bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anxiety, depression and quality of life in industry: what are the existing intersections?
Authors: Waldmann Gustavo Tadra , Picinin Claudia Tania , Lievore Caroline , Rubbo Priscila
Published: March 2023

OBJECTIVE: Analyze the academic progress of research on anxiety, depression and quality of life in the industry through a systematic literature review, using the combination of keywords. METHODS: the Methodi Ordinatio method was used to select academic articles published in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and MedLine databases with no time limit. RESULTS: among the 114 studies found on the topic of anxiety, depression and quality of life in the industry, 56% (64 articles) of the research were found in the Scopus database. CONCLUSIONS: The quality of life axis is in evidence in the industrial scenario, within anxiety and depression, there are few reports and studies on anxiety itself, while within the depression topic, more clinical aspects were found.
Clinicopathological Study of Testicular Lesions in a Tertiary Care Centre of Dakshina Kannada, India
Authors: Athira KP , Umashankar T , Kumar Mohit
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Testicular biopsies are performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Diagnostic testicular biopsies are usually performed as a part of a male infertility work-up. Therapeutic testicular excision biopsies are performed for a wide range of disorders, including neoplastic lesions, inflammatory lesions, cryptorchidism, testicular trauma, and as a part of prophylactic treatment of carcinoma prostate. Aim: To evaluate the indications for orchidectomy and diagnostic testicular biopsies and to understand the histopathological spectrum of testicular lesions and concordance with clinical diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Pathology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. The study period is from July 2017 to June 2020. Data was collected and analysed in August 2020. All testis’ biopsies, including excision and diagnostic biopsies, are included in the study. Histopathological findings and the clinical diagnosis were evaluated for concordance. Data were tabulated and statistically evaluated for age distribution, laterality, and frequency using Microsoft Excel 2021. Percentages for the variables and concordance rate were calculated. Results: A total of 139 cases (mean age 54.5 years) were included in the study. Prophylactic orchidectomy for carcinoma prostate (64/139=46.04%) was the most common clinical indication. Non neoplastic lesions account for 48.20% (67/139). Frequent non neoplastic lesions are testicular torsion (23/139=16.55%) and abscess (12/139=8.63%), followed by cryptorchidism (9/139=6.47%). Left-sided lesions are more frequent than right-sided lesions. Histopathology confirmed two cases of suspected male infertility and Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS). Neoplastic lesion accounts to 6.47% (9/139). Frequent neoplasm in the study was seminoma (3/139=2.16%), followed by lymphoma (2/139=1.44%). Other neoplasms included in the study were mixed germ cell tumours, post-pubertal teratoma, and spermatocytic tumour. Testicular tuberculosis accounts to 1.44% (2/139) in the present population. Conclusion: Non neoplastic lesions were common compared to testicular neoplasms. Testicular torsion, followed by abscess, was the most common indication for orchidectomy. Testicular Tuberculosis can mimic a neoplasm on clinical and radiological work-up. Hence, careful evaluation has to be performed in young suspected cases of tuberculosis.
Effect of Central Fatigue on Dynamic Balance and Knee Joint Proprioception in Recreational Athletes: An Experimental Study
Authors: Sharma Pooja , Rizvi Moattar Raza , Ahmad Irshad
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The salient constituent of physical activity is fatigue that can influence execution of sports as well as it can also affect the activities of daily living. Abundant conventions are being used to magnify the fatigue, resisting dimension of the individual but none has proven to be effective. Therefore, this research will give perception about the central fatigue, that can affect dynamic balance and knee joint proprioception in healthy individuals. This can further be related in athletes also; in designing their training protocol to minimise the fatigue level and thus enhancing the performance of an individual. Aim: To study the effect of central fatigue on dynamic balance and knee joint proprioception in recreational athletes. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted at the Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, Haryana, India from 25th March 2022 to 25th June 2022. Twenty-five subjects were recruited in the study on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and proprioception were measured before and after inducing central fatigue. The paired t-test was used to compare pre and post values of SEBT and proprioception. Results: There was significant effect of central fatigue in different excursion reach of dynamic balance from pre to post, anteromedial (p-value <0.001), medial (p-value <0.001), posterolateral (p-value <0.001), lateral (p-value <0.001) and anterolateral (p-value <0.001) directions. In addition, the knee joint proprioception was significantly reduced following central fatigue was initiated. Conclusion: Dynamic balance and knee joint proprioception reduced when the individual was undergoing central fatigue.
One‐step generation of mice with gene editing by Tol2 transposon‐dependent gRNA delivery
Authors: Inotsume Maiko , Chiba Tomoki , Matsushima Takahide , Kurimoto Ryota , Nakajima Mitsuyo , Kato Tomomi , Shishido Kana , Liu Lin , Kawakami Koichi , Asahara Hiroshi
Published: March 2023

Conditional knockout mice are valuable tools for examining the functions of targeted genes in a time‐ and space‐specific manner. Here, we generated gene‐edited mice by using the Tol2 transposon to introduce guide RNA (gRNA) into fertilized eggs obtained by crossing LSL (loxP‐stop‐loxP)‐CRISPR‐associated 9 (Cas9) mice, which express Cas9 in a Cre‐dependent manner, with CAG‐CreER mice. Transposase mRNA and plasmid DNA, which contained a gRNA sequence for the gene encoding tyrosinase flanked by the transposase recognition sequence, were injected together into fertilized eggs. As a result, the transcribed gRNA cleaved the target genome in a Cas9‐dependent manner. Using this method, it is possible to generate conditional genome‐edited mice more easily in a shorter period of time.
Visual atrophy rating scales and amyloid PET status in an Alzheimer's disease clinical cohort
Authors: Loreto Flavia , Gontsarova Anastassia , Scott Gregory , Patel Neva , Win Zarni , Carswell Christopher , Perry Richard , Malhotra Paresh
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Visual rating scales (VRS) are the quantification method closest to the approach used in routine clinical practice to assess brain atrophy. Previous studies have suggested that the medial temporal atrophy (MTA) rating scale is a reliable diagnostic marker for AD, equivalent to volumetric quantification, while others propose a higher diagnostic utility for the Posterior Atrophy (PA) scale in early‐onset AD.

