bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐performance epoxy composites improved by uniformly dispersed and partly thermal reduced graphene oxide sheets
Authors: Xu Hui , Liu Zhiqing , Qiao Chenghui , Zhang Xintao , Zhang Qi , Zhang Yuerong , Zheng Yaochen
Published: December 2022

High‐performance graphene oxide (GO) and graphene reinforced epoxy composites have made great development in various properties (such as, mechanical and thermal property) compared with the neat epoxy thermosets. However, under curing conditions, the GOs are thermal reduced and give rise to aggregation, deteriorating the properties of the epoxy/GO composites. Here, GOs and thermal reduced GOs (rGOs) could be uniformly dispersed in epoxy resin under the assistant of the dispersant, pyrene group functionalized polyethylene glycol (Py‐PEG‐Py). The thermal reduced behavior of GOs had been proved by the tests of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). And the dispersion of individual GO sheets within epoxy matrix was confirmed by the measurements of dynamic laser scattering (DLS). Accordingly, the remarkable enhancement in performances of GOs reinforced epoxy was achieved. Typically, incorporation of as less as 0.03 wt% GOs and 3.0 wt% Py‐PEG‐Py, flexural strength (113.2 MPa) increases by 56.5%, fracture toughness (KIC) (1.94 MPa m0.5) increases by 55%, respectively. This work confirms GO can be thermal reduced under curing conditions and also highlights the importance of the microscopic uniformity of GO or rGO within epoxy matrix on the mechanical performances of composites.
Making molehills out of mountains: Removing moral meaning from prior immoral actions
Authors: Helion Chelsea , Ward Adrian , O'Shea Ian , Pizarro David
Published: December 2022

At some point in their lives, most people have told a lie, intentionally hurt someone else, or acted selfishly at the expense of another. Despite knowledge of their moral failings, individuals are often able to maintain the belief that they are moral people. This research explores one mechanism by which this paradoxical process occurs: the tendency to represent one's past immoral behaviors in concrete or mechanistic terms, thus stripping the action of its moral implications. Across five studies, we document this basic pattern and provide evidence that this process impacts evaluations of an act's moral wrongness. We further demonstrate an extension of this effect, such that when an apology describes an immoral behavior using mechanistic terms, it is viewed as less sincere and less forgivable, likely because including low‐level or concrete language in an apology fails to communicate the belief that one's actions were morally wrong.
Role of ferroptosis inhibitors in the management of diabetes
Authors: Prasad M Krishna , Mohandas Sundhar , Kunka Mohanram Ramkumar
Published: December 2022

Ferroptosis, the iron‐dependent, lipid peroxide‐mediated cell death, has garnered attention due to its critical involvement in crucial physiological and pathological cellular processes. Indeed, several studies have attributed its role in developing a range of disorders, including diabetes. As accumulating evidence further the understanding of ferroptotic mechanisms, the impact this specialized mode of cell death has on diabetic pathogenesis is still unclear. Several in vivo and in vitro studies have highlighted the association of ferroptosis with beta‐cell death and insulin resistance, supported by observations of marked alterations in ferroptotic markers in experimental diabetes models. The constant improvement in understanding ferroptosis in diabetes has demonstrated it as a potential therapeutic target in diabetic management. In this regard, ferroptosis inhibitors promise to rescue pancreatic beta‐cell function and alleviate diabetes and its complications. This review article elucidates the key ferroptotic pathways that mediate beta‐cell death in diabetes, and its complications. In particular, we share our insight into the cross talk between ferroptosis and other hallmark pathogenic mediators such as oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress regulators relevant to diabetes progression. Further, we extensively summarize the recent developments on the role of ferroptosis inhibitors and their therapeutic action in alleviating diabetes and its complications.
Identifying unknown specimens using predictive phylogenies for remote forensic education
Authors: Lorusso Nicholas S. , Gemmellaro M. Denise
Published: December 2022

One significant impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic for educators in forensic science was adapting what is traditionally a very applied field to a virtual learning environment. Because of this, science classes with a practical laboratory component had to implement significant adjustments to ensure that student learning objectives were still met, including practical elements. To provide learners with an alternative to a traditional lab exercise in forensic entomology, we designed an exercise to be conducted completely remotely to instruct students in how to identify a real unknown specimen using a hypothetical phylogenetic tree they create. Students retrieved data and make predictions using public databases, generate phylogenies based off sequence data, and finally determine the identity of the unknown sequence provided. This lab replacement exercise has been adapted to be accessible to learners from different academic levels and takes the length of one two‐and‐a‐half‐hour lab period to complete. Through creating this resource, we have been able to link molecular systematics to forensic education and provide learners who download this publicly available exercise insight into how forensic questions are answered.
Development of the expression and prognostic significance of m5C‐related LncRNAs in breast cancer
Authors: Xu Gaoran , Li Chengxin , Di Ziyang , Yang Yalong , Liang Leilei , Yuan Qianqian , Yang Qian , Dong Xingxing , Xu Siguang , Wu Gaosong
Published: December 2022

Background

5‐Methylcytosine (m5C) methylation is a major epigenetic RNA modification and is closely related to tumorigenesis in various cancers. This study aimed to explore the prognostic value of m5C‐related lncRNAs in breast cancer.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and RNA‐seq expression data from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) were used in the study. First, we performed differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis and constructed a PPI network for the 12 m5C regulators. Then, we identified the m5C‐related LncRNAs by the “cor. test.” An m5C‐related lncRNA prognostic risk signature was developed using univariate Cox regression and Lasso‐penalized Cox regression analyses. The model's performance was determined using Kaplan–Meier (KM) survival analysis and ROC curves. Finally, a nomogram was constructed for clinical application in evaluating patients with BRCA. We also researched the drug sensitivity of signature lncRNAs and immune cell infiltration. Finally, we validated the expression of the signature lncRNAs through qRT–PCR in a breast cancer cell line and a breast epithelial cell line.

