bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Hailey-Hailey Disease With Topical Cinacalcet, 3%, Ointment
Authors: Edminister John R. , Patel Heli A. , Pixley Jessica N. , Huang William W. , Jorizzo Joseph L.
Published: April 2023

This case report describes a woman in her 50s with a large, crusted, erythematous plaque on the right chest that was consistent with a Hailey-Hailey disease flare.
Estimated Clinical Outcomes and Cost-effectiveness Associated With Provision of Addiction Treatment in US Primary Care Clinics
Authors: Jawa Raagini , Tin Yjuliana , Nall Samantha , Calcaterra Susan L. , Savinkina Alexandra , Marks Laura R. , Kimmel Simeon D. , Linas Benjamin P. , Barocas Joshua A.
Published: April 2023

Importance

US primary care practitioners (PCPs) are the largest clinical workforce, but few provide addiction care. Primary care is a practical place to expand addiction services, including buprenorphine and harm reduction kits, yet the clinical outcomes and health care sector costs are unknown.

Objective

To estimate the long-term clinical outcomes, costs, and cost-effectiveness of integrated buprenorphine and harm reduction kits in primary care for people who inject opioids.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this modeling study, the Reducing Infections Related to Drug Use Cost-Effectiveness (REDUCE) microsimulation model, which tracks serious injection-related infections, overdose, hospitalization, and death, was used to examine the following treatment strategies: (1) PCP services with external referral to addiction care (status quo), (2) PCP services plus onsite buprenorphine prescribing with referral to offsite harm reduction kits (BUP), and (3) PCP services plus onsite buprenorphine prescribing and harm reduction kits (BUP plus HR). Model inputs were derived from clinical trials and observational cohorts, and costs were discounted annually at 3%. The cost-effectiveness was evaluated over a lifetime from the modified health care sector perspective, and sensitivity analyses were performed to address uncertainty. Model simulation began January 1, 2021, and ran for the entire lifetime of the cohort.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Life-years (LYs), hospitalizations, mortality from sequelae (overdose, severe skin and soft tissue infections, and endocarditis), costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs).

Results

The simulated cohort included 2.25 million people and reflected the age and gender of US persons who inject opioids. Status quo resulted in 6.56 discounted LYs at a discounted cost of $203 500 per person (95% credible interval, $203 000-$222 000). Each strategy extended discounted life expectancy: BUP by 0.16 years and BUP plus HR by 0.17 years. Compared with status quo, BUP plus HR reduced sequelae-related mortality by 33%. The mean discounted lifetime cost per person of BUP and BUP plus HR were more than that of the status quo strategy. The dominating strategy was BUP plus HR. Compared with status quo, BUP plus HR was cost-effective (ICER, $34 400 per LY). During a 5-year time horizon, BUP plus HR cost an individual PCP practice approximately $13 000.

Conclusions and Relevance

This modeling study of integrated addiction service in primary care found improved clinical outcomes and modestly increased costs. The integration of addiction service into primary care practices should be a health care system priority.
Disruption of National Cancer Database Data Models in the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lum Sharon S. , Browner Amanda E. , Palis Bryan , Nelson Heidi , Boffa Daniel , Nogueira Leticia M. , Hawhee Vicki , McCabe Ryan M. , Mullett Timothy , Wick Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Importance

Each year, the National Cancer Database (NCDB) collects and analyzes data used in reports to support research, quality measures, and Commission on Cancer program accreditation. Because data models used to generate these reports have been historically stable, year-to-year variances have been attributed to changes within the cancer program rather than data modeling. Cancer submissions in 2020 were anticipated to be significantly different from prior years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study involved a validation analysis of the variances in observed to expected 2020 NCDB cancer data in comparison with 2019 and 2018.

Observations

The NCDB captured a total of 1 223 221 overall cancer cases in 2020, a decrease of 14.4% (Δ = −206 099) compared with 2019. The early months of the COVID-19 pandemic (March-May 2020) coincided with a nadir of cancer cases in April 2020 that did not recover to overall prepandemic levels through the remainder of 2020. In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the proportion of early-stage disease decreased sharply overall, while the proportion of late-stage disease increased. However, differences in observed to expected stage distribution in 2020 varied by primary disease site. Statistically significant differences in the overall observed to expected proportions of race and ethnicity, sex, insurance type, geographic location, education, and income were identified, but consistent patterns were not evident.

Conclusions and Relevance

Historically stable NCDB data models used for research, administrative, and quality improvement purposes were disrupted during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. NCDB data users will need to carefully interpret disease- and program-specific findings for years to come to account for pandemic year aberrations when running models that include 2020.
Aggregation of Leslie matrix models with application to ten diverse animal species
Authors: Hinrichsen Richard A.
Published: April 2023

