bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Updates of surgical treatment in hemorrhoidal disease
Authors: Li Jianan , Ma Huangfu , Wang Yue , Lai Lixia , Zhang Xuecheng , Wang Yanmei
Published: August 2024

Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most prevalent and frequently occurring conditions worldwide. Treatment modalities for hemorrhoids are multifaceted and tailored according to the severity of the condition. Various surgical procedures and modified approaches had been invented since 1937. Here we review the workflow, advantages, and disadvantages of different types of hemorrhoid surgery (conventional excisional hemorrhoidectomy, modified excisional surgery, stapled/partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy, and Doppler‐guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation). There is no single treatment that fits all hemorrhoid patients. Surgeons should make the operation plan based on patients' conditions and wills.
Naphthalene Diimide‐Based Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework for High Electrical Conductivity and Ammonia Sensor Applications
Authors: Imaoka Kentaro , Kim Hyung Suk , Yamamoto Yusei , Fukutomi Satoshi , Chamoreau Lise‐Marie , Qu Liyuan , Iguchi Hiroaki , Tsuchiya Youichi , Ono Toshikazu , Mathevet Fabrice , Adachi Chihaya
Published: August 2024

While metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been widely investigated as porous conductive materials, the research on the electrical properties of HOF materials has been limited. Moreover, the electrical conductivity of HOF materials is typically several orders of magnitude lower than that of MOFs and COFs. In this work, a HOF material based on naphthalene diimide is designed and achieved a remarkable electrical conductivity of 2.9 × 10−2 S cm−1 after hydrazine doping, which represents the highest value reported in the HOF system to date. In addition, this material exhibits a reversible change of its electrical conductivity under exposure to ammonia which is promising for gas‐sensor applications. The demonstration reveals a new dimension of HOFs as conductive materials and opens up possibilities for new HOF‐based devices.
The Development of Lung Tissue Engineering: From Biomaterials to Multicellular Systems
Authors: Ma Jingge , Wu Chengtie , Xu Jinfu
Published: August 2024

The challenge of the treatment of end‐stage lung disease poses an urgent clinical demand for lung tissue engineering. Over the past few years, various lung tissue‐engineered constructs are developed for lung tissue regeneration and respiratory pathology study. In this review, an overview of recent achievements in the field of lung tissue engineering is proposed. The introduction of lung structure and lung injury are stated briefly at first. After that, the lung tissue‐engineered constructs are categorized into three types: acellular, monocellular, and multicellular systems. The different bioengineered constructs included in each system that can be applied to the reconstruction of the trachea, airway epithelium, alveoli, and even whole lung are described in detail, followed by the highlight of relevant representative research. Finally, the challenges and future directions of biomaterials, manufacturing technologies, and cells involved in lung tissue engineering are discussed. Overall, this review can provide referable ideas for the realization of functional lung regeneration and permanent lung substitution.
Intraoperative Cavity Local Delivery System with NETs‐Specific Drug Release for Post‐Breast Cancer Surgery Recurrence Correction
Authors: Zhu Wan‐Fang , Ji Wen‐Jing , Wang Qiu‐Yuan , Qu Wei , Feng Feng , Han Ling‐Fei , Xue Jing‐Wei , Liu Fu‐Lei , Liu Wen‐Yuan
Published: August 2024

Postoperative breast cancer recurrence is tricky due to the limited therapeutic options. Transforming growth factors‐β (TGF‐β) is vital in promoting postoperative tumor recurrence. However, conventional blocking strategies fail to satisfy both bio‐safety and sufficient relapse correction. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are essential for the spatiotemporal dynamics of TGF‐β at tumor‐resection sites, whose unique mechanism for local TGF‐β amplification could remarkably increase the risk of relapse after surgery. Herein, the principle of NETs formation is ingeniously utilized to construct a surgical residual cavity hydrogel that mimics NETs formation. The hydrogel is prepared based on the electrostatic interaction between histidine (His) and sodium alginate (Alg). Then, arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) protein is released during NETs formation. Simultaneously, the electrical property of His in hydrogel changes automatically, which further lead to promising localized release of anti‐TGF‐β. The hydrogel system can realize specific and selective drug release at targeted NETs site over a prolonged period while exhibiting excellent biocompatibility. Superior breast cancer recurrence inhibition is achieved by suppressing TGF‐β and related indicators, impeding epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression, and rectifying the locally exacerbated immunosuppressive environment within NETs. The novel NETs local microenvironment drug release functional hydrogel will provide inspiration for postoperative recurrence correction strategies.
Nanoplasmonic Rapid Antimicrobial‐Resistance Point‐of‐Care Identification Device: RAPIDx
Authors: Lee Jong‐Hwan , Song Jihwan , Hong SoonGweon , Kim Yun , Song Minsun , Cho Byungrae , Wu Tiffany , Riley Lee W. , Landegren Ulf , Lee Luke P.
Published: August 2024

