bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Picroside III Ameliorates Colitis in Mice: A Study Based on Colon Transcriptome and Fecal 16S Amplicon Profiling
Authors: Sun Yating , Zhang Yingdi , Wang Tao , Wen Liping , Xing Tianhang , Peng Jiao , Liang Yue
Published: November 2023

Picroside III (Pic), an iridoid glycoside derived from Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, exhibits therapeutic potential in mending damage to the intestinal mucosa. This study aimed to explore Pic′s regulatory impact on intestinal inflammation and the gut microbiota in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis. The findings revealed that pretreatment with Pic mitigated the DSS‐induced escalation of the disease activity index (DAI), alleviated intestinal damage, and attenuated intestinal inflammation in mice. RNA‐seq analysis, complemented by experimental validation, elucidated that Pic significantly hindered Akt phosphorylation in the colon tissues of colitis‐afflicted mice. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that Pic pretreatment effectively rectified microbial dysbiosis in colitis mice by elevating the abundance of Lactobacillus murinus and Lactobacillus gasseri. These observations suggest that Pic′s efficacy in colitis treatment stems from its inhibition of intestinal inflammation via the suppression of the PI3K‐Akt pathway and modulation of gut microbiota. This study contributes novel scientific insights into the potential application of Pic in the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Real‐world experience of rIX‐FP prophylaxis at dosing intervals of up to 14 days in a pediatric patient with hemophilia B during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Díaz‐Jordán Bolívar Luis , Cebanu Tamara , García Barcenilla Sara , Álvarez‐Román Maria Teresa
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Switching to rIX‐FP prophylaxis at dosing intervals of up to 14 days in a hemophilia B pediatric patient decreased treatment burden by reducing the number of administrations and hospital visits, without affecting efficacy or treatment adherence. This is particularly important in contexts of limited mobility and overloaded healthcare services.
Lipid‐poor vertebral hemangioma mimicking a vertebral metastasis of cervical carcinoma
Authors: Traore Wend‐Yam Mohamed , Ait Belhaj El Mahdi , Compaore Bertrand Ghislain , Touarsa Firdous , Lahfidi Amal , Jiddane Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Vertebral hemangiomas are classified into typical and atypical forms. On imaging, atypical forms may look like malignant lesions. The confrontation of data from different imaging modalities (MRI; CT; scintigraphy) facilitates the diagnosis.
Lemierre syndrome causing empyema and pulmonary embolism: A reemerging disease from a bygone era?
Authors: Jassal Shalvin Singh , Steen Christopher , Wong Enoch
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Long considered a “forgotten disease” of a bygone era, the apparent reemergence of Lemierre syndrome highlights the need for awareness of this rare condition to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. Lemierre syndrome should be suspected in young adults presenting with a chest or neck infection and requires prolonged antibiotic therapy, surgical drainage of collections, and often anticoagulation.
Unraveling a rare presentation of bivalvular infective endocarditis using POCUS
Authors: Dvalishvili Mariam , Ahmad Soban , Qavi Ahmed Hassaan , Ardhanari Sivakumar
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Infective endocarditis (IE) is rare, and involvement of two valves is rarer yet. We present a case of a 22‐year‐old male with liver failure who was found to have bivalvular IE. This case sheds light on the association between bivalvular IE and seemingly unrelated symptoms, emphasizing the need for early recognition.
Surviving the perilous: A case report on an urgent approach to necrotizing fasciitis
Authors: Kunwor Bishal , Chhetri Suchit Thapa , Thapa Niranjan , Regmi Shiva , Basukala Sunil
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, fatal, and rapidly progressing bacterial infection of fascia and subcutaneous tissues. Skin necrosis, pain, bullae, and erythema are the common manifestations. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can improve outcome.
Transesophageal echocardiography combined with ProAQT/PulsioFlex hemodynamic monitoring in anesthetic management of a patient with septic shock associated with septic cardiomyopathy: A case report
Authors: Gu Hui , Yang Lei
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Patients with septic shock complicated by septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) can be extremely ill and at high risk for mortality. If early assessment of cardiac function is neglected during treatment, sepsis may be further exacerbated. We report a 77‐year‐old male patient with severe septic shock who underwent intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) because of progressive circulatory instability, SCM was diagnosed. Further perioperative treatment to support the circulation was successfully adjusted based on TEE and pulse index continuous cardiac output (CO) by ProAQT/PulsioFlex hemodynamic monitoring. We should consider a diagnosis of SCM in the perioperative period and perform ultrasonography routinely. The use of TEE with ProAQT/PulsioFlex offers a new option for anesthetic management.
Soft multi‐layer actuators integrated with the functions of electrical energy harvest and storage
Authors: Feng Haihang , Zhou Peidi , Peng Qinglu , Weng Mingcen
Published: November 2023

