bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical and Nutritional Constituents of Leaf Extracts of Two Edible Medicinal Plants in Nigeria: A Comparative Appraisal
Authors: Evuen Uduenevwo Francis , Kpomah Enyohwo Dennis
Published: July 2023

Humanity has constantly sought empirical treatments for health problems and nutritional deficits since the 20th century. In this regard, synthetic medications have been in extensive use. However, their applications in such conditions are often accompanied by negative side effects coupled with accounts of the development of resistance, which has driven an increase in the quest for creative alternatives like plant-based medications. Thus, botanicals derived from plants with medicinal attributes are an indispensable component of existence today. They enhance good health particularly for residents in remote areas where access to appropriate nutrition and healthcare is often a challenge. In the present investigation, the phytochemical and nutritional constituents of ethanol leaf extracts of two significant plants with nutritional and therapeutic relevance, Dennettia tripetala, and Aframomum melegueta, were comparatively examined through the exploration of established protocols. In the phytochemical investigation, D. tripetala has a predominance of alkaloids (4.91%), terpenes (3.03%), saponins (3.76%), flavonoids (6.10%), and tannins (5.89%). Contrarily, no significant difference (p> 0.05) was observed in the cardiac glycoside contents of D. tripetala (2.25%), and A. melegueta (2.38%). The proximate data shows a greater proportion of moisture (13.11%), protein (10.54%), fibre (5.01%) and carbohydrate (59.36%) contents in D. tripetala. However, A. melegueta had a greater quantity of ash, and lipids (11.76 %, and 7.46%) than D. tripetala (6.52%, and 5.42%). The elemental assessment of the leaves shows that the concentrations of calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorous in A. melegueta were significantly higher (p<0.05) than those of D. tripetala. The opposite results were obtained for the levels of Zinc and Copper in A. melegueta and D. tripetala respectively. Therefore, the differential compositions of the chemical components present in leaf extracts of the two plants have given an insight into the best source of active principles and nutrients among them, to exploit in medicinal preparations and diet formulations for combating diseased conditions induced by pathogenic organisms and nutritional inadequacies respectively.
Daily Low-Volume Paracentesis and Clinical Complications in Patients With Refractory Ascites
Authors: Tergast Tammo L. , Griemsmann Marie , Stockhoff Lena , Port Kerstin , Heidrich Benjamin , Cornberg Markus , Wedemeyer Heiner , Lenzen Henrike , Richter Nicolas , Jaeckel Elmar , Maasoumy Benjamin
Published: July 2023

Importance

The potential association of low-volume paracentesis of less than 5 L with complications in patients with ascites remains unclear, and individuals with cirrhosis and refractory ascites (RA) treated with devices like Alfapump or tunneled-intraperitoneal catheters perform daily low-volume drainage without albumin substitution. Studies indicate marked differences regarding the daily drainage volume between patients; however, it is currently unknown if this alters the clinical course.

Objective

To determine whether the incidence of complications, such as hyponatremia or acute kidney injury (AKI), is associated with the daily drainage volume in patients with devices.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study of patients with liver cirrhosis, RA, and a contraindication for a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt who received either device implantation or standard of care (SOC; ie, repeated large-volume paracentesis with albumin infusion), and were hospitalized between 2012 and 2020 were included. Data were analyzed from April to October 2022.

Interventions

Daily ascites volume removed.

Main outcomes and Measures

The primary end points were 90-day incidence of hyponatremia and AKI. Propensity score matching was performed to match and compare patients with devices and higher or lower drainage volumes to those who received SOC.

Results

Overall, 250 patients with RA receiving either device implantation (179 [72%] patients; 125 [70%] male; 54 [30%] female; mean [SD] age, 59 [11] years) or SOC (71 [28%] patients; 41 [67%] male; 20 [33%] female; mean [SD] age, 54 [8]) were included in this study. A cutoff of 1.5 L/d or more was identified to estimate hyponatremia and AKI in the included patients with devices. Drainage of 1.5 L/d or more was associated with hyponatremia and AKI, even after adjusting for various confounders (hazard ratio [HR], 2.17 [95% CI, 1.24-3.78]; P = .006; HR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.01-2.16]; P = .04, respectively). Moreover, patients with taps of 1.5 L/d or more and less than 1.5 L/d were matched with patients receiving SOC. Those with taps of 1.5 L/d or more had a higher risk of hyponatremia and AKI compared with those receiving SOC (HR, 1.67 [95% CI, 1.06-2.68]; P = .02 and HR, 1.51 [95% CI, 1.04-2.18]; P = .03), while patients with drainage of less than 1.5 L/d did not show an increased rate of complications compared with those receiving SOC.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, clinical complications in patients with RA performing low-volume drainage without albumin infusion were associated with the daily volume drained. Based on this analysis, physicians should be cautious in patients performing drainage of 1.5 L/d or more without albumin infusion.
“Retinal Vasculitis” With Bilateral Retinal Detachments
Authors: Kalra Mehak , Hua Hong-Uyen , Srivastava Sunil K.
Published: July 2023

