bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary retroperitoneal solitary fibrous tumor: A case report
Authors: Shrestha Pramesh Prasad , Adhikari Mahesh Bahadur , Maharjan Bipin , Gautam Ravi Kiran , Basnet Birodh , Yadav Deepak Kumar
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Primary retroperitoneal masses have numerous differential diagnoses, many of which are rare entities. These can be neoplastic or nonneoplastic. Among the rare conditions are solitary fibrous tumors, which can either be benign or malignant. It is a mesenchymal, spindle‐cell tumor, reported first in 1931 as a pleural tumor by Klemperer et al. A 20‐year‐old lady, with abdominal pain for 6 months, was diagnosed with a retroperitoneal mass on the left lower abdomen on USG which was confirmed by an MRI scan of the abdomen. The patient underwent laparoscopy‐assisted excision of the mass. The final histopathological reports and immunohistochemistry reports revealed a solitary fibrous tumor. Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare tumors in the retroperitoneum. In our search, fewer than a hundred cases have been reported. It has a characteristic “patternless pattern” in a microscopic study. Adverse outcomes of SFTs are associated with atypical features in histology, such as nuclear pleomorphism, necrosis, increased cellularity, and mitoses >4/10 HPF and size more than 10 cm. The standard of care is surgical excision with clear margins. Open surgeries have been done traditionally; we present a case where we performed the excision laparoscopically.
Concentration‐ and Solvent‐Induced Chiral Tuning by Manipulating Non‐Proteinogenic Amino Acids in Glycoconjugate Supra‐Scaffolds: Interaction with Protein, and Streptomycin Delivery
Authors: Ghosh Angshuman , Mandal Jishu , Dubey Soumen Kumar , Padma Somrita , Ghosh Narendra Nath , Behera Ashok , Hafiz Sk Abdul , Ruidas Pradip , Midya Ramkrishna , Roy Dipanwita , Das Dona , Das Surajit , Singh Somendra , Bhattacharyya Sankar , Mukherjee Suprabhat , Bhattacharjee Subham
Published: October 2023

We showed solvent‐ and concentration‐triggered chiral tuning of the fibrous assemblies of two novel glycoconjugates Z‐P(Gly)‐Glu and Z‐F(4‐N)‐Glu made by chemical attachment of Cbz‐protected [short as Z)] non‐proteinogenic amino acids L‐phenylglycine [short as P(Gly)] and 4‐Nitro‐L‐phenylalanine [short as F(4‐N)] with D‐glucosamine [short as Glu]. Both biomimetic gelators can form self‐healing and shape‐persistent gels with a very low critical gelator concentration in water as well as in various organic solvents, indicating they are ambidextrous supergelators. Detailed spectroscopic studies suggested β‐sheet secondary structure formation during anisotropic self‐aggregation of the gelators which resulted in the formation of hierarchical left‐handed helical fibers in acetone with an interlayer spacing of 2.4 nm. After the physical characterization of the gels, serum protein interaction with the gelators was assessed, indicating they may be ideal for biomedical applications. Further, both gelators are benign, non‐immunogenic, non‐allergenic, and non‐toxic in nature, which was confirmed by performing the blood parameters and liver function tests on Wister rats. Streptomycin‐loaded hydrogels showed efficacious antibacterial activity in vitro and in vivo as well. Finally, cell attachment and biocompatibility of the hydrogels were demonstrated which opens a newer avenue for promising biomedical and therapeutic applications.
Why the role of mHealth in allergy diagnosis and treatment adherence cannot be overlooked
Authors: Szylling Anna , Raciborski Filip , Wojas Oksana , Furmańczyk Konrad , Krzych‐Fałta Edyta , Bousquet Jean , Samoliński Boleslaw
Published: October 2023

Background

Allergic diseases—rhinitis and asthma—are the most common chronic conditions affecting adults. Traditional approaches to allergy diagnosis and treatment do not meet the health needs of all patients. Treatment adherence remains a challenge for physicians. The ubiquity of Internet access paired with limited in‐person contact with medical personnel in the course of the COVID‐19 pandemic demonstrated the potential of mHealth in communicating health information.

Body

The abundance of new applications dedicated to various medical specialties encourages reflection on the informed use of such tools. The paper takes a closer look at the potential of mHealth and presents conclusions of selected studies focusing on the use of good apps. The strength weakness opportunities threats analysis was used to illustrate the strengths of the mHealth strategy, as well as its advantages, limitations and areas in need of further development.

Conclusion

The strength of mHealth depends on the quality and quantity of the collected patient data, its reliable processing, as well as publication of outcomes and conclusions from analyses. Therefore, it is necessary to promote the use of validated applications among patients, physicians and medical staff.
Indeterminate pulmonary nodules in non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma: A study of the European paediatric Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group
Authors: Giraudo Chiara , Schoot Reineke , Cardoen Liesbeth , Stramare Roberto , Coppadoro Beatrice , Bisogno Gianni , Bouhamama Amine , Brennan Bernadette , Brisse Herve J. , Orbach Daniel , Coma Ana , Di Paolo Pier Luigi , Fayard Cindy , McDonald Leigh , Moalla Salma , Morosi Carlo , Pace Erika , Tang Vivian , van Noesel Max M. , Ferrari Andrea , van Rijn Rick
Published: October 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical impact of indeterminate pulmonary nodules (no more than four pulmonary nodules of less than 5 mm or one nodule measuring between 5 and less than 10 mm by computed tomography [CT]) in children and adolescents with adult‐type non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS) at diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with NRSTS treated in 11 centers as part of the European paediatric Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG) were retrospectively assessed. Local radiologists, blinded to clinical information except for patients’ age and tumor histotype, reviewed the chest CT at diagnosis and filled out a case report form. Because patients with or without indeterminate nodules in the EpSSG NRSTS 2005 study received the same type of treatment, event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) between groups by log‐rank test were compared.

