bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction model of the risk for lateral local recurrence in locally advanced rectal cancer without enlarged lateral lymph nodes: Lessons from a Japanese multicenter pooled analysis of 812 patients
Authors: Ogura Atsushi , Shiomi Akio , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Komori Koji , Hamamoto Hiroki , Manabe Shoichi , Miyakita Hiroshi , Okuda Junji , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Uehara Kay
Published: September 2023

Aim

Although the oncological impact of lateral lymph node dissection on enlarged lateral lymph nodes has been gradually accepted over the last decade, that on lateral lymph nodes without swelling remains doubtful. This study aimed to develop a prediction model for the future risk of lateral local recurrence and to clarify the value of adding lateral lymph node dissection in locally advanced rectal cancer without enlarged lateral lymph nodes.

Methods

This retrospective, multi‐institutional study recruited 812 patients with cStage II/III low rectal cancer without enlarged lateral lymph nodes <7 mm. Total lateral local recurrence was a hypothetical value of future risk of lateral local recurrence when lateral lymph node dissection was never performed.

Results

Overall, total lateral local recurrences were observed in 67 patients (8.3%). In the multivariate analyses, the strongest risk factor for total local recurrences was no preoperative chemoradiotherapy (odds ratio [OR][95%Cl]: 33.2 [4.56–241.7], P < 0.001), followed by tumor distance ≤40 mm (OR [95%Cl]: 2.71 [1.51–4.86], P < 0.001) and lateral lymph node 5–7 mm (OR[95%Cl]: 2.38 [1.26–4.48], P = 0.007). In patients with lateral lymph nodes of 5–7 mm, the total lateral recurrence rate was 4.8% after preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Lateral lymph node dissection could reduce from a total lateral local recurrence of 21.6% to an actual lateral local recurrence of 8.0% in patients without preoperative treatment.

Conclusion

We introduce a novel prediction model of future risk of lateral local recurrences, which has the potential to enable us to indicate lateral lymph node dissection selectively according to the patients' risks.
Template‐free nanostructured particle growth via a one‐pot continuous gradient nanoprecipitation
Authors: Cheng Xie , Wang Shuai , Bernard Julien , Ganachaud François , Yan Xibo
Published: September 2023

Engineered nanoparticles have emerged as new types of materials for a wide range of applications from therapeutics to energy. Still, fabricating nanomaterials presenting complex inner morphologies and shapes in a simple manner remains a great challenge. Herein, we report the template‐free one‐pot continuous gradient nanoprecipitation of different types of non‐compatible polymers to spontaneously form nanostructured particles. The continuous addition of antisolvent induces precipitation and (re)organization of polymer chains at the forming particle interface, ultimately and naturally developing complex inner morphologies and shapes while particle grows. This low‐energy‐cost bottom‐up assembly approach applies to various functional polymers, possibly embedded with metal nanoparticles, for continuous growth into well‐organized nanoparticles. UV crosslinking of the particles and core removal allows both confirming the building process and leading to hollow or multivoid nanomaterials.
Time‐Temperature‐Transformation (TTT) Diagram of Battery‐Grade Li‐Garnet Electrolytes for Low‐Temperature Sustainable Synthesis
Authors: Zhu Yuntong , Chon Michael , Thompson Carl V. , Rupp Jennifer L. M.
Published: September 2023

Efficient and affordable synthesis of Li+ functional ceramics is crucial for the scalable production of solid electrolytes for batteries. Li‐garnet Li7La3Zr2O12−d (LLZO), especially its cubic phase (cLLZO), attracts attention due to its high Li+ conductivity and wide electrochemical stability window. However, high sintering temperatures raise concerns about the cathode interface stability, production costs, and energy consumption for scalable manufacture. We show an alternative “sinter‐free” route to stabilize cLLZO as films at half of its sinter temperature. Specifically, we establish a time‐temperature‐transformation (TTT) diagram which captures the amorphous‐to‐crystalline LLZO transformation based on crystallization enthalpy analysis and confirm stabilization of thin‐film cLLZO at record low temperatures of 500 °C. Our findings pave the way for low‐temperature processing via TTT diagrams, which can be used for battery cell design targeting reduced carbon footprints in manufacturing.
Enantioselective De Novo Synthesis of α,α‐Diaryl Ketones from Alkynes
Authors: Zhou Xueting , Huang Qingqin , Guo Jiami , Dai Lei , Lu Yixin
Published: September 2023

Chiral α,α‐diaryl ketones are structural motifs commonly present in bioactive molecules, and they are also valuable building blocks in synthetic organic chemistry. However, catalytic asymmetric synthesis of α,α‐diaryl ketones bearing a tertiary stereogenic center remains largely unsolved. Herein, we report a catalytic de novo enantioselective synthesis of α,α‐diaryl ketones from simple alkynes via chiral phosphoric acid (CPA) catalysis. A broad range of enolizable α,α‐diaryl ketones are prepared in good yields and with excellent enantioselectivities. The described protocol also serves as an efficient deuteration method for the preparation of enantiomerically enriched deuterated α,α‐diaryl ketones. Using the methodology reported, bioactive molecules, including one of the best‐selling anti‐breast cancer drugs, tamoxifen, are readily synthesized.
Supramolecular Polymerization of a Pyrene‐Substituted Diamide and Its Ensemble of Kinetically Trapped Configurations
Authors: Kompella Srinath V. K. , Balasubramanian Sundaram
Published: September 2023

