bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation, Characterization and Reactivity of a High‐Valent Mononuclear Cobalt(IV)−Diazide Complex
Authors: Kayne Michael , Murphy Patrick S. , Kwon Yubin M. , Lee Yuri , Jackson Timothy A. , Wang Dong
Published: April 2024

High‐valent Fe(IV)=O intermediates of metalloenzymes have inspired numerous efforts to generate synthetic analogs to mimic and understand their substrate oxidation reactivities. However, high‐valent M(IV) complexes of late transition metals are rare. We have recently reported a novel Co(IV)−dinitrate complex (1‐NO3) that activates sp3 C−H bonds up to 87 kcal/mol. In this work, we have shown that the nitrate ligands in 1‐NO3 can be replaced by azide, a more basic coordinating base, resulting in the formation of a more potent Co(IV)−diazide species (1‐N3) that reacts with substrates (hydrocarbons and phenols) at faster rate constants and activates stronger C−H bonds than the parent complex 1‐NO3. We have characterized 1‐N3 employing a combination of spectroscopic and computational approaches. Our results clearly show that the coordination of azide leads to the modulation of the Co(IV) electronic structure and the Co(IV/III) redox potential. Together with the higher basicity of azide, these thermodynamic parameters contribute to the higher driving forces of 1‐N3 than 1‐NO3 for C−H bond activation. Our discoveries are thus insightful for designing more reactive bio‐inspired high‐valent late transition metal complexes for activating inert aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Prevalence and impact of endocrine disorders in advanced metastatic cancer patients undergoing cancer‐directed therapy: A prospective observational study
Authors: Karna Gaurav , Sehrawat Amit , Karna Saurabh , Kant Ravi , Sundriyal Deepak , Karn Summi , Jha Dipesh
Published: April 2024

Background

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) contribute significantly to global morbidity and mortality, with cancer being one of the leading causes. In this prospective observational study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of endocrine disorders, specifically diabetes and thyroid dysfunction, in patients with advanced metastatic cancer undergoing cancer‐directed therapy.

Methods

Over 15 months, we recruited 100 histologically proven advanced metastatic cancer patients from the Department of Medical Oncology Haematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, and conducted institutional‐based prospective observational study. All participants over 18 years of age, treatment‐naive, and potential candidates for systemic chemotherapy with an expected clinical survival of at least 6 months were included in the study. Patients with prior therapy, secondary neoplasms, and those unable to complete 3 months of palliative chemotherapy were excluded. Patients were assessed for diabetes and thyroid function at presentation, after 3 and 6 months of cancer‐directed standard therapy. These data were analyzed, processed, and presented as results.

Results

The mean age of participants was 50.45 years, with a near‐equal distribution of males and females. At baseline, 10% of the study population had preexisting endocrine disorders (2% hypothyroidism, 8% diabetes). By the end of 6 months, the prevalence increased to 18%, with females being more affected. Notably, the prevalence of new‐onset endocrine disorders during cancer‐directed therapy was only 3% for diabetes and 4% for thyroid dysfunction.

Conclusion

Analysis of sociodemographic and cancer‐related characteristics showed no significant association with changes in diabetic and thyroid status at 3 and 6 months. However, substance use, particularly smoking, was associated with an increased risk of diabetes development (p < .05). Cancer type and treatment regimen did not show statistically significant correlations with endocrine dysfunction.

Implications

Our study highlights the importance of considering endocrine disorders in advanced metastatic cancer patients undergoing therapy. The prevalence of diabetes and thyroid dysfunction increased during cancer‐directed therapy, particularly in females. Careful monitoring and timely intervention are essential to improve the quality of life for these patients. Further research is warranted to explore the long‐term effects of cancer‐directed therapy on endocrine health and develop tailored management strategies for this vulnerable population.
The Separability Problem in Molecular Quantum Systems: Information‐Theoretic Framework for Atoms in Molecules
Authors: Esquivel Rodolfo O. , Carrera Edmundo
Published: April 2024

Even though molecules are fundamentally quantum entities, the concept of a molecule retains certain classical attributes concerning its constituents. This includes the empirical separability of a molecule into its three‐dimensional, rigid structure in Euclidean space, a framework often obtained through experimental methods like X‐Ray crystallography. In this work, we delve into the mathematical implications of partitioning a molecule into its constituent parts using the widely recognized Atoms‐In‐Molecules (AIM) schemes, aiming to establish their validity within the framework of Information Theory concepts. We have uncovered information‐theoretical justifications for employing some of the most prevalent AIM schemes in the field of Chemistry, including Hirshfeld (stockholder partitioning), Bader's (topological dissection), and the quantum approach (Hilbert's space definition). In the first approach we have applied the generalized principle of minimum relative entropy derived from the Sharma‐Mittal two‐parameter functional, avoiding the need for an arbitrary selection of reference promolecular atoms. Within the ambit of topological‐information partitioning, we have demonstrated that the Fisher information of Bader's atoms conform to a comprehensive theory based on the Principle of Extreme Physical Information avoiding the need of employing the Schwinger's principle, which has been proven to be problematic. For the quantum approach we have presented information‐theoretic justifications for conducting Löwdin symmetric transformations on the density matrix to form atomic Hilbert spaces generating orthonormal atomic orbitals with maximum occupancy for a given wavefunction.
A case of needle tract seeding with endoscopic findings of progression over time
Authors: Sawai Go , Dainaka Katsuyuki , Juichiro Yoshida , Inada Yutaka , Fukui Akifumi , Nishimura Takeshi , Fujii Hideki , Tomatsuri Naoya , Okuyama Yusuke , Sato Hideki
Published: April 2024

