bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonatal Survival After Serial Amnioinfusions for Bilateral Renal Agenesis
Authors: Miller Jena L. , Baschat Ahmet A. , Rosner Mara , Blumenfeld Yair J. , Moldenhauer Julie S. , Johnson Anthony , Schenone Mauro H. , Zaretsky Michael V. , Chmait Ramen H. , Gonzalez Juan M. , Miller Russell S. , Moon-Grady Anita J. , Bendel-Stenzel Ellen , Keiser Amaris M. , Avadhani Radhika , Jelin Angie C. , Davis Jonathan M. , Warren Daniel S. , Hanley Daniel F. , Watkins Joslynn A. , Samuels Joshua , Sugarman Jeremy , Atkinson Meredith A.
Published: December 2023

Importance

Early anhydramnios during pregnancy, resulting from fetal bilateral renal agenesis, causes lethal pulmonary hypoplasia in neonates. Restoring amniotic fluid via serial amnioinfusions may promote lung development, enabling survival.

Objective

To assess neonatal outcomes of serial amnioinfusions initiated before 26 weeks’ gestation to mitigate lethal pulmonary hypoplasia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial conducted at 9 US fetal therapy centers between December 2018 and July 2022. Outcomes are reported for 21 maternal-fetal pairs with confirmed anhydramnios due to isolated fetal bilateral renal agenesis without other identified congenital anomalies.

Exposure

Enrolled participants initiated ultrasound-guided percutaneous amnioinfusions of isotonic fluid before 26 weeks’ gestation, with frequency of infusions individualized to maintain normal amniotic fluid levels for gestational age.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was postnatal infant survival to 14 days of life or longer with dialysis access placement.

Results

The trial was stopped early based on an interim analysis of 18 maternal-fetal pairs given concern about neonatal morbidity and mortality beyond the primary end point despite demonstration of the efficacy of the intervention. There were 17 live births (94%), with a median gestational age at delivery of 32 weeks, 4 days (IQR, 32-34 weeks). All participants delivered prior to 37 weeks’ gestation. The primary outcome was achieved in 14 (82%) of 17 live-born infants (95% CI, 44%-99%). Factors associated with survival to the primary outcome included a higher number of amnioinfusions (P = .01), gestational age greater than 32 weeks (P = .005), and higher birth weight (P = .03). Only 6 (35%) of the 17 neonates born alive survived to hospital discharge while receiving peritoneal dialysis at a median age of 24 weeks of life (range, 12-32 weeks).

Conclusions and Relevance

Serial amnioinfusions mitigated lethal pulmonary hypoplasia but were associated with preterm delivery. The lower rate of survival to discharge highlights the additional mortality burden independent of lung function. Additional long-term data are needed to fully characterize the outcomes in surviving neonates and assess the morbidity and mortality burden.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03101891
Unveiling Challenges and Opportunities in Silicon‐Based All‐Solid‐State Batteries: Thin‐Film Bonding with Mismatch Strain
Authors: Zhao Mingcai , Zhang Juan , Costa Carlos M. , Lanceros‐Méndez Senentxu , Zhang Qi , Wang Wei
Published: December 2023

Li‐metal and silicon are potential anode materials in all‐solid‐state Li‐ion batteries (ASSBs) due to high specific capacity. However, both materials form gaps at the interface with solid electrolytes (SEs) during charging/discharging, resulting in increased impedance and uneven current density distribution. In this perspective, the different mechanisms of formation of these gaps are elaborated in detail. For Li‐metal anodes, Li‐ions are repeatedly stripped and unevenly deposited on the surface, leading to gaps and Li dendrite formation, which is an unavoidable electrochemical behavior. For Si‐based anodes, Li‐ions inserting/extracting within the Si‐based electrode causes volume changes and a local separation from the SE, which is a mechanical behavior and avoidable by mitigating the strain mismatch of thin‐film bonding between anode and SE. Si electro–chemical–mechanical behaviors are also described and strategies recommended to synergistically decrease Si‐based electrode strain, including Si materials, Si‐based composites, and electrodes. Last, it is suggested to choose a composite polymer–inorganic SE with favorable elastic properties and high ionic conductivity and form it directly on the Si‐based electrode, beneficial for increasing SE strain to accommodate stack pressure and the stability of the interface. Thus, this perspective sheds light on the development and application of Si‐based ASSBs.
Bioinspired Lipoproteins of Furoxans–Gemcitabine Preferentially Targets Glioblastoma and Overcomes Radiotherapy Resistance
Authors: Sun Maoyuan , Xie Honglei , Zhang Wenli , Li Xianlu , Jiang Zhan , Liang Yiyu , Zhao Guanjian , Huang Ning , Mao Jinning , Liu Guodong , Zhang Zhiwen
Published: December 2023