The prevalence of kinetically accessible states in supramolecular polymerization pathways has been exploited to control the growth of the polymer and thereby to obtain niche morphologies. Yet, these pathways themselves are not easily amenable for experimental delineation but could potentially be understood through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Herein, we report an extensive investigation of the self‐assembly of pyrene‐substituted diamide (PDA) monomers in solution, conducted using atomistic MD simulations and advanced sampling methods. We characterize such kinetic and thermodynamic states as well as the transition pathways and free energy barriers between them. PDA forms a dimeric segment with the N‐ to C‐termini vectors of the diamide moieties arranged either in parallel or anti‐parallel fashion. This characteristic, combined with the molecule's torsional flexibility and pyrene–solvent interactions, presents an ensemble of molecular configurations contributing to the kinetic state in the polymerization pathway. While this ensemble primarily comprises short oligomers containing a mix of anti‐parallel and parallel dimeric segments, the thermodynamic state of the assembly is a right‐handed polymer featuring parallel ones only. Our work thus offers an approach by which the landscape of any specific supramolecular polymerization can be deconstructed.
Study on the structure of energy‐saving bend pipes in a decanter centrifuge
Authors: Fu Shuangcheng , Li Kewei , Zhou Faqi , Yuan Huixin , Shen Shuhuan
Published: September 2023

Decanter centrifuges are widely used in solid–liquid separation, and saving their energy consumption is very important. In this paper, a bend pipe installed at the end of the decanter centrifuge was designed to save energy, and the effect of different structural parameters of the energy‐saving bend pipes on the outlet velocity and the reaction torque was investigated. The results revealed that the outlet velocity and the reaction torque were reduced with the increase in the number of pipes, outlet area, and pipe length. Increasing the radial position had little effect on the outlet velocity, but increased the reaction torque. Decreasing the outlet area and increasing the radial position both weaken the separation performance of the decanter centrifuge. The best separation performance and reaction torque effect were achieved in a suitable structure. Furthermore, the turbulent intensity was reduced from 143% to 135% in the new machine installed with bend pipes. The energy‐saving efficiency dropped with the increase of the rotational speed and the value was 13.1% under 2500 rpm. The separation performance of the new machine was similar to that of the original machine, and the dewatering speed was increased with the increase of the axial position.
Synthesis and characterization of low dielectric constant polybenzoxazines with different fluorine contents
Authors: Ma Xiaoyun , Lu Xin , Yuan Manlin , Lin Hao , Pan Xinyi , Kuo Shiao‐Wei , Xin Zhong
Published: September 2023

The rapid development of integrated circuits puts forward higher requirements for low dielectric constant polymers. In this study, two fluorinated benzoxazine monomers, bis‐(3,4‐dihydro‐3‐(4‐fluoro‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazine)isopropane (BA‐ftfa) and bis‐(3,4‐dihydro‐3‐(4‐fluoro‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazine)isoperfluoropropane (BAF‐ftfa), were successfully synthesized. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) was used to monitor the thermal curing behaviors of the monomers and their mixtures. Five groups of polybenzoxazine samples with different fluorine content (25% ~ 35%) were obtained by copolymerizing the two monomers with different mass ratios. The effects of fluorine content on dielectric properties were investigated and the results show that PBAF‐ftfa with the highest fluorine content has the lowest dielectric constant of 2.53 at 1 MHz. Furthermore, the results of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) show that all polymers possess excellent thermal stability and exhibit high glass transition temperatures over than 180°C.
Application of ferrocene‐grafted polyethylene as UV‐absorbers
Authors: Zhang Yin , Wang Yu , You Wei
Published: September 2023

Based on derivatization of commercial poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA), novel macromolecular UV‐absorbers with polyethylene (PE) backbones and ferrocene side groups are presented in this study. The structures and properties of the polymers were analyzed using various techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and UV visible absorption spectroscopy. UV analysis experiments have shown that PE‐grafted ferrocenyl ester (PE‐g‐FE) and PE‐grafted azacyclo‐ferrocene (PE‐g‐AF) with ferrocene side groups have the potential to act as UV absorbers. By using the polymers as additives for commercial PE, the anti‐migration experiment demonstrates that PE‐g‐AF, with a heterocyclic structure, exhibits superior anti‐migration performance than the ester‐linked PE‐g‐FE. Furthermore, in comparison to commercial small‐molecular UV absorbers (UV‐329), the PE‐g‐AF absorber not only exhibits better UV absorption performance but also demonstrates almost zero migration behavior within the PE matrix.
Extinction risks and threats facing the freshwater fishes of Britain
Authors: Nunn Andy D. , Ainsworth Rachel F. , Walton Silas , Bean Colin W. , Hatton‐Ellis Tristan W. , Brown Andy , Evans Rob , Atterborne Allison , Ottewell Dave , Noble Richard A.A.
Published: September 2023

Extinctions occur naturally in all environments, but rates have accelerated rapidly during the Anthropocene, especially in fresh water. Despite supporting many fish species of conservation importance, there has never been a formal assessment of their extinction risks in Britain, which has impeded their inclusion in relevant legislation and policy. This study therefore used the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species™ Categories and Criteria to conduct the first systematic assessment of the extinction risks and threats facing the native freshwater and diadromous fishes of Britain. In addition, national assessments were produced for England, Scotland and Wales, reflecting the level at which environmental policy decisions are taken in Britain.