Results

Overall, 206 patients were examined: 109 (52.9%) were without any nodules, 78 (38%) had at least one indeterminate nodule, and 19 (9.2%) had nodules meeting the definition of metastases, which were then considered to be misclassified and were excluded from further analyses. Five‐year EFS was 78.5% (95% CI, 69.4%–85.1%) for patients without nodules and 69.6% (95% CI, 57.9%–78.7%) for patients with indeterminate nodules (p = .135); 5‐year OS was 87.4% (95% CI, 79.3%–92.5%) and 79.0% (95% CI, 67.5%–86.8%), respectively (p = .086).

Conclusions

This study suggests that survival does not differ in otherwise nonmetastatic patients with indeterminate pulmonary nodules compared to nonmetastatic patients without pulmonary nodules.

Plain Language Summary

Radiologists should be aware of the classification of indeterminate pulmonary nodules in non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcomas and use it in their reports.

More than a third of patients with non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma can be affected by indeterminate pulmonary nodules.

Indeterminate pulmonary nodules do not significantly affect the overall survival of pediatric patients with non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma.
Dancing epilepsy: A stereo encephalography case report
Authors: Cámpora Nuria , Nasimbera Alejandro , Daza Anilu , Giagante Brenda , Oddo Silvia , Kochen Silvia
Published: October 2023

Ictal semiology is essential to identify the epileptogenic zone (EZ), especially in drug‐resistant focal epilepsy (DRE), as its accurate identification determines the surgical prognosis. Dancing is highly unusual ictal semiology, and its underlying neural networks remain somehow unclear since both temporal and frontal lobe (FL) have been implicated in its generation. We present a 21‐year‐old male with DRE characterized by dancing seizures. Homemade videos were obtained. Through a non‐invasive pre‐surgical evaluation, the epileptogenic zone was localized within a gross lesion in the left FL. Using stereo electroencephalography (SEEG), we successfully identified the ictal‐onset zone in the mesial middle, inferior, and orbito‐frontal cortex, with rapid propagation of ictal activity extending backward and laterally to the precentral regions. Subsequently, a left frontal middle and inferior gyrectomy was performed, resulting in seizure freedom for the patient. Pathology results revealed a mild malformation of cortical development with oligodendroglial hyperplasia (MOGHE). Atypical seizure semiology, such as dancing, provides an interesting starting point for the analysis of the areas involved in the EZ. Further intracranial recordings are required to fully comprehend the underlying networks and interactions of cerebral areas during dancing seizures.
The supplementation of Rothia as a potential preventive approach for bone loss in mice with ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis
Authors: Li Ying‐Juan , Zhang Yuan‐Wei , Cao Mu‐Min , Zhang Ruo‐Lan , Wu Meng‐Ting , Rui Yun‐Feng , Liu Nai‐Feng
Published: October 2023

There is an inseparable link between bone metabolism and gut microbiota, and the supplementation of probiotics exhibits a significant role in maintaining the homeostasis of gut microbiota and inhibiting bone loss. This study aims to explore the preventive and therapeutic potentials and the specific mechanisms of Rothia on osteoporosis. The mice models of osteoporosis induced by ovariectomy (OVX) were built, and the regular (once a day) and quantitative (200 μL/d) gavage of Rothia was performed for 8 weeks starting from 1 week after OVX. Microcomputed tomography was used to analyze the bone mass and bone microstructure of mice in each group after sacrifice. Histological staining and immunohistochemistry were then applied to identify the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, intestinal permeability, and osteogenic and osteoclastic activities of mice. The collected feces of mice in each group were used for 16S rRNA high‐throughput sequencing to detect the alterations in composition, abundance, and diversity of gut microbiota. This study demonstrated that the gavage of Rothia alleviated bone loss in mice with OVX‐induced osteoporosis, improved OVX‐induced intestinal mucosal barrier injury, optimized intestinal permeability (zonula occludens protein 1 and occludin), reduced intestinal inflammation (tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐1β), and regulated imbalance of gut microbiota. Based on “gut‐bone” axis, this study revealed that regular and quantitative gavage of Rothia can relieve bone loss in mice with OVX‐induced osteoporosis by repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier injury, optimizing the intestinal permeability, inhibiting the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and improving the disorder of gut microbiota.
Transcriptome and proteomics conjoint analysis reveal anti‐alcoholic liver injury effect of Dianhong Black Tea volatile substances
Authors: Gao Tinghui , Fu JiaoJiao , Liu Lin , Bai Jing , Lv Yangjun , Zhu Yuejin , Lan Yu , Cao Xiaonian , Feng Huafang , Shen Caihong , Liu Sijing , Zhang Shikang , Guo Jinlin
Published: October 2023