Some grouping is necessary when constructing a Leslie matrix model because it involves discretizing a continuous process of births and deaths. The level of grouping is determined by the number of age classes and frequency of sampling. It is largely unknown what is lost or gained by using fewer age classes, and I address this question using aggregation theory. I derive an aggregator for a Leslie matrix model using weighted least squares, determine what properties an aggregated matrix inherits from the original matrix, evaluate aggregation error, and measure the influence of aggregation on asymptotic and transient behaviors. To gauge transient dynamics, I employ reactivity of the standardized Leslie matrix. I apply the aggregator to 10 Leslie models developed for animal populations drawn from a diverse set of species. Several properties are inherited by the aggregated matrix: (a) it is a Leslie matrix; (b) it is irreducible whenever the original matrix is irreducible; (c) it is primitive whenever the original matrix is primitive; and (d) its stable population growth rate and stable age distribution are consistent with those of the original matrix if the least squares weights are equal to the original stable age distribution. In the application, depending on the population modeled, when the least squares weights do not follow the stable age distribution, the stable population growth rate of the aggregated matrix may or may not be approximately consistent with that of the original matrix. Transient behavior is lost with high aggregation.
Polarization Switching and Correlated Phase Transitions in Fluorite‐Structure ZrO2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Li Xinyan , Zhong Hai , Lin Ting , Meng Fanqi , Gao Ang , Liu Zhuohui , Su Dong , Jin Kuijuan , Ge Chen , Zhang Qinghua , Gu Lin
Published: April 2023

Unconventional ferroelectricity in fluorite‐structure oxides enables tremendous opportunities in nanoelectronics owing to their superior scalability and silicon compatibility. However, their polarization order and switching process remain elusive due to the challenges of visualizing oxygen ions in nanocrystalline films. In this work, the oxygen shifting during polarization switching and correlated polar–nonpolar phase transitions are directly captured among multiple metastable phases in freestanding ZrO2 thin films by low‐dose integrated differential phase‐contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (iDPC‐STEM). Bidirectional transitions between antiferroelectric and ferroelectric orders and interfacial polarization relaxation are clarified at unit‐cell scale. Meanwhile, polarization switching is strongly correlated with Zr–O displacement in reversible martensitic transformation between monoclinic and orthorhombic phases and two‐step tetrahedral‐to‐orthorhombic phase transition. These findings provide atomic insights into the transition pathways between metastable polymorphs and unravel the evolution of polarization orders in (anti)ferroelectric fluorite oxides.
High‐Throughput Area‐Selective Spatial Atomic Layer Deposition of SiO2 with Interleaved Small Molecule Inhibitors and Integrated Back‐Etch Correction for Low Defectivity
Authors: Karasulu Bora , Roozeboom Fred , Mameli Alfredo
Published: April 2023

A first‐of‐its‐kind area‐selective deposition process for SiO2 is developed consisting of film deposition with interleaved exposures to small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) and back‐etch correction steps, within the same spatial atomic layer deposition (ALD) tool. The synergy of these aspects results in selective SiO2 deposition up to ~23 nm with high selectivity and throughput, with SiO2 growth area and ZnO nongrowth area. The selectivity is corroborated by both X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and low‐energy ion scattering spectroscopy (LEIS). The selectivity conferred by two different SMIs, ethylbutyric acid, and pivalic acid has been compared experimentally and theoretically. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations reveal that selective surface functionalization using both SMIs is predominantly controlled thermodynamically, while the better selectivity achieved when using trimethylacetic acid can be explained by its higher packing density compared to ethylbutyric acid. By employing the trimethylacetic acid as SMI on other starting surfaces (Ta2O5, ZrO2, etc.) and probing the selectivity, a broader use of carboxylic acid inhibitors for different substrates is demonstrated. It is believed that the current results highlight the subtleties in SMI properties such as size, geometry, and packing, as well as interleaved back‐etch steps, which are key in developing ever more effective strategies for highly selective deposition processes.
Guided, motor, and mental imagery adjuncts to teaching central venous access
Authors: Cryder Sydney , Jensen Stephen , McCarthy Joseph , Whitworth Kristen , Kennelley Gabrielle E. , Nowak Andrew S. , Hysell Matthew K.
Published: April 2023

Background

Mental, motor, and guided imagery techniques are commonly used in sports psychology, but less often in medical education. Utilization of imagery‐based techniques (IBTs) in combination with traditional teaching methods may provide a low‐cost, innovative approach to improving outcomes in graduate medical education.

Objective

The objective was to assess whether medical students demonstrate greater proficiency in the ability to obtain central venous access in simulation trainers following exposure to guided, mental, and motor imagery teaching methods in comparison to traditional methods.

Methods

Volunteer fourth‐year medical students during their emergency medicine rotation were randomly assigned to two groups, traditional plus imagery teaching or traditional teaching alone. The control group watched a video tutorial on central line placement methods. The study group watched the same video with the addition of imagery components. Participants filled out survey questions before and after the video and again after line placement. Proctors blinded to student group assignments then observed student placement of an internal jugular triple‐lumen catheter on a simulation trainer and completed a standardized performance rubric.

Results

Sixty medical students participated. Two were excluded for having performed five or more lines either clinically or in a previous simulation. There was no difference in self‐perceived competence in line placement prior to watching the video or in the number of lines previously performed between groups. The imagery group (n = 25) averaged 1.3 errors/need for intervention compared to 2.2 errors/need for intervention in the control group (n = 33; p = 0.045, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.02 to 1.61). Time to place the line was similar—8.9 min for the control group versus 8.6 min for the imagery group (p = 0.74, 95% CI −1.39 to 1.95).