A 68-year-old man with a history of B-cell lymphoma and active renal cell carcinoma, receiving cabozantinib therapy, presents with worsening hazy vision in the right eye after retinal detachment repair of the left eye. What would you do next?
Osteoblast‐derived extracellular vesicles exert osteoblastic and tumor‐suppressive functions via SERPINA3 and LCN2 in prostate cancer
Authors: Ito Kagenori , Yamamoto Tomofumi , Hayashi Yusuke , Sato Shun , Nakayama Jun , Urabe Fumihiko , Shimasaki Takeo , Nakamura Eijiro , Matui Yoshiyuki , Fujimoto Hiroyuki , Kimura Takahiro , Egawa Shin , Ochiya Takahiro , Yamamoto Yusuke
Published: July 2023

Clinically, the osteolytic phenotype is rare in prostate cancer (PCa), and the prognosis is generally worse than that of the osteoblastic phenotype. Osteoblastic prostate cancer (BPCa) is a major type of bone metastasis. Several factors responsible for osteogenesis have been identified, but the molecular mechanism of osteoblastic bone metastasis in PCa is not fully understood. Here, we show the osteogenic and tumor‐suppressive roles of SERPINA3 and LCN2 in BPCa. In a co‐culture of osteoblasts (OBs) and BPCa cells, SERPINA3 and LCN2 were remarkably upregulated in BPCa via OB‐derived extracellular vesicles, while they were not in the co‐culture of OBs and osteolytic prostate cancer (LPCa) cells. In both the co‐culture system and mouse xenograft experiments with intracaudal injection, enhanced expression of SERPINA3 and LCN2 in PCa led to osteogenesis. Additionally, the addition of SERPINA3 and LCN2 to BPCa cells significantly suppressed the proliferative potential. Retrospective analysis also confirmed that high expression levels of SERPINA3 and LCN2 were significantly correlated with a better prognosis. Our results may partially explain how osteoblastic bone metastasis develops and why the prognosis for BPCa is relatively better than that for LPCa.
Parameter variation‐based impulsive adaptive synchronization on Lur'e dynamical networks with hybrid time‐varying delays
Authors: Wang Zhihua , Tang Ze , Park Ju H. , Feng Jianwen
Published: July 2023

In this article, the global and exponential synchronization of Lur'e networks with hybrid time‐varying delays is investigated. For sake of saving control costs, a novel impulsive adaptive controller is presented, where the adaptive feedback control input is utilized to compensate the control effects of the impulsive signal. Meanwhile, suitable control gains are obtained according to the designing on adaptive updating laws. In view of the definition of average impulsive interval, the generalized comparison principle and the formula of parameter variation, sufficient conditions for achieving global and exponential synchronization of Lur'e dynamical networks are eventually derived. Two relevant numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of theoretical analysis and the control scheme.
Cytosolic Interactome Protects Against Protein Unfolding in a Single Molecule Experiment
Authors: Scalvini Barbara , Heling Laurens W.H.J. , Sheikhhassani Vahid , Sunderlikova Vanda , Tans Sander J. , Mashaghi Alireza
Published: July 2023

Single molecule techniques are particularly well suited for investigating the processes of protein folding and chaperone assistance. However, current assays provide only a limited perspective on the various ways in which the cellular environment can influence the folding pathway of a protein. In this study, a single molecule mechanical interrogation assay is developed and used to monitor protein unfolding and refolding within a cytosolic solution. This allows to test the cumulative topological effect of the cytoplasmic interactome on the folding process. The results reveal a stabilization against forced unfolding for partial folds, which are attributed to the protective effect of the cytoplasmic environment against unfolding and aggregation. This research opens the possibility of conducting single molecule molecular folding experiments in quasi‐biological environments.
Exciton Dynamics and Optically Pumped Lasing in 1‐Naphthylmethylamine‐Based Quasi‐2D Perovskite Films
Authors: Nasu Ryotaro , Tang Xun , Watanabe Satoru , Senevirathne Chathuranganie A. M. , Tumen‐Ulzii Ganbaatar , Matsushima Toshinori , Adachi Chihaya
Published: July 2023

Films of the quasi‐2D perovskite based on 1‐naphthylmethylamine (NMA) are promising as the gain medium for optically pumped lasing and future electrically pumped lasing because of its low lasing threshold and small electroluminescence efficiency rolloff. However, reasons for the low threshold and small efficiency rolloff are still unclear. Therefore, exciton dynamics are investigated in NMA‐based quasi‐2D perovskite films. It is found that quenching of bright excitons by other excitons or charge carriers is unlikely in NMA‐based quasi‐2D perovskite films, which is one reason for the low lasing threshold and small efficiency rolloff. Moreover, thermally stimulated current measurements reveal that the defect levels inside the band gap of the NMA‐based quasi‐2D perovskite are shallow, with a depth of ≈0.3 eV, causing a decrease in nonradiative exciton recombination through the defects. Therefore, population inversion can be easily achieved, leading to the low lasing threshold as well. For fabrication of NMA‐based quasi‐2D perovskite laser devices with even lower lasing thresholds, a circular‐shaped optical resonator, and small‐molecule‐based defect passivation are used. Optically pumped lasing can be obtained from these devices, with a threshold of ≈1 µJ cm−2, which is one of the lowest values ever reported in any perovskite lasers.
Bidirectional Catalyst with Robust Lithiophilicity and Sulfiphilicity for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Li Yanan , Deng Yirui , Yang Jin‐Lin , Tang Wenhao , Ge Ben , Liu Ruiping
Published: July 2023

