bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigation of Effect Modification by Psychological Status in Patients With Hearing Loss
Authors: Kim Minjee , Willard Elizabeth G. , Corrales C. Eduardo , Prince Anthony A. , Zhou Allen S. , Rosner Bernard , Edelen Maria , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: May 2024

Importance

Although patient-reported outcomes provide valuable insights, these subjective data may not align with objective test results. Hearing loss is a pervasive problem, such that concordance between subjective perceptions of hearing ability and objective audiogram assessments would be beneficial.

Objectives

To determine (1) whether psychological status is an effect modifier of the association between subjective patient reports of hearing ability and objective audiometry results, and (2) whether any effect modification observed in standard static questionnaires would be either mitigated or exacerbated by adaptive testing based on Item Response Theory analyses.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This diagnostic study at a tertiary care center and community-based practice included consecutive adults who presented with queries related to hearing loss. Participants were recruited and enrolled and data analyses occurred from 2022 to 2024.

Exposures

Participants prospectively reported their hearing-specific abilities through either a standard static or adaptive version of the Inner Effectiveness of Auditory Rehabilitation (EAR) scale, alongside validated measures of their mental health and audiometry. Word recognition scores (WRS) and pure tone averages (PTA) were used to analyze audiometric testing.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The association between subjective Inner EAR results and audiometry was evaluated. Stratified analyses were used to assess for effect modification by psychological status. The results of standard static and adaptive testing were compared.

Results

In this study of 395 patients (mean [range] age, 55.9 [18-89] years; 210 [53.2%] female), standard static Inner EAR mean scores were appropriately higher in patients with higher (better) WRS (50.7, 95% CI, 46.4-54.9), compared with patients with lower (worse) WRS (34.7, 95% CI, 24.3-45.1). However, among patients with worse mental health, there was no association between standard static Inner EAR scores and WRS. In contrast, adaptive Inner EAR mean scores were significantly higher for those with better WRS, regardless of mental health status. Thus, effect modification was observed in standard static assessments, whereas adaptive testing remained durably associated with audiometry, regardless of mental health.

Conclusions and Relevance

Psychological status was an effect modifier of the association between standard Inner EAR scale scores and audiometry, with a positive association observed only in those with better mental health. Adaptive testing scores, however, remained significantly associated with audiometry, even when mental status was worse. Adaptive testing may stabilize the association between subjective and objective hearing outcomes.
Tongue Metastasis From Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Pezzuto Federica , Fortarezza Francesco , Quaranta Andrea , Marzullo Andrea , Pentimone Floriana , Serio Gabriella , Catino Annamaria
Published: May 2024

This case report describes a 62-year-old nonsmoking man with multiple pleural thickenings and a marked effusion.
Subglottic Mass With Hoarseness and Difficulty Breathing
Authors: Tang Ru , Zhang Weitian , Yi Hongliang
Published: May 2024

A man in his 70s was referred for a 5-cm submandibular mass, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing with no cough, blood in sputum, or dysphagia. What is your diagnosis?
A Rare Case of Laryngeal Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Benyo Sarah , Bryson Paul C.
Published: May 2024

This case report describes an 80-year-old woman presenting to her primary care practitioner after several months of a persistent globus sensation and throat fullness.
Cadherin‐6 is a novel mediator for the migration of mesenchymal stem cells to glioblastoma cells in response to stromal cell‐derived factor‐1
Authors: Park Aran , Kim Seung‐Eun , Yu Jinyeong , Son Donghyun , Kim Kyung‐Sup , Koh Eunjin , Park Ki‐Sook
Published: May 2024

Glioblastoma recruits various nontransformed cells from distant tissues. Although bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been observed migrating to glioblastoma, the underlying mechanism driving MSC migration toward glioblastoma remains unclear. Tumor vascularity is critical in the context of recurrent glioblastoma and is closely linked to the expression of stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1). We demonstrated that cadherin‐6 mediated MSC migration both toward SDF‐1 and toward glioblastoma cells. Cadherin‐6 knockdown resulted in the downregulation of MSCs capacity to migrate in response to SDF‐1. Furthermore, MSCs with cadherin‐6 knockdown exhibited impaired migration in response to conditioned media derived from glioblastoma cell lines (U87 and U373) expressing SDF‐1, thus simulating the glioblastoma microenvironment. Moreover, MSCs enhanced the vasculogenic capacity of U87 cells without increasing the proliferation, cancer stem cell characteristics, or migration of U87. These results suggest that the current strategy of utilizing MSCs as carriers for antiglioblastoma drugs requires careful examination. Furthermore, cadherin‐6 may represent a novel potential target for controlling the recruitment of MSCs toward glioblastoma.
Balancing Ionic and Electronic Conduction at the LiFePO4 Cathode–Electrolyte Interface and Regulating Solid Electrolyte Interphase in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Moon Hyeongyu , Kim Donguk , Park Gun , Shin Kwongyo , Cho Yoonhan , Gong Chaewon , Lee Yoon‐Sung , Nam Huibeom , Hong Seungbum , Choi Nam‐Soon
Published: May 2024

