bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the potential of spice‐derived phytochemicals as alternative antimicrobial agents
Authors: Wong Young Y. , Chow Yit‐Lai
Published: December 2023

The emergence and spread of pathogenic bacterial resistance to many antibiotics are on the rise globally, thereby posing a significant threat to public health. In response, scientists are actively investigating alternative therapeutic agents to combat antibiotic‐resistant microorganisms. This review focuses on the antimicrobial effects of commonly consumed spices, namely garlic, chilli peppers, turmeric, ginger and black pepper, which have shown promising results in previous research. The review highlights the key phytochemicals, including allicin, ajoene, capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, curcumin, 6‐gingerol, 6‐shogaol and piperine, responsible for their antimicrobial activities. Various pharmacological experiments to elucidate the action mechanism and metabolism of those bioactive compounds are described. Moreover, the synergistic effects of these phytochemicals with conventional antibiotics are discussed, emphasizing the potential to reduce the required antibiotic dosage for effective microbial inhibition. The review also addresses the gaps in current research, such as the variations in antimicrobial assay results across different research groups and the incomplete understanding of the synergistic mechanisms between antibiotics and phytochemicals. Finally, future research directions and opportunities are suggested to further explore the antimicrobial potential of these spice‐derived phytochemicals and bridge the existing knowledge gaps.
A Distibene with Extremely Long Sb=Sb Distance and Related Heavier Dipnictenes from Salt‐Free Metathesis Reactions
Authors: Roller Clara A. , Doler Berenike , Steller Beate G. , Saf Robert , Fischer Roland C.
Published: December 2023

Conversions of organoelement diamides, ArDippE(NMe2)2 (E=Sb, Bi; ArDipp=C6H3‐2,6‐Dipp2), with Ph2SnH2 as reducing agent gave access to low‐valent, heavier group 15 dimers ArDippSb=SbArDipp and ArDippBi=BiArDipp, while only readily removable byproducts (i. e. dihydrogen, amines) and cyclo‐(Ph12Sn6) are generated during the reaction. Moreover, experiments involving the reaction of organoantimony hydride species Ar*2SbH (Ar*=C6H2‐2,6‐(Ph2CH)2‐4‐iPr) with Bi(NEt2)3 yielded a second novel distibene, Ar*Sb=SbAr*, with the currently longest Sb−Sb bond distance of 2.8605(5) Å in a distibene. In conversions of TbbSnH3 (Tbb=C6H2‐2,6‐(CH(SiMe3)2)2‐4‐tBu) with Bi(NEt2)3, ligand migration resulted in the isolation of TbbBi=BiTbb. Remarkably, the herein reported novel inorganic coupling route enables preparation and isolation of heavier dipnictenes without the formation of inorganic salts. All four low‐oxidation state compounds were isolated and subsequently characterized using state of the art techniques, i. e. X‐ray crystallography, NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
Effect of Tethered Sulfur Ligands on the Association Constants of Dirhodium(II,II) Paddlewheel Complexes
Authors: Moore Desiree , Ogunyemi Bukola , Nalaoh Phattananawee , Darko Ampofo
Published: December 2023

Herein we report on the association constants (Ka) of dirhodium(II,II) complexes bearing tethered thioether or sulfoxide ligands in the presence of binding analytes. The effect of substituent and tether length modifications on Ka and the stability of the complexes were analyzed by UV‐vis using pyridine and cysteine as binding analytes of interest. When pyridine was the incoming exogenous species, dirhodium(II,II) complexes with tethered sulfur ligands reduced the axial coordination of pyridine by up to four‐fold when compared to dirhodium(II,II) complexes without tethered axial coordination. Tuning the tethered sulfur coordination through changes in tether length, substituent, and electronics resulted in Ka values that spanned 2.6×103 M−1 to 8.1×103 M−1. The differences in Ka were correlated with structural features of crystals obtained from single crystal X‐ray diffraction and results pointed to release of strain as a factor in the association constants. Interestingly, cysteine interactions were greater for complexes with tethered, axial ligands than those without, alluding to an alternate mode of coordination with cysteine. These results demonstrate the tunability of tethered, axial coordination on dirhodium(II,II) paddlewheel complexes and provide access to controlled binding of exogenous species.
Transition‐Metal‐Free C−H Alkylation of Cyclic Aldimines with Alkylboronic Acid
Authors: Zhou Yu , Cui Yangbo , Huang Hangfei , Zhang Jun‐Qi , Xu Yang , Ren Hongjun , Dong Zhi‐Bing
Published: December 2023

Molecular oxygen‐mediated C−H bond alkylation of cyclic aldimines has been reported, which avoids the use of transition metals and additional oxidants. This method allows straightforward access to a series of cyclic aldimine derivatives through a free radical course. Furthermore, this transformation features mild conditions, excellent yields and good functional group tolerance.
Contrasted Antibiotics and Pesticides Occurrence in Fish Exposed In Situ to Urban Effluents: A 20-Day Caging Experiment
Authors: Marchand Etienne , Petit Fabienne , Alliot Fabrice , Blanchoud Hélène , Costantini David , Guigon Elodie , Martin Nicolas , Traore Sira , Goutte Aurélie
Published: December 2023

