bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities and Obstacles in LCTEM Nanoimaging – A Review
Authors: Tarnawski Tomasz , Parlińska‐Wojtan Magdalena
Published: December 2023

Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy (LCTEM) is a great progression in nanostructure imaging, allowing the observation of chemical reactions in real time. It is widely reported, that this technique can be successfully used for analyzing nanoparticles synthesis, diffusion, aggregation and degradation. This gives a completely new insight into nanotechnological research. Normally, samples in TEM must be observed in vacuum, showing only the results of a performed experiment, whereas in situ observations in liquid environment provide information about the dynamics of the processes. LCTEM can show, how orientation of the particles/aggregates, surface roughness or solution flow rate influence the examined reaction. Those data are highly valuable for creating kinetic models of the reactions. There are however still some obstacles in LCTEM. Imaging of nanostructures in liquid environment is problematic since the electron beam reportedly may affect the observed sample. The beam modifies the temperature and pH of the liquid sample, changing the process dynamics. Therefore, its influence needs to be considered during in situ TEM observations. Nevertheless, LCTEM remains one of the highest achievements in the field of nanostructures imaging. In this review, recent achievements and developments of the LCTEM technique are presented.
The levels and trends of cancer incidence in the elderly population at national and sub‐national scales in Iran from 1990 to 2016
Authors: Shokri Varniab Zahra , Saeedi Moghaddam Sahar , Pourabhari Langroudi Ashkan , Azadnajafabad Sina , Mortazavi Seyede Salehe , Sheidaei Ali , Gohari Kimiya , Farzi Yosef , Shirzad Moghaddam Zeinab , Sohrabi Hanye , Shati Mohsen
Published: December 2023

Background

Cancer is most commonly associated with aging. It is necessary to gain a better understanding of cancer's trend and distribution among elderlies and provide comprehensive cancer care for this population.

Aims

The aim of the current study was to show the trends in cancer incidence focusing on the population aged 60+ from 1990 to 2016 in Iran.

Material and Results

We used the dataset of the Iran Cancer Registry to estimate cancer incidences by sex, age, province, and year. In order to account for incomplete data we used a two‐stage spatiotemporal model along with random intercept mixed effect models. We calculated annual age‐standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) for age groups 60+ and 5‐interval age groups. There was an increasing trend of 25.3% to 936.9% (95% uncertainty interval: 769.6–1141.8) in ASIR in the elderly in 2016. ASIR of all cancers were 889.7 (731.3–1083.6) in women and 988.1 (811.1–1205) in men in 2016, per 100 000 respectively, which had an increasing trend comparing 1990. Skin, breast, and stomach cancers in women and prostate, skin, and stomach cancers in men were the most common types in 2016. All the most incident cancer subtypes underwent an increasing trend in both sexes, except for the bladder, esophageal, and skin cancers which almost had a similar level in 1990 and 2016. Most provinces had an increasing trend in ASIR in all cancers combined from 1990 to 2016 except Zanjan with a decreasing trend.

Conclusion

Regarding the persistent increasing trend of most elderly cancers' incidence, this is crucial for policymakers to establish preventive plans, determine proper resource allocation, and develop specific treatments for elderly cancer patients.
Previous cardiovascular injury is a prerequisite for immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated lethal myocarditis in mice
Authors: Rubio‐Infante Nestor , Castillo Elena Cristina , Alves‐Figueiredo Hugo , Ramos‐González Martin , Salazar‐Ramírez Felipe , Salas‐Treviño Daniel , Soto‐Domínguez Adolfo , Lozano Omar , García‐Rivas Gerardo , Torre‐Amione Guillermo
Published: December 2023

Aims

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are antineoplastic drugs designed to activate the immune system's response against cancer cells. Evidence suggests that they may lead to immune‐related adverse events, particularly when combined (e.g., anti‐CTLA‐4 plus anti‐PD‐1), sometimes resulting in severe conditions such as myocarditis. We aimed to investigate whether a previously sustained cardiac injury, such as pathological remodelling due to hypertension, is a prerequisite for ICI therapy‐induced myocarditis.

Methods

We evaluated the cardiotoxicity of ICIs in a hypertension (HTN) mouse model (C57BL/6). Weekly doses were administered up to day 21 after the first administration. Our analysis encompassed the following parameters: (i) survival and cardiac pathological remodelling, (ii) cardiac function assessed using pressure‐volume (PV)‐loops, with brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) serving as a marker of haemodynamic dysfunction and (iii) cardiac inflammation (cytokine levels, infiltration, and cardiac antigen autoantibodies).

