bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Multistage Drying Profiles for Accelerated Production of Li‐Ion Battery Anodes Using Infrared Radiation: Validation with Electrochemical Performance and Structural Properties
Authors: Altvater Andreas , Klemens Julian , Borho Julian , Smith Anna , Heckmann Thilo , Scharfer Philip , Schabel Wilhelm
Published: April 2024

The drying of solvent‐processed electrodes is a critical process step in the manufacturing of lithium‐ion batteries. The technology used to introduce the energy required for drying into the material, combined with the specified process parameters, significantly influences the resulting electrode properties. A major challenge is to counteract binder migration effects that may occur during drying of the porous electrode structure, causing a decrease in adhesion and electrochemical performance, especially for high drying rates. From this motivation, investigations on the influence of process design during near‐infrared drying of aqueous‐processed graphite anodes are carried out. A multistage drying design with varying parameters in specific drying sections with energy input by radiation is applied. The results show that the specific application of a three‐stage drying profile in combination with energy input by radiation enables a significant decrease in drying time by at least 60% while the electrode properties can be preserved. These findings indicate a beneficial development of binder distribution as a consequence of multistage NIR drying, evidenced by adhesion and electrochemical performance. Finally, the application of the multistage drying profile is theoretically transferred to an industrial‐scale roll‐to‐roll dryer, whereby the necessary dryer length can be reduced by 53%.
Enhancing performance of two‐step fabricated perovskite solar cells with sulfonium triflate‐based additive
Authors: Kim Yeeun , Lee Hyunjun , Lee Cheongbeom , Kim Beomjin , Kwon Nayoon , Son Taewoong , Lee Jaehee , Sin Jaegwan , Shin Taejoo , Yang Jungyup , Kim Kyeounghak , Seo Jangwon
Published: April 2024

We incorporated triphenylsulfonium triflate (TPST), a sulfonium‐based additive consisting of polar triflate and bulky hydrophobic phenyl rings, to the PbI2 precursor solution for preparation of less‐defect perovskite film via two‐step fabrication. TPST induced localized alterations in the array of the PbI2 structure due to its large size, thereby forming a more discontinuous and coarser surface with a greater number of pinholes and subsequently facilitating more efficient organic–inorganic reactions. As a result, we achieved the production of thick perovskite films with enlarged granules and decreased PbI2 residuals in the two‐step fabrication process. Furthermore, TPST facilitated the passivation of bulk film defects by increasing the binding energy with the defects. Consequently, the ITO/SnO2 np‐based device and the FTO/CBD SnO2‐based device obtained the best PCEs of 23.88% and 24.30%, respectively. Furthermore, the moisture stability of the perovskite was improved by the hydrophobic character of the TPST additive.

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Personality traits and the risk of urinary incontinence: Evidence from three longitudinal samples
Authors: Stephan Yannick , Sutin Angelina R. , Terracciano Antonio
Published: April 2024

Objective

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common condition with a substantial negative impact on older adults' quality of life. This study examines whether individual differences in behavioral, cognitive, and emotional traits assessed by the five major dimensions of personality are related to the risk of concurrent and incident UI.

Methods

Participants were older women and men (N > 26,000) from the Midlife in the United States Survey, the Health and Retirement Study, and the English Longitudinal Study of Aging. In each cohort, personality traits (measured with the Midlife Development Inventory) and demographic (age, sex, education, and race), clinical (body mass index, diabetes, blood pressure), and behavioral (smoking) factors were assessed at baseline. UI was assessed at baseline and again 8–20 years later. Results for each cohort were combined in random‐effect meta‐analyses.

Results

Consistently across cohorts, higher neuroticism and lower conscientiousness were related to a higher risk of concurrent and incident UI. To a lesser extent, extraversion, openness, and agreeableness were also related to lower risk of concurrent and incident UI. BMI, diabetes, blood pressure, and smoking partially accounted for these associations. There was little evidence that age or sex moderated the associations.

Conclusions

The present study provides novel, robust, and replicable evidence linking personality traits to UI. The higher vulnerability for UI for individuals who score higher on neuroticism and lower on conscientiousness is consistent with findings for other multifactorial geriatric syndromes. Personality traits can help identify individuals at risk and may help contextualize the clinical presentation of comorbid emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms.
Circulating tumor plasma cells and peripheral blood measurable residual disease assessment in multiple myeloma patients not planned for upfront transplant
Authors: Tembhare Prashant R. , Sriram Harshini , Khanka Twinkle , Gawai Sanghamitra , Bagal Bhausaheb , Ghogale Sitaram G. , Deshpande Nilesh , Girase Karishma , Patil Jagruti , Hasan Syed Khaizer , Shetty Dhanalaxmi , Ghosh Kinjalka , Chatterjee Gaurav , Rajpal Sweta , Patkar Nikhil V. , Jain Hasmukh , Punatar Sachin , Gokarn Anant , Nayak Lingaraj , Mirgh Sumeet , Jindal Nishant , Sengar Manju , Khattry Navin , Subramanian Papagudi G. , Gujral Sumeet
Published: April 2024