The emergence of antibiotic resistance has become a global health crisis, and everyone must arm themselves with wisdom to effectively combat the “silent tsunami” of infections that are no longer treatable with antibiotics. However, the overuse or inappropriate use of unnecessary antibiotics is still routine for administering them due to the unavailability of rapid, precise, and point‐of‐care assays. Here, a rapid antimicrobial‐resistance point‐of‐care identification device (RAPIDx) is reported for the accurate and simultaneous identification of bacterial species (genotype) and target enzyme activity (phenotype). First, a contamination‐free active target enzyme is extracted via the photothermal lysis of preconcentrated bacteria cells on a nanoplasmonic functional layer on‐chip. Second, the rapid, precise identification of pathogens is achieved by the photonic rolling circle amplification of DNA on a chip. Third, the simultaneous identification of bacterial species (genotype) and target enzyme activity (phenotype) is demonstrated within a sample‐to‐answer 45 min operation via the RAPIDx. It is believed that the RAPIDx will be a valuable method for solving the bottleneck of employing on‐chip nanotechnology for antibiotic‐resistant bioassay and other infectious diseases.
Self‐Produced O2 CNs‐Based Nanocarriers of DNA Hydrophobization Strategy Triggers Photodynamic and Mitochondrial‐Derived Ferroptosis for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Combined Treatment
Authors: Liu Ming‐Xuan , Liu Yan‐Chao , Cai Yu‐Ting , Gu Ying‐Ying , Zhu Ya‐Qi , Zhang Nan , Zhu Wei‐Zhong , Liu Yong‐Hong , Yu Lei , Zhang Qi‐Tao , Zhang Xiao‐Ling
Published: August 2024

Hypoxia can aggravate tumor occurrence, development, invasion, and metastasis, and greatly inhibit the photodynamic therapy (PDT) effect. Herein, carbon nitride (CNs)‐based DNA and photosensitizer co‐delivery systems (BPSCNs) with oxygen‐producing functions are developed to address this problem. Selenide glucose (Seglu) is used as the dopant to prepare red/NIR‐active CNs (SegluCNs). The tumor‐targeting unit Bio‐PEG2000 is utilized to construct BPSCNs nanoparticles through esterification reactions. Furthermore, DNA hydrophobization is realized via mixing P53 gene with a positively charged mitochondrial‐targeted near‐infrared (NIR) emitting photosensitizer (MTTPY), which is encapsulated in non‐cationic BPSCNs for synergistic delivery. Ester bonds in BPSCNs@MTTPY‐P53 complexes can be disrupted by lipase in the liver to facilitate P53 release, upregulated P53 expression, and promoted HIF‐1α degradation in mitochondria. In addition, the oxygen produced by the complexes improved the hypoxic microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), synergistically downregulated HIF‐1α expression in mitochondria, promoted mitochondrial‐derived ferroptosis and enhanced the PDT effect of the MTTPY unit. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that the transfected P53‐DNA, produced O2 and ROS by these complexes synergistically led to mitochondrial‐derived ferroptosis in hepatoma cells through the HIF‐1α/SLC7A11 pathway, and completely avoiding PDT resistance caused by hypoxia, exerting a significant therapeutic role in HCC treatment.
Scalable Atomic Arrays for Spin‐Based Quantum Computers in Silicon
Authors: Jakob Alexander M. , Robson Simon G. , Firgau Hannes R. , Mourik Vincent , Schmitt Vivien , Holmes Danielle , Posselt Matthias , Mayes Edwin L.H. , Spemann Daniel , McCallum Jeffrey C. , Morello Andrea , Jamieson David N.
Published: August 2024

Semiconductor spin qubits combine excellent quantum performance with the prospect of manufacturing quantum devices using industry‐standard metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (MOS) processes. This applies also to ion‐implanted donor spins, which further afford exceptional coherence times and large Hilbert space dimension in their nuclear spin. Here multiple strategies are demonstrated and integrated to manufacture scale‐up donor‐based quantum computers. 31PF2 molecule implants are used to triple the placement certainty compared to 31P ions, while attaining 99.99% confidence in detecting the implant. Similar confidence is retained by implanting heavier atoms such as 123Sb and 209Bi, which represent high‐dimensional qudits for quantum information processing, while Sb2 molecules enable deterministic formation of closely‐spaced qudits. The deterministic formation of regular arrays of donor atoms with 300 nm spacing is demonstrated, using step‐and‐repeat implantation through a nano aperture. These methods cover the full gamut of technological requirements for the construction of donor‐based quantum computers in silicon.
Densification of Cathode/Electrolyte Interphase to Enhance Reversibility of LiCoO2 at 4.65 V
Authors: Ren Hengyu , Hu Jiaxuan , Ji Haocheng , Huang Yuxiang , Zhao Wenguang , Huang Weiyuan , Wang Xiaohu , Yi Haocong , Song Yongli , Liu Jiajie , Liu Tongchao , Liu Ming , Zhao Qinghe , Pan Feng
Published: August 2024