Results

After the first administration of ICI combined therapy, the treated HTN group showed a 30% increased mortality (P = 0.0002) and earlier signs of hypertrophy and pathological remodelling compared with the untreated HTN group. BNP (P = 0.01) and TNF‐α (<0.0001) increased 2.5‐ and 1.7‐fold, respectively, in the treated group, while IL‐6 (P = 0.8336) remained unchanged. Myocarditis only developed in the HTN group treated with ICIs on day 21 (score >3), characterised by T cell infiltration and increased cardiac antigen antibodies (86% showed a titre of 1:160). The control group treated with ICI was unaffected in any evaluated feature.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that pre‐existing sustained cardiac damage is a necessary condition for ICI‐induced myocarditis.
Environmental Risk Assessment with Energy Budget Models: A Comparison Between Two Models of Different Complexity
Authors: Romoli Carlo , Jager Tjalling , Trijau Marie , Goussen Benoit , Gergs Andrè
Published: December 2023

The extrapolation of effects from controlled standard laboratory tests to real environmental conditions is a major challenge facing ecological risk assessment (ERA) of chemicals. Toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic (TKTD) models, such as those based on dynamic energy budget (DEB) theory, can play an important role in filling this gap. Through the years, different practical TKTD models have been derived from DEB theory, ranging from the full “standard” DEB animal model to simplified “DEBtox” models. It is currently unclear what impact a different level of model complexity can have on the regulatory risk assessment. In the present study, we compare the performance of two DEB–TKTD models with different levels of complexity, focusing on model calibration on standard test data and on forward predictions for untested time-variable exposure profiles. The first model is based on the standard DEB model with primary parameters, whereas the second is a reduced version with compound parameters, based on DEBkiss. After harmonization of the modeling choices, we demonstrate that these two models can achieve very similar performances both in the calibration step and in the forward prediction step. With the data presented in the present study, selection of the most suitable TKTD model for ERA therefore cannot be based alone on goodness-of-fit or on the precision of model predictions (within current ERA procedures for pesticides) but would likely be based on the trade-off between ease of use and model flexibility. We also stress the importance of modeling choices, such as how to fill gaps in the information content of experimental toxicity data and how to accommodate differences in growth and reproduction between different data sets for the same chemical–species combination. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:440–449. © 2023 ibacon GmbH. Bayer AG and The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Evidence for modulation of EEG microstates by mental workload levels and task types
Authors: Chen Jingxin , Ke Yufeng , Ni Guangjian , Liu Shuang , Ming Dong
Published: December 2023

Electroencephalography (EEG) microstate analysis has become a popular tool for studying the spatial and temporal dynamics of large‐scale electrophysiological activities in the brain in recent years. Four canonical topographies of the electric field (classes A, B, C, and D) have been widely identified, and changes in microstate parameters are associated with several psychiatric disorders and cognitive functions. Recent studies have reported the modulation of EEG microstate by mental workload (MWL). However, the common practice of evaluating MWL is in a specific task. Whether the modulation of microstate by MWL is consistent across different types of tasks is still not clear. Here, we studied the topographies and dynamics of microstate in two independent MWL tasks: NBack and the multi‐attribute task battery (MATB) and showed that the modulation of MWL on microstate topographies and parameters depended on tasks. We found that the parameters of microstates A and C, and the topographies of microstates A, B, and D were significantly different between the two tasks. Meanwhile, all four microstate topographies and parameters of microstates A and C were different during the NBack task, but no significant difference was found during the MATB task. Furthermore, we employed a support vector machine recursive feature elimination procedure to investigate whether microstate parameters were suitable for MWL classification. An averaged classification accuracy of 87% for within‐task and 78% for cross‐task MWL discrimination was achieved with at least 10 features. Collectively, our findings suggest that topographies and parameters of microstates can provide valuable information about neural activity patterns with a dynamic temporal structure at different levels of MWL, but the modulation of MWL depends on tasks and their corresponding functional systems. Moreover, as a potential indicator, microstate parameters could be used to distinguish MWL.
Pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major flap with osseous rib harvest for salvage mandibular reconstruction: Case and technique
Authors: Judd Ryan T. , McCrary Hilary C. , Farlow Janice L. , Li Michael , Godsell Jeremy , Kneuertz Peter J. , Ozer Enver
Published: December 2023

In the era of free flap reconstruction, mandibular defects are routinely reconstructed with osseous free flaps, and non‐free flap bony reconstruction options are limited. A patient with T4N0 mandibular squamous cell carcinoma underwent resection with fibula free flap reconstruction of a parasymphyseal to angle defect. After free flap failure due to venous congestion, the flap was explanted. He declined additional free flap reconstruction and elected to proceed with pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major with rib. In this case presentation, we discuss the technical details of harvest of this flap using the 6th rib. The pedicled osteomyocutaneous pectoralis major flap with osseous rib harvest, which is infrequently described in the literature, remains a viable option for bony reconstruction, particularly in the salvage setting.
Energetic performance evaluation of a corrugated channel solar air heater: Experimental investigation, mathematical modeling, and solution procedure
Authors: Chanaa Fatima , Benhmida Mohammadi , Nadi Monir , El Alami Yassine , Amiry Houssam , Bendaoud Rachid , Yaden Mohammed Faysal , Baghaz Elhadi , Bounouar Said , Yadir Said
Published: December 2023

