bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green synthesis of reactive copolymers in molten ε‐caprolactam solvent and their compatibilizing effects in PA10T/PPO blends
Authors: Housheng Xia , Zhen Jiang , Jianpin Zhou , Zize Yang , Yongjun Cao , Zeqi Wan , Junfeng Niu
Published: August 2023

The environmentally‐friendly preparation of compatibilizers, especially copolymers with reactive monomers, is essential for developing new polymer blends. In this study, molten ε‐caprolactam was used as a green solvent to copolymerize styrene with three types of reactive monomers, namely maleic anhydride (MAH), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and 3‐isopropenyl‐α,α‐dimethylbenzyl isocyanate (TMI). The pure PS and the corresponding copolymers (PSM, PSG, and PST) had relatively high yields of 97.8%, 73.7%, 93.3%, and 96.3%, respectively. Moreover, these synthesized polymers were used as compatibilizers to modify the immiscible PA10T/PPO blends. PSM and PSG showed a positive effect in improving the compatibility of PA10T/PPO blends, reducing the size of PPO domains, and improving the mechanical properties. The long‐term thermal stability of unmodified PA10T and PA10T/PPO blends was investigated. The color changes (∆E) of PA10T, PA10T/PPO blends with the addition of pure PS, PSM, PSG, and PST changed to 46.9, 44.0, 45.2, 44.2, and 45.0 after 5 days of aging. The tensile strength retentions were 24.1%, 54.7%, 63.4%, 67.6%, and 60.0%, respectively. These results suggested that the synthesized PSG and its corresponding PA10T/PPO blend had excellent properties and great potential for the development of high‐performance plastics.
Investigation of relationship between microcapsule shell structure, dispersion state and coating performance
Authors: Wu Kaiyun , Dou Peng , Gu Yao , Liu Ren , Luo Jing
Published: August 2023

Microcapsules encapsulating functional components have been widely applied in smart coating, but there was little literature about the relationship between the dispersion of embedded microcapsules and the coating performances. In this work, a series of microcapsules with different shell chemical structures were prepared via photo‐polymerization, and the relationship between the microcapsule shell component, the dispersion state in coating system and the coating properties were systematically investigated. The dispersion of microcapsule was investigated by measuring rheological behavior and SEM images. The dispersion of the microcapsules was closely correlated with the similarity between the chemical structure of the microcapsule shell and the coating matrix, and higher structural similarity facilitated a more uniform dispersion state of microcapsules in the coating matrix. The dispersion state of the microcapsules directly affected the physical properties and anticorrosion performance of the coating. The uniform dispersion of microcapsules could minimize the negative impact on the composite coating performance, whereas the agglomerated microcapsules destroyed the compactness of the composite coating, thus heavily impairing the basic properties and anti‐corrosion performance.
Dynamics of localized extreme heatwaves in the mid‐latitude atmosphere: A conceptual examination
Authors: Rostami Masoud , Severino Luca , Petri Stefan , Hariri Saeed
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the adjustment of large‐scale localized buoyancy anomalies in mid‐latitude regions and the nonlinear evolution of associated condensation patterns in both adiabatic and moist‐convective environments. This investigation is carried out utilizing the two‐layer idealized moist‐convective thermal rotating shallow water (mcTRSW) model. Our investigation reveals that the presence of a circular positive potential temperature anomaly in the lower layer initiates an anticyclonic high‐pressure rotation, accompanied by a negative buoyancy anomaly in the upper layer, resulting in an anisotropic northeast–southwest tilted circulation of heat flux. The evolution of eddy heat fluxes, such as poleward heat flux, energy, and meridional elongation of the buoyancy field, heavily depends on the perturbation's strength, size, and vertical structure. The heatwave initiates atmospheric instability, leading to precipitation systems such as rain bands and asymmetric latent heat release due to moist convection in a diabatic environment. This creates a comma cloud pattern in the upper troposphere and a comma‐shaped buoyancy anomaly in the lower layer, accompanied by the emission of inertia gravity waves. The southern and eastern sectors of the buoyancy anomaly show an upward flux, generating a stronger cross‐equatorial flow and inertia‐gravity waves in a southward and eastward direction. Furthermore, the simulations reveal a similar asymmetric pattern of total condensed liquid water content distribution, accompanied by the intensification of moist convection as rain bands. This intensification is more pronounced in barotropic structures than in baroclinic configurations with stagnant upper layers. This study highlights the importance of considering moist convection and its effects on atmospheric and oceanic flows in mid‐latitude regions, as well as the role of buoyancy anomalies in generating heatwaves and precipitation patterns.
Zebrafish embryonically exposed to valproic acid present impaired retinal development and sleep behavior
Authors: DeOliveira‐Mello Laura , Baronio Diego , Panula Pertti
Published: August 2023

Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA), a drug widely used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder, is an environmental risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). VPA has been used to reproduce the core symptoms of ASD in animal model organisms, including zebrafish. Visual system functioning is essential in the interpretation of social conditions and plays an important role of several behavioral responses. We hypothesized that behavioral deficits displayed by ASD patients may involve impaired visual processing. We used zebrafish as model organism to investigate the visual system after embryonic exposure to VPA using histological, behavioral and gene expression analysis. We analyzed the pineal gland of zebrafish and sleep‐like behavior to study how VPA exposure alters photo‐sensibility of zebrafish. VPA‐exposed zebrafish showed a delay in the development of the retina and optic nerve, which normalized at five days post fertilization. At larval stage, VPA‐exposed zebrafish showed sleep disturbances associated with a reduced number of serotonin‐producing cells of the pineal gland. In addition, the number of hypocretin/orexin (hcrt) expressing neurons in the rostral hypothalamus at 6 and 14 days post fertilization was reduced. In conclusion, we demonstrated that although VPA exposure leads to a delay in visual system development, it does not affect larval visual function. The novel finding that VPA alters significantly cells involved in sleep regulation and the sleep‐like state itself may be relevant for understanding sleep disturbances in ASD patients.
Analysis of the main bioactive compounds from Ocimum basilicum for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activity
Authors: Backiam Arockia Doss Susai , Duraisamy Senbagam , Karuppaiya Palaniyandi , Balakrishnan Senthilkumar , Sathyan Aswathy , Kumarasamy Anbarasu , Raju Amutha
Published: August 2023

The interest in bioactives especially from botanicals to treat vancomycin‐resistant enterococcal (VRE) infections is increased. Many species of Ocimum have a long history in folk medicinal and food industries. Nevertheless, their bioactive compounds remain unexplored. This study is aimed to assess the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of basil leaf extract prepared using ethanol, methanol, and water. The ethanol and methanol extract have all the phytochemicals (alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, saponins, quinones, carbohydrates, and proteins) except steroids and terpenoids. In addition to steroids and terpenoids, tannin was also absent in the aqueous extract. Total phenolic and flavonoid content was high in ethanol and followed by methanol and aqueous extract. Similarly, ethanol and methanol extract showed strong antimicrobial activity against VRE and MTCC strains at a concentration of 20 mg/mL than aqueous extract. Among the 10 indicators, Staphylococcus aureus is highly susceptible to ethanol extract at a concentration of 8 mg/mL and followed by other MTCC strains. Vancomycin‐resistant enterococci pathogens were inhibited at the minimum inhibitory concentration of 14, 16, and 20 mg/mL of ethanol, methanol, and aqueous extract. Further, on the basis of determining the absorbing material (nucleic acid and protein) at 260 nm and scanning electron microscopic, it was confirmed that the loss of cell membrane integrity and cell membrane damage were the effective mechanisms of plant extract antimicrobial activity. All three solvents have shown remarkable antioxidant activity. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of basil leaves ethanol extract identified 19 compounds with various therapeutic and food applications.
Real‐world genomic testing and treatment patterns of newly diagnosed adult acute myeloid leukemia patients within a comprehensive health system
Authors: Byrd John C. , Gatz Jennifer L. , Louis Cynthia Lim , Mims Alice S. , Borate Uma , Yocum Ashley O. , Gana Theophilus J. , Burd Amy
Published: August 2023

Background

We evaluated the frequency of genomic testing and treatment patterns by age category in patients with newly diagnosed (ND) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated in both academic‐ and community‐based health systems within a single Midwestern State.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of data from the Indiana University Health System Enterprise Data Warehouse and two local cancer registries, of 629 patients aged ≥18 years with ND AML during 2011–2018. Primary outcome variables were, proportion of patients with genomic analysis and frequency of mutations. Chemotherapy was categorized as “standard induction” or “other chemotherapy”/targeted therapy, and hypomethylating agents.

Results

Overall, 13% of ND AML patients between 2011 and 2018 had evidence of a genomic sequencing report with a demonstrated increase to 37% since 2016. Genomic testing was more likely performed in patients: aged ≤60 years than >60 years (45% vs. 30%; p = 0.03), treated in academic versus community hospitals (44% vs. 26%; p = 0.01), and in chemotherapy recipients than non‐therapy recipients (46% vs. 19%; p < 0.001). Most common mutations were ASXL1, NPM1, and FLT3. Patients ≥75 years had highest proportion (46%) of multiple (≥3) mutations. Overall, 31.2% of patients with AML did not receive any therapy for their disease. This subgroup was older than chemotherapy recipients (mean age: 71.4 vs. 55.7 years, p < 0.001), and was highest (66.2%) in patients ≥75 years.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the unmet medical need to increase access to genomic testing to afford treatment options, particularly to older AML patients in the real‐world setting, in this new era of targeted therapies.
Early experience with percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty for treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture in Nepal: A case report
Authors: Thapa Paras , Bhattarai Madhur , Sharma Paudel Basanta , Sharma Prakash , Kunwar Pratiksha , Poudel Sushil , Koirala Saru , Pradhanang Amit , Klein Brendan J. , Farrokhi Farrokh
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Balloon kyphoplasty is a promising treatment option for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with posterior cortical defect, offering pain relief, vertebral height restoration, and low risk of cement leakage.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) annually, which cause pain and functional limitations, particularly in the elderly. Conservative treatments such as pain management, rest, and medication are frequently used, while surgical options such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are considered. We present a case of 68‐year‐old female with vertebral compression fracture of L1 vertebra with posterior cortical defect and posterior wall retropulsion. She was treated successfully with balloon kyphoplasty. Kyphoplasty appears to be a better option than vertebroplasty in cases with posterior cortical defect due to lower chance of cement leakage.
Modification of Conductive Carbon with N‐Coordinated Fe−Co Dual‐Metal Sites for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Muthusamy Saravanakumar , Sabbah Amr , Sabhapathy Palani , Chang Yu‐Chung , Billo Tadesse , Syum Zeru , Chen Li‐Chyong , Chen Kuei‐Hsien
Published: August 2023