Seven species were categorized as being threatened with extinction at the regional level, with European eel Anguilla anguilla and allis shad Alosa alosa classified as Critically Endangered, Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, vendace Coregonus albula and European whitefish Coregonus lavaretus classified as Endangered, and Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus and twaite shad Alosa fallax classified as Vulnerable. In addition, burbot Lota lota was classified as Regionally Extinct, ferox trout Salmo ferox was categorized as Data Deficient, and 25 species were categorized as Least Concern. European sturgeon Acipenser sturio and houting Coregonus oxyrinchus, although probably native, qualified as only vagrants in fresh water, so were categorized as Not Applicable.

The assessments provide objective baselines against which future changes can be determined, and a key evidence base to support policy and management decisions for the conservation of freshwater and diadromous fish species and their habitats in Britain. It is recommended that the assessments are repeated every 10 years, which would enable changes in conservation status, the effectiveness of policies and where targeted interventions may be required to be examined using the Red List Index.
Recent advances in multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes for enhanced catalytic cancer therapy
Authors: Cui Mingjin , Xu Bo , Wang Lianhui
Published: September 2023

Nanozymes have emerged as a promising alternative to natural enzymes, effectively addressing natural enzymes' inherent limitation. Versatility and potential applications of nanozyme span across various fields, with catalytic tumor therapy being one prominent area. This has sparked significant interest and exploration in the utilization of nanozymes for targeted cancer treatment. Recent advancements in interdisciplinary research, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and catalytic technology have led to the emergence of multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes, which exhibit tremendous potential for further development. This review focuses on investigating the synergistic effects of multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes, aiming to enhance our understanding of their catalytic activities and facilitate their broader applications. We comprehensively survey the remarkable achievements in the synthesis, catalytic mechanisms, and the latest applications of multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes in cancer catalytic therapy. Furthermore, we identify the current limitations and prospects of multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes in the development of new materials and the application of novel technologies, along with the potential challenges associated with catalytic cancer therapy. This review underscores the significance of multi‐metallic‐based nanozymes and emphasizes the need for continued exploration as well as their potential impact on the development of novel materials and the realization of breakthroughs in catalytic tumor therapy.
Tissue adhesive indocyanine green‐locking granular gel‐mediated photothermal therapy combined with checkpoint inhibitor for preventing postsurgical recurrence and metastasis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Zeting Yuan , Shuli Ma , Yue Li , Haowei Fang , Jing Shang , Yueping Zhan , Jie Wang , Teng Chen , Wanli Deng , Zhang Kunxi , Peihao Yin
Published: September 2023

Developing effective therapy to inhibit postoperative recurrence and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) is challenging and significant to reduce mortality and morbidity. Here, a granular hydrogel, assembled from gelatin microgels by dialdehyde starch and interpenetrated with in situ polymerized poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate‐co‐N‐isopropylacrylamide) (P(SBMA‐co‐NIPAM)), is prepared to load and lock Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved indocyanine green (ICG) with definite photothermal function and biosafety for photothermal therapy (PTT) combining with checkpoint inhibitor. The presence of P(SBMA‐co‐NIPAM) endows granular hydrogel with high retention to water‐soluble ICG, preventing easy diffusion and rapid scavenging of ICG. The ICG‐locking granular hydrogel can be spread and adhered onto the surgery site at wet state in vivo, exerting a persistent and stable PTT effect. Combined with αPD‐L1 treatment, ICG‐locking granular hydrogel‐mediated PTT can eradicate postsurgery residual and metastatic tumors, and prevent long‐term tumor recurrence. Further mechanistic studies indicate that combination treatment effectively promotes dendritic cells maturation in lymph nodes, enhances the number and infiltration of CD8+ T and CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue, and improves memory T cell number in spleen, thus activating the antitumor immune response. Overall, ICG‐locking gel‐mediated PTT is expected to exhibit broad clinical applications in postoperative treatment of cancers, like CRC.
Sintilimab plus anlotinib as second‐ or third‐line therapy in metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer with uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor mutations: A prospective, single‐arm, phase II trial
Authors: Chen Kaiyan , Xu Yanjun , Huang Zhiyu , Yu Xiaoqing , Hong Wei , Li Hui , Xu Xiaoling , Lu Hongyang , Xie Fajun , Chen Jun , Xu Youzu , Fan Yun
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and uncommon EGFR alterations typically have worse treatment outcomes than patients with classically EGFR‐mutated NSCLC. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of PD‐1 blockade with sintilimab plus anti‐angiogenic treatment with anlotinib in patients with NSCLC harboring uncommon EGFR mutations.

Methods

Patients with metastatic NSCLC harboring uncommon EGFR mutations after two previous treatments, including a platinum‐based chemotherapy regimen and a targeted treatment (or chemotherapy only for patients harboring EGFR ex20ins), received sintilimab combined with anlotinib. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR).