Urban freshwater ecosystems receive a wide array of organic pollutants through wastewater-treatment plant (WWTP) discharges and agricultural runoff. Evaluating the fate and effects of antibiotics and pesticides can be a challenging task, especially the effects on freshwater vertebrates because of their abilities to metabolize and excrete these chemicals and because of their high mobility and escape behavior when exposed to stressful environmental conditions. In the present study, 37 wild gudgeons (Gobio gobio) were caged for a period of up to 20 days, upstream and downstream of a WWTP effluent discharge in the Orge River (a tributary of the Seine River, France). Levels of pesticides and antibiotics in fish muscles were monitored weekly and compared with environmental contamination (water and sediments). Our results highlighted a slight bioaccumulation of pesticides in the gudgeon muscles at the downstream site after 20 days of exposure. Concerning antibiotics, ofloxacin was the most detected compound in fish muscles (85% of occurrence) and ranged from undetectable to 8 ng g–1 dry weight. Antibiotic levels in fish muscle were not higher at the downstream site and did not increase with exposure duration, despite high levels in the water (up to 29 times greater than upstream). Potential ecotoxicological effects were also evaluated: Body condition did not differ between the caging location and exposure time. Three oxidative status markers in the fish livers showed significant shifts after 14 days of caging. Our results suggest a high clearance rate of antibiotics and, to a lesser extent, of pesticides in wild gudgeons, which could be explained by changes in xenobiotic metabolism with pollutant exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:701–711. © 2023 SETAC
A phased workflow to define permit‐ready locations for large volume CO2 injection and storage
Authors: Trevino Ramon H. , Hovorka Susan D. , Dunlap Dallas B. , Larson Richard C. , Hentz Tucker F. , Hosseini Seyyed A. , Bhattacharya Shuvajit , DeAngelo Michael V.
Published: December 2023

To‐date, only two UIC Class VI permits have been issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency. We illustrate a four‐phase workflow to first identify regional storage resources and then down‐select sites to yield permit‐ready locations that can accept and store large volumes of CO2. Specific permit requirements should guide objectives and define deliverables of respective workflow phases. In the first phase we used available regional data and screened structure and injection zones to locate resources that match CO2 volumes planned to be captured. Available data were also used to assess presence and depth of usable groundwater, the key resource being protected via permitting. We then used advanced, closed‐form, analytical solutions (EASiTool) to estimate CO2 injectivity into each hydrologically connected injection compartment. In the second phase we acquired and conditioned additional wireline logs and leased available seismic datasets. We interpreted the depositional systems from wireline well‐log character and mapped sandbody geometry to interpolate injection and confining‐zone distribution. Using available data, we mapped faults and locations of freshwater and overpressure (or other capacity‐limiting geologic parameters) in more detail. In the third phase, we used the augmented geologic data to develop a static model for the selected area, extracted the areas of highest interest, and generated and ran dynamic (flow) models. In a fourth phase, we reduced major uncertainties identified in earlier phases. Our case study indicates that to complete preparation of a permit application requires (1) improved lithologic characterization information (thicknesses and horizontal and vertical connectivity) and (2) better definition of poorly defined local faults. © 2023 The Authors. Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Tumor volumes in T3 supraglottic cancers treated with radiotherapy in the modern era: A study of the Canadian Head & Neck Collaborative Research Initiative
Authors: Malik Nauman H. , Fu Rui , Hainc Nicolin , Noel Christopher W. , de Almeida John R. , Hosni Ali , Huang Shao Hui , Yu Eugene , Dzioba Agnieszka , Leung Andrew , Mangat Arvindpaul , MacNeil Danielle , Nichols Anthony C. , Hiremath Shivaprakash B. , Chakraborty Santanu , Jooya Alborz , Gaudet Marc , Johnson‐Obaseki Stephanie , Whelan Jonathan , Forghani Reza , Hier Michael P. , Morand Grégoire , Sultanem Khalil , Dort Joseph , Lysack John , Matthews Wayne , Nakoneshny Steven , Gill Gia , Globerman Adam , Kerr Paul , Maralani Pejman , Karam Irene , Eskander Antoine
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the association of primary tumor volume (TV) with overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in T3 N0‐3M0 supraglottic cancers treated with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study involving 239 patients diagnosed with T3 N0‐3M0 supraglottic cancers between 2002 and 2018 from seven regional cancer centers in Canada. Clinical data were obtained from the patient records. Supraglottic TV was measured by neuroradiologists on diagnostic imaging. Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival probabilities, and a restricted cubic spline Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to analyze TV associations with OS and DFS.