Conclusions

The use of IBTs may be a promising adjunct to traditional medical teaching of procedures in emergency medicine.
Predictive Learning of Error Recovery with a Sensorized Passivity‐Based Soft Anthropomorphic Hand
Authors: Gilday Kieran , George-Thuruthel Thomas , Iida Fumiya
Published: April 2023

Manipulation strategies based on the passive dynamics of soft‐bodied interactions provide robust performances with limited sensory information. They utilize the kinematic structure and passive dynamics of the body to adapt to objects of varying shapes and properties. However, these soft passive interactions make the state of the robotic device influenced by the environment, making control generation and state estimation difficult. This work presents a closed‐loop framework for dynamic interaction‐based grasping that relies on two novelties: 1) a wrist‐driven passive soft anthropomorphic hand that can generate robust grasp strategies using one‐step kinaesthetic teaching and 2) a learning‐based perception system that uses temporal data from sparse tactile sensors to predict and adapt to failures before it happens. With the anthropomorphic soft design and wrist‐driven control, it is shown that controllers can be generated robust to novel objects and location uncertainty. With the learning‐based high‐level perception system and 32 sensing receptors, it is shown that failures can be predicted in advance, further improving the robustness of the entire system by more than doubling the grasping success rate. From over 1000 real‐world grasping trials, both the control and perception framework are also seen to be transferable to novel objects and conditions. An interactive preprint version of the article can be found here:https://doi.org/10.22541/au.167687985.55182112/v1.
Supramolecular Copolymers Under Kinetic, Thermodynamic, or Pathway‐Switching Control
Authors: Chen Yan , Shi Yusheng , Gao Zhanming , Wang Lei , Tang Yutian , Liu Jinxuan , Liu Chun
Published: April 2023

Supramolecular copolymers have attracted much attention due to their potential functionalities. However, the co‐assembly strategies to construct co‐assemblies of small molecules with well‐defined sequence structures are still limited, especially for more complex crystalline block co‐assemblies. Herein, we target this challenge by designing IrIII complexes 1 and 2, which possess unique self‐assembly pathways and are capable of forming crystalline assemblies in aqueous systems. Specifically, block and random co‐assemblies of 1 and 2 can be synthesized by kinetic and thermodynamic control, respectively. Meanwhile, by adjusting the water content to orthogonalize the on‐pathway and the off‐pathway, an unprecedented pathway‐switching approach is realized to synthesize block and random co‐assemblies. By coupling the kinetic pathways, the present co‐assembly strategies are expected to pave the way for the synthesis of crystalline co‐assemblies of small molecules and the construction of organic heterostructures.
Catalytic conversion of methane into benzene over ceria–zirconia‐promoted molybdenum‐supported zeolite for methane dehydroaromatization
Authors: Mishra Deepti , Modak Arindam , Pant Kamal Kishore , Ambeth Prabhakaran Vanaraja , Konarova Muxina , Zhao Xiu Song
Published: April 2023

The promotional effect of mixed ceria–zirconia oxides (CZO) over the Mo/HZSM‐5 catalyst for methane dehydroaromatization (MDA) reaction was studied. The surface and structural properties of the synthesized catalyst were thoroughly exemplified using various microscopic and spectroscopic tools, and the correlation between catalytic properties and its performance for MDA reaction is discussed. The impregnation of CZO solid solution on Mo/HZSM‐5 was monitored to give an excellent catalytic performance and improved benzene production rate (4.5 μmol/gcat.s) related to the conventionally prepared Mo/HZSM‐5 (3.1 μmol/gcat.s) catalyst. In addition, a significant reduction in coke formation was examined in the CZO‐modified Mo/HZSM‐5 catalyst. The prevailing comprehension for higher catalytic activity could be because of the redox properties of CZO‐deposited Mo/HZSM‐5, which acts as a selective oxygen supplier and performs hydrogen combustion during the reaction, which is indirectly probed by residual gas analysis‐mass spectroscopy, oxygen‐temperature programmed desorption, and hydrogen‐temperature programmed reduction analysis. The selective hydrogen combustion prevents the over‐oxidation of aromatic species formed during the reaction, whereas the generated steam helps in reducing the coke content deposition in the MDA reaction. Thus, the advantage of CZO‐incorporated Mo/HZSM‐5 is manifested as it promotes the reaction equilibrium to shift towards the formation of benzene which is favourable for MDA reaction.
A Digital Blueprint for 3D‐Printing Lab Scale Aqueous and Organic Redox‐Flow Batteries
Authors: Kortekaas Luuk , Fricke Sebastian , Korshunov Aleksandr , Winter Martin , Cekic‐Laskovic Isidora , Grünebaum Mariano
Published: April 2023

As 3D‐printing is becoming increasingly accessible, its application towards more sustainable and flexible design strategies for chemical processes also grows substantially. Redox‐flow batteries (RFBs) are recognized as one of the possible next generation energy storage solutions, owing to the inherent decoupling of power and energy, yet the capital costs involved produce a high barrier to enter the field. Here, we demonstrate a full digital blueprint for printing one's own RFB, that can enable more (organic chemistry) contributions to the field. At the time of writing, the combined costs of only the RFB cell total around 60 €, which is less than commercially available RFB cells by a great margin. The cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy and potentiostatic cycling experiments exemplified by the K4[FeII(CN)6]|K3[FeIII(CN)6] redox‐pair for aqueous, and ferrocene|ferrocenium for organic electrolytes, validate the stability of the technical lab‐scale design and provides benchmark values for reproduction.
CEO's marketing experience and firm green innovation
Authors: Huang Hao , Chang Yaping , Zhang Liyuan
Published: April 2023

