bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid and simultaneous determination of curcuminoids and gingerols in food products containing turmeric and ginger using paper spray mass spectrometry
Authors: Bartella Lucia , Mazzotti Fabio , Talarico Ines Rosita , Santoro Ilaria , Di Donna Leonardo
Published: May 2024

Turmeric and ginger are extensively employed as functional ingredients due to their high content of curcuminoids and gingerols, considered the key bioactive compounds found in these roots. In this study, we present an innovative and fast method for the assay of curcuminoids and gingerols in different foods containing the two spices, with the aim of monitoring the quality of products from a nutraceutical perspective. The proposed approach is based on paper spray tandem mass spectrometry coupled with the use of a labeled internal standard, which has permitted to achieve the best results in terms of specificity and accuracy. All the calculated analytical parameters were satisfactory; accuracy values are around 100% for all spiked samples and the precision data result lower than 15%. The protocol was applied to several real samples, and to demonstrate its robustness and reliability, the results were compared to those arising from the common liquid chromatographic method.
Analysis of the diagnostic performance of PAX1/SOX1 gene methylation in cervical precancerous lesions and its role in triage diagnosis
Authors: Fan Chunli , Hu Junbo , Luo Ting , Dong Binhua , Li Hongying , Wang Weipeng , Yan Jiong , Cai Hongning
Published: May 2024

Methylation panels, tools for investigating epigenetic changes associated with diseases like cancer, can identify DNA methylation patterns indicative of disease, providing diagnostic or prognostic insights. However, the application of methylation panels focusing on the sex‐determining region Y‐box 1 (SOX1) and paired box gene 1 (PAX1) genes for diagnosing cervical lesions is under‐researched. This study aims to examine the diagnostic performance of PAX1/SOX1 gene methylation as a marker for cervical precancerous lesions and its potential application in triage diagnosis. From September 2022 to April 2023, 181 patients with abnormal HPV‐DNA tests or cytological exam results requiring colposcopy were studied at Hubei Maternal and Child Health Hospital, China. Data were collected from colposcopy, cytology, HPV‐DNA tests, and PAX1/SOX1 methylation detection. Patients were categorized as control, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 1 (CIN1), Grade 2 (CIN2), Grade 3 (CIN3), and cervical cancer (CC) groups based on histopathology. We performed HPV testing, liquid‐based cytology, and PAX1/SOX1 gene methylation testing. We evaluated the diagnostic value of methylation detection in cervical cancer using DNA methylation positivity rate, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC), and explored its potential for triage diagnosis. PAX1/SOX1 methylation positivity rates were: control 17.1%, CIN1 22.5%, CIN2 100.0%, CIN3 90.0%, and CC 100.0%. The AUC values for PAX1 gene methylation detection in diagnosing CIN1+, CIN2+, and CIN3+ were 0.52 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43–0.62), 0.88 (95% CI: 0.80–0.97), and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.75–1.00), respectively. Corresponding AUC values for SOX1 gene methylation detection were 0.47 (95% CI: 0.40–0.58), 0.80 (95% CI: 0.68–0.93), and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.811–1.00), respectively. In HPV16/18‐negative patients, methylation detection showed sensitivity of 32.4% and specificity of 83.7% for CIN1+. For CIN2+ and CIN3+, sensitivity was all 100%, with specificities of 83.0% and 81.1%. Among the patients who underwent colposcopy examination, 166 cases had cytological examination results ≤ASCUS, of which 37 cases were positive for methylation, and the colposcopy referral rate was 22.29%. PAX1/SOX1 gene methylation detection exhibits strong diagnostic efficacy for cervical precancerous lesions and holds significant value in triage diagnosis.
Prevalence and diversity of imported severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variants in China, 2021–2022
Authors: Feng Yenan , Zhao Xiang , Chen Zhixiao , Wu Yuchao , Li Lili , Wu Changcheng , Nie Kai , Yang Xiaoyu , Niu Peihua , Wang Ji , Wang Shiwen , Chen Cao
Published: May 2024

The causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has spread accumulatively to 240 countries and continues to evolve. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiological characteristics of imported variants in China and their correlation with global circulating variants, genomic surveillance data from 11 139 imported COVID‐19 cases submitted by Chinese provincial CDC laboratories between 2021 and 2022 were analyzed. Consensus sequences underwent rigorous quality checks, followed by amino acid mutations analysis using Nextclade. Sequences with satisfactory quality control status were classified according to the Pango nomenclature. The results showed that the dominant variants in imported cases reflected the global epidemic trend. An increase in the number of imported SARS‐CoV‐2 lineages monitored in China in the second half of 2022, and the circulating Omicron subvariants changed from the ancestral lineages of BA.5 and BA.2 into the lineages containing key amino acid mutations of spike protein. There was significant variation in the detection of Omicron subvariants among continents (χ2 = 321.968, p < 0.001) in the second half of 2022, with four lineages (BA.2.3.7, BA.2.2, BA.5.2.7, and XBB.1.2) identified through imported surveillance mainly prevalent respectively in Taiwan, China, Hong Kong SAR, China, Russian Federation, and Singapore. These findings revealed the alterations in circulating imported variants from 2021 to 2022 in China, reflecting the higher diversity of lineages in the second half of 2022, and revealed the predominant lineages of countries or regions that are in close contacts to China, providing new insights into the global prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Initial development of perceptions of ability and intent factors of (un)trustworthiness in short‐term teams
Authors: Fletcher Keaton A. , Summers James K. , Bedwell‐Torres Wendy L. , Humphrey Stephen E. , Thomas Sarah E. , Ramsay P. Scott
Published: May 2024