Dianhong Black Tea, a fermented tea containing various bioactive ingredients, has been found to have a significant role in alleviating alcoholic liver injury (ALI). One of its main unique components, Dianhong Black Tea volatile substances (DBTVS), may have potential anti‐ALI effects. However, its effects and underlying molecular mechanisms are still unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of DBTVS as an anti‐ALI agent using alcohol‐fed rats. We assessed the effect of DBTVS on ALI by analyzing serum transaminase and lipid levels, as well as conducting hematoxylin–eosin and oil red O staining. Additionally, GC‐MS was used to detect the components of DBTVS, while transcriptome, proteomics analysis, Western blot, and molecular docking were employed to uncover the underlying mechanisms. Our results demonstrated that DBTVS significantly reduced serum ALT and AST levels and improved lipid metabolism disorders. Moreover, we identified 14 components in DBTVS, with five of them exhibiting strong binding affinity with key proteins. These findings suggested that DBTVS could be a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of ALI. Its potential therapeutic effects may be attributed to its ability to regulate lipid metabolism through the PPAR signaling pathway.
Optimal oxygen excess ratio tracking of proton exchange membrane fuel cell with uncertainty based on robust model predictive control strategy
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhang Chunlei , Zhang Zhijin , Li He
Published: October 2023

To address the challenge of tracking the optimal oxygen excess ratio (OER) in the cell stack cathode of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), which is subject to norm‐bounded parameter uncertainty and frequent external perturbations, this manuscript provides a novel robust model predictive control strategy with a state feedback control structure and hard constraints. We aim to minimize the tracking error of OER while maximizing the net power under varying operational conditions of the PEMFC. Initially, a control‐oriented model for the air supply system is built and its accuracy is validated by comparing it with experimental results. Next, we construct the discrete state‐space equations for optimal control and employ the linear matrix inequality (LMI) method to transform the problem of difficult min‐max optimization solutions into a convex optimization problem with LMI constraints. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm is validated through simulation. The results demonstrate the strong robustness and superiority of the proposed controller against uncertainties in plant parameters for robust OER trajectory tracking. It improves the transient performance through robust precision tracking applications, which will eventually accelerate PEMFC commercialization.
Air pollution, weather factors, and realized volatility forecasts of agricultural commodity futures
Authors: Luo Jiawen , Zhang Qun
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the potential effects of environmental factors on fluctuations in agricultural commodity futures markets, by constructing a new category of daily exogenous predictors related to air pollution, weather, climate change, and investor attention. The empirical results from out‐of‐sample analyses suggest that the heterogeneous autoregressive (HAR) model incorporating all these exogenous predictors is more likely to outperform other HAR‐type models. Additionally, economic evaluations demonstrate the superior performance of models incorporating investors' attention to climate change or extreme weather as predictors. While not all exogenous predictors are equally important for volatility forecasts, adopting appropriate variable selection methods to handle different sets of exogenous predictors can lead to better performance than the HAR benchmark. With the inclusion of air pollution or weather factors in the HAR model, a portfolio with an annualized average excess return of 16.2068% or a Sharpe ratio of 10.0431 can be achieved for the wheat futures, respectively.
Tagraxofusp in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Bruzzese Antonella , Martino Enrica Antonia , Labanca Caterina , Mendicino Francesco , Lucia Eugenio , Olivito Virginia , Neri Antonino , Imovilli Annalisa , Morabito Fortunato , Vigna Ernesto , Gentile Massimo
Published: October 2023

Tagraxofusp (or SL‐401) is a recombinant molecule composed of human interleukin‐3 that binds CD123 on neoplastic cells fused to a truncated diphtheria toxin (DT). Tagraxofusp's most significant success has come from studies involving patients with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN), an aggressive disease that is usually refractory to conventional chemotherapy. Tagraxofusp had an acceptable safety profile and high efficacy in early phase I/II studies on patients with BPDCN. Another phase II study confirmed the good response rates, resulting in Food and Drugs Administration and European Medicine Agency approval of tagraxofusp for the treatment of BPDCN. Considering its high efficacy and its manageable safety profile, tagraxofusp has been suddenly explored in other myeloid malignancies with high expression of cell surface CD123, both in monotherapy or combination strategies. The triplet tagraxofusp‐azacytidine‐venetoclax appears to be of particular interest among these combinations. Furthermore, combination strategies may be used to overcome tagraxofusp resistance. The downregulation of DPH1 (diphthamide biosynthesis 1), the enzyme responsible for the conversion of histidine 715 on eEF2 to diphthamide, which is then the direct target of ADP ribosylation DT, is typically associated with this resistance phenomenon. It has been discovered that azacitidine can reverse DHP1 expression and restore sensitivity to tagraxofusp. In conclusion, the success of tagraxofusp in BPDCN paved the way for its application even in other CD123‐positive malignancies. Nowadays, several ongoing trials are exploring the use of tagraxofusp in different myeloid neoplasms. This review aims to summarize the actual role of tagraxofusp in BPDCN and other CD123‐positive myeloid malignancies.
Thermal analysis of fully wetted porous longitudinal fin of parabolic profile with variable thermal conductivity and convection–radiation
Authors: Usha B. , Gireesha B. J.
Published: October 2023

