bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycol Monomethyl Ether‐Substituted Carbazolyl Hole‐Transporting Material for Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells with Efficiency of 25.52 %
Authors: Zhou Hui , Wang Weilin , Duan Yuwei , Sun Rui , Li Yong , Xie Zhuang , Xu Dongfang , Wu Meizi , Wang Youliang , Li Hongxiang , Fan Qunping , Peng Yang , Yao Yao , Liao Chentong , Peng Qiang , Liu Shengzhong , Liu Zhike
Published: April 2024

Organic self‐assembled molecules (OSAMs) based hole‐transporting materials play a pivotal role in achieving highly efficient and stable inverted perovskite solar cells (IPSCs). However, the reported carbazol‐based OSAMs have serious drawbacks, such as poor wettability for perovskite solution spreading due to the nonpolar surface, worse matched energy arrangement with perovskite, and limited molecular species, which greatly limit the device performance. To address above problems, a novel OSAM [4‐(3,6‐glycol monomethyl ether‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl) butyl]phosphonic acid (GM‐4PACz) was synthesized as hole‐transporting material by introducing glycol monomethyl ether (GM) side chains at carbazolyl unit. GM groups enhance the surface energy of Indium Tin Oxide (ITO)/SAM substrate to facilitate the nucleation and growth of up perovskite film, suppress cation defects, release the residual stress at SAM/perovskite interface, and evaluate energy level for matching with perovskite. Consequently, the GM‐4PACz based IPSC achieves a champion PCE of 25.52 %, a respectable open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.21 V, a high stability, possessing 93.29 % and 91.75 % of their initial efficiency after aging in air for 2000 h or tracking at maximum power point for 1000 h, respectively.
Comparison of negatively and positively charged thin‐film nanocomposite membranes for boron removal
Authors: Poh Lee Wei , Hasnol Nurul Hazirah , Saufi Syed M.
Published: April 2024

The increasing demand for boron has resulted in its contamination of water supplies. Nanofiltration membranes, particularly thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes, have shown promise in removing contaminants. This study evaluated the boron removal capabilities of negatively and positively charged TFN membranes alongside a control thin‐film composite (TFC) membrane without nanoparticles. Piperazine (PIP, for negatively charged membrane) or polyethyleneimine (PEI, for positively charged membrane) aqueous monomer was reacted with trimesoyl chloride (TMC) in n‐hexane solution via interfacial polymerization (IP) on the polyethersulfone (PES) membrane substrate to form the TFC membrane. During the TFN membrane preparation, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and sulfocalix[4]arene (SCA4) were introduced as active nanoparticles to the aqueous monomer. Boron removal performance was evaluated using a 10 ppm aqueous boron solution. The PES substrate gave the highest water flux, which was 307.80 LMH. For the TFC membrane, TFC–PIP had a higher water flux at 113.71 LMH than TFC–PEI. Furthermore, the TFN membranes containing the PEI monomer had a lower water flux than those containing the PIP monomer. These findings highlight the potential of TFN membranes, particularly those incorporating nanoparticles, for effective boron removal. Further research and optimization of TFN membranes can contribute to addressing the challenge of boron contamination in water supplies.
Cell adhesion behavior of poly(l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐poly(1,5‐dioxepan‐2‐one) random multiblock copolymers
Authors: Jikei Mitsutoshi , Xoan Vu Thi , Tanaka Nozomi , Matsumoto Kazuya , Honda Haruka , Hikida Masaki , Ueki Shigeharu
Published: April 2024

Although bioabsorbable polymers are promising implant materials, implanting hydrophobic polymers induces platelet adhesions and subsequent thrombus formation. We recently reported that a multiblock copolymer composed of poly(l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(1,5‐dioxepan‐2‐one) (PDXO) exhibited antiplatelet adhesive behavior. In this study, the cell adhesion behaviors of PLGA and PDXO random multiblock copolymers (PLGA−PDXO RMBCs) were examined. All the RMBCs showed antiplatelet adhesion behavior, and the copolymers containing 40 or 51 mol% of the PDXO component showed good antiplatelet adhesive behavior. Good culture behavior was observed for HeLa cells, but human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) proliferation was poor on PLGA−PDXO RMBC surfaces. The cell attachment inhibition studies revealed that both integrin‐dependent and integrin‐independent interactions worked for HeLa cell culture, whereas only integrin‐dependent interactions played an important role for HUVEC culture proliferation on copolymer surfaces. The findings of this study revealed the unique cell‐selective adhesion behavior of PDXO containing multiblock polymers—being nonadhesive to platelets and HUVECs, and adhesive to HeLa cells.
Flexible Bayesian reliability demonstration testing
Authors: Bernburg Hugalf , Elster Clemens , Klauenberg Katy
Published: April 2024

