bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Focused anatomy workshops for clerkships and the USMLE Step 1 examination
Authors: Ricci Anna , Minearo Ian , Hielscher Abigail
Published: November 2024

Anatomy is essential for understanding healthy and disease states as well as for the successful completion of clinical clerkships and board examinations. This project provided structured workshops aimed to review anatomical concepts for clerkships and Step 1 and provided a means for medical students to assess their anatomical knowledge. We provided six optional anatomy workshops, in which students (1) took a pre‐session quiz, (2) faculty reviewed key anatomy of a particular system (e.g., musculoskeletal), (3) students worked through clinical cases in small groups, and (4) students took a post‐session quiz and responded to a post‐session survey to rate satisfaction of session content and delivery on a five‐point Likert scale. One session was excluded due to small sample size (n = 2). Results from five workshops, including brachial plexus, musculoskeletal, pelvic, gastrointestinal, and head and neck anatomy, showed that students performed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) better on the post‐session quizzes compared to pre‐session quizzes in all sessions. Post‐session survey results indicated that students were satisfied with session content and facilitation, would attend future workshops, and would use session materials to study for Step 1. Based on these short‐term benefits of the sessions, we plan to continue offering monthly workshops to medical students to increase knowledge retention of key anatomical concepts and increase preparedness for clerkships and Step 1. Future studies will longitudinally follow up with students post‐Step 1 and clerkships to determine the long‐term benefits of offering these workshops.
Energetics of Oligosaccharide Adsorption on Ionic Liquid‐Clay Composites
Authors: Nethi Shravani , Hazra Rituparna , Kumar Jagannathareddy Dinesh , Roy Durba
Published: November 2024

Well‐Tempered Metadynamics (WT‐MetaD) simulations indicate that composite materials made up of Na‐Montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) coated with ionic liquids (ILs) having hydrophilic cations serve as good adsorbents for a hexameric (1,4) linked β‐D‐glucopyranoside (BGLC). Hydrophilic IL cations are effectively coated on the negative charges lining the Na‐MMT surface while attracting simultaneously the polar oligosaccharides. In this work we have used two less conventional polyethylene glycol (PEG) based IL cations, [mim2 peg1]2+ and [mim2 peg2]2+, paired with [tf2N]− and Cl− anions. Another strongly hydrophilic ion combination, [C2OHmim][Cl], also showed great promise in effective oligosaccharide adsorption on the Na‐MMT surface. The study reveals that the topological polar surface area (TPSA), the octanol‐water partition coefficient (log PO/W), the length of the cationic side chain and the Debye screening length
of the IL are some of the most important factors affecting the adsorption of hydrophilic oligosaccharides on the clay‐IL composites. Among all the systems studied, [mim2 peg2][tf2N]2 having the highest TPSA and a long screening length emerged as the best adsorbent for the oligosaccharide on the IL‐coated clay.
Conditional Variable Screening for Ultra‐High Dimensional Longitudinal Data With Time Interactions
Authors: Bratsberg Andrea , Ghosh Abhik , Thoresen Magne
Published: November 2024

In recent years, we have been able to gather large amounts of genomic data at a fast rate, creating situations where the number of variables greatly exceeds the number of observations. In these situations, most models that can handle a moderately high dimension will now become computationally infeasible or unstable. Hence, there is a need for a prescreening of variables to reduce the dimension efficiently and accurately to a more moderate scale. There has been much work to develop such screening procedures for independent outcomes. However, much less work has been done for high‐dimensional longitudinal data in which the observations can no longer be assumed to be independent. In addition, it is of interest to capture possible interactions between the genomic variable and time in many of these longitudinal studies. In this work, we propose a novel conditional screening procedure that ranks variables according to the likelihood value at the maximum likelihood estimates in a marginal linear mixed model, where the genomic variable and its interaction with time are included in the model. This is to our knowledge the first conditional screening approach for clustered data. We prove that this approach enjoys the sure screening property, and assess the finite sample performance of the method through simulations.
Incompletely Observed Nonparametric Factorial Designs With Repeated Measurements: A Wild Bootstrap Approach
Authors: Amro Lubna , Konietschke Frank , Pauly Markus
Published: November 2024

In many life science experiments or medical studies, subjects are repeatedly observed and measurements are collected in factorial designs with multivariate data. The analysis of such multivariate data is typically based on multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) or mixed models, requiring complete data, and certain assumption on the underlying parametric distribution such as continuity or a specific covariance structure, for example, compound symmetry. However, these methods are usually not applicable when discrete data or even ordered categorical data are present. In such cases, nonparametric rank‐based methods that do not require stringent distributional assumptions are the preferred choice. However, in the multivariate case, most rank‐based approaches have only been developed for complete observations. It is the aim of this work to develop asymptotic correct procedures that are capable of handling missing values, allowing for singular covariance matrices and are applicable for ordinal or ordered categorical data. This is achieved by applying a wild bootstrap procedure in combination with quadratic form‐type test statistics. Beyond proving their asymptotic correctness, extensive simulation studies validate their applicability for small samples. Finally, two real data examples are analyzed.
Cyclic Voltammetry Study and Solar Light Assisted Photocatalytic Activity of the CeFeO3/CeO2/Fe2O3 Composite
Authors: Kanimozhi M. , Harikrishnan R. , Mani M. , Kumaresan S. , Rajasekar A. , Devi N. Saradha , Radhakrishnan Shankara G. , Sibali L. , Kaviyarasu K.
Published: November 2024

