bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Capacity Sub‐Nano Divalent Silicon from Biosilicification
Authors: Liu Zi'ang , Wang Xuanpeng , Hu Jingwen , Meng Jiashen , Niu Chaojiang , Liu Fang , Cui Lianmeng , Yu Ruohan , Mai Liqiang
Published: July 2023

In terms of high capacity and reliable safety, low‐valent silicon‐based composites with small grain sizes are practicable anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. However, robust tetravalent silicon precursors make the synthesis hard to be green. Using biosilicification in water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), it is found to be a superior natural precursor of low‐valent silicon. The biogenic sub‐nano (0.5 nm) siliceous dots composite (EC‐SiOC) shows a reversible conversion mechanism between Si─O and C─O bonds, unlike previous lithium storage mechanisms associated with alloying reactions. Due to the homogeneous biogenic structure facilitating the solid‐phase reaction, the normalized energy consumption of pyrolytic EC‐SiOC is about 80% lower than the carbothermic reduction of silica, similar to molten salt electrolysis. Statistically, the sampling survey of EC‐SiOC from different regions shows a high average capacity of 749.9 mAh g−1under a current density of 100 mA g−1. This study reveals the great potential of biomass precursors for synthesizing Si─O─C materials.
Updates in chronic graft‐versus‐host disease management
Authors: Malard Florent , Mohty Mohamad
Published: July 2023

Chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGvHD) remains the most important long‐term complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT), but the field has seen significant changes in the last decade. Remarkable advances in the understanding of the biological pathways of cGvHD, lead to the development of targeted therapy with novel drugs thereby minimizing the exposure to harmful corticosteroids, preserving function and mobility, preventing disability, and improving quality of life (QoL) and overall survival (OS). Steroid‐refractory cGvHD management has recently experienced significant improvement since ibrutinib and ruxolitinib were approved for patients that failed at least one line of treatment and belumosudil for patients that failed two lines. These recently approved drugs will be discussed in this review, along with perspectives regarding cGVHD management and additional promising drug in development.
Pneumoconiosis incidence and prevalence among US Medicare beneficiaries, 1999–2019
Authors: Kurth Laura , Casey Megan L. , Mazurek Jacek M. , Blackley David J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Pneumoconiosis is a group of occupational lung diseases caused by dust and fiber exposure. This study analyzes Medicare claims to estimate the burden of pneumoconiosis among fee‐for‐service (FFS; Medicare Parts A and B) Medicare beneficiaries during 1999–2019 in the United States.

Methods

Claim and enrollment information from 81 million continuously enrolled FFS Medicare beneficiaries were analyzed. Beneficiaries with any pneumoconiosis and cause‐specific pneumoconiosis (e.g., asbestosis, silicosis) were identified using three case definitions (broad, intermediate, and narrow) with varying diagnostic criteria based on claim International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modification (ICD‐CM) diagnosis codes and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes. Results are presented as ranges of values for the three case definitions.

Results

The 21‐year prevalence range for any pneumoconiosis was 345,383–677,361 (412–833 per 100,000 beneficiaries) using the three case definitions. The highest prevalence was among those ≥75 years of age, males, Whites, and North American Natives. Most claims (70.0%–72.5%) included an ICD‐CM diagnosis code for asbestosis. The broad pneumoconiosis prevalence rate increased significantly (p < 0.001) during 2002–2009 by 3%–10% annually and declined significantly by 3%–5% annually starting in 2009. The average annual broad incidence rate declined significantly by 7% annually during 2009–2019.

Conclusions

Despite the decline in rate for any pneumoconiosis among Medicare beneficiaries, which is primarily attributed to a decline in asbestosis, pneumoconiosis is prevalent among FFS Medicare beneficiaries.
Electrophilic Sulfenylation/Cyclization of N‐Aryl and N‐Benzyl Propynamides: Synthesis of Sulfenyl Quinolinones and 3H‐Benzo[c]azepin‐3‐ones
Authors: Yang Ping , Tang Meizhong , Liu Yankui , Zhang Weijun , Wang Ye‐Xin , Wang Jia , Xie Lan‐Gui
Published: July 2023

Quinolinones and benzo[c]azepinones are important cores in biologically active molecules. We report the cyclization of N‐substituted propynamides, initiated by readily available electrophilic sulfenylating agent, enabling the synthesis of quinolinones and benzo[c]azepinones in exceedingly simple conditions. The approach shows excellent generality to the substrates and tolerability of functional groups. The anti‐inflammatory effect of the newly synthesized 3‐sulfenyl quinolinone and the 4‐sulfenyl benzo[c]azepinone products are tested, and two compounds are confirmed to have inhibitive effect on TNF‐α expression.
Feeling a bit peckish: Seasonal and opportunistic insectivory for wild gorillas
Authors: Auger Claire , Cipolletta Chloé , Todd Angelique , Fuh Terence , Sotto‐Mayor Andrea , Pouydebat Emmanuelle , Masi Shelly
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Insectivory likely contributed to survival of early humans in diverse conditions and influenced human cognitive evolution through the need to develop harvesting tools. In living primates, insectivory is a widespread behavior and frequently seasonal, although previous studies do not always agree on reasons behind this. Since western gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) diet is largely affected by seasonal variation in fruit availability, we aimed to test three non‐mutually exclusive hypotheses (habitat use, frugivory and rainfall) to explain seasonality in termite feeding across age/sex classes in three habituated groups (Nindividuals = 27) in Central Africa.

