bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perspectives of Youths on the Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care Research and Clinical Care
Authors: Thai Kelly , Tsiandoulas Kate H. , Stephenson Elizabeth A. , Menna-Dack Dolly , Zlotnik Shaul Randi , Anderson James A. , Shinewald Alexis R. , Ampofo Augustina , McCradden Melissa D.
Published: May 2023

Importance

Understanding the views and values of patients is of substantial importance to developing the ethical parameters of artificial intelligence (AI) use in medicine. Thus far, there is limited study on the views of children and youths. Their perspectives contribute meaningfully to the integration of AI in medicine.

Objective

To explore the moral attitudes and views of children and youths regarding research and clinical care involving health AI at the point of care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative study recruited participants younger than 18 years during a 1-year period (October 2021 to March 2022) at a large urban pediatric hospital. A total of 44 individuals who were receiving or had previously received care at a hospital or rehabilitation clinic contacted the research team, but 15 were found to be ineligible. Of the 29 who consented to participate, 1 was lost to follow-up, resulting in 28 participants who completed the interview.

Exposures

Participants were interviewed using vignettes on 3 main themes: (1) health data research, (2) clinical AI trials, and (3) clinical use of AI.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Thematic description of values surrounding health data research, interventional AI research, and clinical use of AI.

Results

The 28 participants included 6 children (ages, 10-12 years) and 22 youths (ages, 13-17 years) (16 female, 10 male, and 3 trans/nonbinary/gender diverse). Mean (SD) age was 15 (2) years. Participants were highly engaged and quite knowledgeable about AI. They expressed a positive view of research intended to help others and had strong feelings about the uses of their health data for AI. Participants expressed appreciation for the vulnerability of potential participants in interventional AI trials and reinforced the importance of respect for their preferences regardless of their decisional capacity. A strong theme for the prospective use of clinical AI was the desire to maintain bedside interaction between the patient and their physician.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, children and youths reported generally positive views of AI, expressing strong interest and advocacy for their involvement in AI research and inclusion of their voices for shared decision-making with AI in clinical care. These findings suggest the need for more engagement of children and youths in health care AI research and integration.
Strategies for Managing Impairing Emotional Outbursts
Authors: McClellan Jon M. , Berliner Lucy , Carlson Gabrielle A.
Published: May 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the important role pediatricians play in assessment, prevention, and early intervention for children who display impairing emotional outbursts.
Antiaggregation of NIR‐II Probe Regulated by Amphiphilic Polypeptide with High Contrast Brightness for Phototheranostics and Vascular Microscopic Imaging under 1064 nm Irradiation
Authors: Teng Changchang , Dang Huiping , Xu Yixuan , Yin Dalong , Yan Lifeng
Published: April 2023

Thanks to deep penetration and high resolution, the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) fluorescence (FL) imaging is expected to gain favor in clinical applications, including macroscopic imaging for cancer diagnosis and microangiography for vascular‐related disease diagnosis. Nevertheless, most NIR‐II fluorescent probes, especially cyanine, are highly susceptible to self‐quenching in the aggregated state, which severely limits their application in bioimaging. Here, the Br‐modified cyanine dye F4‐Br and the amphiphilic polypeptide poly(oligo[ethylene glycol]methacrylate)‐b‐poly(benzyl‐L‐aspartic acid) (POEGMA‐PBLA) are synthesized. By modulating the self‐assembly of F4‐Br and POEGMA‐PBLA to effectively inhibit the H‐aggregation of F4‐Br in aqueous solutions, nanoprobe F4‐Br@P17 with outstanding antiquenching capability is developed. This prominent feature allows it to perform vascular microscopic imaging with high spatiotemporal resolution and assess hemodynamic characteristics. F4‐Br@P17 nanoparticles (NPs) with good stability and satisfactory biocompatibility also enable high contrast brightness for NIR‐II FL imaging of tumors. Given the efficient enrichment at tumor sites and the promising photothermal conversion efficiency (43.5%), F4‐Br@P17 NPs successfully conduct photothermal therapy and exhibit superior antitumor efficiency under 1064 nm laser irradiation. These remarkable performances reveal the tremendous possibility of F4‐Br@P17 NPs for in vivo microscopic imaging and FL imaging‐guided photothermal therapy in the NIR‐II region.
Structure Design of Soft Magnetic Materials Using Electron‐Beam‐Based Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yang Jing , Fu Zongwen , Körner Carolin
Published: April 2023

Fe93.5Si6.5(wt%) soft magnetic materials in toroidal shape are additively manufactured by means of electron beam powder bed fusion (PBF‐EB). Different hatching strategies are applied to realize specific patterns of molten material alternating with non‐molten powder particles. The specimens produced using different hatching strategies show identical relative densities but various structural features resulting in different magnetic properties. The magnetic performance of the specimens is characterized by determining hysteresis loops (B–Hcurves), power losses, and maximum magnetic flux density at frequencies between 50 and 1000 Hz. At constant mass, the different structures induced by using various hatching strategies have a strong influence on the hysteresis losses. These losses can be significantly reduced by applying a targeted structure design. The modified specimens show superior magnetic properties at sub‐kHz compared to some soft magnetic materials fabricated by means of conventional methods and laser powder bed fusion (PBF‐L).
Hollow Hierarchical Cu2O‐Derived Electrocatalysts Steering CO2Reduction to Multi‐Carbon Chemicals at Low Overpotentials
Authors: Li Jinhan , Xu Keqiang , Liu Fangming , Li Youzeng , Hu Yanfang , Chen Xijie , Wang Huan , Xu Wence , Ni Youxuan , Ding Guoyu , Zhao Tete , Yu Meng , Xie Wei , Cheng Fangyi
Published: April 2023

