bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C‐13 Norisoprenoids and Eudesmanoids from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Regulate the Lipid Metabolism via the AMPK/ACC/SREBP‐1c Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Jian , Sun Cuiling , Wang Guanghui , Xu Qinnan , Bian Yuting , Li Jie , Li Jingdian , Ding Rong , Lin Houwen , Tian Wenjing , Chen Haifeng
Published: October 2024

Lotustine A (1), an undescribed C‐13 norisoprenoid, along with 22 known analogues and two eudesmanoids, were isolated from the aerial parts of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Among them, compounds 2, 15, 17, 21, 22, 24, 25 were isolated from N. nucifera leaves for the first time. Their structures, including absolute configurations, were elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectroscopy, and the modified Mosher's method. Compound 1 is the first example of C‐13 norisoprenoid with a terminal double bond between C‐5 and C‐13. Moreover, the lipid‐lowering activities of the isolates were evaluated, and the results showed that 2, 24 and 25 could remarkably decrease the levels of both total cholesterol and triglyceride in free fatty acids induced HepG2 cells at the concentration of 20 μM. The oil red staining assay further demonstrated the lipid‐lowering effects of 2, 24 and 25. The western blot results indicated that compounds 2, 24 and 25 could regulate the lipid metabolism via the activation of the AMPK/ACC/SREBP‐1c signaling pathway.
Alveolar and gingival necrosis resulting from chloroform overextrusion beyond the root canal: A case report
Authors: Modarresi Zahra Sadat , Shafagh Sahar , Kaviani Mehrzad , Karizmeh Mojtaba Salehi
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Chloroform is among the most common solvents for root canal treatment. Despite its classification as a potential carcinogen, it is effective if used correctly. Inappropriate use can lead to severe complications, including persistent pain, gingival recession, and necessitating surgical intervention to resect necrotizing bone.
Harnessing the Potential of Morphologically Tailored ZnSn(OH)6 Nanograss Photoanode for Solar‐Driven Water Splitting
Authors: Mohapatra Lokanath , Garg Parveen , Deshpande Uday , Tyagi Himanshu , Kushwaha Ajay K.
Published: October 2024

Hydrothermal growth of ZnSn(OH)6 nanograss on ZnO‐coated FTO substrates is demonstrated. Effect of surfactants addition (polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyethylene glycol), precursor concentration, and reaction temperature on surface morphology of ZnSn(OH)6 nanograss are investigated. Addition of surfactant in precursor solution results in growth of approximately 20–30 nm thick nanograss morphology with varying orientation. The nanograss grow longer by increasing the concentration of precursors solution. The grown ZnSn(OH)6, exhibits XRD peaks corresponding to cubic phase ZnSn(OH)6. Optical bandgap of the grown nanograss are calculated in the range from ∼3.0 to 3.5 eV. The nanograss photoanode grown with PEG surfactant (at 200 °C) has shown the highest photocurrent of 2.2 mA/cm2 at RHE 1.23VRHE and photoconversion efficiency of 1.4% at 0.46 VRHE. The longer nanograss has shown lower charge transfer resistance and higher charge carrier concentration, which is favorable for enhancing the PEC performance.
Ex Situ Electro‐Organic Synthesis – A Method for Unrestricted Reaction Control and New Options for Paired Electrolysis
Authors: Pletsch Helena , Lyu Yang , Halter Dominik P.
Published: October 2024

Classic in situ electro‐organic synthesis with substrates in an electrolyzer must compromise process conditions to balance electro‐ and thermochemical steps at both electrodes. This often restricts efficiency and product selectivity, since requirements may deviate for electrochemical (catalyst activation) and chemical (organic synthesis) steps, as well as for paired anode‐ and cathode reactions. Breaking this barrier, we report ex situ electro‐organic synthesis as a versatile method that enables unique product selectivity and unusual product pairs. We exemplify the concept for pairing H2 evolution (HER) with anodic alcohol oxidation. The two‐step method accomplishes this by separating cathode reactions from organic substrate oxidation, and anodic electrocatalyst activation from chemical conversion of organic substrates in time and space. First, the electro‐oxidation of Ni(OH)2 anodes to NiOOH is paired with H2 production by alkaline water electrolysis. Then, “charged” NiOOH electrodes are removed from the electrolyzer and used in external vessels to oxidize model substrate benzyl alcohol under regeneration of Ni(OH)2. Free choice of reaction media outside the electrolyzer allows to selectively obtain benzoic acid (in water) or benzaldehyde (in n‐hexane), whereas classic in situ electrosynthesis only produces the acid together with H2. Perspectively, the method enables electrosynthesis of previously inaccessible products paired to H2 generation.
Natural killer cell engagers: From bi‐specific to tri‐specific and tetra‐specific engagers for enhanced cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Zhu An , Bai Yu , Nan Yanyang , Ju Dianwen
Published: October 2024

Natural killer cell engagers (NKCEs) are a specialised subset of antibodies capable of simultaneously targeting endogenous NK cells and tumour cells, generating precise and effective cytolytic responses against cancer. This review systematically explores NK engagers as a rising star in NK‐mediated immunotherapy, specifically focusing on multi‐specific engagers. It examines the diverse configuration of NKCEs and how certain biologics could be employed to boost NK activity, including activating receptor engagement and cytokine incorporation. Some challenges and future perspectives of current NKCEs therapy are also discussed, including optimising pharmacokinetics, addressing the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment and exploring potential combinatorial approaches. By offering an in‐depth analysis of the current landscape and future trajectories of multi‐specific NKCEs in cancer treatment, this review serves as a valuable resource for understanding this promising field of immunotherapy.