The semiconducting nature of CeFeO3/CeO2/Fe2O3 nanocomposite has permitted the degradation of the organic toxic dye methylene blue under the irradiation of ultraviolet and visible light portions of solar radiation. Fullprof‐assisted Rietveld refinement analysis, performed using the Match software, has revealed the orthorhombic nature of CeFeO3. In addition, in the synthesized material, the cubic phase byproduct CeO2 was found due to the highly oxidizing nature of the cerium element. This occurred due to 6 min microwave irradiation because the microwave‐assisted technique offered random distribution of heating during the supply of 800‐W power for 30 s, followed by 12 cycles. Additionally, the presence of Fe2O3 was also confirmed through Match software‐assisted Rietveld refinement analysis through phase matching. During the synthesis, a certain portion of the synthesized CeFeO3 experienced overheating, leading to phase transformation from CeFeO3 into Fe2O3 and CeO2. The unit cell compositions of CeFeO3, CeO2, and Fe2O3 were found in the sample material with 35.54%, 52.43%, and 12.03%, respectively. The appearance of a fingerprint absorption region in the FTIR spectrum around 577.36 and 535.38 cm−1 further confirmed the similarity of these values (577.36 and 535.38 cm−1) to those obtained from the calculated values obtained by substituting Rietveld refined bond length parameters. The fourth step process in the thermal analysis curve (TGA) revealed the oxidation process, which led to the destruction of the CeFeO3 phase, causing the transformation of CeFeO3 into two byproducts (CeO2 and Fe2O3). This oxidation process permitted in an observable weight gain, which is observed in the thermal analysis curve (TGA). A cyclic voltammetry study (the experimentally measured current–voltage characteristic curve) revealed slightly distorted semirectangular CV curves, confirming the pseudo‐capacitive behavior of the synthesized composite.
Expression of Viral DNA Polymerase in Synthetic Recombinant Adeno‐Associated Virus Producer Cell Line Enhances Full Particle Productivity
Authors: Lin Yu‐Chieh , Kuo Han‐Jung , Lu Min , Rungkittikhun Carissa , Hu Wei‐Shou
Published: November 2024

Recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) is a widely used viral vector in gene therapy. To meet the growing clinical demand, a scalable production technology which can efficiently produce high‐quality products is required. We have developed a synthetic biology strategy to generate HEK293‐based cell lines which have integrated essential AAV and adenoviral helper genes and are capable of producing rAAV upon induction. One such cell line, GX6B, produced up to 106 capsids per cell, but only a much lower level of rAAV genomes. The low AAV genome titer limited its rAAV productivity and increased empty viral particle content. To boost AAV genome amplification, the coding sequence of the DNA polymerase complex (UL30/UL42) from helper Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV‐1) was placed under an inducible promoter control and integrated into GX6B genome at a relatively low level. The resulting clones produced significantly higher titer of viral genomes, while their capsid level was unaffected. As a result, the encapsidated rAAV2 titer and the full particle content were significantly increased. We further demonstrated that this strategy of expressing HSV‐1 DNA polymerase to increase full particle productivity could be implemented in a synthetic cell line producing another serotype rAAV8.
Enhancing Strategic Performance Through Sustainable Practices: The Nexus of Social Responsibility Practice and Competitive Advantage—Moderating Role of Business Ownership Type
Authors: Waktola Bekan Serbessa , Singh Manjit , Singh Sandeep
Published: November 2024