An 83‐year‐old male underwent three transgastric punctures with endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration for the examination of a pancreatic body tumor. After a diagnosis of resectable pancreatic cancer and undergoing distal pancreatectomy, the patient was administered postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy with oral S‐1 for 6 months, and carcinoembryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 levels were bimonthly evaluated. Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 levels continually increased to 4638.1 U/mL at 45 months post‐fine‐needle aspiration. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided showed a 25 mm low‐echoic, irregularly shaped, and heterogeneous tumor with clear margins protruding from the mucosa outside the gastric wall, and biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma. Since the immunostaining findings of the specimen matched those of the previously resected specimen, needle tract seeding (NTS) due to puncture of the pancreatic cancer was identified as the cause. After a pylorus‐preserving gastrectomy at 46 months post‐fine‐needle aspiration, postoperative chemotherapy initiation, comprising gemcitabine and nab‐paclitaxel, was initiated; however, the patient died despite these interventions as he developed multiple peritoneal dissemination. Although rare, the incidence of NTS will increase in the future owing to the expected extended survival in post‐pancreatic cancer resection cases. We suggest regular upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound‐guided evaluations for patients who are at risk for NTS can facilitate early detection. Furthermore, it is extremely relevant to share experiences of encountered NTS cases in practice and extend knowledge of its varying endoscopic appearances.
High genetic connectivity of two pollinating flies despite urban disturbance
Authors: Wittische Julian , Lippert Stéphanie , Luttringer Amanda , Ariey Hinatea , Cruz António , Andrasi Balint , Thissen Dylan , Schleimer Anna , Drygala Frank , Mehnert Joerg , Mengual Ximo , Cantú‐Salazar Lisette , Frantz Alain C.
Published: April 2024

Hoverflies (Syrphidae) are essential pollinators, and their severe decline jeopardizes their invaluable contribution to plant diversity and agricultural production. However, we know little about the dispersal abilities of hoverflies in urbanized landscapes, limiting our understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of plant–pollinator systems and reducing our ability to preserve biodiversity in the context of global change. Previous work has not addressed how urbanization affects the functional connectivity of hoverflies and whether dispersal is a limiting factor in their population dynamics. In this study, we investigated the spatial genetic structure of two nonmigratory species of hoverflies in two urban areas. We collected more than a thousand specimens of each Syritta pipiens and Myathropa florea, each, by hand netting in two western European urbanized study areas of 490 and 460 km2 in 2021, and we genotyped them at 14 and 24 microsatellite loci, respectively. Based on spatial and nonspatial Bayesian clustering methods, we failed to reject the null hypothesis of panmixia, suggesting that both species exhibited high genetic connectivity despite urbanization. The distribution of allele frequencies was not correlated with geographic distance, implying that isolation‐by‐distance was negligible at the investigated spatial scale in both species. Although anthropogenic land cover changes generally have dramatic consequences on biodiversity, these hoverfly species retain high connectivity, which suggests that dispersal is not a strong limiting factor in their metapopulational dynamics. However, high effective population size and its confounding effect on signals of genetic drift may limit our ability to conclude confidently about landscape effects on gene flow in those two species. Provided we maintain or restore habitat, recolonization may be prompt even in urban areas.
AOP report: Development of an adverse outcome pathway for deposition of energy leading to cataracts
Authors: Carrothers Emma , Appleby Meghan , Lai Vita , Kozbenko Tatiana , Alomar Dalya , Smith Benjamin J. , Hamada Nobuyuki , Hinton Patricia , Ainsbury Elizabeth A. , Hocking Robyn , Yauk Carole , Wilkins Ruth C. , Chauhan Vinita
Published: April 2024

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness, with an estimated 95 million people affected worldwide. A hallmark of cataract development is lens opacification, typically associated not only with aging but also radiation exposure as encountered by interventional radiologists and astronauts during the long‐term space mission. To better understand radiation‐induced cataracts, the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework was used to structure and evaluate knowledge across biological levels of organization (e.g., macromolecular, cell, tissue, organ, organism and population). AOPs identify a sequence of key events (KEs) causally connected by key event relationships (KERs) beginning with a molecular initiating event to an adverse outcome (AO) of relevance to regulatory decision‐making. To construct the cataract AO and retrieve evidence to support it, a scoping review methodology was used to filter, screen, and review studies based on the modified Bradford Hill criteria. Eight KEs were identified that were moderately supported by empirical evidence (e.g., dose‐, time‐, incidence‐concordance) across the adjacent (directly linked) relationships using well‐established endpoints. Over half of the evidence to justify the KER linkages was derived from the evidence stream of biological plausibility. Early KEs of oxidative stress and protein modifications had strong linkages to downstream KEs and could be the focus of countermeasure development. Several identified knowledge gaps and inconsistencies related to the quantitative understanding of KERs which could be the basis of future research, most notably directed to experiments in the range of low or moderate doses and dose‐rates, relevant to radiation workers and other occupational exposures.
Dissecting unique and common variance across body and brain health indicators using age prediction
Authors: Beck Dani , de Lange Ann‐Marie G. , Gurholt Tiril P. , Voldsbekk Irene , Maximov Ivan I. , Subramaniapillai Sivaniya , Schindler Louise , Hindley Guy , Leonardsen Esten H. , Rahman Zillur , van der Meer Dennis , Korbmacher Max , Linge Jennifer , Leinhard Olof D. , Kalleberg Karl T. , Engvig Andreas , Sønderby Ida , Andreassen Ole A. , Westlye Lars T.
Published: April 2024

