bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designed Spin‐Texture‐Lattice to Control Anisotropic Magnon Transport in Antiferromagnets
Authors: Meisenheimer Peter , Ramesh Maya , Husain Sajid , Harris Isaac , Park Hyeon Woo , Zhou Shiyu , Taghinejad Hossein , Zhang Hongrui , Martin Lane W. , Analytis James , Stevenson Paul , Íñiguez‐González Jorge , Kim Se Kwon , Schlom Darrell G. , Caretta Lucas , Yao Zhi , Ramesh Ramamoorthy
Published: July 2024

Spin waves in magnetic materials are promising information carriers for future computing technologies due to their ultra‐low energy dissipation and long coherence length. Antiferromagnets are strong candidate materials due, in part, to their stability to external fields and larger group velocities. Multiferroic antiferromagnets, such as BiFeO3 (BFO), have an additional degree of freedom stemming from magnetoelectric coupling, allowing for control of the magnetic structure, and thus spin waves, with the electric field. Unfortunately, spin‐wave propagation in BFO is not well understood due to the complexity of the magnetic structure. In this work, long‐range spin transport is explored within an epitaxially engineered, electrically tunable, 1D magnonic crystal. A striking anisotropy is discovered in the spin transport parallel and perpendicular to the 1D crystal axis. Multiscale theory and simulation suggest that this preferential magnon conduction emerges from a combination of a population imbalance in its dispersion, as well as anisotropic structural scattering. This work provides a pathway to electrically reconfigurable magnonic crystals in antiferromagnets.
Positively Charged Hollow Co Nanoshells by Kirkendall Effect Stabilized by Electron Sink for Alkaline Water Dissociation
Authors: Zhang Tao , Hang Lifeng , Liu Qingyi , Tao Shi , Bao Haoming , Fan Hong Jin
Published: July 2024

While cobalt (Co) exhibits a comparable energy barrier for H* adsorption/desorption to platinum in theory, it is generally not suitable for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) because of unfavorable water dissociation. Here, the Kirkendall effect is adopted to fabricate positive‐charged hollow metal Co (PHCo) nanoshells that are stabilized by MoO2 and chainmail carbon as the electron sink. Compared to the zero‐valent Co, the PHCo accelerates the water dissociation and changes the rate‐determining step from Volmer to Heyrovsky process. Alkaline HER occurs with a low overpotential of 59.0 mV at 10 mA cm−2. Operando Raman and first principles calculations reveal that the interfacial water to the PHCo sites and the accelerated proton transfer are conducive to the adsorption and dissociation of H2O molecules. Meanwhile, the upshifted d‐band center of PHCo optimizes the adsorption/desorption of H*. This work provides a unique synthesis of hollow Co nanoshells via the Kirkendall effect and insights to water dissociation on catalyst surfaces with tailored charge states.
Rational Strategies to Improve the Efficiency of 2D Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Guangbao , Zhang Runqi , Wang He , Ma Kangjie , Xia Junmin , Lv Wenzhen , Xing Guichuan , Chen Runfeng
Published: July 2024

In the quest for durable photovoltaic devices, 2D halide perovskites have emerged as a focus of extensive research. However, the reduced dimension in structure is accompanied by inferior optical‐electrical properties, such as widened band gap, enhanced exciton binding energy, and obstructed charge transport. As a result, the efficiency of 2D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) lags significantly behind their 3D counterparts. To overcome these constraints, extensive investigations into materials and processing techniques are pursued rigorously to augment the efficiency of 2D PSCs. Herein, The cutting‐edge delve into developments in 2D PSCs, with a focus on chemical and material engineering, as well as their structure and photovoltaic properties. The review starts with an introduction of the crystal structure, followed by the key evaluation criteria of 2D PSCs. Then, the strategies around solution chemical engineering, processing technique, and interface optimization, to simultaneously boost efficiency and stability are systematically discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives associated with 2D perovskites to provide insights into potential improvements in photovoltaic performance will be outlined.
A Nanomechanical Transducer for Remote Signal Transmission onto the Tympanic Membrane–Playing Music on a Different Drum
Authors: Scott Shelley A. , Yang Fan , Haugg Stefanie , Bhat Abhishek , Scheer Elke , Zierold Robert , Flack Frank , Lagally Max G. , Blick Robert H.
Published: July 2024

The combination of piezoelectric ceramics with silicon nanomembranes can provide a unique combination of electronic and mechanical functionality. For example, an integrated remotely accessible sensor/actuator can serve as a sound transducer to be placed on the tympanic membrane of the human ear. Such an implant would enable direct sound transmission in the kHz range via down‐conversion of a modulated carrier signal at radio frequency. The viability of this concept is demonstrated via a specific design of the nanomembrane bonded over a hole in the piezoelectric chip as well as driving this chip to create a strong nonlinear mechanical response in the nanomembrane. The response in the audible‐frequency range and the result is demonstrated by modulating the piezoelectric chip with a C‐major audible tune—the tone ladder—and retrieving this sound by an optical readout method. Finally, to prove the possibility of remote actuation of the nanomembrane, an antenna on the chip is integrated and the wide‐band transmission from a mobile source is simulated. It is concluded that a remotely actuated invisible hearing aid is possible.
Magnetotropic Hybrid Generator with Self‐Switching Mechanism for Long‐Term Forest Fire Prevention
Authors: Zheng Changyue , Liang Chuangjian , Wen Honggui , Qu Hang , Ning Heng , Chen Chunjin , Long Siyu , Wan Lingyu , Liu Guanlin , Guo Hengyu
Published: July 2024