Highlights

Innovative NKCEs: NK cell engagers (NKCEs) represent a promising new class of immunotherapeutics targeting tumours by activating NK cells.

Multi‐specific formats: The transition from bi‐specific to multi‐specific NKCEs enhances their versatility and therapeutic efficacy.

Mechanisms of action: NKCEs have the potential to improve NK cell activation by engaging activating receptors and incorporating cytokines.

Clinical potential: Current clinical trials demonstrate the safety and efficacy of various NKCEs across different cancer types.

Future research directions: Optimising NKCE designs and exploring combination therapies are essential for overcoming challenges in cancer treatment.
Antecedent Effect Models as an Exploratory Tool to Link Climate Drivers to Herbaceous Perennial Population Dynamics Data
Authors: Compagnoni Aldo , Childs Dylan , Knight Tiffany M. , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto
Published: October 2024

Understanding mechanisms and predicting natural population responses to climate is a key goal of Ecology. However, studies explicitly linking climate to population dynamics remain limited. Antecedent effect models are a set of statistical tools that capitalize on the evidence provided by climate and population data to select time windows correlated with a response (e.g., survival, reproduction). Thus, these models can serve as both a predictive and exploratory tool. We compare the predictive performance of antecedent effect models against simpler models and showcase their exploratory analysis potential by selecting a case study with high predictive power. We fit three antecedent effect models: (1) weighted mean models (WMM), which weigh the importance of monthly anomalies based on a Gaussian curve, (2) stochastic antecedent models (SAM), which weigh the importance of monthly anomalies using a Dirichlet process, and (3) regularized regressions using the Finnish horseshoe model (FHM), which estimate a separate effect size for each monthly anomaly. We compare these approaches to a linear model using a yearly climatic predictor and a null model with no predictors. We use demographic data from 77 natural populations of 34 plant species ranging between seven and 36 years in length. We then fit models to the asymptotic population growth rate (λ) and its underlying vital rates: survival, development, and reproduction. We find that models including climate do not consistently outperform null models. We hypothesize that the effect of yearly climate is too complex, weak, and confounded by other factors to be easily predicted using monthly precipitation and temperature data. On the other hand, in our case study, antecedent effect models show biologically sensible correlations between two precipitation anomalies and multiple vital rates. We conclude that, in temporal datasets with limited sample sizes, antecedent effect models are better suited as exploratory tools for hypothesis generation.
Venturing Into the Unknown: The Importance of Variable Selection When Modelling Alien Species Under Non‐Analogue Climatic Conditions
Authors: Vorstenbosch Tom , Essl Franz , Lenzner Bernd , Wessely Johannes , Dullinger Stefan
Published: October 2024

Species distribution models (SDMs) are widely used to address species' responses to bioclimatic conditions in the fields of ecology, biogeography and conservation. Among studies that have addressed reasons for model prediction variability, the impact of climatic variable selection has received limited attention and is rarely assessed in sensitivity analyses. Here, we tested the assumption that this aspect of model design is a major source of uncertainty, especially when projections are made to non‐analogue climates. As a study system, we used 142 alien plant species introduced to the sub‐Antarctic islands. Based on global occurrence data, we fitted SDMs as functions of seven bioclimatic variable sets that only differed in the identity of two temperature variables. Moreover, we calculated the overlap between the island's climatic conditions and the niches the species have realised outside of the islands. Despite comparable internal evaluation metrics, projections of these models were in sharp contrast with each other, with some models predicting the sub‐Antarctic islands' climate to be almost ubiquitously suitable to most species and others unsuitable to almost all species. In particular, the mean temperature of the warmest month led to strong underpredictions of the SDMs, while its replacement by the mean temperature of the coldest month led to massive overpredictions. Partitioning the variance in projections demonstrated that predictor identity was its most important source, followed by island and species identity. The size of area projected to be suitable was also related to the overlap in predictor values realised in the global range of species (outside of the islands) and on the islands. Our findings emphasise the importance of bioclimatic variable selection in SDMs, especially when making projections to non‐analogue climates. Such extrapolations are often required, especially when using SDMs to assess invasion risk under both current and future climates.
Potential of Ex Situ Conservation Strains Revealed by Genetic Analysis of Oceanic Islands' Endangered Species Pittosporum parvifolium
Authors: Kawakita Haruna , Sakaguchi Shota , Katoh Saeko , Kato Hidetoshi , Tanaka Takefumi , Komaki Yoshiteru , Ideno Takahito , Setoguchi Hiroaki
Published: October 2024

