bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the mechanism of [3+2] cycloaddition reactions between N‐benzyl fluoro nitrone and maleimides, its selectivity and solvent effects
Authors: Boutiddar Rachid , Abbiche Khalid , Mellaoui Moulay Driss , Imjjad Abdallah , Alahiane Mustapha , Ait Albrimi Youssef , Marakchi Khadija , Mogren Al‐Mogren Muneerah , El Hammadi Abdellatif , Hochlaf Majdi
Published: October 2023

We present a theoretical study of the [3+2] cycloaddition (32CA) reactions of N‐benzyl fluoro nitrone with a series of maleimides producing isoxazolidines. We use the Molecular Electron Density Theory at the MPWB1K/6‐311G(d) level. We focus on the reaction mechanism, selectivity, solvent, and temperature effects. In addition, we perform topological analyses at the minimal and transition states to identify the intermolecular interactions. Electron Localization Function approach classifies the N‐benzyl fluoro nitrone as zwitterionic (zw‐) three‐atom components (TACs), associated with a high energy barrier. The low polar character of the reaction is evaluated using the Conceptual Density Functional Theory analysis of the reactants, confirmed by the low global electron density transfer computed at the transition states. Computations show that these 32CA reactions follow a one‐step mechanism under kinetic control, with highly asynchronous bond formation and no new covalent bond is formed at the TS. Besides, the potential energy surfaces along the reaction pathways in gas phase and in solvent are mapped. The corresponding Gibbs free energy profiles reveal that the exo‐cycloadducts are kinetically and thermodynamically more favored than endo‐cycloadducts, in agreement with the exo‐selectivity observed experimentally. In particular, we found that solvent and temperature did not affect this selectivity and mainly influence the activation energies and the exothermic character of these 32CA reactions.
BMP6 participates in the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis by regulating osteopenia
Authors: Tang Hao , Li Jiong , Li Jia‐Ke , He Si‐Han , Xiang Gang , Rong Rong , Liang Zhuo‐Tao , Zhang Hong‐Qi
Published: October 2023

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complex disease characterized by three‐dimensional structural deformities of the spine. Its pathogenesis is associated with osteopenia. Bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) play an important role in bone metabolism. We detected 1919 differentially expressed mRNAs and 744 differentially expressed lncRNAs in BMSCs from seven patients with AIS and five patients without AIS via high‐throughput sequencing. Multiple analyses identified bone morphogenetic protein‐6 (BMP6) as a hub gene that regulates the abnormal osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in AIS. BMP6 expression was found to be decreased in AIS and its knockdown in human BMSCs significantly altered the degree of osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, CAP1‐217 has been shown to be a potential upstream regulatory molecule of BMP6. We showed that CAP1‐217 knockdown downregulated the expression of BMP6 and the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Simultaneously, knockout of BMP6 in zebrafish embryos significantly increased the deformity rate. The findings of this study suggest that BMP6 is a key gene that regulates the abnormal osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in AIS via the CAP1‐217/BMP6/RUNX2 axis.
Simulated microgravity‐induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts can be prevented by protection of primary cilia
Authors: Miao Lu‐Wei , Liu Tian‐Zhen , Sun Yue‐Hong , Cai Nan , Xuan Ying‐Ying , Wei Zhenlong , Cui Bing‐Bing , Jing Lin‐Lin , Ma Hui‐Ping , Xian Cory J. , Wang Ju‐Fang , Gao Yu‐Hai , Chen Ke‐Ming
Published: October 2023

Oxidative stress has been considered to be closely related to spaceflight‐induced bone loss; however, mechanism is elusive and there are no effective countermeasures. Using cultured rat calvarial osteoblasts exposed to microgravity simulated by a random positioning machine, this study addressed the hypotheses that microgravity‐induced shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress and that primary cilium protection prevents oxidative stress and osteogenesis loss. Microgravity was found to induce oxidative stress (as represented by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde production, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes), which was perfectly replicated in osteoblasts growing in NG with abrogated primary cilia (created by transfection of an interfering RNA), suggesting the possibility that shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress was accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction (represented by increased mitochondrial ROS and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential) and intracellular Ca2+ overload, and the latter was found to be caused by increased activity of Ca2+ channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), as also evidenced by TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A‐elicited Ca2+ influx. Supplementation of HC‐067047, a specific antagonist of TRPV4, attenuated microgravity‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss. Although TRPV4 was found localized in primary cilia and expressed at low levels in NG, microgravity‐induced shortening of primary cilia led to increased TRPV4 levels and Ca2+ influx. When primary cilia were protected by miR‐129‐3p overexpression or supplementation with a natural flavonoid moslosooflavone, microgravity‐induced increased TRPV4 expression, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss were all prevented. Our data revealed a new mechanism that primary cilia function as a controller for TRPV4 expression. Microgravity‐induced injury on primary cilia leads to increased expression and overactive channel of TRPV4, causing intracellular Ca2+ overload and oxidative stress, and primary cilium protection could be an effective countermeasure against microgravity‐induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Antidepressants for Patients with Chronic Back Pain: A Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ma Tao , Qi Hongyu , Mao Yuanrong , Wang Ya , Duan Baolin , Ma Ke
Published: October 2023

