bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovery of lithium from salt‐lake brine by liquid–liquid extraction using TBP‐FeCl3 based mixture solvent
Authors: Qiao Linju , Chen Hang , Yu Jianguo
Published: July 2022

In this study, a complete cyclic process was developed for the lithium extraction from high‐concentration salt‐lake brine by using a high flash point, low water solubility, and low toxicity diluent mixed with the TBP‐FeCl3‐based organic solvent. The process was composed of four sections, including extraction, scrubbing, stripping, and regeneration. The optimal conditions for each section were determined first. Then, a 13‐stage cyclic extraction process was designed and validated experimentally for the high lithium concentration brine, which reached 8.612 g/L. By using the diluent at the optimized conditions, the overall recovery of lithium was higher than 96%. The stripping liquid contained 38.87 g/L Li+, while all the ratios of impurities of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to lithium were less than 0.1. The aims of enrichment and purification of Li+ from the complicated brine system were achieved by the developed extraction process with little Fe loss, which provided the technical support for the development of the salt‐lake lithium resource.
Asphaltene/polymer composites: Morphology, compatibility, and rheological properties
Authors: Eshraghian Afrooz , Kamkar Milad , Sundararaj Uttandaraman
Published: July 2022

In this study, we investigate the use of asphaltene, a natural waste product that is inevitably formed during heavy oil processing, as a filler in polymer composites. The focus of this work is on the compatibility of various asphaltenes, featuring different polarities, with several polymers, including polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polycarbonate (PC). The Hansen solubility parameters were plotted to predict the compatibility of polymers with different asphaltenes. Then, polymer composites were prepared by two common techniques: melt mixing and solution mixing. The dispersion state of the asphaltenes in each polymer was investigated by using imaging and rheological techniques. This work showed that the network structure of the asphaltenes and, thus, the final properties of the composites can be controlled by the polarity of asphaltenes, mixing technique, and melt viscosity of the polymer. For instance, more polar asphaltene (Asph P) produced smaller aggregates in PMMA, which has a higher polar solubility parameter than PP or PS. At 2.5 wt.% of asphaltene, Asph P showed 26% and 177% larger asphaltene agglomerates in PP and PS, respectively, than the less polar asphaltene (Asph Al). PS/asphaltene and PMMA/asphaltene composites prepared by the solution mixing method exhibited better dispersion compared to their melt‐mixed counterparts. In melt‐mixed composites, the dispersion quality of the asphaltene was better for polymers with higher melt viscosity. Thus, a careful choice of polymer, asphaltene, and preparation conditions can be used to tune the properties of asphaltene/polymer composites.
Surface modification of MWCNT to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of natural rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Shahamatifard Farnaz , Rodrigue Denis , Park Keun‐Wan , Frikha Slim , Mighri Frej
Published: July 2022

In this study, we focused on the synergistic effect between carbon black (CB) and multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) hybrid fillers. In particular, the surface modification of pristine MWCNT (P‐MWCNT) via an acid (oxidation) treatment was used to improve their dispersion, as well as the mechanical and thermal properties of their corresponding natural rubber (NR)‐based nanocomposites. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were carried out to determine the presence of functional groups on the oxidized MWCNT (O‐MWCNT). After vulcanization, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), tensile properties, hardness, thermal conductivity, swelling behaviour in toluene and SEM characterizations were performed on both NR/CB/P‐MWCNT‐ and NR/CB/O‐MWCNT‐based nanocomposites. The results showed the positive effect of MWCNT surface oxidation on the fillers' dispersion and nanocomposites' properties.
Epidemiology of heart failure hospitalization in patients with stable atherothrombotic disease: Insights from the TRA 2°P‐TIMI 50 trial
Authors: Freedman Benjamin L. , Berg David D. , Scirica Benjamin M. , Bohula Erin A. , Goodrich Erica L. , Sabatine Marc S. , Morrow David A. , Bonaca Marc P.
Published: July 2022

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a growing public health problem and ischemic heart disease is an important risk factor. Understanding the epidemiology of HF in patients with atherosclerosis may help identify subgroups at greater risk who have the potential to derive greater benefit from preventive strategies.

Methods and Results

The TRA 2°P‐TIMI 50 trial randomized 26,449 patients with stable atherosclerosis to the antiplatelet agent vorapaxar versus placebo. Hospitalization for HF (HHF) endpoints were adjudicated from serious adverse events by blinded structured review using established definitions. HHF incidence was estimated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Independent predictors of HHF risk were identified using multivariable logistic regression. The effect of vorapaxar on HHF risk was explored using Cox regression. The estimated incidence of HHF at 3 years was 1.6%. Independent predictors of HHF included prior HF (adjusted odds ratio [adj‐OR]: 8.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.56–10.54), age (adj‐OR [per 10 years]: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.47–1.89), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM; adj‐OR: 2.55; 95% CI: 2.01–3.24), polyvascular disease (two‐territory disease, adj‐OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.46–2.44; three‐territory disease, adj‐OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.94–3.70), chronic kidney disease (CKD; adj‐OR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.30–2.11), body mass index (BMI; adj‐OR [per 5 kg/m2]: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.03–1.27), prior myocardial infarction (MI) (adj‐OR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.03–1.78), and hypertension (adj‐OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.02–2.04). Patients who experienced HHF during follow‐up had higher rates of subsequent rehospitalization and death. Vorapaxar did not modify the risk of HHF.