Individual perceptions of team trustworthiness are critical antecedents to the development of relationships within teams. Yet, clarity is needed regarding the focus of these individual perceptions and how they change, particularly at the outset of team interactions. Two distinct research streams have emerged regarding trustworthiness. One proposes a difference between perceived ability and intent, whereas the other proposes a difference between confident positive and negative expectations of others. Regardless of their structure, theory suggests that perceptions of team trustworthiness ought to develop across performance episodes as individuals identify more with their team and have more information about how they are performing. We explore these relationships across three distinct performance episodes in newly formed short‐term teams. Our results support a four‐factor model of trustworthiness within the context of short‐term, lab‐based teams. Further, perceptions regarding teammates' abilities tended to change quickly and curvilinearly while those regarding teammates' intents changed linearly. Positive team performance signals bolstered individual perceptions of team trustworthiness in ability and intent but not perceived team untrustworthiness. Negative team performance signals bolstered individual perceptions of team untrustworthiness in ability and intent while harming both types of individual perceptions of team trustworthiness. This study supports propositions from the model of trust over time and lays the groundwork for a comprehensive approach toward trust research within teams.
Inter‐comparison and validation of high‐resolution surface air temperature reanalysis fields over Italy
Authors: Cavalleri Francesco , Viterbo Francesca , Brunetti Michele , Bonanno Riccardo , Manara Veronica , Lussana Cristian , Lacavalla Matteo , Maugeri Maurizio
Published: May 2024

Surface air temperature (t2m) data are essential for understanding climate dynamics and assessing the impacts of climate change. Reanalysis products, which combine observations with retrospective short‐range weather forecasts, can provide consistent and comprehensive datasets. ERA5 represents the state‐of‐the‐art in global reanalyses and supplies initial and boundary conditions for higher‐resolution regional reanalyses designed to capture finer‐scale atmospheric processes. However, these products require validation, especially in complex terrains like Italy. This study analyses the capability of different reanalysis products to reproduce t2m fields over Italy during the 1991–2020 period. The analyses encompass ERA5, ERA5‐Land, the MEteorological Reanalysis Italian DAtaset (MERIDA), the Copernicus European Regional ReAnalysis (CERRA), and the Very High‐Resolution dynamical downscaling of ERA5 REAnalysis over ITaly (VHR‐REA_IT). The validation we conduct pertains to both the spatial distribution of 30‐year seasonal and annual normal values and the daily anomaly records. Each reanalysis is compared with observations projected onto its respective grid positions and elevations, overcoming any model bias resulting from an inaccurate representation of the real topography. Key findings reveal that normal values in reanalyses closely match observational values, with deviations typically below 1°C. However, in the Alps, winter cold biases sometimes exceed 3°C and show a relation with the elevation. Similar deviations occur in the Apennines, Sicily, and Sardinia. Conversely, VHR‐REA_IT shows a warm bias in the Po Valley up to 3°C in summer. Daily anomalies generally exhibit lower errors, with MERIDA showing the highest accuracy and correlation with observational fields. Moreover, when aggregating daily anomalies to annual time scales, the errors in the anomaly records rapidly decrease to <0.5°C. The results of this study empower reanalysis users across multiple sectors to gain a more profound insight into the capabilities and constraints of different reanalysis products. The knowledge and the characterization of the reanalyses t2m bias against observations can indeed be crucial when incorporating these products into their research and practical applications.
Is Creativity Expressed at Home Related to Creativity Expressed at School? A Re‐Examination of the Creativity Gap with Gifted and Nongifted Students
Authors: Abdulla Alabbasi Ahmed M. , Runco Mark A. , Almutairi Maha S. , Ayoub Alaa Eldin A.
Published: May 2024