Results

At data cutoff (September 27, 2022), median follow‐up was 22.3 months (range, 1.2–37.6). Among 21 enrolled patients, 12 had EGFR ex20ins and nine had other uncommon EGFR mutations such as L861Q, G719A, and G709X. Overall, eight patients (38.1%) achieved an objective response, and 18 (85.7%) achieved disease control. Median (95% CI) progression‐free survival (PFS) was 7.0 (5.4–8.6) months, and median overall survival (OS) was 20.0 (15.6–24.4) months. The 12‐month PFS rate (95% CI) was 22.2% (7.4–42.0), and the 12‐month OS rate was 66.7% (42.5–82.5). Patients harboring EGFR ex20ins had similar ORR and PFS to those with other mutations. Six patients (28.6%) experienced grade 3 treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs); hand‐foot syndrome was the most common grade 3 TRAE (2 patients; 9.5%). No grade ≥4 TRAEs were observed.

Conclusions

The combination of sintilimab and anlotinib demonstrated durable efficacy and was generally well tolerated in patients with NSCLC and uncommon EGFR mutations who had received prior standard‐of‐care treatments. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04790409).
Elderly nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients (aged ≥70 years): Survival and treatment strategies
Authors: Yang Gang , Huang Jingjing , Sun Ji , Wang Li
Published: September 2023

Background

With the coming of the aging society, the incidence of elderly nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has been increasing which may result in considerable disease burden; however, the optimal treatment strategy for elderly patients is still debatable.

Methods and Results

Clinical data on 294 elderly NPC patients aged ≥70 treated between 2009 and 2019 was analyzed. Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate overall survival (OS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) rates. With a median follow‐up of 53.25 months, the 5‐year estimated OS and CSS for the entire group were 59.5% and 69.8%, respectively. 146 patients died within the follow‐up period, of which recurrence + metastasis (48%) and internal medical disease unrelated to NPC (32%) are the primary causes of death. On univariable analysis, (IMRT vs. 3D‐CRT) (p = 0.001; p = 0.000), T stage (p = 0.001; p = 0.000), N stage (p = 0.013; p = 0.000) and clinical stage (p = 0.000; p = 0.000) were associated with OS and CSS; Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (p = 0.016) was associated with OS. The addition of chemotherapy (CT) correlated with better CSS (p = 0.039), but did not improve OS (p = 0.056) for stage III–IV subgroup. On multivariate analysis, advanced clinical stage independently predicted poorer OS (p = 0.002) and CSS (p = 0.000). In addition, the application of IMRT was an independent protective factor on both OS (p = 0.028) and CSS (p = 0.030).

Conclusion

IMRT is a reasonable treatment strategy to improve survival for elderly NPC patients aged over 70 years; consideration of adding chemotherapy for elderly population should be weighed carefully.
Verruciform Xanthoma of the Buccal Gingiva: Two Cases With Different Clinical Presentations
Authors: Marlow Allison K. , Ramos Elizabeth D. , Blanchard Steven B.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Verruciform xanthoma is an uncommon, benign, asymptomatic lesion commonly affecting the attached tissues in the oral cavity, especially the gingiva. Clinical presentation can be variable and requires biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Case Series

Two cases of verruciform xanthoma in a 21‐year‐old male and a 46‐year‐old female are reported, emphasizing the need for thorough comprehensive analysis of all oral lesions. The clinical features, differential diagnoses, typical and atypical histological features, and potential etiology are presented.

Conclusions

Verruciform xanthoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of solitary lesions in the oral cavity with a papillary, granular, or verrucous surface texture, and confirmed with histopathological examination. Continued monitoring for recurrence at routine examination is necessary especially in sites where the lesion may not have been completely excised.
Rift Valley fever and malaria co‐infection: A case report
Authors: Ali Yousif , Siddig Emmanuel Edwar , Mohamed Nouh , Ahmed Ayman
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of febrile illness that was presented with mild symptoms. However, laboratory investigation confirmed a malaria and Rift Valley fever co‐infection. Healthcare providers in settings endemic with several infectious diseases should seek rolling out possibilities of other infections prior to starting treatment for achieving effective case management with less resources and better safety of patients.

Here we report a case of febrile illness that confirmed to be a co‐infection of malaria and Rift Valley fever. The patient was initially diagnosed with malaria and started on treatment immediately. However, due to the lack of response to the treatment further laboratory investigations were pursued.
Controlling the Formation of Electroactive Graphene‐Based Cementitious Composites: Towards Structural Health Monitoring of Civil Structures
Authors: Safuta Małgorzata , Ciesielski Artur , Samorì Paolo
Published: September 2023