Materials and Methods

We used 4 years of ranging, scan and continuous focal sampling records of gorillas (Nranging days = 883, Nscans = 12,384; Nhours = 891) in addition to 116 transects recording vegetation and termite mound distribution.

Results

Depending on the age/sex classes, we found support for all three hypotheses. Time spent in termite‐rich vegetation positively impacted termite consumption in all age/sex classes, but subadults. Lengthier travels increased termite feeding in females but decreased it in subadults. Frugivory decreased termite consumption in adults. Daily rainfall had a positive effect on termite feeding and foraging in silverbacks and juveniles, but a negative effect in subadults. For females, rainfall had a positive effect on termite feeding, but a negative effect for termite foraging.

Discussion

In great apes, seasonal insectivory seems to be multifactorial and primarily opportunistic with important differences among age/sex classes. While insectivory has potentials to be traditional, it likely played a crucial role during primate evolution (including ours), allowing diet flexibility in changing environments.
Reactivity Umpolung of Tertiary Amide Enabled by Catalytic Reductive Stannylation
Authors: Shi Qiu , Liu Wenbo H.
Published: July 2023

Reactivity umpolung is an important concept in organic chemistry. Established reactivity umpolung mainly focuses on the aldehyde and umpolung of amide carbonyl group is not known. In this report, we describe a process to obtain the umpolung reactivity of tertiary amide. This process hinges on the efficient reductive stannylation catalyzed by Ir/silane and facile Sn−Li exchange. By leveraging this umpolung reactivity, drug Fluoxetine was derivatized to 12 different analogues via reacting with various electrophiles and four biologically active molecules were prepared concisely. This unlocked umpolung reactivity of tertiary amide is expected to find applications to synthesize complex amines from amides.
Preparation and characterization of red mud/liquid silicon rubber with good thermal‐stability and processability
Authors: Wang Dingsong , Qin Jingjing , Liu Jiaming , Wu Mengqin , Fu Lifu , Liu Xiaohong , Shi Min , Liang Liyan , Dong Yonglu
Published: July 2023

As reported herein, a novel addition‐type liquid silicone rubber (LSR)/red mud (RM) composite has been synthesized. Triethoxyvinylsilane (KH151) was used as a surface modification agent to treat RM and form hydrophobic surfaces. The optimal formulation of the composite was determined by the mechanical properties of the LSR that were prepared at different crosslinker and filler contents. The reinforcement mechanism of modified RM on LSR was revealed by combining Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and mechanical property tests. Thermal degradation behavior of RM/LSR at elevated temperature was investigated by the thermogravimetric analysis (TG), TG‐FTIR and alteration of mechanical properties after thermal aging. The results of the experiment indicate that modified RM increased the tensile strength and Young's modulus of LSR dramatically and provides superior thermal stability to the LSR. With 100 phr RM added, the tensile strength of RM/LSR composite was almost 12 times greater than that of pure LSR, and pure LSR degrades completely after aging at 300°C for 24 h while RM/LSR retains its mechanical properties.
Mechanical, thermal, rheological, and morphological characterization of polyolefin/activated attapulgite nanocomposites
Authors: da Silva Thais Ferreira , Albers Ana Paula Fonseca , Quinteiro Eduardo , Sundararaj Uttandaraman , Passador Fabio Roberto
Published: July 2023

Linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) are polyolefins widely used in the packaging sector. Seeking to improve the mechanical properties with good cost‐effectiveness, attapulgite (ATP) was chosen as a reinforcing filler for the polyolefins. ATP is a hydrated magnesium and aluminum clay mineral with a microfibrous morphology, and the purity of this filler depends on the deposit. ATP is associated with the presence of accessory minerals that need to be removed so as not to interfere with its final application. Thus, an ATP purification process was carried out through physical separation and chemical treatment with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4). This purification process despite having a low yield and is very effective in reducing impurities and organic matter. This ATP was named ATPa. LLDPE/ATPa and HDPE/ATPa nanocomposites with the addition of 1, 3, and 5 wt% of ATPa were prepared by extrusion and hot pressing. The mechanical properties (Shore D hardness, tensile tests, and Izod impact strength), thermal properties (differential scanning calorimetry—DSC and thermogravimetric analysis—TGA), X‐ray diffraction, rheological, and transmission scanning microscopy (TEM) were determined for these nanocomposites. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites increased with the addition of ATPa. HDPE/ATPa nanocomposites showed more promise than LLDPE/ATPa nanocomposites. The addition of 5 wt% ATPa increased the tensile strength by 14% for the HDPE matrix and 5% for the LLDPE matrix and increased the elastic modulus by 46% for HDPE and 26% for LLDPE.
Preparation, acidolysis kinetics and scale inhibition performance of low molecular weight poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐vinyl acetate) based on self‐stabilized precipitation polymerization
Authors: Li Jianfei , Zhao Hongchi , Yang Wantai
Published: July 2023

Poly(maleic anhydride‐alt‐vinyl acetate) (PMV) is used as a fine chemical in the field of biomedical. However, the techniques of PMV preparation have shortcomings like limited yield (Yp), complex post‐treatment and toxic solvents. Herein self‐stabilized precipitation (2SP) technique which possessed advantages of simple operation and post‐processing, non‐toxic solvent, and surface‐cleaned product is adopted to synthesize low number‐average molecular weight (Mn) PMV by tune‐up of reaction parameters. PMV with Mn of 2800–39,200 g/mol are successfully achieved. Furthermore, acidolysis kinetics of PMV is investigated centering on effects of Mn, acidolysis temperature, and initial concentration. All samples can undergo completely ring‐opening and the equilibrium pH of acidolyzed PMV is related to initial concentration irrelevant to Mn and temperature. Carboxylic degree (CD) varying rate and time of reaching equilibrium pH and 100% CD are impacted by Mn and temperature irrelevant to initial concentration. Finally, scale inhibition effectiveness of PMV with 2800 g/mol can be up to 53.69%, larger than that of commercial citric acid by about three times. This contribution supplies an easily operational and eco‐friendly process to obtain low molecular weight PMV which can be the scale inhibitor for industry and daily life, providing the quantization basis for hydrophilic functionalization of PMV.
Structural reliability of steel buildings with X‐bracing systems considering the performance‐based seismic design philosophy
Authors: Gutierrez‐Lopez Aaron , Alvarado‐Valle Omar E. , Tolentino Dante , Gaxiola‐Camacho J. Ramon
Published: July 2023

The main objective of this paper is to study and compare the structural reliability of steel moment resisting frames (SMRFs) and steel frames with X‐bracing systems considering the performance‐based seismic design (PBSD) philosophy. In this sense, to accomplish such a study, nonlinear response history analysis is implemented. The buildings under consideration are designed to be located in Culiacan, Mexico. The results are presented in terms of overall displacements, rotations of connections, and interstory drifts, for three performance levels: (1) immediate occupancy, (2) life safety, and (3) collapse prevention, respectively. For each performance level, 11 ground motions were selected to study the response of the structures. Such responses were extracted by using the SAP2000 commercial software to perform structural analysis. It was demonstrated that the steel frame with X‐bracing systems developed a better seismic performance than SMRFs for all three variables under consideration. In addition, it was found that a reduction up to 70% in overall displacements and interstory drifts can be achieved when X‐bracing systems are used in steel structures. The risk of the structures was extracted in terms of reliability index and probability of failure considering probability density functions of interstory drifts. It was demonstrated that reliability index increased for structures with X‐bracing systems in comparison with SMRFs. Finally, in terms of costs, steel structures with X‐bracing systems are more expensive than SMRFs. However, its use is justified because serviceability conditions as overall displacement and interstory drift are considerably reduced.
Removal of insecticides from waters and soils by sulfate radical‐based advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Brillas Enric
Published: July 2023

Insecticides are toxic compounds widely used to prevent, destroy, and control any insect pests. A larger food production with increasing agricultural activity has been ensured from their application to farmlands. Insecticides have been detected in waters and soils being dangerous for living beings. Due to their high biorecalcitrance and stability at ambient conditions, they cannot be destroyed in conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and powerful advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are being developed for their removal. This review presents a detailed and critical analysis over the application of sulfate radical‐based AOPs to the remediation of waters and soils polluted with insecticides. Persulfate (PS) and peroxymonosulfate (PMS) are used as parent oxidants but they need to be activated to produce strong effective oxidizing radicals such as sulfate radical (SO4●−) and hydroxyl radical (●OH). Alkaline, thermal, catalytic, UV, UV with Fe, photocatalytic, and other methods applied as activators of PS and/or PMS are separately analyzed in waters and soils. For each hybrid procedure, the fundamentals are briefly detailed and the best results reported in the literature are summarized and discussed. The effect of operating parameters on the oxidation power of treatments in pure water, real waters, WWTPs effluents, and contaminated soils are remarked to show the viability of sulfate radical‐based AOPs for insecticides removal from waters and soils. The effect of added common anions and natural organic matter, the detection of oxidizing radicals by selective scavengers and electron paramagnetic resonance, and the identification of the generated by‐products in waters are described. Comparisons with analogous treatments with H2O2 and Fenton are discussed as well. Further research efforts should consider a deeper study of PS‐ and/or PMS‐based processes of insecticides not only in actual agricultural and real wastewaters, but also in many soils to confirm their possible suitability at the industrial level.
A liquid crystal‐based sensor exploiting the aptamer‐mediated recognition at the aqueous/liquid crystal interface for sensitive detection of serotonin
Authors: Ryu Je‐Jin , Jang Chang‐Hyun
Published: July 2023

We report here a liquid crystal (LC)‐based sensor for detecting serotonin (5‐HT); the proposed sensor uses target‐specific aptamer recognition at a cationic surfactant decorated‐aqueous/LC interface. Our detection strategy focuses on the orientational transition of LCs upon biological interactions at the interface. In this sensing system, the cationic surfactant hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) forms a self‐assembled monolayer at the aqueous/LC interface and triggers the homeotropic orientation of LCs. After introducing the 5‐HT specific aptamer, an electrostatic attraction occurs between the cationic CTAB and anionic aptamer. This interaction destructs the surfactant monolayer at the interface, inducing reorganization of LC alignment from homeotropic to tilted conditions. In the increasing 5‐HT levels, specific binding between 5‐HT and the aptamer diminishes the interaction between the aptamer and CTAB, thereby maintaining the homeotropic alignment of LCs. The orientational transition of the LCs was observed under a polarized optical microscope. The developed biosensor has a linear detection range from 1 to 1000 nM and a detection limit of 1.68 nM. Moreover, the sensor was applied to a human urine sample and a detection limit of 2.25 nM was obtained. Overall, the designed LC‐based sensor is a sensitive, simple, cost effective, and selective platform for detecting 5‐HT in aqueous solutions.
Gender and competitive performance: Closing gaps with smaller competitions
Authors: Hanek Kathrin J. , Garcia Stephen M.
Published: July 2023

We examine whether gender gaps in competitive performance are moderated by the size of the competition. We hypothesize that women underperform in large, relative to small, competitions and that smaller competitions close gender performance gaps by enhancing women's performance. Study 1 demonstrates this effect using behavioral data from real marathon competitions. Study 2 experimentally replicates the effect with real behavior. Study 3 provides further experimental support that gender performance gaps are exacerbated under competition and that, in these situations, small groups help bring women's performance up to par with men's. We conclude with a discussion about how making simple structural changes can reduce gender equity gaps in organizations.
Rat brown adipose tissue thermogenic markers are modulated by estrous cycle phases and short‐term fasting
Authors: Dakic Tamara , Velickovic Ksenija , Lakic Iva , Ruzicic Aleksandra , Milicevic Andjela , Plackic Nikola , Vujovic Predrag , Jevdjovic Tanja
Published: July 2023

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) converts chemical energy into heat to maintain body temperature. Although fatty acids (FAs) represent a primary substrate for uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1)‐dependent thermogenesis, BAT also utilizes glucose for the same purpose. Considering that estrous cycle effects on BAT are not greatly explored, we examined those of 6‐h fasting on interscapular BAT (iBAT) thermogenic markers in proestrus and diestrus. We found that the percentage of multilocular adipocytes was lower in proestrus than in diestrus, although it was increased after fasting in both analyzed estrous cycle stages. Furthermore, the percentage of paucilocular adipocytes was increased by fasting, unlike the percentage of unilocular cells, which decreased in both analyzed stages of the estrous cycle. The UCP1 amount was lower in proestrus irrespectively of the examined dietary regimens. Regarding FA transporters, it was shown that iBAT CD36 content was increased in fasted rats in diestrus. In contrast to GLUT1, the level of GLUT4 was interactively modulated by selected estrous cycle phases and fasting. There was no change in insulin receptor and ERK1/2 activation, while AKT activation was interactively modulated by fasting and estrous cycle stages. Our study showed that iBAT exhibits morphological and functional changes in proestrus and diestrus. Moreover, iBAT undergoes additional dynamic functional and morphological changes during short‐term fasting to modulate nutrient utilization and adjust energy expenditure.
Cottonseed oil alleviates ischemic stroke injury by inhibiting ferroptosis
Authors: Sun Miao , Liu Min , Li Qingxiao , Zhang Xiaoying , Liu Siyuan , Yang Huikai , Yang Le , Tian Jiahe , Mi Weidong , Ma Yulong
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Ferroptosis has recently been recognized as a new cause of ischemia reperfusion injury due to blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption followed by secondary iron‐loaded transferrin (TF) influx. As a novel and independent cell death pathway, ferroptosis was characterized by iron‐dependent lipid peroxidation, decline of GSH, GPX4, and shrinking mitochondria. Cottonseed oil (CSO), a liposoluble solvent, can alleviate ischemia stroke injuries and oxidative stress. However, the effect of CSO on ischemic stroke–induced ferroptosis has not been explored. In this study, we investigated the effect of CSO on ferroptosis caused by cerebral ischemic injury in rats.

Methods

We conducted the subcutaneous injection of 1.3 mL/kg CSO every other day for 3 weeks on rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion–reperfusion (MCAO‐R) injury. We used Garcia Test, TTC staining, HE, Nissl and NeuN staining, Evans blue test, 68Ga‐citrate PET, Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, Elisa kits, and transmission electron microscopy to detect the infarct volume, neural injuries, and ferroptosis‐related indexes.

Results

CSO treatment could significantly ameliorate MCAO‐R‐induced neurological dysfunction in a male rat model. Furthermore, it reduced infarct volume and neuronal injuries; protected BBB integrity; reduced the influx of iron ion, TF, and TF receptors; up‐regulated anti‐ferroptosis proteins (GPX4, xCT, HO1, FTH1), while down‐regulating ferroptosis‐related protein ACSL4; increased the activity of GSH and SOD; and decreased MDA and LPO levels. Mitochondrial destruction induced by ischemic stroke was also alleviated by CSO treatment.

Conclusion

CSO treatment can alleviate ischemic stroke injury via ferroptosis inhibition, which provides a new potential therapeutic mechanism for CSO neuroprotection against ischemic stroke.
LPSA: Online educational video evaluation considering cognitive and teaching style
Authors: Weng Jinta , Hu Yue , Huang Heyan
Published: July 2023

Online and online‐merge‐offline learning are promoting the sharing of teaching resources and the transformation of teaching and learning methods during the global epidemic. However, uneven learning resources, subject‐based classification, and incomplete result‐based evaluation always make it hard for students to keep pace with the ideal teaching objectives. Based on the theory of cognitive style and teaching style, the LPSA video classification consisting of linguistic type (L), presentative type (P), scientific type (S), and artistic type (A), is proposed to realize teaching quality evaluation and learning process detection. In addition, eight subdimensions of LPSA and its quantitative methods utilizing multimedia processing and AI algorithm are introduced to realize video classification. By automatically generating the threshold map and developing related real‐time video evaluating tools, the technical and applied feasibility of the proposed LPSA is certified, which could also facilitate student's personal learning and accurate teaching evaluation.
Outcomes of same‐day discharge following percutaneous coronary intervention in a rural population
Authors: Ginete Wilson L. , Groth Nicole A. , Rudeck Macaela N. , Renier Colleen M. , Benziger Catherine P.
Published: July 2023

Background

Same‐day discharge (SDD) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is safe, yet the nationwide rate of SDD remains low. The impact that residing in a rural area has on the safety of SDD is unknown.

Objective

To investigate the safety of SDD compared to next‐day discharge (NDD) among PCI patients living in a largely rural area.

Methods

There were 3502 outpatient elective PCIs at a tertiary care center between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2017. Data from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry CathPCI Registry® and the electronic medical records were obtained for patient demographics, procedural characteristics, and procedural outcomes. Data from the initial PCI in each 365‐day period were included in the analysis for each patient. Rural–Urban Commuting Area codes 4–10 were used to define rural status.

Results

A total of 2099 (59.9%) PCIs met the inclusion criteria (63% rural). The overall rate of SDD increased over time (4.7% in 2011 to 39.6% in 2017) as radial access increased (14.2% in 2011 to 59.9% in 2017). In this population, a total of 329 PCIs had SDD (15.7%; median (interquartile range) age 66.0 (14.0) years, 20.1% female, 52.3% rural status). Compared to NDD, SDD patients had less hyperlipidemia, atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, history of coronary artery bypass graft, and more radial access. SDD was noninferior to NDD for 30‐day readmission but had a decreased 1‐year (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05–0.81, p = 0.024) and 5‐year (aOR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.28–0.66, p < 0.001) all‐cause mortality compared to NDD. Rural status did not predict outcomes.

Conclusions

SDD in patients in rural areas does not have a significantly higher rate of 30‐day readmission. SDD patients had lower odds of 1‐ and 5‐year mortality when compared to NDD. Future studies prospectively evaluating the safety of SDD in this population are warranted.
Laterocervical lymph node metastases from suspected thyroidal primary site that turned out to be metastases of lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Scorziello Chiara , Borcea Maria Carola , Biffoni Marco , Pernazza Angelina , Arienzo Francesca , Melcarne Rossella , Ventrone Luca , Laca Angelo , Grani Giorgio , Durante Cosimo , Consorti Fabrizio , Giacomelli Laura
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Incidental sonographic discovery of thyroid nodules is an increasingly common event in clinical practice. Less frequently, patients with cytological benign thyroid nodules have suspicious cervical lymph nodes detected by ultrasound examination or by cytological exam. Here, we discuss an intriguing case of cervical lymph node metastasis with a probable thyroid origin in a 65‐year‐old asymptomatic male smoker. He underwent thyroidectomy and unilateral cervical lymphadenectomy. Despite a negative chest X‐ray, the postoperative histological examination revealed that the lymph node metastasis was actually from a lung carcinoma. Metastatic lesions in cervical lymph nodes from non‐thyroidal origins must be excluded when evaluating lesions in the region, especially when thyroid nodules subjected to fine needle aspiration biopsy yield negative results, or lymph node cytological evaluations are inconsistent with thyroid cytological findings and sonographic features. Thyroid and lung adenocarcinomas share some epithelial and mesenchymal markers. Thyroglobulin helps differentiate primary thyroid tumors from lung ones, but in cases of poor differentiation, distinguishing metastatic lesions in the thyroid gland can be challenging. Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and survival rates have only marginally improved over the last several decades. The ongoing clinical challenge is detecting LC at earlier stages of the disease.
Hydroxychloroquine‐induced repetitive atypical pustular drug eruptions in the same patient separated by 12 years
Authors: Chen Jeffrey , Falcone Lauryn M. , Karunamurthy Arivarasan D. , Ho Jonhan , English Joseph C.
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been reported to cause pustular drug eruptions such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) and putular psoriasis (PP). Clinical differentitation of these entities is often difficult. This case emphasizes characteritics of AGEP and PP as well as the need for clinicans to proactively follow‐up these patients to monitor for the more aggressive outcome of PP.
Paraviral bullous eruption in a 7‐year‐old child during acute Epstein–Barr virus infection: A case report
Authors: Milan Elisa , Tartaglia Jacopo , Deotto Maria Ludovica , Salmaso Roberto , Caroppo Francesca , Fortina Anna Belloni
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

We present the case of a child developing widespread vesicle‐bullous lesions during an acute and symptomatic Epstein–Barr Virus infection. Antibody serology, biopsy, and direct immunofluorescence allowed the diagnosis of a paraviral bullous eruption. To our knowledge, this is the first report of bullous eruption following Epstein–Barr virus infection in childhood.
Acute aortic dissection with left coronary artery obstruction
Authors: Uehara Hiroki , Okuyama Masaki , Oe Yutaro , Yoshimura Takaki , Gunji Takahiro
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

If the electrocardiogram shows ST‐segment elevation in lead aVR, the complication of aortic dissection must always be assumed.
Tongue necrosis as a manifestation of immune dysfunction: A complex case of systemic lupus erythematosus, histoplasmosis, and macrophage activation syndrome
Authors: Walsh Madalyn , Feng Alick , Lenert Petar , Kumar Bharat
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Immune dysfunction can manifest in unexpected ways. We present the case of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in whom the first sign of disseminated histoplasmosis and consequent macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) was tongue necrosis. In those with immune dysfunction, a high index of clinical suspicion for atypical infections is warranted.
Diagnostic dilemma in a rare case of nonfunctional parathyroid carcinoma at a referral facility in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Mremi Alex , Kayuza Michael , Amsi Patrick , Magwizi Marco , Chussi Desderius
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Rare cancer originating from parathyroid parenchymal cells. Preoperative diagnosis is often difficult. Presents with normal serum levels of calcium and parathyroid hormone. Treated by en bloc resection. Benefits of adjuvant therapy are unclear.

Parathyroid carcinoma is an uncommon endocrine tumor. Its typical presentation is that of primary hyperparathyroidism with elevated serum calcium and parathormone levels. Nonfunctioning carcinoma of the parathyroid gland with normal serum calcium levels is extremely rare. This paper describes a case of nonfunctioning parathyroid carcinoma and brief literature review thereof.
Interface Engineering of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Self‐doped Perylene Diimide Ionene Terpolymer as a Thickness‐Independent Cathode Interlayer†
Authors: Wang Daizhe , Ye Tengling , He Dongqing , Sun Xiaochen , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Inverted perovskite solar cells (PerSCs) are a highly promising candidate in the photovoltaic field due to their low‐temperature fabrication process, negligible hysteresis, and easy integration with Si‐based solar cells. A cathode interlayer (CIL) is necessary in the development of inverted devices to reduce the trap density and energy barrier between the electron transport layer (ETL) and the electrode. However, most CILs are highly thickness‐sensitive due to low conductivity and poor film‐forming. In this study, we report on a self‐doping perylene imide‐based ionene polymer (PNPDIN) used as CIL material to modify electrode in inverted PerSCs. PNPDIN exhibits high conductivity and a good solubility in polar solvent, which results in an improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 10.05% (device without a CIL) to 16.97%. When the blend of PNPDIN and Bphen was used as a mixed CIL, the PCE of PerSCs can be further increased to 21.28% owing to the excellent morphology and matched energy level. More importantly, the PCE of the device is highly tolerant to the thickness of the mixed CIL, which benefited from the high conductivity of PNPDIN. This development is expected to provide an excellent mixed CIL material for roll‐to‐roll processing efficient and stable inverted PerSCs.
The association between the level of specific IgE to molecular components of mites and the expression of CD23 molecule on B lymphocytes in atopic dermatitis patients treated or not treated with dupilumab—Pilot study
Authors: Čelakovská Jarmila , Čermáková Eva , Boudková Petra , Andrýs Ctirad , Krejsek Jan
Published: July 2023

Background

The CD23 molecule has an effect on the regulation of IgE synthesis, either by stimulation or inhibition. It is not yet known whether the expression of CD23 on B lymphocytes is related to the level of allergen‐specific IgE antibodies in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Aim

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the association between the expression of CD23 molecule on B cells and on their subsets (memory, naive, switched, non‐switched, and total B lymphocytes) and the level of specific IgE to molecular components of mites in atopic dermatitis patients (with and without dupilumab therapy).

Methods

Forty‐five patients suffering from atopic dermatitis were included: 32 patients without dupilumab treatment (10 men, 22 women, average age 35 years), 13 patients with dupilumab treatment (7 men, 6 women, average age 43.4 years) and 30 subjects as a control group (10 men, 20 women, average age 44.7 years). The serum level of the specific IgE was measured using the components resolved diagnostic microarray‐based specific IgE detection assay ALEX2 Allergy Xplorer. In all included patients, the expression of CD23 molecule on B lymphocytes was evaluated with flow cytometry using monoclonal antibodies. For the statistical analysis of the association between expression of CD23 molecule on B lymphocytes and the level of specific IgE to molecular components of mites, we used non‐parametric Kruskal‐Wallis one‐factor analysis of variance with post‐hoc by Dunn's test with Bonferroni modification and the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient; for coefficients higher than 0.41, we report R2 (%, percent of Variation Explained).

