bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jellyfish‐Inspired Polyurea Ionogel with Mechanical Robustness, Self‐Healing, and Fluorescence Enabled by Hyperbranched Cluster Aggregates
Authors: Zhang Zhipeng , Qian Lu , Zhang Bin , Ma Chunfeng , Zhang Guangzhao
Published: July 2024

Ionogels are promising for soft iontronics, with their network structure playing a pivotal role in determining their performance and potential applications. However, simultaneously achieving mechanical toughness, low hysteresis, self‐healing, and fluorescence using existing network structures is challenging. Drawing inspiration from jellyfish, we propose a novel hierarchical crosslinking network structure design for in situ formation of hyperbranched cluster aggregates (HCA) to fabricate polyurea ionogels to overcome these challenges. Leveraging the disparate reactivity of isocyanate groups, we induce the in situ formation of HCA through competing reactions, enhancing toughness and imparting the clustering‐triggered emission of ionogel. This synergy between supramolecular interactions in the network and plasticizing effect in ionic liquid leads to reduced hysteresis of the ionogel. Furthermore, the incorporation of NCO‐terminated prepolymer with dynamic oxime–urethane bonds (NPU) enables self‐healing and enhances stretchability. Our investigations highlight the significant influence of HCA on ionogel performance, showcasing mechanical robustness including high strength (3.5 MPa), exceptional toughness (5.5 MJ m−3), resistance to puncture, and low hysteresis, self‐healing, as well as fluorescence, surpassing conventional dynamic crosslinking approaches. This network design strategy is versatile and can meet the various demands of flexible electronics applications.
Sub‐Nanosheet Induced Inverse Growth of Negative Valency Au Clusters for Tumor Treatment by Enhanced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Wang Dong , Yuan Feng , Deng Xuliang , Liu Qingda , Shi Wenxiong , Wang Xun
Published: July 2024

Cluster aggregation states are thermodynamically favored at the subnanoscale, for which an inverse growth from nanoparticles to clusters may be realized on subnanometer supports. Herein, we develop Au‐polyoxometalate‐layered double hydroxide (Au‐POM‐LDH) sub‐1 nm nanosheets (Sub‐APL) based on the above strategy, where sub‐1 nm Au clusters with negative valence are generated by the in situ disintegration of Au nanoparticles on POM‐LDH supports. Sub‐1 nm Au clusters with ultrahigh surface atom ratios exhibit remarkable efficiency for glutathione (GSH) depletion. The closely connected sub‐1 nm Au with negative valence and POM hetero‐units can promote the separation of hole‐electrons, resulting in the enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation under ultrasound (US). Besides, the reversible redox of Mo in POM is able to deplete GSH and trigger chemodynamic therapy (CDT) simultaneously, further enhancing the oxidative stress. Consequently, the Sub‐APL present 2‐fold ROS generation under US and 7‐fold GSH depletion compared to the discrete Au and POM‐LDH mixture. Therefore, the serious imbalance of redox in the TME caused by the sharp increase of ROS and rapid decrease of GSH leads to death of tumor ultimately.
Phenotyping variability in early socio‐communicative skills in young children with autism and its influence on later development
Authors: Journal Fiona , Franchini Martina , Godel Michel , Kojovic Nada , Latrèche Kenza , Solazzo Stefania , Schneider Maude , Schaer Marie
Published: July 2024

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges in early social communication skills, prompting the need for a detailed exploration of specific behaviors and their impact on cognitive and adaptive functioning. This study aims to address this gap by examining the developmental trajectories of early social communication skills in preschoolers with ASD aged 18–60 months, comparing them to age‐matched typically developing (TD) children. Utilizing the early social communication scales (ESCS), the research employs a longitudinal design to capture changes over time. We apply a principal component analysis (PCA) to ESCS variables to identify underlying components, and cluster analysis to identify subgroups based on preverbal communication profiles. The results reveal consistent differences in early social communication skills between ASD and TD children, with ASD children exhibiting reduced skills. PCA identifies two components, distinguishing objects‐directed behaviors and social interaction‐directed behaviors. Cluster analysis identifies three subgroups of autistic children, each displaying specific communication profiles associated with distinct cognitive and adaptive functioning trajectories. In conclusion, this study provides a nuanced understanding of early social communication development in ASD, emphasizing the importance of low‐level behaviors. The identification of subgroups and their unique trajectories contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of ASD heterogeneity. These findings underscore the significance of early diagnosis, focusing on specific behaviors predicting cognitive and adaptive functioning outcomes. The study encourages further research to explore the sequential development of these skills, offering valuable insights for interventions and support strategies.
Exploring the role of neutral ligands in modulating the photoluminescence of samarium complexes with 1,1,1,5,5,5‐hexafluoro‐2,4‐pentanedione
Authors: Malik Sofia , Jakhar Komal , Singh Devender , Dalal Swati , Hooda Anjli , Nehra Kapeesha , Kumar Sumit , Malik Rajender Singh , Kumar Parvin
Published: July 2024

Four eight‐coordinated luminescent samarium complexes of type [Sm(hfpd)3L2] and [Sm(hfpd)3L′] [where hfpd = 1,1,1,5,5,5‐Hexafluoro‐2,4‐pentanedione L = tri‐octyl‐phosphine oxide (TOPO) and L′ = 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen), neocuproine (neoc) and bathocuproine (bathoc) were synthesized via a stoichiometrically controlled approach. This allows for precise control over the stoichiometry of the complexes, leading to reproducible properties. This investigation focuses on understanding the impact of secondary ligands on the luminescent properties of these complexes. Infrared (IR) spectra provided information about the molecular structures, whereas 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra confirmed these structural details along with the coordination of ligands to trivalent Sm ion. The UV–vis spectra revealed the molar absorption coefficient and absorption bands associated with the hfpd ligand and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy demonstrated intense orange‐red emission (648 nm relative to 4G5/2 → 6H9/2) from the complexes. The Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) triangles indicated that the complexes emitted warm orange red light with color coordinates (x, y) ranging from (0.62, 0.36) to (0.40, 0.27). The investigation of the band gap as well as color parameters confirms the utility of these complexes in displays and LEDs.
A highly sensitive spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of bilastine in human plasma: Application of content uniformity testing
Authors: Omar Mahmoud A. , Khojah Hani M. J. , Al Thagfan Sultan S. , Alolayan Sultan Othman , Attia Tamer Z.
Published: July 2024

Bilastine, a new second generation antihistaminic drug, has been widely used for relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis and urticaria without a sedative effect. A simple, cost‐effective, and highly sensitive fluorimetric method was developed for the estimation of bilastine in human plasma, in addition to its pure state and tablets. The suggested method depended on binary complex formation of eosin with bilastine in a buffered medium at pH 4.2. The formed complex resulted in quantitative quenching of eosin emission at 538 nm after excitation at 335 nm. This method demonstrates a broad range of linearity, spanning from 200 to 1000 ng/mL, and exhibits exceptional sensitivity, with a limit of detection and quantitation of 30.85 and 93.48 ng/mL, respectively. In addition, this spectrofluorimetric method may be employed to determine the amount of bilastine in human plasma and tablets with satisfactory accuracy and excellent precision. Furthermore, the content uniformity of bilastine in commercially available tablets was successfully tested by this approach. Compared with the reference method, there were no significant variations in terms of precision or accuracy. In conclusion, the proposed protocol is highly recommended to quantitatively estimate bilastine in different quality control settings.
Preparation of imidazolium ionic liquid functionalized paper membrane for selective extraction of caffeic acid and its structural and functional analogues from Taraxaci Herba
Authors: Han Xiaohui , Li Shumin , Sun Xiaoxue , Zhang Jingyu , Zhang Xuerui , Bi Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

In the search for pharmaceutically active compounds from natural products, it is crucial and challenging to develop separation or purification methods that target not only structurally similar compounds but also those with specific pharmaceutical functions. The adsorption‐based method is widely employed in this field and holds potential for this application, given the diverse range of functional monomers that can be chosen based on structural or functional selectivity. In this work, an imidazolium ionic liquid (IL) modified paper membrane was synthesized via microwave reaction. Caffeic acid (CA), with potential interactions with imidazolium IL and a representative component of phenolic acids in Taraxaci Herba, was chosen as a target compound. After optimization of synthesis and extraction parameters, the resulting extraction membrane could be used to quantitatively analyze CA at ng/ml level, and to extract CA's analogues from the sample matrix. Cheminformatics confirmed the presence of structural and functional similarity among these extracted compounds. This study offers a novel approach to preparing a readily synthesized extraction membrane capable of isolating compounds with structural and functional analogies, as well as developing a membrane solid‐phase extraction‐based analytical method for natural products.
Mendelian randomization highlights sleep disturbances mediated the effect of depression on chronic pain
Authors: Zhu Yingchao , Bi Yaodan , Zhu Tao
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Depression and chronic pain are significant contributors to the global burden of disease. Previous research has revealed complex relationships between these two conditions, which may be influenced by sleep quality. However, observational studies have limitations, including confounding factors and reverse causation. This study aims to explore the mediating effects of sleep on the relationship between depression and chronic pain using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

We conducted a two‐step, two‐sample MR study using mediation analysis. We obtained major depressive disorder (MDD) Genome‐Wide Association Studdies (GWAS) data from Wray et al.’s GWAS meta‐analysis. Phenotypic data related to sleep were collected from the UK Biobank. Chronic pain data were obtained from the Finnish database.

Results

MR analysis revealed significant genetic associations between MDD and chronic localized pain [IVW: odds ratio (OR) = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.16–1.38, p = 2.52 × 10–7] as well as fibromyalgia (IVW: OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.34–3.52, p = .002). Genetic susceptibility for MDD was also associated with insomnia (IVW: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06–1.13, p = 3.57 × 10–8) and self‐reported short sleep duration (IVW: OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.00–1.06, p = .047). The mediating effects of insomnia and fibromyalgia on the pathway from depression to chronic regional pain were 1.04 and 1.03, respectively, with mediation proportions of 12.8% and 15.2%. Insomnia mediated the pathway between depression and fibromyalgia with an effect of 1.12, accounting for 15.2% of the total effect.

Conclusion

This two‐step MR analysis strengthens the evidence of genetic predictive associations between depression and chronic pain, highlighting the mediating roles of insomnia and short sleep duration. It further elucidates the specific roles of distinct sleep disorders, differentiating insomnia and short sleep duration from other sleep‐related phenotypes.
The role of managerial overconfidence in digital transformation and sustainable competitive performance in emerging SMEs: The role of digital culture
Authors: Khattak Muhammad Sualeh , Wu Qiang , Ahmad Maqsood , Hattab Insaf
Published: July 2024

Grounded in upper echelons theory, this research contributes to the current literature on SME digital transformation by leveraging empirical data from 372 SMEs in an emerging economy. The study investigates the influence of overconfident managers on digital transformation and its subsequent impact on sustainable competitive performance, with digital culture playing a moderating role. Our findings reveal that managerial overconfidence significantly influences digital transformation and sustainable competitive performance in SMEs. Digital transformation serves as a significant mediator of the relationship between managerial overconfidence and sustainable competitive performance. Additionally, digital culture strengthens the association between managerial overconfidence and digital transformation. Based on these insights, SMEs need to be aware of managerial traits and, in particular, need to focus on overconfident managers to embrace digitalization and enhance performance.
Progression in low‐intensity ultrasound‐induced tumor radiosensitization
Authors: Xu Haonan , Liu Zichao , Du Meng , Chen Zhiyi
Published: July 2024

Background

Radiotherapy (RT) is a widely utilized tumor treatment approach, while a significant obstacle in this treatment modality is the radioresistance exhibited by tumor cells. To enhance the effectiveness of RT, scientists have explored radiosensitization approaches, including the use of radiosensitizers and physical stimuli. Nevertheless, several approaches have exhibited disappointing results including adverse effects and limited efficacy. A safer and more effective method of radiosensitization involves low‐intensity ultrasound (LIUS), which selectively targets tumor tissue and enhances the efficacy of radiation therapy.

Methods

This review summarized the tumor radioresistance reasons and explored LIUS potential radiosensitization mechanisms. Moreover, it covered diverse LIUS application strategies in radiosensitization, including the use of LIUS alone, ultrasound‐targeted intravascular microbubble destruction, ultrasound‐mediated targeted radiosensitizers delivery, and sonodynamic therapy. Lastly, the review presented the limitations and prospects of employing LIUS‐RT combined therapy in clinical settings, emphasizing the need to connect research findings with practical applications.

Results and Conclusion

LIUS employs cost‐effective equipment to foster tumor radiosensitization, curtail radiation exposure, and elevate the quality of life for patients. This efficacy is attributed to LIUS's ability to utilize thermal, cavitation, and mechanical effects to overcome tumor cell resistance to RT. Multiple experimental analyses have underscored the effectiveness of LIUS in inducing tumor radiosensitization using diverse strategies. While initial studies have shown promising results, conducting more comprehensive clinical trials is crucial to confirm its safety and effectiveness in real‐world situations.
Synthesis and Semi‐Synthesis of Alpha‐Synuclein: Insight into the Chemical Complexity of Synucleinopathies
Authors: Gatzemeier Luisa Maria , Meyer Franc , Outeiro Tiago Fleming
Published: July 2024

The chemical rules governing protein folding have intrigued generations of researchers for decades. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), prediction of protein structure has improved tremendously. However, there is still a level of analysis that is only possible through wet laboratory experiments, especially in respect to the investigation of the pathological effect of mutations and posttranslational modifications (PTMs) on proteins of interest. This requires the availability of pure peptides and proteins in sufficient quantities for biophysical, biochemical, and functional studies. In this context, chemical protein synthesis and semi‐synthesis are powerful tools in protein research, which help to enlighten the role of protein modification in the physiology and pathology of proteins. A protein of high interest in the field of biomedicine is alpha‐synuclein (aSyn), a protein deeply associated with several devastating neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), or multiple systems atrophy (MSA). Here, we describe several methods and pathways to synthesize native or modified aSyn, and discuss how these approaches enable us to address pathological mechanisms that may open novel perspectives for therapeutic intervention.
Targeting New Functions and Applications of Bacterial Two‐Component Systems
Authors: Ji Shixia , Li Conggang , Liu Maili , Liu Yixiang , Jiang Ling
Published: July 2024

Two‐component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are regulatory systems widely distributed in eubacteria, archaea, and a few eukaryotic organisms, but not in mammalian cells. A typical TCS consists of a histidine kinase and a response regulator protein. Functional and mechanistic studies on different TCSs have greatly advanced the understanding of cellular phosphotransfer signal transduction mechanisms. In this concept paper, we focus on the His‐Asp phosphotransfer mechanism, the ATP synthesis function, antimicrobial drug design, cellular biosensors design, and protein allostery mechanisms based on recent TCS investigations to inspire new applications and future research perspectives.
A Dual Bispecific Hydrolysis Peptide‐Drug Conjugate Responsive to Micro‐Acidic and Reduction Circumstance Promotes Antitumor Efficacy in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Tang Tingting , Liu Naiyu , Wang Lingjuan , Zuo Kaiyue , Zhu Xinjie
Published: July 2024

Paclitaxel and its derivates are the first‐line chemotherapeutic agents of breast cancer, which also showed tremendous clinical value in many other diseases including ovarian cancer, lung cancer etc. However, there are many drawbacks for almost all paclitaxel or its derivates, including extremely short half‐life, poor solubility and adverse events, which significantly limits their clinical applications. In this work, we designed and constructed a bispecific hydrolysis PAP‐SS‐PTX (term as PDC), consisting with pro‐apoptosis peptide (PAP) and paclitaxel (PTX) that were conjugated together via disulfide and ester bonds. On the one hand, PAP could improve the solubility of PTX and promote cellular uptake for drugs. On the other hand, it was able to prolong the PTX half‐life. We performed series of chemo‐dynamical assays and showed that PDC would release active drug molecules under micro‐acidic and reduction circumstance. The further assays elucidated that PDC could interrupt DNA synthesis and arrest cell division through downregulating CDK4/6 and Histone methylation that inhibit tumor growth in vitro. What's more, it could not only inhibit 4T1 breast tumor growth, but also prolong the survival time of mice and exert antitumor efficacy in vivo. It may provide a new research idea for cancer therapies via controlled release strategy in tumor microenvironment.
Evaluation of the Stereochemistry of Staphyloferrin A for Developing Staphylococcus‐Specific Targeting Conjugates
Authors: Wang Tsung‐Shing Andrew , Chen Pin‐Lung , Chen Yi‐Chen Sarah , Chiu Yu‐Wei , Lin Zih‐Jheng , Kao Chih‐Yao , Hung Hsuan‐Min
Published: July 2024

Bacteria in the genus Staphylococcus are pathogenic and harmful to humans. Alarmingly, some Staphylococcus, such as methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin‐resistant S. aureus (VRSA) have spread worldwide and become notoriously resistant to antibiotics, threatening and concerning public health. Hence, the development of new Staphylococcus‐targeting diagnostic and therapeutic agents is urgent. Here, we chose the S. aureus‐secreted siderophore staphyloferrin A (SA) as a guiding unit. We developed a series of Staphyloferrin A conjugates (SA conjugates) and showed the specific targeting ability to Staphylococcus bacteria. Furthermore, among the structural factors we evaluated, the stereo‐chemistry of the amino acid backbone of SA conjugates is essential to efficiently target Staphylococci. Finally, we demonstrated that fluorescent Staphyloferrin A probes (SA‐FL probes) could specifically target Staphylococci in complex bacterial mixtures.
Coincidence or association: Adult‐onset Still's disease following HPV vaccine
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad , Husain Kaab , Husain Arqam , Syed Sameer , Haque Mahfujul Z. , Meysami Alireza
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case details adult‐onset Still's disease (AOSD) onset post‐human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and acute gastroenteritis. The timing of HPV vaccine and vaccine‐autoimmune disease literature may potentially confound the well‐established link between infections and AOSD onset.
Bismuth‐based metal‐organic frameworks and derivatives for photocatalytic applications in energy and environment: Advances and challenges
Authors: Wang Yankun , Sun He , Yang Zhuxian , Zhu Yanqiu , Xia Yongde
Published: July 2024

Photocatalysis is an environmentally friendly technology for the utilizations of solar energy and has garnered significant attention in both scientific and industrial sectors. Developing cost‐effective semiconductive materials is the core issue in photocatalysis. Bismuth‐based metal‐organic frameworks (Bi‐MOFs) have emerged as attractive candidates in various photocatalytic applications, and Bi‐MOFs derivatives further expand and consolidate their promising potential in the realm of photocatalysis. Various modification strategies including in‐situ tailoring or external doping, as well as meticulous design and selection of metal nodes and organic linkers allow for fine control over the surface multifunctionality in Bi‐MOF‐based and derived photocatalytic composites with adjustable energy band structures and enhanced photocatalytic performance. In this review, the recent progress in the synthesis of diverse Bi‐MOFs‐based materials, Bi‐MOFs derivatives, and their Bi‐containing semiconductive composites were systemically analyzed and reviewed. The state‐of‐the‐art research progresses in the applications of Bi‐MOFs and derivatives, as well as composites in photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production, photodegradation of organic pollutants, and photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction are comprehensively summarized. The relationships between structures, properties, and photocatalytic performance of Bi‐based semiconductive composites are discussed in detail. In addition, the perspectives and future challenges on Bi‐MOFs‐based and derived materials for photocatalytic applications are also offered.
Skull base plasmacytoma in young patients aged below 40 years: Radiological perspectives and clinical outcomes
Authors: Elsabah Hesham , Ghasoub Rola , Soliman Dina S. , Ibrahim Feryal , Aldapt Mahmood B. , Taha Ruba Y. , Al Azawi Safaa , Mudawi Deena , Moustafa Abbas , Elomri Halima , Cherif Honar
Published: July 2024

Background

Plasmacytoma of the skull base is a rare manifestation of plasma cell neoplasm with only a few cases documented in literature involving young adults. Plasmacytoma can be an isolated solitary lesion or a secondary manifestation of multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, we report the clinical and radiological characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients under the age of 40 who presented with skull base plasmacytoma and associated neurological manifestations. Additionally, we share our experience in treating a rare case of skull base plasmacytoma diagnosed during pregnancy, in which the patient exhibited a favorable response to myeloma treatment initiated after delivery.

Case Series

Four patients were identified, comprising one pregnant female and three male patients, with a median age of 36 years (range 33–37 years). The main presenting symptoms were headache, dizziness, and cranial nerve palsy. All patients received underwent systemic myeloma therapy and radiotherapy with three patients also underwent autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Notably, all patients achieved complete remission.

Conclusion

Skull base plasmacytoma represents a rare manifestation of plasma cell neoplasms, underscoring the importance of considering it in the differential diagnosis of skull base lesions to ensure early intervention and avoid potential serious complications. Throughout our series, the cornerstone of therapy involved radiotherapy, systemic myeloma therapy, and ASCT, all of which elicited a favorable response in every case.
Analysis the nexus between internationalization and financial performance in wine industry: The effect of proactive environmental strategy and eco‐innovation
Authors: Carchano Marcos , Carrasco Inmaculada , González Ángela , Sáez‐Martínez Francisco J.
Published: July 2024

The importance of international environmental strategies in the business sphere has gained recognition in recent times. These strategies not only have the potential to generate competitive advantages but also to maintain them over time. However, despite their increasing relevance, differences in outcomes and implementation implications exist, suggesting the need for a more detailed analysis of the determinants and consequences of these practices. Based on original data from 251 Spanish wineries and using structural equation modeling, this study explores how internationalization can drive the implementation of environmental practices and financial performance by investigating the role of proactive environmental strategy and the mediating effect of eco‐innovation. Our findings demonstrate that a proactive environmental strategy has a positive impact on both internationalization and eco‐innovation. Furthermore, it was found that the internationalization strategy has a significant positive effect on eco‐innovation. The more internationalized companies are, the more likely they are to engage in eco‐innovation. Eco‐innovation is crucial for increasing profits in international markets. While internationalization alone does not guarantee higher profitability, combining it with eco‐innovations significantly improves the financial performance of companies, highlighting the importance of sustainability and environmental innovation in global business strategy.
Dual‐band and triple‐band balun bandpass filters using open‐circuited stubs loaded on ring resonators
Authors: Lin Mi , Wang Yubo , Liu Guohua
Published: July 2024

A dual‐band and a triple‐band balun bandpass filters (BPFs) are proposed in this paper, using open‐circuited stubs loaded on ring resonators. The proposed baluns are in general composed of three parallel‐coupled lines and a ring resonator loaded with open‐circuited stubs. The design concept originates from the dual‐band characteristics of a uniform ring resonator. In order to achieve the triple‐band balun, four open‐circuited stubs are loaded on the uniform ring resonator to separate the two transmission poles. Afterward, the odd‐ and even‐mode equivalent models of the proposed circuit were analyzed, and the relationship between the odd‐ and even‐mode resonance points and frequency was plotted to confirm the adjustable dual‐ and triple‐band characteristics of the model. To further demonstrate the validity of the proposed balun prototype, a dual‐band balun BPF and a triple‐band balun BPF are designed and fabricated. The measurement exhibits the dual‐band balun BPF (3.41/6.88 GHz) amplitude imbalance (AI) lower than ±0.6 dB and phase imbalance (PI) lower than ±4°, the triple‐band balun BPF (3.19/5.82/7.17 GHz) AI lower than ±0.7 dB and PI lower than ±7°. The circuit proposed in this paper can be used to design both dual‐band and triple‐band balun BPFs simultaneously. The designed triple‐band balun BPF has advantages such as miniaturization and low amplitude imbalance.
Racial/ethnic differences in neuropsychiatric disturbances associated with incident dementia
Authors: Wise Elizabeth A. , Yan Haijuan , Oh Esther , Leoutsakos Jeannie‐Marie
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are nearly universal in dementia; some cross‐sectional studies of NPS in dementia have found racial/ethnic differences, though it is unknown if NPS prevalence differs among racial/ethnic groups before and after dementia diagnosis.

METHODS

Participants were followed annually at Alzheimer's Disease Centers and were assessed on the Neuropsychiatric Inventory‐Questionnaire (NPI‐Q) with at least one follow‐up visit at which they were diagnosed with dementia. Descriptive statistics were generated by race/ethnicity. NPS were modeled over time as a function of race/ethnicity and with diagnosis date as the baseline.

RESULTS

NPS were present in 95% in at least one time point. After adjusting for covariates, there were no statistically significant differences in NPI‐Q total scores among racial/ethnic groups at the time of and after dementia diagnosis.

DISCUSSION

Findings from our prospective cohort study suggest that when individuals are matched at the time of conversion to dementia, there are no racial/ethnic differences in NPS.

Highlights

Neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia are frequent and increase caregiver burden.

Prior studies reported more neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Black compared to White individuals with dementia.