Ageing is a heterogeneous multisystem process involving different rates of decline in physiological integrity across biological systems. The current study dissects the unique and common variance across body and brain health indicators and parses inter‐individual heterogeneity in the multisystem ageing process. Using machine‐learning regression models on the UK Biobank data set (N = 32,593, age range 44.6–82.3, mean age 64.1 years), we first estimated tissue‐specific brain age for white and gray matter based on diffusion and T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, respectively. Next, bodily health traits, including cardiometabolic, anthropometric, and body composition measures of adipose and muscle tissue from bioimpedance and body MRI, were combined to predict ‘body age’. The results showed that the body age model demonstrated comparable age prediction accuracy to models trained solely on brain MRI data. The correlation between body age and brain age predictions was 0.62 for the T1 and 0.64 for the diffusion‐based model, indicating a degree of unique variance in brain and bodily ageing processes. Bayesian multilevel modelling carried out to quantify the associations between health traits and predicted age discrepancies showed that higher systolic blood pressure and higher muscle‐fat infiltration were related to older‐appearing body age compared to brain age. Conversely, higher hand‐grip strength and muscle volume were related to a younger‐appearing body age. Our findings corroborate the common notion of a close connection between somatic and brain health. However, they also suggest that health traits may differentially influence age predictions beyond what is captured by the brain imaging data, potentially contributing to heterogeneous ageing rates across biological systems and individuals.
Metabolomics‐driven discovery of therapeutic targets for cancer cachexia
Authors: Cui Pengfei , Li Xiaoyi , Huang Caihua , Lin Donghai
Published: April 2024

Cancer cachexia (CC) is a devastating metabolic syndrome characterized by skeletal muscle wasting and body weight loss, posing a significant burden on the health and survival of cancer patients. Despite ongoing efforts, effective treatments for CC are still lacking. Metabolomics, an advanced omics technique, offers a comprehensive analysis of small‐molecule metabolites involved in cellular metabolism. In CC research, metabolomics has emerged as a valuable tool for identifying diagnostic biomarkers, unravelling molecular mechanisms and discovering potential therapeutic targets. A comprehensive search strategy was implemented to retrieve relevant articles from primary databases, including Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus and PubMed, for CC and metabolomics. Recent advancements in metabolomics have deepened our understanding of CC by uncovering key metabolic signatures and elucidating underlying mechanisms. By targeting crucial metabolic pathways including glucose metabolism, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, bile acid metabolism, ketone body metabolism, steroid metabolism and mitochondrial energy metabolism, it becomes possible to restore metabolic balance and alleviate CC symptoms. This review provides a comprehensive summary of metabolomics studies in CC, focusing on the discovery of potential therapeutic targets and the evaluation of modulating specific metabolic pathways for CC treatment. By harnessing the insights derived from metabolomics, novel interventions for CC can be developed, leading to improved patient outcomes and enhanced quality of life.
Accelerated sarcopenia precedes learning and memory impairments in the P301S mouse model of tauopathies and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Longo Savannah , Messi María Laura , Wang Zhong‐Min , Meeker William , Delbono Osvaldo
Published: April 2024

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) impairs cognitive functions and peripheral systems, including skeletal muscles. The PS19 mouse, expressing the human tau P301S mutation, shows cognitive and muscular pathologies, reflecting the central and peripheral atrophy seen in AD.

Methods

We analysed skeletal muscle morphology and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) through immunohistochemistry and advanced image quantification. A factorial Analysis of Variance assessed muscle weight, NCAM expression, NMJ, myofibre type distribution, cross‐sectional areas, expression of single or multiple myosin heavy‐chain isoforms, and myofibre grouping in PS19 and wild type (WT) mice over their lifespan (1–12 months).