For LiCoO2 (LCO) operated beyond 4.55 V (vs Li/Li+), it usually suffers from severe surface degradation. Constructing a robust cathode/electrolyte interphase (CEI) is effective to alleviate the above issues, however, the correlated mechanisms still remain vague. Herein, a progressively reinforced CEI is realized via constructing Zr─O deposits (ZrO2 and Li2ZrO3) on LCO surface (i.e., Z‐LCO). Upon cycle, these Zr─O deposits can promote the decomposition of LiPF6, and progressively convert to the highly dispersed Zr─O─F species. In particular, the chemical reaction between LiF and Zr─O─F species further leads to the densification of CEI, which greatly reinforces its toughness and conductivity. Combining the robust CEI and thin surface rock‐salt layer of Z‐LCO, several benefits are achieved, including stabilizing the surface lattice oxygen, facilitating the interface Li+ transport kinetics, and enhancing the reversibility of O3/H1‐3 phase transition, etc. As a result, the Z‐LCO||Li cells exhibit a high capacity retention of 84.2% after 1000 cycles in 3–4.65 V, 80.9% after 1500 cycles in 3–4.6 V, and a high rate capacity of 160 mAh g−1 at 16 C (1 C = 200 mA g−1). This work provides a new insight for developing advanced LCO cathodes.
Coordination‐Induced Structural Rigidity for Achieving Ultralong‐Lived Aqueous Room Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Liang Li Ya , Gao Ya Ting , Chang Shuai , Lv Jian , Wang Lu , Liu Meng Li , Wu Da Jun , Ye Ming Jie , Chen Bin Bin , Li Da Wei
Published: August 2024

Designing ultralong‐lived aqueous room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials has become an actively pursued but challenging research area. Herein, a coordination‐induced structural rigidity (CISR) strategy is proposed to achieve ultralong RTP lifetime in magnesium/pyromellitic acid phosphorescent materials (Mg/PMA‐PMs) with abundant Mg2+ ions sites and hydrophilic groups in aqueous solution. Compared to their dry state (448.77 ms), the lifetime of Mg/PMA‐PMs significantly increases to 1026.17 ms with the addition of a small amount of water (50 wt%). Even in a fully non‐deoxygenated aqueous environment (above 200 wt% water), where Mg/PMA‐PMs disintegrate to form a nanosuspension, they still exhibit an ultralong aqueous RTP lifetime of ≈800 ms. The water‐enhanced RTP properties are attributed to water molecules coordinating with Mg2+ ions and acting as bridging agents to bind with hydrophilic groups through hydrogen bonding. This interaction rigidifies functional groups and inhibits their motions, leading to a substantial reduction in nonradiative decay. Furthermore, the CISR mechanism effectively explains the RTP enhancement effect of water on inorganic salt phosphorescent systems. This work not only provides a new approach for constructing efficient aqueous RTP materials, but also develops a powerful tool for visual anion recognition.
Long‐term outcomes of renal AL amyloidosis patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation: Validating the performance of the renal staging system
Authors: Muchtar Eli , Gertz Morie A. , Mwangi Raphael , Hassan Hamza , Dispenzieri Angela , Leung Nelson , Buadi Francis K , Dingli David , Staron Andrew , Sanchorawala Vaishali
Published: August 2024

Renal AL amyloidosis can be complicated by end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT). In this study, we describe the long‐term outcomes of renal AL amyloidosis patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) and assess the utility of the renal staging system. Retrospective study of renal AL patients (n = 697; Mayo Clinic, Boston University) who underwent ASCT between 2003 and 2020. Renal stage was assigned based on 24‐h proteinuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate measurements. Renal survival was defined as the time from ASCT until initiation of RRT, while patients who were not placed on RRT were censored at their last follow‐up. With a median follow‐up of 10.4 years, RRT was required in 149 patients (21%). The median time from ASCT to ESRD was 3.4 years, with late events of progression to ESRD seen >10 years from ASCT. Pre‐ASCT renal stage was significantly associated with the cumulative incidence of RRT: 3‐year RRT rate was 3%, 10%, and 37% for renal stages I, II, and III, respectively. However, in the 2012–2020 period subset, a significant decrease in ESRD risk was noted across all renal stages (3‐year RRT 0%, 5%, and 24%, respectively). In multivariate analysis, renal survival was independently associated with the pre‐ASCT renal stage, lambda isotype, bone marrow plasmacytosis ≥20%, post‐ASCT hematologic response, and year of ASCT. Long‐term outcomes of renal AL amyloidosis treated with ASCT are presented. Renal stage reliably predicts renal outcomes in patients with AL undergoing ASCT, despite a reduction in the proportion of patients progressing to RRT in recent years.
Sharing health care wishes among older adults with cognitive impairment in primary care: Results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wolff Jennifer L. , Cagle John G. , Hanna Valecia , Dy Sydney M. , Echavarria Diane , Giovannetti Erin R. , Boyd Cynthia M. , Saylor Martha Abshire , Hussain Naaz , Reiff Jenni S. , Scerpella Danny , Zhang Talan , Sekhon Vishaldeep Kaur , Roth David L.
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Best practices for conducting advance care planning (ACP) among persons with cognitive impairment exist, but evidence‐based models are lacking for the primary care setting.

METHODS

We tested a remote multicomponent ACP model (SHARE) versus minimally enhanced usual care in 273 person–family dyads from eight primary care practices.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 88.0 years, 85 (31.1%) were Black/Latino; 189 (69.2%) had moderate‐to‐severe cognitive impairment. Most (101/145; 69.6%) intervention dyads engaged in ACP. At follow‐up, no treatment effect was observed for care partner–reported quality of communication about end‐of‐life care at 6 or 12 months, but intervention patients reported better quality of communication about end‐of‐life care at 12 months. Intervention care partners and patients reported greater readiness to engage in ACP at 6 and 12 months, respectively, and increased completion of key aspects of ACP.

