bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of comorbid conditions and prescribed chronic medications on the treatment plan for chronic hepatitis C infection: A cross‐sectional retrospective study
Authors: Awadh Abdullah , Badri Ziyad , Alansari Nayef , Alkhiri Ahmed , Baharoon Hussein , Niaz Abdelulah , Al‐Kathiri Alaa , Ghulam Enas , Khan Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Background

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection is a potentially life‐threatening condition characterized by various complications, including end‐stage liver disease and cirrhosis. The mortality rate associated with CHC has been increasing due to the presence of comorbidities and the use of chronic medications. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of these comorbidities and chronic medications on the treatment plan for CHC.

Methods

To achieve this objective, a cross‐sectional retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The study population included patients aged 12 years and above who were diagnosed with CHC between 2016 and 2021. Patients below the age of 12 were excluded from the study. A total of 170 patients with CHC were included in the analysis. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between CHC complications and the treatment approach.

Results

The mean age of the study participants was 66.78 years, with a higher proportion of female patients. The findings revealed a significant association between hypertension (p = 0.042) and cirrhosis (p = 0.007) with changes in the treatment plan for CHC. Moreover, the presence of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.045), renal diseases (p < 0.001), and hypothyroidism (p = 0.004) were significantly associated with HCV clearance after the initiation of therapy. Additionally, the use of proton pump inhibitors (p = 0.033) and levothyroxine (p = 0.025) was found to be associated with a higher rate of CHC clearance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the prevalence of comorbid conditions and the use of chronic medications among patients with CHC. The findings emphasize the importance of considering the effects of comorbidities and chronic medications when developing treatment plans for CHC infections. By taking these factors into account, healthcare professionals can optimize the management of CHC and improve patient outcomes.
Antimicrobial combination effects against multidrug‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kazemian Hossein , Karami‐Zarandi Morteza , Heidari Hamid , Ghanavati Roya , Khoshnood Saeed
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Emergence of multidrug resistance in non‐fermenting Gram‐negative bacilli is a threat to public health. Combination therapy is a strategy for the treatment of antibiotic‐resistant infections.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, a total of 63 nonduplicate clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were collected from various specimens. Identification of bacterial isolates was performed by phenotypic and molecular tests. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns and detection of β‐lactamase genes were determined using the broth microdilution and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, respectively. Then, the combined effects analysis was determined by the checkerboard method. Based on the status of resistance to carbapenems (imipenem and meropenem), 25 isolates of each genus were selected for further investigation.

Results

For A. baumannii, blaOXA‐23, blaOXA‐58, and blaOXA‐48 genes were positive in 21 (84%), 17 (68%), and 11 (44%) of isolates, respectively. In P. aeruginosa isolates, blaVIM was the most common gene (44%) and other genes including blaIMP, blaNDM, and blaOXA‐23 were found in nine (36%), six (24%), and three (12%) isolates, respectively. Meropenem (MER)‐tigecycline (TIG) had a significant synergistic effect against 20 (80%) A. baumannii (p value < 0.001). This combination was also efficient against 5 (20%) P. aeruginosa isolates. Moreover, the other combination, tigecycline‐amikacin (TIG‐AMK) was effective against 10 (40%) A. baumannii isolates. The combination of colistin (COL) and MER showed a significant synergistic effect against 21 (84%) A. baumannii (p value < 0.001) and 17 (68%) P. aeruginosa isolates (p value < 0.001).

Conclusion

The MER‐TIG and COL‐MER combinations are promising options against resistant bacteria. Our study could be helpful for the development of a new treatment recommendation.
Theories, determinants, and intervention models and approaches on inequalities of undernutrition amongst under fives: A literature review
Authors: Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Amzat Jimoh , Aminu Kafayat
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

One of the greatest public health problems of the 21st century is undernutrition in children under the age of 5 years (CAUFY). Globally, over 232 million CUAFY are undernourished and approximately 45% of mortality in this population are undernutrition‐induced. This paper reviewed and critically explained the factors perpetuating undernutrition in CUAFY in the global space. It further explained the multi‐level determinants that influence health inequalities and consequently exacerbate undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally. It also went further to explain the intervention models and approaches that can be used to tackle undernutrition in CUAFY.

Methods/Literature Search Strategy

Demiris et al.'s approach to narrative review was utilized for this paper. Relevant articles on child nutrition were retrieved from multiple credible databases and websites of foremost health organizations. Using an iterative process, multiple combinations of search terms were done by stringing relevant key terms and their synonyms with Boolean Operators. This process was constantly refined to align search results with the study aim. Database search produced relevant and resourceful publications which were utilized to develop this review.

Results

The global burden of undernutrition remains high, especially in Oceania with the highest prevalence of stunting and wasting (41.4% and 12.5%), with Africa and Asia following closely. Malnutrition eradication is a global health issue of high priority as demonstrated by the “Goal 2” of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the United Nations (UN) Decade of Action on Nutrition 2016–2025. The review identified no significant positive outcome from previous interventions due to the endemic health inequalities. Determinants of the multi‐level health inequalities associated with undernutrition in CUAFY, and probable solutions are explained with theoretical models of health inequalities. A diagonal intervention approach was proposed as a viable solution to ending undernutrition in CUAFY.