Earth‐abundant commercial conductive carbon materials are ideal electrocatalyst supports but cannot be directly utilized for single‐atom catalysts owing to the lack of anchoring sites. Therefore, we employed crosslink polymerization to modify the conductive carbon surface with Fe−Co dual‐site electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). First, metal‐coordinated polyurea (PU) aerogels were prepared using via crosslinked polymerization at ambient temperature. Then, carbon‐supported, atomically dispersed Fe−Co dual‐atom sites (FeCoNC/BP) were formed by high‐temperatures pyrolysis with a nitrogen source. FTIR and 13C NMR measurements showed PU linkages, while 15N NMR revealed metal–nitrogen coordination in the PU gels. Asymmetric, N‐coordinated, and isolated Fe−Co active structures were found after pyrolysis using XAS and STEM. In alkaline media, FeCoNC/BP exhibited excellent ORR activity, with a E1/2 of 0.93 V vs. RHE, higher than that of Pt/C (20 %) (0.90 V), FeNC/BP (0.88 V), and CoNC/BP (0.85 V). An accelerated durability test (ADT) on FeCoNC/BP indicated good durability over 35000 cycles. FeCoNC/BP also showed moderate ORR and ADT performance in acidic media. The macro/mesoporous N‐doped carbon structures enhanced the mass transport properties of the dual Fe−Co active‐sites. Therefore, modifying carbon supports with nonprecious metal catalysts may be a cost‐effective‐strategy for sustained electrochemical energy conversion.
Exploring the Synergistic Effects of Dual‐Layer Electrodes for High Power Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Dawkins Jeremy I. G. , Pan Yani , Ghavidel Mohammadreza Z. , Geissler Johann , Krueger Bastian , Chhin Danny , Yuan Hui , Tong Victoria , Pelletier‐Villeneuve Brittany , Feng Renfei , Botton Gianluigi A. , Chapman Karena W. , Mauzeroll Janine , Schougaard Steen B.
Published: August 2023

The electrification of the transport sector has created an increasing demand for lithium‐ion batteries that can provide high power intermittently while maintaining a high energy density. Given the difficulty in designing a single redox material with both high power and energy density, electrodes based on composites of several electroactive materials optimized for power or capacity are being studied extensively. Among others, fast‐charging LiFePO4 and high energy Li(NixMnyCoz)O2 are commonly employed in industrial cell manufacturing. This study focuses on comparing different approaches to combining these two active materials into a single electrode. These arrangements were compared using standard electrochemical (dis)charge procedures and using synchrotron X‐ray fluorescence to identify variations in solution concentration gradient formation. The electrochemical performance of the layered electrodes with the high‐power material on top is found to be enhanced relative to its blended electrode counterpart when (dis)charged at the same specific currents. These findings highlight dual‐layer lithium‐ion batteries as an inexpensive way of increasing energy and power density of lithium‐ion batteries as well as a model system to study and exploit the synergistic effects of blended electrodes.
Diphenylpyrrole‐Strapped Calix[4]pyrrole Extractant for the Fluoride and Chloride Anions
Authors: Jung Heo Nam , Lynch Vincent M. , Gross Dustin E. , Sessler Jonathan L. , Kuk Kim Sung
Published: August 2023

The anion binding features of diphenylpyrrole‐strapped calix[4]pyrrole1have been investigated by means of1H NMR spectroscopy and ITC (isothermal titration calorimetry), as well as single crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. Receptor1bearing an auxiliary pyrrolic NH donor and solubilizing phenyl groups on the strap was found to bind F−, Cl−, and Br−as their tetrabutylammonium salts with high affinity in DMSO‐d6. In addition, receptor1was found to extract the fluoride anion (as both its tetraethylammonium (TEA+) and tetrabutylammonium (TBA+) salts), as well as the chloride anion into chloroform‐dfrom an aqueous source phase. Cation metathesis using TBAI or the use of a dual host approach involving crown ethers enabled receptor1to extract simple alkali metal fluoride or chloride salts from water. Quantitative binding of NaF by receptor1was observed in 20 % D2O‐DMSO‐d6allowing for the direct determination of the NaF concentration in an unknown sample.
Synthesis of 2,3‐Diaminoindolesvia a Copper‐Iodine Co‐catalytic Strategy
Authors: Yu Wenhua , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Gu Xiaoting , Qing Xirui , Wei Wanxing , Zhang Zhuan , Li Guanghua , Liang Taoyuan
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive Summary