Circulating tumor plasma cells (CTPCs) provide a noninvasive alternative for measuring tumor burden in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Moreover, measurable residual disease (MRD) assessment in peripheral blood (PBMRD) can provide an ideal alternative to bone marrow MRD, which is limited by its painful nature and technical challenges. However, the clinical significance of PBMRD in NDMM still remains uncertain. Additionally, data on CTPC in NDMM patients not treated with transplant are scarce. We prospectively studied CTPC and PBMRD in 141 NDMM patients using highly sensitive multicolor flow cytometry (HS‐MFC). PBMRD was monitored at the end of three cycles (PBMRD1) and six cycles (PBMRD2) of chemotherapy in patients with detectable baseline CTPC. Patients received bortezomib‐based triplet therapy and were not planned for an upfront transplant. Among baseline risk factors, CTPC ≥ 0.01% was independently associated with poor progression‐free survival (PFS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.77; p = 0.0047) and overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.9; p = 0.023) on multivariate analysis. In patients with detectable baseline CTPC, undetectable PBMRD at both subsequent time points was associated with longer PFS (HR = 0.46; p = 0.0037), whereas detectable PBMRD at any time point was associated with short OS (HR = 3.25; p = 0.004). Undetectable combined PBMRD (PBMRD1 and PBMRD2) outperformed the serum‐immunofixation‐based response. On multivariate analysis, detectable PBMRD at any time point was independently associated with poor PFS (HR = 2.0; p = 0.025) and OS (HR = 3.97; p = 0.013). Thus, our findings showed that CTPC and PBMRD assessment using HS‐MFC provides a robust, noninvasive biomarker for NDMM patients not planned for an upfront transplant. Sequential PBMRD monitoring has great potential to improve the impact of the existing risk stratification and response assessment models.
Workplace violence against healthcare workers in the emergency department in Hong Kong
Authors: Chang Hiu Tung , Lam Tommy Shing Kit , Chu Manson Cheuk Man
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Workplace violence affects the dignity and well‐being of healthcare workers and poses threats to the efficiency and success of the healthcare system. Healthcare workers in the emergency department (ED) are known to be vulnerable to workplace violence. This study explored the prevalence of workplace violence in the ED in Hong Kong and factors associated with self‐reported workplace violence.

Methods

An anonymous, voluntary, self‐administered and web‐based cross‐sectional survey was carried out from 1 June to 30 June 2022 among doctors and nurses in three regional EDs. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the factors associated with workplace violence.

Results

A total of 162 healthcare workers including 57 doctors and 105 nurses participated in the study, with an overall response rate of 50.8%. The overall prevalence of workplace violence was 66.7%. Verbal abuse (64.2%) was more common than physical violence (20.4%). Nursing group was significantly correlated with physical violence (aOR 7.27, p = 0.005). Reporting rate of workplace violence remained low (18.2% for physical violence and 12.5% for verbal abuse). More than half of the participants with experience of workplace violence reported that the incident affected their mental well‐being.

Conclusions

Workplace violence was a significant concern in the local ED and under‐reporting was not uncommon. Impact of workplace violence on healthcare workers and the healthcare system should be well recognised. Workplace violence protocol and prevention strategies are crucial.
Restorabite™: Phase II trial of jaw stretching exercises using a novel device for patients with trismus following head and neck cancer
Authors: Charters Emma , Cheng Kai , Dunn Masako , Heng Caleb , Loy Jamie , Ricketts Virginia , Luo Aaron , Aung Yee Mon , Lewin Will , Howes Dale , Manzie Timothy , Wan Boyang , Clark Jonathan
Published: April 2024

Patients treated for oral cancer, may experience restricted mouth opening (trismus). Barriers such as cost have limited the utilization of traditional jaw stretching devices, and consequently, patients experience problems with swallowing, oral care, communication, and cancer surveillance. The safety and efficacy of Restorabite™, a new device designed to overcome these barriers, is evaluated prospectively over 12 months. This phase II investigator‐led trial included patients with chronic trismus underwent 10‐weeks of trismus therapy using Restorabite™. Safety, adherence, changes in mouth opening, and patient‐reported outcomes are presented. 114/120 participants with trismus completed the intervention, and 104 had their progress monitored for 12 months. Thirteen participants withdrew due to tumour recurrence. At the completion of the intervention, mouth opening improved by 10.4 mm (p < .001). This increased to 13.7 mm at 12 months (p < .001). Patient reported outcome all significantly improved and 47 participants were no longer classified as having trismus. There were no serious treatment related adverse events. In patients with trismus following head and neck cancer treatment, a 10‐week programme of jaw stretching exercises using Restorbite™ safely improves mouth opening and associated quality of life outcomes with high adherence and the benefits are maintained for 12‐months.
A rare case of a testicular lesion related to hand, foot, and mouth disease
Authors: Igarashi Ayaka , Takezawa Yutaka , Ozawa Yuki , Saito Tomomi , Nakayama Hiroshi , Makino Takeaki , Etsunaga Toru , Saito Yoshitaka , Kobayashi Mikio
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Hand, foot, and mouth disease generally occurs in children. In rare cases, hand, foot, and mouth disease affects the testicles.