Recently, in electric mobilities and stationary energy storage device applications, the development of long‐lasting, low‐cost, and high‐safety lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is widely studied. LiFePO4 (LFP) is a core cathode material for LIBs owing to its cost‐effectiveness and high safety. However, it exhibits low electronic conductivity and sluggish Li+ diffusion, hindering the application of LFP cathodes in high‐power battery industries. Herein, a triazole‐motivated electrolyte additive, 1‐(trimethylsilyl)−1H‐benzotriazole (TMSBTA) is presented, for mitigating iron dissolution via HF scavenging, reinforcing the robustness of the solid electrolyte interphase and constructing a cathode–electrolyte interface (CEI) to balance the ion and electron conduction of the CEI on the LFP cathode. Scanning probe microscopy performed in the conductive atomic force microscopy mode indicates that the electronically conductive CEI created by the oxidative decomposition of TMSBTA enables rapid and homogeneous lithiation and delithiation during cycling without morphological changes in the LFP particles. This study elucidates the design principles of the CEI on the LFP cathode and is expected to guide integrated electrolyte additive engineering for LFP‐containing LIBs.
Ligand‐Induced Digital Programmable Photochromic CdS Materials Toward Dual‐Mode Light‐Printing and Information Encryption
Authors: Li Hui , Peng Xinyang , Xi Wanning , Jiang Tao , Zhao Ziyang , Yu Xiaoxuan , Liu Wang , Wu Baiheng , Ge Yan , Qi Zhenhui , Liu Junqiu
Published: May 2024

The explosive growth of information and its widespread availability underscores the need for robust encryption and anticounterfeiting measures. In this study, CdS quantum dots are engineered (QDs) to manifest multiple visual responses to a single trigger through strategic ligand design. The surface engineering method allows QDs to transition from yellow to black upon photoexcitation‐induced electron transfer from Cd(II) to Cd(0). Surface ligands desorption under hole injection, leading to an increase in QDs size and resulting in a redshift in photoluminescence. This photoexcitation‐induced redox reaction reveals unprecedented photochromism and photoluminescence phenomena, establishing a foundation for advanced information protection measures. Utilizing these QDs, excellent writing performance under UV irradiation is achieved in solid‐state substrates, while a dual‐mode encryption system is realized in gel matrices, opening up new avenues for information encryption as well as cumulative and interactive information protection. Furthermore, the redox reaction of CdS QDs is employed as ink for 3D printing, enabling for the creation of digitally programmable materials with distinct temporally evolving appearances by controlling the oxygen content in the ink to regulate the rate of photochromism. This advancement also sheds light on the progress in 3D printing technology.
Van der Waals Epitaxial Growth of Ultrathin Indium Antimonide on Arbitrary Substrates through Low‐Thermal Budget
Authors: Xiong Ziren , Wen Yao , Wang Hao , Zhang Xiaolin , Yin Lei , Cheng Ruiqing , Tu Yangyuan , He Jun
Published: May 2024

III–V semiconductors possess high mobility, high frequency response, and detection sensitivity, making them potentially attractive for beyond‐silicon electronics applications. However, the traditional heteroepitaxy of III–V semiconductors is impeded by a significant lattice mismatch and the necessity for extreme vacuum and high temperature conditions, thereby impeding their in situ compatibility with flexible substrates and silicon‐based circuits. In this study, a novel approach is presented for fabricating ultrathin InSb single‐crystal nanosheets on arbitrary substrates with a thickness as thin as 2.4 nm using low‐thermal‐budget van der Waals (vdW) epitaxy through chemical vapor deposition (CVD). In particular, in situ growth has been successfully achieved on both silicon‐based substrates and flexible polyimide (PI) substrates. Notably, the growth temperature required for InSb nanosheets (240 °C) is significantly lower than that employed in back‐end‐of‐line processes (400 °C). The field effect transistor devices based on fabricated ultrathin InSb nanosheets exhibit ultra‐high on‐off ratio exceeding 108 and demonstrate minimal gate leakage currents. Furthermore, these ultrathin InSb nanosheets display p‐type characteristics with hole mobilities reaching up to 203 cm2 V−1 s−1 at room temperatures. This study paves the way for achieving heterogeneous integration of III–V semiconductors and facilitating their application in flexible electronics.
Wetting Transparency of Single‐Layer Graphene on Liquid Substrates
Authors: Yang Fan , Thompson Annette G. , McQuain Alex D. , Gundurao Dhruthi , Stando Grzegorz , Kim Min A. , Liu Haitao , Li Lei
Published: May 2024

Graphene's wetting transparency offers promising avenues for creating multifunctional devices by allowing real‐time wettability control on liquid substrates via the flow of different liquids beneath graphene. Despite its potential, direct measurement of floating graphene's wettability remains a challenge, hindering the exploration of these applications. The current study develops an experimental methodology to assess the wetting transparency of single‐layer graphene (SLG) on liquid substrates. By employing contact angle measurements and Neumann's Triangle model, the challenge of evaluating the wettability of floating free‐suspended single‐layer graphene is addressed. The research reveals that for successful contact angle measurements, the testing and substrate liquids must be immiscible. Using diiodomethane as the testing liquid and ammonium persulfate solution as liquid substrate, the study demonstrates the near‐complete wetting transparency of graphene. Furthermore, it successfully showcases the feasibility of real‐time wettability control using graphene on liquid substrates. This work not only advances the understanding of graphene's interaction with liquid interfaces but also suggests a new avenue for the development of multifunctional materials and devices by exploiting the unique wetting transparency of graphene.
Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction on Metallic CoNi‐Terminated Catalyst with Industrial‐Level Current Density in Neutral Medium
Authors: Wei Yingying , Huang Jingjing , Chen Hong , Zheng Su‐Jun , Huang Ren‐Wu , Dong Xi‐Yan , Li Lin‐Ke , Cao Ang , Cai Jinmeng , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: May 2024

