bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacteriophage‐cocktail hydrogel dressing to prevent multiple bacterial infections and heal diabetic ulcers in mice
Authors: Shiue Sheng‐Jie , Wu Ming‐Shun , Chiang Yi‐Hsien , Lin Hsin‐Yi
Published: May 2024

Bacteriophage (phage) has been reported to reduce the bacterial infection in delayed‐healing wounds and, as a result, aiding in the healing of said wounds. In this study we investigated whether the presence of phage itself could help repair delayed‐healing wounds in diabetic mice. Three strains of phage that target Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were used. To prevent the phage liquid from running off the wound, the mixture of phage (phage‐cocktail) was encapsulated in a porous hydrogel dressing made with three‐dimensional printing. The phage‐cocktail dressing was tested for its phage preservation and release efficacy, bacterial reduction, cytotoxicity with 3T3 fibroblast, and performance in repairing a sterile full‐thickness skin wound in diabetic mice. The phage‐cocktail dressing released 1.7%–5.7% of the phages embedded in 24 h, and reduced between 37%–79% of the surface bacteria compared with the blank dressing (p <.05). The phage‐cocktail dressing exhibited no sign of cytotoxicity after 3 days (p <.05). In vivo studies showed that 14 days after incision, the full‐thickness wound treated with a phage‐cocktail dressing had a higher wound healing ratio compared with the blank dressing and control (p <.01). Histological analysis showed that the structure of the skin layers in the group treated with phage‐cocktail dressing was restored in an orderly fashion. Compared with the blank dressing and control, the repaired tissue in the phage‐cocktail dressing group had new capillary vessels and no sign of inflammation in its dermis, and its epidermis had a higher degree of re‐epithelialization (p <.05). The slow‐released phage has demonstrated positive effects in repairing diabetic skin wounds.
Therapeutic apheresis in kidney transplantation: Emerging trends
Authors: Okwuonu Chimezie Godswill , Shah Monarch , Rafique Iram , Abdelrazeq Abdallah Saleh , Kamal Jeanne , Rao Swati , Abiodun Balogun Rasheed
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The use of therapeutic apheresis (TA) either as stand‐alone or adjunctive treatment in kidney transplantation has increased over the years to become a leading indication. This study shows recent trends in indications for TA related to kidney transplantation, adverse events, and patient outcome in this cohort.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort review of adults who received TA for kidney transplant‐related indications from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2022, at the University of Virginia Medical Centre, Charlottesville, VA, USA. Data extracted include basic demographics, indication for apheresis, number of procedures, procedure characteristics, procedure‐related adverse events (complications), and serum ionized calcium and serum creatinine. Data were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS 2022 IBM Inc).

Results

Data from a total of 131 patients who received 860 TA procedures were analyzed. Indications for TA were antibody‐mediated rejection (65.5%), recurrent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (15%), thrombotic microangiopathy (5%), desensitization for ABO incompatibility (4.5%) and for HLA‐incompatibility (4.5%), and recurrent IgA nephropathy (1%). Some adverse events were encountered in 16.7% of the procedures and include hypocalcemia (7%), vascular access malfunction (0.7%), hypotension (1.2%), arrhythmia (0.6%), and depletion coagulopathy (0.6%). The overall case mortality rate was 8.4% over the 6‐year period. There was one death recorded on machine during TA resulting in a procedure‐mortality rate of 0.12%.

Conclusion

Antibody‐mediated rejection was the most common indication for TA related to kidney transplantation. Adverse events were minor and patient survival over the time was within usual limits.
Paraoxonase‐2 shRNA‐mediated gene silencing suppresses proliferation and migration, while promotes chemosensitivity in clear cell renal cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Schiavoni Valentina , Emanuelli Monica , Campagna Roberto , Cecati Monia , Sartini Davide , Milanese Giulio , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Pozzi Valentina , Salvolini Eleonora
Published: May 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) represents the most common subtype of renal tumor. Despite recent advances in identifying novel target molecules, the prognosis of patients with ccRCC continues to be poor, mainly due to the lack of sensitivity to chemo‐ and radiotherapy and because of one‐third of renal cell carcinoma patients displays metastatic disease at diagnosis. Thus, identifying new molecules for early detection and for developing effective targeted therapies is mandatory. In this work, we focused on paraoxonase‐2 (PON2), an intracellular membrane‐bound enzyme ubiquitously expressed in human tissues, whose upregulation has been reported in a variety of malignancies, thus suggesting its possible role in cancer cell survival and proliferation. To investigate PON2 involvement in tumor cell metabolism, human ccRCC cell lines were transfected with plasmid vectors coding short harpin RNAs targeting PON2 transcript and the impact of PON2 silencing on cell viability, migration, and response to chemotherapeutic treatment was then explored. Our results showed that PON2 downregulation was able to trigger a decrease in proliferation and migration of ccRCC cells, as well as an enhancement of cell sensitivity to chemotherapy. Thus, taken together, data reported in this study suggest that the enzyme may represent an interesting therapeutic target for ccRCC.
The Role of Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor (suPAR) as an Early Indicator of Mortality in Pediatric Septic Shock
Authors: Turan Caner , Yurtseven Ali , Ozkaya Pinar Yazici , Azarsiz Elif , Saz Eylem Ulas
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite advancements in antibiotic therapy and resuscitation protocols, sepsis and septic shock remain major contributors to morbidity and mortality in children. We aimed to investigate the utility of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) for the early detection of septic shock and to evaluate its accuracy in predicting mortality.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary pediatric emergency department (ED), enrolling patients diagnosed with the sepsis, severe sepsis, or septic shock. In addition to assessing infection biomarkers such as C‐reactive protein and procalcitonin, suPAR levels were quantified upon admission using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The primary outcome measure was 30‐day mortality.