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide into multi‐carbon products (C2+) using renewably generated electricity provides a promising pathway for energy and environmental sustainability. Various oxide‐derived copper (OD‐Cu) catalysts have been showcased, but still require high overpotential to drive C2+production owing to sluggish carbon–carbon bond formation and low CO intermediate (*CO) coverage. Here, the dilemma is circumvented by elaborately devising the OD‐Cu morphology. First, computational studies propose a hollow and hierarchical OD‐Cu microstructure that can generate a core–shell microenvironment to inhibit CO evolution and accelerate *CO dimerization via intermediate confinement and electric field enhancement, thereby boosting C2+generation. Experimentally, the designed nanoarchitectures are synthesized through a heteroseed‐induced approach followed by electrochemical activation. In situ spectroscopic studies further elaborate correlation between *CO dimerization and designed architectures. Remarkably, the hierarchical OD‐Cu manifests morphology‐dependent selectivity of CO2reduction, giving a C2+Faradaic efficiency of 75.6% at a considerably positive potential of −0.55 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode.
Aging Property of Halide Solid Electrolyte at the Cathode Interface
Authors: Kim Wonju , Noh Joohyeon , Lee Sunyoung , Yoon Kyungho , Han Sangwook , Yu Seungju , Ko Kun‐Hee , Kang Kisuk
Published: May 2023

Halide solid electrolytes have recently emerged as a promising option for cathode‐compatible catholytes in solid‐state batteries (SSBs), owing to their superior oxidation stability at high voltage and their interfacial stability. However, their day‐ to month‐scale aging at the cathode interface has remained unexplored until now, while its elucidation is indispensable for practical deployment. Herein, the stability of halide solid electrolytes (e.g., Li3InCl6) when used with conventional layered oxide cathodes during extended calendar aging is investigated. It is found that, contrary to their well‐known oxidation stability, halide solid electrolytes can be vulnerable to reductive side reactions with oxide cathodes (e.g., LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2) in the long term. More importantly, the calendar aging at a low state of charge or as‐fabricated state causes more significant degradation than at a high state of charge, in contrast to typical lithium‐ion batteries, which are more susceptible to high‐state‐of‐charge calendar aging. This unique characteristic of halide‐based SSBs is related to the reduction propensity of metal ions in halide solid electrolytes and correlated to the formation of an interphase due to the reductive decomposition triggered by the oxide cathode in a lithiated state. This understanding of the long‐term aging properties provides new guidelines for the development of cathode‐compatible halide solid electrolytes.
Research and Application Progress of Conductive Films in Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Zhao Pan , Xiong Lilong , Li Xiang , Guo Yuan , Xie Yuehong , Du Xianfeng
Published: April 2023

The shortage of fossil energy and the environmental pollution caused by its use promote the development of renewable clean new energy. Energy storage devices are the best choice to convert and store them into efficient and convenient electric energy, and the light weight of the conductive film plays an important role in energy storage devices. Conductive films as electronic conduction layers have become a research hotspot due to their high electronic conductivity, environment‐friendly, low cost, flexibility, transmittance, high chemical stability, good film forming, and excellent mechanical properties. The material selection, conductivity, preparation methods, and adhesion to the substrate of the conductive films all affect the performance of the energy storage devices. Herein, the conductive properties of conductive films of metal materials, carbon materials, conductive polymers, metal oxides, metal nitrides, and other compounds are reviewed. The application of conductive films as electron conduction layers in solar cells, supercapacitors, lithium‐ion batteries, and solid aluminum electrolytic capacitors is analyzed. The future development trend of conductive films in energy storage devices is prospected.
TRACE‐Omicron: Policy Counterfactuals to Inform Mitigation of COVID‐19 Spread in the United States
Authors: O'Gara David , Rosenblatt Samuel F. , Hébert‐Dufresne Laurent , Purcell Rob , Kasman Matt , Hammond Ross A.
Published: April 2023

The Omicron wave is the largest wave of COVID‐19 pandemic to date, more than doubling any other in terms of cases and hospitalizations in the United States. In this paper, a large‐scale agent‐based model of policy interventions that could have been implemented to mitigate the Omicron wave is presented. The model takes into account the behaviors of individuals and their interactions with one another within a nationally representative population, as well as the efficacy of various interventions such as social distancing, mask wearing, testing, tracing, and vaccination. We use the model to simulate the impact of different policy scenarios and evaluate their potential effectiveness in controlling the spread of the virus. The results suggest the Omicron wave could have been substantially curtailed via a combination of interventions comparable in effectiveness to extreme and unpopular singular measures such as widespread closure of schools and workplaces, and highlight the importance of early and decisive action.
Particle and Heavy Ion Transport Code System‐Based Microdosimetry for the Development of Boron Agents for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Shigehira Takafumi , Hanafusa Tadashi , Igawa Kazuyo , Kasai Tomonari , Furuya Shuichi , Nishimori Hisakazu , Maeda Yoshinobu , Michiue Hiroyuki , Fujimura Atsushi
Published: April 2023