The cost of manufacturing and electricity consumption are key considerations in encouraging the adoption of solar air heaters (SAH) in sunny and low‐income areas. These parameters can have a significant impact on promoting the use of these devices. In this study, solar air heating was designed with the objective of achieving the highest possible efficiency/cost ratio. It is a corrugated channel SAH whose structure is equipped with two barriers perforated with a sufficient number of holes for a good airflow distribution. A new model was developed to evaluate the qualitative parameters that describe the thermos‐energetic behavior of a heating system. These parameters were measured using experimental data obtained under real operating conditions. The thermal model assumes a uniform temperature for the glass, absorber, and insulation of the collector, while the temperature of the circulating air is assumed to vary linearly along the collector. To ensure that these assumptions were valid, the collector was cut into a number of 0.1 m sections in the direction of flow. By comparing the numerical results with the experimental data, the model was validated and then used to calculate the temperature profiles of the different elements of the collector, as well as to estimate the impact of certain operational parameters on its thermal performance. Relative percentage error values, between the numerical and the experimental results, of 1.7517%, 1.0750%, 0.8577%, 2.2371%, and 2.3637% for absorber plate temperature, outlet airflow temperature, useful power, thermal, and effective efficiencies, respectively, are recorded.
A note on free cashflow analysis: Theory versus practice
Authors: Grossmann Axel , Johnston Ken , Hatem John J.
Published: December 2023

In this note, we compare the methodologies in academic textbooks and the CFA practitioner's guide while demonstrating which academic approach provides the most consistent valuation metric with practitioners. There are many differences when it comes to the items or approaches considered for free cash flow calculations. Some differences, however, are related to the purpose of the calculated free cash flow, for example, the actual free cash flow a company generates during a certain year versus the free cash flow for firm valuation purposes. This note attempts to address this gap and may serve as a guide to faculty as well as practitioners. In what follows, different expositions of the free cash flow model are explored and compared.
Using magnetic resonance imaging to measure head muscles: An innovative method to opportunistically determine muscle mass and detect sarcopenia
Authors: Borda Miguel German , Duque Gustavo , Pérez‐Zepeda Mario Ulises , Baldera Jonathan Patricio , Westman Eric , Zettergren Anna , Samuelsson Jessica , Kern Silke , Rydén Lina , Skoog Ingmar , Aarsland Dag
Published: December 2023

Background

Sarcopenia is associated with multiple adverse outcomes. Traditional methods to determine low muscle mass for the diagnosis of sarcopenia are mainly based on dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and bioelectrical impedance analysis. These tests are not always available and are rather time consuming and expensive. However, many brain and head diseases require a head MRI. In this study, we aim to provide a more accessible way to detect sarcopenia by comparing the traditional method of DXA lean mass estimation versus the tongue and masseter muscle mass assessed in a standard brain MRI.

Methods

The H70 study is a longitudinal study of older people living in Gothenburg, Sweden. In this cross‐sectional analysis, from 1203 participants aged 70 years at baseline, we included 495 with clinical data and MRI images available. We used the appendicular lean soft tissue index (ALSTI) in DXA images as our reference measure of lean mass. Images from the masseter and tongue were analysed and segmented using 3D Slicer. For the statistical analysis, the Spearman correlation coefficient was used, and concordance was estimated with the Kappa coefficient.

Results

The final sample consisted of 495 participants, of which 52.3% were females. We found a significant correlation coefficient between both tongue (0.26) and masseter (0.33) with ALSTI (P < 0.001). The sarcopenia prevalence confirmed using the alternative muscle measure in MRI was calculated using the ALSTI (tongue = 2.0%, masseter = 2.2%, ALSTI = 2.4%). Concordance between sarcopenia with masseter and tongue versus sarcopenia with ALSTI as reference has a Kappa of 0.989 (P < 0.001) for masseter and a Kappa of 1 for the tongue muscle (P < 0.001). Comorbidities evaluated with the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale were significantly associated with all the muscle measurements: ALSTI (odds ratio [OR] 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–1.26, P < 0.001), masseter (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.07–1.26, P < 0.001) and tongue (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.04–1.22, P = 0.002); the higher the comorbidities, the higher the probability of having abnormal muscle mass.

Conclusions

ALSTI was significantly correlated with tongue and masseter muscle mass. When performing the sarcopenia diagnostic algorithm, the prevalence of sarcopenia calculated with head muscles did not differ from sarcopenia calculated using DXA, and almost all participants were correctly classified using both methods.
MicroRNA‐299‐3p inhibits cell proliferation, motility, invasion and angiogenesis via VEGFA in upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chien‐Shen , Lee Yi‐Chen , Jhan Jhen‐Hao , Li Wei‐Ming , Chang Lin‐Li , Huang A‐Mei , Lin Hui‐Hui , Wu Yi‐Ru , Hsu Wei‐Chi , Ke Hung‐Lung
Published: December 2023

Background

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is a rare tumor with extraordinarily different features between Eastern and Western countries. Vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGFA) was originally identified as a secreted signaling protein and regulator of vascular development and cancer progression. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of VEGFA by microRNA in UTUC.

Methods

VEGFA expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 140 human UTUC tissue samples. Next, we assessed the regulatory relationship between VEGFA and miR‐299‐3p by real‐time PCR, western blotting, ELISA and dual‐luciferase reporter assays using two UTUC cell lines. The role of miR‐299‐3p/VEGFA in cell proliferation, motility, invasion, and tube formation was analyzed in vitro.