Various antidepressants have introduced in clinical practice for pain management, but it is important to understand how to properly use them. We therefore performed a systematic review and network meta‐analysis to compare and rank the efficacy and safety of antidepressants for patients with chronic back pain. We identified eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the efficacy and safety of antidepressants for chronic back pain from PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, searching from inception to May 2023. Six categories of antidepressants for the treatment of chronic back pain were included, and the surface under the cumulative ranking probabilities was applied to rank the treatment strategies. Overall, we selected 19 RCTs recruiting 2903 patients for the meta‐analysis. Tricyclic antidepressants presented the best relative effects for relief in pain score (surface under the cumulative ranking, 84.4%). The results of pairwise comparison analyses found the use of serotonin–noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) significantly reduced pain score and low disability score compared with placebo, irrespective of treatment duration. Noradrenaline–dopamine reuptake inhibitors (relative risk [RR], 2.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30‐6.03; P = .008) and SNRIs (RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.27; P < .001) significantly increased the risk of adverse events. SNRIs were associated with an increased risk of withdrawal due to adverse events (RR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.64‐3.43; P < .001). This study found that antidepressants are more efficacious than placebos for treating chronic back pain, and tricyclic antidepressants are the most likely medications that lead to pain relief.
Engineered small extracellular vesicle‑mediated NOX4 siRNA delivery for targeted therapy of cardiac hypertrophy
Authors: Kang Ji‐Young , Mun Dasom , Chun Yumin , Park Da‐Seul , Kim Hyoeun , Yun Nuri , Joung Boyoung
Published: October 2023

Small‐interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy is considered a powerful therapeutic strategy for treating cardiac hypertrophy, an important risk factor for subsequent cardiac morbidity and mortality. However, the lack of safe and efficient in vivo delivery of siRNAs is a major challenge for broadening its clinical applications. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are a promising delivery system for siRNAs but have limited cell/tissue‐specific targeting ability. In this study, a new generation of heart‐targeting sEVs (CEVs) has been developed by conjugating cardiac‐targeting peptide (CTP) to human peripheral blood‐derived sEVs (PB‐EVs), using a simple, rapid and scalable method based on bio‐orthogonal copper‐free click chemistry. The experimental results show that CEVs have typical sEVs properties and excellent heart‐targeting ability. Furthermore, to treat cardiac hypertrophy, CEVs are loaded with NADPH Oxidase 4 (NOX4) siRNA (siNOX4). Consequently, CEVs@siNOX4 treatment enhances the in vitro anti‐hypertrophic effects by CEVs with siRNA protection and heart‐targeting ability. In addition, the intravenous injection of CEVs@siNOX4 into angiotensin II (Ang II)‐treated mice significantly improves cardiac function and reduces fibrosis and cardiomyocyte cross‐sectional area, with limited side effects. In conclusion, the utilization of CEVs represents an efficient strategy for heart‐targeted delivery of therapeutic siRNAs and holds great promise for the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.
Network pharmacology prediction and molecular docking analysis reveal the mechanism of modified Bushen Yiqi formulas on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Choi Wenglam , Wu Yueren , Li Yifan , Dong Jingcheng
Published: October 2023

Background

The present study aimed to explore the mechanism of the modified Bushen Yiqi formula (MBYF) in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods

First, the active ingredients and corresponding targets in MBYF were mined through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database. Subsequently, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, DrugBank, and GeneCard were used to screen COPD‐related targets. Cytoscape was used to construct a network of candidate components of MBYF in COPD treatment. The overlapping targets of COPD and MBYF were used to treat COPD, and then CytoHubba and CytoNAC plug‐ins in Cytoscape were used for topology analysis to build the core network. In addition, core targets were used for Gene Ontology analysis and enrichment analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Finally, AutoDock Vina software was used to conduct a molecular docking study on the core active ingredients and core targets to verify the above network pharmacological analysis.

Results

Seventy‐nine active components of MBYF were screened and 261 corresponding targets were found. At the same time, 1307 related targets corresponding to COPD were screened and 111 overlapping targets were matched. By bioinformatics analysis, 10 core targets were identified, and subsequently, enrichment analysis revealed 385 BP, two CC, eight MF and 78 related signaling pathways. The binding of the core active components in MBYF to the core target was further verified by molecular docking, and all showed good binding.