Results

Overall 72 patients and 80 healthy children included. Plasma suPAR levels demonstrated a statistically significant elevation in the sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock groups compared with the control group (p < 0.001 for all). The septic shock group exhibited the highest suPAR levels upon admission, surpassing both the sepsis and severe sepsis groups (p = 0.009 and 0.042). ROC analysis underscored the promising potential of suPAR with an AUC of 0.832 for septic shock. Analysis of mortality prediction revealed significantly higher suPAR levels in nonsurvivors than survivors (9.7 ng/mL vs. 4.2 ng/mL; p < 0.001). Employing plasma suPAR levels to discriminate between mortality and survival, a threshold of ≥7.0 ng/mL demonstrated a sensitivity of 90.9% and specificity of 71.0%.

Conclusion

Plasma suPAR levels have the potential as a biomarker for predicting mortality in children with septic shock. In pediatric septic shock, the presence of plasma suPAR ≥7 ng/mL along with an underlying disease significantly increases the risk of mortality.
Revisiting surprise appeals: How surprise labeling curtails consumption
Authors: Schumacher Anika , Goukens Caroline , Geyskens Kelly , Nielsen Jesper H.
Published: May 2024

Elements of surprise are effective tools for attracting consumers' attention and influencing their choices. Consequently, a common marketing practice is to promote a product or consumption experience as surprising. An example is Netflix, which relabeled its “Play Something” feature as “Surprise Me.” While surprise labeling positively influences choice, across 10 studies and a variety of consumption experiences, this research shows that adding a surprise label can negatively influence actual consumption. Particularly when a consumption experience in itself is not meaningfully different from usual, surprise labeling might result in a perceived label–experience mismatch, ultimately leading to a curtailing of consumption. This research adopts a dual‐process perspective, providing evidence for both the cognitive appraisal of this label–experience mismatch and the heightened state of tense arousal accompanying this expectancy violation. Relatedly, we show that the negative consumption effect can be attenuated by increasing the degree of unexpectedness of the experience or by reducing tense arousal. Moreover, we show that consumers' dispositional need for cognitive closure moderates the observed consumption effect.
Moderators and predictors of treatment outcome following adjunctive internet‐delivered emotion regulation therapy relative to treatment as usual alone for adolescents with nonsuicidal self‐injury disorder: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ojala Olivia , Hesser Hugo , Gratz Kim L. , Tull Matthew T. , Hedman‐Lagerlöf Erik , Sahlin Hanna , Ljótsson Brjánn , Hellner Clara , Bjureberg Johan
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite the wide‐ranging negative consequences of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI), there are few evidence‐based treatments for NSSI among adolescents and little is known about what treatments that work best for whom. The objective of this study was to investigate moderators (i.e., for whom a specific treatment works) and predictors (i.e., factors associated with treatment outcome independent of treatment type) of treatment outcome in a randomized clinical trial comparing internet‐delivered emotion regulation individual therapy for adolescents (IERITA) plus treatment as usual (TAU) to TAU alone.

Methods

Adolescents (N = 166; mean [SD] age = 15.0 [1.2] years) with NSSI disorder were randomized to IERITA plus TAU (n = 84) or TAU‐only (n = 82). Adolescent emotion regulation difficulties, suicidality, NSSI frequency, depressive symptoms, sleep difficulties, global functioning, and age, and parental invalidation, were measured pre‐treatment and investigated as moderators and predictors of treatment outcome (i.e., NSSI frequency during treatment and for 4 weeks post‐treatment). A zero‐inflated negative binomial generalized linear mixed effects regression model was used to estimate the rate of NSSI change as a function of both treatment condition and moderator/predictor.

Results

No significant moderators of treatment outcome were found. Parental invalidation was a significant predictor of treatment outcome regardless of treatment condition, such that high levels of parental invalidation pre‐treatment were associated with a less favorable NSSI frequency.