A one‐pot synthesis of vicinal diamines using indoles, azoles and phenothiazines in a tandem multi‐component reaction is developed. The utilization of a copper‐iodine co‐catalytic system enables the generation of a diverse range of vicinal diaminoindoles with good selectivity and moderate to good yields. An attractive aspect of this method is that it can be conducted under mild and environmentally friendly conditions, showcasing its potential as an alternative approach for synthesizing vicinal diamines. Moreover, the use of a multicomponent tandem reaction highlights the power and versatility of such strategies in synthetic chemistry.
Cathode materials for calcium‐ion batteries: Current status and prospects
Authors: Wu Yuhan , Zhao Ziqi , Hao Xiaorui , Xu Rui , Li Laishi , Lv Dan , Huang Xianglong , Zhao Qing , Xu Yang , Wu Yusheng
Published: August 2023

In the post‐lithium‐ion battery era, calcium‐ion batteries (CIBs) have aroused extensive attention because of their strong cost competitiveness, low standard redox potentials, and high safety. However, the related research is progressing slowly due to the constraints of the development of electrode materials. The large ionic radius of Ca2+ especially increases the challenge to design cathode materials for reversible Ca2+ uptake/removal. Despite the inspiring achievements, various challenges still need to be further resolved. Here, this review systematically summarizes the recent advances in CIB cathode materials, including Prussian blue and its analogues, metal oxides, metal chalcogenides, polyanionic compounds, and organic materials. We first provide a brief introduction to CIBs and compare their advantages with other battery technologies. Then, preparation methods are introduced, and breakthrough investigations are highlighted. Finally, some possible research directions are discussed to promote the development of this emerging battery technology.
Using social‐ecological models to explore stream connectivity outcomes for stakeholders and Yellowstone cutthroat trout
Authors: Jossie Elizabeth , Seaborn Travis , Baxter Colden V. , Burnham Morey
Published: August 2023

Despite growing interest in conservation and re‐establishment of ecological connectivity, few studies have explored its context‐specific social–ecological outcomes. We aimed to explore social and ecological outcomes to changing stream connectivity for both stakeholders and native fish species impacted by habitat fragmentation and nonnative species. We (1) investigated stakeholder perceptions of the drivers and outcomes of stream connectivity, and (2) evaluated the effects of stakeholder‐identified connectivity and nonnative species scenarios on Yellowstone cutthroat trout (YCT) populations. Our study was conducted in the Teton River, Idaho, USA. We integrated two modeling approaches, mental modeling and individual‐based ecological modeling, to explore social–ecological outcomes for stakeholders and YCT populations. Aggregation of mental models revealed an emergent pattern of increasing complexity as more types of stakeholders were considered, as well as gaps and linkages among different stakeholder knowledge areas. These results highlight the importance of knowledge sharing among stakeholders when making decisions about connectivity. Additionally, the results from the individual‐based models suggested that the potential for a large, migratory life history form of YCT, in addition to self‐preference mating where they overlap with rainbow trout, had the strongest effects on outcomes for YCT. Exploring social and ecological drivers and outcomes to changing connectivity is useful for anticipating and adapting to unintended outcomes, as well as making decisions for desirable outcomes. The results from this study can contribute to the management dialogue surrounding stream connectivity in the Teton River, as well as to our understanding of connectivity conservation and its outcomes more broadly.
Metal–DNA interactions: Exploring the impact of metal ions on key stages of forensic DNA analysis
Authors: Bonsu Dan Nana Osei , Higgins Denice , Simon Claire , Henry Julianne M. , Austin Jeremy J.
Published: August 2023

Forensic DNA analysis continues to be hampered by the complex interactions between metals and DNA. Metal ions may cause direct DNA damage, inhibit DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification or both. This study evaluated the impact of metal ions on DNA extraction, quantitation, and short tandem repeat profiling using cell‐free and cellular (saliva) DNA. Of the 11 metals assessed, brass exhibited the strongest PCR inhibitory effects, for both custom and Quantifiler Trio quantitation assays. Metal ion inhibition varied across the two quantitative PCR assays and the amount of DNA template used. The Quantifiler Trio internal PCR control (IPC) only revealed evidence of PCR inhibition at higher metal ion concentrations, limiting the applicability of IPC as an indicator of the presence of metal inhibitor in a sample. Notably, ferrous ions were found to significantly decrease the extraction efficiency of the DNA‐IQ DNA extraction system. The amount of DNA degradation and inhibition in saliva samples caused by metal ions increased with a dilution of the sample, suggesting that the saliva matrix provides protection from metal ion effects.
Comparison of Aripiprazole and Risperidone effectiveness in treating obsessive‐compulsive disorder in patients with bipolar disorder: Double‐blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Khorshidian Faezeh , Hamidia Angela , Kheirkhah Farzan , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar , Bijani Ali , Mirtabar Seyedeh Mahbobeh , Koutanaei Sakineh Javadian
Published: August 2023

Background

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness with a chronic coarse and waxing and waning of symptoms. Treatment of OCD in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) remains challenging.

Objectives

The present study aims to compare the safety and effectiveness of Risperidone and Aripiprazole as adjunctive therapy with valproate sodium, in treating mania, depression, and OCD in patients with comorbidity of OCD‐BD.

