bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The synthesis, structure, and catalytic properties of Cl‐substituted tridentate ONO Schiff base molybdenum(VI) complexes: Expeditious synthesis of 1,8‐dioxo‐octahydro‐xanthene derivatives
Authors: Li Xinran , Li Tong , Zhuo Zihan , Li Liping , Fu Rao , Yu Honglei , Jin Juan , Gao Xiuwei , Wang Weili , Jin Guanghua
Published: May 2024

A family of molybdenum complexes with a general formula of [MoO2L]2 have been synthesized and fully characterized, where L is a tridentate ONO Schiff base ligand featuring a Cl substituent in different positions on the aromatic ring of salicylidene‐2‐aminophenolato backbone. The solvent molecule stabilized the monomeric structure of [MoO2LD] (D = DMF or DMSO) allowing single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction of the three new complexes. The dimeric complexes are utilized to catalyze the reaction of aldehydes/ketones with dimedone, leading to 1,8‐dioxo‐octahydro‐xanthene derivatives in N,N‐dimethylformamide. We found that their catalytic activity is enhanced by the electron‐withdrawing group of the Cl substituent on the ONO ligand. In addition, the position of the Cl substituent can also positively influence the catalysis performance: (ortho (L1) > para (L3) > meta (L2) ≈ meta (L4)). The high efficiency of the catalysts promises high yields and selectivity with a low catalyst loading and allows a wide substrate scope of aldehydes/ketones for the reaction. In addition, the method employs recrystallization for purifying products and can be easily scaled up to gram levels, indicating a strong potential for industrial utilization.
Synthesis, DFT calculations, and investigation of catalytic and biological activities of back‐bond functionalized re‐NHC‐Cu complexes
Authors: Yagmurlu Ayse , Buğday Nesrin , Yaşar Şeyma , Boulebd Houssem , Mansour Lamjed , Koko Waleed S. , Hamdi Naceur , Yaşar Sedat
Published: May 2024

Five copper complexes (3a–e) stabilized by ring‐expanded back‐bond functionalized N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands (re‐NHCs) were produced in the glovebox by reacting free re‐NHC with CuI precursor. The potential of these re‐NHC‐Cu complexes as catalysts on the synthesis of mono‐ and di‐(1,4‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazoles) by Cu‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reactions was investigated. Various spectroscopic approaches were utilized to completely characterize the structures of the re‐Cu‐NHC complexes. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to get further insights into their molecular geometry and CuAAC reaction mechanism. The re‐NHC‐Cu complexes showed high activity on the CuAAC reaction in an open‐air atmosphere at rt. The Gibbs free energies as well as the optimized geometries of the intermediates and the transition states of the determining step of the reactions catalyzed by 3a, 3e, and 3b complexes were computed. Complex 3e was found to be the most efficient catalyst among these re‐NHC‐Cu complexes. Additionally, re‐Cu‐NHC complexes were investigated for their biological activities, including antiproliferative, antioxidant, AChE and TyrE inhibition, and antiparasitic activity. The results showed that the 3b, 3d, and 3e complexes possessed strong antiproliferative activity against human colon carcinoma (HCT‐116) and moderate cytotoxic activity against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG‐2) cell lines. In addition, effective selective antileishmanial effects were observed for the 3e compound against both promastigotes and amastigotes stages of L. major with an IC50 value of 0.027 and 0.39 μM mL−1, respectively. These results demonstrate that these compounds are promising candidates for the treatment of colorectal cancer and leishmaniasis.
Two Broad Categories Overlapping With Rheumatoid Arthritis Observed in Synovial Biopsies from Patients With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Triaille Clément , Tilman Gaëlle , Baert Charlotte A. , Sokolova Tatiana , Loriot Axelle , Nzeusseu‐Toukap Adrien , Meric de Bellefon Laurent , Galant Christine , Boulanger Cécile , Fonseca Joao E. , Bouzin Caroline , Durez Patrick , Lauwerys Bernard R. , Limaye Nisha
Published: May 2024

Objective

The objective is to characterize transcriptomic profiles and immune cell composition and distribution in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) synovial biopsies, assess for associations of these features with clinical parameters, and compare JIA and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial features.

Methods

RNA sequencing (RNASeq) was performed on 24 samples, with pathway analysis and inference of relative abundance of immune cell subsets based on gene expression data. Two multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry (IHC) panels were performed on 28 samples (including 13 on which RNASeq was performed), staining for CD206− classical and CD206+ nonclassical macrophages, and CD8+ and CD4+ T and B lymphocytes. Data were compared to a published series of early RA synovial biopsies.

Results

Pathway analysis of the most variably expressed genes (n = 339) identified a B and plasma cell signature as the main driver of heterogeneity in JIA synovia, with strong overlap between JIA and RA synovitis. Multiplex IHC confirmed heterogeneity of immune cell infiltration. M1‐like macrophage–rich synovial lining was associated with greater lining hypertrophy and higher (CD45+) pan–immune cell and CD8+ T cell infiltration.