Conclusion

The application of relevant theoretical models and context‐specific intervention approaches can be utilized by stakeholders to close the existing inequality gaps, thereby reducing undernutrition amongst CUAFY globally.
Three‐dimensional‐printed Ni‐based scaffold design accelerates bubble escape for ampere‐level alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Chen Jingxuan , Fu Gangwen , Tian Yu , Li Xingchuan , Luo Mengqi , Wei Xiaoyu , Zhang Ting , Gao Tian , Chen Cheng , Chaemchuen Somboon , Xu Xi , Sun Xing , Bu Tongle , Verpoort Francis , Wang John , Kou Zongkui
Published: April 2024

Alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for scalable hydrogen production largely hinges on addressing the sluggish bubble‐involved kinetics on the traditional Ni‐based electrode, especially for ampere‐level current densities and beyond. Herein, 3D‐printed Ni‐based sulfide (3DPNS) electrodes with varying scaffolds are designed and fabricated. In situ observations at microscopic levels demonstrate that the bubble escape velocity increases with the number of hole sides (HS) in the scaffolds. Subsequently, we conduct multiphysics field simulations to illustrate that as the hole shapes transition from square, pentagon, and hexagon to circle, where a noticeable reduction in the bubble‐attached HS length and the pressure balance time around the bubbles results in a decrease in bubble size and an acceleration in the rate of bubble escape. Ultimately, the 3DPNS electrode with circular hole configurations exhibits the most favorable HER performance with an overpotential of 297 mV at the current density of up to 1000 mA cm−2 for 120 h. The present study highlights a scalable and effective electrode scaffold design that promotes low‐cost and low‐energy green hydrogen production through the ampere‐level alkaline HER.
Performance of surface, subsurface and trench‐type drainage systems in paddy fields for non‐rice farming
Authors: Rahimi Amirreza , Liaghat Abdolmajid , Ebrahimian Hamed , Ashrafi Ali
Published: April 2024

Effective drainage is a crucial factor in paddy fields, especially in regions with waterlogging or heavy clay soils. Identifying an effective drainage system is essential for the successful removal of excess soil water from paddy fields to prepare them for subsequent crops. This study aimed to evaluate three different drainage systems, shallow surface drainage (shallow ditch), conventional subsurface pipe drainage and trench‐type subsurface drainage (French drain), in paddy fields in terms of drainage water volume, water table depth, drainage intensity, soil moisture and cracks. Experiments were carried out in a physical model capable of simulation with a 7.5 m drain spacing. The findings indicated that trench‐type drainage was more effective in reducing soil moisture due to its higher drainage water volume compared to other systems. The time required for the topsoil to reach its lower plastic limit in the subsurface, trench‐type and shallow surface drainage systems was 14, 11 and 15 h after the depletion of excess water over the soil surface, respectively. Although shallow surface drainage represented faster depletion of excess water, trench‐type drainage eventually proved to be the most effective alternative for providing appropriate qualifications for secondary cultivation. Crack areas on the soil surface were twice as extensive in trench‐type and subsurface drainage systems as in shallow surface drainage systems, indicating their superior performance.
Genetic counseling for the dystrophinopathies—Practice resource of the National Society of Genetic Counselors
Authors: Pickart Angela M. , Martin Ann S. , Gross Brianna N. , Dellefave‐Castillo Lisa M. , McCallen Leslie M. , Nagaraj Chinmayee B. , Rippert Alyssa L. , Schultz Catherine P. , Ulm Elizabeth A. , Armstrong Niki
Published: April 2024

The dystrophinopathies encompass the phenotypically variable forms of muscular dystrophy caused by pathogenic variants in the DMD gene. The dystrophinopathies include the most common inherited muscular dystrophy among 46,XY individuals, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, as well as Becker muscular dystrophy and other less common phenotypic variants. With increased access to and utilization of genetic testing in the diagnostic and carrier setting, genetic counselors and clinicians in diverse specialty areas may care for individuals with and carriers of dystrophinopathy. This practice resource was developed as a tool for genetic counselors and other health care professionals to support counseling regarding dystrophinopathies, including diagnosis, health risks and management, psychosocial needs, reproductive options, clinical trials, and treatment. Genetic testing efforts have enabled genotype/phenotype correlation in the dystrophinopathies, but have also revealed unexpected findings, further complicating genetic counseling for this group of conditions. Additionally, the therapeutic landscape for dystrophinopathies has dramatically changed with several FDA‐approved therapeutics, an expansive research pathway, and numerous clinical trials. Genotype–phenotype correlations are especially complex and genetic counselors' unique skill sets are useful in exploring and explaining this to families. Given the recent advances in diagnostic testing and therapeutics related to dystrophinopathies, this practice resource is a timely update for genetic counselors and other healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and care of individuals with dystrophinopathies.
Successful treatment of acyclovir‐resistant herpes simplex virus infection with amenamevir in a patient who received umbilical cord blood transplantation for T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Kawamura Yuma , Uchibori Nako , Arakawa Tomoya , Fujii Tomoki , Negishi Shuto , Morikawa Shiori , Fukushima Nobuaki , Kohno Akio , Yamada Souichi , Fukui Yoshiko , Fukushi Shuetsu , Ozeki Kazutaka
Published: April 2024