Case presentation

A 29‐year‐old man presented to our emergency department with testicular pain for several days after the onset of hand, foot, and mouth disease. Ultrasonography revealed hypoechoic mass‐like areas in the right testis. A mild inflammatory response was noted, tumor markers and urinary data were normal, and tests for infection were all negative. Antibiotics were initiated and ultrasonography was performed in every subsequent examination. Testicular pain disappeared 6 months later.

Conclusion

We encountered a rare case of a testicular lesion related to hand, foot, and mouth disease that was successfully treated. The careful selection of treatment for testicular pain and scrotal enlargement in young adult males, such as surgery and symptomatic treatment, based on their medical history and laboratory findings, is important.
A hybrid convolutional and transformer network for segmentation of coronary computed tomography angiographic slices
Authors: Duan Xiaojie , Wang Yanchao , Wang Jianming
Published: April 2024

Coronary artery three‐dimensional reconstruction is essential for preventing, diagnosing, and treating coronary heart disease. This study introduces SegUnet, a lightweight hybrid CNN‐Transformer network for pixel‐level segmentation of coronary artery computed tomography angiography (CTA) slices to enhance the precision of coronary artery reconstruction. The overall SegUnet adopts a U‐shaped encoder‐decoder structure, with a hierarchical Transformer structure serving as the encoder to extract global contextual information; the decoder is enhanced with spatial attention mechanism (SAM) and residual structure to improve its perception and adaptive adjustment abilities for coronary artery vessels. In contrast to other methods, we propose an interpolation‐based multi‐feature fusion bridge to integrate multi‐scale features between encoder levels, capturing their semantic dependencies. Experimental results show that SegUnet achieves a prediction accuracy of 97.23% on the test set of coronary arteries 2D slices. Moreover, the network exhibits excellent performance on Synapse Multi‐Organ Segmentation, highlighting the superiority, effectiveness, and robustness of our proposed method. The outstanding performance of SegUnet in coronary artery segmentation has elevated the quality of three‐dimensional reconstruction of the coronary arteries, exerting a positive impact on the enhancement of diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery diseases.
Re‐examining the relationship between patience, risk‐taking, and human capital investment across countries*
Authors: de Gendre Alexandra , Feld Jan , Salamanca Nicolás
Published: April 2024

Hanushek et al. (2022) show that students in countries in which people are more patient and less risk‐taking perform better in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) test. In this paper, we probe the robustness of this study. Our narrow replication shows that most of the results are robust to alternative model specifications. Our broad replication shows that the main results are robust to measuring student performance with data from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) instead of PISA.
Person‐first language and addiction literature: The presence of labeling and emotional language in counseling articles
Authors: Ricciutti Natalie M. , Davis Willough
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the rate and frequency of labeling language, emotional language, and person‐first language (PFL) toward individuals with substance use disorders and addictions in articles published in 24 counseling journals. Of the 249 articles reviewed, 61.04% did not fully adhere to PFL, while 34.54% included labeling language and 51.41% included emotional language. A significant positive correlation was found between the use of labeling language and emotional language. Implications for practicing counselors, counselor educators, and researchers are provided. We advocate for the use of PFL toward those with addictions in published works and in conversations.
A review of counseling research using single‐case research design
Authors: Brown Cian L. , Peltier Corey , Smarinsky Evan C. , Lewis Olivia J. , Lee David Y.
Published: April 2024

Single‐case research designs (SCRDs) are a vital tool for researchers and practitioners in counseling to evaluate intervention and treatment effectiveness. This content analysis reviews the application of SCRDs in counseling to highlight knowledge accrued and existing gaps in the literature. We evaluated the methodological design and reporting adherence against recommended guidelines to provide guidance for future research. We included 50 SCRDs published between 2015 and 2021 across 15 journals (42 reviewed). Content results showed several trends, strengths, and areas of improvement in counseling SCRDs. No studies completely met the What Works Clearinghouse (2022) design standards or Single‐Case Reporting Guideline in Behavioural Interventions (SCRIBE) reporting standards, yet several indicators had high levels of adherence. We discuss how the experimental design process can be enhanced to improve the internal validity, ways to improve transparency in reporting SCRD results, and the importance of contextualizing SCRD methodology to the counseling field.
Clinical evaluation on the use of a new accessory device for Fox plane
Authors: Nakano Leonardo Jiro Nomura , Soares Milena Pereira da Silva , Kukulka Elisa Camargo , Lima Beatriz Samara de Souza , Gomes Michelle de Sá dos Santos , Paes Júnior Tarcisio de Arruda
Published: April 2024

Objective

Evaluate the assimilation capacity and ease of handling of the Fox plane accessory by dentistry students, through a questionnaire about the experience in using this device compared to the conventional one. Its intention is to minimize possible interpretation errors and challenges that the traditional method determines.

Methods

After approval by the Research Ethics Committee, registration at Sistema Nacional de Informações sobre Ética em Pesquisa/National Information System on Research Ethics (SISNEP) and signing of the free and informed consent form, 51 undergraduate students treating patients in need of complete dentures at Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia/Institute of Science and Technology (ICT) Unesp in São José dos Campos completed a questionnaire to evaluate the technical ease of use and provider acceptance. The obtained data were submitted to statistical analysis, evaluating technical ease and acceptance by operators.