Conclusion

Our study indicates significant similarities between JIA and RA synovitis. Similar to RA, JIA synovia may be broadly categorized into two groups: (1) those with an inflammatory/adaptive immune transcriptomic signature, M1‐like macrophage and CD8+ T cell infiltration, and thicker, M1‐like macrophage–rich synovial lining, and (2) those with an M2‐like macrophage transcriptomic signature, greater M2/M1‐like macrophage ratios, and thinner, M2‐like macrophage–rich synovial lining. Synovial features were not significantly associated with clinical parameters, likely because of group size and heterogeneity.
Child and caregiver predictors of primary caregiver participation in families of school‐aged Autistic children
Authors: Davy Gemma , Barbaro Josephine , Unwin Katy , Clark Megan , Jellett Rachel , Date Perrin , Muniandy Melanie , Dissanayake Cheryl
Published: May 2024

Engaging in meaningful activities (e.g., leisure, spiritual, fitness) significantly affects caregivers' quality of life (QoL), yet the determinants of participation in caregivers of Autistic children remain largely unknown. The current study examined child and caregiver correlates of primary caregiver participation in meaningful activities. One hundred and six primary caregivers of Autistic children (7–12 years) were recruited from three unique cohorts of Autistic children in this cross‐sectional study. Primary caregivers completed online questionnaires measuring occupational gaps (i.e., desired activities caregivers are not participating in), QoL, parenting stress, perceived family outcomes, and social support. In addition to undertaking direct assessments of children's cognition and language, primary caregivers also reported on their child's adaptive behavior, social–emotional skills, and participation. Caregivers reporting fewer occupational gaps (i.e., ≤2 desired activities) were more likely to have Autistic children with no co‐occurring conditions, who were older, and with better adaptive behaviors, social–emotional skills, and more frequent home and school participation, compared to caregivers reporting many gaps (i.e., ≥3 desired activities). Caregivers with fewer occupational gaps also reported improved QoL, parenting stress, social support, perceived community inclusiveness, and family outcomes. Logistic regression analysis identified child age, child adaptive behavior, social–emotional skills, home participation, and the caregivers' perceived family outcomes and QoL as important predictors of their occupational gaps. The findings demonstrate that caregiver participation in desired activities was associated with increased functional ability and independence of the child, as well as their perceived capacity to meet their child's needs. Supporting parents' sense of efficacy in meeting their children's needs and building their skills and knowledge will serve to improve both caregiver and child outcomes.
Compatibility of Molybdenum Disulfide and Magnesium Fluorinated Alkoxyaluminate Electrolytes in Rechargeable Mg Batteries
Authors: Falyouna Omar , Faizul Idham Mohd , Eljamal Osama , Mandai Toshihiko
Published: May 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2)‐based cathodes have exhibited good electrochemical reactions in all phenyl complex (APC) electrolytes. However, APC electrolytes are highly corrosive and susceptible to oxidation. Alternatively, magnesium fluorinated alkoxyaluminate electrolyte (Mg[Al(HFIP)4]2) is a pioneering chloride‐free electrolyte with remarkable electrochemical activity in rechargeable Mg batteries (RMBs). This study aims to investigate the compatibility of various MoS2 nanomaterials with Mg[Al(HFIP)4]2 in RMBs. Seven MoS2 nanomaterials were synthesized under different hydro/solvothermal conditions and evaluated as cathode materials in RMBs. The results revealed that the electrochemical activity of the as‐synthesized MoS2 in RMBs significantly varied and MoS2 with high content of 1T‐phase (M5) exhibited the best specific capacity of ca. 35 mAh g−1. Heteroatom doping, graphene oxide (GO) incorporation, and dual‐salt electrolytes were employed to enhance the electrochemical performance of M5. The electrochemical tests showed that all doped‐MoS2 and GO‐MoS2 delivered poor specific capacities (<20 mAh g−1), properly due to the disorder of the cathode material and the entrapment of Mg2+ ions. In contrast, dual‐salt electrolytes (0.3 M Mg[Al(HFIP)4]2/0.3 M LiCl) improved the initial specific capacity by 242 %. This is attributed to the preferential intercalation of Li+ ions that reduces the diffusion energy barrier and facilitates the intercalation of Mg+2 ions.
Characteristics and management of post‐circumcision Urethrocutaneous Fistula: a retrospective study in surgical units in Cameroon
Authors: Mbouche Landry Oriole , Mbassi Achille Aurèle , Mekeme Junior Barthelemy Mekeme , Bob Dorcas Nyanit , Ndjock Joseph Lionel , Tamufor Emmanuel Njuma , Tambo Faustin Mouafo
Published: May 2024

Background

Urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF) is one of the major complications of circumcision. The risk factors associated with UCF are not clear‐cut but its repair remains a challenge for urological surgeons. The aim of this study was to highlight the epidemiological, and clinical features and outcomes obtained from the management of UCF in the context of a country with limited medical resources where ritual circumcision is widely practiced.

Patients and methods

From February 2010 to December 2022, 35 patients underwent surgical repair for post‐circumcision UCF in two tertiary hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon. Simple closure, Thiersch‐Duplay‐Snodgrass and Mathieu techniques were performed.