The integration of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with electromagnetic generator (EMG) holds promise for the efficient harvesting of broadband wind energy, yet the challenge of coupling these two systems into one high‐durability unit has persisted. Herein, a novel magnetic attraction coupling principle is proposed to enable seamless switching between TENG unit and EMG unit across varying rotation speeds without the need for additional mechanical components, thereby enhancing the energy harvesting efficiency of the magnetotropic hybrid generator (MHG). The rotating magnetic field induces the Si‐Mn steel plates to operate in a contact‐separation mode within a compact space, producing a 270 V open‐circuit voltage output, while the excess magnetic flux is captured by coils to generate an induced current of 5 mA. Most importantly, the overall structure is free from mechanical wear, maintaining consistent performance after 130 000 cycles. The harvested wind energy by MHG is utilized to power human infrared sensors, flame sensors, and Bluetooth hygrometers, providing a long‐term, stable power supply for forest fire early warning systems. This study pioneers a novel and robust mechanism that effectively combines TENG and EMG using magnetotropic property, opening a new avenue for efficiently harvesting wide‐band mechanical energy.
Total Synthesis of (−)‐Daphenylline by Gold‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Dearomatization Reaction of Methoxynaphthalene
Authors: Cao Meng‐Yue , Gu Qing‐Xiu , Long Jinguo , Fang Xianjie , Lu Hai‐Hua
Published: July 2024

Daphenylline, a structurally unique triterpenoid Daphniphyllum alkaloid, has attracted considerable attention from the synthetic community since its isolation. Herein, we delineate an enantioselective total synthesis of (−)‐daphenylline, which is based on a gold‐catalyzed dearomatization reaction of β‐methoxynaphthalene. Other features include installation of the initial chiral stereocenter via an enantioselective rhodium‐catalyzed hydrogenation of an alkylidene‐indane derivative; construction of the other vital stereocenter by organocatalytic asymmetric Mukaiyama–Michael reaction of a structurally complex benzofused cyclohexanone; and a tandem reductive amination/amidation double cyclization reaction to assemble the distinctive azapolycyclic cage‐like architecture.
RNA Encapsulation in Metal–Organic Frameworks for Targeting Cancer‐Causing Genes
Authors: Mishra Meemansha , Dey Tapan , Mishra Mallya , Chauhan Isha , Dutta Saikat
Published: July 2024

A rapid emergence of small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) is witnessed as a powerful tool in gene therapy for suppressing gene expression. Since highly porous metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are fragile and inefficient with non‐specific gene delivery techniques, developing strategies use them to encapsulate unmodified natural siRNA from enzymatic degradation. MOFs with high nucleic acid binding affinity are ideal for encapsulating siRNAs in cancer therapy, bypassing circulation time and non‐specificity. To knock down Plk1gene, tumor cell membranes can hide Plk1 siRNA‐containing (Zeolitic Imidazolate framework) ZIF‐8 nanoparticles. For tumor suppression MOF‐promoted lysosome siRNA release, cell membrane coating, and PLK1 silencing are employed. Lysosomes attack cancer by delivering miRNA to targeted cells. Single‐stranded miRNA, two‐stranded siRNA. Despite their different sources, structures, modes of action, and biological activities, miRNA and siRNA regulate gene expression. SIRNA blocks genes more accurately than miRNA, which regulates larger genes. SiRNA‐MOF integration in vitro results in a maximum of 27% consistent gene silencing during endocytic absorption. Cofactor‐encapsulated MOF‐internalized siRNA kills enzymes. A universal siRNA delivery for a specific genetic sequence with personalized therapeutic potential contrasts with multi‐route cancer drugs. SiRNAs cleave long‐stranded RNAs coding for specific genes, allowing biocompatible MOFs to encapsulate macromolecules and protect them from injury.
A Linkable, Polycarbonate Gut Microbiome‐Distal Tumor Chip Platform for Interrogating Cancer Promoting Mechanisms
Authors: Brasino Danielle S.K. , Speese Sean D. , Schilling Kevin , Schutt Carolyn E. , Barton Michelle C.
Published: July 2024

Gut microbiome composition is tied to diseases ranging from arthritis to cancer to depression. However, mechanisms of action are poorly understood, limiting development of relevant therapeutics. Organ‐on‐chip platforms, which model minimal functional units of tissues and can tightly control communication between them, are ideal platforms to study these relationships. Many gut microbiome models are published to date but devices are typically fabricated using oxygen permeable polydimethylsiloxane, requiring interventions to support anaerobic bacteria. To address this challenge, a platform is developed where the chips are fabricated entirely from gas‐impermeable polycarbonate without tapes or gaskets. These chips replicate polarized villus‐like structures of the native tissue. Further, they enable co‐cultures of commensal anaerobic bacteria Blautia coccoides on the surface of gut epithelia for two days within a standard incubator. Another complication of commonly used materials in organ‐on‐chip devices is high ad‐/absorption, limiting applications in high‐resolution microscopy and biomolecule interaction studies. For future communication studies between gut microbiota and distal tumors, an additional polycarbonate chip design is developed to support hydrogel‐embedded tissue culture. These chips enable high‐resolution microscopy with all relevant processing done on‐chip. Designed for facile linking, this platform will make a variety of mechanistic studies possible.
Call to action for cross‐border conservation of the critically endangered Lake Chala tilapia (Oreochromis hunteri)
Authors: Mwangi E. M.
Published: July 2024