Results

Significant weight differences in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles between WT and PS19 mice were noted by 7–8 months. For EDL muscle in females, WT weighed 0.0113 ± 0.0005 compared with PS19's 0.0071 ± 0.0008 (P < 0.05), and in males, WT was 0.0137 ± 0.0001 versus PS19's 0.0069 ± 0.0006 (P < 0.005). Similarly, soleus muscle showed significant differences; females (WT: 0.0084 ± 0.0004; PS19: 0.0057 ± 0.0005, P < 0.005) and males (WT: 0.0088 ± 0.0003; PS19: 0.0047 ± 0.0004, P < 0.0001). Analysis of the NMJ in PS19 mice revealed a marked reduction in myofibre innervation at 5 months, with further decline by 10 months. NMJ pre‐terminals in PS19 mice became shorter and simpler by 5 months, showing a steep decline by 10 months. Genotype and age strongly influenced muscle NCAM immunoreactivity, denoting denervation as early as 5–6 months in EDL muscle Type II fibres, with earlier effects in soleus muscle Type I and II fibres at 3–4 months. Muscle denervation and subsequent myofibre atrophy were linked to a reduction in Type IIB fibres in the EDL muscle and Type IIA fibres in the soleus muscle, accompanied by an increase in hybrid fibres. The EDL muscle showed Type IIB fibre atrophy with WT females at 1505 ± 110 μm2 versus PS19's 1208 ± 94 μm2, and WT males at 1731 ± 185 μm2 versus PS19's 1227 ± 116 μm2. Similarly, the soleus muscle demonstrated Type IIA fibre atrophy from 5 to 6 months, with WT females at 1194 ± 52 μm2 versus PS19's 858 ± 62 μm2, and WT males at 1257 ± 43 μm2 versus PS19's 1030 ± 55 μm2. Atrophy also affected Type IIX, I + IIA, and IIA + IIX fibres in both muscles. The timeline for both myofibre and overall muscle atrophy in PS19 mice was consistent, indicating a simultaneous decline.

Conclusions

Progressive and accelerated neurogenic sarcopenia may precede and potentially predict cognitive deficits observed in AD.
The prevalence patterns and risk factor profiles of poor muscle health and its associated components in multiethnic older Asians: The PIONEER study
Authors: Gupta Preeti , Vu Tai‐Anh , Man Ryan E.K. , Fenwick Eva K. , Tay Laura , Yee Sien Ng , Ng David , Frederick Koh Hong Xiang , Yong Eu‐Leong , Chew Samuel T.H. , Lamoureux Ecosse L.
Published: April 2024

Background

We aim to determine the multiethnic patterns of the prevalence and associated factors of poor muscle health and its associated components in older Chinese, Malays, and Indian Asian adults.

Methods

We included 2199 participants (mean age ± SD: 72.9 ± 8.3 years; 54.3% female) from the baseline assessment of the Population Health and Eye Disease Profile in Elderly Singaporeans (PIONEER; 2017–2022) cohort study. Poor muscle health was defined as the presence of either low muscle mass (DEXA), or low muscle strength (handgrip strength), or low physical performance (gait speed). Its components include poor muscle function (low muscle strength and/or low physical performance without low muscle mass), pre‐sarcopenia (low muscle mass only), and any sarcopenia (low muscle mass with low muscle strength and/or low physical performance). Sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors were assessed using biochemistry, clinical tests, and validated questionnaires. Regression models were utilized to evaluate the independent risk factors of poor muscle health and its components.

Results

The national census‐adjusted prevalence of poor muscle health (88%) was similar across the three ethnic groups. However, Chinese individuals had higher prevalence of pre‐sarcopenia and any sarcopenia, and a lower prevalence of poor muscle function compared with Indians or Malays. We observed ethnic differences in modifiable risk factors (low physical activity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and obesity) of poor muscle health and its components. Although obesity was protective of pre‐sarcopenia (RRR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.36) and any sarcopenia (RRR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.47) in the overall population and across ethnic groups, it was associated with 1.7 times (95% CI: 1.07, 2.67) the likelihood of poor muscle function in the entire population.

Conclusions

Almost 90% of community dwelling Singaporean aged ≥60 years have poor muscle health across the three ethnic groups with ethnic disparities in modifiable risk factors, highlighting an urgent need for community‐wide targeted interventions to promote muscle health.
Comparative analysis of the effects of different purification methods on the yield and purity of cow milk extracellular vesicles
Authors: Kankaanpää Santeri , Nurmi Markus , Lampimäki Markus , Leskinen Heidi , Nieminen Anni , Samoylenko Anatoliy , Vainio Seppo J. , Mäkinen Sari , Ahonen Lauri , Kangasluoma Juha , Petäjä Tuukka , Viitala Sirja
Published: April 2024