Previous research suggests that environment can play an important role in encouraging or discouraging creative expression and productivity. Additional research has uncovered a discrepancy between the creativity students express at school and the creativity they express outside of school. The fact that, in previous research, students expressed more creativity outside of school than when in school implies that school discourages creativity. So far, the creativity gap has only been studied with nongifted students. One objective of the present investigation was to check for a similar discrepancy among gifted learners. Four hundred and eighty‐seven middle school and high school students from the State of Kuwait (240 gifted and 247 nongifted) were recruited. The Creativity Activities and Accomplishment Checklist (CAAC) was administered to compare students' creative activities at home and school. The primary finding of this investigation was that the strength of the relationship between creativity at home and creativity at school differed in gifted and nongifted students. What was called a creativity gap existed in both groups, but it was smaller in the gifted group. A second finding was that gifted students expressed more creativity at school compared with the nongifted group, in particular CAAC domains. There were no differences between the gifted and the nongifted groups in the creativity expressed at home, except for one subscale, namely everyday creativity. Although gifted students expressed more creativity at school, compared with their nongifted peers, they were nonetheless more creative at home compared with school. Finally, hierarchical regression analyses indicated that measure of personality significantly moderated the relationship between creativity at home and creativity at school. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Associations between periodontitis and serum anti‐malondialdehyde–acetaldehyde antibody concentrations in rheumatoid arthritis: A case‐control study
Authors: Lee Joyce A. , Mikuls Ted R. , Sayles Harlan R. , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Duryee Michael J. , Payne Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Malondialdehyde–acetaldehyde (MAA) adducts lead to generation of anti‐MAA autoantibodies and have been independently identified in inflamed periodontal and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) tissues. This study evaluates serum samples from RA cases and osteoarthritis (OA) controls to quantify associations between periodontal clinical measures, alveolar bone loss (ABL), and anti‐Porphyromonas gingivalis, anti‐Prevotella intermedia, and anti‐Fusobacterium nucleatum antibody concentrations with anti‐MAA antibody concentrations.

Methods

Participants (n = 284 RA cases, n = 330 OA controls) underwent periodontal clinical assessments and ABL measurements. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgG, and IgM anti‐MAA and serum IgG antibacterial antibody concentrations were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Analyses utilized simple linear regression and multivariable adjusted models.

Results

No significant associations of periodontal clinical measures with serum anti‐MAA were found. Moderate (p = 0.038 and p = 0.036, respectively) and high ABL (p = 0.012 and p = 0.014, respectively) in RA cases (but not in OA) were positively associated with IgG and IgM anti‐MAA. Anti‐P. gingivalis and anti‐P. intermedia antibody concentrations were positively associated with IgA (p = 0.001 for both), IgG (p = 0.007 and p = 0.034, respectively), and IgM anti‐MAA antibody concentrations (p < 0.001 and p = 0.020, respectively), while anti‐F. nucleatum was positively associated with IgG anti‐MAA (p = 0.042), findings that were similar across groups.

Conclusions

A positive association was demonstrated between ABL and serum IgG and IgM anti‐MAA antibody concentrations that was unique to RA and not observed in OA. Serum anti‐P. gingivalis, anti‐P. intermedia, and anti‐F. nucleatum antibody concentrations displayed significant associations with anti‐MAA antibody in both groups. These findings suggest MAA may play a role in the interrelationship between the periodontium and RA.
Morphological effect on Core@shell AuAg nanoparticles for detecting p‐aminothiophenol dimerization by surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: de la Cabeza Fernández María , Alvear‐Jiménez Alexis , Forte‐Castro Arantxa , Contreras‐Cáceres Rafael , López‐Ramírez María Rosa
Published: May 2024

A series of non‐spherical metallic Au and bimetallic core@shell AuAg nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized for SERS improvements. The bimetallic core@shell AuAg NPs were obtained through a controlled overgrowth of an Ag shell onto the surface of two types of non‐spherical Au NPs, used as seeds, Au nanooctaheda (Au NOc) and Au nanotriangles (Au NTs). This Ag overgrowth was able to produce bimetallic core@shell structures such as nanocubes and nanopyramids, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to determine the particle size and particle morphology for metallic and bimetallic NPs, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) elemental mapping analysis confirmed the core@shell structure of the bimetallic NPs. The plasmonic absorption bands exhibited for each nanosystem were observed by UV–vis spectroscopy. The concentration of Au and Ag in the bimetallic systems was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). After synthesis and characterization, p‐aminothiophenol (PATP) was used as a model analyte to investigate the surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) capabilities of the synthesized metallic and bimetallic nanosystems. In PATP, a dimerization reaction to 4,4′‐dimercaptoazobenzene (DMAB) is produced when it is adsorbed onto the surface of certain noble metals. This SERS analysis was performed at 10−4 M of PATP and by using two different laser wavelengths (532 and 785 nm) in all cases. In this context, we were able to detect the dimerization reaction of PATP to DMAB only for the bimetallic structures and under the 532 nm laser line. Moreover, we have found that the dimerization capacity also depends on the nanoparticle morphology.
Combination of ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and network pharmacology to reveal the key effective compounds and mechanism of Shengxian decoction for ameliorating doxorubicin cardiotoxicity
Authors: Jiao Guangyang , Wang Yejian , Song Yue , Chen Yuxin , Fan Xiangcheng , Zhao Qing , Pang Tao , Zhang Feng , Chen Wansheng
Published: May 2024