Results

The mean age of patients was 7.4 ± 4.1 years with a range of 2 to 21 years; the median age at circumcision was 24 months (12; 48). Most (95%) of circumcisions were performed by paramedical staff. The majority of patients (n = 26) consulted for a bifid stream, Three‐quarters of fistulae were located at the corona. Small fistulae represented 74.28% (n = 26) of cases as opposed to large fistulae (25.71%). More than 70% of patients underwent a simple closure. The therapeutic results were satisfactory in 91.4% of cases (n = 32) after an average follow‐up of 91.85 ± 51.92 months. There were no statistically significant differences between the patients with coronal fistula and patients with distal penile fistula concerning demographic, clinical and surgical characteristics.

Conclusion

Urethrocutaneous fistula is a major and frequent complication of circumcision mostly practiced by non‐qualified personnel on children aged 24 months. The usual presentation is micturition with a bifid stream occurring on average 3 months after circumcision. Coronal fistulas are the commoner location. Simple closure, Thiersch‐Duplay‐Snodgrass and Mathieu technique appear to be safe with the advantages of low recurrence rate. An accurate diagnosis with a timeframe respecting the principles of fistula surgery combined with regular follow‐up is mandatory for good long‐term results with a low recurrence rate. Further prospective studies on the factors affecting the formation of urethrocutaneous fistula should be performed to prevent this complication of circumcision.
The impact of the route to diagnosis in nephroblastoma
Authors: Mergen Marvin , Welter Nils , Furtwängler Rhoikos , Melchior Patrick , Vokuhl Christian , Gessler Manfred , Meier Clemens‐Magnus , Kager Leo , Schenk Jens‐Peter , Graf Norbert
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Wilms tumor (WT) is the most common childhood kidney cancer. It is a rapid growing embryonal tumor in young children and can be diagnosed with and without tumor related symptoms.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the route to diagnosis of WT treated prospectively according to the SIOP 93‐01/GPOH and 2001/GPOH in Germany between 1993 and 2022. Four routes were defined: diagnosis due to tumor‐related symptoms, incidental diagnosis during another disease, diagnosis by preventive examinations, and diagnosis within a surveillance program. For these groups we compared clinical and tumor characteristics and outcome.

Results

Of 2549 patients with WT 1822 (71.5%) were diagnosed by tumor‐related symptoms, 472 (18.5%) incidentally, 213 (8.4%) by preventive medical examinations, and 42 (1.6%) by surveillance. Age, general health status, tumor volume, and local and overall stage varied significantly between these groups. The youngest patients were those diagnosed by preventive medical examination (mean: 1.70 years). These patients also showed the best general health status. Tumor volume at diagnosis (549 mL) and after preoperative chemotherapy (255 mL) was significantly higher for children with tumor‐related symptoms. The highest percentage of local stage I (78.6%) and the lowest percentage of metastatic disease (4.8%) was found in the surveillance group. The outcome of patients was not significantly different, with up to 19.0% relapses in the surveillance group and 3.0% deaths in the group with tumor‐related symptoms.

Conclusion

The route to diagnosis of WT correlates with age, general health status, tumor volume, and stage distribution, but does not impact the outcome of patients. Nonetheless, diagnosis without tumor related symptoms results in lower treatment burden and thus improved quality of life.
Efficacy and safety of eribulin mesylate in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer previously treated with anthracycline/taxanes
Authors: Chen Lan , Yan Xi , Luo Ting , Tian Tinglun , He Ping , Zhong Xiaorong
Published: May 2024

Background

This prospective real‐world study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of eribulin in the clinical practice against advanced breast cancer (ABC) in China.

Patients and Methods

In this study, eligible patients with inoperable locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer who had experienced prior neo−/adjuvant or failed the palliative treatment with anthracycline/taxanes were included. Eribulin (1.4 mg/m2) was infused intravenously on Day 1 and Day 8 every 3 weeks until disease progression or intolerable toxicity occurred. The progression‐free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and safety of the treatment were assessed.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐four patients were enrolled. The median PFS (mPFS) was 4.3 months (95% CI: 0.3–15.4). The ORR and DCR was 32.1% and 79.1%, respectively. The mPFS of patients who received eribulin as first‐ or second‐line treatment was significantly better than those who received eribulin as ≥3‐line treatment (6.9 months [95% CI: 3.2–8.8] vs. 4.0 months [95% CI: 3.4–4.6], p = 0.006). The mPFS of patients with triple‐negative, HER2‐positive, and HER2(−)/HR(+) was 3.4 (95% CI: 2.7–4.1), 6.2 (95% CI: 2.3–10.1) and 5.0 months (95% CI: 4.1–5.9), respectively. HER2(+) patients had significantly longer PFS than TNBC patients (p = 0.022). Patients received combination therapy had a significantly longer mPFS than those who received eribulin monotherapy (5.0 months [95% CI 3.6–6.3] vs. 4.0 months [95% CI: 3.3–4.7] [p = 0.016]). Multivariate analysis revealed that MBC patients with a molecular typing of non‐TNBC receiving eribulin as ≤2‐line therapy and combination therapy had a low risk of disease progression. Neutropenia (33.58%), leukopenia (11.94%), and thrombocytopenia (4.48%) were the most common treatment‐related adverse events.