Radiotherapy (RT) resistance is an enormous challenge in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) treatment, which is largely associated with DNA repair, poor distribution of reactive radicals in tumors, and limited delivery of radiosensitizers to the tumor sites. Inspired by the aberrant upregulation of RAD51 (a critical protein of DNA repair), scavenger receptor B type 1 (SR‐B1), and C‐C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) in GBM patients, a reduction‐sensitive nitric oxide (NO) donor conjugate of gemcitabine (RAD51 inhibitor) (NG) is synthesized as radio‐sensitizer and a CCL5 peptide‐modified bioinspired lipoprotein system of NG (C‐LNG) is rationally designed, aiming to preferentially target the tumor sites and overcome the RT resistance. C‐LNG can preferentially accumulate at the orthotopic GBM tumor sites with considerable intratumor permeation, responsively release the gemcitabine and NO, and then generate abundant peroxynitrite (ONOO−) upon X‐ray radiation, thereby producing a 99.64% inhibition of tumor growth and a 71.44% survival rate at 120 days in GL261‐induced orthotopic GBM tumor model. Therefore, the rationally designed bioinspired lipoprotein of NG provides an essential strategy to target GBM and overcome RT resistance.
Non‐enzymatic electrochemical biosensor based on MgO@rGO‐MoS2 nanohybrid for phenolic compounds detection
Authors: Verma Sakshi , Pandey Chandra Mouli , Kumar Devendra
Published: December 2023

In the present work, efforts have been made to fabricate a non‐enzymatic electrochemical biosensor based on MgO nanoparticles modified graphene oxide‐molybdenum disulfide (MgO@rGO‐MoS2) nanohybrid for ultra‐sensitive detection of water‐polluting dihydroxy benzene compound. The one‐pot hydrothermal method has been used to synthesize MgO@rGO‐MoS2 nanohybrid followed by electrophoretic deposition of the nanohybrid onto ITO‐coated glass substrate. The excellent conducting and catalytic ability of MoS2 and MgO facilitates the superior electroanalytical ability of fabricated electrodes, as revealed by the electrochemical studies, whereas the non‐enzymatic approach boosts the stability and sensitivity of the transducing matrix. The fabricated biosensor exhibits linear response in the 0.1 to 200.0 μM concentration range for hydroquinone (Hqn) with a detection limit of 0.086 μM and 0.04 μA μM−1 cm−2 sensitivity. The validation of the biosensor with tap and running river water shows an outstanding recovery rate.
Driven metal organic frameworks based hydrogels as wound dressing for anti‐inflammatory and antibacterial
Authors: Yang Li , Li Jingqi , Yang Liu , Wang Wenxin , Yue Zhengya , Li Jialun , Shi Lianxu , Sun Tiedong
Published: December 2023

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials composed of metal ions and organic ligands by coordinate bonds. They have adjustable porous structure and ordered structure. As a porous, soft, and extracellular matrix‐like polymer, hydrogel is a strong competitor for wound dressings and has attracted much attention in recent years. MOF‐based hydrogels (MOF–hydrogels), as a new type of intelligent wound dressing, breaks the limitations of traditional gauze dressing, expands the application range of dressing, and updates the definition of dressing. The combination of MOF and hydrogel transcends the function of single component and combines the advantages of MOF and hydrogel. In this paper, the application of MOF–hydrogels as wound dressing will be systematically and comprehensively described from the working principles of MOF–hydrogels for anti‐inflammatory and antibacterial. And the prospect of its development trend in the future is made, which provides a new idea for its future development direction.
Multi‐featured epoxy composites filled with surface‐modified PTFE powders treated by Na‐naphthalenide system
Authors: Akin Emre , Çakir Mustafa , Demirer Halil
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to produce new multi‐featured epoxy composites that are advanced in terms of mechanical properties, wear and impact resistance, and glass transition and heat deflection temperatures. Epoxy composites filled with chemically surface‐treated poly (tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) powders at various ratios were prepared to obtain these improved properties. The chemical treatment was carried out via a Na‐naphthalenide system. After this treatment, the x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results presented the existence of functional groups such as OH, carbonyl groups, and CC unsaturation points on the surface of the PTFE powders. On the PTFE surfaces, while the atomic ratios of carbon and oxygen were substantially increased, the fluorine ratio presented a significant decrease after the chemical treatment. However, the wear rates of the novel composites were highly advanced despite this large decrease in the fluorine ratio on the surface of the PTFE powders. Moreover, functional groups such as OH, carbonyl groups, and CC unsaturation points and spongelike or network structures on the PTFE surfaces provided the opportunity to obtain strong adhesion and interfacial bonding between the surface‐modified PTFE powders and the matrix. Strength and modulus values showed substantial enhancement besides the IZOD impact resistance. All glass transition and heat deflection temperatures were also substantially improved.
Preparation and characterization of transparent polyetherketone
Authors: Cheng Bin , Zhuang Kaiwen , Liu Na , Guo Yilin , Chen Jiangxi , He Guomei
Published: December 2023

Transparent polymer with excellent heat resistance and mechanical properties play an important role in many fields. However, transparent polyetheretherketones films are rarely reported, probably due to their high crystallinity. In this work, a transparent polymer polyetherketone was prepared from the reaction of 4,4′‐difluorobenzophenone, 2,6‐bis(4‐hydroxybenzylidene) cyclohexanone, and tert‐butylhydroquinone in the presence of K2CO3. This new polymer has excellent thermal stability, high glass transition temperature (Tg = 172°C), good film‐casting property, high transparency, good hydrophobicity, and low saturated water absorption (0.52%). The material has broad application prospects in flexible solar cells, UV protection, and thin insulation materials.
Functionalizing Separator by Coating a Lithiophilic Metal for Dendrite‐Free Anode‐free Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Thang Ai Qin , Tso Shuen , Jia Bei‐Er , Tan Xian Yi , Dong Jinfeng , Zhang Mingsheng , Ng Man‐Fai , Yao Gary , Wong Sun Yew , Liu Zhaolin , Yan Qingyu
Published: December 2023