The thermal performance of a fully wetted porous fin with concave parabolic cross section is explored in this study for variable thermal conductivity. We have considered convective and radiative heat transfer with variations of temperature‐dependent surface emissivity, internal heat generation, heat transfer coefficient, and magnetic field effect on the thermal profile of the fin. The heat transfer equation is derived from Darcy's model. Nondimensional governing ordinary differential equation is attempted by Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg technique. Influences of associated parameters on the cooling performance of fin are explored through graphs. From this study, it was found that the rate of heat transfer from the fin whose thermal conductivity varies linearly with temperature is twice than that of the fin with exponential dependency on thermal conductivity in the presence of magnetic effect.
Snowpack relative permittivity and density derived from near‐coincident lidar and ground‐penetrating radar
Authors: Bonnell Randall , McGrath Daniel , Hedrick Andrew R. , Trujillo Ernesto , Meehan Tate G. , Williams Keith , Marshall Hans‐Peter , Sexstone Graham , Fulton John , Ronayne Michael J. , Fassnacht Steven R. , Webb Ryan W. , Hale Katherine E.
Published: October 2023

Depth‐based and radar‐based remote sensing methods (e.g., lidar, synthetic aperture radar) are promising approaches for remotely measuring snow water equivalent (SWE) at high spatial resolution. These approaches require snow density estimates, obtained from in‐situ measurements or density models, to calculate SWE. However, in‐situ measurements are operationally limited, and few density models have seen extensive evaluation. Here, we combine near‐coincident, lidar‐measured snow depths with ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) two‐way travel times (twt) of snowpack thickness to derive >20 km of relative permittivity estimates from nine dry and two wet snow surveys at Grand Mesa, Cameron Pass, and Ranch Creek, Colorado. We tested three equations for converting dry snow relative permittivity to snow density and found the Kovacs et al. (1995) equation to yield the best comparison with in‐situ measurements (RMSE = 54 kg m−3). Variogram analyses revealed a 19 m median correlation length for relative permittivity and snow density in dry snow, which increased to >30 m in wet conditions. We compared derived densities with estimated densities from several empirical models, the Snow Data Assimilation System (SNODAS), and the physically based iSnobal model. Estimated and derived densities were combined with snow depths and twt to evaluate density model performance within SWE remote sensing methods. The Jonas et al. (2009) empirical model yielded the most accurate SWE from lidar snow depths (RMSE = 51 mm), whereas SNODAS yielded the most accurate SWE from GPR twt (RMSE = 41 mm). Densities from both models generated SWE estimates within ±10% of derived SWE when SWE averaged >400 mm, however, model uncertainty increased to >20% when SWE averaged <300 mm. The development and refinement of density models, particularly in lower SWE conditions, is a high priority to fully realize the potential of SWE remote sensing methods.
Spatial variability of stable isotopes in river water over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Fan Xuemei , Gao Jing , Zhao Aibin , Gong Ping
Published: October 2023

Estimating isotopic changes of river water on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) remains highly uncertain due to variable water sources related with seasonality of atmospheric circulations and local kinetic fractionation. The in‐depth understanding of such changes is crucial for accurate palaeoaltimetry reconstruction and for river budget evaluation which related with surviving of one‐fifth of the world's population under accelerated warming. Here, we present a comprehensive river water isotopic composition dataset (δ18O, δD and d‐excess, 1852 samples) over the TP to systematically describe spatial distribution and explore possible controlling factors of isotopic data in theses rivers. Results showed that δ18O in river water range from −20.8‰ to −5.2‰ (latitudinally, 0.92‰ per degree), enriching northwardly in the seven exorheic river basins. The d‐excess values range from −19.7‰ to 20.5‰ with the pronounced low values in endorheic rivers basins. We identified that moisture sources and atmospheric transports leave significant signals in isotopic compositions of river water in the Upper Brahmaputra (UB), Upper Mekong (UM) and Upper Yangtze (UYA) basins, and local processes modify the isotopic signals mainly in the Upper Salween (US), Upper Indus (UI), Upper Yellow (UYE) and Endorheic Rivers (ER) basins. The δ18O‐elevation relationships are only established in the UB, UI and UYE with lapse rates of −4.4‰/km, −3.4‰/km and −3.5‰/km, respectively. We suggest that as changes of moisture sources and lapse rates in different basins, it is cautious to apply δ18O‐elevation lapse rates for palaeoaltimetry reconstruction. Our dataset will benefit regional studies of hydrological, biogeochemistry, palaeoaltimetry reconstruction and palaeoclimate.
Quasicrystal Structure Prediction: A Review
Authors: Widom Michael , Mihalkovič Marek
Published: October 2023

Predicting quasicrystal structures is a multifaceted problem that can involve predicting a previously unknown phase, predicting the structure of an experimentally observed phase, or predicting the thermodynamic stability of a given structure. We survey the history and current state of these prediction efforts with a focus on methods that have improved our understanding of the structure and stability of known metallic quasicrystal phases. Advances in the structural modeling of quasicrystals, along with first principles total energy calculation and statistical mechanical methods that enable the calculation of quasicrystal thermodynamic stability, are illustrated by means of cited examples of recent work.
Subphenotypes of severe early‐onset pre‐eclampsia at hospital admission. A Latin American single‐center exploratory latent class analysis
Authors: Rojas‐Suarez Jose , Carvajal Javier A. , Echavarria Maria P. , Ramos Isabella , Zambrano Maria A. , Hincapie Maria A. , Peña Evelyn E. , Libreros Laura , Escobar María F.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To identify distinct subphenotypes of severe early‐onset pre‐eclampsia in Latin America and analyze biomarker and hemodynamic trends between subphenotypes after hospital admission.