A 34‐year‐old woman received umbilical cord blood transplantation for refractory T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia after salvage therapy with alemtuzumab. She developed right angular cheilitis on the 46th day after transplantation, which worsened after receiving systemic steroid therapy for extensive chronic graft versus host disease. The treatment dosage of acyclovir (ACV), ganciclovir, and vidarabine ointment was not effective due to ACV‐resistant mutations of the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) in the thymidine kinase domain. Foscarnet is expected to be effective against ACV‐resistant HSV‐1 infection. However, it could not be used because the patient developed renal dysfunction. Several viral thymidine kinase mutations related to ACV resistance were found in the patient's sample. Nevertheless, amenamevir, a helicase‐primase complex inhibitor, was effective in our patient who was significantly immunocompromised after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). ACV‐resistant HSV infection after allo‐HSCT is an rare but important complication in the era of low‐dose long‐term ACV prophylaxis. To date, there is no established treatment against ACV‐resistant HSV infection. This case report showed that amenamevir could be a promising treatment option for ACV‐resistant HSV infection in patients with renal failure after allo‐HSCT.
Added Value of [18F]PSMA‐1007 PET/CT and PET/MRI in Patients With Biochemically Recurrent Prostate Cancer: Impact on Detection Rates and Clinical Management
Authors: Abrahamsen Bendik S. , Tandstad Torgrim , Aksnessæther Bjørg Y. , Bogsrud Trond V. , Castillejo Miguel , Hernes Eivor , Johansen Håkon , Keil Thomas M. I. , Knudtsen Ingerid S. , Langørgen Sverre , Selnæs Kirsten M. , Bathen Tone F. , Elschot Mattijs
Published: April 2024

Background

Prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET) can change management in a large fraction of patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer (BCR).

Purpose

To investigate the added value of PET to MRI and CT for this patient group, and to explore whether the choice of the PET paired modality (PET/MRI vs. PET/CT) impacts detection rates and clinical management.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

41 patients with BCR (median age [range]: 68 [55–78]).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T, including T1‐weighted gradient echo (GRE), T2‐weighted turbo spin echo (TSE) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced GRE sequences, diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging, and a T1‐weighted TSE spine sequence. In addition to MRI, [18F]PSMA‐1007 PET and low‐dose CT were acquired on the same day.

Assessment

Images were reported using a five‐point Likert scale by two teams each consisting of a radiologist and a nuclear medicine physician. The radiologist performed a reading using CT and MRI data and a joint reading between radiologist and nuclear medicine physician was performed using MRI, CT, and PET from either PET/MRI or PET/CT.

Findings were presented to an oncologist to create intended treatment plans. Intrareader and interreader agreement analysis was performed.

Statistical Tests

McNemar test, Cohen's κ, and intraclass correlation coefficients. A P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

7 patients had positive findings on MRI and CT, 22 patients on joint reading with PET/CT, and 18 patients joint reading with PET/MRI. For overall positivity, interreader agreement was poor for MR and CT (κ = 0.36) and almost perfect with addition of PET (PET/CT κ = 0.85, PET/MRI κ = 0.85). The addition of PET from PET/CT and PET/MRI changed intended treatment in 20 and 18 patients, respectively. Between joint readings, intended treatment was different for eight patients.

Data Conclusion

The addition of [18F]PSMA‐1007 PET/MRI or PET/CT to MRI and CT may increase detection rates, could reduce interreader variability, and may change intended treatment in half of patients with BCR.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of herpes zoster occurrence/recurrence after COVID‐19 infection and vaccination
Authors: Wang Fengge , Gao Yidan , Wagner Abram L. , Lu Yihan
Published: April 2024

To inform surveillance, prevention, and management strategies for the varicella zoster virus (VZV) during the COVID‐19 pandemic, this study aimed to evaluate the risk of herpes zoster (HZ) occurrence/recurrence following COVID‐19 infection and vaccination. A comprehensive search across seven databases was conducted up to January 31, 2024, to identify studies relevant to the occurrence of HZ following COVID‐19 infection and vaccination. The meta‐analysis included five studies on postinfection HZ and 13 studies on postvaccination HZ. Patients infected with COVID‐19 had a 2.16‐fold increased risk of HZ (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24–3.76) than uninfected individuals. However, there was no significant association between COVID‐19 vaccination and the risk of HZ compared to controls, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.08 (95% CI: 0.84–1.39). Furthermore, a descriptive analysis of 74 postinfection and 153 postvaccination HZ studies found no significant differences on gender or age (<50 and ≥50 years) following COVID‐19 infection. Notably, 44.0% of the HZ cases postinfection appeared within the first week, with 69.5% resolving within 10 days, predominantly presenting as skin lesions. In the postvaccination group, the majority (60.1%) developed HZ after the first dose and 66.7% occurred within 1 week. Moreover, 44.6% resolved within 10 days and 50.0% within a month, primarily exhibiting skin lesions and postherpetic neuralgia. The study found that COVID‐19 infection increases the risk of HZ, but the COVID‐19 vaccine does not. Further study is needed to explore the association between COVID‐19 and HZ.
Genotype of dengue virus serotype 1 in relation to severe dengue in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Leng Xing‐Yu , Zhao Ling‐Zhai , Liao Lu , Jin Kang‐Hong , Feng Jia‐Min , Zhang Fu‐Chun
Published: April 2024