Results

High VEGFA expression was significantly associated with tumor stage, grade, distant metastasis and cancer‐related death and correlated with poor progression‐free and cancer‐specific survival. VEGFA knockdown repressed proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis in UTUC cell lines. miR‐299‐3p significantly reduced VEGFA protein expression and miR‐299‐3p overexpression inhibited VEGFA mRNA and protein expression by directly targeting its 3′‐UTR. Functional studies indicated that VEGFA overexpression reversed the miR‐299‐3p‐mediated suppression of tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis. In addition, miR‐299‐3p/VEGFA suppressed cellular functions in UTUC by modulating the expression of P18 and cyclin E2.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that miR‐299‐3p possibly suppresses UTUC cell proliferation, motility, invasion and angiogenesis via VEGFA. VEGFA may act as a prognostic predictor, and both VEGFA and miR‐299‐3p could be potential therapeutic targets for UTUC.
Validation of an HIV whole genome sequencing method for HIV drug resistance testing in an Australian clinical microbiology laboratory
Authors: Jenkins Frances , Le Thomas , Farhat Rima , Pinto Angie , Anzari Azim , Bonsall David , Golubchik Tanya , Bowden Rory , Lee Frederick J. , van Hal Sebastiaan J.
Published: December 2023

Detection of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) is vital to successful anti‐retroviral therapy (ART). HIVDR testing to determine drug‐resistance mutations is routinely performed in Australia to guide ART choice in newly diagnosed people living with HIV or in cases of treatment failure. In 2022, our clinical microbiology laboratory sought to validate a next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based HIVDR assay to replace the previous Sanger‐sequencing (SS)‐based ViroSeq. NGS solutions for HIVDR offer higher throughput, lower costs and higher sensitivity for variant detection. We sought to validate the previously described low‐cost probe‐based NGS method (veSEQ‐HIV) for whole‐genome recovery and HIVDR‐testing in a diagnostic setting. veSEQ‐HIV displayed 100% and 98% accuracy in major and minor mutation detection, respectively, and 100% accuracy of subtyping (provided > 1000 mapped reads were obtained). Pairwise comparison exhibited low inter‐and intrarun variability across the whole‐genome (Jaccard index [J] = 0.993; J = 0.972) and the Pol gene (J = 0.999; J = 0.999), respectively. veSEQ‐HIV met all our pre‐set criteria based on WHO recommendations and successfully replaced ViroSeq in our laboratory. Scaling‐down veSEQ‐HIV to a limited batch size and sequencing on Illumina iSeq. 100, allowed easy implementation of the assay into the workflow of a small sequencing laboratory with minimal staff and equipment and the ability to meet clinically relevant test turn‐around times. As HIVDR‐testing moves from SS‐ to NGS‐based methods and new ART drugs come to market (particularly those with targets outside the Pol region), whole‐genome recovery using veSEQ‐HIV provides a robust, cost‐effective and “future‐proof” NGS method for HIVDR‐testing.
Biochar alleviated the toxic effects of microplastics‐contaminated geocarposphere soil on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) pod development: roles of pod nutrient metabolism and geocarposphere microbial modulation
Authors: Yang Liyu , Liang Haiyan , Wu Qi , Shen Pu
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The accumulation of microplastics in agricultural soil poses a threat to the sustainability of agriculture, impacting crop growth and soil health. Due to the geocarpy feature of peanut, geocarposphere soil environment is critical to pod development and its nutritional quality. While the effects of microplastics in the rhizosphere have been studied, their impact on peanut pod in the geocarposphere remains unknown. Biochar has emerged as a potential soil agent with the ability to remediate soil contamination. However, the mechanisms of biochar in mitigating the toxic effects of microplastics‐contaminated geocarposphere soil on peanut pod development remain largely unexplored.

RESULTS

We evaluated the peanut pod performance and microbiome when facing microplastics contamination and biochar amendment in geocarposphere soil. The results showed that microplastics present in geocarposphere soil could directly enter the peanut pod, cause pod developmental disorder and exert adverse effects on nutritional quality. Aberrant expression of key genes associated with amino acid metabolism, lipid synthesis, and auxin and ethylene signaling pathways were the underlying molecular mechanisms of microplastics‐induced peanut pod developmental inhibition. However, these expression abnormalities could be reversed by biochar application. In addition, peanut geocarposphere microbiome results showed that biochar application could restore the diversity of microbial communities inhibited by microplastics contamination and promote the relative abundance of bacteria correlated with pathogen resistance and nitrogen cycle of geocarposphere soil, further promoting peanut pod development.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that biochar application is an effective strategy to mitigate the toxic effects of microplastics‐contaminated geocarposphere soil on pod development and nutritional quality. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Differential efficacy of two small molecule PHLPP inhibitors to promote nucleus Pulposus cell health
Authors: Zhang Changli , Gordon Madeleine D. , Joseph Katherine M. , Diaz‐Hernandez Martha E. , Drissi Hicham , Illien‐Jünger Svenja
Published: December 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is associated with chronic back pain. We previously demonstrated that the phosphatase pleckstrin homology domain and leucine‐rich repeat protein phosphatase (PHLPP) 1 was positively correlated with IVD degeneration and its deficiency decelerated IVD degeneration in both mouse IVDs and human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Small molecule PHLPP inhibitors may offer a translatable method to alleviate IVD degeneration. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of the two PHLPP inhibitors NSC117079 and NSC45586 in promoting a healthy NP phenotype.