Lake Chala straddles the Kenya–Tanzania border, with a narrow strip of terrestrial habitat around it. The steep rocky shores are bedecked in a backdrop of Kilimanjaro at sunrise, giving the area the aesthetic beauty of an important tourist destination. The lake has important conservation implications ranging from endemic species including a critically endangered and rapidly declining fish to other unique biodiversity. This calls for urgent action to prevent extinction and promote sustainable management, building on previous work and action plans such as a proposed new conservancy, as the best safeguard against the threats.
A case of Williams syndrome with Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome
Authors: Karadeniz Cem , Yıldız Kaan , Öksüz Sedef , Keçici Rüveyda Nur , Çoğulu Özgür
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Williams syndrome (WS) cases have been reported to have with 25–100 times greater increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). SCD has been reported in cases without any evidence of structural cardiovascular anomalies. Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome is characterized by short PR interval and delta wave. Ventricular preexcitations can develop paroxysmal reentrant tachycardia through Kent bundle or less frequent atrial fibrillation and in some cases with accessory pathway effective refractory period (APERP) under 250 ms considered as risky and may lead to SCD. WS associated with WPW has not been reported before.

Case Report

An 11‐year‐old male who had been followed up with WS was referred to pediatric cardiology outpatient clinic with the complaint of palpitation. Electrocardiographic examination showed short PR interval and delta wave in the ECG consistent with WPW. He underwent electrophysiological study (EPS). Basic measurements were performed, and APERP was found at 280 ms cycle atrial pacing. RF energy was delivered using a 4 mm tip nonirrigated radiofrequency (RF) ablation catheter where the best ventriculoatrial (VA) signals were received and the AP was abolished within few seconds.

Discussion and Conclusions

Although, WPW cases are usually asymptomatic or related to SVT, the risk of SCD should not be ignored. Thus, all patients with WPW deserve an EPS for assessing the AP conduction properties. Due to the increased risk of SCD in patients with WS compared to general population, in the presence of concomitant WPW, these patients should be evaluated with EPS even if they do not have symptoms.
Optical, vibrational, and photoluminescence properties of holmium‐doped boro‐bismuth‐germanate glasses
Authors: Rathaiah Mamilla , Ravanamma Rallapalli , Ravi Nirlakalla , Venkata Krishnaiah Kummara , Upendra Kumar Kagola , Nanda Kumar Reddy Nallabala , Naga Kiran Bangaram , Yuvaraj Chinnappa
Published: July 2024

Holmium (Ho3+)‐doped boro‐bismuth‐germanate glasses having the chemical composition (30‐x)B2O3 + 20GeO2 + 20Bi2O3 + 20Na2O + 10Y2O3 + xHo2O3, where x = 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mol% were prepared by melt‐quenching technique. The prepared glasses were examined for thermal, optical, vibrational, and photoluminescent properties. The prepared glasses were found to be thermally very stable. The optical bandgap and Urbach energies of 0.1 mol% Ho2O3‐doped boro‐bismuth‐germanate glass were calculated to be 3.3 eV and 377 MeV, respectively, using the absorption spectrum. The Judd–Ofelt analysis was performed on the 0.1 mol% Ho2O3‐doped glass and compared the obtained parameters with literature. The branching ratio (β) and emission cross‐section (σem) of the green band were determined to be 0.7 and 0.24 × 10−20 cm2, respectively. Under 450 nm excitation, a strong green emission around 550 nm was observed and assigned to the (5S2 + 5F4) → 5I8 (Ho3+) transition. Upon an increase of Ho2O3 content from 0.1 to 2.0 mol%, the intensities of all observed emission bands as well as decay time of the (5S2 + 5F4) → 5I8 transition have been decreased gradually. The reasons behind the decrease in emission intensity and decay time were discussed. The strong green emission suggests that these glasses may be a better option for display devices and green emission applications.
Biochemical and Structural Consequences of NEDD8 Acetylation
Authors: Kienle Simon Maria , Schneider Tobias , Bernecker Christine , Bracker Janina , Marx Andreas , Kovermann Michael , Scheffner Martin , Stuber Katrin
Published: July 2024

Similar to ubiquitin, the ubiquitin‐like protein NEDD8 is not only conjugated to other proteins but is itself subject to posttranslational modifications including lysine acetylation. Yet, compared to ubiquitin, only little is known about the biochemical and structural consequences of site‐specific NEDD8 acetylation. Here, we generated site‐specifically mono‐acetylated NEDD8 variants for each known acetylation site by genetic code expansion. We show that, in particular, acetylation of K11 has a negative impact on the usage of NEDD8 by the NEDD8‐conjugating enzymes UBE2M and UBE2F and that this is likely due to electrostatic and steric effects resulting in conformational changes of NEDD8. Finally, we provide evidence that p300 acts as a position‐specific NEDD8 acetyltransferase.
Chemoenzymatic Modification of Daptomycin: Aromatic Group Installation on Trp1
Authors: Dimas Dustin A. , Kumar Vikas , Mandal Prashant S. , Masterson Johanna M. , Tonelli Marco , Singh Shanteri
Published: July 2024