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a radiation therapy that selectively kills cancer cells at the cellular level using the boron neutron capture reaction (BNCR) (10B(n.α)7Li). The amount of boron 10B delivers in boronophenylalanine (BPA)‐BNCT to achieve anti‐tumor effects is ≈15–40 ppm. The same is true for all boron drugs; however, whether the same amount of 10B is required for other boron drugs with different accumulation characteristics has not been intensively investigated. Therefore, herein, a virtual cell model with intracellular organelles is prepared, and the BPA equivalent dose concentration to the cell nucleus is analyzed using particle and heavy ion transport code system‐based microdosimetry. Additionally, the intranuclear minimal region (IMR) is set as a reference for the concept of the intranuclear domain in the microdosimetric kinetic model, and the BPA equivalent dose concentration to the IMR is estimated. The required boron delivery dose greatly varies depending on the dose assessment based on the accumulation characteristics of boron agents in intracellular organelles. Evaluation of the BNCR effect according to the accumulation characteristics without being influenced by the specified value of 15–40 ppm is recommended.
Multicellular Bioprinting of Biomimetic Inks for Tendon‐to‐Bone Regeneration
Authors: Du Lin , Qin Chen , Zhang Hongjian , Han Fei , Xue Jianmin , Wang Yufeng , Wu Jinfu , Xiao Yin , Huan Zhiguang , Wu Chengtie
Published: April 2023

Tendon‐to‐bone interface has a hierarchical structure and gradient component that are conducive to distributing the stresses to achieve movement. Conventional biomaterials lack the capacity to induce synchronous repair of multiple tissues, resulting in the failure of the interface repair. Biomimetic strategies have attracted enormous attention in the field of complex structure regeneration because they can meet the different physiological requirements of multiple tissues. Herein, a biomimetic ink mimicking tendon/bone tissues is developed by combining tendon/bone‐related cells and Mo‐containing silicate (MS) bioceramics. Subsequently, biomimetic multicellular scaffolds are fabricated to achieve the simulation of the hierarchical structure and cellular composition of tendon‐to‐bone interfaces by the spatial distribution of the biomimetic inks via 3D bioprinting, which is of great significance for inducing the regeneration of complex structures in the interface region. In addition, attributed to the desirable ionic microenvironment created by MS bioceramics, the biomimetic scaffolds possess the dual function of inducing tendon/bone‐related cells tenogenic and osteogenic differentiation in vitro, and promote the integrated regeneration of tendon‐to‐bone interfaces in vivo. The study offers a feasible strategy to construct biomimetic multicellular scaffolds with bifunction for inducing multi‐lineage tissue regeneration, especially for regenerating soft‐to‐hard tissue interfaces.
A 3D‐Printed Computer
Authors: Shirmohammadli Vahideh , Bahreyni Behraad
Published: April 2023

Vast amounts of data are generated by sensors that are used to monitor people, animals, plants, machines, structures, and the environment. Increasingly, this data is used to create relevant context based on sophisticated pattern recognition algorithms trained using past labeled data. However, most of these sensor systems are severely constrained regarding their communication and computation capabilities due to limitations on available energy, size, or location. New computational approaches are needed to overcome the limitations of existing digital processors in contextual processing. This article discusses the development of the first such computer that is entirely made based on common 3D‐printing materials and techniques. It is demonstrated that a simple structure printed with regular 3D printers can be driven and used with common measurement tools to perform sophisticated contextual computations, including standard benchmarks and a demonstration of user activity detection from sensor data. The correlation between memory capacity, nonlinearity, and sampling rates with this computer is examined. The 3D‐printed structure may be used as a stand‐alone computer to detect patterns in general data streams. Moreover, the computer can be integrated with the sensorized 3D‐printed structures, leading to the development of cognizant 3D‐printed systems comprising sensors and contextual processors.
A community psychology for migrant justice: Critically examining border violence and resistance during the COVID‐19 syndemic
Authors: Esposito Francesca , Rebelo Dora , Olanrewaju Moshood , Vine Megan , Fernandes‐Jesus Maria , Bodden Debi , Kalokoh Aminata , Olson Bradley
Published: May 2023

This article explores the magnifying lenses of the COVID‐19 syndemic to highlight how people racialized as migrants and refugees have been—and continue to be—disproportionally harmed. We use empirical evidence collected in our scholarly/activist work in Europe, Africa, South Asia, and the United States to examine migrant injustice as being produced by a combination of power structures and relations working to maintain colonial global orders and inequalities. This is what has been defined as “border imperialism.” Our data, complemented by evidence from transnational solidarity groups, show that border imperialism has further intersected with the hygienic‐sanitary logics of social control at play during the COVID‐19 period. This intersection has resulted in increasingly coercive methods of restraining people on the move, as well as in increased—and new—forms of degradation of their lives, that is, an overall multiplication of border violences. At the same time, however, COVID‐19 has provided a unique opportunity for grassroot solidarity initiatives and resistance led by people on the move to be amplified and extended. We conclude by emphasizing the need for community psychologists to take a more vigorous stance against oppressive border imperialist regimes and the related forms of violence they re/enact.
Synthesis of Arylamines via a Tandem Petasis Borono‐Mannich/ Nucleophilic Substitution Reaction
Authors: Li Guang‐Lin , Chen Yu , Li Xiang‐Sai , Yang Qi , Gu Ying‐Chun , Yu Ya‐Qin , Xu Da‐Zhen
Published: May 2023