Green ammonia synthesis through electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (eNO3RR) can serve as an effective alternative to the traditional energy‐intensive Haber‐Bosch process. However, achieving high Faradaic efficiency (FE) at industrially relevant current density in neutral medium poses significant challenges in eNO3RR. Herein, with the guidance of theoretical calculation, a metallic CoNi‐terminated catalyst is successfully designed and constructed on copper foam, which achieves an ammonia FE of up to 100% under industrial‐level current density and very low overpotential (−0.15 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode) in a neutral medium. Multiple characterization results have confirmed that the maintained metal atom‐terminated surface through interaction with copper atoms plays a crucial role in reducing overpotential and achieving high current density. By constructing a homemade gas stripping and absorption device, the complete conversion process for high‐purity ammonium nitrate products is demonstrated, displaying the potential for practical application. This work suggests a sustainable and promising process toward directly converting nitrate‐containing pollutant solutions into practical nitrogen fertilizers.
Origin of the Apparent Electric‐Field Dependence of Electrostrictive Coefficients
Authors: Yu Jiacheng , Zaki Abdelali , Mache Killian , Ibder Omar , Coste Sandrine , Barré Maud , Lacorre Philippe , Janolin Pierre‐Eymeric
Published: May 2024

Electrostrictive materials exhibit a strain that is proportional to the square of the induced polarization. In linear dielectrics where the permittivity is constant, this electromechanical strain is also proportional to the square of the electric field. However, under increasing amplitudes of the driving field, the electromechanical strain sometimes saturates; the electrostrictive coefficients therefore appear to depend on the amplitude of the electric field used to measure them. Here, a methodology showing that this apparent field dependence is a consequence of neglecting higher‐order electromechanical phenomena is presented. When these are taken into account, not only do the electrostrictive coefficients remain constant but the signs of the high‐order coefficients enable the prediction of the saturation behavior from a single measurement. This approach is illustrated on both classical and non‐classical (so‐called “giant”) electrostrictors.
Microfluidics Evolution and Surface Functionalization: A Pathway to Enhanced Heavy Metal Ion Detection
Authors: Xu Zhejun , Jaiswal Arun , Liu Xiaochen , Yang Zhenxu , Yin Qiankun , Kong Kien Voon , Yong Ken‐Tye
Published: May 2024

This review delves into the significant advancements in microfluidic technology since 2017, highlighting its critical role in shrinking device sizes and integrating advanced surface functionalization techniques. It showcases how microfluidics, an interdisciplinary field, has revolutionized fluid manipulation on a microscale, enabling the creation of cost‐effective, portable devices for on‐the‐spot analyses, like heavy metal ion detection. From its early days rooted in ancient observations to cutting‐edge uses of materials like silicon, glass, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and paper, this review charts microfluidics’ dynamic evolution. It emphasizes the transformative impact of surface functionalization methods, including silanization and plasma treatments, in enhancing device materials' performance. Moreover, this review anticipates the exciting convergence of microfluidics with emerging technologies like droplet microfluidics and three‐dimensional (3D) printing, alongside nanotechnology, forecasting a future of sophisticated analytical tools, point‐of‐care diagnostics, and improved detection systems. It acknowledges the hurdles in scaling production and achieving universal reliability and standardization. This review highlights the transformative impact of microfluidic technology on diagnostics and environmental surveillance, emphasizing its utility in deploying compact sensors for comprehensive and concurrent evaluations of water quality.
Carbon‐Embedded Pt Alloy Cluster Catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Shin Sangyong , Lee Eoyoon , Nam Jeonghyun , Kwon Jaehoon , Choi Yunji , Kim Bumjoon J. , Ham Hyung Chul , Lee Hyunjoo
Published: May 2024

Minimizing the use of platinum (Pt) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is crucial for expanding the PEMFC market. The most straightforward approach would be to reduce the size of Pt particles. However, small Pt clusters, particularly those <2 nm in size, typically exhibit reduced activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to the overly strong adsorption of oxygen intermediates. Additionally, these small Pt clusters tend to degrade more quickly, resulting in lower durability. In this study, carbon‐embedded Pt alloy cluster catalysts (PtFe, PtCo, PtNi) that demonstrate high activity and durability in the PEMFC cathode are presented. Density functional theory calculations indicate that carbon atoms stably adsorb onto the Fe sites of PtFe clusters, making the neighboring Pt sites active for ORR with an optimal adsorption strength for oxygen intermediates. This research can pave the way for developing durable and efficient ORR catalysts while significantly reducing Pt usage in PEMFCs.
Aminotransferase trends in propionic acidemia
Authors: Silva Maria P. , Raski Carolyn R. , Charrow Joel , Baker Joshua J. , Prada Carlos E.
Published: May 2024