Conclusions

We did not find evidence of a differential treatment effect as a function of any of the examined client factors. Future research should investigate moderation in larger samples and with sufficient statistical power to detect moderation effects of smaller magnitude. Results suggest that parental invalidation may have a negative impact on treatment response and highlight the importance of further investigating parental invalidation in the context of NSSI treatments.
Radical scavenging potential of spectrophotometric, spectroscopic, microscopic, and EDX observed zinc oxide nanoparticles from leaves, buds, and flowers extract of Bauhinia Variegata Linn: A thorough comparative insight
Authors: Abbas Zaheer , Irshad Muhammad , Ali Shaukat , Summer Muhammad , Rasheed Aamir , Jawad Muhammad
Published: May 2024

The present study incorporated an environment‐friendly and cost‐efficient green synthesis method for fabricating zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) using various parts (leaves, buds, and flowers) of Bauhinia Variegate Linn. UV‐Spectrophotometric analysis was used to confirm the synthesis of ZnO‐NPs, which showed an absorption band within 360–380 nm range. Further techniques like FT‐IR spectroscopy and (SEM) scanning electron microscopy equipped with a novel EDX were also included to confirm the synthesis, size, and shape of ZnO‐NPs. Results obtained by FT‐IR showed that the phytochemicals present in the ethanolic extract successfully acted as a capping agent. SEM micrographs confirmed irregularly shaped nanoparticles with an average size of 70–80 nm. The presence of Zinc and Oxygen peaks in EDX also confirmed the successful synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles. The radical scavenging (antioxidant) potential of prepared nanoparticles was also evaluated by DPPH radical assay. The ZnO‐NPs obtained from the ethanolic extract of buds showed the highest %RSA (86%) as compared to the flowers (79%) and leaves (76%). The current study findings showed the versatile morphology of all parts of the plant with significant antioxidant potential, establishing the use of Bauhinia Variegate in biological systems for various biomedical applications.

Research Highlights

A thorough comparative analysis of the radical scavenging power of major parts of the Bauhinia Variegate, which is 1st of its kind.

Extensive characterization using UV–Vis spectrophotometry, FT‐IR, SEM, and EDX to observe the conformational and morphological changes.

Analysis of the reduction potential of leaves, buds, and flowers of a single plant for future directions in green synthesis.
Lamiales epidermal dynamics: Unveiling antimicrobial resilience in a structural symphony
Authors: Aljowaie Reem M. , Zengin Gokhan , Jaradat Nidal , Mammadova Afat O. , Azad Abul Kalam , Beylerli Ozal , Beilerli Aferin , Valioglu Ferzane , Biturku Jonida , Kiren Ifrah
Published: May 2024

This research on Lamiales epidermal anatomy not only provides in‐depth understanding of their structural traits but also highlights the significance of uncovering the inherent antimicrobial resilience embedded within these plants. Such insights hold promise for advancing natural product‐based approaches in medicine, potentially contributing to the development of novel antimicrobial agents inspired by Lamiales unique biological defense mechanisms. Scanning microscopic tools were utilized to conduct foliar epidermal anatomy of nine species that belong to seven genera and four families within the Lamiales order, Plantaginaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Verbenaceae, and Lamiaceae. This approach aimed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, facilitating the assessment of taxonomic microanatomical significance. The shape of epidermal cells and their anticlinal walls; number of epidermal cells, stomata, and trichomes; type of stomata and trichomes; length and width of epidermal cells, trichomes, stomatal pore, guard cells, and subsidiary cells; and stomatal index were determined statistically. Most of the species examined were amphistomatous and showed extensive array of trichomes diversity. The exploration of Lamiales epidermal micromorphology and their antimicrobial potential were significant for their implications in multidisciplinary fields. The pharmacological research to utilize sustainable agricultural practices prompts avenues to strengths of Lamiales order for the development of novel antimicrobial solutions and ecological benefits.

Research Highlights

Diverse trichome morphometry reveals a wide array of trichome structures across Lamiales species.

Epidermal microscopic architecture variability of epidermal cell shapes and sizes signifies the interspecies variability.

Secondary metabolite localization within microanatomical structures elucidates potential hotspots for antimicrobial compound production.
Human genetic defects of sphingolipid synthesis
Authors: Dubot Patricia , Sabourdy Frédérique , Levade Thierry
Published: May 2024

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous lipids, present in the membranes of all cell types, the stratum corneum and the circulating lipoproteins. Autosomal recessive as well as dominant diseases due to disturbed sphingolipid biosynthesis have been identified, including defects in the synthesis of ceramides, sphingomyelins and glycosphingolipids. In many instances, these gene variants result in the loss of catalytic function of the mutated enzymes. Additional gene defects implicate the subcellular localization of the sphingolipid‐synthesizing enzyme, the regulation of its activity, or even the function of a sphingolipid‐transporter protein. The resulting metabolic alterations lead to two major, non‐exclusive types of clinical manifestations: a neurological disease, more or less rapidly progressive, associated or not with intellectual disability, and an ichthyotic‐type skin disorder. These phenotypes highlight the critical importance of sphingolipids in brain and skin development and homeostasis. The present article reviews the clinical symptoms, genetic and biochemical alterations, pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic options of this relatively novel group of metabolic diseases.
Dynamic Regularized Adaptive Cluster Optimization (DRACO) for Quantitative Cardiac Cine MRI in Complex Arrhythmias
Authors: Ming Zhengyang , Pogosyan Arutyun , Christodoulou Anthony G. , Finn J. Paul , Ruan Dan , Nguyen Kim‐Lien
Published: May 2024

Background

Irregular cardiac motion can render conventional segmented cine MRI nondiagnostic. Clustering has been proposed for cardiac motion binning and may be optimized for complex arrhythmias.

Purpose

To develop an adaptive cluster optimization method for irregular cardiac motion, and to generate the corresponding time‐resolved cine images.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Thirteen with atrial fibrillation, four with premature ventricular contractions, and one patient in sinus rhythm.

