GBCAs, new MRI approaches requiring lower doses of GBCAs and, finally, innovative methods for recovering Gd(III) from both patients’ urines and the environment. This can have strong advantages for human health and for environmental sustainability, also considering Gd(III) scarcity, being a rare earth element, and the shared guideline to reduce, as much as possible, the use of rare metals.
Woman with right abdominal pain
Authors: Ku Wei‐Jiun , Ang Shy‐Yau , Chu Sheng‐En , Chang Chih‐Jung , Huang Chun‐Yen , Chiang Wen‐Chu , Sun Jen‐Tang
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the role of point‐of‐care ultrasonography (POCUS) in the diagnosis of epiploic appendagitis, a relatively rare but important cause of right lower quadrant (RLQ) abdominal pain, in an emergency department setting. We aimed to evaluate the utility of POCUS in differentiating epiploic appendagitis from other acute abdominal conditions such as appendicitis and diverticulitis.

Method

This was a case‐based study in which a 51‐year‐old female patient presented with a 3‐day history of RLQ abdominal pain. Initial clinical examination showed RLQ tenderness with rebound tenderness. POCUS was performed at the bedside, followed by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) for definitive diagnosis. The findings on POCUS were compared with CT imaging to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound.

Result

POCUS revealed a thickened ascending colon hyperechoic mass, adherent to the colon, which lacked the acoustic shadowing or blind‐ended tubular structure typically seen in appendicitis. These findings were consistent with epiploic appendagitis. The final diagnosis was confirmed by CT imaging, which demonstrated a hyperattenuating ring with surrounding fat stranding and mild colon wall thickening, consistent with epiploic appendagitis. POCUS showed a high sensitivity (92.3%) and specificity (100%) for diagnosing this condition.

Conclusion

POCUS is a valuable diagnostic tool in the emergency department for identifying epiploic appendagitis, particularly in patients with non‐specific abdominal pain. It can help avoid unnecessary surgical interventions and hospital admissions when properly utilised. While CT remains the gold standard for diagnosis, POCUS offers a rapid, non‐invasive and cost‐effective alternative in acute settings. Further research is recommended to evaluate the broader application of POCUS for epiploic appendagitis in varied clinical scenarios.
Synergistic prognostic value of base excess and fibrinogen in predicting mortality after severe trauma
Authors: Han Jonghee , Seok Junepill , Yoon Su Young , Kim Se Heon , Lee Jin Young , Ye Jin Bong , Lee Jin Suk , Sul Younghoon
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Although base excess (BE) and fibrinogen are established prognostic markers in severe trauma, their combined predictive power remains uncharacterized. This study aimed to determine whether admission BE and fibrinogen levels independently and interactively predict 30‐day mortality in severely injured adult trauma patients (ISS ≥ 15), thus informing improved resuscitation strategies.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed 513 adult trauma patients (ISS ≥ 15) admitted to a level I trauma center. Optimal BE and fibrinogen cutoffs were identified via ROC analysis. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression, controlling for key confounders, assessed the association between these biomarkers and 30‐day mortality.

Results

30‐day mortality was 12.1% (n = 62). Low BE and low fibrinogen were independently associated with increased mortality (p < 0.001 and p = 0.009, respectively). Critically, a strong synergistic interaction was identified (p < 0.001), with patients exhibiting both low BE and low fibrinogen showing a markedly increased mortality risk (HR 8.46, 95% CI 3.60–19.90, and p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Low admission BE and fibrinogen levels are strongly associated with increased mortality in severe trauma exhibiting a significant synergistic effect. These findings necessitate a multimodal approach to resuscitation targeting both metabolic acidosis and coagulopathy.
Prevalence of low‐dose aspirin prophylaxis and its impact on maternal and fetal outcome in pre‐eclamptic patients
Authors: Iweka R. O. , Maduako K. T. , Enabudoso E. J.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To determine the prevalence of low‐dose aspirin (LDA), missed opportunities in pre‐eclampsia prevention and its impact on maternofetal outcomes among patients with pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of pre‐eclampsia patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria, prospectively recruited from February 1, 2023 to January 31, 2024. Data were collected using interviewer‐administered questionnaires and medical records. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Chi‐squared analysis and logistics regression were used and p‐values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The mean age group of the 140 patients was 31.28 ± 6.29 years, of whom 17.9% used LDA and 52% were compliant. Missed opportunity for LDA use was 79.3% and was higher in high‐parity women, those with a low level of education, unemployed women, unbooked patients, and in low levels of antenatal care (p < 0.049, p < 0.008, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively) and these were statistically significant. About 94.5% and 74.3% who had vaginal delivery and cesarean section, respectively, experienced missed opportunities for LDA use, results that were statistically significant (p < 0.022). The association between missed opportunities and materno‐fetal complications (p > 0.604 and p > 0.318) were not significant. However, respondents who had missed opportunity LDA had higher odds of fetal complications (odds ratio 13.68, 95% confidence interval 2.50–74.91).

Conclusion

This study reveals underutilization and missed opportunities for LDA for pre‐eclampsia prevention leading to adverse materno‐fetal outcomes. There is a need to promote LDA use for the prevention of pre‐eclampsia among clinicians, especially at peripheral healthcare institutions.