The development of composites combining multiple components each one imparting a specific function to the ensemble is highly sought after for disruptive applications in chemistry and materials science, with a particular importance for the realization of smart structures. Here, we report on the development of an unprecedented multifunctional cementitious composite incorporating reduced graphene oxide (rGO). By design, this material features significantly enhanced electrical properties while retaining the excellent cement's hydration and microstructure. The multiscale investigation on the chemical and physical properties of the dispersion made it possible to establish an efficient preparation protocol for rGO aqueous dispersion as well as rGO‐based cementitious composites using a commercial poly(carboxylate ether)‐based superplasticizer. The conduction mechanisms within the matrix of rGO containing mortars were unraveled by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealing conductive paths originating from bulk cement matrix and rGO nanosheets in composites with rGO loadings as low as 0.075 wt. %. For this rGO loading, we observed the reduction of the resistivity of bulk cement mortar layers from 18.3 MΩ cm to 2.8 MΩ cm. Moreover, the addition of 0.2 wt. % of rGO resulted in the formation of rGO conductive paths with the resistivity of 51.1 kΩ cm. These findings represent a major step forward towards the practical application of graphene‐based materials in structural health monitoring of concrete structures.
Interrelations between Linkage Isomers of an Efficient Square‐planar Nickel(II) Nitrite Photoswitch in the Solid State
Authors: Potempa Kinga , Deresz Krystyna A. , Jankowska Joanna , Jarzembska Katarzyna N. , Krówczyński Adam , Mikhailov Artem , Schaniel Dominik , Kamiński Radosław
Published: September 2023

An efficient nitrite nickel(II) photoswitch, with the 1‐phenyl‐2‐hydroxyimino‐3‐[(2’‐dimethylamino)ethyl]imino‐1‐propanone moiety used as the ancillary ligand, is reported. In the ground‐state (‘dark’) crystal structure, the studied compound exists predominantly as the nitro‐(η1‐N(O)2) isomer, however, traces of the exo‐ and endo‐nitrito‐(η1‐ONO) forms are detected both at 100 K (4–5 % each) and under ambient conditions (~9 % each). When excited with the 405–530 nm LED light, the nitro‐to‐nitrito isomerization takes place. The total conversion exceeds 90 %. The exo‐nitrito linkage isomer constitutes the dominant photo‐generated form, whereas the relative population of both nitrito species depends on temperature. The reaction is fully reversible and reproducible. The photo‐products are stable up to 200 K. The system constitutes a good model case for the reaction mechanism studies. Thus, experimental and theoretical investigations on the photo‐isomerism were conducted and are presented in detail. Eventually, the nitro→exo‐nitrito→endo‐nitrito reaction pathway is proposed.
Visible‐Light‐Promoted Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Couplingof Iodocarboranes with Disulfides and Phenylselenyl Chloride†
Authors: Li Shimeng , Liu Yizhen , Xie Zuowei
Published: September 2023

Comprehensive Summary

This work describes a general method for the synthesis of a series of sulfenylated and selenylated carboranes at room temperature using readily available iodocarboranes as starting materials via boron‐centered carboranyl radicals. Such hypervalent boron radicals are generated by a visible‐light‐promoted Pd(0)/Pd(I) pathway. They are useful intermediates and can be trapped by disulfides and phenylselenyl chloride for the convenient construction of B—S/Se bonds.
Application of Mendelian randomization in the discovery of risk factors for coronary heart disease from 2009 to 2023: A bibliometric review
Authors: Zhong Dayuan , Cheng Hui
Published: September 2023

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a life‐threatening condition that poses a significant risk to individuals. Mendelian randomization (MR) is an emerging epidemiological research method that offers substantial advantages in identifying risk factors for diseases. Currently, there are ongoing CHD‐related MR studies. To gain comprehensive insights into the focal areas and trends of CHD‐related MR research, this study utilizes bibliometrics to conduct an in‐depth analysis of CHD‐related MR articles published in the core database of Web of Science (WOS) from 2009 to 2023. A search was performed to identify CHD‐related MR articles published between 2009 and 2023 in WOS. The data, including publication countries, research institutions, journals, citations, and keywords, were analyzed using the Bibliometrix R‐4.0 software package. A total of 111 articles published in 71 journals were included in the analysis. The journal with the highest impact factor (IF) was the New England Journal of Medicine. The articles were distributed across 24 categories within the 71 journals, with the highest number of publications falling under Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems, Medicine, General & Internal, and Genetics & Heredity. Among the articles, 57 were published in Q1 journals, 42 in Q2 journals, 9 in Q3 journals, and 2 in Q4 journals. The most frequently published journals on CHD‐related MR were Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, Frontiers in Genetics, and the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. A total of 963 authors participated in the 111 articles, with the majority affiliated with institutions in the United Kingdom, the US, and China. The national cooperation network revealed close collaborations between the UK and the US, as well as between the UK and China. The publication of the 111 articles involved 453 research institutions, with Oxford University, Bristol University, and Cambridge University being the most frequently involved institutions. Out of the 111 articles, only 62 were directly related to CHD and MR, with CHD being the outcome factor in 61 of them. These 61 articles investigated 47 exposure factors across eight categories. Among these factors, 10 had been studied in more than 2 articles. The findings concerning the impact of serum uric acid and omega‐6 fatty acids on CHD risk were not entirely consistent. Research in MR related to CHD has been gradually gaining recognition, with an increase in both its academic credibility and collaborative efforts within this field. Indeed, MR has facilitated the identification of risk factors associated with CHD. However, the relationship between these disease risk factors and CHD requires further investigation for clarification. Future MR studies on CHD could prioritize the elucidation and validation of contentious disease risk factors, thereby paving the way for a more comprehensive exploration of additional factors contributing to the onset of CHD.
Volitional inspiration is mediated by two independent output channels in the primary motor cortex
Authors: Helou Leah B. , Dum Richard P.
Published: September 2023