The application of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) is immensely impeded by notorious shuttle effect, sluggish redox kinetics, and irregular Li2S deposition, which result in large polarization and rapid capacity decay. To obtain the LSBs with high energy density and fast reaction kinetics, herein, a heterostructure composed by nitrogen‐deficient graphitic carbon nitride (ND‐g‐C3N4) and MgNCN is fabricated via a magnesiothermic denitriding technology. Lithophilic C3N4 with abundant nitrogen‐deficient acts as a conductive framework, together with the sulfiphilic MgNCN, lithium‐polysulfides (LiPSs) can be effectively captured followed by a regulated Li2S nucleation. Furthermore, the oxidation conversion kinetics can be accelerated as well. As expected, the LSBs with catalytic MgNCN/ND‐g‐C3N4 as the interlayer exhibit remarkable electrochemical performance with a discharge capacity of 650 mAh g−1 at 4 C. Meanwhile, a low capacity decay of 0.008% per cycle can be reached at 1 C after 400 cycles. Even with a high areal sulfur loading of 5.1 mg cm−2, outstanding capacity retention can be achieved at 0.5 C (64.18%) and 1 C (90.46%). The presented strategy unlocks a new way for the LSBs design with highly efficient catalyst.
Layer Sliding And Twisting Induced Electronic Transitions In Correlated Magnetic 1t‐Nbse2 Bilayers
Authors: Dai Jiaqi , Qiao Jingsi , Wang Cong , Zhou Linwei , Wu Xu , Liu Liwei , Song Xuan , Pang Fei , Cheng Zhihai , Kong Xianghua , Wang Yeliang , Ji Wei
Published: July 2023

Correlated 2D layers, like 1T‐phases of TaS2, TaSe2, and NbSe2, exhibit rich tunability through varying interlayer couplings, which promotes the understanding of electron correlation in the 2D limit. However, the coupling mechanism is, so far, poorly understood and is tentatively ascribed to interactions among the orbitals of Ta or Nb atoms. Here, it is theoretically shown that the interlayer hybridization and localization strength of interfacial Se pz orbitals, rather than Nb orbitals, govern the variation of electron‐correlated properties upon interlayer sliding or twisting in correlated magnetic 1T‐NbSe2 bilayers. Each of the layers is in a star‐of‐David (SOD) charge‐density‐wave phase. Geometric and electronic structures and magnetic properties of 28 different stacking configurations are examined and analyzed using density‐functional‐theory calculations. It is found that the SOD contains a localized region, in which interlayer Se pz hybridization plays a paramount role in varying the energy levels of the two Hubbard bands. These variations lead to three electronic transitions among four insulating states, which demonstrate the effectiveness of interlayer interactions to modulate correlated magnetic properties in a prototypical correlated magnetic insulator.
Spin‐Orbit Readout Using Thin Films of Topological Insulator Sb2Te3 Deposited by Industrial Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Teresi Salvatore , Sebe Nicolas , Patterson Jessy , Frottier Théo , Kandazoglou Aurélie , Noël Paul , Sgarro Paolo , Térébénec Damien , Bernier Nicolas , Hippert Françoise , Attané Jean‐Philippe , Vila Laurent , Noé Pierre , Cosset‐Chéneau Maxen
Published: July 2023

Driving a spin‐logic circuit requires the production of a large output signal by spin‐charge interconversion in spin‐orbit readout devices. This should be possible by using topological insulators, which are known for their high spin‐charge interconversion efficiency. However, high‐quality topological insulators have so far only been obtained on a small scale, or with large scale deposition techniques that are not compatible with conventional industrial deposition processes. The nanopatterning and electrical spin injection into these materials have also proven difficult due to their fragile structure and low spin conductance. The fabrication of a spin‐orbit readout device from the topological insulator Sb2Te3 deposited by large‐scale industrial magnetron sputtering on SiO2 is presented. Despite a modification of the Sb2Te3 layer structural properties during the device nanofabrication, a sizeable output voltage is measured that can be unambiguously ascribed to a spin‐charge interconversion process. The results pave the way for the integration of layered van der Waals materials in spin‐logic devices.
Optical Characteristics of Stretchable Chiral Liquid Crystal Elastomer under Multiaxial Stretching
Authors: Kwon Chaehyun , Nam Seungmin , Han Sang Hyun , Choi Su Seok
Published: July 2023

Chiral liquid crystal elastomers (CLCEs) are soft photonic materials that exhibit both the photonic characteristics of nanoscale periodic helical structures and mechanical properties of rubber. Owing to its elasticity, the structural color of CLCEs can be tuned through mechanical deformations known as mechanochromism. Thus far, there is significant research attention to exploring the mechanochromism of CLCEs. However, most studies have only discussed the color shifting of CLCEs under uniaxial deformation. Therefore, the optical and chiral structural deformation behaviors of CLCEs under multiaxial stress are not well understood. This study investigates multiaxial (uniaxial, biaxial, and out‐of‐plane) stretching‐induced helical structure change and the resulting optical properties of CLCEs. The results confirm that uniaxial stretching leads to a loss of intrinsic circular polarization selectivity in CLCEs due to helix unwinding deformations, while biaxial and out‐of‐plane stretching maintain circular polarization.
A Miniaturized, Battery‐Free, Wireless Wound Monitor That Predicts Wound Closure Rate Early
Authors: Garland Nate T. , Song Joseph W. , Ma Tengfei , Kim Yong Jae , Vázquez‐Guardado Abraham , Hashkavayi Ayemeh Bagheri , Ganeshan Sankalp Koduvayur , Sharma Nivesh , Ryu Hanjun , Lee Min‐Kyu , Sumpio Brandon , Jakus Margaret A. , Forsberg Viviane , Kaveti Rajaram , Sia Samuel K. , Veves Aristidis , Rogers John A. , Ameer Guillermo A. , Bandodkar Amay J.
Published: July 2023