Shengxian decoction, a traditional Chinese medicinal prescription, has been shown to alleviate doxorubicin‐induced chronic heart failure. This study established an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method to separate and characterize the complex chemical compositions of Shengxian decoction, and the absorbed compounds in the bio‐samples of the cardiotoxicity rats with chronic heart failure after its oral delivery. Note that 116 chemical compounds were identified from Shengxian decoction in vitro, 81 more than previously detected. Based on the three‐dimensional data of these compounds, 28 absorbed compounds were confirmed in vivo. Network pharmacology and molecular docking experiments indicated that timosaponin B‐II, timosaponin A‐III, gitogenin, and 7,8‐didehydrocimigenol were recognized as the key effective compounds to exert effects against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity by acting on targets such as caspase 3, cyclin‐dependent kinase 1, cyclin‐dependent kinase 4, receptor tyrosine‐protein kinase erbB‐2, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 in p53 and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase‐Akt signaling pathways. This study developed the understanding of the composition of Shengxian decoction for the treatment of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity, as well as a feasible strategy to elucidate the effective constituents in traditional Chinese medicines.
The doctors' perception of skin diseases in general practice in Denmark, with emphasis on atopic dermatitis: A descriptive study
Authors: Sofie Froelunde Anne , Deleuran Mette , Thomsen Janus L. , Vestergaard Christian
Published: May 2024

Background

Skin symptoms are a common reason for consulting a medical doctor, for example a general practitioner (GP) in countries where GPs function as gatekeepers. Despite this, GPs have very sparse dermatological training in their Residency programme.

Objectives

To investigate management and challenges of skin diseases, in particular atopic dermatitis (AD), in general practice from the GPs' point of view.

Methods

A survey was sent out to all 298 GPs in the North Region of Denmark on 5 April 2022 and data collection continued until 8 June 2022. The survey contained three sections; demographic information about the GP, patients with dermatological problems in general practice, and lastly load, management, and perception of AD in general practice.

Results

A total of 94 GPs (31.5%) responded to the survey. Sixty‐four percent of the GPs reported that 5%–10% of their consultations concerned dermatology, and 25% reported that in more than 10% of their consultations, patients have a secondary skin problem. Top three most frequent skin diagnoses were rated to be seborrhoeic keratoses, children with AD, and acne.

Conclusions

Consultations for skin diseases are very common in general practice, and very often, patients bring up their skin issue secondary to another problem. Forty‐three percent of GPs in our study had taken postgraduate training in dermatology, which underlines the need for more dermatological education in the GPs' residency programme. Patients with AD are treated according to guidelines, and GPs find consultations with patients with AD complex. Lastly, there is a high rate of reconsultations for patients with AD.
Ultrafast Laser Direct Writing Nanogratings and their Engineering in Transparent Materials
Authors: Yao Heng , Pugliese Diego , Lancry Matthieu , Dai Ye
Published: May 2024

Femtosecond laser direct writing is a powerful technique for fabricating micro‐nano devices as it can modify the interior of transparent optical materials in a spatially selective manner through nonlinear multi‐photon absorption. In this context, laser‐induced nanogratings, i.e., a sub‐wavelength assembly of nanolayers (≈20 nm in width, ≈200 nm period), are ultrashort self‐organized structures created by light in the bulk of transparent materials. These have been intensively explored over the last two decades opening a novel era of micro photonic devices due to their unique physicochemical properties, like orientable form birefringence, anisotropic light scattering, highly selective chemical etching, optical chirality, and extraordinary thermal stability. This review provides a throughout overview of the advances in this field, specifically focused on the formation of nanogratings, optical properties that can be exploited in various transparent solids, and the related main applications. Also, the fundamental characteristics, formation mechanism, tuning methods of nanogratings are reviewed.
Using incident reports to diagnose communication challenges for precision intervention in learning health systems: A methods paper
Authors: Clark Rebecca R. S. , Klaiman Tamar , Sliwinski Kathy , Hamm Rebecca F. , Flores Emilia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Poor communication is a leading root cause of preventable maternal mortality in the United States. Communication challenges are compounded with the presence of biases, including racism. Hospital administrators and clinicians are often aware that communication is a problem, but understanding where to intervene can be difficult to determine. While clinical leadership routinely reviews incident reports and acts on them to improve care, we hypothesized that reviewing incident reports in a systematic way might reveal thematic patterns, providing targeted opportunities to improve communication in direct interaction with patients and within the healthcare team itself.

Methods

We abstracted incident reports from the Women's Health service and linked them with patient charts to join patient's race/ethnicity, birth outcome, and presence of maternal morbidity and mortality to the incident report. We conducted a qualitative content analysis of incident reports using an inductive and deductive approach to categorizing communication challenges. We then described the intersection of different types of communication challenges with patient race/ethnicity and morbidity outcomes.

Results

The use of incident reports to conduct research on communication was new for the health system. Conversations with health system‐level stakeholders were important to determine the best way to manage data. We developed a thematic codebook based on prior research in healthcare communication. We found that we needed to add codes that were equity focused, as this was missing from the existing codebook. We also found that clinical and contextual expertise was necessary for conducting the analysis—requiring more resources to conduct coding than initially estimated. We shared our findings back with leadership iteratively during the work.

