bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Caffeine and Brain Dopaminergic Function in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Saarinen Emmi K , Kuusimäki Tomi , Lindholm Kari , Niemi Kalle , Honkanen Emma A , Noponen Tommi , Seppänen Marko , Ihalainen Toni , Murtomäki Kirsi , Mertsalmi Tuomas , Jaakkola Elina , Myller Elina , Eklund Mikael , Nuuttila Simo , Levo Reeta , Chaudhuri Kallol Ray , Antonini Angelo , Vahlberg Tero , Lehtonen Marko , Joutsa Juho , Scheperjans Filip , Kaasinen Valtteri
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of dietary caffeine intake on striatal dopamine function and clinical symptoms in Parkinson disease in a cross‐sectional and longitudinal setting.

Methods

One hundred sixty‐three early Parkinson disease patients and 40 healthy controls were investigated with [123I]FP‐CIT single photon emission computed tomography, and striatal dopamine transporter binding was evaluated in association with the level of daily coffee consumption and clinical measures. After a median interval of 6.1 years, 44 patients with various caffeine consumption levels underwent clinical and imaging reexamination including blood caffeine metabolite profiling.

Results

Unmedicated early Parkinson disease patients with high coffee consumption had 8.3 to 15.4% lower dopamine transporter binding in all studied striatal regions than low consumers, after accounting for age, sex, and motor symptom severity. Higher caffeine consumption was further associated with a progressive decline in striatal binding over time. No significant effects of caffeine on motor function were observed. Blood analyses demonstrated a positive correlation between caffeine metabolites after recent caffeine intake and dopamine transporter binding in the ipsilateral putamen.

Interpretation

Chronic caffeine intake prompts compensatory and cumulative dopamine transporter downregulation, consistent with caffeine's reported risk reduction in Parkinson disease. However, this decline does not manifest in symptom changes. Transiently increased dopamine transporter binding after recent caffeine intake has implications for dopaminergic imaging guidelines. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:262–275
Anion Modulation of Ag‐Imidazole Cuboctahedral Cage Microenvironments for Efficient Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Yang Wenqian , Mo Qijie , He Qi‐Ting , Li Xiang‐Ping , Xue Ziqian , Lu Yu‐Lin , Chen Jie , Zheng Kai , Fan Yanan , Li Guangqin , Su Cheng‐Yong
Published: May 2024

How to achieve CO2 electroreduction in high efficiency is a current challenge with the mechanism not well understood yet. The metal‐organic cages with multiple metal sites, tunable active centers, and well‐defined microenvironments may provide a promising catalyst model. Here, we report self‐assembly of Ag4L4 type cuboctahedral cages from coordination dynamic Ag+ ion and triangular imidazolyl ligand 1,3,5‐tris(1‐benzylbenzimidazol‐2‐yl) benzene (Ag‐MOC‐X, X=NO3, ClO4, BF4) via anion template effect. Notably, Ag‐MOC‐NO3 achieves the highest CO faradaic efficiency in pH‐universal electrolytes of 86.1 % (acidic), 94.1 % (neutral) and 95.3 % (alkaline), much higher than those of Ag‐MOC‐ClO4 and Ag‐MOC‐BF4 with just different counter anions. In situ attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy observes formation of vital intermediate *COOH for CO2‐to‐CO conversion. The density functional theory calculations suggest that the adsorption of CO2 on unsaturated Ag‐site is stabilized by C−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen‐bonding of CO2 in a microenvironment surrounded by three benzimidazole rings, and the activation of CO2 is dependent on the coordination dynamics of Ag‐centers modulated by the hosted anions through Ag⋅⋅⋅X interactions. This work offers a supramolecular electrocatalytic strategy based on Ag‐coordination geometry and host–guest interaction regulation of MOCs as high‐efficient electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to CO which is a key intermediate in chemical industry process.
Structural, morphological, and dielectric properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/(Bi0.5Ba0.25Sr0.25) (La0.5Ti0.5) O3 composites
Authors: Nath Nitesh Kumar , Mohanta Rashmi Rekha , Parida R. K. , Parida B. N. , Nayak Nimai C.
Published: May 2024

Ferroelectric flexible polymer composite films of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) with different weight percentages (10.0%, 20.0%, 30.0%, 40.0%, and 50.0%) of (Bi0.5Ba0.25Sr0.25) (La0.5Ti0.5) O3 were synthesized by solvent casting method. Analysis using the x‐ray diffractometer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy tools revealed the presence of the different phases (α, β) of PVDF. Scanning electron microscope morphology illustrates the homogenous dispersion of ceramics particles in the matrix. The differential scanning calorimetry curve (under 25–400°C) gives the value of melting temperature (Tm=169.98°C) and percentage crystallinity is about 29.45% for 50 wt.% composite. The findings demonstrated that the composite has good thermal stability up to 169.98°C. Dielectric analysis shows ferroelectric and dielectric behavior and also distinguishes α and β phases of PVDF. It was found that the composite film containing 50 wt.% (Bi0.5Ba0.25Sr0.25) (La0.5Ti0.5) O3 had a dielectric constant (εr) of 38 (at 100 Hz) and dielectric loss of 0.059, which are the maximum among the samples. The relative permittivity rises with an increase in filler content due to electrostatics and interfacial polarization between PVDF (CH2CF2 dipole) and ceramic. The real and imaginary part of impedance spectroscopy with frequency (Cole–Cole plots) for composite (10.0–50.0 wt.%) at 25°C are also investigated. The current study provides a fresh perspective on the fact that PVDF‐(Bi0.5Ba0.25Sr0.25) (La0.5Ti0.5) O3 composite system has improved thermal stability and dielectric characteristics.
Impact of Glucocorticoid Dose on Complete Response, Serious Infections, and Mortality During the Initial Therapy of Lupus Nephritis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of the Control Arms of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Figueroa‐Parra Gabriel , Cuéllar‐Gutiérrez María C. , González‐Treviño Mariana , Sanchez‐Rodriguez Alain , Flores‐Gouyonnet Jaime , Meade‐Aguilar José A. , Prokop Larry J. , Murad M. Hassan , Dall'Era María , Rovin Brad H. , Houssiau Frédéric , Tamirou Farah , Fervenza Fernando C. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Putman Michael S. , Duarte‐García Alí
Published: May 2024