Conclusions

The active components of MBYF, such as quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, and baicalein, may be the material basis for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. They affect the expression of inflammatory cells and inflammatory factors, protein phosphorylation, and smooth muscle hyperplasia through tumor necrosis factor, interleukin‐17, mitogen‐activated protein kinase, nuclear factor‐kappa B and other signaling pathways.
Counterexamples to Gerbner's conjecture on stability of maximal F‐free graphs
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Shipeng , Yang Weihua
Published: October 2023

Let and let be an ‐chromatic graph with a color‐critical edge, that is, there exists such that has chromatic number . Gerbner recently conjectured that every ‐vertex maximal ‐free graph with at least edges contains an induced complete ‐partite graph on vertices. Let be a graph obtained from copies of by sharing a common edge. In this paper, we show that for all if is an ‐vertex maximal ‐free graph with at least edges, then contains an induced complete bipartite graph on vertices. We also construct graphs to show that the magnitude in is best possible, which disproves Gerbner's conjecture for .
Automation and artificial intelligence in radiation therapy treatment planning
Authors: Jones Scott , Thompson Kenton , Porter Brian , Shepherd Meegan , Sapkaroski Daniel , Grimshaw Alexandra , Hargrave Catriona
Published: October 2023

Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) is already possible for many radiation therapy planning and treatment processes with the aim of improving workflows and increasing efficiency in radiation oncology departments. Currently, AI technology is advancing at an exponential rate, as are its applications in radiation oncology. This commentary highlights the way AI has begun to impact radiation therapy treatment planning and looks ahead to potential future developments in this space. Historically, radiation therapist's (RT's) role has evolved alongside the adoption of new technology. In Australia, RTs have key clinical roles in both planning and treatment delivery and have been integral in the implementation of automated solutions for both areas. They will need to continue to be informed, to adapt and to transform with AI technologies implemented into clinical practice in radiation oncology departments. RTs will play an important role in how AI‐based automation is implemented into practice in Australia, ensuring its application can truly enable personalised and higher‐quality treatment for patients. To inform and optimise utilisation of AI, research should not only focus on clinical outcomes but also AI's impact on professional roles, responsibilities and service delivery. Increased efficiencies in the radiation therapy workflow and workforce need to maintain safe improvements in practice and should not come at the cost of creativity, innovation, oversight and safety.
Ultrasensitive PCR system for HBV DNA detection: Risk stratification for occult hepatitis B virus infection in English blood donors
Authors: Fu Michael X. , Simmonds Peter , Andreani Julien , Baklan Hatice , Webster Mhairi , Asadi Romisa , Golubchik Tanya , Breuer Judith , Ijaz Samreen , Ushiro‐Lumb Ines , Brailsford Su , Irving William L. , Andersson Monique , Harvala Heli
Published: October 2023

Occult hepatitis B (HBV) infection (OBI), characterized by low viral loads, accounts for much of the risk of HBV transfusion‐transmitted infection. With anticore antibodies (anti‐HBc) screening introduced in England, the imperative to identify OBI donors has increased. We aimed to develop an ultra‐sensitive PCR system and investigate risk factors for HBV DNA presence in blood donations. Seven extraction methods and three PCR assays were compared. The optimal system was sought to determine HBV DNA presence in anti‐HBc‐positive donations. Predictors of DNA positivity were subsequently investigated. Extraction from 5 mL of plasma increased sample representation and resulted in HBV DNA detection in low viral load samples (~0.5 IU/mL). Screening of 487 763 donations in 2022 identified two OBI donors and 2042 anti‐HBc‐positive donors, 412 of the latter with anti‐HBs < 100 mIU/mL. Testing of 134 anti‐HBc‐positive donations utilizing the 5 mL extraction method identified two further HBV DNA‐positive donations. Higher anti‐HBc titer and anti‐HBs negativity were significant predictors of DNA detectability in anti‐HBc‐positive donations. An ultrasensitive PCR assay identified potentially infectious donations increasing HBV DNA detection in anti‐HBc‐positive donors from 0.5% to 1.9%. Anti‐HBc titers may further complement the risk stratification for DNA positivity in anti‐HBc screening and minimize unnecessary donor deferral.
Prediction of symptomatic anastomotic leak after rectal cancer surgery: A machine learning approach
Authors: Shen Yu , Huang Li‐Bin , Lu Anqing , Yang Tinghan , Chen Hai‐Ning , Wang Ziqiang
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Anastomotic leakage (AL) remains the most dreaded and unpredictable major complication after low anterior resection for mid‐low rectal cancer. The aim of this study is to identify patients with high risk for AL based on the machine learning method.

Methods

Patients with mid‐low rectal cancer undergoing low anterior resection were enrolled from West China Hospital between January 2008 and October 2019 and were split by time into training cohort and validation cohort. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method and stepwise method were applied for variable selection and predictive model building in the training cohort. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration curves were used to evaluate the performance of the models.

