bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, synthesis, and docking of novel thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione multitarget scaffold as new approach for cancer treatment
Authors: Hanafy Noura S. , Aziz Nada A. A. M. , El‐Hddad Sanadelaslam S. A. , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Dawood Amal F. , Mohamady Samy , El‐Adl Khaled , Ahmed Sahar
Published: May 2023

Novel thiazolidine‐2,4‐diones have been developed and estimated as conjoint inhibitors of EGFRT790M and VEGFR‐2 against HCT‐116, MCF‐7, A549, and HepG2 cells. Compounds 6a, 6b, and 6c were known to be the dominant advantageous congeners against HCT116 (IC50 = 15.22, 8.65, and 8.80 µM), A549 (IC50 = 7.10, 6.55, and 8.11 µM), MCF‐7 (IC50 = 14.56, 6.65, and 7.09 µM) and HepG2 (IC50 = 11.90, 5.35, and 5.60 µM) mass cell lines, correspondingly. Although compounds 6a, 6b, and 6c disclosed poorer effects than sorafenib (IC50 = 4.00, 4.04, 5.58, and 5.05 µM) against the tested cell sets, congeners 6b and 6c demonstrated higher actions than erlotinib (IC50 = 7.73, 5.49, 8.20, and 13.91 µM) against HCT116, MCF‐7 and HepG2 cells, yet lesser performance on A549 cells. The hugely effective derivatives 4e–i and 6a–c were inspected versus VERO normal cell strains. Compounds 6b, 6c, 6a, and 4i were found to be the most effective derivatives, which suppressed VEGFR‐2 by IC50 = 0.85, 0.90, 1.50, and 1.80 µM, respectively. Moreover, compounds 6b, 6a, 6c, and 6i could interfere with the EGFRT790M performing strongest effects with IC50 = 0.30, 0.35, 0.50, and 1.00 µM, respectively. What is more, 6a, 6b, and 6c represented satisfactory in silico computed ADMET profile.
Cyclic Trinickel(II) Clusters in a Metal‐Azolate Framework for Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Yan‐Chen , Huang Jia‐Run , Zhao Zhen‐Hua , Liao Pei‐Qin , Chen Xiao‐Ming
Published: May 2023

Herein, a stable metal‐azolate framework with cyclic trinickel(II) clusters, namely [Ni3(μ3‐O)(BTPP)(OH)(H2O)2] (Ni‐BTPP, H3BTPP=1,3,5‐tris((1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)phenylene)benzene), achieved a current density of 50 mA cm−2 at a cell voltage of 1.8 V in 1.0 M KOH solution, while the current density of 20%Pt/C@NF||IrO2@NF is just 35.8 mA cm−2 at 2.0 V under the same condition. Moreover, no obvious degradation was observed over 12 hours of continuous operation at a large current density of 50 mA cm−2. Theoretical calculations revealed that the μ3‐O atom in the cyclic trinickel(II) cluster serves as hydrogen‐bonding acceptor to facilitate the dissociation of a H2O molecule adsorbed on the adjacent Ni(II) ion, giving a lower energy barrier of H2O dissociation compared with Pt/C; meanwhile, the μ3‐O atom can also participate in the water oxidation reaction to couple with the adjacent *OH adsorbed on Ni(II) ion, providing a low‐energy coupling pathway, thus Ni‐BTPP achieves a high performance for overall water splitting.
Predictors of urinary outcomes following robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy
Authors: Hutchison Dylan , Zillioux Jacqueline , Ali Marwan , Farhi Jacques , DeNovio Anthony , Barquin David , Rapp David E.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Incontinence and urgency are common after prostatectomy. The University of Virginia prostatectomy functional outcomes program (PFOP) was developed to comprehensively assess and optimise continence outcomes following robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). Patients are prospectively evaluated by a Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery specialist. This study assessed for predictors of 3‐ and 6‐month stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urgency symptom outcomes following RALP.

Methods

We performed a post hoc review of patients from our PFOP receiving a minimum of 6‐month follow‐up. Urinary symptoms are prospectively assessed using the validated International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐MLUTS) questionnaire and daily pad use (pads per day [PPD]). Primary study outcomes included ICIQ‐MLUTS SUI and urgency domain scores and PPD. Multivariable linear regression was performed to identify variables associated with outcomes at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Variables included patient, oncologic and surgical factors. Each variable was run in a separate model with pelvic floor muscle therapy and surgeon to reduce confounding and prevent overfitting.

Results

Forty men were included. In assessment of ICIQ‐MLUTS SUI domain score, at 3 months, body mass index (BMI) was associated with worse scores, and at 6 months, BMI, hypertension and estimated blood loss (EBL) were associated with worse scores, whereas bilateral nerve‐sparing technique was associated with better scores. For ICIQ‐MLUTS Urgency domain score, at 3 months, preoperative use of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) medication was associated with better scores. No covariates predicted 6‐month ICIQ‐MLUTS Urgency domain scores. For PPD use, at both 3 and 6 months, BMI was a positive predictor, while preoperative use of BPH medication was a negative predictor.