Conclusions

Incident reports represent a promising source of health system data for rapid improvement to transform organizational practice around communication. There are barriers to conducting this work in a rapid manner, however, that require further iteration and innovation.
Global existence and stability of the wave equation with boundary variable damping
Authors: Imane Boulmerka , Ilhem Hamchi
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we present the result of global existence of solution for the wave equation with boundary variable damping term. Then, we prove that this global solution is stable. Our study is based on the semi‐groups theory and some integral inequalities.
iPSC‐derived NK cells with site‐specific integration of CAR19 and IL24 at the multi‐copy rDNA locus enhanced antitumor activity and proliferation
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Shi Qingxin , Wang Peiyun , Huang Chujun , Tang Shuqing , Zhou Miaojin , Hu Qian , Wu Lingqian , Liang Desheng
Published: May 2024

The generation of chimeric antigen receptor‐modified natural killer (CAR‐NK) cells using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has emerged as one of the paradigms for manufacturing off‐the‐shelf universal immunotherapy. However, there are still some challenges in enhancing the potency, safety, and multiple actions of CAR‐NK cells. Here, iPSCs were site‐specifically integrated at the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) locus with interleukin 24 (IL24) and CD19‐specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR19), and successfully differentiated into iPSC‐derived NK (iNK) cells, followed by expansion using magnetic beads in vitro. Compared with the CAR19‐iNK cells, IL24 armored CAR19‐iNK (CAR19‐IL24‐iNK) cells showed higher cytotoxic capacity and amplification ability in vitro and inhibited tumor progression more effectively with better survival in a B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B‐ALL) (Nalm‐6 (Luc1))‐bearing mouse model. Interestingly, RNA‐sequencing analysis showed that IL24 may enhance iNK cell function through nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) pathway‐related genes while exerting a direct effect on tumor cells. This study proved the feasibility and potential of combining IL24 with CAR‐iNK cell therapy, suggesting a novel and promising off‐the‐shelf immunotherapy strategy.
Feasibility of replacing face‐to‐face with telephone interviews for the World Mental Health Qatar survey during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Khaled Salma M. , Amro Iman , Bader Lina , Lee Holmes John , Diop Abdoulaye , Le Trung Kien
Published: May 2024

Objectives

We investigated the feasibility of replacing face‐to‐face with telephone interviews conducted as part of the World Mental Health Qatar (WMHQ) survey and discuss the main methodological changes across the two pilots that were subsequently implemented in the full‐scale WMHQ telephone survey.

Methods

We assessed the net mode effect by comparing the lifetime prevalence estimates of the main mental disorder classes (mood and anxiety disorders) and a number of disorders across the two survey pilots conducted prior to and post‐pandemic.

Results

The main differences in terms of methodology for both pilots stemmed from differences in the survey mode, including questionnaire length, study recruitment method, and fielding team size and structure. These factors influenced response rates and costs. However, the lifetime prevalence estimates and other key indicators of survey results did not differ across modes.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm the comparability of data collected via telephone and face‐to‐face modes, supporting the adoption of telephone surveys for future mental health studies, particularly in the context of pandemics. They also confirm the feasibility of changing or mixing modes depending on field conditions in future psychiatric epidemiological research.
Advancements of eco‐friendly natural antimicrobial agents and their transformative role in sustainable textiles
Authors: Hossain Md Monir , Islam Tarikul , Jalil M. Abdul , Rakibuzzaman Sheikh Md , Surid S. M. , Zabed Md Riad Ibne , Talukder Amit , Hossain Shahin
Published: May 2024

In the face of mounting environmental concerns, the textile industry is undergoing a pivotal transformation, with sustainability at the forefront of innovation. This review focuses on the exploration of natural compounds, renowned for their antimicrobial properties, as viable alternatives to conventional chemical agents that pose significant environmental challenges. It delves into a diverse array of natural sources, including plant extracts, essential oils, and microbial‐derived compounds, which have been identified for their potent antimicrobial efficacy. These natural agents not only demonstrate a broad spectrum of activity against pathogenic microorganisms but also represent a stride towards eco‐friendly textile processing by offering a sustainable substitute for synthetic antimicrobials. The integration of these green antimicrobial agents into textiles is scrutinized, with a particular emphasis on their impact on enhancing fabric functionalities. This includes improvements in durability, wash resistance, and the sustained antimicrobial effectiveness of treated fabrics, without sacrificing environmental integrity. Moreover, the study underscores the potential health benefits of these natural agents, such as a decrease in allergic reactions and skin irritations commonly associated with traditional antimicrobial treatments. The review culminates by highlighting the significant role these eco‐conscious solutions play in revolutionizing antimicrobial textiles, promoting industry‐wide sustainable practices, and catering to the escalating consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

Highlights

Provides eco‐friendly and sustainable alternatives in textile processing, offering a greener choice over synthetic options.

Enhances fabric functionality while preserving environmental integrity, addressing sustainability concerns throughout production.

Improves fabric durability, wash resistance, and long‐lasting efficacy, thereby contributing to superior product performance.

Reduces allergic reactions and skin irritations, underscoring the health benefits of eco‐friendly antimicrobial treatments.

