bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breaking Radial Dipole Symmetry in Planar Macrocycles Modulates Edge‐to‐Edge Packing and Disrupts Cofacial Stacking
Authors: Li Yan , Castillo Henry D. , Dobscha James R. , Morgan Amanda R. , Tait Steven L. , Flood Amar H.
Published: November 2023

Dipolar interactions are ever‐present in supramolecular architectures, though their impact is typically revealed by making dipoles stronger. While it is also possible to assess the role of dipoles by altering their orientations by using synthetic design, doing so without altering the molecular shape is not straightforward. We have now done this by flipping one triazole unit in a rigid macrocycle, tricarb. The macrocycle is composed of three carbazoles (2 Debye) and three triazoles (5 Debye) defining an array of dipoles aligned radially but organized alternately in and out. These dipoles are believed to dictate edge‐to‐edge tiling and face‐to‐face stacking. We modified our synthesis to prepare isosteric macrocycles with the orientation of one triazole dipole rotated 40°. The new dipole orientation guides edge‐to‐edge contacts to reorder the stability of two surface‐bound 2D polymorphs. The impact on dipole‐enhanced π stacking, however, was unexpected. Our stacking model identified an unchanged set of short‐range (3.4 Å) anti‐parallel dipole contacts. Despite this situation, the reduction in self‐association was attributed to long‐range (~6.4 Å) dipolar repulsions between π‐stacked macrocycles. This work highlights our ability to control the build‐up and symmetry of macrocyclic skeletons by synthetic design, and the work needed to further our understanding of how dipoles control self‐assembly.
Synthesis of π‐Conjugated Chiral Aza/Boracyclophanes with a meta and para Substitution
Authors: Zhang Kai , Hao Mengyao , Jin Tianyun , Shi Yafei , Tian Guoqing , Li Chenglong , Ma Hongwei , Zhang Niu , Li Quansong , Chen Pangkuan
Published: November 2023

We herein describe the synthesis of a new class of axially chiral aza/boracyclophanes (BDN1, BXN1, BDB1 and BXB1) using binaphthyls as chiral building blocks and the main‐group (B/N) chemistry with tunable electronic effects. All macrocycles substituted with triarylamine donors or triarylborane acceptors are strongly luminescent. These macrocycles showed two distinct meta and para π‐conjugation pathways, leading to the formation of quasi figure‐of‐eight and square‐shaped conformations. Interestingly, comparison of such structural models revealed that the former type of macrocycles BXN1 and BXB1 gave higher racemization barriers relative to the other ones. The results reported here may provide a new approach to engineer the optical stability of π‐conjugated chiral macrocycles by controlling π‐substitution patterns. The ring constraints induced by macrocyclization were also demonstrated to contribute to the configurational persistence as compared with the open‐chain analogues p‐BTT and m‐BTT.
Diagnostic terminology for benign/low‐risk tumors on renal cytology
Authors: Renshaw Andrew A. , Pitman Martha B.
Published: November 2023

Biopsy of benign and low‐risk tumors of the kidney can be grouped into three distinct categories with different levels of risk, and the suggested diagnoses of these tumors should be tailored to their respective category.
Nectar robbing by bees affects the reproductive fitness of the distylous plant Tirpitzia sinensis (Linaceae)
Authors: Wang Xiaoyue , Yao Renxiu , Lv Xiaoqin , Yi Yin , Tang Xiaoxin
Published: November 2023

Nectar robbing can affect plant reproductive success directly by influencing female and male fitness, and indirectly by affecting pollinator behavior. Flowers have morphological and chemical features that may protect them from nectar robbers. Previous studies on nectar robbing have focused mainly on homotypic plants. It remains unclear how nectar robbing affects the reproductive success of distylous plants, and whether defense strategies of two morphs are different. Nectar‐robbing rates on the long‐ and short‐styled morph (L‐morph, S‐morph) of the distylous Tirpitzia sinensis were investigated. We compared floral traits, the temporal pattern of change in nectar volume and sugar concentration, nectar secondary metabolites, and sugar composition between robbed and unrobbed flowers of two morphs. We tested direct effects of nectar robbing on female and male components of plant fitness and indirect effects of nectar robbing via pollinators. Nectar‐robbing rates did not differ between the two morphs. Flowers with smaller sepals and petals were more easily robbed. The floral tube diameter and thickness were greater in L‐morphs than in S‐morphs, and the nectar rob holes were significantly smaller in L‐morphs than in S‐morphs. Nectar robbing significantly decreased nectar replenishment rate but did not affect nectar sugar concentration or sugar composition. After robbery, the quantities and diversity of secondary compounds in the nectar of S‐morphs increased significantly and total relative contents of secondary compounds in L‐morphs showed no obvious changes. Nectar robbing could decrease female fitness by decreasing pollen germination rate and thus decreasing seed set. Nectar robbing had no significant effects on male fitness. Robbed flowers were less likely to be visited by hawkmoth pollinators, especially in S‐morphs. These results suggest that nectar robbing could directly and indirectly decrease the female fitness of T. sinensis, and different morphs have evolved different defense mechanisms in response to nectar‐robbing pressure.
Fibroblast growth factor 23 independently predicts adverse outcomes after an acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Kallmeyer Andrea , Pello Ana , Cánovas Ester , Aceña Álvaro , González‐Casaus María Luisa , Tarín Nieves , Cristóbal Carmen , Gutiérrez‐Landaluce Carlos , Huelmos Ana , Rodríguez‐Valer Aida , González‐Lorenzo Óscar , Alonso Joaquín , López‐Bescós Lorenzo , Egido Jesús , Mahillo Ignacio , Lorenzo Óscar , Tuñón José
Published: November 2023

Aims

Abnormalities of mineral metabolism (MM) have been related to cardiovascular disorders. There are no reports on the prognostic role of MM after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We aim to assess the prognostic role of MM after an ACS.