Methods

Here, we reviewed 14 studies that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of PA and MTA, we explored the issue of cut‐off heterogeneity, and assessed 9 rating scales in a group of patients with biomarker‐confirmed diagnosis. A neuroradiologist blinded to all clinical information rated the MR images of 39 amyloid‐positive and 38 amyloid‐negative patients using 9 validated VRS assessing multiple brain regions. Automated volumetric analyses were performed on a subset of patients (n = 48) and on a group of cognitively normal individuals (n = 28).

Results

No single VRS could differentiate amyloid‐positive from amyloid‐negative patients with other neurodegenerative conditions. 44% of amyloid‐positive patients were deemed to have age‐appropriate levels of MTA. In the amyloid‐positive group, 18% had no abnormal MTA or PA scores. These findings were substantially affected by cut‐off selection. Amyloid‐positive and amyloid‐negative patients had comparable hippocampal and parietal volumes, and MTA but not PA scores correlated with the respective volumetric measures.

Interpretation

Consensus guidelines are needed before VRS can be recommended for use in the diagnostic workup of AD. Our data are suggestive of high intragroup variability and non‐superiority of volumetric quantification of atrophy over visual assessment.
Analytic thinking as revealed by function words: What does language really measure?
Authors: Markowitz David M.
Published: March 2023

Understanding how people think is a key interest in psychology, and recent advances in automated text analysis have used a verbal analytic thinking index to approximate Kahneman's System 2 (e.g., deliberate, rational thinking). That is, prior work used a style word index to assess university student admissions essays and observed that those who used more articles and prepositions relative to storytelling words (e.g., pronouns) had higher grades at the end of college. This work presumed that verbal analytic thinking represented one's cognitive ability or intellectual potential, but this presumption has remained untested. The current research evaluated if verbal analytic thinking is indeed a reflection of cognitive ability or one's interest and motivation to engage in thinking, called need for cognition. Across 500 participants and two writing samples, the most reliable link to verbal analytic thinking was need for cognition, addressing an unexamined empirical question in psychology of language research.
Recent Advances in Electron Donor‐Acceptor (EDA)‐Complex Reactions involving Quaternary Pyridinium Derivatives
Authors: Saxena Barakha , Patel Roshan I. , Sharma Anuj
Published: March 2023

Quaternary pyridinium compounds are valuable intermediates in organic synthesis, which have gained immense popularity in the synthetic community. The application of transition metal or photoredox catalysis in transforming quaternary pyridinium compounds into various C−C and C−X bonds is well established. A majority of these methods require high temperatures, expansive catalysts, and delicate conditions for successful execution. On the other hand, the use of transition metal‐free and photocatalysis‐free strategies in constructing C−C and C−X bonds using quaternary pyridinium derivatives has been sought‐after. In this context, the electron‐donor‐acceptor (EDA)‐complex reactions have emerged as a state‐of‐the‐art organic synthetic methodology, which do not require any photocatalyst for their successful execution. EDA‐complex photochemistry takes advantage of the electron‐acceptor ability of quaternary pyridinium derivatives, which can quickly generate a radical precursor via the deaminative process. These newly generated radical intermediates are useful in several valuable transformations. We hereby, in this review, discuss an area of major progress in EDA‐complex mediated reactions involving quaternary pyridinium compounds with mechanism, substrate scope, and limitations.

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Predicting factors of neurodevelopmental performance in children with phenylketonuria
Authors: Azevedo Soares Célia , Ferreira Almeida Manuela , Soares Gabriela , Tkachenko Natália , Fortuna Ana Maria , Carmona Carla
Published: March 2023

In phenylketonuria (PKU), high phenylalanine (Phe) levels hamper neurodevelopment impairing executive function later in life. While the second has been more studied, fewer data exist on predictors of PKU patients' development in specific populations. To contribute to the field, we performed a retrospective analysis of predictors of neurodevelopment in PKU patients in a Portuguese cohort. We analyzed the retrospective data on the metabolic control of 89 patients, as their health and familial features. Griffith's Mental Development Scale performance at age 6 (GMDS6) was used to assess neurodevelopment. Our cohort included 14 GMDS6low and 75 GMDS6high patients. In a multivariate analysis, the better predictors of neurodevelopment were the metabolic control at age 3 and year of birth (n = 87, β0 = −121, β1 = −1.77, β2 = 0.06, LRchi2(2) = 13.61, Prob > chi2 = 0.001, Pseudo R2 = 0.1773). With this model, it was possible to define a safety cut‐off of 7.8 mg/dL for the Phe level at age 3 (sensitivity = 72.6%, specificity = 78.6%), confirming the safety of the cut‐off of 6 mg/dL already used in the clinical practice. Our study supports the relevance of metabolic control to predict the neurodevelopment of PKU patients, in the historical context of the disease management.
Selektive Darstellung von Phosphormononitrid (P≡N) aus Phosphinazid und Reversible Oxidation zu Phosphinnitren
Authors: Qian Weiyu , Wende Raffael C. , Schreiner Peter R. , Mardyukov Artur
Published: March 2023