Results

Overall, we constructed an 11‐lncRNA risk score signature based on the lncRNAs associated with m5C regulators. According to the median risk score, we divided BRCA patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups. The prognostic risk signature displayed excellent accuracy and demonstrated sufficient independence from other clinical characteristics. The immune cell infiltration analysis showed that the prognostic risk signature was related to the infiltration of immune cell subtypes. Drug sensitivity proved that our prognostic risk signature potentially has therapeutic value.

Conclusions

The m5C‐related lncRNA signature reliably predicted the prognosis of breast cancer patients and may provide new insight into the breast cancer tumor immune microenvironment.
Clinical outcomes of non‐nasopharyngeal lymphoepithelial carcinoma treated with a combined modality approach: A single‐institution study
Authors: Qiu Zichen , Lin Feifei , Lyu Shaowen , Xie Dehuan , Wang Lei , Wu Zheng , Cheng Wanqin , Tao Yalan , Su Yong
Published: December 2022

Background

This study presents a summary of the clinical characteristics of non‐nasopharyngeal lymphoepithelial carcinoma (NNPLEC), effects of combined modality treatment and prognostic value of plasma Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) load, with the aim of providing a reference framework for optimizing treatment practices and outcomes.

Methods

Patients with NNPLEC treated by our center between January 2000 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

In total, 728 patients were included. The lung was identified as the most common primary tumor site (64.0%), followed by the salivary gland (19.2%). A total of 539 (74.0%) patients underwent surgery, 459 (63.0%) received chemotherapy, and 361 (49.6%) were subjected to radiotherapy. The median follow‐up time was 45 months (range, 6–212 months) and 5‐year overall survival (OS) was 79.1%. Increased plasma EBV‐DNA load of >513.5 copies/mL was predictive of disease progression, with a specificity of 98.1% and a sensitivity of 98.9%. In multivariate Cox analysis, N stage, surgery, and radiotherapy were independent prognostic factors for both OS and PFS. Radiotherapy significantly improves OS in comparison with no radiotherapy group for salivary LEC, while surgery significantly improves OS for pulmonary LEC.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, surgery and radiotherapy are associated with better OS and PFS for NNPLEC. Radiotherapy could be recommended for salivary LEC, while surgery remains the primary treatment strategy for pulmonary LEC patients. An increased plasma EBV‐DNA load of >513.5 copies/mL is strongly predictive of disease progression, supporting the importance of regular evaluation of plasma EBV‐DNA as part of the diagnostic routine.
Real‐world application of a fast stool DNA test for colorectal cancer screening in primary screening positive population
Authors: Zhu Yunfeng , Zhao Guodong , Ma Weihua , Chen Xinmin , Chen Xiaofei , Li Danning , Zhao Shuyan , Xiong Shangmin , Zheng Minxue
Published: December 2022

Background

Stool DNA test has been emerged as an effective noninvasive method for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, but the real‐world performance of stool DNA test in Chinese population has rarely been reported.

Methods

A total of 36,527 subjects were recruited in Haining City from January 2021 to December 2021. Participants underwent primary screening by taking both two‐samples fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) and high‐risk factor questionnaire (HRFQ), and those who tested either positive by FITs or evaluated to be high risk by HRFQ were recommended to undertake subsequent stool DNA test and colonoscopy.

Results

Of 36,527 participants, 34,778 (95%) completed both HRFQ and FITs, 9947 (29%) showed positive results during primary screening, and the colonoscopy compliance rate was 49%. Of primary screening positives, 8733 (88%) completed stool sample collections, and colonoscopy results from 4293 eligible participants were used for analyzing the performance of stool DNA test. The sensitivities for detecting CRC and advanced adenomas (AA) were 100% (95% CI: 60–100%) and 40% (95% CI: 34–46%), and the area under curve (AUC) was 0.961 (95% CI:0.954–0.967) and 0.625 (95% CI: 0.609–0.641), respectively. The specificity of stool DNA test was 84% (95% CI: 82–85%). The false‐positive rate for stool DNA test is about 10% less than that of primary screening.