Methods and results

Plasma levels of components of MM [fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), calcidiol, parathormone, klotho, and phosphate], high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, and N‐terminal‐pro‐brain natriuretic peptide were measured in 1190 patients at discharge from an ACS. The primary outcome was a combination of acute ischaemic events, heart failure (HF) and death. Secondary outcomes were the separate components of the primary outcome. Age was 61.7 ± 12.2 years, and 77.1% were men. Median follow‐up was 5.44 (3.03–7.46) years. Two hundred and ninety‐four patients developed the primary outcome. At multivariable analysis FGF23 (hazard ratio, HR 1.18 [1.08–1.29], P < 0.001), calcidiol (HR 0.86 [0.74–1.00], P = 0.046), previous coronary or cerebrovascular disease, and hypertension were independent predictors of the primary outcome. The predictive power of FGF23 was homogeneous across different subgroups of population. FGF23 (HR 1.45 [1.28–1.65], P < 0.001) and parathormone (HR 1.06 1.01–1.12]; P = 0.032) resulted as independent predictors of HF. FGF23 (HR 1.21 [1.07–1.37], P = 0.002) and calcidiol (HR 0.72 [0.54–0.97), P = 0.028) were independent predictors of death. No biomarker predicted acute ischaemic events. FGF23 predicted independently the primary outcome in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Conclusions

FGF23 and other components of MM are independent predictors of HF and death after an ACS. This effect is homogeneous across different subgroups of population, and it is not limited to patients with chronic kidney disease.
An improved slip‐wall model for large eddy simulation and its implementation in the local domain‐free discretization method
Authors: Zhang D. , Zhou C. H.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a slip‐wall model for large eddy simulation (LES) is improved and implemented in an immersed boundary method named the local domain‐free discretization (DFD) method. Considering that the matching location may be in the viscous sublayer, the physics‐based interpretation of a Robin‐type wall closure is complemented. Then, the slip‐wall wall model is improved, in which the slip length is redefined and the Robin boundary condition is imposed at the solid wall. The improved slip‐wall model is implemented in the local DFD method to evaluated the tangential velocity at an exterior dependent node, and then the requirement on high resolution of boundary layers can be alleviated. The non‐equilibrium effects are accounted for by adding an explicit correction to the wall shear stress. In order to validate the present wall‐modeled LES/DFD method, a series of turbulent channel flows at various Reynolds numbers, the flow over periodic hills and the flows over a NACA 4412 airfoil at a high Reynolds number are simulated. The predicted results agree well with the referenced experimental data and numerical results. Especially, the results of the separated flow over the airfoil at a near‐stall condition demonstrate the performance of the present wall‐modeled LES/DFD method for complex flows.
Rethinking cancer initiation: The role of large‐scale mutational events
Authors: Shah Amil
Published: November 2023

Cancer initiation is revisited in light of recent discoveries in cancer pathogenesis. Of note is the detection of mutated cancer genes in benign conditions. More significantly, somatic clones, which harbor mutations in cancer genes, arise in normal tissues from early development through adulthood, but seldom do they transform into cancer. Further, clustered mutational events—kataegis, chromothripsis and chromoplexy—are widespread in cancer, generating point mutations and chromosomal rearrangements in a single cellular catastrophe. These observations are contrary to the prevailing somatic mutation theory, which states that a cancer is caused by the gradual accumulation of mutations over time. A different perspective is proposed within the framework of Waddington's epigenetic landscape wherein tumorigenesis is viewed primarily as a disruption of cell development. Cell types are defined by their specific gene‐expression profiles, determined by the gene regulatory network, and can be regarded as attractor states of the network dynamics: they represent specific, self‐stabilizing patterns of gene activities across the genome. However, large‐scale mutational events reshape the landscape topology, creating abnormal “unphysiological” attractors. This is the crux of the process of initiation. Initiation primes the cell for conversion into a tumor phenotype by oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, which drive cell proliferation and clonal diversification. This view of tumorigenesis calls for a different approach to therapy.
Characterizing systemic physiological effects on the blood oxygen level dependent signal of resting‐state fMRI in time‐frequency space using wavelets
Authors: Lee Quimby N. , Chen Jingyuan E. , Wheeler Gregory J. , Fan Audrey P.
Published: November 2023