Methods

This research is 3 phase, double‐blind, randomized clinical trial, with a total number of 64 patients. The diagnostic psychiatrist clinical interview was based on diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th edition (DSM‐5) criteria. For assessing severity of OCD, mania, and depression, Yale−Brown obsessive‐compulsive scale (Y‐BOCS), young mania rating scale (YMRS), and Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM‐D) scores were used. Patients were randomly assigned to the two parallel groups. All patients in both group were received valproate sodium, one group was treated with Aripiprazole and the other group was treated with Risperidon as adjective therapy with valproate sodium.

The SPSS software (version 22), χ2 test, t‐test, and analysis of variance with repeated measures were used to analyze the data.

Results

The dosage and time of both drugs were statistically significant in reducing the mean score of all three mentioned scales, but the effect of group was not statistically significant in HAM‐D and YMRS scores, only in terms of OCD, the mean of the Y‐BOCS score was significantly lower in the Aripiprazole group (p < 0.001). In relation to side effects, Risperidone induced statistically significant weight gain (p < 0.001) and Aripiprazole induced statistically significant sleep disturbance (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Both Aripiprazole and Risperidone can be used effectively as adjunctive therapy with valproate sodium in treating OCD in patients with BD without any serious and life threatening adverse effect. Aripiprazole is more effective than Risperidone in treating OCD in BD.
Rheumatoid arthritis‐associated interstitial lung disease hotspots and future directions: A Web‐of‐Science based scientometric and visualization study
Authors: Yang Yue , Zhang Zixuan , Zhang Xieyu , Zhang Xinwen , Zhi Kai , Zhao Xin , Zhao Jiahe , Cao Wei
Published: August 2023

Objective

To identify new trends and potential hotspots in research on rheumatoid arthritis‐associated interstitial lung disease (RA‐ILD).

Materials and Methods

The Web of Science (WOS) database was used to search for RA‐ILD‐related literature published between August 31, 2002 and August 31, 2022. CiteSpace 6.1.R3, VOSviewer version 1.6.17, Scimago Graphica, and Pajek V2.0 visualization software were used to conduct a comprehensive analysis and network visualization mapping of the authors, countries, institutions, journals, cited references, and keywords.

Results

A total of 2412 articles were retrieved, and the number of articles published has grown annually since 2002. Eric L. Matteson was the most prolific author, and the Mayo Clinic and UNITED STATES have the highest publishing volume and influence. Clinical Rheumatology is the journal with the most papers published. Rheumatology was the most cited journal. The citation clusters and keywords concentrated on the mechanism, treatment, and predictive and prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Pathogenesis, treatment, and predictive and prognostic factors were among the RA‐ILD research directions and hotspots. Antirheumatoid drugs, especially biologics and small molecule inhibitors, were among the most actively researched treatment options. The results of this study provides an in‐depth understanding of the development of RA‐ILD publications, aids researchers in understanding hotspots and trends and provides a new perspective for future RA‐ILD research.
The central role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and by‐products in COVID‐19 related pulmonary thrombosis
Authors: Li Shi , Wang Hui , Shao Qixiang
Published: August 2023

Extracellular trap networks (neutrophil extracellular traps [NETs]) of polymorphonuclear neutrophils are mesh‐like substances that prevent the spread of pathogens. They primarily consist of DNA skeletons, histones, granule components, and cytoplasmic proteins. NETs formation requires a certain environment and there are different pathways for NETs production. However, it is still not clear how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) promotes NETs. NETs exert antiinflammatory effects through immune response, while they can also lead to certain adverse outcomes, such as the development of immunothrombosis. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is an inflammatory reaction affecting various organs caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, especially the lungs. NETs production and disease severity are linked with unique neutrophil clusters by single‐cell RNA sequencing. NETs might exert an anti‐inflammatory role in the initial stage of lung tissue inflammation. Nevertheless, numerous studies and cases have shown that they can also result in pulmonary thrombosis. There is mounting evidence that NETs are tightly related with COVID‐19 pulmonary thrombosis, and many studies on the mechanisms are involved. The role and mechanism of NETs in the development of pulmonary thrombosis will be the main topics of this manuscript. Additionally, we address the potential targeting of NETs in COVID‐19 patients.
DOCK8 inhibits the immune function of neutrophils in sepsis by regulating aerobic glycolysis
Authors: Zhu Hongjun , Xu Junlong , Li Ke , Chen Miaomiao , Wu Yueming , Zhang Xian , Chen Hua , Chen Deyuan
Published: August 2023

Introduction

This study endeavored to investigate the role of DOCK8 in modulating the immune function triggered by sepsis.