Results

The results were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the Jamovi 2.2.5 software. From the responses, the frequency was obtained for each question in the questionnaire, then the weighted mean was calculated, average rating and percentage. With the results of these analyses it was possible to measure the level of satisfaction of the participants in relation to the use of the device.

Conclusion

It was concluded that most students have difficulty using the conventional Fox plane and that the accessory facilitated the process of determining the superior orientation plane, and its ease of use.
Effect of different instrumentation techniques on students’ performance and outcomes of nonsurgical root canal treatment
Authors: Medina‐Torres Luis , Cochran Clarence , Bauer Patricia Ann , Valcanaia Andre Joao , Sindu Devika , Cavalcanti Bruno , McDonald Neville
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study compared, retrospectively, the incidence of clinical errors and effects on treatment outcomes, when students were exposed to two different instrumentation techniques: a hybrid rotary technique (HYB), consisting of both hand instrumentation with hand stainless steel and Ni‐Ti files plus the use of a rotary system (Vortex Blue, Dentsply Sirona), versus a full reciprocation instrumentation technique (WaveOne Gold [WOG], Dentsply Sirona).

Methods

A total of 368 endodontic cases (n = 184) in anterior and premolar teeth, completed by dental students at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry from 2013 to 2022, were used for the study. The groups were evaluated by two calibrated clinicians, observing the incidence of clinical errors: file separations, over‐instrumentation, ledges and transportations. Treatment outcomes were also observed. Data were analyzed statistically by Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney U test (p < 0.05).

Results

No significant difference in file separations, ledges, and transportation was observed between the two groups. However, the WOG Group experienced significantly more over‐instrumentation than HYB group, although this did not significantly affect tooth survival or periapical index (PAI). Cases with PAI scores of 5 were found to have significantly less tooth survival compared to the other PAI scores.

Conclusions

It can be concluded that both techniques in our study are well suited to advancing the endodontic dental education of students and novice operators, anticipating relatively successful outcomes of tooth survival, as long as the cases selected are less severe in progression preoperatively.
The impact of magnification on undergraduate dental students' performance during cavity preparations: A systematic review
Authors: Ramesh Arjun , Junxi Guo Allen , Patel Het Jayeshkumar , Huang James , Huang Chen‐Chia , de Mello‐Neto João Martins , Rodrigues Amaral Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

Purpose/Objectives

Loupe magnification is a commonly utilized tool within dental education due to its proposed benefits of improving working posture, visual acuity, and procedural quality. Although procedural quality has been researched at the graduate level, literature encompassing the undergraduate level remains scarce. Therefore, this systematic review aims to critically assess the available literature to ascertain the effects of loupe magnification on the performance of undergraduate dental students' cavity preparations.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was conducted across electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE via Ovid, The Cochrane Library for Cochrane Reviews, and Scopus, to identify relevant studies published from inception to February 15, 2023. We included English language studies that evaluated the effect of loupe magnification on the performance of undergraduate dental students in cavity preparations.

Results

In total, six studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The outcomes assessed encompassed tooth preparation accuracy. Of these six articles, one was conducted on endodontic access cavity preparations, four on restorative cavity preparations, and one on nonstandard cavity preparation designs performed on acrylic blocs. Four articles determined that loupes positively impacted undergraduate students' performance in cavity preparations, while two articles established no significant difference in performance between loupes and naked‐eye cavity preparations.

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that loupe magnification positively impacts undergraduate dental students' performance in cavity preparations. However, the heterogeneity of the studies and the variations in methodologies limit the ability to draw definitive conclusions.
Green synthesis of zinc oxide/Allium sativum nano‐composite and its efficacy against murine cryptosporidiosis
Authors: Hamdy Doaa A. , Ismail Mousa A. M. , El‐Askary Hala M. , Abdel‐Baki Abdel‐Azeem S. , Al‐Quraishy Saleh , Mohamed Fatma , Ahmed Marwa M. , Fouad Fatma M. , Hassan Ahmed O. , Abdel‐Tawab Heba
Published: April 2024

Cryptosporidiosis is a global health problem threats life of immunocompromised patients. Allium sativum (A. sativum) is one of the therapeutic options for cryptosporidiosis. This study develops green synthesized ZnO‐NPs based on A. sativum extract, and assesses its therapeutic application in treating experimental cryptosporidiosis in immunosuppressed mice. FTIR, scanning electron microscopy, and zeta analyzer were used for characterization of bio ZnO‐NPs. The morphology of prepared materials appeared as sponge with many pores on the whole surface that allows the feasibility of bio ZnO‐NPs for different biological activities. Its structural analysis was highly stabilized with negative charge surface which indicated for well distribution into the parasite matrix. Twenty‐five immunosuppressed Cryptosporidium parvum infected mice, classified into 5 groups were sacrificed at 21th day after infection with evaluation of parasitological, histopathological, oxidative, and proinflammatory biomarkers. Treated mice groups with 50 and 100 mg/kg of AS/ZnO‐NPs showed a highly significant decline (79.9% and 83.23%, respectively) in the total number of expelled oocysts. Both doses revealed actual amelioration of the intestinal, hepatic, and pulmonary histopathological lesions. They also significantly produced an increase in GSH values and improved the changes in NO and MDA levels, and showed high anti‐inflammatory properties. This study is the first to report green synthesis of ZnO/A. sativum nano‐composite as an effective therapy in treating cryptosporidiosis which gave better results than using A. sativum alone. It provides an economical and environment‐friendly approach towards novel delivery synthesis for antiparasitic applications.