The aim is to demonstrate the reliability of a population at consecutive points in time, where a sample at each current point must prove that at least 100% of the devices function until the next point with a probability of at least . To test the reliability of the population, we flexibilise standard lifetime models by allowing the unknown parameter(s) of the corresponding counting process to vary in time. At the same time, we assign a prior distribution that assumes the parameters to be constant within a certain interval. This flexibilisation has several advantages: it can be applied for all parametric lifetimes; its Markov property allows the efficient derivation of the number of defective devices, even for a large number of testing times; and the inference is less certain and hence more realistic and leads to less frequent acceptance of poor quality populations. On the other hand, the inference is stabilised by the informative prior. Based on the flexibilisation of the homogeneous Poisson process (HPP), we derive acceptance sampling plans to test the future reliability of a population. Applying the zero failure sampling plans on simulations of Weibull processes shows their good frequentist properties and their robustness. In the case of utility meters subject to German regulations (Mess‐ und Eichverordnung (MessEV). 2014: 2010–2073.), application of the derived sequential sampling plans when the conditions of these plans are met can lead to an extension of the verification validity period. These sampling plans protect the consumer better than those from an HPP and are still cost efficient.
Understanding the Relation between Short Birth Spacing and Child Maltreatment: Are Associations Due to Parental History of Childhood Abuse and Neglect?
Authors: Rybińska‐Campbell Anna , Goodman W. Benjamin , Dodge Kenneth A.
Published: April 2024

Existing literature documents connections between short birth spacing (birth‐to‐conception interval of under 18 months) and the risk of child maltreatment, but explanations for this relation are understudied. We hypothesise that short birth spacing predicts child maltreatment, and it mediates the association between maternal history of childhood maltreatment and their child's risk of abuse and neglect. We use data for second and higher parity children from the Prospective Study of Infant Development (n = 335) and fit logistic regression models with relevant covariates to examine the association between maternal history of childhood maltreatment, her offspring's short birth spacing and her offspring's child maltreatment (CM) as measured by Child Protective Services (CPS) assessments. Findings demonstrate that children of mothers who reported experiencing any abuse or neglect during childhood have a higher likelihood of being born shortly spaced and a higher likelihood of CM. Additionally, short birth spacing is associated with increased likelihood of CM. No evidence for mediation from maternal history of maltreatment to CM operating through short birth spacing was detected. We conclude that maternal history of childhood maltreatment and short birth spacing are independent, additive factors for CM risk.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil Based Nanoemulsions: Preparation and Biological Activities
Authors: Rehman Rafia , Hussain Muzammal , Muzaffar Rabeea , Bano Afsar , Ahmed Marghoob , Sadia Haleema
Published: April 2024

Eucalyptus essential oil has remarkable industrial importance and biological properties due to its effectiveness against various diseases, reported throughout human history. Despite the extraordinary bioactivities of essential oil, its applications are limited due to volatility, insolubility in water, and less stability. Formulation of nanoemulsion is the best way to enhance the bio‐efficacy of this essential oil and eliminate the factors responsible for limited application. This review article compiles the information regarding formulation of Eucalyptus essential oil‐based nanoemulsion and their several biological activities and medicinal properties including antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, insecticidal, and cytotoxic activities etc. The bio‐efficacy of essential oil‐based nanoemulsion has also been found to be enhanced as compared utilization of essential oil alone. This review can be beneficial for researchers working on medicinal plant‐based natural products, specifically containing Eucalyptus essential oil, to explore new research horizons in this emerging field.
Novel Insecticidal Butenolide‐Containing Methylxanthine Derivatives: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Biological Activity Evaluation, DFT Calculation and Molecular Docking
Authors: Wang Lei , Fan Wenqi , Yang Na , Xiong Lixia , Wang Baolei
Published: April 2024

The design of novel agrochemicals starting from bioactive natural products is one of the most effective ways in the discovery and development of new pesticidal agents. In this paper, a series of novel butenolide‐containing methylxanthine derivatives (Ia‐Ir) were designed based on natural methylxanthine caffeine and stemofoline, and the derivatized insecticide flupyradifurone of the latter. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed via 1H‐NMR, 13C NMR, HRMS and X‐ray single crystal diffraction analyses. The biological activities of the compounds were evaluated against a variety of agricultural pests including oriental armyworm, bean aphid, diamondback moth, fall armyworm, cotton bollworm, and corn borer; the results indicated that some of them have favorable insecticidal potentials, particularly toward diamondback moth. Among others, Ic and Iq against diamondback moth possessed LC50 values of 6.187 mg ⋅ L−1 and 3.269 mg ⋅ L−1, respectively, – 2.5‐ and 4.8‐fold of relative insecticidal activity respectively to that of flupyradifurone (LC50=15.743 mg ⋅ L−1). Additionally, both the DFT theoretical calculation and molecular docking with acetylcholine binding protein were conducted for the highly bioactive compound (Ic). Ic and Iq derived from the integration of caffeine (natural methylxanthine) and butenolide motifs can serve as novel leading insecticidal compounds for further optimization.
Protein Engineering of Lipase A from Candida Antarctica to Improve Esterification of Tertiary Alcohols
Authors: Wagner Karla , Hummel Anke , Yang Jianing , Horino Satoshi , Kanomata Kyohei , Akai Shuji , Gröger Harald
Published: April 2024