Integrating sustainable business practices is crucial for long‐term strategic success in today's ever‐changing corporate environment. This research examines the relationship between social responsibility practices and competitive advantage in the banking industry, with the focus on how these activities might improve a bank's strategic performance. Furthermore, the study investigates the moderating role of business ownership type in the relationship between social responsibility and competitive advantage. This study employed a quantitative research design. The survey questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were collected from 385 customers of selected commercial banks in Ethiopia. The study used Partial Least Square Modeling (PLS‐SEM) to test relationships between variables. Social responsibility practice is measured from the perspectives of banks' philanthropic, economic, legal, and ethical activities. Bank ownership type was considered a moderating variable. The study findings show that social responsibility practices significantly influence the bank's competitive advantage. Similarly, including the moderating variable, bank ownership type, did not significantly change the relationship between social responsibility practices and competitive advantage. The results provide useful insights for business executives and practitioners who want to include sustainability into their strategy frameworks, fostering economic, social, and environmental well‐being. This study emphasizes the need to use sustainable business practices to gain a competitive edge and achieve sustainable business performance. It shows that responsible corporate behavior may result in greater strategic performance.
Endoluminal photodynamic therapy with a photoreactive stent‐based catheter system to treat malignant colorectal obstruction
Authors: Eo Seung Jin , Ryu Dae Sung , Lee Hyeonseung , Kim Ji Won , Kim Song Hee , Noh Jin Hee , Kim Yuri , Kang Seokin , Na Kun , Park Jung‐Hoon , Kim Do Hoon
Published: November 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using photosensitizer (PS)‐embedded silicone membrane‐covered self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMSs) can function in palliative therapeutic option for malignant gastrointestinal tract obstruction. However, stent‐related complications should be considered, and accurate delivery of light sources is technically difficult. Here, a Chlorin e6 (Ce6)‐an embedded stent‐based catheter is developed to improve its therapeutic efficacy and safety. PDT using Ce6‐embedded stent successfully induced cell death of colorectal cancer cell line. PDT‐treated liver tissues showed an increase in ablation depth in proportion to irradiation energy, and 600 J/cm2 demonstrates an even and sufficient ablation depth. Endoluminal PDT using the Ce6‐embedded stent‐based catheter was technically successful in a rat colon model without procedure‐related complications such as colonic perforation or stricture formation. The results in colonoscopy, colonography, and histological examination, along with statistical analysis, suggest that a novel PDT modality using a Ce6‐embedded stent‐based catheter was safely conducted and demonstrated apoptotic cell death at 12 h after PDT, and it gradually recovered from 2 to 4 weeks. Thus, the PDT using the Ce6‐embedded stent‐based catheter may represent a promising new approach for the treatment of malignant colorectal obstruction.
Profiles of Fatigue and Psychological Symptoms in Long‐Term Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Survivors—The NOR‐CAYACS Study
Authors: Deng Wei H. , Lie Hanne C. , Ruud Ellen , Loge Jon H. , Kiserud Cecilie E. , Rueegg Corina S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Long‐term childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors (CAYACS) are at risk of fatigue and psychological problems. However, their interactions remain largely unexplored. Understanding how they cluster can inform treatment and person‐centered follow‐up care. We aimed to identify and describe profiles of co‐occurring fatigue and psychological symptoms and investigate their associations with health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in CAYACS.

Methods

NOR‐CAYACS (The Norwegian Childhood, Adolescents and Young Adult Cancer Survivors study) was a nationwide survey involving adult survivors of any childhood cancer (aged < 19 years at diagnosis) and selected young adult cancers (breast and colorectal cancers, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemias, and malignant melanomas, aged 19–39 years at diagnosis) identified through the Cancer Registry of Norway. We included 1893 survivors aged ≥ 18 years, ≥ 5 years since diagnosis. We performed latent profile analysis with six continuous outcomes: physical and mental fatigue, depression, anxiety, post‐traumatic stress symptoms, and fear of recurrence.

Results

We identified an overall “Low” (64%), a “Moderate fatigue/high anxiety” (18%), a “High fatigue/moderate distress” (13%), and an overall “High” (5%) symptom burden profile. The “High” profile exhibited lowest physical‐ and mental‐HRQOL with T‐scores −9.8 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: −12.5, −7.1) and −25.0 (95% CI: −26.7, −23.3) compared to the “Low” profile.

Conclusion

We identified four profiles, two characterized by high fatigue and two near normative fatigue levels, each with different psychological symptom burden. Greater symptom burden corresponded to lower HRQOL, with high fatigue profiles showing lower physical HRQOL. These profiles help identify at‐risk individuals and allow for targeting interventions and follow‐up care to survivors' unique constellation of symptoms.
Early COVID‐19 Vaccine Initiation and Completion Among Cancer Survivors and Barriers to Vaccine Completion: Implications for Future COVID‐19 Vaccination Uptake Rates
Authors: Saeedi Nikta , Arizpe Angel , Queen Katelyn J. , Tsui Jennifer , Kim Sue , Huang Brian Z. , Farias Albert J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Cancer survivors are considered by public health officials as a high‐risk group in the United States for severe complications from COVID‐19. We aimed to characterize patterns of early uptake of the COVID‐19 vaccine among cancer survivors and to determine modifiable barriers to vaccine completion that can be addressed to ensure future booster adherence.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data of vaccine uptake by summer 2021 was extracted from adult cancer survivors enrolled in the “All of Us” research program. Vaccine completion was determined based on receiving at least two doses. We assessed sociodemographic factors, socioeconomic barriers (education, income, health insurance status, housing, and employment status), and COVID‐19 vaccine uptake by Summer 2021, employing multivariable ordinal logistic regression for those who were unvaccinated, had initiated vaccine uptake, and had completed COVID‐19 vaccination.

Results

Of the 514 cancer survivors in the sample, 73.7% were fully vaccinated by summer 2021. Those who received no vaccine doses showed higher proportions of SES barriers, medical distrust, and perceived lack of need barriers. Race (non‐Hispanic White vs. other) was not statistically significantly associated with vaccine uptake (OR (95% CI) = 0.94 (0.51, 1.70)), while for every additional SES barrier, there was a 40% decrease (OR (95% CI) = 0.60 (0.48, 0.75)) in the odds of receiving more COVID‐19 vaccine doses. Higher medical distrust and perceived lack of need were associated with 56% (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.32–0.59) and 39% (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.43–0.87) lower odds, respectively.