Isolation of extracellular vesicles (EV) has been developing rapidly in parallel with the interest in EVs. However, commonly utilized protocols may not suit more challenging sample matrixes and could potentially yield suboptimal results. Knowing and assessing the pitfalls of isolation procedure to be used, should be involved to some extent for EV analytics. EVs in cow milk are of great interest due to their abundancy and large‐scale availability as well as their cross‐species bioavailability and possible use as drug carriers. However, the characteristics of milk EVs overlap with those of other milk components. This makes it difficult to isolate and study EVs individually. There exists also a lack of consensus for isolation methods. In this study, we demonstrated the differences between various differential centrifugation‐based approaches for isolation of large quantities of EVs from cow milk. Samples were further purified with gradient centrifugation and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and differences were analyzed. Quality measurements were conducted on multiple independent platforms. Particle analysis, electron microscopy and RNA analysis were used, to comprehensively characterize the isolated samples and to identify the limitations and possible sources of contamination in the EV isolation protocols. Vesicle concentration to protein ratio and RNA to protein ratios were observed to increase as samples were purified, suggesting co‐isolation with major milk proteins in direct differential centrifugation protocols. We demonstrated a novel size assessment of vesicles using a particle mobility analyzer that matched the sizing using electron microscopy in contrast to commonly utilized nanoparticle tracking analysis. Based on the standards of the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles and the quick checklist of EV‐Track.org for EV isolation, we emphasize the need for complete characterization and validation of the isolation protocol with all EV‐related work to ensure the accuracy of results and allow further analytics and experiments.
Oxidative stress‐induced changes in the transcriptomic profile of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Dellar Elizabeth R. , Hill Claire , Carter David R. F. , Baena‐Lopez Luis Alberto
Published: April 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been proposed to play dual roles in cellular homeostasis, functioning both to remove unwanted intracellular molecules, and to enable communication between cells as a means of modulating cellular responses in different physiological and pathological scenarios. EVs contain a broad range of cargoes, including multiple biotypes of RNA, which can vary depending on the cell status, and may function as signalling molecules. In this study, we carried out comparative transcriptomic analysis of Drosophila EVs and cells, demonstrating that the RNA profile of EVs is distinct from cells and shows dose‐dependent changes in response to oxidative stress. We identified a high abundance of snoRNAs in EVs, alongside an enrichment of intronic and untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs under stress. We also observed an increase in the relative abundance of either aberrant or modified mRNAs under stress. These findings suggest that EVs may function both for the elimination of specific cellular RNAs, and for the incorporation of RNAs that may hold signalling potential.
The tourniquet's effects on skeletal muscle during total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Johnsen Magnus , Mousavizadeh Rouhollah , Scott Alex , Havik Steinar , Husby Vigdis S. , Winther Siri B. , Husby Otto S. , Lian Øystein
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the impact of perioperative tourniquet on skeletal muscle cells during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and its effects on the gene expression of apoptotic, inflammatory, and angiogenic pathways. The randomized controlled trial included 44 patients undergoing TKA. The patients were randomized to undergo surgery with (n = 23) or without (n = 21) tourniquet. The tourniquet was inflated before skin incision and deflated before wound closure in the tourniquet group. Biopsies from the lateral vastus muscle were obtained from both groups before wound closure and 8 weeks after surgery. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression and protein levels of angiopoietin‐like 4 (ANGPTL4), Hypoxia‐inducible Factor 1α, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Alpha (VEGF‐A) in the biopsies were examined by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and tissue microarray, respectively. Differences in mean values (ΔCt for mRNA expression and staining positivity for protein expression) were compared with t‐tests. The apoptotic marker BID and the angiogenic marker VEGF‐A were significantly lower in the tourniquet group compared to the control group (p = 0.03, p = 0.047). However, there was a significant upregulation of VEGF‐A 8 weeks after surgery in the tourniquet group compared to perioperative biopsies (p = 0.002), indicating persistent changes. A significant upregulation in protein expression of the angiogenic marker ANGPTL4 was found perioperatively in the tourniquet group (p = 0.02). Our results demonstrate that the angiogenic gene expression is significantly altered by the tourniquet, the effects of which might contribute to postoperative interstitial edema, increased pain, and decreased muscle strength. These effects could lead to delayed rehabilitation and ultimately reduced patient satisfaction after TKA.
Home parenteral nutrition, sleep patterns, and depressive symptoms: Secondary analysis of cross‐sectional data
Authors: Chichester Sierra , Rahmoune Adline , Dashti Hassan S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN) are known to experience psychological distress and have profoundly disrupted sleep. The aim of this analysis was to examine the relationship between sleep patterns with depressive symptoms and HPN characteristics.

Methods

The study was a secondary analysis of cross‐sectional data examining sleep patterns using subjective and objective measures. Sleep was assessed by surveys and 7‐day actigraphy. The Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 was used to evaluate depressive symptoms. Participants provided information on HPN. Spearman correlations were calculated between sleep measures with depressive symptoms and HPN characteristics. Correlations were further examined in multivariable linear regression models.

Results

Thirty‐two adults (age = 53 years; 75% female; 94% White) were included. Lower sleep quality (r = 0.54–0.60; P < 0.001) and later sleep timing (r = −0.35; P = 0.049) were correlated with higher depressive symptoms. Sleep patterns were also correlated with several HPN characteristics (r = −0.47 to 0.51). In linear regression models, rate of infusion was associated with sleep duration (β = −0.004 [0.002] h; P = 0.046) in which each 100 mL/h was associated with 24‐min shorter duration. Higher total energy was associated with lower sleep quality (β = 0.0004 [0.0002] log‐unit; P = 0.042), and higher volume was associated with longer sleep onset latency (β = 0.0006 [0.0003] log‐min; P = 0.049).

Conclusions

We provide evidence supporting the link between poor and later sleep with higher depressive symptoms and identify potentially modifiable infusion characteristics (notably, slower rate of infusion and lower total energy and volume) that, on further verification, may support sleep among those receiving HPN.
The “fascia taco” for nasal septum perforation closure—A retrospective Cohort study on success rates and patient reported outcomes
Authors: Bier Johannes , Klingner Alexandra , Stadlhofer Rupert , Betz Christian S. , Böttcher Arne
Published: April 2024

Objective

Nasal septum perforation (NSP) is a common condition affecting ~1.2% of the general population and is still considered challenging to treat. Therapeutic strategies range from conservative local treatments and septal button closures to over 40 different surgical approaches. This study aimed to present a novel secure approach.