Field Strength/Sequence

Free‐running balanced steady state free precession (bSSFP) with sorted golden‐step, reference real‐time sequence.

Assessment

Each subject underwent both the sorted golden‐step bSSFP and the reference Cartesian real‐time imaging. Golden‐step bSSFP images were reconstructed using the dynamic regularized adaptive cluster optimization (DRACO) method and k‐means clustering. Image quality (4‐point Likert scale), signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), edge sharpness, and ventricular function were assessed.

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐tests, Friedman test, regression analysis, Fleiss' Kappa, Bland–Altman analysis. Significance level P < 0.05.

Results

The DRACO method had the highest percent of images with scores ≥3 (96% for diastolic frame, 93% for systolic frame, and 93% for multiphase cine) and the percentages were significantly higher compared with both the k‐means and real‐time methods. Image quality scores, SNR, and CNR were significantly different between DRACO vs. k‐means and between DRACO vs. real‐time. Cardiac function analysis showed no significant differences between DRACO vs. the reference real‐time.

Conclusion

DRACO with time‐resolved reconstruction generated high quality images and has early promise for quantitative cine cardiac MRI in patients with complex arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation.

Level of Evidence

1.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Changes in extreme precipitation indices across Algeria climate zones
Authors: Hamitouche Yasmine , Zeroual Ayoub , Meddi Mohamed , Assani Ali Arkamose , Alkama Ramdane
Published: May 2024

Extreme precipitation events can have a significant impact on the environment, agriculture, economy and safety, making close monitoring of their short‐ and long‐term trends essential for the development of effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. In this study, we analysed 16 in situ observation datasets from four different climate zones in Algeria, spanning from 1969 to 2021. The trend analysis was conducted using the original Mann–Kendall test and seven modified tests to eliminate the effects of short‐term persistence. Our findings reveal a significant increasing trend of extreme precipitation variability for most stations in the Warm Mediterranean climate zone, except for the Consecutive dry days index, which showed a negative trend for the same zone, while stations in the Cold/Warm semi‐arid climate and Cold desert climate (Bwk) zones showed a decreasing trend. Additionally, all index series with significant long‐term trends were affected by a significant shift in their means, which was confirmed by both the Lombard and Pettitt tests. However, when we used the modified MPT and the test eliminating the effects of long‐term persistence, the significance of the shifts and the trend decreased. Our results suggest that while extreme precipitation events have been increasing in some parts of Algeria; the trend may not be statistically significant in the long‐run, indicating the necessity of revisiting and refreshing the findings of previous studies for a more current perspective.
Realization of an organic semiconductor electroluminescent device with high directionality and color purity
Authors: Auffray Morgan , Mikaeili Amir , Mohammed Ahmed , Fukuta Tomoko , Yoshizumi Takashi , Ishidai Hiroshi , Tsukiji Kazue , Fukunaga Yoko , Bencheikh Fatima
Published: May 2024

We are introducing an innovative organic semiconductor electroluminescent device capable of emitting light with unprecedented characteristics, that is, high directionality with divergence angle of 1.1° and high color purity with the full‐width at half‐maximum of 2.5 nm. This achievement was realized through design techniques aimed at enhancing gain via meticulous recombination zone control and complemented by the reduction of the optical losses. These results demonstrate the simultaneous achievement of a narrow spectrum and high directionality in an organic electroluminescent device.
Effects of soil conditioners on vineyard saline soil physicochemical properties and bacterial community in arid areas
Authors: Chang Doudou , Zhang Haoli , Zhu Zhifeng , Hong Dashuang , Fan Hua , Cui Wenli , Wang Kaiyong , Liu Yantao
Published: May 2024

Soil salinization adversely affects soil quality and ecosystem. Many researches have tried to ameliorate saline soils by soil conditioners. However, little is known about the differences in the responses of soil bacterial communities to natural and artificial conditioners applied to saline soils. Therefore, in this study, the effects of natural humic acid (IK), synthetic polymer (IP), and composite material (IF) (mixture of IK and IP (1:1)) on bacterial community structure and functional genes in saline soil were evaluated to clarify their differences. The results showed that the application of the three soil conditioners significantly reduced soil pH and Na+ content but increased soil alkaline phosphatase, urease, invertase and catalase activities, bacterial diversity, and nutrients, compared to the control (no conditioner). IK application increased bacterial relative abundance (e.g., Subgroup_6, RB41, MND1, and KD4‐96) and metabolic functions (e.g., Two‐component system and Biosynthesis of amino acids) by increasing soil nitrogen and maintaining K+ and Na+ balance. IP application increased soil alkaline phosphatase and urease activities as well as bacterial relative abundance (e.g., Subgroup_6, RB41, MND1, Gemmatimonadaceae, and KD4‐96) and metabolic functions (e.g., Quorum sensing and carbon metabolism) by increasing soil organic carbon/nitrogen content. IF application increased the bacterial relative abundance of Subgroup_6, RB41, and MND1 by increasing soil available nitrogen and regulated their metabolic pathways (e.g., ABC transporters and microbial metabolism). On the whole, IK, IP, and IF could regulate the structure and function of soil bacterial community in saline soils. This study clarifies difference in the effects of different soil conditioners on the amelioration of saline soils from the perspective of soil microbiology, and provides a reference for the amelioration of saline soils in arid areas.
Subwavelength Raman Laser Driven by Quasi Bound State in the Continuum
Authors: Riabov Daniil , Gladkov Ruslan , Pashina Olesia , Bogdanov Andrey , Makarov Sergey
Published: May 2024