Propionic acidemia is a metabolic condition with multiple serious acute and chronic presentations that require strict monitoring. Literature on liver function abnormalities in propionic acidemia is scarce, and the mechanism of liver impairment in this condition remains unclear. Currently, there is no indication for liver‐function tests during follow‐up and their clinical or prognostic utility is unknown. This study aimed to determine aminotransferase trends in individuals with propionic acidemia at a single institution. We retrospectively evaluated and classified the aminotransferases of 12 patients with propionic acidemia during hospital admissions and routine office visits. The present findings suggest that aminotransferase elevations are very common in this population and can persist beyond acute illness. During hospitalization events, aminotransferases were not a predictor of severity, duration of stay, and readmission within 1 month. Understanding aminotransferase trends in these patients will help clinicians make decisions in the acute setting and potentially in the follow‐up of new therapies.
Synthesis of Versatile Aryliodine Synthons by Aryliodonium Rearrangement Reactions
Authors: Pan Cheng , Wang Limin , Han Jianwei
Published: May 2024

The excellent reactivity of diaryliodonium salts has primarily been attributed to the efficient departure of the iodoarene unit, facilitating a variety of arylation reactions. However, one equivalent of iodoarene as a side‐product is a chemical waste in these reactions, which was criticized by chemists for hindering its popularity. Recently, the development of synthetic methodology that preserve the aryl iodine moiety received increasing attention. Oxidative rearrangement reactions involving aryliodonium reagents have significantly addressed the atom‐economic issue, thereby broadening the reaction scope. The resulting intricate aryliodine products are viewed as valuable synthons for the synthesis of natural products, pharmaceutical intermediates and other fine chemicals.
Asymmetric Coordination Regulating D‐Orbital Spin‐Electron Filling in Single‐Atom Iron Catalyst for Efficient Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Li Yizhe , Sun Hao , Ren Longtao , Sun Kai , Gao Liyao , Jin Xiangrong , Xu Qingzhen , Liu Wen , Sun Xiaoming
Published: May 2024

The single‐atom Fe−N−C catalyst has shown great promise for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), yet the intrinsic activity is not satisfactory. There is a pressing need to gain a deeper understanding of the charge configuration of the Fe−N−C catalyst and to develop rational modulation strategies. Herein, we have prepared a single‐atom Fe catalyst with the co‐coordination of N and O (denoted as Fe−N/O−C) and adjacent defect, proposing a strategy to optimize the d‐orbital spin‐electron filling of Fe sites by fine‐tuning the first coordination shell. The Fe−N/O−C exhibits significantly better ORR activity compared to its Fe−N−C counterpart and commercial Pt/C, with a much more positive half‐wave potential (0.927 V) and higher kinetic current density. Moreover, using the Fe−N/O−C catalyst, the Zn‐air battery and proton exchange membrane fuel cell achieve peak power densities of up to 490 and 1179 mW cm−2, respectively. Theoretical studies and in situ electrochemical Raman spectroscopy reveal that Fe−N/O−C undergoes charge redistribution and negative shifting of the d‐band center compared to Fe−N−C, thus optimizing the adsorption free energy of ORR intermediates. This work demonstrates the feasibility of introducing an asymmetric first coordination shell for single‐atom catalysts and provides a new optimization direction for their practical application.
¿Pa ‘rriba o pa ’bajo? Upward mobility, anti‐Blackness, and the independence question among Puerto Ricans in NYC: A decolonial psychoanalytic study
Authors: Gaztambide Daniel José , Escobar Edlyane Veronica Medina , Hernandez‐Vega Andrea , Purvis Tyce , Diaz Gabriella , Julien Lovelyne , Chen Xiqiao
Published: May 2024

Puerto Rico is one of the world's oldest colonies, with thousands of its people dislocated to the United States (U.S.) mainland in the wake of Hurricane Maria and the ongoing economic crisis. However, since the 2019 protests ousting then governor Rosello, Puerto Ricans across the Diaspora are imagining new emancipatory realities, including the possibility of independence. This paper draws on data from the Colonial Mentality Study in New York City (CMS‐NYC, N = 19) to explore how Puerto Ricans in the Diaspora narrativize new political possibilities despite the challenges posed by post‐disaster migration and racial and economic inequality. Using a decolonial psychoanalytic approach, we show how two colonial logics—moving “up and out” of Puerto Rico and “up and in” American capitalism—are textured by discourses of racial inferiority and upward mobility, and illustrate how these are experienced by Puerto Ricans who identify as Multiracial (Multiracial‐Identified Puerto Rican, N = 11), and Puerto Ricans who identify as Black (BIPR, N = 8). Reading our findings in the sociogenic context of race, class, and colonialism in Puerto Rico, and race and class among Puerto Ricans in NYC, we explore how racism toward Puerto Ricans and racism among Puerto Ricans intersect with notions of upward mobility, revealing how anti‐Blackness supports economic inequality in the U.S. mainland alongside with Puerto Rico's colonial situation. Complementing decolonial psychoanalytic theory with the Afro‐Puerto Rican radical tradition, we outline the implications of this research for future scholarship, clinical practice, and political action.
Aromatic rich biofuel production via catalytic co‐pyrolysis of paulownia wood and polypropylene waste
Authors: Inaloo Esmaeel Balaghi , Tavasoli Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Thermo‐catalytic co‐pyrolysis of paulownia wood and polypropylene mixture were carried out in a fixed bed horizontal reactor system. The biochar obtained from pyrolysis of paulownia wood was activated by steam at 700°C. Activated biochar supported magnesium oxide, nickel oxide and cobalt oxide catalysts were prepared by incipient miosture impregnation and were used to upgrade the bio‐oil. Catalytic pyrolysis reduced the amount of bio‐oil compared with non‐catalytic pyrolysis (59.5% of bio‐oil). The results indicate that the production of aromatic compounds increased from 40.35% to 65.93, 62.12 and 61.56% using Ni, Co and Mg catalysts, respectively. For all three catalysts, the production of furan compounds decreased. It was found that bio‐char based catalysts are suitable for use in the co‐pyrolysis process to improvement the biofuel production.
Enhancement of rAAV titers via inhibition of the interferon signaling cascade in transfected HEK293 suspension cultures
Authors: Kahlig Carolin‐Isabel , Moser Sylvain , Micutkova Lucia , Grillari Johannes , Kraus Barbara , Hernandez Bort Juan A.
Published: May 2024