Methods

Tail IVDs of 5‐month‐old wildtype mice were collected and treated with NSC117079 or NSC45586 under low serum conditions ex vivo. Hematoxylin & eosin staining was performed to examine IVD structure and NP cell morphology. The expression of KRT19 was analyzed through immunohistochemistry. Cell apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay. Human NP cells were obtained from patients with IVD degeneration. The gene expression of KRT19, ACAN, SOX9, and MMP13 was analyzed via real time qPCR, and AKT phosphorylation and the protein expression of FOXO1 was analyzed via immunoblot.

Results

In a mouse IVD organ culture model, NSC45586, but not NSC117079, preserved vacuolated notochordal cell morphology and KRT19 expression while suppressing cell apoptosis, counteracting the degenerative changes induced by serum deprivation, especially in males. Likewise, in degenerated human NP cells, NSC45586 increased cell viability and the expression of KRT19, ACAN, and SOX9 and reducing the expression of MMP13, while NSC117079 treatment only increased KRT19 expression. Mechanistically, NSC45586 treatment increased FOXO1 protein expression in NP cells, and inhibiting FOXO1 offset NSC45586‐induced regenerative potential, especially in males.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that NSC45586 was effective in promoting NP cell health, especially in males, suggesting that PHLPP plays a key role in NP cell homeostasis and that NSC45586 might be a potential drug candidate in treating IVD degeneration.
Quality of Life and Screening on Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Depression, Anxiety in Septorhinoplasty
Authors: Hohenberger Ralph , Endres Philipp , Salzmann Irina , Plinkert Peter K. , Wallner Frank , Baumann Ingo , Alt Janes , Riedel Frank , Lippert Burkard M. , Bulut Olcay Cem
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Septorhinoplasty (SRPL) can improve quality of life (QoL) in functional and aesthetical aspects of the nose. A key factor compromising postoperative satisfaction is symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), defined by excessive concerns and distress over slight or imagined physical defects. Although a high prevalence of BDD in SRPL patients is evident, the effect of positive screening on BDD and other psychiatric disorders is understudied. It was hypothesized that patients screening positive for BDD, depression or anxiety do not show increased postoperative QoL.

Methods

A multicenter, prospective study including 259 patients. For psychiatric evaluation, the BDD concern questionnaire—aesthetic version and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used; for disease‐specific QoL the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation (ROE) and the Functional Rhinoplasty Outcome Inventory (FROI‐17).

Results

In preoperative evaluation, 32.5% had a positive screening for BDD, 42.2% for increased anxiety, and 32.9% for depression. Mean QoL improved in the whole cohort (FROI total score: 54.4 ± 21.8 to 32.8 ± 23.7 and ROE: 32.3 ± 15.6 to 69.8 ± 23.1, both p < 0.001). Patients screening positive for BDD, depression or anxiety did show an increased postoperative QoL, but to a significantly lower degree and with lower pre‐ and postoperative QoL levels.

Conclusions

SRPL patients show a high prevalence of BDD symptoms, elevated anxiety, and depression. These subgroups show lower QoL levels and an impaired QoL increase after surgery. Rhinoplasty surgeons must be aware of the disorders and their symptoms, discuss potential concerns with the patients, and potentially refer them to a specialist.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:2187–2193, 2024
Single Shot Generation of High‐Aspect‐Ratio Nano‐Rods from Sapphire by Ultrafast First Order Bessel Beam
Authors: Belloni Valeria Viviana , Hassan Mostafa , Furfaro Luca , Giust Remo , Seydoux‐Guillaume Anne‐Magali , Sao‐Joao Sergio , Courvoisier Francois
Published: December 2023

Engineering the polarization and spatial phase of ultrafast laser pulses represents a compelling strategy for enhancing control over laser–matter interaction and enabling rapid and innovative nano‐fabrication processes. Here, the single‐shot, ultrafast laser fabrication of high‐aspect‐ratio, vertically standing nano‐pillars with a diameter of  nm and height up to 15 µm on the surface of sapphire, is reported. To achieve this, the distinctive properties of diffraction‐free, first‐order Bessel beams endowed with either radial or azimuthal polarization distributions, are harnessed under tight focusing conditions. The highly intense laser–matter interaction in this configuration generates a tubular‐shaped, high‐pressure field beneath the material surface, leading to the rapid expulsion of material across the surface. Three distinct regimes for the pillar generation are identified in addition to a mechanism based on the Rayleigh‐Plateau theory that explains the distinct morphological regimes observed. The findings not only shed light on the underlying physical mechanisms of intense excitation of transparent dielectrics but also offer exciting prospects for the rapid fabrication of positive nano‐structures and material compression across various fields of application.
A property of forcing notions and preservation of cardinal invariants
Authors: Aoki Yushiro
Published: December 2023

