bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Atelectasis After Sedation With Propofol vs Propofol-Ketamine for Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Children
Authors: Bang Yu Jeong , Kim Jeayoun , Gil Nam-Su , Sim Woo Seog , Ahn Hyun Joo , Park Mi Hye , Lee Sangmin Maria , Kim Dong-Jae , Jeong Ji Seon
Published: November 2024

Importance

Little is known about the impact of different anesthetic agents used for routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sedation on pulmonary function in children.

Objective

To compare the incidence of pulmonary atelectasis after MRI sedation with propofol vs propofol-ketamine.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This double-masked randomized clinical trial screened 117 consecutive pediatric patients aged 3 to 12 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I to II undergoing elective MRI under deep sedation from November 2, 2022, to April 28, 2023, at a tertiary referral center. Four patients met the exclusion criteria, and 5 patients refused to participate. The participants and outcome assessors were masked to the group allocation.

Interventions

During the MRI, the propofol group received 0.2 mL/kg of 1% propofol and 2 mL of 0.9% saline followed by a continuous infusion of propofol (200 μg/kg/min) and 0.9% saline (0.04 mL/kg/min). The propofol-ketamine group received 0.2 mL/kg of 0.5% propofol and 1 mg/kg of ketamine followed by a continuous infusion of propofol (100 μg/kg/min) and ketamine (20 μg/kg/min).

Main Outcome and Measure

The incidence of atelectasis assessed by lung ultrasonography examination.

Results

A total of 107 children (median [IQR] age, 5 [4-6] years; 62 male [57.9%]), with 54 in the propofol group and 53 in the propofol-ketamine group, were analyzed in this study. Notably, 48 (88.9%) and 31 (58.5%) patients had atelectasis in the propofol and propofol-ketamine groups, respectively (relative risk, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5-0.8; P < .001). The incidence of desaturation and interruption of the MRI due to airway intervention or spontaneous movement did not significantly differ between the groups. The propofol-ketamine group showed a faster emergence time than the propofol group (15 [9-23] vs 25 [22-27] minutes in the propofol-ketamine vs propofol group; median difference in time, 9.0 minutes; 95% CI, 6.0-12.0 minutes; P < .001). No patient was withdrawn from the trial due to adverse effects.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, the propofol-ketamine combination reduced sedation-induced atelectasis while allowing for faster emergence compared with propofol alone.

Trial Registration

cris.nih.go.kr Identifier: KCT0007699
Because of Seeing Architecture: To Execute, It Is First Necessary To Conceive
Authors: Fiorenzoli Giuliano
Published: November 2024

In a world where the speed of architectural production is much accelerated, and the specificity of its representations requires a lack of ambiguity, the power and force of the hand‐drawing is still, to a few, a proving ground for testing interstitial ideas situated at the threshold of art and architecture. New York‐based Professor at the Pratt Institute School of Architecture and co‐founder of Atelier ZZiggurat, Giuliano Fiorenzoli reflects on some of his key projects, ideas and drawings – their dynamic constitutions and their symbiotic relationship with landscape/site and architecture.
The Temporalisation of Space and the Spatialisation of Time
Authors: Brown Daniel K
Published: November 2024

The use of machine analogies and allegories can help students liberate themselves from the tried and tested normative dogmas and doctrines propagated by architectural education. Daniel K Brown, Professor of Architecture at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, and co‐guest‐editor of this AD, runs an extraordinary student design studio that has much success in conceptually intertwining machine aesthetics with history, culture and international literary narratives. Here he explains his modus operandi.
Regulating of Lithium‐Ion Dynamic Trajectory by Ferromagnetic CoF2 to Achieve Ultra‐Stable Deep Lithium Deposition Over 10000 h
Authors: Liu Ming , Ma Jiangshan , Zhang Xinyi , Wang Jie , Fan Yuqian , Song Ailing , Shao Guangjie , Ma Zhipeng
Published: November 2024

Currently, the realization of controllable Li electrodeposits to further extend the cycling life of Li metal anode remains challenging. Herein, it is reported that carbon nanosheet array‐loaded ferromagnetic CoF2 nanoparticles on carbon cloth (CC@CoF2/C) as an internal micro‐magnetic field source to manipulate the dynamic trajectory of Li+ deposition via the magnetohydrodynamic effect. This approach ensures uniform lithium‐ion distribution and improves deep plating capacity, achieving a prolonged cycle life of the dendrite‐free Li anode. Finite element simulations, in situ characterizations, and electrochemical tests confirm that magnetic CoF2 not only guides Li+ migration through Lorentz force to prevent dendritic growth but also improves uniform Li deposition due to the in situ conversion of LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase during electroplating. Meanwhile, a CC@CoF2/C‐based half‐cell operates stably over 10 000 h at 1 mA cm−2 with a low 7.8 mV overpotential. When matched with a commercial LiFePO4 cathode, the full cell reveals a high capacity of 122.96 mAh g−1 at a 2 C rate after 1000 cycles, retaining 91.95% capacity. The proposed strategy can be effectively expanded and adapted to investigate the deposition behavior of a wide range of metal anodes, offering a versatile and robust analytical framework for addressing diverse metal‐based electrochemical systems.
3D Capillary Transistors for Photothermal‐Responsive Unidirectional Liquid Transport
Authors: Liu Ruoyu , Zhou Yuning , Gao Ming , Shi Wenwan , Zhang Yuting , Liu Xiaojiang , Gu Zhongze
Published: November 2024