Conclusion

Racial/ethnic disparities in vaccine uptake may be explained by SES barriers. Addressing SES disparities and fostering medical trust may enhance future COVID‐19 vaccination uptake rates for this high‐risk group.
Pharmacological Evaluation of Bakuchiol From Psoralea corylifolia L. as Potent Antimicrobial Agent Against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Tripathi Nancy , Roy Arnab , Agnivesh Puja Kumari , Bhardwaj Nivedita , Kumari Sanju , Kalia Nitin Pal , Jain Shreyans K.
Published: November 2024

The surge in multidrug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is the pressing need to identify novel alternatives to combat antimicrobial resistance effectively. Bakuchiol is a bioactive prenylated phenolic meroterpene largely abundant in the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia. In this study, we present the biological assessment of bakuchiol derived from P. corylifolia as an antimicrobial agent. S. aureus, a significant opportunistic pathogen, attracts global concern for its biofilm formation and resilience against numerous antibiotics, escaping antibiotic pressure. The primary screening of bakuchiol as an antimicrobial agent against S. aureus delineated its potential as a strong bactericidal agent with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 2 and 8 µg/mL, respectively. Importantly, bakuchiol also exhibited low toxicity against HepG2 cells, showing a favorable selectivity index (SI) of 14.4. Furthermore, bakuchiol demonstrated comparable activity (MIC = 2 µg/mL) against a laboratory‐generated ciprofloxacin‐resistant mutant of S. aureus. Bakuchiol could significantly inhibit the biofilm formation of S. aureus in a dose‐dependent manner with minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC)50 of 0.956 µg/mL. Bakuchiol effectively inhibited DNA gyrase supercoiling activity at a concentration eight times the MIC, establishing DNA gyrase inhibition as the mechanism of action for bakuchiol. Our findings suggest bakuchiol as a potential therapeutic agent for S. aureus‐mediated nosocomial infections.
Temperature‐Based Extraction, Characterization by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy With Prospective Antibacterial Properties of Eri (Philosamia ricini) Pupal Oil
Authors: Mishra Akash , Verma Abhishek , Srivastava Devika , Kumar Ramappa Venkatesh
Published: November 2024

Lepidopteran insects are novel source of omega‐3 fatty acids as revealed by the studies recently. In the current study, we assessed the effects of four different drying temperatures (50, 60, 70 and 80°C) of eri silkworm (Philosamia ricini) pupal oil (EPO) abbreviated as EPO50, 60, 70 and 80 followed by conducting the characterization and antibacterial efficacy studies. Gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) were used for chemical profiling of EPOs. The agar‐well diffusion method was performed to evaluate the antibacterial activities. The trend of this study clearly revealed that enhanced drying percentage of temperatures showed raising saturated fats and reduced unsaturated fats. However, the best suitable temperature was found at 60°C with high unsaturated fatty acids, including omega‐3. Further, at higher temperature, FTIR analysis revealed an increasing complexity of functional groups with potential bioactive compounds. EPOs were found to have significant antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus at all tested (10, 20, 30 and 40 µL) volumes used in the study.
Creating Caring Campuses: A Faculty‐Led Approach
Authors: Barnett Elisabeth A. , Cho Selena , Cornelius Kristin M. , Phillips Brad C.
Published: November 2024

Caring Campus–Faculty is a program that supports faculty as they develop and implement “behavioral commitments” designed to help students feel a sense of belonging and to support them in their educational journey. Developed by the Institute for Evidence‐Based Change, Caring Campus was evaluated by the Community College Research Center (CCRC) from 2019 to 2023. In this article, we describe Caring Campus as practiced by faculty, as well as findings from the research on implementation practices and outcomes. We also share the experiences of Delta College, which has been implementing its own version of Caring Campus for a number of years. Caring Campus allows faculty to take leadership in student success efforts by changing instructional practices in ways that can improve student experiences and outcomes. Further, as they implement Caring Campus strategies, faculty encourage changes in the culture of the college in ways that support students as well as their own engagement with their work and each other.
The Tip of the Iceberg, But What's Underneath?: Hidden Shared Governance in the Community College
Authors: Kater Susan T. , Miller Michael T.
Published: November 2024

This article proposes a new way of thinking about shared governance, focusing on the informal and sometimes unintentional interactions among faculty, staff, and even students. We argue that an operational place to start reconceptualizing shared governance is to look at the everyday interactions that collectively make up the hidden experiences of shared governance, or what we also refer to as the “base” rather than the “tip” of an iceberg. As such, shared governance can be viewed as a socially constructed concept that requires new and different thinking about how decisions are made and how a college's culture makes, and accepts decisions. We conclude with several recommendations for practice which collectively stress reconsidering what shared governance means on an individual campus and how it contributes to strategically thinking and articulately how shared involvement can play an important role in determining the future of a college.
Intravascular Lithotripsy in Acute Coronary Syndromes: Procedural and One‐Year Clinical Outcomes From the BENELUX‐IVL Registry
Authors: Oliveri Federico , van Oort Martijn J. H. , Al Amri Ibthial , Bingen Brian O. , Claessen Bimmer E. , Dimitriu‐Leen Aukelien C. , Kefer Joelle , Girgis Hany , Vossenberg Tessel , van der Van der Kley Frank , Jukema J. Wouter , Montero‐Cabezas Josè M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite the excellent success and safety of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) in heavily calcified lesions, evidence in acute coronary syndromes (ACS) remains limited.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the procedural and clinical outcomes of IVL in heavily calcified ACS.

