bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Out of field scatter from electron applicator in modern linear accelerators
Authors: Sengupta Bishwambhar , DeFillippo Greg , Sohn James J. , Yadav Poonam , Das Indra J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Electron out‐of‐field scatter is generally not given importance mainly in electron fields. However, this is important when applicator down and boost treatments are given usually at an angle from the central axis. The electron scatter dose is found to be far away from the central axis which could be easily ignored.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the out‐of‐field radiation doses from electron applicators and their effects on clinical treatment. By identifying the parameters that contribute to out‐of‐field doses and to explore potential strategies for reducing these doses in order to improve patient outcomes from modern machines.

Methods

Measurements were performed in water phantom using electron diode for modern Elekta and Varian machines. Dose profiles were acquired at surface and dmax with 0° and 90° collimation angle. Various gantry angles were also studied for some data with IC Profiler. The profiles were normalized with respect to the central axis dose.

Results

The scatter dose peaks were found at a distance between 11 and 28 cm from the central axis on all machines. However, the peak shifts to 15 cm at 90° collimator when beam is tilted. The position and intensity of the dose varies with depth, collimator, and gantry angles for both Elekta and Varian machines. Due to clearance issues more gantry angles were studied for Elekta applicator compared to Varian. In general, Varian TrueBeam has a lower scatter that Elekta Infinity. The 90° collimator angle has a higher scatter compared to zero degree for both machines.

Conclusions

There are clinically significant peripheral doses around 3% of the central axis dose from the electron applicator. Elekta has a slightly higher scatter (3%) than Varian (2%) that peaks at 25 cm which is clinically important but often overlooked.
OTPs gladly plan to implement new methadone rules
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2024

On Feb. 2 the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released its final rule for opioid treatment programs and methadone, just as ADAW went to press (see SAMHSA issues final rule updating OTP methadone rules, ADAW Feb. 5; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34023). The American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD), which represents more than 1,300 opioid treatment programs (OTPs) in the United States, last week commended SAMHSA for the guidance, which it called “enlightened and thoughtful.” In a Feb. 5 press statement, AATOD president Mark Parrino noted that the regulations have been reviewed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). For the final rule, go to https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/02/02/2024‐01693/medications‐for‐the‐treatment‐of‐opioid‐use‐disorder.
Self‐Accelerating H2 Evolution Activity by In Situ Transformation on Noble‐Metal‐Free Photocatalyst of Covalent Organic Framework and Cu2O Composite
Authors: Liu Yu‐Han , Chu Xiaoyu , Jiang Yanxia , Han Wei , Wang Ya , Shao Lu‐Hua , Zhang Guiling , Zhang Feng‐Ming
Published: February 2024

It is expected that the activity of photocatalysts can remain the same or decrease as little as possible in photocatalysis reaction. Herein, for the first time, a self‐accelerating H2 production activity in a noble‐metal‐free Cu2O/TpPa‐2‐COF photocatalyst is reported. It shows a beginning H2 production rate of 4.41 mmol h−1 g−1 under visible light illuminance, while the activity kept increasing to 27.27 mmol h−1 g−1 after 25 h reaction, which is 6.2 times higher than the beginning activity and reaches a record high. It is confirmed that part of Cu2O in Cu2O/TpPa‐2‐COF in situ transformed to Cu0 in photocatalytic reaction, which acting as cocatalyst promotes the separation of photogenerated charge carriers. Further density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the Schottky barrier height of Cu‐Cu2O (111) interface is much smaller than that of Pt‐Cu2O (111), supporting its more efficient effect than that with Pt as cocatalyst.
Single‐Component Photochemical Afterglow Near‐Infrared Luminescent Nano‐Photosensitizers: Bioimaging and Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Li Yin , He Dong , Zheng Qiangfeng , Tang Ruilin , Wan Qing , Tang Ben Zhong , Wang Zhiming
Published: February 2024

Long afterglow luminescence‐guided photodynamic therapy (PDT) performs advantages of noninvasiveness, spatiotemporal controllability, and higher signal to noise ratio. Photochemical afterglow (PCA) system emitting afterglow in an aqueous environment is highly suitable for biomedical applications, but still faces the challenges of poor tissue penetration depth and responsive sensitivity. In this work, two novel compounds, Iso‐TPA and ABEI‐TPA, are designed and synthesized to integrate the PCA system as a single component by coupling near‐infrared (NIR) photosensitizers with singlet oxygen cache units, respectively. Both compounds emit NIR afterglow based on photochemical reaction. ABEI‐TPA exhibits higher photoluminescence quantum efficiency with nonconjugated linkage, while Iso‐TPA with conjugated linkage possesses better reactive oxygen species generation efficiency to achieve stronger PCA and effective PDT, which is ascribed to stronger intramolecular charge transfer effect of Iso‐TPA. Iso‐TPA nanoparticles can achieve effective long‐lasting NIR afterglow in vivo bioimaging up to 120 s with higher imaging resolution and outstanding PDT efficacy of tumor, exhibiting promising potential on bioimaging and therapy.
Targeting Compact and Ordered Emitters by Supramolecular Dynamic Interactions for High‐performance Organic Ambient Phosphorescence
Authors: Yin Guangqiang , Zhou Jiayin , Lu Wei , Li Longqiang , Liu Depeng , Qi Min , Tang Ben Zhong , Théato Patrick , Chen Tao
Published: February 2024