Systemic physiological dynamics, such as heart rate variability (HRV) and respiration volume per time (RVT), are known to account for significant variance in the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI). However, synchrony between these cardiorespiratory changes and the BOLD signal could be due to neuronal (i.e., autonomic activity inducing changes in heart rate and respiration) or vascular (i.e., cardiorespiratory activity facilitating hemodynamic changes and thus the BOLD signal) effects and the contributions of these effects may differ spatially, temporally, and spectrally. In this study, we characterize these brain–body dynamics using a wavelet analysis in rapidly sampled rsfMRI data with simultaneous pulse oximetry and respiratory monitoring of the Human Connectome Project. Our time–frequency analysis across resting‐state networks (RSNs) revealed differences in the coherence of the BOLD signal and heartbeat interval (HBI)/RVT dynamics across frequencies, with unique profiles per network. Somatomotor (SMN), visual (VN), and salience (VAN) networks demonstrated the greatest synchrony with both systemic physiological signals when compared to other networks; however, significant coherence was observed in all RSNs regardless of direct autonomic involvement. Our phase analysis revealed distinct frequency profiles of percentage of time with significant coherence between BOLD and systemic physiological signals for different phase offsets across RSNs, suggesting that the phase offset and temporal order of signals varies by frequency. Lastly, our analysis of temporal variability of coherence provides insight on potential influence of autonomic state on brain–body communication. Overall, the novel wavelet analysis enables an efficient characterization of the dynamic relationship between cardiorespiratory activity and the BOLD signal in spatial, temporal, and spectral dimensions to inform our understanding of autonomic states and improve our interpretation of the BOLD signal.
The involvement of calcium in the toxic effect of 4‐methylethcathinone on SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Zhang Wei , Cao Fangqi , Li Ming , Xu Zhiwen , Sun Jing , Huang Zhiwei , Shi Ping
Published: November 2023

Neurotoxicity induced by psychoactive substances is often accompanied by an imbalance of intracellular calcium ions. It is unclear whether calcium ions play a role in the toxicity induced by psychoactive substances. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the occurrence of calcium dysregulation and its contribution to cytotoxicity in human neurotypic SH‐SY5Y cells challenged with a recently developed psychoactive substance 4‐methylethcathinone (4‐MEC). An increase in the intracellular calcium was detected by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and Fluo‐3 AM dye in SH‐SY5Y cells after being treated with 4‐MEC. The increase of intracellular Ca2+ level mediated G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and ROS/endoplasmic reticulum stress‐autophagy signaling pathways to achieve the toxicity of 4‐MEC. In particular, N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, a classical antioxidant, was found to be a potential treatment for 4‐MEC‐induced toxicity. Taken together, our results demonstrate that an increase in intracellular calcium content is one of the mechanisms of 4‐MEC‐induced toxicity. This study provides a molecular basis for the toxicity mechanism and therapeutic intervention of psychoactive substances.
Snyre for your nasal congestion: Using phonesthemes to imbue non‐word brand names with meaning
Authors: Brennan Stacey , Ilicic Jasmina , Danziger Shai
Published: November 2023

A brand name is a fundamental component of a brand's identity. This research introduces a novel linguistic tool for brand name creation: phonesthemes—sound and spelling letter clusters that are associated with one dominant meaning. For instance, sn, one of over 140 phonesthemes in English, consistently appears in words related to the nose or breathing (sneeze, sniff, snort). Six experiments reveal positive effects of phonesthemic non‐word brand names (e.g., Glif; gl‐; e.g., glow, glimmer; meaning “light”) on consumer preference, attitude, purchase intent, and choice when the dominant meaning activated by the phonestheme is semantically congruent with the product category or product attribute (e.g., luminant car wax), due to enhanced processing fluency. Phonological (sound) and orthographic (spelling) priming are eliminated as alternative explanations for the phenomenon. This research advances psycholinguistic research in marketing and the emerging area of brand linguistics by broadening the focus beyond brand name phonology.
Creation and beta testing of a “choose your own adventure” digital simulation to reinforce motivational interviewing skills in genetic counseling
Authors: Cragun Deborah L. , Hunt Paige Phillips , Dean Marleah , Zierhut Heather , Kaphingst Kimberly , Resnicow Kenneth
Published: November 2023

Standardized patients and/or role‐playing are commonly used for practicing genetic counseling (GC) skills. Use of digital simulation, incorporating gamification elements, would require fewer resources to sustain than standardized patients. This manuscript reports steps taken and the lessons learned from creating a digital “Choose your own adventure” simulation in which students select preferred dialog for a genetic counselor who is seeing an adult patient to discuss genetic testing for the known pathogenic variant that caused familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) in their father. The case has three endings, one of which is attained by selecting options that are mostly consistent with motivational interviewing counseling techniques. We conducted a preliminary evaluation of our beta version among nine GC students and one educator using a survey to assess acceptability and appropriateness as well as to elicit open‐ended feedback. All participants agreed or strongly agreed with statements indicating the case was acceptable, appropriate, and fun. Users particularly appreciated the immediate feedback given throughout the case simulation. Many users wanted more options to select from and listed various other recommendations, including several which would require substantial resources to implement.
Improvement of dyspeptic symptoms after Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy in Japanese patients
Authors: Iwata Eri , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Murata Masaki , Morino Yuko , Akimoto Yoshika , Hamada Mariko , Niikura Ryota , Nagata Naoyoshi , Kawai Takashi
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy effectively improves the abdominal symptoms and bowel habits of patients. Patients in whom dyspepsia is under control by 6 to 12 months after successful H. pylori eradication are defined as having H. pylori‐associated dyspepsia, and patients with dyspepsia that is refractory to successful eradication are defined as having functional dyspepsia. Here, we aimed to investigate the association between H. pylori eradication and improvement of dyspepsia in the short and long term after eradication therapy.