Methods

We describe our novel and unique NSP closure approach using a “fascia taco,” in which conchal cartilage is enveloped by temporalis fascia like a taco and splints are left in place for 6–8 weeks. A review of patient charts was conducted and questionnaires including the German‐SNOT‐22 and D‐NOSE were sent by mail to all eligible patients who received a fascia taco between 2016 and 2021.

Results

Thirty‐three patients were identified. The questionnaire response rate was 54.5%. The mean operative time (cut to sew) for all patients who only underwent NSP closure was 90.4 min. The overall success rate in terms of postoperative NSP closure was 81.8%. We found an apparent but nonsignificant association between closure failure and smoking (failure rate 66.6% in smokers vs. 15.4% in nonsmokers; X2 = 3.4188, p = .064). Questionnaire analysis showed a significant postoperative reduction of mean values in D‐NOSE from 60.8 to 33.1 (p = .009) and in German‐SNOT‐22 from 38.6 to 21.2 (p = .005).

Conclusion

The fascia taco technique is an easy‐to‐apply, safe procedure for NSP closure that is short in duration and associated with a low morbidity, resulting in excellent patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence

4.
Quantitative measurements of radiation‐induced fibrosis for head and neck cancer: A narrative review
Authors: Alapati Rahul , Bon Nieves Antonio , Wagoner Sarah , Lawrence Amelia , Jones Jill , Bur Andrés M.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To provide a comprehensive summary of the different modalities available to measure soft tissue fibrosis after radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Sciences.

Review Methods

A search was conducted using a list of medical subject headings and terms related to head and neck oncology, radiation fibrosis, and quantitative measurements, including bioimpedance, MRI, and ultrasound. Original research related to quantitative measurement of neck fibrosis post‐radiotherapy was included without time constraints, while reviews, case reports, non‐English texts, and inaccessible studies were excluded. Discrepancies during the review were resolved by discussing with the senior author until consensus was reached.

Results

A total of 284 articles were identified and underwent title and abstract screening. Seventeen articles had met our criteria for full‐text review based on relevance, of which nine had met our inclusion criteria. Young's modulus (YM) and viscoelasticity measures have demonstrated efficacy in quantifying neck fibrosis, with fibrotic tissues displaying significantly higher YM values and altered viscoelastic properties such as increased stiffness rate‐sensitivity and prolonged stress‐relaxation post‐radiation. Intravoxel incoherent motion offers detailed insights into tissue changes by assessing the diffusion of water molecules and blood perfusion, thereby differentiating fibrosed from healthy tissues. Shear wave elastography has proven to be an effective technique for quantifying radiation‐induced fibrosis in the head and neck region by measuring shear wave velocity.

Conclusion

There are various modalities to measure radiation‐induced fibrosis, each with its unique strengths and limitations. Providers should be aware of these implications and decide on methodologies based on their specific clinical workflow.

Level of Evidence

Step 5.
Two‐weight extrapolation on function spaces and applications
Authors: Cao Mingming , Olivo Andrea
Published: April 2024

This paper is devoted to studying the extrapolation theory of Rubio de Francia on general function spaces. We present endpoint extrapolation results including , , and extrapolation in the context of Banach function spaces, and also on modular spaces. We also include several applications that can be easily obtained using extrapolation: local decay estimates for various operators, Coifman–Fefferman inequalities that can be used to show some known sharp inequalities, Muckenhoupt–Wheeden and Sawyer's conjectures are also presented for many operators, which go beyond Calderón–Zygmund operators. Finally, we obtain two‐weight inequalities for Littlewood–Paley operators and Fourier integral operators on weighted Banach function spaces.
The Shear‐Accelerated II–I Phase Transition of Isotactic Poly(1‐Butene)
Authors: Jin Rui , Xin Rui , Zhang Xinyan , Li Yunpeng , Yang Huiyu , Yan Shouke , Sun Xiaoli
Published: April 2024

The II–I phase transition of isotactic poly(1‐butene) (iPBu) leads to improved mechanical performance. However, this will take several weeks and increase storage and processing costs. In this work, shear forces are introduced into the supercooled iPBu melt, and the effects of isothermal crystallization temperature (Tc) and shear temperature (Tshear) on crystallization and phase transition are explored. Shear‐induced transcrystalline morphology of Form II with a significantly shortened crystallization induction period can be observed at relatively high Tc (105 °C). Besides, the shear‐induced Form II can transit to Form I faster than the unsheared one. In addition, the phase transition rate increases as the Tshear decreases, with the fastest rate occurring at Tshear of 120 °C. The half transition time (t1/2) is measured as 6.3 h when Tc = 105 °C, Tshear = 120 °C, which is much shorter than the 20.7 h required for unsheared samples. The accelerated phase transition of iPBu can be attributed to the stretching of molecular chains, resulting from shear treatment. This study provides a quantitative analysis of the influence of the shear treatment and the Tshear on the II–I phase transition rate. It also presents a cost‐effective and straightforward approach for expediting the phase transition process.
Approximation by Riemann–Liouville type fractional α$$ \alpha $$‐Bernstein–Kantorovich operators
Authors: Berwal Sahil , Mohiuddine S. A. , Kajla Arun , Alotaibi Abdullah
Published: April 2024