Results

The rate of AL was 5.8% (38/652) and 7.2% (15/208) in the training cohort and validation cohort, respectively. The LASSO‐logistic model selected almost the same variables (hypertension, operating time, cT4, tumor location, intraoperative blood loss) compared to the stepwise logistic model except for tumor size (the LASSO‐logistic model) and American Society of Anesthesiologists score (the stepwise logistic model). The predictive performance of the LASSO‐logistics model was better than the stepwise‐logistics model (AUC: 0.790 vs. 0.759). Calibration curves showed mean absolute error of 0.006 and 0.013 for the LASSO‐logistics model and stepwise‐logistics model, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study developed a feasible predictive model with a machine‐learning algorithm to classify patients with a high risk of AL, which would assist surgical decision‐making and reduce unnecessary stoma diversion. The involved machine learning algorithms provide clinicians with an innovative alternative to enhance clinical management.
Impact of Medicaid expansion on the multimodal treatment of biliary tract cancer
Authors: Ortiz Rueda Belisario , Endo Yutaka , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Araujo Lima Henrique , Munir Muhammad Musaab , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Dillhoff Mary , Ejaz Aslam , Cloyd Jordan , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The impact of Medicaid expansion (ME) on the treatment of patients with cancer remains controversial, especially individuals requiring complex multidisciplinary care. We sought to evaluate the impact of Medicaid expansion (ME) on receipt of multimodal care, including surgical resection, for Stage I–III biliary tract cancer (BTC).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with BTC between 40 and 65 years of age were identified from the National Cancer Database and divided into pre‐ (2008–2012) and post‐ (2015–2018) ME cohorts. Difference‐in‐difference (DID) analysis was used to determine the impact of ME on the utilization of surgery and multimodal chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy treatment for BTC.

Results

Among 12,415 patients with BTC (extrahepatic, n = 5622, 45.3%; intrahepatic, n = 4352, 35.1%; gallbladder, n = 1944, 15.7%; overlapping, n = 497, 4.0%), 5835 (47.0%) and 6580 (53.0%) patients were diagnosed before versus after ME, respectively. Overall utilization of surgery (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.26) and multimodality therapy (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.01–1.27) increased in states that adopted ME. Utilization of surgery among uninsured/Medicaid patients in ME states increased relative to patients living in non‐ME states (∆+10.1%, p = 0.01). Similarly, the use of multimodal treatment increased among uninsured/Medicaid patients living in ME versus non‐ME states (∆+6.4%, p = 0.04); in contrast, there were no difference among patients with other insurance statuses (overall: ∆+1.5%, private: ∆−2.0%, other: ∆+3.9%, all p > 0.5). Uninsured/Medicaid patients with BTC who lived in a ME state had a lower risk of long‐term death in the post‐ME era (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67–0.98; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Implementation of ME positively impacted survival among patients who underwent surgical and multimodal treatment for Stage I–III BTC.
Music literacy training in dermatology: A mixed methods cohort study of postgraduate education
Authors: Matthews Raymond , Wray Alexander , Peilober‐Richardson Francesca , Young Helen S.
Published: October 2023

Background

We have previously pioneered arts‐based training to enhance clinical skills in senior and resident dermatologists. However, the utility of music to support the development of dermatological skills such as listening, observation, description and communication is unexplored.

Objectives

We hypothesised that music literacy training (MLT) would enhance the clinical dermatology skills of newly qualified doctors and could be effectively delivered in a single‐session virtual format.

Methods

Our training comprised a 2.5‐h course held in October 2021 on the virtual meeting platform Zoom. The course was led by a music educator and included sessions which placed particular emphasis on listening to music, discriminating auditory cues to interpret imagery and meaning, and describe this to others. Participants explored concepts such as pitch, melody, pace, rhythm, dynamics and timbre by working collaboratively, independently and in small break‐out groups. All participants documented their learning journey through pre‐ and post‐course reflective essays and the training was evaluated by a pre‐ and post‐course dermatology clinical assessment.

Results

Music served as a catalyst for reflection and discussion, supporting significant improvement key clinical skills such as listening, clinical observation and description in newly qualified doctors. Participants reported increased confidence communicating with others and found the course structure enjoyable and fun.

Conclusions

Combined qualitative and quantitative evidence highlights the benefit of MLT in developing key clinical skills in newly qualified doctors which is effective when delivered in a single‐session, virtual format.
Tackling steroid phobia: Insights from behavioural economics and psychological approaches
Authors: Nakashima Chisa , Ohtake Fumio , Otsuka Atushi
Published: October 2023