Raman lasers are an actively developing field of nonlinear optics aiming to create efficient frequency converters and various optical sensors. Due to the growing importance of ultracompact chip‐scale technologies, there is a constant demand for optical device miniaturization; however, the development of a nanoscale Raman laser remains a challenging endeavor. In this work, a fully subwavelength Raman laser operating in visible range is proposed, based on a gallium phosphide nanocylinder resonator supporting a quasi‐bound state in the continuum (quasi‐BIC). The precise spectral matching of the nanoparticle high‐Q modes is performed with the pump and detuned Raman emission wavelengths. The simulations demonstrate an experiment‐ready design of Raman nanolaser with a lasing threshold expected to be as low as . The proposed configuration represents the prototype of a low‐threshold Raman nanolaser with all dimensions smaller than the operational wavelength.
Unraveling the Defect‐Induced Spectral Tuning in a Ce‐Doped Garnet Solid‐Solution Phosphor
Authors: Qin Yonghong , Cao Yaxin , Ning Lixin , Wang Xicheng , Wang Yuhua
Published: May 2024

The increasing demand for white light‐emitting diode (WLED) has prompted the development of phosphors, in which Ce3+‐activated garnet has been representative and widely investigated. The optimization and improvement of performance have long been a focus in the phosphor area. However, the trade‐off of phosphor performance always exists and is difficult to satisfy simultaneously, thereby necessitating a better understanding of the design principles that tune spectra performance comprehensively. Herein, the defect‐induced spectral tuning mechanism in a Ce‐doped garnet solid‐solution phosphor Ca1.5‐xY1.5+xAl3.5+xSi1.5‐xO12:Ce3+ (CYAS:Ce3+) is promoted. The enhancement of luminescence intensity and thermal stability together with red‐shift of emission can be achieved by chemical unit co‐substitution of [Y3+‐Al3+] for [Ca2+‐Si4+], which originated from the increasing anti‐site vacancy. The related mechanism is fully elucidated by combining structural and spectral analysis with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This study provides a subtle control for the performance‐tuning of phosphors, which can deepen the understanding of the design principle inside‐out and the subsequent development and exploration of novel optoelectronic functional materials.
RETHINKING ETHICAL LEADERSHIP IN THE C‐SUITE
Authors: Taylor Alison
Published: May 2024

The author is a clinical associate professor at NYU Stern School of Business, and the executive director at Ethical Systems. She writes that “behavioral ethicists agree that while leading by example is important, it’s crucial to focus on building employee capacity for ethical decision‐making.” She further contends that “Companies… they must also manage the full spectrum of ethical commitments in practical ways. This poses particular challenges when you’re dealing with an increasingly vocal yet divided workforce.” She also discusses the nuances of sustainability and ESG {Environmental, Social, and Governance} within organizational ethics. Quotes are presented from such experts as Hui Chen, “a former prosecutor who became the first in‐house compliance counsel expert in the US Department of Justice”; Klaus Moosmayer, chief ethics, risk, and compliance officer at Novartis; and Nell Minow, described as “one of the leading corporate governance specialists in the United States.” For instance, according to Chen, “I’ve been baffled by the complete lack of interaction between the ethics and compliance community and the ESG community, because to me they’re really the same thing.” The author concludes: “Organizations don’t just need tone at the top; they need to solicit and support awareness, accountability, and voice at all levels.”
SMALL ACTS, BIG IMPACT, GENEROUS MOMENTS
Authors: Davis Joe
Published: May 2024

Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner at the Boston Consulting Group, who has spent nearly 37 years with the company, makes the case for small but crucial gestures of kindness, civility, good manners, politeness, and inclusion. We tend to be so distracted by smartphones and social media that we neglect interacting with our fellow human beings. He writes, “Small gestures aggregate to represent something big. They show effort, thoughtfulness, and intention; they say I’m paying attention to you.” Davis also provides quotations on these subjects by his colleague Geraldine Rhodes, Manager Director and Partner at BCG; and Scott Kirby, Chief Executive Officer/CEO of United Airlines. Davis notes that “taking the time to write a note of gratitude may have a lasting impact; any email or text will work to express your gratitude for those who helped you organize an event, accomplish a goal, or beat a sales forecast.” He cites research about the benefits derived from small gestures in happiness and stress reduction. Further suggestions: “You can honor people and show interest through notes, emails, texts, phone calls, announcements, or gifts. You can recognize people on their birthdays or when a new baby is born.”
An age‐structured SVEAIR epidemiological model
Authors: Bitsouni Vasiliki , Gialelis Nikolaos , Tsilidis Vasilis
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we introduce and study an age‐structured epidemiological compartment model and its respective problem, applied but not limited to the COVID‐19 pandemic, in order to investigate the role of the age of the individuals in the evolution of epidemiological phenomena. We investigate the well‐posedness of the model, as well as the global dynamics of it in the sense of basic reproduction number, via constructing Lyapunov functions.
Effect of soil layering and interface resistance on electro‐osmotic consolidation of layered soils: A Green's function approach
Authors: Chen Zhang‐Long , Li Jian‐Ping , Xu Yun‐Shan , Liu Jun , Wang Shun
Published: May 2024