In this research paper, we construct a new sequence of Riemann–Liouville type fractional
‐Bernstein–Kantorovich operators. We prove a Korovkin type approximation theorem and discuss the rate of convergence with the first order modulus of continuity of these operators. Further, we study Voronovskaja type theorem, quantitative Voronovskaya type theorem, Chebyshev–Grüss inequality and Grüss–Voronovskaya type theorem.
New full‐counts phase‐matched data‐driven gated (DDG) PET/CT
Authors: Sun Peng , Thomas M. Allan , Luo Dershan , Pan Tinsu
Published: April 2024

Background

Data‐driven gated (DDG) PET has gained clinical acceptance and has been shown to match or outperform external‐device gated (EDG) PET. However, in most clinical applications, DDG PET is matched with helical CT acquired in free breathing (FB) at a random respiratory phase, leaving registration, and optimal attenuation correction (AC) to chance. Furthermore, DDG PET requires additional scan time to reduce image noise as it only preserves 35%–50% of the PET data at or near the end‐expiratory phase of the breathing cycle.

Purpose

A new full‐counts, phase‐matched (FCPM) DDG PET/CT was developed based on a low‐dose cine CT to improve registration between DDG PET and DDG CT, to reduce image noise, and to avoid increasing acquisition times in DDG PET.

Methods

A new DDG CT was developed for three respiratory phases of CT images from a low dose cine CT acquisition of 1.35 mSv for a coverage of about 15.4 cm: end‐inspiration (EI), average (AVG), and end‐expiration (EE) to match with the three corresponding phases of DDG PET data: −10% to 15%; 15% to 30%, and 80% to 90%; and 30% to 80%, respectively. The EI and EE phases of DDG CT were selected based on the physiological changes in lung density and body outlines reflected in the dynamic cine CT images. The AVG phase was derived from averaging of all phases of the cine CT images. The cine CT was acquired over the lower lungs and/or upper abdomen for correction of misregistration between PET and FB CT as well as DDG PET and FB CT. The three phases of DDG CT were used for AC of the corresponding phases of PET. After phase‐matched AC of each PET dataset, the EI and AVG PET data were registered to the EE PET data with deformable image registration. The final result was FCPM DDG PET/CT which accounts for all PET data registered at the EE phase. We applied this approach to 14 18F‐FDG lung cancer patient studies acquired at 2 min/bed position on the GE Discovery MI (25‐cm axial FOV) and evaluated its efficacy in improved quantification and noise reduction.

Results

Relative to static PET/CT, the SUVmax increases for the EI, AVG, EE, and FCPM DDG PET/CT were 1.67 ± 0.40, 1.50 ± 0.28, 1.64 ± 0.36, and 1.49 ± 0.28, respectively. There were 10.8% and 9.1% average decreases in SUVmax from EI and EE to FCPM DDG PET/CT, respectively. EI, AVG, and EE DDG PET/CT all maintained increased image noise relative to static PET/CT. However, the noise levels of FCPM and static PET were statistically equivalent, suggesting the inclusion of all counts was able to decrease the image noise relative to EI and EE DDG PET/CT.

Conclusions

A new FCPM DDG PET/CT has been developed to account for 100% of collected PET data in DDG PET applications. Image noise in FCPM is comparable to static PET, while small decreases in SUVmax were also observed in FCPM when compared to either EI or EE DDG PET/CT.
Research progress on intranasal treatment for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wen Puyuan , Ren Chao
Published: April 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder globally, significantly affecting the quality of life of affected individuals. Systemic drug delivery to the brain is inefficient because of first‐pass metabolism, the blood‐brain barrier (BBB), and the blood‐cerebrospinal fluid barrier. This inefficiency necessitates increased dosage as the disease progresses, leading to severe side effects that compromise the efficacy of the medication. Nose‐to‐brain (N2B) administration bypasses the BBB, allowing delivery of both small molecules and large protein substances to the central nervous system. Compared with systemic administration, this method enhances brain bioavailability, reduces enzymatic degradation, and minimizes systemic adverse reactions. However, the N2B delivery system is associated with several critical challenges, including mucociliary clearance, enzymatic degradation, and drug translocation via efflux mechanisms. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current research progress in intranasal treatment of PD, considering both preclinical and clinical studies, and discusses the physiological aspects and limitations of its delivery system.
Bayesian inversion and uncertainty analysis of transient electromagnetic data
Authors: Zhang Nuoya , Sun Huaifeng , Liu Dong , Liu Shangbin
Published: April 2024