Daptomycin is a cyclic lipodepsipeptide antibiotic used to treat infections caused by Gram‐positive pathogens, including multi‐drug resistant strains such as methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE). The emergence of daptomycin‐resistant bacterial strains has renewed interest in generating daptomycin analogs. Previous studies have shown that replacing the tryptophan of daptomycin with aromatic groups can generate analogs with enhanced potency. Additionally, we have demonstrated that aromatic prenyltransferases can attach diverse groups to the tryptophan of daptomycin. Here, we report the use of the prenyltransferase CdpNPT to derivatize the tryptophan of daptomycin with a library of benzylic and heterocyclic pyrophosphates. An analytical‐scale study revealed that CdpNPT can transfer various aromatic groups onto daptomycin. Subsequent scaled‐up and purified reactions indicated that the enzyme can attach aromatic groups to N1, C2, C5 and C6 positions of Trp1 of daptomycin. In vitro antibacterial activity assays using six of these purified compounds identified aromatic substituted daptomycin analogs show potency against both daptomycin‐susceptible and resistant strains of Gram‐positive bacteria. These findings suggest that installing aromatic groups on the Trp1 of daptomycin can lead to the generation of potent daptomycin analogs.
Isolation, Structure Elucidation, and Biological Activity of the Selective TACR2 Antagonist Tumonolide and its Aldehyde from a Marine Cyanobacterium
Authors: Kokkaliari Sofia , Grauso Laura , Mangoni Alfonso , Seabra Gustavo , Paul Valerie J. , Luesch Hendrik
Published: July 2024

The macrocyclic tumonolide (1) with enamide functionality and the linear tumonolide aldehyde (2) are new interconverting natural products from a marine cyanobacterium with a peptide‐polyketide skeleton, representing a hybrid of apratoxins and palmyrolides or laingolides. The planar structures were established by NMR and mass spectrometry. The relative configuration of the stereogenically‐rich apratoxin‐like polyketide portion was determined using J‐based configuration analysis. The absolute configuration of tumonolide (1) was determined by chiral analysis of the amino acid units and computational methods, followed by NMR chemical shift and ECD spectrum prediction, indicating all‐R configuration for the polyketide portion, as in palmyrolide A and contrary to the all‐S configuration in apratoxins. Functional screening against a panel of 168 GPCR targets revealed tumonolide (1) as a selective antagonist of TACR2 with an IC50 of 7.0 μM, closely correlating with binding affinity. Molecular docking studies established the binding mode and rationalized the selectivity for TACR2 over TACR1 and TACR3. RNA sequencing upon treatment of HCT116 colorectal cancer cells demonstrated activation of the pulmonary fibrosis idiopathic signaling pathway and the insulin secretion signaling pathway at 20 μM, indicating its potential to modulate these pathways.
Improving reading performance by file prefetching mechanism in distributed cache systems
Authors: Gui Jing , Wang Yongbin , Shuai Wuyue
Published: July 2024

Distributed cache systems are utilized to enhance I/O performance between computing applications and storage systems. However, the traditional file access predictors employed in these cache systems are only suitable for workloads with simple file access patterns, rendering them inadequate for the complex access patterns found in big data computing scenarios. In this article, we propose a file access predictor (DFAP) based on WaveNet, which has exhibited promising results in file access tasks when compared to other baseline models. Cache systems are often constrained by limited cache space due to cost, cluster size, and other factors. In big data scenarios, cached data and prefetched data often compete for limited space. To address this issue, we introduce a cache prefetching algorithm (CBAP) for cache systems, which is based on cost‐benefit analysis to improve cache utilization. Furthermore, we implement a novel file prefetching framework on Alluxio, which accelerates computing jobs by up to 18%.
PBPK Modeling of Entrectinib and Its Active Metabolite to Derive Dose Adjustments in Pediatric Populations Co‐Administered with CYP3A4 Inhibitors
Authors: Umehara Kenichi , Parrott Neil , Schindler Emilie , Legras Valentin , Meneses‐Lorente Georgina
Published: July 2024