Conclusions

In patients with stable atherosclerosis, prior HF, age, T2DM, polyvascular disease, CKD, BMI, prior MI, and hypertension are important predictors of HHF risk.
Brain tumor detection from 3D MRI using Hyper‐Layer Convolutional Neural Networks and Hyper‐Heuristic Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Alnaggar Omar Abdullah Murshed Farhan , Jagadale Basavaraj N. , Narayan Swaroopa H. , Saif Mufeed Ahmed Naji
Published: July 2022

Automated techniques for brain tumor classification using deep learning approaches have gained significant research interest in recent years. Yet, the difficulties in extracting and classifying the tumor regions from the 3D Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) do not have a definite solution. The major challenge in utilizing machine and deep learning algorithms for brain cancer classification from 3D images is the time complexity in analyzing the multiple frames of a brain MRI. This paper introduces Hyper‐Layer Convolutional Neural Networks (HL‐CNN) and Hyper‐Heuristic Extreme Learning Machine (HH‐ELM). The proposed method consists of three main phases are pre‐processing, deep feature mining and selection, and classification. The input MRI images are pre‐processed through denoising and image enhancement methods in the first phase. In the second phase, the HL‐CNN is introduced for feature extraction. The hyper‐layer technique is a masking technique that also inherent the features of the specified layers instead of only considering the features at the last layer. The best features are selected using a simple correlation‐based selection approach through HL‐CNN validation to minimize the irrelevant features in the system. In the last phase, the HH‐ELM is introduced to classify the tumor images to identify the different types of tumors. HH‐ELM is an enhanced version of ELM through optimal tuning of ELM parameters using a hyper‐heuristic optimization algorithm. Evaluations are performed over the BRATS 2020 database of MRI images and the proposed method of HL‐CNN and HH‐ELM achieved dice scores of 0.9020, 0.9393, and 0.9589 for ED, WT, and TC tumor classes with 95.89% accuracy, 98.46% precision, 96% recall, and 97.21% f‐measure which are 2%–13% higher and processing time of 139.88 s which is 66%–78% lesser than the existing methods.
Polymorphism and Building‐Block‐Resolved STM Imaging of Self‐Assembled Monolayers of 4‐Fluorobenzenemethanethiol on Au(111)
Authors: Azzam Waleed , Subaihi Abdu , Rohwerder Michael , Zharnikov Michael , Bashir Asif
Published: July 2022

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of 4‐fluorobenzenemethanethiol (p‐FBMT) on Au(111), prepared by immersion procedure (1 mM ethanolic solution; 60 °C; 18 h), were characterized by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The data suggest the formation of highly ordered monolayer with a commensurate structure, described by the
unit cell. The STM appearance of this cell occurs, however, in two different forms, with either well‐localized individual spots or splitting of these spots in two components. These components are assigned to the tunneling through the entire molecule or sulfur docking group only. The respective spots correspond then to the terminal fluorine atom and sulfur docking group, manifesting, thus, building‐block‐resolving STM imaging. The accessibility of the docking group for direct tunneling is most likely related to a specific molecular organization for one of the two possible internal structures of the unit cell. The above results represent a showcase for potential of STM for imaging of upright‐arranged and densely packed molecular assemblies, such as SAMs.
Personalizing Direct Oral Anticoagulant Therapy for a Diverse Population: Role of Race, Kidney Function, Drug Interactions, and Pharmacogenetics
Authors: Thompson Lorenzo E. , Davis Brittney H. , Narayan Renuka , Goff Blake , Brown Todd M. , Limdi Nita A.
Published: July 2022

Oral anticoagulants (OACs) are commonly used to reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism and the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Endorsed by the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and the European Society of Cardiology, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have displaced warfarin as the OAC of choice for both conditions, due to improved safety profiles, fewer drug–drug and drug–diet interactions, and lack of monitoring requirements. Despite their widespread use and improved safety over warfarin, DOAC‐related bleeding remains a major concern for patients. DOACs have stable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics; however, variability in DOAC response is common and may be attributed to numerous factors, including patient‐specific factors, concomitant medications, comorbid conditions, and genetics. Although DOAC randomized controlled trials included patients of varying ages and levels of kidney function, they failed to include patients of diverse ancestries. Additionally, current evidence to support DOAC pharmacogenetic associations have primarily been derived from European and Asian individuals. Given differences in genotype frequencies and disease burden among patients of different biogeographic groups, future research must engage diverse populations to assess and quantify the impact of predictors on DOAC response. Current under‐representation of patients from diverse racial groups does not allow for proper generalization of the influence of clinical and genetic factors in relation to DOAC variability. Herein, we discuss factors affecting DOAC response, such as age, sex, weight, kidney function, drug interactions, and pharmacogenetics, while offering a new perspective on the need for further research including frequently excluded groups.
Synthesis of an Atom‐Specifically 2H/13C‐Labeled Uridine Ribonucleoside Phosphoramidite
Authors: Olenginski Lukasz T. , Becette Owen B. , Beaucage Serge L. , Dayie Theodore K.
Published: July 2022