Promotes sustainable practices, shaping the future of antimicrobial textiles and catering to the growing demand for environmentally conscious consumer choices in the industry.
Definition, risk factors, and outcome analysis of prolonged mechanical ventilation in children
Authors: Chen Ruonan , Liu Yanling , Dang Hongxing
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to explore the time threshold for defining prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in children, along with its risk factors and outcomes.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on children aged 29 days–18 years, who were consecutively admitted to two Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) at Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, from October 2020 to June 2021. The study included patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) for more than 2 days (each day >6 h). Participants were divided into five groups based on the duration of MV (2–7 days, 8–14 days, 15–21 days, 21–30 days, >30 days) to compare rates of extubation failure, all‐cause mortality one month post‐discharge, incidence of ventilator‐associated pneumonia, tracheotomy rates, total hospital stay, PICU stay, and overall hospital costs. The most clinically and statistically significant outcome variables were selected. The Youden index was used to determine the MV duration with the most significant impact on overall outcomes, defining this as PMV. Baseline characteristics, treatment information, and outcomes were compared between PMV and non‐PMV groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for PMV occurrence.

Results

A total of 382 subjects were included in the study. The distribution of children across the five MV duration groups was 44.2%, 27.7%, 10.7%, 8.9%, and 8.4% respectively. The rates of at least one extubation failure in each group were 5.9%, 10.4%, 41.5%, 41.2%, and 46.9% (p < .05). Statistically significant differences were observed among groups in terms of tracheotomy rates, all‐cause mortality at 1 month postdischarge, median total hospital stay, median PICU stay, and hospital costs (p < .05). Defining PMV, the most appropriate time point calculated was 12.5 days, based on at least one extubation failure and/or death within 1 month postdischarge. Higher PIM‐3 scores, weight for age <−2SD, admission for respiratory distress/insufficient ventilation and/or hemodynamic instability/shock/arrhythmia, noninvasive ventilation on the first day, and undergoing blood transfusion treatment were identified as risk factors for PMV (p < .05).

Conclusion

In children, MV for ≥13 days significantly increases mortality rates, extubation failure and tracheotomy rates, duration of PICU and total hospital stay and costs. We suggest defining PMV as MV ≥13 days, particularly for children undergoing MV for respiratory illnesses. This definition can assist clinicians in developing appropriate treatment strategies by focusing on risk factors and providing reliable prognostic consultation to patients' families.
Methods and clinical biomarker discovery for targeted proteomics using Olink technology
Authors: Wang Han , Zhao Tian , Zeng Jingjing , Zhang Ruijie , Pu Liyuan , Qian Suying , Xu Shan , Jiang Yannan , Pan Lifang , Dai Xiaoyu , Guo Xu , Han Liyuan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper is to offer insights for designing research utilizing Olink technology to identify biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for disease treatment.

Experimental Design

We discusses the application of Olink technology in oncology, cardiovascular, respiratory and immune‐related diseases, and Outlines the advantages and limitations of Olink technology.

Results

Olink technology simplifies the search for therapeutic targets, advances proteomics research, reveals the pathogenesis of diseases, and ultimately helps patients develop precision treatments.

Conclusions

Although proteomics technology has been rapidly developed in recent years, each method has its own disadvantages, so in the future research, more methods should be selected for combined application to verify each other.
Photo‐Stimulated Zn‐based Batteries: Progress, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Ding Yi , Yu Xinxin , Dai Peng , Bai Zhiman , Wu Mingzai , Jiang Tongtong
Published: May 2024

Solar energy, as a renewable energy source, dominates the vast majority of human energy, which can be harvested and converted by photovoltaic solar cells. However, the intermittent availability of solar energy restricts the actual utilization circumstances of solar cells. Integrating photo‐responsive electrodes into an energy storage device emerges as a dependable and executable strategy, fostering the creation of photo‐stimulated batteries that seamlessly amalgamate the process of solar energy collection, conversion, and storage in one system. Endowed by virtues such as cost‐effectiveness, facile manufacturing, safety, and environmental friendliness, photo‐stimulated Zn‐based batteries have attracted considerable attention. The progress report furnishes a brief overview, summarizing various photo‐stimulated Zn‐based batteries. Their configurations, operational principles, advancements, and the intricate engineering of photoelectrode designs are introduced, respectively. Through rigorous architectural design, photo‐stimulated Zn‐based batteries exhibit the ability to initiate charging by saving electricity usage, and in certain instances, even without the need for external electrical grids under illumination. Furthermore, the compensation of solar energy can be explored to improve the output electric energy. At last, opportunities and challenges toward photo‐stimulated Zn‐based batteries in the process of development are proposed and discussed in the hope of expanding their application scenarios and accelerating the commercialization progress.
Machine Learning Assisted Self‐Powered Identity Recognition Based on Thermogalvanic Hydrogel for Intelligent Security
Authors: Ma Xueliang , Wang Wenxu , Cui Xiaojing , Li Yunsheng , Yang Kun , Huang Zhiquan , Zhang Hulin
Published: May 2024