The Ogasawara Islands, representing an oceanic island ecosystem in Japan, have a notably high rate of endemic species akin to other oceanic islands globally. Pittosporum parvifolium is a critically endangered shrub with only four remaining individuals in its natural habitat on the Ogasawara Islands. Current conservation efforts encompass both in situ and ex situ approaches for P. parvifolium. However, these efforts face challenges stemming from the lack of critical conservation information. Therefore, we explored P. parvifolium's genetic diversity and implications for conservation. We utilized simple sequence repeat markers to scrutinize genetic diversity within both in situ and ex situ populations, revealing notably rich diversity among both. The in situ genetic diversity was significantly high despite the few extant individuals. In addition, many of the ex situ peculiar genotypes were absent in individuals conserved in situ. This investigation also provides insights into the reproductive strategies and combinations of selfing and outcrossing. The results of the present study recommend conservation to maximize genetic diversity in P. parvifolium by promoting cross‐pollination among in situ individuals and by introducing individuals with unique genotypes into ex situ stocks.
Ruthenium Complexes of Phenylbenzothiazole‐Quinoline based Ligands for Selective α‐Olefination of Methylazaarenes
Authors: Bhatt Surabhi , Malpani Priyal , Swornaprava Pati Swati , Kumar Nitish , Bhuvanesh Nattamai , Joshi Hemant , Sharma Anuj K.
Published: October 2024

This report describes synthesis of a new ligand (E)‐N‐(4‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)phenyl)‐1‐(quinolin‐2‐yl)methanimine (L1) and its three ruthenium(II) arene complexes with [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 (C1), [RuCl2(benzene)]2 (C2), and [RuCl2(hmb)]2 [hmb=hexamethylbenzene] (C3). The new ligand and complexes were characterized with the help of standard spectroscopic and analytical techniques like 1H and 13C{1H} Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), High‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), UV‐Visible, cyclic voltammetry, and elemental analysis. The structure of ruthenium complex (C1) and its binding mode with ligand were authenticated with the help of single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The ruthenium arene complexes (C1‐‐C3) were used as a catalyst for the α‐olefination of Methylazaarenes. First, methylazaarenes were reacted with alcohols under optimized reaction conditions to produce α‐olefinated products (up to 66 %) selectively. Among the three ruthenium complexes, C1 demonstrated the highest yield of olefinated products with 5 mol % catalyst loading. Finally, selected olefin derivatives were tested for their inhibitory potential towards the aggregation of amyloid‐b‐40 (Aβ40) peptide relevant to Alzheimer's disease. Overall, these complexes are promising catalysts for organic transformations, and the synthesized α‐olefinated derivatives could have potential applications for the development of therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's disease.
Photocatalytic Decarboxylative Fluoroalkylation of α,β‐Unsaturated Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Wang Xiuling , Wu Yaxing , Xu Songlin , Qu Hongmei , Chen Chao
Published: October 2024

A decarboxylative fluoroalkylation of α,β‐unsaturated acids was developed by the use of a dual nickel/photoredox catalysis system. The fluoroalkyl radicals are generated from α‐CF3 alkyl bromides by nickel‐induced single electron transfer (SET) and are subsequently intercepted by a cinnamic acid to forge the targeted C−C bonds. A wide variety of substrates bearing a diverse set of functional groups were compatible with the mild reaction conditions (visible light, room temperature, cheap metal, no strong oxidant or reductant), thus affording trifluoromethyl analogues of α‐methylated allylic compounds.
Tafoni and laboratory‐based experiments of historical contingent phenomenon
Authors: Inkpen Robert
Published: October 2024

Controlled experiments on natural forms involve a traditional view of explanation that prioritizes control, manipulation and replication over more nuanced understanding of the phenomena under investigation. This is an issue if the phenomenon, like tafoni, is historically contingent. In particular, the entanglement of the environment is explicitly severed in controlled experiments. The failure to adequately reproduce the ordered forms associated with tafoni in laboratory experiments suggests that simulation and field case studies could provide a more informative route to understanding tafoni. This will, however, require a more systematic recognition of how such research enables researchers to understand the initial conditions of weathering and modes of development to tafoni observed.
Characterizing and Targeting of BCL‐2 Family Members in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Thai A. A. , Young R. J. , Bressel M. , Kelly G. L. , Sejic N. , Tsao S. W. , Trigos A. , Rischin D. , Solomon B. J.
Published: October 2024

Background

The success of BH3 mimetics in hematological malignancies has spurred interest in their application in solid tumors. We examined the expression of the BCL‐2 family of molecules in NPC tumors and cell lines and explored the anticancer efficacy of BH3 mimetics in vitro.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry for BCL‐2, MCL‐1, BCL‐xL, and transcriptomic analyses was conducted on NPC tumors. The efficacy of ABT‐199, S63845, and ABT‐737 were examined as monotherapy and in combination with cisplatin in NPC cell lines. RNA sequencing was performed to identify up and downregulated pathways in sensitive cell lines.

Results

One hundred and forty‐nine EBV‐positive NPC and 15 EBV‐negative NPC were identified. Expression of BCL‐2 was more frequent in EBV‐positive NPC. BCL‐2, MCL‐1, and BCL‐xL expression was not prognostic for overall survival. Marked sensitivity was seen with the combination of S63845 and cisplatin in NPC43.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of combining cisplatin and S63845, which warrants further investigation.
Impact of Postoperative Neck Radiotherapy Volumes on Long‐Term Unstimulated Saliva Flow Following Primary Surgery and Ipsilateral Neck Dissection for Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Rooney Claire M. , Huang Shao Hui , Su Jie , Bratman Scott , Cho John , de Almeida John , Glogauer Michael , Goldstein David , Hahn Ezra , Hosni Ali , Hope Andrew , Irish Jonathan , Kim John , O'Sullivan Brian , Ringash Jolie , Spreafico Anna , Tsai Jillian , Waldron John , Yao Christopher , Watson Erin , McPartlin Andrew
Published: October 2024

Background

We investigate the association of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) volumes and salivary function in oral cavity SCC (OSCC).