A stable anode‐free lithium metal battery (AFLMB) is accomplished by the adoption of a facile fabricated amorphous antimony (Sb)‐coated separator (SbSC). The large specific surface area of the separator elevates lithium (Li)‐Sb alloy kinetic, improving Li wetting ability on pristine copper current collector (Cu). When tested with LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) as cathode, the full cell with SbSC demonstrates low nucleation overpotential with compact, dendrite‐free and homogeneous Li plating, and exhibits a notable lithium inventory retention rate (LIRR) of 99.8 % with capacity retention of 93.6 % after 60 cycles at 0.5 C‐rate. Conversely, full cells containing pristine separator/Cu (i. e., SC) and pristine separator/Sb‐coated current collector (i. e., SSbC) display poor cycling performances with low LIRRs. Density functional theory corroborates the nucleation behaviours observed during in‐situ half‐cell Li deposition. Functionalizing polymeric separator by metallic coating in AFLMB is a novel approach in improving the cycle life of an AFLMB by promoting homogeneous Li plating behavior. This innovative approach exemplifies a promising applicability for uniform Li‐plating behavior to achieve a longer cycle life in AFLMB.
Adaptive fuzzy neural network finite‐time command filtered control of n‐link robotic systems with actuator saturation
Authors: Zhang Jie , Jiang Wanyue , Sam Ge Shuzhi
Published: December 2023

The finite time tracking control of n‐link robotic system is studied for model uncertainties and actuator saturation. Firstly, a smooth function and adaptive fuzzy neural network online learning algorithm are designed to address the actuator saturation and dynamic model uncertainties. Secondly, a new finite‐time command filtered technique is proposed to filter the virtual control signal. The improved error compensation signal can reduce the impact of filtering errors, and the tracking errors of system quickly converge to a smaller compact set within finite time. Finally, adaptive fuzzy neural network finite‐time command filtered control achieves finite‐time stability through Lyapunov stability criterion. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed control.
Two‐Factor Fluorogenic Cyanine‐Styryl Dyes with Yellow and Red Fluorescence for Bioorthogonal Labelling of DNA
Authors: Pfeuffer Bastian , Geng Philipp , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: December 2023

An orange‐ and a red‐emitting tetrazine‐modified cyanine‐styryl dyes were synthesized for bioorthogonal labelling of DNA by means of the Diels‐Alder reaction with inverse electron demand. Both dyes use the concept of the “two‐factor” fluorogenicity for nucleic acids: (i) The dyes are nucleic‐acid sensitive by their non‐covalent binding to DNA, and (ii) their covalently attached tetrazine moiety quench the fluorescence. As a result, the reaction with bicyclononyne‐ and spirohexene‐modified DNA is significantly accelerated up to k2=280,000 M−1 s−1, and the fluorescence turn‐on is enhanced up to 305. Both dyes are cell permeable even in low concentrations and undergo fluorogenic reactions with spirohexene‐modified DNA in living HeLa cells. The fluorescence is enhanced in living cells to such an extent that washing procedures before cell imaging are not required. Their large Stokes shifts (up to 0.77 eV) also makes them well suited for imaging because the wavelength ranges for excitation and emission can be best possible separated. Furthermore, the spirohexene‐modified nucleosides and DNA extend and improve the toolbox of already existing “clickable” dyes for live cell imaging.
Site‐Selective Protein Conjugation by a Multicomponent Ugi Reaction
Authors: Koutsopetras Ilias , Vaur Valentine , Benazza Rania , Diemer Hélène , Sornay Charlotte , Ersoy Yağmur , Rochet Léa , Longo Carmen , Hernandez‐Alba Oscar , Erb Stéphane , Detappe Alexandre , Skerra Arne , Wagner Alain , Cianferani Sarah , Chaubet Guilhem
Published: December 2023

The chemical bioconjugation of proteins has seen tremendous applications in the past decades, with the booming of antibody‐drug conjugates and their use in oncology. While genetic engineering has permitted to produce bespoke proteins featuring key (un−)natural amino acid residues poised for site‐selective modifications, the conjugation of native proteins is riddled with selectivity issues. Chemoselective strategies are plentiful and enable the precise modification of virtually any residue with a reactive side‐chain; site‐selective methods are less common and usually most effective on small and medium‐sized proteins. In this context, we studied the application of the Ugi multicomponent reaction for the site‐selective conjugation of amine and carboxylate groups on proteins, and antibodies in particular. Through an in‐depth mechanistic methodology work supported by peptide mapping studies, we managed to develop a set of conditions allowing the highly selective modification of antibodies bearing N‐terminal glutamate and aspartate residues. We demonstrated that this strategy did not alter their affinity toward their target antigen and produced an antibody‐drug conjugate with subnanomolar potency. Excitingly, we showed that the high site selectivity of our strategy was maintained on other protein formats, especially on anticalins, for which directed mutagenesis helped to highlight the key importance of a single lysine residue.
Quantitative Analysis of Siglec Ligands by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Chang Lan‐Yi , Sridharan Deepa , Angata Takashi
Published: December 2023