Soft multi‐layer actuators are smart, lightweight, and flexible, which can be used in a wide range of fields such as artificial muscles, advanced medical devices, and wearable devices. The research on the actuation property of the soft actuators has made significant progress, paving the way for the controllable motions of the actuators. However, compared with the intelligence and adaptability of life in nature, these actuators still have the problem of insufficient intelligence. The phenomenon is reflected in a lack of continuous supply of energy. Therefore, it has become a development trend to combine functions such as energy harvesting, storage, and conversion with actuators to build intelligent actuators. This concept presents a synopsis of the advancements made in soft actuators that have been coupled with the capabilities of electrical energy harvesting and storage. The design concepts and typical applications of this soft smart actuators are introduced in detail. Finally, the future research directions and applications of smart actuators are prospected from our perspective.
Global myocardial work in coronary artery disease patients without regional wall motion abnormality: Correlation with Gensini‐score
Authors: Li Miao , Wang Yuhao , Li Lin , Wu Wenfang , Qian Rong , Zhang Pingyang
Published: November 2023

Background

Early detection of coronary atherosclerotic diseases (CAD) without regional wall motion abnormality (RWMA) is important for improving the outcome of cardiovascular events. Global myocardial work (GMW), including global myocardial work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), and global myocardial work efficiency (GWE), offer comprehensive quantitative assessment of myocardial function in CAD.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that GMW could provide incremental value in detecting CAD without RWMA.

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐four patients referred for coronary angiography (CAG) without resting RWMA were enrolled in this study. Global longitudinal strain (GLS), GWI, GCW, GWW, GWE were quantified. The severity of coronary lesions was evaluated by Gensini score (GS) based on CAG. We further divided CAG‐confirmed CAD patients into three subgroups according to the tertiles of GS: low 0 < GS ≤ 17, mid 17 < GS ≤ 38, and high GS > 38.

Results

Compared with control, CAD patients showed decreased GLS, GWE, GWI, GCW but an increased GWW. Compared to low‐GS group, GWW was increased in the mid‐GS group. GLS, GWE, GWI and GCW were decreased in the high‐GS group while GWW was increased. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that GWE was the most powerful predictor of high‐GS and was superior to GLS. GWE under 92.0% had the optimal sensitivity and specificity for identifying high‐GS.

Conclusion

The proposed GWE, which outperformed the conventional GLS, could be considered as a potential predictive indicator to help to detect severe coronary disease in non‐RWMA CAD patients.
Carboranes as Potent Phenyl Mimetics: A Comparative Study on the Reversal of ABCG2‐Mediated Drug Resistance by Carboranylquinazolines and Their Organic Isosteres
Authors: Stockmann Philipp , Kuhnert Lydia , Leinung Wencke , Krajnović Tamara , Mijatović Sanja , Maksimović‐Ivanić Danijela , Honscha Walther , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: November 2023

Multidrug resistance is a major challenge in clinical cancer therapy. In particular, overexpression of certain ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter proteins, like the efflux transporter ABCG2, also known as breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), has been associated with the development of resistance to applied chemotherapeutic agents in cancer therapies, and therefore targeted inhibition of BCRP‐mediated transport might lead to reversal of this (multidrug) resistance (MDR). In a previous study, we have described the introduction of a boron‐carbon cluster, namely closo‐dicarbadodecaborane or carborane, as an inorganic pharmacophore into a polymethoxylated 2‐phenylquinazolin‐4‐amine backbone. In this work, the scope was extended to the corresponding amide derivatives. As most of the amide derivatives suffered from poor solubility, only the amide derivative QCe and the two amine derivatives DMQCc and DMQCd were further investigated. Carboranes are often considered as sterically demanding phenyl mimetics or isosteres. Therefore, the organic phenyl and sterically demanding adamantyl analogues of the most promising carborane derivatives were also investigated. The studies showed that the previously described DMQCd, a penta‐methoxylated N‐carboranyl‐2‐phenylquinazolin‐4‐amine, was by far superior to its organic analogues in terms of cytotoxicity, inhibition of the human ABCG2 transporter, as well as the ability to reverse BCRP‐mediated mitoxantrone resistance in MDCKII‐hABCG2 and HT29 colon cancer cells. Our results indicate that DMQCd is a promising candidate for further in vitro as well as in vivo studies in combination therapy for ABCG2‐overexpressing cancers.
Analyzing the color availability of AI‐generated posters based on K‐means clustering: 74% orange, 38% cyan, 32% yellow, and 28% blue‐cyan
Authors: Rong Anqi , Hansopaheluwakan‐Edward Nina , Li Dian
Published: November 2023

