bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effect of zinc oxide nanorod arrays on breast cancer cells profiled through real‐time cytokines screening by a single‐cell microfluidic platform
Authors: Li Ping , Wang Chao , Qiu Jiaoyan , Song Fangteng , Huang Yuzhen , Zhang Yunhong , Zhang Kai , Ji Hao , Sang Yuanhua , Blaker Jonny J. , Zhang Yu , Han Lin
Published: August 2023

Zinc oxide nanorods have been extensively studied for the specific killing of breast cancer (BC) cells, and their killing mechanism and anticancer effects have been initially demonstrated. However, systematic studies at the single‐cell level are still necessary to explore cellular functions in detail. In this work, a hydrothermal method was used to synthesize zinc oxide nanorod arrays (ZnO NRs). Their effect on BC cells was demonstrated at single‐cell resolution for the first time through microfluidic chips and a single‐cell analysis platform. The inhibitory effects of ZnO NRs were observed. First, ZnO NRs suppressed cell proliferation and migration abilities. Moreover, Interferon‐γ, Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α, and Granzyme B in BC cells turned out to be antitumor instead of tumorigenic under ZnO NRs stimulation. Furthermore, ZnO NRs inhibition altered cellular functions and thus weakened intercellular and intercluster correlations. More importantly, MDA‐MB‐231 cells (strongly metastatic) showed much greater resistance to ZnO NRs than MCF‐7 cells (nonmetastatic). The experiments complemented the findings at the single‐cell level and provided a more comprehensive consideration of the potential risks and applications of ZnO NRs in breast cancer therapy, which is of great importance for biomedical research on nanomaterials.
Recent Efforts in Identification of Privileged Scaffolds as Antiviral Agents
Authors: Yadav Yogesh , Singh Kavita , Sharma Sunil , Mishra Vinay Kumar , Sagar Ram
Published: August 2023

Viral infections are the most important health concern nowadays to mankind, which is unexpectedly increasing the health complications and fatality rate worldwide. The recent viral infection outbreak developed a pressing need for small molecules that can be quickly deployed for the control/treatment of re‐emerging or new emerging viral infections. Numerous viruses, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis, influenza, SARS‐CoV‐1, SARS‐CoV‐2, and others, are still challenging due to emerging resistance to known drugs. Therefore, there is always a need to search for new antiviral small molecules that can combat viral infection with new modes of action. This review highlighted recent progress in developing new antiviral molecules based on natural product‐inspired scaffolds. Herein, the structure‐activity relationship of the FDA‐approved drugs along with the molecular docking studies of selected compounds have been discussed against several target proteins. The findings of new small molecules as neuraminidase inhibitors, other than known drug scaffolds, Anti‐HIV and SARS‐CoV are incorporated in this review paper.
Cation Adaptive Structures Based on Manganese Cyanide Prussian Blue Analogues: Application of Powder Diffraction Data to Solve Complex, Unprecedented Stoichiometries and New Structure Types
Authors: Miller Joel S. , Stephens Peter W.
Published: August 2023

A Mn(II) salt and A+CN− under anaerobic conditions react to form 2‐D and 3‐D extended structured compounds of AmMnIIn(CN)m+2n stoichiometry. Here, the creation and characterization of this large family of compounds, for example AMnII3(CN)7, A2MnII3(CN)8, A2MnII5(CN)12, A3MnII5(CN)13, and A2MnII[MnII(CN)6], where A represents alkali and tetraalkylammonium cations, is reviewed. Cs2MnII[MnII(CN)6] has the typical Prussian blue face centered cubic unit cell. However, the other alkali salts are monoclinic or rhombohedral. This is in accord with smaller alkali cation radii creating void space that is minimized by increasing the van der Waals stabilization energy by reducing ∠Mn−N≡C, which, strengthens the magnetic coupling and increases the magnetic ordering temperatures. This is attributed to the non‐rigidity of the framework structure due the significant ionic character associated with the high‐spin MnII sites. For larger tetraalkylammonium cations, the high‐spin Mn sites lack sufficient electrostatic A+⋅⋅⋅NC stabilization and form unexpected 4‐ and 5‐coordinated Mn sites within a flexible, extended framework around the cation; hence, the size, shape, and charge of the cation dictate the unprecedented stoichio‐metry and unpredictable cation adaptive structures. Antiferromagnetic coupling between adjacent MnII sites leads to ferrimagnetic ordering, but in some cases antiferromagnetic coupling of ferrimagnetic layers are compensated and synthetic antiferromagnets are observed. The magnetic ordering temperatures for ferrimagnetic A2MnII[MnII(CN)6] with both octahedral high‐ and low‐spin MnII sites increase with decreasing ∠Mn−N≡C. The crystal structures for all of the extended structured materials were obtained by powder diffraction.
Are we on track for diagnosing high‐grade urothelial carcinoma with a minimum quantity of five malignant cells in lower tract specimens? Critical analysis of The Paris System Quantitation Criteria
Authors: Folarin Olawunmi S. , Siddiqui Momin T.
Published: August 2023

Background

The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) has gained universal acceptance as the standard for reporting urine cytology requiring at least 5–10 malignant cells to diagnose high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC) in lower and upper urinary tract specimens, respectively. These quantitation criteria are still subject to discussion, and this study specifically aims to validate the quantitation criterion of HGUC in lower urinary tract.