Siglecs (sialic acid‐binding, immunoglobulin superfamily, lectins) are a family of transmembrane receptor‐type glycan recognition proteins in vertebrates that are primarily expressed on leukocytes and regulate immune responses. Siglecs are involved in several diseases, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Most Siglecs suppress the activation of leukocytes by recognizing ligands containing sialic acid, a group of acidic sugars commonly found in vertebrate glycans, but rare among microbes. Siglec ligands are critical in the interaction between leukocytes and target cells. The abundance of the Siglec ligand is influenced by both the abundance of the glycoconjugate carrier (glycoprotein or glycolipid) and that of the terminal glycan epitope directly recognized by the Siglec. Therefore, a direct approach to evaluate the expression level of a Siglec ligand on cells of interest is to analyze the binding of recombinant Siglec protein to these cells. In this article, we describe a protocol for semi‐quantitatively analyzing the expression level of Siglec ligands via flow cytometry using recombinant Siglec‐Fc fusion protein. Support protocols describe how to remove sialic acids from the cell surface with sialidase under mild conditions to demonstrate the sialic acid dependence of Siglec binding, and the preparation of recombinant Siglec‐Fc fusion proteins by transient transfection of mammalian cells. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Quantitative analysis of Siglec ligands on mammalian cells via flow cytometry with recombinant Siglec‐Fc fusion protein

Support Protocol 1: Sialidase treatment of mammalian cells

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of recombinant Siglec‐Fc fusion protein via transient transfection of mammalian cells
An extendable multicell quasi Z‐source converter topology using an active switched network
Authors: Aminlou Ali , Ardashir Jaber Fallah , Shotorbani Amin Mohammadpour
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a new extendable multicell topology based on the conventional quasi‐Z‐source converter (QZSC). The proposed topology has a multicell scheme and employs an active switched capacitor/inductor (ASC/SL) network. Therefore, it is entitled extended multicell ASC/SL QZSC (EMc‐ASC/SL‐QZSC). The proposed topology is augmented by cascading a modular cell consisting of two capacitors, an inductor, and a diode. The EMc‐ASC/SL‐QZSC offers significant advantages over existing QZSC‐based configurations. It has a high boosting capability that results in a wider output voltage range while simultaneously reducing voltage stress on capacitors and switching devices, all without losing voltage gain. Furthermore, this topology effectively reduces input current ripple, which contributes to a smoother charging current profile for capacitors, reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and improving overall efficiency. The practicality and performance of the EMc‐ASC/SL‐QZSC topology are comprehensively assessed through extensive numerical simulations and experimental verification, utilizing a laboratory‐built prototype.
A gate‐tunable memristor emulator for motion detection
Authors: Zhang Zhang , Ma Yongbo , Shi Gang , Li Chao , Liu Gang
Published: December 2023

With its low power consumption and small size, the memristor has shown great potential for improving data storage density and computing efficiency. Compared to the dual‐port memristor, greater attention should be paid to researching gate‐tunable memristor for image processing to improve the processing speed and reduce hardware resource consumption. Developing gate‐tunable memristor emulators is highly attractive given the immaturity of current fabrication of the gate‐tunable memristor. This work proposes a digital gate‐tunable memristor emulator based on Raspberry Pi, which addresses the non‐reconfigurability and inflexibility issues of the analog emulators. The proposed emulator can match the behavior of different memristor devices by regulating the gate voltage parameter. Additionally, it can operate at a maximum frequency of 500 MHz. To test the functionality of the proposed emulator, a digital implementation of the memristive circuit for motion detection is designed and verified experimentally. Experiments demonstrate that when moving object detection is performed on a 640 × 350 pixel video stream, low power consumption of 53 mW and a delay of 3.52 μs can be achieved.
SFC‐MS/MS for orthogonal separation of hydroxylated 17α‐methyltestosterone isomers
Authors: Bredendiek Felix , Parr Maria Kristina
Published: December 2023

Because of their performance‐enhancing effect, anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are often misused in sports. Nearly half of the adverse analytical findings (AAF) in 2022 doping controls are correlated to AAS misuse. Metabolites play a crucial role in the bioanalysis of endogenous and exogenous steroids. Therefore, one important field in antidoping research is the investigation on drug metabolizing and steroidogenic enzymes. The introduction of a hydroxy group is the most common reaction, which is catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in phase‐I metabolism. Analysis of AAS metabolites is commonly performed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) systems. Laborious sample preparation and extended run times compared to liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) methods are usually correlated with this type of analysis. On the other hand, liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry (LC‐MS[/MS]) methods have a lower separation efficiency than GC‐MS methods. Both techniques lack selectivity for hydroxylated 17α‐methyltestosterone metabolites. Therefore, as an orthogonal analytical approach, a supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to separate four hydroxy metabolites of 17α‐methyltestosterone (2α‐/2β‐/4‐/6β‐hydroxy‐17α‐methyltestosterone). This project aimed to get a more in‐depth look at the metabolization and analysis of 17α‐methyltestosterone and its hydroxylated metabolites. The developed method revealed lower limits of quantitation between 0.6 and 6 ng/ml at an accuracy of 85–115% using a matrix matched calibration. An in vitro study with human liver microsomes shows 6β‐hydroxy‐17α‐methyltestosterone as main metabolite (15.9%) as well as the metabolite 2β‐hydroxy‐17α‐methyltestosterone (0.5%). The results show that the developed method is sensitive and robust. In addition, the method allows a previously missing discrimination of the hydroxylated metabolites in a short analysis time without prior, complex derivatizations.
B‐spline based on vector extension improved CST parameterization algorithm
Authors: Yan Bowen , Si Yuanyuan , Zhou Zhaoguo , Guo Wei , Wen Hongwu , Wang Yaobin
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the vector extension operation is proposed to replace the de Boor‐Cox formula for a fast algorithm to B‐spline basis functions. This B‐spline basis function based on vector extending operation is implemented in the class and shape transformation (CST) parameterization method in place of the traditional Bézier polynomials to enhance the local ability of control and accuracy to represent an airfoil shape. To calculate the k‐degree B‐spline function's nonzero values, the algorithm can improve the computing efficiency by 2k+1 times.
Comparison of a solid oxide cell with nickel/gadolinium‐doped ceria fuel electrode during operation with hydrogen/steam and carbon monoxide/carbon dioxide
Authors: Grosselindemann Cedric , Kullmann Felix , Lehnert Tibor , Fritz Oliver , Fuchs Franz‐Martin , Weber André
Published: December 2023