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models of entrectinib and its equipotent metabolite, M5, were established in healthy adult subjects and extrapolated to pediatric patients to predict increases in steady‐state systemic exposure on co‐administration of strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (itraconazole at 5 mg/kg, erythromycin at 7.5–12.5 mg/kg and fluconazole at 3–12 mg/kg, respectively). Adult model establishment involved the optimization of fraction metabolized by CYP3A4 (0.92 for entrectinib and 0.98 for M5) using data from an itraconazole DDI study. This model captured well the exposure changes of entrectinib and M5 seen in adults co‐administered with the strong CYP3A4 inducer rifampicin. In pediatrics, reasonable prediction of entrectinib and M5 pharmacokinetics in ≧2 year olds was achieved when using the default models for physiological development and enzyme ontogenies. However, a two to threefold misprediction of entrectinib and M5 exposures was seen in <2 year olds which may be due to missing mechanistic understanding of gut physiology and/or protein binding in very young children. Model predictions for ≧2 year olds showed that entrectinib AUC(0−t) was increased by approximately sevenfold and five to threefold by strong and high‐moderate and low‐moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, respectively. Based on these victim DDI predictions, dose adjustments for entrectinib when given concomitantly with strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors in pediatric subjects were recommended. These simulations informed the approved entrectinib label without the need for additional clinical pharmacology studies.
Design of a multi‐octave high‐efficiency power amplifier employing a modified continuous class‐GF mode
Authors: Zhu Haipeng , Zhang Zhiwei , Xuan Xuefei , Wang Chenlu , Zhang Luyu , Gu Chao
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces a modified continuous mode class‐GF power amplifier (PA) incorporating a phase shift parameter to modify the drain voltage waveform. This modification significantly boosts the overlap area between the fundamental impedance and the second harmonic impedance, thereby providing increased flexibility in designing a broadband matching network. Additionally, a straightforward modified coupler network is proposed to effectively accommodate the expanded impedance design space. Experimental validation was conducted with a PA operating within the frequency range of 0.5–3.5 GHz. The results affirm the efficacy of the proposed approach, with the saturated output power ranging from 40.0 to 42.5 dBm, accompanied by a gain exceeding 10 dB. Furthermore, a remarkable drain efficiency ranging from 59% to 76.2% is achieved within the targeted frequency band.
OCR issues new guidance on Section 504 protections for sickle cell
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2024

In June 2024, the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights issued new resources for preventing discrimination against students with disabilities at postsecondary institutions and other schools. The resources address the civil rights of students with sickle cell disease, epilepsy, and cancer.
NJCAA offers new solution for health, wellness services
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: July 2024

In a time of skyrocketing healthcare costs and understaffed counseling centers, the National Junior College Athletic Association has found an innovative, cost‐effective way to improve access to quality health and wellness services for not only the student‐athletes at two‐year colleges but also their campus communities as a whole. This includes all students (not just student‐athletes), staff, faculty, adjuncts, and international students.
Commensal microbiome and gastrointestinal mucosal immunity: Harmony and conflict with our closest neighbor
Authors: Tian Kexin , Jing Dehong , Lan Junzhe , Lv Mingming , Wang Tingting
Published: July 2024

Background

The gastrointestinal tract contains a wide range of microorganisms that have evolved alongside the immune system of the host. The intestinal mucosa maintains balance within the intestines by utilizing the mucosal immune system, which is controlled by the complex gut mucosal immune network.

Objective

This review aims to comprehensively introduce current knowledge of the gut mucosal immune system, focusing on its interaction with commensal bacteria.

Results

The gut mucosal immune network includes gut‐associated lymphoid tissue, mucosal immune cells, cytokines, and chemokines. The connection between microbiota and the immune system occurs through the engagement of bacterial components with pattern recognition receptors found in the intestinal epithelium and antigen‐presenting cells. This interaction leads to the activation of both innate and adaptive immune responses. The interaction between the microbial community and the host is vital for maintaining the balance and health of the host's mucosal system.

Conclusion

The gut mucosal immune network maintains a delicate equilibrium between active immunity, which defends against infections and damaging non‐self antigens, and immunological tolerance, which allows for the presence of commensal microbiota and dietary antigens. This balance is crucial for the maintenance of intestinal health and homeostasis. Disturbance of gut homeostasis leads to enduring or severe gastrointestinal ailments, such as colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. Utilizing these factors can aid in the development of cutting‐edge mucosal vaccines that have the ability to elicit strong protective immune responses at the primary sites of pathogen invasion.
Clinical characteristics, risk factor analysis and peripheral blood cell changes for early warning of multidrug‐resistant bacteria (MDR) infection in elderly patients
Authors: Nie Yalan , Zeng Yulan
Published: July 2024

Objective

To explore peripheral blood indicators that may serve as early indicators for multidrug‐resistant bacteria (MDR) infections in this demographic, with the goal of providing reference suggestions for the clinical prevention of MDR infections in elderly inpatients.

Methods

Clinical data of patients were divided into the MDR‐infected group (n = 488) and the MDR‐uninfected group (n = 233) according to the results of drug sensitivity experiments, risk factors for MDR infection, and peripheral blood indicators related to MDR infections were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression in conjunction with the construction of a Chi‐squared automatic interaction detector (CHAID) decision tree model, considering statistical significance atp < .05.

Results

Of 721 patients, 488 multidrug‐resistant strains were identified. Among them, withStaphylococcusspp. the most prevalent in 148 strains. The most frequent detection of MDR occurred in puncture fluid samples (167 cases). Univariate and multivariate regression analyses revealed that prolonged hospitalization, use of antibiotics preadmission, duration of antibiotics, invasive procedures or recent surgery, and coexisting lung disease were independent risk factors for contracting MDR. Subsequent analysis comparing the aforementioned influences with peripheral blood cells revealed associations between the number of antibiotic treatment days and increased neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet count‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophils, decreased lymphocytes, and increased eosinophils; preadmission antibiotic use correlated with increased PLR, NLR, neutrophils, and decreased lymphocytes; and invasive manipulation or surgery correlated with increased PLR and NLR.