Design

The authors reviewed two cohorts of lower urinary tract cases. The first cohort consisted of 100 liquid‐based ThinPrep slides with the diagnosis of HGUC having positive histology on concurrent or follow‐up biopsies within 3 months. The second cohort was 36 HGUC cases with negative histology on concurrent biopsies and within 3 months. The number of high‐grade cells (HGCs) meeting the TPS qualitative criteria were counted under the light microscope driven in a grid‐like manner.

Results

The first 100 urine samples showed five cases (5.0%) with three HGCs, three cases (3.0%) had four HGCs, five cases (5.0%) showed five HGCs, and 25 cases (25.0%) had between 6–10 HGCs. The risk of high‐grade malignancy (ROHM) in cases with five or more HGCs was 100%, whereas those with three HGCs was 60.0%. The second cohort of HGUC was considered “positive” despite a negative histology.

Conclusion

This study confirms that quantitation is an essential key to diagnose HGUC. The current TPS criterion of a minimum of five malignant cells in lower tract is robust with a ROHM of 100%. Diagnosing HGUC with less than five HGCs runs the risk of lowering the ROHM.
Improved fractional‐order hysteresis‐equivalent circuit modeling for the online adaptive high‐precision state of charge prediction of urban‐electric‐bus lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Zeng Jiawei , Wang Shunli , Cao Wen , Zhang Mengyun , Fernandez Carlos , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: August 2023

Accurate state of charge (SOC) estimation is based on a precise battery model and is the focus of the battery management system (BMS). First, based on the second‐order RC equivalent circuit model and Grunwald–Letnikov (G‐L) definition, the high‐precision fractional‐order hysteresis‐equivalent circuit model (FH‐ECM) is established considering the open‐circuit voltage hysteresis effect. Then, the global parameters of the battery model are identified using a particle swarm algorithm optimized by the genetic algorithm (GA‐PSO). Third, a fractional‐order adaptive unscented Kalman filter (FOAUKF) algorithm is derived to estimate the SOC of lithium‐ion batteries. Finally, the feasibility of the model and algorithm is verified under complex working conditions. Under the dynamic stress test (DST) condition, the accuracy of model terminal voltage has been improved by 37.83%, and the error of SOC estimation has been reduced by 11.28%. Under Beijing bus dynamic stress test (BBDST) condition, the model terminal voltage accuracy has been improved by 51.44%, and the SOC estimation error has been reduced by 35.71%. The experimental results fully confirm the accuracy of the fractional‐order hysteresis‐equivalent circuit modeling method.
Large B‐cell lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement—Fine needle biopsy—Report of a case with an atypical presentation
Authors: Barroca Helena , Marques Cristina , Soares Maria José
Published: August 2023

We describe a case of a 17‐year‐old girl with a mediastinal large B‐cell lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement (LBCL‐IRF4r) with an atypical clinical presentation in an unusual location, diagnosed by fine needle biopsy, flow cytometry and FISH. We review the literature and discuss the differential diagnosis, clinical presentation, cytological and immunophenotypical characteristics of this unique case that raises very interesting questions regarding this new entity.
Three shades of an unusual mediastinal tumour
Authors: Punjabi Lavisha S. , Lim Kah Ling , Chow Chun Yuen , Mantoo Sangeeta , Takano Angela
Published: August 2023

Thoracic SMARCA4‐deficient undifferentiated tumour (SMARCA4‐UT) is an unusual and aggressive tumour. While there are approximately 100 cases of this tumour reported in the literature, there are very few detailed descriptions of its cytomorphologic characteristics, and only rare cases in which primary diagnosis was made on cytologic material. Herein we present a case with a detailed description of the appearance on three specimen types: transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) cytology, transbronchial needle biopsy (TBNB) and effusion cytology. Thoracic SMARCA4‐UT is an important diagnosis to clinch in modern pathology because of its prognostic and therapeutic implications. We discuss an integrated approach to clinching the diagnosis with reference to clinical, radiographic, morphologic and immunohistochemical features. We also discuss possible differential diagnoses, and how they can be excluded. Cytologic and/or small biopsy diagnosis is valuable in these cases as these tumours are typically not amenable to surgical resection. With the correct diagnosis, the patient may instead be a candidate for immune checkpoint inhibitors or experimental therapy targeting SWI/SNF deficiency.
Imaging of bacterial infection: Harnessing positron emission tomography and Cherenkov luminescence imaging with UBI‐derived octapeptide
Authors: Mitra Jyotsna Bhatt , Mukherjee Archana , Kumar Anuj , Chandak Ashok , Rakshit Sutapa , Yadav Hansa D. , Pandey Badri Narain , Sarma Haladhar Dev
Published: August 2023