Solid oxide cells (SOCs) offer the possibility to operate on hydrogen/steam (H2/H2O), carbon monoxide/carbon dioxide (CO/CO2), and mixtures thereof in the fuel cell as well as in the electrolyzer mode. In this study, the electrochemical processes in an electrolyte‐supported SOC exhibiting a Law Srx Coy Fez O(3‐δ) air electrode and a nickel/gadolinium‐doped ceria (Ni/CGO) fuel electrode (FE) were analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and the subsequent impedance data analysis by the distribution of relaxation times for CO/CO2 fuel mixtures. A physicochemical equivalent circuit model was fitted to the measured spectra. With the help of the extracted parameters, a zero‐dimensional direct current cell model was parametrized to simulate the current‐voltage behavior of the cell. This approach, previously implemented for H2/H2O fuel mixtures, is extended toward CO/CO2 fuels. It will be shown that the same model – with adapted parameters for the FE – can be applied. A comparison of measured and simulated current‐voltage curves showed an excellent agreement for both fuels and operating modes (solid oxide fuel cell/solid oxide electrolyzer cell). Simulations reveal that there is nearly no performance difference between H2O and CO2 electrolysis for the electrolyte‐supported cell with Ni/CGO FE in comparison to an anode‐supported cell with Ni/yttria‐stabilized zirconia FE.
Gene amplification in neoplasia: A cytogenetic survey of 80 131 cases
Authors: Mandahl Nils , Mertens Fredrik , Mitelman Felix
Published: December 2023

Gene amplification is a crucial process in cancer development, leading to the overexpression of oncogenes. It manifests cytogenetically as extrachromosomal double minutes (dmin), homogeneously staining regions (hsr), or ring chromosomes (r). This study investigates the prevalence and distribution of these amplification markers in a survey of 80 131 neoplasms spanning hematologic disorders, and benign and malignant solid tumors. The study reveals distinct variations in the frequency of dmin, hsr, and r among different tumor types. Rings were the most common (3.4%) sign of amplification, followed by dmin (1.3%), and hsr (0.8%). Rings were particularly frequent in malignant mesenchymal tumors, especially liposarcomas (47.5%) and osteosarcomas (23.4%), dmin were prevalent in neuroblastoma (30.9%) and pancreatic carcinoma (21.9%), and hsr frequencies were highest in head and neck carcinoma (14.0%) and neuroblastoma (9.0%). Combining all three amplification markers (dmin/hsr/r), malignant solid tumors consistently exhibited higher frequencies than hematologic disorders and benign solid tumors. The structural characteristics of these amplification markers and their potential role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression highlight the complex interplay between cancer‐initiating gene‐level alterations, for example, fusion genes, and subsequent amplification dynamics. Further research integrating cytogenetic and molecular approaches is warranted to better understand the underlying mechanisms of these amplifications, in particular, the enigmatic question of why certain malignancies display certain types of amplification. Comparing the present results with molecular genetic data proved challenging because of the diversity in definitions of amplification across studies. This study underscores the need for standardized definitions in future work.
High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies—A perspective
Authors: Rony Moustaq Karim Khan , Alamgir Hasnat M.
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

The influence of temperature on various aspects of daily life is often underestimated, and its effects on mental health are not widely recognized. Understanding and addressing the relationship between temperature and mental well‐being is crucial in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. This perspective aimed to investigate the effects of high temperatures on mental health and identify proactive strategies to mitigate these effects.

Methods

This perspective adopted a twofold approach, including a comprehensive literature review and socioecological framework. The literature review involved extensive searches across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify relevant, peer‐reviewed articles, and reports from diverse disciplines.

Results

The perspective emphasized the significance of recognizing heat stress and its consequences on mental well‐being. Chronic heat stress can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Vulnerable populations include, the very young, older adults, and individuals with pre‐existing mental health conditions. Socioeconomic factors can further exacerbate vulnerability, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to manage mental health challenges during high temperatures. Additionally, the article identified and discussed proactive coping strategies to minimize both the psychological and physical impacts of heat stress. Mindfulness, stress management techniques, and therapy are suggested as effective means for individuals to manage psychological distress.