Methods

OSCC patients undergoing PORT 2005–2021 underwent modified Schirmer test (MST) pre‐PORT, 6 and/or 12 months post‐PORT. Hyposalivation rates were compared by PORT volumes. MVA identified predictors for chronic hyposalivation.

Results

Among 165 eligible patients, 88 (53%) received bilateral, 66 (40%) ipsilateral, and 11 (7%) no‐neck (primary‐only) PORT. Baseline characteristics were similar, except more N2b/N2c disease received bilateral PORT vs. ipsilateral or no‐neck (60% vs. 36% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). Baseline hyposalivation was similar (26% vs. 30% vs. 18%, p = 0.67). Hyposalivation occurred more frequently in bilateral vs. ipsilateral vs. no‐neck PORT at 6 (90% vs. 62% vs. 9%) and 12 months (90% vs. 48% vs. 0%) (both p < 0.001). On MVA, bilateral neck PORT and smoking predicted chronic hyposalivation.

Conclusion

Increasing PORT volumes predict saliva function recovery and chronic hyposalivation, informing treatment discussions.
From Routine to Crisis: The Impact of COVID‐19 Pandemic on Antibiotic Consumption in Iran
Authors: Rezaei Satar , Bazyar Mohammad , Ahmadi Sina , Khodamoradi Abdolvahed
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare sector, influencing patients, providers, and the overall system. This study evaluates how the pandemic affected antibiotic prescriptions among 44 million Iranians insured by the Social Security Organization (SSO).

Methods

In this quasi‐experimental study, we utilized monthly aggregated data on antibiotic prescriptions per 1000 individuals insured by the SSO. We employed a single‐group interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) over a period of 72 months, from March 20, 2016 to February 19, 2020 for the pre‐pandemic phase, and from February 20, 2020 to March 20, 2022, for the during‐pandemic period. Additionally, we conducted a multiple‐group ITSA to assess the differential impact of the pandemic on antibiotic consumption between the direct (SSO‐owned medical centers) and indirect (other private or public centers contracted by the SSO) sectors.

Results

The study revealed a 30% reduction in the monthly average antibiotic consumption rate when comparing the during‐pandemic period to pre‐pandemic usage across the total sector. The results from the single‐group ITSA indicated that the mean antibiotic consumption per 1000 individuals at baseline was 1664. Following the onset of the pandemic, there was a significant reduction in antibiotic prescriptions, dropping to 484 per 1000 individuals (p ≤ 0.001) in the first month. However, during the pandemic period, antibiotic prescriptions exhibited insignificant monthly increases, averaging 10.7 per 1000 insured individuals. The multiple‐group ITSA revealed that both sectors experienced a decline in antibiotic prescriptions after the outbreak of COVID‐19. Notably, the indirect sector demonstrated a greater reduction, with a decrease of 187 prescriptions per 1000 insured individuals in the first month following the pandemic's onset.

Conclusions

Our study found a significant reduction in antibiotic consumption. Further research is needed to compare antibiotic use between hospitals and outpatient centers, as well as among COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 patients.
Content and design of respectful maternity care training packages for health workers in sub‐Saharan Africa: Scoping review
Authors: Yargawa Judith , Daniele Marina , Pickerill Kelly , Vidler Marianne , Koech Angela , Jah Hawanatu , Mwashigadi Grace , Mwaniki Mukaindo , von Dadelszen Peter , Temmerman Marleen , Filippi Veronique , Blencowe Hannah ,   and the PRECISE‐DYAD Network
Published: October 2024

Background

Training health workers might facilitate respectful maternity care (RMC); however, the content and design of RMC training remain unclear.

Objective

To explore the content and design of RMC training packages for health workers in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Search Strategy

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science Core Collections, SCOPUS, and grey literature sources (including websites of RMC‐focused key organizations and Ministries of Health) were searched for journal papers, reports, and training guides from January 2006 up to August 2022.

Selection Criteria

There were no restrictions on study designs, language, or health‐worker cadre. Two reviewers independently screened results.

Data Collection and Analysis

Key data, including training content and methods used, were extracted and summarized.

Main Results

Thirty‐two citations from 26 studies/programs were identified (24 journal papers, 5 manuals/guides, 2 reports and 1 PhD thesis), with 27 citations from 22 studies informing the review findings. About half of all conducted studies were from East Africa. The most common topics in RMC trainings were communication, privacy and confidentiality, and human resources. Most trainings were multicomponent and appear to be largely in‐service training. Health workers providing direct care to women, compared with non‐clinical staff such as receptionists and cleaners, were the only recipients of training in most studies (81.8%). Two broad categories of training methods/tools were identified: workshop‐based and action‐based. Over 90% of the studies assessed impact of the training, with a majority focused on impacts on maternal health and care; however, half of the latter studies did not appear to have feedback mechanisms in place for implementing change.