DISCUSSION

SHARE supported key aspects of ACP processes and communication about end‐of‐life care.

Highlights

Primary care–based models of ACP for persons with dementia are lacking.

Involving persons with cognitive impairment in remote ACP is feasible with care partner involvement.

Results indicate benefit for aspects of ACP processes and communication about end‐of‐life care.
Insights into yeast response to chemotherapeutic agent through time series genome‐scale metabolic models
Authors: Karabekmez Muhammed E.
Published: August 2024

Organism‐specific genome‐scale metabolic models (GSMMs) can unveil molecular mechanisms within cells and are commonly used in diverse applications, from synthetic biology, biotechnology, and systems biology to metabolic engineering. There are limited studies incorporating time‐series transcriptomics in GSMM simulations. Yeast is an easy‐to‐manipulate model organism for tumor research. Here, a novel approach (TS‐GSMM) was proposed to integrate time‐series transcriptomics with GSMMs to narrow down the feasible solution space of all possible flux distributions and attain time‐series flux samples. The flux samples were clustered using machine learning techniques, and the clusters' functional analysis was performed using reaction set enrichment analysis. A time series transcriptomics response of Yeast cells to a chemotherapeutic reagent—doxorubicin—was mapped onto a Yeast GSMM. Eleven flux clusters were obtained with our approach, and pathway dynamics were displayed. Induction of fluxes related to bicarbonate formation and transport, ergosterol and spermidine transport, and ATP production were captured. Integrating time‐series transcriptomics data with GSMMs is a promising approach to reveal pathway dynamics without any kinetic modeling and detects pathways that cannot be identified through transcriptomics‐only analysis. The codes are available at https://github.com/karabekmez/TS-GSMM.
Pericapsular nerve group block followed by regional anesthesia for pathological fracture fixation in a multiple myeloma patient
Authors: Suwal Aayusha , Subedi Nischal , Shrestha Nischal , Shrestha Ujma
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Appropriate anesthetic technique for fracture fixation in multiple myeloma is crucial in minimizing perioperative complications. The use of pericapsular nerve group block followed by spinal anesthesia for the operative management of pathological fracture in multiple myeloma patient along with proper pre‐ and postanesthetic care ensures better outcome for the patient.

Multiple myeloma is a malignant plasma cell disease that often presents with anemia, renal failure, hyperkalemia and osteolytic bone lesions. The advancements in drug therapy of multiple myeloma have prolonged the lifespan of the affected people, resulting in a rise in cases of surgical management of fractures in such patients. Anesthetic management, despite being of utmost importance in minimizing perioperative complications in such patients, has not been widely studied, especially in this part of the world. Hence, we report a case of 64 years diabetic, HbSAg positive male with hypothyroidism and a known case of multiple myeloma since the last 6 years, under medication for his comorbidities who suffered acetabular fracture. In this case report, the use of pericapsular nerve group block followed by spinal anesthesia for the operative management of the fracture has been discussed along with several pre‐ and postanesthetic considerations. With appropriate anesthetic techniques and proper pre‐ and postanesthetic care, better outcomes can be guaranteed.
Non‐motor role of the cerebellum: Cerebellar mutism syndrome in a child with a small hemorrhagic contusion in the dentate nucleus: A case report and literature review
Authors: Ahmed Moayad , Ali Mukashfi , Ginawi Alaaeldin
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Our case report highlights that Prompt recognition of cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS) is critical in clinical practice, as it is often misdiagnosed as just being reduction in the level of consciousness, particularly in pediatrics trauma patients.

Cerebellar mutism syndrome is defined as transient mutism following posterior fossa surgery, hemorrhage or traumatic insults involving the cerebellum. Cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS) is now recognized as a form of cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome (CCAS/Schmahmann syndrome). CMS following head injury is exceedingly rare with very few cases reported. Five years old boy with normal developmental milestones and no significant medical history, sustained closed head injury following road traffic accident, the clinical scenario in addition to the radiological findings led to the diagnosis of cerebellar mutism syndrome. CMS is defined as of neurologic and cognitive disorders, mainly speech disorder. Patient non‐motor signs recovered in a period of few weeks from the mutism syndrome with remaining mild motor deficit. CMS is a set of neurologic and cognitive disorders, the most distinct of which is speech disorder (usually reversible), what is unique about this case is the selective site of the contusion at the region of the dentate nucleus and superior cerebellar peduncle. Such cases offer a better understanding to the function of the cerebellum and its role in cognition. Additionally, the knowledge of this aspect of cerebellar function helps in better predicting the clinical course of such lesions which in turn helps in communication and explanation to patient's families.
Understanding the effect of reaction parameters on the production of levulinic acid from glucose
Authors: Nalawade Ketaki S. , Gogate Parag R.
Published: August 2024