Conclusion

Implementing preventive measures are essential steps in promoting mental wellness in high temperatures. Proactive strategies by addressing the physiological and psychological effects of heat and considering the specific needs of vulnerable populations can help individuals and communities navigate the challenges posed by rising temperatures and promote resilience and preserve their mental well‐being.
Nonreciprocal Terahertz Beam Steering Manipulated by Magnetic Weyl Semimetal Metasurface Based on Universal Chirality‐ Wavevector‐ Magnetic Field Relation
Authors: Tan Zhiyu , Fan Fei , Zhao Dan , Wang Hao , Li Shanshan , Guan Shengnan , Cheng Jie‐Rong , Ji Yunyun , Chang Shengjiang
Published: December 2023

Magnetic Weyl semimetal shows intriguing properties in both fundamental physics and potential applications. However, the complex relationship between nonreciprocal transmission and magnetic field manipulation in magnetic Weyl semimetal systems has not been generally clarified and fully utilized. Here, a universal Chirality–Wavevector–Magnetic field (C‐K‐B) relation is established in the magnetic Weyl semimetal system, which completely describes the spin topological band and its intrinsic polarization output in full space orientation under an arbitrary magnetic vector. This relation can provide complete guidance for the device design of nonreciprocal spin manipulation. Coupling this nonreciprocal mechanism with the photonic spin Hall effect of the geometric phased metasurface, a magnetic Weyl semimetal metasurface is constructed in the terahertz (THz) range, The experiments demonstrate the flexible THz beam steerings in a broad spatial dispersion range of ±25–±55° with four different working modes by only altering the biased magnetic vectors. Moreover, all these beam steering processes are accompanied by nonreciprocal isolating transmission with the isolation ratio reaching 27 dB. This C‐K‐B relation and active nonreciprocal beam steering devices are expected to prompt magneto‐optical devices and systems combined with echo isolation function in beam scanning, wavelength division multiplexing, and spin multiplexing.
Synchronously Improving Mechanical and Thermal Performances of Cured Epoxy Resins by Epoxidized Polyether Sulphones as Modifiers
Authors: Xu Weiping , Wang Guochen , Chen Dong , Yang Wantai , Ma Yuhong
Published: December 2023

As an effort to improve toughness of epoxy resins without scarifying their heat resistance, four novel polyether sulphones (PESs) with epoxy groups (PES‐Es) are developed as efficient toughness modifiers of epoxy resins. The influences of PES‐E on the mechanical property, curing kinetics, thermal, and mechanical properties of the diglycidyl ether with bisphenol‐A (DGEBA) are investigated. The impact strength of PES‐E/DGEBA composites is significantly improved from 16.6 to 28.9 kJ m−2 with optimal content of PES‐E. Different from the composites of typical PES and epoxy which have two‐phase structure, PES‐E/DGEBA composites exhibit a single‐phase structure owing to the participation of PES‐E in the curing reaction of epoxy groups and good solubility of PES‐E in DGEBA. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the PES‐E/DGEBA composites is slightly increased compared to the neat epoxy resin due to the formation of crosslinked semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks. The glass transitionnal temperature (Tg) of PES‐E/DGEBA composites is up to about 184 °C, 46 °C higher than the neat epoxy resin with the same hardener, which have great potential in high‐performance composites. The method developed in this seminal report makes it possible to improve the toughness of epoxy resins without trading‐off the Tg and tensile strength.
Electrostatic origin of a stabilizing synergistic interaction among b‐, c‐, and f‐residues in a trimeric coiled coil
Authors: Dalley Nicholas A. , Stern Kimberlee L. , Kitchen Richard R. , Lloyd Keegan B. , Price Joshua L.
Published: December 2023

Coiled coils are one of most common protein quaternary structures and represent the best understood relationship between amino acid sequence and protein conformation. Whereas the roles of residues at the canonical heptad positions the a, d, e, and g are understood in precise detail, conventional approaches often assume that the solvent‐exposed b‐, c‐, and f‐positions can be varied broadly for application‐specific purposes with minimal consequences. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that interactions among these b, c, and f residues can contribute substantially to coiled‐coil conformational stability. In the trimeric coiled coil described here, we find that b‐position Glu10 engages in a stabilizing long‐range synergistic interaction with c‐position Lys18 (ΔΔΔGf = −0.65 ± 0.02 kcal/mol). This favorable interaction depends strongly on the presence of two nearby f‐position residues: Lys 7 and Tyr14. Extensive mutational analysis of these residues in the presence of added salt versus denaturant suggests that this long‐range synergistic interaction is primarily electrostatic in origin, but also depends on the precise location and acidity of a side‐chain hydrogen‐bond donor within f‐position Tyr14.
The miR‐184‐3p promotes rice black‐streaked dwarf virus infection by suppressing Ken in Laodelphax striatellus (Fallén)
Authors: Wu Wei , Wang Man , Deng Zhiting , Xi Minmin , Dong Yan , Wang Haitao , Zhang Jianhua , Wang Changchun , Zhou Yijun , Xu Qiufang
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in various biological processes by influencing the translation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) through post‐transcriptional regulation. The miR‐184‐3p has been identified as an abundant conserved miRNA in insects. However, less is known about its functions in insect–plant virus interactions.