Purely organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials have received intense attention due to their fascinating optical properties and advanced optoelectronic applications. The promotion of intersystem crossing (ISC) and minimalization of nonradiative dissipation under ambient conditions are key prerequisites for realizing high‐performance organic RTP; However, the ISC process is generally inefficient for organic fluorogens and the populated triplet excitons are always too susceptible to be well stabilized by conventional means. Particularly, organizing organic fluorophores into compact and ordered entities by supramolecular dynamic interactions has proven to be a newly‐emerged strategy to boost the ISC process greatly and suppress the non‐radiative relaxations immensely, facilitating the population and stabilization of triplet excitons to access high‐performance organic RTP. Consequently, well‐defined organic emitters enable robust RTP emission even in the solution state, thus greatly extending the applications. Here, this review is focused on a timely and brief introduction to recent progress in tailoring ordered high‐performance RTP emitters by supramolecular dynamic interactions. Their typical preparation strategies, optoelectronic properties, and applications are thoroughly summarized. In the summary section, key challenges and perspectives of this field are highlighted to suggest potential directions for future study.
Black Arsenic Phosphorus Mid‐Wave Infrared Barrier Detector with High Detectivity at Room Temperature
Authors: Zhang Shukui , Huang Xinning , Chen Yan , Yin Ruotong , Wang Hailu , Xu Tengfei , Guo Jiaoyang , Wang Xingjun , Lin Tie , Shen Hong , Ge Jun , Meng Xiangjian , Hu Weida , Dai Ning , Wang Xudong , Chu Junhao , Wang Jianlu
Published: February 2024

The barrier structure is designed to enhance the operating temperature of the infrared detector, thereby improving the efficiency of collecting photogenerated carriers and reducing dark current generation, without suppressing the photocurrent. However, the development of barrier detectors using conventional materials is limited due to the strict requirements for lattice and band matching. In this study, a high‐performance unipolar barrier detector is designed utilizing a black arsenic phosphorus/molybdenum disulfide/black phosphorus van der Waals heterojunction. The device exhibits a broad response bandwidth ranging from visible light to mid‐wave infrared (520 nm to 4.6 µm), with a blackbody detectivity of 2.7 × 1010 cmHz−1/2 W−1 in the mid‐wave infrared range at room temperature. Moreover, the optical absorption anisotropy of black arsenic phosphorus enables polarization resolution detection, achieving a polarization extinction ratio of 35.5 at 4.6 µm. Mid‐wave infrared imaging of the device is successfully demonstrated at room temperature, highlighting the significant potential of barrier devices based on van der Waals heterojunctions in mid‐wave infrared detection.
Strontium‐Containing Piezoelectric Biofilm Promotes Dentin Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Li Jin , Zhao Xuefeng , Xia Yang , Qi Xuanyu , Jiang Chenghao , Xiao Yuhuan , Jiang Fei , Jiang Xinquan , Yuan Guoliang
Published: February 2024

It remains an obstacle to induce the regeneration of hard dentin tissue in clinical settings. To overcome this, a P(VDF‐TrFE) piezoelectric film with 2 wt% SrCl2 addition is designed. The biofilm shows a high flexibility, a harmonious biocompatibility, and a large piezoelectric d33 coefficient of 14 pC N−1, all contributing to building an electric microenvironment that favor the recruitment of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and their differentiation into odontoblasts during normal chewing, speaking, etc. On the other hand, the strontium ions can be gradually released from the film, thus promoting DPSC odonto‐differentiation. In vivo experiments also demonstrate that the film induces the release of dentin minerals and regeneration of dentin tissue. In the large animal dentin defect models, this piezoelectric film induces in situ dentin tissue formation effectively over a period of three months. This study illustrates a therapeutic potential of the piezoelectric film to improve dentin tissue repair in clinical settings.
Dynamically Reconstructed Triple‐Copper‐Vacancy Associates Confined in Cu Nanowires Enabling High‐Rate and Selective CO2 Electroreduction to C2+ Products
Authors: Chen Runhua , Zu Xiaolong , Zhu Juncheng , Zhao Yuan , Li Yuhuan , Hu Zexun , Wang Shumin , Fan Minghui , Zhu Shan , Zhang Hongjun , Ye Bangjiao , Sun Yongfu , Xie Yi
Published: February 2024