Research Highlights

Green synthesis of ZnO‐NPs was developed using A. sativum extract.

The morphology of prepared ZnO‐NPs appeared as sponge with many pores on SEM

The study evaluates its therapeutic efficacy against murine cryptosporidiosis

The green synthesized ZnO‐NPs significantly reduced percent of oocyst shedding, improved the pathological changes, and showed high antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potentials.
Toward better targeting of mitigation measures for reducing phosphorus losses from land to water: Andrew Sharpley's legacy in Norway and Sweden
Authors: Liu Jian , Djodjic Faruk , Ulén Barbro , Aronsson Helena , Bechmann Marianne , Bergström Lars , Krogstad Tore , Kyllmar Katarina
Published: April 2024

Nordic agriculture faces big challenges to reduce phosphorus (P) loss from land to water for improving surface water quality. While understanding the processes controlling P loss and seeking for P mitigation measures, Norwegian and Swedish researchers have substantially benefited from and been inspired by Dr. Andrew Sharpley's career‐long, high‐standard P research. Here, we demonstrate how Sharpley and his research have helped the Nordic researchers to understand the role of cover crops in cold environmental conditions, best manure P management practices, and ditch processes. His work on critical source area (CSA) identification and site assessment tool development have also greatly inspired our thinking on the targeting of mitigation measures and the contextualizing tools for Nordic climate, landscape, and soils. While reflecting on Sharpley's legacy, we identify several needs for Norwegian and Swedish P research and management. These include (1) tackling the challenges caused by local/regional unevenness in livestock density and related manure management and farm P surpluses, (2) identifying CSAs of P loss with high erosion risk and high P surplus, (3) obtaining more high‐resolution mapping of soils with low P sorption capacity both in the topsoil and subsoil, (4) improving cross‐scale understanding of processes and mitigation measures and proper follow‐up of applied mitigation measures, and (5) increasing collaborations of researchers with farmers and farmers’ advisory groups and watershed groups by developing high‐quality educational courses and extension materials. The needs should be addressed in the context of the challenges and opportunities created by climate change.
Ontogenetic and interelemental study of appendicular bones of Caiman latirostris Daudin, 1802 sheds light on osteohistological variability in crocodylians
Authors: Pereyra María Eugenia , Bona Paula , Siroski Pablo , Chinsamy Anusuya
Published: April 2024

The osteohistology of vertebrates provides a reliable source to deduce biological information, particularly regarding growth and development. Although osteohistological studies in Neosuchia (Crocodyliformes, Mesoeucrocodylia) are relatively numerous, the number of species studied within the group is still small. Extant crocodilians are known to exhibit intraspecific variability linked to environmental conditions, habitat, feeding, and other intrapopulation factors. Here, we analyzed the osteohistology of the living South American Caiman latirostris throughout posthatching ontogeny. The histology of several appendicular bones of 13 different‐sized captive and wild individuals were examined. Although some thin sections revealed the classic lamellar, parallel‐fibered, or woven bone matrices, others showed a variation and a mix between the organization of the bone tissue. These histological differences are likely related to variability in the growth dynamics of caimans. In some bones of the juveniles studied, remnants of embryonic bone were observed. Osteohistological variation related to prevailing environmental conditions is documented. Furthermore, our results show ontogenetic variation in the type of bone tissues deposited throughout the development of C. latirostris. This study offers a broad framework for life history interpretations for C. latirostris and provides insight into the evolutionary history and ontogenetic growth of extinct crocodylian lineages.
TLR4 TIR domain and nucleolin GAR domain synergistically mediate RSV infection and induce neuronal inflammatory damage in SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Jiang Chengcheng , Huang Yixuan , Gui Hongya , Liu Xiaojie , Li Haiwen , Han Maozhen , Huang Shenghai
Published: April 2024

Previous research results of our group showed that Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nucleolin synergistically mediate respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in human central neuron cells, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. Here we designed and synthesized lentiviruses with TIR (674–815 aa), TLR4 (del 674–815 aa), GAR (645–707 aa), and NCL (del 645–707 aa) domains, and obtained stable overexpression cell lines by drug screening, and subsequently infected RSV at different time points. Laser confocal microscopy and coimmunoprecipitation were used for the observation of co‐localization and interaction of TIR/GAR domains. Western blot analysis was used for the detection of p‐NF‐κB and LC3 protein expression. Real‐time PCR was used for the detection of TLR4/NCL mRNA expression. ELISA assay was used to measure IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α concentrations and flow cytometric analysis was used for the study of apoptosis. Our results suggest that overexpression of TIR and GAR domains can exacerbate apoptosis and autophagy, and that TIR and GAR domains can synergistically mediate RSV infection and activate the NF‐κB signaling pathway, which regulates the secretion of downstream inflammatory factors, such as IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α, and ultimately leads to neuronal inflammatory injury.
Transanal irrigation in children with functional constipation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bolia Rishi , Goel Akhil , Thapar Nikhil
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Refractory functional constipation is a challenging condition to manage in children. The use of transanal irrigation (TAI) is well reported in children with neurological disorders as well as anorectal malformations but less so in children with functional disorders of defecation. The objective of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness, safety and outcomes of TAI in children with functional constipation.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched for publications related to the use of TAI in functional constipation. Data regarding the study design, sample size, patient characteristics, investigator‐reported response to TAI and adverse effects were extracted from studies that met the selection criteria. The inverse variance heterogeneity model was used for ascertaining the summary effect in this meta‐analysis.