Conclusion

Eribulin demonstrated effective clinical activity and a favorable tolerability profile in Chinese patients with ABC in the real‐world. The efficacy and safety profile were consistent with those reported in previous randomized phase 3 trials.
Identification of the molecular subtypes and signatures to predict the prognosis, biological functions, and therapeutic response based on the anoikis‐related genes in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhai Xiang , Chen Baoxiang , Hu Heng , Deng Yanrong , Chen Yazhu , Hong Yuntian , Ren Xianghai , Jiang Congqing
Published: May 2024

Background

Tumors that resist anoikis, a programmed cell death triggered by detachment from the extracellular matrix, promote metastasis; however, the role of anoikis‐related genes (ARGs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) stratification, prognosis, and biological functions remains unclear.

Methods

We obtained transcriptomic profiles of CRC and 27 ARGs from The Cancer Genome Atlas, the Gene Expression Omnibus, and MSigDB databases, respectively. CRC tissue samples were classified into two clusters based on the expression pattern of ARGs, and their functional differences were explored. Hub genes were screened using weighted gene co‐expression network analysis, univariate analysis, and least absolute selection and shrinkage operator analysis, and validated in cell lines, tissues, or the Human Protein Atlas database. We constructed an ARG‐risk model and nomogram to predict prognosis in patients with CRC, which was validated using an external cohort. Multifaceted landscapes, including stemness, tumor microenvironment (TME), immune landscape, and drug sensitivity, between high‐ and low‐risk groups were examined.

Results

Patients with CRC were divided into C1 and C2 clusters. Cluster C1 exhibited higher TME scores, whereas cluster C2 had favorable outcomes and a higher stemness index. Eight upregulated hub ARGs (TIMP1, P3H1, SPP1, HAMP, IFI30, ADAM8, ITGAX, and APOC1) were utilized to construct the risk model. The qRT‐PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry results were consistent with those of the bioinformatics analysis. Patients with high risk exhibited worse overall survival (p < 0.01), increased stemness, TME, immune checkpoint expression, immune infiltration, tumor mutation burden, and drug susceptibility compared with the patients with low risk.

Conclusion

Our results offer a novel CRC stratification based on ARGs and a risk‐scoring system that could predict the prognosis, stemness, TME, immunophenotypes, and drug susceptibility of patients with CRC, thereby improving their prognosis. This stratification may facilitate personalized therapies.
Impact of different respiratory gating methods on target delineation and a radiotherapy plan for solitary pulmonary tumors
Authors: Shang Dongping , Duan Jinghao , Yin Yong , Wang Ruozheng
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Respiratory movement has an important impact on the radiotherapy for lung tumor. Respiratory gating technology is helpful to improve the accuracy of target delineation. This study investigated the value of prospective and retrospective respiratory gating simulations in target delineation and radiotherapy plan design for solitary pulmonary tumors (SPTs) in radiotherapy.

Methods

The enrolled patients underwent CT simulation with three‐dimensional (3D) CT non gating, prospective respiratory gating, and retrospective respiratory gating simulation. The target volumes were delineated on three sets of CT images, and radiotherapy plans were prepared accordingly. Tumor displacements and movement information obtained using the two respiratory gating approaches, as well as the target volumes and dosimetry parameters in the radiotherapy plan were compared.

Results

No significant difference was observed in tumor displacement measured using the two gating methods (p > 0.05). However, the internal gross tumor volumes (IGTVs), internal target volumes (ITVs), and planning target volumes (PTVs) based on the retrospective respiratory gating simulation were larger than those obtained using prospective gating (group A: pIGTV = 0.041, pITV = 0.003, pPTV = 0.008; group B: pIGTV = 0.025, pITV = 0.039, pPTV = 0.004). The two‐gating PTVs were both smaller than those delineated on 3D non gating images (p < 0.001). V5Gy, V10Gy, V20Gy, V30Gy, and mean lung dose in the two gated radiotherapy plans were lower than those in the 3D non gating plan (p < 0.001); however, no significant difference was observed between the two gating plans (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The application of respiratory gating could reduce the target volume and the radiation dose that the normal lung tissue received. Compared to prospective respiratory gating, the retrospective gating provides more information about tumor movement in PTV.
Impulse buying in the digital age: An exploration using systematic literature review approach
Authors: Kaur Kawaljeet , Sharma Tejinder
Published: May 2024

The article synthesizes online impulse buying research conducted through a systematic literature review (SLR) approach. The present review covers the diverse range of literature, from 2001 to 2024, conducted using the SPAR‐4‐SLR protocol. Drawing upon the theory‐context‐characteristics‐method (TCCM) framework, a literature synthesis provides an overview of article's descriptives, underpinning theories, contextual overview and methodological aspects. The review also highlights the variables related to the antecedents, mediators, moderators and consequences of online impulse buying and proposes the integrated conceptual framework of the concept. Lastly, the review highlights the gap in the literature and offers insightful directions to advance research in online impulse buying domain. Overall, this review is an attempt to make significant theoretical and practical contributions to the field of online impulse buying research.
Design, Synthesis and Antibacterial Assessment of Active (4‐Arylazo‐3‐Methyl‐2‐Thienyl) 4‐Antipyrine Ketones
Authors: Barakat Khouloud M. , Adel Elsayed Shymaa , Yılmaz Murat , Abdel‐Latif Ehab , Etman Hassan Ali , Hamed Mohamed A. , El Nemr Ahmed
Published: May 2024