A significant and sustainable feedstock for many value added products is levulinic acid, which is basically a short‐chain fatty acid. The current study aims to comprehend how multiple factors affect the hydrothermal reactions that convert glucose to levulinic acid. Glucose can be readily obtained from lignocellulosic biomass and hence it is selected in the work as representative sustainable source. The effect of various operating parameters, including time (0–180 min), temperature (140–180°C), nitrogen pressure (0–25 bar), glucose concentration (3%–10%), agitation speed (100–300 RPM), and acid concentration (2%–6%); use of different salts (NaCl, AlCl3 6H2O, FeCl3); and different acids (HCl, H3PO4, H2SO4) on the reaction progress has been studied in a batch autoclave reactor. It was elucidated that pressure (only nitrogen purge was essential for reaction progress) or salt content changes did not affect sugar conversion significantly. The process was seriously influenced by the presence of acids, mostly in the form of homogeneous catalysts, and the most significant results were obtained for H2SO4. The highest levulinic acid yield (39.7 g/g) at 90 min, with nearly complete sugar conversion, was obtained under the ideal conditions of 160°C, 5% sugar loading, and 5% H2SO4 concentration. The current study indicates that the two primary operating parameters in this conversion process are temperature and time, with higher temperature and lower sugar concentration showing a rising tendency in sugar conversion. Overall, the study establishes a sustainable process for levulinic acid synthesis.
Comparative genomic and immunopathologic analysis of lung adenocarcinomas with and without cytology‐proven malignant pleural effusions
Authors: Pineda Cristiana M. , Majid Adnan , Costa Daniel B. , VanderLaan Paul A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Lung cancer complicated by malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) is associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality, yet the mechanisms of MPE development remain poorly understood. This study sought to elucidate whether there were specific genomic alterations and/or immunologic biomarkers associated with the presence of MPEs.

Methods

Analysis of comprehensive genomic and immunologic profiling for 275 locally advanced (stage III) or advanced (stage IV) lung adenocarcinomas was subcategorized into cytology‐confirmed MPE‐positive (MPE+; n = 139 stage IV) and MPE‐negative (MPE−; n = 30 stage III + n = 106 stage IV) groups.

Results

Smoking frequency (p = .0001) and tumor mutational burden (p < .001) were demonstrated to be lower in the MPE+ group compared to the MPE− group. Median overall survival in the MPE+ group was shorter than in the MPE− group across all data (2.0 vs. 5.5 years; p < .0001) and for smokers (1.2 vs. 6.4 years; p < .0001). There were a number of differences at the genomic level across all cases and when stratifying by smoking status, including a higher frequency of EGFR mutations and a lower frequency of STK11 mutations in the MPE+ cohort. Finally, investigation of the comutational profiles of tumors by MPE status revealed differences in TP53‐ and STK11‐mutant tumors between the two groups.

Conclusions

Overall, these findings imply that there are both clinical and genetic factors associated with advanced lung adenocarcinoma MPEs. Future studies of these alterations may prove important both for understanding the pathophysiology of MPE development in advanced cancer and for the earlier detection of at‐risk patients.
Quality of Life After Orthognathic Surgery in Swedish Patients: A Register‐Based Cohort
Authors: Johansson Eric , Lund Bodil , Bengtsson Martin , Magnusson Mikael , Rasmusson Lars , Ahl Magnus , Sunzel Bo , Sjöström Mats
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of orthognathic surgery on quality of life among Swedish patients.

Materials and Methods

Patients subjected to orthognathic surgery due to dentofacial deformity (DFD) and registered in the National Register of Orthognathic Surgery (NROK) in Sweden between 2017 and 2020 were eligible for inclusion in this study. The Swedish‐validated Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (S‐OQLQ) was used to evaluate patient quality of life before and after surgery. The S‐OQLQ measured each patient's subjective experience regarding social aspects.

Results

Eighty‐four participants were included in this cohort study, including 45 men (mean age 24.7 years), 48 women (mean age 23.4 years), and eight patients who stated no gender. Women generally graded several aspects of the S‐OQLQ higher than men, including facial aesthetics p = 0.029), oral function (p < 0.001), and awareness of facial deformity (p = 0.0054). For all domains of the questionnaire (social, facial aesthetics, function, and awareness), a significant improvement was seen 6–24 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Women rated improvement of function and awareness of facial deformity higher than men (p < 0.001 and p = 0.039, respectively).

Conclusion

Quality of life aspects of orthognathic surgery have a strong impact on the treatment outcome. Although functional impairment is often considered a major indication for surgery, the social and aesthetic influence of DFD is highly rated by patients, whereas pain is not an issue before or after treatment.
Hydroxy‐Carboxylic Acids as Green and Abundant Ligands for Sustainable Recovery of Copper from a Multimetallic Powder: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Ostellari Pietro , Tapparelli Martina , Bragaggia Giulia , Sandon Annalisa , Lavagnolo Maria Cristina , Girardi Leonardo , Manica Michele , Salmaso Luigi , Gross Silvia
Published: August 2024