Conclusion

Stool DNA test is a cost‐effective and promising alternative strategy for CRC screening in China.
Anti‐Diabetic Effects and Molecular Mechanisms of Amide Alkaloids fromPiper longumBased on Network Pharmacology Integrated with Cellular Assays
Authors: Gou Guang‐Hui , Liu Liu , Abdubakiev Sardorbek , Xin Xue‐Lei , Akber Aisa Haji , Li Jun
Published: December 2022

Piper longumis a well‐known spice and traditional medicine. It was revealed to possess anti‐diabetic activity, but few information about its active component and underlying mechanism could be available. In this study, retrofractamides A (1) and C (2) isolated fromP. longumshowed potent inhibitory activity against PTP1B. Therefore, the potential mechanism was predicted by network pharmacology and molecular docking. PI3K/AKT was obtained as the most remarkable pathway against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and AKT1 and GSK3βwere yielded as the top two core targets of retrofractamides A (1) and C (2). Molecular docking of compounds with AKT1 and GSK3βshowed strong binding affinity between them. Additionally, cellular experiments with a L6 cell model was conducted to further verify the above predictions. Results indicated that retrofractamides A (1) and C (2) exerted anti‐diabetic effect via activating PI3K/AKT pathway, and they promoted glucose consumption, glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis and glycolysis.
PdS Coupled Nb2O5 Superstructure for Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Mohan Harshavardhan , Vadivel Sethumathavan , Fujii Manabu , Ha Ga Hyeon , Kim Gitae , Lee Hye Rin , Shin Taeho
Published: December 2022

An efficient approach to resolve the current energy crisis is the photocatalytic production of hydrogen that is renewable and readily available from water and solar energy. In this study, we prepared nanocomposites by coupling PdS nanodisks on self‐assembled Nb2O5 superstructures and demonstrated them as an efficient water splitting photocatalyst for oxygen and hydrogen production. Various characterization techniques were employed to examine the physical and chemical properties and advantages of the Nb2O5/PdS nanocomposite over bare Nb2O5 superstructure and PdS nanoparticles. The synthesized nanocomposite showed a hydrogen evolution rate of 665 μmol g−1 min−1 and oxygen evolution rate of 211 μmol g−1 min−1, which is twice as high as that of Nb2O5 superstructure and three times higher than that of PdS nanoparticles. The composite survived without any structural deterioration, even after six treatment cycles, thereby indicating its practical applicability.
Single‐atom electrocatalysts for lithium–sulfur chemistry: Design principle, mechanism, and outlook
Authors: Song Yingze , Zou Luwei , Wei Chaohui , Zhou Yu , Hu Yue
Published: December 2022

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) have been regarded as one of the promising candidates for the next‐generation “lithium‐ion battery beyond” owing to their high energy density and due to the low cost of sulfur. However, the main obstacles encountered in the commercial implementation of LSBs are the notorious shuttle effect, retarded sulfur redox kinetics, and uncontrolled dendrite growth. Accordingly, single‐atom catalysts (SACs), which have ultrahigh catalytic efficiency, tunable coordination configuration, and light weight, have shown huge potential in the field of LSBs to date. This review summarizes the recent research progress of SACs applied as multifunctional components in LSBs. The design principles and typical synthetic strategies of SACs toward effective Li–S chemistry as well as the working mechanism promoting sulfur conversion reactions, inhibiting the lithium polysulfide shuttle effect, and regulating Li+nucleation are comprehensively illustrated. Potential future directions in terms of research on SACs for the realization of commercially viable LSBs are also outlined.
Immediate hypersensitivity reactions to iodinated contrast media: The diagnosis of allergy by skin testing
Authors: Caron Juliette , Graf Sahara , Delebarre‐Sauvage Christine
Published: December 2022

Among 74 patients with an immediate hypersensitivity reaction (IHR) to iodinated contrast media (ICM), the rate of allergic patients confirmed by positive prick test or diluted intradermal test (IDT) was 8.1%. 12.5% of re‐exposed patients had a recurrent IHR despite negative skin tests. Investigations on pure IDT to ICM and development of drug provocation test may provide additional safety nets to uncover recurrent ICM reactors. Agreements among allergists are needed to unify practices.
Improved Current Efficiency of Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes by Utilizing ZnO Nanoparticles and an Organic Ionic Interlayer
Authors: Th Trinh Ly , Duc Nguyen Binh , Ko Pyeongsam , Youn Hongseok
Published: December 2022

The solution‐processed QLED (quantum dot light‐emitting diode) has a great potential for low‐cost and large‐scale displays. However, the solution‐processed QLED has a limitation in the current efficiency due to the rough surface of the quantum dot layer causing shunt leakage. This paper reports solution‐processed highly current‐efficient QLED utilizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and an organic ionic interlayer as an electron injection layer. The organic ionic materials create the permanent interface dipole by shifting the vacuum energy using tetrabutylammonium (TBA) cations and tetrafluoroborate (BF4) anions under the applied electric field. The dipole effectively reduces the electronic injection barrier to provide charge carrier balance of the holes and electrons in the emissive layer. As a result, the maximum current efficiency and power efficiency for the device structure of QLEDs ITO/PEDOT : PSS/PVK/CdSe@ZnS QDs/ZnO NPs/TBABF4+PEG/Al (23.9 cd A−1 and 12.9 lm W−1) enhanced significantly compared to the structure of QLEDs ITO/PEDOT : PSS/PVK/CdSe@ZnS QDs/ZnO NPs/PEI/Al (9.7 cd A−1 and 5.8 lm W−1) and the structure of QLEDs ITO/PEDOT : PSS/PVK/CdSe@ZnS QDs/ZnO NPs/Al (6.8 cd A−1 and 4.1 lm W−1). The improvement of the current efficiency can be analyzed under the Space Charge‐Limited Current regime. In addition, this paper examines the existence of parasitic resistances including series resistance and shunt resistance by modeling the QLED device as a single exponential diode model. Finally, we can evaluate the influence of the ionic interlayer on the entire QLED device in reducing the leakage current and the current‐voltage (I–V) characteristic of the fabricated QLED devices. We believe the presented high‐performance quantum dot light‐emitting diodes have a high potential and impact on lighting and display technologies.
Formulation and Evaluation of Polymer‐Based Nanoparticles for Intravitreal Gene‐Delivery Applications
Authors: Lee Daiheon , Kwak Gijung , Johnson Thomas V. , Suk Jung Soo
Published: December 2022