Diabetic foot ulcers are chronic wounds that affect millions and increase the risk of amputation and mortality, highlighting the critical need for their early detection. Recent demonstrations of wearable sensors enable real‐time wound assessment, but they rely on bulky electronics, making them difficult to interface with wounds. Herein, a miniaturized, wireless, battery‐free wound monitor that measures lactate in real‐time and seamlessly integrates with bandages for conformal attachment to the wound bed is introduced. Lactate is selected due to its multifaceted role in initiating healing. Studies in healthy and diabetic mice reveal distinct lactate profiles for normal and impaired healing wounds. A mathematical model based on the sensor data predicts wound closure rate within the first 3 days post‐injury with ≈76% accuracy, which increases to ≈83% when pH is included. These studies underscore the significance of monitoring biomarkers during the inflammation phase, which can offer several benefits, including short‐term use of wound monitors and their easy removal, resulting in lower risks of injury and infection at the wound site. Improvements in prediction accuracy can be achieved by designing mathematical models that build on multiple wound parameters such as pro‐inflammatory and metabolic markers. Achieving this goal will require designing multi‐analyte wound monitors.
All‐Electrospun, Water‐Resistant, Breathable, Wearable, and Stable Metal Halide Perovskite Engineered Electroactive Polymer Textiles for Flexible Piezoelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Mondal Bidya , Sarkar Ranjini , Saini Dalip , Gupta Varun , Kundu Tarun Kumar , Mandal Dipankar
Published: July 2023

Halide perovskite materials have recently received a lot of attention in the field of optoelectronic and energy harvesting applications regardless of their environmental instabilities. Herein, a three‐layer assembled wearable piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG) is fabricated by continuous electrospinning process, where the middle layer is an active component, made of Cs3Bi2I9‐PVDF (PVDF‐CBI) nanofiber and outer layers are conducting (σ ≈ 2.2 S m−1) electrodes of PEDOT‐coated PVDF (PVDF‐PEDOT) nanofiber mats. The incorporation of perovskite Cs3Bi2I9fillers fully inducesβ‐phase (i.e., 100% of yield) in the PVDF matrix. Furthermore, the mechanism of electroactiveβ‐phase formation is analyzed by DFT studies. The PENG is able to generate superior open circuit voltage of ≈12 V, short circuit current of ≈7 µA, and power density of 3 µW cm−2. In addition, it demonstrates remarkable breathability (b ≈1.13 kg m−2d−1), flexibility, water‐resistive properties (water contact angle ≈138◦), and mechanoacoustic sensitivity (Sm≈5 V Pa−1), enabling the development of robust wearable devices that are efficient enough to monitor human physiological motions and simultaneously harvest the biomechanical energy. These findings ingeniously promote the acceptability of lead‐free metal halide perovskite and conducting polymer in wearable energy harvesting, self‐powered robotics, and health‐care devices applications.
Structure‐Crack Detection and Digital Twin Demonstration Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Intelligent Maintenance
Authors: Xin Chuanfu , Xu Zifeng , Xie Xie , Guo Hengyu , Peng Yan , Li Zhongjie , Liu Lilan , Xie Shaorong
Published: July 2023

The accomplishment of condition monitoring and intelligent maintenance for cantilever structure‐based energy harvesting devices remains a challenge. Here, to tackle the problems, a novel cantilever‐structure freestanding triboelectric nanogenerator (CSF‐TENG) is proposed, which can capture ambient energy or transmit sensory information. First, with and without a crack in cantilevers, the simulations are carried out. According to simulation results, the maximum change ratios of natural frequency and amplitude are 1.1% and 2.2%, causing difficulties in identifying defects by these variations. Thus, based on Gramian angular field and convolutional neural network, a defect detection model is established to achieve the condition monitoring of the CSF‐TENG, and the experimental result manifests that the accuracy of the model is 99.2%. Besides, the relation between the deflection of cantilevers and the output voltages of the CSF‐TENG is first built, and then the defect identification digital twin system is successfully created. Consequently, the system is capable of duplicating the operation of the CSF‐TENG in a real environment, and displaying defect recognition results, so the intelligent maintenance of the CSF‐TENG can be realized.
Perovskite Solar Module: Promise and Challenges in Efficiency, Meta‐Stability, and Operational Lifetime
Authors: Le Thanh‐Hai , Driscoll Honora , Hou Cheng‐Hung , Montgomery Angelique , Li Wayne , Stein Joshua S. , Nie Wanyi
Published: July 2023