The diaphragm is a multifunctional muscle that mediates both autonomic and volitional inspiration. It is critically involved in vocalization, postural stability, and expulsive core–trunk functions, such as coughing, hiccups, and vomiting. In macaque monkeys, we used retrograde transneuronal transport of rabies virus injected into the left hemidiaphragm to identify cortical neurons that have multisynaptic connections with phrenic motoneurons. Our research demonstrates that representation of the diaphragm in the primary motor cortex (M1) is split into two spatially separate and independent sites. No cortico–cortical connections are known to exist between these two sites. One site is located dorsal to the arm representation within the central sulcus and the second site is lateral to the arm. The dual representation of the diaphragm warrants a revision to the somatotopic map of M1. The dorsal diaphragm representation overlaps with trunk and axial musculature. It is ideally situated to coordinate with these muscles during volitional inspiration and in producing intra‐abdominal pressure gradients. The lateral site overlaps the origin of M1 projections to a laryngeal muscle, the cricothyroid. This observation suggests that the coordinated control of laryngeal muscles and the diaphragm during vocalization may be achieved, in part, by co‐localization of their representations in M1. The neural organization of the two diaphragm sites underlies a new perspective for interpreting functional imaging studies of respiration and/or vocalization. Furthermore, our results provide novel evidence supporting the concept that overlapping output channels within M1 are a prerequisite for the formation of muscle synergies underlying fine motor control.
Preparation of Palladium‐Doped Nickel Phosphide Nanoparticles as Efficient Electrocatalysts for Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kim Ju Ho , Kim Suhyeon , Lestarini Dian Tri , Pramadewandaru Respati K. , Hong Jong Wook , Bang Jiwon
Published: September 2023

Hydrogen production through electrochemical water splitting has gained significant attention owing to its environmental benefits over traditional methods. However, designing an efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in an alkaline electrolyte remains a significant challenge. In this study, colloidal Pd‐doped Ni2P nanoparticles were prepared via a thermal decomposition‐based strategy and used as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction. The Pd dopant is atomically dispersed within the Ni2P nanoparticles, regulating their electronic structure and providing an efficient active site for hydrogen production. The Pd‐doped Ni2P nanoparticles exhibited excellent electrocatalytic performance with an overpotential of 77 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in an alkaline electrolyte and a small Tafel slope of 46 mV dec−1.
Surface Passivation of Perovskite Solar Cells with Oxalic Acid: Increased Efficiency and Device Stability
Authors: Cheng Nian , Li Weiwei , Zheng Dingshan , Yang Wen‐Xing
Published: September 2023

Solution processed perovskite films usually exhibit numerous defect states on the surfaces of the films. Here in this work, oxalic acid (H2C2O4), which has two C=O groups, is selected and used to passivate the surface defects of the two‐step deposited perovskite films via post‐treatment. Strong interaction between H2C2O4 molecule and the Pb2+ ions located on the surface of perovskite film has been confirmed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which can result in an effective suppress of the surface defects. Furthermore, time‐resolved PL spectrum indicates that carrier lifetime is prolonged in the H2C2O4 passivated perovskite film. After optimizing the H2C2O4 concentration, the target perovskite solar cells can demonstrate superior power conversion efficiencies (21.67 % from reverse measurement and 21.54 % from forward measurement) and superior device‐stability.
Regulating the Content of Donor Unit in Donor–Acceptor Covalent Triazine Frameworks for Promoting Photocatalytic H2Production
Authors: He Wei , Zhou Jing , Xu Wenhua , Li Chengbo , Li Jun , Wang Ning
Published: September 2023

Using their own triazine groups as natural receptors, the introduction of various donor units to construct donor‐receptor configuration in covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) has been shown to be an effective strategy to improve photocatalytic activity. In this work, the effect of donor unit content (D‐content) on the photoelectric properties and photocatalytic activity of CTFs was thoroughly investigated. Four analogous CTFs with different D‐content have been rationally designed and synthesized, in which the bithiophene (Btp) as the donor unit and triazine as the acceptor unit. And CTF‐Btp with the highest D‐content showed the best photocatalytic activity. The experimental and theoretical results indicated this improvement is attributed to stronger visible light absorption capacity and higher photoinduced charge carrier separation efficiency. This study elucidates the relationship between the structural features of CTFs with varying D‐content and their photocatalytic activity, offering a promising strategy for developing efficient photocatalysts.
A novel compact semicircular defected ground structure ultrawideband monopole antenna integrated with Ku band for breast cancer detection
Authors: Subrahmanyam Grandhi Venkata , Krishna Kalva Sri Rama
Published: September 2023

A compact and novel ultrawideband (UWB) antenna integrated with Ku band for microwave imaging applications is reported. The reported antenna consists of a novel patch structure along with a tapered feed structure on top of FR‐4 substrate having a compact dimension of 16 × 22 mm2 and novel semicircular defected ground structure (SC‐DGS) etched below the substrate. The proposed antenna covers a wide impedance bandwidth of 15.07 GHz spanning from 3.51 to 18.58 GHz with a fractional bandwidth (FBW) of 136%. The intended antenna performance is analyzed for S11, peak gain, efficiency, and radiation patterns in frequency domain, and group delay, isolation (S21), and linear phase response in time domain. The simulated and measured results of reported antenna are well matched for the usage in practical portable UWB applications. More importantly, the proposed antenna system is simulated for the detection of breast cancer tissue by comparison of S21 results, current densities, and specific absorption rate with and without tumor conditions. These findings show that the radiator and the whole system work well in detecting the breast tumor.
A case of asymptomatic gastric plexiform fibromyxoma followed up for 3 years
Authors: Sugimura Naomi , Kubota Eiji , Sasaki Makiko , Fukusada Shigeki , Mizuno Yusuke , Iwasaki Hiroyasu , Tanaka Mamoru , Ozeki Keiji , Shimura Takaya , Kataoka Hiromi
Published: September 2023