Methods

Dyspeptic symptoms before treatment and at 2 and 12 months after eradication were evaluated using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) in 282 H. pylori‐positive Japanese patients who underwent eradication therapy.

Results

Of the Japanese H. pylori‐positive patients, 48.2% (136/282) had upper abdominal symptoms. Eradication improved dyspepsia in 34.5% (47/136) of the patients at 2 months post eradication, which continued to be under control up to 12 months. A significant decrease at 2 and 12 months after eradication, compared with before eradication, was observed in total GSRS (from 25.7 ± 10.4 [before eradication, n = 249] to 23.3 ± 7.2 [after 2 months, n = 249] and 24.8 ± 7.8 [after 12 months, n = 81]; P = 0.014 and 0.321, respectively), gastric pain score (from 4.1 ± 1.9 to 3.7 ± 1.3 and 3.7 ± 1.2; P = 0.025 and 0.047), and constipation score (from 5.9 ± 3.1 to 5.2 ± 2.3 and 5.9 ± 3.0; P < 0.021 and 0.862).

Conclusion

H. pylori‐positive dyspepsia patients should be recommended to undergo H. pylori eradication to alleviate dyspepsia‐associated symptoms.
Impact of anticancer drugs on the therapeutic efficacy and side effects of hepatic arterial embolization for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ihira Hironobu , Sonomura Tetsuo , Makitani Ayano , Makitani Kazuhiro , Fukuda Kodai , Tanaka Ryota , Koyama Takao , Sato Hirotatsu , Wan Ke , Ueno Masaki , Ida Yoshiyuki , Kawai Nobuyuki , Minamiguchi Hiroki
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) using various anticancer drugs is often performed to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy and side effects of TACE with anticancer drugs versus transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) without anticancer drugs for HCC.

Methods

Patients with HCC were randomized to either the TACE or TAE group. Up to five target nodules were treated in each patient. Lipiodol (Lp; 10 mL), contrast media (CM; 10 mL), epirubicin (40 mg), mitomycin C (10 mg), miliplatin (70 mg), and 1–2‐mm 2‐day soluble gelatin sponge particles (2D‐SGS) were injected into the TACE group, whereas Lp (10 mL), CM (10 mL), and 2D‐SGS were injected into the TAE group. Treatment effect (TE) of the target nodules was graded (TE1–TE4) and patient responses were assessed. Three months after treatment, blood tests were performed to compare tumor markers and adverse events.

Results

Fifty‐four patients and 161 target nodules were included; 75 nodules in 28 patients were treated by TACE, and 86 nodules in 26 patients were treated by TAE. The number of nodules graded TE1, TE2, TE3, and TE4 was 1, 28, 7, and 39, respectively, in the TACE group and 2, 25, 7, and 52, respectively, in the TAE group. The response rates were 89% (25/28) and 73% (19/26) in the TACE and TAE groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in TE, response rates, or blood test results between the two groups.

Conclusion

In hepatic arterial embolization for HCC, anticancer drugs did not have any impact on the therapeutic efficacy or side effects at 3 months after embolization.
Identification of Myocardial Scarring Using Contrast‐Free Cardiac MRI in Patients With Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Li Xiao , Guo Yubo , Lin Lu , Wang Yue , Liu Peijun , Wang Qian , Chen Wei , Wang Wenji , Xia Qing , Huang Ning , Eresen Aydin , Zhang Zhuoli , Jin Zhengyu , Wang Yining
Published: November 2023

Background

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac MRI is the method of choice in revealing the presence of myocardial scarring, but its availability remains limited in clinical practice.

Purpose

To assess myocardial scarring in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) using contrast‐free cardiac MRI with a radiomics model.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

One hundred ninety‐two patients (mean age, 41 years ± 15, 62 men) with or without ARDs, grouped into a training set of 153 patients and a testing set of 39 patients.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/ cine imaging with a balanced steady‐state free precession sequence, T1 mapping with a modified Look‐Locker inversion recovery sequence, and LGE imaging with a phase‐sensitive inversion recovery gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

LGE assessment was the reference standard for identifying myocardial scarring. Based on motion features extracted from cine images and tissue characterization features extracted from native T1 maps, a fully automated radiomics model with T1, cine MRI, or combined inputs was developed.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression model was used to detect myocardial scarring using contrast‐free cardiac MRI parameters. Receiver operating characteristic curves were analyzed to assess the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in detecting myocardial scarring. Sensitivities of the models were further assessed in patients with various myocardial scarring proportions. Z‐statistic and dice coefficient were assessed to compare the performance. P‐values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The multivariable regression model exhibited an accuracy of 85.3%, a sensitivity of 93.5%, and a specificity of 50.0%. The radiomics model with T1 and cine MRI input exhibited an accuracy of 75.7%, a sensitivity of 60.9%, and a specificity of 85.5%. Moreover, the radiomics model showed a sensitivity of 90.9% among patients with >25% myocardial scarring.