Results

The association between the expression of CD23 molecule on B cells and the level of specific IgE to molecular components of mites was confirmed only in patients with dupilumab therapy. In these patients, the highest association was confirmed between the level of specific IgE to Der p 20 and expression of CD23 on switched B lymphocytes (in 48.9%). In patients without dupilumab, the association between the level of specific IgE to molecular components of mites and the expression of CD23 on B cells and on their subsets is low.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon and its implications for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Prediction of Clinical Trials Outcomes Based on Target Choice and Clinical Trial Design with Multi‐Modal Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Aliper Alex , Kudrin Roman , Polykovskiy Daniil , Kamya Petrina , Tutubalina Elena , Chen Shan , Ren Feng , Zhavoronkov Alex
Published: July 2023

Drug discovery and development is a notoriously risky process with high failure rates at every stage, including disease modeling, target discovery, hit discovery, lead optimization, preclinical development, human safety, and efficacy studies. Accurate prediction of clinical trial outcomes may help significantly improve the efficiency of this process by prioritizing therapeutic programs that are more likely to succeed in clinical trials and ultimately benefit patients. Here, we describe inClinico, a transformer‐based artificial intelligence software platform designed to predict the outcome of phase II clinical trials. The platform combines an ensemble of clinical trial outcome prediction engines that leverage generative artificial intelligence and multimodal data, including omics, text, clinical trial design, and small molecule properties. inClinico was validated in retrospective, quasi‐prospective, and prospective validation studies internally and with pharmaceutical companies and financial institutions. The platform achieved 0.88 receiver operating characteristic area under the curve in predicting the phase II to phase III transition on a quasi‐prospective validation dataset. The first prospective predictions were made and placed on date‐stamped preprint servers in 2016. To validate our model in a real‐world setting, we published forecasted outcomes for several phase II clinical trials achieving 79% accuracy for the trials that have read out. We also present an investment application of inClinico using date stamped virtual trading portfolio demonstrating 35% 9‐month return on investment.
Association between seed production traits in Urochloa spp.
Authors: dos Santos Gabriela Faria , Môro Gustavo Vitti , Pinheiro Jairo Gonçalves , Gouveia Beatriz Tomé , de Figueiredo Ulisses José
Published: July 2023

Urochloa spp. are excellent perennial forages and are among the best grasses for livestock production. The seed yield is an important trait because it impacts the seed production cost and, consequently, the cost of establishing pastures. The objective of this study was to estimate the genetic correlation between traits related to seed production in Urochloa spp. The experiment was evaluated in 2019 and 2020. Eight traits related with seed production were evaluated for 23 tetraploid progenies obtained by crossing Urochloa brizantha × Urochloa ruziziensis. There were positive correlations of high magnitude between the characters, allowing indirect selection. Two progenies showed better results in traits directly related to seed production. Days to flowering can influence the rate of seed production. The highest value for grain percentage was 20.31%.
A universal neocortical mask for Centiloid quantification
Authors: Bourgeat Pierrick , Doré Vincent , Rowe Christopher C. , Benzinger Tammie , Tosun Duygu , Goyal Manu S. , LaMontagne Pamela , Jin Liang , Weiner Michael W. , Masters Colin L. , Fripp Jurgen , Villemagne Victor L. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   OASIS3, and the AIBL research group
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

The Centiloid (CL) project was developed to harmonize the quantification of amyloid beta (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET) scans to a unified scale. The CL neocortical mask was defined using11C Pittsburgh compound B (PiB), overlooking potential differences in regional distribution among Aβ tracers. We created a universal mask using an independent dataset of five Aβ tracers, and investigated its impact on inter‐tracer agreement, tracer variability, and group separation.

METHODS

Using data from the Alzheimer's Dementia Onset and Progression in International Cohorts (ADOPIC) study (Australian Imaging Biomarkers and Lifestyle + Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative + Open Access Series of Imaging Studies), age‐matched pairs of mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) and healthy controls (HC) were selected:18F‐florbetapir (N = 147 pairs),18F‐florbetaben (N = 22),18F‐flutemetamol (N = 10),18F‐NAV (N = 42),11C‐PiB (N = 63). The images were spatially and standardized uptake value ratio normalized. For each tracer, the mean AD–HC difference image was thresholded to maximize the overlap with the standard neocortical mask. The universal mask was defined as the intersection of all five masks. It was evaluated on the Global Alzheimer's Association Interactive Network (GAAIN) head‐to‐head datasets in terms of inter‐tracer agreement and variance in the young controls (YC) and on the ADOPIC dataset comparing separation between HC/AD and HC/mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

RESULTS

In the GAAIN dataset, the universal mask led to a small reduction in the variance of the YC, and a small increase in the inter‐tracer agreement. In the ADOPIC dataset, it led to a better separation between HC/AD and HC/MCI at baseline.

DISCUSSION

The universal CL mask led to an increase in inter‐tracer agreement and group separation. Those increases were, however, very small, and do not provide sufficient benefits to support departing from the existing standard CL mask, which is suitable for the quantification of all Aβ tracers.

HIGHLIGHTS

This study built an amyloid universal mask using a matched cohort for the five most commonly used amyloid positron emission tomography tracers.

There was a high overlap between each tracer‐specific mask.

Differences in quantification and group separation between the standard and universal mask were small.