Results

The search strategy yielded 279 articles of which five studies were included in the final review. The studies were from the United Kingdom (n = 2), Netherlands (n = 2) and Denmark (n = 1). These studies included 192 children with a median age ranging from 7 to 12.2 years old. The TAI systems used in these studies were: Peristeen (n = 2), Peristeen or Qufora (n = 1), Alterna (n = 1) and Navina (n = 1). The follow‐up duration ranged from 5.5 months to 3 years. Eleven (5.7%) children did not tolerate TAI and withdrew from treatment soon after initiation. The pooled investigator‐reported success of TAI was 62% (95% CI: 52%–71%). The most common adverse event was pain which was experienced by 21.7% of children. A total of 27 (14%) were successfully weaned off TAI at the last follow‐up.

Conclusions

TAI is reported to be successful in 62% of children with refractory functional constipation. There is a need for well‐designed prospective trials to evaluate this treatment option in children with refractory functional constipation.
Gastric outlet obstruction in an 11‐year‐old girl: A case report
Authors: Figueiredo Ana Sofia , Soares‐Aquino Carolina , Amorim Rita , Melão Lina , Espinheira Céu , Pais Isabel Pinto , Campos Miguel , Trindade Eunice
Published: April 2024

Pyloric stenosis commonly affects infants and rarely causes gastric outlet obstruction in adolescents and older children. We present the case of an 11‐year‐old girl with a 2‐month history of recurrent postprandial vomiting and weight loss. On physical examination, the patient presented with abdominal distension. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a very small pyloric orifice through which the endoscope could not be advanced. Abdominal ultrasonography and a computed tomography confirmed pylorus thickening. She underwent Heineke‐Mikulicz pyloroplasty with symptom resolution.
Good clinical outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients over 60 years of age
Authors: Cao Zhuohan , Wang Cheng , Ma Yong , Wang Jian , Wang Haijun , Liu Ping , Yang Yuping , Gong Xi , Wang Jianquan , Shi Weili
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical outcomes following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) in patients over 60 years and to investigate the potential impact of preoperative osteoarthritis (OA) on these outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study included ACL‐injured patients over 60 years who underwent primary arthroscopic ACLR between 2010 and 2020. The Lysholm score and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score were assessed preoperatively and at the final follow‐up. The Tegner activity scale was performed to evaluate patients' activity levels. Data on return to sports, patient satisfaction, subsequent injuries and complications were collected. Preoperative radiographs were used to grade OA according to the Kellgrene–Lawrence classification. Correlation analysis between OA and clinical outcomes was performed. The rates of achieving the minimal clinically significant difference and patient‐acceptable symptoms state were documented.

Results

A total of 37 patients were included in this study. The mean age at surgery was 62.3 ± 2.3 years, with a mean follow‐up of 6.3 ± 3.2 years (range: 2.1–12.4). Patients showed statistically significant (all p < 0.001) improvements in the mean IKDC (38.9 ± 9.4–66.8 ± 12.5), Lysholm (48.8 ± 15.4–83.0 ± 12.8) and Tegner (1–3) scores. Fourteen patients (37.8%) returned to sports. No correlation was observed between the degree of preoperative OA and clinical outcomes (n.s.).

Conclusion

Patients over 60 years with symptomatic ACL‐deficient knees could benefit from ACLR, even when mild to moderate OA is present preoperatively.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Arthroscopic treatment of ankle multiligamentous injuries provides similar clinical outcomes to the treatment of isolated lateral ligament injury at the 2‐year follow‐up
Authors: Guelfi Matteo , Vega Jordi , Dalmau‐Pastor Miki , Malagelada Francesc , Pantalone Andrea
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Rotational ankle instability is a multiligamentous injury defined as an overload injury of the deltoid ligament caused by a long‐standing injury of the lateral collateral ligament in patients affected by chronic ankle instability. The purpose of the study was to compare the clinical outcomes of combined arthroscopic repair of lateral and medial ankle ligaments for rotational ankle instability versus isolated arthroscopic lateral ligament repair for lateral ankle instability at 2 years' follow‐up.

Methods

Between 2019 and 2021, 108 patients with chronic ankle instability were consecutively treated by arthroscopy. Of this group, 83 patients (77%) [median age: 26 (range, 14–77) years] underwent an isolated all‐inside lateral ligament repair for lateral ankle instability (group A). In the remaining 25 patients (23%) [median age: 27 (range, 17–58) years], rotational ankle instability was clinically suspected and confirmed during arthroscopy; thus, a combined all‐inside repair of lateral and medial ligaments was performed (group B). The same postoperative protocol was utilised for both groups. Patients were prospectively evaluated before surgery, at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months with Foot Functional Index (FFI) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure–Sports subscale (FAAM‐SS). At the latest follow‐up, the satisfaction rate and complications were also recorded.