During electro‐osmotic consolidation, effective voltage attenuation induced by the increasing interface resistance is an important phenomenon, which significantly decreases consolidation effectiveness. This paper presents an analytical model for one‐dimensional electro‐osmotic consolidation in layered soils with horizontal graphite electrodes considering effective voltage attenuation. The mathematical model is characterized by time‐dependent source term and discontinuous interface flux. New variables are introduced to homogenize the discontinuous interface flux and Green’s function method is used to solve the new nonhomogeneous governing equations with nonhomogeneous boundaries. Several verification examples are conducted using the existing analytical solution and numerical results. Parametric studies indicate that electro‐osmotic consolidation of layered soils cannot be accurately simulated by equivalent homogeneous soil, whether effective voltage attenuation is considered or not. Furthermore, the backflow phenomenon may occur due to effective voltage attenuation, while it may disappear when the anode is placed in the low‐permeability layer. In addition, the optimal arrangement of electrodes in layered soils is also investigated. When the ratio of the thickness of low‐permeability layer to high‐permeability layer is about 1/3, installing the cathode in the low‐permeability layer can improve the electro‐osmosis effect up to two times, compared with installing the anode in the low‐permeability layer.
Musculoskeletal misdiagnoses in pediatric patients with spinal tumors
Authors: Dybedokken Aurora , Mathiesen Rene , Hasle Henrik , Herlin Troels , Callesen Michael Thude , Hansen Søren Holm , Jensen Laura Hallundbæk , Amstrup Jesper , Hagstrøm Søren , Brix Ninna
Published: May 2024

Objective

Childhood spinal tumors often present with musculoskeletal symptoms, potentially causing a misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis and treatment. This study aims to identify, characterize, and compare children with spinal tumors who had prior musculoskeletal misdiagnoses to those without, analyzing clinical presentation, diagnostic interval, and outcome.

Study design

This retrospective cohort study evaluated all children aged 0–14 years diagnosed with a spinal tumor in Denmark from 1996 to 2018. The cohort was identified through the Danish Childhood Cancer Registry, and the registry data were supplemented with data from medical records. The survival was compared using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Among 58 patients, 57% (33/58) received musculoskeletal misdiagnoses before the spinal tumor diagnosis. Misdiagnoses were mostly nonspecific (64%, 21/33), involving pain and accidental lesions, while 36% (12/33) were rheumatologic diagnoses. The patients with prior misdiagnosis had less aggressive tumors, fewer neurological/general symptoms, and 5.5 months median diagnostic interval versus 3 months for those without a misdiagnosis. Those with prior misdiagnoses tended to have a higher 5‐year survival of 83% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 63%–92%) compared to 66% (95% CI: 44%–82%) for those without (p = .15).

Conclusion

Less aggressive spinal tumors may manifest as gradual skeletal abnormalities and musculoskeletal symptoms without neurological/general symptoms, leading to misdiagnoses and delays.
Preparation of high‐barrier performance paper‐based materials from biomass‐based silicone‐modified acrylic polymer emulsion
Authors: Li Chaojie , Li Xue , Wang Long , Xia Zi'ang , Yang Jingxue , Wang Na , Li Yao , Zhang Heng
Published: May 2024

High‐barrier performance, especially under extreme working conditions, is the key to replacing other types of packaging materials with paper‐based materials. In this paper, two biomass‐based polymers, sodium alginate (SA), and chitosan, were used to form a barrier coating with silicone emulsions to prepare a high‐performance paper‐based barrier material. By double coating, the water and oilproof functions were superimposed. The two prepared coated papers were characterized by infrared spectroscopy analysis, contact angle test, and scanning electron microscopy analysis, while their water resistance, oil resistance, thermal oil resistance, and thermal stability were tested. The water and oil repellency were achieved by double coating. The Cobb value of the chitosan‐silicone emulsion‐coated paper reached 5.3 g/m2, with a Kit grade of Level 12, and could block the penetration of castor oil at 80°C within 24 h. The Cobb value of the sodium alginate‐silicone emulsion‐coated paper was 41.6 g/m2, much higher than that of the uncoated paper, with a Kit grade of up to Level 10, which could slow down the rate of castor oil penetration at 80°C within 24 h. The test results showed that there was no chemical reaction between the paper‐based coatings, and the coated paper surface had good film formation, while the double coating method increased the thermal decomposition temperature of the overall barrier coating, effectively improving the thermal stability of the coating and achieving high‐barrier performance at lower cost and under extreme working conditions.

Highlights

Water and oil resistance under extreme operating conditions.

High‐performance paper‐based barrier materials.

Dual‐layer coating method for water and oil repellency.

High‐barrier performance at lower cost.