A combined enzymatic and chemical synthesis of a 2′‐O‐cyanoethoxymethyl (CEM) protected [1′,6‐13C2, 5‐2H]‐uridine phosphoramidite is described herein. This is the first report of an atom‐specific nucleobase and ribose labeled 2′‐O‐CEM protected ribonucleoside phosphoramidite. Importantly, the CEM 2′‐OH protecting group permits the efficient solid‐phase synthesis of large (>60 nucleotides) RNAs with good yield and purity. The new isotope‐labeled phosphoramidite can therefore be applied to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy studies. Specifically, the [1′,6‐13C2, 5‐2H]‐uridine phosphoramidite can be used to make position‐specifically labeled RNAs for NMR analysis without complications from resonance overlap and scalar and dipolar couplings. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of the ribonucleoside 6

Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of the ribonucleoside phosphoramidite 11
Two‐Dimensional Membranes with Highly Charged Nanochannels for Osmotic Energy Conversion
Authors: Qian Yijun , Liu Dan , Yang Guoliang , Chen Jinqiu , Ma Yuxi , Wang Lifeng , Wang Xungai , Lei Weiwei
Published: July 2022

Inadequate mass transportation of semipermeable membranes causes poor osmotic energy conversion from salinity‐gradient. Here, the lamellar graphene oxide membranes (GOMs) constructed with numerous fusiform‐like nanochannels, that are pre‐filled with negatively charged polyanion electrolytes, to both enhance the ion permeability and ion selectivity of the membrane for energy harvest from the salinty gradient, were developed. The as‐prepared membrane achieved the maximum output power density of ∼4.94 W m−2 under a 50 fold salinity gradient, which is 3.5 fold higher than that of pristine GOM. The enhancement could be ascribed to the synergistic impact of the expanded nanochannels and the enhanced space charge density. Via feeding with the artificial salinity water and monovalent cation electrolytes, the system could realise the power output up to 14.7 W m−2 and 34.1 W m−2, respectively. Overall, this material design strategy could provide an alternative concept to effectively enhance ion transport of other two‐dimensional (2D) membranes for specific purposes.
Electrochemical Depolymerization of Lignin in a Biomass‐based Solvent
Authors: da Cruz Márcia G. A. , Gueret Robin , Chen Jianhong , Piątek Jędrzej , Beele Björn , Sipponen Mika H. , Frauscher Marcella , Budnyk Serhiy , Rodrigues Bruno V. M. , Slabon Adam
Published: July 2022

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Adam Slabon at the University of Wuppertal. The image illustrates the reductive depolymerization of lignin into monomers using copper as electrocatalyst. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202200718.
S100A14: A novel negative regulator of cancer stemness and immune evasion by inhibiting STAT3‐mediated programmed death‐ligand 1 expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Min Hye‐Young , Cho Jaebeom , Sim Jeong Yeon , Boo Hye‐Jin , Lee Ji‐Sun , Lee Seon‐Boon , Lee Young‐Jin , Kim Sung Joo , Kim Kyu‐Pyo , Park In‐Ja , Hong Seung‐Mo , Zhang Xue‐Li , Zhang Zhi‐Gang , Park Rang‐Woon , Lee Ho‐Young
Published: July 2022

Background

Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) has functional roles in cancer stem‐like cell (CSC) phenotypes and chemoresistance besides immune evasion. Chemotherapy is a common treatment choice for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients; however, chemoresistance limits its effectiveness of treatment.

Methods

We examined the role of S100A14 (SA14) in CRC by adopting PD‐L1high subpopulations within CRC cell lines and patient tumours, by establishing PD‐L1high chemoresistant CRC sublines through prolonged exposure to 5‐fluorouracil/oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy in vitro and in vivo, and by analysing a public database.

Results

We identified a novel function of SA14 as a regulator of immune surveillance, major CSC phenotypes, and survival capacity under hostile microenvironments, including those harbouring chemotherapeutics, and as a prognostic biomarker in CRC. Mechanistically, SA14 inhibits PD‐L1 expression by directly interacting with signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and inducing its proteasome‐mediated degradation. While gain‐of‐SA14 causes loss of PD‐L1 expression and tumourigenic potential and sensitisation to chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis in chemoresistant CRC cells, loss‐of‐SA14 causes increases in PD‐L1 expression, tumourigenic potential, and chemoresistance in vitro and in vivo. We further show that a combinatorial treatment with chemotherapy and recombinant SA14 protein effectively induces apoptosis in PD‐L1high chemoresistant CRC cells.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that SA14‐based therapy is an effective strategy to prevent tumour progression and that SA14 is a predictive biomarker for anti‐PD‐L1 immunotherapy and chemotherapy in combination.
Study details the underrepresentation of women in presidential positions
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: July 2022

As more and more women have earned doctorates and entered the academy, it is reasonable to assume that there will soon be more women in leadership roles. A recently published study, The Women's Power Gap at Elite Universities: Scaling the Ivory Tower, shows that women, particularly women of color, are underrepresented in the presidential position at R1 institutions (universities with very high research activity, defined as R1 by the Carnegie Classification).
How to help your students get the most out of college
Authors: Felix Elliot
Published: July 2022

College is where students forge their identities, find their communities, chart the course of their careers, and learn the knowledge and skills to succeed. With tuition rising and student loan debt looming, the pandemic brought the question of the value of higher education to the forefront for students, parents, and institutions.
To move forward, we must learn from the past
Authors: Poore‐Pariseau Cindy
Published: July 2022