In this exploratory study, we delved deeply into the intricate interplay of color choices within AI‐generated and human‐designed posters, analyzing a sample of 120 instances from each category. While it is suggested that human designers may integrate cultural, emotional, and situational contexts into their creations, AI models largely base their selections on vast datasets and pattern recognition. Although AI exhibited prowess in replicating established design parameters, the study underlined the importance of critically assessing its outputs. The quantitative analysis illuminated overarching similarities in primary color selections. However, the AI's diversity in color remains less concentrated than that of human, suggesting a gap in the AI's capacity to match human expertise in color proportioning and distribution. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial to discern its capabilities and potential limitations in the design domain, ensuring it augments human creativity rather than supplanting it. Notably, the research refrains from seeking human validation, aiming instead for an objective, data‐driven reflection on the convergences and divergences between AI‐generated and human designs.
β‐Disubstituted Pentacene Derivatives: Thin Film Structural Properties and Four‐Probe Field Effect Mobility
Authors: Aliouat Mouaad‐Yassine , Cristiano Filadelfo , Abbassi Lydia , Escoubas Stéphanie , Mesnilgrente Fabien , Salvagnac Ludovic , Šámal Michal , Rybáček Jiří , Sturm Ludmilla , Gourdon André , Jančařík Andrej , Séguy Isabelle
Published: November 2023

2,9‐ and 2,10‐diphenylpentacene were synthesized by direct C−H borylation of ketal‐protected pentacene, followed by halodeboronation, resolution of the dihalo isomers, Suzuki arylation, cleavage of the ketals and decarbonylation in the solid state. They were studied as main active components in organic field effect transistors (OFETs). Diphenyl substitution of pentacene affects the unit cell dimensions only slightly, preserving a face to edge molecular packing in the first layers of thin films evaporated on SiO2 substrates. Both isomers self‐assemble into nanoribbons during the thin film growth upon vapor deposition. The similarity between the surface induced phases of the 2,9‐isomer and unsubstituted pentacene leads to similar 4‐probe hole mobilities, i. e. 0.13 cm2 V−1 s−1 for the former. Whereas 2,9‐disubstitution thus does essentially preserve the thin film characteristics of unsubstituted pentacene, 2,10‐disubstitution is detrimental to the molecular ordering in the thin films and therefore to the field effect mobility which is only 0.07 cm2 V−1 s−1. The known strong enhancement of field effect mobility observed upon diphenyl substitution of anthracene can thus not be emulated analogously with pentacene.
Therapeutic games to reduce anxiety and depression in young people: A systematic review and exploratory meta‐analysis of their use and effectiveness
Authors: Eve Zarah , Turner Martin , Di Basilio Daniela , Harkin Benjamin , Yates Alan , Persson Sofia , Henry John , Williams Ashley , Walton Geoff , Jones Marc V. , Whitley Charlotte , Craddock Nathan
Published: November 2023

Objective

The development of serious games for mental wellbeing is a topic of growing interest. The increase in acceptance of games as a mainstream entertainment medium combined with the immersive qualities of games provides opportunities for meaningful support and intervention in mental wellbeing.

Method

We conducted a systematic review and exploratory meta‐analysis to examine if aspects of the interventions influenced outcomes as measured via overall effect sizes. We employed a multilevel meta‐analytic approach to accommodate the interdependency of effect sizes (18 effect sizes from 14 studies, with 2027 participants).

Results

Overall, the main effect for gaming interventions on any outcome variable was small to medium sized, d = .35 (confidence interval [.23, 47], p < .001). Results revealed that the only significant moderator was the nature of the intervention. Specifically, only interventions that included a rational emotional behavioural focus significantly predicted an improvement in depression and/or anxiety in participants.