Noninvasive imaging techniques for the early detection of infections are in high demand. In this study, we present the development of an infection imaging agent consisting of the antimicrobial peptide fragment UBI (31–38) conjugated to the chelator 1,4,7‐triazacyclononane,1‐glutaric acid‐4,7‐acetic acid (NODAGA), which allows for labeling with the positron emitter Ga‐68. The preclinical evaluation of [68Ga]Ga–NODAGA–UBI (31–38) was conducted to investigate its potential for imaging bacterial infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. The octapeptide derived from ubiquicidin, UBI (31–38), was synthesized and conjugated with the chelator NODAGA. The conjugate was then radiolabeled with Ga‐68. The radiolabeling process and the stability of the radio formulation were confirmed through chromatography. The study included both in vitro evaluations using S. aureus and in vivo evaluations in an animal model of infection and inflammation. Positron emission tomography (PET) and Cherenkov luminescence imaging (CLI) were performed to visualize the targeted localization of the radio formulation at the site of infection. Ex vivo biodistribution studies were carried out to quantify the uptake of the radio formulation in different organs and tissues. Additionally, the uptake of [18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F] FDG) in the animal model was also studied for comparison. The [68Ga]Ga–NODAGA–UBI (31–38) complex consistently exhibited high radiochemical purity (>90%) after formulation. The complex demonstrated stability in saline, phosphate‐buffered saline, and human serum for up to 3 h. Notably, the complex displayed significantly higher uptake in S. aureus, which was inhibited in the presence of unconjugated UBI (29–41) peptide, confirming the specificity of the formulation for bacterial membranes. Bacterial imaging capability was also observed in PET and CLI images. Biodistribution results indicated a substantial target‐to‐nontarget ratio of approximately 4 at 1 h postinjection of the radio formulation. Conversely, the uptake of [18F]FDG in the animal model did not allow for the discrimination of infected and inflamed sites. Our studies have demonstrated that [68Ga]Ga–NODAGA–UBI (31–38) holds promise as a radiotracer for imaging bacterial infections caused by S. aureus.
Mesenchymal stromal cells and their small extracellular vesicles in allergic diseases: From immunomodulation to therapy
Authors: Peng Ya‐Qi , Deng Xiao‐Hui , Xu Zhi‐Bin , Wu Zi‐Cong , Fu Qing‐Ling
Published: August 2023

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have long been considered a potential tool for treatment of allergic inflammatory diseases, owing to their immunomodulatory characteristics. In recent decades, the medical utility of MSCs has been evaluated both in vitro and in vivo, providing a foundation for therapeutic applications. However, the existing limitations of MSC therapy indicate the necessity for novel therapies. Notably, small extracellular vesicles (sEV) derived from MSCs have emerged rapidly as candidates instead of their parental cells. The acquisition of abundant and scalable MSC‐sEV is an obstacle for clinical applications. The potential application of MSC‐sEV in allergic diseases has attracted increasing attention from researchers. By carrying biological microRNAs or active proteins, MSC‐sEV can modulate the function of various innate and adaptive immune cells. In this review, we summarise the recent advances in the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs in allergic diseases, the cellular sources of MSC‐sEV, and the methods for obtaining high‐quality human MSC‐sEV. In addition, we discuss the immunoregulatory capacity of MSCs and MSC‐sEV for the treatment of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, with a special emphasis on their immunoregulatory effects and the underlying mechanisms of immune cell modulation.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Synthesis of Phenanthridin‐6(5H)‐one and N‐Substituted Carbazole Derivatives through Intramolecular C‐H Arylation
Authors: Cuellar Micaela Ayelén , Heredia Micaela Denise , Brarda Guillermo , Barolo Silvia Maricel , Vázquez Eva Daniela Díaz , Uberman Paula Marina , Martín Sandra Elizabeth , Budén María Eugenia
Published: August 2023

A visible‐light‐driven approach towards phenanthridin‐6(5H)‐one and carbazole rings synthesis under transition‐metal‐free conditions is here reported. Phenanthridinones and carbazoles are synthesized through an intramolecular arylation of the corresponding N‐(2‐halobenzyl)‐N‐methylanilines or N‐substituted‐N‐phenyl anilines using KOtBu as base in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at room temperature (rt), employing blue light emitting diodes (LEDs) as the light source. The reaction proceeds through photo‐ and base‐promoted homolytic aromatic substitution via photoinduced electron transfer mechanism and it exhibits good tolerance to different functional groups, resulting in good to very good yields (up to 86 %).
TUNEL‐positive structures in activated microglia and SQSTM1/p62‐positive structures in activated astrocytes in the neurodegenerative brain of a CLN10 mouse model
Authors: Mitsui Shun , Yamaguchi Junji , Suzuki Chigure , Uchiyama Yasuo , Tanida Isei
Published: August 2023

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis is a group of pediatric neurodegenerative diseases. One of their causative genes, CLN10/CtsD, encodes cathepsin D, a major lysosomal protease. Central nervous system (CNS)‐specific CtsD‐deficient mice exhibit a neurodegenerative disease phenotype with accumulation of ceroid lipofuscins, granular osmiophilic deposits, and SQSTM1/p62. We focused on activated astrocytes and microglia in this neurodegenerative mouse brain, since there are few studies on the relationship between these accumulators and lysosomes in these glial cells. Activated microglia and astrocytes in this mouse thalamus at p24 were increased by approximately 2.5‐ and 4.6‐fold compared with the control, while neurons were decreased by approximately half. Granular osmiophilic deposits were detected in microglial cell bodies and extended their processes in the thalamus. LAMP1‐positive lysosomes, but not SQSTM1/p62 aggregates, accumulated in microglia of this mouse thalamus, whereas both lysosomes and SQSTM1/p62 aggregates accumulated in its astrocytes. TUNEL‐positive signals were observed mainly in microglia, but few were observed in neurons and astrocytes. These signals were fragmented DNA from degenerated neurons engulfed by microglia or in the lysosomes of microglia. Abnormal autophagic vacuoles also accumulated in the lysosomes of microglia. Granular osmiophilic deposit‐like structures localized to LAMP1‐positive lysosomes in CtsD‐deficient astrocytes. SQSTM1/p62‐positive but LAMP1‐negative membranous structures also accumulated in the astrocytes and were less condensed than typical granular osmiophilic deposits. These results suggest that CtsD deficiency leads to intracellular abnormalities in activated microglia and astrocytes in addition to neuronal degeneration.
Motivated to learn? Investigating the link of achievement goals and informal workplace learning of lecturers in higher education
Authors: Decius Julian , Hein Julia
Published: August 2023