When Dr. Stephen Hinshaw was a child, his father often disappeared for reasons unknown to him. When Hinshaw was a freshman in college, his father took him aside for one of many chats to talk about the reason for the disappearances: mental illness. At that time, Hinshaw's father was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder (called manic depressive disorder at that time). For 40 years, his father was treated for this misdiagnosis, until Hinshaw, through his own studies and research and working with his father's doctors, came upon the correct diagnosis. Hinshaw describes these experiences in his book Another Kind of Madness.
Reconsider how you adopt best practices to meet unique needs of adult learners
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: July 2022

“My interest in adult learners really comes from my own experience,” said Susan J. Barcinas, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Director of the Department Chair Institute, and Coordinator for the Adult, Workforce, and Continuing Education Program in the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at North Carolina State University.
The future of melasma therapy
Authors: Payne Lauren , Nia Benjamin , Brown Madeline , Callender Valerie
Published: July 2022

Melasma is a chronic dermatologic condition defined by hyperpigmented macules and patches that appear in areas of sun exposure. Common areas of involvement include the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip. Though melasma occurs in all genders and skin types, it is more commonly seen in females of Latin and African ancestry. Risk factors for the development of melasma include ultraviolet and visible light, high levels of estrogen, and family history. Histopathologic findings often include vacuolization at the basement membrane, increased melanin in the basal and suprabasilar layers of the epidermis with increased melanosomes and prominent dendrites; however, there is no increase in the total number of melanocytes. Newer findings reported also include an increase in vasculature and mast cells in lesional skin. Treatment of melasma includes an array of topical and oral medication in addition to various procedures. Medication treatment includes topical skin lightening agents that contain hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, ascorbic acid, and newly released cysteamine. Tranexamic acid (TXA), both compounded in a topical form and given orally, has also been utilized with success. There is also a multitude of procedural treatments indicated for melasma, including micro‐needling and intradermal injections. Treatments, both topical and procedural, are often combined together for maximum benefit. Regardless of which option(s) you choose, it is of the utmost importance to adhere to strict sun protection to minimize the risk of continued recurrence, as UV and visible light exposure are often the culprits of melasma relapse.
Quantifying mechanisms of coexistence in disease ecology
Authors: Sieben Andrew J. , Mihaljevic Joseph R. , Shoemaker Lauren G.
Published: July 2022

Pathogen coexistence depends on ecological processes operating at both within and between‐host scales, making it difficult to quantify which processes may promote or prevent coexistence. Here, we propose that adapting modern coexistence theory—traditionally applied in plant communities—to pathogen systems provides an exciting approach for examining mechanisms of coexistence operating across different spatial scales. We first overview modern coexistence theory and its mechanistic decomposition; we subsequently adapt the framework to quantify how spatial variation in pathogen density, host resources and immunity, and their interaction may promote pathogen coexistence. We apply this derivation to an example two pathogen, multiscale model comparing two scenarios with generalist and strain‐specific immunity: one with demographic equivalency among pathogens and one with demographic trade‐offs among pathogens. We then show how host–pathogen feedbacks generate spatial heterogeneity that promote pathogen coexistence and decompose those mechanisms to quantify how each spatial heterogeneity contributes to that coexistence. Specifically, coexistence of demographically equivalent pathogens occurs due to spatial variation in host resources, immune responses, and pathogen aggregation. With a competition–colonization trade‐off, the superior colonizer requires spatial heterogeneity to coexist, whereas the superior competitor does not. Finally, we suggest ways forward for linking theory and empirical tests of coexistence in disease systems.
Association between the index of nutritional quality and lipid profile in adult women
Authors: Abbas Torki Saheb , Bahadori Effat , Shekari Soheila , Fathi Soroor , Gholamalizadeh Maryam , Hasanpour Ardekanizadeh Naeemeh , Aminnezhad Bahareh , Ahmadzadeh Mina , Sotoudeh Mahtab , Shafie Fatemeh , Rastgoo Samira , Vahid Farhad , Doaei Saeid
Published: July 2022

Background

Dyslipidaemia is a group of abnormalities that predispose people to heart disease. The index of nutritional quality (INQ) is a tool for qualitative and quantitative nutritional assessment, which has special significance in assessing clinical nutritional problems. The objective of this study was to determine the association between the INQ and lipid profile in adult women.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study on 360 healthy women referring to the nutrition clinic of Shohadaye Tajrish hospital, Tehran, Iran. Calorie and nutrient intake were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The amount of physical activity was estimated using a validated International Physical Activity Questionnaire. To measure serum lipid levels, 5 ml of venous blood samples was taken from the participants.

Results

The results showed a negative association between total cholesterol and the INQ of niacin (B = −0.110, p = .02) and between high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol with the INQ of biotin (B = −0.119, p = .01). Also, a positive association was found between triglyceride and the INQ of B6 (B = 0.096, p = .04). The results remained significant after adjusting for body mass index, waist circumference and total energy intake (except for niacin).