Conclusion

The findings reveal promising effects for therapeutic games for mental health, but replications are needed, alongside the addressing of methodological and procedural concerns.
Longitudinal Circulating Tumor DNA Modeling to Predict Disease Progression in First‐Line Mutant Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Johnson Martin , Serra Traynor Carlos , Vishwanathan Karthick , Overend Philip , Hartmaier Ryan , Markovets Aleksandra , Chmielecki Juliann , Mugundu Ganesh M. , Barrett J. Carl , Tomkinson Helen , Ramalingam Suresh S.
Published: November 2023

This exploratory, post hoc analysis aimed to model circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) dynamics and predict disease progression in patients with treatment‐naïve locally advanced/metastatic epidermal growth factor receptor mutation (EGFRm)‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer, from the FLAURA trial (NCT02296125). Patients were randomized 1:1 and received osimertinib 80 mg once daily (q.d.) or comparator EGFR‐TKIs (gefitinib 250 mg q.d. or erlotinib 150 mg q.d.). Plasma was collected at baseline and multiple timepoints until treatment discontinuation. Patients with Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) imaging data and detectable EGFR mutations (Ex19del/L858R) at baseline and ≥ 3 additional timepoints were evaluable. Joint modeling was conducted to characterize the relationship between longitudinal changes in ctDNA and probability of progression‐free survival (PFS). A Bayesian joint model of ctDNA and PFS was developed solving differential equations with the ctDNA dynamics and the PFS time‐to‐event probability. Of 556 patients, 353 had detectable ctDNA at baseline. Evaluable patients (with available imaging and ≥ 3 additional timepoints, n = 320; ctDNA set) were divided into training (n = 259) and validation (n = 61) sets. In the validation set, the model predicted a median PFS of 17.7 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 11.9–28.3) for osimertinib (n = 23) and 9.1 months (95% CI: 6.3–14.8) for comparator (n = 38), consistent with observed RECIST PFS (16.4 months and 9.7, respectively). The model demonstrates that EGFRm ctDNA dynamics can predict the risk of disease progression in this patient population and could be used to predict RECIST‐defined disease progression.
Quantitative analysis of drugs of abuse and cognitive enhancers in influent wastewater by means of two chromatographic methods
Authors: Frankenfeld Fabian , Wagmann Lea , Jacobs Cathy M. , Meyer Markus R.
Published: November 2023

Sewage‐based epidemiology using influent wastewater is used to estimate the consumption trends of (illicit) drugs over a short or long period of time in a subpopulation. The current study aimed to develop two separate methods for the quantitative analysis of selected drugs of abuse (DOA) and cognitive enhancers in influent wastewater using reversed‐phase (RP) or hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) coupled to high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS/MS). The performance of RP and HILIC column was evaluated. A simple solid phase extraction was used for sample preparation. Short runtimes of 10 and 15 min on the RP and the HILIC column, respectively, allowed sufficient throughput. A six‐point calibration was used for quantification with calibration ranges between 10 and 100 ng/L for all analytes except for benzoylecgonine (BZE, 30–300 ng/L). Method validation was performed according to ICH guideline M10. Analytes such as amphetamine (AMPH), BZE, cocaethylene (CE), cocaine (COC), ethyl sulfate, 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxymethamphetamine, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methamphetamine, methylphenidate (MPH), and ritalinic acid (RA) were included in method development and validation. Two different column types were necessary for sufficient chromatographic resolution. The analytical setup allowed detection of all other analytes at concentration levels between 1 ng/L for methylphenidate to 10 ng/L for amphetamine. A method for the detection and quantification of DOA, cognitive enhancers, and their biomarkers in wastewater was successfully developed and validated. Moreover, six proof‐of‐concept samples were analyzed in which AMPH, BZE, COC, MDMA, MPH, and RA were identified and further quantified.
Swedish bureaucratic biodiversity: Analysing municipal worker discourse with the theory of sociocultural viability
Authors: Singleton Benedict E.
Published: November 2023