The advent of the first‐ever retinal gene therapy product, involving subretinal administration of a virus‐based gene delivery platform, has garnered hope that this state‐of‐the‐art therapeutic modality may benefit a broad spectrum of patients with diverse retinal disorders. On the other hand, clinical studies have revealed limitations of the applied delivery strategy that may restrict its universal use. To this end, intravitreal administration of synthetic gene‐delivery platforms, such as polymer‐based nanoparticles (PNPs), has emerged as an attractive alternative to the current mainstay. To achieve success, however, it is imperative that synthetic platforms overcome key biological barriers in human eyes encountered following intravitreal administration, including the vitreous gel and inner limiting membrane (ILM). Here, we introduce a series of experiments, from the fabrication of PNPs to a comprehensive evaluation in relevant experimental models, to determine whether PNPs overcome these barriers and efficiently deliver therapeutic gene payloads to retinal cells. We conclude the article by discussing a few important considerations for successful implementation of the strategy. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation and characterization of PNPs

Basic Protocol 2: Evaluation of in vitro transfection efficacy

Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of PNP diffusion in vitreous gel

Basic Protocol 4: Ex vivo assessment of PNP penetration within vitreoretinal explant culture

Basic Protocol 5: Assessment of in vivo transgene expression mediated by intravitreally administered PNPs
Rheo‐NMR Spectroscopy for Cryogenic‐Probe‐Equipped NMR Instruments to Monitor Protein Aggregation
Authors: Morimoto Daichi , Walinda Erik , Yamamoto Akihiko , Scheler Ulrich , Sugase Kenji
Published: December 2022

Cryogenic‐probe‐based Rheo‐NMR spectroscopy is a recently developed methodology to obtain solution NMR spectra of protein samples in situ under external shear. It is applicable to atomic‐resolution monitoring of protein aggregation in situ, thereby aiding understanding of the transient structural changes and state conversion of amyloidogenic proteins, which are strongly associated with the both the onset and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Here, we present detailed experimental procedures for the instrumental setup and practical tips for preparation of NMR measurement to analyze protein aggregation by this technique. This protocol will thus aid future Rheo‐NMR spectroscopic studies not only of protein aggregation but also of other phenomena related to shear stress, such as shear‐induced viscosity increase and shear‐enhanced crystallization. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Setup of a Rheo‐NMR Instrument

Basic Protocol 2: Adjustment of the Vertical and Horizontal Positions of the Glass Stick

Basic Protocol 3: Monitoring Protein Aggregation by Rheo‐NMR Spectroscopy
Accurate and Effective Detection of Recurrent Copy Number Variants in Large SNP Genotype Datasets
Authors: Montalbano Simone , Sánchez Xabier Calle , Vaez Morteza , Helenius Dorte , Werge Thomas , Ingason Andrés
Published: December 2022

Structural variations, including recurrent Copy Number Variants (CNVs) at specific genomic loci, have been found to be associated with increased risk of several diseases and syndromes. CNV carrier status can be determined in large collections of samples using SNP arrays and, more recently, sequencing data. Although there is some consensus among researchers about the essential steps required in such analysis (i.e., CNV calling, filtering of putative carriers, and visual validation using intensity data plots of the genomic region), standard methodologies and processes to control the quality and consistency of the results are lacking. Here, we present a comprehensive and user‐friendly protocol that we have refined from our extensive research experience in the field. We cover every aspect of the analysis, from input data curation to final results. For each step, we highlight which parameters affect the analysis the most and how different settings may lead to different results. We provide a pipeline to run the complete analysis with effective (but customizable) pre‐sets. We present software that we developed to better handle and filter putative CNV carriers and perform visual inspection to validate selected candidates. Finally, we describe methods to evaluate the critical sections and actions to counterbalance potential problems. The current implementation is focused on Illumina SNP array data. All the presented software is freely available and provided in a ready‐to‐use docker container. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: From raw intensity data files to CNV calls

Basic Protocol 2: From CNV calls to validated CNV carriers.