Conclusions

The content and design of RMC training in sub‐Saharan Africa are multifaceted, suggesting the complexity of implementing/promoting RMC. Some progress has been made; however, missed opportunities in training remain with respect to study populations, training topics, cadres, and feedback mechanisms.
Diagnosis of arcuate uterus using three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound and investigation of its association with perinatal complications
Authors: Yoshihara Tatsuya , Okuda Yasuhiko , Yoshino Osamu
Published: October 2024

Arcuate uterus does not impact the success of infertility treatments, but there is no consensus on whether it influences perinatal outcomes. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether minor congenital uterine anomalies such as an arcuate uterus contribute to perinatal complications. This was a retrospective cohort study at a single institution. The study included 1097 deliveries after 22 weeks of gestation. Transvaginal ultrasound, with three‐dimensional functionality, assessed uterine morphology based on American Society for Reproductive Medicine criteria. We compared maternal backgrounds and perinatal complications between arcuate uterus and normal uterus groups. Statistical analyses, including multivariate analysis, aimed to identify independent risk factors. A total of 69 patients (7.5%) with diagnosed arcuate uterus were included. Maternal background factors showed no significant differences between groups. In perinatal complications, an arcuate uterus was associated with a significantly higher incidence of preterm delivery (13% versus 4.7%, P = 0.01), preterm premature rupture of membranes (7.2% versus 1.6%, P = 0.01), fetal growth restriction (FGR; 16% versus 6.7%, P = 0.01), and abnormal placental cord insertion (33% versus 7.6%, P < 0.01). After multivariate analysis, arcuate uterus emerged as an independent risk factor for preterm delivery (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.0 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.6–9.9], P < 0.01), FGR (aOR, 2.6 [95% CI, 1.2–5.6], P = 0.02), and abnormal placental cord insertion (aOR, 6.0 [95% CI, 3.4–10.6], P < 0.01). Arcuate uterus stands as an independent risk factor for preterm delivery, FGR, and abnormal placental cord insertion. The findings emphasize the importance of recognizing even minor uterine morphological abnormalities in assessing and managing perinatal complications.
Deciphering the link: A cutting‐edge exploration of the intriguing connection between recurrent pregnancy loss and rare earth elements—Lutetium, praseodymium, samarium, dysprosium, and cerium
Authors: Alrashoudi Reem Hamoud , Tabassum Hajera , Fatima Sabiha , Abudawood Manal , Alrashed May , Alsaigh Sara Mohammed , Siddiqi Nikhat J. , AlSheikh Yazeed A.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate the levels of serum rare earth elements (REEs): lutetium [Lu], praseodymium [Pr], samarium [Sm], dysprosium [Dy], and cerium [Ce] in pregnant women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and evaluate their relationship with total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), a marker of DNA damage.

Methods

A case‐controlled study was conducted on a cohort of 60 female participants, with first‐trimester healthy pregnant women as the control group and pregnant women with a history of consecutive abortions as the recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) group. Following blood collection, serum concentrations of Lu, Pr, Sm, Dy, and Ce were measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrophotometer (ICP‐MS). Oxidative stress and DNA damage were evaluated through TAC and DNA damage marker (8‐OHdG).

Results

Serum levels of Lu, Pr, Sm, Dy, and Ce were higher in women with RPL compared with control (P < 0.001). Intriguingly, a strong significant negative correlation was observed between TAC and REEs (P < 0.05). Lu, Dy, and Ce demonstrated a significant positive correlation with increased DNA damage in the RPL group (P < 0.05). Contrary, there was no evidence of a correlation between 8‐OHdG and Pr and Sm.

Conclusion

The study highlights a potential association between Lu, Sm, Dy, and Ce and an increased risk of RPL, highlighting REE‐induced toxicity as a major risk factor for RPL. The outcome of the study is to advance our understanding of the interplay between rare earth elements and RPL, with potential implications for reproductive medicine, environmental health, and the development of preventive strategies for individuals at risk of RPL.
Embedded System‐Based Malaria Detection From Blood Smear Images Using Lightweight Deep Learning Model
Authors: Salam Abdus , Hasan S. M. Nahid , Karim Md. Jawadul , Anower Shamim , Nahiduzzaman Md , Chowdhury Muhammad E. H. , Murugappan M.
Published: October 2024

The disease of malaria, transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes, is highly contagious, resulting in numerous deaths across various regions. Microscopic examination of blood cells remains one of the most accurate methods for malaria diagnosis, but it is time‐consuming and can produce inaccurate results occasionally. Due to machine learning and deep learning advances in medical diagnosis, improved diagnostic accuracy can now be achieved while costs can be reduced compared to conventional microscopy methods. This work utilizes an open‐source dataset with 26 161 blood smear images in RGB for malaria detection. Our preprocessing resized the original dimensions of the images into 64 × 64 due to the limitations in computational complexity in developing embedded systems‐based malaria detection. We present a novel embedded system approach using 119 154 trainable parameters in a lightweight 17‐layer SqueezeNet model for the automatic detection of malaria. Incredibly, the model is only 1.72 MB in size. An evaluation of the model's performance on the original NIH malaria dataset shows that it has exceptional accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 scores of 96.37%, 95.67%, 97.21%, and 96.44%, respectively. Based on a modified dataset, the results improved further to 99.71% across all metrics. Compared to current deep learning models, our model significantly outperforms them for malaria detection, making it ideal for embedded systems. This model has also been rigorously tested on the Jetson Nano B01 edge device, demonstrating a rapid single image prediction time of only 0.24 s. The fusion of deep learning with embedded systems makes this research a crucial step toward improving malaria diagnosis. In resource‐constrained settings, the model's lightweight architecture and accuracy enhancements hold great promise for addressing the critical challenge of malaria detection.
In Vivo Assessment of an Antioxidant Hydrogel Vitreous Substitute
Authors: Allyn Megan M. , Ryan Annie K. , Rivera Grace , Mamo Esther , Bopp Joshua , Hernandez Sebastian Martinez , Racine Julie , Miller Eric J. , Chandler Heather L. , Swindle‐Reilly Katelyn E.
Published: October 2024