Methods

A single‐center prospective cohort study was conducted in Colombia. The latent class analysis identified subphenotypes using clinical variables, biomarkers, laboratory tests, and maternal hemodynamics. Class‐defining variables were restricted to measurements at and 24 h after admission. Primary and secondary outcomes were severe maternal and perinatal complications.

Results

Among 49 patients, two subphenotypes were identified: Subphenotype 1 (34.7%) had a higher likelihood of an sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio ≤ 38, maternal age > 35, and low probability of TPR > 1400, CO <8, and IUGR; Subphenotype 2 (65.3%) had a low likelihood of an sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio < 38, maternal age > 35, and high probability of TPR > 1400, CO <8, and IUGR. At 24 h postadmission, 64.7% of subphenotype 1 patients changed to subphenotype 2, while 25% of subphenotype 2 patients were reclassified as subphenotype 1. Subphenotype 1 displayed significant changes in CO and TPR, while subphenotype 2 did not. Maternal complications were more prevalent in subphenotype 2, with an odds ratio of 5.3 (95% CI: 1.3–22.0; P = 0.02), but no significant differences in severe neonatal complications were observed.

Conclusions

We identified two distinct subphenotypes in a Latin American cohort of patients with severe early‐onset pre‐eclampsia. Subphenotype 2, characterized by higher TPR, sFlt‐1, and serum creatinine and lower CO and PlGF at admission, was associated with worse maternal outcomes and appeared less modifiable after in‐hospital treatment.
The efficacy of ability proxies for estimating the returns to schooling: A factor model‐based evaluation
Authors: Kejriwal Mohitosh , Li Xiaoxiao , Nguyen Linh , Totty Evan
Published: October 2023

A common approach to addressing ability bias is to augment the earnings‐schooling regression with proxies for cognitive and non‐cognitive skills. We evaluate this approach using a factor model framework, which allows consistent estimation of the returns to schooling without relying on proxies. The factor model estimators may be viewed as implicitly estimating proxy measurement error and/or accounting for omitted dimensions of ability. A bias decomposition quantifies the contribution of the proxies while the estimated latent skills are used to construct direct tests for their viability. Both sets of results confirm the inadequacy of the proxies in capturing the latent skills.
Enhancement of greenhouse gas adsorption on the new α‐type reconstructed structure of two‐dimensional borophene via biaxial strain engineering
Authors: Santos‐Putungan Alexandra , Diego Khloe Ysabelle , Putungan Darwin Barayang
Published: October 2023

The adsorption of CO, CO2, and N2O on a newly found α‐type reconstructed form of borophene was investigated via density functional theory calculations. It is revealed that the new α‐type reconstructed borophene structure consists of several large holes, and has the same order of stability as the predicted α1‐borophene in Wu et al. On the pristine reconstructed borophene case, CO and CO2 adsorb moderately and weakly, respectively. Interestingly, N2O spontaneously dissociated on the α‐type reconstructed borophene. Upon the application of biaxial strain, especially at 10%, the adsorption of CO and CO2 on the reconstructed borophene becomes significantly enhanced, and this is attributed to changes in the density of states near the Fermi level of the reconstructed borophene.
Homework assignments in relational psychoanalytic treatment of personality disorders: A case study of a patient with narcissistic personality disorder
Authors: Magistrale Giuseppe , Hasson‐Ohayon Ilanit , Lysaker Paul H. , Dimaggio Giancarlo
Published: October 2023

Homework assignments, or specific tasks patients are asked to engage in or complete between sessions, are a controversial topic among psychoanalysts. While many argue these interventions contradict psychoanalytic principles, others believe they can help address problems and promote coping skills. We propose that homework can be a legitimate aspect of relational psychoanalysis when used in a way that is attuned to the patient's experience and that homework may be an important component of treating personality disorders (PD). We present the case of a man diagnosed with narcissistic PD. He often felt superior to and reported that he despised others, though the core self‐image was of fragile. He embraced the role of the omnipotent caregiver, which came with boredom and anger and lack of satisfaction in his social life. The patient tried to control therapy, asserting that he could psychoanalyze himself. As a result, therapy was stalled and progress was limited. At this point, the therapist asked him to complete homework assignments that encouraged him to refrain from his compulsive caregiving to better understand what motivated this behavior. Through this process, the patient came to realize he acted out of avoidance, as he did not want to disclose his own vulnerabilities and flaws. At that point he was able to experience relationships while adopting different stances and finding new meanings. We argue that homework can be fully integrated into the relational psychoanalytic repertoire to improve self‐reflection and foster change in patients with PD.
Polymer and alcohol‐based three‐phase partitioning systems for separation of polysaccharide and protein
Authors: Antunes Evelyn C. , Temmink Hardy , Schuur Boelo
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Natural polymers are macromolecules produced by living organisms, and they have a wide range of applications and relevance for the development of a circular economy. However, large‐scale production continues to be hindered by several factors, such as downstream processing. In this work, three‐phase partitioning (TPP) systems were investigated for separation of model polysaccharide (dextran, alginate, and gum arabic) from protein [Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysozyme]. The recyclability of the phase‐forming compounds used to form the extractive platform was assessed by ultrafiltration (UF). This study contributes to the development of production processes for biopolymers from fermented waste by proposing an effective separation technique for fractionation of biopolymers. Such biopolymers are often collected as mixtures, but with the studied approaches, fractionation of polysaccharides from proteins may also be employed. With the chosen systems, the scope of TPP systems is expanded by using another class of phase‐forming compound (polymers); in addition, UF was studied as a versatile regeneration approach.