Steroid phobia, characterized by an irrational fear or avoidance of topical corticosteroids, poses a significant challenge to the effective treatment of various skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis. This issue has its roots in the introduction of topical corticosteroids in the 1950s and has been perpetuated by concerns regarding adverse effects and misinformation. International Dermatological Societies including the Japanese Dermatological Association have endeavored to address this problem by providing information and guidance to physicians and patients, resulting in a better understanding of appropriate steroid use and risk management. Despite these efforts, steroid phobia has not been fully resolved in the world, including in Japan.To shed light on potential solutions, this review explores the field of behavioral economics, which offers insights into human decision‐making processes and cognitive biases. Richard Thaler's concept of nudges emerges as a promising strategy for influencing patients' decision‐making regarding steroid treatments. However, the effectiveness of nudges may vary depending on the strength of an individual's concerns and fears. In cases where patients exhibit strong resistance to steroid use, alternative psychological techniques that establish trust and facilitate clear communication may be more beneficial.This review emphasizes the necessity of adopting a multifaceted approach that integrates principles from behavioral economics and employs complementary psychological strategies to address steroid phobia and enhance treatment adherence in affected patient populations. By combining these approaches, healthcare professionals can tackle the complex nature of steroid phobia and promote better treatment outcomes for patients with skin conditions.
Association of ethnicity and time to surgery among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Tam Benjamin , Collet Casey , Le Jessica , Badash Ido , Garcia Erick , Wrobel Bozena , Rice Dale , Hur Kevin
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Determine factors associated with delayed endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary care academic center. Patients were included in the study if they were at least 18 years old and underwent surgery for CRS. Electronic medical records were retrospectively reviewed to collect demographic and clinical data. Patients with CRS secondary to another pathology such as malignancy were excluded. Multiple linear regression was performed to determine factors associated with the number of days between a patient's preoperative consultation and the date of surgery.

Results

A total of 103 patients with a mean age of 46.6 ± 16.8 years were included in the analysis; 51.5% of patients were females, 46.6% identified as White, and 29.1% identified as Hispanic. The majority of patients (67.0%) had preferred provider organization health insurance; 43.7% of patients had nasal polyps, 70.9% had a deviated nasal septum, and the mean preoperative Sinonasal Outcomes Test‐22 (SNOT‐22) score was 41.0 ± 23.8. The mean time to surgery after the final preoperative visit was 71.7 days ± 65.6 days. Hispanic ethnicity was associated with increased time to surgery (p < .05) when controlling for other variables. No other variables were associated with time to surgery on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Hispanic ethnicity may be an independent predictor of increased time to sinus surgery independent of disease severity and other demographic variables.

Level of Evidence

2b
Targeted Nanoparticles Based on Alendronate Polyethylene Glycol Conjugated Chitosan for the Delivery of siRNA and Curcumin for Bone Metastasized Breast Cancer Applications
Authors: Mushtaq Asim , Li Li , Grøndahl Lisbeth , A Anitha
Published: October 2023

Bone metastasized breast cancer reduces the quality of life and median survival. Targeted delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and chemotherapeutic drugs using nanoparticles (NPs) is a promising strategy to overcome current limitations in treating these metastatic breast cancers. This research develops alendronate conjugated polyethylene glycol functionalized chitosan (ALD‐PEG‐CHI) NP for the delivery of cell death siRNA (CD‐siRNA) and curcumin (CUR) and explores its targeting ability and in vitro cell cytotoxicity. Polyethylene glycol functionalized CHI (mPEG‐CHI) NPs serve as control. The size of CD‐siRNA loaded NPs is below 100 nm while CUR loaded NPs is below 200 nm, with near neutral zeta potential for all NPs. The CUR encapsulation efficiency (EE) is 70% and 88% for targeted and control NPs, respectively, while complete encapsulation of CD‐siRNA is achieved in both NP systems. The bone targeting ability of CY5‐dsDNA loaded ALD‐PEG‐CHI NPs using hydroxyapatite discs is fivefold compared to control indicating ALD presentation at the targeting NP surface. Delivery of CD‐siRNA loaded NPs and CUR loaded NPs show synergistic and additive growth inhibition effects against MCF‐7 cells by mPEG‐CHI and ALD‐PEG‐CHI NPs, respectively. Overall, these in vitro results illustrate the potential of the targeted NPs as an effective therapeutic system toward bone metastasized breast cancer.
Gradient Biomolecular Immobilization of 3D Structured Poly‐ɛ‐caprolactone Biomaterials toward Functional Engineered Tissue
Authors: Zaeri Ahmadreza , Zgeib Ralf , Zhang Fucheng , Cao Kai , Chang Robert C.
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the tailored production of precision fibrous scaffolds toward various engineered tissue models. Moreover, by functionalizing scaffolds in either a uniform or gradient pattern of biomolecules, different target tissues can be fabricated in vitro to capture key characteristics of in vivo cellular microenvironments. However, current engineered tissue models lack the appropriate cellular cues that are needed to deterministically direct cell behavior. Specifically, tunable and reproducible scaffold‐guided stimuli are identified herein as the missing link between biomaterial structure and cellular behavior. Therefore, the bottleneck of precision control is addressed here over the immobilization of patterned biomolecular stimuli with either uniform or gradient distribution over the AM‐enabled 3D biomaterial model as a function of different growth factors exposure variables, protocols, and various scaffold architectural design parameters. The produced study outcomes herein will improve the directing and guiding of biological cell attachment and growth direction in the context of scaffold‐guided stimuli techniques. Therefore, unprecedented control is presented here over 3D structured biomaterial gradient functionalization and immobilization of biomolecules toward biomimetic tissue architectures.
When perceived physician burnout leads to family burnout: How secondary emotional trauma impacts physician spouses
Authors: Grimmer Sarah A. , Jacquin Kristine M.
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the effect of perceived physician burnout on psychological distress (anxiety, depression, and secondary traumatic stress) in physician spouses. Two‐hundred and three physician spouses participated in the study between April and May 2021. Physician spouses completed a burnout measure on behalf of their physician partner, and psychological distress measures for themselves. Results showed perceived physician burnout was positively correlated with anxiety (r = 0.24), depression (r = 0.13), and secondary traumatic stress (r = 0.14) in physician spouses. A covariate analysis including eight demographic variables did not significantly contribute to the relationship between perceived physician burnout and psychological distress in physician spouses. Moderation analyses showed no significant interactions when the personality trait agreeableness, total score on a resiliency questionnaire, and compassion fatigue were included as moderators in the relationship between perceived physician burnout and psychological distress in physician spouses. These findings indicate that physician spouses experience secondary psychological distress when they believe their partner (the physician) is experiencing burnout, emphasizing the need for mental health support during medical training.
Bilateral gluteal reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps and saphenofemoral arteriovenous loops
Authors: McGraw J. Reed , Jaimez Ivan A. , Card Elizabeth , Holland Michael , Azoury Saïd C. , Kovach Stephen J.
Published: October 2023