Conclusions

Findings of the present study suggest that a diet rich in niacin and low in vitamin B6 and biotin may be associated with an improved lipid profile that reduces lipid‐related diseases such as fatty liver, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to identify the underlying mechanisms.
Agonistic anti‐CD27 antibody ameliorates EAE by suppressing IL‐17 production
Authors: Vogel Isabel , Acolty Valerie , Keler Tibor , Goriely Stanislas , Leo Oberdan , Moser Muriel
Published: July 2022

CD27/CD70 costimulation enhances T‐cell survival, memory formation and Th1‐cell differentiation and effector function. In addition to promoting Th1 responses, CD27 signaling has been shown to exert a negative regulatory role on IL‐17 production, resulting in increased sensitivity of CD27 KO mice to EAE. By inducing EAE in full CD27 KO mice, and in a novel, T‐cell specific CD27 KO mouse strain (CD4‐Cre x CD27flox/flox), we demonstrate herein that CD27 engagement by its natural ligand (CD70) suppresses IL‐17 production in a cell autonomous fashion. We further show that CD27 engagement by an agonistic antibody given after EAE induction or at symptom onset similarly suppresses IL‐17 production by activated CD4+ T cells infiltrating the inflamed CNS while IFN‐γ production was unaffected, leading to an amelioration of inflammatory‐related symptoms. These findings propose CD27 costimulation as a potential candidate for therapeutic manipulation to treat autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases characterized by excessive IL‐17 production.
Development and validation of a new multiplex Y‐STR panel designed to increase the power of discrimination
Authors: Zhou Yongsong , Cui Wei , Wu Buling , Zhu Bofeng
Published: July 2022

In an attempt to increase the discrimination capacity (DC) and reduce the adventitious match probability, a 6‐dye multiplex Y‐chromosomal short tandem repeat (Y‐STR) panel named Y34plex was constructed that combined 25 Y‐chromosomal markers (DYS456, DYS627, DYS390, DYS570, DYS635, DYS385a/b, DYS448, DYS437, DYS533, DYS449, DYS481, DYS392, DYS391, DYS389I, DYS460, YGATAH4, DYS438, DYS389II, DYS19, DYS458, DYF387S1a/b, DYS439, DYS393, DYS576, and DYS518) in widely used commercial kits, with nine highly polymorphic Y‐STR loci (DYS557, DYS527a/b, DYS593, DYS444, DYS596, DYS643, DYS447, DYS549, and DYS645). The Y34plex is a promising type system to distinguish both unrelated and related male individuals due to the incorporation of rapidly mutated Y‐STR loci. A validation study of the Y34plex was performed and followed the guidelines of the Scientific Working Group on DNA analysis methods. Results show that full Y‐STR profiles were obtained from male/female DNA mixtures with 125 pg of male DNA in the presence of 50 ng of female DNA. The ability to tolerate polymerase chain reaction inhibitors commonly contained in forensic casework samples demonstrated the applicability and robustness of the Y34plex. Compared with the Yfiler Plus kit, the novel panel showed an increased power of discrimination in Chinese Wuxi Han population (n = 434). The overall haplotype diversity of the Y34plex was 0.999606, whereas DC value was 0.956221, which is suitable for use on forensic paternal investigation.
Synthesis and characterization of waste Styrofoam hypercrosslinked polymer as an adsorbent for CO2 capture
Authors: Maleki Farid , Ghaemi Ahad , Mir Mohamad Sadeghi Gity
Published: July 2022

In this work, we used waste Styrofoam as a precursor to synthesize a hypercrosslinked polymeric (HCP) adsorbent for CO2 adsorption utilizing the Friedel–Craft procedure. The hypercrosslinked adsorbent was designed using formaldehyde dimethyl acetal (FDA) as the crosslinker. The precursor to crosslinker to catalyst ratio was 1:3:3, and the HCP synthesis was carried out for 12 h at 312.6 K. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis were used to analyze the waste Styrofoam hypercrosslinked (WSHC) adsorbent. The adsorbent attained an 802.84 m2/g Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and an average pore diameter of 2.869 m3/g. The CO2 adsorption process was studied under different operating conditions, temperature between 298 and 328 K and pressure between 2 and 10 bar. WSHC adsorbent has the maximum CO2 uptake with a value of 11.053 mmol/g at 298 K and 10 bar. The behavior of the adsorption process was investigated using isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic models. Experimental findings indicated that the Sips isotherm and the second‐order kinetic models provided the best fit. The isotherm data indicated that adsorption occurs in multi‐layers and is heterogeneous. According to the thermodynamic characteristics, the process is exothermic and spontaneous. Finally, the kinetic findings established that the process happened physically. Additionally, a regeneration study after seven cycles revealed a 96.1% success rate. The current research may attempt to use waste Styrofoam as a gas separation adsorbent in the industry.
A hybrid approach with step‐size aggregation to forecasting hierarchical time series
Authors: Rehman Hakeem‐Ur , Wan Guohua , Rafique Raza
Published: July 2022