Plexiform fibromyxoma is a rare mesenchymal tumor identified in recent years and presents as a gastrointestinal submucosal tumor that is typically located in the gastric antrum. We report a case of gastric plexiform fibromyxoma in which the diagnosis was difficult despite repeated tissue sampling. Before visiting our hospital, the patient had been followed up for 3 years without a definitive diagnosis despite serial examinations, including computed tomography, endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, and endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration was reperformed, and endoscopic submucosal dissection for deep biopsy was conducted for differential diagnosis of the tumor. However, histological analysis with immunostaining of tumor samples obtained using these techniques cannot provide a reliable diagnosis. Finally, the tumor was resected surgically because of its increasing size, and subsequent microscopic analysis revealed a multinodular plexiform growth pattern of spindle‐like cells with myxoid stroma. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for smooth muscle actin but negative for c‐kit, CD34, and S100. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with plexiform fibromyxoma. No evidence of residual or recurrent tumors was observed at 24 months postoperatively.
The practicality of practice: A model of the function of play behaviour
Authors: Mallpress Dave E. W. , Špinka Marek
Published: September 2023

The function of play has been a long‐debated topic in animal behaviour. One popular class of accounts is that play offers practice for serious adult behaviour, but little has been done to model the circumstances where this could be true. In this paper, we model an individual who, over the juvenile and subadult ontogenetic periods, has a choice between three behaviours: foraging, playing and rest, where playing improves an individual's ability in some component of a serious adult behaviour. Using stochastic dynamic programming, we show that even when play is more energetically costly and an inferior form of practice than foraging itself, it still may be optimal to play under a variety of circumstances. We offer several instantiations of the play as practice concept to show the possibility of play improving a variety of different adult abilities: antipredatory, foraging and reproductive behaviour. These models show the environmental conditions where play might be expected, as well as the predicted occurrences of play throughout ontogeny. This is a first step in showing the ecological feasibility of the practice hypothesis of play and raises further questions about why playful activity is more beneficial than more deliberate directed practice.
Maternal dexamethasone exposure does not affect glucose tolerance but alters renal haemodynamics in F1 rats in a sex‐dependent manner
Authors: Malatiali Slava A. , Kilarkaje Narayana , Al‐Bader Maie
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Prenatal programming with dexamethasone increases the risk of the development of hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance, leading to diabetes in adulthood. Dexamethasone also causes a decline in renal glomerular filtration in the adult offspring. Sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) plays a significant role in regulating blood glucose and renal haemodynamics in diabetic patients. However, the role of SGLT2 in dexamethasone‐induced programming and the putative sex‐dependent effects on the changes named earlier is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of maternal dexamethasone treatment on glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, renal perfusion and renal function in adult male and female offspring and the possible contribution of SGLT2 to these changes.

Methods and Results

Pregnant Sprague Dawley rats (F0) were treated with either vehicle or dexamethasone (0.2 mg/kg ip) from gestation Day 15 to 20. F1 males and F1 females were randomly selected from each mother at 4 months of age. There was no change in serum Na+, Na+ excretion rate, glucose tolerance or insulin sensitivity in F1 male or female rats. However, dexamethasone caused significant glomerular hypertrophy and decreases in CSinistrin and CPAH indicating decreased glomerular filtration rate and renal plasma flow, respectively, in dexamethasone‐treated F1 male but not female rats. Dexamethasone did not affect SGLT2 mRNA or protein expression in F1 males or females.

Conclusion

We conclude that dexamethasone‐mediated prenatal programming of glomerular volume, renal function and haemodynamics is sex‐dependent, occurring only in adult male offspring.
Association of hypoxic burden metrics with cardiovascular outcomes in heart failure and sleep‐disordered breathing
Authors: Huang Boping , Huang Yan , Zhai Mei , Zhou Qiong , Ji Shiming , Liu Huihui , Zhuang Xiaofeng , Zhang Yuhui , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2023

Aims

Heart failure (HF) and sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) frequently coexist. We aimed to compare the prognostic value of different nocturnal hypoxic burden metrics in hospitalized HF patients.