The chemicals formed from antipyrines are flexible organic building blocks that are employed in the development of pharmaceuticals. By diazotizing (4‐arylazo‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐thienyl) 4‐antipyrine ketones 1a, 1b and 1c and (4‐arylazo‐3‐methyl‐2‐thienyl) 4‐antipyrine ketones (2a, 2b and 2c) further replaced with six other coupling components, a broad spectrum of hybrid molecules have been created. Mass spectra, NMR, FTIR, and elemental analyses have all been used to confirm the structures of the synthesised compounds. The antimicrobial screening was investigated by agar well diffusion and diluting the broth technique against both Gram‐negative and positive‐tested bacterial strains. (3‐methyl‐5‐(phenylamino)‐4‐(4‐tolylazo)‐2‐thienyl) 4‐antipyrine ketone (2a) was found to be superior to Ciprofloxacin against test strains: Acinetobacter sp (34.33±1.15 mm), Listeria monocytogenes (29.33±1.15 mm) and Streptococcus sp. (19.33±1.15 mm). Also, good to moderate activities were expressed as minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) which were recorded at 9±1 to 59.67±4.51 μg/mL and 16±4 to >512 μg/mL, respectively, using compounds 2a, 2b, and 2c. MBC/MIC ratio showed, that only, 2a and 2b have a bactericidal effect but other antipyrines with bacteriostatic strength. To conclude, it was suggested that the use of these novel synthesized (4‐arylazo‐3‐methyl‐2‐thienyl) 4‐antipyrine ketone derivatives molecules as a new chemical class of antimicrobial agents to perform new drug discovery in pharmaceutical preparations and medicinal research.
Co‐occurrence of rhino‐orbital mucormycosis and acute lymphoblastic leukemia post‐COVID‐19 infection in a young adolescent male: A case report from a low middle‐income country
Authors: Lingarapu Maneesha , Shaikh Bisma , Singh Ajeet , Khan Mustafa Ahmed , Oduoye Malik Olatunde , Kamboj Nancy , Danishwar Mahmood
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Immunosuppression from B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) chemotherapy and a preceding COVID‐19 infection may predispose patients to rare complications such as rhino‐orbital mucormycosis. Hence, a high index of suspicion should be maintained by physicians (and oncologists) if patients undergoing B‐ALL treatment present with orofacial symptoms and ophthalmological manifestations such as peri‐orbital swelling, ophthalmoplegia, and loss of vision, suggestive of infection.

Mucormycosis is a severe fungal infection that poses significant mortality and morbidity risks, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. We present a rare case of a 16‐year‐old patient with rhino‐orbital mucormycosis following B‐acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) treatment and concurrent COVID‐19 infection. We describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of this patient, and discuss the possible interactions and implications of these three conditions. A young 16‐year‐old male patient without significant clinical history was admitted with complaints of low‐grade intermittent fever, fatigue, malaise, restlessness, and unexplained weight loss for the past 2 months. A bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of B‐ALL. Following the diagnosis of B‐ALL, the patient underwent initiation of chemotherapy. Following the initial two cycles of chemotherapy, the patient experienced fever and cough and tested positive for COVID‐19 infection. Nearly a week later, the patient presented to the chemotherapy emergency department with a clinical picture characterized by a fever up to 39°C associated with left facial swelling, severe headache, purulent rhinorrhea, and foreign body sensation in the ipsilateral nostril. The following day, erythema and left eyelid edema were observed, with ocular opening limitation. The diagnosis was confirmed based on the positive result of polymerase chain reaction for left‐sided mucormycosis. Initial administration of liposomal and lipid amphotericin B at 1–1.5 mg/kg/d doses for 4–6 weeks was followed by surgical debridement of necrotic tissue on the left side of the face and nose. Subsequent ophthalmological examinations showed normal conditions of the left eye. The case underscores the importance of heightened clinical suspicion, early diagnosis through imaging and molecular techniques, aggressive multimodal therapy, and close interdisciplinary collaboration for improved outcomes in such rare and challenging clinical scenarios.
Exceedingly rare incidence of a double inferior vena cava (IVC) with azygos continuation of left IVC
Authors: Dadkhah Adeleh , Pasha Saeed Akbarzadeh , Amin Borjian Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Because of the complex embryonic origin of the abdominal venous structures, IVC and azygous systems can show numerous and even previously unreported anatomical variations and anomalies. Also, evaluating major vascular structures should not be dismissed in non‐contrast‐enhanced CT as it can provide valuable information about these structures.