Hierarchical time series arise in various fields such as manufacturing and services when the products or services can be hierarchically structured. “Top‐down” and “bottom‐up” forecasting approaches are often used for forecasting such hierarchical time series. In this paper, we develop a new hybrid approach (HA) with step‐size aggregation for hierarchical time series forecasting. The new approach is a weighted average of the two classical approaches with the weights being optimally chosen for all the series at each level of the hierarchy to minimize the variance of the forecast errors. The independent selection of weights for all the series at each level of the hierarchy makes the HA inconsistent while aggregating suitably across the hierarchy. To address this issue, we introduce a step‐size aggregate factor that represents the relationship between forecasts of the two consecutive levels of the hierarchy. The key advantage of the proposed HA is that it captures the structure of the hierarchy inherently due to the combination of the hierarchical approaches instead of independent forecasts of all the series at each level of the hierarchy. We demonstrate the performance of the new approach by applying it to the monthly data of ‘Industrial’ category of M3‐Competition as well as on Pakistan energy consumption data.
Time‐varying pure contagion effect between energy and nonenergy commodity markets
Authors: Gong Xu , Jin Yujing , Sun Chuanwang
Published: July 2022

This paper combines the Kalman filtering technique and the time‐varying parameter vector autoregression model with stochastic volatility model to explore pure contagion effects between energy and nonenergy (i.e., industrial metals, precious metals, and agricultural) commodity markets. Empirical results show the significant pure contagion effects between energy and industrial metals markets in most periods, while pure contagion effects between energy and precious metals and agricultural markets occur only in a few specific periods. Comparing the level of pure contagion effects between different commodity markets, energy is still the main price transmitter. In addition, with the acceleration of the global commodity market financialization process, the frequency and harm of pure contagion effects are gradually increasing. Notably, the COVID‐19 pandemic is emerging as another major crisis after the global financial crisis, exacerbating the pure contagion effects between energy and precious metals and agricultural markets.
Lipocalin 2 attenuates oligodendrocyte loss and immune cell infiltration in mouse models for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gasterich Natalie , Bohn Amelie , Sesterhenn Anika , Nebelo Frederik , Fein Lena , Kaddatz Hannes , Nyamoya Stella , Kant Sebastian , Kipp Markus , Weiskirchen Ralf , Zendedel Adib , Beyer Cordian , Clarner Tim
Published: July 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disease characterized by both degenerative and inflammatory processes. Various mediators are involved in the interplay of degeneration and innate immunity on one hand and peripheral adaptive immunity on the other hand. The secreted protein lipocalin 2 (LCN2) is an inflammatory modulator in a variety of pathologies. Although elevated intrathecal levels of LCN2 have been reported in MS patients, it's functional role is widely unknown. Here, we identified a subpopulation of astrocytes as a source of LCN2 in MS lesions and respective animal models. We investigated the functional role of LCN2 for both autoimmune and degenerative aspects in three MS mouse models including both wild type (WT) and Lcn2−/− mouse strains. While the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model reflects primary autoimmunity, the cuprizone model reflects selective oligodendrocyte loss and demyelination. In addition, we included a combinatory Cup/EAE model in which primary cytodegeneration is followed by inflammatory lesions within the forebrain. While in the EAE model, the disease outcome was comparable in between the two mouse strains, cuprizone intoxicated Lcn2−/− animals showed an increased loss of oligodendrocytes. In the Cup/EAE model, Lcn2−/− animals showed increased inflammation when compared to WT mice. Together, our results highlight LCN2 as a potentially protective molecule in MS lesion formation, which might be able to limit loss of oligodendrocytes immune‐cell invasion. Despite these findings, it is not yet clear which glial cell phenotype (and to which extent) contributes to the observed neuroprotective effects, that is, microglia and/or astroglia or even endothelial cells in the brain.
Longitudinal effect of dementia carers' sense of coherence on burden
Authors: Turró‐Garriga Oriol , Viñas‐Díez Vanesa , Zacarias‐Pons Lluís , Conde‐Sala Josep‐Lluís , Garre‐Olmo Josep ,   SOC & DEM Study Group
Published: July 2022

Background

A sense of coherence (SOC) could help us better understand why there are individuals who cope better than others in similar situations. The study aimed to assess the effect of SOC on the course of burden reports in relatives of persons with dementia.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of 156 dementia carers. The SOC was assessed by the Orientation to Life Questionnaire (OLQ‐13), burden by Burden Interview, and personal and contextual characteristics were collected via ad hoc questions. The main dementia symptoms, including functional difficulties (Disability Assessment for Dementia), neuropsychiatric symptoms (Neuropsychiatric Inventory), and cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination), were also assessed. A general linear model was adjusted to determine the effect of SOC and other covariates on burden throughout the follow‐up. Burden differences between baseline and 12 and 24 months were analysed, and the baseline OLQ‐13 score was grouped by quartiles.

Results

The global burden reported increased after 24 months (F = 9.98; df = 2; p < 0.001), but not equally for all carers; daughters reported the greatest increase. SOC, functional disability, and neuropsychiatric disorders showed a significant effect on burden, but time did not. Carers with higher SOC at baseline tend to remain with lower burden levels, whereas carers with low SOC reported higher burden at each visit.

Conclusions

This study reports evidence of the effect of SOC on burden at baseline, 12 and 24 months of follow‐up. Burden scores differ by carers' SOC; those with higher SOC showed lower burden levels, whereas the low‐SOC group reported a greater burden at each visit.
Network structure of time‐varying depressive symptoms through dynamic time warp analysis in late‐life depression
Authors: van Zelst Denise C. R. , Veltman Eveline M. , Rhebergen Didi , Naarding Paul , Kok Almar A. L. , Ottenheim Nathaly Rius , Giltay Erik J.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Late‐life major depressive disorder (MDD) can be conceptualized as a complex dynamic system. However, it is not straightforward how to analyze the covarying depressive symptoms over time in case of sparse panel data. Dynamic time warping (DTW) analysis may yield symptom networks and dimensions both at the patient and group level.