Methods

Patients who underwent IVL between 2019 and 2024 from the ongoing prospective BENELUX registry were eligible for inclusion. Patients were therefore classified in ACS and chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) groups. The primary technical endpoint was angiographic success < 30%, defined as the successful delivery of the IVL catheter across the target lesion and delivery of IVL pulses without angiographic complications and residual target lesion less than 30%. The primary clinical endpoint was in‐hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization.

Results

A total of 454 patients underwent IVL, with 251 (55.3%) treated for CCS and 203 (44.7%) for ACS. The median SYNTAX score (p‐value 0.17), the need for inotropes (p‐value 0.09), and the use of mechanical circulatory support (p‐value 0.71) were similar between CCS and ACS groups. Comparable angiographic success (< 30% residual stenosis) was observed between CCS and ACS groups (90.1% vs. 91.1%, p = 0.69). MACE were similar across groups during hospital stays (CCS 1.6% vs. ACS 3.0%, p = 0.33), at 30 days (CCS 3.2% vs. ACS 3.9%, p = 0.86), and at 12‐month follow‐up (CCS 8.4% vs. ACS 7.9%, p = 0.91).

Conclusion

IVL provides high procedural success and consistent clinical outcomes in both CCS and ACS cases.
Acute Pancreatitis Associated With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Young Female: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
Authors: Ordoñes‐Saucedo Andres , Reyes‐Torres Bruno Eduardo , Kortright‐Maldonado Karen , Tenorio‐Aguirre Erika K. , Rodríguez‐Henríquez Pedro , Martínez‐Sánchez Froylan D.
Published: November 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a rare but life‐threatening complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The case highlights the diagnostic challenges and treatment complexities in managing SLE‐associated pancreatitis. A 20‐year‐old female with a history of SLE presented with acute onset epigastric pain, vomiting, and signs of systemic inflammation. Laboratory findings revealed elevated amylase and lipase levels, confirming AP. Imaging studies showed interstitial edematous pancreatitis and bilateral pleural effusion. The patient was managed with aggressive fluid resuscitation, pain management, and supportive care. A systemic inflammatory response complicated her clinical course, and she required intensive care unit monitoring. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of AP in SLE patients and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to manage this severe complication.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated C−H Difluoroalkylation of (Hetero)arenes: A New Application of Vibration‐Induced‐Emission Molecule 9,14‐Diphenyl‐dihydrodibenzo[a,c]phenazine
Authors: Zhang Chengxi , Zhang Zhiyun , Chen Yifeng
Published: November 2024

Herein, we report a vibration‐induced emission molecule, 9,14‐diphenyl‐dihydrodibenzo[a,c]phenazines (DPAC), compound‐catalyzed C−H difluoroalkylation of (hetero)arenes under visible light conditions. This method demonstrates the promising potential of vibration‐induced‐emission (VIE) molecules in photocatalysis and facilitates a metal‐free synthetic approach for difluoroalkyl (hetero)arenes with broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance.
Boron‐Containing Organic Two Dimensional Materials: Synthesis and Application
Authors: Zhao Fenggui , An Mengjie , Wang Nan , Yin Xiaodong
Published: November 2024

Organic two‐dimensional materials have garnered widespread attention due to their well‐defined structures, structural diversity, and rich electronic effects, demonstrating significant application potential across various fields. Atomic‐level manipulation of the structures of organic two‐dimensional materials has been a primary strategy for enriching and optimizing their properties. The introduction of heteroatoms often significantly affects their electronic structure, thereby endowing these materials with novel and unique properties. Boron atoms, due to their electron‐deficient nature, have been extensively studied in luminescent materials, semiconductor materials, and chemical sensing materials. Consequently, boron‐containing organic two‐dimensional materials are also believed to be promising as a new class of materials with excellent optoelectronic and chemical activities. This article collates and summarizes the preparation and property studies of three types of boron‐containing organic two‐dimensional materials in recent years.
Nucleophilic Amination of Aryl Halides with an Azanide Surrogate
Authors: Cooper Bradley D. , Harris Thomas D. , Lim Ethan R. X. , Hooper Katherine A. , Whitehead George F. S. , Carney Jonathan R. , James Michael J.
Published: November 2024

We report the development of an azanide (−NH2) surrogate which enables the facile conversion of electron‐deficient (hetero)aryl halides into primary N‐aryl amines under transition‐metal‐free conditions. The designed amidine reagent is easy to prepare, bench stable, and undergoes facile N‐arylation under basic conditions at 40 °C. Intermediate N‐aryl amidines are readily cleaved to form N‐aryl amines in situ through hydrolysis or base‐promoted elimination. The developed surrogate is a safer and more selective alternative to existing anionic N‐nucleophiles, such as alkali metal amides or azide salts.
Postconcussive symptom severity, risk factors for prolonged recovery, and mental health history: Pathways of influence in a diverse pediatric sample
Authors: Winstone‐Weide Laura K. , Gettig Kelly , Austin Cynthia A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The objective of this study was to confirm previous risk factors for concussion recovery in a diverse pediatric sample and to elucidate the pathways by which individual mental health factors influence postconcussive symptom reporting and time to clearance.