Drawing on upper echelons theory (UET), we examine whether and how chief executive office (CEO) marketing experience affects firm green innovation. Using a sample of Chinese‐listed manufacturing firms from 2008–2020 and hand‐collected data on CEO marketing experience, we find a positive relationship between CEOs' marketing experience and corporate green innovation. The positive relationship is robust after a series of robustness tests. Our further investigations reveal that the positive relationship is more pronounced when firms face higher‐level media coverage and stricter local environmental regulations. In addition, using textual analysis, we also find that market‐oriented culture plays a critical mediating role in this positive relationship. These findings enrich the relevant literature on strategic leadership and green innovation and are essential for companies and policymakers in developing green innovation strategies.
Real‐time tracking of fibrinolysis under constant wall shear and various pulsatile flows in an in‐vitro thrombolysis model
Authors: Zeng Ziqian , Christodoulides Alexei , Alves Nathan J.
Published: April 2023

A great need exists for the development of a more representative in‐vitro model to efficiently screen novel thrombolytic therapies. We herein report the design, validation, and characterization of a highly reproducible, physiological scale, flowing clot lysis platform with real‐time fibrinolysis monitoring to screen thrombolytic drugs utilizing a fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐labeled clot analog. Using this Real‐Time Fluorometric Flowing Fibrinolysis assay (RT‐FluFF assay), a tPa‐dependent degree of thrombolysis was observed both via clot mass loss as well as fluorometrically monitored release of FITC‐labeled fibrin degradation products. Percent clot mass loss ranged from 33.6% to 85.9% with fluorescence release rates of 0.53 to 1.17 RFU/min in 40 and 1000 ng/mL tPa conditions, respectively. The platform is easily adapted to produce pulsatile flows. Hemodynamics of human main pulmonary artery were mimicked through matching dimensionless flow parameters calculated using clinical data. Increasing pressure amplitude range (4–40 mmHg) results in a 20% increase of fibrinolysis at 1000 ng/mL tPA. Increasing shear flow rate (205–913 s−1) significantly increases fibrinolysis and mechanical digestion. These findings suggest pulsatile level affects thrombolytic drug activities and the proposed in‐vitro clot model offers a versatile testing platform for thrombolytic drug screening.
Azide‐Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazolium Salts as Useful Synthetic Synthons: Access to Triazenyl Radicals and Staudinger Type Reactivity
Authors: Stein Felix , Suhr Simon , Singha Hazari Arijit , Walter Robert , Nößler Maite , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: April 2023

Mesoionic carbenes (MIC) are a popular class of compound that are heavily investigated at the moment. The access to cationic MICs, and the ability of MICs to stabilize radicals are two highly attractive fields that have hardly been explored until now. Here the synthesis and characterisation of three different cationic azide‐substituted 1,2,3‐triazolium salts, used as building blocks for studying their reactivity towards triphenylphosphine are reported, where the reactivity is dependent on the nature of the starting triazolium salt. Furthermore, the cationic triazolium salts were used to develop a series of unsymmetrical MIC‐triazene‐NHC/MIC’ compounds, which can be readily converted to the radical form either by electrochemical or chemical methods. These radicals, which display NIR electrochromism, were investigated using a battery of techniques such as electrochemistry, UV/Vis/NIR and EPR spectroelectrochemistry, and theoretical calculations. Interestingly, the MIC plays an important role in the stabilization of the triazenyl radical, particularly in a competitive role vis‐à‐vis their NHC counterparts. These results shed new light on the ability of MICs to stabilize radicals, and possibly also on their π‐accepting ability.
Monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma: A literature review
Authors: Tamimi Amirhossein , Tamimi Atena , Sorkheh Fatemeh , Asl Saba Mardekatani , Ghafari Arezoo , Karimi Arian Ghannadi , Erabi Gisou , Pourmontaseri Hossein , Deravi Niloofar
Published: April 2023

Background

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a relatively common and heterogenous malignancy of different organs, such as the skin, esophagus, and lungs. Although most cases experience good survival with surgical methods, management of advanced types of the disease remains challenging. Several modalities, including different chemotherapy regimens and immunotherapies, have been investigated in this matter, among which Monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) are one of the most promising ones. Since the development of Mabs, they have been widely used to treat different diseases. Mabs have shown significant efficacy with high specificity along with acceptable safety, which makes them a favorable option in cancer therapy. In this article, we aimed to review the different aspects of using Mabs in SCC therapy.

Recent Findings

We found that treating with different Mabs has shown excellent efficacy accompanied by acceptable safety in treating SCC of different organs. Therefore, Mabs are considered great options in the treatment of SCC, especially in advanced cases. Overall, two highly potent types of Mabs in SCC therapy are anti‐EGFR Mabs and checkpoint inhibitors, especially Cetuximab, Nimotuzumab, and PD‐1 inhibitors. Bevacizumab is also a promising option as adjuvant therapy to other modalities.