Results

Mean (SD) of participants was 65.2 (9.4) years; 176 (73.6%) participants were male. 90 (38%) were N0, and 151 (64%) received concurrent systemic therapy. Mean TV (SD) was 11.37 (12.11) cm3. With mean follow up (SD) of 3.28 (2.60) years, 2‐year OS was 72.7% (95% CI 66.9%–78.9%) and DFS was 53.6% (47.4%–60.6%). Increasing TV was associated (per cm3 increase) with worse OS (HR, 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02, p < 0.01) and DFS (HR, 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Increasing primary tumor volume is associated with worse OS and DFS in T3 supraglottic cancers treated with IMRT, with no clear threshold. The findings suggest that patients with larger tumors and poor baseline laryngeal function may benefit from upfront laryngectomy with adjuvant radiotherapy.
Investigating the advantages and disadvantages of electronic logbooks for education goals promotion in medical sciences students: A systematic review
Authors: Paydar Somayeh , Esmaeeli Erfan , Ameri Fatemeh , Sabahi Azam , Meraji Marzieh
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

Electronic logbook (E‐Logbook) is one of the practical software in medical science that serves as an auxiliary tool for comprehensive education, formative evaluation, and student learning documentation in clinical education. E‐logbooks are available to people on the Internet without any time or place restrictions. Experts' familiarity with e‐logbooks and their advantages and disadvantages can be effective in their better design so professors and students can use their potential benefits. Therefore, this study examines the advantages and disadvantages of an e‐logbook.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted until June 13, 2022, by searching relevant keywords such as logbook, e‐logbook, and medical students in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Data were extracted using the data extraction form. The contents of the studies were analyzed based on the study's aim. The results of the analyses were presented in the form of descriptive statistics (tables and figures).

Results

Out of 365 retrieved studies, 13 were selected to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of e‐logbooks. Most studies were conducted in Pakistan (n = 4) and focused on medical students with different specialties (n = 10). The advantages and disadvantages of e‐logbooks were classified into nine and four categories, respectively. Most advantages of e‐logbooks were related to monitoring and evaluating the performance of students and instructors (n = 11). Their most disadvantages were associated with hardware and software (n = 8).

Conclusion

According to the results, e‐logbooks can improve clinical education, provide feedback to people, control the achievement of educational goals, and increase professor−student interaction. Hence, it is recommended to address their disadvantages and barriers to improve the quality of students' performance.
Investigating the factors related to protective behaviors against COVID‐19 in healthcare workers: Application of extended parallel process model
Authors: Noroozi Masir Marzieh , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Fathian Dastgerdi Zohreh , Rahimi Majid
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

Preventive behaviors against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are important, and messages that create a sense of danger are necessary to create these behaviors. One of the widely used models for designing risk messages is the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM). The present study was conducted to investigate the factors related to protective behaviors against COVID‐19 in the personnel of the health department based on EPPM.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 699 personnel of the deputy health department of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province were included in the study by census method. Data were collected online using valid questionnaires, including demographic questions and history of contracting COVID‐19 and the questionnaire of EPPM constructs. Data were analyzed in SPSS24 software, using descriptive and analytical statistics.

Results

The results showed that there were positive correlations between the protective behaviors and the constructs of perceived severity (p < 0.001, r = 0.542), perceived susceptibility (p < 0.001, r = 0.260), self‐efficacy (p < 0.001, r = 0.594), response efficiency (p > 0.001, r = 0.522), and risk control (p > 0.001, r = 0.501). There was a negative correlation between protective behaviors and fear control (p < 0.001, r = 0.329). The results of multiple linear regression showed that these six constructs explained 49.8% of protective behaviors against COVID‐19, among which the role of the perceived severity construct was stronger than other constructs.

Conclusion

Regarding the results, it is suggested that the results of this research be used in the development of training programs to improve protective behaviors in high‐traffic offices, and by focusing on fear and risk control.
Constructal design of crossflow heat exchanger with concentric and eccentric circular fins
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Waheed , Sulaiman Usama Abdullah , Awad Mohamed M.
Published: December 2023

A single‐row crossflow heat exchanger with concentric and eccentric circular fins is designed and shown in this paper using a constructal design approach. The transverse fins spacing, the spanwise fins spacing, and the fin‐tube eccentricity are varied inside a fixed volume. In addition to the concentric case (ε = 0), two tube‐fin eccentricities are considered with (ε = ±0.25). The (heat transfer/volume) heat density is to be optimized with respect to the transverse and the spanwise spacing. The height and the width of the heat exchanger occupation space in addition to the fin diameter are fixed as design constraints. The crossflow is motivated by constant pressure drop with two dimensionless pressure drop numbers (Bejan number) (Be = 103 and 105). Both the fins and the tubes are maintained at a constant temperature, and they are cooled by the cross air of ambient temperature. The ratio of the fin to tube diameter is kept at 0.5. Three‐dimensional equations for conservation of mass, conservation of momentum, and conservation of energy are solved using finite volume method for incompressible and steady flows. The heat density for concentric fins (ε = 0) and eccentric fins (ε = ±0.25) is maximized two times, one with respect to transverse spacing, and the other with respect to spanwise spacing at Bejan numbers (Be = 103 and 105). The highest double‐maximized heat density is attained at the fin eccentricity (ε = 0.25). The increase in the double maximized heat density when the fin eccentricity (ε = 0.25) is 7.65% for Be = 103, and it is 12% for Be = 105.
Your gender identity is who you are: Female chief executive officers and corporate debt structure
Authors: Huang Yuxuan , Zhu Qi , Yan Cheng , Zeng Yeqin
Published: December 2023