RESULTS

Within the TPP approach, the best separation of dextran from BSA was achieved using TPP systems composed of 25 wt% polyethylene glycol (PEG) + 25 wt% K3C6H5O7 and 36 wt% EtOH + 10 wt% K3PO4, in which more than 95% of dextran and BSA were found as precipitate and partitioned to top phase (PEG or EtOH‐rich), respectively. By using other model compounds, it was found that the molecular weight and charge of the biopolymer play a key role in the yield and selectivity of TPP systems. Finally, by using ultrafiltration/diafiltration, about 99% of the ethanol and phosphate salt used to form the extractive platform could be retrieved in the permeate stream.

CONCLUSION

The high extraction yields, good selectivity, and recyclability of phase‐forming compounds confirm the potential of polymer‐based and alcohol‐based TPP systems to fractionate biopolymer mixtures. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Immune infiltration and clinical significance analyses of the cancer‐associated fibroblast‐related signature in skin cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Cen Xintao , Li Mengna , Yao Amin , Zheng Yue , Lai Wei
Published: October 2023

Background

Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is one of the most aggressive cancers with high mortality rates. Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play essential roles in tumor growth, metastasis and the establishment of a pro‐tumor microenvironment. This study aimed to establish a CAF‐related signature for providing a new perspective for indicating prognosis and guiding therapeutic regimens of SKCM patients.

Methods

In this study, the CAF‐related genes were screened out based on melanoma‐associated fibroblast markers identified from single‐cell transcriptome analysis in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and a CAF‐related module identified from weighted gene co‐expression analysis using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. We extracted these gene expression data of SKCM samples from TCGA and constructed a prognostic CAF‐related signature. The prediction abilities of the signature for survival prognosis, tumor immune landscape and responses to chemo‐/immunotherapies were evaluated in the TCGA‐SKCM cohort.

Results

We suggested that CAFs were significantly involved in the clinical outcomes of SKCM. A 10‐gene CAF‐related model was constructed, and the high‐CAF risk group exhibited immunosuppressive features and worse prognosis. Patients with high CAF score were more likely to not respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors but were more sensitive to some chemotherapeutic agents, suggesting a potential approach of chemotherapy/anti‐CAF combination treatment to improve the SKCM patient response rate of current immunotherapies.

Conclusions

The CAF‐related risk score could serve as a robust prognostic indicator and personal assessment of this score could uncover the degree of immunosuppression and provide treatment strategies to improve outcomes in clinical decision‐making in SKCM patients.
Ultrafast 30‐min infusion of a rituximab biosimilar (Truxima)
Authors: Pérez‐Persona Ernesto , Cuevas Palomares Laida , Unamunzaga Cilaurren Ariane , Gutiérrez López de Ocáriz Xabier , Buendía Ureña Buenaventura , Vega González de Viñaspre Ana , Benito Ibarrondo Begoña , Molinillo Fernández María Carmen , Cordero Osúa Ana , Benítez Delgado Beatriz , García Albás Juan José , Andrés Moralejo Miguel Ángel , Guinea de Castro José María
Published: October 2023

In this clinical trial, we demonstrate that ultrarapid fast infusion of rituximab (Truxima) in 30 min with oral premedication is feasible and secure for patients, and reduce the day‐care hospital stays.
A comparison of Er,Cr:YSGG laser to minimally invasive surgical technique in the treatment of intrabony defects: Twelve‐month results of a multicenter, randomized, controlled study
Authors: Clem Donald , Heard Rick , McGuire Michael , Scheyer E. Todd , Richardson Chris , Toback Gregory , Gunsolley John C. , Geurs Nico
Published: October 2023

Background

The purpose of this publication is to report on the 12‐month clinical and radiographic results comparing the surgical use of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser (ERL) and minimally invasive surgical technique (MIST) for the treatment of intrabony defects in subjects with generalized periodontitis stage III, grade B.

Methods

Fifty‐three adult subjects (29 females and 24 males; 19–73 years) with 79 intrabony defects were randomized following scaling and root planing (SRP) to receive ERL monotherapy (n = 27) or MIST (n = 26). Fifty subjects completed the study. Recession (REC), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), treatment time, and standardized radiographs were assessed and compared for each treatment group. Clinical measurements were recorded at baseline, 4–6 weeks following SRP, and 6 and 12 months following surgical therapy. Radiographic results were compared to baseline at 6 and 12 months following surgical therapy.

Results

The following primary and secondary outcome variables were non‐inferior with the following margins: CAL with a non‐inferiority margin of 0.7 mm (p = 0.05), PD with a non‐inferiority margin of 0.7 mm (p = 0.05), and REC with a non‐inferiority margin of 0.4 mm (p = 0.05). Standardized radiographs suggest similar bone fill of 1.14 ± 1.73 mm for MIST and 1.12 ± 1.52 mm for ERL.