Data Conclusions

The proposed radiomics model allowed for the identification of myocardial scarring similar to LGE, but on contrast‐free cardiac MRI in patients with ARDs.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Fast saliva analysis by GC–MS with Cold EI and Open Probe Fast GC–MS with Cold EI for the detection of cannabis usage
Authors: Elkabets Oneg , Neumark Benny , Amirav Aviv
Published: November 2023

Saliva is a body fluid that is much easier to collect and analyze than blood. Thus, saliva analysis for the detection of delta 9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 9‐THC) can serve as a tool for law enforcement agents to detect cannabis consumption by drivers. Fast saliva analysis for the presence of delta 9‐THC and/or cannabidiol (CBD) is described with both gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) with Cold electron ionization (EI) with good separation and in 10 min and/or with Open Probe Fast GC–MS with Cold EI in under 1 min full analysis cycle time. Saliva was taken directly from donors' tongues on a thin glass rod that was used “as is” for analysis. The saliva was thermally desorbed with a modified ChromatoProbe device inside the gas chromatograph (GC) injector and in an Open Probe (Agilent name QuickProbe) for its sub‐1‐min analysis. Cold EI is based on coupling of the GC and mass spectrometer (MS) with a supersonic molecular beam and on EI of vibrationally cold sample molecules during their flight through a contact‐free ion source (thereby named Cold EI). A revised type of Open Probe Fast GC–MS on the bench is also described. Our saliva analysis was characterized by:

Saliva can be collected in the field and transported to the lab for analyses “as is” without any sample preparation.

Easy detection of cannabis consumption from cigarettes and/or other cannabis products.

Distinction between the isomers delta 9‐THC and CBD.

Ultra‐fast analysis in under 1 min using Open Probe Fast GC–MS with Cold EI.
Simple and rapid quantification of ribociclib in rat plasma by protein precipitation and LC‐MS/MS: An application to pharmacokinetics of ribociclib nanoparticles in rats
Authors: Alshogran Osama Y. , Al‐Shdefat Ramadan , Hailat Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Ribociclib is a cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK4/6) inhibitor and is a standard of care for treating metastatic breast cancer. The drug has moderate oral bioavailability and exhibits permeability‐controlled absorption. Novel formulations to enhance ribociclib pharmacokinetics are being developed and tested in rats. This requires developing analytical assays for quantifying ribociclib monitoring in rat plasma. We present a fully validated, sensitive, and simple LC‐MS/MS method for measuring ribociclib in rat plasma. Ribociclib‐D6 was utilized as an internal standard, and a simple protein precipitation procedure with acetonitrile was used in sample preparation. Excellent assay linearity was observed over a standard curve concentration of 1.008–1027.624 ng/mL. Acceptable intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy and reproductivity were demonstrated for ribociclib quality controls (bias and CV% within ±15%). Complete extraction recovery of ribociclib was achieved, and a negligible matrix effect of analyte to internal standard ratio was observed. Ribociclib was stable at various conditions, including bench‐top, freeze–thaw, and short‐term stability. Overall, the presented method is simple, sensitive, accurate, and precise and was successfully applied to quantify ribociclib in plasma samples from a pharmacokinetic study of ribociclib suspension and nanoparticle formulation in rats.
Endoscopic Rectal Ultrasound‐Based Radiomics Analysis for the Prediction of Synchronous Liver Metastasis in Patients With Primary Rectal Cancer
Authors: Mou Meiyan , Gao Ruizhi , Wu Yuquan , Lin Peng , Yin Hongxia , Chen Fenghuan , Huang Fen , Wen Rong , Yang Hong , He Yun
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To develop and validate an ultrasound‐based radiomics model to predict synchronous liver metastases (SLM) in rectal cancer (RC) patients preoperatively.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐nine RC patients were included in this study and randomly divided into training and validation cohorts. A total of 5936 radiomics features were calculated on the basis of ultrasound images to build a radiomic model and obtain a radiomics score (Rad‐score) using logistic regression. Meanwhile, clinical characteristics were collected to construct a clinical model. The radiomics–clinical model was developed and validated by integrating the radiomics features with the selected clinical characteristics. The performances of three models were evaluated and compared through their discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness.

Results

The radiomics model was developed based on 13 radiomic features. The radiomics–clinical model, which incorporated Rad‐score, CEA, and CA199, exhibited favorable discrimination and calibration with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.920 (95% CI: 0.874–0.965) in the training cohorts and 0.855 (95% CI: 0.759–0.951) in the validation cohorts. And the AUC of the radiomics–clinical model was 0.849 (95% CI: 0.771–0.927) for the training cohorts and 0.780 (95% CI: 0.655–0.905) for the validation cohorts, the clinical model was 0.811 (95% CI: 0.718–0.905) for the training cohorts and 0.805 (95% CI: 0.645–0.965) for the validation cohorts. Moreover, decision curve analysis (DCA) further confirmed the clinical utility of the radiomics–clinical model.