An efficient and practical one‐pot reaction for the synthesis of diarylmethyl anilines from easy available materials of salicylaldehydes, arylboronic acids and aromatic amines has been successfully developed. All the reactions proceed smoothly under transition‐metal‐free conditions via a p‐TSA promoted tandem Petasis borono‐Mannich/ nucleophilic substitution reaction, providing highly functionalized amines with wide functional groups in good to excellent yields. A reasonable explanation for this transformation was suggested.
CPR News
Authors: Bleemer Russ
Published: April 2023

The CPR Institute's Annual Awards Program was led by an achievement award named in honor of CPR's founder for Ohio State University Moritz College of Law's Joseph B. Stulberg, and Diversity Award honorees—cited for their perseverance in improving equality and inclusion in conflict resolution practices—arbitrator Amanda Lee, of London, and academician and author Benjamin G. Davis, of Charlottesville, Va.
Radioactive Microspheres for Selective Internal Radiation Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Yi , Gao Yun , Duan Guangxin , Wen Ling , Shan Shanshan , Wu Shuwang , Zeng Jianfeng , Gao Mingyuan
Published: April 2023

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) as one of the radiotherapeutic techniques has been widely used in the treatment of primary and metastatic liver cancer, for better avoiding radiation damage to normal tissues from external exposure. The radioactive microspheres used in SIRT should meet some special requirements closely associated with the type of radionuclides and the size and the property of the microsphere. This review focuses on the radioactive microspheres to elaborate the current challenges in the related fields, including simplification of the preparation of microspheres formed by different materials, visualization of the biodistribution of microspheres, and the suitability of different types of microspheres for repeated treatment. In this context, the major characteristics of three kinds of commercialized radioactive microspheres are compared, the advances in the radioactive microspheres achieved in recent years are summarized, and the future prospects of radioactive microspheres are discussed.
Cellulose acetate/nanoclay composite membranes with enhanced mechanical properties and improved permeance in gas separation
Authors: Juntadech Nithinart C. , Juntadech Thanate , Niamlang Sumonman , Jongsomjit Bunjerd
Published: May 2023

Diethyl ether is a valuable chemical product in petrochemical industry used in different applications. In diethyl ether (DEE) production by the dehydration of ethanol (EtOH), the products from DEE production are commonly mixed with EtOH and the % yield of DEE generally has not exceeded 60%. This contribution describes the preparation and performance of hollow fiber membranes for the separation of gaseous product (DEE) and reactant (EtOH). Cellulose acetate (CA)/nanoclay (NC)‐based hollow fiber composite membranes were prepared using a wet spinning process of CA solution and the addition of hydrophilic NC particles to improve the mechanical properties and permeability. According to the findings, the 20 wt% CA/0.5 wt% NC hollow fiber showed the higher mechanical strength than the 20 wt% CA hollow fiber without NC. Moreover, the 20 wt% CA hollow fiber without NC provided EtOH and DEE permeances of 8.44 × 10−11 and 4.25 × 10−10 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1, respectively, while the 20 wt% CA/0.5 wt% NC hollow fiber showed higher EtOH and DEE permeances of 6.50 × 10−10 and 8.49 × 10−9 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 plausibly because of the higher porosity based on the SEM images. Furthermore, both CA hollow fiber membranes were selective for DEE over EtOH and were more selective with the addition of NC.
Study on the synthesis of soluble copolymer polyarylate from asymmetric bisphenol A derivative (2,2‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)butane/9,9‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)fluorene) monomer
Authors: Wang Zhoufeng , Liu Yingying , Wang Bolin , Long Xiubo , Hu Junwei
Published: May 2023

A series of polyarylates composed of different bisphenol monomers were synthesized by interfacial polymerization using 9,9‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)fluorene (BHPF), 2,2‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)butane (BPB), terephthaloyl chloride (TPC), and isophthaloyl chloride (IPC) as raw materials. The DFT calculations showed that the energy required for the reaction of BHPF with TPC/IPC was between 15.82 and 16.04 Kcal/mol, which was higher than the energy required for the reaction of BPB with TPC/IPC of 8.05–8.40 Kcal/mol. The solubility test showed that the solubility of BHPF‐BPB‐type polyarylate was better than that of BPB‐type polyarylate in various organic solvents withTgranging from 199.3 to 215.0°C, indicating that the solubility was improved while increasing theTgof the products. The weight loss (T5%) and maximum weight loss (Tmax) of BHPF‐BPB‐type polyarylates under N2atmosphere ranged from 464.6–489.4°C and 521.7–534.6°C, indicating good thermal stability. The tensile strength of the BHPF‐BPB‐type polyarylates ranged from 53.21 to 61.23 MPa, Young's modulus ranged from 1479.66 to 1867.23 MPa and elongation at break ranged from 19.5% to 30.1%. The mechanical property test showed that the BHPF‐BPB‐type polyarylates have high tensile strength. These characteristics indicate that BHPF‐BPB‐type polyarylates have a very broad potential for application in engineering plastics.
Spectroscopic evidence for adsorption of natural organic matter on microplastics
Authors: Paul Andrea , Reese Michelle , Goldhammer Tobias , Schmalsch Claudia , Weber Jens , Bannick Claus G.
Published: April 2023