Research on lecturers' achievement goals and their impact on professional learning in higher education is a topic that has assumed importance in recent years. However, previous studies have neglected the multidimensionality of informal workplace learning and ignored the differences between self‐based and social‐based informal learning. Based on the Achievement Goal Theory, we propose positive links between learning approach goals and self‐based informal learning, as well as positive links between normative goals and social‐based informal learning. Findings from a first cross‐sectional study with 317 lecturers from higher education institutions in Germany show associations that are largely consistent with our hypotheses. While learning approach goals are moderately related to self‐based informal learning, normative avoidance goals are slightly related to social‐based informal learning. In a second study, 185 lecturers from higher education institutions in Austria received three text‐based vignettes and answered a survey about which teaching‐related informal learning activities they would use in specific situations (i.e., before, during, and after the teaching phase). The results replicate most of the findings from the first study; however, the results are not stable when various control variables are included. Moreover, the associations between achievement goals and informal learning are largely consistent across the simulated semester, although lecturers with strong learning approach goals engage in self‐based informal learning particularly before and during the teaching phase. Our findings provide support for the notion that personal motivational characteristics, in the form of achievement goals, are associated with informal learning in the workplace. We conclude by discussing practical implications for those teaching in higher education.
Timing of antenatal corticosteroid administration in pregnancies with increased risk for premature birth: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pauluschke‐Fröhlich Jan , Graf Joachim , Abele Harald , Kagan Karl Oliver , Walter Michael H.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To investigate how often antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) were administered within the optimal time frame in women at risk of preterm birth (PTB) in relation to several diagnoses and risk factors.

Method

The study was designed as a retrospective cohort trial, in which the data of all births taking place in 2016 in the German federal state of Rhineland‐Palatinate were evaluated. Frequency analyses, subgroup analyses, and logistic regression were performed.

Results

Birth occurred within the ideal time frame (≥24 h, ≤7 days) in only 15.2% of all pregnant women who were treated with ACS because of an increased risk of PTB (N = 1544). The ideal time frame after ACS administration was reached in less than 25% of all cases in each subgroup, with little difference between the different diagnoses and risk factors for PTB (range 11.3%–22.2%). Patients with multiple pregnancy had a significantly higher chance for delivery within the ideal time frame. There was an odds ratio greater than 1 for a birth event within the ideal time frame in patients with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes, pre‐eclampsia, oligohydramnios, amniotic infection syndrome, and in patients with multiple diagnoses. In most diagnoses, the average time between ACS administration and birth was significantly shorter compared with patients without the diagnosis or risk factor.

Conclusion

In women at risk of PTB, the individual risk profile should first be identified before ACS management begins. The likelihood of achieving the ideal time frame additionally depends on the diagnosis.
A mechanism for analyzing and managing undergraduates' mental health based on large‐scale behavior data: AI‐based approach
Authors: Sun Shuo , Dong Yu , Li Yicong , Liu Huanhuan
Published: August 2023

Managing undergraduates' mental health is crucial for their well‐being and academic success. An artificial intelligence (AI)‐based approach using large‐scale undergraduates' behavior data can provide a mechanism for analyzing and managing undergraduates' mental health effectively. With the development of information communication technology in higher education, the daily behavior data of undergraduates is recorded in the college's database. Based on spending data in the canteen and time spent online on weekdays and weekends, Jenks natural breaks algorithm is first applied to classify features. Then, according to the feature classification results, the Apriori algorithm is used to analyze feature association to mine the behavioral characteristics that correlate with undergraduates' mental health. Finally, the inertia weight is improved based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm. Identifying, mutating, and selecting the inferior particles is added to avoid the algorithm falling into the local optimal solution. Simultaneously, a particle difference neural network model is constructed to predict undergraduates' mental health. Based on the experimental results from the undergraduates' behavior characteristics dataset, the proposed model has demonstrated superiority over traditional machine learning and deep learning models.
Transactional associations of child irritability and anxiety with parent psychological control in Taiwanese school‐aged children
Authors: Lee Ka Shu , Lebowitz Eli R. , Silverman Wendy K. , Tseng Wan‐Ling
Published: August 2023

Background

Child irritability and anxiety are associated with parent psychological control; yet their transactional relations over time are not well‐characterized at the within‐person level. Research addressing generalizability of past Western‐based literature in non‐Western, collectivist community samples is lacking.

Methods

Sample comprised 285 children aged 8.8–11.4 years (145 girls; Mage = 9.9 years, SD = 0.6) in Northern Taiwan. Participants were assessed at baseline (T1), 6‐month (T2), and 12‐month (T3) follow‐ups. Child irritability and anxiety symptoms were assessed using parent‐rated Child Behavior Checklist. Parent psychological control was assessed using the parent‐ and child‐rated Psychological Control Scale. Within‐person processes were specified using the random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel models.