Results

In both groups, FFI, VAS and FAAM‐SS scores significantly improved compared to preoperative values (p < 0.001). In addition, according to all the scores evaluated, there was no significative difference (n.s) between groups at the final follow‐up or at any of the intermediate follow‐up. No major complications were observed in both groups.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic ligament repair in case of ankle multiligamentous injuries, such as in rotational ankle instability, provides excellent clinical outcomes and is comparable to isolated lateral ligament repair at 2 years' follow‐up. Therefore, when treating ankle instability, arthroscopic repair of each and every ligament that appears injured provides the best potential outcomes and is the recommended treatment.

Level of Evidence

Level II, prospective comparative.
Optically Tunable Ultrafast Broadband Terahertz Polarimetric Device Using Nonvolatile Phase‐Change Material
Authors: Lai Weien , Gou Hanguang , Wu Huizhen , Rahimi‐Iman Arash
Published: April 2024

Actively tunable ultrafast broadband terahertz (THz) polarimetry using a reconfigurable phase‐change material holds great potentials and prospects for the achievement of next‐generation versatile integrated THz components and systems in a variety of THz applications. Here, an optically tunable ultrafast broadband THz polarimetric device (THz‐PoD) composed of a phase‐change material Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) and a thin mica substrate is demonstrated. This proposed novel THz‐PoD is verified for a frequency range of 0.1–2.5 THz, exhibiting broadband and ultrafast determination of polarization states for linearly polarized THz waves at polarization angles from −90° to 90°. It is shown that optical excitation with ns pulses allows easy and efficient control of the polarimetric properties of such THz‐PoD. The essential role of the GST film in switching the phase transition between the amorphous and crystalline phases is emphasized by the theoretical investigation of the optically tunable ultrafast polarimetric mechanism of the device. This phase transition allows optically changing the THz‐PoD's properties by ns‐pulsed laser in a controlled way to achieve THz polarimetry for linearly polarized THz waves. The combined advantages of this strategy can open up a new and promising way for realizing versatile reconfigurable and integrated THz devices, which may further promote the development of novel THz systems and applications.
Understanding zwitterionic ring‐expansion polymerization through mass spectrometry
Authors: Ahmad Mahi , Grayson Scott M.
Published: April 2024

Zwitterionic ring‐expansion polymerization (ZREP) is a polymerization method in which a cyclic monomer is converted into a cyclic polymer through a zwitterionic intermediate. In this review, we explored the ZREP of various cyclic polymers and how mass spectrometry assists in identifying the product architectures and understanding their intricate reaction mechanism. For the majority of polymers (from a few thousand to a few million Da) matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry is the most effective mass spectrometry technique to determine the true molecular weight (MW) of the resultant product, but only when the dispersity is low (approximately below 1.2). The key topics covered in this study were the ZREP of cyclic polyesters, cyclic polyamides, and cyclic ethers. In addition, this study also addresses a number of other preliminary topics, including the ZREP of cyclic polycarbonates, cyclic polysiloxanes, and cyclic poly(alkylene phosphates). The purity and efficiency of those syntheses largely depend on the catalyst. Among several catalysts,N‐heterocyclic carbenes have exhibited high efficiency in the synthesis of cyclic polyesters and polyamides, whereas tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane [B(C6F5)3] is the most optimal catalyst for cyclic polyether synthesis.
Industrial agglomeration and corporate labor investment efficiency: A study based on the industry heterogeneity perspective
Authors: Guo Ke , Guo Xuemeng
Published: April 2024

A research sample comprising 285 prefecture‐level cities and listed enterprises in China between 2005 and 2020 was handpicked to examine the impact of regional industrial agglomeration on the labor investment efficiency of enterprises, along with its heterogeneity effect. The research discovered that industrial agglomeration hinders the labor investment efficiency of enterprises in general. However, manufacturing agglomeration showed an inverted U‐shaped relationship with the labor investment efficiency of enterprises. Producer services agglomeration significantly hinders the labor investment efficiency of enterprises. The mechanism test results indicate that industrial agglomeration affects the labor investment efficiency of enterprises via the micro transmission mechanism of financing constraint and labor cost. Industry‐specific tests revealed that the effect of manufacturing agglomeration on labor investment efficiency is significant in technology‐intensive and high‐technology industries, whereas the effect of producer services agglomeration on labor investment efficiency is more significant in resource‐intensive industries. The heterogeneity study showed that the effect of industrial agglomeration on the labor investment efficiency of firms differs significantly based on firm characteristics. These findings offer a better comprehension of the microeconomic consequences of industrial agglomeration and broaden the research outlook on the intrinsic mechanisms and extrinsic causal factors of enterprises' labor investment efficiency.
A four‐grating interferometer for x‐ray multi‐contrast imaging
Authors: Miao Houxun , Williams James C. , Josell Daniel
Published: April 2024

Background

X‐ray multi‐contrast imaging with gratings provides a practical method to detect differential phase and dark‐field contrast images in addition to the x‐ray absorption image traditionally obtained in laboratory or hospital environments. Systems have been developed for preclinical applications in areas including breast imaging, lung imaging, rheumatoid arthritis hand imaging and kidney stone imaging.