Double IVC is a rare occurrence of IVC anatomical variations and congenital anomalies. Herein, we discuss a case of a very rare type of double IVC that has not been reported in the literature before. A non‐contrast‐enhanced CT study was performed for a 34‐year‐old patient who visited our ER to evaluate for urolithiasis, during which two IVCs were noted. Each renal vein joined the ipsilateral IVC at a perpendicular angle. Unusually, the right IVC was formed from the confluence of both left and right common iliac veins (CIV), and the left IVC—Instead of crossing the midline at the renal veins level and reuniting the right IVC—cranially contributed to the azygos vein formation and caudally joined the left CIV. Also, there were some small communicating veins between the two IVCs and the left gonadal vein was slightly dilated before suggesting a reflux from the left renal vein (LRV). A complimentary doppler ultrasound exam confirmed the diagnosis and revealed a left‐side varicocele. Although rare cases of hemiazygos continuation and interiliac connections of left‐side IVC in the cases of double‐IVC have been reported previously, a complete confluence of CIVs is rare. The main differential diagnosis is retro‐aortic left renal vein (RLRV) type IV which seems to have an oblique course. Radiologists and surgeons should expect previously unreported variations in the vena cava system. Furthermore, reviewing the main abdominal vasculature should not be dismissed in non‐contrast CT exams.
Antiaromaticity of Cycloheptatrienyl Anions: Structure, Acidity, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Salikov Rinat F. , Belyy Alexander Y. , Ilyushchenko Matvey K. , Platonov Dmitry N. , Sokolova Alena D. , Tomilov Yury V.
Published: May 2024

Investigations of the nature and degree of antiaromaticity of cycloheptatrienyl anion derivatives using both experimental and computational tools are presented. The ground state of cycloheptatrienyl anion in the gas phase is triplet, planar and Baird‐aromatic. In DMSO, it assumes a singlet distorted allylic form with a paratropic ring current. The other derivatives in both phases assume either allylic or diallylic conformations depending on the substituent pattern. A combination of experimental and computational methods was used to determine the pKa values of 16 derivatives in DMSO, which ranged from 36 to −10.7. We revealed that the stronger stabilization of the anionic system, which correlates with acidity, does not necessarily imply a lower degree of antiaromaticity in terms of magnetic properties. Conversely, the substitution pattern first affects the geometry of the ring through the bulkiness of the substituents and their better conjugation with a more distorted system. Consequently, the distortion reduces the cyclic conjugation in the π‐system and thereby decreases the paratropic current in a magnetic field, which manifests itself as a decrease in the NICS. The triplet‐state geometries and magnetic properties are nearly independent on the substitution pattern, which is typical for simple aromatic systems.
An Investigation on Linker Modifications of Cyanoguanidine‐Based P2X7 Receptor Antagonists
Authors: Garrett Taylor R. , Gilchrist Jayson , McKenzie Andre D. J. , Larik Fayaz Ali , Danon Jonathan J. , Werry Eryn L. , Kassiou Michael
Published: May 2024

Despite their acknowledged significance in the inflammatory signalling cascade across a range of disease states, P2X7R antagonists have not yet proven to be effective in clinical trials. In this study, we present findings on P2X7 receptor antagonists that are based on a core adamantyl‐cyanoguanidine‐quinoline lead. To investigate the specific features of the cyanoguanidine moiety that influence compound potency we carried out a structure‐activity relationship (SAR) study. Compound potency was assessed using an in vitro dye‐uptake assay measuring P2X7R pore formation. While none of the compounds displayed superior potency to the lead, we established key structural requirements for potent P2X7R antagonism. An additional SAR using different aryl groups was performed based on the promising activity displayed by the squaramide derivative.
Detoxification of Chemical Warfare Agents by a Zr‐Based MOF with High Recycling Ability at Physiological pH
Authors: Biswas Subharanjan , Gay Rémy , Bzdrenga Janek , Soirot Thomas , Belverge Nicolas , Taudon Nicolas , Brazzolotto Xavier , Haouas Mohamed , Steunou Nathalie , Mahy Jean‐Pierre , Ricoux Rémy
Published: May 2024

The neutralization of organophosphorous (OP) chemical agents used in modern warfare is a growing concern due to their extreme toxicity to human cells. In several previous works, although the capability of several Zr‐MOF‐based catalysts has been showcased to facilitate hydrolysis of OP agents in heterogeneous pathways, their usage appeared to be limited by very slow kinetics at neutral pH. There is still a lack of MOF based catalysts that can detoxify OPs at physiological pH. The recycling ability of MOF‐based catalysts has also not been greatly explored. Thus, herein, we explored a Zr‐based MOF, MOF‐801(Zr) for the detoxification of a series of OP nerve agents and a pesticide with simultaneous adsorption and degradation at pH 7.5 in a buffer solution, close to physiological conditions. This MOF‐based catalyst demonstrates significant hydrolysis activity towards several nerve agents, with up to 99 % conversion within 2 h and an excellent half‐life of less than 5 minutes. In addition, it can be recycled at least 5 times consecutively with a residual activity of at least 90 %.
‘The Relentless Nature of Whiteness’: Black Psychologists' Experiences of Racial Microaggressions in Cross‐Cultural Supervision
Authors: Ebubedike Ngozi , Callanan Margie , Oldershaw Anna
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Research suggests that cross‐cultural supervision can be prone to microaggressions with deleterious effects for ethno‐racial minorities. There are currently no known studies examining the impact of racial microaggressions in supervision on qualified psychologists. This study aimed to explore Black psychologists' experiences of microaggressions in supervision with a White supervisor and their impact.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 individuals who had completed clinical or counselling psychology doctoral training. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Three superordinate themes and 12 subthemes were derived from the analysis. The superordinate themes were: ‘It's the subtle things’, ‘It's an ordeal’ and ‘Surviving Whiteness in psychology’. The findings illustrate the complex nature of racial microaggressions and their profound and lasting impact on individuals. The cumulative impact of these experiences resulted in significant negative psychological outcomes.