Conclusion

Although some Mabs have shown promising outcomes in SCC therapy, their application as a part of cancer treatment depends on further investigations regarding cost‐effectiveness and predictors of response. FDA has approved several Mabs in SCC therapies, and Mabs may have a crucial role in this era in the near future, especially in treating head and neck and esophageal SCC and metastatic lung cancer.
Near‐infrared Piezochromic Materials at High Pressure
Authors: Li Chengjian , Lv Chunyan , Ouyang Mi , Zhang Yujian
Published: April 2023

The study of piezochromic materials (PCMs) has become an attractive field and numerous scholars have reported various material structures and phenomena. PCMs incorporating near‐infrared (NIR) emission have led to a broader range of applications due to the strong penetration and interference resistance of longer wavelength light sources. However, NIR PCMs are still rare due to difficulties in tuning molecular configuration, conformation and stacking structure. In this review, organic compounds are classified according to their types and structures, and recent advances in NIR PCMs are comprehensively summarized and described. The various factors affecting the piezochromic properties from the perspective of the compound structure are shown. The effects of pressure on the photophysical changes of different compounds are discussed. It is expected to provide ideas for subsequent NIR PCMs, from structural design to predicting their photophysical properties under pressure.
High Valent Mercury Fluoride Ions
Authors: Jayasekharan Thankan
Published: April 2023

Mercury fluoride ions formed during the laser ablation of HgF2(s) show the formation of six different cluster ion series viz., HgFn±, HgnFn–2±, HgnFn–1±, (HgF)n±, HgnFn+1±, and HgnFn+2±. Among the different ion series, the observation of high valent HgFn±(n±=3,4; n−=6–8) indicates the existence of corresponding molecules which signify the remarkable participation of 5d Hg electrons in the chemical bonding with F atoms and thus make Hg a truly transition metal. Further, molecular orbital calculations show a large HOMO‐LUMO energy gap (≥3 eV) and high electron affinity (≥5 eV) that indicates highly stable HgFn=3,4,6,8 with super halogen properties.
Preparation of Primary Mixed Glial Cell Cultures from Adult Mouse Spinal Cord Tissue
Authors: Cao Ling , Bean Elizabeth N. , Malon Jennifer T.
Published: April 2023

Central nervous system glial cells are known to mediate many neurocognitive/neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Similar glial responses have been recognized as critical factors contributing to the development of diseases in the peripheral nervous system, including various types of peripheral neuropathies, such as peripheral nerve injury‐induced neuropathic pain, diabetic neuropathy, and HIV‐associated sensory neuropathy. Investigation of the central mechanisms of these peripherally‐manifested diseases often requires the examination of spinal cord glial cells at cellular/molecular levels in vitro. When using rodent models to study these diseases, many investigators have chosen to use neonatal cerebral cortices to prepare glial cultures or immortalized cell lines in order to obtain sufficient numbers of cells for assessment. However, differences in responses between cell lines versus primary cultures, neonatal vs. adult cells, and brain vs. spinal cord cells may result in misleading data. Here, we describe a protocol for preparing mixed glial cells from adult mouse spinal cord that can be used for direct in vitro evaluations or further preparation of microglia‐enriched and microglia‐depleted cells. In this protocol, spinal cord tissue is enzymatically dissociated and adult mixed glial cells are ready to be used between 12 and 14 days after the establishment of the culture. This protocol may be further refined to prepare spinal cord glial cells from spinal cord tissues of adult rats and potentially other species. Mixed glial cultures can be prepared from animals of different strains or post‐in vivo manipulations and therefore are suitable for studying a variety of diseases/disorders that involve spinal cord pathological changes, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis, as well as toxin‐induced changes. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Preparation of primary mixed glial cell cultures from adult mouse spinal cord tissue
Accuracy of tooth‐implant impressions: Comparison of five different techniques
Authors: Fathi Amirhossein , Rismanchian Mansour , Yazdekhasti Atousa , Salamati Masih
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To compare the accuracy of five different tooth‐implant impression techniques.

Materials and Methods

In this in vitro, experimental study, an acrylic model containing one bone‐level Straumann dental implant at the site of maxillary first molar and an adjacent second premolar prepared for a porcelain fused to metal restoration was used. Impressions were made from the model using five different one‐step tooth‐implant impression techniques including scanning with an intraoral scanner, occlusal matrix, wax relief, closed‐tray, and open‐tray techniques. Each technique was repeated 15 times. The impressions were poured with dental stone, and the obtained casts were scanned by a laboratory scanner. The scan file of each technique was compared with the scan file of the original acrylic model by Geomagic Design X software. Data were analyzed by one‐way analysis of variance, and Tamhane's post‐hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results