The recovery of copper and other valuable metals had become increasingly strategic for the future of the global economy, particularly in regions lacking abundant mineral resources, such as most European countries. In this study, we investigated the viability of utilizing environmentally friendly, cost‐effective, abundant and bio‐based ligands, specifically carboxylic acids and their derivatives, for copper leaching in a low‐temperature hydrometallurgical process. Our investigation focused on elucidating the impact of substituents in the α position of hydroxy‐carboxylic acids on copper solubilization efficacy. Notably, hydroxy‐carboxylic acids, like malic acid and lactic acid, were evidenced as particularly promising ligands for leaching copper from a custom‐made multimetallic powder. By thoroughly characterizing the obtained complexes (Raman, UV‐Vis) and by supporting the experimental efforts by a Design of Experiment (DoE) approach, we optimized the leaching process. The influence of experimental parameters such as pH, temperature, leaching time, and Cu/ligand molar ratio on process yield (determined through Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission Spectroscopy, ICP‐OES, analysis) was thoroughly investigated. Additionally, we developed a subsequent copper recovery step by precipitating copper (II) hydroxide in an alkaline environment, guided by speciation diagrams tailored for each copper‐ligand system.
Unraveling the Morphological and Energetic Properties of 2PACz Self‐Assembled Monolayers Fabricated With Upscaling Deposition Methods
Authors: Mariotti Silvia , Rabehi Ilhem Nadia , Zhang Congyang , Huo Xiaomin , Zhang Jiahao , Ji Penghui , Wu Tianhao , Li Tongtong , Yuan Shuai , Liu Xiaomin , Guo Ting , Ding Chenfeng , Wang Hengyuan , Bruno Annalisa , Ono Luis K. , Qi Yabing
Published: August 2024

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) are widely used as hole transport materials in inverted perovskite solar cells, offering low parasitic absorption and suitability for semitransparent and tandem solar cells. While SAMs have shown to be promising in small‐area devices (≤1 cm2), their application in larger areas has been limited by a lack of knowledge regarding alternative deposition methods beyond the common spin‐coating approach. Here, we compare spin‐coating and upscalable methods such as thermal evaporation and spray‐coating for [2‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid (2PACz), one of the most common carbazole‐based SAMs. The impact of these deposition methods on the device performance is investigated, revealing that the spray‐coating technique yields higher device performance. Furthermore, our work provides guidelines for the deposition of SAM materials for the fabrication of perovskite solar modules. In addition, we provide an extensive characterization of 2PACz films focusing on thermal evaporation and spray‐coating methods, which allow for thicker 2PACz deposition. It is found that the optimal 2PACz deposition conditions corresponding to the highest device performances do not always correlate with the monolayer characteristics.
A systematic review exploring the variation in the compositional make‐up and phytochemical constituents of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens as a function of diverse growing condition
Authors: Kumar Arun , Singh Narpinder
Published: August 2024

The wheatgrass and pulse microgreens have gained popularity for their concentrated phytochemical content. However, the variability in growth parameters and compositional constituents of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens is dependent on the prevailing environmental conditions. Nowadays, wheatgrass and pulse microgreens are used as culinary sources or incorporated into various food products and consumed by a large proportion of the global population. Therefore, it is necessary to review the impact of growth conditions to meet the increased demand. This will allow breeders to adjust their cultivation techniques according to consumer preferences for specific nutritional components. This systematic review seeks to provide an analysis of the available literature on the variation in growth and compositions of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens as the influence of diverse growing conditions. The growth of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens can be influenced by a range of growth conditions, such as variations in light intensity, temperature, nutrient availability, and cultivation techniques. The variation in growth and compositional components, in terms of proximate composition and certain constituents such as chlorophyll, antioxidants, minerals, phenolic compounds, and secondary metabolites, is discussed in relation to the changing cultivation parameters as published in recent studies. However, this review only covers the compositional make‐up of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens. There remains a need to summarize the compositional profiles of other microgreen species under various conditions. Ultimately, this review illuminates the promise of emerging superfoods and underscores how their growth and composition can vary depending on cultivation methods, ultimately impacting their capacity to promote health. In addition, there is a need to establish dose–response relationships to address various diseases. Therefore, additional research may be warranted.
Association of ventricular–arterial coupling with biomarkers involved in heart failure pathophysiology – the STANISLAS cohort
Authors: Holm Hannes , Magnusson Martin , Jujić Amra , Lagrange Jérémy , Bozec Erwan , Lamiral Zohra , Bresso Emmanuel , Huttin Olivier , Baudry Guillaume , Monzo Luca , Rossignol Patrick , Zannad Faiez , Girerd Nicolas
Published: August 2024

Aims

Impaired left ventricular–arterial coupling (VAC) has been shown to correlate with worse prognosis in cardiac diseases and heart failure (HF). The extent of the relationship between VAC and circulating biomarkers associated with HF has been scarcely documented. We aimed to explore associations of VAC with proteins involved in HF pathophysiology within a large population‐based cohort of middle‐aged individuals.

Methods and results

In the forth visit of the STANISLAS family cohort, involving 1309 participants (mean age 48 ± 14 years; 48% male) from parent and children generations, we analysed the association of 32 HF‐related proteins with non‐invasively assessed VAC using pulse wave velocity (PWV)/global longitudinal strain (GLS) and arterial elastance (Ea)/ventricular end‐systolic elastance (Ees). Among the 32 tested proteins, fatty acid‐binding protein adipocyte 4, interleukin‐6, growth differentiation factor 15, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1, and MMP‐9 and adrenomedullin were positively associated with PWV/GLS whereas transforming growth factor beta receptor type 3, MMP‐2 and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were negatively associated. In multivariable models, only MMP‐2 and NT‐proBNP were significantly and inversely associated with PWV/GLS in the whole population and in the parent generation. Higher levels of NT‐proBNP were also negatively associated with Ea/Ees in the whole cohort but this association did not persist in the parent subgroup.