We define a property of forcing notions and show that there exists a model of its forcing axiom and the negation of the continuum hypothesis in which the Cichoń‐Blass diagram of cardinal invariants is the same as in the Cohen model. As a corollary, its forcing axiom and the forcing axiom for ‐centered forcing notions are independent of each other.
Toward High‐Performance Piezoresistive Polymer Derived SiOC Ceramics through Masked Stereolithography 3D Printing with β‐Silicon Carbide Nanopowder Reinforcement
Authors: Rahman Md Sazzadur , Phani Arindam , Kim Seonghwan
Published: December 2023

Enhancing the piezoresistivity of polymer‐derived silicon oxycarbide ceramics (SiOCPDC) is of great interest in the advancement of highly sensitive pressure/load sensor technology for use in harsh and extreme working conditions. However, a facile, low cost, and scalable approach to fabricate highly piezoresistive SiOCPDC below 1400 °C still remains a great challenge. Here, the fabrication and enhancement of piezoresistive properties of SiOCPDC reinforced with β‐SiC nanopowders (SiCNP) through masked stereolithography‐based 3D‐printing and subsequent pyrolysis at 1100 °C are demonstrated. The presence of free carbon in SiCNP augments high piezoresistivity in the fabricated SiCNP‐SiOCPDC composites even at lower pyrolysis temperatures. A gauge factor (GF) in the range of 4385–5630 and 6129–8987 with 0.25 and 0.50 wt% of SiCNP, respectively is demonstrated, for an applied pressure range of 0.5–5 MPa at ambient working conditions. The reported GF is significantly higher compared to those of any existing SiOCPDC materials. This rapid and facile fabrication route with significantly enhanced piezoresistive properties makes the 3D‐printed SiCNP‐SiOCPDC composite a promising high‐performance material for the detection of pressure/load in demanding applications. Also, the overall robustness in mechanical properties and load‐bearing capability ensures its long‐term stability and makes it suitable for challenging and severe environment applications.
On nonlinear Sobolev equation with the Caputo fractional operator and exponential nonlinearity
Authors: Duy Binh Ho , Dinh Huy Nguyen , Tuan Nguyen Anh , Huu Can Nguyen
Published: December 2023

The initial value problem for the Caputo type time‐fractional Sobolev equation with a nonlinear exponential source function is investigated in this work. We establish the existence and uniqueness of mild solutions corresponding to two different initial data assumptions. We derive global results of a unique mild solution with small initial data using some Sobolev/Sobolev‐Orlicz embeddings, a weighted Banach space, and the fixed point theorem. In the absence of any smallness assumptions, the Cauchy iteration method demonstrates that the mild solution blows up at a finite time or exists globally in time. Finally, we consider some illustrated examples to test the results obtained in theory.
A matrix technique‐based numerical treatment of a nonlocal singular boundary value problems
Authors: Sriwastav Nikhil , Barnwal Amit K. , Srivastav Avinash Kumar , Chandra Harish
Published: December 2023

The mathematical modeling of the decisive event of astrophysics, physiology, and many other areas of science and technology witness the involvement of singular boundary value problems. The nonlocal boundary conditions are more informative than local boundary conditions (initial conditions and two‐point boundary conditions) to evaluate some mathematical models. This article presents a collocation approach‐based matrix technique to approximate the solution of the fusion of a class of singular differential equations subject to nonlocal three‐point boundary conditions. The proposed strategy utilizes the truncation of the series expansion of a function belonging to
in terms of Bernoulli polynomials. It transforms the singular boundary value problems into a set of nonlinear algebraic equations, which can be dealt with by any mathematical software. The Lipschitz condition on an equivalent completely continuous nonlinear operator has been used to prove the convergence analysis of the scheme. Some extremely nonlinear test examples are solved and provided in contrast with the exact solution. These numerical results are also examined against some existing numerical techniques to verify the applicability and significance of the proposed methodology. There are a few numerical examples that are application based but do not have exact solutions. In such cases, residual error norm is employed to measure the accuracy of the numerical strategies. The computational data demonstrate the superiority and validity of the proposed technique over existing numerical approaches.
Precision of metabolite‐selective MRS measurements of glutamate, GABA and glutathione: A review of human brain studies
Authors: Kanagasabai Kesavi , Palaniyappan Lena , Théberge Jean
Published: December 2023