Conclusions

Elevated NLR, PLR, neutrophils, lowered lymphocytes, and eosinophils may serve as early indicators of MDR infections in elderly hospitalized patients.
From pancreas to lungs: The role of immune cells in severe acute pancreatitis and acute lung injury
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhu Xiaomei , Guo Shubin
Published: July 2024

Background

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a potentially lethal inflammatory pancreatitis condition that is usually linked to multiple organ failure. When it comes to SAP, the lung is the main organ that is frequently involved. Many SAP patients experience respiratory failure following an acute lung injury (ALI). Clinicians provide insufficient care for compounded ALI since the underlying pathophysiology is unknown. The mortality rate of SAP patients is severely impacted by it.

Objective

The study aims to provide insight into immune cells, specifically their roles and modifications during SAP and ALI, through a comprehensive literature review. The emphasis is on immune cells as a therapeutic approach for treating SAP and ALI.

Findings

Immune cells play an important role in the complicated pathophysiology ofSAP and ALI by maintaining the right balance of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory responses. Immunomodulatory drugs now in the market have low thepeutic efficacy because they selectively target one immune cell while ignoring immune cell interactions. Accurate management of dysregulated immune responses is necessary. A critical initial step is precisely characterizing the activity of the immune cells during SAP and ALI.

Conclusion

Given the increasing incidence of SAP, immunotherapy is emerging as a potential treatment option for these patients. Interactions among immune cells improve our understanding of the intricacy of concurrent ALI in SAP patients. Acquiring expertise in these domains will stimulate the development of innovative immunomodulation therapies that will improve the outlook for patients with SAP and ALI.
Prospective evaluation of quantitative response parameter in patients with Gastrointestinal Stroma Tumor undergoing tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy—Impact on clinical outcome
Authors: Meyer Mathias , Ota Hideki , Messiou Christina , Benson Charlotte , Henzler Thomas , Mattonen Sarah A. , Marin Daniele , Bartsch Anna , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Riedel Richard F. , Hohenberger Peter
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine if dual‐energy CT (DECT) vital iodine tumor burden (ViTB), a direct assessment of tumor vascularity, allows reliable response assessment in patients with GIST compared to established CT criteria such as RECIST1.1 and modified Choi (mChoi). From 03/2014 to 12/2019, 138 patients (64 years [32–94 years]) with biopsy proven GIST were entered in this prospective, multi‐center trial. All patients were treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) and underwent pre‐treatment and follow‐up DECT examinations for a minimum of 24 months. Response assessment was performed according to RECIST1.1, mChoi, vascular tumor burden (VTB) and DECT ViTB. A change in therapy management could be because of imaging (RECIST1.1 or mChoi) and/or clinical progression. The DECT ViTB criteria had the highest discrimination ability for progression‐free survival (PFS) of all criteria in both first line and second line and thereafter treatment, and was significantly superior to RECIST1.1 and mChoi (p < .034). Both, the mChoi and DECT ViTB criteria demonstrated a significantly early median time‐to‐progression (both delta 2.5 months; both p < .036). Multivariable analysis revealed 6 variables associated with shorter overall survival: secondary mutation (HR = 4.62), polymetastatic disease (HR = 3.02), metastatic second line and thereafter treatment (HR = 2.33), shorter PFS determined by the DECT ViTB criteria (HR = 1.72), multiple organ metastases (HR = 1.51) and lower age (HR = 1.04). DECT ViTB is a reliable response criteria and provides additional value for assessing TKI treatment in GIST patients. A significant superior response discrimination ability for median PFS was observed, including non‐responders at first follow‐up and patients developing resistance while on therapy.
A context‐sensitive collectivism during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Effect on the adoption of containment measures in China and the US
Authors: Huang Yi‐Hui Christine , Liu Ruoheng , Liu Yinuo
Published: July 2024

This study investigates individuals' adoption of containment measures (e.g., wearing masks) from the perspectives of cultural values and trust in two countries—China and the US. Distinguished from previous definitions that characterise cultural values as rigid and fixed concepts, this study reconceptualizes collectivism to be a context‐sensitive construct. With survey data from a collectivism‐prevalent culture (China, n = 1578) and an individualism‐prevalent culture (the US, n = 1510), it unfolds the underlying mechanism by which collectivism influences people's adoption of containment measures in both countries. Results indicate that institutional trust serves as a significant mediator in this relationship. In both countries, individuals who hold a collectivistic value on the pandemic are more likely to endorse the adoption of containment measures. This endorsement is driven by their trust in public institutions, which stems from their collectivistic values. Additionally, slight distinctions emerge, revealing that collectivistic values directly predict the behaviours among Chinese individuals, whereas such a direct effect is not observed in the US. Practical implications will be offered.
Associations between diet and nutritional supplements and colorectal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Gholamalizadeh Maryam , Tajadod Shirin , Majidi Nazanin , Aghakhaninejad Zohreh , Mahmoudi Zahra , Mousavi Zahra , Amjadi Arezoo , Alami Farkhondeh , Torkaman Mahdie , Saeedirad Zahra , Doaei Saeid , Shafaei Hanieh , Kalantari Naser
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers around the world. The link between nutrients and the likelihood of developing CRC remains uncertain. The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the potential connection between dietary intake/dietary supplements and the occurrence of CRC through a literature review.

Methods

A comprehensive online search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from January 1990 to March 2023 using appropriate keywords. A systematic search was conducted for clinical trials and cohort studies in order to determine the relationship between dietary components/supplements and CRC.