Chiral tertiary alcohols are important organic compounds in science as well as in industry. However, their preparation in enantiomerically pure form is still a challenge due to their complex structure and steric hindrances compared with primary and secondary alcohols, so kinetic resolution could be an attractive approach. Lipase A from Candida antarctica (CAL−A) has been shown to catalyze the enantioselective esterification of various tertiary alcohols with excellent enantioselectivity but low activity. Here we report a mutagenesis study by rational design to improve CAL−A activity against tertiary alcohols. Single mutants of CAL−A were selected, expressed, immobilized and screened for esterification of the tertiary alcohol 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydronaphthalen‐1‐ol. A double mutant V278S+S429G showed a 1.5‐fold higher reaction rate than that of the wild type CAL−A, while maintaining excellent enantioselectivity.
Adverse reactions caused by high serum concentration of linezolid: Two case reports and literature review
Authors: Liu Renzhu , Xiao Lu , Xiao Can , Li Wencan , Liu Xiang
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Linezolid is a potent oxazolidinone for the treatment of various gram‐positive bacterial infections. However, the drug can cause potential adverse reactions such as thrombocytopenia, hyperlactacidemia and serotonin syndrome, which warrant consideration by the medical team when planning treatment. The existing literature has reported some adverse reactions caused by linezolid, but most of these are based on clinical characteristics and simple treatment measures. Two cases of linezolid overdose resulting in thrombocytopenia, hyperlactacidemia and serotonin syndrome are presented, which were successfully managed with therapeutic drug monitoring. A dose adjustment strategy was adopted to safely and effectively mitigate linezolid‐related adverse events.
Large cerebral tuberculoma
Authors: Sidow Nor Osman
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Here, we are presenting a young previous healthy child with seizures and right side hemiparesis for 6 months. After blood work and an MRI brain with IV contrast, it is confirmed that the child has large cerebral tuberculoma. The child is improved with TB treatment and surgery.
Primary pulmonary monophasic synovial sarcoma initially presenting with bloody pleural effusion: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yin Tengcheng , Liu Bing , Xue Jinru , Liu Xiyu , Shang Shengtao , Wang Yan
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Primary pulmonary synovial sarcoma (PPSS) can originate from blood vessels of the bronchial wall, lung interstitium, and interstitial components, and accounts for 0.1%–0.5% of all primary lung malignancies, the most common symptoms are chest pain, cough, dyspnea, and hemoptysis.

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare malignant tumor of stromal origin, which accounts for approximately 8%–10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. Primary pulmonary synovial sarcoma (PPSS) can originate from blood vessels of the bronchial wall, lung interstitium, and interstitial components, and accounts for 0.1%–0.5% of all primary lung malignancies. Patient concerns: We report the first case of a 57‐year‐old man with bloody pleural effusion as an initial manifestation of PPSS in the middle lobe of the right lung diagnosed after surgery. Diagnosis: Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed a mass in the middle lobe of the right lung, which was pathologically diagnosed as a monophasic SS after surgical resection. Interventions: Ten days after preoperative closed chest drainage, a right thoracotomy was performed to remove the right middle lobe of the lung. Outcomes: The patient recovered smoothly and was discharged from the hospital without any other postoperative treatment. A follow‐up chest CT scan 7 months postoperatively revealed intrapulmonary recurrence with multiple metastases. Lessons: Monophasic PPSS of the lung may present with bloody pleural effusion as its first manifestation.
The Geometric and Electronic Effects of Ceria on Promoting PdZn catalyst for Enhanced Acetylene Semi‐Hydrogenation
Authors: Chen Huan , Yang Bing , Zhang Yafeng , Che Chunxia , Zhang Feng , Han Wei , Wen He , Wang Aiqin , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2024

PdZn intermetallic compounds (IMCs) have been extensively reported for acetylene semi‐hydrogenation due to unique geometric and electronic structure of isolated Pd sites. However, to achieve high ethylene selectivity at high conversion remains challenging. Here we show the promotional role of ceria in modifying the geometric and electronic structure of PdZn IMCs towards enhanced catalytic performance for acetylene semi‐hydrogenation. The Ce (0.1 wt%) promoted Pd−Zn‐Al catalyst shows by far the best catalytic performance among other Pd based catalysts in literature, maintaining high selectivity (>95 %) and excellent stability (~130 h) at high acetylene conversion (~90 %). Using in situ spectroscopic techniques, the geometric and electronic effects of CeOx promotor were clearly elucidated. At low Ce content, the presence of highly dispersed Ce3+ species in the periphery of PdZn alloys enhanced electronic metal‐oxide interaction, resulting in electron‐rich Pd sites that promote hydrogen dissociation and ethylene desorption, and account for the outstanding catalytic performance. At high Ce content, the formation of bulk‐phase CeO2 suppressed the PdHx formation during PdZn alloying and led to phase separation yielding highly dispersed Pd ensembles, consequently lowering ethylene selectivity. Our results provide a new route for the design of PdZn catalyst by applying rare earth promoters towards high‐performance acetylene semi‐hydrogenation.
Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Biorenewable δ‐Caprolactone with trans‐Hexahydro‐(4,5)‐benzofuranone toward Closed‐Loop Recyclable Copolyesters and Their Application as Pressure‐Sensitive Adhesives†
Authors: Niu Haining , Wang Liying , Zhang Zihan , Liu Yalei , Shen Yong , Li Zhibo
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Copolymerization as an efficient strategy can provide an opportunity to create new closed‐loop recyclable polymeric materials with tailored properties that are generally inaccessible to the individual homopolymers. In this contribution, the bulk ring‐opening copolymerization of bio‐renewable δ‐caprolactone and trans‐hexahydro‐(4,5)‐benzofuranone was achieved to produce closed‐loop recyclable copolyesters by using an organobase/urea binary catalyst at room temperature. The obtained copolyesters exhibited composition‐dependent thermal properties. Remarkably, the obtained copolyesters were able to depolymerize back to recover the corresponding monomers under mild conditions. The copolyesters with suitable compositions can be directly used as pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) that possessed comparable peel strength with the commercially available PSA scotch tapes. When the copolyesters were mixed with plasticizers, the as‐prepared PSAs exhibited desirable adhesive failure and can be used as removable post‐it note.
Magnetic Bistability in the Crystaline Fullerene Radical Salt
Authors: Ruan Huapeng , Li Ke , Sun Quanchun , Liu Min , Feng Zhongtao , Dong Xue , Zhao Yue , Wang Xinping
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Compounds with magnetic bistability is highly attractive for the construction of switches, thermal sensors, information‐storage media and memory devices. Herein, we report a crystalline fullerene radical anion salt [Na(THF)5]C60 (1), obtained by the reduction of C60 with Na in solution, which exhibits magnetic bistability accompanied with one magnetostructural transition, giving low temperature (LT), high temperature (HT) phases and a metastable phase. Fullerene radical anions (C60•‐) in the structure were found arranged into a three‐dimensional close‐packed honeycomb subnetwork with hollow channels occupied by complex cations [Na(THF)5]+ as spacers. The magnetic bistability is attributed to structural transitions as the LT−IT phase transition was associated with the orientational disorder of fullerene anions and the distortion of the complex cations [Na(THF)5]+ in the 3D packing of fullerene anions.
Inhomogeneous turbulence for the Wick Nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Hani Zaher , Shatah Jalal , Zhu Hui
Published: April 2024