The existing standard Centiloid mask is suitable for the quantification of all amyloid beta tracers.
An automated analysis method enabling the screening of covalent thrombin and factor XIIa inhibitors via liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Erbacher Catharina , Athmer Mathis , Kröger Erik , Dahrendorf Laureen , Imberg Lukas , Kalinin Dmitrii V. , Karst Uwe
Published: July 2023

An automated sample preparation and separation method for the analysis of various enzyme‐inhibitor combinations using liquid chromatography (LC) coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) is presented. As conventional anticoagulants have several drawbacks, the most severe being the elevated risk of internal bleedings, it is necessary to develop new‐generation anticoagulants with reduced side effects. Therefore, the screening of potential inhibitors against anticoagulation targets like thrombin and FXIIa is important to design a potent and selective inhibitor. To facilitate the analysis of numerous enzyme‐inhibitor covalent complexes, automation of the analysis using an LC system with a user‐defined injection sequence is helpful. The developed method ensures comparable reaction conditions like reaction time and temperature for all enzyme‐inhibitor complexes. Furthermore, it prevents time‐consuming manual sample preparation and potential manual errors. To achieve good reproducibility with relative standard deviation of approximately 3% for three‐fold determination, multiple cleaning steps were added to the automated sample preparation. Subsequently, this method was applied to screen a variety of 15 aminopyrazole‐ and aminotriazole‐based inhibitors with a covalent mechanism of action against thrombin and to test two covalent inhibitors for FXIIa. Successful complex formation and acylation of the catalytic center of the enzymes was monitored using deconvoluted mass spectra and the matching mass shifts of the acyl moiety of the analyzed inhibitors. The inhibitors' structure directly influenced reaction yields. Sterically demanding aminotriazoles and acyl moieties both affected the product formation negatively. However, the screening yielded several promising candidates for new covalent thrombin inhibitors, which might find their application as prospective anticoagulants.
Cover Image, Volume 61, Issue 3–4
Authors: Maurya Vineet K. , Ying Yan , Lanza Denise G. , Heaney Jason D. , Lydon John P.
Published: July 2023

Cover illustration: The cover image is based on the Technical Note A CRISPR/Cas9‐engineered mouse carrying a conditional knockout allele for the early growth response‐1 transcription factor by Vineet K. Maurya et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/dvg.23515.

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Avian wings can lengthen rather than shorten in response to increased migratory predation danger
Authors: Ydenberg Ronald C. , Fernández Guillermo , Ortiz Lopez Enver , Lank David B.
Published: July 2023

Increasing predation danger can select for safety‐enhancing modifications to prey morphology. Here, we document the multi‐decade wing lengthening of a Pacific flyway migrant, the western sandpiper (Calidris mauri), and contrast this with contemporaneous wing shortening of the closely related semipalmated sandpiper (C. pusilla) on the Atlantic flyway. We measured >12,000 southbound western sandpipers captured from 1978 to 2020 at a major stopover site in British Columbia. Wing length increased at 0.074 mm year−1 (SE = 0.017; p < .0003) for adults, and 0.087 mm year−1 (SE = 0.029; p < .007) for juveniles. These rates are of similarly large magnitude (4%–5% overall), but opposite in direction, to the rate we previously reported for semipalmated sandpiper adults (−0.103 mm year−1). In both species, the change is specific to wings rather than being part of a general body size change. We interpret both trends as responses to the ongoing strong increase of peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) populations since the mid‐1970s, an important predator encountered by these species in contrasting ways during migration. Western sandpipers and peregrine migrations have temporal and spatial overlap. Longer wings enhance migratory speed and efficiency, enabling western sandpipers to decrease overlap by advancing to safer zones ahead of falcon passage. In contrast, semipalmated sandpipers primarily encounter peregrines as residents at migratory staging sites. Shorter wings improve acceleration and agility, helping migrants to escape attacks. Juvenile western sandpiper wing length also shows a component additive to the lengthening trend, shifting between years at 0.055 mm day−1 with the highly variable snowmelt date, with wings shorter following early springs. On the Pacific flyway, the timing of peregrine southward passage advances with snowmelt, increasing the relative exposure of juveniles to post‐migratory resident peregrines. We interpret this annual wing length adjustment as an induced defense, made possible because snowmelt timing is a reliable cue to danger in the upcoming migration.
Hogs sleep like logs: Wild boars reduce the risk of anthropic disturbance by adjusting where they rest
Authors: Fradin Gustave , Chamaillé‐Jammes Simon
Published: July 2023

Many animals living in anthropized landscapes try to avoid encountering people by being active at night. By doing so, however, they risk being disturbed while at rest during the day. To mitigate this risk, diurnally resting species may be highly selective about where they rest. Here, we used GPS and activity sensors to study how wild boars (Sus scrofa) might adjust their resting site selection and revisitation patterns to the risk of disturbance by people. We evaluated the probability of daytime relocation to assess the efficacy of wild boars' resting strategy in reducing the risk of human encounter while at rest. We attempted to identify the cause of some relocations using audio recordings. Generally, we found that wild boars did not specifically avoid resting near villages or roads, that is, where the risk of encountering people is higher, if they could find sites with suitable vegetation cover. The risk of disturbance by people was low, even near villages. Resting sites located close to villages were visited more repeatedly than those located further away, suggesting that focusing on a few familiar and quiet resting sites was a successful strategy for resting undisturbed in an anthropized landscape.