For dental implant, intraoral scanning had the highest accuracy (0.1004 mm2) followed by open‐tray (0.1914 mm2), occlusal matrix (0.2101 mm2), closed‐tray (0.2422 mm2), and wax relief (0.2585 mm2) techniques (p < 0.05). For the prepared tooth, wax relief (0.0988 mm2) had the highest accuracy followed by occlusal matrix (0.1211 mm2), open‐tray (0.1663 mm2), closed‐tray (0.1737 mm2), and intraoral scanning (0.4903 mm2) technique (p < 0.05). For both dental implant and prepared tooth, occlusal matrix (0.2431 mm2) had the highest accuracy followed by open‐tray (0.2574 mm2), wax relief (0.2693 mm2), closed‐tray (0.2862 mm2), and intraoral scanning (0.3192 mm2) technique (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The compared simultaneous tooth‐implant impression techniques had comparable accuracy with no significant difference.
One‐step fabrication of moon‐shaped microrobots through in situ solidification of magnetic Janus droplets in microchannels
Authors: Huang Yi , Yin Shuai , Li Haiwang , Liu Sihang , Wong Teck Neng
Published: April 2023

Special‐shaped microscale structures have shed light on new possibilities in key fields of chemistry, medicine, and energy. Asymmetrical microrobots with sensitive magnetic responses can be useful tools in controlled chemical reactions, drug delivery, and functional material synthesis. Microfluidic‐based emulsion generation technology is adopted as a powerful platform for the fabrication of steerable microrobots with refined control. Specifically, Janus droplets are generated in microfluidic chips featuring a flow‐focusing configuration. Asymmetrical morphologies of the Janus droplets are achieved by balancing the interfacial tensions, where the portion containing magnetic nanoparticles is solidified through the UV‐initiated polymerization process right after the formation while the Janus structure is left intact. We succeed in controlling the morphology of the Janus droplet along with the moon‐shaped robots hydrodynamically and applying them in flow control at the microscale under external magnetic fields, which are characterized and quantified by three‐dimensional profile measurement and high‐speed microparticle velocimetry measurement. Our proposed on‐chip fabrication method using a microfluidic platform not only provides a method for fabricating magnetic robots but also enables tuning the complex morphologies and functionalities at the microscale, which could shed light on new possibilities in key fields of controlled chemistry reaction, medicine synthesis, and energy generation.
The blunted loop diuretic response in acute heart failure is driven by reduced tubular responsiveness rather than insufficient tubular delivery. The role of furosemide urine excretion on diuretic and natriuretic response in acute heart failure
Authors: Biegus Jan , Zymliński Robert , Testani Jeffrey , Fudim Marat , Cox Zachary L. , Guzik Mateusz , Iwanek Gracjan , Hurkacz Magdalena , Raj Danuta , Marciniak Dominik , Ponikowska Barbara , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: April 2023

Aims

Diuretic response in heart failure is blunted when compared to healthy individuals, but the pathophysiology underlying this phenomenon is unclear. We aimed to investigate whether the diuretic resistance mechanism is related to insufficient furosemide tubular delivery or low tubular responsiveness.

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective, observational study of 50 patients with acute heart failure patients divided into two groups based on previous furosemide use (furosemide naïve: n = 28 [56%] and chronic furosemide users: n = 22 [44%]). Each patient received a protocol‐derived, standardized furosemide dose based on body weight. We measured diuretic response and urine furosemide concentrations. The furosemide naïve group had significantly higher urine volumes and natriuresis when compared to chronic users at all timepoints (all p < 0.05). Urine furosemide delivery was similar in furosemide naïve versus chronic users after accounting for differences in estimated glomerular filtration rate (28.02 [21.03–35.89] vs. 29.70 [18.19–34.71] mg, p = 0.87). However, the tubular response to delivered diuretic was dramatically higher in naïve versus chronic users, that is the urine volume per 1 μg/ml of urine furosemide at 2 h was 148.6 ± 136.1 versus 50.6 ± 56.1 ml (p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Patients naïve to furosemide have significantly better diuresis and natriuresis when compared to chronic furosemide users. The blunted diuretic response in patients with chronic loop diuretic exposure is driven by decreased tubular responsiveness rather than insufficient furosemide tubular delivery.
Adsorption of nickel(II) ions from aqueous solutions using Malatya clay: Equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Onursal Nilgün , Altunkaynak Yalçın , Baran Ayşe , Dal Mehmet Can
Published: April 2023

This paper evaluates Malatya clay (MC) for the removal of Ni(II) ions from aqueous solutions. For adsorption efficiency, the impacts of several factors, such as pH, starting metal ion concentration, and contact duration, were examined. The optimal initial Ni(II) ion concentration was determined to be 5 mg/L, the adsorption contact duration was 360 min, and the solution's pH was 6.27. Using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the surface characteristics of Malatya clay were examined. The isotherm data fit the Langmuir isotherm model, indicating chemical adsorption and likely irreversibility of the process, according to the results. At 298, 308, and 318 K, the adsorption capacities of Ni(II) were determined to be 10.267, 11.834, and 12.285 mg/g, respectively. Adsorption kinetic data revealed that the adsorption of Ni(II) metal ions followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. According to thermodynamic studies, Ni(II) ion adsorption on the MC is spontaneous and endothermic. MC has proven to be an effective and alternative material for the removal of Ni(II) ions from aqueous media due to its excellent removal ability, availability, and low cost, as well as its features such as being able to be used without any chemical treatment and being environmentally friendly.
Petrogenesis of mafic‐intermediate dykes from the Central Qilian belt, NW China: Significance of the role of subducted compositions in sub‐arc mantle
Authors: Ma De‐qing , Wang Chao , Li Hang , Zhu Xiao‐hui , Hao Jiang‐bo , Yu Zun‐pu , Sun Xiao‐kui , Zhang Shuai , Li Xue
Published: April 2023