Conclusions

The results suggest that there are common microaggressions that recur in supervision. Encountering microaggressions impeded the supervisory relationship, supervision and professional development. Clinical implications include recommendations for including multicultural competency in psychology trainings and ongoing professional development plans.
Constructing and Preliminary Testing a Narrative Therapy Programme for Posttraumatic Growth in Chinese Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Dandan , Zhu Tianrong , Zhou Yunxian
Published: May 2024

Background

The research on posttraumatic growth (PTG) promotion programmes, particularly narrative therapy (NT), for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains limited. This pilot study aims to develop an NT programme to promote PTG and evaluate its feasibility, preliminary effectiveness, participants' experiences and improvement suggestions.

Methods

The NT programme was initially developed through literature review, interviews with IBD patients and expert panel discussions. A randomized controlled pilot trial was conducted to assess the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the programme. Participants in the NT group received five consecutive weekly sessions of the programme, while the control group received standard care. Outcomes including PTG, anxiety, depression and quality of life were measured. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore participants' experiences and suggestions for programme modifications.

Results

The NT programme was developed with scientific rigour. The recruitment rate and retention rate were 62.5% and 96.7%, respectively. A significant reduction in anxiety levels was observed, and manifestations of PTG were reported in the NT group. Suggestions for improvement of the NT programme were received from the participants.

Conclusion

The NT programme was constructed to promote PTG in IBD patients in this study, further offering preliminary evidence for its feasibility and potential positive psychological change. However, large‐scale research is needed to validate its effectiveness for broader applications.
Controllable Afterglow Emission of Single‐Mode to Dual‐Mode Carbon Dot Composites through Matrix Ratio Adjustment
Authors: Zhang Kunsheng , Huang Shengyao , Gao Jingran , Tang Limei , He Rongxing , Li Ming , Shen Wei
Published: May 2024

Room temperature afterglow materials have received widespread attention and application in anti‐counterfeiting, imaging, and other fields, but the many shortcomings of traditional afterglow materials in terms of cost, environment, and synthesis methods have limited their development. In contrast, carbon dot materials have attracted more and more research due to their numerous advantages and great potential for development. However, the preparation of carbon dot materials with phosphorescence and delayed fluorescence afterglow emission capabilities remains a difficult task. In this study, a series of long life afterglow carbon dot composites with single‐mode and dual‐mode afterglow emission were successfully prepared by inserting carbon dots synthesized from glucose and glycine into boric acid matrix through a two‐step hydrothermal method. This series of carbon dot composites has achieved a transformation from single‐mode phosphorescent emission to unique dual‐mode afterglow emission, allowing for efficient environmental response color modulation. The composites display different afterglow emissions dominated by either phosphorescent or delayed fluorescence at different temperatures. Based on their excellent temperature sensitivity, a single‐mode long phosphorescence with a lifetime of 1.62 seconds was achieved at low temperature. In summary, we have discovered a convenient and efficient method to achieve dual‐mode emission by adjusting the matrix proportion.
Controlled Self‐Assembly of Zn‐Tetraphenylporphyrins for Efficient Photocatalytic Solar H2 Production and Simultaneous Organic Transformation to Valuable Chemicals
Authors: Sury Adhra , Samuthirapandi Kiruthika , Ghosh Soham , Kar Subhajit , Sarkar Sunandan , Kommula Bramhaiah , Bhattacharyya Santanu
Published: May 2024

Herein, we have designed aqueous dispersed self‐assembled nanostructures with diverse morphologies from the zinc tetraphenyl porphyrin (ZnTPP) monomer employing simple solution‐based coprecipitation methods. Detailed morphological studies have been carried out by various electron microscopy techniques. Finally, the structural features were correlated with the underpinning photophysical processes using steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopy. Detailed studies suggest that controlled morphology and highly defined intermolecular interactions affect the overall photoinduced charge transfer process. Based on the fundamental investigations, all these different types of nanostructures have been utilized as photocatalysts for solar hydrogen production without using any cocatalysts, and it was found that the spherical nanostructure exhibits significantly higher H2 production rates of ∼1682 μ mole/g, which is a few folds higher than other 1D and 2D nanostructured materials. The experimental findings were further supported by the TD‐DFT study. Furthermore, the detailed computational studies suggest that the spherical aggregates exhibited a more vital interaction between the ZnTPP molecules, causing significant electronic coupling between bright local excited and charge transfer states, which supports our experimental findings. Finally, we have selectively utilized the oxidative half‐reaction for the simultaneous transformation of glycerol to valuable chemicals along with photocatalytic H2 production through reductive half‐reaction.
Growing Small Grains in Sub‐Arctic Alaska
Authors: Joosse Tess
Published: May 2024

The largest state in the U.S., Alaska has only 1% of its land devoted to agriculture. Yet, there’s a strong need for and interest in increasing local production to help fortify food security in the state.

The Alaska Collaborative Food Production Systems Project develops research projects and supports agricultural producers in the state.