Results

The intake of long‐chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LCPUFAs), consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has the potential to decrease the likelihood of developing CRC (eight studies found positive effects and four studies found no association). Some other dietary components such as probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics may contribute to suppressing CRC development (three studies found positive effects, whereas three studies did not find any association). There is inconclusive evidence that supplementation with certain micronutrients including vitamin D (one trial found positive effects and another trial reported no association), folate, zinc, and selenium may reduce the risk of CRC.

Conclusion

Some dietary supplements such as n‐3 LCPUFAs and probiotics have the potential to reduce the risk of developing CRC. Further studies are necessary to validate these results and understand the underlying mechanisms.
Innovative concepts in diet therapies in disorders of gut–brain interaction
Authors: So Daniel , Tuck Caroline
Published: July 2024

Diet therapy in disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBI) is rapidly advancing, with accumulating evidence to support two innovative therapies—manipulation of dietary fibers and enzyme supplementation—that target specific DGBI pathophysiology and modulate digestion. Dietary fibers escape digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract and can influence gut function by impacting digestion, improving laxation, and interacting with the microbiota. A more nuanced understanding of different fiber types and their ability to impact gut function in highly specific ways has shown that fibers can impact distinct gut symptoms and pathophysiology. By considering their functional characteristics of bulking, gel‐forming, and fermentability, restriction or supplementation of specific fibers can offer clinical value in DGBI. Similarly to fiber specificity, emerging evidence suggests that supplemental digestive enzymes may be targeted to known food triggers with consideration that enzymes are substrate specific. Limited evidence supports use of lactase to target lactose, and α‐galactosidase to target galacto‐oligosaccharides. Application of enzymes during manufacturing of food products may prove to be an additional strategy, although evidence is scant. Both innovative therapies may be utilized in isolation or in combination with other diet and nondiet therapies. Implementation can be guided by the principles that fiber modulation can be targeted to specific symptomology or requirement for alterations to gut function, and digestive enzymes can be targeted to known food triggers. This review aims to summarize recent literature of these two innovative concepts and provide practical suggestions for their implementation in clinical practice.
Investigating the corrosion behavior of as‐cast Mg‐Zn‐Ca alloys with the same Zn/Ca atomic ratio by in situ observation
Authors: Tian Ye , Shao Yixuan , Yu Qianqian , Guo Shilei , Dang Ruofei , Du Yiming , Zhu Guanhong , Lyu Shaoyuan , Chen Minfang
Published: July 2024

The alloying contents with the same Zn/Ca atomic ratio of 0.13 on the corrosion behavior of Mg‐Zn‐Ca (ZX) alloys were investigated. The second phases in ZX10, ZX20, ZX30, and ZX51 alloys were identical with a majority of Mg2Ca and very few Ca2Mg6Zn3 and their distribution changed from isolated to continuous state in ZX30 and ZX51. ZX10 had the lowest corrosion rate of 0.55 mm/year after 168 h immersion in simulated body fluid solution due to the smallest number of sites of galvanic corrosion. The corrosion rate of ZX30 alloy was the highest (0.72 mm/year), while though ZX51 alloy had the most Mg2Ca, its corrosion rate was reduced to 0.69 mm/year, resulting from the small size and thin Mg2Ca. In situ microstructure observation demonstrated the high fraction Mg2Ca phase and continuous Mg2Ca with bulky size were the main reason for the fast corrosion rate.
Asymptotic analysis of the stress concentration between two adjacent stiff inclusions in all dimensions
Authors: Hao Xia , Zhao Zhiwen
Published: July 2024

In the region between two closely located stiff inclusions, the stress, which is the gradient of a solution to the Lamé system with partially infinite coefficients, may become arbitrarily large as the distance between interfacial boundaries of inclusions tends to zero. The primary aim of this paper is to give a sharp description in terms of the asymptotic behavior of the stress concentration, as the distance between interfacial boundaries of inclusions goes to zero. For that purpose, we capture all the blow‐up factor matrices, whose elements comprise of some certain integrals of the solutions in the case when two inclusions are touching. Then, we are able to establish the asymptotic formulas of the stress concentration in the presence of two close‐to‐touching
‐convex inclusions in all dimensions. Furthermore, an example of curvilinear squares with rounded‐off angles is also presented for future application in numerical computations and simulations.
Hybrid polymer nanocomposites with tailored band gaps and UV absorption for advanced applications in optoelectronics and UV protection
Authors: Kavitha C. M. , Eshwarappa K. M. , Shilpa M. P. , Shetty Shivakumar Jagadish , Gurumurthy S. C. , Kiran K. U. , Shet Sachin
Published: July 2024