National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Black, White, and Hispanic participants did not differ in NPS at the time of dementia diagnosis.
Inhibition of the TCF12/VSIG4 axis by palbociclib diminishes the proliferation and migration of glioma cells and decreases the M2 polarization of glioma‐associated microglia
Authors: Li Chuankun , Li Ruichun , Wang Yuan , Jiang Haitao
Published: July 2024

The CDK4/CDK6 inhibitor palbociclib has shown the encouraging promise in the treatment of glioma. Here, we elucidated how palbociclib exerts suppressive functions in the M2 polarization of glioma‐related microglia and the progression of glioma. Xenograft experiments were used to evaluate the function in vivo. The mRNA levels of transcription factor 12 (TCF12) and VSIG4 were detected by RT‐qPCR, and their protein levels were assessed by immunoblotting. Cell migration was tested by wound‐healing assay. Cell cycle distribution and M1/M2 microglia phenotype analysis were performed by flow cytometry. The levels of IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐6，and TGF‐β were measured by ELISA. The TCF12/VSIG4 association was verified by luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. In U251 and LN229 glioma cells, TCF12 and VSIG4 were overexpressed, and palbociclib reduced their expression levels. TCF12 upregulation enhanced the proliferation and migration of glioma cells and the M2 polarization of glioma‐associated microglia in vitro as well as the tumorigenicity of U251 glioma cells in vivo, which could be reversed by palbociclib. Mechanistically, TCF12 could enhance VSIG4 transcription and expression by binding to the VSIG4 promoter. TCF12 deficiency led to repression in glioma cell proliferation and migration as well as microglia M2 polarization, which could be abolished by increased VSIG4 expression. Our study reveals the novel TCF12/VSIG4 axis responsible for the efficacy of palbociclib in combating glioma, offering a rationale for the application of palbociclib in glioma treatment.
Pupillary Responses to Dynamic Negative Versus Positive Facial Expressions of Emotion in Children and Parents: Links to Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Aktar Evin , Venetikidi Marianna , Bockstaele Bram van , Giessen Danielle van der , Pérez‐Edgar Koraly
Published: July 2024

Witnessing emotional expressions in others triggers physiological arousal in humans. The current study focused on pupil responses to emotional expressions in a community sample as a physiological index of arousal and attention. We explored the associations between parents’ and offspring's responses to dynamic facial expressions of emotion, as well as the links between pupil responses and anxiety/depression. Children (N = 90, MAge = 10.13, range = 7.21–12.94, 47 girls) participated in this lab study with one of their parents (47 mothers). Pupil responses were assessed in a computer task with dynamic happy, angry, fearful, and sad expressions, while participants verbally labeled the emotion displayed on the screen as quickly as possible. Parents and children reported anxiety and depression symptoms in questionnaires. Both parents and children showed stronger pupillary responses to negative versus positive expressions, and children's responses were overall stronger than those of parents. We also found links between the pupil responses of parents and children to negative, especially to angry faces. Child pupil responses were related to their own and their parents’ anxiety levels and to their parents’ (but not their own) depression. We conclude that child pupils are sensitive to individual differences in parents’ pupils and emotional dispositions in community samples.
ST‐segment depression and left ventricular systolic function recovery post‐atrial fibrillation ablation in heart failure
Authors: Yano Masamichi , Egami Yasuyuki , Kawanami Shodai , Ukita Kohei , Kawamura Akito , Yasumoto Koji , Tsuda Masaki , Okamoto Naotaka , Matsunaga‐Lee Yasuharu , Nishino Masami
Published: July 2024

Aims

Catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) improves left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The impact of ST‐segment depression before CA on LVEF recovery and clinical outcomes remains unknown. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between ST‐segment depression during AF rhythm before CA and improvement in the LVEF and clinical outcomes in persistent atrial fibrillation (PerAF) patients with HFrEF.

Methods and results

The present study included 122 PerAF patients (male; 98 patients, 80%, mean age: 69 [56, 76] years) from the Osaka Rosai Atrial Fibrillation ablation (ORAF) registry who had LVEF < 50% and underwent an initial ablation. The patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting within the past 1 month were not included in the enrolled patients. We assigned the patients based on the presence of ST‐segment depression before CA during AF rhythm and evaluated improvement in the LVEF (LVEF ≥ 15%) 1 year after CA and the relationship between ST‐segment depression and heart failure (HF) hospitalization/major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), which are defined as a composite of HF hospitalization, cardiovascular death, hospitalization due to coronary artery disease, ventricular arrhythmia requiring hospitalization and stroke. The percentage of patients with improvement in the LVEF 1 year after CA was significantly lower in the patients with ST‐segment depression than those without (58.6% vs. 79.7%, P = 0.012). Multiple regression analysis showed ST‐segment depression was independently and significantly associated with improvement in the LVEF 1 year after CA (HR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.129–0.928, P = 0.035). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the patients with ST‐segment depression significantly had higher risk of HF hospitalization and MACE than those without (log rank P = 0.022 and log rank P = 0.002, respectively). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that ST‐segment depression was independently and significantly associated with a higher risk of MACE (HR: 2.82; 95% CI: 1.210–6.584, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

ST‐segment depression before CA during AF rhythm was useful prognostic predictor of improvement in the LVEF and clinical outcomes including HF hospitalization and MACE in PerAF patients with HFrEF.
Microwave‐assisted hydrothermal synthesis and characterisation of cobalt phosphate nanosheets as electrode material for high‐performance supercapacitors
Authors: Agudosi Elochukwu S. , Goh Jia En , Khalid Mohammad , Ramam Koduri , Sanhueza Felipe
Published: July 2024