Basic Protocol 3: Quality control and quality assessment

Basic Protocol 4: Install the necessary software
Arboreal mouse lemurs discovered sleeping in a burrow on the ground
Authors: Ramananjato Veronarindra , Randimbiarison Finaritra , Rabarijaonina Tanjoniaina Hery Nirina Patrick , Razafindratsima Onja H.
Published: December 2022

Finding sleeping sites is important for the fitness of many mammal species. Like most nonhuman primates, Madagascar's mouse lemurs (genus: Microcebus) are thought to exclusively use arboreal sleeping sites. The rufous mouse lemurs (Microcebus rufus) in Ranomafana National Park (southeastern Madagascar) have always been documented to sleep in either tree holes or leaf nests. However, in our recent field expedition, we observed, with the help of telemetry technologies, an unprecedented event of M. rufus sleeping in a burrow on the rainforest ground, curled up with a very slow heartbeat. Thus far, such behavior has not been observed in any other Microcebus species but is common in high‐altitude dwarf lemurs (genus: Cheirogaleus), a closely related genus to the mouse lemurs. We believe that this discovery could illustrate an ecophysiological response strategy to habitat changes, which warrants further investigation.
The legacies of land clearance and trophic downgrading accumulate to affect structure and function of kelp forests
Authors: Wing Stephen R. , Shears Nicolas T. , Tait Leigh W. , Schiel David R.
Published: December 2022

Aotearoa New Zealand is the last major landmass settled by people, and therefore provides a recent record of ecological legacy effects in the coastal zone. Large‐scale land clearances of forests accelerated over the last century, affecting the concentration of suspended sediments, light environment, and nutrient composition on rocky reefs, and consequently the distribution, abundance, and composition of algal forests. The environmental effects were compounded in many places by overfishing and long‐term declines of large predatory species, often leading to proliferation and extensive grazing by sea urchins. In this study, we examine these processes in three biogeographic regions that have been differentially affected by ecological legacy effects. The study was based on the depth‐specific associations between sea urchins (Evechinus chloroticus) and the common kelp (Ecklonia radiata) from multiple sites within each region, some of which were sampled over two decades within no‐take marine reserves and in actively fished areas. Satellite‐derived estimates of water‐column properties were used as proxies for the relative effects of coastal sedimentation on kelp forest habitats. We then used an information‐theoretic framework to assess the relative factor weightings of marine reserve effects on urchin density, total suspended solids (TSS), and regional urchin density on the depth‐specific density of Ecklonia radiata. The fishing effects were significant within and outside of reserves in the northern and central regions, but the effect sizes were by far strongest in the northern region. In the central region characterized by extensive land clearance and forestry combined with high coastal retention of water, the concentration of TSS had a major influence on the depth distribution of kelp, confining it to shallow water (<10‐m depth) in small patches where urchins did not overgraze. These patterns are in sharp contrast to the small marine reserve effects and deep distribution of Ecklonia radiata in the southern region, which has intact native forested catchments, comparatively low fishing pressure, and a large regional network of marine reserves. The results highlight important differences in how centuries‐old legacies of land clearance and exploitation affect regional‐scale dynamics of sea urchins and kelp and define the appropriate spatial scale of ecosystem‐based management of critical kelp forest habitats.
Predictive value of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio for atrial fibrillation and stroke in type 2 diabetes mellitus: The Hong Kong Diabetes Study
Authors: Chang Carlin , Zhou Jiandong , Chou Oscar Hou In , Chan Justin , Leung Keith Sai Kit , Lee Teddy Tai Loy , Wong Wing Tak , Wai Abraham Ka Chung , Liu Tong , Zhang Qingpeng , Lee Sharen , Tse Gary
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a routinely available biomarker that reflects systemic inflammation. The study evaluated the predictive value of NLR for ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This was a population‐based cohort study of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and complete blood count tests at baseline between 1 January 1st, 2009, and 31 December, 2009, at government‐funded hospitals/clinics in Hong Kong. Follow‐up was until 31 December, 2019, or death.

Results

A total of 85,351 patients (age = 67.6 ± 13.2 years old, male = 48.8%, follow‐up = 3101 ± 1441 days) were included. Univariable Cox regression found that increased NLR at quartiles 2, 3 and 4 was significantly associated with higher risks of new‐onset ischemic stroke (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.28 [1.20–1.37], p < .001, HR: 1.41 [1.32–1.51], p < .001 and HR: 1.38 [1.29–1.47], p < .001) and AF (HR: 1.09 [1.02–1.17], p < .015; HR: 1.28 [1.20–1.37], p < .001; HR: 1.39 [1.31–1.49], p < .001) compared to quartile 1. On multivariable analysis, NLR remained a significant predictor of ischemic stroke risk for quartiles 2 and 3 (quartile 2: HR: 1.14 [1.05, 1.22], p = .001; quartile 3: HR: 1.14 [1.06, 1.23], p < .001) but not quartile 4 (HR: 1.08 [0.994, 1.17], p = .070). NLR was not predictive of AF after adjusting for confounders (quartile 2: HR: 0.966 [0.874, 1.07], p = .499; quartile 3: HR: 0.978 [0.884, 1.08], p = .661; quartile 4: HR: 1.05 [0.935, 1.16], p = .462).