Methods

Subjects between 13 and 17 years of age (N = 642; mean age = 15.40; 45% female) were analyzed from a prospectively completed database associated with a multidisciplinary TBI/concussion clinic in the southwest United States. Fifty‐four percent of participants identified as Hispanic, 41% received medical coverage through Medicaid, and 54% were injured during participation in an organized sports team. Mediation analysis using a structural equational framework was employed to examine the significance of both direct and indirect effects from preinjury factors (e.g., prior concussions, female gender, history of migraines, anxiety, depression, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], and learning disorders) on postinjury symptom reporting (at baseline and visit 1) and time to clearance.

Results

Higher symptom reporting at baseline was significantly associated with history of anxiety, depression, ADHD, headaches, and female gender. Higher symptom reporting at visit 1 was significantly associated with baseline symptoms, female gender, and history of anxiety. Symptom scores at baseline fully accounted for the relation between history of depression and symptom scores at visit 1 and only partially accounted for the relation between history of anxiety and symptom scores at visit 1. Only history of anxiety indirectly contributed to greater days to clearance through higher symptom scores at visit 1.

Discussion

This study supports the concept that heterogenous experience following injury is influenced by preinjury factors and extends the generalizability of risk factors to a diverse sample of youth in terms of ethnicity, insurance status/type, and mechanism of injury. Anxiety and depression represent important noninjury factors that warrant considerable attention during concussion treatment and management.
Understanding the Effects of Surface and Edge Functionalization on the Mechanical Properties of Graphene and Graphene Oxide
Authors: Sharma Bharat Bhushan , Kedare Anjana , Muralidharan Girish , Govind Rajan Ananth
Published: November 2024

Graphene oxide (GO) is a widely used 2D material employed in various applications due to its tunable properties. Understanding its mechanical properties is crucial to develop polymeric nanocomposites. We employ reactive molecular dynamics simulations to understand the effects of surface and edge functionalization of carbon atoms on the mechanical strength and fracture morphology of graphene and GO. We vary the extent of functionalization of hydroxyl and epoxy groups between 0.1 %–70 % on the GO surface and find that the tensile strength decreases with increasing functionalization. Nevertheless, there exists an optimal level of surface functionalization of 15–20 % where the tensile strength of pristine graphene is retained. Additionally, we find that functionalization alters the fracture morphology from brittle to mild ductile, which is desirable in engineering applications. We also show that the edge functionalization of finite‐size graphene nanosheets transfers the failure nucleation sites from the edges to the bulk, although the tensile strength decreases due to increased buckling. Interestingly, the decrement in tensile strength due to surface functionalization is larger as compared to edge functionalization. Overall, this work highlights the possibility of customizing GO's mechanical properties through targeted surface and edge functionalization, paving the way for its controlled application in nanocomposites.
Multicolor, Non‐Traditional Intrinsically Luminescent Polymers: Recent Advances
Authors: Chen Chen‐Xi , Cai Hua‐Wen , Sun Xiao‐Li , Wan Wen‐Ming , Huang Bao‐Quan
Published: November 2024

Luminescent polymers have gained considerable research effects in different fields, which are generally prepared by incorporating traditional luminescent moieties. In recent years, non‐traditional intrinsic luminescent (NTIL) polymers containing no traditional luminescent moieties have been reported, which have attracted broad attention. This review summarizes recent advances in multicolor NTIL polymers, including stimuli‐responsive NTIL polymers, multicolor luminescence of NTIL polymers through polymerization‐induced emission strategy or molecular structure modulation, and the positive influence of through‐space charge‐transfer effect and hydrogen bonding construction strategy on NTIL polymers. This review on NTIL polymers may cause inspirations in different fields.
Computational Study on the Photo‐Induced Antibiotic Activity of an Azoquinolone with Promising Applications in Photopharmacology
Authors: Castro Pedro J. , Mendinueta Orlando D. , Mays Mary H. , Castro‐Gómez Fernando
Published: November 2024

Azocompounds are among the most important group of molecular photoswitches due to their multiple applications in various scientific areas. We studied the thermal and photochemical reactions of an azocompound with photo‐induced antibiotic properties using ab‐initio calculations based on Kohn‐Shan, Spin‐Flip and time‐dependent Density Functional Theory. Our primary goal is to understand the absorption spectra and isomerization pathways governing the molecule's light‐controlled antibiotic activity. The nuclear ensemble approach was used for the most stable trans and cis isomers, and the absorption spectra were calculated and fitted to predict the cis/trans isomer ratios in the carboxylate form, using experimental measurements as a reference. We stablished that rotation is involved in the most favorable cis↔cis and trans↔trans thermal isomerization pathways, while the inversion mechanism is the most likely for cis↔trans isomerizations. We found that the photochemical trans→cis isomerization follows a consistent mechanism across all trans isomers, involving excitation to S2(ππ*), an in‐plane ultrafast internal conversion to S1(nπ*), followed by rotation of the azo bond up to a twisted S1(nπ*)/S0 conical intersection. We used a custom approach to evaluate the most favorable decay pathway from the S1(nπ*)/S0 conical intersections to trans and cis photoproducts using static calculations.
Advances and Challenges in the Development of Immobilized Enzymes for Batch and Flow Biocatalyzed Processes
Authors: Patti Stefania , Magrini Alunno Ilaria , Pedroni Sara , Riva Sergio , Ferrandi Erica Elisa , Monti Daniela
Published: November 2024