Unidirectional liquid transport, a special self‐propelled wetting phenomenon observed in natural structures like the Nepenthes pitcher plant peristome, Araucaria leaves, and Crassula muscosa shoots, has inspired scientists to develop various novel microfluidic devices for liquid collection, physical/chemical reactions, and irrigation. Recently, the concept of capillary transistors is proposed to enable a programmable transport area and a significant increase in unidirectional capillary height, which is expected to greatly expand the applications of conventional microfluidic chips. In this work, using black resin as the three‐dimensional (3D) printing material, we construct microfluidic chips with capillary transistors for photothermal‐responsive unidirectional liquid transport. The transistors consist of asymmetric overhanging structures with connected overhangs, allowing for fast, long‐distance, and large‐area unidirectional liquid transport, with a unidirectional capillary height exceeding 90.0 mm—more than double the values reported in most previous studies. Furthermore, smart control of capillary height is achieved by applying external photothermal stimuli to the capillary transistors, demonstrating their potential applications in photothermal‐responsive unidirectional liquid transport and mixing in 3D space. It is envisioned that additional functions such as liquid patterning, desalination, and biochemical microreactions would be developed by engineering capillary transistors and their responsiveness.
D‐Band Center Modulation of Metallic Co‐Incorporated Co7Fe3 Alloy Heterostructure for Regulating Polysulfides in Highly Efficient Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Sun Lin , Xu Hongnan , Xie Jie , Yuan Yan , Wang Huaizhu , Wang Miao , Chen Xing , Jin Zhong
Published: November 2024

Lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries, with their high theoretical energy density and cost‐effectiveness, have become one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage devices. However, they still face challenges such as the “shuttle effect” caused by the dissolution of polysulfide intermediates and the slow sulfur conversion kinetics. In this study, based on the Co7Fe3 alloy catalyst, additional Co metal is introduced to form a Co7Fe3Co catalyst with a heterostructure through a simple heat treatment process. This catalyst is incorporated into Ketjenblack (KB) to form a sulfur‐infused cathode material (designated as S/KB/Co7Fe3Co). Li‐S batteries using S/KB/Co7Fe3Co as the cathode demonstrate outstanding electrochemical performance, maintaining a reversible specific capacity of over 500 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at a current density of 1 C, with a capacity decay rate of 0.046% per cycle. DFT theoretical calculations and experimental results both reveal that the introduction of additional Co effectively regulates the d‐band center of the material, enhancing the adsorption of polysulfide intermediates by Co7Fe3Co and promoting bidirectional catalytic sulfur conversion. This work highlights the importance of the simple construction of heterostructured catalytic materials and their role in improving the performance of Li‐S batteries.
Superior Charge Density of Triboelectric Nanogenerator via Trap Engineering
Authors: Liu Xiaoru , Zhao Zhihao , Zhang Baofeng , Hu Yuexiao , Qiao Wenyan , Gao Yikui , Wang Jing , Guo Ziting , Zhou Linglin , Wang Zhong Lin , Wang Jie
Published: November 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) offers a novel approach for converting high‐entropy mechanical energy into electrical energy, yet achieving high charge density remains critical. Optimizations using dielectrics with high specific capacitance have mitigated air breakdown, but charge loss within dielectrics persists as a limiting factor. Here, based on poly(vinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene–chlorofluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE)) with high specific capacitance, (P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE)) composites’ trap density and energy are engineered using high‐polarity interfaces from barium titanate (BTO) nanoparticles and dense chain segment stacking induced by electrostatic interaction with polyetherimide (PEI) to enhance charge retention capability. With modified high interfacial traps, an ultrahigh charge density of 9.23 mC m−2 is achieved in external charge excitation (ECE) TENG using 0.2 vol% PEI/P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE) film, marking the highest charge density reported for single‐unit TENGs. This work provides novel material strategies for high‐performance TENGs, paving the way for their large‐scale practical applications.
Modulating the Local Coordination Environment of M‐Nx Single‐Atom Site for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Bai Jirong , Sun Zhuangzhi , Zhang Hanyu , Lian Yuebin , Deng Yaoyao , Xiang Mei , Su Yaqiong
Published: November 2024

Efficient, durable, and economical oxygen reduction catalysts are key for practical applications such as fuel cells and metal–air batteries. Single atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted sustained and widespread attention owing to their unique electronic properties and exceptional atomic utilization, positioning them as promising electrocatalysts in energy conversion and storage. However, the symmetric charge distribution of the metal site in the symmetric M‐N4 configuration of SACs is not conducive to electron transfer and transport in electrocatalytic reactions, resulting in a low adsorption energy for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) related species (*OH, *O, and *OOH), which severely limits the intrinsic activity of the electrocatalysts. To overcome this limitation and improve the activity and durability, heteroatom doping can effectively modulate the local coordination environment (LCE) of the metal atom, including the coordinating atoms, coordination shells and coordination number. These modifications have significantly improved the performance of carbon supported SACs with M‐N4 configuration in the ORR. Based on this, a thorough summary of the major progress made in recent years in adjusting the LCE of SACs through doping with heteroatoms is provided and a perspective on the future development is offered here.
Boosting Hydrogen Transport in Mixed Matrix Membranes Through Continuous Spillover Via Pd‐Functionalized MOF Gel Networks
Authors: Zhang Keming , Tian Xiaohe , Xu Zhe , Huan Haishan , Zhang Rui , Feng Xiaoting , Wang Qingnan , Tang Yanting , Liu Chenlu , Wang Shaofei
Published: November 2024