Results

Models showed that psychological control predicted increased child irritability when analyzing parenting data from parents and children. However, the lagged effect from psychological control to child anxiety was only seen in parent‐rated parenting data. We found limited evidence for a back‐and‐forth transactional pathway among constructs. Child irritability predicted increased child anxiety in all models.

Conclusions

Directional effects from psychological control to child irritability and anxiety support parent‐involved interventions that prioritize collaborative parenting and positive reinforcement techniques. Future validations in combined clinical and typically developing samples and direct cross‐cultural comparisons are warranted.
Effectiveness and safety of lubiprostone after switching from stimulant laxatives in elderly patients with chronic constipation
Authors: Maruyama Masaki , Miida Suguru , Sato Toshihiro , Kimura Takazumi , Watanabe Azuma , Watanabe Hideo , Nishizawa Masafumi , Horikawa Kyohei , Kajiwara Takahiro , Karasawa Yusuke , Hasebe Yuko , Nozawa Kazutaka , Terai Shuji
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

Stimulant laxatives may cause electrolyte abnormalities, dehydration, and abdominal pain; their long‐term use can lead to tolerance and subsequent refractory constipation. We investigated the effectiveness, safety, and quality of life after switching from stimulant laxatives to lubiprostone in elderly patients with chronic constipation (CC).

Methods

This multicenter, interventional, open‐label, single‐arm, before‐and‐after comparison study enrolled 99 Japanese patients aged 65–90 years with CC who took stimulant laxatives for ≥2 weeks prior to switching to lubiprostone monotherapy.

Results

The mean ± SD spontaneous defecations at Week 1 of 7.8 ± 6.2 times/week was not significantly different from that at baseline (8.3 ± 4.7). Spontaneous defecations were significantly reduced at Weeks 2 (−1.5 ± 4.0, P < 0.001) and 4 (−1.5 ± 3.7, P < 0.001). The Bristol Stool Form Scale score did not change from baseline (4.7 ± 0.9) at Weeks 1 (4.5 ± 1.3) or 4 (4.3 ± 1.3), but it did at Week 2 (4.3 ± 1.5, P < 0.05). The Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire score increased (0.36 ± 0.07, P < 0.001) after 28 days. Nausea was the only symptom that worsened from baseline and was the most frequently reported adverse drug reaction (15.2%).

Conclusion

Switching to lubiprostone monotherapy for CC was not associated with significant concerns in short‐term spontaneous defecation frequency and safety, but it might affect the efficacy and patient quality of life over 2 weeks. Careful treatment strategies facilitating gradual switching to lubiprostone monotherapy may be needed in patients using stimulant laxatives.
Relationship Between Patient‐Friendly Audiovisual Systems and MRI Contrast Agent to Adverse Reactions
Authors: Nitta Keisuke , Matsumoto Koji , Yokota Hajime , Murata Taisuke , Masuda Yoshitada , Uno Takashi
Published: August 2023

Background

Patient‐friendly audiovisual (AV) systems in head MRI examinations can potentially reduce patient anxiety and contrast‐enhanced MRI (CE‐MRI) adverse reactions to gadolinium.

Purpose

To evaluate whether a patient‐friendly AV system reduces the rate of adverse reactions to gadolinium‐based contrast agents.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Four thousand eight hundred thirty‐two outpatients (2462 female) attending for clinical CE‐MRI studies. (Gadoteridol: 1971, Meglumine gadoterate: 2733, Gadobutrol: 128.)

Field Strength/Sequence

Routine CE‐MRI of head and neck using a 1.5 T or 3 T scanner with or without a patient‐friendly AV system.

Assessment

One thousand one hundred fifty‐nine patients were scanned on MRI machines equipped with patient‐friendly AV systems (AV group) and 3673 on MRI machines without AV systems (control group). Adverse reaction rate and symptoms were reviewed by referring to the system database and electronic medical records and compared between the two groups. Adverse reactions were defined as physiological reactions, such as vomiting and allergic‐like reactions, such as urticaria, occurring within 1 hour of contrast injection. We compare patient backgrounds, adverse reaction rate, adverse reactions symptoms and the severity between the two groups.

Statistical Tests

Adverse reaction rate with and without a patient‐friendly AV system were compared using Fisher's exact test. The relationship between patient‐friendly AV systems and the occurrence of adverse reactions was evaluated with logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Of the 4832 patients enrolled, 65 (1.35%) experienced adverse reactions. The most common adverse reactions in both groups were urticaria and pruritus. Adverse reaction rate was significantly lower in the AV group than in the control group (0.7% vs. 1.6%). No significant difference was observed in the severity (P = 1.000) of adverse reactions and symptoms (allergic‐like reaction: P = 0.08, physiologic reaction: P = 1.000) between the two groups.