Using a large sample of S&P 1500 firms during 1993–2021, we empirically examine the implications of CEO gender on corporate debt structure. We find that after controlling for endogeneity, firms managed by female CEOs issue less debt than those managed by male CEOs. Female CEOs being more risk averse than male CEOs is the underlying mechanism which drives the negative relation between female CEOs and firm leverage. Further, we find that the effect of CEO gender is more pronounced when the firm's CEO is younger, the litigation risk is higher, and the market is more competitive. In terms of debt structure, firms managed by female CEOs prefer to maintain positive debt capacity and have longer debt maturities. Finally, we show that CEO gender has a stronger impact on debt structure than CFO gender. Taken together, our evidence suggests that there exist gender differences in terms of corporate debt borrowing decision making.
Periselectivity and ambimodal transition states in cycloadditions of tetrachloro‐o‐benzoquinone with 6,6‐dimethylfulvene
Authors: Su Ruirui , He Xue , Houk K. N. , Lu Qianqian , Liu Fang
Published: December 2023

The reaction mechanism of cycloadditions of tetrachloro‐o‐benzoquinone with 6,6‐dimethylfulvene were systematically investigated with density functional theory calculations. It was found that conditional primary interactions stabilize the ambimodal transition states in the endo pathways. Ambimodal transition states lead to [6 + 4]/[4 + 2] adducts or [4 + 2]/[2 + 4] adducts, which interconvert through 3,3‐sigmatropic shift reactions. The substituent effects on periselectivity were also investigated.
Sporadic simple groups as flag‐transitive automorphism groups of symmetric designs
Authors: Alavi Seyed Hassan , Daneshkhah Ashraf
Published: December 2023

In this article, we study symmetric designs admitting flag‐transitive, point‐imprimitive almost simple automorphism groups with socle sporadic simple groups. As a corollary, we present a classification of symmetric designs admitting flag‐transitive automorphism group whose socle is a sporadic simple group, and in conclusion, there are exactly seven such designs, one of which admits a point‐imprimitive automorphism group and the remaining are point‐primitive.
The use of carbon spheres to enhance the beneficial activity of Bacillus thuringiensis and Micromonospora echinospora in the germination of Prosopis glandulosa
Authors: la Cruz Juan Luis Ignacio‐De , Granados‐Martínez Francisco Gabriel , Sánchez‐Yañez Juan Manuel , la Cruz David Ricardo Poiré‐De , Flores‐Ramírez Nelly , Hernández‐Cristóbal Orlando , Domratcheva‐Lvova Lada
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The synthesis of carbon nanomaterials such as carbon spheres (CSs) can be based on the use of renewable, inexpensive and accessible precursors through an effective, simple and rapid technique. The application of CSs can be used as an option to enhance the biological activity of beneficial endophytic microorganisms to promote the growth of forest plants such as Prosopis glandulosa (mesquite). The aim of this study was to analyze the response of P. glandulosa to Bacillus thuringiensis and Micromonospora echinospora with 50% fertilizer solution (FES) enhanced with CSs.

RESULTS

The synthesized nanomaterials were characterized by microscopic and spectroscopic techniques showing CSs with 250–500 nm diameters with the presence of functional groups such as OH, CO and CC. P. glandulosa seeds inoculated with B. thuringiensis/M. echinospora with FES containing CSs emerged after 6 days with 100% germination in comparison with 62% germination in 13 days with absolute control.

CONCLUSION

P. glandulosa treated with B. thuringiensis and M. echinospora and FES improved with 10 and 20 ppm of CSs had a positive response in terms of emergence days and percentage germination. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Preoperative Gadoxetic Acid‐Enhanced MRI Features for Evaluation of Vessels Encapsulating Tumor Clusters and Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Creating Nomograms for Risk Assessment
Authors: Qu Qi , Liu Zixin , Lu Mengtian , Xu Lei , Zhang Jiyun , Liu Maotong , Jiang Jifeng , Gu Chunyan , Ma Qinrong , Huang Aina , Zhang Xueqin , Zhang Tao
Published: December 2023

Background

Vessels encapsulating tumor cluster (VETC) and microvascular invasion (MVI) have a synergistic effect on prognosis assessment and treatment selection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Preoperative noninvasive evaluation of VETC and MVI is important.

Purpose

To explore the diagnosis value of preoperative gadoxetic acid (GA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features for MVI, VETC, and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in HCC.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

240 post‐surgery patients with 274 pathologically confirmed HCC (allocated to training and validation cohorts with a 7:3 ratio) and available tumor marker data from August 2014 to December 2021.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, T1‐, T2‐, diffusion‐weighted imaging, in/out‐phase imaging, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging.

Assessment

Three radiologists subjectively reviewed preoperative MRI, evaluated clinical and conventional imaging features associated with MVI+, VETC+, and MVI+/VETC+ HCC. Regression‐based nomograms were developed for HCC in the training cohort. Based on the nomograms, the RFS prognostic stratification system was further. Follow‐up occurred every 3–6 months.

Statistical Tests

Chi‐squared test or Fisher's exact test, Mann–Whitney U‐test or t‐test, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator–penalized, multivariable logistic regression analyses, receiver operating characteristic analysis, Harrell's concordance index (C‐index), Kaplan–Meier plots. Significance level: P < 0.05.