Membrane‐based gas separation offers notable energy efficiency benefits for hydrogen purification, yet it is often hindered by the inherent trade‐off between permeability and selectivity. To address this challenge, a novel mixed matrix membrane (MMM) design is presented to boost H2 separation performance via continuous hydrogen spillover mechanisms for the first time. The MMM incorporates a palladium‐functionalized ZIF‐67 gel (Pd@ZIF‐67 gel) network into a polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM‐1) matrix. The ZIF‐67 gel network serves as a uniform dispersion medium for palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs), thereby generating a multitude of active sites. These exposed sites, in conjunction with the microporous structure of ZIF‐67, facilitate hydrogen dissociation and establish a continuous hydrogen spillover pathway throughout the membrane. This synergistic MMM design leads to substantial improvements in both hydrogen transport and selectivity. At an optimal loading of 28 wt% Pd@ZIF‐67 gel, the MMMs exhibit a H2 permeability of 3620 Barrer and a remarkable 417% enhancement in H2/CH4 selectivity (24.9), surpassing the 2008 upper bound. This approach paves the way for the development of advanced materials tailored for gas separation applications.
Engineering a Graphene Quantum Dot‐Enhanced Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor for Ultra‐Sensitive Detection of Hg2⁺ Ions
Authors: Üzek Recep
Published: November 2024

The contamination of soil and water by heavy metals poses a significant environmental and public health concern worldwide. To address this issue, a novel graphene quantum dot (GQD)‐based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor is developed for the detection of mercury ions (Hg2+), a notorious heavy metal pollutant. The thiol and amine‐functionalized GQDs (S,N‐GQDs), synthesized via pyrolysis of citric acid and L‐cysteine, are directly immobilized onto the SPR chip surface without prior pretreatment, demonstrating their potential as efficient sensing materials. The SPR sensor exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity toward Hg2+ ions, as confirmed by kinetic binding analysis and isotherm modeling. The Langmuir isotherm model, which accurately describes the interactions between Hg2+ and S,N‐GQDs, provides insights into the sensor's mechanism of action. Furthermore, the sensor demonstrates robustness and reusability, with recoveries ranging from 98% to 104% over multiple cycles of analysis. Given the presence of contaminants in tap water, the developed sensor system holds significant importance for environmental monitoring and public health protection, offering a rapid, accurate, and cost‐effective solution for detecting Hg2+ ions in such samples. Overall, this study represents a significant advancement in the field of heavy metal detection, with potential implications for addressing environmental pollution and ensuring water quality.
Enhanced Self‐Healing in Dual Network Entangled Hydrogels by Macromolecular Architecture and Alignment of Surface Functionalized hBN Nanosheets
Authors: Ratwani Chirag R. , Donato Katarzyna Z. , Grebenchuk Sergey , Mija Alice , Novoselov Kostya S. , Abdelkader Amr M.
Published: November 2024

Hydrogels have shown great promise as versatile biomaterials for various applications, ranging from tissue engineering to flexible electronics. Among their notable attributes, self‐healing capabilities stand out as a significant advantage, facilitating autonomous repair of mechanical damage and restoration of structural integrity. In this work, a dual network macromolecular biphasic composite is designed using an anisotropic structure which facilitates unidirectional chain diffusion and imparts superior self‐healing and mechanical properties. The resulting nanocomposite demonstrates significantly higher self‐healing efficiency (92%) compared to traditional polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels, while also improving the tensile strength and elastic modulus, which typically compete with each other in soft materials. This improvement is attributed to enhanced barrier properties within the matrix due to the alignment of surface‐functionalized 2D hBN nanosheets along the biopolymer scaffold. The insights gained from this research can be leveraged to develop advanced self‐healing materials by using 2D nanofillers as “safety barriers” to define the movement of polymeric chains.
A Multi‐Volume Microfluidic Device for Automated and Wide Dynamic Range Digital LAMP Applications
Authors: Chen Kaiyue , Rong Nan , Zhang Chanqiong , Xu Jian , He Hao , Liu Wenying , Xu Yinjia , Wu Yanzhao , Ouyang Qi , Zhou Yunlong , Yu Yaojun , Yang Wei , Luo Chunxiong
Published: November 2024

Digital nucleic acid quantification has emerged as an exceptionally valuable technique in molecular diagnosis, capturing significant attention in the biomedical field. This study introduces a novel multi‐volume digital loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (dLAMP) chip that offers an extensive detection range and user‐friendly operation. The chip consists of 1024 large chambers with the volume of 7.2 nL and 6400 small chambers with the volume of 0.064 nL. The ingenious combination of chambers with volume difference beyond a 100‐fold on the single chip enables a broad dynamic range exceeding 105 for nucleic acid quantification. Furthermore, this chip incorporates an automated strategy, enabling the rapid loading and partitioning of the reaction mixture into subvolumes within 4 min. In order to evaluate the quantitative capability of the multi‐volume dLAMP chip, a 10‐fold serial dilution of the β‐actin DNA template is measured. Additionally, the chip is tested for β‐actin DNA concentration in plasma samples from colorectal cancer patients and healthy individuals. By providing enhanced automation, wide dynamic range, and improved accuracy, this chip paves the way for broader applications and the advancement of biomedical research fields.
Impact of gastrectomy on efficacy and safety of second‐line chemotherapy patients with advanced gastric cancer: Exploratory analysis of two randomized phase III trials
Authors: Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Koizumi Wasaburo , Tsuburaya Akira , Suzuki Motoko , Morita Satoshi , Fujitani Kazumasa , Akamaru Yusuke , Shimada Ken , Hosaka Hisashi , Nishimura Ken , Yoshikawa Takaki , Tsujinaka Toshimasa , Sakamoto Junichi
Published: November 2024

Aims

Second‐line chemotherapy (SLC) improves survival in advanced gastric cancer (AGC). Although many patients receiving SLC have undergone gastrectomy, the impact of gastrectomy on SLC remains unclear.