We introduce a simplified model for wave turbulence theory—the Wick nonlinear Schrödinger equation, of which the main feature is the absence of all self‐interactions in the correlation expansions of its solutions. For this model, we derive several wave kinetic equations that govern the effective statistical behavior of its solutions in various regimes. In the homogeneous setting, where the initial correlation is translation invariant, we obtain a wave kinetic equation similar to the one predicted by the formal theory. In the inhomogeneous setting, we obtain a wave kinetic equation that describes the statistical behavior of the wavepackets of the solutions, accounting for both the transport of wavepackets and collisions among them. Another wave kinetic equation, which seems new in the literature, also appears in a certain scaling regime of this setting and provides a more refined collision picture.
Evaluation of Patient‐Centric Sample Collection Technologies for Pharmacokinetic Assessment of Large and Small Molecules
Authors: Mandlekar Sandhya , Sutaria Dhruvitkumar S. , Yang Xiaoyun , Johnson Ryan , Zou Yixuan , Dean Brian , Chen Liuxi , Sane Rucha , Williams Kathi , Cardenas Alison , Simon Mary , Fischer Saloumeh
Published: April 2024

Low‐volume sampling devices offer the promise of lower discomfort and greater convenience for patients, potentially reducing patient burden and enabling decentralized clinical trials. In this study, we determined whether low‐volume sampling devices produce pharmacokinetic (PK) data comparable to conventional venipuncture for a diverse set of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small molecules. We adopted an open‐label, non‐randomized, parallel‐group, single‐site study design, with four cohorts of 10 healthy subjects per arm. The study drugs, doses, and routes of administration included: crenezumab (15 mg/kg, intravenous infusion), etrolizumab (210 mg, subcutaneous), GDC‐X (oral), and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ, 200 mg, oral). Samples were collected after administration of a single dose of each drug using conventional venipuncture and three low‐volume capillary devices: TassoOne Plus for liquid blood, Tasso‐M20 for dry blood, both applied to the arm, and Neoteryx Mitra® for dry blood obtained from fingertips. Serum/plasma concentrations from venipuncture and TassoOne Plus samples overlapped and PK parameters were comparable for all drugs, except HCQ. After applying a baseline hematocrit value, the dry blood concentrations and PK parameters for the two monoclonal antibodies were comparable to those obtained from venipuncture. For the two small molecules, two bridging strategies were evaluated for converting dry blood concentrations to equivalent plasma concentrations. A baseline hematocrit correction and/or linear regression‐based correction was effective for GDC‐X, but not for HCQ. Additionally, the study evaluated the bioanalytical data quality and comparability from the various collection methods, as well as patient preference for the devices.
A case of fine‐needle aspiration of a neck mass with atypical squamous cells and macrophages
Authors: Zilla Megan L. , Lajara Sigfred
Published: April 2024

Head and neck lesions often undergo fine‐needle aspiration to determine the appropriate management and therapeutic decisions. However, there are numerous diagnostic challenges encountered with these specimens, particularly, if atypical squamous cells are identified. Here, we present a case of an enlarging right neck mass in a 38‐year‐old female and discuss the diagnostic difficulties and potential pitfalls. Additionally, we review the approach to diagnosis, including differential diagnostic considerations as well as available ancillary testing.
Parotid squamous cell carcinoma metastases: Application of human papillomavirus‐DNA test on liquid‐based cytology to recognize oropharyngeal origin of the neoplasm
Authors: Montella Marco , Ruggiero Raffaella , Savarese Giovanni , Colella Giuseppe , Ronchi Andrea , Franco Renato , Cozzolino Immacolata
Published: April 2024