Quantification of non‐uniqueness and uncertainty is important for transient electromagnetism (TEM). To address this issue, we develop a trans‐dimensional Bayesian inversion schema for TEM data interpretation. The trans‐dimensional posterior probability density (PPD) offers a solution to model selection and quantifies parameter uncertainty resulting from the model selection from all possible models rather than determining a single model. We use the reversible‐jump Markov chain Monte Carlo sampler to draw ensembles of models to approximate PPD. In addition to providing reasonable model selection, we address the reliability of the inversion results for uncertainty analysis. This strategy offers reasonable guidance when interpreting the inversion results. We make the following improvements in this paper. First, in terms of algorithmic acceleration, we use the nonlinear optimization inversion results as the initial model and implement the multi‐chain parallel method. Second, we develop double factors to control the sampling step size of the proposed distribution, so that the sampling models cover the high‐probability region of the parameter space as much as possible. Finally, we provide the potential scale reduction factor‐η convergence criteria to assess the convergence of the samples and ensure the rationality of the output models. The proposed methodology is first tested on synthetic data and subsequently applied to a field dataset. The TEM inversion results show that probability inversion can provide reliable references for data interpretation through uncertainty analysis.
Relevant Developments in the Use of Three‐Component Reactions for the Total Synthesis of Natural Products. The last 15 Years
Authors: Larghi Enrique L. , Bracca Andrea B. J. , Simonetti Sebastian O. , Kaufman Teodoro S.
Published: April 2024

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) offer a highly useful and valuable strategy that can fulfill an important role in synthesizing complex polysubstituted compounds, by simplifying otherwise long sequences and increasing their efficiency. The total synthesis of selected natural products employing three‐component reactions as their common strategic MCR approach, is reviewed on a case‐by‐case basis with selected targets conquered during the last 15 years. The revision includes detailed descriptions of the selected successful sequences; relevant information on the isolation, and bioactivity of the different natural targets is also briefly provided.
Chitosan‐containing electrospun poly(ethylene oxide)‐polybutadiene‐CNT fibers
Authors: Sarac Baran , Gürbüz Remzi , Soprunyuk Viktor , Yüce Eray , Rezvan Amir , Schranz Wilfried , Eckert Jürgen , Ozcan Ali , Sarac A. Sezai
Published: April 2024

Cross‐linked polymer composite fibers are gaining more and more interest in the fields of drug delivery, bone regeneration and biomineralization. This study focuses on the replacement of the radical initiator by photoinitiation via benzophenone, resulting in poly(ethylene oxide)‐polybutadiene‐carbon nanotube (PEO‐PBu‐CNT) nanofibers. The inclusion of small amounts of CNTs increases the rupture temperature and the first glass transition temperature Tg1 of the composite by 28 and 23 K, respectively, while decreasing the second glass transition temperature Tg2 by 20 K determined by dynamic mechanical analysis. A twice higher initial storage modulus of ~44 MPa can be detected for the CNT‐containing samples, indicating the stiffening effect due to CNT addition. Primary X‐ray diffraction peaks of PEO shift by 0.42° towards lower angles by the inclusion of CNTs, accounting for the generation of free volume within the polymer composite. Two orders of magnitude increase in Bode magnitude with a rise in Bode angle from 6° to 56° is detected by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for the UV‐cured PEO‐PBu‐CNT. Entanglement between the fibers, as well as a rough surface with a rigid structure, is observed upon small CNT additions. Finally, attenuated total reflectance—Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy allow the detection of the main peaks and intensity changes of these polymer composite structures for the UV‐cured and uncured states.
Mechanical response and damage evolution of CF/PEEK‐reinforced Al metal‐composite hybrid structure at high strain rate
Authors: Nie Shuyan , Wang Jie , Chen Liming , Du Bing , Pan Xin , Guo Yuan , Deng Jianqiang
Published: April 2024

A CF/PEEK‐reinforced Al metal‐composite hybrid structure (CF/PEEK/Al) and CF/PEEK bar were subjected to high strain rate compression tests with a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). With the increase in strain rates, both CF/PEEK and CF/PEEK/Al showed the strain rate strengthening effect, and the microscopic fracture surface of CF/PEEK changes from rough to smooth. In the plastic rheological stage of stress–strain curve, CF/PEEK shows a plateau effect, while CF/PEEK/Al shows the strain weakening effect. When the strain rate exceeds 3800 s−1, the stress–strain curve exhibits a secondary wave peak. The peak values of the secondary peak in CF/PEEK/Al are larger than CF/PEEK. In terms of peak stress, yield stress, and specific energy absorption, CF/PEEK/Al outperforms CF/PEEK. Compared with other structures, the CF/PEEK/Al metal‐composite hybrid structure has certain advantages in terms of yield strength and yield strain. The finite element method (FEM) and DIC system were applied to observe the dynamic damage process in the compression impact test. It was found that in CF/PEEK/A1, the Al thin‐walled tube was damaged and cracked at the contact interface, and the inner CF/PEEK began to be damaged at the contact center with the input bar. And at 335 μs after contact began, the shear band ran through to the side of the samples.

Highlights

A CF/PEEK‐reinforced Al metal‐composite hybrid structure (CF/PEEK/Al) was proposed, which is superior to CF/PEEK.

When the strain rate exceeds 3800 s−1, the stress–strain curves of CF/PEEK and CF/PEEK/Al exhibit a secondary wave peak. The peak values of the secondary peak in CF/PEEK/Al are larger than CF/PEEK.

With the increase in strain rates, both CF/PEEK and CF/PEEK/Al showed the strain rate strengthening effect, and the microscopic fracture surface of CF/PEEK changes from rough to smooth.

In CF/PEEK/A1, the Al thin‐walled tube was damaged and cracked at the contact interface, and the inner CF/PEEK began to be damaged at the contact center with the input bar. And at 335 μs after contact began, the shear band ran through to the side of the samples.