Patients and Methods

The objective was to evaluate the impact of gastrectomy on SLC for AGC. A total of 290 eligible patients registered in two randomized phase III trials evaluating SLC for patients with AGC was classified into the prior gastrectomy group (PGG; n = 187) or the no gastrectomy group (NGG; n = 103). We compared overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and safety between these two groups. Adjusted OS and adjusted PFS were estimated using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

Results

The PGG had better performance status (p = 0.001), more prior platinum agent (p < 0.001), and more frequent peritoneal metastasis (p = 0.006) than the NGG. The PGG had significantly better OS (13.8 vs. 9.3 mo; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.59; p < 0.001) and PFS (4.7 vs. 2.8 mo; HR: 0.58; p < 0.001) than the NGG. The PGG had significantly better adjusted OS (13.8 vs. 10.0 mo; IPTW HR: 0.66; p = 0.01) and adjusted PFS (4.3 vs. 3.2 mo; IPTW HR: 0.71; p = 0.027) than the NGG. No significant differences were observed in ORR and DCR. The incidence of Grade 3 or worse adverse events did not differ between the two groups except for a high incidence of anemia and diarrhea in the NGG.

Conclusion

Patients with previous gastrectomy are expected to have better survival outcomes when receiving second‐line irinotecan (IRI)‐based chemotherapy for AGC.
Numerical investigation of spindle position effects on steam ejector performance with a nonequilibrium condensation model
Authors: Ahmed Fareeha , Chen Weixiong
Published: November 2024

This research studied the performance of a spindle‐controlled steam ejector using models such as ideal gas and wet steam under various operating conditions based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). A wet steam model incorporating nonequilibrium condensation was employed to simulate the complex flow phenomena within the ejector. The structure of the flow, entrainment ratio (Er), and shock wave characteristics of the steam ejector were examined in two different models. Results indicate that the spindle position has a substantial impact on steam ejector performance. For the ideal gas and wet steam models, the optimal spindle position (SP‐5) at a .1 MPa motive pressure achieves the highest entrainment ratios (Er) of 1.01 and 1.042, respectively. However, an ejector with a fixed geometry achieves Er values of only .517 and .549 for the ideal gas and wet steam models, under identical working conditions. This represents a substantial improvement of 89.8% over the fixed‐geometry ejector. The wet steam model consistently predicts 2%–4% higher Er values compared with the ideal gas model across all spindle positions. The study also reveals that increasing the motive pressure from .1 to .3 MPa reduces Er by up to 45.8% at the optimal spindle position, with the shock train length extending to 35% of the mixing chamber at .3 MPa. These findings offer insights for improving the design and optimization of variable‐geometry steam ejectors, potentially increasing efficiency in industrial applications.
Study on the characteristics of cavitation and COD removal of an addendum rotational hydrodynamic cavitation reactors
Authors: Zhou Faqi , Luo Zhiwei , Wu Xianbo , Xing Yiming , Fu Shuangcheng , Yuan Huixin
Published: November 2024

This paper presented an addendum rotational hydrodynamic cavitation reactors (ARHCR) that enabled circumferential shear cavitation, axial cavitation, and the Venturi effect, thus increasing cavitation efficiency. The experiments on hydroxyl (·OH) release and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal demonstrate the feasibility of cavitation performance characterization and COD removal rate. The findings indicate that the COD removal rate can reach a maximum value of 28% or 30% with an increase in flow rate or rotating speed, respectively. Specifically, the maximum values were achieved at a rotation speed of 2,500 rpm or a flow rate of 1.0 m3·h−1. Based on the mechanism of the addendum cavitation, the wedge angles, and the crucial structural parameters, were examined for optimizing cavitation performance. The results revealed that the cavitation number and cavitation bubble were significantly influenced by wedge angles, as well as the efficiency of cavitation energy. The mechanical shear of fluid was enhanced by wedge angles, resulting in constant compression and release of fluid with increased kinetic energy. This led to stronger effects on bulge blocks, and the formation of vortexes that rebounded constantly, resulting in lower pressure areas and expanded regions of cavitation. Among the wedge angles tested, the wedge angle of 15° exhibited the highest cavitation bubbles with a maximum value of 46%. This was 31% higher than the grooves‐type cavitator reported. Furthermore, the cavitation performance was extremely improved with a wedge angle of 15°, as corresponding with the maximum efficiency of cavitation energy. These explorations provide references for the removal of COD in industrial and agricultural wastewater, as well as the development of novel reactors for wastewater treatment.
Esterase‐Responsive Self‐Immolative Prodrugs for the Sustained Delivery of the Anticancer Drug 5‐Fluorouracil with Turn‐On Fluorescence
Authors: Badirujjaman Md , Thummer Rajkumar P. , Bhabak Krishna P.
Published: November 2024