Conclusion

NLR is a significant predictor of new‐onset ischaemic stroke after adjusting for significant confounders in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients.
Fast three‐dimensional image generation for healthy brain aging using diffeomorphic registration
Authors: Fu Jingru , Tzortzakakis Antonios , Barroso José , Westman Eric , Ferreira Daniel , Moreno Rodrigo ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2022

Predicting brain aging can help in the early detection and prognosis of neurodegenerative diseases. Longitudinal cohorts of healthy subjects scanned through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been essential to understand the structural brain changes due to aging. However, these cohorts suffer from missing data due to logistic issues in the recruitment of subjects. This paper proposes a methodology for filling up missing data in longitudinal cohorts with anatomically plausible images that capture the subject‐specific aging process. The proposed methodology is developed within the framework of diffeomorphic registration. First, two novel modules are introduced within Synthmorph, a fast, state‐of‐the‐art deep learning‐based diffeomorphic registration method, to simulate the aging process between the first and last available MRI scan for each subject in three‐dimensional (3D). The use of image registration also makes the generated images plausible by construction. Second, we used six image similarity measurements to rearrange the generated images to the specific age range. Finally, we estimated the age of every generated image by using the assumption of linear brain decay in healthy subjects. The methodology was evaluated on 2662 T1‐weighted MRI scans from 796 healthy participants from 3 different longitudinal cohorts: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Open Access Series of Imaging Studies‐3, and Group of Neuropsychological Studies of the Canary Islands (GENIC). In total, we generated 7548 images to simulate the access of a scan per subject every 6 months in these cohorts. We evaluated the quality of the synthetic images using six quantitative measurements and a qualitative assessment by an experienced neuroradiologist with state‐of‐the‐art results. The assumption of linear brain decay was accurate in these cohorts (R2 ∈ [.924, .940]). The experimental results show that the proposed methodology can produce anatomically plausible aging predictions that can be used to enhance longitudinal datasets. Compared to deep learning‐based generative methods, diffeomorphic registration is more likely to preserve the anatomy of the different structures of the brain, which makes it more appropriate for its use in clinical applications. The proposed methodology is able to efficiently simulate anatomically plausible 3D MRI scans of brain aging of healthy subjects from two images scanned at two different time points.
Front Cover Image
Authors: Lee Dong Hyun , Park Geun Hyeong , Kim Se Hyun , Park Ju Yong , Yang Kun , Slesazeck Stefan , Mikolajick Thomas , Park Min Hyuk
Published: December 2022

This article (DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12380) comprehensively reviews the recent progress in artificial synaptic and spiking neuron devices for neuromorphic computing based on (Hf,Zr)O2‐based ferroelectrics. The actual human brain consists of neurons, axons, and synapses. Simply explain their functions, neurons communicate with each other via electrical events called action potential and chemical neurotransmitters. At the junction between two neurons which is called a synapse, an action potential causes one side of the neuron to release a chemical neurotransmitter. Thus, we intended to mimic the basic element of the human brain and its functions by utilizing our ferroelectric devices. The background consists entirely of two parts (i.e biological neural network (Upper part) and integrated semiconductor chips (Bottom part). In the center of the cover image, we highlighted fluorite‐structured ferroelectrics by emitting lights. It should be noted that the light here is nothing more than intended to emphasize fluorite structure.

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Back Cover Image
Authors: Bhat Gurudutt , Kielar Marcin , Rao Haixia , Gholami Mahnaz D. , Mathers Isabel , Larin Astrid C. R. , Flanagan Thomas , Erdenebileg Enkhtur , Bruno Annalisa , Pannu Amandeep Singh , Fairfull‐Smith Kathryn E. , Izake Emad L. , Sah Pankaj , Lam Yeng Ming , Pandey Ajay K. , Sonar Prashant
Published: December 2022

This cover (DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12345) shows a multifunctional TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA small molecule with superior optoelectronic and photophysical properties. Material is shown to function as an efficient hole transport layer in perovskite solar cells reaching a power conversion efficiency of 17.4%, and as a robust electron donor in near‐infrared organic photodetectors absorbing light in the wavelength range of up to 800 nm. Offering two distinct optoelectronic functions, TPA‐azaBODIPY‐TPA is particularly attractive as it enables multi‐purpose applications while maintaining the ease of fabrication.

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Withdrawn: CircTDRD3 aggravates H/R‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis via targeting miR‐4295/TP63 axis
Authors: Kong Xiaodong , Jin Li , Zhang Xue , Ba Sai , Hao Yuying , Zhou Kexuan , Sun Ning
Published: December 2022

The above article, published online on 5 December 2022, on Wiley Online Library (https://doi.org/10.1002/jbt.23003), has been withdrawn by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Hari Bhat, and Wiley Periodicals, LLC.

The withdrawal has been agreed due to a technical error at the publisher that caused the article to be mistakenly published online although publication had been canceled because the authors did not approve their proof.
The impact of religiousness and beliefs about mental illness on help‐seeking behaviors of Muslim Americans
Authors: Mudryk Elijah P. , Johnson Laura R.
Published: December 2022

Background

In addition to the typical challenges of daily life, Muslim Americans have experienced high levels of stress and clinical disorders relating to discrimination from the 9/11 attacks and ongoing political stigma. Despite mounting mental health concerns, Muslim Americans have encountered multifaceted barriers to accessing mental health services and remain underserved.

Aims

This study sought to explore the relationship between religiousness and beliefs about mental illness among Muslim Americans to predict their clinical help‐seeking attitudes.

Materials and Methods

The present study gathered a nationwide sample of Muslim Americans through online data collection to assess how the relationship between religiousness and help‐seeking was mediated by acculturation and biomedical beliefs about mental illness.

Results

Analyses found that Islamic religiousness and biomedical beliefs predicted more openness to mental health treatment. Additional analyses found that integration with mainstream culture was correlated with higher confidence in services.