Conclusion

Increased BMI, EBL and hypertension are associated with worsened SUI outcomes following RALP, whereas bilateral nerve‐sparing technique and preoperative BPH medication are associated with improved SUI outcomes. These data may inform patient counselling and help identify patients who may benefit from closer surveillance and earlier anti‐incontinence intervention.
Bildbasierte Frischbetonprüfung – Teil 2: Granulometrische Eigenschaften der Gesteinskörnung
Authors: Schack Tobias , Coenen Max , Haist Michael
Published: May 2023

Bereits heute ist absehbar, dass notwendige Veränderungen in der Betontechnologie zur Erreichung der Klimaschutzziele einen signifikanten Wandel in den typischerweise eingesetzten Betonzusammensetzungen zur Folge haben werden. Die eingesetzten Ausgangsstoffe werden immer vielfältiger und komplexer. Durch den Einsatz rezyklierter Ausgangsstoffe werden auch Schwankungen in den Ausgangsstoffeigenschaften signifikant zunehmen. Eine zielsichere und zeiteffiziente Ermittlung der granulometrischen Eigenschaften der verwendeten Gesteinskörnung ist somit insbesondere für sogenannte Ökobetone zur Sicherstellung gleichbleibender Qualitätsmerkmale von entscheidender Bedeutung. Es gilt zukünftig, mögliche Qualitätsabweichungen des Frischbetons resultierend aus Schwankungen der Ausgangsstoffe zeiteffizient zu ermitteln, um so schnellstmöglich entsprechende Anpassungen im Produktionszyklus vornehmen zu können. In diesem Beitrag wird daher eine bildbasierte Methodik zur digitalen Bewertung granulometrischer Eigenschaften der Gesteinskörnung im Rahmen der Ausbreitmaßprüfung vorgestellt. Damit wird das Eigenschaftsspektrum der bereits in Teil 1 dieses Beitrags vorgestellten bildbasierten Methodik, welcher die bildbasierte Ermittlung der Konsistenz und des Leimgehalts beschreibt, hin zu einer vollumfänglichen digitalen Frischbetonprüfung entsprechend erweitert.
ISG15: A link between innate immune signaling, DNA replication, and genome stability
Authors: Wardlaw Christopher P. , Petrini John H. J.
Published: May 2023

Interferon stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) encodes a ubiquitin‐like protein that is highly induced upon activation of interferon signaling and cytoplasmic DNA sensing pathways. As part of the innate immune system ISG15 acts to inhibit viral replication and particle release via the covalent conjugation to both viral and host proteins. Unlike ubiquitin, unconjugated ISG15 also functions as an intracellular and extra‐cellular signaling molecule to modulate the immune response. Several recent studies have shown ISG15 to also function in a diverse array of cellular processes and pathways outside of the innate immune response. This review explores the role of ISG15 in maintaining genome stability, particularly during DNA replication, and how this relates to cancer biology. It puts forth the hypothesis that ISG15, along with DNA sensors, function within a DNA replication fork surveillance pathway to help maintain genome stability.
Development of a perfusion process for continuous lentivirus production using stable suspension producer cell lines
Authors: Klimpel Maximilian , Terrao Monica , Ching Nilakshi , Climenti Vanessa , Noll Thomas , Pirzas Vicky , Laux Holger
Published: May 2023

The large‐scale production of clinical‐grade lentiviral vectors (LVs) for gene therapy applications is a remaining challenge. The use of adherent cell lines and methods like transient transfection are cost‐intensive and hamper process scalability as well as reproducibility. This study describes the use of two suspension‐adapted stable packaging cell lines, called GPRGs and GPRTGs, for the development of a scalable and serum‐free LV production process. Both stable packaging cell lines are based on an inducible Tet‐off system, thus requiring doxycycline removal for initiation of the virus production. Therefore, we compared different methods for doxycycline removal and inoculated three independent 5 L bioreactors using a scalable induction method by dilution, an acoustic cell washer and manual centrifugation. The bioreactors were inoculated with a stable producer cell line encoding for a LV carrying a clinically relevant gene. LV production was performed in perfusion mode using a cell retention device based on acoustic wave separation. Comparable cell‐specific productivities were obtained with all three methods and cumulative functional yields up to 6.36 × 1011 transducing units per bioreactor were generated in a 234‐h long process, demonstrating the usability of stable Tet‐off cell lines for an easily scalable suspension process. Remarkably, cell viabilities >90% were maintained at high cell densities without compromising productivity throughout the whole process, allowing to further extend the process time. Given its low effects of toxicity during virus production, the presented cell lines are excellent candidates to develop a fully continuous LV production process to overcome the existing bottlenecks in LV manufacturing.
Cationic polymer precipitation for enhanced impurity removal in downstream processing
Authors: Li Zhao , Chen Justin , Martinez‐Fonts Kirby , Rauscher Michael , Rivera Shannon , Welsh John , Kandula Sunitha
Published: May 2023