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of glucocorticoid regimens on renal response, infections, and mortality among patients with lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the control arms of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). We included RCTs of biopsy‐proven LN that used a protocolized regimen of glucocorticoids in combination with mycophenolic acid analogs or cyclophosphamide and reported the outcomes of complete response (CR), serious infections, and death. The starting dosage of glucocorticoids, tapering method, and administration of glucocorticoid pulses were abstracted. Meta‐analysis of proportions, meta‐regression, and subgroup meta‐analysis were performed at 6 and 12 months for all outcomes.

Results

Fifty RCT arms (3,231 patients with LN) were included. The predicted rates of CR, serious infections, and death when starting on oral prednisone at 25 mg/day without pulses were 19.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.3–31.5), 3.2% (95% CI 2.4–4.0), and 0.2% (95% CI 0.0–0.4), respectively. Starting on prednisone at 60 mg/day (without pulses) increased the rates to 34.6% (95% CI 16.9–52.3), 12.1% (95% CI 9.3–14.9), and 2.7% (95% CI 0.0–5.3), respectively. Adding glucocorticoid pulses increased the rates of CR and death but not serious infections. We observed a dose–response gradient between the initial glucocorticoid dosage and all the outcomes at six months after accounting for the administration of glucocorticoid pulses, underlying immunosuppressant, and baseline proteinuria.

Conclusion

A higher exposure to glucocorticoids during the initial therapy of LN was associated with better renal outcomes at the cost of increased infections and death.
Self‐Extinguishing and Low‐Cost Quasi‐Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Room Temperature Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Hu Xue‐Tong , Chen Shuang , Wang Peng‐Fei , Wu Yuhan , Shi Fa‐Nian , Zhang Yu‐Hang
Published: May 2024

Most modification strategies of polyethylene oxide (PEO)‐based solid polymer electrolyte focus on improving the room temperature ionic conductivity, while disregarding its inherent flammability that poses substantial safety hazard. Herein, a self‐extinguishing quasi‐solid‐state polymer electrolyte (PTTF‐SPE), which combines excellent room temperature electrochemical properties and high safety, has been developed by introducing triethyl phosphate (TEP) as a low‐cost and highly effective flame retardant. The cross‐linking structure derived from −CH2−CH2−O− segments of tetramethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME) and PEO makes a contribution to a high amorphous state of polymer. A robust solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formed by preferential decomposition of fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) that acts as a film‐forming additive, which can prevent TEP from degradation at lithium metal anode. The optimized PTTF‐SPE exhibits high ionic conductivity (0.54×10−3 S/cm) and lithium transference number (0.71) at room temperature. The LiFePO4||Li battery demonstrates excellent cycle life over 500 cycles at 0.5 C with a high average discharge capacity of 131 mAh/g. A symmetric Li||Li battery that operating for 850 hours indicates a good compatibility of PTTF‐SPE towards lithium metal. This work provides a new idea for developing high‐energy‐density and high‐safety lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs) for room temperature.
Prenatal diagnosis of fetuses with absent/hypoplastic nasal bone in second‐trimester using chromosomal microarray analysis
Authors: Chen Xinying , Jiang Yuying , Zeng Shuhong , Zhuang Jianlong , Lin Na
Published: May 2024

Background

Pathogenic copy number variants (pCNVs) are associated with fetal ultrasound anomalies, which can be efficiently identified through chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA). The primary objective of the present study was to enhance understanding of the genotype–phenotype correlation in fetuses exhibiting absent or hypoplastic nasal bones using CMA.

Methods

Enrolled in the present study were 94 cases of fetuses with absent/hypoplastic nasal bone, which were divided into an isolated absent/hypoplastic nasal bone group (n = 49) and a non‐isolated group (n = 45). All pregnant women enrolled in the study underwent karyotype analysis and CMA to assess chromosomal abnormalities in the fetuses.

Results

Karyotype analysis and CMA detection were successfully performed in all cases. The results of karyotype and CMA indicate the presence of 11 cases of chromosome aneuploidy, with trisomy 21 being the most prevalent among them. A small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC) detected by karyotype analysis was further interpreted as a pCNV by CMA. Additionally, CMA detection elicited three cases of pCNVs, despite normal findings in their karyotype analysis results. Among them, one case of Roche translocation was identified to be a UPD in chromosome 15 with a low proportion of trisomy 15. Further, a significant difference in the detection rate of pCNVs was observed between non‐isolated and isolated absent/hypoplastic nasal bone (24.44% vs. 8.16%, p < .05).