Malignancies of the parotid gland are relatively uncommon and in most cases are primary neoplasms; intraparotid metastases are rare. Oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (O‐ and OP‐SCC) can potentially metastasize to the parotid gland or intraparotid lymph nodes. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) serves as the initial diagnostic approach for this purpose. HPV status in FNAC specimens is relevant and can guide the diagnostic workup, indicating a potential oropharyngeal origin of the primary tumor. A small series of occult SCC metastases is presented below, in which HPV‐DNA testing of FNAC specimens helped identify primary neoplasms located in the oropharynx. US‐guided FNAC of parotid nodules was conducted by an experienced interventional cytopathologist in three cases. Each patient underwent assessment of direct smears, cell blocks, and liquid‐based samples for HPV testing. The morphological and immunocytochemical features of SCC were documented, and real‐time PCR was employed for the detection and genotyping of HPV. The role of HPV testing on FNAC specimens in pinpointing the primary neoplasms in the oropharynx is highlighted. Consequently, FNAC samples emerge as valuable diagnostic and prognostic tools in this context, providing essential insights for patient management.
Construction of Spin Crossover‐Fluorescent Bifunctional Cyclic Chain‐Like Fe(II) Compounds from Carbazole Ligands
Authors: Zhou Jing‐Hui , Chen Yu‐Xiao , Liu Zhi‐Kun , Hu Jie‐Sheng , Wang Lu‐Yao , Zhao Yu‐Meng , Yue Ling‐Tai , Yu Meng , Tao Jun
Published: April 2024

The incorporation of fluorescent properties into spin‐crossover (SCO) materials, aiming at controlling fluorescence via spin‐state transitions for applications in magneto‐optical switching and information processing, represents an appealing research direction. In this study, we prepared two examples of one‐dimensional cyclic chain‐like Fe(II) coordination polymers, denoted as [Fe(DPPC)2(NCS)2]⋅CH3OH⋅o‐C6H4Cl2 (1, DPPC=3,6‐di‐4‐pyridinyl‐9‐[4‐(4‐pyridinyl)phenyl]‐9H‐carbazole) and [Fe(PDPC)2(NCS)2] (2, PDPC=3,6‐di(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐9‐phenyl‐9H‐carbazole). Analyses through single‐crystal X‐ray studies and magnetic measurements validate the two‐step SCO behavior of 1 within the temperature range of 50~200 K. Additionally, when combined with temperature‐dependent fluorescence emission spectroscopy, the results demonstrate the coexistence of SCO and fluorescence in 1.
Optimized tuberculosis classification system for chest X‐ray images: Fusing hyperparameter tuning with transfer learning approaches
Authors: Wajgi Rakhi , Yenurkar Ganesh , Nyangaresi Vincent O. , Wanjari Badal , Verma Sanjana , Deshmukh Arya , Mallewar Somesh
Published: April 2024

Advanced diagnostic methods are necessary for the prompt and reliable identification of tuberculosis (TB), which continues to be a worldwide health problem. Globally, there were projected to be 10 million new cases of tuberculosis in 2021, of which 9.8 million affected adults and 0.2 million children. About 15% of fatalities worldwide are attributable to tuberculosis (1.5 million deaths for every 10 million infections). To create a reliable model for tuberculosis (TB) identification using chest X‐ray pictures, we use deep learning approaches in this work, namely Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and a combination of transfer learning and hyperparameter tuning. The dataset provides a varied selection of 3500 normal and 700 TB‐infected patients. It consists of 4200 photos that were obtained from the “Tuberculosis (TB) Chest X‐ray Database” on Kaggle. By utilizing the benefits of a trained model, the suggested methodological approach incorporates transfer learning. To maximize the performance of the suggested model, hyperparameter adjustment is also used. Using the VGG19 pre‐trained neural network, the model design is based on the concepts of transfer learning. The architecture makes use of task‐specific layers, regularization methods, and deliberate layer freezing to enable sophisticated categorization. Training and assessment stages demonstrate encouraging outcomes, with an accuracy of almost 98% attained on a different test dataset. A more thorough examination highlights the need for caution when interpreting high accuracy, nevertheless, by highlighting possible difficulties.
The online educational tool “Roadmap to EEGs” significantly improved trainee performance in recognizing EEG patterns
Authors: Sheikh Irfan S. , Katyal Roohi , Hadjinicolaou Aris , Bibby Bo Martin , Olandoski Marcia , Nascimento Fábio A. , Beniczky Sandor
Published: April 2024

Objective

We created a framework to assess the competency‐based EEG curriculum, outlined by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) through a video‐based online educational resource (“Roadmap to EEGs”) and assessed its effectiveness and feasibility in improving trainees' knowledge.

Methods

Ten video‐based e‐learning modules addressed seven key topics in EEG and epileptology (normal EEG, normal variants, EEG artifacts, interictal epileptiform discharges (IED), focal seizures, idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE), and developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE)). We posted the educational videos on YouTube for free access. Pre‐ and post‐tests, each comprising 20 multiple‐choice questions, were distributed to institution leadership and advertised on social media platforms to reach a global audience. The tests were administered online to assess the participants' knowledge. Pre‐ and post‐test questions showed different EEG samples to avoid memorization and immediate recall. After completing the post‐test, participants were asked to respond to 7 additional questions assessing their confidence levels and recommendations for improvement.

Results

A total of 52 complete and matched pre‐ and post‐test responses were collected. The probability of a correct response was 73% before teaching (95% CI: 70%–77%) and 81% after teaching (95% CI: 78%–84%). The odds of a correct response increased significantly by 59% (95% CI: 28%–98%, p < .001). For participants having >4 weeks of EEG training, the probability of a correct response was 76% (95% CI: .72–.79) and 81% after teaching (95% CI: .78–.84). The odds of answering correctly increased by 44% (95% CI: 15%–80%, p = .001). Participants felt completely confident in independently interpreting and identifying EEG findings after completing the teaching modules (17.1% before vs. 37.8% after, p‐value < .0001). 86.5% of participants expressed a high likelihood of recommending the module to other trainees.