The interaction of microcroplastics (MP) with dissolved organic matter, especially humic substances, is of great importance in understanding the behavior of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. Surface modification by humic substances plays an essential role in transport and interaction of MP with abiotic and biotic components. Previous studies on the interaction between MP and humic substances were largely based on a model compound, humic acid (Sigma‐Aldrich). In our work, we therefore investigated the interaction of natural organic matter (NOM) sampled from a German surface water with low‐density polyethylene particles (LDPE). High‐pressure size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC) and UV/vis absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy were used to characterize the incubation solutions after modifications due to the presence of LDPE, and Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the incubated microplastics. While the studies of the solutions generally showed only very small effects, Raman spectroscopic studies allowed clear evidence of the binding of humic fractions to MP. The comparison of the incubation of NOM and a lignite fulvic acid which also was tested further showed that specific signatures of the humic substances used could be detected by Raman spectroscopy. This provides an elegant opportunity to conduct broader studies on this issue in the future.
A physiological approach to applying CPAP in the preterm infant
Authors: Polin Richard A. , Sahni Rakesh
Published: April 2023

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is increasingly used for respiratory support in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome at birth and after extubation from mechanical ventilation. Controversies with CPAP use still exists due to non‐uniformity of devices and interfaces used, equivalence of testing conditions for different CPAP systems, differences in study designs, and short study periods that may be insufficient to detect important and relevant clinical outcomes. Compared with ventilator‐derived constant‐pressure flow‐opposition CPAP, variable fluidic flow‐opposition CPAP systems may be advantageous and offer some clinical benefits. The distinction between constant‐flow fluid‐sealed bubble CPAP and variable‐flow fluidic flow‐opposition systems is less clear. Appropriately designed randomized clinical trials that separately address the controversies with CPAP use in various clinical settings, are necessary to determine which CPAP system results in best outcomes.
Tactics targeting circular mRNA biosynthesis
Authors: Chen Xinjie , Wang Chen , Lu Yuan
Published: May 2023

Faced with the development of mRNA technology in the field of medicine and vaccine, circular mRNA (circmRNA) becomes a strong alternative to mRNA for its circular secondary structure and higher stability. At present, the synthesis of circmRNAs has been realized by ligating linear mRNA precursors and is limited by poor efficiency. To solve this challenge, this study started with ribozyme catalysis and enzymatic reaction to explore different circmRNA biosynthesis strategies. In terms of ribozyme method, by screening different group I intron self‐splicing system sequences, the sequence from thymidylate synthase (Td) gene of phage T4 showed the highest ligation efficiency. In terms of enzyme method, with the help of 20‐bp homologous arm, T4 Rnl 2 was determined as the ligation method with the highest ligation efficiency. By comparing the two ligation methods, the expression level of circmRNA ligated by T4 Rnl 2 was 86% higher than that ligated by Td ribozyme. Based on these ligation methods, the screening results of internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequences showed that mud crab dicistrovirus IRES was an IRES sequence with high ribosome binding ability and could be widely used in circmRNAs for efficient and stable translation in mammalian cells. These results should provide positive guidance for the industrial production of circmRNAs and the development of mRNA vaccines. Eventually, circmRNAs could widely function in the field of biomedicine.
Amino‐Ene Click Reaction of Electron‐Deficient π‐Conjugated Molecules with Negative Activation Enthalpies
Authors: Sanematsu Haruki , Nagata Yuuya , Takeuchi Masayuki , Takai Atsuro
Published: May 2023