Precipitation can be used for the removal of impurities early in the downstream purification process of biologics, with the soluble product remaining in the filtrate through microfiltration. The objective of this study was to examine the use of polyallylamine (PAA) precipitation to increase the purity of product via higher host cell protein removal to enhance polysorbate excipient stability to enable a longer shelf life. Experiments were performed using three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with different properties of isoelectric point and IgG subclass. High throughput workflows were established to quickly screen precipitation conditions as a function of pH, conductivity and PAA concentrations. Process analytical tools (PATs) were used to evaluate the size distribution of particles and inform the optimal precipitation condition. Minimal pressure increase was observed during depth filtration of the precipitates. The precipitation was scaled up to 20L size and the extensive characterization of precipitated samples after protein A chromatography showed >75% reduction of host cell protein (HCP) concentrations (by ELISA), >90% reduction of number of HCP species (by mass spectrometry), and >99.8% reduction of DNA. The stability of polysorbate containing formulation buffers for all three mAbs in the protein A purified intermediates was improved at least 25% after PAA precipitation. Mass spectrometry was used to obtain additional understanding of the interaction between PAA and HCPs with different properties. Minimal impact on product quality and <5% yield loss after precipitation were observed while the residual PAA was <9 ppm. These results expand the toolbox in downstream purification to solve HCP clearance issues for programs with purification challenges, while also providing important insights into the integration of precipitation–depth filtration and the current platform process for the purification of biologics.
Characterization of three‐dimensional bone‐like tissue growth and organization under influence of directional fluid flow
Authors: de Wildt Bregje W. M. , Zhao Feihu , Lauwers Iris , van Rietbergen Bert , Ito Keita , Hofmann Sandra
Published: May 2023

The transition in the field of bone tissue engineering from bone regeneration to in vitro models has come with the challenge of recreating a dense and anisotropic bone‐like extracellular matrix (ECM). Although the mechanism by which bone ECM gains its structure is not fully understood, mechanical loading and curvature have been identified as potential contributors. Here, guided by computational simulations, we evaluated cell and bone‐like tissue growth and organization in a concave channel with and without directional fluid flow stimulation. Human mesenchymal stromal cells were seeded on donut‐shaped silk fibroin scaffolds and osteogenically stimulated for 42 days statically or in a flow perfusion bioreactor. After 14, 28, and 42 days, constructs were investigated for cell and tissue growth and organization. As a result, directional fluid flow was able to improve organic tissue growth but not organization. Cells tended to orient in the tangential direction of the channel, possibly attributed to its curvature. Based on our results, we suggest that organic ECM production but not anisotropy can be stimulated through the application of fluid flow. With this study, an initial attempt in three‐dimensions was made to improve the resemblance of in vitro produced bone‐like ECM to the physiological bone ECM.
Scientific seminars in lockdown: Lessons for a post‐pandemic time in defense of a permanent platform for science dissemination in the world
Authors: Sabatke Bruna , Rossi Izadora Volpato , Ramirez Graciela E. , Ramirez Marcel I.
Published: May 2023

In an academic semester, living in social isolation and under restrictions of the pandemic, we organized weekly multidisciplinary seminars from a postgraduate course program in Curitiba, Southern Brazil, integrating students from different regions of Brazil and South America. Outstanding researchers from Brazil, Germany, France, Argentina, Mexico, Portugal, England, and United States’ institutions gave seminars on chronic and infectious diseases with immunological, pharmacological, biochemical, cellular, and molecular biology point of views. The meetings were longer than traditional seminars, containing a part with scientific debate and other with a humanization or deconstruction of the researcher including trajectory, hobbies, scientific, and social thoughts. To facilitate learning and conceptualization, the seminars were available through YouTube and we applied weekly questionnaires to be answered rescuing scientific and motivational topics to give companionship and support to the students in pandemic times. Here, we are defending the creation of permanent platforms for scientific diffusion, with higher accessibility, connecting centers of different levels and giving academic excellence and opportunities for young researchers. Feedback received from participants indicates that this seminar structure can increase confidence and improve their perception of scientific processes and inspire researchers with development trajectories. We have discussed multidisciplinarity, scientific excellence, regional isolation and economic inequality, integration, humanization, and the value of science in society.
Multidimensional financial hardship among uninsured and insured young adult patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Wheeler Stephanie B. , Spencer Jennifer C. , Manning Michelle L. , Samuel Cleo A. , Reeder‐Hayes Katherine E. , Greenup Rachel A. , Spees Lisa P. , Rosenstein Donald L.
Published: May 2023

Background

Little is known about the heterogeneous nature of financial hardship in younger patients with metastatic disease and the extent to which insurance protects against it. We examine the association between insurance status and multidimensional indicators of financial hardship in a national sample of women with metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

We conducted a national, retrospective online survey in partnership with the Metastatic Breast Cancer Network. Eligible participants were ≥18 years, diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, and able to respond in English. We estimated multivariate generalized linear models predicting two distinct dimensions of financial hardship—financial insecurity (the ability to afford care and living costs) and financial distress (the extent of emotional/psychological distress experienced due to costs)—as a function of insurance status.

Results

Participants responded from 41 states (N = 1054; median age: 44 years). Overall, 30% were uninsured. Financial insecurity was more frequently reported by uninsured respondents. In adjusted analyses, uninsured participants were more likely than insured participants to report contact by debt collectors (adjusted risk ratio [aRR]: 2.38 [2.06, 2.76]) and being unable to meet monthly expenses (aRR: 2.11 [1.68, 2.66]). Financial distress was reported more frequently by insured participants. For example, insured participants were more likely to worry about future financial problems due to cancer and distress about lack of cost transparency. After adjustment, uninsured participants remained about half as likely as insured participants to report financial distress.