Guangzhou has been the city most affected by the dengue virus (DENV) in China, with a predominance of DENV serotype 1 (DENV‐1). Viral factors such as dengue serotype and genotype are associated with severe dengue (SD). However, none of the studies have investigated the relationship between DENV‐1 genotypes and SD. To understand the association between DENV‐1 genotypes and SD, the clinical manifestations of patients infected with different genotypes were investigated. A total of 122 patients with confirmed DENV‐1 genotype infection were recruited for this study. The clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, and levels of inflammatory mediator factors were statistically analyzed to investigate the characteristics of clinical manifestations and immune response on the DENV‐1 genotype. In the case of DENV‐1 infection, the incidence of SD with genotype V infection was significantly higher than that with genotype I infection. Meanwhile, patients infected with genotype V were more common in ostealgia and bleeding significantly. In addition, levels of inflammatory mediator factors including IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐10, and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 were higher in patients with SD infected with genotype V. Meanwhile, the concentrations of regulated upon activation normal T‐cell expressed and secreted and growth‐related gene alpha were lower in patients with SD infected with genotype V. The higher incidence of SD in patients infected with DENV‐1 genotype V may be attributed to elevated cytokines and adhesion molecules, along with decreased chemokines.
Microorganisms facilitated the saline‐alkali soil remediation by biochar: Soil properties, microbial communities, and plant responses
Authors: Huang Zichen , Bian Fangyuan , Wang Zhigao , Zhu Jinru , Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Jue , Gai Xu , Zhong Zheke
Published: April 2024

Saline‐alkali soil degradation is a significant environmental problem with a negative impact on sustainable agroforestry development. Therefore, efficient remediation methods are urgently required. A potential solution to this problem is using biochar produced from bamboo waste and inoculated with plant growth‐promoting microbes as cleaner production materials for saline‐alkali soil. The present study investigated the potential of combining biochar, microbes, and dwarf bamboo to improve saline‐alkali soil. Different application rates (1%, 3%, and 5% of soil mass) of biochar were added to coastal saline soil planted with dwarf bamboo (Pleioblastus argenteastriatus) in pot experiments. Soil physicochemical properties, microbial communities, and plant responses were systematically studied. Bamboo and microbial‐modified biochar effectively decreased soil pH and electrical conductivity and increased soil nutrient contents. Compared with untreated soil, the relative abundance of the dominant bacterial phyla Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi, and dominant fungal phyla Basidiomycota increased after applying biochar and modified biochar. With the increase in application concentration, the antioxidant activities of modified biochar decreased, biochar peroxidase and catalase content decreased, and the malondialdehyde content of bamboo biochar and microbial‐modified bamboo biochar decreased. The biomass of bamboo with added biochar and modified biochar was significantly higher than that of untreated soil. Comprehensive correlation and redundancy analyses showed that the bacterial and fungal communities were greatly affected by soil factors, especially soil pH, electrical conductivity, total organic carbon, potassium, and sodium ions. The findings of this study suggest that 5% bamboo biochar and 3% modified biochar benefit soil remediation, improve the stress resistance of dwarf bamboo, and enhance plant growth. Therefore, combined biochar–microbe remediation has great potential for the sustainable improvement of saline‐alkali soil.
Utilizing novel Escherichia coli‐specific conserved signature proteins for enhanced monitoring of recreational water quality
Authors: Saleem Faizan , Li Enze , Tran Kevin L. , Rudra Bashudev , Edge Thomas A. , Schellhorn Herb E. , Gupta Radhey S.
Published: April 2024

Escherichia coli serves as a proxy indicator of fecal contamination in aquatic ecosystems. However, its identification using traditional culturing methods can take up to 24 h. The application of DNA markers, such as conserved signature proteins (CSPs) genes (unique to all species/strains of a specific taxon), can form the foundation for novel polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests that unambiguously identify and detect targeted bacterial taxa of interest. This paper reports the identification of three new highly‐conserved CSPs (genes), namely YahL, YdjO, and YjfZ, which are exclusive to E. coli/Shigella. Using PCR primers based on highly conserved regions within these CSPs, we have developed quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays for the evaluation of E. coli/Shigella species in water ecosystems. Both in‐silico and experimental PCR testing confirmed the absence of sequence match when tested against other bacteria, thereby confirming 100% specificity of the tested CSPs for E. coli/Shigella. The qPCR assays for each of the three CSPs provided reliable quantification for all tested enterohaemorrhagic and environmental E. coli strains, a requirement for water testing. For recreational water samples, CSP‐based quantification showed a high correlation (r > 7, p < 0.01) with conventional viable E. coli enumeration. This indicates that novel CSP‐based qPCR assays for E. coli can serve as robust tools for monitoring water ecosystems and other critical areas, including food monitoring.
Bilanz Henkel 2023: Verbinden, schützen, reinigen
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: April 2024