Single‐voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (SV 1H‐MRS) is an in vivo noninvasive imaging technique used to detect neurotransmitters and metabolites. It enables repeated measurements in living participants to build explanatory neurochemical models of psychiatric symptoms and testing of therapeutic approaches. Given the tight link among glutamate, gamma‐amino butyric acid (GABA), glutathione and glutamine within the cellular machinery, MRS investigations of neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders must quantify a network of metabolites simultaneously to capture the pathophysiological states of interest. Metabolite‐selective sequences typically provide improved metabolite isolation and spectral modelling simplification for a single metabolite at a time. Non‐metabolite‐selective sequences provide information on all detectable human brain metabolites, but feature many signal overlaps and require complicated spectral modelling. Although there are short‐echo time (TE) MRS sequences that do not use spectral editing and are optimised to target either glutamate, GABA or glutathione, these approaches usually imply a precision tradeoff for the remaining two metabolites. Given the interest in assessing psychiatric and neurocognitive diseases that involve excitation‐inhibition imbalances along with oxidative stress, there is a need to survey the literature on the quantification precision of current metabolite‐selective MRS techniques. In this review, we locate and describe 17 studies that report on the quality of simultaneously acquired MRS metabolite data in the human brain. We note several factors that influence the data quality for single‐shot acquisition of multiple metabolites of interest using metabolite‐selective MRS: (1) internal in vivo references; (2) brain regions of interests; (3) field strength of scanner; and/or (4) optimised acquisition parameters. We also highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various SV spectroscopy techniques that were able to quantify in vivo glutamate, GABA and glutathione simultaneously. The insights from this review will assist in the development of new MRS pulse sequences for simultaneous, selective measurements of these metabolites and simplified spectral modelling.
The clinical characteristics and risk factors for necrotizing soft tissue infection in children
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen Jigang , Wang Yanni , Qi Hongyan , Yu Jing
Published: December 2023

Importance

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a serious infectious disease. However, the early clinical manifestations and indicators of NSTI in children are still unclear.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and risk factors of NSTI in pediatric patients.

Methods

A total of 127 children with skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) were treated at our hospital and divided into two groups: the NSTI group and the non‐NSTI group, based on their discharge diagnosis from January 2011 to December 2022. Then, we collected and analyzed the clinical characteristics and risk factors of all patients, including sex and age, disease inducement, admission temperature, local skin manifestations, infection site, the presence of sepsis, bacterial culture, and laboratory indicators.

Results

In our study, there was a statistical difference in the age distribution and disease inducement between NSTI and non‐NSTI groups. The occurrence of local skin manifestations (blisters/bullae and ecchymosis) and the presence of sepsis significantly increased in the NSTI group compared to the non‐NSTI group. Additionally, only the platelet count on laboratory tests was statistically different between the NSTI and non‐NSTI groups. Finally, the logistic regression analysis suggested that local skin manifestations such as blisters/bullae, and ecchymosis, as well as the presence of sepsis, were identified as risk factors for NSTI.

Interpretation

Children with SSTI and skin manifestations such as blisters/bullae, ecchymosis, and the presence of sepsis are at a higher risk of developing NSTI. These symptoms serve as useful indicators for early detection of NSTI.
Review of participatory research assent procedures in school psychology
Authors: Flowers Jaime , McCleary Daniel , Dawes Jillian , Marzolf Hunter
Published: December 2023

In the realm of psychology and related fields, like school psychology, obtaining informed consent from clients or participants who are 18 years old or older is mandatory for researchers. However, if the individuals are below 18 years old or under a conservatorship, their assent is crucial even if their parent or legal guardian has provided formal consent. Despite the widespread recognition of the importance of assent during research, there is a lack of research and guidelines on how to obtain it effectively. To bridge this gap, we conducted a review and created a summary of research published in school psychology journals on gaining assent during research studies. The articles were categorized based on the experimental design, population, and level of assent described. Our findings offer a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on gaining assent in school psychology, which will enhance transparency in research methods.
Conserved cellular patterning in the mesophyll of rice leaves
Authors: Sloan Jen , Wang Saranrat , Ngai Qi Yang , Xiao Yi , Armand Jodie , Wilson Matthew J. , Zhu Xin‐Guang , Fleming Andrew J.
Published: December 2023

The mesophyll cells of grass leaves, such as rice, are traditionally viewed as displaying a relatively uniform pattern, in contrast to the clear distinctions of palisade and spongy layers in typical eudicot leaves. This quantitative analysis of mesophyll cell size and shape in rice leaves reveals that there is an inherent pattern in which cells in the middle layer of the mesophyll are larger and less circular and have a distinct orientation of their long axis compared to mesophyll cells in other layers. Moreover, this pattern was observed in a range of rice cultivars and species. The significance of this pattern with relation to potential photosynthetic function and the implication of the widespread use of middle layer mesophyll cells as typical of the rice leaf have been investigated and discussed.
Biocontrol of almond canker diseases caused by Botryosphaeriaceae fungi
Authors: Romero‐Cuadrado Laura , Picos María Cinta , Camacho María , Ollero Francisco Javier , Capote Nieves
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Botryosphaeria dieback is a canker disease caused by fungal species of the Botryosphaeriaceae family that threatens almond productivity. The most common control measure to prevent canker development is the application of fungicides which are being phased out by European Union regulations. In the present study, two sets of bacterial strains were evaluated for their antifungal activity against pathogenic Botryosphaeriaceae species through in vitro and in vivo antagonism assays.

RESULTS

The rhizospheric bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa AC17 and Bacillus velezensis ACH16, as well as the endophytic bacteria Bacillus mobilis Sol 1–2, respectively inhibited 87, 95, and 63% of the mycelial growth of Neofusicoccum parvum, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Diplodia seriata, and Macrophomina phaseolina. Additionally, they significantly reduced the length of lesions caused by N. parvum and B. dothidea in artificially inoculated detached almond twigs. All these bacterial strains produce hydrolytic enzymes that are able to degrade the fungal cell wall. P. aeruginosa AC17 also produces toxic volatile compounds, such as hydrogen cyanide. This strain was the most effective in controlling Botryosphaeria dieback in planta under controlled conditions at a level similar to the biocontrol agent Trichoderma atroviride and standard chemical fungicide treatments.