Methods and results

HF patients underwent polygraphy screening for SDB in this prospective cohort. Hypoxic burden metrics assessed using pulse oximetry included time < 90% oxygen saturation (T90), proportion of total recording time < 90% oxygen saturation (TRT90), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and mean oxygen saturation (meanSO2). The prespecified endpoints were the composite of cardiovascular death or admission for worsening HF. This study included 764 hospitalized HF patients, 16.5% and 36.6% of whom had obstructive and central sleep apnoea, respectively. With a median follow‐up time of 2.2 years, endpoint events occurred in 410 (53.7%) patients. In univariate and multivariate analyses, T90, TRT90, and meanSO2 were substantially associated with the composite outcome, whereas ODI was not. After multivariate Cox model adjustment, patients with 5.0 ≤ T90 ≤ 52.0 min [hazard ratio (HR) 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02–1.71, P = 0.034] or T90 > 52.0 min (HR 1.56, 95% CI: 1.21–2.02, P = 0.001) had a greater risk of the composite outcome than those with T90 < 5.0 min. The TRT90 and T90 results were similar. Compared with meanSO2 > 95%, meanSO2 < 93% (HR 1.47, 95% CI: 1.16–1.88, P = 0.002) was correlated with adverse outcomes.

Conclusions

The hypoxic burden metrics T90, TRT90, and meanSO2, but not ODI, were independent predictors of cardiovascular death or readmission for worsening HF. Indicators of duration and severity, not just the frequency of nocturnal hypoxaemia, should be valued and considered for intervention to improve outcomes in HF patients.
Beneficial Effect of Acetic Acid on the Formation of FeIII(OOH) Species and on the Catalytic Activity of Bioinspired Nonheme FeII Complexes.
Authors: Bercy Roxanne , Rebilly Jean‐Noël , Herrero Christian , Guillot Régis , Maisonneuve Hélène , Banse Frédéric
Published: September 2023

Three new amine/pyridine FeII complexes bearing pentadentate ligand with one, two or three electron enriched 4‐methoxy‐3,5‐dimethylpyridine were used as catalysts for the oxidation of small organic molecules by hydrogen peroxide. The distribution of products formed suggests that these ligands are not enough electron donating to promote the O−O heterolytic cleavage of the oxidant in order to generate selective FeV(O) species. Using acetic acid in the reaction mixtures results in a significant increase of the efficiency of these catalytic systems. Our investigations show that the use of AcOH leads to the protonation/dissociation of a pyridyl moiety and the formation of (N4)FeII(OAc)(OH) species. These complexes readily react with excess hydrogen peroxide to yield (N4)FeIII(OAc)(OOH) intermediates. These latter intermediates are proposed to evolve into (N4)FeIV(OAc)(O), which are more efficient than the usual (N4)FeIV(O) and (N5)FeIV(O).
Highly Efficient β‐Functionalized Oxidomolybdenum(V) Corroles for Catalytic Oxidative Bromination of Phenols at Room Temperature
Authors: Yadav Inderpal , Prakash Ved , Kaswan Ram R. , Maurya Mannar R. , Sankar Muniappan
Published: September 2023

Two new β‐functionalized oxidomolybdenum(V) corroles, oxido[3‐formyl‐5,10,15‐triphenylcorrolato]molybdenum(V) (Mo‐1) and oxido[3‐dicyanovinyl‐5,10,15‐triphenylcorrolato]molybdenum(V) (Mo‐2) were synthesized and characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and electrochemical studies. Mo‐2 manifests splitted B bands due to x and y polarizations and highly red shifted longest B and Q bands due to the electron‐deficient nature of the dicyanovinyl group. EPR data showed that these complexes exhibit an axial compression with dxy1 configuration. DFT studies revealed that HOMO and LUMO orbitals are stabilized in Mo‐2 relative to Mo‐1. Mo‐1 exhibits two successive reversible reductions and two oxidation potentials in cyclic voltammetry. Surprisingly, Mo‐2 exhibits three successive reversible reductions and two oxidations; the one extra reduction could possibly be due to the reduction of the dicyanovinyl moiety. The catalytic activities of Mo‐1 and Mo‐2 for the oxidative bromination of various phenols using H2O2‐KBr‐HClO4 mixture in water have been explored and exhibited excellent activity at a very low catalyst loading of 0.0030 and 0.0028 mol%, respectively. Both synthesized β‐functionalized Mo(V) corroles manifest much higher conversion and TOF (59801–71174 h−1) for oxidative bromination of phenols relative to earlier reported meso‐functionalized Mo(V) corroles (20781–61646 h−1). Hence, Mo‐1 and Mo‐2 mimic vanadium bromoperoxidase (VBPO) and act as functional models for these catalytic applications. These catalysts were reused upto 3 cycles and showed conversion rate upto 82 % indicating their excellent thermal and chemical stabilities.
Rhodium(I) PNN Pincer Complexes with Proton‐responsive Ligands: Synthesis, Characterisation, and Catalytic Dehydrocoupling of Amine Boranes
Authors: Rippke Mirko , Drexler Hans‐Joachim , Beweries Torsten
Published: September 2023

Coordination of a pyridine‐pyrazole‐based PNN(H) ligand to RhI produces a family of neutral (1) and cationic (2Cl) RhI complexes. Deprotonation of the parent Rh chloride complex with LiNiPr2 results in formation of a dinuclear LiCl bridged species 3 bearing a pyrazolate fragment. Complexes 1, 2Cl and 3 were tested as precatalyst for the dehydrocoupling of amine boranes. All complexes studied show activity for the formation of cyclic oligomers with N‐methylcyclotriborazane as the main product. Base activation of the neutral Rh chloride complex 1 produces catalyst systems that are significantly more active than the parent system, suggesting that dehydrohalogenation of the Rh chloride precatalyst 1 is one of the key steps for catalyst formation.