Electrochemically reconstructed Cu‐based catalysts always exhibit enhanced CO2 electroreduction performance; however, it still remains ambiguous whether the reconstructed Cu vacancies have a substantial impact on CO2‐to‐C2+ reactivity. Herein, Cu vacancies are first constructed through electrochemical reduction of Cu‐based nanowires, in which high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy image manifests the formation of triple‐copper‐vacancy associates with different concentrations, confirmed by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. In situ attenuated total reflection‐surface enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy discloses the triple‐copper‐vacancy associates favor *CO adsorption and fast *CO dimerization. Moreover, density‐functional‐theory calculations unravel the triple‐copper‐vacancy associates endow the nearby Cu sites with enriched and disparate local charge density, which enhances the *CO adsorption and reduces the CO–CO coupling barrier, affirmed by the decreased *CO dimerization energy barrier by 0.4 eV. As a result, the triple‐copper‐vacancy associates confined in Cu nanowires achieve a high Faradaic efficiency of over 80% for C2+ products in a wide current density range of 400–800 mA cm−2, outperforming most reported Cu‐based electrocatalysts.
Modulation of Ionically Generated Space Charge Effects at Hybrid Perovskite and Oxide Interfaces via Surface Modification
Authors: Jung Mina , Almalki Masaud , Graetzel Michael , Moia Davide , Maier Joachim
Published: February 2024

Interfacial space charges significantly influence transport and recombination of charge carriers in optoelectronic devices. Due to the mixed ionic‐electronic conducting properties of halide perovskites, not only electronic effects, but also ionic interactions at their interfaces need to be considered in the analysis of space charges. Understanding of these interactions and their control is currently missing. This study elucidates the ionic effects on space charge formation at the interface between methylammonium lead iodide (MAPI) and alumina, and its modulation through surface modification using organic molecules. Embedding insulating alumina nanoparticles within MAPI films leads to enhancement of the electronic conductivity. This effect is consistent with the formation of an interfacial inversion layer in MAPI and can only be explained on the basis of ionic interactions. Such an effect is attenuated by surface modification of the oxide via the chemisorption of organic molecules. Finally, the same trend is observed in solar cells, where reducing the potential of the distributed space charges within the composite active layer improves device performance. These findings emphasize the necessity of taking into account ionic interactions to control the space charge formation at interfaces involving mixed ionic‐electronic conductors, an essential aspect in the performance optimization of halide perovskite‐based devices.
Regulation of Cell Adhesion on Physically Crosslinked Hydrogels Composed of Amino Acid‐Based Polymers by Changing Elastic Modulus Using Shape Fix/Memory Properties
Authors: Nishimura Shin‐nosuke , Yoshida Tomoya , Higashi Nobuyuki , Koga Tomoyuki
Published: February 2024

The elastic modulus of hydrogels is one of the most important factors for controlling cell fate. In this study, hydrogels composed of poly(N‐acryloylglycinamide) (PNAGAm) grafted with arginine (R)–glycine (G)–aspartic acid (D)–serine (S) peptide is designed without a chemical crosslinker. The hydrogels are prepared by the conventional radical copolymerization of N‐acryloylglycinamide with a polymerizable RGDS peptide. The peptide grafting ratio is easily controlled by adjusting the feed composition for polymerization. The hydrogels exhibit thermo‐responsiveness of the upper critical solution temperature type based on the PNAGAm moiety. This characteristic reflects the shape fix/memory properties of hydrogels because of the reversible formation of multiple hydrogen bonds. The cell adhesiveness of the hydrogels drastically improves in the presence of a small amount of the peptide graft. The hydrogels exhibit good biocompatibility; the adhered cells proliferate on the hydrogels, and macrophages do not show activation or inflammation. Surfaces with different elastic modulus regions are successfully constructed on the same hydrogel by using shape fix/memory properties, allowing the regulation of cell adhesion. This hydrogel system offers promising opportunities for the design and application of functional cell scaffolds.
Directly Identifying Multiple Cr3+ Emitting Centers for Broad Near‐Infrared Emission in an Efficient and Near‐Zero Thermal Quenching Garnet‐Type Phosphor
Authors: Li Hong , Jiao Jingkai , Xiang Xianfeng , Wu Jianze , Hu Wanbiao , Xie Jiyang , Huang Shuping , Zhang Hongzhi , Zhu Jing
Published: February 2024

Cr3+ doped garnet‐type (A3B2C3O12) near‐infrared (NIR) phosphors is a desirable research hotspot due to their prospective night vision, bioimaging, and plant growth utilizations. Meanwhile, the origin of multisite broad emission is yet a controversial topic. To resolve the trouble, verifying accurately the multiple Cr3+ occupancy sites is a key. Furthermore, it is an urgent need for improving the external quantum efficiency and luminescent thermostability. Herein, in Y3Sc2Al3O12 (YSAO), advanced electron microscopy technique is employed to directly confirm that the obtained broadband NIR emission originates from Cr3+ in [ScO6] octahedral and [YO8] dodecahedral sites. The optimal YSAO:5%Cr3+ sample exhibits high quantum efficiency (IQE/EQE = 74/31%) and near‐zero thermal quenching (97%@423 K and 92%@473 K). The theoretical calculations and experimental proofs reveal that YSAO possesses high structural rigidity and wide bandgap, which is responsible for the extremely thermostable luminescence. The high‐power YSAO:5%Cr3+‐converted NIR LED device shows promising multifunctional applications. This work not only provides an efficient NIR broadband phosphor with near‐zero thermal quenching, but also provides an effective determination method for the multiple emitting centers of phosphor materials.
Plasmonic Dielectric Antennas for Hybrid Optical Nanotweezing And Optothermoelectric Manipulation of Single Nanosized Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Hong Chuchuan , Hong Ikjun , Jiang Yuxi , Ndukaife Justus C.
Published: February 2024