Cities are important sites for societal transitions towards sustainability, which is increasingly recognised around the issue of biodiversity conservation and protection. However, cities are often characterised by the need to develop and grow. Furthermore, efforts to promote sustainable development have been criticised as failing to address the fundamental causes of environmental destruction. In this article, based on interviews with bureaucrats and documentary analysis, I explore urban planning and biodiversity protection at four Swedish municipalities. Biodiversity protection has been an official goal in Sweden for 30 years. As such, my research aim is to explore how Swedish bureaucrats represent efforts to balance imperatives to develop cities and protect biodiversity. Taking an institutional approach, I identify what information is included and excluded. In assessing municipal discourse, I utilise the theory of sociocultural viability, which provides an analytical typology of four worldviews. I identify that within respondents' discourse, biodiversity primarily emerges as a product of a hierarchical view of reality, as a measurable object; an indicator; a characteristic; and as a provider that is both engineerable and replaceable. This was despite numerous respondents articulating an egalitarian desire for more holistic interpretations of biodiversity in urban planning, appreciative of its inherent worth. This suggests that biodiversity has largely been integrated into extant hierarchical conceptualisations of public administration. According to cultural theory, addressing wicked policy problems effectively requires insight from several of the typology's worldviews. As such, current practice may reiterate dominant contemporary views on nature rather than innovation towards a radically different society.
Association of mild kidney dysfunction with diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Vernooij Robin W. M. , van Ommen Anne‐Mar L. N. , Valstar Gideon B. , Cramer Maarten Jan , Teske Arco J. , Menken Roxana , Hofstra Leo , Rutten Frans H. , Bots Michiel L. , den Ruijter Hester M. , Verhaar Marianne C.
Published: November 2023

Aims

We aim to investigate the association between kidney dysfunction and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction parameters and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and whether this is sex‐specific.

Methods and results

We included participants from the HELPFul observational study. Outpatient clinical care data, including echocardiography, and an expert panel judgement on HFpEF was collected. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated by creatinine and cystatin C without race. The association between eGFR with E/e′, left ventricular mass index, relative wall thickness, and stage C/D heart failure was tested by multivariable adjusted regression models, stratified by sex, reporting odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% confidence interval). We analysed 880 participants, mean age 62.9 (standard deviation: 9.3) years, 69% female. Four hundred six participants had mild (37.6%) kidney dysfunction (eGFR: 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2) or moderate (8.5%) kidney dysfunction (eGFR: 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m2). HFpEF was significantly more prevalent in participants with mild and moderate kidney dysfunction (10.3% and 16.0%, respectively) than participants with normal kidney function (3.4%). A lower kidney function was associated with higher E/e′ and higher relative wall thickness values. Participants with moderate kidney dysfunction had a higher likelihood of American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association stage C/D HF (odds ratio: 2.07, 95% confidence interval: 1.23, 3.49) than participants with normal kidney functions.

Conclusions

Both mild and moderate kidney dysfunction are independently associated with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction parameters and HFpEF. This association is independent of sex and strongest for moderate kidney dysfunction. Considering mild‐to‐moderate kidney dysfunction as risk factor for HFpEF may help identify high‐risk groups benefiting most from early intervention.
Use of invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing to diagnose preload reserve failure in patients with liver disease
Authors: Ahlers Carolyn G. , Patel Priyesh , Parikh Kishan , Fudim Marat
Published: November 2023

In this case series, we describe the use of invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing (iCPET) to diagnose heart failure due to preload reserve failure in two patients with progressive dyspnoea. We demonstrate that underlying liver disease contributes to preload reserve failure as a cause of exertional dysfunction. In liver diseases such as non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), fibrotic changes to the sinusoidal liver architecture occur leading to an increased transhepatic sinusoidal pressure gradient. Even at the earliest stage of hepatic fibrosis in patients with NAFLD, changes in hepatic blood flow are seen due to outflow block in the sinusoidal area. In this way, changes to the sinusoidal liver architecture can lead to limitations in preload reserve. This case series describes two patients with exertional dyspnoea found to have preload failure on iCPET due to underlying liver disease.
Effect of Apical Ligands, Substituents and Oxidation States on the Electronic Structure of Co(III) Corrolates
Authors: Neuman Nicolás I.
Published: November 2023