Significance

The video‐based online educational resource allows participants to acquire foundational knowledge in EEG/epilepsy, and participants to review previously learned EEG/epilepsy information.
Aroma profiles of shalgam: Effect of purple carrot (Daucus carota) amount
Authors: Tanguler Hasan , Sen Kemal , Dinc Selin Ozge
Published: April 2024

Shalgam is a fermented product characterized by its color and aroma compounds. However, there is no standard regarding the amount of use of purple carrot, which is the major raw material in production and affects the fermentation and aroma compounds of the product. This present research was designed to examine the effect of purple carrot concentrations on aroma compounds, which are one of the most important characteristics that reflect the quality characteristics of shalgam and affect consumer preferences. Aroma compounds in shalgam juices produced using five different amounts of carrots were analyzed by gas chromatography‐flame ionization detector‐mass spectrometry (GC‐FID‐MS). As expected, since the difference between the produced shalgam beverages was only the amount of purple carrots, a qualitative similarity and a quantitative difference were determined in the aroma profiles in general. In the aroma categories defined, terpenes (26 compounds) were the most abundant compounds, followed by esters (17 compounds) and higher alcohols (11 compounds). 88 aroma compounds have been identified in shalgam, and a total of 28 ACs, including 7 terpenes, 7 esters, 3 alcohols, 4 volatile acids, 3 volatile phenols, 1 lactone, 1 norisoprenoid, and 2 naphthalenes, were detected for the first time. The concentration of aromas in the samples varied from 5471.5 to 6490.1 μg/L (p < .05). According to principal component analysis, it was determined that the correlation between the position of the shalgam samples in the coordinate system and the aroma groups was significant. This study shows that purple carrots also affect the aroma compounds of shalgam beverages.
Executive function deficits in patients with the first episode of late‐life depression before and after SSRI treatment: A pilot fMRI study
Authors: Liu Chaomeng , Li Li , Pan Weigang , Mao Peixian , Ren Li , Li Bing , Ma Xin
Published: April 2024

Background

Executive function deficits (EFD) in late‐life depression (LLD) has been reported to be associated with antidepressant treatment resistance, increased disability, and poor quality of life. However, the underlying neutral mechanisms of EFD in patients with the first episode of LLD remains unclear.

Methods

A total of 27 patients with first‐episode, drug‐naive LLD and 27 non‐depressed controls (NC) were recruited for the present research. Participants underwent the Trail Making Test, the 17‐item Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD‐17) test, and task‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans under the neutral Stroop task. LLD patients' executive functions, depressive symptoms, and brain activity were examined again after 6 months of antidepressant treatment.

Results

Of the 27 LLD patients, 16 cases completed 6‐month follow‐ups. Patients in the LLD baseline group spent more time on the Trail Making Test A test than those in the NC group (p < 0.05). In the presence of an incongruency between the word color and meaning, the accuracy rate of the neutral Stroop task in the LLD baseline group was lower, and the reaction time was greater than that in the NC group, with statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The HAMD‐17 score in the LLD follow‐up group was significantly lower than that in the LLD baseline group (p < 0.05). More activated brain regions were present in the LLD baseline group than in the NC group when performing the neutral Stroop task. Compared with the LLD baseline group, abnormal activation of relevant brains in the cingulate‐prefrontal‐parietal network of LLD patients still existed in the LLD follow‐up group.

Conclusions

LLD patients engaged more brain areas than the NC group while performing the neutral Stroop task. Abnormal activation of the cingulate‐prefrontal‐parietal network could be a contributing factor to EFD in LLD.

Trial registration

ChiCTR, ChiCTR2100042370 (Date of registration: 21/01/2021).

Limits

We didn't enroll enough first‐episode, LLD patients, the robustness of the findings need to be confirmed by large sample clinical trials.
Treatment patterns, clinical outcomes and gene mutation characteristics of hepatitis B virus‐associated mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Feng Jiangfang , Fei Yue , Gao Meng , Meng Xiangrui , Zeng Dongfeng , Zou Dehui , Ye Haige , Liang Yun , Sun Xiuhua , Liang Rong , Zhou Hui , Wang Xianhuo , Zhang Huilai
Published: April 2024

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an uncommon and incurable B‐cell lymphoma subtype that has an aggressive course. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been associated with an increased risk for B‐cell lymphomas, and is characterized by distinct clinical and genetic features. Here, we showed that 9.5% of MCL Chinese patients were hepatitis B surface antigen positive (HBsAg+). Compared to HBsAg‐negative (HBsAg−) patients, HBsAg+ MCL patients had a greater incidence of elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), but no difference was observed in the other clinical characteristics, including sex, age, ECOG ps, Ann Arbor stage, MIPI, extranodal involvement and Ki‐67. The HD‐AraC (high‐dose cytarabine) regimen was the main first‐line induction regimen for younger HBsAg+ patients, and cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (CHOP) were used for elderly patients. HBsAg seropositivity was associated with a significantly shorter PFS than HBsAg seronegativity when patients were treated with rituximab or CHOP‐based regimens. Compared with CHOP, the HD‐AraC regimen was associated with longer PFS in HBsAg+ patients. Treatment with a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi) alone can also cause HBV reactivation. Among the 74 patients who underwent targeted deep sequencing (TDS), the nonsynonymous mutation load of HBsAg+ MCL patients was greater than that of HBsAg− MCL patients. HDAC1, TRAF5, FGFR4, SMAD2, JAK3, SMC1A, ZAP70, BLM, CDK12, PLCG2, SMO, TP63, NF1, PTPR, EPHA2, RPTOR and FIP1L1 were significantly enriched in HBsAg+ MCL patients.
The use of pembrolizumab monotherapy for the management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in the UK
Authors: Vasiliadou Ifigenia , Grose Derek , Wilson Christina , Thapa Alekh , Donnelly Olly , Lee Elsa , Leslie Isla , Karim Mahwish , Hartley Andrew , Partridge Sarah , Medlow Katharine , De Boisanger James , Metcalf Robert , Williamson Andrew , Haridass Anoop , Noble David , Mactier Karen , Walter Harriet , Ma Ning , De Winton Emma , Cohen Jennifer , Rayner Lindsay , Geropantas Konstantinos , Jankowska Petra , Mason Jessica , Moleron Rafael , Laws Kirsten , Ulahannan Danny , Nallathambi Chandran , Michaelidou Andriana , Nallamilli Susanna , Raouf Sherif , Palmer Kieran , Bienz Maya , Karet Tracy , Khalique Saira , Paterson Claire , Harrington Kevin , Bhide Shreerang , Kong Anthony
Published: April 2024