At the 2023 ASA, CSSA, and SSSA Annual Meeting, researchers from the team talked about the project’s objectives and progress. With one growing season under their belts, they’ve made headway on breeding trials, gathered novel data on soil health and quality, finished a year of cover crop trials, and interviewed producers and consumers about food agency in the state.
An investigation of the impact of imbalance on the analysis of the US crop variety evaluation program data
Authors: Fang Zhou , Deng Dewayne D. , Jenkins Johnie N. , Zhou Qian M.
Published: May 2024

Multi‐environment trial data from many crop variety evaluation programs are imbalanced because only a subset of varieties is selected for the following year, which leads to missing variety by year. Inspired by the US National Cotton Variety Test trial, we conducted new simulation studies to investigate selection processes that differ from the existing literature. The followings are our four main contributions. First, we adopted a framework that utilizes a logistic regression to generate imbalanced data that follow missing completely at random, missing at random, or missing not at random (MNAR). Second, our selection process can depend on multiple traits, whereas all existing studies only used a single trait for selection. Third, besides variance components (VCs), long‐term trends that reflect genetic and non‐genetic development are of interest since the simulated data span over 30 years. Last, we evaluated the prediction accuracy for variety's overall and location‐specific performance. The results show that the VC and long‐term trends estimations are the worst under MNAR using the single trait for selection. Compared to VC, the long‐term trends estimation is more influenced by the missing mechanism and missing rate. However, the prediction accuracy for variety's performance is mainly driven by the missing rate and is less sensitive to the selection process. If ignoring the genetic and non‐genetic long‐term trends, both estimation and prediction will deteriorate. More testing years would improve estimation and prediction, despite a higher missing rate.
Non‐Fused π‐Extension of Endcaps of Small Molecular Acceptors Enabling High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Feng Fan , Hu Zunyuan , Wang Jianxiao , Wang Pengchao , Sun Cheng , Wang Xiaoning , Bi Fuzhen , Li Yonghai , Bao Xichang
Published: May 2024

The modular structure of small molecular acceptors (SMAs) allows for versatile modifications of the materials and boosts the photovoltaic efficiencies of organic solar cells (OSCs) in recent years. As a critical component, the endcaps of SMAs have been intensively investigated and modified to control the molecular aggregation and photo‐electronic conversion. However, most of the studies focus on halogenation or π‐fusion extension of the endcap moieties, but overlook the non‐fused π‐extension approach, which could be a promising strategy to balance the self‐aggregation and compatibility behaviors. Herein, we reported two new acceptors namely BTP‐Th and BTP‐FTh based on non‐fused π‐extension of the endcap by chlorinated‐thiophene, of which the latter molecule has better co‐planarity and crystallinity because of the intramolecular noncovalent interactions. Paired with donor PBDB‐T, the optimal device of BTP‐FTh reveals a greater efficiency of 14.81 % that that of BTP‐Th (13.91 %). Nevertheless, the BTP‐Th based device realizes a lower energy loss, enabling BTP‐Th as a good candidate to serve as guest acceptor. As a result, the ternary solar cells of PM6 : BTP‐eC9 : BTP‐Th output a champion efficiency up to 18.71 % with enhanced open‐circuit voltage. This study highlights the significance of rational decoration of endcaps for the design of high‐performance SMAs and photovoltaic cells.
Engineered CAR‐T cells targeting the non‐functional P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7) receptor as a novel treatment for ovarian cancer
Authors: Bandara Veronika , Niktaras Victoria M , Willett Vasiliki J , Chapman Hayley , Lokman Noor A , Macpherson Anne M , Napoli Silvana , Gundsambuu Batjargal , Foeng Jade , Sadlon Timothy J , Coombs Justin , McColl Shaun R , Barry Simon C , Oehler Martin K , Ricciardelli Carmela
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Recent studies have identified expression of the non‐functional P2X7 (nfP2X7) receptor on various malignant cells including ovarian cancer, but not on normal cells, which makes it a promising tumour‐associated antigen candidate for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T‐cell immunotherapies. In this study, we assessed the cytotoxic effects of nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells on ovarian cancer using in vitro and in vivo models.

Methods

We evaluated the effects of nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells on ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV‐3, OVCAR3, OVCAR5), normal peritoneal cells (LP‐9) and primary serous ovarian cancer cells derived from patient ascites in vitro using monolayer and 3D spheroid assays. We also evaluated the effects of nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells on patient‐derived tissue explants, which recapitulate an intact tumour microenvironment. In addition, we investigated the effect of nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells in vivo using the OVCAR‐3 xenograft model in NOD‐scid IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice.

Results

Our study found that nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells were cytotoxic and significantly inhibited survival of OVCAR3, OVCAR5 and primary serous ovarian cancer cells compared with un‐transduced CD3+ T cells in vitro. However, no significant effects of nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells were observed for SKOV3 or normal peritoneal cells (LP‐9) cells with low P2X7 receptor expression. Treatment with nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells increased apoptosis compared with un‐transduced T cells in patient‐derived explants and correlated with CD3 positivity. Treatment with nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells significantly reduced OVCAR3 tumour burden in mice compared with un‐transduced CD3 cells for 7–8 weeks.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that nfP2X7‐CAR‐T cells have great potential to be developed as a novel immunotherapy for ovarian cancer.