This study showcases an experimental demonstration of near‐field optical trapping and dynamic manipulation of an individual extracellular vesicle. This is accomplished through the utilization of a plasmonic dielectric nanoantenna designed to support an optical anapole state—a non‐radiating optical state resulting from the destructive interference between electric and toroidal dipoles in the far‐field, leading to robust near‐field enhancement. To further enhance the field intensity associated with the optical anapole state, a plasmonic mirror is incorporated, thereby boosting trapping capabilities. In addition to demonstrating near‐field optical trapping, the study achieves dynamic manipulation of extracellular vesicles by harnessing the thermoelectric effect. This effect is induced in the presence of an ionic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, combined with plasmonic heating. Furthermore, the thermoelectric effect improves trapping stability by a deep trapping potential. In summary, the hybrid plasmonic‐dielectric trapping platform offers a versatile approach for actively transporting, stably trapping, and dynamically manipulating individual extracellular vesicles.
Preclinical Toxicity Assessment of Ti‐Based MXene Nanomaterials for Advanced Theranostic Applications
Authors: Singh Barkha , Bahadur Rohan , Rai Deepika , Srivastava Rohit
Published: February 2024

MXene, a novel class of 2D materials, has garnered widespread attention from researchers worldwide due to its remarkable physicochemical properties. Its exceptional physical, chemical, optical, and electronic characteristics have opened up exciting possibilities for its application in biomedical fields. The easily modifiable surface makes it particularly attractive to be used in nanomedicine as the surface can be made hydrophilic, with facile drug loading, for imaging, anti‐microbial, and photothermal applications. To fully harness its potential in the biomedical field, a comprehensive understanding of its toxicological effect is of utmost importance. This review presents a concise introduction to MXene, encompassing commonly employed synthesis procedures, followed by an in‐depth exploration of biomedical studies conducted on diverse MAX and MXene phases. The use of MXene has been discussed as a cancer theranostic agent followed by its toxicity evaluation in microorganisms, zebrafish, in vitro, and in vivo toxicity. Additionally, the review emphasizes the need to advance and standardize the toxicity study. This review provides an overview on the various toxicological aspects related to the MXene nanostructures and advocates their utilization in the near future.
Economics of strip cropping with autonomous machines
Authors: Al‐Amin A. K. M. Abdullah , Lowenberg‑DeBoer James , Erickson Bruce J. , Evans John T. , Langemeier Michael R. , Franklin Kit , Behrendt Karl
Published: February 2024

Autonomous machines have the potential to maintain food production and agroecological farming resilience. However, autonomous complex mixed cropping is proving to be an engineering challenge because of differences in plant height and growth pattern. Strip cropping is technically the simplest mixed cropping system, but widespread use is constrained by higher labor requirements in conventional mechanized farms. Researchers have long hypothesized that autonomous machines (i.e., crop robots) might make strip cropping profitable, thereby allowing farmers to gain additional agroecological benefits. To examine this hypothesis, this study modeled ex‐ante scenarios for the Corn Belt of central Indiana, using the experience of the Hands Free Hectare‐Linear Programming (HFH‐LP) optimization model. Results show that per annum return to operator labor, management, and risk‐taking (ROLMRT) was $568/ha and $163/ha higher for the autonomous corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] strip crop farm compared to the whole field sole crop and the conventional strip crop farms, respectively, that were operated by human drivers. The conventional strip cropping practice was found challenging as this cropping system required four times more temporary hired labor than autonomous strip cropping and three times more than whole field sole cropping. Even if autonomous machines need 100% human supervision, the ROLMRT was higher compared to whole field sole cropping. Profitable autonomous strip cropping could restore and improve in‐field biodiversity and ecosystem services through a sustainable techno‐economic and environmental approach that will address the demand for healthier food and promote environmental sustainability.
Tau accumulation and atrophy predict amyloid independent cognitive decline in aging
Authors: Fonseca Corrina S. , Baker Suzanne L. , Dobyns Lindsey , Janabi Mustafa , Jagust William J. , Harrison Theresa M.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau pathology are cross‐sectionally associated with atrophy and cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

We investigated relationships between concurrent longitudinal measures of Aβ (Pittsburgh compound B [PiB] positron emission tomography [PET]), tau (flortaucipir [FTP] PET), atrophy (structural magnetic resonance imaging), episodic memory (EM), and non‐memory (NM) in 78 cognitively healthy older adults (OA).

RESULTS

Entorhinal FTP change was correlated with EM decline regardless of Aβ, but meta‐temporal FTP and global PiB change were only associated with EM and NM decline in Aβ+ OA. Voxel‐wise analyses revealed significant associations between temporal lobe FTP change and EM decline in all groups. PiB and FTP change were not associated with structural change, suggesting a functional or microstructural mechanism linking these measures to cognitive decline.

DISCUSSION

Our results show that longitudinal Aβ is linked to cognitive decline only in the presence of elevated Aβ, but longitudinal temporal lobe tau is associated with memory decline regardless of Aβ status.