Methods

Expression of DOCK8 in the whole blood of sepsis patients and its enrichment pathways were assayed by bioinformatics. Pearson analysis was used to predict the relationship between glycolytic signaling pathway and its relevance to neutrophil function in sepsis. A sepsis mouse model was then built by performing cecal ligation and puncture treatment on male mice. Neutrophils were isolated, and their purity was tested by flow cytometry. Neutrophils were then stimulated by lipopolysaccharide to build a sepsis cell model. Next, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and CCK‐8 were applied to test the expression of DOCK8 and cell viability, western blot to assay the expression of HK‐2, PKM2, and LDHA proteins, ELISA to measure the concentrations of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6, Transwell to detect the chemotaxis of neutrophils and flow cytometry to detect the phagocytic activity of neutrophils. Finally, in different treatment groups, we used Seahorse XF 96 to analyze the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) of sepsis cells and used enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to detect the contents of pyruvic acid, lactic acid, and ATP in sepsis cells.

Results

DOCK8 was downregulated in sepsis blood and activated neutrophils. Aerobic glycolysis was positively correlated with sepsis. Activated neutrophils promoted the expression of inflammatory factors TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6. Low expression of DOCK8 facilitated the proliferation, chemotaxis, and phagocytic activity of sepsis cells and promoted the expression of inflammatory factors. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that DOCK8 was enriched in the glycolytic signaling pathway. Low expression of DOCK8 induced ECAR, promoted the protein expression of HK‐2, PKM2 and LDHA, and favored the increase of pyruvate, lactate, and ATP contents. While 2‐DG treatment could restore these effects.

Conclusion

DOCK8 may inhibit sepsis‐induced neutrophil immune function by regulating aerobic glycolysis and causing excessive inflammation, which helps to explore potential therapeutic targets.
First‐ever Marburg virus disease outbreak in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania: An imminent crisis in West and East Africa
Authors: Sibomana Olivier , Kubwimana Emmanuel
Published: August 2023

The Marburg virus, which is a member of the same virus family as the Ebola virus called Filoviridae, causes the severe infectious disease known as Marburg virus disease (MVD). Previously, different outbreaks of MVD have appeared in different African countries, including Ghana, Guinea, Uganda, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, and South Africa. For the first time, Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania are experiencing MVD outbreaks. A total of 17 laboratory‐confirmed cases of MVD and 23 probable cases have been reported in Equatorial Guinea since the confirmation of the outbreak on February 13, 2023. The first MVD outbreak in the United Republic of Tanzania was formally confirmed by the Ministry of Health on March 21, 2023. As of 22 March, there were eight cases and five fatalities (case fatality ratio [CFR]: 62.5%). Due to the facts that Ebebiyin and Nsock Nsomo districts, the affected regions of Equatorial Guinea, borders Cameroon and Gabon, and Kagera region, the affected region of Tanzania, borders Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, there is fear of cross‐border spread of MVD due to cross‐border migrations, and this can be a great crisis in West and East Africa. Although there are currently outbreaks of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, there is currently no proof of an epidemiological connection between the two outbreaks. The aim of this article is to describe MVD, describe its first outbreak in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, explain the efforts being used and the challenges being faced in MVD mitigation, and recommend different measures to be taken to cope with the outbreak of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania.
Genome‐wide exploration of genetic interactions for bladder cancer risk
Authors: Yu Evan Yi‐Wen , Tang Qiu‐Yi , Chen Ya‐Ting , Zhang Yan‐Xi , Dai Ya‐Nan , Wu Yu‐Xuan , Li Wen‐Chao , Mehrkanoon Siamak , Wang Shi‐Zhi , Zeegers Maurice P. , Wesselius Anke
Published: August 2023

Although GWASs have been conducted to investigate genetic variation of bladder tumorigenesis, little is known about genetic interactions that may influence bladder cancer (BC) risk. By leveraging large‐scale participants from UK Biobank, we established a discovery database with 4000 Caucasian participants (2000 cases vs 2000 non‐cases), a database with 1648 Caucasian participants (824 cases vs 824 non‐cases) and 856 non‐Caucasian participants (428 cases vs 428 non‐cases) as validation. We then performed a genome‐wide SNP‐SNP interaction investigation related to BC risk based a machine learning approach (ie, GenEpi). Moreover, we used the selected interactions to build a BC screening model with an integrated interaction‐empowered polygenic risk score (iPRS) based on Cox proportional hazard model. With Bonferroni correction, we identified 10 statistically significant pairs of SNPs, which located in 17 chromosomes. Of these, four SNP‐SNP interactions were found to be positively associated with BC risk among Caucasian participants (ORs 1.57‐2.03), while six SNP‐SNP interactions showed negatively associated with BC risk (ORs 0.54‐0.65). Only four of the SNP‐SNP interactions were consistently identified in non‐Caucasian participants located in ST7L‐ADSS2, FHIT‐CHDH, LARP4B‐LHPP and RBFOX3‐MPRIP. In addition, the iPRS showed a HR of 1.81 (95% CI: 1.46‐2.09) compared the highest tertile to the lowest tertile, with an enhanced AUC (0.91; 95% CI:0.85‐0.97) than PRS (AUC: 0.86; 95% CI:0.76‐0.95; P‐DeLong test = 2.2 × 10−4). In summary, this study identified several important SNP‐SNP interactions for BC risk, and developed an iPRS model for BC screening, which may help to identify the people at high‐risk state of BC before early manifestation.
Synthesis, characterization, mechanical and magnetic characteristics of Gd3+/PO43− substituted zircon for application in hard tissue replacements
Authors: M Ezhilan , Alam M. Mushtaq , Vijayalakshmi U. , Gupta Somlee , Dhayalan Arunkumar , Kannan S.
Published: August 2023