Pembrolizumab has received approval in the UK as first‐line monotherapy for recurrent and/or metastatic HNSCC (R/M HNSCC) following the results of the KEYNOTE‐048 trial, which demonstrated a longer overall survival (OS) in comparison to the EXTREME chemotherapy regimen in patients with a combined positive score (CPS) ≥1. In this article, we provide retrospective real‐world data on the role of pembrolizumab monotherapy as first‐line systemic therapy for HNSCC across 18 centers in the UK from March 20, 2020 to May 31, 2021. 211 patients were included, and in the efficacy analysis, the objective response rate (ORR) was 24.7%, the median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 4.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.6–6.1), and the median OS was 10.8 months (95% CI 9.0–12.5). Pembrolizumab monotherapy was well tolerated, with 18 patients having to stop treatment owing to immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). 53 patients proceeded to second‐line treatment with a median PFS2 of 10.2 months (95% CI: 8.8–11.5). Moreover, patients with documented irAEs had a statistically significant longer median PFS (11.3 vs. 3.3 months; log‐rank p value = <.001) and median OS (18.8 vs. 8.9 months; log‐rank p value <.001). The efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab first‐line monotherapy for HNSCC has been validated using real‐world data.
Comprehensive genomic profiling of salivary gland carcinoma: Analysis of the Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics database in Japan
Authors: Iwaki Sho , Kawakita Daisuke , Nagao Toshitaka , Tada Yuichiro , Honma Yoshitaka , Ando Mizuo , Matoba Takuma , Minohara Kiyoshi , Nakano Satsuki , Murase Takayuki , Iwasaki Shinichi , Inagaki Hiroshi
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive information on genetic alterations in salivary gland cancer (SGC) is limited. This study aimed to elucidate the genetic and clinical characteristics of patients with SGC using the Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics (C‐CAT) database, a Japanese national genomic database. We analyzed data of 776 patients with SGC registered in the C‐CAT database between June 1, 2019, and June 30, 2023. Adenoid cystic carcinoma was the most common histologic type, followed by salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) and adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified. Genetic data of 681 patients receiving FoundationOne® CDx were analyzed. We identified specific features of the combination of TP53 and CDKN2A alterations among the histological types. Specific LYN amplification was mainly detected in carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma and myoepithelial carcinoma. For SDC, the frequency of ERBB2 and BRAF alterations were higher in cases with metastatic lesions than in those with primary lesions. Although 28.6% patients were offered recommended treatment options, only 6.8% received the recommended treatments. This study highlights the differences in genetic alterations among the histological types of SGC, with comprehensive genomic profiling tests revealing lower drug accessibility. These findings could contribute to the development of personalized treatment for patients with SGC.
HeCapsNet: An enhanced capsule network for automated heel disease diagnosis using lateral foot X‐Ray images
Authors: Taher Osamah , Özacar Kasım
Published: April 2024

Foot pain, particularly caused by heel spurs and Sever's disease, significantly impacts mobility and daily activities for many people. These diseases are traditionally diagnosed by orthopedic specialists using X‐ray images of the lateral foot. In certain situations, the absence of specialists requires the adoption of AI‐based methods; however, the lack of a dataset hinders the use of AI for the preliminary diagnosis of these diseases. Therefore, this study first presents a novel dataset consisting of 3956 annotated lateral foot X‐ray images and uses the original capsule network (CapsNet) to automatically detect and classify heel bone diseases. The low accuracy of 73.99% of CapsNet due to the low extraction feature layers led us to search for a new model. For this reason, this paper also proposes a new enhanced capsule network (HeCapsNet) by adjusting the features extraction layers, adding extra convolutional layers, using “he normal” kernel initializer instead of “normal” and utilizing the “same” padding scheme to perform better with medical images. Evaluating the performance of the proposed model, higher accuracy rates are achieved, including 97.29% for balanced data, 94.19% for imbalanced data, area under the curve (AUC) of 98.69%, and a fivefold cross‐validation accuracy of 95.77%. We then compared our proposed model with state‐of‐the‐art modified CapsNet models using various datasets (MNIST, Fashion‐MNIST, CIFAR10, and brain tumor). HeCapsNet performed similarly to modified CapsNets on relatively simple non‐medical datasets such as MNIST and Fashion‐MNIST, but performed better on more complex medical datasets.
A proposed in vitro cytotoxicity test battery to detect and predict hepatotoxicity via multiple mechanisms and pathways: a minireview
Authors: Sahu Saura C.
Published: April 2024