Henkel aus Düsseldorf hat umgebaut. Das Kosmetik‐ und Waschmittelgeschäft zusammenzulegen senkte Kosten. Zweites Standbein bleibt das Geschäft rund um Klebstoffe.
16. Deutsches Peptidsymposium
Authors: Lakemeyer Markus
Published: April 2024

Fast 200 Teilnehmende kamen Ende August 2023 nach Jena zum 16. Deutschen Peptidsymposium.
Modified SANISAND‐F model for simple shear path
Authors: Huang Xingbo , Sun Yifei , Gu Chenglong
Published: April 2024

Simple shear behavior of sand is representative in geotechnical engineering with potential failure occurred along a thin shear zone. The strength and deformation of sand under simple shear are accompanied with principal stress rotation (PSR). This study proposes a modified SANISAND‐F model to capture the simple shear behavior of sand with PSR. A new plastic flow rule along with a kinematic hardening modulus is proposed to consider the evolution of the PSR and intermediate stress ratio. The developed model, with thirteen parameters, can reasonably the capture the stress‐strain and PSR of sand under simple shear.
Treatment at relapse for synovial sarcoma of children and adolescents: A multi‐institutional European retrospective analysis
Authors: Ferrari Andrea , Orbach Daniel , Bergamaschi Luca , Schoot Reineke A. , van Noesel Max M , Di Carlo Daniela , Bisogno Gianni , Alaggio Rita , Milano Giuseppe Maria , Chiaravalli Stefano , Fuccillo Fernando , Laurence Valerie , Corradini Nadege , Gasparini Patrizia , Vennarini Sabina , Pasquali Sandro , Casanova Michela
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Though the prognosis for pediatric patients with localised synovial sarcoma (SS) is generally good, the chances of being cured after relapse are limited. This study describes a retrospective multi‐institutional series of relapsing SS patients treated at six selected European referral centers for pediatric sarcoma.

Patients and methods

The study included 41 patients <21 years with relapsing SS, treated between 2002 and 2022. The analysis included patient's characteristics at first diagnosis, first‐line treatments, clinical findings at relapse, and second‐line treatment modalities.

Results

The first relapse occurred within 3–132 months (median 18 months) after first diagnosis and was local in 34%, metastatic in 54%, and both in 12%. Treatment at first relapse included surgery in 56% of cases, radiotherapy in 34%, and systemic therapy in 88%. In all, 36 patients received second‐line medical treatment, that was chemotherapy in 32 cases (with 10 different regimens) and targeted therapy in four. No patient was included in an early‐phase clinical trial as second‐line therapy‐line therapy. Overall response rate was 42%. Median event‐free survival (EFS) was 12 months, postrelapse 5‐year EFS was 15.8%. Median overall survival (OS) was 30 months, postrelapse 5‐year OS was 22.2%. At the Cox's multivariable regression analysis, OS was significantly associated with time and type of relapse.

Conclusion

Pediatric patients with relapsed SS have a poor prognosis and generally receive an individualized approach, due to the lack of a uniform standardized approach. New comprehensive strategies are needed to improve the knowledge on the biologic landscape of SS and develop tailored prospective clinical trials.
Comparison of diterpenoid contents and dissolution profiles of selected Andrographis paniculata crude and extract capsules
Authors: Rangkadilok Nuchanart , Pholphana Nanthanit , Akanimanee Jaratluck , Panomvana Duangchit , Puranajoti Porranee , Songvut Phanit , Satayavivad Jutamaad
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Andrographis paniculata (AP) has been approved by the Thai government for the treatment of mild cases of COVID‐19 patients. Increasing use of AP products requires quality control to ensure efficacy and safety. At present, there is no requirement for dissolution test of AP products in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP).

Objective

This work aimed to examine the contents and dissolution profiles of active diterpenoids, andrographolide (AP1), 14‐deoxy‐11,12‐didehydroandrographolide (AP3), neoandrographolide (AP4), and 14‐deoxyandrographolide (AP6) in AP capsules available in Thai markets.

Materials and Methods

Four extract products (EXT. A–D) and three crude powder products (CRD. A–C) were tested for contents by using HPLC‐DAD. Dissolution profiles of four diterpenoids were investigated in different media (pH 1.2, 4.5, 6.8, and 0.01 N HCl + SLS) with apparatus II (paddle type).

Results

The AP1 contents were 1.99%–2.90% w/w for crude capsules and 2.84%–16.27% w/w for extract capsules. In the dissolution test, the dissolution percentages of four diterpenoids from crude capsules were higher than those from extract capsules except EXT. A. AP1 in most extract products (EXT. B, C, D) was dissolved in all dissolution media at a lower percentage than the other three diterpenoids. EXT. A (aqueous extract) was the only extract capsule showing the amounts of all diterpenoids dissolved in all media >80% in 45 min.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that AP1 content in AP products complied with the acceptance criteria in the THP (80%–120%), and the weight variation also met the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) requirements. However, different dissolution profiles of AP products may lead to different bioavailability of diterpenoids and further affect their efficacy.
Rising cases of drug‐induced pulmonary fibrosis: Analysis of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, 2000–2022
Authors: McCall Kenneth L. , Hennig Kelsey R. , Abe Zachary T. , Dattler Danielle N. , Hurd Karyssa L. , Portnoy Sophie L. , Zagoria Zoey J.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a severe, progressive disease, which may be caused by exposure to certain medications.