CONCLUSION

Pseudomonas aeruginosa AC17 is the best candidate to be considered as a potential biocontrol agent against Botryosphaeriaceae fungi affecting almond. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Destination choices of international students in the Netherlands: A meso‐level analysis of higher education institutions and cities
Authors: Weber Tijmen , Van Mol Christof , Wolbers Maarten H. J.
Published: December 2023

This study quantitatively investigates enrolments of international students using data that contains nearly every student in the Netherlands for the years 2016–2019. Using this data, we are able to perform a meso‐level analysis where we could investigate the characteristics of higher education institutions (HEIs) and cities in international student mobility. This research contributes to the literature by studying variation between HEIs and by focusing on actual enrolments instead of relying on survey results. Such meso‐level studies have thus far been very rare, especially on this scale. Although there are commonalities between types of degrees, we find mixed results for academic and city characteristics, and it appears that academic factors are more important for master students while for bachelor students city characteristics have stronger effects. The effect of having already existing stocks of international students appears to be important for all types of degrees. Aside from differences between bachelor and master students, our findings also suggest that HEIs might directly influence international student flows as this would explain some of our results. Although this study only focuses on the Netherlands, it opens up many avenues for future comparative research on the destination choices of international students and the role of HEIs.
Assessment of CYP3A‐mediated drug interaction via cytokine (IL‐6) elevation for mosunetuzumab using physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Chen Yuan , Ma Fang , Jones Nicholas , Deng Rong , Li Chunze , Li Chi‐Chung
Published: December 2023

Mosunetuzumab is a CD3/CD20 bispecific antibody. As an on‐target effect, transient elevation of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) occurs in early treatment cycles. A physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed to assess potential drug interaction caused by IL‐6 enzyme suppression on cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) during mosunetuzumab treatment. The model's performance in predicting IL‐6 CYP3A suppression and subsequent drug–drug interactions (DDIs) was verified using existing clinical data of DDIs caused by chronic and transient IL‐6 elevation. Sensitivity analyses were performed for a complete DDI risk assessment. The IL‐6 concentration‐ and time‐dependent CYP3A suppression during mosunetuzumab treatment was simulated using PBPK model with incorporation of in vitro IL‐6 inhibition data. At clinically approved doses/regimens, the DDI at maximum CYP3A suppression was predicted to be a midazolam maximum drug concentration in plasma (Cmax) and area under the plasma drug concentration–time curve (AUC) ratio of 1.17 and 1.37, respectively. At the 95th percentile of IL‐6 concentration level or when gut CYP3A suppression was considered, the predicted DDI risk for mosunetuzumab remained low (<2‐fold). The PBPK‐based DDI predictions informed the mosunetuzumab product label to monitor, in early cycles, the concentrations and toxicities for sensitive CYP3A substrates with narrow therapeutic windows.
Learning‐based model predictive control under value iteration with finite approximation errors
Authors: Lin Min , Xia Yuanqing , Sun Zhongqi , Dai Li
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a novel learning‐based model predictive control (LMPC) scheme for discrete‐time nonlinear systems. It overcomes the challenge of manually designing the terminal conditions for traditional MPC and enhances the control performance. The scheme employs the value iteration (VI) in reinforcement learning (RL), and autonomously designs the terminal cost by iteratively performing value function learning and policy update under known dynamics and constraints. In contrast to the existing schemes that combine RL with MPC, the proposed scheme explicitly considers the approximation errors in each iteration. Further, a rigorous theoretical analysis is provided, including the convergence of VI, the stability and performance of the closed‐loop system. In addition, the influences of the prediction horizon and the initial terminal cost on performance are also investigated. Simulation results of a linear system verify the theoretical properties of the LMPC and show that it achieves (near‐)optimal performance. Moreover, its unique superiority over traditional MPC is fully demonstrated in a nonholonomic vehicle regulation example.
Greener Synthetic Approach for 4,4′‐(Arylmethylene)bis(3‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐ol) Derivatives in an Aqueous Medium using Theophylline as a Catalyst
Authors: Pund Ganesh B. , Dhumal Sambhaji T. , Deshmukh Tejshri R. , Wahul Diksha B. , Mandave Krishna R. , Gaware Sujeet A. , Chavan Santosh S. , Farooqui Mazahar , Dobhal Bhagwansing S. , Hebade Madhav J.
Published: December 2023

Herein, we report an efficient, convenient and environmentally benign method for the synthesis of 4,4′‐(arylmethylene)bis(3‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐ol) derivatives. The reaction of aromatic aldehydes with 3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐5‐pyrazolone or 5‐methyl‐2,4‐dihydro‐3H‐pyrazol‐3‐one in the presence of theophylline catalyst delivered the series of bis‐pyrazole compounds in very high yields. The method has successfully demonstrated the utility of theophylline as an expedient, eco‐friendly and green catalyst in an aqueous medium.