The use of liquid silicone injections for soft tissue augmentation harbors numerous risks and is not approved by the FDA. Still, such injections are frequently performed by unlicensed providers, often in the gluteal region, and can lead to infection, soft‐tissue breakdown, scarring, and disfigurement. The purpose of this case report was to demonstrate the use of immediate, abdominally based free flaps for reconstruction in a patient with bilateral total gluteal defects and limited inflow options in the setting of remote silicone injections. The patient is a 45‐year‐old female who developed chronically infected injected silicone in the bilateral buttocks leading to draining abscesses and soft tissue breakdown. The patient required radical debridement and excision of the bilateral buttocks to remove all foreign material. After intermediate skin grafting of the residual wounds, the patient then was deemed a candidate for bilateral free flap reconstruction of the buttocks. On exploration of the bilateral defects, both 20 cm × 10 cm in size, the gluteal vessels were non‐usable, and preoperative CTA additionally had revealed no suitable posteriorly based perforators. Therefore, bilateral arteriovenous (AV) loops, measuring 30 cm in length, were then constructed utilizing the greater saphenous veins anastomosed to the femoral arteries which were then tunneled to the defect. The soft tissue defects were concurrently reconstructed with bilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps measuring 16 cm × 12 cm. The postoperative course was complicated by small seromas in each groin requiring drain placement by interventional radiology on postoperative day 16. Otherwise, the patient's buttocks healed well, and functionally, the patient had regained the ability to sit and was satisfied with the aesthetic appearance of the reconstruction as of last follow‐up at 10 months. Abdominally based free flap reconstruction with AV loops, in this case, provided for successful reconstruction of otherwise challenging soft‐tissue defects with limited inflow options.
Initial boundary value problem of pseudo‐parabolic Kirchhoff equations with logarithmic nonlinearity
Authors: Zhao Qiuting , Cao Yang
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we consider the initial boundary value problem for a pseudo‐parabolic Kirchhoff equation with logarithmic nonlinearity. Using the potential well method, we obtain a threshold result of global existence and finite‐time blow‐up for the weak solutions with initial energy
. When the initial energy
, we find another criterion for the vanishing solution and blow‐up solution. We also establish the decay rate of the global solution and estimate the life span of the blow‐up solution. Meanwhile, we study the existence of the ground state solution to the corresponding stationary problem.
Robust optimal ship hulls based on Michell's wave resistance
Authors: Zerrouq Salah‐Eddine , Pierre Morgan
Published: October 2023

We seek the hull of a ship with a given volume which minimizes the water resistance with uncertainties on the cruising speed. The water resistance is based on Michell's wave resistance functional, and the speed is a random variable whose probability distribution is known. We first handle the case where the support of the hull is given and then we also optimize this support for a given area. In each case, an optimal hull is shown to exist. The numerical simulations are costly so we adapt to our problem Newton's method for shape optimization. The Dirichlet energy is used as a test case. The numerical results for the robust optimal hull are compared with the case where the cruising speed is known.
Simultaneous uniqueness in determining the space‐dependent coefficient and source for a time‐fractional diffusion equation
Authors: Jing Xiaohua , Song Xueli
Published: October 2023

This article concerns the uniqueness of an inverse problem of simultaneously identifying the space‐dependent coefficient and source in a one‐dimensional time‐fractional diffusion equation with derivative order
and the zero Neumann boundary value. By additional boundary measurements, we first obtain the uniqueness of the coefficient from the Laplace transform and a transformation formula. Then, we further show the uniqueness of the source through the asymptotic behavior of solutions to the corresponding forward problem. The result shows that the uniqueness of the simultaneous identification can be obtained under the condition that the prior information only on one set of parameters in the model is given other than that of two sets.
Modeling the role of information and optimal control on an SEIR epidemic model with infectivity in latent period
Authors: Guo Yuhong , Liu Zhijun , Wang Lianwen , Tan Ronghua
Published: October 2023