The development of immobilized enzymes both for batch and continuous flow biocatalytic processes has gained significant traction in recent years, driven by the need for cost‐effective and sustainable production methods in the fine chemicals and pharmaceutical industries. Enzyme immobilization not only enables the recycling of biocatalysts but also streamlines downstream processing, significantly reducing the cost and environmental impact of biotransformations. This review explores recent advancements in enzyme immobilization techniques, covering both carrier‐free methods, entrapment strategies and support‐based approaches. At this regard, the selection of suitable materials for enzyme immobilization is examined, highlighting the advantages and challenges associated with inorganic, natural, and synthetic organic carriers. Novel opportunities coming from innovative binding strategies, such as genetic fusion technologies, for the preparation of heterogeneous biocatalysts with enhanced activity and stability will be discussed as well. This review underscores the need for ongoing research to address current limitations and optimize immobilization strategies for industrial applications.
Elevated tau in the piriform cortex in Alzheimer's but not Parkinson's disease using PET‐MR
Authors: Moein Taghavi Hossein , Karimpoor Mahta , van Staalduinen Eric K. , Young Christina B. , Georgiadis Marios , Leventis Samantha , Carlson Mackenzie , Romero America , Trelle Alexandra , Vossler Hillary , Yutsis Maya , Rosenberg Jarrett , Davidzon Guido A. , Zaharchuk Greg , Poston Kathleen , Wagner Anthony D. , Henderson Victor W. , Mormino Elizabeth , Zeineh Michael
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION

Olfactory dysfunction can be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We used tau positron emission tomography‐magnetic resonance (PET‐MR) to analyze a key region of the olfactory circuit, the piriform cortex, in comparison to the adjacent medial temporal lobe.

METHODS

Using co‐registered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F‐PI‐2620 tau PET‐MR scans in 94 older adults, we computed tau uptake in the piriform‐periamygdaloid cortex, amygdala, entorhinal‐perirhinal cortices, and hippocampus.

RESULTS

We found an ordinal cross‐sectional increase in piriform cortex tau uptake with increasing disease severity (amyloid‐negative controls, amyloid‐positive controls, mild cognitive impairment [MCI] and AD), comparable to entorhinal‐perirhinal cortex. Amyloid‐positive controls showed significantly greater tau uptake than amyloid‐negative controls. Negative correlations were present between memory performance and piriform uptake. Piriform uptake was not elevated in cognitively unimpaired Parkinson's disease.

DISCUSSION

Cross‐sectionally, there is an early increase in tau uptake in the piriform cortex in AD but not in Parkinson's disease.

Highlights

Positron emission tomography–magnetic resonance (PET‐MR) analysis of the piriform cortex sheds light on its role as a potential early region affected by neurodegenerative disorders underlying olfactory dysfunction.

Uptake of tau tracer was elevated in the piriform cortex in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) but not in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Memory performance was worse with greater piriform uptake.
Moving Beyond the Phenotypic Correlation Between Anorexia Nervosa and Autism
Authors: Lundin Remnélius Karl , Bölte Sven
Published: November 2024

The recent systematic review and meta‐analysis by Inal–Kaleli et al. is situated within a growing area of research, investigating the relationship between anorexia nervosa and autistic characteristics. Their synthesis of research within the topic finds support for elevated autistic characteristics and autism in individuals with anorexia nervosa and a small but significant correlation between autistic traits and level of eating disorder symptoms. In this commentary, we discuss the findings of Inal‐Kaleli and colleagues and propose further research to generate insights into the nature of this link. We focus on the potential origins of the observed relationship, specific mechanisms, and manifestation of anorexia nervosa in autistic populations, and the influence of sex and gender on the intersection of eating disorders and autism. By addressing these largely unexplored research avenues, future investigations can go beyond the phenotypic correlations and facilitate the development of prevention and intervention suited for individuals experiencing both disordered eating and elevated autistic traits.
Molecular Discovery of Filarial Nematode DNA in an Endangered Wild Pinniped (Galapagos Sea Lion, Zalophus wollebaeki)
Authors: Livingston Isabella G. , Gregory Taylor M. , Hawkins Eleanor C. , Cave Ashley , Loyola Andrea , Vaden Shelly L. , Deresienski Diane , Riofrío‐Lazo Marjorie , Lewbart Gregory A. , Páez‐Rosas Diego , Breen Matthew
Published: November 2024