In this study, cobalt phosphate (Co3[PO4]2) nanosheets were synthesized through a microwave‐assisted hydrothermal method with enhanced electrochemical properties. The synthesis was carried out at different microwave heating times (3, 5, 10, and 15 min) at a fixed temperature of 200°C. The structural properties of the synthesized Co3(PO4)2 nanosheets were investigated via XRD, FESEM‐EDS and TEM studies, while the electrochemical parameters were evaluated through CV, GCD, and EIS in a standard 3‐electrode cell with 1 M KOH as an electrolyte at a room temperature. The results reveal that Co3(PO4)2 nanosheets synthesized at 5 min microwave heating time exhibited maximum electrochemical performance owing to its excellent structural and morphological properties and thus reported a specific capacity of 130.98 and 164.52 C/g at a scan rate of 10 mV/s and a current density of 1 A/g, respectively. Furthermore, a stability test of the synthesized electrode material reported excellent cyclic stability of the electrode with 101% retention of the initial value of its specific capacity after 1000 cycles.
Large Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy explicit scheme for one‐dimensional hyperbolic conservation laws
Authors: Guinot Vincent , Rousseau Antoine
Published: July 2024

A large Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy (CFL) algorithm is presented for the explicit, finite volume solution of hyperbolic systems of conservation laws, with a focus on the shallow water equations. The Riemann problems used in the flux computation are determined using averaging kernels that extend over several computational cells. The usual CFL stability constraint is replaced with a constraint involving the kernel support size. This makes the method unconditionally stable with respect to the size of the computational cells, allowing the computational mesh to be refined locally to an arbitrary degree without altering solution stability. The practical implementation of the method is detailed for the shallow water equations with topographical source term. Computational examples report applications of the method to the linear advection, Burgers and shallow water equations. In the case of sharp bottom discontinuities, the need for improved, well‐balanced discretisations of the geometric source term is acknowledged.
Jejunum free flap for head and neck reconstruction, a step‐by‐step surgical technique videos
Authors: Haddad Alexandre , Elaldi Roxane , Kolb Frederic , Honart Jean‐François , Benmoussa Nadia
Published: July 2024

Circular pharyngolaryngectomy for oncologic resection requires a tubular reconstruction. Different options can be proposed to the patient: digestive free flap, fasciocutaneous flap, or musculocutaneous flap. The jejunum free flap is a tubular flap commonly used in esophageal and pharyngeal reconstruction with good functional outcomes and an acceptable rate of complications. Reconstruction with a jejunum free flap is an ideal choice. Patients at Gustave Roussy Institute (Villejuif, France) were offered a jejunum flap free flap for all circular pharyngolaryngectomies. The surgical technique is explained with a step‐by‐step video. The jejunum flap free flap has many advantages in circular pharyngolaryngectomy. This video article explains surgical steps for other teams.
Metal–organic frameworks for nonlinear optics and lasing
Authors: Li Chenyu , Qian Guodong , Cui Yuanjing
Published: July 2024

Nonlinear optics (NLO) is a crucial branch of photonics that greatly facilitates the transmission, processing, and storage of photonic signals. It meets the needs of the rapidly growing information demands of modern society. Materials with NLO properties and laser capabilities have a wide range of applications in fields such as optical communication, optical information storage, biomedical imaging, laser technology, and quantum information technology. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as particularly exciting hybrid inorganic–organic porous materials that can be easily self‐assembled from corresponding inorganic metal ions/clusters and organic linkers. The structural diversity and flexibility of MOFs offer ample opportunities for the orderly organization of highly hyperpolarizable chromophore molecules within confined spaces. This makes it ideal for NLO signal and laser emissions. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of strategies to construct MOFs with NLO and laser properties, as well as recent research developments for enhancing and adjusting these properties. Through analysis of chromophore arrangement and various interactions within the framework, we aim to gain insight into the correlation between MOF structures and optical properties. This will facilitate the design and synthesis of MOFs with excellent NLO and laser capabilities through the judicious selection of metal ions and organic linkers. Finally, we outline the future challenges and potential research directions for MOFs in NLO and laser fields.
Risk of intensive care unit admission and mortality in patients hospitalized due to influenza A or B and SARS‑CoV‑2 variants Omicron or Delta
Authors: Rezahosseini Omid , Roed Casper , Sejdic Adin , Eiberg Mads Frederik , Nielsen Lene , Boel Jonas , Johannesen Caroline Klint , van Wijhe Maarten , Franck Kristina Træholt , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Lindegaard Birgitte , Fischer Thea K. , Knudsen Troels Bygum , Holler Jon Gitz , Harboe Zitta Barrella ,   the COVID‐19 Omicron Delta study group collaborators
Published: July 2024

Background

Respiratory viral infections have significant global health impacts. We compared 30‐day intensive care unit (ICU) admission and all‐cause mortality risks in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) Delta and Omicron variants versus influenza A and B (A/B).