Conclusions

The radiomics–clinical model performed satisfactory predictive performance, which can help improve clinical diagnosis performance and outcome prediction for SLM in RC patients.
Ultrasound Pattern of Cutis Verticis Gyrata
Authors: Ortiz‐Orellana Gabriela , Ferreira‐Wortsman Camila , Wortsman Ximena
Published: November 2023

Cutis verticis gyrata (CVG) is a cutaneous benign condition that usually presents symmetric or asymmetric convoluted folds and deep furrows in the scalp, which mimic the disposition of the cerebral sulci and gyri. This scalp deformation may be a worrying situation for the patients and their families. Clinically, its diagnosis may be challenging because it can mimic other cutaneous conditions. So far, the ultrasonographic pattern of CVG has not been reported. Thus, we aim to review the ultrasound findings of this entity. All patients (n = 14) presented zones with dermal and hypodermal thickening that corresponded with the elevated clinical zones, followed by folds with normal cutaneous thicknesses. There was undulation of the cutaneous layers in all cases. The scalp areas involved the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions bilaterally. The mean maximum dermal and hypodermal thicknesses and echogenicities and the color Doppler characteristics are provided. No significant dilation of the hair follicles was detected. In conclusion, CVG presents an ultrasonographic pattern that can support its diagnosis and follow‐up. This can help its differential diagnosis with other scalp dermatologic conditions.
LncRNA MYLK antisense RNA 1 activates cell division cycle 42/Neutal Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome protein pathway via microRNA‐101‐5p to accelerate epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition of colon cancer cells
Authors: Quan Zhen‐Hao , Xu Fei‐Peng , Huang Zhe , Chen Ri‐Hong , Xu Qing‐Wen , Lin Lin
Published: November 2023

Long noncoding RNA MYLK antisense RNA 1 (MYLK‐AS1) is the crux in multiple diseases. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the possible mechanism of MYLK‐AS1. A total of 62 colon cancer (CC) specimens and paired adjacent normal tissues were collected, and the expression of MYLK‐AS1, microRNA (miR)‐101‐5p/cell division cycle 42 (CDC42) was detected. CC cell lines were transfected with MYLK‐AS1, miR‐101‐5p, CDC42‐related plasmids, and the biological functions and markers of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) were analyzed. The binding relationship between MYLK‐AS1, miR‐101‐5p, and CDC42 was evaluated. In CC tissues and cell lines, MYLK‐AS1 and CDC42 were highly expressed, and miR‐101‐5p was lowly expressed. Inhibition of MYLK‐AS1 or upregulation of miR‐101‐5p can inhibit CC cell growth and EMT. miR‐101‐5p inhibited CDC42/N‐wasp axis activation in CC cells by targeting CDC42. Knockdown of CDC42 or upregulation of miR‐101‐5p partially reversed the effects caused by upregulation of MYLK‐AS1. MYLK‐AS1, which is significantly upregulated in CC, may be a molecular sponge for miR‐101‐5p, and MYLK‐AS1 promotes the activation of the CDC42/N‐wasp axis in CC cells by targeting CDC42 through miR‐101‐5p, which in turn promotes tumor development. MYLK‐AS1 may be a potential biomarker and target for CC therapy.
Comparative study of arterial and venous grafting for pedicle lengthening in head and neck microvascular reconstruction
Authors: Chang Chieh‐Kai , Wu Cheng‐Yeu , Lin Yi‐Ling , Lai Chih‐Shen , Lu Chen‐Te , Yen Jung‐Hsing , Chen I‐Chen , Tsai Yueh‐Chi
Published: November 2023

Background

In the field of head and neck microvascular reconstruction, no previous study has compared arterial and venous grafting as methods of anterolateral thigh (ALT) pedicle lengthening. Therefore, we conducted this comparative study to compare the outcomes between the two pedicle lengthening techniques.

Methods

We performed comparative effectiveness research by conducting a retrospective chart review from January 2012 to December 2021 to identify patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction with non‐descending branch ALT perforator flaps using either the in situ pedicle lengthening (ISPL) technique or the vein graft (VG) technique. A total of 26 patients were analyzed, including 14 who underwent ISPL, and 12 who underwent VG. The collected data, including patient demographics, surgical indications, history of prior free flap, prior neck dissection, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, graft length, and flap outcomes, were analyzed. The flap outcomes were categorized as total flap loss, partial flap loss, flap compromise that required operating room visits, or minor issues, including infection or dehiscence. The flap characteristics and postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

The VG group had two flap losses, whereas the ISPL group had none. Although the failure rate was higher in the VG group than that in the ISPL group, the difference was not statistically significant (0% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.203). Additionally, there were no significant differences in flap take‐back (14.3% vs. 16.7%, p = 1) and minor complications between the two groups (35.7% vs. 33.3%, p = 1).