The outbreak of a disease can lead to behavioral changes in the healthy to avert infection. We first establish a nonlinear SEIR epidemic model that incorporates the impact of individuals' behavioral response owe to information of the disease prevalence. Both the existence of equilibria and sharp sufficient conditions on stable equilibria are verified. Whereafter, the local and global sensitivity analyses are carried out to assess the relative effects of parameters on the basic reproduction number. Therewith the optimal control problem is considered to provide a theoretical basis for disease prevention and control, and the existence and uniqueness consequences for optimal control paths are demonstrated. Some numerical examples and discussions are given to support and visualize our analytical results, which can be derived that the combined use of three control measures is more effective than any single adopted control strategy to curb the spread of diseases. We also find that the information plays a crucial role in controlling infection.
Retracted: Resveratrol Derivative, Trans‐3, 5, 4′‐Trimethoxystilbene, Prevents the Developing of Atherosclerotic Lesions and Attenuates Cholesterol Accumulation in Macrophage Foam Cells
Authors: Hong Ming , Li Jinke , Li Siying , Almutairi Mohammed M.
Published: October 2023

Mol. Nutr. Food Res.2020, 64, 1 901 115

https://doi.org/10.1002/mnfr.201901115.

The above article, published online on 22 January 2020, in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal's Editor‐in‐Chief, Dr. Julia Reuter, and Wiley‐VCH GmbH. Following publication, the journal was contacted by the University of Kansas who indicated that three of the co‐authors, Jinke Li, Siying Li and Mohammed M. Almutairi, whose affiliations had been noted at the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, were not affiliated with the university. In addition, the journal was made aware of concerns raised by third parties regarding this article which evidences image duplication between Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7, and Table 1 in this article and two other articles purporting to show different data. The authors were contacted to ask for their explanation of the concerns raised, but no response was received. The retraction has been agreed as the editorial team no longer have confidence in the reported results and conclusions given the significant overlap between the results reported in the Figures and other published articles.
Children at high familial risk for obesity show executive functioning deficits prior to development of excess weight status
Authors: Pearce Alaina L. , Hallisky Kyle , Rolls Barbara J. , Wilson Stephen J. , Rose Emma , Geier Charles F. , Garavan Hugh , Keller Kathleen L.
Published: October 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine whether children with healthy weight who vary by familial risk for obesity differ in executive functioning.

Methods

Children (age 7–8 years) without obesity (n = 93, 52% male) who differed by familial risk for obesity (based on maternal weight status) completed go/no‐go and stop‐signal tasks to assess inhibitory control and an N‐back task to assess working memory. Dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry measured adiposity. Linear and mixed‐effect models assessed unique effects and relative importance analysis‐quantified relative effects of familial risk and percent body fat.

Results

Children at high compared with low familial risk showed worse inhibitory control; however, child adiposity was not associated with inhibitory control. Both high familial risk and greater child adiposity were associated with worse N‐back performance when cognitive demand was high (2‐back), but not low (0‐ and 1‐back). The relative effect of familial risk on executive functioning was 2.7 to 16 times greater than the relative effect of percent body fat.

Conclusions

These findings provide initial evidence that deficits in executive functioning may precede the development of obesity in children at high familial risk for this disease. Additional family risk studies are needed to elucidate the pathways through which maternal obesity influences child executive functioning and risk for obesity.
Identification of creep parameters from multi‐step relaxation tests on miniaturised specimen
Authors: Schirmer Richard Wolfgang , Selent Marcel , Abendroth Martin , Kiefer Bjoern
Published: October 2023

The small punch test (SPT) is a miniaturised method for thermo‐mechanical materials testing. The combination of simple specimen geometry and low required specimen volume is ideal for minimally invasive characterisation and monitoring of the current material condition in technological systems, including nuclear plants.

The aim of the present study is to identify creep material properties of the chromium steel P91 (X10CrMoVNb9‐1) via small punch testing. It is examined to which extent a single relaxation test is suitable to replace several creep tests at different force levels. The inverse parameter identification method utilises a non‐linear optimisation approach in order to match the results of simulation and experiment. The simulation is performed using finite element analysis (FEA) and the considered material law aims to represent the high‐temperature behaviour of steels. To this end, a modified Liu–Murakami model is specifically used along with linear elasticity and non‐linear isotropic plasticity. We propose a strategy, that can be used to separately identify the Norton‐parameters from multi‐step relaxation tests performed on one specimen. Thereby, the applied strain (displacement, if utilising SPT) is kept constant after initial loading, which enables stress relaxation within the specimen. In case of the SPT, this behaviour yields a decreasing reaction force which approximately approaches a constant value. During the repeated loading phases, specimen failure may occur, due to further plastification of the specimen. Loading and relaxation cycles are repeated until specimen failure.