Conclusions

Young adult women with metastatic cancer reported a high burden of financial toxicity. Importantly, insurance does not protect against financial distress; however, the uninsured are the most materially vulnerable.
Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors on new‐onset overall cancer in Type 2 diabetes mellitus: A population‐based study
Authors: Chung Cheuk To , Lakhani Ishan , Chou Oscar Hou In , Lee Teddy Tai Loy , Dee Edward Christopher , Ng Kenrick , Wong Wing Tak , Liu Tong , Lee Sharen , Zhang Qingpeng , Cheung Bernard Man Yung , Tse Gary , Zhou Jiandong
Published: May 2023

Background

Cancer is currently the second leading cause of death globally. There is much uncertainty regarding the comparative risks of new‐onset overall cancer and pre‐specified cancer for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients on sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2I) versus DPP4I.

Methods

This population‐based cohort study patients included patients who were diagnosed with T2DM and administered either SGLT2 or DPP4 inhibitors between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2020 in public hospitals of Hong Kong.

Results

This study included 60,112 T2DM patients (mean baseline age: 62.1 ± 12.4 years, male: 56.36%), of which 18,167 patients were SGLT2I users and 41,945 patients were dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor (DPP4I) users. Multivariable Cox regression found that SGLT2I use was associated with lower risks of all‐cause mortality (HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.84–0.99; p= 0.04), cancer‐related mortality (HR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.42–0.80; p ≤ 0.001) and new diagnoses of any cancer (HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.59–0.84; p ≤ 0.001). SGLT2I use was associated with a lower risk of new‐onset breast cancer (HR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.32–0.80; p ≤ 0.001), but not of other malignancies. Subgroup analysis on the type of SGLT2I, dapagliflozin (HR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.64–0.95; p = 0.01) and ertugliflozin (HR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.43–0.98; p = 0.04) use was associated with lower risks of new cancer diagnosis. Dapagliflozin use was also linked to lower risks of breast cancer (HR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.27–0.83; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor use was associated with lower risks of all‐cause mortality, cancer‐related mortality and new‐onset overall cancer compared to DPP4I use after propensity score matching and multivariable adjustment.
Genetic associations of leisure sedentary behaviors and the risk of 15 site‐specific cancers: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Jinwei , Yang Kaibin , Qiu Youyu , Lai Weijie , Qi Sifan , Wang Gaoyuan , Chen Lin , Li Kunpeng , Zhou Dan , Liu Qing , Tang Linglong , Liu Xu , Du Xiaojing , Guo Rui , Ma Jun
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Leisure sedentary behavior (LSB) is associated with the risk of cancer, but the causal relationship between them has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to assess the potential causal association between LSB and risk of 15 site‐specific cancers.

Methods

The causal association between LSB and cancer were assessed with univariate Mendelian randomization (UVMR) and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MVMR). 194 SNPs associated with LSB (from the UK Biobank 408,815 individuals) were adopted as the instrument variables. Sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure the robustness of the results.

Results

UVMR analysis revealed that television watching significantly increased the risk of endometrial cancer (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.02–1.64, p = 0.04) (mainly the endometrioid histology [OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.02–1.60, p = 0.031])，breast cancer (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.04–1.30, p = 0.007) (both ER+ breast cancer [OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.03–1.33, p = 0.015], and ER− breast cancer [OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.26–1.89, p = 2.23 × 10−5]). Although causal association was not found between television watching and ovarian cancer, it was seen in low grade and low malignant potential serous ovarian cancer (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.07–2.08, p = 0.018). However, significant results were not obtained in the UVMR analysis between driving, computer use and the 15 types of cancer. Further MVMR analysis indicated that the above results are independent from most metabolic factors and dietary habits, but mediated by educational attainment.

Conclusion

LSB in form of television watching has independent causal association with the risk of endometrial cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer.
A phase II study of alternating sunitinib and temsirolimus therapy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ness Dylan B. , Pooler Darcy B. , Ades Steven , Highhouse Brian J. , Labrie Bridget M. , Zhou Jie , Gui Jiang , Lewis Lionel D. , Ernstoff Marc S.
Published: May 2023

Background

Sunitinib is a multi‐target tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that inhibits VEGF receptor 1, 2, 3 (VEGFRs), platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), colony‐stimulating factor receptor (CSFR), and the stem cell factor receptor c‐KIT. Temsirolimus inhibits mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) through binding to intracellular protein FKBP‐12. Both agents are approved for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), have different anticancer mechanisms, and non‐overlapping toxicities. These attributes form the scientific rationale for sequential combination of these agents. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the efficacy of alternating sunitinib and temsirolimus therapy on progression‐free survival (PFS) in mRCC.

Methods

We undertook a phase II, multi‐center, single cohort, open‐label study in patients with mRCC. Patients were treated with alternating dosing of 4 weeks of sunitinib 50 mg PO daily, followed by 2 weeks rest, then 4 weeks of temsirolimus 25 mg IV weekly, followed by 2 weeks rest (12 weeks total per cycle). The primary endpoint was PFS. Secondary endpoints included clinical response rate and characterization of the toxicity profile of this combination therapy.