RESULTS

The function of miR‐184‐3p in regulation of plant viral infection in insects was investigated using a rice black‐streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) and Laodelphax striatellus (Fallén) interaction system. We found that the expression of miR‐184‐3p increased in L. striatellus after RBSDV infection. Injection of miR‐184‐3p mimics increased RBSDV accumulation, while treatment with miR‐184‐3p antagomirs inhibits the viral accumulation in L. striatellus. Ken, a zinc finger protein, was identified as a target of miR‐184‐3p. Knockdown of Ken increased the virus accumulation and promoted RBSDV transmission by L. striatellus.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that RBSDV infection induces the expression of miR‐184‐3p in its insect vector L. striatellus. The miR‐184‐3p targets Ken to promote RBSDV accumulation and transmission. These findings provide a new insight into the function of the miRNAs in regulating plant viral infection in its insect vector. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
PERT era, race‐based healthcare disparities in a large urban safety net hospital
Authors: Dronamraju Veena H. , Lio Ka U. , Badlani Rohan , Cheng Ke , Rali Parth
Published: December 2023

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death in the United States. Black Americans have higher incidence, greater clot severity, and worse outcomes than White Americans. This disparity is not fully understood, especially in the context of the advent of PE response teams (PERT), which aim to standardize PE‐related care. This retrospective single‐center cohort study compared 294 Black and 131 White patients from our institution's PERT database. Primary objectives included severity and in‐hospital management. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, 30‐day readmission, 30‐day mortality, and outpatient follow‐up. Clot  (p = 0.42), acute treatment (p = 0.28), 30‐day mortality (p = 0.77), 30‐day readmission (p = 0.50), and outpatient follow‐up (p = 0.98) were similar between races. Black patients had a lower mean household income ($35,383, SD 20,596) than White patients ($63,396, SD 32,987) (p < 0.0001). More Black patients (78.8%) had exclusively government insurance (Medicare/Medicaid) compared to White patients (61.8%) (p = 0.006). Interestingly, government insurance patients had less follow‐up (58.3%) than private insurance patients (79.7%) (p = 0.001). Notably, patients with follow‐up had fewer 30‐day readmissions. Specifically, 12.2% of patients with follow‐up were readmitted compared to 22.2% of patients without follow‐up (p = 0.008). There were no significant differences in PE severity, in‐hospital treatment, mortality, or readmissions between Black and White patients. However, patients with government insurance had less follow‐up and more readmissions, indicating a socioeconomic disparity. Access barriers such as health literacy, treatment cost, and transportation may contribute to this inequity. Improving access to follow‐up care may reduce the disparity in PE outcomes.
Dopant Enhanced Conjugated Polymer Thin Film for Low‐Power, Flexible and Wearable DMMP Sensor
Authors: Song Jian , Lu Huimin , Liu Meng , Hu Hong , Jiang Jingyan , Zhang Lei , Li Hui
Published: December 2023

Conjugated polymer has the potential to be applied on flexible devices as an active layer, but further investigation is still hindered by poor conductivity and mechanical stability. Here, this work demonstrates a dopant‐enhanced conductive polymer thin film and its application in dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) sensor. Among five comparable polymers this work employs, poly(bisdodecylthioquaterthiophene) (PQTS12) achieves the highest doping efficiency after doped by FeCl3, with the conductivity increasing by about five orders of magnitude. The changes in Young's modulus are also considered to optimize the conductivity and flexibility of this thin film, and finally the decay of conductivity is only 9.2% after 3000 times of mechanical bending. This work applies this thin film as the active layer of the DMMP gas sensor, which could be operated under 1 mV driving voltage and 28 nW power consumption, with a sustainable durability against bending and compression. In addition, this sensor is provided with alarm capability while exposed to the DMMP atmospheres at different hazard levels. This work expects that this general approach could offer solutions for the fabrication of low‐power and flexible gas sensors, and provide guidance for next‐generation wearable devices with broader applications.
Dielectric Regulation for Efficient Top‐Emission Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes with Suppressed Efficiency Roll‐off
Authors: Yan Minxing , Zhou Lingfeng , Wang Lixiang , Luo Guangjie , Xu Li , Yang Deren , Fang Yanjun
Published: December 2023

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have shown incalculable application potential in the fields of next‐generation displays and light communication owing to the rapidly increased external quantum efficiencies (EQEs). However, most PeLEDs obtain a maximum EQE at small current density (J) region and suffer from severe efficiency roll‐off in different extents. Herein, it is demonstrated that the dopant with large dipole moment like KBF4 facilitates the effective dielectric regulation of perovskite emissive layer. The increased dielectric constant lowers the exciton binding energy and suppresses the Auger recombination of the 2D/3D segregated perovskite structure, which improves the photoluminescence quantum yield remarkably at an excitation intensity up to 103 mW cm−2. Accordingly, the top‐emission PeLED that delivers a high maximum EQE above 20% is fabricated and can retain EQE > 10% at an extremely high J of 708 mA cm−2. These results represent one of the most efficient top‐emission PeLEDs with ultra‐low efficiency roll‐off, which provide a viable methodology for tuning the dielectric response of perovskite films for improved high radiance performance of perovskite electroluminescence devices.
Atom‐Economical Synthesis of Lewis Acidic Boron Containing Porous Organic Polymers via Hydroboration Polymerization for Basic Chemical Capture
Authors: Dong Chengcheng , Cao Linzhu , Xu Xinmeng , Tao Xin , Zhu Guangshan
Published: December 2023

Atom economy is one of the main concerns for material synthesis. Here, the facile synthesis of Lewis acidic boron‐containing porous organic polymers (B‐POPs) via hydroboration polymerization reaction of commercially available borane dimethyl sulfide complex (BH3∙SMe2) with multi‐alkynes under mild reaction conditions is presented. This new synthetic method for B‐POPs has the advantage of high atom economy. The resulted porous alkenyl borane polymers (PABPs) have unique features such as high boron content, strong Lewis acidity, and high surface areas. Owing to the strong Lewis acid‐base interactions, PABPs exhibit excellent adsorptive capacity toward triethylamine (up to 841 mg g−1) and pyridine (up to 1396 mg g−1) vapor.
Entwicklung und Evaluation einer Ultraschallnavigation für Freihandbiopsien kleiner Raumforderungen im Kopf-Hals-Bereich
Authors: Scherl Claudia , Otto Marie , Ghanem Ibrahim , Moviglia Javier , Sadi Fabian , Gnilka Tirza , Rotter Nicole , Zaubitzer Lena , Stallkamp Jan
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund

Der Ultraschall als wichtiges Bildgebungsverfahren im Kopf-Hals-Bereich ist leicht verfügbar, dynamisch, kostengünstig und ohne Strahlenbelastung. Eingriffe in der komplexen Kopf-Hals-Anatomie erfordern eine gute Orientierung, die durch Navigationssysteme unterstützt wird.

Ziel der Arbeit

Entwicklung eines neuen ultraschallkontrollierten Navigationssystems zur Punktion kleiner Zielstrukturen im Kopf-Hals-Bereich.

Methodik

Es wurde ein Halsphantom mit sonographierbaren Raumforderungen (RF; Größe: 8–10 mm) konstruiert. Diese wurden automatisch mittels eines ResNet-50-basierten tiefen neuronalen Netzes segmentiert. Der Ultraschallkopf (UK) wurde mit einem individuell hergestellten Trackingtool versehen.

Ergebnisse

Die Positionen von Ultraschallgerät, RF und Punktionsnadel wurden im Weltkoordinatensystem erfasst. In 8 von 10 Fällen wurde eine 8 mm große RF getroffen. Die durchschnittliche Abweichung wurde mit 2,5 mm in einem speziellen Evaluationsphantom berechnet. Die getrackte Biopsienadel wird durch auditives Feedback ausgerichtet und zur RF navigiert.

Schlussfolgerung

Herausragende Vorteile im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Navigationssystemen sind: Verzicht auf präoperative Schnittbildgebung, automatische dreidimensionale Echtzeitregistrierung, welche die intraoperative Gewebeverschiebungen berücksichtigt, Beibehaltung der optischen Achse des Operateurs auf den Situs, ohne dass auf einen Navigationsmonitor geschaut werden muss, und beidhändiges Arbeiten ohne Halten des UK während der Punktion. Insgesamt lässt sich das beschriebene Funktionsmuster außer für Nadelbiopsien auch in der offenen Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie anwenden.
Enhancement and Comparison of (Ceftazidime-)Avibactam Plus Aztreonam Susceptibility Tests for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in Clinical Diagnostics
Authors: Vlaspolder Gro L. , Hughes Laura A. , Huis in ’t Veld Robert A. G. , Kampinga Greetje A. , Bathoorn Erik
Published: December 2023

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is naturally resistant to many antimicrobials. We evaluated the in vitro activity and reproducibility of two different super-position methods of aztreonam in combination with ceftazidime-avibactam for S. maltophilia and compared these results with the recently available aztreonam-avibactam gradient strip. We recommend an improved super-position method that avoids the possible risk of handling a contaminated aztreonam strip. In addition, we report that the cefazidime-avibactam and aztreonam super-position method showed increased in vitro activity in comparison with aztreonam-avibactam indicating activity of the ceftazidime component in vitro.
The effect of enterocin A/P dipeptide on growth performance, glutathione-peroxidase activity, IgA secretion and jejunal morphology in rabbits after experimental methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis P3Tr2a Infection
Authors: Pogány Simonová Monika , Chrastinová Ľubica , Ščerbová Jana , Focková Valentína , Plachá Iveta , Tokarčíková Katarína , Žitňan Rudolf , Lauková Andrea
Published: December 2023

The increasing frequency of methicillin-resistant (MR) staphylococci in humans and animals need special attention for their difficult treatment and zoonotic character, therefore novel antimicrobial compounds on a natural base against antibiotic-resistant bacteria are requested. Currently, bacteriocins/enterocins present a new promising way to overcome this problem, both in prevention and treatment. Therefore, the preventive and medicinal effect of dipeptide enterocin EntA/P was evaluated against MR Staphylococcus epidermidis SEP3/Tr2a strain in a rabbit model, testing their influence on growth performance, glutathione-peroxidase (GPx) enzyme activity, phagocytic activity (PA), secretory (s)IgA, and jejunal morphometry (JM). Eighty-eight rabbits (aged 35 days, meat line M91, both sexes) were divided into experimental groups S (SEP3/Tr2a strain; 1.0 × 105 CFU/mL; dose 500µL/animal/day for 7 days, between days 14 and 21 to simulate the pathogen attack), E (EntA/P; 50 µL/animal/day, 25,600 AU/mL in two intervals, for preventive effect between days 0 and 14; for medicinal effect between days 28 and 42), E + S (EntA/P + SEP3/Tr2a; preventive effect; SEP3/Tr2a + EntA/P; medicinal effect) and control group (C; without additives). Higher body weight was recorded in all experimental groups (p < 0.001) compared to control data. The negative influence/attack of the SEP3Tra2 strain on the intestinal immunity and environment was reflected as decreased GPx activity, worse JM parameters and higher sIgA concentration in infected rabbits. These results suggest the promising preventive use of EntA/P to improve the immunity and growth of rabbits, as well as its therapeutic potential and protective role against staphylococcal infections in rabbit breeding.