Results

In the training group, 44 patients with MVI+ and 74 patients with VETC+ were histologically confirmed. Three nomograms showed good performance in the training (C‐indices: MVI+ vs. VETC+ vs. MVI+/VETC+, 0.892 vs. 0.848 vs. 0.910) and validation (C‐indices: MVI+ vs. VETC+ vs. MVI+/VETC+, 0.839 vs. 0.810 vs. 0.855) cohorts. The median follow‐up duration for the training cohort was 43.6 (95% CI, 35.0–52.2) months and 25.8 (95% CI, 16.1–35.6) months for the validation cohort. Patients with either pathologically confirmed or nomogram‐estimated MVI, VETC, and MVI+/VETC+ suffered higher risk of recurrence.

Data Conclusion

GA‐enhanced MRI and clinical variables might assist in preoperative estimation of MVI, VETC, and MVI+/VETC+ in HCC.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Meaningful consumer engagement in medical radiation sciences: enhancing quality improvement and research projects
Authors: Brown Amy , McCoola Brianna , Funnell Yovanna , Hargrave Catriona
Published: December 2023

Consumer engagement and partnership are increasingly recognised as a significant component of healthcare planning, provision, quality improvement and research. This article provides an overview of consumer engagement embedded in two different projects: a quality improvement project and a research project. The considerations and steps taken to effectively engage and partner with consumers throughout both projects will be discussed such as the prompt for consumer engagement, how the consumer/s were recruited and their specific contributions. The commonly reported advantages and challenges as well as reflections on what we might do differently with the benefit of hindsight are presented, including time required by both consumers and health professionals; funding and remuneration; and reporting findings to the wider community. In demonstrating consumer engagement and our learnings, we aim to encourage further consumer engagement activities amongst medical radiation professionals.
Upper‐level wind mode over the North Atlantic‐Arctic Ocean leading to coherent variations of Eurasian and North American winter temperatures and weakness in the CMIP6 models
Authors: Sun Chenghu , Shi Xiaohui , Lu Qifeng , Li Weijing
Published: December 2023

This study discovers that the interannual synchronization of winter temperature anomalies between northern Eurasia and North America is closely related to variation in the second leading mode of the 300 hPa meridional wind anomalies (i.e., V300‐EOF2) over the North Atlantic‐Arctic Ocean. The V300‐EOF2 mode modulates the large‐scale Rossby wave propagating across the mid‐high latitudes of the Eurasian and North American continents at the mid‐high level of troposphere, and it also interferes with the climatological quasi‐stationary wavenumber‐2 to affect the stratosphere circulation, which facilitates the southward intrusion of cold air into Eurasia and North America simultaneously. This study also evaluated whether the CMIP6 high‐top (HT) models could more accurately represent the V300‐EOF2 mode and the associated modulation mechanism on synchronized temperature variation between Eurasia and North America than the low‐top (LT) models. The results demonstrate that although the multi‐model ensemble means (MME) of both the HT and LT models can reproduce the V300‐EOF mode, they all underestimate its modulation mechanism on atmospheric circulation and coherent temperature changes over mid‐latitude Eurasia and North America, with minor differences in simulation skill capability. Most importantly, although containing a full stratosphere, the HT models do not significantly improve their simulation ability to depict the observed linear interference between the anomalous wave‐2 and the climatological stationary wave‐2 compared to the LT models. Therefore, comparing to the LT models, the CMIP6 HT models present no clear advantages in reproducing the V300‐EOF2 mode and its associated low‐frequency climate anomalies. These results also have implications for the evaluation of the predictability of concomitant Eurasian‐North American cooling in the Subseasonal‐to‐Seasonal Prediction Project.
Gastric emptying and myoelectrical activity testing in children with esophageal atresia: A pilot study
Authors: Mussies Carlijn , Duvoisin Gilles , Le Angela , Birro Selin , Hulbert Sarah , Omari Taher , Benninga Marc A. , van Wijk Michiel P. , Krishnan Usha
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Abnormalities of gastric function in children with esophageal atresia (EA) could potentially contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms and reduced quality of life (QOL). Therefore, we aimed to determine the feasibility and clinical usefulness of gastric function testing in children with EA.

Methods

The validated PedsQL Gastrointestinal Symptoms Questionnaire (PedsQL‐GI) was completed to assess gastrointestinal symptoms and symptom‐related QOL. Gastric emptying and gastric myoelectrical activity were studied using 13C‐gastric emptying octanoic acid breath test (13C‐GEBT) and surface electrogastrography (EGG). Correlations between 13C‐GEBT and EGG parameters and PedsQL‐GI scores were investigated.

Results

Fifteen patients (four males) were included (median age: 6 [3.0–8.5] years). Mean PedsQL‐GI scores as reported by the children were comparable to the healthy population. However, parents reported a diminished QOL. Gastric function tests (gastric emptying and/or surface EGG) showed abnormalities in 12 patients (80%). Patients with abnormal slow waves showed abnormal gastric emptying coefficient more often. There was no significant association between 13C‐GEBT nor EGG results and PedsQL‐GI scores.