Highlights

Entorhinal tau change was associated with memory decline in older adults (OA), regardless of amyloid beta (Aβ).

Greater meta‐region of interest (ROI) tau change correlated with memory decline in Aβ+ OA.

Voxel‐wise temporal tau change correlated with memory decline, regardless of Aβ.

Meta‐ROI tau and global amyloid change correlated with non‐memory change in Aβ+ OA.

Tau and amyloid accumulation were not associated with structural change in OA.
Advances in sample preparation methods for pesticide residue analysis in medicinal plants: A focus on Nepal
Authors: Pandey Sudip , Pant Poonam , Dall'Acqua Stefano
Published: February 2024

Medicinal plant safety is a rising challenge worldwide due to the continued overuse of pesticides to their maximum residue limits. Due to the high demand for medicinal plants, their production is being increased and sometimes protected by pesticide use. The analysis of these residues requires robust analytical methods to ensure the safety and quality of medicinal plants. Developing effective sample preparation for detecting pesticides is challenging, due to their diverse natures, classes, and physico‐chemical characteristics. Hence, existing techniques and strategies are needed to improve the reliability of the results. The review discusses the current state of sample preparation techniques, analytical methods, and instrumental technologies employed in pesticide residue analysis in medicinal plants. It highlights the challenges, limitations, and advancements in the field, providing insights into the analytical strategies used to detect and quantify pesticide residues. Reliable, accessible, affordable, and high‐resolution analytical procedures are essential to ensure that pesticide levels in medicinal plants are effectively regulated. By understanding the complexities of pesticide residue analysis in medicinal plants, this review article aims to support the conservation of medicinal plant resources, promote public health, and contribute to the development of sustainable strategies for ensuring the safety and quality of medicinal plants in Nepal. The findings of this review will benefit researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in the conservation of medicinal plant resources and the promotion of public health.
Multiple Force‐Triggered Downconverted and Upconverted Emission in Polymers Containing Diels‐Alder Adducts
Authors: Zhu Guohua , Zhang Qiaoyu , Yu Tianjun , Chen Jinping , Hu Rui , Yang Guoqiang , Zeng Yi , Li Yi
Published: February 2024

Fluorescent mechanophores can indicate the deformation or damage in polymers. The development of mechanophores with multi‐triggered response is of great interest. Herein, Diels‐Alder (DA) adducts are incorporated into linear poly(methyl acrylate) PMA‐BA and network poly(hexyl methacrylate) (PHMA) as mechanophores to detect the stress caused by ultrasound, freezing, and compression. The DA mechanophores undergo retro‐DA reaction to release 9‐styrylanthracene chromophore upon applying force, resulting in cyan fluorescence. The dissociation ratio of the DA mechanophore after pulsed ultrasonication of PMA‐BA solution for 240 minutes is estimated to be 52 % by absorption spectra and 1H NMR. Additionally, the rate constant of mechanical cleavage is calculated to be 1.2×10−4 min−1⋅kDa−1 with the decrease in molecular weight from 69 to 22 kDa measured by gel permeation chromatography. Freezing of PHMA gels as well as compression of PHMA bulk samples turn‐on the DA mechanophores, revealing the microscale fracture. Photon upconversion responses toward various force stimuli are also achieved in both polymer solutions and bulk samples by doping platinum octaethylporphyrin (PtOEP) or palladium meso‐tetraphenyltetrabenzoporphyrin (PdTPTBP) sensitizers with multiple excitation wavelengths.
The potential role of precision medicine to alleviate racial disparities in prostate, bladder and renal urological cancer care
Authors: Sindhu Kunal K. , Dovey Zachary , Thompson Marcher , Nehlsen Anthony D. , Skalina Karin A. , Malachowska Beata , Hasan Shaakir , Guha Chandan , Tang Justin , Salgado Lucas Resende
Published: February 2024

Background

Racial disparities in oncological outcomes resulting from differences in social determinants of health (SDOH) and tumour biology are well described in prostate cancer (PCa) but similar inequities exist in bladder (BCa) and renal cancers (RCCs). Precision medicine (PM) aims to provide personalized treatment based on individual patient characteristics and has the potential to reduce these inequities in GU cancers.

Objective

This article aims to review the current evidence outlining racial disparities in GU cancers and explore studies demonstrating improved oncological outcomes when PM is applied to racially diverse patient populations.

Evidence acquisition

Evidence was obtained from Pubmed and Web of Science using keywords prostate, bladder and renal cancer, racial disparity and precision medicine. Because limited studies were found, preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were not applied but rather related articles were studied to explore existing debates, identify the current status and speculate on future applications.

Results

Evidence suggests addressing SDOH for PCa can reverse racial inequities in oncological outcomes but differences in incidence remain. Similar disparities in BCa and RCC are seen, and it would be reasonable to suggest achieving parity in SDOH for all races would do the same. Research applying a PM approach to different ethnicities is lacking although in African Americans (AAs) with metastatic castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPCa) better outcomes have been shown with androgen receptor inhibitors, radium‐223 and sipuleucel. Exploiting the abscopal effect with targeted radiation therapy (RT) and immunotherapy has promise but requires further study, as does defining actionable mutations in specific patient groups to tailor treatments as appropriate.