Conclusion

The present study enhances the utility of CMA in diagnosing the etiology of absent or hypoplastic nasal bone in fetuses. Further, isolated cases of absent or hypoplastic nasal bone strongly suggest the presence of chromosomal abnormalities, necessitating genetic evaluation through CMA.
Relationship between dermoscopic and histopathological findings of extradigital glomus tumors
Authors: Takada Tomoaki
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Massage

In extradigital glomus tumors, (1) noncontact and (2) contact dermoscopy show (1) a central purplish‐white area corresponding to tumor nests surrounding enlarged vessels, a peripheral yellow‐white area corresponding to mucin deposition, melanin granules, and fibrous tissue, and (2) white reticular and linear cord areas corresponding to pseudocapsules and collagen fibers.
Malignant Extrarenal Rhabdoid tumor derived from the greater omentum: A case report and literature review
Authors: Shao Xue , Liu Meijun , Wang Xin , Han Lingling , Luo Shuang
Published: May 2024

Background

Malignant extrarenal rhabdoid tumor (MERT) is a rare and highly metastatic tumor, which is more than 75% of patients dying within 6 months of initial diagnosis, and it often leads to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Case

This paper reports a 16‐year‐old girl who presented with the chief complaint of acute abdominal pain. She underwent laparoscopic exploration and excisional biopsy, then pathological examination and immunohistochemistry revealed “extrarenal malignant rhabdomyoma.” One month after operation, she died of intra‐abdominal hemorrhage and multiple organ dysfunction.

Conclusion

MERT were often misdiagnosed and had a poor prognosis. The surgery and chemotherapy are usually beneficial to prolong the survival time of patients with MERT.
Recent Trends in Group 11 Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Sorroche Alba , Reboiro Félix , Monge Miguel , López‐de‐Luzuriaga José María
Published: May 2024

Conventional hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) has been extensively studied in organic and biological systems. However, its role in transition metal chemistry, particularly with Group 11 metals (i. e. Cu, Ag, Au) as hydrogen bond acceptors, remains relatively unexplored. Through a combination of experimental techniques, such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Infrared spectroscopy (IR), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and computational calculations, several aspects of H‐bonding interactions with Group 11 metals are examined, shedding light on its impact on structural motifs and reactivity. These include bond strengths, geometries, and effects on electronic structures. Understanding the intricacies of hydrogen bonding within transition metal chemistry holds promise for various applications, including catalytic transformations, the construction of molecular assemblies, synthesis of complexes displaying anticancer activities, or luminescence applications (e. g. Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence, TADF). This review encompasses the most significant recent advances, challenges, and future prospects in this emerging field.
Biochemical Separation of Cytoplasmic and Nuclear Fraction for Downstream Molecular Analysis
Authors: Huynh Hang T. , Shcherbinina Evgeniia , Huang Hsiang‐Chi , Rezaei Reyhaneh , Sarshad Aishe A.
Published: May 2024

Biochemical fractionation is a technique used to isolate and separate distinct cellular compartments, critical for dissecting cellular mechanisms and molecular pathways. Herein we outline a biochemical fraction methodology for isolation of ultra‐pure nuclei and cytoplasm. This protocol utilizes hypotonic lysis buffer to suspend cells, coupled with a calibrated centrifugation strategy, for enhanced separation of cytoplasm from the nuclear fraction. Subsequent purification steps ensure the integrity of the isolated nuclear fraction. Overall, this method facilitates accurate protein localization, essential for functional studies, demonstrating its efficacy in separating cellular compartments. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Biochemical fractionation