Conclusions

13C‐GEBT and EGG can be used to evaluate gastric function in patients with EA. Abnormal gastric function tests were present in 80% of our cohort. However, abnormal gastric function did not significantly correlate with reported gastrointestinal symptom‐related QOL.
Office‐based sedation‐free transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsies using single‐use gastroscopes: A pediatric single‐center experience
Authors: Smadi Yamen , Thomas Jessina , Bittar Khaled , Norton Hannah , Friedlander Joel A. , Bornstein Jeffrey
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Unsedated transnasal endoscopy (TNE) as transnasal esophagoscopy (TN‐Eso) has emerged as a promising alternative to esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) under sedation to assess eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). We report our center's experience using single‐use gastroscopes to perform sedation‐free transnasal EGD (TN‐EGD) with biopsies in an office‐based setting.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on patients with eosinophilic esophagitis who underwent office‐based sedation‐free TNE with topical analgesia and virtual reality (VR) procedural dissociation and distraction. A sterile, single‐use, ultra‐slim 3.5 mm outer diameter, 110 cm long gastroscope with 2 mm working channel (EvoEndo) was used to perform TNE with biopsies/brushings. Data including demographics, procedure success rate, total visit time, biopsy adequacy, procedure time, procedural preference, and complications were collected.

Results

Office‐based TNE was completed in 8 patients (six males, age range 11–20 years). The endoscope was advanced by an experienced transoral endoscopist successfully through the nares into stomach (transnasal esophagogastroscopy [TN‐EG]) in all subjects (100%) and into the duodenum (TN‐EGD) in seven subjects (87.5%). Biopsies were obtained from esophagus in all cases and from the stomach/duodenum in five cases. Histological assessment, esophageal brushing, disaccharidase enzyme analysis, or duodenal aspirate analysis were performed as indicated. EoE reevaluation was the primary indication to perform endoscopy in all patients. Visual and histologic findings were all adequate for assessment. There were no significant adverse events.

Conclusion

Office‐based TN‐EGD with VR procedural distraction and dissociation using single‐use gastroscopes was effective to monitor EoE, gastritis, and duodenitis in a pediatric practice.
A robust method for simultaneous determination of eight B vitamins in human serum by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Huo Yu‐Mei , Zhang Shang‐Qing , Wu Gao‐Ping , Shan Hong‐Bo , Pan Chao
Published: December 2023

The level of vitamin B group in human serum is an important index of human health. Among B vitamins, cyanocobalamin in serum is unstable and its content is extremely low. Rapid and simultaneous detection of multiple B vitamins including cyanocobalamin is a challenge. Herein, we have developed a rapid and stable method that can realize the determination of thiamine, riboflavin, nicotinamide, pantothenic acid, pyridoxic acid, biotin, 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate, and cyanocobalamin simultaneously in 6 min. The method was established based on protein precipitation with methanol and then chromatographic separation was achieved using Waters acquity ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography high strength silica T3 column, which was stable and sensitive especially for cyanocobalamin. Limit of quantification, precision, trueness, and matrix effect were validated according to the European Medicines Agency and United States Food and Drug guidelines and Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines on bioanalytical method. The limit of quantification for thiamine, riboflavin, nicotinamide, pantothenic acid, pyridoxic acid, biotin, 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate, and cyanocobalamin was 0.4, 0.4, 0.8, 2.0, 0.4, 0.1, 0.4, and 0.04 ng/mL separately, respectively. Intra‐ and interday precisions were 1.1%–12.4% and 2.0%–13.5%, respectively. The relative errors were between 0.3% and 13.3%, and the matrix effects were between 2.6% and 10.4%.
Tissue engineering in otorhinolaryngology: A knowledge‐based analysis
Authors: Padilla‐Cabello Javier , Martin‐Piedra Miguel A. , Santisteban‐Espejo Antonio , Moral‐Munoz Jose A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To analyze the impact, performance, degree of specialization, and collaboration patterns of the worldwide scientific production on tissue engineering in otorhinolaryngology at the level of countries and institutions.

Methods

Two different techniques were used, performance and science mapping analyses, using as samples all the available documents regarding tissue engineering focused on otorhinolaryngology applications. The dataset was retrieved from the Core Collection of the Web of Science database from 1900 to 2020. Social structure was analyzed using science mapping analysis with VOSviewer software.

Results

The United States was the main producer, followed by Germany, and Japan. Malaysia and Germany had the highest Relative Specialization Index, indicating their greater relative interest in this area compared to other countries. The social structure analysis showed that the United States and Germany had significant co‐authorship relationships with other countries. The University of California System, Kyoto University, and Harvard University were the leading institutions producing literature in this field. These latter two institutions showed the largest number of collaborations, although most of them were with institutions within their own country. There was a lack of connections between different communities of research.

Conclusion

The United States is the main country driving progress in this research area, housing the most notable institutions. However, significant collaborations between these research centers are currently lacking. Encouraging greater cooperation among these institutions and their researchers would promote the exchange of knowledge, ultimately facilitating and accelerating advancements in this field.
Conservation laws, modulation instability, and mixed semi‐rational solutions for a three‐component modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Xu Tao , Qiao Zhijun
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we study a three‐component modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation and main results include: (1) Lax pair and infinitely‐many conservation laws, (2) modulation instability of continuous waves, (3) semi‐rational solutions obtained through the Darboux transformation, and (4) four new types of mixed semi‐rational solutions provided for the three components
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On the optimization of 3D inflow‐based vascular‐space‐occupancy (iVASO) MRI for the quantification of arterial cerebral blood volume (CBVa)
Authors: Gu Chunming , Li Yinghao , Cao Di , Miao Xinyuan , Paez Adrian G. , Sun Yuanqi , Cai Jitong , Li Wenbo , Li Xu , Pillai Jay J. , Earley Christopher J. , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Hua Jun
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The inflow‐based vascular‐space‐occupancy (iVASO) MRI was originally developed in a single‐slice mode to measure arterial cerebral blood volume (CBVa). When vascular crushers are applied in iVASO, the signals can be sensitized predominantly to small pial arteries and arterioles. The purpose of this study is to perform a systematic optimization and evaluation of a 3D iVASO sequence on both 3 T and 7 T for the quantification of CBVa values in the human brain.