The vitreous humor undergoes liquefaction with age, resulting in complications that may require a vitrectomy, or surgical removal of the vitreous from the eye. Silicone oil, a common vitreous substitute, lacks properties similar to the natural vitreous. In particular, it lacks antioxidants that may be necessary to reduce oxidative stress in the eye. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antioxidant‐loaded hydrogel vitreous substitutes in a pilot in vivo study. Ascorbic acid and glutathione were loaded into synthesized PEGDA hydrogels. Following vitrectomy, experimental antioxidant hydrogels or silicone oil were injected into one eye of rabbits, while the other eye served as untreated or sham control. Ophthalmic assessments, including electroretinography, were performed. Levels of glutathione and ascorbic acid were higher in the eyes treated with the antioxidant‐loaded hydrogel vitreous substitute, although this was not found to be significant after 28 days. There were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to clinical examination, and ocular health scores, electroretinograms, and histology were normal. These results indicate minimal concerns for the hydrogel formulation or high levels of antioxidants. Future research will assess the capability of vitreous substitutes to prolong antioxidant release, with the goal of minimizing cataract after vitrectomy.
Associations of Serum Lipid Traits With Fracture and Osteoporosis: A Prospective Cohort Study From the UK Biobank
Authors: Xiong Xi , Lui David T. W. , Ju Chengsheng , Zhou Ziyi , Xu Chao , Welsh Paul , Sattar Naveed , Celis‐Morales Carlos , Pell Jill P. , Wong Ian C. K. , Wong Carlos K. H. , Ho Frederick K.
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous studies reveal inconsistent associations between serum lipid traits and the risks of fractures and osteoporosis in the general population.

Methods

This prospective cohort study analysed data from 414 302 UK Biobank participants (223 060 women and 191 242 men, aged 37–73 years) with serum lipid measurements: apolipoprotein A (Apo A), apolipoprotein B (Apo B), total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), triglycerides (TG) and lipoprotein A (Lp(a)). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models with penalized cubic splines were used to explore potential nonlinear associations of each lipid trait with the risks of fractures and osteoporosis. Subgroup analyses by age, sex, BMI categories and pre‐existing cardiovascular disease were conducted. Mediation analyses using the g‐formula were performed to quantify to which extent bone mineral density (BMD) may mediate the association between serum lipids and fracture risk.

Results

Over a median follow‐up period of 13.8 years, 25 918 (6.8%) of the 383 530 participants without prior fracture had incident fracture cases, and 7591 (4.1%) of the 184 919 participants with primary care data and without baseline osteoporosis were diagnosed with osteoporosis. TG had nonlinear associations with fractures and osteoporosis, whereas Apo B, TC and LDL‐C had linear associations. There were also nonlinear associations of Apo A and HDL‐C with fractures. Individuals in the highest quintiles for Apo A (fracture: HR 1.15 [95% CI 1.10, 1.21]; osteoporosis: HR 1.13 [1.02, 1.25]) and HDL‐C (fracture: HR 1.27 [1.20, 1.34]; osteoporosis: HR 1.31 [1.18, 1.46]) were associated with higher risks of fractures and osteoporosis. Conversely, those in the highest quintile for Apo B (fracture: HR 0.85 [0.81, 0.89]; osteoporosis: HR 0.86 [0.79, 0.94]), LDL‐C (fracture: HR 0.89 [0.85, 0.93]; osteoporosis: HR 0.91 [0.83, 1.00]) and TG (fracture: HR 0.78 [0.74, 0.82]; osteoporosis: HR 0.75 [0.68, 0.82]) were associated with lower risks. The associations of Apo A (ratio of HR [RHR] 1.05 [1.02, 1.09]) and HDL‐C (RHR 1.06 [1.03, 1.09]) with fracture risk were more pronounced in men compared to women. Except for TG and Lp(a), the associations between serum lipids and fractures appear to be partially mediated through BMD (mediation proportions: 5.30% to 40.30%), assuming causality.

Conclusions

Our study reveals a complex interplay between different lipid markers and skeletal health, potentially partially mediated through BMD. Routine lipid profile assessments, including HDL‐C and Apo A among other lipid traits, may be integrated into the strategies for fracture risk stratification.
Production of a fungal aspartic protease via solid‐state fermentation using a rotating drum bioreactor
Authors: Qasim Farhat , Diercks‐Horn Sonja , Herlevi Lisa‐Marie , Fernandez‐Lahore Hector Marcelo
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Solid‐state fermentation (SSF) has gained attention recently as a promising approach for producing a range of high‐value industrial products. SSF has several benefits, including a high product yield, a lesser chance of contamination, a resemblance to some fungi and bacteria's native environment, a lower energy need, and cost‐effectiveness. Additionally, the enzyme extraction from concentrated solutions facilitates the recovery procedure. Mucor racemosus, a filamentous fungus, has the potential to produce a milk‐clotting enzyme (aspartic protease) cultivated on various combinations of the solid media to investigate the effect of media on the production and activity of the milk‐clotting enzyme.