Support Protocol 1: Protein quantification using Bradford assay

Support Protocol 2: SDS/PAGE and Western blotting
From intramuscular to nasal: unleashing the potential of nasal spray vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Jin Ge , Wang Runze , Jin Yi , Song Yingqiu , Wang Tianlu
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has affected 700 million people worldwide since its outbreak in 2019. The current pandemic strains, including Omicron and its large subvariant series, exhibit strong transmission and stealth. After entering the human body, the virus first infects nasal epithelial cells and invades host cells through the angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 receptor and transmembrane serine protease 2 on the host cell surface. The nasal cavity is an important body part that protects against the virus. Immunisation of the nasal mucosa produces immunoglobulin A antibodies that effectively neutralise viruses. Saline nasal irrigation, a type of physical therapy, can reduce the viral load in the nasal cavity and prevent viral infections to some extent. As a commonly used means to fight SARS‐CoV‐2, the intramuscular (IM) vaccine can induce the human body to produce a systemic immune response and immunoglobulin G antibody; however, the antibody is difficult to distribute to the nasal mucosa in time and cannot achieve a good preventive effect. Intranasal (IN) vaccines compensate for the shortcomings of IM vaccines, induce mucosal immune responses, and have a better effect in preventing infection. In this review, we discuss the nasal defence barrier, the harm caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, the mechanism of its invasion into host cells, nasal cleaning, IM vaccines and IN vaccines, and suggest increasing the development of IN vaccines, and use of IN vaccines as a supplement to IM vaccines.
Pantoprazole suppresses carcinogenesis and growth of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange
Authors: Jin Hai , Wen Guorong , Zhu Jiaxing , Liu Jielong , Li Jingguo , Yao Shun , Zhao Zhenglan , Dong Zhiqi , Zhang Xue , An Jiaxing , Liu Xuemei , Tuo Biguang
Published: May 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers. The prevention and therapy for this deadly disease remain a global medical challenge. In this study, we investigated the effect of pantoprazole (PPZ) on the carcinogenesis and growth of HCC. Both diethylnitrosamine (DEN) plus CCl4‐induced and DEN plus high fat diet (HFD)‐induced HCC models in mice were established. Cytokines and cell proliferation‐associated gene in the liver tissues of mice and HCC cells were analyzed. Cellular glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange activity were measured. The preventive administration of pantoprazole (PPZ) at a clinically relevant low dose markedly suppressed HCC carcinogenesis in both DEN plus CCl4‐induced and HFD‐induced murine HCC models, whereas the therapeutic administration of PPZ at the dose suppressed the growth of HCC. In the liver tissues of PPZ‐treated mice, inflammatory cytokines, IL1, CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL9, CXCL10, CCL2, CCL5, CCL6, CCL7, CCL20, and CCL22, were reduced. The administration of CXCL1, CXCL5, CCL2, or CCL20 all reversed PPZ‐suppressed DEN plus CCL4‐induced HCC carcinogenesis in mice. PPZ inhibited the expressions of CCNA2, CCNB2, CCNE2, CDC25C, CDCA5, CDK1, CDK2, TOP2A, TTK, AURKA, and BIRC5 in HCC cells. Further results showed that PPZ reduced the production of these inflammatory cytokines and the expression of these cell proliferation‐associated genes through the inhibition of glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange. In conclusion, PPZ suppresses the carcinogenesis and growth of HCC, which is related to inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and the expression of cell proliferation‐associated genes in the liver through the inhibition of glycolysis and Na+/H+ exchange.
Adaptive output feedback control system design for nonlinear systems via neural networks
Authors: Li Zhao , Otakara Nozomu , Kato Nozomu , Mizumoto Ikuro
Published: May 2024

Adaptive output feedback control based on output feedback exponential passivity (OFEP) has a simple structure and strong robustness in regard to disturbances and system uncertainties. However, it is difficult for most nonlinear systems to satisfy the conditions of OFEP. Thus, the introduction of a suitable parallel feedforward compensator (PFC) to construct an OFEP‐augmented system with the controlled system has been used, but the control output cannot achieve perfect tracking because of the output of the introduced PFC. As a solution, introducing a feedforward (FF) input to build a 2 degree of freedom (2‐DOF) is a simple and effective way to solve this problem. In this paper, we propose the design schemes for suitable PFC and FF input of nonlinear systems via the use of neural networks (NN), respectively. Besides, to cope with possibly present input disturbances, we also provide a method to achieve disturbance compensation based on NN to reduce their interference. Finally, the effectiveness of all proposed design schemes is confirmed through numerical simulations.
Tree demographic strategies largely overlap across succession in Neotropical wet and dry forest communities
Authors: Schorn Markus E. , Kambach Stephan , Chazdon Robin L. , Craven Dylan , Farrior Caroline E. , Meave Jorge A. , Muñoz Rodrigo , van Breugel Michiel , Amissah Lucy , Bongers Frans , Hérault Bruno , Jakovac Catarina C. , Norden Natalia , Poorter Lourens , van der Sande Masha T. , Wirth Christian , Delgado Diego , Dent Daisy H. , DeWalt Saara J. , Dupuy Juan M. , Finegan Bryan , Hall Jefferson S. , Hernández‐Stefanoni José L. , Lopez Omar R. , Rüger Nadja
Published: May 2024

Secondary tropical forests play an increasingly important role in carbon budgets and biodiversity conservation. Understanding successional trajectories is therefore imperative for guiding forest restoration and climate change mitigation efforts. Forest succession is driven by the demographic strategies—combinations of growth, mortality and recruitment rates—of the tree species in the community. However, our understanding of demographic diversity in tropical tree species stems almost exclusively from old‐growth forests. Here, we assembled demographic information from repeated forest inventories along chronosequences in two wet (Costa Rica, Panama) and two dry (Mexico) Neotropical forests to assess whether the ranges of demographic strategies present in a community shift across succession. We calculated demographic rates for >500 tree species while controlling for canopy status to compare demographic diversity (i.e., the ranges of demographic strategies) in early successional (0–30 years), late successional (30–120 years) and old‐growth forests using two‐dimensional hypervolumes of pairs of demographic rates. Ranges of demographic strategies largely overlapped across successional stages, and early successional stages already covered the full spectrum of demographic strategies found in old‐growth forests. An exception was a group of species characterized by exceptionally high mortality rates that was confined to early successional stages in the two wet forests. The range of demographic strategies did not expand with succession. Our results suggest that studies of long‐term forest monitoring plots in old‐growth forests, from which most of our current understanding of demographic strategies of tropical tree species is derived, are surprisingly representative of demographic diversity in general, but do not replace the need for further studies in secondary forests.
Structural Diversity of Sn(II) Phosphine Oxide Complexes with Weakly Coordinating Anions and Comparisons with Related Ge(II) and Pb(II) Species
Authors: King Rhys P. , Cairns Kelsey R. , Denman Charlotte , Levason William , Light Mark E. , Reid Gillian
Published: May 2024