Stimuli‐responsive prodrugs of anticancer drugs are advantageous for the selective delivery of drugs to cancer cells with minimized off‐target side effects. In the present study, esterase‐activatable fluorogenic prodrugs of the chemotherapeutic drug 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) have been rationally designed and synthesized using multi‐step organic synthesis. While 5‐FU was connected directly with the fluorophore via a C−N bond in the prodrug BJ‐50, an additional self‐immolative benzylic spacer with a carbonate linker was incorporated in the prodrug BJ‐92. Although absorption and emission spectroscopic studies revealed the activation of both the prodrugs by porcine liver esterase (PLE), reverse‐phase HPLC studies confirmed the inability of BJ‐50 to release the active drug 5‐FU. In contrast, a sustained release of 5‐FU and Cou‐OH was observed from BJ‐92 in the presence of PLE. The endogenous esterase‐mediated activation of the prodrug BJ‐92 was validated by the turn‐on fluorescence in A549 cells and the anti‐proliferative activities in A549, and HEK‐293 cells. Modulation of the expression of a few cancer marker proteins by BJ‐92 and 5‐FU was studied to evaluate their anticancer activities. As esterases are overexpressed in cancer cells, the prodrug in the present study would be helpful in selectively delivering 5‐FU to cancer cells with reduced off‐target side‐effects.
Immobilization and characterization of β‐galactosidase from Aspergillus oryzae in polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels
Authors: Akdoğan Doruk , Peksel Ayşegül
Published: November 2024

One of the main goals of contemporary biotechnology has been the development of novel immobilized enzyme formulations. In the present study, the industrially important β‐galactosidase was trapped in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel to immobilize it. The optimization of immobilization method and characterization of the immobilized enzyme were studied. The results were compared with free enzymes. The results indicate that the optimal temperature range for the enzyme to be at following immobilization is between 40°C and 50°C. At pH 7, the optimal pH, the activity increased, the Vmax value increased from 1.936 to 2.495 U mg‒1, and the Km value decreased from 4.861 to 0.982 mM. Depending on how stable the immobilized enzyme when stored, β‐galactosidases immobilized on PVA gels showed 52.87% activity at the end of the seventh week and 58.86% activity at the end of the fifth week. Their initial activity subsided after three reuses. The final result was 66%. Therefore, one may argue that it increases the catalytic effect of the enzyme. As a result, it has been found that immobilized β‐galactosidase has more potent enzymatic properties than free β‐galactosidase, which may make it more advantageous for industrial processes. Further studies could delve deeper into the mechanistic aspects of the immobilization process in an effort to improve optimization and tailor the immobilized enzyme to specific industrial needs.
Carboplatin‐loaded zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8: Induction of antiproliferative activity and apoptosis in breast cancer cell
Authors: Ganapathy Saravanan , Bharathi Muruganantham , Hirad Abdurahman Hajinur , Alarfaj Abdullah A. , Thangavelu Indumathi , Arulselvan Palanisamy , Jaganathan Ravindran , Ravindran Rajeswari , Suriyaprakash Jagadeesh , Boopathi Thalakulam Shanmugam
Published: November 2024

The challenge with breast cancer is its ongoing high prevalence and difficulties in early detection and access to effective care. A solution lies in creating tailored metal–organic frameworks to encapsulate anticancer drugs, enabling precise and targeted treatment with less adverse effects and improved effectiveness. Zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) and carboplatin (CP)‐loaded ZIF‐8 were synthesized and characterized using various analytical techniques. High Resolution‐transmission electron microscopy of ZIF‐8 and CP@ZIF‐8 indicates that the particles had a spherical shape and were nanosized. The drug release rate of CP is 98% under an acidic medium (pH 5.5) because of the dissolution of ZIF‐8 into its coordinating ions, whereas 35% in a physiological medium (pH 7.4) with the addition of CP, the high porosity, and pore diameter of ZIF‐8 decrease from 1243 to 1041 m2/g. Breast cancer MCF‐7 cells were shown greater IC50 in CP@ZIF‐8 (15.01 ± 3.03 µg/mL) than free CP (34.98 ± 4.25 µg/mL) in an in vitro cytotoxicity assessment. The cytotoxicity of the CP@ZIF‐8 against MCF‐7 cells was studied using the methylthiazolyldiphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide method. The morphological changes were examined using fluorescent staining (acridine orange–ethidium bromide and Hoechst 33258) methods. The comet assay assessed the DNA fragmentation (single‐cell gel electrophoresis). The results from the study revealed that CP@ZIF‐8 can be used in the treatment of breast cancer.
Investigation of resveratrol as a xanthine oxidase inhibitor: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications for gout and hyperuricemia
Authors: Chen Jianmin , Chen Juan , Feng Baozhu , Ning Meilian , Wu Wanhui , Zou Shiqi
Published: November 2024

Gout predominantly stems from hyperuricemia, precipitating the accumulation of urate crystals and consequent joint inflammation, swelling, and pain, thereby compromising the quality of life and presenting a formidable medical dilemma. Although conventional treatments like allopurinol and febuxostat target uric acid reduction via xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibition, they often entail adverse effects, prompting the exploration of safer alternatives. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound abundant in fruits and vegetables, has emerged as a potential XO inhibitor. However, its precise inhibitory mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study aims to comprehensively investigate resveratrol's XO inhibition through mechanistic insights, molecular docking simulations, animal model experiments, and biochemical analysis, contributing valuable insights to the development of novel therapeutics for hyperuricemia and gout.
Do financial constraints lead to environmental, social and governance controversies? The role of country context
Authors: Vargas‐Santander Karen Gloria , Álvarez‐Diez Susana , Baixauli‐Soler Samuel , Belda‐Ruiz María
Published: November 2024