Conclusion

For all GU cancers, the historical underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in clinical trials still exists and there is an urgent need for recruitment strategies to address this. PM is a promising development with the potential to reduce inequities in GU cancers, however, both improved understanding of race‐specific tumour biology, and enhanced recruitment of minority populations into clinical trials are required. Without this, the benefits of PM will be limited.
The urban community college: An overview
Authors: Smith Everrett A. , Miller Michael T.
Published: February 2024

Urban community colleges have been studied primarily from a case study perspective, often highlighted by doctoral students conducting research at their institutions. Little of this scholarship, however, has been translated into the base of literature, as less than 5% of the citations in the largest search engines are focused on urban community colleges. The article begins by exploring what “urban” means, primarily using the complex and evolving definition from the US Census Bureau. Then it explores this case study research on urban community colleges' mission, organization, students, and faculty. The article concludes with a strong recommendation for identifying and making available rigorous data to guide a more systematic approach to studying urban community colleges.
Cardiac arrest in a newborn: A case of pseudohypoaldosteronism
Authors: Tauber Kate A. , Ermacor Kimberly , Listman James
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pseudohypoaldosteronism (PHA) is a rare disease that can cause life‐threatening hyperkalemia, which could lead to cardiac arrest and death if not recognized and treated quickly. We report a case of a neonate who was diagnosed with PHA type 1 and found to have a novel variant gene mutation on the NR3C2 gene. A 5‐day‐old newborn presented in cardiac arrest with severe hyperkalemia, hyponatremia, and metabolic acidosis. Hypothermia treatment was initiated due to suspected hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy as well as electrolyte management with IV fluids and bicarbonate for the metabolic acidosis. Clinical suspicion and subsequent diagnostic testing led to a diagnosis of the renal form of PHA type 1. Genetic testing revealed a novel mutation on the NR3C2 gene of unknown significance (c.2891_2893dup plle964dup). The baby was discharged home on supplemental sodium and high‐calorie formula for catch‐up growth. Outpatient follow‐up is ongoing, and the dose of sodium supplement was slowly decreased and discontinued at 2 years. There is evidence for developmental delays which is likely secondary to the cardiac arrest although the MRI during hospitalization was noted to be within normal limits. Having a high clinical suspicion for pseudohypoaldosteronism is paramount to initiating treatment and preventing potential cardiac arrest and death in these patients. Novel mutations such as this one need to be further explored to determine their significance with this disease.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia in patient with 1p36 deletion
Authors: Zihra Midhat , Rehmaan Ibad , Amjed Saman , Abbass Khawar , Khan Ata ullah , Haq Anwaar ul , Hashim Hashim Talib , Iqbal Khadija , Al‐Obaidi Ahmed Dheyaa , Alhatemi Ahmed Qasim Mohammed , Hashim Ali Talib
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case underscores the atypical presentation of late‐onset congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a 9‐old with 1p36 deletion syndrome. Recognition of respiratory distress and abdominal symptoms is crucial for intervention.

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) is a condition characterized by the protrusion of abdominal contents into the thoracic cavity due to a defect in the diaphragm. While typically observed in the neonatal period, CDH can present in later life. This case report describes the presentation, diagnosis, and management of a nine‐year‐old boy with 1p36 deletion syndrome who presented with respiratory distress, abdominal pain, vomiting, and anorexia. The initial diagnosis was tension pneumothorax, and thus the patient underwent chest tube placement. However, a high‐resolution CT scan revealed a left hemidiaphragmatic hernia, and the patient eventually underwent an emergency laparotomy due to acute‐onset respiratory distress. Intraoperatively, a diagnosis of Bochdalek hernia with gastric perforation was made, and the CDH and gastric perforations were resolved successfully. This case highlights the importance of considering late‐presenting CDH as a possible diagnosis in pediatric patients with similar symptoms and the radiological findings suggestive of tension pneumothorax. Early recognition and prompt surgical intervention can lead to successful management of such cases.
Type V gastric ulcer: An unusual etiology of gastrosplenic fistula associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Yousaf Muhammad Nadeem , Dahal Riyasha , Phull Subeena , Aryal Vinayak , Neupane Karun , Ertugrul Hamza , Daglilar Ebubekir
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Type V gastric ulcer is an unusual etiology of gastrosplenic fistula (GSF). Prompt diagnosis and early embolization of splenic vessels prior to esophagogastroduodenoscopy and surgical resection is crucial.
A Comprehensive Parametric Study on CO2 Removal from Natural Gas by Hollow Fiber Membrane Contactor: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Approach
Authors: Bagi Mahsa , Razlighi Mohammad Vakili , Shanbedi Mina , Karim Alamgir
Published: February 2024