Data Conclusion

The patient‐friendly AV system significantly reduce adverse reaction occurrence to gadolinium‐based contrast agents.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Intranasal insulin helps overcome brain insulin deficiency and improves survival and post‐stroke cognitive impairment in male mice
Authors: Smith Crystal J. , Sims Serena‐Kaye , Nguyen Stacy , Williams Alexus , McLeod Taylor , Sims‐Robinson Catrina
Published: August 2023

Obesity increases the risk for stroke and is associated with worse post‐stroke outcomes; however, the mechanisms are poorly understood. Diet‐induced obesity leads to insulin resistance and subsequently, brain insulin deficiency. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential impact of brain insulin deficiency on post‐stroke outcomes. To accomplish this, brain insulin levels were assessed in male C57BL/6J (B6) mice placed on either a standard diet or 54% kcal high‐fat diet, a known model of insulin resistance. Mice were subjected to either a sham surgery (control) or 30‐min middle cerebral artery occlusion to induce an ischemic stroke and administered either intranasal saline (0.9%) or intranasal insulin (1.75 U) twice daily for 5 days beginning on day 1 post‐stroke. High‐fat diet‐induced brain insulin deficiency was associated with increased mortality, neurological and cognitive deficits. On the other hand, increasing brain insulin levels via intranasal insulin improved survival, neurological and cognitive function in high‐fat diet mice. Our data suggests that brain insulin deficiency correlates with worse post‐stroke outcomes in a diet‐induced mouse model of insulin resistance and increasing brain insulin levels may be a therapeutic target to improve stroke recovery.
Advice for improving the reproducibility of data extraction in meta‐analysis
Authors: Ivimey‐Cook Edward R. , Noble Daniel W. A. , Nakagawa Shinichi , Lajeunesse Marc J. , Pick Joel L.
Published: August 2023

Extracting data from studies is the norm in meta‐analyses, enabling researchers to generate effect sizes when raw data are otherwise not available. While there has been a general push for increased reproducibility in meta‐analysis, the transparency and reproducibility of the data extraction phase is still lagging behind. Unfortunately, there is little guidance of how to make this process more transparent and shareable. To address this, we provide several steps to help increase the reproducibility of data extraction in meta‐analysis. We also provide suggestions of R software that can further help with reproducible data policies: the shinyDigitise and juicr packages. Adopting the guiding principles listed here and using the appropriate software will provide a more transparent form of data extraction in meta‐analyses.
Effect of sulfur fertilization on the composition, functionality, and protein quality of navy beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Authors: Deushi Rui , Shi Dai , Stone Andrea K. , Wang YiXiao , Coutinho Gabriela S. M. , House James D. , Hou Anfu , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: August 2023

Background

Soil sulfur deficiency leads to reduced crop yield and quality loss, which is especially critical for pulses as sulfur is a major component of methionine and cysteine. The present research evaluated the influence of sulfur fertilization on two varieties of navy beans grown at soil sulfur levels of 17, 26, 35, and 44 kg/ha by analyzing their composition, functionality, and protein quality.

Results

Increasing the soil application of sulfur did not affect the protein content of the test navy bean flours. Methionine, cysteine, and tryptophan were limiting, and their concentrations were not enhanced by sulfur fertilization nor was protein digestibility. The oil holding capacity and emulsion stability were different among sulfur treatments; however, no clear trend was observed.

Conclusion

Sulfur fertilization had only a minimal effect on the quality attributes of navy beans, possibly due to a combined effect of environmental factors that limited the plant's response to sulfur supply. Despite the limited change, the findings underlined the possible role of the environment (e.g., location, crop year, and other variables) in determining the sulfur fertilization response of navy beans and provided valuable insight for researchers to further investigate the topic and optimize navy bean production and quality.
Qualitative and quantitative studies on chemical constituents of Ling‐gui‐zhu‐gan decoction: In vitro and in vivo
Authors: Li Siyue , Gao Yutong , Wang Xue , Wang Zhe , Li Nan , Shang Yonglin , Han Fei , Yu Jia
Published: August 2023

Ling‐gui‐zhu‐gan decoction has significant therapeutic effects in the treatment of diseases related to phlegm and fluid retention. In this study, we aimed to qualitatively characterize the chemical constituents of Ling‐gui‐zhu‐gan decoction in vitro and in vivo by HPLC coupled to Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance MS, and quantitively determine the contents of typical chemical constituents by HPLC method. As a result, a total of 75 chemical constituents were discovered including 37 flavonoids and their glycosides, 20 saponins, 9 sterols, 3 organic acids and their derivatives, 3 lactones, 2 coumarins, and 1 alcohol. Among them, 17 chemical constituents were specifically identified. Subsequently, an HPLC method was established for simultaneous determination of seven chemical constituents. Finally, a total of 40 prototype components were initially detected by HPLC‐MS method in the biological samples of rats after their water extract was orally administrated. Among them, 29, 27, 12, and 32 prototype components were detected in plasma, bile, urine, and feces, respectively. Moreover, 34 metabolites, including 16 phase II metabolites, were detected for the first time. In conclusion, this study lays the foundation for the identification of chemical components in vitro and in vivo and the elucidation of the potential pharmacodynamic components of Ling‐gui‐zhu‐gan decoction.
Synergistic Effect and Electrical Properties of Microporous Liquid Metal/Carbon Nanotube Polymer Sponge
Authors: Xin Yumeng , Lou Yang , Mao Xiyue , Jia Xuemeng , Li Ruiguang , Yu Ping , Ban Xinxin
Published: August 2023

Sensing sponge materials with light weight, high elasticity, and electrical sensing properties are in enormous demand in electronic fields, but there is an imminent need to develop a scalable and facile method for the manufacture of the sensing material. Herein, an efficient in situ polymerization and convenient preparation process is reported to manufacture the microporous liquid metal/carbon nanotube‐polysulfide rubber (LM/CNT‐PSR) sponges with excellent mechanical and electrical properties, based on fluidic LMs and rigid CNTs with unique synergistic effect for sponge composites. Excellent mechanical properties of LM/CNT‐PSR sponges, such as low density, excellent elasticity, remarkable mechanical recoverability, and self‐healing property, are endowed by the interconnected microporous structure of sponge and flexible polysulfide rubber matrix with disulfide bonds. In addition, the synergistic effect of LMs and CNTs leads to excellent conductivity and unique electrical sensing property under mechanical pressure. Microporous LM/CNT‐PSR sponges with high performance and simple fabrication process are promising sensing materials for various electronic devices, such as human motion monitoring, and weighing sensing.
High Cycle‐Life Twistocaloric Cooling of Poly‐p‐Phenylene Benzodioxole Fibers
Authors: Feng Danyang , Xiao Yicheng , Wang Ge , Mei Guangkai , Guo Wenjin , Yu Kaiqing , Liu Shiyong , Zhao Weiqiang , Zhou Xiang , Liu Zunfeng
Published: August 2023

It is an urgent need to develop efficient solid state cooling technologies and materials with high cycle life. Poly‐p‐phenylene benzodioxole (PBO) is a high performance fiber with excellent mechanical properties. In this work, for the first time, elasto‐ and twistocaloric cooling of PBO fibers by stretching and twisting of the PBO fiber bundles is reported. The cooling temperature reaches −0.4 and −1.3 K, for fiber stretching and twisting, respectively. A self‐coiled PBO fiber achieves maximum cooling of −3.7 K upon stretching by 35% strain, with an exceptionally high cycle life of 200 000 times. During the twisting of the PBO fibers, reversible changes in the intensity of the diffraction peaks in X‐ray diffraction patterns are observed. A strain‐sensitive color change application is realized by coating a self‐coiled PBO fiber with liquid crystallite dyes. This work provides new perspectives for PBO fibers as a high cycle‐life solid‐state refrigeration material.
Emulsion‐Directed Synthesis of Poly‐Porphyrin Nanoparticles as Heterogeneous Photocatalysts for PET‐RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Xie Peng , Yan Weifeng , Ji Hongyu , He Haochen , Zhang Liangshun , Cao Hongliang
Published: August 2023

Heterogeneous photocatalysts have attracted extensive attention in photo‐induced electron transfer‐reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization due to their remarkable advantages such as easy preparation, tunable photoelectric properties, and recyclability. In this study, zinc (II) 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)porphyrin (ZnTAPP)‐based poly‐porphyrin nanoparticles (PTAPP‐Zn) are constructed by an emulsion‐directed approach. It is investigated as a heterogeneous photocatalyst for PET‐RAFT polymerization of various methacrylate monomers under visible light exposure, and the reactions show refined polymerization control with high monomer conversions. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the PTAPP‐Zn nanoparticles with the larger pore size enhance photocatalytic activity in PET‐RAFT polymerization. In addition, the capabilities of oxygen tolerance and temporal control are demonstrated and PTAPP‐Zn particles can be easily recycled and reused without an obvious decrease in catalytic efficiency.
The Synergistic Effects between Liquid Crystal and Crystalline Phase on Photo‐Responsive Elastomers toward Quick Photo‐Responsive Performance
Authors: Wu Xudong , Yuan Ye , Zhao Shiwei , Lei Yuan , Fu Xiaowei , Lei Jingxin , Jiang Liang
Published: August 2023

Adopting only a small amount of azobenzene molecular to design liquid crystal photo‐responsive materials capable of quick response and flexible adjustability is in high demand but is challenging. Herein, azobenzenemolecules into polyurethane elastomer containing crystalline structure for preparing azobenzene liquid‐crystal elastomers (ALCEs) are demonstrated and this phenomenon of the synergistic effects between liquid crystal and crystalline phase is discovered. The key point of the work is that the synthetic ALCEs can utilize the reversible isomerism capability of azobenzene molecules under light irradiation, which can pry the motion of the macromolecular crystalline region in system to realize the large macroscopic deformation of the photo‐responsive behavior. Obviously, the ALCEs sample containing azobenzene molecule and polyethylene glycol crystallization can quickly bend, illuminated by ultraviolet light and rapidly straighten under green light. Under the same ultraviolet irradiation, the bending speed, final bending angle, recovery rate and recovery ratio of ALCEs are larger than that of ALCEs without any crystalline structure. This ALCEs based on the synergistic effects between liquid crystal and crystalline phase can break through the current dilemma that the application of traditional azobenzene photo‐responsive materials is limited by their concentration, greatly expanding the design thought and their scope of application.
Development of novel ligands against SARS‐CoV‐2 Mpro enzyme: an in silico and in vitro Study
Authors: Kaboudi Navid , Krüger Nadine , Hamzeh‐Mivehroud Maryam
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite tremendous efforts made by scientific community during the outbreak of COVID‐19 pandemic, this disease still remains as a public health concern. Although different types of vaccines were globally used to reduce the mortality, emergence of new variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 is a challenging issue in COVID‐19 pharmacotherapy. In this context, target therapy of SARS‐CoV‐2 by small ligands is a promising strategy. Methods: In this investigation, we applied ligand‐based virtual screening for finding novel molecules based on nirmatrelvir structure. Various criteria including drug‐likeness, ADME, and toxicity properties were applied for filtering the compounds. The selected candidate molecules were subjected to molecular docking and dynamics simulation for predicting the binding mode and binding free energy, respectively. Then the molecules were experimentally evaluated in terms of antiviral activity against SARS‐CoV‐2 and toxicity assessment. Results: The results demonstrated that the identified compounds showed inhibitory activity towards SARS‐CoV‐2 Mpro. Conclusion: In summary, the introduced compounds may provide novel scaffold for further structural modification and optimization with improved anti SARS‐CoV‐2 Mpro activity.
Implementing the slice method to evaluate lateral pile capacity in cohesive soil
Authors: Gans‐Or Tomer , Pinkert Shmulik
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a novel method for evaluating the resistance factor used for the estimation of lateral pile capacity in cohesive soil. The developed method uses limit equilibrium and mobilized strength principles, which are implemented on the half‐symmetric problem using a modification of the traditional slice method. The soil medium is discretized into a polar numerical grid, allowing sliplines investigation independently of geometrical shape assumptions. The paper presents the development of the SLIP (Snake Locomotion Iterative Procedure) optimization method, which enables an effective and efficient search of the critical slipline out of all slipline geometries that can be generated within the numerical grid. The SLIP iteratively updates the evaluated optimal slipline, according to the criterion of minimizing the pile resistance factor, N. The obtained solutions are consistent with previous plasticity results, with special attention to the smooth pile solution which is bounded between the best lower‐ and upper‐bounds solutions to date. The work utilizes safety map principles to prove the uniqueness of the solution.
Accurate bidiagonal decomposition of Lagrange–Vandermonde matrices and applications
Authors: Marco Ana , Martínez José‐Javier , Viaña Raquel
Published: August 2023

Lagrange–Vandermonde matrices are the collocation matrices corresponding to Lagrange‐type bases, obtained by removing the denominators from each element of a Lagrange basis. It is proved that, provided the nodes required to create the Lagrange‐type basis and the corresponding collocation matrix are properly ordered, such matrices are strictly totally positive. A fast algorithm to compute the bidiagonal decomposition of these matrices to high relative accuracy is presented. As an application, the problems of eigenvalue computation, linear system solving and inverse computation are solved in an efficient and accurate way for this type of matrices. Moreover, the proposed algorithms allow to solve fastly and to high relative accuracy some of the cited problems when the involved matrices are collocation matrices corresponding to the standard Lagrange basis, although such collocation matrices are not totally positive. Numerical experiments illustrating the good performance of our approach are also included.
Hygrothermal resistance of large tow carbon fiber and its reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Kong Deao , Shi Jiajun , Dong Shaoce , Li Chenggao , Hong Bin , Xian Guijun
Published: August 2023

Large tow carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has been used to reinforce structures serving in hygrothermal conditions, which can be greatly affected by hygrothermal conditions. In this study, the hygrothermal resistance of 48K and 12K carbon fibers and their CFRPs immersed in deionized water at 25, 40, and 60°C were analyzed and compared. The sizing agent on the carbon fiber surface was deboned or hydrolyzed after immersion, resulting in a reduction in the tensile strength, an increase in dispersion, and a decrease in surface activity for carbon fibers. The retention rate of tensile strength of 48K CFRP was higher than 89.7% but was less than that of 12K CFRP due to the higher dispersion of 48K fiber filaments. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of 48K CFRP was greater than 12K CFRP due to the higher fiber surface activity of 48K carbon fibers and the stronger obstructing effect of 48K fiber tows on the diffusion of water. The degrees of post‐curing and hydrolysis of CFRP were less than 10%. The degradation of the fiber‐matrix interface and a decrease in the strength and elastic modulus of the matrix led to the degradation of the tensile properties, ILSS, and Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of CFRP.

Highlights

Debonding of sizing agent reduced the strength of the carbon fiber filaments.

Degrees of hydrolysis and post‐curing of the matrix caused by immersion were low.

Retentions of ILSS and fracture toughness of 48K CFRP were higher than 12K CFRP.

48K fiber tow possessed a stronger obstructing effect on water diffusion.
Investigation and characterization of dielectric, thermal, and chemical properties of recycledhigh‐density polyethyleneblended with virginpolyethylene
Authors: Shirzaei Sani Iman , Demarquette Nicole R. , David Eric
Published: August 2023

Dielectric performance of post‐consumer recycled HDPE blended with virgin HDPE was investigated to evaluate the possibility of using these materials for the insulation of electrical wires and cables. The presence of organic and inorganic impurities was investigated using thermal and chemical methods (TGA, DSC, and EDX). The characterization of impurities revealed different amount of inorganic impurities in recycled material that was depending on the execution of melt filtration by the recycler to prepare the recycled material. Higher values of both dielectric losses and dielectric constant were observed for post‐consumer recycled PE, with the dielectric loss of recycled material almost 17 times higher than the one of virgin PE at power frequency (60 Hz). The short‐term breakdown strength of post‐consumer recycled HDPE was observed to be slightly lower than that of virgin PE. The experimental result showed that blending the recycled stream with virgin materials was effective in order to enhance dielectric properties of recycled material. In this regards, dielectric losses decreased by almost 50% when 50% of virgin HDPE was added to the recycled material. In addition, breakdown strength was improved when virgin HDPE was added.