The study reports on the use of sol–gel technique to yield zircon type [Zr(1–0.1–x) GdxTi0.1] [(SiO4)1–x(PO4)x] solid solution. Titanium has been used as a mineralizer to trigger zircon formation while equimolar concentrations of Gd3+ and PO43− were added to determine their accommodation limits in the zircon structure. The crystallization of t‐ZrO2 as a dominant phase alongside the crystallization of m‐ZrO2 and zircon were detected at 1200°C while their further annealing revealed the formation of zircon as a major phase at 1300°C. Heat treatment at 1400°C revealed the formation of zircon‐type solid solution [Zr(1–0.1‐x)GdxTi0.1][(SiO4)1−x(PO4)x] comprising the accommodation of 10 mol.% of Gd3+/PO43− at the zircon lattice. Beyond 10 mol.% of Gd3+/PO43−, the crystallization of GdPO4 as a secondary phase is noticed. Structural analysis revealed the expansion of zircon lattice due to the simultaneous occupancy of Gd3+/PO43− for the corresponding Zr4+/SiO44− sites. The mechanical strength of single‐phase zircon solid solution was higher in comparison to that of multiphase materials, namely in the presence of GdPO4 formed as a secondary phase in samples with added equimolar Gd3+/PO43− contents beyond 10 mol.%. Nevertheless, the paramagnetic behavior of the samples demonstrated a steady surge as a function of enhanced Gd3+ content.
A tailored, interdisciplinary, multicomponent approach to decreasing workers’ compensation claims and costs in a hospital system: A retrospective study
Authors: Cinkay Jon
Published: August 2023

Goal

Healthcare is the leading profession for risk of injury with workers face a number of potential risk factors leading to musculoskeletal disorders. One method to promote safety for healthcare workers is with body mechanics training and ergonomics. Evidence suggests multicomponent interventions are required for successful safe patient handling programs. While numerous studies have considered interventions for nurses and nursing programs, few have targeted both patient handling and non‐patient handling employees simultaneously in a healthcare setting. Our main objective is to describe the implementation of a tailored multicomponent program (TMP) to address the needs of each department within a healthcare setting and examine the percentage of subsequent claims and overall costs reported.

Methods

The TMP was designed to combine department specific and employee specific evaluations and interventions to address workplace needs for all employees. Physical therapists implemented a combination of tailored hands on inservices, orientations, ergonomic assessments, physical therapy screens, return to work appointments, and education sessions over a period of six years. By tailoring the approach for each department, the TMP could focus on employee safety and environmental awareness, ultimately lower the risk of injury, claims and costs.

Principal Findings

Results demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in workers’ compensation claims and overall costs in the years following the implementation of the TMP. Changes were immediate and continued over several years, indicating the effectiveness of the TMP.

Practical Applications

Healthcare continues to be the most dangerous profession, with workers facing risk of injury from a number of possibilities. The TMP effectively addressed those risks. As the health care institution grew and evolved, so, too, did the TMP, altering itself and the needs and risks for each department changed. Interdisciplinary collaboration and communication were key to the success of the program. Continued reassessment is required to address the changing needs and institutional growth to ensure future success.
Formalising written preliminary image evaluation by Australian radiographers: a review of practice value
Authors: Tonks Allie , Varcoe Justin , Maurici Siena
Published: August 2023

The Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA) minimum competency framework requires all Australian radiographers to identify significant pathology in radiological images and take appropriate action to alert these urgent findings and ensure patient safety. Despite professional bodies endorsing the provision of preliminary image evaluations (PIE) in written format, radiographer image interpretation often remains inconsistent, informal, or undocumented. The purpose of this narrative review was to assess the literature to determine if PIE in the form of written radiographer comments is of value to the Australian healthcare system. A structured search was completed using four health research databases: CINAHL, Medline, Scopus and Web of Science. Studies have suggested that there is a contextual need for commenting due to increased imaging service pressures, radiologist shortages and subsequent reporting delays. Radiographers appear well placed and willing to provide accurate initial input with evidence that this would be valued and appreciated within the multidisciplinary team. Radiographer commenting has also been shown to reduce diagnostic and communicative errors with the potential to improve patient management. Finally, it was shown that participation in image interpretation practices can enhance recruitment, retention and job satisfaction among radiographers. Therefore, the current literature supports implementation of radiographer commenting within the Australian healthcare system.
Effects of different strains fermentation on the sensory and nutritional properties of soy‐based yogurt
Authors: Xu Xinyue , Yan Yaxin , Xu Jiaxin , Yuan Zhiheng , Li Jun , Wang Shengnan , Yang Lina , Liu Jun , Liu He , Zhu Danshi
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Soy protein is the only full plant protein that is comparable to animal protein. Soy whey contains a variety of nutrients including isoflavones and oligosaccharides. Additionally, different strains have profound influence on functional metabolism. Most prospective studies used mixed strain fermented yogurt, but few studies on single strain fermented yogurt. The present study aimed to ferment nutritious and healthy soy‐based yogurt using a single strain and to provide technical support for the reuse of soy whey.