The production of recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) for gene therapy applications relies on the use of various host cell lines, with suspension‐grown HEK293 cells being the preferred expression system due to their satisfactory rAAV yields in transient transfections. As the field of gene therapy continues to expand, there is a growing demand for efficient rAAV production, which has prompted efforts to optimize HEK293 cell line productivity through engineering. In contrast to other cell lines like CHO cells, the transcriptome of HEK293 cells during rAAV production has remained largely unexplored in terms of identifying molecular components that can enhance yields.

In our previous research, we analyzed global regulatory pathways and mRNA expression patterns associated with increased rAAV production in HEK293 cells. Our data revealed substantial variations in the expression patterns between cell lines with low (LP) and high‐production (HP) rates. Moving to a deeper layer for a more detailed analysis of inflammation‐related transcriptome data, we detected an increased expression of interferon‐related genes in low‐producing cell lines.

Following upon these results, we investigated the use of Ruxolitinib, an interferon pathway inhibitor, during the transient production of rAAV in HEK293 cells as potential media additive to boost rAAV titers. Indeed, we find a two‐fold increase in rAAV titers compared to the control when the interferon pathways were inhibited. In essence, this work offers a rational design approach for optimization of HEK293 cell line productivity and potential engineering targets, ultimately paving the way for more cost‐efficient and readily available gene therapies for patients.
Blue light‐mediated gene expression as a promising strategy to reduce antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli
Authors: Jiang Qingwei , Geng Feng , Shen Juan , Zhu Ping , Lu Zhaoxin , Lu Fengxia , Zhou Libang
Published: May 2024

The discovery of antibiotics has noticeably promoted the development of human civilization; however, antibiotic resistance in bacteria caused by abusing and overusing greatly challenges human health and food safety. Considering the worsening situation, it is an urgent demand to develop emerging nontraditional technologies or methods to address this issue. With the expanding of synthetic biology, optogenetics exhibits a tempting prospect for precisely regulating gene expression in many fields. Consequently, it is attractive to employ optogenetics to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Here, a blue light‐controllable gene expression system was established in Escherichia coli based on a photosensitive DNA‐binding protein (EL222). Further, this strategy was successfully applied to repress the expression of β‐lactamase gene (bla) using blue light illumination, resulting a dramatic reduction of ampicillin resistance in engineered E. coli. Moreover, blue light was utilized to induce the expression of the mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL), triumphantly leading to the increase of streptomycin susceptibility in engineered E. coli. Finally, the increased susceptibility of ampicillin and streptomycin was simultaneously induced by blue light in the same E. coli cell, revealing the excellent potential of this strategy in controlling multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria. As a proof of concept, our work demonstrates that light can be used as an alternative tool to prolong the use period of common antibiotics without developing new antibiotics. And this novel strategy based on optogenetics shows a promising foreground to combat antibiotic resistance in the future.
Generation of stable suspension producer cell lines for serum‐free lentivirus production
Authors: Klimpel Maximilian , Terrao Monica , Bräuer Melina , Dersch Herbert , Biserni Martina , Melo Do Nascimento Larissa , Schwingal Sarah , Vogel Jessica E. , Ferlemann Cathrin , Brandt Tobias , Lal Nikki Indresh , Bridgeman Krystal , Petzke Alex , McDwyer Eva , Lim Jo Leen , Oh Seungyoul , Brumatti Gabriela , Garcia Minambres Albert , Otte Ellen , Noll Thomas , Pirzas Vicky , Laux Holger
Published: May 2024