Conclusions

This is the first multicenter, randomized, masked, and controlled study demonstrating the ERL is not inferior to MIST at 12 months in terms of clinical outcomes and similar to MIST in terms of radiographic bone fill for the surgical treatment of intrabony defects.
A framework to characterise the reproducibility of meta‐analysis results with its application to direct oral anticoagulants in the acute treatment of venous thromboembolism
Authors: Chapelle Céline , Le Teuff Gwénaël , Zufferey Paul Jacques , Laporte Silvy , Ollier Edouard
Published: October 2023

The number of meta‐analyses of aggregate data has dramatically increased due to the facility of obtaining data from publications and the development of free, easy‐to‐use, and specialised statistical software. Even when meta‐analyses include the same studies, their results may vary owing to different methodological choices. Assessment of the replication of meta‐analysis provides an example of the variation of effect ‘naturally’ observed between multiple research projects. Reproducibility of results has mostly been reported using graphical descriptive representations. A quantitative analysis of such results would enable (i) breakdown of the total observed variability with quantification of the variability generated by the replication process and (ii) identification of which variables account for this variability, such as methodological quality or the statistical analysis procedures used. These variables might explain systematic mean differences between results and dispersion of the results. To quantitatively characterise the reproducibility of meta‐analysis results, a bivariate linear mixed‐effects model was developed to simulate both mean results and their corresponding uncertainty. Results were assigned to several replication groups, those assessing the same studies, outcomes, treatment indication and comparisons classified in the same replication group. A nested random effect structure was used to break down the total variability within each replication group and between these groups to enable calculation of an intragroup correlation coefficient and quantification of reproducibility. Determinants of variability were investigated by modelling both mean and variance parameters using covariates. The proposed model was applied to the example of meta‐analyses evaluating direct oral anticoagulants in the acute treatment of venous thromboembolism.
Microfluidized hemp protein isolate: an effective stabilizer for high‐internal‐phase emulsions with improved oxidative stability
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐hui , Zhang Guang‐yao , Huang Jia‐rong , Ge Ai‐yuan , Zhou Da‐yong , Tang Yue , Xu Xian‐bing , Song Liang
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Hemp protein isolates (HPIs), which provide a well‐balanced profile of essential amino acids comparable to other high‐quality proteins, have recently garnered significant attention. However, the underutilized functional attributes of HPIs have constrained their potential commercial applications within the food and agriculture field. This study advocates the utilization of dynamic‐high‐pressure‐microfluidization (DHPM) for the production of stable high‐internal‐phase emulsions (HIPEs), offering an efficient approach to fully exploit the potential of HPI resources.

RESULTS

The findings underscore the effectiveness of DHPM in producing HPI as a stabilizing agent for HIPEs with augmented antioxidant activity. Microfluidized HPI exhibited consistent adsorption and anchoring at the oil–water interface, resulting in the formation of a dense and compact layer. Concurrently, the compression of droplets within HIPEs gave rise to a polyhedral framework, conferring viscoelastic properties and a quasi‐solid behavior to the emulsion. Remarkably, HIPEs stabilized by microfluidized HPI demonstrated superior oxidative and storage stability, attributable to the establishment of an antioxidative barrier by microfluidized HPI particles.

CONCLUSION

This study presents an appealing approach for transforming liquid oils into solid‐like fats using HPI particles, all without the need for surfactants. HIPEs stabilized by microfluidized HPI particles hold promise as emerging food ingredients for the development of emulsion‐based formulations with enhanced oxidative stability, thereby finding application in the food and agricultural industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Update on Ultrasound Diagnostic Criteria and New Ultrasound Severity and Activity Scorings of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Wortsman Ximena
Published: October 2023

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devasting autoimmune cutaneous disease that affects the hair follicles and can clinically present palpable nodules, abscesses, and tunnels (fistulas), usually in the intertriginous regions. It has been widely reported that color Doppler ultrasound can detect subclinical abnormalities and stage the severity of the disease more accurately. Nevertheless, the ultrasound diagnostic criteria were reported with 15 MHz 10 years ago, and now it is possible to detect early anatomical abnormalities in HS using 70 MHz. Thus, an update of the ultrasonographic diagnostic criteria is needed. The most widely used sonographic staging of severity of HS (SOS‐HS) includes the number of affected regions, besides counting the number of key lesions like pseudocysts, fluid collections, and tunnels; however, the total number of affected regions may fit better in an activity scoring. Furthermore, a high number of tunnels or communicated tunnels can complicate the management and may indicate an even more urgent treatment, which should be considered in the severity classification. To date, no hidradenitis scoring of activity has been reported in the literature, making it difficult to track the degree of inflammation under treatment objectively. Therefore, two new scorings are proposed. The first is an updated sonographic scoring of severity called modified SOS‐HS (mSOS‐HS), and the second is an activity ultrasound scoring of HS called US‐HSA. Both staging systems can provide better anatomical information for discriminating the categories and, therefore, selecting more appropriate treatments and supporting research and clinical trials by giving more objective anatomical tools in real‐world settings.
Diagnostic Implications of Ultrasound Evaluation in Patients With Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Du Yiting , Wang Zhengtao , Zhang Tao , Liang Ying
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic value of musculoskeletal ultrasound measurements of subacromial bursa (SAB) thickness, supraspinatus tendon (SUP) thickness, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and SUP‐to‐AHD ratio (AHD%) in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS).