Methods

Three sets of experiments were performed in three separate cohorts. (1) 3D iVASO MRI protocols were compared to single‐slice iVASO, and the reproducibility of whole‐brain 3D iVASO MRI was evaluated. (2) The effects from different vascular crushers in iVASO were assessed. (3) 3D iVASO MRI results were evaluated in arterial and venous blood vessels identified using ultrasmall‐superparamagnetic‐iron‐oxides–enhanced MRI to validate its arterial origin.

Results

3D iVASO scans showed signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and CBVa measures consistent with single‐slice iVASO with reasonable intrasubject reproducibility. Among the iVASO scans performed with different vascular crushers, the whole‐brain 3D iVASO scan with a motion‐sensitized‐driven‐equilibrium preparation with two binomial refocusing pulses and an effective TE of 50 ms showed the best suppression of macrovascular signals, with a relatively low specific absorption rate. When no vascular crusher was applied, the CBVa maps from 3D iVASO scans showed large CBVa values in arterial vessels but well‐suppressed signals in venous vessels.

Conclusion

A whole‐brain 3D iVASO MRI scan was optimized for CBVa measurement in the human brain. When only microvascular signals are desired, a motion‐sensitized‐driven‐equilibrium–based vascular crusher with binomial refocusing pulses can be applied in 3D iVASO.
Triple‐tuned birdcage and single‐tuned dipole array for quadri‐nuclear head MRI at 7 T
Authors: Paška Jan , Wang Bili , Chen Anna M. , Madelin Guillaume , Brown Ryan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to design and build a coil for quadri‐nuclear MRI of the human brain at 7 T.

Methods

We built a transmit/receive triple‐tuned (45.6 MHz for H, 78.6 MHz for Na, and 120.3 MHz for P) quadrature four‐rod birdcage that was geometrically interleaved with a transmit/receive four‐channel dipole array (297.2 MHz for H). The birdcage rods contained passive, two‐pole resonant circuits that emulated capacitors required for single‐tuning at three frequencies. The birdcage assembly also included triple‐tuned matching networks, baluns, and transmit/receive switches. We assessed the performance of the coil with quality factor (Q) and signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) measurements, and performed in vivo multinuclear MRI and MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI).

Results

Q measurements showed that the triple‐tuned birdcage efficiency was within 33% of that of single‐tuned baseline birdcages at all three frequencies. The quadri‐tuned coil SNR was 78%, 59%, 44%, and 48% lower than that of single or dual‐tuned reference coils for H, H, Na, and P, respectively. Quadri‐nuclear MRI and MRSI was demonstrated in brain in vivo in about 30 min.

Conclusion

While the SNR of the quadruple tuned coil was significantly lower than dual‐ and single‐tuned reference coils, it represents a step toward truly simultaneous quadri‐nuclear measurements.
Development and internal validation of a risk prediction model for stress urinary incontinence throughout pregnancy: A multicenter retrospective longitudinal study in Indonesia
Authors: Liang Surui , Huang Shijie , Andarini Esti , Wang Ying , Li Yan , Cai Wenzhi
Published: December 2023

Background

This study aimed to develop a risk prediction model for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) throughout pregnancy in Indonesian women.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective longitudinal study involving pregnant women in Indonesia, who sought care at obstetrics clinics from January 2023 to March 2023, encompassing all stages of pregnancy. We collected data on their predictive factors and SUI outcome. SUI was diagnosed based on responses to the “leaks when you are physically active/exercising” criterion in the ICIQ‐UI‐SF questionnaire during our investigation of the participants. The models underwent internal validation using a bootstrapping method with 1000 resampling iterations to assess discrimination and calibration.

Results

A total of 660 eligible pregnant women were recruited from the two study centers, with an overall SUI prevalence of 39% (258/660). The final model incorporated three predictive factors: BMI during pregnancy, constipation, and previous delivery mode. The area under the curve (AUROC) was 0.787 (95% CI: 0.751−0.823). According to the max Youden index, the optimal cut‐off point was 44.6%, with a sensitivity of 79.9% and specificity of 65.9%. A discrimination slope of 0.213 was found.

Conclusion

The developed risk prediction model for SUI in pregnant women offers a valuable tool for early identification and intervention among high‐risk SUI populations in Indonesian pregnant women throughout their pregnancies. These findings challenge the assumption that a high BMI and multiple previous deliveries are predictors of SUI in Indonesian women. Further research is recommended to validate the model in diverse populations and settings.
Bladder management is the top health concern among adults with a spinal cord injury
Authors: Loftus Christopher J. , Ratanawong John P. , Myers Jeremy B. , Lenherr Sara M. , Stoffel John T. , Welk Blayne , Grove Shawn , Elliott Sean P.
Published: December 2023

Introduction and Objective

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) commonly experience secondary complications though it is not known how they prioritize these different health domains. Using the Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) SCI registry, our objective was to identify the top health concerns of individuals with SCI and identify factors that may be associated with these choices with particular focus on urologic issues that participants face.