RESULTS

The fermentation was scaled up by utilizing Terrafors‐IS Infors HT in‐situ sterilizable rotating solid‐state bioreactor to cultivate the fungus. The effect of agitation (rotation on the day of inoculation and day 1), aeration (air flow rates of 1 L and 2 L/min), and moisture content (60% and 90%), during SSF were investigated. The profiles of various operational parameters (that is, temperature, pressure, flow rate, exit O2, and exit CO2) were monitored using the provided software, and data were collected at 10‐min intervals during the whole course of fermentation. The results suggest that aeration has a remarkable effect on the quantity of biomass produced, but it doesn't assure high enzyme production. The highest milk clotting activity of ~570 U/mL was recorded with a moisture content of 60% and a flow rate of 1 L/min.

CONCLUSION

A high yield of ~570 U/mL of the enzyme with desired characteristics was obtained with minimum moisture availability at low temperatures. The results narrated in this study validate the SSF process for producing aspartic protease from wheat bran using a rotating solid‐state bioreactor to be used as a potential milk coagulant in the cheese industry. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Zoographics in the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior: Increasing inclusion of female animals
Authors: Odum Amy L. , Callister Kiernan T. , Willis‐Moore Mariah E. , Da Silva Daniel S. , Legaspi David N. , Scribner Lucy N. , Hannah Josephine N.
Published: October 2024

We examined the zoographics, or the characteristics of nonhuman animal subjects, reported for the entirety of the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (JEAB) through the most recent complete year (1958–2023). Animal sex in particular was evaluated to determine whether the lack of inclusion of female subjects in other disciplines extends to JEAB. Through systematic coding of all nonhuman empirical articles, we found consistent underreporting of most zoographics and a disproportionate use of male subjects relative to female subjects. Additionally, animal sex was commonly unreported and the inclusion of both male and female subjects was sparse. Recent years show some improvement, but greater inclusion is required. Lack of female subjects in research as well as underreporting of zoographics can generate unrepresentative results and hamper replication, generalization, and translation. We provide resources to guide future research and reporting suggestions such as equal inclusion and disaggregation of data by sex. We also clarify misunderstandings about the use of both sexes in research such as beliefs that it necessarily increases the cost of research.
RUNX1::CBFA2T2 rearranged acute myeloid leukemia transformed from JAK2 V617F mutated primary myelofibrosis
Authors: Han Lina , Koduru Prasad , Cantu Miguel , Fuda Franklin , Chen Weina
Published: October 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with RUNX1::CBFA2T2 fusion is rare with largely unknown clinicopathological features and genomic characterization. We present one such case of AML transformed from JAK2 V617F mutated primary myelofibrosis and review the literature on this topic. The immunophenotype and the landscape of cooperative gene alterations in AML with RUNX1::CBFA2T2 resemble those of AML with RUNX1::RUNX1T1, including expression of CD19, cooperative gene alterations in signaling pathway (JAK2), epigenetic/chromatin and cell cycle regulation (TET2, SMC3, and CDKN2A/B), and additional chromosomal abnormalities (trisomies 8 and 15). This case study provides insights into the pathogenesis of this rare subtype of AML.
Shadow effect in dual‐source thermally evaporated perovskite patterns
Authors: Liu Nian , Luo Jiajun , Tang Jiang
Published: October 2024

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have recently emerged as a potential next‐generation display technology due to their wide color gamut, high external quantum efficiency (EQE), and low fabrication cost. The thermal evaporation process with no solvent involvement and offers low substrate selectivity and high compatibility with production lines has attracted significant academic interest. However, in thermal evaporation processes, the shadow effect greatly affects the deposition size and positioning accuracy of the patterns, consequently impacting the effective device area and process repeatability of PeLEDs. In this study, we calculated the shadow distance during the dual‐source thermal evaporation and analyzed the issues of misalignment and size deviation caused by shadow effects. Based on the calculation of shadow distance, we increased the substrate height from 33 to 38 cm to enhance the deposition angle. This adjustment led to an improvement in the characteristic parameter W1/Wdot from 0.178 to 0.365 during perovskite deposition. As a result, we successfully obtained a high‐resolution perovskite array with uniform morphology and photofluorescence (PL) emission at 600 pixels per inch (ppi). This demonstrated the reliable calculation and analysis of shadow distance, which is effective for fine deposition of high‐resolution perovskite patterns and PeLEDs.
Diffraction‐Driven Parallel Convolution Processing with Integrated Photonics
Authors: Huang Yuyao , Liu Wencan , Sun Run , Fu Tingzhao , Wang Yaode , Huang Zheng , Yang Sigang , Chen Hongwei
Published: October 2024