Methods

We queried the U.S. FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) from 2000 to 2022, using the search terms “pulmonary fibrosis” and “idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis” and excluded reports with patients under the age of 18 years, and patients with unknown sex or age. Reports were sorted by generic drug names, counted, and plotted over time using a best‐fit trendline based on an exponential function.

Results

From 2000 to 2022, there were 24 095 935 adverse drug events reported in FAERS, of which 17 520 (0.07%) were reported as PF. After excluding reports containing patients with unknown age (5255, 30%), sex (122, 0.7%), and age below 18 years old (155, 0.9%), our study included 11 988 reports. The mean age of the study sample was 66.5 ± 13.1 years, and 6248 patients (52.1%) were male. Plotting the 11 988 reports by year revealed an exponential best fit line (R2 = 0.88) with a positive slope over time. The top five drug classes associated with PF were disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs, 39.4%), antineoplastic agents (26.4%), cardiovascular agents (12.6%), corticosteroids (4.6%), and immunosuppressive agents (4.0%).

Conclusion

A 23‐year analysis of the FAERS database revealed exponentially increasing adverse event reports of PF. Significant annual increases in reporting of PF suspected with DMARDs and antineoplastic agents were identified. Our study highlights important trends, which should be used to guide PF research related to drugs of potential importance.
Lessons learned from a multi‐data source research collaboration: The mirabegron post‐authorization safety study program
Authors: de Vogel Stefan , Seeger John D. , Arana Alejandro , Margulis Andrea V. , McQuay Lisa J. , Perez‐Gutthann Susana , Hallas Jesper , Kristiansen Nina Sahlertz , Linder Marie , Odsbu Ingvild , Suehs Brandon , Xu Yihua , Uribe Claudia , Appenteng Kwame , Robinson Noah Jamie
Published: April 2024

Background

Many factors contribute to developing and conducting a successful multi‐data source, non‐interventional, post‐authorization safety study (NI‐PASS) for submission to multiple health authorities. Such studies are often large undertakings; evaluating and sharing lessons learned can provide useful insights to others considering similar studies.

Objectives

We discuss challenges and key methodological and organizational factors that led to the delivery of a successful post‐marketing requirement (PMR)/PASS program investigating the risk of cardiovascular and cancer events among users of mirabegron, an oral medication for the treatment of overactive bladder.

Results

We provide context and share learnings, including sections on research program collaboration, scientific transparency, organizational approach, mitigation of uncertainty around potential delays, validity of study outcomes, selection of data sources and optimizing patient numbers, choice of comparator groups and enhancing precision of estimates of associations, potential confounding and generalizability of study findings, and interpretation of results.

Conclusions

This large PMR/PASS program was a long‐term commitment from all parties and benefited from an effective coordinating center and extensive scientific interactions across research partners, scientific advisory board, study sponsor, and health authorities, and delivered useful learnings related to the design and organization of multi‐data source NI‐PASS.
Teaching the partial products multiplication algorithm to students who struggle using CRA‐I
Authors: Hinton Vanessa M. , Flores Margaret M.
Published: April 2024

Effective mathematics interventions should be explicit and include students’ active involvement with multiple representations of the mathematical concept. The concrete‐representational‐abstract‐integrated (CRA‐I) sequence includes these characteristics and has been shown as an effective practice for students who struggle in mathematics. The purpose of the current study was to use CRA‐I, to teach the partial products algorithm. Three fifth‐grade students receiving Tier 3 instruction within a multi‐tiered system of support participated in the study, using base 10 blocks, number lines, and arrays. The researchers used a multiple probe across students design and collected data regarding students’ progress, mastery, and conceptual understanding. There were functional relations between CRA‐I and each of the skills related to progress, mastery, and conceptual understanding. Implications and conclusions will be discussed.
Fabrication and Optical Measurement of a Suspended Particle Monolayer
Authors: Kim Seonghyeon , Yu Gwang hyeon , Kim Hojin
Published: April 2024

The formation of a particle monolayer after the evaporation of a suspension droplet containing micro/nanoparticles is critical for multiple applications, including cell printing, particle immunoassays, and electronics. However, conventional methods for forming monolayers have limitations in terms of the use of solid substrates to fix them. In this paper, a novel method is proposed for forming a microparticle monolayer suspended in air using a through‐hole chip. Utilizing the strong interactions between particles and solid/liquid interfaces at the microscale, a simple yet robust method is developed to fabricate a suspended monolayer via particle suspension evaporation. The particle layers are classified into four types according to the particle concentration and suspension volume, namely, burst, ring, mono and ring, and multi patterns. Reorganization of the particle monolayer is achieved despite the repetitive solvent reinfusion and evaporation processes. Remarkably, the suspended particle monolayer exhibits superior optical characteristics, with a signal‐to‐noise ratio that is 1.78 times higher in fluorescence measurements than the same particles placed on a glass plate. This suspended particle monolayer can be applied in a variety of fields requiring sensitive and reproducible particle detection.
Effectiveness of constraint‐induced movement therapy (CIMT)—Telerehabilitation compared to traditional CIMT on upper extremity dysfunction of adult chronic stroke patients—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sanchez Leila , Asuncion Benjie Mae , Tayag Kathleen Rhea , Chua Czyrhen , Escandor Selina Jane , Dones Valentin C.
Published: April 2024

Background/Objective

Constraint‐induced movement therapy (CIMT), a therapy that encourages the use of the affected upper limb through intensive functional tasks, effectively promotes upper limb function in patients with chronic stroke. This study determined the effectiveness of CIMT using telerehabilitation compared with traditional CIMT in improving mild to moderate upper limb motor function in adult patients with chronic stroke.