Results

Nineteen patients were enrolled into the study. The median observed PFS (n = 13 evaluable for PFS) was 8.8 months (95% CI 6.8–25.2 months). Best responses achieved were five partial response, nine stable disease, and three disease progression according to RECIST 1.1 guidelines (two non‐evaluable). The most commonly observed toxicities were fatigue, platelet count decrease, creatinine increased, diarrhea, oral mucositis, edema, anemia, rash, hypophosphatemia, dysgeusia, and palmar‐plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome.

Conclusion

Alternating sunitinib and temsirolimus did not improve the PFS in patients with mRCC.
Real‐world treatment and outcome patterns of patients with mantle cell lymphoma in China: A large, multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: Yang Ping , Cai Qing‐qing , Zhang Wei , Liu Shuo‐zi , Liu Hui , Sun Xiu‐hua , Dong Yu‐jun , Xiao Xiu‐bin , Wang Jing‐wen , Li Zhen‐ling , Huang Wen‐rong , Li Li‐hong , Bao Hui‐zheng , Yang Wei , Wang Ya‐lan , Wang Shu‐ye , He Juan , Li Xiao‐ling , Liu Ai‐chun , Jing Hong‐mei
Published: May 2023

Background

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an uncommon heterogeneous subtype of B cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, and clinical features in MCL appear regional characteristics. MCL treatment opinions are not uniform between countries or regions within Asia and China, and Asian patient‐specific data for MCL treatment are fewer. The study aims to explore the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns and prognosis of MCL patients in China.

Methods

A total of 805 patients diagnosed with MCL between April 1999 and December 2019 at 19 comprehensive hospitals in China were included in this retrospective analysis. Kaplan‐Meier method coupled with the log‐rank test was used for univariate analysis, and COX proportional hazards model was used for multivariate analysis (MVA). p < 0.05 was consided statistically significant. All outputs were produced using R version 4.1.0.

Results

The median age of the cohort was 60.0 years with a male‐to‐female ratio of 3.36:1. Five‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 30.9% and 65.0%, respectively. High‐intermediate/high‐risk group according to MIPI‐c, without high‐dose cytarabine, lack of Auto‐SCT as consolidation and maintenance treatment and SD/PD in initial treatment remained statistically relevant to poor PFS on MVA, and ki67 ≥50%, B symptoms, high‐intermediate/high risk group according to MIPI‐c, without high‐dose cytarabine, lack of maintenance treatment, SD/PD in initial treatment and relapse/refractory state were independently associated with poorer OS on MVA.

Conclusions

First‐line high dose cytarabine exposure, auto‐SCT as consolidation therapy obtained survival benefits in Chinese population. Our study further confirmed the value of maintenance treatment and explored the application of new drug treatment and bendamustine in R/R MCL patients.
Synthesis of Pogostone‐Inspired Dehydroacetic Acid Derivatives and Their Antifungal Activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary
Authors: Wang Delong , Yuan Chunxia , Li Jing , Fang Yali , Zhang Zhijia
Published: May 2023

In an effort to exploit the natural antifungal pogostone, its simplified scaffold dehydroacetic acid (DHA) was used as a lead compound to semi‐synthesize 56 DHA derivatives (I1–48, II, III, and IV1–6). Among them, compound IV4 exhibited the most potent antifungal activity with 11.0 μM EC50 against mycelial growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary whose sclerotia production was also completely suppressed at this concentration. Furthermore, IV4 could completely inhibit infection cushion formation of S. sclerotiorum on rape leaves and achieved a preventive efficacy of 90.2 % at 500 μM, which was on the same level as that of commercial boscalid at 30 μM (88.7 %). The results of physiological and ultrastructural studies indicated that IV4 might disrupt the cell membrane permeability or induce the imbalance of mitochondrial membrane potential homeostasis to exert the antifungal mode of action. Besides, the robust and predicative three‐dimensional quantitative structure‐activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) models were developed and discussed herein.
Preparation and Characterization of a Silk Fibroin/Polyurethane Fiber Blend Membrane Containing Actinomycin X2 with Excellent Mechanical Properties and Enhanced Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Zhang Quan , Chen Fengyun , Javeed Ansar , Wang Miaofeng , Si Ranran , Li Jiaxing , Han Bingnan
Published: May 2023

Development of suitable antimicrobial biomaterials for hygienic wound dressing and healing is an important requirement for medical application. Durable mechanical properties increase the application range of biomaterial in different environmental and biological conditions. Due to the inherent brittleness of silk fibroin (SF), polyurethane fiber (PUF) was used to modify SF containing actinomycin X2 (Ac.X2) to prepare silk fibroin@actinomycin X2/polyurethane fiber (ASF/PUF) blend membranes. The ASF/PUF blend membrane was developed by solution casting method. Incorporation of PUF improved the flexibility of material and introduction of Ac.X2 has increased antibacterial activity of materials. Excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength up to 25.7 MPa and elongation at break up to 946.5 %) of 50 % SF+50 % PUF blend membrane were proved by tensile testing machine. FT‐IR spectra, TGA, contact angle and DMA were tested to prove the blend membrane's physico‐chemical characteristics. ASF/PUF blend membrane displayed satisfactory antibacterial activity against S. aureus, and the cytotoxicity tests showed that the blend membrane has better biosafety compared to directly applied Ac.X2 in soluble form. These results suggest that the modification of SF through PUF for development of flexible antibacterial membranes has great potential application value in the field of silk‐like material fabrication.
Secondary Amine‐Mediated Domino Reaction for the Synthesis of Substituted Quinolines from Dicyanoalkenes and Enynals
Authors: Hayashi Yujiro , Han Xiaolei , Mori Naoki
Published: May 2023