The term sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria has gained greater importance globally in recent decades. As social and environmental issues increase, firms are advocating the need to be more sustainable. However, in this scenario, corporate controversies still persist, and an analysis of their causes is required. This study focuses on establishing the relationship between financial constraints (FC) and ESG controversies and on determining whether the country context might modify the controversial behaviours of financially constrained firms. Through a Tobit analysis for panel data—and using a sample of firms with headquarters in 47 countries—our results show a positive and significant influence of FC on ESG controversies. In addition, our evidence confirms that country context impacts relationships within the firm, and that opting for controversial activities is increasingly less viable for firms located in countries where there is institutionalized sustainability.
Whether Primary Bone‐Only Oligometastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients Benefit From Radiotherapy to the Bones on the Basis of Palliative Chemotherapy Plus Locoregional Radiotherapy?—A Large‐Cohort Retrospective Study
Authors: Guo Wan‐Ping , Jia Guo‐Dong , Xie Si‐Yi , Yu Xuan , Meng Xiao‐Han , Tang Lin‐Quan , Li Xiao‐Yun , Luo Dong‐Hua
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Whether to perform local radiotherapy on metastatic bone for primary bone‐only oligometastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients remains unclear. Therefore, we analyzed the treatment methods and their survival and developed a prognostic model to predict outcomes and guide personalized treatment.

Materials and Methods

We studied 308 primary bone‐only oligometastatic NPC patients who were treated with either palliative chemotherapy (PCT) alone, PCT combined with locoregional radiotherapy (LRRT), or PCT, LRRT, and radiotherapy to metastatic bones (bRT). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). Cox regression was utilized to identify independent prognostic factors, leading to the construction of a nomogram model. Patients were stratified into two risk groups based on median prognostic scores, and treatment modalities were compared using log‐rank test while employing the inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to balance baseline characteristics and adjust for sample size differences between risk groups.

Results

The best OS was observed in the group treated with PCT, LRRT, and bRT (HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.45–0.81, p = 0.002). Multivariable analysis revealed that age, N stage, pre‐treatment levels of LDH, and EBV DNA were independent prognostic factors for OS. In total, 155 patients were in low‐risk group while 153 were in high‐risk group. Before and after IPTW, the high‐risk group benefited from the PCT, LRRT, and bRT regimen (adjusted HR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.42–0.67, p < 0.001; unadjusted HR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.42–0.83, p = 0.007), while the low‐risk group did not (adjusted HR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.56–1.11, p = 0.345; unadjusted HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.37–1.14, p = 0.309).

Conclusion

Best outcomes of the whole cohort were seen with PCT + LRRT + bRT. Our study identified age, N stage, pre‐treatment LDH levels, and EBV DNA levels as independent prognostic factors for OS. The high‐risk group demonstrated a longer OS when treated with PCT + LRRT + bRT, whereas the low‐risk group did not benefit from the combinatorial treatment.
Experience with reduced‐nicotine cigarettes and whether this decreases smoking and substitution for full‐nicotine cigarettes
Authors: Naudé Gideon P. , Strickland Justin C. , Berry Meredith S. , Dolan Sean B. , Cox David J. , Johnson Matthew W.
Published: November 2024

Studies suggest that reduced‐nicotine cigarettes decrease nicotine intake and dependence. However, questions remain about reduced‐nicotine cigarette abuse liability, whether reduced‐nicotine cigarette exposure lowers reduced‐ and full‐nicotine cigarette use, and whether reduced‐nicotine cigarettes substitute for full‐nicotine cigarettes. This randomized, double‐blind laboratory study used operant behavioral economics to examine abuse liability of cigarettes with varying nicotine content. Non‐treatment‐seeking smokers (N = 43) self‐administered reduced‐ (5.2, 2.4, or 1.3 mg/g) and full‐nicotine (15.8 mg/g) cigarettes before and after 3 weeks of at‐home exposure. Participants were randomized to full‐nicotine or one of the reduced‐nicotine cigarettes to determine the effect of exposure on abuse liability and substitutability. Abuse liability was assessed in single‐commodity sessions, and substitutability was measured in concurrent‐commodity sessions. In the self‐administration sessions, concurrently available reduced‐nicotine cigarettes attenuated full‐nicotine cigarette demand and rendered reduced‐nicotine cigarettes partial substitutes for full‐nicotine cigarettes. Exposure to study cigarettes for 3 weeks marginally reduced demand for reduced‐ and full‐nicotine cigarettes irrespective of nicotine content. Results suggest a limited influence of nicotine content on smoking behavior in established smokers and highlight the role of nonpharmacological factors (e.g., taste/smell) on the maintenance of smoking. These results should be considered in determining whether a nicotine‐reduction standard is a feasible path for reducing cigarette demand.
Longitudinal Evolution of the Brain Microstructure in Cirrhotic Patients on Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging
Authors: Chen Yuan‐Yuan , Lu Zi‐Ning , Zhang Qi , Zhang Yi‐Ning , Ma Wen‐Ting , Zhang XiaoDi , Zhang Xiao‐Dong , Ni Hong‐Yan , Cheng Yue
Published: November 2024

Background

Although improvement of cognitive function after liver transplantation has been demonstrated in several neuropsychological studies, there is limited research on longitudinal changes in the cirrhotic patients' brain structure before and after transplantation.