Perovskite photovoltaics (PVs) are an emerging solar energy generation technology that is nearing commercialization. Despite the unprecedented progress in increasing power conversion efficiency (PCE) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), up‐scaling lab‐made cells to solar modules remains a challenge. In this work, the recent progress of making perovskite mini‐modules is reviewed. In particular, a database summarizing the module size, performance, hysteresis, and operational lifetimes reported in the literature is built. After analyzing the performance losses from scaling PSCs to mini‐modules based on the data collected from the literature, the current key to high‐performance perovskite mini‐modules is found to be the coating method optimization. If the perovskite layer quality is well reserved, a >24% mini‐module efficiency is projected by only considering the losses from lateral resistivity and laser scribing area. Next, performance characteristics are explored including hysteresis and meta‐stable power outputs that must be overcome to correctly characterize perovskite modules. Finally, current challenges associated with the long‐term stability of perovskite modules are examined and the importance of such durability for commercialization is discussed. It is hoped that the findings in this review provide a bridge for the development of perovskite modules that will lead to commercialization in the near future.
A simulative deep learning model of SNP interactions on chromosome 19 for predicting Alzheimer's disease risk and rates of disease progression
Authors: Bae Jinhyeong , Logan Paige E. , Acri Dominic J. , Bharthur Apoorva , Nho Kwangsik , Saykin Andrew J. , Risacher Shannon L. , Nudelman Kelly , Polsinelli Angelina J. , Pentchev Valentin , Kim Jungsu , Hammers Dustin B. , Apostolova Liana G. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Identifying genetic patterns that contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD) is important not only for pre‐symptomatic risk assessment but also for building personalized therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

We implemented a novel simulative deep learning model to chromosome 19 genetic data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative and the Imaging and Genetic Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease datasets. The model quantified the contribution of each single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and their epistatic impact on the likelihood of AD using the occlusion method. The top 35 AD‐risk SNPs in chromosome 19 were identified, and their ability to predict the rate of AD progression was analyzed.

RESULTS

Rs561311966 (APOC1) and rs2229918 (ERCC1/CD3EAP) were recognized as the most powerful factors influencing AD risk. The top 35 chromosome 19 AD‐risk SNPs were significant predictors of AD progression.

DISCUSSION

The model successfully estimated the contribution of AD‐risk SNPs that account for AD progression at the individual level. This can help in building preventive precision medicine.
Preparation of SiO2/Si3N4ws/PU reinforced coating and its reinforcement mechanism for SLS‐molded TPU materials
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Wu Wei , Hu Huanbo , Rui Zhengguo , Ye Junjian , Wang Zhengyi , Wang Yi , Shen Hui
Published: July 2023

To address the shortcomings of large porosity and insufficient mechanical properties of skeletonized Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fabrications during the preparation of composite materials by selective laser sintering (SLS) technology. In this paper, SiO2@Si3N4ws‐GPTMS core‐shell structure filler was successfully prepared by first synthetically growing silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanospheres on the surface of silicon nitride whiskers (Si3N4ws) in situ by sol–gel method, and then modified with silane coupling agent Silane coupling agent (GPTMS). Then the filler was incorporated into the inner and outer surfaces of TPU skeletonized structural parts by vacuum dip coating using a water‐based polyurethane (PU) coating post‐treatment enhancement method, and the surface coating coating of TPU skeletonized structural parts was achieved by warming and curing. This composite filler coating structure greatly improved the mechanical properties of the SLS parts (tensile strength of 20.3 MPa and elongation at break of 338.9%, 163% higher tensile strength, 17.7% higher elongation at break, and 672% higher rebound dimension compared with the pure TPU sintered parts). In addition, the thermal stability of the SLS sintered parts was improved, which greatly enhanced the application of the sintered manufactured parts prepared by SLS technology in the field of rebound‐absorbing artificial wear.
The influence of redox modulation on hypoxic endothelial cell metabolic and proteomic profiles through a small thiol‐based compound tuning glutathione and thioredoxin systems
Authors: Bruschi Michela , Biancucci Federica , Masini Sofia , Piacente Francesco , Ligi Daniela , Bartoccini Francesca , Antonelli Antonella , Mannello Ferdinando , Bruzzone Santina , Menotta Michele , Fraternale Alessandra , Magnani Mauro
Published: July 2023

Reduction in oxygen levels is a key feature in the physiology of the bone marrow (BM) niche where hematopoiesis occurs. The BM niche is a highly vascularized tissue and endothelial cells (ECs) support and regulate blood cell formation from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). While in vivo studies are limited, ECs when cultured in vitro at low O2 (<5%), fail to support functional HSC maintenance due to oxidative environment. Therefore, changes in EC redox status induced by antioxidant molecules may lead to alterations in the cellular response to hypoxia likely favoring HSC self‐renewal. To evaluate the impact of redox regulation, HUVEC, exposed for 1, 6, and 24 h to 3% O2 were treated with N‐(N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteinyl)‐S‐acetylcysteamine (I‐152). Metabolomic analyses revealed that I‐152 increased glutathione levels and influenced the metabolic profiles interconnected with the glutathione system and the redox couples NAD(P)+/NAD(P)H. mRNA analysis showed a lowered gene expression of HIF‐1α and VEGF following I‐152 treatment whereas TRX1 and 2 were stimulated. Accordingly, the proteomic study revealed the redox‐dependent upregulation of thioredoxin and peroxiredoxins that, together with the glutathione system, are the main regulators of intracellular ROS. Indeed, a time‐dependent ROS production under hypoxia and a quenching effect of the molecule were evidenced. At the secretome level, the molecule downregulated IL‐6, MCP‐1, and PDGF‐bb. These results suggest that redox modulation by I‐152 reduces oxidative stress and ROS level in hypoxic ECs and may be a strategy to fine‐tune the environment of an in vitro BM niche able to support functional HSC maintenance.
Predictive and prognostic role of early apolipoprotein A‐I alteration in recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients treated with anti‐PD‐1 therapy
Authors: Xiao Bi Jing , Sima Xiao Xian , Chen Gang , Gulizeba Haimiti , Zhou Ting , Huang Yan
Published: July 2023

Background

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive and prognostic value of serum lipids in recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (R/M NPC) patients received anti‐PD‐1 therapy.