The production of lentiviral vectors (LVs) pseudotyped with the vesicular stomatitis virus envelope glycoprotein (VSV‐G) is limited by the associated cytotoxicity of the envelope and by the production methods used, such as transient transfection of adherent cell lines. In this study, we established stable suspension producer cell lines for scalable and serum‐free LV production derived from two stable, inducible packaging cell lines, named GPRG and GPRTG. The established polyclonal producer cell lines produce self‐inactivating (SIN) LVs carrying a WAS‐T2A‐GFP construct at an average infectious titer of up to 4.64 × 107 TU mL−1 in a semi‐perfusion process in a shake flask and can be generated in less than two months. The derived monoclonal cell lines are functionally stable in continuous culture and produce an average infectious titer of up to 9.38 × 107 TU mL−1 in a semi‐perfusion shake flask process. The producer clones are able to maintain a productivity of >1 × 107 TU mL−1 day−1 for up to 29 consecutive days in a non‐optimized 5 L stirred‐tank bioreactor perfusion process, representing a major milestone in the field of LV manufacturing. As the producer cell lines are based on an inducible Tet‐off expression system, the established process allows LV production in the absence of inducers such as antibiotics. The purified LVs efficiently transduce human CD34+ cells, reducing the LV quantities required for gene and cell therapy applications.
Caffeine and Purine Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review on the Chemistry, Biosynthetic Pathways, Synthesis‐Related Reactions, Biomedical Prospectives and Clinical Applications
Authors: Abu‐Hashem Ameen A. , Hakami Othman , El‐Shazly Mohamed , El‐Nashar Heba A. S. , Yousif Mahmoud N. M.
Published: May 2024

Caffeine and purine derivatives represent interesting chemical moieties, which show various biological activities. Caffeine is an alkaloid that belongs to the family of methylxanthine alkaloids and it is present in food, beverages, and drugs. Coffee, tea, and some other beverages are a major source of caffeine in the human diet. Caffeine can be extracted from tea or coffee using hot water with dichloromethane or chloroform and the leftover is known as decaffeinated coffee or tea. Caffeine and its derivatives were synthesized via different procedures on small and large scales. It competitively antagonizes the adenosine receptors (ARs), which are G protein‐coupled receptors largely distributed in the human body, including the heart, vessels, brain, and kidneys. Recently, many reports showed the effect of caffeine derivatives in the treatment of many diseases such as Alzheimer's, asthma, parkinsonism, and cancer. Also, it is used as an antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, and hypocholesterolemic agent. The present review article discusses the synthesis, reactivity, and biological and pharmacological properties of caffeine and its derivatives. The biosynthesis and biotransformation of caffeine in coffee and tea leaves and the human body were summarized in the review.
NF‐κB pathway as a molecular target for curcumin in diabetes mellitus treatment: Focusing on oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Zamanian Mohammad Yasin , Alsaab Hashem O. , Golmohammadi Maryam , Yumashev Alexey , Jabba Abeer Mhussan , Abid Mohammed Kadhem , Joshi Abhishek , Alawadi Ahmed Hussien , Jafer Noor S. , Kianifar Farzaneh , Obakiro Samuel Baker
Published: May 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a collection of metabolic disorder that is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. Recent studies have demonstrated the crucial involvement of oxidative stress (OS) and inflammatory reactions in the development of DM. Curcumin (CUR), a natural compound derived from turmeric, exerts beneficial effects on diabetes mellitus through its interaction with the nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathway. Research indicates that CUR targets inflammatory mediators in diabetes, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), by modulating the NF‐κB signaling pathway. By reducing the expression of these inflammatory factors, CUR demonstrates protective effects in DM by improving pancreatic β‐cells function, normalizing inflammatory cytokines, reducing OS and enhancing insulin sensitivity. The findings reveal that CUR administration effectively lowered blood glucose elevation, reinstated diminished serum insulin levels, and enhanced body weight in Streptozotocin ‐induced diabetic rats. CUR exerts its beneficial effects in management of diabetic complications through regulation of signaling pathways, such as calcium–calmodulin (CaM)‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR‐γ), NF‐κB, and transforming growth factor β1 (TGFB1). Moreover, CUR reversed the heightened expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, Interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), IL‐6) and chemokines like MCP‐1 in diabetic specimens, vindicating its anti‐inflammatory potency in counteracting hyperglycemia‐induced alterations. CUR diminishes OS, avert structural kidney damage linked to diabetic nephropathy, and suppress NF‐κB activity. Furthermore, CUR exhibited a protective effect against diabetic cardiomyopathy, lung injury, and diabetic gastroparesis. Conclusively, the study posits that CUR could potentially offer therapeutic benefits in relieving diabetic complications through its influence on the NF‐κB pathway.
Isolated distal deep vein thrombosis associated with adenomyosis: Case report and literature review
Authors: Zong Xiaolong , Wang Xuechao , Liu Shenjia , Tang Xuemei , Zheng Dayong
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

While adenomyosis is commonly associated with a mild risk of thrombotic complications, the presence of additional thrombophilia factors can increase this risk, particularly in individuals with severe symptoms and elevated CA125 levels.
Successful management of an idiopathic first bite syndrome: A case report and review
Authors: Barati Behrouz , Ghazizadeh Matin , Shahzamani Arvin
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

FBS is associated with surgical interventions or malignancies and could occur idiopathically. Also, this case highlights the successful management of FBS symptoms with pharmacological intervention with gabapentin and carbamazepine.
How and when future orientation shapes weekly career adaptability
Authors: Yang Yongkang , Tu Yidong , Wang Shuoli , Fan Yajun
Published: May 2024