Conclusion

Elevated MMP‐2 and NT‐proBNP levels correlate with better VAC (lower PWV/GLS), possibly indicating a compensatory cardiovascular response to regulate left ventricular pressure amidst cardiac remodelling and overload.
Varying the Electronics on Isothiourea Catalysts: Basicity, Rate, and Selectivity
Authors: J. Harrison Christian , D. Dickerson Shelby , Gong Ziyuan , S. McGowan Amanda , Vista Jane , L. Wiskur Sheryl
Published: August 2024

Chiral and achiral substituted isothiourea catalysts were synthesized and employed in model silylation reactions to understand how changing the electronics on the catalyst core affected intermolecular interactions between catalyst intermediates and substrates, ultimately affecting selectivity and rate. Five different chiral catalysts were utilized in a silylation‐based kinetic resolution of 2‐(para substituted)phenylcyclohexanols and the rate of silylation of these same alcohols was investigated with three different achiral catalysts. Linear free energy relationships were examined, highlighting that rate and selectivity were highly dependent on the electronics of the catalyst and the substrate, and that both affected the intermolecular interactions that resulted.
Individuals' willingness to pay for HIV vaccines in Iran: Contingent valuation method
Authors: Parvizi Sanaz , Mehrara Mohsen , Taiebnia Ali
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

This study aims to assess individuals' willingness to pay (WTP) for a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine in Iran, focusing on key determinants influencing vaccine acceptance. Utilizing the contingent valuation method (CVM), we aim to provide insights into the economic and socio‐cultural factors shaping WTP in Iran.

Methods

We conducted face‐to‐face surveys with 468 participants in Tehran province using purposive sampling. We analyzed demographic characteristics, perspectives on HIV/AIDS, and financial considerations alongside participants' WTP. Statistical analyses, including maximum likelihood estimation, identified factors influencing WTP. Mean WTP values were calculated to quantify the economic valuation of an HIV vaccine.

Results

Higher education and monthly income significantly correlated with increased WTP, while gender, age, marital status, and health insurance showed no substantial impact. The mean WTP was 12,590.83 to 12,599.63 thousand Rials in different models, both showing statistically significant WTP values.

Conclusion

Higher education and income levels are key determinants of WTP for an HIV vaccine in Iran. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to enhance vaccine accessibility and acceptance in Iran.
On the psychological effects of child‐like space design on preschoolers under anesthesia: A qualitative study
Authors: Zhou Zhiguo , Hu Chunming , Zhang Yalin , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

In this study, a pediatric hospital was selected as the study setting, to investigate the effects of the environment of a pediatric operating room child‐friendly space on preschool children under anesthesia.

Methods

Interviews were conducted in pediatric hospitals through anesthesia of preschool children. This study randomizing children between the ages of 1 and 7 years (seven males, five females, mean age 3.8 years, standard deviation 0.7). Twelve participants took part in this interview, which was an in‐depth interview of preschoolers' perceptions of anesthesia using generalized data analysis to assess young children's perceived preferences and sensitivity to the environment. Preschoolers' preferences for feeling under anesthesia are reflected in four main areas.

Results

(1) Interesting and engaging environment. (2) Humanized design, free of fear and unfamiliarity. (3) Caring, patient, and compassionate care by healthcare professionals. (4) High cooperation of the child and good doctor–patient relationship.

Conclusion

The key findings of this study may help designers and clinicians to design a toddler‐friendly built environment where pediatric hospital child‐friendly spaces are designed to benefit their health and maximize their cooperation and psychological recovery.
STU3Net: An Improved U‐Net With Swin Transformer Fusion for Thyroid Nodule Segmentation
Authors: Deng Xiangyu , Dang Zhiyan , Pan Lihao
Published: August 2024

Thyroid nodules are a common endocrine system disorder for which accurate ultrasound image segmentation is important for evaluation and diagnosis, as well as a critical step in computer‐aided diagnostic systems. However, the accuracy and consistency of segmentation remains a challenging task due to the presence of scattering noise, low contrast and resolution in ultrasound images. Therefore, we propose a deep learning‐based CAD (computer‐aided diagnosis) method, STU3Net in this paper, aiming at automatic segmentation of thyroid nodules. The method employs a modified Swin Transformer combined with a CNN encoder, which is capable of extracting morphological features and edge details of thyroid nodules in ultrasound images. In decoding through the features for image reconstruction, we introduce a modified three‐layer U‐Net network with cross‐layer connectivity to further enhance image reduction. This cross‐layer connectivity enhances the network's capture and representation of the contained image feature information by creating skip connections between different layers and merging the detailed information of the shallow network with the abstract information of the deeper network. Through comparison experiments with current mainstream deep learning methods on the TN3K and BUSI datasets, we validate the superiority of the STU3Net method in thyroid nodule segmentation performance. The experimental results show that STU3Net outperforms most of the mainstream models on the TN3K dataset, with Dice and IoU reaching 0.8368 and 0.7416, respectively, which are significantly better than other methods. The method demonstrates excellent performance on these datasets and provides radiologists with an effective auxiliary tool to accurately detect thyroid nodules in ultrasound images.
Cordycepin ameliorates kidney injury by inhibiting gasdermin D‐mediated pyroptosis of renal macrophages through nuclear factor kappa‐B
Authors: Tang Zhiling , Zhu Yu
Published: August 2024