Purpose

To investigate longitudinal changes of brain microstructure in cirrhotic patients using diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI).

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

A total of 153 cirrhosis patients, comprising 60 hepatic encephalopathy (HE) patients (16 females/44 males) and 93 no‐HE patients (35 females/58 males), along with 93 healthy controls (HCs) (53 females/40 males) were enrolled. Subsequently, 58 recipients completed 1‐month postoperative follow‐up, 29 patients completed 1‐, 3‐months, and 17 patients completed 1‐, 3‐, 6‐month follow‐up.

Sequence

Spin‐echo single‐shot echo‐planar sequence using a 3.0 T scanner.

Assessment

Diffusion kurtosis estimator software was used to estimate the DKI parameter maps by a MR imaging physicist (Y.‐Y.C. with 12 years of experience).

Statistical Tests

The diffusion metrics (eg, radial kurtosis [RK], mean kurtosis, fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity) of the patients before transplantation were compared with those of the HCs using voxel‐wise analysis of variance (ANOVA), along with t tests for post hoc analysis. Linear mixed‐effects models were applied to the longitudinal data. We imposed a cluster level Family Wise Error (FWE) correction rate of PFWE = 0.05 with voxel‐wise cutoff of P = 0.001 together with a cluster‐size cutoff of N ≥ 56, and generated smoothness estimates from the preprocessed data using the mixed‐model autocorrelation function.

Results

The RK metrics of the patients decreased significantly in the anterior cingulate cortex (HE/no‐HE < HC, ANOVA‐F = 21.91). After transplantation, the RK of the pallidum showed a continuous upward trend (time effect T = 11.26); whereas the RK of the right postcentral gyrus showed a continuous downward trend (time effect T = −9.56). In addition, the RK in superior longitudinal fasciculus showed new‐onset decrease after transplantation.

Data Conclusion

Longitudinal changes in DKI metrics reveal the course of brain microstructural changes before and after transplantation in cirrhotic patients, potentially associated with cognitive alterations after surgery.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4
Berberine safeguards sepsis‐triggered acute gastric damage and inhibits pyroptosis in gastric epithelial cells via suppressing the ubiquitination and degradation of Nrf2
Authors: Xie Shu‐Rui , Liu Yan‐Jun , Chen Fen‐Qiao , Pan Zhao
Published: November 2024

Berberine (BBR), a widely recognized traditional Chinese medicine, has attracted considerable attention for its promising anti‐inflammatory effects. The activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) effectively safeguards against organ damage stemming from sepsis‐induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. This study examined the potential of BBR in alleviating sepsis‐induced acute gastric injury, with a particular focus on elucidating whether its mechanism of action involves the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Following intraperitoneal injection of BBR, mice were subjected to the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) method to induce sepsis. In vitro experiments involved pre‐treating the normal gastric epithelial cells (GES‐1) with BBR, followed by treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Functional assays were then performed to assess cell proliferation and apoptosis. To validate the role of Nrf2 in pyroptosis and inflammation, siRNA targeting Nrf2 (si‐Nrf2) was transfected into LPS‐treated GES‐1 cells. Additionally, mice were administered the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 to confirm the protective effects of BBR in vivo. BBR displayed a dose‐dependent effect in mitigating gastric tissue damage, suppressing the release of inflammatory cytokines, and reducing the expression of NLRP3, ASC, and GSDMD‐N. In vitro, BBR fostered GES‐1 cell proliferation, hindered apoptosis, and suppressed the levels of TNF‐α, IL‐18, IL‐1β, NLRP3, ASC, and GSDMD‐N. Further analysis revealed that knocking down Nrf2 reversed BBR's inhibitory effect on pyroptosis in LPS‐treated GES‐1 cells. Through binding to Keap1, BBR efficiently prevented the ubiquitination and degradation of Nrf2, ultimately promoting its nuclear translocation. In vivo experiments confirmed that ML385 reversed the protective effect of BBR on pyroptosis and inflammation. Our research reveals that BBR interacts with Keap1 to activate the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway in gastric epithelial cells, thereby suppressing pyroptosis and inflammation in sepsis‐induced acute gastric injury.
Skin Biopsy Detection of Phosphorylated α‐Synuclein in Patients of Bullous Pemphigoid with or without Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Cao Shan , Fang Xiang , Wang Jianwen , Sun Yonghu , Zhang Furen
Published: November 2024

Background

High positivity rate of skin phosphorylated α‐synuclein (P‐SYN) was observed in Parkinson's disease (PD). Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is one of the most common autoimmune skin diseases associated with PD.

Objectives

Our aim was to investigate whether BP patients might be a targeted risk population for the screening of skin P‐SYN.

Methods

Skin P‐SYN expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in BP patients with/without PD.

Results

Twenty‐two BP patients with PD, 24 BP patients without PD, and seven healthy donors were enrolled. Colocalization of P‐SYN and PGP9.5 was found in all BP patients, but only one healthy control, whereas BP patients with PD showed higher expression than BP patients without PD (mean ± standard deviation, 10.7 ± 6.7 vs. 7.3 ± 3.2; P = 0.027). Positive expression was mainly observed in basement membrane zone and dermis.