This study examined essential factors in the use of hollow fiber membranes that affect CO2 removal efficiency. In the simulation, a finite element model for a membrane with ten fibers was used. Each fiber is 175 mm long with inner radius of 0.75 mm and outer radius of 1.5 mm. Liquid and gas flow rates were set at 100–800 mL min−1, and adsorbent concentration was adjusted in the range of 200–1500 mol m−3 for monoethanolamine, piperazine (PZ), and ethylenediamine absorbents. Increasing the liquid flow rate, gas flow rate, and absorbent concentration leads to an increase, decrease, and increase in efficiency, respectively. Thus, using PZ as absorbent with a concentration of 1080 mol m−3 liquid and gas flow rates of 400 and 180 mL min−1, respectively, showed a CO2 removal efficiency of > 95 % for a membrane effective length of 0.3 m.
Aqueous Electrocatalytic Reduction as a Low‐Carbon and Green Route for Chemical Synthesis and Environmental Remediation
Authors: Sari Fitri Nur Indah , Lin Chia‐Yu
Published: February 2024

The green electricity‐driven electrocatalytic reduction of organic compounds in aqueous solution has merged as a sustainable and green platform for organic electrosynthesis, upcycling of chemical waste, and environmental remediation. Compared with the thermocatalytic hydrogenation process, the electrocatalytic reduction of organic compounds uses water as a proton source, which enables its operation at ambient conditions with simplified reaction schemes and significantly reduces operation cost and energy consumption. Most studies have demonstrated the development of electrocatalysts to boost the current efficiency, conversion, and product selectivity of the electrocatalytic reduction processes. Still, little attention has been paid to the mechanism (e. g., electron/proton transfer route) and related energetics behind the electrocatalytic reduction process. This Concept overviews the recent development of the electrocatalytic reduction systems for environmental remediation, pollutant upcycling, and valorization of biomass‐derived chemicals. This Concept highlights the underlying mechanisms and aims to provide instructive guidance on designing efficient and selective electrocatalytic systems.
Selective Manipulation of Well‐Defined Trinuclear Pd(II)‐Complexes
Authors: Das Siuli , Buschermöhle Julia , Zant Dirk W. , Schmidtmann M. , van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar
Published: February 2024

Several strategies are available to design well‐defined multimetallic molecular entities bearing functional ligands. Substoichiometric exchange reactions in the coordination sphere of pre‐existing multinuclear precursors are relatively underexploited in this context. Palladium(II) acetate is not a mononuclear compound in the solid state but rather exists as a trimer, i. e. [Pd3(OAc)6]. Although this material is ubiquitously used to synthesize mononuclear Pd species, it may principally also lend itself to selective exchange of some of the edge‐sharing acetate units in its triangular motif, whilst keeping the overall multinuclear architecture intact. Strikingly, little is known about the controlled manipulation and substoichiometric substitution chemistry of this well‐defined conglomerate. We herein conclusively demonstrate that, for the first time, the targeted exchange of two or four acetate units from the Pd3(acetate)6 platform is possible, thereby installing either one or two new tridentate ligands onto this trinuclear architecture. Follow‐up exchange and substitution chemistry is available without disrupting the multimetallic nature of the core structure. New complexes 2–7 are all conclusively characterized using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, UV‐vis and IR spectroscopy as well as X‐ray diffraction analysis.
SGLT‐2 Inhibitor Use and Cause‐Specific Hospitalization Rates: An Outcome‐Wide Study to Identify Novel Associations of SGLT‐2 Inhibitors
Authors: Tan George S. Q. , Morton Jedidiah I. , Wood Stephen , Shaw Jonathan E. , Magliano Dianna J. , Ilomäki Jenni
Published: February 2024

Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have demonstrated multifaceted pharmacological effects. In addition to type 2 diabetes, they are now indicated for heart failure and chronic kidney disease. This study aimed to identify novel associations between SGLT2i use and health outcomes using real‐world data. Using linked data from a nationwide diabetes registry in Australia, we compared hospitalization rates in people living with type 2 diabetes commencing treatment with SGLT2i and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4i) between December 1, 2013, and June 30, 2019. Cause‐specific hospitalizations were categorized across three hierarchies of diagnoses (first, first three, and first four digits of International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Version, Australian Modification codes). Incidence rate ratio (IRR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for each cause‐specific hospitalization were estimated using negative binomial regression. In the first hierarchy, hospitalization rates were lower across most diagnosis groups among SGLT2i initiators (n = 99,569) compared with DPP4i initiators (n = 186,353). In the second and third hierarchies, there were lower hospitalization rates relating to infections, anemias, and obstructive airway diseases among SGLT2i initiators compared with DPP4i initiators. These included sepsis (IRR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.51–0.72) anemia (IRR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.46–0.66), and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (IRR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.40–0.68), as well as for previously known associations (e.g., heart failure (IRR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.56–0.70)). SGLT2is have previously uncharacterized associations on a range of important clinical outcomes; validation of these associations requires further study, some of which may suggest novel benefits or new indications for SGLT2is.
Whole‐Cell Configuration of the Patch‐Clamp Technique in the hERG Channel Assay
Authors: Goineau Sonia , Gallet Lucie , Froget Guillaume
Published: February 2024