Methods

In the Netherlands Study of Depression in Older People (NESDO) depressive symptoms were assessed every 6 months using the 30‐item Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (IDS) with up to 13 assessments per participant. Our sample consisted of 182 persons, aged ≥ 60 years, with an IDS total score of 26 or higher at baseline. Symptom networks dimensions, and centrality metrics were analyzed using DTW and Distatis analyses.

Results

The mean age was 69.8 years (SD 7.1), with 69.0% females, and a mean IDS score of 38.0 (SD = 8.7). DTW enabled visualization of an idiographic symptom network in a single NESDO participant. In the group‐level nomothetic approach, four depressive symptom dimensions were identified: “core symptoms”, “lethargy/somatic”, “sleep”, and “appetite/atypical”. Items of the “internalizing symptoms” dimension had the highest centrality, whose symptom changes over time were most similar to those changes of other symptoms.

Conclusions

DTW revealed symptom networks and dimensions based on the within‐person symptom changes in older MDD patients. Its centrality metrics signal the most influential symptoms, which may aid personalized care.
Inhibition of CBP/β‐catenin signaling ameliorated fibrosis in cholestatic liver disease
Authors: Kimura Masamichi , Nishikawa Koji , Osawa Yosuke , Imamura Jun , Yamaji Kenzaburo , Harada Kenichi , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Murata Kazumoto , Miura Kouichi , Tanaka Atsushi , Kanto Tatsuya , Kohara Michinori , Kamisawa Terumi , Kimura Kiminori
Published: July 2022

Chronic cholestatic liver diseases are characterized by injury of the bile ducts and hepatocytes caused by accumulated bile acids (BAs) and inflammation. Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is implicated in organ fibrosis; however, its role in cholestatic liver fibrosis remains unclear. Therefore, we explored the effect of a selective cAMP response element‐binding protein‐binding protein (CBP)/β‐catenin inhibitor, PRI‐724, on murine cholestatic liver fibrosis. PRI‐724 suppressed liver fibrosis induced by multidrug resistance protein 2 knockout (KO), bile duct ligation, or a 3.5‐diethoxycarbonyl‐1.4‐dihydrocollidine (DDC) diet; it also suppressed BA synthesis and macrophage infiltration. The expression of early growth response‐1 (Egr‐1), which plays a key role in BA synthesis, was increased in the hepatocytes of patients with cholestatic liver disease. PRI‐724 inhibited Egr‐1 expression induced by cholestasis, and adenoviral shEgr‐1‐mediated Egr‐1 knockdown suppressed BA synthesis and fibrosis in DDC diet–fed mice, suggesting that PRI‐724 exerts its effects, at least in part, by suppressing Egr‐1 expression in hepatocytes. Hepatocyte‐specific CBP KO in mice suppressed BA synthesis, liver injury, and fibrosis, whereas hepatocyte‐specific KO of P300, a CBP homolog, exacerbated DDC‐induced fibrosis. Intrahepatic Egr‐1 expression was also decreased in hepatocyte‐specific CBP‐KO mice and increased in P300‐KO mice, indicating that Egr‐1 is located downstream of CBP/β‐catenin signaling. Conclusion: PRI‐724 inhibits cholestatic liver injury and fibrosis by inhibiting BA synthesis in hepatocytes. These results highlight the therapeutic effect of CBP/β‐catenin inhibition in cholestatic liver diseases.
Comparison of efficacy and safety of ripertamab (SCT400) versus rituximab (Mabthera®) in combination with CHOP in patients with previously untreated CD20‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: A randomized, single‐blind, phase III clinical trial
Authors: Shi Yuankai , Zhang Qingyuan , Hong Xiaonan , Wang Zhen , Gao Yuhuan , Zou Liqun , Cen Hong , Gui Lin , Li Yufu , Feng Jifeng , Wang Zhao , Zhang Mingzhi , Jin Chuan , Zhang Weihua , Hu Jianda , Zheng Chengyun , Zheng Zhendong , Zhang Liling , Chen Shaoshui , Huang Yunhong , Tang Yun , Gao Yajie , Hao Miaowang , Li Xiaoling , Chang Chunkang , Yang Haiyan , Wu Hui , Shen Lida , Ke Xiaoyan , Zhang Liangming , Xi Yaming , Yang Linhua , Xie Liangzhi , Gai Wenlin , Ji Yanan
Published: July 2022