Excellent hot oil resistance and thermal stability.
Using Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and Poly(ethyleneglycol) Grafted Polycarbodiimides as Unique Nanocarriers for Hydrophobic Form of the Doxorubicin (DOX)
Authors: Siriwardane Dumindika A. , Karmegam Vasanthy , Kulikov Oleg V. , Novak Bruce M.
Published: May 2024

Amphiphilic helical polycarbodiimides bearing side chains with terminal alkyne groups provide a unique platform for construction of polymeric micelles. Incorporation of propargyl pendants into polyguanidine backbone allowed post‐polymerization modification with azide terminated, random coil, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), PNIPAM15K and poly(ethyleneglycol), PEG2K moieties using copper‐catalyzed click reaction (CuAAC). Thus, four new amphiphilic brush copolymers with varying grafting density were synthesized and their self‐assembly behavior in aqueous medium was studied by combination of TEM, SEM, AFM, and optical microscopy techniques. It was shown the formation of micellar structures at critical micelle concentration (CMC) ranging from 1.58 × 10−5 to 1.05 × 10−3mg mL−1. A hydrophobic drug doxorubicin (DOX) was then encapsulated successfully into these micellar structures with encapsulation efficiency (EE) falling in the range from 16% to 27%. Further, the cellular uptake studies were carried out by using HeLa cells and the cytotoxic activity of DOX‐loaded micelles was determined to be less than 65% of cell viability at a concentration of 0.250 mg mL−1. Fluorescence microscopy imaging revealed importing the micelles into the cells by endocytosis and internalization of the DOX into nucleus of the HeLa cells.
Visualizing hypothesis tests in survival analysis under anticipated delayed effects
Authors: Jiménez José L. , Barrott Isobel , Gasperoni Francesca , Magirr Dominic
Published: May 2024

What can be considered an appropriate statistical method for the primary analysis of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) with a time‐to‐event endpoint when we anticipate non‐proportional hazards owing to a delayed effect? This question has been the subject of much recent debate. The standard approach is a log‐rank test and/or a Cox proportional hazards model. Alternative methods have been explored in the statistical literature, such as weighted log‐rank tests and tests based on the Restricted Mean Survival Time (RMST). While weighted log‐rank tests can achieve high power compared to the standard log‐rank test, some choices of weights may lead to type‐I error inflation under particular conditions. In addition, they are not linked to a mathematically unambiguous summary measure. Test statistics based on the RMST, on the other hand, allow one to investigate the average difference between two survival curves up to a pre‐specified time point —a mathematically unambiguous summary measure. However, by emphasizing differences prior to , such test statistics may not fully capture the benefit of a new treatment in terms of long‐term survival. In this article, we introduce a graphical approach for direct comparison of weighted log‐rank tests and tests based on the RMST. This new perspective allows a more informed choice of the analysis method, going beyond power and type I error comparison.
Excitation of mixed Rossby–gravity waves by wave–mean flow interactions on the sphere
Authors: Mahó Sándor István , Vasylkevych Sergiy , Žagar Nedjeljka
Published: May 2024

The equatorial mixed Rossby–gravity wave (MRGW) is an important contributor to tropical variability. Its excitation mechanism capable of explaining the observed MRGW variance peak at synoptic scales in the troposphere remains elusive. This study investigates wave–mean flow interactions as a generation process for the MRGWs using the TIGAR model, which employs Hough harmonics as the basis of spectral expansion on the sphere, thereby representing MRGWs as prognostic variables. Idealized numerical simulations reveal the interactions between waves emanating from a symmetric tropical heat source and an asymmetric subtropical zonal jet as an excitation mechanism for the MRGWs. The excited MRGWs have variance spectra resembling the observed MRGWs in the tropical troposphere. The mixed Rossby–gravity energy spectrum has a maximum at zonal wavenumbers –5 also in the case of an asymmetric forcing that generates MRGWs across large scales. Effects of wave–wave interactions appear of little importance for the MRGW growth compared with wave–mean flow interactions. Application of the zonal‐mean zonal wind profiles from ERA5 reaffirms the importance of the asymmetry of the zonal mean flow.
Carbon Dots Derived from Jaggery Via Direct Heating: A Sensitive Platform for Ferric Ion Fluorescent Sensing
Authors: Kolekar Akanksha G. , Nille Omkar S. , Naik Vaibhav M. , Koparde Sneha V. , Patil Akshay S. , Shintre Somesh S. , Sohn Daewon , Kolekar Govind B. , Gokavi Gavisiddappa S. , More Vishalkumar R.
Published: May 2024

Photoluminescent carbon dots (CDs) have greatest potential in fluorescence sensing, energy, bioimaging and environmental pollutant sensing. Heteroatom doping have dramatically enhanced fluorescent properties and stability of CDs. In this work, sulfur doped carbon dots (DCDs) using jaggery as carbon precursor through direct heating method at 180 °C. The synthesized DCDs were characterized through XRD, FTIR, XPS, TEM, Fluorescence and UV‐Visible spectroscopic techniques. The DCDs have 9 nm particle size with amorphous nature and surface decorated with −OH, C−S, C=O functional groups on surface because of contribution of major element like C, O, and S elements. The DCDs showing bright blue emission having 360 nm excitation and 460 nm emission wavelength. Further, the DCDs were employed for metal ion sensing and it selectively detects Fe3+ metal ion with 1.92 μg/mL of detection and 5.84 μg/mL limit of quantification. The experiment follows static quenching mechanism which is confirmed by fluorescence life time experiment. This low‐cost, time effective fluorescent sensitive carbon dots have potential application in environmental pollution control, biomedical and forensic applications.
Frustrated Radical Pair‐Initiated Hydrodehalogenation of Alkyl and Aryl Halides Under Visible Light
Authors: Xie Fuyu , He Jianghua , Zhang Yuetao
Published: May 2024