Subduction system in the Qilian orogenic belt experienced the variability of an active continental arc in space and time related to the subduction of the Proto‐Tethys Ocean. Zircon U–Pb geochronology and whole‐rock chemical and Sr–Nd isotopic data of mafic to intermediate dykes in the western part of the Central Qilian belt (WCQB) are used to track magma provenance from compositionally variable reservoirs in the sub‐arc mantle and constrain the magmatic evolution of the rear‐arc at 450–445 Ma. Petrological, whole‐rock chemical and zircon U–Pb dating results reveal that the studied dykes mainly comprise calc‐alkaline lamprophyre (CAL), high Mg# andesitic porphyrite (HMA) and high FeO hornblende gabbro (HFG) with crystallization ages of 447, 453 and 448 Ma, respectively. Among them, CAL and HMA have affinities in high‐K calc‐alkaline suites, high REE contents (∑REE = 131.1–202.3 ppm) with high LaN/YbN values (6.77–17.99), enriched in large‐ion lithophile elements (LILE, e.g., Rb and U), and depleted in high‐field‐strength elements (HFSE, e.g., Nb, Ta, and Ti). They also have high Th/La (0.20–0.46), Th/Nb (0.67–1.64) and Th/Yb (3.88–14.11) ratios, and relatively high whole‐rock initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.707469–0.708493) and εNd(t) values (−4.7 to −3.1). Whereas, HFG is affinities in medium to high‐K calc‐alkaline suites, and has moderate rare earth elements (∑REE = 70.1–112.5 ppm) with flat REE patterns (LaN/YbN = 2.12–3.05) and exhibits enriched LILE, and Sr–Nd isotopes ((87Sr/86Sr)i = 0.713496–0.729216, εNd(t) = −2.93 to +2.04). Such typical “continental” geochemical features of the different K‐rich dykes do not result from crustal assimilation but reflect an enriched mantle source resulting from their mantle heterogeneity due to recycling of different subducted sediments. The temporal evolution of the geochemical characteristics of mafic‐intermediate dykes is consistent with an extension setting triggered by removing the thickened arc crust root in the WCQB.
Dynamic effective connectivity among large‐scale brain networks mediates risk of anxiety
Authors: Tian Tian , Liu Dong , Zhang Guiling , Wang Jian , Wan Changhua , Fang Jicheng , Wu Di , Zhou Yiran , Qin Yuanyuan , Zhu Hongquan , Li Yuanhao , Liu Chengxia , Zhang Jiaxuan , Li Jia , Zhu Wenzhen
Published: April 2023

Anxiety is characterized by altered brain networks. Directional information flows among dynamic brain networks concerning neuropathogenesis of anxiety have not yet been investigated. The role of directional influences between networks in gene–environment effects on anxiety remains to be further elucidated. In a large community sample, this resting‐state functional MRI study estimated dynamic effective connectivity among large‐scale brain networks based on a sliding‐window approach and Granger causality analysis, providing dynamic and directional information for signal transmission in networks. We first explored altered effective connectivity among networks related to anxiety in distinct connectivity states. Due to the potential gene–environment effects on brain and anxiety, we further performed mediation and moderated mediation analyses to investigate the role of altered effective connectivity networks in relationships between polygenic risk scores, childhood trauma, and anxiety. State and trait anxiety scores showed correlations with altered effective connectivity among extensive networks in distinct connectivity states (p < .05, uncorrected). Only in a more frequent and strongly connected state, there were significant correlations between altered effective connectivity networks and trait anxiety (PFDR <0.05). Furthermore, mediation and moderated mediation analyses showed that the effective connectivity networks played a mediating role in the effects of childhood trauma and polygenic risk on trait anxiety. State‐dependent effective connectivity changes among brain networks were significantly related to trait anxiety, and mediated gene–environment effects on trait anxiety. Our work sheds novel light on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying anxiety, and provides new insights into early objective diagnosis and intervention evaluation.
Using multi‐task experiments to test principles of hippocampal function
Authors: Han Claire Z. , Donoghue Thomas , Cao Runnan , Kunz Lukas , Wang Shuo , Jacobs Joshua
Published: April 2023

Investigations of hippocampal functions have revealed a dizzying array of findings, from lesion‐based behavioral deficits, to a diverse range of characterized neural activations, to computational models of putative functionality. Across these findings, there remains an ongoing debate about the core function of the hippocampus and the generality of its representation. Researchers have debated whether the hippocampus's primary role relates to the representation of space, the neural basis of (episodic) memory, or some more general computation that generalizes across various cognitive domains. Within these different perspectives, there is much debate about the nature of feature encodings. Here, we suggest that in order to evaluate hippocampal responses—investigating, for example, whether neuronal representations are narrowly targeted to particular tasks or if they subserve domain‐general purposes—a promising research strategy may be the use of multi‐task experiments, or more generally switching between multiple task contexts while recording from the same neurons in a given session. We argue that this strategy—when combined with explicitly defined theoretical motivations that guide experiment design—could be a fruitful approach to better understand how hippocampal representations support different behaviors. In doing so, we briefly review key open questions in the field, as exemplified by articles in this special issue, as well as previous work using multi‐task experiments, and extrapolate to consider how this strategy could be further applied to probe fundamental questions about hippocampal function.
Bottom‐Up Synthesis, Dispersion and Properties of Rectangular‐Shaped Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Lavie Julien , Vu Van Binh , Medina‐Lopez Daniel , Dappe Yannick , Liu Thomas , Rondin Loïc , Lauret Jean‐Sébastien , Latil Sylvain , Campidelli Stéphane
Published: April 2023