This study compared the efficacy, safety and immunogenicity of ripertamab (SCT400) and rituximab (Mabthera®) combined with CHOP as the first‐line treatment for Chinese patients with CD20‐positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). This is a randomized, patient‐blind, multicenter, active‐control, non‐inferiority study with parallel design. Patients were randomly (2:1) to receive ripertamab combined with CHOP (S‐CHOP) or rituximab (Mabthera®) combined with CHOP (R‐CHOP) for up to 6 cycles. The primary endpoint was the Independent Review Committee (IRC) assessed objective response rate (ORR) in full analysis set (FAS) and the per protocol set (PPS). A total of 364 patients (243 in the S‐CHOP and 121 in the R‐CHOP groups) were enrolled in this study. In FAS, IRC‐assessed ORRs were 93.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 90.0%, 96.5%) and 94.2% (95% CI: 88.4%, 97.6%) in the S‐CHOP and R‐CHOP groups (p = 0.9633), respectively. The ORR difference between the two groups −0.4% (95% CI: −5.5%, 4.8%) met the pre‐specified non‐inferiority margin of −12%. There were no significant differences between the S‐CHOP and R‐CHOP groups in 1‐year progression‐free survival rates (81.1% vs. 83.2%, p = 0.8283), 1 year event‐free survival rates (56.2% vs. 58.1%, p = 0.8005), and 3‐year overall survival rates (81.0% vs. 82.8%, p = 0.7183). The results in PPS were consistent with those in FAS. The rates of treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and ≥ grade 3 TEAEs were 97.9% and 99.2%, 85.2% and 86.0% in the S‐CHOP and R‐CHOP groups, respectively in safety set. The percentage of anti‐drug antibodies positive patients in the S‐CHOP group was numerically lower than the R‐CHOP group (10.9% vs. 16.0%). This study demonstrated that S‐CHOP was not inferior to R‐CHOP in the first‐line treatment of Chinese patients with CD20‐positive DLBCL in efficacy, safety and immunogenecity. S‐CHOP could be an alternative first‐line standard treatment regimen for this patient population.
Bacterial diversity significantly reduces toward the late stages among filarial lymphedema patients in the Ahanta West District of Ghana: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Asiedu Samuel O. , Kini Priscilla , Aglomasa Bill C. , Amewu Emmanuel K. A. , Asiedu Ebenezer , Wireko Solomon , Boahen Kennedy G. , Berbudi Afiat , Sylverken Augustina A. , Kwarteng Alexander
Published: July 2022

Background

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), a neglected tropical disease, has been speculated to be complicated by secondary bacteria, yet a systematic documentation of these bacterial populations is lacking. Thus, the primary focus of this study was to profile bacteria diversity in the progression of filarial lymphedema among LF individuals with or without wounds.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study design recruited 132 LF individuals presenting with lymphedema with or without wounds from eight communities in the Ahanta West District in the Western Region, Ghana. Swabs from the lymphedematous limbs, ulcers, pus, and cutaneous surfaces were cultured using standard culture‐based techniques. The culture isolates were subsequently profiled using Matrix‐assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry.

Results

Of the 132 LF participants recruited, 65% (85) had filarial lymphedema with no wounds. In total, 84% (235) of the bacterial isolates were identified. The remaining 16% (46) could not be identified with the method employed. Additionally, 129(55%) of the strains belonged to the phylum Firmicutes, while 61 (26%) and 45 (19%) represented Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, respectively. Generally, irrespective of the samples type (i.e., wound sample and non‐wound samples), there was a sharp increase of bacteria diversity from Stages 1 to 3 and a drastic decrease in these numbers by Stage 4, followed by another surge and a gradual decline in the advanced stages of the disease. The Shannon Diversity Index and Equitability for participants with and without wounds were (3.482, 0.94) and (3.023, 0.75), respectively. Further, Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Escherichia coli showed resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and penicillin.

Conclusion

The present study reveals a sharp decline in bacterial load at the late stages of filarial lymphedema patients. In addition, we report an emerging antimicrobial resistance trend of S. haemolyticus and E. coli against commonly used antibiotics such as tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and penicillin in communities endemic for LF in the Ahanta West District, Ghana. This could pose a huge challenge to the management of the disease; particularly as current treatments are not quite effective against the infection.
Impact of cancer on cryopreserved sperm quality and fertility: A cohort study
Authors: Pening David , Constant Marnie , Bruynbroeck Manon , Delbaere Anne , Demeestere I.
Published: July 2022

Background

Sperm quality at cancer diagnosis is often compromised by the disease and any given gonadotoxic treatment will further diminish fertility.

Objectives

Here, we aim to analyze the cryopreserved sperm quality according to the cancer types as well as the fertility outcomes.

Methods

Our study included all cancer patients who cryopreserved sperm over 20 years at Erasme Hospital Brussels (from 1999 to 2019). First sperm samples from 111 hematologic, 104 testicular, 19 prostate, 28 gastrointestinal, and 16 neurological cancer patients were compared.

Results

Oligozoo‐asthenozoospermia was observed in 30% of the samples, including 19.33% with severe oligozoospermia (<5 million/ml). Our results showed a significant reduction in sperm concentration among testicular cancer (p < 0.01). No significant differences in progressive motility, sperm volume, and number of frozen straws were observed. Significant correlations were found between sperm concentration and cancer type (p <0.01) as well as patients' age (p <0.01). Twenty‐eight cancer survivors returned for using their cryopreserved sperm (9.33%), fertilization rate was 60.5% and implantation rate was 29.6%. There was no correlation between sperm concentration and fertility outcomes.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the negative impact of cancer on sperm quality without affecting assisted reproductive technology (ART) success rate, which is utterly important as a male reproductive health perspective. All cancer patients should be counselled and offered fertility preservation options as a gold standard.