An amino‐ene click reaction is a type of aza‐Michael addition reaction that is congruent with click chemistry in terms of its reaction efficiency and rate under mild conditions. The amino‐ene click reaction is increasingly recognized as a prominent synthetic tool to form C−N bonds in the context of organic materials chemistry and polymer chemistry. Herein, an unconventional amino‐ene click reaction with negative activation enthalpies, in which an electron‐deficient π‐conjugated molecule, such as a naphthalenediimide, reacts with an amine faster at lower temperatures is reported. The detailed study of the reaction mechanism reveals that the amino‐ene click reaction proceeds via a pre‐equilibrium reaction, the key to which is the formation of a stable reaction intermediate due to the solvation and charge delocalization on the π‐core. By optimizing the reaction conditions, it was demonstrated that the amino‐ene click reaction proceeded faster at 273 K than at 347 K, which was easily observed visually.
Moderate COVID‐19 Disease Is Associated With Reduced Bone Turnover
Authors: Kerschan‐Schindl Katharina , Dovjak Peter , Butylina Maria , Rainer Anna , Mayr Bernhard , Röggla Veronika , Haslacher Helmuth , Weber Michael , Jordakieva Galateja , Pietschmann Peter
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV2) infection has been associated with musculoskeletal manifestations, including a negative effect on bone health. Bone formation was found to be reduced in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients. The aim of this case–control study was to determine whether bone metabolism is coupled or uncoupled in COVID‐19 patients with moderately severe disease, the latter expressed by the requirement of hospitalization but not intensive care treatment, no need for mechanical ventilation, and a C‐reactive protein level of (median [quartiles], 16.0 [4.0; 52.8]) mg/L in serum. Besides standard biochemical markers, serum levels of C‐terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase, osteocalcin, bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase, sclerostin, dickkopf‐1, and osteoprotegerin were evaluated in COVID‐19–infected patients at the time of hospital admission, along with those of age‐ and sex‐matched noninfected controls. The median age of the 14 female and 11 male infected patients included in the matched‐pair analysis was (67 [53; 81]) years. C‐terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen was significantly lower in COVID‐19 patients (0.172 [0.097; 0.375] ng/mL) than in controls (0.462 [0.300; 0.649] ng/mL; p = 0.011). The patients' osteocalcin levels (10.50 [6.49; 16.26] ng/mL) were also lower than those of controls (15.33 [11.85, 19.63] ng/mL, p = 0.025). Serum levels of sclerostin and dickkopf‐1 were significantly higher in infected patients relative to controls. The remaining parameters did not differ between cases and controls. A limitation of the study was that patients and controls were recruited from different hospitals. Nevertheless, due to the geographical proximity of the two centers, we assume that this fact did not influence the results of the study. Given this limitation, the investigation showed that bone metabolism is altered but remains coupled in patients with moderately severe COVID‐19. Therefore, it is important to evaluate bone turnover markers and fracture risk in these patients during the postinfection period. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Non‐bank financing of small and medium size firms in developing economies: Effect of management control systems including large firm affiliation
Authors: Nketia Joseph , Asare Enoch Kusi , Ampofo Akwasi A.
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the relationship between Management Control Systems (MCS) of Small to Medium Size Enterprise (SME) and how that can sway financing of working capital (short‐term) and long‐term assets by non‐bank sponsors/investors. Based on the World Bank enterprise survey, we examined elements within the data that we classified as key components of management control mechanisms that can affect the effective running of SMEs to attract non‐bank financing. We developed six hypotheses to test the vigor of the association of financial report systems and/or subsidiaries status of SMEs and the financing of working capital and/or long‐term assets by non‐banks. The results of our tests illustrate that generally firms with sound financial systems and/or that are subsidiaries of a parent company entice non‐banks sponsors to finance the working capital and long‐ term assets of SMEs. This study contributes to the financing literature by examining MCS employed by non‐banks to extend financing to SMEs.
Intrinsic factors behind long‐COVID: I. Prevalence of the extracellular vesicles
Authors: El‐Maradny Yousra A. , Rubio‐Casillas Alberto , Uversky Vladimir N. , Redwan Elrashdy M.
Published: May 2023

It can be argued that the severity of COVID‐19 has decreased in many countries. This could be a result of the broad coverage of the population by vaccination campaigns, which often reached an almost compulsory status in many places. Furthermore, significant roles were played by the multiple mutations in the body of the virus, which led to the emergence of several new SARS‐CoV‐2 variants with enhanced infectivity but dramatically reduced pathogenicity. However, the challenges associated with the development of various side effects and their persistence for long periods exceeding 20 months as a result of the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, or taking available vaccines against it, are spreading horizontally and vertically in number and repercussions. For example, the World Health Organization announced that there are more than 17 million registered cases of long‐COVID (also known as post‑COVID syndrome) in the European Union countries alone. Furthermore, by using the PubMed search engine, one can find that more than 10 000 articles have been published focusing exclusively on long‐COVID. In light of these enormous and ever‐increasing numbers of cases and published articles, most of which are descriptive of the various long‐COVID symptoms, the need to know the reasons behind this phenomenon raises several important questions. Is long‐COVID caused by the continued presence of the virus or one/several of its components in the recovering individual body for long periods of time, which urges the body to respond in a way that leads to long‐COVID development? Or are there some latent and limited reasons related to the recovering patients themselves? Or is it a sum of both? Many observations support a positive answer to the first question, whereas others back the second question but typically without releasing a fundamental reason/signal behind it. Whatever the answer is, it seems that the real reasons behind this widespread phenomenon remain unclear. This report opens a series of articles, in which we will try to shed light on the underlying causes that could be behind the long‐COVID phenomenon.
Utilization of a Population Pharmacokinetic Model to Improve a Busulfan Test‐Dose Strategy in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Recipients
Authors: Dunlap Tyler C. , Weiner Daniel L. , Kemper Ryan M. , Kardouh Miramar , DeVane Susanna C. , Symonds Allison , Shaw J. Ryan , Armistead Paul M. , Ptachcinski Jonathan R. , Crona Daniel J.
Published: May 2023