Here we employed Al(C6F5)3/Mes3P frustrated radical pair (FRP) to catalyze hydrodehalogenation reaction. Through the initiation of the FRP, stannane radicals were generated to facilitate the halogen‐atom transfer (XAT) process and proceed the hydrodehalogenation of a wide range of alkyl and aryl halides under visible light at room temperature. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiment, radical clock reaction coupled with control experiments provide solid evidence to support the radical mechanism. Moreover, this strategy can be applied to the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, such as indoles and quinolines as well as the deuterated compounds.
Exploring Impact of Various Operating Parameters on the Specific Capacitance at the Glassy Carbon/H2SO4 Interface: A Comparative Analysis Using Electrochemical Characterization
Authors: Belazougui Yasmine , Dib Abdelhafid , Hadjersi Toufik , Maizia Radouane , Thomas Anthony , Martemianov Serguei
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of scanning rate, electrolyte concentration, temperature and electrode rotation speed on the capacitance of glassy carbon electrode in sulfuric acid solution using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The results show that they have a significant influence on the capacitance with varying experimental conditions. In addition, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method was employed to conduct a more thorough analysis of the ways in which hydrodynamic circumstances resulting from a rotating electrode affect the electrode capacity and the charge storage process. Step potential electrochemical spectroscopy (SPECS) was used to identify the various charge storage mechanisms involved. It was shown that the voltammograms measured by the CV method and determined from the SPECS method have a quasi‐rectangular shape, revealing a predominantly capacitive behavior and that capacitance decreases with increasing scanning rate. Furthermore, both methods confirm that the contribution of the diffusion process is the main factor influencing the charge storage mechanism when the sweep rate is taken into account. However, the SPECS approach provides more accurate and detailed information regarding the kinetic characteristics of the electrode.
Multicomponent Click Reaction: An Indispensable Tool for Easy Access of Functionalized 1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Yadav Mangal S. , Rajkhowa Sanchayita , Singh Sumit K. , Jaiswal Manoj K. , Tiwari Vinod K.
Published: May 2024

Multicomponent reactions are operationally simple and display a significant role in diverse chemical modification by reducing reaction times as well as additional steps involved. In this review, we highlighted the impact of multi‐component reactions in assistance with modular Click chemistry to develop a library of triazole‐appended scaffolds including 1,2,3‐triazole‐fused heterocycles, glycoconjugates, macrocycles as well as in the combinatorial synthesis of differently functionalized triazoles along with mechanistic insights with a diverse range of applications in the field of medicinal chemistry.
Microwave‐Assisted Catalyst‐Free Conjugate Addition of Amines to Maleimide
Authors: Bharodiya Akshay , Desai Bhargav , Desai Bhavyesh , Sivaih Areti , Begari Eeshwaraiah , Naveen Togati
Published: May 2024

A catalyst‐free approach has been introduced for the conjugate addition of aromatic amine nucleophiles to α, β‐unsaturated N‐methyl maleimide under microwave irradiation by utilizing water as a promoter. Catalyst‐free, environmentally friendly, short‐reaction time, green solvent, and mild reaction conditions are the advantages of this protocol. This reaction provided good to excellent yields with aromatic anilines as nucleophiles. The benefits of this reaction align with the principles of green and sustainable synthetic chemistry, making it widely applicable in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical chemistry.
A Novel Potentiometric Coated Wire Sensor Based on Functionalized Polymeric CaO/ZnO Nanocomposite Synthesized by Lavandula Spica Mediated Extract for Terbinafine Determination
Authors: Alterary Seham S. , Mostafa Gamal A. E. , El‐Tohamy Maha F. , Elhadi Athar M. , AlRabiah Haitham
Published: May 2024

The unique properties of calcium oxide (CaO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) at the nanoscale have attracted the interest of scientists as promising electrically conductive substances for sensing purposes. The content of terbinafine hydrochloride (TRF) in pharmaceutical tablets was determined using a novel coated, wire‐functionalized CaO/ZnO nanocomposite membrane sensor biogenically produced from Lavandula spica extract. Sodium tetraphenylborate was used to prepare the active material (TRF‐TBP). The newly modified sensor gave excellent potentiometric sensitivity with the least squares regression equation EmV=(−58.88X±0.3)+log [TRF]+549.78 and covered a wide linear range (5.0×10−9–1.0×10−2 mol/L) of TRF samples. In contrast, the standard TRF‐TBP sensor wasn't as sensitive when (2.5×10−6–1.0×10−2 mol/L). TRF solutions with regression equation of (−55.728X±0.7)+log [TRF]+396.64. The appropriate pH range was 3–6. The principles of analytical methodology were applied to investigate the validity and suitability of the proposed technique. The proposed sensors were found to be suitable and efficient for the detection of TRF on tablets.