Conclusions

If pedicle lengthening with vessel graft is inevitable in head and neck reconstruction, arterial graft may provide a reliable outcome and may be considered an effective alternative when compared to vein grafts.
Can simple ‘molecular’ corrections outperform projector augmented‐wave density functional theory in the prediction of 35Cl electric field gradient tensor parameters for chlorine‐containing crystalline systems?
Authors: Widdifield Cory M. , Zakeri Fatemeh
Published: November 2023

Many‐body expansion (MBE) fragment approaches have been applied to accurately compute nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) parameters in crystalline systems. Recent examples demonstrate that electric field gradient (EFG) tensor parameters can be accurately calculated for 14N and 17O. A key additional development is the simple molecular correction (SMC) approach, which uses two one‐body fragment (i.e., isolated molecule) calculations to adjust NMR parameter values established using ‘benchmark’ projector augmented‐wave (PAW) density functional theory (DFT) values. Here, we apply a SMC using the hybrid PBE0 exchange‐correlation (XC) functional to see if this can improve the accuracy of calculated 35Cl EFG tensor parameters. We selected eight organic and two inorganic crystal structures and considered 15 chlorine sites. We find that this SMC improves the accuracy of computed values for both the 35Cl quadrupolar coupling constant (CQ) and the asymmetry parameter (
) by approximately 30% compared with benchmark PAW DFT values. We also assessed a SMC that offers local improvements not only in terms of the quality of the XC functional but simultaneously in the quality of the description of relativistic effects via the inclusion of spin–orbit effects. As the inorganic systems considered contain heavy atoms bonded to the chlorine atoms, we find further improvements in the accuracy of calculated 35Cl EFG tensor parameters when both a hybrid functional and spin–orbit effects are included in the SMC. On the contrary, for chlorine‐containing organics, the inclusion of spin–orbit relativistic effects using a SMC does not improve the accuracy of computed 35Cl EFG tensor parameters.
A survivable variant of the ring star problem
Authors: Khamphousone Julien , Castaño Fabian , Rossi André , Toubaline Sonia
Published: November 2023

The Ring Star Problem consists in selecting a subset of nodes called hubs including the depot and linking them with a cycle, the remaining nodes being connected to exactly one hub, at minimum cost. We study a survivable variant of the Ring Star Problem where at most one node in a given subset of so‐called uncertain nodes can fail if selected as a hub. We model this problem as an Integer Linear Program (ILP), that is also addressed with a Branch‐and‐Benders‐cut decomposition. The Benders subproblem is turned into a linear program with the addition of new inequalities that are shown to be facet‐defining, and several enhancements to both the ILP and Branch‐and‐Benders‐cut algorithm are also presented. Both approaches are compared on the basis of extensive numerical experiments that bring the following conclusions. First, the survivable variant is shown to be much harder than the original Ring Star Problem, and the extra cost induced by survivability is significant. Second, the ILP formulation tends to produce tighter lower bounds but memory issues are frequent for large instances. Finally, the Branch‐and‐Benders‐cut algorithm returns feasible solutions that are often of better quality than those produced by ILP, and is less frequently subjected to memory issues on the considered set of instances.
Measuring change within next‐generation agricultural and natural resources professionals
Authors: Speth Carol , Ramirez Salvador , Ibach Rachel , Lee Donald , Sandall Leah , Mamo Martha , Keshwani Jennifer , Lambe David , Matkin Gina , Schacht Walter
Published: November 2023

A dynamic and diverse workforce of agricultural professionals and scientists is needed to develop sustainable and innovative solutions for the challenges of food production for a growing population under the threat of climate extremes. One path to developing workforce talent is through summer research and extension experiences. The Applied Plant Systems (APS) Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEUs) program provided 23 undergraduates a pathway to work with agricultural science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through plant and soil sciences research and extension programs. To develop the professional skills of interns and guide self‐reflection, weekly Think Tank Sessions were organized to focus on teamwork, time management, decision‐making, and systems thinking. To assess variation in the students’ approach to their work, the Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (ASSIST) was incorporated into program evaluation. Using a pre–post design, students’ agreement with statements reflecting a deep, strategic, or surface approach to their work was measured. T‐tests revealed significant increases in mean scores for subscales measuring Deep Approach, one subscale measuring Strategic Approach, and the subscale measuring fear of failure to reflect the Surface Approach. Increased fear of failure scores may be explained by new experiences working with research, peers, and mentors. Eight of 23 students who participated in a follow‐up survey after the conclusion of the program reported increased knowledge of agricultural careers. Results provided evidence that the APS experience increased student confidence in facing challenges that require deeper and strategic thinking and elevated their attention to monitoring the effectiveness of their decisions and skills.
To innovate or not—Exploring individual antecedents of innovative thinking among Indian bureaucrats
Authors: Balasubramanian Girish , Kakani Ram Kumar , Danish Mohd Shadab
Published: November 2023

One way for a developing country to quickly meet the socio‐economic standards of the developed world is to seamlessly integrate science and technology in prudent public policymaking that enables such standards. We study the antecedents of innovative thinking among public administrators through the ordered logit model. Data was collected from 218 public administrative leaders. Innovative thinking as a competency is not gendered. Age and the education background seem to affect innovative thinking marginally. We contribute to cementing our understanding of the individual‐level antecedents affecting innovation as a competency for a complex context like India. Practical and policy implications of our findings include recruiting relatively young officers into service and providing foundational training or courses to officers from arts and law backgrounds, as they seemed to have slightly lower levels of innovative thinking.
Superior strength in the 3D‐printed polyether‐ether‐ketone composites reinforced by annealing and carbon fibers
Authors: Hu Zhonglue , Chen Wei , Ye Xin , Ding Jietai , Luo Xinying , Wang Sisi , Ou Yuhui , Zhang Yakuang , Li Xiping
Published: November 2023