A series of tin(II) triflate phosphine oxide complexes has been prepared from the reaction of Sn(OTf)2 (OTf− = [O3SCF3]−) with various ratios of OPPh3, OPMe3 or dppmO2 (dppmO2 = Ph2(O)PCH2P(O)Ph2). The complexes [Sn(OPPh3)n][OTf]2 (n = 2, 3 or 4), [Sn(OPMe3)n][OTf]2 (n = 2 or 3) and [Sn(dppmO2)n][OTf]2 (n = 1 or 2) have been isolated in moderate to good yields. Selected germanium(II) and lead(II) analogues have been made for comparison, namely [Ge(OPPh3)n][OTf]2 (n = 2 or 3) and [Pb(OPR3)4][OTf]2 (R = Me, Ph). The effect of changing the weakly coordinating OTf− anion for the non‐coordinating [BArF]− anion was investigated through anion metathesis, furnishing the complexes [Sn(OPPh3)n][BArF]2 (n = 3 or 4) and [Ge(OPPh3)3][BArF]2. The isolated solids were characterised by 1H, 19F{1H}, 31P{1H} and IR spectroscopy and microanalysis. Crystal structures were obtained for all complexes except [Ge(OPPh3)2][OTf]2 and [Sn(OPPh3)3][BArF]2, allowing comparisons of the structural features of these divalent group 14 complexes down the group and as a function of coordination number, ligand sterics and electronics.
Optimizing exercise prescription during breast cancer rehabilitation in women: Analysis of the load–velocity relationship in the box squat exercise
Authors: Díez‐Fernández David M. , Esteban‐Simón Alba , Baena‐Raya Andrés , Rodríguez‐Rosell David , Conceição Filipe , Rodríguez‐Pérez Manuel A. , Soriano‐Maldonado Alberto
Published: May 2024

The aims of this study were to assess (i) the load–velocity relationship during the box squat exercise in women survivors of breast cancer, (ii) which velocity variable (mean velocity [MV], mean propulsive velocity [MPV], or peak velocity [PV]) shows stronger relationship with the relative load (%1RM), and (iii) which regression model (linear [LA] or polynomic [PA]) provides a greater fit for predicting the velocities associated with each %1RM. Nineteen women survivors of breast cancer (age: 53.2 ± 6.9 years, weight: 70.9 ± 13.1 kg, and height: 163.5 ± 7.4 cm) completed an incremental load test up to one‐repetition maximum in the box squat exercise. The MV, MPV, and the PV were measured during the concentric phase of each repetition with a linear velocity transducer. These measurements were analyzed by regression models using LA and PA. Strong correlations of MV with %1RM (R2 = 0.903/0.904; the standard error of the estimate (SEE) = 0.05 m.s−1 by LA/PA) and MPV (R2 = 0.900; SEE = 0.06 m.s−1 by LA and PA) were observed. In contrast, PV showed a weaker association with %1RM (R2 = 0.704; SEE = 0.15 m.s−1 by LA and PA). The MV and MPV of 1RM was 0.22 ± 0.04 m·s−1, whereas the PV at 1RM was 0.63 ± 0.18 m.s−1. These findings suggest that the use of MV to prescribe relative loads during resistance training, as well as LA and PA regression models, accurately predicted velocities for each %1RM. Assessing and prescribing resistance exercises during breast cancer rehabilitation can be facilitated through the monitoring of movement velocity.
Establishment of a nonradioactive DNA ligation assay and its applications in murine tissues
Authors: Friese Sharleen , Heinze Tom , Ebert Franziska , Schwerdtle Tanja
Published: May 2024

As final process of every DNA repair pathway, DNA ligation is crucial for maintaining genomic stability and preventing DNA strand breaks to accumulate. Therefore, a method reliably assessing DNA ligation capacity in protein extracts from murine tissues was aimed to establish. To optimize applicability, the use of radioactively labeled substrates was avoided and replaced by fluorescently labeled oligonucleotides. Briefly, tissue extracts were incubated with those complementary oligonucleotides so that in an ensuing gel electrophoresis ligated strands could be separated from unconnected molecules. Originally, the method was intended for use in cerebellum tissue to further elucidate possible mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. However, due to its inhomogeneous anatomy, DNA ligation efficiency varied strongly between different cerebellar areas, illuminating the established assay to be suitable only for homogenous organs. Thus, for murine liver tissue sufficient intra‐ and interday repeatability was shown during validation. In further experiments, the established assay was applied to an animal study comprising young and old (24 and 110 weeks) mice which showed that DNA ligation efficiency was affected by neither sex nor age. Finally, the impact of in vitro addition of the trace elements copper, iron, and zinc on DNA ligation in tissue extracts was investigated. While all three metals inhibited DNA ligation, variations in their potency became evident. In conclusion, the established method can be reliably used for investigation of DNA ligation efficiency in homogenous murine tissues.
The health costs associated with “looking forward to success”: Educational expectations and children's health
Authors: Liu Yiwei , Su Yuting , Liu Keshan , Jin Zhiyan
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of the deviation between parents' educational expectations and children's educational expectations on children's health. This study based on the data from Chinese Family Panel Studies conducted in 2018 and 2020, The participants were 2340 children aged 10–15 years (1310 boys, 1030 girls) in China. We found that when parents' educational expectations are higher than their children's educational expectations, they have a negative impact on children's health status. According to the influence mechanism, the higher the parents' expectations of education are, the greater children's remedial behaviour will be, the less leisure time will be, which will adversely affect children's health. Furthermore, we found that a good parent–child relationship moderated the negative impact of the deviation in parent–child educational expectations on children's health. Therefore, in order to ensure the healthy development of children, it is necessary to resolve the adverse effects of the deviation in parent–child educational expectations by arranging tutoring and leisure time rationally and establishing a good parent–child relationship.
Electronic health record‐integrated questionnaires in colorectal surgery patients as a new standard: Could preoperative bowel function be used to predict postoperative patient‐reported outcomes?
Authors: Cai Ming , Blythe Noah , Jo Alice , Wong Sandra L. , Mayo Sara W.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Patient‐reported bowel function has been previously shown to correlate with quality of life and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) after colorectal surgery. We examined the relationship between preoperative patient‐reported bowel function and postoperative symptom reporting using an electronic health record‐integrated symptom management (eSyM).