Previous research has revealed higher career adaptivity leads to higher career adaptability from between‐person perspective. However, the construction of career adaptability is dynamic rather than static, so how career adaptivity influences episode‐level career adaptability from a within‐person perspective is critical but unknown. Drawing on career construction theory, we examined how future orientation, considered part of career adaptivity, influences weekly career adaptability. One wave of between‐person data (N = 97) and four waves of within‐person data (repeated measures) were collected from undergraduates in a Chinese university. The results found that future orientation positively predicted weekly career adaptability, and weekly future work self‐mediated the relationship between them. Loneliness negatively moderated the relationship between future orientation and weekly future work self and further negatively moderated the indirect effect of weekly future work self between future orientation and weekly career adaptability. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Enhancing Substrate Channeling with Multi‐Enzyme Architectures in Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks
Authors: Oskoei Vahide , Mathesh Motilal , Yang Wenrong
Published: May 2024

Hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOF) represent an emerging category of organic structures with high crystallinity and metal‐free, which are not commonly observed in alternative porous organic frameworks. These needle‐like porous structure can help in stabilizing enzymes and allow transfer of molecules between enzymes participating in cascade reactions for enhanced substrate channelling. Herein, we systematically synthesized and investigated the stability of HOF at extreme conditions followed by one‐pot encapsulation of single and bi‐enzyme systems. Firstly, we observed HOF to be stable at pH 1 to 14 and at high temperatures (up to 115 °C). Secondly, the encapsulated glucose oxidase enzyme (GOX) showed 80 % and 90 % of its original activity at 70 °C and pH 11, respectively. Thirdly, transient time close to 0 seconds was observed for HOF encapsulated bi‐enzyme cascade reaction system demonstrating a 4.25‐fold improvement in catalytic activity when compared to free enzymes with enhanced substrate channelling. Our findings showcase a facile system synthesized under ambient conditions to encapsulate and stabilize enzymes at extreme conditions.
A review of scale inhibitor methods during modified smart water injection
Authors: Ardakani Seyedeh Fatemeh Ghazi , Hosseini Seyed Taha , Kazemzadeh Yousef
Published: May 2024

Enhancing oil recovery (EOR) through water flooding methods, including smart water injection, low salinity water injection, polymer injection, and surfactant injection has become a pivotal strategy for enhancing productivity. Despite their promising outcomes, these methods often encounter challenges such as scaling formation and deposition, impacting reservoir permeability and production rates. A comprehensive understanding of scaling formation is crucial for effective implementation of these methods. This article explores various scaling types prevalent in the field, examining key parameters (temperature, pressure, and pH) that influence scaling formation. Additionally, it presents a diverse range of inhibitors employing both chemical and mechanical methods to mitigate and prevent scaling, thus safeguarding reservoir performance. The efficiency of inhibitors is scrutinized concerning chemical composition and performance maintenance under different temperature and pressure conditions. This study serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and industry experts involved in the oil industry and reservoir management. By elucidating scaling mechanisms, delineating consequences, and offering extensive solutions, it enhances comprehension and provides a foundation for improving oil recovery strategies. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of scaling mechanisms, providing insights that can be applied to optimize oil recovery processes, mitigate reservoir challenges, and improve overall reservoir management strategies.
Occurrence, fate, transport, and removal technologies of emerging contaminants: A review on recent advances and future perspectives
Authors: Ghosh Rahul , Parde Divyesh , Bhaduri Soumyadeep , Rajpurohit Praveen , Behera Manaswini
Published: May 2024

Emerging contaminants (ECs) are a category of relatively newly identified chemicals lacking regulatory status and generally of synthetic origin. ECs encompass a range of substances, including pharmaceuticals, antibiotics, antidiabetics, pesticides, personal care products (PCPs), and endocrine‐disrupting chemicals. ECs are frequently found in surface water, groundwater, and wastewater. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are often identified as sources of these chemicals. ECs enter wastewater through improper disposal or usage of consumer goods, agricultural runoff, toxic spillage, and prescription drug excretion in urine and feces, as the human body metabolizes a fraction of administered drugs. The presence of ECs in aquatic environments poses a significant threat, as they can potentially harm both the ecosystem and humans, even at low concentrations. For a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of ECs, it is essential for researchers to investigate the occurrence, sources, fate, and transport of these substances in wastewater. This review investigates the origins and ultimate fate of these ECs, examining their interactions with the surrounding aquatic environments. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics and behaviors of ECs through an in‐depth analysis. This review discusses treatment techniques and processes and examines potential pathways for future advancement.
Adaptive QoE‐based video delivery by optimizing the bitrate of the video course using network bandwidth and user bandwidth
Authors: Venkatesh Naik Nanavath , Madhavi Kasa
Published: May 2024