Discussion

The findings of this study provide clinicians a nuanced understanding of how biological beliefs about mental illness may align with Islamic spiritual values and foster culturally responsive communication and healthcare. Barriers to treatment may be addressed for males and other underserved demographics through integrated treatment that recognizes their understandings of health, illness, and treatment.

Conclusion

Overall, results of the study provide support for recognizing religion along with demographic background as a cultural consideration to enhance treatment efficacy.
Diagnostic value of combined pelvic floor ultrasound parameters for pelvic floor dysfunction and risk factors
Authors: Lin Chunhong , Huang Weiyan , Li Xianguo , Wang Linlin , Yan Fengqin , Zhou Xiaowen , Jiang Weihong , Zhao Yaoyao
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic value of pelvic floor ultrasound parameters in combination for pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), and to explore the risk factors.

Methods

Forty PFD patients treated from April2019to December 2020(case group) and another 40 healthy women (control group) were enrolled. Their clinical data were collected, and both groups received three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound of the pelvic floor. The diagnostic value of pelvic floor ultrasound parameters for PFD was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The risk factors of PFD were evaluated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The area under the ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity of the parameters in combination for predicting PFD were 0.851 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.743–0.959], 0.901, and 0.812, respectively, indicating acceptable accuracy. Results of logistic regression analysis revealed that spontaneous delivery, lateral episiotomy/laceration, and large bladder neck rotation angle, posterior urethrovesical angle (PUA), bladder neck tilt angle, bladder neck distance (BND), levator hiatus area (LHA) (at anal contraction), R‐LHA and V‐LHA were risk factors for PFD (p < 0.05), while physical exercise was a protective factor (p < 0.05). ROC curve analysis revealed that the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the forest map model were 0.822 (95% CI: 0.759–0.885), 0.942, and 0.601, respectively, indicating acceptable accuracy of the model. Internal data validation of the model demonstrated consistence of the predicted occurrence of PFD with the actual one.

Conclusions

Spontaneous delivery, lateral episiotomy/laceration, and large bladder neck rotation angle, PUA, bladder neck tilt angle, BND, LHA (at anal contraction), R‐LHA and V‐LHA were risk factors for PFD.
Educational content of professional ethics in postgraduate dental education
Authors: Momeni Nafiseh , Larijani Bagher , Razmi Hasan , Mohammadi Farnoosh , Mirzazadeh Azim , Asghari Fariba
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Inclusion of proper educational content with respect to professional ethics in dental curricula is an important step to achieve objectives of ethics education especially in postgraduate programs when the time and opportunities for explicit instruction of ethics are limited. This study aimed to find and discuss the topics of ethics and professionalism for dental postgraduate programs.

Methods

A modified Delphi survey of experts’ opinions with three rounds was conducted to establish a consensus on the need to teach professional ethics topics. The topics were identified through a literature review and according to the opinion of the experts. Items scored as highly important by over 80% of the participants in each round of the survey were considered educational needs.

Results

A total of 154 ethical issues were identified and classified into 29 topical categories to design the initial questionnaire. A consensus was developed on 24 ethics and professionalism topics for inclusion in the professional ethics curriculum for all dental postgraduate programs.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this study, the same educational content in professional ethics is needed for all dental residency programs in all specialties. Most of the topics on which experts reached a consensus to be included in the ethics educational content were related to ethical and professional standards of conduct.
Comparison of viral inactivation methods on the characteristics of extracellular vesicles from SARS‐CoV‐2 infected human lung epithelial cells
Authors: Kongsomros Supasek , Pongsakul Nutkridta , Panachan Jirawan , Khowawisetsut Ladawan , Somkird Jinjuta , Sangma Chak , Kanjanapruthipong Tapanee , Wongtrakoongate Patompon , Chairoungdua Arthit , Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Newburg David S. , Morrow Ardythe L. , Hongeng Suradej , Thitithanyanont Arunee , Chutipongtanate Somchai
Published: December 2022

The interaction of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with extracellular vesicles (EVs) is of particular interest at the moment. Studying SARS‐CoV‐2 contaminated‐EV isolates in instruments located outside of the biosafety level‐3 (BSL‐3) environment requires knowing how viral inactivation methods affect the structure and function of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Therefore, three common viral inactivation methods, ultraviolet‐C (UVC; 1350 mJ/cm2), β‐propiolactone (BPL; 0.005%), heat (56°C, 45 min) were performed on defined EV particles and their proteins, RNAs, and function. Small EVs were isolated from the supernatant of SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected human lung epithelial Calu‐3 cells by stepwise centrifugation, ultrafiltration and qEV size‐exclusion chromatography. The EV isolates contained SARS‐CoV‐2. UVC, BPL and heat completely abolished SARS‐CoV‐2 infectivity of the contaminated EVs. Particle detection by electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking was less affected by UVC and BPL than heat treatment. Western blot analysis of EV markers was not affected by any of these three methods. UVC reduced SARS‐CoV‐2 spike detectability by quantitative RT‐PCR and slightly altered EV‐derived β‐actin detection. Fibroblast migration‐wound healing activity of the SARS‐CoV‐2 contaminated‐EV isolate was only retained after UVC treatment. In conclusion, specific viral inactivation methods are compatible with specific measures in SARS‐CoV‐2 contaminated‐EV isolates. UVC treatment seems preferable for studying functions of EVs released from SARS‐CoV‐2 infected cells.
Ganoin and acrodin formation on scales and teeth in spotted gar: A vital role of enamelin in the unique process of enamel mineralization
Authors: Kawasaki Kazuhiko , Sasagawa Ichiro , Mikami Masato , Nakatomi Mitsushiro , Ishiyama Mikio
Published: December 2022