Rapidly changing environments are contributing to the spread of non‐native species and their associated pathogens into new and vulnerable ecosystems, such as the Galapagos archipelago. These pathogens represent a significant threat to emblematic species. The Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) (GSL) is an endangered and endemic pinniped that is increasingly at risk of acquiring infectious diseases due to interactions with introduced companion animals. Previously, we reported the first detection of antigens from Dirofilaria immitis, the parasite that causes canine heartworm disease, in the GSL. To investigate further, we developed a multifilarial PCR assay and successfully detected DNA from D. immitis and the closely related Dirofilaria repens in 10.7% of our sample cohort of juvenile GSLs. This assay, based on a conserved region in the filarial 28S gene, can be used in conjunction with restriction endonuclease digestion or Sanger sequencing to identify the species of the causative nematode. Our method proved effective without nonspecific amplification in a wide host range, and highly sensitive, detecting as little as one parasite. Further, this assay can be used in cases of immature, low‐worm burden, or all‐male infections. Our molecular approach offers a sensitive and specific method for detecting filarial parasites in wild animals. Further investigations are necessary to confirm the pathology of filarial nematodes in the GSL and their prevalence in the general population. Our identification of Dirofilarial species in the GSL underscores the urgent need for measures to manage the risk of pathogen transmission from introduced species to native wildlife.
Diversity of the Obligate Gut Bacteria Indicates Host–Symbiont Coevolution at the Population Level in the Plataspid Stinkbug Megacopta cribraria
Authors: Wang Yuan , Zhu Xiu‐Xiu , Xiao Bo‐Ren , Hou Xin‐Rui , Liu Yu‐Xin , Zhou Jia‐Yue , Ren Yi‐Peng , Bu Wen‐Jun , Xue Huai‐Jun
Published: November 2024

Ishikawaella is an obligate gut bacterium in stinkbugs that belong to Plataspidae family (Hemiptera: Heteroptera). It is vertically transmitted to newborn nymphs through capsules laid on eggs by maternal stinkbugs. Previous research has established a pattern of strict cospeciation between Plataspidae stinkbugs and Ishikawaella. However, the possibility of host–symbiont coevolution at the population level within Plataspidae stinkbugs has not been thoroughly explored. This study analyzed the samples of Megacopta cribraria from three phylogenetic clades to investigate host–symbiont coevolution in this insect species. We compared data from third‐generation sequencing (PacBio), next‐generation sequencing (Illumina), and first‐generation sequencing (Sanger), and the results indicated that Illumina sequencing most accurately represents the composition of gut bacterial communities. All stinkbug individuals shared a dominant amplicon sequence variant (ASV), which accounted for an average of 65.99% of Ishikawaella sequences (ranging from 58.68% to 87.01%). The top five ASVs (ASV0–ASV4) represented 99.82% of all Ishikawaella sequences. Among these, the number of base substitutions between any two ASVs ranged from 1 to 3, significantly lower than the number of substitutions between the main and minor ASVs. This finding suggests that closely related strains are likely to coexist in the same host. Beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences in Ishikawaella composition among the three phylogenetic clades, providing evidence for host–symbiont coevolution at the population level in Plataspidae stinkbugs.
The Unique Immune System of Bats: An Evolutionary Analysis and Bibliometric Study
Authors: Li Rui , Zhao Wenliang , Chen Apeng , Wu Zhiqiang , De Gejing
Published: November 2024

Bats exhibit a greater capacity to tolerate diverse viruses than other terrestrial mammals. To address these questions, we utilized evolutionary and bibliometric analyses to explore the immunological characteristics of bats and identify contemporary research hotspots in bat immunity. To investigate the historical interactions between bats and viral infections, we used tBLASTn software to identify the integrated endogenous retroviruses within the genomes of nine bat species and seven other mammals. To elucidate the immune characteristics of bats, we used the OrthoFinder, CAFE, and Gene Ontology analyses to identify the phylogenetic trees and homologous genes, expanded/contracted gene families, and associated signaling pathways of 28 mammalian genomes. We also used a bibliometric analysis of the “immune system of bats” to identify research hotspots and deepen our understanding of the immune mechanisms in bats. Significant integrations of Gammaretroviruses, Spumaretroviruses, and Deltaretroviruses were observed within bat genomes. Notable expansions in gene families included Type III interferon, heat‐shock protein 90 (HSP90), and members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). These expanded gene families are involved in signaling pathways related to “transcription and replication of influenza virus RNA,” “COVID‐19‐related pathways,” and “positive regulation of protein phosphorylation.” Notable contractions were observed in the “type I interferon” and “antibody‐related gene families.” Bibliometric analysis further underscored the several significance of critical immune genes, such as HSP90, Type I interferon, Type III interferon, and TNF. The exploration of research hotspots revealed two predominant themes: “efficient and varied antiviral responses” and “dampened inflammation to prevent excessive inflammatory reactions,” thereby elucidating the mechanisms underlying the immune adaptations of bats. Through the evolutionary and bibliometric analyses, we identified several critical immune genes and signaling pathways related to bat immunity. Currently, research on the immune system of bats primarily focuses on the themes of “efficient antiviral responses” and “inflammation suppression.”