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional observational study. Thirty patients with SIS (60 shoulders) admitted between January 2019 and January 2020 were enrolled. The SUP thickness, SAB thickness, AHD, and AHD% (calculated as AHD% = [(SUP / AHD) × 100%]) were measured in 60 shoulders using musculoskeletal ultrasound.

Results

The affected shoulder displayed thicker SUP and SAB (t = 7.838), narrower AHD (t = 2.324), and larger AHD% (t = 6.875) than the unaffected shoulder (P < .05). The SUP thickness showed a linear positive correlation with AHD (r = .503) and AHD% (r = .792) in the affected shoulder (P < .05). On receiver operating characteristic analysis, AHD*AHD% showed the best diagnostic performance in both measurements (area under the curve: 0.877).

Conclusion

This study revealed that SIS symptoms may be related to a larger AHD% with SUP thickening. As diagnostic criteria, the cut‐off values of AHD% (65.6%) and AHD*AHD% (0.504) have good sensitivity and specificity and can help improve the differential diagnosis of patients with SIS.
Genital pruritus is associated with longer hospital stays, higher costs and increased odds of psychiatric hospitalization among inpatient adults with pruritus in the United States—National inpatient sample (2012–2015)
Authors: Choragudi Siri , Andrade Luis F. , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: October 2023

Background

Though a link between pruritus and worse quality of life (QoL) has been established, little research has delved into which type of pruritus is associated with the highest inpatient burden. A better understanding of how pruritus interacts with other conditions may help reduce the length of hospital stays and improve patient outcomes in fields beyond dermatology.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to determine which type of pruritus disorder is associated with higher inpatient burden (cost and length of stay) and increased odds of psychiatric hospitalization among inpatient adults with pruritus in the United States.

Methods

We utilized data from the national inpatient sample (NIS) from 2012 to 2015 international classification of diseases, ninth revision, clinical modification (ICD9‐CM). We included male and female adults ≥18 years with primary and secondary diagnoses of pruritus disorders. The outcomes were primary psychiatric diagnosis (yes vs. no), length (days) and the total cost ($) of hospital stay. We explored associations using survey‐weighted binary logistic and linear regression for binary and continuous outcomes and adjusted for covariables (sociodemographic factors).

Results

Compared with other types of pruritus, prurigo nodularis/lichen simplex chronicus (PN/LSC) (odds ratio [OR] = 2.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.74,2.33), pruritus ani (OR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.91,4.21) and genital pruritus (OR = 3.51; 95% CI: 2.96,4.16) had increased odds for hospitalization due to psychiatric reasons. Compared with hospitalized patients with any other type of pruritus, hospitalized patients with genital pruritus had 2.37 higher mean days of hospital stay and $10,644 higher mean total cost.

Conclusions

Genital pruritus had the highest odds for hospitalization due to a psychiatric disorder, as well as the highest relative increases of average length and cost of hospital stay compared with the five other types of pruritus diagnoses in ICD9‐CM.
Vertical niche occupation and potential metabolic interplay of microbial consortia in a deeply stratified meromictic model lake
Authors: Cabello‐Yeves Pedro J. , Picazo Antonio , Roda‐Garcia Juan J. , Rodriguez‐Valera Francisco , Camacho Antonio
Published: October 2023

The microbial ecology of meromictic lakes assessed with “omics” is still poorly studied compared to other aquatic systems. Here, a combination of metagenomics, high resolution sampling and detailed physical–chemical data gathering allowed to study the planktonic prokaryotic assemblages and metabolic capabilities in the crenogenic meromictic Lake El Tobar (Spain), a model lake for such purposes. This system presents a specific stratification comprising a freshwater layer and a halocline linked to the oxycline, driving to the euxinic hypersaline waters of the deep monimolimnion. The different strata showed a highly diverse and vertically distributed microbiome with their metabolic capacities fitting/influencing the physical–chemical environment. Overall, up to 338 novel genomes were found from metagenome assembled genomes. Picocyanobacteria and methanotrophs were abundant in the upper part of the oxycline. Anoxygenic phototrophs (Chlorobium, Thiohalocapsa, Chromatiaceae, Rhodospirillum, and Rhodobacteraceae spp.) dominated the 12.5–14 m anoxic waters with dim light availability. Sulfate reducers (Desulfobacterota and Firmicutes) inhabited low redox horizons from 13.5 to the bottom (18 m). The potential microbial synergistic performance increases toward the monimolimnion. Among these, a microbial assemblage mostly composed of Spirochaetota, Cloacimonadota, Omitrophota, Firmicutes, Marinisomatota, Nanoarchaeota, and Patescibacteria in hypersaline waters of 14–18 m (conductivities of 118–213 mS cm−1), is potentially capable of performing mixed‐acid fermentations, even including hydrogen and butanol biosynthesis of biotechnological interest. This metagenomics study shows how microbial lifestyles may be determinant in the interplay of environmental gradients, and exemplifies the potential interactions between the microbial guilds thereby.