In vitro electrophysiological safety studies have become an integral part of the drug development process because, in many instances, compound‐induced QT prolongation has been associated with a direct block of human ether‐a‐go‐go‐related gene (hERG) potassium channels or their native current, the rapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium current (IKr). Therefore, according to the ICH S7B guideline, the in vitro hERG channel patch‐clamp assay is commonly used as an early screen to predict the ability of a compound to prolong the QT interval prior to first‐in‐human testing. The protocols described in this article are designed to assess the effects of acute or long‐term exposure to new chemical entities on the amplitude of IKr in HEK293 cells stably transfected with the hERG channel (whole‐cell configuration of the patch‐clamp technique). Examples of results obtained with moxifloxacin, terfenadine, arsenic, pentamidine, erythromycin, and sotalol are provided for illustrative purposes. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Measurement of the acute effects of test items in the hERG channel test

Alternate Protocol: Measurement of the long‐term effects of test items in the hERG channel test
Nutrients or resin? – The relationship between resin and food foraging in stingless bees
Authors: Villagómez Gemma Nydia , Keller Alexander , Rasmussen Claus , Lozano Pablo , Donoso David A. , Blüthgen Nico , Leonhardt Sara Diana
Published: February 2024

Stingless bees are important pollinators in tropical forests. Yet, we know little about their foraging behavior (e.g., their nutritional requirements or their floral sources visited for resource collection). Many stingless bees not only depend vitally on pollen and nectar for food but also on resin for nest building and/or defense. However, it is unclear whether the large effort devoted to collecting resin as a non‐food resource by certain stingless bees affects their foraging behavior. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed differences in foraging patterns (i.e., foraging activity, proportion of collected resources, and specialization in plants visited) and resource nutritional composition (i.e., sucrose amount in nectar and amino acids in pollen) of seven different stingless bee species (eleven wild colonies) in north‐western Ecuador with a particular focus on the role of resin collection. We found that species with a high resin intake tended to be more active than species with a low resin intake. The foragers per minute invested for pollen collection were similar across all species. Sucrose intake per minute differed between some species but was not affected by increased resin intake. Interestingly, high and low resin collectors partly differed in the plants visited for pollen collection. Pollen amino acid profiles largely, but not completely, overlapped between the two resin collection groups. Our findings show that the foraging patterns and plant choices of stingless bees may vary depending on their resin intake, highlighting the need for more research focusing on resin collection and use by stingless bees.
DNA barcoding, identification, and validation of the pufferfish (Order: Tetraodontiformes) in China coastal waters
Authors: Liu Kaiying , Sun Hongyue , Zhao Xin , Wang Chaoqun , An Changting , Li Ang , Liu Shufang , Zhuang Zhimeng
Published: February 2024

The order Tetraodontiformes are one of the most unique groups of teleostean fish, exhibiting highly derived and greatly diversified phenotypes. It is a difficult task for both professionals and nonprofessionals to accurately identify these species only according to morphological characteristics. DNA barcoding can identify species at the molecular level to overcome the limitations of morphological classification. In this study, we collected 616 specimens of pufferfish from the coastal waters of China. According to the morphological characteristics, they were preliminarily identified as 50 species. Further analysis using DNA barcodes identified these specimens as 46 species, belonging to 23 genera, 6 families. According to the species classification results of DNA barcoding, the three species identified by morphology as Takifugu pseudommus, Takifugu chinensis, and Takifugu rubripes should be the same species. Similarly, Lagocephalus wheeleri is the synonym of Lagocephalus spadiceus. Another important discovery of DNA barcoding analysis is that there are closer interspecific genetic distances within the genus Takifugu. If T. rubripes, T. pseudommus, and T. chinensis are taken as one species, the average interspecific to intraspecific genetic distance ratio of Takifugu is only 6.21 times, which does not reach the DNA barcoding threshold of more than 10 times proposed previously. Although the interspecific genetic distance in the genus Takifugu is relatively small, each species can be clustered into independent clades in the NJ tree. In conclusion, this study not only found that there are synonymous phenomena in the order Tetraodontiformes but also provided molecular evidence for the valid species names of Takifugu rubripes and Lagocephalus Spadiceus. The results can provide reliable DNA barcoding information for the identification of pufferfish species, help solve the problem of classification confusion in this order, and provide technical support for the identification of the original components of related commodities on the aquatic product market.
The role of nanoparticles in non‐invasive electrochemical immunosensor technology and recent developments
Authors: Sanko Vildan , Erkmen Cem , Kuralay Filiz
Published: February 2024

Electrochemistry has been one of the important tools in determining or evaluating vital conditions with the help of powerful and influential electrode designs. The fundamentals of electrochemical determination are simply based on direct or indirect electron transfer that occurs during the process such as the recognition of target molecules by biorecognition elements. Therefore, electrochemical biosensors have been a significant development for promising analytical applications, particularly in the field of biomedicine. In this context, electrochemical immunosensors, which can detect important biomarkers, provide many advantages with their good analytical performance and practicability. Innovation in electrochemical immunosensors continues rapidly, and non‐invasive wearable sensor technologies, especially personal equipment, come to the fore. Developments in the field of nanotechnology can easily be cited as an important driving force of these advances. Therefore, in this review, the design technology of non‐invasive immunosensors used for electrochemical biomarker detection is briefly reviewed and the contribution of nanoparticles to the efficiency of the process is examined to provide a basis for future applications.