Substituted quinolines, tricyclic and tetracyclic molecules with a quinoline moiety are synthesized by a domino reaction from dicyanoalkenes and 3‐aryl‐pent‐2‐en‐4‐ynals in one pot. We established two methods: one is catalyzed by chiral diphenylprolinol silyl ether, and the other is catalyzed by di(2‐ethyl)hexylamine, in combination withp‐nitrophenol. A wide variety of dicyanoalkenes can be employed. As the catalysts are secondary amines, and water is the only by‐product, this is an environmentally benign synthetic method for the preparation of substituted quinolines.
Impact of Faradaic Interlayer Confinement and Carbon‐Centered Macrostructure Designs for Ion Capture and the Recovery of Elements
Authors: Patil Rahul , Das Dipak Kumar , Dutta Saikat
Published: May 2023

Environmental protection associated with renewable energy is among the most critical challenges for translational ion‐capture based on capacitive storage of ions in electrical double layers at the interface of electrode and electrolyte. Electric double‐layer capacitance with charge induction and faradaic pseudo‐capacitance with charge transfer classifies the capacitance of the electrochemical interface. The electrochemical interface in most energy technologies involves porous and pseudocapacitive redox materials that offer varying degrees of electrolyte confinement. In this review, we discuss the factors affecting water desalination, such as the effect of nanopores for ion capture, the ion sieving effect, the effect of hydration energy, and hydration radius in the carbon sub‐nanometer pore. Moreover, the surface phenomena of electrodes, including carbon corrosion, and the potential of zero charge to control the oxidation of carbon electrodes are explained along with protection mechanisms. The various capacitive deionization (CDI) operations and the corresponding electrochemical cell technologies are briefly introduced, including the significance of double‐layer charging materials with faradaic intercalation, which suffer less from co‐ion expulsion. Finally, we revisit the effects of various nanoarchitectures and the construction of capacitive deionization electrodes for clean water technology.
Oral lesions in human monkeypox disease and their management
Authors: Joseph Betsy , Anil Sukumaran
Published: May 2023

Objective: The current outbreak of human monekypox (MPX) in several endemic and non‐endemic regions in 2022 has generated significant international attention. Despite the early classification as zoonotic, MPXV has demonstrated the potential for human‐to‐human transmission through close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Therefore, our objective was to elaborate on the oral lesions in human MPX and their management.Materials and Method: Articles published up to August, 2022, were screened to identify relevant studies in humans that reported oral lesions in MPX.Results: Oral lesions have been found to manifest differently and transform from vesicles to pustules, accompanied by umbilication and crusting within four weeks. Along with fever and lymphadenopathy, these lesions may develop in the oral cavity and then spread to the skin surrounding the extremities in a centrifugal pattern. In some patients, the oropharyngeal and perioral lesions were the initial presentations.Conclusions: The oral lesions of MPX infection and its management strategies are relevant for dentists. Dental practitioners may be the first to detect the initial lesions of MPX. Therefore, high alertness should be there, especially while examining patients with fever and lymphadenopathy. It is also essential to thoroughly examine the oral cavity for macular and papular lesions in oral mucosa, tongue, gingiva, and epiglottis. Symptomatic and supportive care of oral lesions is recommended.
Protect, respect, remedy, and report? Development of human rights reporting in the context of formal institutional settings
Authors: Hubers Frank , Thijssens Thomas
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the influence of formal institutions, in particular legislation, on corporate human rights (HR) reporting. We use a mixed‐method approach, combining qualitative institutional analysis of two European countries — the Netherlands and Switzerland — with quantitative content analysis of annual reports of 94 listed companies for the years 2007 to 2019 (1222 firm‐years). We find that, for each observed book year, companies in the Netherlands are more willing to disclose HR information than companies in Switzerland, which we explain by their differences in formal institutional development. Our results indicate that formal institutions are essential determinants in HR reporting, both in the willingness of companies to disclose and the extensiveness of disclosure. Moreover, we observe a significant positive impact of legislation on HR reporting but find that the overall compliance levels of affected companies are low. We contribute to prior research, by providing evidence on the development and institutional drivers of HR reporting, a largely overlooked branch of sustainability reporting.
Synthesis of Azoxy Compounds: from Copper Compounds to Mesoporous Silica‐Encaged Ultrasmall Copper Catalysts
Authors: Han Zhi‐Peng , Wang Shiqi , Sun Qiming , Xu Xiao‐Ping , Ji Shun‐Jun
Published: May 2023