The light‐weight, high‐strength polyether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) shows great potential for weight‐sensitive, load‐bearing applications. The adoption of PEEK in those applications has been accelerated by the recently emerged three‐dimensional printing (3D‐printing) technique. However, achieving high strength in the 3D‐printed PEEK is still challenging. In this study, the mechanical strength of the 3D‐printed PEEK is jointly reinforced with high‐loading carbon fibers (CFs) and annealing treatment. The PEEK‐CF composite filaments containing three different CF contents, ranging between 5 and 15 wt%, are first prepared in‐house and subsequently printed into specimens. Both the tensile and flexural tests show that the composite containing 10 wt% CF exhibits the highest strength, reaching 114.7 and 139.2 MPa, respectively, the tensile strength of which amounts to a 35% increase from the unfilled counterpart. The annealing treatment on the printed samples further increases the strength of the composite both at room temperature and high‐temperature. After annealing, the tensile strength of the 3D‐printed PEEK‐CF composite reaches 131.5 MPa at room temperature and over 60 MPa at 200°C. The results from this study can spur new insights into design advanced polymer composites with outstanding mechanical properties.

Highlights

Custom‐made PEEK‐CF composite filaments with high CF content, up to 15 wt%

3D‐printed PEEK‐CF composites exhibit very high tensile strength, reaching 115 MPa.

The annealing treatment further strengthens the printed composite, up to 131 MPa.

The jointly strengthened PEEK‐CF composite remains strong at elevated temperatures.
Preparation and properties of mesoporous SiO2/polyimide composite films
Authors: Cui Xue , Zheng Rong‐rong , Wang Jing‐ying , Chen Shu‐wu , Yu Yang , Guo Li‐ying , Wang Cheng , Wang Li‐yan , Ruan Xuehua
Published: November 2023

Although polyimide films have a low dielectric constant, with the advent of the 5G era, the dielectric properties of the material are required to be further improved. Therein, we prepared controlled hollow mesoporous SiO2 nanomicrospheres by the hard template method to make mesoporous low dielectric polyimide films. The composite membrane exhibits better thermal stability, mechanical properties, and hydrophobicity compared to the pure membrane. Hollow mesoporous SiO2 dispersed in polyimide can reduce the inhomogeneity of charge distribution between molecules and reduce the interaction between polar chemical bonds and aromatic rings, thus improving the dielectric properties of the whole film. The minimum dielectric constant of the composite films was 2.80 when the hollow mesoporous SiO2 was added at 1.0%. These results fully indicate that the addition of hollow mesoporous SiO2 is beneficial to the multifaceted performance of the polyimide films.

Highlights

Preparation of hollow mesoporous SiO2 microspheres by using different polystyrene microsphere solutions and TEOS ratios.

Synthesis of composite films with different contents of hollow mesoporous SiO2 as functional fillers.

The effect of hollow mesoporous SiO2 content on the mechanical properties and thermal stability of PI composite films was investigated.

Addition of hollow mesoporous SiO2 reduces the dielectric constant of polyimide composite films.
A two‐stage analysis for the role of fiber size in terms of length distribution on the performance under accelerated weathering tests of oil palm empty fruit bunch fiber‐reinforced vinyl acrylic composites
Authors: Aguilar Alex Darío , Tenemaza Katherine , Valle Vladimir , Bastidas‐Caldes Carlos , Almeida‐Naranjo Cristina E. , Gutiérrez Paola
Published: November 2023

The performance of natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) can be markedly affected by fiber length, to the extent that a sole mean value and standard deviation fail to accurately represent its overall dispersion. Hence, measuring the variability of fiber length is crucial to comprehend its influence on the properties of the resulting composites. Unfortunately, few studies have been conducted on this topic. This work consisted of two research stages: the first related to the effect of both fiber length distribution and processing temperature on the properties of oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fiber‐reinforced vinyl acrylic composites, while the second stage analyzed the influence of the fiber length distribution on the material performance under accelerated weathering tests. Broadly, composites were characterized by tensile mechanical testing, optical microscopy and SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, and microbiological analysis. The key results showed that processing the material at temperatures surpassing 75°C did not lead to a homogenous phase between the components, rendering it unworthy of consideration. Furthermore, composites containing the longest OPEFB fibers exhibited the lowest elongation‐at‐break values. Regarding the incidence of aging treatments, pronounced effects were observed in those composites exposed to UV radiation and salt fog. In detail, the elongation at break decreased by up to 34%, while the tensile strength increased by up to 1 MPa, and Young's modulus rose by up to 17%. Finally, two fungal genera, Fusarium sp. and Rhizophydium sp., were identified on the OPEFB fibers; nevertheless, no fungal growth was observed on the composites.

Highlights

Natural reinforcement/filler size measured as fiber length distribution.

Effect of fiber length distribution on composite performance.

Composite performance after accelerated weathering tests.