Methods

Eligible studies were identified by searching electronic databases and scanning the reference lists of articles. Review Manager 5.4 was used to determine the pooled mean effect size of the standardized mean difference and 95% confidence interval for the group comparison. Visual heterogeneity, I2 statistic, and chi‐square test were used to measure the heterogeneity between the included studies. We evaluated the quality of evidence using GRADEpro GDT, software for creating evidence summaries and healthcare recommendations.

Results

Two randomized controlled trials were included in this review. A total of 109 participants (70 male, 39 female) were evaluated. The time since the stroke was ≥6 months in one study and ≥1 year in another study. Improvements in upper limb motor function while performing functional movements were measured using the Wolf Motor Function Test. The evidence for the effectiveness of CIMT using telerehabilitation compared with traditional CIMT in improving the upper extremity function in patients with chronic stroke is of moderate quality. This suggests no significant difference between the groups (mean difference [95% CI]: −0.04 [−0.42, 0.33]).

Conclusions

CIMT using telerehabilitation is not superior to traditional CIMT in improving patients' upper extremity motor function with chronic stroke. CIMT using telerehabilitation may improve access to treatment, minimize SARS‐CoV‐2 risk, and reduce travel in patients with chronic stroke.
Corrugated Box Damage Classification Using Artificial Neural Network Image Training
Authors: Holland Sarah , Tavasoli Mahsa , Lee Euihark
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a novel packaging evaluation method using corrugated box images and an artificial neural network (ANN). An ANN works in a way similar to that of neurons in a human brain: by making connections between a trained dataset and the new images provided after training. The ANN has been implemented in the industry in various ways but limited in packaging evaluation. This paper is focused on the corrugated box damage prediction using ANN with the Orange Data Mining platform. By capturing the damaged corrugated box images with an ANN, damaged products can be identified allowing a decision to be made as to what type of package failure occurred. One of the benefits to using an ANN to evaluate corrugated box images is that it allows for the evaluation of package protection in a real distribution environment as compared to a controlled lab setting. In turn, this reduces the cost of testing, as the package failure will have been identified with the assistance of the ANN, rather than full retesting to identify where damage occurred. This process would also reduce costs associated with the usage of materials for testing, due to the lower number of test samples required.
Sustainable use of a smartphone and regulatory needs
Authors: Kögler Martin , Paulick Katharina , Scheffran Jürgen , Birkholz Mario
Published: April 2024

The significance of information and communication technologies (ICT) for the Paris Climate Agreement is continuously increasing because of its growing energy consumption. Here we examine the question for the smartphone and extend the investigation to more aspects of sustainability. Critical issues are identified for ten UN Sustainable Development Goals. Measurements of smartphone energy consumption show that a significant savings potential can be unlocked by reducing the data outflow and the large amount of personal data stored in data centers. Main discrepancies are also traced to the oligopolistic market structure of operating systems (OSs), messenger services, and social media apps. Technical means for a sustainable smartphone use are suggested as alternative OSs, social media channels of the Fediverse, as well as free and open‐source software. Finally, societal conditions are emphasized to make the market for OSs and apps more diverse so that a sustainable smartphone use can generally prevail.
Multimarket contact between partners and strategic alliance survival
Authors: Ryan‐Charleton Tadhg , Galavan Robert J.
Published: April 2024

Research Summary

The impact of multimarket contact (MMC) between partners on strategic alliance survival is unclear, even though recent studies have suggested that MMC increases the likelihood of alliance formation. Our study investigates this issue by integrating two mechanisms occurring between multimarket firms: mutual forbearance and technological resource imitation. We argue that MMC between partners deters opportunism in alliances via mutual forbearance, resulting in a positive effect on the likelihood of strategic alliance survival. We also suggest that the positive effect is weakened in two settings with higher risks of technological resource imitation: technological overlap between partners and the presence of R&D activities in an alliance. Evidence from strategic alliances in the global semiconductor industry supports these conclusions.