Busulfan is an alkylating agent used as part of conditioning chemotherapy regimens prior to allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (allo‐HCT). Pharmacokinetic (PK)‐guided test‐dose strategies have been shown to improve the number of patients achieving busulfan exposure goals and improve clinical outcomes. However, current practices require extensive PK sampling. In this study, PK data were retrospectively collected from busulfan drug monitoring records from adult allo‐HCT recipients who received once‐daily intravenous busulfan at the University of North Carolina Medical Center (UNCMC). A population pharmacokinetic (popPK) model was developed to identify sources of interindividual variability and evaluate alternative PK sampling strategies. A 2‐compartment model, with covariate effects of actual body weight and sex, best described the data. The typical value of clearance for an 83 kg male was estimated to be 11.21 L/h. Fifty‐nine percent of allo‐HCT recipients were estimated to have met the UNCMC institutional myeloablative conditioning (MAC) exposure goal based on model post hoc estimates of clearance using all PK samples obtained following MAC dosing. Fifty‐seven percent of patients were estimated to have met this goal based on post hoc estimates using a single PK sample. Our results indicate once‐daily, intravenous busulfan PK in adult allo‐HCT recipients receiving MAC dosing can be reasonably described by a popPK model, and the use of a sparse PK sampling strategy may be feasible for determining target exposure attainment following MAC dosing. Use of a popPK model and sparse PK sampling strategy to carry out busulfan test‐dose procedures could reduce health care costs and inconvenience to patients.
Post‐translational regulation of muscle growth, muscle aging and sarcopenia
Authors: Zhong Qian , Zheng Kun , Li Wanmeng , An Kang , Liu Yu , Xiao Xina , Hai Shan , Dong Biao , Li Shuangqing , An Zhenmei , Dai Lunzhi
Published: May 2023

Skeletal muscle makes up 30–40% of the total body mass. It is of great significance in maintaining digestion, inhaling and exhaling, sustaining body posture, exercising, protecting joints and many other aspects. Moreover, muscle is also an important metabolic organ that helps to maintain the balance of sugar and fat. Defective skeletal muscle function not only limits the daily activities of the elderly but also increases the risk of disability, hospitalization and death, placing a huge burden on society and the healthcare system. Sarcopenia is a progressive decline in muscle mass, muscle strength and muscle function with age caused by environmental and genetic factors, such as the abnormal regulation of protein post‐translational modifications (PTMs). To date, many studies have shown that numerous PTMs, such as phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, glycosylation, glycation, methylation, S‐nitrosylation, carbonylation and S‐glutathionylation, are involved in the regulation of muscle health and diseases. This article systematically summarizes the post‐translational regulation of muscle growth and muscle atrophy and helps to understand the pathophysiology of muscle aging and develop effective strategies for diagnosing, preventing and treating sarcopenia.
Sonication and heat‐mediated synthesis, characterization and larvicidal activity of sericin‐based silver nanoparticles against dengue vector (Aedes aegypti)
Authors: Summer Muhammad , Tahir Hafiz Muhammad , Ali Shaukat
Published: April 2023

Fabrication, characterization and evaluation of the larvicidal potential of novel silk protein (sericin)‐based silver nanoparticles (Se‐AgNPs) were the prime motives of the designed study. Furthermore, investigation of the sericin as natural reducing or stabilizing agent was another objective behind this study. Se‐AgNPs were synthesized using sonication and heat. Fabricated Se‐AgNPs were characterized using particle size analyzer, UV spectrophotometry, FTIR and SEM which confirmed the fabrication of the Se‐AgNPs. Size of sonication‐mediated Se‐AgNPs was smaller (7.49 nm) than heat‐assisted Se‐AgNPs (53.6 nm). Being smallest in size, sonication‐assisted Se‐AgNPs revealed the significantly highest (F4,10 = 39.20, p = .00) larvicidal activity against fourth instar lab and field larvae (F4,10 = 1864, p = .00) of dengue vector (Aedes aegypti) followed by heat‐assisted Se‐AgNPs and positive control (temephos). Non‐significant larvicidal activity was showed by silver (without sericin) which made the temperature stability of silver, debatable. Furthermore, findings of biochemical assays (glutathione‐S transferase, esterase, and acetylcholinesterase) showed the levels of resistance in field strain larvae. Aforementioned findings of the study suggests the sonication as the best method for synthesis of Se‐AgNPs while the larvicidal activity is inversely proportional to the size of Se‐AgNPs, i.e., smallest the size, highest the larvicidal activity. Conclusively, status of the sericin as a natural reducing/stabilizing agent has been endorsed by the findings of this study.

Research Highlights

Incorporation of biocompatible and inexpensive sericin as a capping/reducing agent for synthesis of Se‐AgNPs.

A novel sonication method was used for the fabrication of Se‐AgNPs which were thoroughly characterized by particle size analyzer, UV–visible spectrophotometry, SEM and FTIR.