Carbon nanomaterials have attracted the attention of the scientific community for more than 30 years now; first with fullerene, then with nanotubes and now with graphene and graphene related materials. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are nanoparticles of graphene that can be synthesized following two approaches, namely top‐down and bottom‐up methods. The top‐down synthesis used harsh chemical and/or physical treatments of macroscopic graphitic materials to obtain nanoparticles, while the second is based on organic chemistry through the synthesis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exhibiting various sizes and shapes that are perfectly controlled. The main drawback of this approach is related to the low solubility of carbon materials that prevents the synthesis of nanoparticles containing more than few hundreds of sp2 carbon atoms. Here we report on the synthesis of a family of rectangular‐shaped graphene quantum dots containing up to 162 sp2 carbon atoms. These graphene quantum dots are not functionalized on their periphery in order to keep the maximum similarity with nanoparticles of pure graphene. We chose water with sodium deoxycholate surfactant to study their dispersion and their optical properties (absorption, photoluminescence and photoluminescence excitation). The electronic structure of the particles and of their aggregates are studied using Tight‐Binding (TB). We observe that the larger particles (GQD 3 and GQD 4) present a slightly better dispensability than the smaller ones, probably because the larger GQDs can accommodate more surfactant molecules on each side, which helps to stabilize their dispersion in water.
Epidemiology and incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma in the Iraqi population over 5 years (2014–2018)
Authors: Alshami Muhanad L. , Al‐Maliky Mohammed Abbood , Alsagban Ali Arkan , Alshaeli Ali J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common and life‐threatening neoplasms worldwide, and is responsible for approximately 90% of all oral malignancies.

Aim

This study was aimed at providing updated information on oral squamous cell carcinoma in all Iraqi governorates for the 5‐year period from 2014 to 2018, including the annual incidence and demographic variables.

Materials and Methods

The total number of oral squamous cell carcinoma cases in Iraq, along with associated demographic information (age, sex, and site), for the 5‐year period from 2014 to 2018 was obtained. The statistical analysis consisted of descriptive analysis, including frequency, percentage, and mean ± standard deviation. Aχ2test was performed to compare frequencies between male and female patients, among age groups, and among different OSCC sites. Theχ2test was also used to assess the association of each OSCC site with age and sex. The significance threshold was set atp < 0.05, and the confidence interval was set at 95%. The incidence rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma for each year was calculated by dividing the number of OSCC cases per year by the population of Iraq, then multiplying the result by 100,000.

Results

A total of 722 cases were recorded. Statistically, oral squamous cell carcinoma was found to be more prevalent in males and individuals over 40 years of age. The tongue was the most common site of occurrence. Lip squamous cell carcinoma cases were high in males. The incidence rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma was estimated to be 0.4 per 100,000 people.

Conclusion

Males and older people are at relatively higher risk of developing oral cancer. The tongue is the most affected site, but any site in the oral cavity may be involved. Further exploration of the causes of oral malignancy in Iraq is necessary to improve prevention strategies.
Applications of yoga in oral oncology: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Kanmodi Kehinde K. , Braimah Ramat O. , Amzat Jimoh , Salami Afeez A. , Nnyanzi Lawrence A.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Yoga is well‐thought‐out as an all‐inclusive approach globally and can be administered in clinical care as an integrative or alternate approach to regular treatment. Yoga exercise has been disclosed to influence remission from cancer cells over a long period of time and also reverses epigenetic alterations. Applications of Yoga in the management of oral oncology patients are scarce, hence the need for a scoping review of the literature. Hence, this study aimed to conduct a scoping review of the existing empirical evidence on the applications of yoga in oral oncology.

Methods

The review methodology was informed by Joanna Brigg's Institute guidelines for systematic scoping reviews, and the review was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Ten databases were searched. The records of all the literature retrieved from the search were imported into the Rayyan software for deduplication. After the full‐text screening, only two were found eligible for inclusion in the scoping review. Data obtained in the included literature were extracted and synthesized.

Results

This review found that Yoga was not significantly effective in the management of stress among oral cancer patients (p‐values > 0.04). However, it was found that Yoga significantly reduced anxiety, saliva stickiness, and episodes of falling ill (p‐values < 0.05) while it improved mental well‐being, cognitive functioning, emotional functioning, and head and neck pain of those oral cancer patients that received it (p‐values < 0.05).

Conclusion

An integrative care approach that considers nonpharmaceutical techniques such as yoga could help to reduce care cost while improving care outcomes and quality of life of oral cancer patients. Hence, it is imperative to consider yoga along with its potential benefits, and we recommend gradual incorporation of yoga into oral cancer care.