Methods

Participants in the NBRG registry were asked: “What are the top 3 problems that affect you on a daily basis?” Urinary symptoms and QoL were assessed with the Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score (NBSS). Multivariate regression was used to identify factors related to selecting a top ranked health issue.

Results

Among our 1461 participants, 882 (60.4%) were men and the median age was 45.1 years (IQR 25.3−64.9). Bladder management was the most commonly top ranked primary issue (39%) followed by pain (16.4%) and bowel management (11.6%). Factors associated with ranking bladder management as the primary concern included years since injury (OR 1.01 [1.00−1.02], p = 0.042), higher (worse) total NBSS (OR 1.05 [1.03−1.06], p < 0.001), and higher (worse) NBSS QoL (OR 1.25 [1.12−1.41], p < 0.001). Reporting chronic pain on a daily basis was associated with ranking pain as the primary health concern (OR 41.7 [15.7−170], p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this cohort, bladder management was ranked as the top health issue and increasing time from injury was associated with increased concern over bladder management. More bladder symptoms were also associated with ranking bladder management as a primary concern while bladder management method and urinary tract infections rate were not.
Experimental and numerical investigations of VO2‐UHMWPE polymer composite plates across phase change temperature
Authors: Shakir Mohammed , Verma Divya , Balakrishnan Viswanath , Talha Mohammad
Published: December 2023

In the present study, experimental and numerical investigations are carried out on Vanadium dioxide (VO2)‐UHMWPE composite plates while considering the temperature across phase change. VO2 is known for semiconducting to metallic transition along with structural changes from monoclinic to tetragonal during heating above 68°C, which enhances structural stiffness. For the experimentation, VO2‐UHMWPE composite samples are fabricated by employing the Hot‐Press method. These samples are further utilized to perform the compression test in order to find Young's moduli at room temperature (RT) and 75°C (temperature across phase change) using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Based on the experimentally computed Young's moduli, the numerical investigations in terms of free vibration and bending analyses, are performed. For structural kinematics, a C0‐continuous higher‐order shear deformation theory (HSDT) is employed, and the governing equations are derived using the Lagrange model. The numerical results, that is, natural frequencies and center deflection, are assessed using the finite element method (FEM). The convergence and comparison studies are accomplished to ensure the performance and competence of the present numerical model within the framework of MATLAB and ABAQUS. The influence of temperature, thickness ratio, boundary conditions, etc. on the frequency and deflection of the bare UHMWPE polymer and VO2‐UHMWPE plates, is discussed in detail. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the VO2 reinforcement to the UHMWPE polymer improves structural stiffness at a temperature of 75°C. Moreover, VO2‐UHMWPE composite can be utilized for structural applications, wherein lightweight and high‐temperature resistive material is desired.

Highlights

The fabrication of the VO2‐UHMWPE composite samples is accomplished through the Hot‐Press method.

Young's moduli of the VO2‐UHMWPE composites at RT and 75°C are assessed utilizing UTM.

The finite element method is employed to analyze the behavior of the bare UHMWPE polymer and VO2‐UHMWPE plates in free vibration and bending.

The effect of influencing parameters such as temperature, thickness ratio, boundary conditions, etc., on natural frequency and deflection of the plates are explored.
Emotion‐centered versus fact‐centered medical information to alleviate pain and anxiety in prostate biopsy: A randomized trial
Authors: Krausewitz Philipp , Schmeller Helene , Spitzer Carsten , Ellinger Jörg , Ritter Manuel , Petrowski Katja , Conrad Rupert
Published: December 2023

Background

To test the efficacy of emotion‐centered (EC) versus fact‐centered (FC) written medical information for prostate biopsy to alleviate pain and anxiety in a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

In a single‐center, single‐blinded study participants were randomized to receive FC or EC (DRKS00022361; 2020). In the EC, the focus was on possible stress reactions and stress‐reducing strategies. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires on the day of MRI acquisition (T0) directly before (T1) and after the procedure (T2). The primary outcome measure was the assessment of worst pain in the last 2 h measured by the adapted brief pain inventory. Secondary outcome measures included state anxiety measured by the state‐trait anxiety inventory and the subjective evaluation of the impact of the written medical information at T2. For statistical analysis, mixed models were calculated.

Results

Of 137 eligible patients, 108 (79%) could be recruited and were randomized. There was a significant effect for time for the outcome variables pain and anxiety. Regarding the comparison for the primary outcome variable worst pain there was a significantly lower increase from T1 to T2 after FC compared to EC (p < 0.004). The course of anxiety displayed no overall group differences. The FC was evaluated as significantly more helpful regarding stress, pain, and anxiety with moderate effect sizes.

Conclusions

FC was favorable with regard to worst experienced pain, assuming that the brief introduction of emotional issues such as stress and coping in written information might be counterproductive particularly in men not used to these subjects.