Purpose

Prevailing x‐ray interferometers for multi‐contrast imaging include Talbot‐Lau interferometers and universal moiré effect‐based phase‐grating interferometers. Talbot‐Lau interferometers suffer from conflict between high interferometer sensitivity and large field of view (FOV) of the object being imaged. A small period analyzer grating is necessary to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity and large FOV within a compact imaging system but is technically challenging to produce for high x‐ray energies. Phase‐grating interferometers suffer from an intrinsic fringe period ranging from a few micrometers to several hundred micrometers that can hardly be resolved by large area flat panel x‐ray detectors. The purpose of this work is to introduce a four‐grating x‐ray interferometer that simultaneously allows high sensitivity and large FOV, without the need for a small period analyzer grating.

Methods

The four‐grating interferometer consists of a source grating placed downstream of and close to the x‐ray source, a pair of phase gratings separated by a fixed distance placed downstream of the source grating, and an analyzer grating placed upstream of and close to the x‐ray detector. The object to be imaged is placed upstream of and close to the phase‐grating pair. The distance between the source grating and the phase‐grating pair is designed to be far larger than that between the phase‐grating pair and the analyzer grating to promote simultaneously high sensitivity and large FOV. The method was evaluated by constructing a four‐grating interferometer with an 8 µm period source grating, a pair of phase gratings of 2.4 µm period, and an 8 µm period analyzer grating.

Results

The fringe visibility of the four‐grating interferometer was measured to be ≈24% at 40 kV and ≈18% at 50 kV x‐ray tube operating voltage. A quartz bead of 6 mm diameter was imaged to compare the theoretical and experimental phase contrast signal with good agreement. Kidney stone specimens were imaged to demonstrate the potential of such a system for classification of kidney stones.

Conclusions

The proposed four‐grating interferometer geometry enables a compact x‐ray multi‐contrast imaging system with simultaneously high sensitivity and large FOV. Relaxation of the requirement for a small period analyzer grating makes it particularly suitable for high x‐ray energy applications such as abdomen and chest imaging.
Full configurational and conformational analysis of artemisinin by one‐bond carbon–carbon residual dipolar couplings at natural abundance
Authors: Anklin Clemens , Gil Roberto R.
Published: April 2024

Configurational and conformational analysis of the biologically relevant natural product artemisinin was conducted using carbon–carbon residual dipolar couplings (1DCC RDCs) at natural abundance. These RDCs were measured through the 2D‐INADEQUATE NMR experiment using a sample aligned in a compressed poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) gel swollen in CDCl3. Singular value decomposition (SVD) fitting analysis of all carbon–carbon bonds, 1DCC RDCs, in relation to the full configuration/conformational space (32 diastereoisomers) of artemisinin, unambiguously identified the correct configuration of artemisinin.
Deciphering molecular structures: NMR spectroscopy and quantum mechanical insights of halogenated 4H‐Chromenediones
Authors: Martins Lucas M. O. S. , Souto Francielly Thais , Hoye Thomas R. , Alvarenga Elson S.
Published: April 2024

Sesquiterpene lactones (SL) represent a class of secondary metabolites found in the Asteraceae family, notable for their unique structures. The SL α‐santonin (1) and its derivatives are worthy of mention due to their diverse biological properties. Additionally, 4H‐chromenes and 4H‐chromones are appealing frameworks holding the capability to be used as structural motifs for new drugs. Furthermore, unambiguous structural elucidation is crucial for developing novel compounds for diverse applications. In this context, it is common to find in the literature molecules erroneously assigned. Therefore, the use of quantum mechanical calculations to simulate NMR chemical shifts has emerged as a valuable strategy. In this work, we conceived the synthesis of two halogenated 4H‐chromenediones derived from photosantonic acid (2), a photoproduct arising from irradiation of α‐santonin (1) in the ultraviolet region. The structure of the chlorinated and brominated products was determined by NMR analysis, with the aid of quantum mechanical calculations at the B3LYP/6‐311 + G(2d,p)//M062x/6‐31 + G(d,p) level of theory. All analyses were in agreement and led to the assignment of the brominated 4H‐chromene‐2,7‐dione as (3S,3aS,5aR,9bS)‐5a‐(2‐bromopropan‐2‐yl)‐3‐methyl‐3,3a,5,5a,8,9b‐hexahydro‐4H‐furo[2,3‐f]chromene‐2,7‐dione (11b) and of the chlorinated 4H‐chromene‐2,7‐dione as (3S,3aS,5aR,9bS)‐5a‐(2‐chloropropan‐2‐yl)‐3‐methyl‐3,3a,5,5a,8,9b‐hexahydro‐4H‐furo[2,3‐f]chromene‐2,7‐dione (12b). The diastereoselectivities of the reactions were explained based on products and intermediates formation energy calculated using B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d,p) as the level of theory. Structures 11b and 12b were identified as the thermodynamic and kinetic products of the reaction among all candidates. Consequently, the strategy utilized in this study is robust and successfully illustrates the use of quantum mechanical calculations in the structural elucidation of new compounds with potential applications as novel drugs or products.