Materials and Methods

Patients treated with anti‐PD‐1 therapy (monotherapy or combined with chemotherapy) from two clinical trials (CAPTAIN and CAPTAIN‐1st study) were included. Serum lipids were measured at baseline and after two cycles of treatment. We examined the impact of both baseline and post‐treatment lipid levels on objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and duration of response (DOR).

Results

Of 106 patients, 89 patients (84%) were male. The patients' median age was 49 years. An early elevated (after two cycles of treatment) cholesterol (CHO), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), apolipoprotein A‐I (ApoA‐I), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were significantly associated with better ORR. Moreover, early elevated CHO, LDL‐C, and ApoA‐I were also positively correlated with DOR and PFS. Further multivariate analysis showed that only early change in ApoA‐I could independently predict PFS (HR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.11–4.61; p = 0.034). The median PFS for patients with early elevated and reduced ApoA‐I was 11.43 and 1.89 months, respectively. However, baseline lipids levels do not play a significant role in the prognosis and prediction of patients with anti‐PD‐1 treatment.

Conclusion

Collectively, an early elevation in ApoA‐I was correlated with better outcomes for anti‐PD‐1 therapy in patients with R/M NPC, suggesting that clinicians should consider the early alteration of ApoA‐I as a useful marker in treating R/M NPC patients with anti‐PD‐1.
Design, Synthesis, and Docking Study of Quinine‐9‐Triazolyl Conjugates
Authors: Bose Priyanka , Singh Mala , Singh Anoop S. , Jaiswal Manoj K. , Tiwari Vinod K.
Published: July 2023

To develop a better chemotherapeutically potential candidate for lung cancer treatment and cure with repurposed motifs, quinine has been linked with biocompatible CuAAC‐inspired regioselective 1,2,3‐triazole linker and a series of ten novel 1,2,3‐triazolyl‐9‐quinine conjugates have been developed by utilizing click conjugation of glycosyl ether alkynes with 9‐epi‐9‐azido‐9‐deoxy‐quinine under standard click conditions. In parallel, the docking study indicated that the resulting conjugates have an overall appreciable interaction with ALK‐5 macromolecules. Moreover, the mannose‐triazolyl conjugate exhibited the highest binding interactions of −7.6 kcal/mol with H‐bond interaction with the targeted macromolecular system and indicate the hope for future trials for anti‐lung cancer candidates.
Four New Flavonoid C‐Glycosides Isolated from Achyranthes aspera and Their Nitric Oxide Production Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Tuyet Lan Hoang Thi , Mai Nguyen Thi , Mai Anh Bui Thi , Dung Duong Thi , Van Kiem Phan , Huu Tai Bui
Published: July 2023

A chemical study of the methanol extract of the aerial parts of Achyranthes aspera led to the isolation of four new flavonoid C‐glycosides (1–4) along with eight known analogs (5–12). Their structures were elucidated by a combination of spectroscopic data analysis, HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra. All the isolates were evaluated their NO production inhibitory activity in LPS‐activated RAW264.7 cells. Compounds 2, 4, and 8–11 showed significant inhibition with IC50 values ranging from 25.06 to 45.25 μM, compared to that of the positive control compound, L‐NMMA, IC50 value of 32.24 μM, whereas the remaining compounds were weak inhibitory activity with IC50 values over 100 μM. This is the first report of 7 from Amaranthaceae family, and 11 from the genus Achyranthes.
Secondary cardiac amyloidosis in a patient with mixed connective tissue disease: A case report
Authors: Khanal Ujjwal Prakash , Ghimire Prinska , Shahi Tejash , Dhakal Tulsi Ram , Jha Saket
Published: July 2023

We report the case of a 62‐year‐old man who presented with shortness of breath, cough, bilateral lower limbs' swelling, and blackish discoloration of multiple fingertips over the past 2 months. Anti‐Ribonucleoprotein antibodies were found to be present, and gadolinium‐based cardiac MRI showed non‐vascular subendocardial enhancement with diffuse symmetrical thickening of the left ventricular wall. A diagnosis of Mixed connective tissue disease with secondary cardiac amyloidosis was thus made, and the patient was successfully managed with intravenous cyclophosphamide, corticosteroids, and other supportive measures. Although extremely rare, this case shows that secondary cardiac amyloidosis should be considered while managing patients with MCTD.
High‐Temperature Air Synthesis: A Facile Approach to Nitrogen‐Doped, Metal‐Free Carbon Electrocatalysts
Authors: Etesami Mohammad , Khezri Ramin , Rezaei Motlagh Shiva , Gopalakrishnan Mohan , Thanh Nguyen Mai , Yonezawa Tetsu , Wannapaiboon Suttipong , Nootong Kasidit , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: July 2023