Azoxy compounds have aroused extensive attention due to their unique biological activities, but the chemical synthesis of these compounds often suffers from limitations due to their requirement for stoichiometric oxidants, high costs, and restricted substrate range. Herein, a series of azoxy compounds were constructed via facile coupling reactions by using cost‐effective N‐methoxyformamide and nitroso compounds over Cu‐based catalysts, affording high product yields with excellent tolerance of functional groups. Significantly, the mesoporous silica nanosphere‐encapsulated ultrasmall Cu (Cu@MSN) catalyst was developed via a one‐pot synthetic method and first used for the synthesis of azoxy compounds. As compared with copper salt catalysts, the Cu@MSN catalyst exhibited remarkably enhanced catalytic activity and superior recycling stability. Such a Cu@MSN catalyst overcame the inherent drawbacks of low activity, fast deactivation, and difficult recycling of traditional metal salt catalysts in organic reactions. This work provides a green and efficient method for the construction of azoxy compounds and also creates new prospects for the application of nanoporous materials confined metal catalysts in organic synthesis.
Simplified selective harmonic elimination PWM for three‐level five‐phase T‐NPC inverter
Authors: Bennacer Nassim Rayane , Bentafat Mahdi , Benachour Ali , Sekhri Sabri , Berkouk El Madjid
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a selective harmonic PWM strategy (HSE‐PWM) to control a five‐phase three‐level T‐NPC inverter. The proposed method aims to reduce switching losses and directly eliminate specific orders of harmonics, while also controlling the fundamental magnitude. MATLAB/Simulink simulations are conducted using an RL load, and the implementation is tested using a simplified method on an STM32F4 controller board. Experimental tests are then carried out to validate the simulation results. Additionally, power losses and efficiency are studied using Plecs software. The paper explores four different cases of switching angles number and proposes three SHE methods: a simple SHE based on Newton Raphson's method, SHE with current THD optimization, and SHE with common mode voltage (CMV) optimization using the PSO algorithm. The proposed methods provide complete control over the fundamental of the output voltage and the selected harmonics while reducing switching losses. A comparison is carried out in terms of voltage waveform, maximum CMV, fundamental magnitude, total harmonic distortion (THD), and power efficiency for the three methods. The paper concludes that the proposed modulation can be useful in high‐power applications.
Role of vitreous cytology in the diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma: A report of an unusual presentation
Authors: Tom Jesty Pullattu , Gupta Parikshaa , Radotra Bishan Das , Gupta Nalini , Takkar Aastha , Singh Sofia , Gupta Vishali
Published: May 2023

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare subtype of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma confined to the brain, spinal cord, meninges, intraocular compartment, and cranial nerves. Intraocular lymphoma (IOL) is a rare subtype of PCNSL. Intravitreal involvement by a PCNSL is an infrequent but potentially fatal event. The role of vitreous cytology in diagnosing IOLs is vital but has been sporadically described in the literature due to its variable sensitivity. Herein, we present a case of PCNSL, who primarily presented with ocular symptoms and could be accurately diagnosed based on vitreous cytology and subsequently confirmed on stereotactic brain biopsy.
Drivers of power line collisions and electrocutions of birds in Nepal
Authors: Hamal Suman , Sharma Hari Prasad , Gautam Ramji , Katuwal Hem Bahadur
Published: May 2023

Among the several anthropogenic factors, power lines are increasingly regarded as one of the most significant hazards to bird species, primarily owing to collisions and electrocutions. Nepal has comparatively fewer studies on the impact of power line collisions and electrocution on birds compared with developed nations. From November 2021 to May 2022, we assessed the effect of power line collisions and electrocutions on the mortality of birds in the Putalibazar Municipality of the Syangja district of Nepal. We established 117 circular plots in diverse habitats, including agricultural lands, forests, settlements, and river basins, along a 30.6 km long distribution line. Within 18 plots, we detected 43 fatalities of 11 species (17 individuals of six species due to collision and 26 individuals of eight species due to electrocution). House Swift (Apus nipalensis) and Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) were the primary victims of the collision, whereas House Crow (Corvus splendens) and Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) were frequently observed electrocuted. We also recorded the electrocution of the critically endangered White‐rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis). The total rate of bird power line collisions per kilometer was 0.55 birds, while the total electrocution rate per 10 poles was 2.22. The bird abundance, distance to agricultural regions, and proximity to human settlements were found to have a strong relationship with the mortality of birds caused by power lines. In order to reduce power line collisions and electrocution fatalities, we recommend conducting a detailed bird population study prior to determining the route of distribution lines.
Determinants of stunting among children under age five in Burundi: Evidence from the 2016–2017 Burundi Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS 2016–17)
Authors: Gaiser Manuel L. , Winkler Andrea S. , Klug Stefanie J. , Nkurunziza Sandra , Stelzle Dominik
Published: May 2023