Das potentiell interstellare Molekül Phosphormononitrid, eine metastabile Spezies, wurde durch Hochvakuum‐Blitzpyrolyse ausgehend von (o‐Phenyldioxyl)phosphinazid in kryogenen Matrizes generiert. Obwohl die PN‐Streckschwingungsbande aufgrund ihrer geringen Infrarotintensität und durch mögliche Überlagerungen mit stärkeren Banden nicht direkt detektiert wurde, konnten o‐Benzochinon, Kohlenstoffmonoxid und Cyclopentadienon als zusätzliche Fragmentierungsprodukte eindeutig identifiziert werden. Darüber hinaus bildete sich ein schwer fassbarer o‐Benzochinon‐PN‐Komplex wenn (o‐Phenyldioxyl)phosphinazid UV‐Strahlung mit λ=254 nm ausgesetzt wurde. Die Rekombination zu (o‐Phenyldioxyl)‐λ5‐phosphinnitril wurde bei Bestrahlung mit Licht mit λ=523 nm beobachtet. Dies demonstriert zum ersten Mal die Reaktivität von PN mit einem organischen Molekül. Berechnungen der Energieprofile auf dem B3LYP/def2‐TZVP Dichtefunktionaltheorie‐Niveau zeigen einen konzertierten Mechanismus. Zum weiteren Nachweis wurden UV/Vis‐Spektren des Vorläufers und der Bestrahlungsprodukte aufgenommen, die gut mit zeitabhängigen DFT‐Berechnungen übereinstimmen.
Facile Synthesis of an Octagermacubane with Two Three‐Coordinate Germanium(0) Atoms and its Unique Radical Anion
Authors: Bashkurov Roman , Kaushansky Alexander , Tumanskii Boris , Fridman Natalia , Bravo‐Zhivotovskii Dmitry , Apeloig Yitzhak
Published: March 2023

Thermolysis of a 1 : 1 mixture of tris(di‐tert‐butylmethylsilyl)germane 9 and bis(di‐tert‐butylmethylsilyl)germane 17 at 100 °C produces unexpectedly octagermacubane 18, having two 3‐coordinate Ge0 atoms (40 % yield). 18 was characterized by X‐ray crystallography and it is a singlet biradical (according to DFT quantum mechanical calculations and the absence of an EPR signal). Reactions of 18 with CH2Cl2 and H2O yield the novel dichloro‐octagermacubane 24 and hydroxy‐octagermacubane 25, respectively. Reduction of 18 with tBuMe2SiNa in THF produces an isolable octagermacubane radical anion 26‐Na. Based on X‐ray crystallography, EPR spectroscopy and DFT quantum mechanical calculations, 26‐Na is classified as a Ge‐centered radical anion.
Red Emissive Double Aza[7]helicenes with Antiaromaticity / Aromaticity Switching via the Redox‐Induced Radical Cation and Dication Species
Authors: Li Chenglong , Zhang Chen , Li Pengfei , Jia Yawei , Duan Jiaxian , Liu Meiyan , Zhang Niu , Chen Pangkuan
Published: March 2023

We herein present the synthetic approach to a new antiaromatic double aza[7]heliceneCthat features NN‐embedded polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This heteroatom‐doped helicene showed a rarely obtained long‐wavelength emission and far‐red circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) in the solid state. These optical and chiroptical properties could be ascribed to both the NN‐PAH core structure and the further extension through angular ring fusions. Such a unique electronic structure also culminated in facile chemical oxidations of neutralCto the positively charged chiral radical (C⋅+) and dication species (C2+). Interestingly, DFT computations revealed that the pyridazine central core showed an antiaromaticity‐to‐aromaticity switching, in contrast to the inversed transition for the helical periphery in cationic states. The reported approaches are anticipated to lead to the development of further redox‐active chiral systems for potential applications in chiroptoelectronics, spintronics as well as fluorescent bioimaging.
Multimodal Analysis of Light‐Driven Water Oxidation in Nanoporous Block Copolymer Membranes**
Authors: Kund Julian , Kruse Jan‐Hendrik , Gruber Andreas , Trentin Ivan , Langer Marcel , Read Clarissa , Neusser Gregor , Blaimer Dominik , Rupp Ulrich , Streb Carsten , Leopold Kerstin , Schacher Felix H. , Kranz Christine
Published: March 2023

Heterogeneous light‐driven catalysis is a cornerstone of sustainable energy conversion. Most catalytic studies focus on bulk analyses of the hydrogen and oxygen evolved, which impede the correlation of matrix heterogeneities, molecular features, and bulk reactivity. Here, we report studies of a heterogenized catalyst/photosensitizer system using a polyoxometalate water oxidation catalyst and a model, molecular photosensitizer that were co‐immobilized within a nanoporous block copolymer membrane. Via operando scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), light‐induced oxygen evolution was determined using sodium peroxodisulfate (Na2S2O8) as sacrificial electron acceptor. Ex situ element analyses provided spatially resolved information on the local concentration and distribution of the molecular components. Infrared attenuated total reflection (IR‐ATR) studies of the modified membranes showed no degradation of the water oxidation catalyst under the reported light‐driven conditions.
Modular Synthesis of Structurally Diverse Azulene‐Embedded Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by Knoevenagel‐Type Condensation
Authors: Liu Renxiang , Fu Yubin , Wu Fupeng , Liu Fupin , Zhang Jin‐Jiang , Yang Lin , Popov Alexey A. , Ma Ji , Feng Xinliang
Published: March 2023

The research interest in azulene‐embedded polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has significantly increased recently, but the lack of efficient synthetic strategies impedes the investigation of their structure‐property relationships and further opto‐electronic applications. Here we report a modular synthetic strategy towards diverse azulene‐embedded PAHs by a tandem Suzuki coupling and base‐promoted Knoevenagel‐type condensation with good yields and great structural versatility, including non‐alternant thiophene‐rich PAHs, butterfly‐ or Z‐shaped PAHs bearing two azulene units, and the first example of a two‐azulene‐embedded double [5]helicene. The structural topology, aromaticity and photophysical properties were investigated by NMR, X‐ray crystallography analysis and UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy assisted by DFT calculations. This strategy provides a new platform for rapidly synthesizing unexplored non‐alternant PAHs or even graphene nanoribbons with multiple azulene units.
Engineering Flexible Metal‐Phenolic Networks with Guest Responsiveness via Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Xu Wanjun , Pan Shuaijun , Noble Benjamin B. , Lin Zhixing , Kaur Bhangu Sukhvir , Kim Chan‐Jin , Chen Jingqu , Han Yiyuan , Yarovsky Irene , Caruso Frank
Published: March 2023

Flexible metal‐organic materials are of growing interest owing to their ability to undergo reversible structural transformations under external stimuli. Here, we report flexible metal‐phenolic networks (MPNs) featuring stimuli‐responsive behavior to diverse solute guests. The competitive coordination of metal ions to phenolic ligands of multiple coordination sites and solute guests (e.g., glucose) primarily determines the responsive behavior of the MPNs, as revealed experimentally and computationally. Glucose molecules can be embedded into the dynamic MPNs upon mixing, leading to the reconfiguration of the metal‐organic networks and thus changes in their physicochemical properties for targeting applications. This study expands the library of stimuli‐responsive flexible metal‐organic materials and the understanding of intermolecular interactions between metal‐organic materials and solute guests, which is essential for the rational design of responsive materials for various applications.
Understanding Water Age in Distribution Systems withEPANET
Authors: Burkhart Ben , Janke Robert
Published: March 2023

Key Takeaways

Modeling water age is a simple approach, by means of a readily measurable parameter, to rapidly assess a water distribution system's (WDS's) general water quality.

Used correctly, the US Environmental Protection Agency's EPANET program can model water age with accuracy, and the results can help in designing, improving, or operating a WDS.

The newest edition of EPANET added mass balance calculations and has improved computational time, mass balance performance, and overall model stability.
Washington Dam Project Supports Water and Aquatic Systems
Authors: Marcantonio Marc , Keown Thomas
Published: March 2023

Key Takeaways

With increasing pressure on water reliability in Washington's South Puget Sound, helping aquatic species thrive also helps community water resilience—a whale of an idea.

Better strategic problem‐solving starts with the transformative idea that is it is not mutually exclusive to ensure water supplies for people and for natural settings.

By seeking to gain bipartisan support, financial and permitting hurdles of a complex problem can be overcome to create a win–win for all.
Gut microbiota and risk of five common cancers: A univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wei Zixin , Yang Biying , Tang Tiantian , Xiao Zijing , Ye Fengzhan , Li Xiaoyu , Wu Shangbin , Huang Jin‐gang , Jiang Shanping
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous studies have linked gut microbiota with cancer etiology, but the associations for specific gut microbiota are causal or owing to bias remain to be elucidated.

Methods

We performed a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the causal effect of gut microbiota on cancer risk. Five common cancers, including breast, endometrial, lung, ovarian, and prostate cancer as well as their subtypes (sample sizes ranging from 27,209 to 228,951) were included as the outcomes. Genetic information for gut microbiota was obtained from a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) comprising 18,340 participants. In univariable MR (UVMR) analysis, the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was conducted as the primary method, with the robust adjusted profile scores, weighted median, and MR Egger used as supplementary methods for causal inference. Sensitivity analyses including the Cochran Q test, Egger intercept test, and leave‐one‐out analysis were performed to verify the robustness of the MR results. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was performed to evaluate the direct causal effects of gut microbiota on the risk of cancers.

Results

UVMR detected a higher abundance of genus Sellimonas predicted a higher risk of estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer (OR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.05–1.14, p = 2.01 × 10−5), and a higher abundance of class Alphaproteobacteria was associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.75–0.93, p = 1.11 × 10−3). Sensitivity analysis found little evidence of bias in the current study. MVMR further confirmed that genus Sellimonas exerted a direct effect on breast cancer, while the effect of class Alphaproteobacteria on prostate cancer was driven by the common risk factors of prostate cancer.

Conclusion

Our study implies the involvement of gut microbiota in cancer development, which provides a novel potential target for cancer screening and prevention, and might have an implication for future functional analysis.
Significant Control on Zero‐Field Quantum Tunneling of Magnetization in Dysprosium Based Single‐Molecule Magnets via Orientation of the Anilato Ligand
Authors: Kumar Sahu Pradip , Mondal Arpan , Konar Sanjit
Published: March 2023

Tuning the bridging fashion of anilato ligand in dinuclear DyIII complexes, reveals a sizable effect on the slow relaxation of magnetization. Combined experimental and theoretical studies divulge that the geometry with high order axial symmetry (pseudo square antiprism) reduces the transverse crystal fields corresponding to QTM (quantum tunneling of magnetization) resulting in a significant increase in energy barrier (Ueff=518 cm−1) through the Orbach relaxation process whereas the geometry with lower symmetry (triangular dodecahedron, pseudo D2d) enhances the transverse crystal fields that accelerate the ground state QTM process. Notably, the value 518 cm−1 represents the highest energy barrier among anilato ligand based SMMs.
Atroposelective Synthesis of Heterobiaryls through Ring Formation
Authors: Sun Huai‐Ri , Sharif Atif , Chen Jie , Zhou Ling
Published: March 2023

Atropisomeric heterobiaryls play a vital role in natural products, chiral ligands, organocatalysts, and other research fields, which have aroused great interest from chemists in recent years. Until now, a growing number of optically active heterobiaryls based on indole, quinoline, isoquinoline, pyridine, pyrrole, azole, and benzofuran skeletons have been successfully synthesized through metal or organic catalytic cross‐coupling, functionalization of prochiral or racemic heterobiaryls, and ring formation. Among different strategies for the atroposelective synthesis of heterobiaryls, the strategy of ring formation has become a vital tool toward this goal. In this review, we summarize the enantioselective synthesis of axially chiral heterobiaryls through ring formation approaches, such as cycloaddition, cyclization, and chirality conversion. Meanwhile, the reaction mechanism and the corresponding applications of the chiral heterobiaryls are also discussed.
C−H Functionalization of Heterocycles with Triplet Carbenes by means of an Unexpected 1,2‐Alkyl Radical Migration**
Authors: Empel Claire , Jana Sripati , Ciszewski Łukasz W. , Zawada Katarzyna , Pei Chao , Gryko Dorota , Koenigs Rene M.
Published: March 2023

The C−H functionalization of indole heterocycles constitutes a key strategy to leverage the synthesis of endogenous signaling molecules such as tryptamine or tryptophol. Herein, we report on the photocatalytic reaction of ethyl diazoacetate with indole, which shows an unusual solvent dependency. While C2‐functionalization occurs under protic conditions, the use of aprotic solvents leads to a complete reversal of selectivity and exclusive C3‐functionalization occurs. To rationalize for this unexpected reactivity switch, we have conducted detailed theoretical and experimental studies, which suggest the participation of a triplet carbene intermediate that undergoes initial C2‐functionalization. A distinct cationic [1,2]‐alkyl radical migration then leads to formation of C3‐functionalized indole. We conclude with the application of this photocatalytic reaction to access oxidized tryptophol derivatives including gram‐scale synthesis and derivatization reactions.
Metal Complex Molecular Junctions as Thermoelectric Devices
Authors: Tanaka Yuya
Published: March 2023

Single‐molecule junctions and self‐assembled monolayer junctions are attractive architectures for thermoelectric devices. However, given the poor thermoelectric performance of organic molecules investigated so far, molecules characterized by high conductance and Seebeck coefficient values are desired to be explored. Metal complexes are promising possible active components of high‐performance thermoelectric devices given that metal‐ligand combinations and functions can be made to vary to modulate the transmission functions, thus strongly influencing conductance and Seebeck coefficient. In this concept article are described recent studies wherein thermoelectric measurements were conducted on metal complex junctions. Furthermore, the potential for the use of the junctions in thermoelectric devices is discussed.
Differently N‐Capped Analogues of Fmoc‐FF
Authors: Diaferia Carlo , Rosa Elisabetta , Gallo Enrico , Morelli Giancarlo , Accardo Antonella
Published: March 2023

Short and ultra‐short peptides have been recently envisioned as excellent building blocks for the formulation of hydrogels with appealing properties. Due to its simplicity and capability to gel under physiological conditions, Fmoc‐FF (Nα‐fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl‐diphenylalanine), remains one of the most studied low molecular‐weight hydrogelators. Since its first identification in 2006, a plethora of its analogues were synthetized and investigated for the fabrication of novel supramolecular materials. Here we report a description of the Fmoc‐FF analogues in which the aromatic Fmoc group is replaced with other substituents. These analogues are distinguished into five different classes including derivatives: i) customized with solid phase peptide synthesis protecting groups; ii) containing non‐aromatic groups, iii) containing aromatic groups, iv) derivatized with metal complexes and v) containing stimuli‐responsive groups. The morphological, mechanical, and functional effects caused by this modification on the resulting material are also pointed out.
The influence of anatomic stage and receptor status on first recurrence for breast cancer within 5 years (AFT‐01)
Authors: Neuman Heather B. , Schumacher Jessica R. , Edge Stephen B. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Partridge Ann H. , Yu Menggang , Vanness David J. , Hanlon Bret M. , Le‐Rademacher Jennifer G. , Yang Dou‐Yan , Havlena Jeffrey , Strand Carrie A. , Greenberg Caprice C.
Published: March 2023

Background

Risk‐stratified follow‐up guidelines that account for the absolute risk and timing of recurrence may improve the quality and efficiency of breast cancer follow‐up. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship of anatomic stage and receptor status with timing of the first recurrence for patients with local‐regional breast cancer and generate risk‐stratified follow‐up recommendations.

Methods

The authors conducted a secondary analysis of 8007 patients with stage I–III breast cancer who enrolled in nine Alliance legacy clinical trials from 1997 to 2013 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02171078). Patients who received standard‐of‐care therapy were included. Patients who were missing stage or receptor status were excluded. The primary outcome was days from the earliest treatment start date to the date of first recurrence. The primary explanatory variable was anatomic stage. The analysis was stratified by receptor type. Cox proportional‐hazards regression models produced cumulative probabilities of recurrence. A dynamic programming algorithm approach was used to optimize the timing of follow‐up intervals based on the timing of recurrence events.

Results

The time to first recurrence varied significantly between receptor types (p < .0001). Within each receptor type, stage influenced the time to recurrence (p < .0001). The risk of recurrence was highest and occurred earliest for estrogen receptor (ER)‐negative/progesterone receptor (PR)‐negative/Her2neu‐negative tumors (stage III; 5‐year probability of recurrence, 45.5%). The risk of recurrence was lower for ER‐positive/PR‐positive/Her2neu‐positive tumors (stage III; 5‐year probability of recurrence, 15.3%), with recurrences distributed over time. Model‐generated follow‐up recommendations by stage and receptor type were created.

Conclusions

This study supports considering both anatomic stage and receptor status in follow‐up recommendations. The implementation of risk‐stratified guidelines based on these data has the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of follow‐up.
Bivalent Cobalt as Efficient Catalyst Intercalation Layer Improves Polysulfide Conversion in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lin Peirong , Qi Yuheng , Guo Daying , Wang Xueyu , Fang Guoyong , Chen Xi'an , Wang Shun
Published: March 2023

Herein, we investigated in detail the effect of metal valences in different cobalt‐based organic framework compounds on the kinetics of sulfur reaction in lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs). On this basis, two organic framework compounds of zeolite‐imidazole‐based cobalt organic framework compound (Co‐ZIF) and tetrakis(4‐benzoic acid) porphyrinato‐CoIII chloride [Co‐TBP(III)] with different valences were constructed as the functional intercalation separators of LSBs, and explored the effects of different valences on improving the reaction kinetics of polysulfides and inhibiting the shuttle effect. Experiments and theoretical calculations prove that CoII exhibits the best catalytic activity. This is mainly due to the fact that +2 valence shows a strong adsorption energy for polysulfides and a higher Fermi level compared with +3 valence, thus improving the efficiency of the rapid catalytic conversion of sulfur species. As expected, the discharge specific capacity of Co‐ZIF as the catalytic layer of the LSBs reached 772.7 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5 C. More importantly, the initial specific capacity is 839.6 mAh g−1 at high current 3 C, and after 720 cycles, the attenuation rate of per cycle is only 0.092 %, and the coulombic efficiency remains above 92 %.
Cobalt Deposition from Ionothermally Dissolved Cobalt Oxides
Authors: Richter Janine , Pietsch Tobias , Ruck Michael
Published: March 2023

Owing to the environmental problems of numerous metal production processes, there is a growing need for more energy‐efficient approaches. Cobalt is considered a strategic element that is extracted not only from ores but also from spent Li‐ion batteries. One promising new approach is ionometallurgy, which is the extraction of metal oxides by ionic liquids (ILs). This study concerns new investigations into ionometallurgical processing of CoO, Co3O4, and LiCoO2 in the IL betainium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, [Hbet][NTf2]. Three crystal structures of cobalt−betaine complex compounds and combined spectroscopic and diffraction studies provide insights into the dissolution process. In addition, an optimized dissolution procedure for metal oxides is presented, avoiding the previously reported decomposition of the IL. Subsequent cobalt electrodeposition is only possible from cationic complex species, highlighting the importance of a thorough understanding of the complex equilibria. The presented method is also compared to other recently reported approaches.
Reliable and infrastructure‐independent routing for the internet of vehicles
Authors: Taj Yaser , Bakhshi Bahador , Zandhessami Hessam
Published: March 2023

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is a new framework for intelligent transportation systems. One of its goals is to improve safety and increase the quality of service for passengers. Topology changes in IoV present significant challenges to the function of safety applications. Most routing algorithms offer their solution, independent of infrastructure or based exclusively on infrastructure. Although the lack of access to roadside units disrupts infrastructure‐based algorithms, methods that do not use infrastructure will also not enjoy the benefits of high‐speed data transmission. This research proposes the reliable and infrastructure‐independent routing (RIIR) routing algorithm to increase the reliability of real‐time routing in the IoV. The RIIR, in addition to simultaneous covering capability to use intelligent infrastructure for accelerating data transmission and flexibility in conditions of lack of access to infrastructure, by introducing three new criteria entitled “history of vehicle movement,” “conformity of vehicle speed with the harmonic speed average of nearby vehicles,” and “number of reliable neighbors,” scores vehicles and then selects the most suitable vehicles as route members. The RIIR measures the conformity of the previous presence of vehicles on the current route and the stability of their link with adjacent vehicles. Furthermore, it prevents congestion by halting the spread of route request messages at intersections not leading to the destination. The efficiency of the RIIR has been theoretically proven, and extensive simulations with multiple scenarios in SUMO and NS3 show the superiority of the RIIR in increasing the packet delivery rate and reducing route failure, average delay, and control overhead.
Protective potential of thymoquinone against cadmium, arsenic, and lead toxicity: A short review with emphasis on oxidative pathways
Authors: Ghasemi Farzad , Nili‐Ahmadabadi Amir , Omidifar Navid , Nili‐Ahmadabadi Maryam
Published: March 2023

Heavy metals are among the most important environmental pollutions used in various industries. Their extensive use has increased human susceptibility to different chronic diseases. Toxic metal exposure, especially cadmium, arsenic, and lead, causes oxidative damages, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genetic and epigenetic modifications. Meanwhile, thymoquinone (TQ) is an effective component of Nigella sativa oil that plays an important role in preventing the destructive effects of heavy metals. The present review discusses how TQ can protect various tissues against oxidative damage of heavy metals. This review is based on the research reported about the protective effects of TQ in the toxicity of heavy metals, approximately the last 10 years (2010–2021). Scientific databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, were searched using the following keywords either alone or in combination: cadmium, arsenic, lead, TQ, and oxidative stress. TQ, as a potent antioxidant, can distribute to cellular compartments and prevent oxidative damage of toxic metals. However, depending on the type of toxic metal and the carrier system used to release TQ in biological systems, its therapeutic dosage range may be varied.
Severe complications in a 25‐year‐old male after brown recluse spider bite treated by therapeutic plasma exchange: A case report and review of other case studies
Authors: Cain Sarah , Plapp Frederick V. , Dasgupta Amitava , Ye Zhan
Published: March 2023

Although in the majority of patients (90%), the bite wound of brown recluse spider resolves spontaneously, some patients may experience a severe reaction requiring hospitalization. A 25‐year‐old male developed severe hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and other complications following a brown recluse spider bite on his posterior right thigh. He was treated with methylprednisolone, antibiotics, and red blood cells (RBCs) transfusion without response. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was added to the treatment regimen, and his hemoglobin (Hb) was eventually stabilized, leading to significant clinical improvement. The beneficial effect of TPE in the current case was compared to three other reported cases. We recommend close monitoring of Hb levels in patients with systemic loxoscelism during the first week after brown recluse spider bite and early implementation of TPE in the management of severe acute hemolysis when patients do not respond to usual treatment modalities and RBC transfusion.
In Vivo MRI Tracking of Degradable Polyurethane Hydrogel Degradation In Situ Using a Manganese Porphyrin Contrast Agent
Authors: Tawagi Eric , Vollett Kyle D. W. , Szulc Daniel A. , Santerre J. Paul , Cheng Hai‐Ling Margaret
Published: March 2023

Background

A noninvasive method to track implanted biomaterials is desirable for real‐time monitoring of material interactions with host tissues and assessment of efficacy and safety.

Purpose

To explore quantitative in vivo tracking of polyurethane implants using a manganese porphyrin (MnP) contrast agent containing a covalent binding site for pairing to polymers.

Study Type

Prospective, longitudinal.

Animal Model

Rodent model of dorsal subcutaneous implants (10 female Sprague Dawley rats).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3‐T; two‐dimensional (2D) T1‐weighted spin‐echo (SE), T2‐weighted turbo SE, three‐dimensional (3D) spoiled gradient‐echo T1 mapping with variable flip angles.

Assessment

A new MnP‐vinyl contrast agent to covalently label polyurethane hydrogels was synthesized and chemically characterized. Stability of binding was assessed in vitro. MRI was performed in vitro on unlabeled hydrogels and hydrogels labeled at different concentrations, and in vivo on rats with unlabeled and labeled hydrogels implanted dorsally. In vivo MRI was performed at 1, 3, 5, and 7 weeks postimplantation. Implants were easily identified on T1‐weighted SE, and fluid accumulation from inflammation was distinguished on T2‐weighted turbo SE. Implants were segmented on contiguous T1‐weighted SPGR slices using a threshold of 1.8 times the background muscle signal intensity; implant volume and mean T1 values were then calculated at each timepoint. Histopathology was performed on implants in the same plane as MRI and compared to imaging results.

Statistical Tests

Unpaired t‐tests and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for comparisons. A P value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

Hydrogel labeling with MnP resulted in a significant T1 reduction in vitro (T1 = 517 ± 36 msec vs. 879 ± 147 msec unlabeled). Mean T1 values of labeled implants in rats increased significantly by 23% over time, from 1 to 7 weeks postimplantation (651 ± 49 msec to 801 ± 72 msec), indicating decreasing implant density.

Data Conclusion

Polymer‐binding MnP enables in vivo tracking of vinyl‐group coupling polymers.

Evidence Level

1.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1.
New Insights into the Spread of MRS‐Based Water T2 Values Observed in Highly Fatty Replaced Muscles
Authors: Reyngoudt Harmen , Baudin Pierre‐Yves , Carlier Pierre G. , Lopez Kolkovsky Alfredo L. , de Almeida Araujo Ericky Caldas , Marty Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Background

The reference standard for assessing water T2 (T2,H2O) at high fat fraction (FF) is 1H MRS. T2,H2O (T2,H2O,MRS) dependence on FF (FFMRS) has recently been demonstrated in muscle at high FF (i.e. ≥60%).

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between T2,H2O,MRS and FFMRS in the thigh/leg muscles of patients with neuromuscular diseases and to compare with quantitative MRI.

Study Type

Retrospective case–control study.

Population

A total of 151 patients with neuromuscular disorders (mean age ± standard deviation = 52.5 ± 22.6 years, 54% male), 44 healthy volunteers (26.5 ± 13.0 years, 57% male).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3‐T; single‐voxel stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) MRS, multispin echo (MSE) imaging (for T2 mapping, T2,H2O,MRI), three‐point Dixon imaging (for FFMRI and mapping).

Assessment

Mono‐exponential and bi‐exponential models were fitted to water T2 decay curves to extract T2,H2O,MRS and FFMRS. Water resonance full‐width‐at‐half‐maximum (FWHM) and B0 spread (∆B0) values were calculated. T2,H2O,MRI (mean), FFMRI (mean, kurtosis, and skewness), and (mean) values were estimated in the MRS voxel.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Normal T2,H2O,MRS threshold was defined as the 90th percentile in healthy controls: 30.3 msec. T2,H2O,MRS was significantly higher in all patients with FFMRS < 60% compared to healthy controls. We discovered two subgroups in patients with FFMRS ≥ 60%: one with T2,H2O,MRS ≥ 30.3 msec and one with T2,H2O,MRS < 30.3 msec including abnormally low T2,H2O,MRS. The latter subgroup had significantly higher water resonance FWHM, ∆B0, FFMRI kurtosis, and skewness values but nonsignificantly different (P = 1.00) and long T2,H2O,MRS component and its fraction (P > 0.11) based on the bi‐exponential analysis.

Data Conclusion

The findings suggest that the cause for (abnormally) T2,H2O,MRS at high FFMRS is biophysical, due to differences in susceptibility between muscle and fat (increased FWHM and ∆B0), rather than pathophysiological such as compartmentation changes, which would be reflected by the bi‐exponential analysis.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Breast Cancer Growth on Serial MRI: Volume Doubling Time Based on 3‐Dimensional Tumor Volume Assessment
Authors: Wang Lijun , Luo Ran , Chen Yanhong , Liu Huanhuan , Guan Wenbin , Li Rui , Zhang Zhengwei , Duan Shaofeng , Wang Dengbin
Published: March 2023

Background

The volume doubling time (VDT) of breast cancer was most frequently calculated using the two‐dimensional (2D) diameter, which is not reliable for irregular tumors. It was rarely investigated using three‐dimensional (3D) imaging with tumor volume on serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Purpose

To investigate the VDT of breast cancer using 3D tumor volume assessment on serial breast MRIs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Sixty women (age at diagnosis: 57 ± 10 years) with breast cancer, assessed by two or more breast MRI examinations. The median interval time was 791 days (range: 70–3654 days).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, fast spin‐echo T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI), single‐shot echo‐planar diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), and gradient echo dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging.

Assessment

Three radiologists independently reviewed the morphological, DWI, and T2WI features of lesions. The whole tumor was segmented to measure the volume on contrast‐enhanced images. The exponential growth model was fitted in the 11 patients with at least three MRI examinations. The VDT of breast cancer was calculated using the modified Schwartz equation.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, Chi‐squared test, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Fleiss kappa coefficients. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The exponential growth model was evaluated using the adjusted R2 and root mean square error (RMSE).

Results

The median tumor diameter was 9.7 mm and 15.2 mm on the initial and final MRI, respectively. The median adjusted R2 and RMSE of the 11 exponential models were 0.97 and 15.8, respectively. The median VDT was 540 days (range: 68–2424 days). For invasive ductal carcinoma (N = 33), the median VDT of the non‐luminal type was shorter than that of the luminal type (178 days vs. 478 days). On initial MRI, breast cancer manifesting as a focus or mass lesion showed a shorter VDT than that of a non‐mass enhancement (NME) lesion (median VDT: 426 days vs. 665 days).

Data Conclusion

A shorter VDT was observed in breast cancer manifesting as focus or mass as compared to an NME lesion.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Clinical characteristics and psychoacoustic analysis of acute and chronic subjective tinnitus
Authors: Zhang Haopeng , Ji Lin , Wang Lihua , Yin Ziming , Cen Jingtu , Guo Yu
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study aimed to understand the demographics, clinical characteristics, and psychoacoustic status of subjective tinnitus patients to explore the factors associated with acute and chronic tinnitus in the general hospitals of Shanghai.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted to investigate the clinical characteristics and psychoacoustic status of subjective tinnitus patients with history greater than 1 month. Data were collected during January 2021 and January 2022 from eight general hospitals in five districts of Shanghai, China. All patients accepted questionnaires and acoustic examination, then SPSS 22.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0.2 were applied for data analysis.

Results

Among the 359 tinnitus patients, 126 cases were diagnosed with acute tinnitus, 58 cases were subacute tinnitus, and 175 cases were chronic tinnitus. Patients with acute and chronic tinnitus differed in terms of side of tinnitus, hearing loss, frequency of tinnitus, severity of tinnitus, anxiety, depression, and sleep status. Different characteristics were included in the multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis. Persistent tinnitus (OR = 2.00, p = .008), high frequency hearing loss (OR = 4.77, p < .001), depression (OR = 1.23, p < .001) were found to be positively associated with the course of tinnitus. Unilateral tinnitus (OR = 0.48, p = .003), mild (OR = 0.29, p = .001) and moderate (OR = 0.46, p = .038) hearing loss, VAS scores (OR = 0.82, p = .032), anxiety (OR = 0.81, p < .001), THI scores (OR = 0.98, p = .002), and sleep disorders (OR = 0.94, p = .025) were found to be negatively associated with the course of tinnitus.

Conclusion

Patients with acute tinnitus were at greater risk for anxiety, sleep disturbances, and exacerbation of tinnitus perception, and those with chronic tinnitus were at greater risk for depression.

Lay Summary

Our study demonstrated that patients with acute tinnitus were at greater risk for anxiety, sleep disturbances, and exacerbation of tinnitus perception, and those with chronic tinnitus were at greater risk for depression.