Methods

Patients who underwent major abdominal surgery for colorectal cancer at a single institution were included. Preoperative bowel function was assessed prospectively using the validated colorectal functional outcome (COREFO) questionnaire. Patients with electronic portal access received automated eSyM questionnaires after discharge. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between COREFO scores and eSyM use.

Results

169 patients underwent surgery between April 2020 and June 2022 (median age 64, 46.7% female). 148 completed COREFO questionnaires preoperatively; 54 (36.5%) had scores ≥15. Of the 108 patients with portal access, 67.6% used eSyM postoperatively. Among users, 72.3% (47/73) reported severe symptoms. Those with COREFO scores ≥15 were more likely to use eSyM (80.0% vs. 62.7%) though this difference was not significant (p = 0.079).

Conclusions

We found that eSyM utilization regardless of preoperative baseline bowel function was high in this cohort of colorectal surgery patients. This suggests that electronically captured PROs is an effective way for patients to communicate symptoms to their care teams in a postsurgical setting.
CdTe XG‐Cam: A new high‐resolution x‐ray and gamma‐ray camera for studies of the pharmacokinetics of radiopharmaceuticals in small animals
Authors: Katsuragawa Miho , Yagishita Atsushi , Takeda Shin'ichiro , Minami Takahiro , Ohnuki Kazunobu , Fujii Hirofumi , Takahashi Tadayuki
Published: May 2024

Background

The recent emergence of targeted radionuclide therapy has increased the demand for imagers capable of visualizing pharmacokinetics in developing radiopharmaceuticals in the preclinical phase. Some radionuclides emit hard x‐rays and gamma‐rays below 100 keV, in which energy range the performance of conventional NaI scintillators is poor. Multipinhole collimators are also used for small animal imaging with a good spatial resolution but have a limited field of view (FOV).

Purpose

In this study, a new imager with high sensitivity over a wide FOV in the low‐energy band (100 keV) was developed for the pharmacokinetic study.

Methods

We developed an x‐ray and gamma‐ray camera for high‐resolution spectroscopy, named “CdTe XG‐Cam,” equipped with a cadmium telluride semiconductor detector and a parallel‐hole collimator using a metal 3D printer. To evaluate the camera‐system performance, phantom measurements with single and dual nuclides (, , and were performed. The performance for in vivo imaging was evaluated using tumor‐bearing mice to which a nuclide ( or  administered.

Results

We simultaneously obtained information on and , which emit emission lines in the low‐energy band with peak energies close to each other (23–26 keV for and 27–31 keV for , and applied an analytical method based on spectral model fitting to determine the individual radioactivities accurately. In the small animal imaging, the distributions of the nuclide in tumors were accurately quantified and time‐activity curves in tumors are obtained.

Conclusions

The demonstrated capability of our system to perform in vivo imaging suggests that the camera can be used for applications of pharmacokinetics research.
Efficient 3D cone trajectory design for improved combined angiographic and perfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling
Authors: Shen Qijia , Wu Wenchuan , Chiew Mark , Ji Yang , Woods Joseph G. , Okell Thomas W.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To improve the spatial resolution and repeatability of a non‐contrast MRI technique for simultaneous time resolved 3D angiography and perfusion imaging by developing an efficient 3D cone trajectory design.

Methods

A novel parameterized 3D cone trajectory design incorporating the 3D golden angle was integrated into 4D combined angiography and perfusion using radial imaging and arterial spin labeling (CAPRIA) to achieve higher spatial resolution and sampling efficiency for both dynamic angiography and perfusion imaging with flexible spatiotemporal resolution. Numerical simulations and physical phantom scanning were used to optimize the cone design. Eight healthy volunteers were scanned to compare the original radial trajectory in 4D CAPRIA with our newly designed cone trajectory. A locally low rank reconstruction method was used to leverage the complementary k‐space sampling across time.

Results

The improved sampling in the periphery of k‐space obtained with the optimized 3D cone trajectory resulted in improved spatial resolution compared with the radial trajectory in phantom scans. Improved vessel sharpness and perfusion visualization were also achieved in vivo. Less dephasing was observed in the angiograms because of the short TE of our cone trajectory and the improved k‐space sampling efficiency also resulted in higher repeatability compared to the original radial approach.