The identified parameters are validated via small punch creep experiments at different force levels. It will be shown that good agreement is observed when comparing the sets of identified parameters.
Metal–organic framework derived N‐doped zinc oxide carbon nanocomposites for catalytic removal of dye and formaldehyde
Authors: Zou Jing , Tang Xiaoning , He Li , Jin Wanhui , Yu Qian , Yu Jing , Sun Lei , Cai Guangming , Wang Xin , Cheng Deshan
Published: October 2023

Biomass‐based catalysis has drawn a gradually increased attention due to its eco‐friendliness, cost‐effective, and good reusability. In this work, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF) derived nitrogen‐doped zinc oxide carbon (ZnO/N/C) nanocomposites were synthesized on pine cone by solvothermal and carbonization method. Scanning electron microscopy, x‐ray diffractometer, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to confirm the presence of N‐doped ZnO rod‐like nanostructures on the as‐prepared composites. The obtained ZnO/N/C nanocomposites were employed as catalytic materials for the decomposition of methylene blue (MB) dye and adsorption of formaldehyde (HCHO). The ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can degrade more than 90% of the MB solution within 90 min under visible light irradiation, besides, they can rapidly absorb and decompose HCHO. The high‐catalytic performance of ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be attributed to the high‐superficial area of ZIF‐8, the carbonization that ensures the high conductivity and high‐slight absorption of carbon skeleton materials, and the accelerated transfer of photogenerated electrons. This simple and green preparation method has promoted the sustainable utilization of biomass resources with great significance for application of carbon‐based porous materials in catalytic field.

Highlights

MOF derived ZnO/N‐doped carbon nanocomposites were successfully synthesized.

Presence of N‐doped ZnO rod‐like nanostructures on carbon nanocomposites.

ZnO/N/C nanocomposites could be used as a catalyst for MB photodegradation.

ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be readily absorption and decompose of HCHO.
Impact on generation and recombination rate in Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cell for Ag2S and In2Se3 buffer layers with CuSbS2 back surface field layer
Authors: Chauhan Pratibha , Agarwal Surbhi , Srivastava Vaibhava , Maurya Sadanand , Hossain M. Khalid , Madan Jaya , Yadav Rajesh Kumar , Lohia Pooja , Dwivedi Dilip Kumar , Alothman Asma A.
Published: October 2023

For photovoltaic (PV) applications, the earth‐abundant and non‐hazardous Kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) is a possible substitute for chalcopyrite copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS). This research offers insight into the most innovative method for improving the performance of Kesterite solar cells (SCs) by using CuSbS2 back surface field (BSF) and Ag2S and In2Se3 as buffer layers, focuses on aligning energy bands, reducing non‐radiative recombination, and improving open‐circuit voltage (Voc). The proposed cells are Ni/CuSbS2/CZTS/In2Se3/ITO/Al and Ni/CuSbS2/CZTS/Ag2S/ITO/Al by adding interfaces. The optimized CZTS SCs with In2Se3 achieve a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 30.274 mA/cm2, fill factor (FF) of 89.15%, power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 31.67%, and Voc of 1.173 V. With the Ag2S buffer layer, PCE is 31.02%, FF is 88.61%, Jsc is 30.245 mA/cm2, and Voc is 1.157 V. These results depict the potential of CZTS‐based SCs with improved performance compared with conventional structures.
Education‐related needs for children with cystic fibrosis: Perspectives of US pediatric care teams
Authors: Hjelm Michelle , Hente Elizabeth , Schuler Christine L. , Duan Qing , Strong Sarah , Boat Thomas , Filigno Stephanie
Published: October 2023

Objective

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) often bring education‐related concerns to their medical teams. Concerns around the ability for CF care teams to identify and address these concerns exist. We sought to describe CF care team perceptions of (1) patient and family education‐related needs, (2) how these needs are identified, documented and addressed, and (3) education‐related resource gaps.

Methods

A survey was emailed to pediatric care teams in the CF Foundation Care Center Network in April 2022. Individuals or care teams could complete the survey. Responses were aggregated for descriptive analysis.

Results

Sixty‐seven programs responded representing 52% of United States pediatric CF centers. Most centers (88%) indicated social workers primarily address school concerns. Care teams often complete school forms (99%), coach families to communicate with schools (96%), communicate with schools directly (90%), and develop educational plans (76%). Formal education risk assessment and support programs are relatively uncommon (19%). Common student‐specific needs include carrying medications (75%) and leaving class for gastrointestinal issues (54%). Needs reported are informational materials for families and schools (94%), staff education about school concerns and how to address them (91%), additional staff for education‐related issues (65%), and expertise in education plan development (62%).

Conclusion

CF care teams often lack comprehensive resources to identify and address education‐related concerns. Systematically performing needs assessments, improving training for providers, and evaluating the benefits of education specialists on care teams may better identify and address education‐related needs. Supporting educational progression will foster continued independence and well‐being in adulthood.