This study presents a novel, straightforward method for synthesizing hierarchical nitrogen‐doped carbon structures, positioning metal‐free, carbon‐based materials as potential substitutes in electrochemical reactions such as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The unique method involves a single‐step pyrolysis process in an air atmosphere, eliminating the need for an inert atmosphere and pre‐treatment procedures. It enables simultaneous self‐templating and heteroatom doping, resulting in oxygen‐rich functional groups embedded in the nitrogen‐doped carbon structure. We also crafted a carbon structure without heteroatom doping, comparing its electrochemical performance in ORR and HER. Our findings indicate that carbon catalysts pyrolyzed at higher temperatures have more pyridinic N, functional groups, and active sites‐ factors conducive to electrochemical reactions. We tested the air‐synthesized electrocatalysts for ORR in alkaline electrolyte and employed the optimized nitrogen‐doped carbon catalyst, pyrolyzed at 700 °C in an air atmosphere, as cathode material in a zinc‐air battery. This catalyst demonstrated ORR performance comparable to the commercial Pt/C catalyst and showed minimal overpotential in acidic HER. Our research establishes a pioneering technique for synthesizing porous, metal‐free, nitrogen‐doped carbon materials, paving the way for potential energy applications.
Prediction of Water‐Methanol Mixture Properties by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Moradi Hojatollah , Azizpour Hedayat , Keynejad Kamran , Ghorbani Nia Reyhane , Esmaeili Amin
Published: July 2023

The water‐methanol mixture density at 293.15–303.15 K and atmospheric pressure was predicted by using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and empirical data. To compute van der Waals and electrostatic interactions, the Ewald summation and atom‐based approaches were used. Then, Jouyban‐Acree (J‐A) and density correlation methods for two‐component mixtures were applied for MD simulation results at various temperatures and methanol mole fractions. The COMPASS force field was the best to envisage the mixture density. The average absolute relative deviation (AARD) for J‐A and density correlation models was estimated at 0.12 and 0.15 %, respectively. Based on the MD simulation and experimental data, the AARD for the water‐methanol mixture density at 293.15, 298.15, and 303.15 K was 4.25, 4.37, and 4.8 %, respectively.
Effect of Mg/Al Oxides Supports on CaO Sorbents Prepared by Wet‐Mixing Synthesis for CO2 Capture
Authors: Qi Xiaolei , Luo Cong , Wu Huizhe , Wang Guang , Luo Tong
Published: July 2023

Calcium looping is one of the effective methods for post‐combustion CO2 capture. A key issue is choosing the appropriate supports to synthesize effective calcium‐based sorbents. In this study, calcium looping sorbents incorporated with MgO, Ca3Al2O6, and MgAl2O4 supports were prepared by wet‐mixing synthesis. Characterizations were made to determine the cyclic CO2 capture capacity, crystalline structure, porosity, and morphological changes of the sorbents over multiple cycles. The results showed that, at the mass ratio of CaO to support oxides of 7:3, the MgAl2O4 mixed support showed better CO2 capture performance than the MgO and Ca3Al2O6 supports. Moreover, the sorbent showed a porous and fluffy microstructure with a high specific surface area, making it a suitable candidate for cyclic CO2 capture.
Bioequivalence of Two 6‐Mercaptopurine Tablet Formulations in Healthy Fasting Chinese Volunteers
Authors: Deng Yaping , Wang Guohua , Jiang Guojun , Song Dandan , Xu Xian , Zhao Dandan , Tan Guojun , Tan Zijun , Chen Jian
Published: July 2023

The supply of branded 6‐mercaptopurine (6‐MP) is limited in China, necessitating the local production and clinical evaluation of generic alternatives. We evaluated the in vivo bioequivalence (BE) of a new generic mercaptopurine tablet (50 mg) formulation by comparing peak plasma concentration and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) with a branded 6‐MP formulation as the reference in 36 healthy fasting Chinese adults. The in vivo BE was evaluated by the average BE test. The safety parameters of the test and reference formulations were also evaluated. The geometric mean ratios for AUC over the dosing interval and AUC from time zero to infinity were 104% and 104%, respectively, of the reference values, while the point estimate of the geometric mean ratio for peak plasma concentration was 104% of the reference value. The test and reference formulations in this study were both deemed safe as only 23 Grade 1 adverse events were observed in 13 of 36 subjects. The test and reference formulations of 6‐MP tablets meet the regulatory criteria for BE in healthy fasting Chinese adults.
Systematic survey on generative adversarial networks for brain tumor segmentation and classification
Authors: Kaur Jatinder , Singh Ashutosh Kumar , Jindal Neeru
Published: July 2023

Brain cancer is one of the leading diseases of death in the world caused due to unwanted proliferation of cells. If left untreated, this growth can spread into other human body parts. So early detection helps to enhance long‐term survival and reduce the mortality rate. A lot of research has been done in the field of brain tumors. There have been numerous previous studies conducted using traditional approaches. So far, few review studies are available on brain tumor segmentation and classification and moreover, they were quite limited in explaining the connections of Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) for brain tumor segmentation and classification. This review mainly focuses on the GAN architectures for brain tumor segmentation and classification. Therefore, first, an overview of brain tumors, GAN‐based publications, approaches to brain tumor segmentation and classification, data sets, software platforms, and performance parameters, are presented. Finally, GAN applications and current trends are discussed. This thorough survey will aid researchers and beginners in the future in creating a better decision support system.
Impacts of body positions on the geniohyoid muscle contraction and swallowing difficulty in healthy adults
Authors: Lu Fuwen , Okazaki Tatsuma , Okuyama Junko , Izumi Shin‐Ichi
Published: July 2023

Background

Body positions affect swallowing and gastroesophageal reflux. Swallowing impairment is one of the main causes of aspiration pneumonia. To prevent pneumonia, evaluation of body positions on gastroesophageal reflux recommended 30 degrees or higher semi‐recumbent positions. The geniohypoid muscle and tongue play central roles in swallowing. However, the effects of body positions on contracting rates in the geniohyoid muscle and tongue pressure are unclear. Moreover, correlations between geniohyoid muscle contracting rates and subjective swallowing difficulties are unclear.