To explain the effect and mechanism of cordycepin (COR) in resisting acute kidney injury (AKI). Network pharmacology was employed to analyze the correlations between COR, AKI, and pyroptosis, as well as the action target of COR. A mouse model of AKI was established by ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI), and after treatment with COR, the renal function, tissue inflammatory cytokine levels, and pyroptosis‐related signals were detected in mice. In in‐vitro experiments, damage of renal macrophages was caused by the oxygen‐glucose deprivation model, and pyroptosis indicators and inflammatory cytokine levels were assayed after COR treatment. Network pharmacological analysis revealed that nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) was the primary action target of COR and that COR could inhibit kidney injury and tissue inflammation during IRI by inhibiting NF‐κB‐mediated gasdermin D cleavage. When NF‐κB was inhibited, the effect of COR was weakened. COR in renal macrophages could inhibit pyroptosis and lower the levels of inflammatory cytokines, whose effect was associated with NF‐κB. Our study finds that COR can play an anti‐inflammatory role and inhibit the progression of AKI through the NF‐κB‐mediated pyroptosis, which represents its nephroprotective mechanism.
Risk predictive model for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma before initiating long‐term antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Chen Junjie , Feng Tienan , Xu Qi , Yu Xiaoqi , Han Yue , Yu Demin , Gong Qiming , Xue Yuan , Zhang Xinxin
Published: August 2024

It is generally acknowledged that antiviral therapy can reduce the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there remains a subset of patients with chronic HBV infection who develop HCC despite receiving antiviral treatment. This study aimed to develop a model capable of predicting the long‐term occurrence of HCC in patients with chronic HBV infection before initiating antiviral therapy. A total of 1450 patients with chronic HBV infection, who received initial antiviral therapy between April 2006 and March 2023 and completed long‐term follow‐ups, were nonselectively enrolled in this study. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Cox regression analysis was used to construct the model. The results were validated in an external cohort (n = 210) and compared with existing models. The median follow‐up time for all patients was 60 months, with a maximum follow‐up time of 144 months, during which, 32 cases of HCC occurred. The nomogram model for predicting HCC based on GGT, AFP, cirrhosis, gender, age, and hepatitis B e antibody (TARGET‐HCC) was constructed, demonstrating a good predictive performance. In the derivation cohort, the C‐index was 0.906 (95% CI = 0.869–0.944), and in the validation cohort, it was 0.780 (95% CI = 0.673–0.886). Compared with existing models, TARGET‐HCC showed promising predictive performance. Additionally, the time‐dependent feature importance curve indicated that gender consistently remained the most stable predictor for HCC throughout the initial decade of antiviral therapy. This simple predictive model based on noninvasive clinical features can assist clinicians in identifying high‐risk patients with chronic HBV infection for HCC before the initiation of antiviral therapy.
New insights in the management of pseudomyxoma peritonei
Authors: Pastier Clément , De Hingh I. H. J. T. , Goéré Diane
Published: August 2024

While a rare entity, peritoneal pseudomyxoma treatment evolves. Decision‐making criteria improve with imaging development and exploratory laparoscopy. Surgery remains at the core of the therapeutic strategy whatever disease progression. Complete cytoreduction plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is standard of care. Iterative cytoreduction or debulking is sometimes justified. Intraperitoneal chemotherapy modalities change with early postoperative HIPEC or pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy. Systemic or local treatment such as new chemo/immuno‐therapies or BromAc should improve outcomes. Expertise and multicentric cooperation are more than ever needed.
Enhancing nursing students' cultural awareness through Community of Inquiry‐guided online ‘Internationalization at Home’ strategies—An intervention study
Authors: Chan Siu Ling , Fung John Tai Chun , Takemura Naomi , Chau Pui Hing , Lee Jay Jung Jae , Choi Hye Ri , Wan Wai Hin , Withrow Harrison , Lin Chia‐Chin
Published: August 2024

Aim

Internationalization at Home (IaH) strategies play an important role in nursing curricula to enhance nursing students' cultural awareness in the globalized world. The Community of Inquiry (CoI) is a theoretical framework for the optimal design of online learning environments to support critical inquiry and discourse among students and teachers. To optimise nursing students' online cultural awareness learning experiences, it was timely to develop online IaH strategies based on a sound theoretical model. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of CoI‐guided online IaH strategies on enhancing the cultural awareness of nursing undergraduates who enrolled in a community nursing course.

Design

This was an interventional pre‐test post‐test study.

Method

One hundred and six nursing undergraduates who enrolled in the course participated in the study. The online IaH strategies were developed focusing on the interactions of teaching presence, cognitive presence and social presence of CoI framework and they were integrated into the course. A previously validated Cultural Awareness Scale was adopted for pre‐post evaluation. Higher scores indicate greater cultural awareness.

Results

The results showed that there was a significantly higher total score of cultural awareness of participating students at post‐online IaH strategies. To be effective, aligning CoI‐guided online IaH strategies with course content, pedagogy and assessment was shown to be significant. The inclusion of technological elements in related strategies was also critical to engage student learning. The positive change on the total score of cultural awareness suggested the effectiveness of the deployed strategies. In this ever‐changing educational landscape, it may provide insights to educators regarding considering online IaH strategies with theoretical underpinning for curriculum planning and design.