Identity recognition as the first barrier of intelligent security plays a vital role, which is facing new challenges that are unable to meet the need of intelligent era due to low accuracy, complex configuration and dependence on power supply. Here, a finger temperature‐driven intelligent identity recognition strategy is presented based on a thermogalvanic hydrogel (TGH) by actively discerning biometric characteristics of fingers. The TGH is a dual network PVA/Agar hydrogel in an H2O/glycerol binary solvent with [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− as a redox couple. Using a concave‐arranged TGH array, the characteristics of users can be distinguished adequately even under an open environment by extracting self‐existent intrinsic temperature features from five typical sites of fingers. Combined with machine learning, the TGH array can recognize different users with a high average accuracy of 97.6%. This self‐powered identity recognition strategy is further applied to a smart lock, attaining a more reliable security protection from biometric characteristics than bare passwords. This work provides a promising solution for achieving better identity recognition, which has great advantages in intelligent security and human‐machine interaction toward future Internet of everything.
Ion chromatography‐based determination of lithium in human urine for monitoring medication compliance
Authors: Kwon Nam Hee , Park Jaehyeong , Kim Seon Yeong , Ko Beom Jun , Cheong Jae Chul , Kim Jin Young
Published: May 2024

Continuous Li monitoring is vital in ensuring the safety and treatment efficacy of probationers with psychotic disorders, such as bipolar disorder, depression, and mania. This study introduced a validated quantitative analysis method using ion chromatography (IC) to monitor Li+ concentration in urine. The methodology involved centrifuging the urine sample, diluting the supernatant with deionized water, and subsequent IC analysis using guard and analytical columns for precise Li+ concentration measurement. The method quantified Li+ within the range of 2–400 ng/mL, demonstrating its excellent linearity (r2 = 0.9983) with a weighting factor of 1/x. Precision levels below 12.8% were observed for both intraday and interday measurements with an accuracy of −5.9% to 15.2%. The detection limit was identified as 0.12 ng/mL. The method conformed to analytical standards in terms of selectivity, matrix effect, process efficiency, dilution integrity, and stability. Moreover, the method distinctly quantified Li+ while effectively eliminating interference from Na+, which had a similar retention time as Li+ with higher concentrations. Further, the developed method was successfully applied to analyze forensic urine samples of Li users, demonstrating its applicability for medication compliance monitoring using urine samples of mentally disordered probationers.
Impact of Cross‐Linking on the Physicochemical and Physiological Characteristics of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) Grains Starch
Authors: Bhatt Pankaj , Singh Suruchi , Garg Sakshi , Ashoka P. , Mishra Shardandu Kumar , Kaushik Shikha , Deva Varsha , Goel Richa , Kumar Vipin
Published: May 2024

Barnyard millet starch (Echinochloa frumentacea) has been investigated for its potential in drug delivery systems due to its unique properties. This study examined the physicochemical and physiological properties of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch (BMS) using varying concentrations of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). Physicochemical and physiological properties of the cross‐linked starches are analyzed. Cross‐linking resulted in reduced swelling capacity and solubility of starch samples. Morphological analysis revealed rough surfaces with cavities and minute cracks in cross‐linked starches. Acute and sub‐acute toxicity studies in test animals indicated no adverse effects, with LD50 values within acceptable limits at 2000 mg kg−1. Hematological, biochemical, and lipid profiles showed no significant alterations compared to the control group. The study demonstrated a low acute toxicity level and favorable safety profile for STPP‐cross‐linked starch. These findings highlighted the potential of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch as a carrier in drug delivery system and for food applications. This study supports the potential of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch in pharmaceutical formulations.
The impact of different length hooked‐end fibers on the structural performance of RC folded plates
Authors: Katlav Metin , Turk Kazim , Turgut Paki
Published: May 2024

In this article, the effect of hooked‐end fibers with different lengths on the structural performance of RC‐FPs fabricated from hybrid fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete (HFR‐SCC) was investigated. For this purpose, a total of 15 full‐scale test samples having different plate thicknesses (60, 70, and 80 mm) were produced and tested under bending after a 90‐day curing period. Subsequently, load‐carrying capacity (Pp), flexural toughness (Fth), and deflection ductility index (μu) of all RC‐FPs were found using load‐deflection curves obtained from bending tests, while crack patterns were drawn from the samples tested. Besides, high‐precision contour plots are proposed to estimate the structural performance values of RC‐FPs depending on plate thickness and fiber reinforcing index. As a result, the best structural performance in RC‐FPs was obtained from the use of a longer hooked‐end steel fiber together with micro steel fiber as a hybrid, followed by the lower length hooked‐end steel fibers as singles. Specifically, irrespective of the plate thickness, the hybrid use of longer hooked steel fibers in combination with micro fibers increased the Pp, Fth, and μu values of RC‐FPs on average 1.67, 1.76, and 1.57 times, respectively, compared to the control specimens. As for when using the lower length hooked‐end fiber as single, the values of Pp, Fth, and μu increased on average 1.57, 1.69, and 1.30 times. Lastly, whereas plate thickness has little effect on improving the structural performance of thin‐walled carrier elements such as RC‐FPs, adding fibers in different lengths, aspect ratios, and combinations is much more effective. The collective test results demonstrate that using RC‐FPs made of HFR‐SCC in the roof carrier system of large span structures could improve structural performance, aesthetics, erection time, and earthquake behavior thanks to reduced dead load.
Functional mechanism of hypoxia‐like conditions mediating resistance to ferroptosis in cervical cancer cells by regulating KDM4A SUMOylation and the SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway
Authors: Xiong Jing , Chen Puxiang , He Ling , Chai Xiaoshan , Zhang Yongjing , Sun Shujuan
Published: May 2024