Methods

Data from two retrospective inpatient cohorts in Capital Region of Denmark were analyzed. Cohorts included hospitalized influenza A/B patients (2017–2018) and SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta/Omicron patients (2021–2022), aged ≥18 years, admitted within 14 days of a positive real‐time polymerase chain reaction test result. Cumulative ICU admission and mortality rates were estimated using the Aalen–Johansen estimator. Cox regression models calculated hazard ratios (HRs) for ICU admission and mortality.

Results

The study encompassed 1459 inpatients (Delta: 49%; Omicron: 26%; influenza A: 6.4%; and influenza B: 18%). Cumulative incidence of ICU admission was 11%, 4.0%, 7.5%, and 4.1%, for Delta, Omicron, influenza A, and B, respectively. For ICU admission, adjusted HRs (aHRs) were 3.1 (p < .001) and 1.5 (p = .34) for Delta and Omicron versus influenza B, and 1.5 (p = .36) and 0.71 (p = .48) versus influenza A. For mortality, aHRs were 3.8 (p < .001) and 3.4 (p < .001) for Delta and Omicron versus influenza B, and 2.1 (p = .04) and 1.9 (p = .11) versus influenza A.

Conclusion

Delta but not Omicron inpatients had an increased risk for ICU admission compared to influenza B; however, both variants were associated with higher risks of mortality than influenza B. Only Delta inpatients had a higher risk of mortality than influenza A inpatients.
A Hybrid Deep Learning Framework Using Scaling‐Basis Chirplet Transform for Motor Imagery EEG Recognition in Brain–Computer Interface Applications
Authors: Kaur Manvir , Upadhyay Rahul , Kumar Vinay
Published: July 2024

The emerging field of brain–computer interface has significantly facilitated the analysis of electroencephalogram signals required for motor imagery classification tasks. However, the accuracy of EEG classification models has been restricted by the low signal‐to‐noise ratio, nonlinear nature of brain signals, and a lack of sufficient EEG data for training. To address these challenges, this study proposes a new approach that combines time‐frequency analysis with a hybrid parallel–series attention‐based deep learning network for EEG signal classification. The proposed framework comprises three main elements: first, a scaling‐basis chirplet transform designed to effectively capture the characteristics of nonstationary EEG signals; second, a hybrid parallel–series attention‐based deep learning network to extract features. The serial information flow continuously expands the receptive fields of output neurons, whereas parallel information flow extracts features based on different regions. Finally, machine learning classifiers are utilized to predict the corresponding motor imagery state. The developed EEG‐based motor imagery classification framework is assessed by two open‐source datasets, BCI competition III, dataset IIIa and BCI competition IV, dataset IIa and has achieved the average classification accuracy of 95.55% on BCI competition III, dataset IIIa and 90.18% on BCI competition IV, dataset IIa. The experimental findings illustrate that this study has attained promising motor imagery discrimination performance, surpassing existing techniques in terms of classification accuracy and kappa coefficient.
Water depth and cross‐sectional area relationships in sloping surface irrigation systems
Authors: Seyedzadeh Amin , Panahi Amir , Maroufpoor Eisa
Published: July 2024

The equations governing variations in water depth and cross‐sectional area along a field are crucial for solving the Saint‐Venant equations and determining surface water volume via the volume balance method to determine other hydraulic parameters of surface irrigation systems. Various researchers have proposed different formulations for this equation based on varying assumptions. In many investigations, the flow depth profile has been assumed to be parallel to the furrow bottom or modelled as an elliptical relationship. This study explored four different forms of equation to analyse changes in the water depth profile and to refine its mathematical representation. The coefficients of these equations were derived as functions of the surface storage coefficient. Using field data, the surface storage coefficient values and, consequently, the coefficients of the proposed relationships were determined. The calculated values of the flow cross‐sectional area along the field and the water surface storage volume were compared with the measured values using the established relationships. The most accurate relationship for estimating the flow depth profile was identified through this analysis.
Subspecialized medical team mode facilitates radiology resident training
Authors: Zhao Youjin , Chen Yidi , Yao Jin , Chen Weixia , Yue Qiang , Wu Bin , Hu Na , Lui Su
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Our institution developed the subspecialized medical team (SMT) mode in radiology reporting workflows in July 2022 to strengthen professionalism in radiology residency training. This study aimed to investigate whether adopting the SMT mode facilitated radiology resident training.

Method

This observational study was conducted in October 2022. An online questionnaire was distributed among first‐to third‐year radiology residents to determine their levels of perceived stress, anxiety, competency in image interpretation, and learning effectiveness in using the SMT mode and other approaches. Responses were on 4 or 5 point Likert scales, and multiple‐choice responses were used for semi‐open questions. The turnaround time for radiology reports was measured for both residents and senior radiologists. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was determined using chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests, one‐way analysis of variance, pairwise t‐tests, and the Kruskal‒Wallis H test.

Results

In total, 71 residents completed the questionnaire survey. The turnaround times for radiology reports were collected for these residents and 23 senior radiologists. Residents' stress and anxiety scores, perceived levels of competency in image interpretation, and time spent writing reports were significantly increased in the SMT mode. In contrast, the time senior radiologists spent reviewing a single report was decreased for the majority of report types after 1 year of implementing the SMT mode.

Conclusion

These findings suggest adopting the SMT mode could facilitate the training of radiology residents. However, residents' mental health and well‐being should also be considered.