With the increase in internet connectivity worldwide, people have resorted to various video streaming applications for entertainment, education, healthcare, and so on. However, this has resulted in huge internet traffic, which is predominantly occurring due to the increased transmission of videos over wireless networks to mobile devices, Transmission of ultra‐high‐definition videos can be effortlessly carried out, although the video quality perceived by the users is normally lesser than the anticipated quality. In video streaming applications, it is a pre‐requisite to provide users with high quality of experience (QoE) but this is generally affected by the dynamic variations in the network conditions. This work presents a novel QoE‐based video delivery system in a collaborative e‐learning platform. Here, a novel deep learning structure recurrent neural network‐long short term memory (RNN‐LSTM) is developed for adaptive bit rate (ABR) selection, thereby providing users with videos of high QoE. Various network, time, and buffer‐based parameters are considered while selecting the bit rate. Additionally, the proposed RNN‐LSTM is assessed for its superiority in providing high QoE videos based on measures, like QoE, buffer size, and bit rate, and is observed to attain values of 0.975, 45.654, and 90.766 b/s, respectively.
The landscape of inequalities in dementia across Europe: First insights from the INTERDEM taskforce
Authors: Giebel Clarissa , Harding Emma , Volkmer Anna , Chirico Ilaria , Hopper Louise , Szczesniak Dorota , Talbot Catherine V. , Diaz‐Ponce Ana , Gove Dianne , Knapp Martin , Robinson Louise , Rahman‐Amin Malayka , Thyrian Rene , Hanna Kerry ,   INTERDEM Taskforce on Inequalities in Dementia Care
Published: May 2024

Background

Getting a diagnosis of dementia does not equate to equitable access to care. People with dementia and unpaid carers face many barriers to care, which can vary within, and across, different countries and cultures. With little evidence across different countries, the aim of this scoping exercise was to identify the different and similar types of inequalities in dementia across Europe, and provide recommendations for addressing these.

Methods

We conducted a brief online survey with INTERDEM and INTERDEM Academy members across Europe, and with members of Alzheimer Europe's European Working Group of People with Dementia and Carers in February and March 2023. Members were asked about whether inequalities in dementia care existed within their country; if yes, to highlight three key inequalities. Responses on barriers were coded into groups, and frequencies of inequalities were calculated. Highlighted inequalities were discussed and prioritised at face‐to‐face and virtual consensus meetings in England, Ireland, Italy, and Poland, involving people with dementia, unpaid carers, health and social care providers, and non‐profit organisations.

Results

Forty‐nine academics, PhD students, people with dementia and unpaid carers from 10 countries (Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Malta, Netherlands, UK) completed the survey. The most frequently identified inequalities focused on unawareness and lack of information, higher level system issues (i.e. lack of communication among care professionals), lack of service suitability, and stigma. Other barriers included workforce training and knowledge, financial costs, culture and language, lack of single‐point‐of‐contact person, age, and living location/postcode lottery. There was general consensus among people living dementia and care providers of unawareness as a key barrier in different European countries, with varied priorities in Ireland depending on geographical location.

Conclusions

These findings provide a first insight on dementia inequalities across Europe, generate cross‐country learnings on how to address these inequalities in dementia, and can underpin further solution‐focused research that informs policy and key decision makers to implement changes.
The correlation between liver fibrosis and the 10‐year estimated risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease: A cross‐sectional study in Vietnam
Authors: Dang Hai Nguyen Ngoc , Luong Thang Viet , Tran Toan Thanh , Hoang Tien Anh
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerged as a novel term replacing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 2020. While most MAFLD patients are asymptomatic, long‐term hepatic fat accumulation may lead to liver fibrosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nevertheless, the relationship between MAFLD and cardiovascular (CV) risk factors remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the 10‐year estimated CVD risk in individuals diagnosed with MAFLD.

Methods

Between January 2022 and August 2023, this cross‐sectional study enrolled 139 MAFLD patients. We employed the systematic coronary risk evaluation 2 (SCORE2) and the systematic coronary risk evaluation 2–older persons (SCORE2‐OP) scoring systems to evaluate and categorize the 10‐year CV risk. Liver fibrosis was assessed using biochemical parameters (FIB‐4, AST/ALT, and APRI), and their correlation with CV risk was examined.

Results

Most MAFLD patients were categorized as having high or very high CV risk based on the SCORE2 and SCORE2‐OP. Liver fibrosis, measured by the FIB‐4 score, significantly differed among the various CV risk groups. Moreover, FIB‐4 correlated positively with SCORE2 and SCORE2‐OP (r = 0.588, p < 0.001), indicating its substantial predictive ability for identifying individuals at very high CV risk (AUC = 0.765, 95% CI: 0.686–0.845, p < 0.001). A FIB‐4 score of 1.275 demonstrated 81% sensitivity and 64% specificity in predicting very high CV risk among MAFLD patients.

Conclusion

Patients with MAFLD predominantly face high or very high CV risks, with elevated liver fibrosis associated with increased 10‐year estimated CVD risk. The FIB‐4 score exhibits promising predictive value for identifying MAFLD patients at very high risk of CV disease.
Endothelial cellular senescence and tau accumulation: An interplay full of opportunities?
Authors: Oliveri Doriana , Moschetti Giorgia , Griego Anna , Scarpa Edoardo
Published: May 2024

Recent research has shown that tau protein can be passed to neighboring cells, leading to cellular senescence in the endothelial cells present in the central nervous system (CNS). This discovery could potentially open new doors for testing novel therapeutic compounds that specifically target senescent cells (senolytics) or for identifying new biomarkers that can enable early detection of tauopathies and dementia.