Managerial Summary

Recent research has shown that firms encountering each other in multiple markets are more likely to form strategic alliances, but it is unclear whether these firms are likely to stick together. Our theory suggests that the threat of broad retaliation limits opportunism and increases the likelihood of alliance survival when partners encounter each other in multiple markets. Nonetheless, in settings where partners have similar technologies, or in alliances involving R&D activities, their ability and incentives to copy each other's technological resources offsets the positive effect of multimarket contact on alliance survival. We study strategic alliances in the global semiconductor industry and find evidence consistent with these arguments.
Conductance Quantization in 2D Semi‐Metallic Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Lu Zhixing , Hou Songjun , Lin Rongjian , Shi Jie , Wu Qingqing , Lin Luchun , Shi Jia , Yang Yang , Lambert Colin , Hong Wenjing
Published: April 2024

Conductance quantization of 2D materials is significant for understanding the charge transport at the atomic scale, which provides a platform to manipulate the quantum states, showing promising applications for nanoelectronics and memristors. However, the conventional methods for investigating conductance quantization are only applicable to materials consisting of one element, such as metal and graphene. The experimental observation of conductance quantization in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) with complex compositions and structures remains a challenge. To address this issue, an approach is proposed to characterize the charge transport across a single atom in TMDCs by integrating in situ synthesized 1T’‐WTe2 electrodes with scanning tunneling microscope break junction (STM‐BJ) technique. The quantized conductance of 1T’‐WTe2 is measured for the first time, and the quantum states can be modulated by stretching speed and solvent. Combined with theoretical calculations, the evolution of quantized and corresponding configurations during the break junction process is demonstrated. This work provides a facile and reliable avenue to characterize and modulate conductance quantization of 2D materials, intensively expanding the research scope of quantum effects in diverse materials.
α‐MnO2 Cathode with Oxygen Vacancies Accelerated Affinity Electrolyte for Dual‐Ion Co‐Encapsulated Aqueous Aluminum Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Xiaohu , Sun Qiwen , Chai Luning , Chen Song , Zhang Wenming , Yang Hui Ying , Li Zhanyu
Published: April 2024

Aluminum batteries (ABs) are identified as one of the most promising candidates for the next generation of large‐scale energy storage elements because of their efficient three‐electron reaction. Compared to ionic electrolytes, aqueous aluminum‐ion batteries (AAIBs) are considered safer, less costly, and more environmentally friendly. However, considerable cycling performance is a key issue limiting the development of AAIBs. Stable, efficient, and electrolyte‐friendly cathodes are most desirable for AAIBs. Herein, a rod‐shaped defect‐rich α‐MnO2 is designed as a cathode, which is capable to deliver high performance with stable cycling for 180 cycles at 500 mA g−1 and maintains a discharge specific capacity of ≈100 mAh g−1. In addition, the infiltrability simulation is effectively utilized to corroborate the rapid electrochemical reaction brought about by the defective mechanism. With the formation of oxygen vacancies, the dual embedding of protons and metal ions is activated. This work provides a brand‐new design for the development and characterization of cathodes for AAIBs.
A Highly Efficient, Selective, and Thermally Stable Dielectric Multilayer Emitter for Solar Thermophotovoltaics
Authors: Caldarelli Antonio , De Luca Daniela , Lee Changkyun , Sanitá Gennaro , Esposito Emanuela , Musto Marilena , Russo Roberto , Bermel Peter
Published: April 2024

Herein, the design, optimization, fabrication, and characterization of a highly efficient selective emitter (SE) for solar thermophotovoltaic systems is presented. An SE consisting of three layers (SiNx–SiO2–TiO2) deposited on a tungsten substrate is optimized for use with photovoltaic (PV) cells based on III–V semiconductors, such as GaSb, InGaAs, and InGaAsSb. The fabricated SE shows an emitter efficiency (ηSE) of 50% when coupled with a PV cell having an energy bandgap of 0.63 eV. After thermal treatment carried out at 1000 °C for 8 h in a vacuum environment, ηSE of 46% is recorded, demonstrating the thermal stability of the proposed SE. Its behavior at high temperatures has also been studied using simulations based on the transfer matrix method and on refractive indices experimentally measured at different temperatures (up to 1000 °C). The results show ηSE of 44% in the energy bandgap range of 0.55–0.63 eV, proving that the proposed structure is promising and can operate at high temperatures. In addition, the behavior of a real PV cell is simulated, and calculations show a maximum PV cell efficiency of 15% at 1000 °C and 25% at 1600 °C, exceeding the Shockley–Queisser limit.
Improved Sequentially Processed Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 by Ag Alloying
Authors: Prot Aubin Jean‐Claude Mireille , Melchiorre Michele , Schaaf Tilly , Poeira Ricardo Gonçalinho , Elanzeery Hossam , Lomuscio Alberto , Oueslati Souhaib , Zelenina Anastasia , Dalibor Thomas , Kusch Gunnar , Hu Yucheng , Oliver Rachel Angharad , Siebentritt Susanne
Published: April 2024

Alloying small quantities of silver into Cu(In,Ga)Se2 is shown to improve the efficiency for wide and low bandgap solar cells. Low bandgap industrial Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 absorbers are studied, substituting less than 10% of the copper with silver, using absolute photoluminescence and cathodoluminescence spectroscopy. Silver improves the grain size and promotes the interdiffusion of Ga and In across the depth of the absorber, resulting in a smoother bandgap gradient. However, a certain lateral inhomogeneity is observed near the front and back sides. The nonradiative losses in the bare absorbers are reduced by up to 30 meV.
An overview of Black males and mental health in higher education: Implications for practice and research
Authors: Palmer Robert T. , McMickens Tryan L.
Published: April 2024

This article discusses some critical underlying factors that facilitate mental health concerns for Black males in higher education. This article also focuses on the role that student affairs practitioners and faculty can play in supporting Black males on college campuses with mental health needs. This article concludes with recommendations and critical research to further research and practice.