Herein we report the method to tailor the band gap and UV absorption of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/graphene oxide (GO)‐silver (Ag)/glutaraldehyde (GA) hybrid polymer nanocomposites. The modifications brought by neutron irradiation to the optical and dielectric characteristics enabled the band gap and UV absorption‐tailored polymer nanocomposites to be obtained. Neutron‐irradiated samples, compared with their unirradiated counterparts, exhibit a reduction in transmittance to 78%, rendering them opaque to UV–visible light after irradiation. The energy band gap decreases from 5.25 to 4.09 eV upon irradiation. Furthermore, upon neutron‐irradiation the relaxation time increases from 7.63 × 10−4 to 0.02 s which is evident by the shift in electric modulus imaginary part (M") peak to a lower frequency region, indicating an increase in relaxation time. The Cole–Cole plot for irradiated samples demonstrates lower fitting parameter (α) values of the modified Havriliak–Negami function, indicating a departure from pure capacitor‐like behavior. The neutron irradiation leads to a decrease in conductivity from 44.6 × 10−7 to 0.09 × 10−7 S/cm.
Multiregion exome sequencing indicates a monoclonal origin of esophageal spindle‐cell squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yulu , Zhu Qian , Wu Yaqing , Li Boyi , Su Xiaoxing , Xiang Chan , Han Yuchen
Published: July 2024

Esophageal spindle‐cell squamous cell carcinoma (ESS) is a rare biphasic neoplasm composed of a carcinomatous component (CaC) and a sarcomatous component (SaC). However, the genomic origin and gene signature of ESS remain unclear. Using whole‐exome sequencing of laser‐capture microdissection (LCM) tumor samples, we determined that CaC and SaC showed high mutational commonality, with the same top high‐frequency mutant genes, mutation signatures, and tumor mutation burden; paired samples shared a median of 25.5% mutation sites. Focal gains were found on chromosomes 3q29, 5p15.33, and 11q13.3. Altered genes were mainly enriched in the RTK–RAS signaling pathway. Phylogenetic trees showed a monoclonal origin of ESS. The most frequently mutated oncogene in the trunk was TP53, followed by NFE2L2, KMT2D, and MUC16. Prognostic associations were found for CDC27, LRP2, APC, and SNAPC4. Our data highlight the monoclonal origin of ESS with TP53 as a potent driver oncogene, suggesting new targeted therapies and immunotherapies as treatment options. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Analysis of supply and demand for sports medicine fellowship training: 2012–2022
Authors: Silvestre Jason , Slone Harris S. , Kelly John D.
Published: July 2024

Background

The recruitment of high‐quality applicants is critical to the vitality of the sports medicine physician workforce.

Objective

To analyze changes in the total number of available training positions, applicants, and unfilled training positions in the Sports Medicine Match from 2012 to 2022.

Design

This was a retrospective cohort study of sports medicine fellowship applicants.

Setting

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education‐accredited sports medicine fellowship training programs.

Participants

A total of 3763 individuals applying for sports medicine fellowship training from 2012 to 2022.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Annual number of applicants, training positions, and number of unfilled training positions.

Results

From 2012 to 2022, the annual number of training positions in sports medicine increased from 177 to 353 (99% increase, p < .001) while the annual number of applicants increased from 256 to 428 (67% increase, p < .001). The annual applicant‐to‐training position ratio decreased (1.4 to 1.2, p < .001). Annual match rates increased for both U.S. MD graduates (64% to 86%, p < .001) and non‐U.S. MD graduates (64% to 77%, p < .001). U.S. MD graduates had higher match rates than non‐U.S. MD graduates in 2021 (79% vs 70%, p < .05) and 2022 (86% vs 77%, p < .05). The percentage of applicants who matched at their first (36%–36%, p > .05), second (14%–15%, p > .05), and third (9%–8%, p > .05) ranked programs did not change. The percentage of applicants who did not match decreased (33%–19%, p < .001). The percentage of available fellowship training positions that went unfilled decreased (8%–2%, p < .001).

Conclusions

Interest in sports medicine fellowship training is increasing as evidenced by an increasing number of applications and decreasing rate of unfilled training positions. Continued monitoring of future match cycles is important given projected shortages in the physician workforce.
Influence of Polymodal Radiation Processes on Thermoluminescence and Its Quenching in MgO:Mn2+ Crystals
Authors: Kvatchadze Vakhtang , Dekanozishvili Guram , Abramishvili Meri , Akhvlediani Zaira , Driaev Dimitri , Tavkhelidze Valery
Published: July 2024

This comprehensive study relates to the most radiation‐sensitive peaks (450 and 550 K) of high‐temperature (300–775 K) thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) of MgO:Mn2+ crystals, with impurity content of 77, 155, and 285 ppm, irradiated with fast electrons. For a more complete and clearer picture of the nonmonotonic (polymodal) radiation processes stimulated in doped crystals, the results of a study of a group of nominally pure crystals irradiated under the same experimental conditions are also considered. Based on the correlation of the dose dependences of the studied characteristics, the mechanisms of TSL peaks formation are established. Despite a much lower concentration than divalent manganese ions, ferric ions cause significant changes in thermoluminescence and its quenching in irradiated MgO:Mn2+ crystals.
Diffuse pleural metastasis from atypical meningioma
Authors: Devasia Alma Rose , Krishnan Surya , Krishna S. Swathi , Perathur Aravind , Yesodharan Jyotsna , Pavithran Keechilat
Published: July 2024

Meningioma is the most common benign primary brain tumour and does not usually metastasise. We report the case of a 69‐year‐old male patient with a history of meningioma who presented respiratory symptoms. He was found to have diffuse pleural metastasis from meningioma, which occurred 10 years after surgical management of recurrent meningioma. This case study provides insights into the clinical profile, workup and management of metastatic meningioma.