Conclusion

The proposed 3D cone trajectory combined with 3D golden angle ordering resulted in improved spatial resolution and image quality for both angiography and perfusion imaging and could potentially benefit other applications that require an efficient sampling scheme with flexible spatial and temporal resolution.
Data‐driven nonlocal model for fragmentation in the crushing of solids
Authors: Silling Stewart A.
Published: May 2024

A technique is proposed for reproducing particle size distributions in three‐dimensional simulations of the crushing and comminution of solid materials. The method is designed to produce realistic distributions over a wide range of loading conditions, especially for small fragments. In contrast to most existing methods, the new model does not explicitly treat the small‐scale process of fracture. Instead, it uses measured fragment distributions from laboratory tests as the basic material property that is incorporated into the algorithm, providing a data‐driven approach. The algorithm is implemented within a nonlocal peridynamic solver, which simulates the underlying continuum mechanics and contact interactions between fragments after they are formed. The technique is illustrated in reproducing fragmentation data from drop weight testing on sandstone samples.
Benign convulsions with mild gastroenteritis in children: An emerging acute symptomatic seizures
Authors: Wang Duan , Peng Lijuan , Li Tingsong , Xiao Nong
Published: May 2024

Benign convulsions with mild gastroenteritis (CwG) characterized by afebrile seizures that occurred in the acute period of mild gastroenteritis often occur in infancy and toddlers. Until now, it has not been well acknowledged and thereby classified by the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE) as epilepsy syndrome or acute symptomatic seizures (ASS). Thus far, accumulating data suggest that CwG could fit all the mandatory criteria of ASS from the aspects of pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and outcomes, rather than epilepsy in spite of the rare cases developing epilepsy over time. This review provides a comprehensive picture of this entity aiming to facilitate the pediatricians, particularly for general practitioners, to better recognize this unique entity and, ultimately, to minimize unnecessary evaluation and treatment.
Molecular structure and conformational properties of triflamide derivatives in the gas phase—Part II: 6‐Iodo‐3‐(triflamidomethyl)‐4‐triflyl‐1,4,2,7‐oxaazadisilepane and 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐6,8‐bis (triflyl)‐3‐oxa‐6,8‐diaza‐2,4‐disilabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane by gas‐phase electron diffraction and theoretical calculations
Authors: Shainyan Bagrat A. , Eroshin Alexey V. , Shlykov Sergey A.
Published: May 2024

6‐Iodo‐3‐(triflamidomethyl)‐4‐triflyl‐1,4,2,7‐oxazadisilepane 1 and the product of its cyclization, 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐6,8‐bis (triflyl)‐3‐oxa‐6,8‐diaza‐2,4‐disilabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane 2, have been studied by gas‐phase electron diffraction and DFT calculations. The conformational equilibrium in the gas phase was shown to include three and two conformers for 1 and 2, respectively, in contrast to only one conformer determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The structural analysis of the conformers was performed and the pathways of the conformational transitions were analyzed.
Digital citizen participation in policy conflict and concord: Evaluation of a web‐based planning tool for railroad infrastructure
Authors: Schröder Ilana , Bandelow Nils C.
Published: May 2024

Infrastructure siting has been shown to lead to high contestation across political systems. To counteract this, policymaking has introduced participatory instruments that were recently supplemented by web‐based tools. Drawing on theoretical perspectives on policy conflict, this paper investigates how different conflict intensities reflected in public discourses can shape citizens' perceptions on the potential and limitations of digital participation tools. To this end, we conducted a survey experiment with students who evaluated the potential functions of a web‐based tool considering criteria, such as transparency, efficiency, and inclusion of new expertise. Participants were randomly assigned fictitious project descriptions that used either conflict or concord words. The results show that while users see several positive influences of digital tools on increased transparency and inclusivity in participation processes, this perception is negatively influenced by a supposedly high level of conflict. Furthermore, digital public participation in railroad planning is perceived as contributing to decreasing escalation and strengthening the democratic quality of policy processes. However, digital participation can only develop its strengths if there are accompanying measures and discourses to secure trust. In addition, the tool's potential seems to be higher in less escalated conflict situations and fully escalated situations than in asymmetrically escalated conflicts.
Investigations of Sustainable Biodegradable Oil and Magnetic Particle‐Based Magnetorheological Fluid Dampers for Vibration Attenuation of a Rotor Dynamic System
Authors: Ansari Mohd Anis , Sarmah Pradipta , Bisoi Alfa , Biswas Agnimitra
Published: May 2024

This article aims to study the physical characterization and performance of a material‐based magnetorheological fluid (MRF) dampers for vibration attenuation of a high‐speed rotor–motor system near resonance. Four samples are synthesized by combining electrolytic iron and carbonyl iron (CI) with Castor and Karanja oil and experimentally investigated for their contribution to vibration attenuation. The results demonstrate effective vibration attenuation of the biodegradable oil‐based MRF damper than the nonbiodegradable oil‐based MRF damper. The best vibration attenuation is observed in the case of moderately viscous MRF. CI‐based samples exhibit a lower sedimentation rate, hence recommended for MRF. The vibration amplitude is maximum for the Castor oil‐based MRF damper, however, is minimum for the Karanja oil‐based MRF damper. The steady and transient results of vibration amplitudes are obtained and analyzed for different currents supplied to the MRF damper. The range of unstable speed near resonance is also obtained. The prepared samples show higher attenuation of 6–25% than Sample 5. The vibration amplitude attenuation of Sample 4 and Sample 5 are 47% and 22%, respectively. The findings of this study carry significant implications for controlling the vibration of the dynamic system using an eco‐friendly damping system.
Childhood immunization in Ghana: Tracing the history and projecting the future
Authors: Walana Williams , Al‐Azab Mahmoud , Yabasin Iddrisu Baba , Abdul‐Mumin Alhassan
Published: May 2024