Aims

This study aimed to identify the proper body positions on contracting rates in the geniohyoid muscle, tongue pressure, and subjective swallowing difficulties.

Materials & Methods

Twenty healthy adults swallowed 15‐ or 50 ml of water at 90 degrees sitting, 60‐ and 30 degrees semi‐recumbent, and 0 degrees supine positions. We scored the subjective swallowing difficulties and measured the tongue pressure and the number of swallows. An ultrasound evaluated the geniohyoid muscle size and contracting rates.

Results

At sitting and 60 degrees semi‐recumbent positions, the geniohyoid muscle showed greter contracting rates than at 30 degrees semi‐recumbent and supine postions (P < 0.05), which resulted in easier swalloiwng. Greater tongue pressure was weakly correlated with fewer swallows (r = ‐0.339, P = 0.002), whereas the body positions did not affect.

Conclusion

Considering swallowing and gastroesophageal reflux together, a trunk angle of 60 degrees or more might be beneficial for reducing the risk of aspiration.
Application of the scaling readiness approach for scaling of nutrition‐sensitive initiatives in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi: A case of orange fleshed sweetpotato value chain
Authors: Chesoli Rose Nakhaye , Sartas Murat , Muzhingi Tawanda , Emanuel Owako
Published: July 2023

Malnutrition remains a global challenge contributing to 45% of child mortality worldwide. Agri‐nutrition‐sensitive interventions have been judged as cost‐effective in addressing the key underlying determinants of nutrition. There is conclusive evidence of nutritional benefits from agriculture‐related programs such as the orange‐fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) program in addressing vitamin A deficiency which affects an estimated 165 million children under five globally. However, such programs are complex and require a multi‐sectoral approach (agriculture, health, trade, education, and processing) to realize the benefits. Consequently, getting the right partner in various sectors for sustainable implementation is challenging. This study shares experience using the scaling readiness approach in identifying strategic partners to scale up the OFSP value chain sustainably. Scaling Readiness is an effective approach in programming and designing multi‐sectoral nutrition‐sensitive projects to mitigate scaling challenges and selecting strategic partners to overcome bottlenecks. Having the right partners reduces the cost of implementation, allowing the project to collaborate, leverage existing initiatives, reallocate resources, and reorientate some aspects leading to focusing on what works rather than what is available. If well utilized, Scaling Readiness can help programs accelerate the scaling up of nutrition‐sensitive technologies, reducing malnutrition.
Research on the side converter system of wind power grid based on fractional LCL filter
Authors: Huang Xiaoping , Chen Yongji , Zhou Hongkai , Lu Qiu , Wei Zhongxin
Published: July 2023

The power electronic converters and grid‐connected filters were important components of the permanent magnet direct drive wind power generation system whose performance directly determines the quality of wind power generation. In past modeling, analysis, and control studies, capacitive and inductive components were often treated as integral‐order components. However, the inductance and capacitance components in the actual permanent magnet direct drive wind generator were fractional‐order components, and their electrical characteristics will change with the change of order, which had an important impact on the dynamic and static characteristics of the system. In this paper, the mathematical model of the fractional‐order LCL (FOLCL) filter was derived. Through simulation, it could be seen that the FOLCL filter can avoid resonance fundamentally. At the same time, the fractional‐order PI (FOPI) controller was introduced into the machine‐side current converter, and the parameters of the FOPI controller of the outer speed loop and the inner current loop were adjusted by using the time‐domain optimization method. The results showed that the efficiency of the FOPI controller was significantly better than that of the integer‐order PI controller in realizing maximum wind energy capture. It provides theoretical support and practical application value for the stable operation of the wind power generation system.
Green synthesis of zero‐dimensional carbon nanostructures in energy storage applications—A review
Authors: Yadav Shubham , Daniel Sobhi
Published: July 2023

Over the past decade, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as the supreme category of zero‐dimensional (0D) carbonaceous nanostructures having potential applications in energy storage and optoelectronics devices. These zero‐dimensional carbon nanostructures have captivated excellent consideration and have ascended as a substitute to traditional metal‐based semiconductor QDs due to their intriguing estates like excellent photoluminescence, quantum yield, scalability, tuneable emission, biocompatibility, chemical inertness, and excellent hydrophilicity. These unique properties of zero‐dimensional carbon materials have inspired researchers to employ them in bioimaging, optoelectronic, catalytic, and energy storage applications. The last couple of years have perceived an incredible rise in the green synthetic strategies of carbon‐based QDs and their applications and this review familiarizes the reader with the current and significant progress in the synthesis of carbon‐based QDs/GQDs from various natural precursors with their quantum yields as well as intriguing applications in diverse fields. In addition, this communication not only delivers critical perceptions toward the development in the field of advanced energy devices but also highlights the advancements of these nanosized carbonaceous materials in the energy storage devices such as in supercapacitors and batteries. Also, it focuses on the broad scope of carbon nanomaterials and nanotechnology towards cutting‐edge research and expansion in the arena of energy storage applications of carbon‐based QDs.