The 21st‐century toxicity testing program recommends the use of cytotoxicity data from human cells in culture for rapid in vitro screening focusing on biological pathways of potential toxicants to predict in vivo toxicity. Liver is the major organ for both endogenous and exogenous chemical metabolism of xenobiotics. Therefore, this review was undertaken to evaluate side by side five different currently used commercial cytotoxicity assay kits for purpose of rapid predictive screening of potential hepatotoxicants. The test compounds for this review were selected from the NIH LiverTox and FDA Liver Toxicity Knowledge Base (LTKB) databases. Human liver HepG2, HepaRG, and rat liver Clone 9 cell cultures were used as the in vitro liver models. Five commercial assay kits representing different biomarkers or pathways were selected for this review. These kits are Vita‐Orange Cell Viability Assay Kit (Sigma‐Aldrich), CellTiter‐Glo Cell Viability Assay Kit (Promega), CytoTox‐ONE Homogeneous Membrane Integrity Assay Kit (Promega), DNA Quantitation Fluorescence Assay Kit (Sigma‐Aldrich), and Neutral Red Based In Vitro Toxicology Assay Kit (Sigma‐Aldrich). This review found that these kits can all be used for rapid predictive cytotoxicity screening of potential hepatotoxicants in human liver HepG2 and rat liver Clone 9 cells in culture as in vitro liver models without compromising quality and accuracy of endpoint measurements as well as the length of toxicity screening time. Unraveling the structure–activity relationship of potential hepatotoxins would help to classify their hepatotoxic effects. Therefore, in addition to the current regulatory hepatotoxicity testing strategies, development and regulatory approval of hepatotoxins need to be discussed in order to identify potential gaps in the safety assessment. The overall results of our study support the hypothesis that a battery of rapid, simple, and reliable assays is an excellent tool for predicting in vivo effects of suspected liver toxins. The human liver HepaRG cells do not appear to be an ideal in vitro liver model for this purpose.
Biodegradable electrospun poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone)/polyethylene glycol/bioactive glass composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering
Authors: de Souza Joyce R. , Cardoso Lais M. , de Toledo Priscila T. A. , Rahimnejad Maedeh , Kito Letícia T. , Thim Gilmar P. , Campos Tiago M. B. , Borges Alexandre L. S. , Bottino Marco C.
Published: April 2024

The field of tissue engineering has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, driven by the pursuit of innovative solutions to address the challenges of bone regeneration. In this study, we developed an electrospun composite scaffold for bone tissue engineering. The composite scaffold is made of a blend of poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PLCL) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), with the incorporation of calcined and lyophilized silicate‐chlorinated bioactive glass (BG) particles. Our investigation involved a comprehensive characterization of the scaffold's physical, chemical, and mechanical properties, alongside an evaluation of its biological efficacy employing alveolar bone‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. The incorporation of PEG and BG resulted in elevated swelling ratios, consequently enhancing hydrophilicity. Thermal gravimetric analysis confirmed the efficient incorporation of BG, with the scaffolds demonstrating thermal stability up to 250°C. Mechanical testing revealed enhanced tensile strength and Young's modulus in the presence of BG; however, the elongation at break decreased. Cell viability assays demonstrated improved cytocompatibility, especially in the PLCL/PEG+BG group. Alizarin red staining indicated enhanced osteoinductive potential, and fluorescence analysis confirmed increased cell adhesion in the PLCL/PEG+BG group. Our findings suggest that the PLCL/PEG/BG composite scaffold holds promise as an advanced biomaterial for bone tissue engineering.
The crystallization properties of antifreeze GelMA hydrogel and its application in cryopreservation of tissue‐engineered skin constructs
Authors: Tan Jia , Li Jiahui , Zhou Xinli
Published: April 2024

Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels are expected to be ideal skin tissue engineering dressings for a wide range of clinical treatments. Herein, we report the preparation of GelMA or antifreeze GelMA hydrogel sheets with different GelMA concentrations, crosslinking times, and cryoprotectant (CPA) concentrations. The crystallization properties of GelMA or antifreeze GelMA hydrogel sheets were studied by cryomicroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was found that the growth of ice crystals was slower when GelMA hydrogel concentration was more than 7%. The 10% DMSO‐7% GelMA hydrogel sheets crosslinked for 60 min showed no ice crystal formation and growth during cooling and warming. The DSC results showed that the vitrification temperature of the 10% DMSO‐7% GelMA hydrogel sheet was −111°C. Furthermore, slow freezing and rapid freezing of fibroblast‐laden GelMA or antifreeze GelMA hydrogel sheets, and tissue‐engineered skin constructs were studied. The results showed no significant difference in cell survival between slow (88.8% ± 1.51) and rapid (89.2% ± 3.00) freezing of fibroblast‐loaded 10% DMSO‐7% GelMA hydrogel sheets, and significantly higher than that of 7% GelMA hydrogel sheets (33.4% ± 5.46). The cell viability was higher in tissue‐engineered skin constructs after slow freezing (86.34% ± 1.45) than rapid freezing (72.74% ± 1.34). We believe that the combination of antifreeze hydrogels and tissue engineering will facilitate the cryopreservation of tissue engineering constructs.