The discovery of ferroptosis has unveiled new perspectives for cervical cancer (CC) management. We elucidated the functional mechanism of hypoxia‐like conditions in CC cell ferroptosis resistance. CC cells were subjected to normoxia or hypoxia‐like conditions, followed by erastin treatment to induce ferroptosis. The assessment of cell viability/ferroptosis resistance was performed by MTT assay/Fe2+, MDA, and glutathione measurement by colorimetry. KDM4A/SUMO1/Ubc9/SENP1 protein levels were determined by Western blot. Interaction and binding sites between KDM4A and SUMO1 were analyzed and predicted by immunofluorescence/co‐immunoprecipitation and GPS‐SUMO 1.0 software, with the target relationship verified by mutation experiment. SLC7A11/GPX4/H3K9me3 protein levels, and H3K9me3 level in the SLC7A11 gene promoter region were determined by RT‐qPCR and Western blot/chromatin immunoprecipitation. H3H9me3/SLC7A11/GPX4 level alterations, and ferroptosis resistance after KDM4A silencing or KDM4A K471 mutation were assessed. Hypoxia‐like conditions increased CC cell ferroptosis resistance and KDM4A, SUMO1, and Ubc9 protein levels, while it decreased SENP1 protein level. KDM4A and SUMO1 were co‐localized in the nucleus, and hypoxia‐like conditions promoted their interaction. Specifically, the K471 locus of KDM4A was the main locus for SUMO1ylation. Hypoxia‐like conditions up‐regulated SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression levels and decreased H3K9me3 protein level and H3K9me3 abundance in the SLC7A11 promoter region. KDM4A silencing or K471 locus mutation resulted in weakened interaction between KDM4A and SUMO1, elevated H3K9me3 levels, decreased SLC7A11 expression, ultimately, a reduced CC cell ferroptosis resistance. CoCl2‐stimulated hypoxia‐like conditions enhanced SUMO1 modification of KDM4A at the K471 locus specifically, repressed H3K9me3 levels, and up‐regulated SLC7A11/GPX4 to enhance CC cell ferroptosis resistance.
Application of modified kaolinite in improving thermal stability of polydimethylsiloxane
Authors: Nguyen Linh T. T. , Jiang Zhong‐Tao , Mondinos Nicholas , Phan Tuan D. , No Kwangsoo , Liew Willey Yun Hsien
Published: May 2024

This research investigated the chemical structure and morphology of the hydrogenated tallow amine (HTA)‐intercalated kaolinite by XRD, FT‐IR, and TEM measurements. The experimental outcomes show that intercalation of kaolinite by HTA, with an intercalation rate of 63.2%, expands the interlayer distance with a subsequent dominant basal XRD peak at 2θ ≈ 7.9°. Furthermore, a composite was created from the HTA‐intercalated kaolinite and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) through a favorable interaction between the end silanol groups of PDMS and the modified kaolinite surface. Thermogravimetry‐differential scanning calorimetry results indicate that introducing the HTA‐intercalated kaolinite into the PDMS matrix increases the thermal stability of the composite from 178 to 343 °C. However, the thermal stability of the composite is lower than that of other published materials. The synthesis of kaolinite/PDMS composite with enhanced structural and thermal stability outcomes has been provided via a simple and effective solution method that should have further applications.
Life at the interface: Engineering bio‐nanomaterials through interfacial molecular self‐assembly
Authors: Miller Michael A. , Medina Scott
Published: May 2024

Interfacial self‐assembly describes the directed organization of molecules and colloids at phase boundaries. Believed to be fundamental to the inception of primordial life, interfacial assembly is exploited by a myriad of eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms to execute physiologic activities and maintain homeostasis. Inspired by these natural systems, chemists, engineers, and materials scientists have sought to harness the thermodynamic equilibria at phase boundaries to create multi‐dimensional, highly ordered, and functional nanomaterials. Recent advances in our understanding of the biophysical principles guiding molecular assembly at gas–solid, gas–liquid, solid–liquid, and liquid–liquid interphases have enhanced the rational design of functional bio‐nanomaterials, particularly in the fields of biosensing, bioimaging and biotherapy. Continued development of non‐canonical building blocks, paired with deeper mechanistic insights into interphase self‐assembly, holds promise to yield next generation interfacial bio‐nanomaterials with unique, and perhaps yet unrealized, properties.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies