bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman spectroscopic study of the transformation of nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite during heating experiments: Origin of kokchetavite in high‐pressure metamorphic rocks
Authors: Korsakov Andrey V. , Romanenko Alexandr V. , Sokol Alexander G. , Musiyachenko Kira A.
Published: May 2023

Nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite was synthesized in experiments at high pressures but so far has not been found/identified as inclusions in minerals subducted and subsequently exhumed from mantle depths. K‐cymrite is a potential carrier of nitrogen; it can store and transport up to 4 wt% of nitrogen in the deep mantle, thus contributing to the global nitrogen cycle. The stability of nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite synthesized at pressure of 6.3 GPa, upon exhumation to the Earth's surface, remains unknown. Here, we report an in situ Raman spectroscopic study of nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite, using Linkam heating and freezing microscope stage (THMS600). The transition induced in this experiment corresponds to the retrograde PT‐path of deeply subducted rocks. Our results demonstrate that (i) nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite structure is more stable upon heating than pure H2O bearing specimens (KAlSi3O8·H2O), (ii) phase transformation (e.g., H2O, N2, and NH3 release) starts at 550°C leading to the formation of kokchetavite (an anhydrous hexagonal polymorph of KAlSi3O8) frequently observed in high‐pressure metamorphic rocks, and (iii) Raman spectra of kokchetavite obtained from different precursors (e.g., nitrogen‐bearing and H2O‐bearing K‐cymrite) are identical. Thus, nitrogen‐bearing K‐cymrite can be considered a potential host phase for nitrogen in subduction‐related environments, and it can be preserved as inclusions in refractory minerals during the exhumation of deeply subducted rocks.
Comparative performance of equations to estimate low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and cardiovascular disease incidence: The ATTICA study (2002–2022)
Authors: Nomikos Tzortzis , Georgoulis Michael , Chrysohoou Christina , Damigou Evangelia , Barkas Fotios , Skoumas Ioannis , Liberopoulos Evangelos , Pitsavos Christos , Tsioufis Costas , Sfikakis Petros P. , Tselepis Alexandros , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B.
Published: May 2023

Accurate estimation of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) is important for monitoring cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and guiding lipid‐lowering therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the magnitude of discordance of LDL‐C levels calculated by different equations and its effect on CVD incidence. The study sample consisted of 2354 CVD‐free individuals (49% males, mean age 45 ± 14 years); 1600 were re‐evaluated at 10 years and 1570 at 20 years. LDL‐C was estimated using the Friedewald, Martin/Hopkins, and Sampson equations. Participants were categorized as discordant if estimated LDL‐C was below the CVD‐risk specific cut‐off for one equation and equal/above for its comparator. The Friedewald and Martin/Hopkins equations presented a similar performance in estimating LDL‐C; however, both yielded lower values compared to the Sampson. In all pairwise comparisons, differences were more pronounced at lower LDL‐C levels, while the Friedewald equation significantly underestimated LDL‐C in hypertriglyceridemic participants. Discordance was evident in 11% of the study population, and more specifically 6%, 22%, and 20% for Friedewald versus Martin/Hopkins, Friedewald versus Sampson and Martin/Hopkins versus Sampson equations, respectively. Among discordant participants, median (1st, 3rd quartile) difference in LDL‐C was −4.35 (−10.1, 1.95), −10.6 (−12.3, −9.53) and −11.3 (−11.9, −10.6) mg/dL for Friedewald versus Martin/Hopkins, Friedewald versus Sampson and Martin/Hopkins versus Sampson equations, respectively. The 10‐ and 20‐year CVD survival model that included LDL‐C values of the Martin‐Hopkins equation outperformed the predictive ability of those based on the Friedewald or Sampson equations. Significant differences in estimated LDL‐C exist among equations, which may result in LDL‐C underestimation and undertreatment.
All‐Inorganic Glass Scintillators: Scintillation Mechanism, Materials, and Applications
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Zhao Xudong , Xu Yinsheng , Wu Haodi , Xu Xuhui , Lu Ping , Zhang Xianghua , Zhao Xiujian , Xia Mengling , Tang Jiang , Niu Guangda
Published: May 2023

Glass scintillators have several benefits compared to the currently used single or polycrystalline scintillators, including non‐hygroscopicity, mechanical ruggedness, ease of producing customizable shapes, and low‐cost synthesis. The combination of the inert glass matrix and the embedded highly scintillating center render them significant materials for medical imaging and therapy, non‐destructive probing, nuclear monitoring, and high‐energy physics. Recently, great progress has been made in exploring new kinds of glass scintillator materials, improving imaging resolution for radiation detection, and developing an enormous range of commercial products. However, the majority of efforts have been devoted to the variation of materials, while rationally designing this new family of scintillators toward expected properties and applications is still lacking. In this review, the focus is specifically on advances in glass scintillators, including the scintillation fundamentals, material designing rule, and current application status, as well as future challenges and future directions.
A Supramolecular Injectable Methacryloyl Chitosan‐Tricine‐Based Hydrogel with 3D Printing Potential for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Ouro Pedro M.S. , Costa Dora C.S. , Amaral Adérito J.R. , Mano João F.
Published: May 2023

Printable hydrogels have attracted significant attention as versatile, tunable, and spatiotemporally controlled biomaterials for tissue engineering (TE) applications. Several chitosan‐based systems are reported presenting low or no solubility in aqueous solutions at physiological pH. Herein, a novel neutrally charged, biomimetic, injectable, and cytocompatible dual‐crosslinked (DC) hydrogel system based on a double functionalized chitosan (CHT) with methacryloyl and tricine moieties (CHTMA‐Tricine), completely processable at physiological pH, with promising three‐dimensional (3D) printing potential is presented. Tricine, an amino acid typically used in biomedicine, is capable of establishing supramolecular interactions (H‐bonds) and is never explored as a hydrogel component for TE. CHTMA‐Tricine hydrogels demonstrate significantly greater toughness (ranging from 656.5 ± 82.2 to 1067.5 ± 121.5 kJ m−3) compared to CHTMA hydrogels (ranging from 382.4 ± 44.1 to 680.8 ± 104.5 kJ m−3), highlighting the contribution of the supramolecular interactions for the overall reinforced 3D structure provided by tricine moieties. Cytocompatibility studies reveal that MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblasts cells remain viable for 6 days when encapsulated in CHTMA‐Tricine constructs, with semi‐quantitative analysis showing ≈80% cell viability. This system's interesting viscoelastic properties allow the fabrication of multiple structures, which couple with a straightforward approach, will open doors for the design of advanced chitosan‐based biomaterials through 3D bioprinting for TE.
Quantification of snake venom proteomes by mass spectrometry‐considerations and perspectives
Authors: Calvete Juan J. , Lomonte Bruno , Saviola Anthony J. , Calderón Celis Francisco , Ruiz Encinar Jorge
Published: May 2023

The advent of soft ionization mass spectrometry‐based proteomics in the 1990s led to the development of a new dimension in biology that conceptually allows for the integral analysis of whole proteomes. This transition from a reductionist to a global‐integrative approach is conditioned to the capability of proteomic platforms to generate and analyze complete qualitative and quantitative proteomics data. Paradoxically, the underlying analytical technique, molecular mass spectrometry, is inherently nonquantitative. The turn of the century witnessed the development of analytical strategies to endow proteomics with the ability to quantify proteomes of model organisms in the sense of “an organism for which comprehensive molecular (genomic and/or transcriptomic) resources are available.” This essay presents an overview of the strategies and the lights and shadows of the most popular quantification methods highlighting the common misuse of label‐free approaches developed for model species' when applied to quantify the individual components of proteomes of nonmodel species (In this essay we use the term “non‐model” organisms for species lacking comprehensive molecular (genomic and/or transcriptomic) resources, a circumstance that, as we detail in this review‐essay, conditions the quantification of their proteomes.). We also point out the opportunity of combining elemental and molecular mass spectrometry systems into a hybrid instrumental configuration for the parallel identification and absolute quantification of venom proteomes. The successful application of this novel mass spectrometry configuration in snake venomics represents a proof‐of‐concept for a broader and more routine application of hybrid elemental/molecular mass spectrometry setups in other areas of the proteomics field, such as phosphoproteomics, metallomics, and in general in any biological process where a heteroatom (i.e., any atom other than C, H, O, N) forms integral part of its mechanism.
The distribution pattern of corneal volume in Chinese myopic patients from multiple centers
Authors: Tang Changting , Qin Linyuan , Wang Wei , Lu Suqing , Li Yinan , Fang Ying , Yu Honghua , Hu Yijun
Published: May 2023

Corneal volume (CV) is a useful index for detecting forme fruste keratoconus from normal corneas. It can be used to evaluate the whole cornea, since it can measure corneal areas up to 10 mm in diameter. Thus, CV has become the clinicians' interest as a diagnostic tool of corneal ectatic disease and a measure of corneal integrity to determine suitability for refractive surgery. We conducted a cross‐sectional study including 7893 myopic patients from five ophthalmic centers to investigate the distribution pattern of CV. Our study showed that distribution of CV‐3, CV‐5, and CV‐7 mm were slightly positively skewed and the 2.5th to 97.5th percentiles were 3.6–4.4, 10.4–12.8, 22.5–27.5 mm3, respectively. Central corneal thickness (CCT) was significantly correlated with CV in all measurement regions. The correlation between CV and CCT showed an inconsistent trend with the increase of age. The correlation coefficient between CV and CCT did not change significantly with the increase of myopia degree in low to moderate myopia, but fluctuated significantly in high myopia (less than −6.0 diopters). According to our results, corneal volume follows a slightly positively skewed distribution pattern in myopic Chinese patients. The information is useful for screening refractive surgery candidates and assessing the risk of corneal refractive surgery.
Polynomial stabilizations for wave equations with positive definite kernels and boundary frictional damping
Authors: Li Chan , Wan Xing‐Yu
Published: May 2023

This paper is concerned with stabilizations of wave equations with variable coefficients, subject to positive definite kernels and boundary frictional damping. Here, the memory kernel can be sign‐varying and the boundary of the domain does not need to satisfies the “geometric control condition.” Under some appropriate assumptions on memory kernel, we establish the polynomial stabilizations. Meanwhile, the decay result shows that the memory damping plays the dominant role in the stabilizations of the system with both memory damping and boundary frictional damping.
Attention‐guided multi‐scale context aggregation network for multi‐modal brain glioma segmentation
Authors: Wu Shaozhi , Cao Yunjian , Li Xinke , Liu Qiyu , Ye Yuyun , Liu Xingang , Zeng Liaoyuan , Tian Miao
Published: May 2023

Background

Accurate segmentation of brain glioma is a critical prerequisite for clinical diagnosis, surgical planning and treatment evaluation. In current clinical workflow, physicians typically perform delineation of brain tumor subregions slice‐by‐slice, which is more susceptible to variabilities in raters and also time‐consuming. Besides, even though convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are driving progress, the performance of standard models still have some room for further improvement.

Purpose

To deal with these issues, this paper proposes an attention‐guided multi‐scale context aggregation network (AMCA‐Net) for the accurate segmentation of brain glioma in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images with multi‐modalities.

Methods

AMCA‐Net extracts the multi‐scale features from the MRI images and fuses the extracted discriminative features via a self‐attention mechanism for brain glioma segmentation. The extraction is performed via a series of down‐sampling, convolution layers, and the global context information guidance (GCIG) modules are developed to fuse the features extracted for contextual features. At the end of the down‐sampling, a multi‐scale fusion (MSF) module is designed to exploit and combine all the extracted multi‐scale features. Each of the GCIG and MSF modules contain a channel attention (CA) module that can adaptively calibrate feature responses and emphasize the most relevant features. Finally, multiple predictions with different resolutions are fused through different weightings given by a multi‐resolution adaptation (MRA) module instead of the use of averaging or max‐pooling to improve the final segmentation results.

Results

Datasets used in this paper are publicly accessible, that is, the Multimodal Brain Tumor Segmentation Challenges 2018 (BraTS2018) and 2019 (BraTS2019). BraTS2018 contains 285 patient cases and BraTS2019 contains 335 cases. Simulations show that the AMCA‐Net has better or comparable performance against that of the other state‐of‐the‐art models. In terms of the Dice score and Hausdorff 95 for the BraTS2018 dataset, 90.4% and 10.2 mm for the whole tumor region (WT), 83.9% and 7.4 mm for the tumor core region (TC), 80.2% and 4.3 mm for the enhancing tumor region (ET), whereas the Dice score and Hausdorff 95 for the BraTS2019 dataset, 91.0% and 10.7 mm for the WT, 84.2% and 8.4 mm for the TC, 80.1% and 4.8 mm for the ET. Conclusions: The proposed AMCA‐Net performs comparably well in comparison to several state‐of‐the‐art neural net models in identifying the areas involving the peritumoral edema, enhancing tumor, and necrotic and non‐enhancing tumor core of brain glioma, which has great potential for clinical practice. In future research, we will further explore the feasibility of applying AMCA‐Net to other similar segmentation tasks.
Variational schemes and mixed finite elements for large strain isotropic elasticity in principal stretches: Closed‐form tangent eigensystems, convexity conditions, and stabilised elasticity
Authors: Poya Roman , Ortigosa Rogelio , Gil Antonio J.
Published: May 2023

A new computational framework for large strain elasticity in principal stretches is presented. Distinct from existing literature, the proposed formulation makes direct use of principal stretches rather than their squares that is, eigenvalues of Cauchy‐Green strain tensor. The proposed framework has three key features. First, the eigen‐decomposition of the tangent elasticity and initial (geometric) stiffness operators is obtained in closed‐form from principal information alone. Crucially, these newly found eigenvalues describe the general convexity conditions of isotropic hyperelastic energies. In other words, convexity is postulated concisely through tangent eigenvalues supplementing the original work of Ball (Arch Ration Mech Anal. 1976; 63(4): 337–403). Consequently, this novel finding opens the door for designing efficient automated Newton‐style algorithms with stabilised tangents via closed‐form semipositive definite projection or spectral shifting that converge irrespective of mesh resolution, quality, loading scenario and without relying on path‐following techniques. A critical study of closed‐form tangent stabilisation in the context of isotropic hyperelasticity is therefore undertaken in this work. Second, in addition to high order displacement‐based formulation, mixed Hu‐Washizu variational principles are formulated in terms of principal stretches by introducing stretch work conjugate Lagrange multipliers that enforce principal stretch‐stress compatibility. This is similar to enhanced strain methods. However, the resulting mixed finite element scheme is cost‐efficient, specially compared to approximating the entire strain tensors since the formulation is in the scalar space of singular values. Third, the proposed framework facilitates simulating rigid and stiff systems and those that are nearly‐inextensible in principal directions, a constituent of elasticity that cannot be easily studied using standard formulations.
The prevalence of moderate–severe premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder and the related factors in high school students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Babapour Farzaneh , Elyasi Forouzan , Shahhosseini Zohreh , Hosseini Tabaghdehi Monirolsadate
Published: May 2023

Objective

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a clinical condition with physical and psychological symptoms affecting female students' quality of life, social activity, and school performance. Since most studies have focused on adult women, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of moderate–severe PMS, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and their related factors in high school students.

Methods

The participants of this cross‐sectional study, conducted in 2019, were 900 high school students in Sari, north of Iran. They were selected by census method from six high schools. Data were collected using Premenstrual Syndrome Screening Tool and General Health Questionnaire.

Results

The prevalence of moderate–severe PMS and PMDD were 33.9% and 12.3%, respectively. According to the logistic regression model, dysmenorrhea was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of moderate–severe PMS [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.356, confidence interval (CI): 1.706–3.254, p < 0.0001] and PMDD (AOR: 1.924, CI: 1.186–3.120, p = 0.0008). Moreover, optimal general health was associated with a lower prevalence of moderate–severe PMS (AOR: 0.326, CI: 0.221–0.480, p < 0.0001) and PMDD (AOR: 0.309, CI: 0.161–0.593, p < 0.0001). The findings revealed that a family history of PMS and adding excess salt to the food were associated with a higher prevalence of PMDD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Although many high school students do not meet the criteria for PMDD, many experience PMS, which could be diminished with proper diet and improved general health.
Zero‐sum game optimal control for the nonlinear switched systems based on heuristic dynamic programming
Authors: Fu Xingjian , Li Zizheng
Published: May 2023

In this article, the zero‐sum game problem of control and disturbance is studied for discrete affine nonlinear switched systems with unknown dynamical models. A two‐level heuristic dynamic programming iterative algorithm for solving the zero‐sum game problem is proposed, which can be used to solve the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Isaacs equation associated with the optimal regulation control problem. The convergence analysis based on the value function and control strategy is given. For algorithm implementation, neural networks are used to approximate the control strategy, disturbance strategy, and value function of the game dynamic programming, respectively. A model network is used to approximate the system states with an unknown dynamical model. The iterative algorithm steps are given. Finally, the validity of the method is verified by simulation examples.
Lead‐Free, Silicon‐Based Brass Changes the Game for Aging Infrastructure
Authors: Aulich Larry
Published: May 2023

Changing standards have allowed for critical product improvements in lead‐free, silicon‐based brass. This innovation is stronger and more sustainable for utilities replacing aging infrastructure.
Operators Need to Know How Customer Complaints Can Improve Water Quality
Authors: Adams Hunter , Holloway Nicole , Atkinson Kamelda , Wagner Mary Carol , Beier Alejandra , Reyes Dimas , Clark Tom , Ash Steve , Southard Mark
Published: May 2023

Understanding how to use customer complaints to improve water quality can help operators take corrective action.
Treatment strategy for late‐life depression
Authors: Baba Hajime
Published: May 2023

With the unprecedented aging of the world's population, the number of elderly patients with depression is expected to increase. However, management and treatment of late‐life depression (LLD) is more difficult than in early adults. Prior to treatment, diagnosis must take into account the differentiation from, and comorbidity with, organic brain diseases such as dementia and delirium, as well as depression caused by other physical diseases or medications. As clinical features of LLD, treatment response tends to be poor in older patients and recurrence rates are higher than those in early adult patients, therefore psycho‐social interventions on the basis of the patient's background and condition are important for LLD. The first‐line treatment strategy generally depends on the severity of the depression. Systematic psychotherapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and problem‐solving therapy, have been reported to reduce depressive symptoms in LLD. Regarding pharmacotherapy, newer antidepressants are recommended for LLD, but careful attention to adverse events is required. Treatment using neuromodulation is also reported to be useful for LLD. In the current review, for further‐line treatment, treatment strategies were divided according to the level of first‐line treatment response. Evidence indicates that LLD is more heterogeneous than depression in younger adults, therefore when treating LLD patients it is necessary to take various conditions and situations into consideration, and to provide detailed treatment that is tailored to each patient.
Thermal simulations on periglacial soils of the Central Andes, Argentina
Authors: Mendoza López Martín , Tapia Baldis Carla , Trombotto Liaudat Dario , Sileo Noelia
Published: May 2023

Rock glaciers are the most common landforms of the Andean periglacial landscape in the Central Andes of San Juan, Argentina. Their active layer is gravelly with a typical openwork structure. The upper parts of these rock glaciers are coarse‐grained Turbic Cryosols, with no vegetation cover. Since March 2018, coarse soils in the active layer of the “Candidato” rock glacier have been monitored (31.9°S, 70.18°W). Three trenches, 4,000 m a.s.l. and down to a depth of 90 cm, were equipped with sensors to measure soil temperature and volumetric water content. We also measured particle size distributions and calculated thermal properties from soil samples. The mean thermal conductivities for unfrozen and frozen soils were 0.69 and 0.54 W m−1 K−1, respectively, and the mean thermal diffusivities were 2.05 × 10−7 and 1.64 × 10–7 m2 s−1, respectively. Analysis of the seasonal thermal and hydrological fluxes in the active layer is challenging, as the physical properties change cyclically, thus controlling processes such as water storage, infiltration and seepage, heat balance, mechanical behavior, and kinematic response. We used the Coupled Heat and Mass Transfer Model for the Soil–Plant–Atmosphere System (COUP) numerical computerized model, performing a site‐specific calibration, to simulate soil temperatures, active layer thicknesses, and seasonal freezing–thawing depths. The model implemented, in combination with a reanalysis of the meteorological data series, performed very well to reproduce the data from thermo‐sensors placed in the ground. This proposed methodology is viable for areas with limited instrumentation or low accessibility. The “Candidato” rock glacier can be used as a pilot model for thermal modeling purposes on rhyolitic rock glaciers in the region.
Lung biopsy in the diagnosis and management of chILD
Authors: Deutsch Gail H. , Young Lisa R.
Published: May 2023

Children's interstitial and diffuse lung disease (chILD) comprises a large number of diverse entities ranging from disorders of lung development, maturation and function unique in infancy to immune‐mediated, environmental, vascular and other conditions overlapping with adult disease. Pathologic evaluation of the lung has played a central role in characterizing many of these disorders, resulting in revised nomenclature and classifications to help guide clinical management(1–4). Technological advancements are rapidly uncovering genetic and molecular underpinnings of these conditions, as well as widening the phenotypes which bridge adult disease, often reducing the perceived need for diagnostic lung biopsy. As such the decision to get a lung biopsy in chILD is frequently for rapid ascertainment of disease in a critically ill child or when clinical presentation, imaging and laboratory studies fail to provide a cohesive diagnosis needed for treatment. While there have been modifications in surgical procedures for lung biopsy that minimize postoperative morbidity, it remains a high‐risk invasive procedure, especially in a medically complex patient(5). Thus, it is essential that the lung biopsy be handled properly to maximize diagnostic yield, including close communication between the clinician, radiologist, surgeon, and pathologist before biopsy to determine best sampling site(s) and prioritization of tissue utilization. This review provides an overview of optimal handling and evaluation of a surgical lung biopsy for suspected chILD, with emphasis on specific conditions in which pathologic features play a critical role in providing an integrated diagnosis and guiding management.
Impact of the publication of the Italian guidelines for bronchiolitis on the management of hospitalized children in Pisa, Italy
Authors: Abbate Federica , Depietri Greta , Tinelli Camilla , Massimetti Gabriele , Picariello Sara , Peroni Diego , Di Cicco Maria
Published: May 2023

Bronchiolitis represents one of the major causes of hospitalization and mortality in children younger than 1 year, but its management continues to be heterogenous both in those who are hospitalized and in those who are not. To assess the impact of the publication of the Italian guidelines on bronchiolitis in October 2014, we analyzed data from children aged ≤12 months admitted for bronchiolitis at the University Hospital of Pisa from January 2010 to December 2019, dividing them into two groups based on whether admission was either preceding (Group 1) or following (Group 2) the publication of the guidelines. 346 patients (mean age 4.1 ± 2.8 months, 55% males) were admitted in the study period; 43.3%, 49.4%, and 7.3% of patients had mild, moderate or severe bronchiolitis, respectively. The mean length of hospital stay was 6.7 ± 2.9 days; 90.5% of the patients underwent nasal swab and 200 patients tested positive for RSV (in mono or coinfection with other viruses). We found no difference in RSV prevalence and severity distribution between the two groups, while we observed a significant reduction in the use of both chest X‐rays (66.9% vs. 34.8%, p < 0.001), blood testing (93.4% vs. 58.2%, p < 0.001) and inhaled or systemic corticosteroids (93.1% vs. 47.8%, p < 0.001) in Group 2. No significant reduction in the use of antibiotics and of inhaled β2 agonists was found. Our data suggest that the publication of the Italian guidelines for bronchiolitis has contributed to improving the management of patients admitted for bronchiolitis in our Unit.
Yoga and aerobic exercise in epilepsy: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Aktar Burcin , Balci Birgul , Eraslan Boz Hatice , Oztura Ibrahim , Baklan Baris
Published: May 2023

Background

There has been a growing interest in demonstrating the health benefits of exercise among people with epilepsy in recent years. Although exercise is recommended for people with epilepsy, there is uncertainty concerning the effects of yoga and aerobic exercise on multiple health outcomes in epilepsy.

Purpose

The aim of this trial was to examine the effects of yoga and aerobic exercise training on physical activity, seizure frequency, health‐related physical fitness, mental, emotional, and psychological health status, and quality of life.

Methods

This study was designed as a single‐center, 8‐week, randomized controlled trial in a three‐arm parallel group. Participants will be randomly allocated to yoga, aerobic exercise, or wait‐list control groups. The primary outcome is physical activity/sedentary behavior measured by the ActiGraph GT9X accelerometer and seizure frequency. Secondary outcomes include functional capacity, lower extremity strength, balance, body composition, waist and hip circumference, cognition, depression, anxiety, perceived stress, fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life. The outcomes will be evaluated at baseline and at 8 weeks of follow‐up.

Implications of physiotherapy practice

This study is the first randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of yoga and aerobic exercise among people with epilepsy. The findings of this study could provide important information about the effects of yoga and aerobic exercise training on a variety of health conditions in people with epilepsy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05066880, registered October 4, 2021.
Stimulated Raman histology, a novel method to allow for rapid pathologic examination of unprocessed, fresh prostate biopsies
Authors: Mannas Miles P. , Jones Derek , Deng Fang‐Ming , Hoskoppal Deepthi , Melamed Jonathan , Orringer Daniel A. , Taneja Samir S.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Delay between targeted prostate biopsy (PB) and pathologic diagnosis can lead to a concern of inadequate sampling and repeated biopsy. Stimulated Raman histology (SRH) is a novel microscopic technique allowing real‐time, label‐free, high‐resolution microscopic images of unprocessed, unsectioned tissue. This technology holds potential to decrease the time for PB diagnosis from days to minutes. We evaluated the concordance of pathologist interpretation of PB SRH as compared with traditional hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained slides.

Methods

Men undergoing prostatectomy were included in an IRB‐approved prospective study. Ex vivo 18‐gauge PB cores, taken from prostatectomy specimen, were scanned in an SRH microscope (NIO; Invenio Imaging) at 20 microns depth using two Raman shifts: 2845 and 2930 cm−1, to create SRH images. The cores were then processed as per normal pathologic protocols. Sixteen PB containing a mix of benign and malignant histology were used as an SRH training cohort for four genitourinary pathologists, who were then tested on a set of 32 PBs imaged by SRH and processed by traditional H&E. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and concordance for prostate cancer (PCa) detection on SRH relative to H&E were assessed.

Results

The mean pathologist accuracy for the identification of any PCa on PB SRH was 95.7%. In identifying any PCa or ISUP grade group 2–5 PCa, a pathologist was independently able to achieve good and very good concordance (κ: 0.769 and 0.845, respectively; p < 0.001). After individual assessment was completed a pathology consensus conference was held for the interpretation of the PB SRH; after the consensus conference the pathologists' concordance in identifying any PCa was also very good (κ: 0.925, p < 0.001; sensitivity 95.6%; specificity 100%).

Conclusion

SRH produces high‐quality microscopic images that allow for accurate identification of PCa in real‐time without need for sectioning or tissue processing. The pathologist performance improved through progressive training, showing that ultimately high accuracy can be obtained. Ongoing SRH evaluation in the diagnostic and treatment setting hold promise to reduce time to tissue diagnosis, while interpretation by convolutional neural network may further improve diagnostic characteristics and broaden use.
Effect of type of definitive treatment on race‐based differences in prostate cancer‐specific survival
Authors: Frego Nicola , Labban Muhieddine , Stone Benjamin V. , Koelker Mara , Alkhatib Khalid , Lughezzani Giovanni , Buffi Nicolò M. , Lipsitz Stuart R. , Weissman Joel S. , Fletcher Sean A. , Kibel Adam S. , Trinh Quoc‐Dien , Cole Alexander P.
Published: May 2023

Background

Racial and ethnic disparities in prostate cancer (PCa) mortality are partially mediated by inequities in quality of care. Intermediate‐ and high‐risk PCa can be treated with either surgery or radiation, therefore we designed a study to assess the magnitude of race‐based differences in cancer‐specific survival between these two treatment modalities.

Methods

Non‐Hispanic Black (NHB) and non‐Hispanic White (NHW) men with localized intermediate‐ and high‐risk PCa, treated with surgery or radiation between 2004 and 2015 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database were included in the study and followed until December 2018. Unadjusted and adjusted survival analyses were employed to compare cancer‐specific survival by race and treatment modality. A model with an interaction term between race and treatment was used to assess whether the type of treatment amplified or attenuated the effect of race/ethnicity on prostate cancer‐specific mortality (PCSM).

Results

15,178 (20.1%) NHB and 60,225 (79.9%) NHW men were included in the study. NHB men had a higher cumulative incidence of PCSM (p = 0.005) and were significantly more likely to be treated with radiation than NHW men (aOR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.81–1.97, p < 0.001). In the adjusted models, NHB men were significantly more likely to die from PCa compared with NHW men (aHR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03–1.35, p = 0.014), and radiation was associated with a significantly higher odds of PCSM (aHR: 2.10, 95% CI: 1.85–2.38, p < 0.001) compared with surgery. Finally, the interaction between race and treatment on PCSM was not significant, meaning that no race‐based differences in PCSM were found within each treatment modality.

Conclusions

NHB men with intermediate‐ and high‐risk PCa had a higher rate of PCSM than NWH men in a large national cancer registry, though NHB and NHW men managed with the same treatment achieved similar PCa survival outcomes. The higher tendency for NHB men to receive radiation was similar in magnitude to the difference in cancer survival between racial and ethnic groups.
Pinocembrin alleviates pyroptosis and apoptosis through ROS elimination in random skin flaps via activation of SIRT3
Authors: Li Jiafeng , Li Yifan , Wang Xuanwei , Xie Yamin , Lou Junsheng , Yang Yute , Jiang Shuai , Ye Meihan , Chen Huaizhi , Diao Weiyi , Xu Sanzhong
Published: May 2023

Random skin flap grafting is the most common skin grafting technique in reconstructive surgery. Despite progress in techniques, the incidence of distal flap necrosis still exceeds 3%, which limits its use in clinical practice. Current methods for treating distal flap necrosis are still lacking. Pinocembrin (Pino) can inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death in a variety of diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, but the role of Pino in random flaps has not been explored. Therefore, we explore how Pino can enhance flap survival and its specific upstream mechanisms via macroscopic examination, Doppler, immunohistochemistry, and western blot. The results suggested that Pino can enhance the viability of random flaps by inhibiting ROS, pyroptosis and apoptosis. The above effects were reversed by co‐administration of Pino with adeno‐associated virus‐silencing information regulator 2 homolog 3 (SIRT3) shRNA, proving the beneficial effect of Pino on the flaps relied on SIRT3. In addition, we also found that Pino up‐regulates SIRT3 expression by activating the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway. This study proved that Pino can improve random flap viability by eliminating ROS, and ROS‐induced cell death through the activation of SIRT3, which are triggered by the AMPK/PGC‐1α signaling pathway.
Giant Magnetocaloric Effect in Magnets Down to the Monolayer Limit
Authors: He Weiwei , Yin Yan , Gong Qihua , Evans Richard F. L. , Gutfleisch Oliver , Xu Bai‐Xiang , Yi Min , Guo Wanlin
Published: May 2023

2D magnets can potentially revolutionize information technology, but their potential application to cooling technology and magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in a material down to the monolayer limit remain unexplored. Herein, it is revealed through multiscale calculations the existence of giant MCE and its strain tunability in monolayer magnets such as CrX3 (X = F, Cl, Br, I), CrAX (A = O, S, Se; X = F, Cl, Br, I), and Fe3GeTe2. The maximum adiabatic temperature change (), maximum isothermal magnetic entropy change, and specific cooling power in monolayer CrF3 are found as high as 11 K, 35 µJ m−2 K−1, and 3.5 nW cm−2 under a magnetic field of 5 T, respectively. A 2% biaxial and 5% a‐axis uniaxial compressive strain can remarkably increase of CrCl3 and CrOF by 230% and 37% (up to 15.3 and 6.0 K), respectively. It is found that large net magnetic moment per unit area favors improved MCE. These findings advocate the giant‐MCE monolayer magnets, opening new opportunities for magnetic cooling at nanoscale.
In Situ Constructed Perovskite–Chalcogenide Heterojunction for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Wang Jin , Zhang Meng , Zheng Song , Wu Jiahui , Zheng Tianren , Jiang Guocan , Li Zhengquan
Published: May 2023

Perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) are promising candidates for solar‐to‐fuel conversions yet exhibit low photocatalytic activities mainly due to serious recombination of photogenerated charge carriers. Constructing heterojunction is regarded as an effective method to promote the separation of charge carriers in PNCs. However, the low interfacial quality and non‐directional charge transfer in heterojunction lead to low charge transfer efficiency. Herein, a CsPbBr3–CdZnS heterojunction is designed and prepared via an in situ hot‐injection method for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. It is found that the high‐quality interface in heterojunction and anisotropic charge transfer of CdZnS nanorods (NRs) enable efficient spatial separation of charge carriers in CsPbBr3–CdZnS heterojunction. The CsPbBr3–CdZnS heterojunction achieves a higher CO yield (55.8 µmol g−1 h−1) than that of the pristine CsPbBr3 NCs (13.9 µmol g−1 h−1). Furthermore, spectroscopic experiments and density functional theory (DFT) simulations further confirm that the suppressed recombination of charge carriers and lowered energy barrier for CO2 reduction contribute to the improved photocatalytic activity of the CsPbBr3–CdZnS heterojunction. This work demonstrates a valid method to construct high‐quality heterojunction with directional charge transfer for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. This study is expected to pave a new avenue to design perovskite–chalcogenide heterojunction.
Saturated Coordination LuN6 Defect Sites for Highly Efficient Electroreduction of CO2
Authors: Liao Luliang , Xia Guomin , Yu Fuqing , Liu Xian , Shu Minxing , Zhang Guangyao , Zeng Xianshi , Wang Hongming
Published: May 2023

Metal single‐atom and internal structural defects typically coexist in M–N–C materials obtained through the existing basic pyrolysis processes. Identifying a correlation between them to understand the structure–activity relationship and achieve efficient catalytic performance is important, particularly for the rare‐earth (RE) elements with rich electron orbitals and strong coordination capabilities. Herein, a novel single‐atom catalyst based on the RE element lutetium is successfully synthesized on a N–C support. Structural and simulation analyses demonstrate that the formation of a LuN6 structural site with an individual defect because of pyrolysis is thermodynamically favorable in Lu–N–C. Using KHCO3‐based electrolytes facilitates the fall of the K+ cations into the defective sites of Lu–N–C, thus enabling improved CO2 capture and activation, which increases the catalyst conductivity for Lu–N–C. In this study, the catalyst exhibits a Faradaic efficiency of 95.1% for CO at a current density of 18.2 mA cm−2 during carbon dioxide reduction reaction. This study thus provides new insights into understanding RE–N–C materials for energy utilization.
Electronic Structure Engineered Heteroatom Doped All Transition Metal Sulfide Carbon Confined Heterostructure for Extrinsic Pseudocapacitor
Authors: Patil Amar M. , Moon Sunil , Roy Sanjib Baran , Ha Jisang , Chodankar Nilesh R. , Dubal Deepak P , Jadhav Arti A. , Guan Guoqing , Kang Keonwook , Jun Seong Chan
Published: May 2023

Ultra‐high energy density battery‐type materials are promising candidates for supercapacitors (SCs); however, slow ion kinetics and significant volume expansion remain major barriers to their practical applications. To address these issues, hierarchical lattice distorted α‐/γ‐MnS@CoxSy core‐shell heterostructure constrained in the sulphur (S), nitrogen (N) co‐doped carbon (C) metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) derived nanosheets (α‐/γ‐MnS@CoxSy@N, SC) have been developed. The coordination bonding among CoxSy, and α‐/γ‐MnS nanoparticles at the interfaces and the π–π stacking interactions developed across α‐/γ‐MnS@CoxSy and N, SC restrict volume expansion during cycling. Furthermore, the porous lattice distorted heteroatom‐enriched nanosheets contain a sufficient number of active sites to allow for efficient electron transportation. Density functional theory (DFT) confirms the significant change in electronic states caused by heteroatom doping and the formation of core‐shell structures, which provide more accessible species with excellent interlayer and interparticle conductivity, resulting in increased electrical conductivity. . The α‐/γ‐MnS@CoxSy@N, SC electrode exhibits an excellent specific capacity of 277 mA hg−1 and cycling stability over 23 600 cycles. A quasi‐solid‐state flexible extrinsic pseudocapacitor (QFEPs) assembled using layer‐by‐layer deposited multi‐walled carbon nanotube/Ti3C2TX nanocomposite negative electrode. QFEPs deliver specific energy of 64.8 Wh kg−1 (1.62 mWh cm−3) at a power of 933 W kg−1 and 92% capacitance retention over 5000 cycles.
Exploiting Zirconium‐Based Metallic Glass Thin Films for Anode‐Free Lithium‐Ion Batteries and Lithium Metal Batteries With Ultra‐Long Cycling Life
Authors: Kim Jong Gyeom , Gu Dongeun , Cho Kwang‐Hwan , Im Chae‐Yoon , Kim Suk Jun
Published: May 2023

Coating Zr‐based metallic glass, Zr53Cu31Ni11Al5 (Zr‐MG), on a Cu current collector (CC) and Li metal anode (LMA) significantly improves the cycle performance of both types of Li‐ion batteries, namely, anode‐free Li‐ion batteries (AFLBs) and Li metal batteries (LMB). The inherent isotropy and homogeneity of the Zr‐MG significantly improve the surface uniformity of the CC and LMA. A 12 nm‐thick Zr‐MG thin film coating on the CC reduces the overpotential in the AFLB, leading to a more uniform Li plating morphology. The Li film covers almost the entire surface of the Zr‐CC, whereas it only covers ≈75% of the bare CC during charging. An LFP||Zr‐CC full‐cell exhibits a capacity retention of 63.6% after the 100th cycle, with an average CE of 99.55% at a 0.2 C rate. In the case of the LMB, a 12 nm‐thick Zr‐MG thin film‐coated LMA (Zr‐LMA) exhibits a stable capacity of up to 1500 cycles. An LFP||Zr‐LMA full‐cell exhibits capacity retention and CE after 1500 cycles of 66.6% and 99.97%, respectively, at a 1 C rate. Zirconium‐MG thin films with atomic‐level uniformity, outstanding corrosion resistance, lithiophilic characteristics, and high diffusivity result in superior AFLB and LMB performances.
Highly Sensitive Direct X‐Ray Detector Based on Copper(II) Coordination Polymer Single Crystal with Anisotropic Charge Transport
Authors: Li Bao‐Yi , Xie Mei‐Juan , Lu Jian , Wang Wen‐Fei , Li Rong , Mi Jia‐Rong , Wang Shuai‐Hua , Zheng Fa‐Kun , Guo Guo‐Cong
Published: May 2023

Anisotropic charge transport plays a pivotal role in clarifying the conductivity mechanism in direct X‐ray detection to improve the detection sensitivity. However, the anisotropic photoelectric effect of semiconductive single crystal responsive to X‐ray is still lacking of theoretical and experimental proof. The semiconductive coordination polymers (CPs) with designable structures, adjustable functions, and high crystallinity provide a suitable platform for exploring the anisotropic conductive mechanism. Here,the study first reveals a 1D conductive transmission path for direct X‐ray detection from the perspective of structural chemistry. The semiconductive copper(II)‐based CP 1 single crystal detector exhibits unique anisotropic X‐ray detection performance. Along the 1D π–π stacking direction, the single crystal device (1‐SC‐a) shows a superior sensitivity of 2697.15 µCGyair−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit of 1.02 µGyair s−1 among CPs‐based X‐ray detectors. This study provides beneficial guidance and deep insight for designing high‐performance CP‐based X‐ray detectors.
Highly Durable Spin Filter Switching Based on Self‐Assembled Chiral Molecular Motor
Authors: Malatong Ruttapol , Sato Takuro , Kumsampao Jakkapan , Minato Taketoshi , Suda Masayuki , Promarak Vinich , Yamamoto Hiroshi M.
Published: May 2023

Chiral molecules have recently received renewed interest as highly efficient sources of spin‐selective charge emission known as chiral‐induced spin selectivity (CISS), which potentially offers a fascinating utilization of organic chiral materials in novel solid‐state spintronic devices. However, a practical use of CISS remains far from completion, and rather fundamental obstacles such as (i) external controllability of spin, (ii) function durability, and (iii) improvement of spin‐polarization efficiency have not been surmounted to date. In this study, these issues are addressed by developing a self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) of overcrowded alkene (OCA)‐based molecular motor. With this system, it is successfully demonstrated that the direction of spin polarization can be externally and repeatedly manipulated in an extremely stable manner by switching the molecular chirality, which is achieved by a formation of the covalent bonds between the molecules and electrode. In addition, it is found that a higher stereo‐ordering architecture of the SAM of OCAs tailored by mixing them with simple alkanethiols considerably enhances the efficiency of spin polarization per a single OCA molecule. All these findings provide the creditable feasibility study for strongly boosting development of CISS‐based spintronic devices that can simultaneously fulfill the controllability, durability, and high spin‐polarization efficiency.
Fabrication of Eco‐Friendly Wearable Strain Sensor Arrays via Facile Contact Printing for Healthcare Applications
Authors: Wu Shin‐Da , Hsu Shan‐hui , Ketelsen Bendix , Bittinger Sophia C. , Schlicke Hendrik , Weller Horst , Vossmeyer Tobias
Published: May 2023

Wearable flexible strain sensors with spatial resolution enable the acquisition and analysis of complex actions for noninvasive personalized healthcare applications. To provide secure contact with skin and to avoid environmental pollution after usage, sensors with biocompatibility and biodegradability are highly desirable. Herein, wearable flexible strain sensors composed of crosslinked gold nanoparticle (GNP) thin films as the active conductive layer and transparent biodegradable polyurethane (PU) films as the flexible substrate are developed. The patterned GNP films (micrometer‐ to millimeter‐scale square and rectangle geometry, alphabetic characters, and wave and array patterns) are transferred onto the biodegradable PU film via a facile, clean, rapid and high‐precision contact printing method, without the need of a sacrificial polymer carrier or organic solvents. The GNP‐PU strain sensor with low Young's modulus (≈17.8 MPa) and high stretchability showed good stability and durability (10 000 cycles) as well as degradability (42% weight loss after 17 days at 74 °C in water). The GNP‐PU strain sensor arrays with spatiotemporal strain resolution are applied as wearable eco‐friendly electronics for monitoring subtle physiological signals (e.g., mapping of arterial lines and sensing pulse waveforms) and large‐strain actions (e.g., finger bending).