Traditional electronic processors often struggle with bandwidth limitations and high power consumption when executing extensive linear operations for deep learning tasks. Optical computing has emerged as a promising alternative, offering parallel and energy‐efficient computation capabilities. Yet, the development of high‐density optical computing architectures on integrated photonic platforms remains limited, hindered by constraints in neuron scalability and control engineering complexities. Addressing these challenges, this work presents a diffraction‐driven multi‐kernel optical convolution unit (MOCU) that enables on‐chip parallel convolution processing. By utilizing cascaded silica 1D metalines as pre‐trained large‐scale weights and employing spatial multiplexing at the output, MOCU allows simultaneous passive computation of diverse convolutions within a single unit. This architecture facilitates the construction of optical convolutional neural networks (OCNNs), enabling efficient machine vision processing with a streamlined design. To mitigate errors in MOCU‐embedded OCNNs, a lightweight electronic neural network operates concurrently to calibrate systematic deviations via a low‐rank adaptation (LoRA) algorithm, with minimal overhead. The fabricated MOCU chip demonstrates the highest independent 8‐kernel convolutions in parallel, each with a kernel size and occupying just 0.06 . This architecture effectively merges photonic and electronic technologies, offering a scalable design pathway for energy‐efficient, high‐density deep learning hardware.
High‐Throughput Electrospinning of Unmodified and Aminated Poly(Pentafluorostyrene) for Fiber‐Reinforced Proton Exchange Membranes
Authors: Mu'min Muhammad Solihul , Krieger Anja , Wagner Maximilian , Thiele Simon , Kerres Jochen
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates a high‐throughput fabrication of fiber interlayers for proton exchange membranes based on poly(pentafluorostyrene) (PPFSt) and its aminated derivatives. The fibers are produced by electrospinning, where the parameters are carefully screened. The controlled parameters are solvent composition, weight percentage, voltage, flow rate, and temperature, controlled with a self‐designed heating jacket. The parameters are iterated toward optimized fiber structure and maximum output. The yielded fibers are infiltrated with Nafion and sulfonated polymer from bisphenol AF and decafluorobiphenyl (SFS001) by spray‐coating and doctor blading to obtain the fiber‐reinforced proton exchange membranes. Tensile tests reveal a higher Young's modulus and yield stress than pure Nafion. Here, the basicity of the aminated PPFSt fibers correlates with the Young's modulus due to improved acid‐base interactions between amine groups and sulfonic acid. The acid‐base interactions influence the composite membrane's proton conductivity, varying from 23 mS cm−1 for strongly alkaline fibers to 69 mS cm−1 for non‐basic fibers. These findings can be transferred to fabricating fiber reinforcements beyond routinely used poly(benzimidazoles).
Highly Conducting and Ultra‐Stretchable Wearable Ionic Liquid‐Free Transducer for Wireless Monitoring of Physical Motions
Authors: Tanguy Nicolas R. , Rajabi‐Abhari Araz , Williams‐Linera Eric , Miao Zheyuan , Tratnik Nicole , Zhang Xiao , Hao Cheng , Virya Alvin , Yan Ning , Lagadec Ronan Le
Published: October 2024

Wearable strain transducers are poised to transform the field of healthcare owing to the promise of personalized devices capable of real‐time collection of human physiological health indicators. For instance, monitoring patients' progress following injury and/or surgery during physiotherapy is crucial but rarely performed outside clinics. Herein, multifunctional liquid‐free ionic elastomers are designed through the volume effect and the formation of dynamic hydrogen bond networks between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and weak acids (phosphoric acid, phytic acid, formic acid, citric acid). An ultra‐stretchable (4600% strain), highly conducting (10 mS cm−1), self‐repairable (77% of initial strain), and adhesive ionic elastomer is obtained at high loadings of phytic acid (4:1 weight to PVA). Moreover, the elastomer displayed durable performances, with intact mechanical properties after a year of storage. The elastomer is used as a transducer to monitor human motions in a device comprising an ESP32‐based development board. The device detected walking and/or running biomechanics and communicated motion‐sensing data (i.e., amplitude, frequency) wirelessly. The reported technology can also be applied to other body parts to monitor recovery after injury and/or surgery and inform practitioners of motion biomechanics remotely and in real time to increase convalescence effectiveness, reduce clinic appointments, and prevent injuries.
Enhancing Passive Radiative Cooling Films with Hollow Yttrium‐Oxide Spheres Insights from FDTD Simulation
Authors: Yu Jeehoon , Park Chanil , Kim Byeongjin , Sung Sohyeon , Kim Hyun , Lee Jaeho , Kim Yong Seok , Yoo Youngjae
Published: October 2024

Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) presents a promising avenue for efficient thermal management without relying on electrical power. In this study, the potential of integrating Hollow Yttrium‐Oxide Spheres (HYSs) within a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix to enhance PDRC is investigated. Through a combination of experimental characterization and computational analysis, the optical properties and radiative cooling performance of PDMS films embedded with HYSs are evaluated. These results demonstrate that HYSs significantly improve both solar reflectivity and long‐wave infrared (LWIR) emissivity of the PDMS matrix. Finite‐Difference Time‐Domain (FDTD) simulations confirm the scattering efficiency of HYSs across various wavelength ranges, highlighting their effectiveness as additives for enhancing the radiative properties of passive cooling materials. Experimental validation reveals enhanced reflectivity and emissivity of PDMS films with embedded HYSs, resulting in superior cooling performance compared to non‐HYS counterparts. Overall, this study underscores the potential of HYS‐infused PDMS films as a promising solution for passive radiative cooling, with broad applicability in diverse domains requiring efficient thermal management solutions. Additionally, these research insights pave the way for establishing an AI database for passive radiative cooling research, offering new avenues for further exploration and application in this field.
Homoclinic solutions for perturbed discrete Schrödinger systems with concave–convex terms and bounded potentials
Authors: Jia Lixun , Chen Guanwei
Published: October 2024

By using variational methods, we study a class of discrete nonlinear Schrödinger systems, where the potentials are bounded and the nonlinearities are composed of perturbed and concave–convex terms. The main novelties of this paper are as follows: (1) some perturbed terms and concave–convex terms are added to the systems, (2) the weight functions can be sign‐changing, and (3) the potentials are bounded, which is essentially different from the unbounded potentials studied before.