Analysis of enzymatic (GSTs, ESTs) levels in field and lab strains of Aedes aegypti larvae for evaluation of insecticides resistance.
Raman spectroscopic signals of carotenoid distribution during stages of cell growth of unicellular organisms and plant cells
Authors: Badgujar Pooja Manik , Lin Yu‐Chung , Lin Zhe‐Rui , Lin Ming‐Der , Cheng Chia‐Liang
Published: May 2023

Understanding life at the molecular level is inherently difficult, as no precise method can very specifically determine “The activities of life.” The feasibility to observe the activation of life in an organism using molecular information through Raman spectroscopy in various biological systems is investigated in this work. The idea of determining the “dormant” state to the “growing state” state in complex organisms using specific Raman spectral bands is explained in this study. We found the Raman spectral evidence of carotenoids molecule that shows its appearance from freshwater worms to germinated and non‐germinated seeds. This study investigates the molecular functions of carotenoids in different biosystems. Given the complexity of biological systems, observations from Raman spectroscopic measurements indicate that carotenoids show strong molecular activity when life is growing as compared with a dormant state. We conclude that carotenoid's Raman bands can be considered as the biomarker of growing states in living organisms.
Age represents the main driver of surgical decision making in patients candidate to radical cystectomy
Authors: Dell'Oglio Paolo , Tappero Stefano , Panunzio Andrea , Antonelli Alessandro , Salvador Daniel , Xylinas Evanguelos , Alvarez‐Maestro Mario , Hurle Rodolfo , Salas Rafael Sanchez , Colomer Anna , Simone Giuseppe , Hendricksen Kees , Peroni Angelo , Lonati Chiara , Olivero Alberto , Rouprêt Morgan , Roumiguié Mathieu , Soria Francesco , Umari Paolo , D'Andrea David , Terrone Carlo , Galfano Antonio , Moschini Marco , Trapani Ettore Di ,   The European Association of Urology‐Young Academic Urologists (EAU‐YAU): Urothelial Carcinoma Working Group
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

Age might influence the choice of surgical approach, type of urinary diversion (UD) and lymph node dissection (LND) in patients candidate to radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). Similarly, age may enhance surgical morbidity and worsen perioperative outcomes. We tested the impact of age (octogenarian vs. younger patients) on surgical decision making and peri‐ and postoperative outcomes of RC.

Methods

Non‐metastatic muscle‐invasive UBC patients treated with RC at 18 high‐volume European institutions between 2006 and 2021 were identified and stratified according to age (≥80 vs. <80 years). Intraoperative Complications Assessment and Reporting with Universal Standards and European Association of Urology guidelines recommendations were accomplished in collection and reporting of, respectively, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Multivariable logistic regression models (MVA) tested the impact of age on outcomes of interest. Sensitivity analyses after 1:3 propensity score matching were performed.

Results

Of 1955 overall patients, 251 (13%) were ≥80‐year‐old. Minimally invasive RC was performed in 18% and 40% of octogenarian and younger patients, respectively (p < 0.001). UD without bowel manipulation (ureterocutaneostomy, UCS) was performed in 31% and 7% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). LND was delivered to 81% and 93% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). At MVA, age ≥80 years independently predicted open approach (odds ratio [OR]: 1.55), UCS (OR: 3.70), and omission of LND (OR: 0.41; all p ≤ 0.02).

Compared to their younger counterparts, octogenarian patients experienced higher rates of intraoperative (8% vs. 4%, p = 0.04) but not of postoperative complications (64% vs. 61%, p = 0.07). At MVA, age ≥80 years was not an independent predictor of length of stay, intraoperative or postoperative transfusions and complications, and readmissions (all p values >0.1). These results were replicated in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Age ≥80 years does not independently portend worse surgical outcomes for RC. However, octogenarians are unreasonably more likely to receive open approach and UCS diversion, and less likely to undergo LND.
Evaluation of emergency department treat‐and‐release encounters after major gastrointestinal surgery
Authors: Brajcich Brian C. , Johnson Julie K. , Holl Jane L. , Bilimoria Karl Y. , Ager Meagan S. , Chung Jeanette , Joung Rachel Hae Soo , Iroz Cassandra B. , Odell David D. , Bentrem David J. , Yang Anthony D. , Franklin Patricia D. , Slota Jennifer M. , Silver Casey M. , Skolarus Ted , Merkow Ryan P.
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

Emergency department (ED) utilization after gastrointestinal cancer operations is poorly characterized. Our study objectives were to determine the incidence of, reasons for, and predictors of ED treat‐and‐release encounters after gastrointestinal cancer operations.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective esophageal, hepatobiliary, gastric, pancreatic, small intestinal, or colorectal operations for cancer were identified in the 2015–2017 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient and State Emergency Department Databases for New York, Maryland, and Florida. The primary outcomes were the incidence of ED treat‐and‐release encounters and readmissions within 30 days of discharge.

Results

Among 51 527 patients at 406 hospitals, 4047 (7.9%) had an ED treat‐and‐release encounter, and 5573 (10.8%) had an ED encounter with readmission. In total, 40.7% of ED encounters were treat‐and‐release encounters. ED treat‐and‐release encounters were most frequently for pain (12.0%), device/ostomy complaints (11.7%), or wound complaints (11.4%). ED treat‐and‐release encounters predictors included non‐Hispanic Black race/ethnicity (odds ratio [OR] 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–1.37) and Medicare (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.16–1.40) or Medicaid (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.62–2.40) coverage.

Conclusions

ED treat‐and‐release encounters are common after major gastrointestinal operations, making up nearly half of postdischarge ED encounters. The reasons for ED treat‐and‐release encounters differ from those for ED encounters with readmissions.