Conclusion

These results indicated BP patients might be a targeted risk population for the screening of skin P‐SYN, which was helpful for the detection of PD early. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Screening and Predictive Biomarkers for Down Syndrome Through Amniotic Fluid Metabolomics
Authors: Zhang Li‐Chao , Yang Xiang‐Chun , Jiang Yong‐Hong , Yang Zhen , Yan Lu‐Lu , Zhang Yu‐Xin , Li Qiong , Tian Li‐Yun , Cao Juan , Zhou Ying , Wu Shan‐Shan , Zhuang Dan‐Yan , Chen Chang‐Shui , Li Hai‐Bo
Published: November 2024

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is a congenital disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of all or part of chromosome 21. It is characterized by significant intellectual disability, distinct facial features, and growth and developmental challenges. The utilization of metabolomics to analyze specific metabolic markers in maternal amniotic fluid may provide innovative tools and screening methods for investigating the early pathophysiology of trisomy 21 at the functional level.

Methods

Amniotic fluid samples were obtained via amniocentesis from 57 pregnancies with DS and 55 control pregnancies between 173/7 and 240/7 weeks of gestation. The targeted metabolomics focused on 34 organic acids, 17 amino acids, and 5 acylcarnitine metabolites. The untargeted metabolomics analysis concentrated on lipid profiles and included 602 metabolites that met quality control standards. Principal Component Analysis, Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS‐DA), and false discovery rate (FDR) adjustments were applied. MetaboAnalystR 5.0 was used to perform the metabolic pathway analysis on the identified differential metabolites.

Results

Fifty differential metabolites, including L‐glutamine, eight organic acids, and 41 lipids, were significantly altered in DS based on three criteria: VIP > 1 in the OPLS‐DA model, FDR‐adjusted p‐value < 0.05, and |log2FC| > log2(1.5) from a volcano plot of all detected metabolites. An analysis of 212 differential metabolites, selected from both targeted and untargeted approaches (VIP > 1 in the OPLS‐DA model and FDR‐adjusted p‐value < 0.05), revealed significant changes in nine metabolic pathways. Fourteen key metabolites were identified to establish a screening model for DS, achieving an area under the curve of 1.00.

Conclusions

Our results underscore the potential of metabolomics approaches in identifying concise and reliable biomarker combinations that demonstrate promising screening performance in DS.
Racial disparities in prosthesis use, satisfaction, and physical function in upper limb amputation and the impact of veteran status
Authors: Resnik Linda , Roberts Anthony I. , Borgia Matthew
Published: November 2024

Background

Prior research found that Black veterans with upper limb amputation (ULA) reported greater disability and need for assistance compared to White veterans. The extent to which racial disparities in outcomes exist outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs has not been explored.

Objective

To examine racial disparities in physical function and prosthesis satisfaction among individuals with ULA and assess the potential moderating role of veteran status.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Community‐dwelling participants.

Participants

U.S. veterans and civilians with ULA.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Physical function measures included Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System–Upper Extremity Amputation‐specific (PROMIS‐UE AMP), and Upper Extremity Functional Scale for Prosthesis Users (UEFS‐P) for one‐handed and two‐handed tasks. Prosthesis satisfaction measures included the modified Client Satisfaction with Device (CSD) Comfort, Appearance, and Utility scales, the CSD‐8, and the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Satisfaction (TAPES) scale.

Results

Of 713 participants, 79% were male, with mean age of 61.3 years. The racial composition was 83.6% White, 9.1% Black, and 7.3% other, with 75.4% identifying as veterans. Multivariable linear regression found that Black participants (compared to White) had lower PROMIS 13‐UE AMP (β: −5.1, 95% CI: −7.7 to −2.5) and UEFS‐P Two‐Handed Task Scale (β: −4.0, 95% CI: −7.3 to −2.1) scores. Satisfaction scores were lower for Black participants as measured by modified CSD Comfort (β: −3.9, 95% CI: −7.2 to −0.6), Appearance (β: −4.4, 95% CI: −7.5 to −1.2), Utility (β: −3.9, 95% CI: −7.2 to −0.6), and CSD‐8 (β: −3.9, 95% CI: −7.2 to −0.6) scales. Veteran status moderated the impact of Black race on the UEFS‐P Two‐Handed Task Scale and the TAPES.

Conclusions

Black individuals with ULA had worse physical function and prosthesis satisfaction than White individuals. Although veteran status moderated these disparities, the reasons for these disparities remain unclear. Further research is essential to understand the causes of these disparities.
The positive significance of staged physical mental combined pain reduction nursing based on pain scoring for cancer pain patient
Authors: Shao Xiaoqian , Sun Xuan , Chen Qiuyang , Shi Lingyun , Wang Yeping , Lv Xueqin
Published: November 2024

To observe the positive of stage‐based physical mental combined pain reduction nursing based on pain scoring for cancer pain patients. A total of 120 cancer pain patients admitted to our hospital from December 2022 to December 2023 were selected. They were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 60 cases in each group. The control group received medication intervention nursing, whereas the observation group received phased physical mental combined pain reduction nursing. The visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, Psychological Hope Level (HHI) score and Psychological Health Mood State Questionnaire (POMS) score of the two groups of patients were observed before nursing and at 1, 6, and 12 months after nursing. There was no difference in VAS scores between two groups at 1 month after nursing care (p > 0.05), but the observation group had lower VAS scores at 1, 6, and 12 months after nursing; In the HHI score of the observation group patients after nursing, there was no difference between the pre‐nursing and 1 month post nursing scores and the control group (p > 0.05), but scores were lower than the control group at 6 and 12 months after nursing; The POMS score of the observation group patients after nursing was better than the control group. All the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that staged physical mental combined pain reducing care has a positive impact on patients with cancer pain.