Childhood immunization has contributed significantly to child survival globally. Ghana adopted the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in the year 1972, and since then Ghana's immunization program has chalked huge successes in disease prevention, particularly the drastic reduction in the incidence of the six childhood killer diseases. Despite these successes, there are shortfalls that affect childhood vaccinations in Ghana. Here, we look at the evolution of childhood vaccine adoption in Ghana, the disease burden in the pre‐vaccination era and the vaccination era, the benefits of the immunization program, and the identified shortfalls. More importantly, the impact of childhood immunization on the current state of vaccine‐preventable diseases and the prospects the future holds for vaccine development and disease prevention in Ghana were discussed. Undoubtedly, Ghana has made significant progress in vaccine adoption and expansion of immunization program, resulting in a significant reduction in vaccine‐preventable deaths particularly in children. However, challenges pertaining to vaccine coverage, periodic shortages of vaccine, untimely immunization, and logistics constraints persist, which need redress. Moreover, there is currently no continuous post‐vaccine surveillance to evaluate long‐term vaccine impact. Additionally, Ghana lacks the technology and skill to manufacture its own vaccines. Following the establishment of the National Vaccine Institute, Ghana should be in the position to start the production of established vaccines such as those covered under EPI, whereas collaborative research is needed to discover new vaccines. Finally, it is critical to network childhood immunization records across the nation to ensure enhanced data for planning.
VP focuses on creating a better enrollment process
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: May 2024

When Chrissy Davis Jones, Ed.D., MSW, joined Pennsylvania's Harrisburg Area Community College in April 2021, it was hard to be optimistic about college enrollment. A year into the pandemic, colleges across the country were losing students. And many were already bemoaning the upcoming enrollment cliff that will shrink the number of available students starting in 2025.
Implementation of a Multi‐Functional‐Group Strategy for Enhanced Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells through the Incorporation of 3‐Amino‐4‐Phenylbutyric Acid Hydrochloride
Authors: Qi Danyang , Cao Yang , Feng Xiaolong , Ge Jinghao , Yan Nan , Yuan Yin , Zhang Jiafan , Song Fei , Wang Kang , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Feng Jiangshan
Published: May 2024

Reducing the defect density of perovskite films during the crystallization process is critical in preparing high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, a multi‐functional molecule, 3‐phenyl‐4‐aminobutyric acid hydrochloride (APH), with three functional groups including a benzene ring, ─NH3+ and ─COOH, is added into the perovskite precursor solution to improve perovskite crystallization and device performance. The benzene ring increases the hydrophobicity of perovskites, while ─NH3+ and ─COOH passivate defects related to I− and Pb2+, respectively. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the optimal device increased to 24.65%. Additionally, an effective area of 1 cm2 with a PCE of 22.45% is also prepared using APH as an additive. Furthermore, PSCs prepared with APH exhibit excellent stability by 87% initial PCE without encapsulation after exposure at room temperature under 25% humidity for 5000 h and retaining 70% of initial PCE after aging at 85 °C in an N2 environment for 864 h.
Achieving Dendrite‐Free and By‐Product‐Free Aqueous Zn‐Ion Battery Anode via Nicotinic Acid Electrolyte Additive with Molecule‐Ion Conversion Mechanism
Authors: Liang Hanhao , Wu Jian , Li Jiaming , Wang Jianglin , Yang Zhanhong , Wu Yuping
Published: May 2024

The widespread adoption of aqueous Zn ion batteries is hindered by the instability of the Zn anode. Herein, an elegant strategy is proposed to enhance the stability of Zn anode by incorporating nicotinic acid (NA), an additive with a unique molecule‐ion conversion mechanism, to optimize the anode/electrolyte interface and the typical ZnSO4 electrolyte system. Experimental characterization and theoretical calculations demonstrate that the NA additive preferentially replaces H2O in the original solvation shell and adsorbs onto the Zn anode surface upon conversion from molecule to ion in the electrolyte environment, thereby suppressing side reactions arising from activated H2O decomposition and stochastic growth of Zn dendrites. Simultaneously, such a molecule‐to‐ion conversion mechanism may induce preferential deposition of Zn along the (002) plane. Benefiting from it, the Zn||Zn symmetric battery cycles stably for 2500 h at 1 mA cm−2, 1 mAh cm−2. More encouragingly, the Zn||AC full batteries and the Zn||AC full batteries using NA electrolyte and Zn||VO2 full batteries also exhibit excellent performance improvements. This work emphasizes the role of variation in the form of additives (especially weak acid‐based additives) in fine‐tuning the solvation structure and the anode/electrolyte interface, hopefully enhancing the performance of various aqueous metal batteries.