RESULTS

Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus HCS07‐002, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HCS04‐001 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HCS03‐084 had strong growth and metabolic activities. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HCS04‐001 fermentation raised the texture and rheological properties of yogurt and enriched the flavor substances in the yogurt, resulting in a good quality soy‐based yogurt. The contents of arginine, glutamic and proline were greatly affected by the fermentation of different strains. The fermentation of B. animalis subsp. lactis HCS04‐001 was beneficial to the enrichment of soy isoflavone and equol in yogurt, and enhanced antioxidant activity of yogurt.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that yogurt fermented with B. animalis subsp. lactis HCS04‐001 had the best sensory and nutritional properties, which provides valuable insights into the selection of suitable strains to improve the quality and nutritional value of plant yogurt. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Climate risk zoning for wheat crops in the southeastern region of Brazil
Authors: Aparecido Lucas Eduardo de Oliveira , Padua Jose Maria Villela , Torsoni Guilherme Botega , Barboza Thiago Orlando Costa , Viol Lara Eduarda Silva , da Silva Cabral de Moraes Jose Reinaldo , dos Santos Adão Felipe
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the second most consumed food in the world. One way to meet this demand is the expansion of wheat cultivation to the Brazilian Cerrado in the southeastern region. However, one of the major limitations is that there are few studies related to wheat climate risk zoning. Thus, this study aimed to determine the agroclimatic zoning of wheat by estimating the water needs satisfaction index (ISNA) in the southeastern region of Brazil. For this purpose, a 60‐year historical series of meteorological data was used to calculate the potential evapotranspiration, crop evapotranspiration, and climatological water balance values. To define the agroclimatic zones of wheat and sowing date, the ISNA method was used. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine the variations. To obtain the agroclimatic zoning of wheat, the geostatistical method of kriging interpolation was used.

RESULTS

The regions with the highest rainfall are the south of Minas Gerais and the coast of São Paulo. The sowing period directly impacts the development of the crop, the available water capacity and the ISNA values indicated the spring and summer had better cultivation conditions, and the best window for wheat cultivation is concentrated in the fall due to the limitation of biotic factors.

CONCLUSION

In terms of altitude (>700 m), Minas Gerais has 39.4% of the area suitable for wheat cultivation. Thus, climatic variations within and between the states of the southeastern region should be considered for the positioning of wheat cultivars in these regions to obtain the maximum yield. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Aneurysmal bone cyst: Is selective arterial embolization effective as curettage and bone grafting?
Authors: Cevolani Luca , Staals Eric , Campanacci Laura , Dozza Barbara , Martella Claudia , Spinnato Paolo , Di Carlo Maddalena , Peta Giuliano , Donati Davide M. , Miceli Marco , Facchini Giancarlo
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a lytic benign bone lesion representing about 1% of all primary bone tumors. Method to treat ABC's have developed over time. The standard of care cure for ABC has been curettage with or without bone grafting of the defect but is burdened by recurrence rates of approximately 25%–31%. Based on the assumption that ABCs usually supplied by one or more pathological feeding arteries, selective arterial embolization has been described as an adjuvant preoperative procedure to reduce intra‐operative hemorrhage, and as primary treatment for lesions in difficult surgical access. In the current study, we therefore asked whether (1) a single or a repeat selective arterial embolization (SAE) for treating ABCs would produce comparable healing rates compared with curettage and bone grafting; (2) evaluated the relationship of recurrence in relation to the site of the cyst, the age, and gender of the patients; and (3) the two techniques differ in term of long‐term complication.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 265 patients who underwent curettage and bone grafting or SAE performed at our institute from 1994 to 2018. The diagnosis of ABC was always established with percutaneous CT‐guided biopsy or open biopsy. Patients were followed clinically with plain radiographs or CT scan at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months then annually in the absence of symptoms. Treatment success was determined evaluating pre‐ and postprocedural imaging according to Chang classification.

Results

Two hundred and nineteen were treated with curettage and bone grafting (curettage group), and 46 with SAE Group. Of the 219 patients treated with Curettage and bone grafting (curettage group), 165 out of 219 (75.3%) experienced bone healing, while local recurrence was observed in 54 cases (24.7%) after 12 months on average (range: 3–120 months) from surgery. After the first SAE, bone ossification was seen in 27 (58.7%), without needing any further treatment. Eleven recurred patients were treated with SAE (four patients need two while seven need three SAE to heal), and eight patients with curettage and bone grafting. Thirty‐eight out of 46 (82%) patients experienced bone ossification regardless the number of SAE. The overall rate of local recurrence for all patients was 26.7%. SAE group presented a lower complication rate (6%) where two patients experienced skin necrosis, and one limb‐length discrepancies (2% of all cohort).

Discussion

The use of SAE is an attractive option to treat ABC as it combines on one hand a lower complication rate than curettage and bone grafting, on the other it can be carried out in case of nonresectable ABCs, significantly reducing the size of viable ABC lesions, fostering bone remodeling and mineralization, and most importantly, significantly improving the patient's quality of life.