Gars and bichirs develop scales and teeth with ancient actinopterygian characteristics. Their scale surface and tooth collar are covered with enamel, also known as ganoin, whereas the tooth cap is equipped with an enamel‐like tissue, acrodin. Here, we investigated the formation and mineralization of the ganoin and acrodin matrices in spotted gar, and the evolution of the scpp5, ameloblastin (ambn), and enamelin (enam) genes, which encode matrix proteins of ganoin. Results suggest that, in bichirs and gars, all these genes retain structural characteristics of their orthologs in stem actinopterygians, presumably reflecting the presence of ganoin on scales and teeth. During scale formation, Scpp5 and Enam were initially found in the incipient ganoin matrix and the underlying collagen matrix, whereas Ambn was detected mostly in a surface region of the well‐developed ganoin matrix. Although collagen is the principal acrodin matrix protein, Scpp5 was detected within the matrix. Similarities in timings of mineralization and the secretion of Scpp5 suggest that acrodin evolved by the loss of the matrix secretory stage of ganoin formation: dentin formation is immediately followed by the maturation stage. The late onset of Ambn secretion during ganoin formation implies that Ambn is not essential for mineral ribbon formation, the hallmark of the enamel matrix. Furthermore, Scpp5 resembles amelogenin that is not important for the initial formation of mineral ribbons in mammals. It is thus likely that the evolution of ENAM was vital to the origin of the unique mineralization process of the enamel matrix.
Phase I study of novel SYK inhibitor TAK‐659 (mivavotinib) in combination with R‐CHOP for front‐line treatment of high‐risk diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Karmali Reem , St‐Pierre Frederique , Ma Shuo , Foster Kelly D. , Kaplan Jason , Mi Xinlei , Pro Barbara , Winter Jane N. , Gordon Leo I.
Published: December 2022

Background: TAK‐659, a novel oral SYK inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in heavily pretreated diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We report results of a phase I single‐institution escalation study of front‐line treatment with R‐CHOP and TAK‐659 in treatment‐naïve high‐risk DLBCL.

Methods: Patients with high‐risk DLBCL were treated with R‐CHOP for 1 cycle, followed by combined R‐CHOP and TAK‐659 for an additional five cycles, with TAK‐659 dosing escalated from 60 mg, to 80 mg, to 100 mg daily, based on a 3 + 3 design. The primary objective was to determine the safety and establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of TAK‐659 in this setting.

Results: Twelve patients were enrolled. Dose level 3 (100 mg) was established as the MTD. Dose level 1 (60 mg) maintained a similar area under the curve (AUC) to the MTD. With a median follow‐up of 21 months, 92% of patients achieved complete response (CR). The most common treatment‐emergent adverse events were lymphopenia (100%), infection (50%, n = 3 opportunistic), aspartate aminotransferase elevation (100%), and alanine aminotransferase elevation (83%).

Conclusion: A TAK‐659 dose of 60 mg was well tolerated, did not require dose modifications, and maintained a similar AUC to the MTD. The combination of R‐CHOP and TAK‐659 in patients with newly diagnosed high‐risk DLBCL produces promising CR rates.
Atrial flutter with multilevel atrioventricular block and cyclical occurrence of varying QRS morphologies
Authors: Abedin Zainul , Conner Robert P. , Ali Sania , Dahal Ranjan , Abedin Moeen
Published: December 2022

An electrocardiogram showing atrial flutter in which varying ratios of AV conduction and the cyclical recurrence of varying QRS morphologies are observed is presented.
Dominant role of Atlantic multidecadal oscillation in the tipping point of maximum and minimum temperatures over inner East Asia
Authors: Guo Shuyang , Guan Xiaodan , Gu Tonghui , Shen Xiaohan
Published: December 2022

Despite unprecedented heatwave events reported in the past two decades over inner East Asia, the maximum and minimum temperatures of Tmax and Tmin do not always exhibit continuous increasing. After drastic increases in Tmax and Tmin appeared over inner East Asia from 1982, a decreasing trend occurred around 1998, which was closely associated with the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO). During 1950–2014, the correlation between Tmax (Tmin) and AMO at the decadal time scale reached 0.70 (0.83); and 65% (79%) variance of the decadal variability in Tmax (Tmin) was explained by the AMO and three other classic oceanic modes; the contribution of the AMO was up to 82% (91%) in the decadal modulated oscillation. The declines of Tmin and Tmax synchronized with the downward swing of the AMO since the late‐1990 s, which was because the AMO could affect the vertical motion and wind anomalies of inner East Asia through the cyclonic‐anticyclonic teleconnection wave train in the mid‐latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. The results of composite analysis show that during the positive phase of the AMO, a local ascending motion was enhanced over inner East Asia and a large‐scale abnormal high was found north of East Asia in favour of cold air intrusion. Meanwhile, the start of growing season was delayed by the positive phase of the AMO over the northern part of inner East Asia due to the high sensitivity of spring phenology to the Tmin controlled by the AMO.