Burundi has one of the highest prevalence of stunting in the world. This study aimed to identify determinants of stunting among children under age five in Burundi. A total of 4993 children with anthropometric measurements from the 2016–2017 Burundi Demographic and Health Survey were included in the study. Stunting was assessed from the height‐for‐age Z‐scores (HAZ). Logistic regression models were analyzed to identify demographic, maternal, child‐related, and structural variables that influence stunting. In total, 56.9% of children under age five were stunted, of those 31.0% moderately and 25.9% severely. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that older children, male children (adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.41, 95% CI 1.24–1.61), and children who were perceived as small (aOR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.55–2.59) or very small at birth (aOR = 2.37, 95% CI 1.57–3.59) were significantly more likely to be stunted. Moreover, children of single mothers, with lower levels of education, who were underweight at the time of the survey (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.42–2.68), who had short stature (aOR = 3.76, 95% CI 2.50–5.66) or who conceived more than four children (aOR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.05–1.42) were more commonly stunted. Stunting was more prevalent in rural areas (aOR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.72–3.73) and in households with no access to improved types of toilet facilities (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.10–1.45). The results of this study show that the prevalence of stunting in children under age five in Burundi is alarmingly high and underscores the urgent need for decisive and determined action.
A Brief History behind the journal Genetic Epidemiology and the International Genetic Epidemiology Society
Authors: Rao Dabeeru C.
Published: May 2023

This commentary briefly describes the process and steps that underlie the launching of the journal Genetic Epidemiology in 1984 and the International Genetic Epidemiology Society (IGES, to be pronounced as “I guess”) in 1992.
Enhancement of iron‐based oxygen carriers through alloying with tungsten oxide for chemical looping applications including water splitting
Authors: Morales Corona Jose Juan , Sedransk Campbell Kyra , Fennell Paul S.
Published: May 2023

Chemical looping applications offer a variety of options to decarbonise different industrial sectors, such as iron and steel and hydrogen production. Chemical looping with water splitting (CLWS) is a chemical looping technology, which produces H2 while simultaneously capturing CO2. The selection of oxygen carriers (OCs) available to be used in CLWS is finite, due to the thermodynamic limitations of the oxidation with steam for different materials at the relevant process temperatures. Iron‐based materials are one of the most widely studied options for chemical looping combustion (CLC), touted for their relative abundance and low cost; likewise, for CLWS, iron is the most promising option. However, when the reduction of iron oxide (Fe2O3) is extended to wüstite (FeO) and iron (Fe), agglomeration and sintering problems are the main challenge for fluidisation.

This work presents iron and tungsten mixed oxides as the OCs for a family of chemical looping applications. The OCs were produced via co‐precipitation; performance assessment was conducted in a thermogravimetric analyser and a lab‐scale fluidised bed reactor over continuous redox cycles. The use of tungsten combined with iron results in a solid solution of tungsten within the Fe2O3 matrix that produced a more mechanically stable material during operation, which performed well during multiple redox cycles with no apparent decrease in the oxygen transport capacity and showed no apparent agglomeration. Furthermore, materials containing tungsten showed a resistance to carbon deposition, whereas the reference Fe2O3 showed peaks of CO and CO2 during the oxidation period, thus indicating carbon deposition. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Young versus older subject diffusion magnetic resonance imaging data for virtual white matter lesion tractography
Authors: Taghvaei Mohammad , Cook Philip , Sadaghiani Shokufeh , Shakibajahromi Banafsheh , Tackett William , Dolui Sudipto , De Debarun , Brown Christopher , Khandelwal Pulkit , Yushkevich Paul , Das Sandhitsu , Wolk David A. , Detre John A.
Published: May 2023

White matter hyperintensity (WMH) lesions on T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and changes in adjacent normal‐appearing white matter can disrupt computerized tract reconstruction and result in inaccurate measures of structural brain connectivity. The virtual lesion approach provides an alternative strategy for estimating structural connectivity changes due to WMH. To assess the impact of using young versus older subject diffusion MRI data for virtual lesion tractography, we leveraged recently available diffusion MRI data from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) Lifespan database. Neuroimaging data from 50 healthy young (39.2 ± 1.6 years) and 46 healthy older (74.2 ± 2.5 years) subjects were obtained from the publicly available HCP‐Aging database. Three WMH masks with low, moderate, and high lesion burdens were extracted from the WMH lesion frequency map of locally acquired FLAIR MRI data. Deterministic tractography was conducted to extract streamlines in 21 WM bundles with and without the WMH masks as regions of avoidance in both young and older cohorts. For intact tractography without virtual lesion masks, 7 out of 21 WM pathways showed a significantly lower number of streamlines in older subjects compared to young subjects. A decrease in streamline count with higher native lesion burden was found in corpus callosum, corticostriatal tract, and fornix pathways. Comparable percentages of affected streamlines were obtained in young and older groups with virtual lesion tractography using the three WMH lesion masks of increasing severity. We conclude that using normative diffusion MRI data from young subjects for virtual lesion tractography of WMH is, in most cases, preferable to using age‐matched normative data.
International cooperation in irrigation and drainage—Putting people at the heart of what we do
Authors: Maywald Hon Karlene
Published: May 2023

The N.D. Gulhati Memorial Lecture has been organized by the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage in collaboration with the Gulhati Trust since 1981 in honour of the visionary water resources engineer Er. Niranjan Das Gulhati, the driving force behind the establishment of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage. In this paper it is stated that the lofty goal of innovation in irrigation and water and sustainability cannot be achieved through an engineering‐only approach. The allied aspects of sustainable environmental management and societal behavioural change have to be taken into account as well to enable the global irrigation communities to embrace the reforms necessary to make a difference and underpin a prosperous and inclusive society for all. Examples are given how such an approach would be possible.