Cobalt(III) corroles are the most commonly studied types of metallocorroles, yet the details of their electronic structure, ground spin states and place of redox events are not always straightforward. Corroles are redox active, potentially non‐innocent ligands, and it has been found through various experimental and computational techniques, that the innocent or non‐innocent behavior is modulated by the apical ligands bound to the cobalt center. In this work, we aim to analyze the effect of corrole substituents and number and type of apical ligands on the electronic structure of cobalt corroles through density functional and wavefunction theories, and to determine the relative energies between closed‐ and open‐shell states. We further perform preliminary analyses on the place of electron abstraction upon oxidation and on the effect of the corrole and apical ligands on the cobalt ligand field splittings. We find that both ligand field and electron‐donating or withdrawing effects determine the relative energies of open‐shell and closed shell singlet states.
Rapid assessment of degraded frying oil quality using interdigitated microelectrode capacitive sensors
Authors: Thao Le Quang , Kien Do Trung , Thien Nguyen Duy , Bach Ngo Chi , Dung Tran Thi , Thuy Luong Thi Minh
Published: November 2023

Frying oil is essential in food processing, influencing both the taste and safety of fried foods. However, its quality can deteriorate with repeated use, posing potential risks. Many current methods for evaluating its quality, such as spectroscopic techniques, are time‐consuming and costly. Our study introduces an affordable and rapid device that uses electrical capacitance to assess the quality of frying oil. We developed a capacitive sensor equipped with interdigitated microelectrodes (IEMs) to measure the oil's dielectric constant. After calibrating the sensor's features, we achieved highly precise results. Our design utilized Corel software for drafting and CNC machinery for precise sensor fabrication. In air, the sensor's measurements closely aligned with theoretical predictions, registering an R2 value above 0.7. We identified a correlation between frying frequency and significant shifts in the dielectric constant across three oil samples. Using a signal circuit to adjust the oscillation frequency and a microprocessor for data interpretation, we classified oils into three safety categories: safe, moderate, and risky. Our device provides a cost‐effective and user‐friendly solution to assess frying oil quality, proactively addressing health concerns arising from oil degradation.

Practical Applications: Our capacitive sensor device can be widely applied in the food industry and restaurants, ensuring the safety and quality of fried products. By using this device, manufacturers and kitchens can make informed decisions about reusing frying oil or replacing it as needed, reducing wasted oil. This cost‐saving device also has the potential to contribute to improving food safety issues.
Differentially Protected Glycols from α‐Halo Boronic Esters and Lithiated Benzoates
Authors: Bojaryn K. , Hirschhäuser C.
Published: November 2023

In the presence of sparteine 2,4,6‐triisopropylbenzoates were lithiated enantioselectively in order to generate chiral d1 reagents. Their reaction with α‐halo boronic esters, resembling chiral a1 reagents, was explored. Enantiomerically enriched α‐halo boronic esters are readily available by Matteson Homologation (MH). A model reaction with α‐bromopentyl pinandiol boronate was optimized to an acceptable yield but proved to be quite sensitive. Generation of the d1 reagent from the corresponding stannane stabilized the protocol and delivered moderate yields for β‐unsubstituted α‐halo boronic esters. Good to excellent yields were obtained for β‐substituted α‐halo boronic esters, which can be generated by iterative MH, thus establishing this method as a useful terminus for an iterative Matteson sequence.
Synthesis and Properties of Diindeno[1,2,3‐cd:1′,2′,3′‐mn]pyrene and Two of Its Aza‐Analogs
Authors: Khomutetckaia Aleksandra , Hildebrandt Niels , Ehlers Peter , Villinger Alexander , Langer Peter
Published: November 2023

The incorporation of heteroatoms into polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been recognized as valuable tool to alter their inherent optical and electrochemical properties and are thought as promising next‐generation semiconductor materials. We herein report the synthesis of diindenopyrene, a fragment of C70 and two of its nitrogen‐doped aza‐analogs. The developed synthetic procedure is based on Brønsted‐acid‐mediated cycloisomerization followed by Pd‐catalyzed C−H‐activation as key‐steps. The impact of N‐doping on the optical and electrochemical properties has been studied and the experimental results are supported by DFT calculations.
Photoreductive Alkylative Dearomatization of N‐Alkyl Pyridin‐1‐ium Salts: Site Selective Access to 4‐Alkyl 1,4‐Dihydropyridines
Authors: Xu Chong‐Hui , Zeng Liang , Hu Ming , Qin Jing‐Hao , Xu Xin‐Hua , Li Jin‐Heng
Published: November 2023

A visible light photoreductive dearomatizative alkylation of N‐alkyl pyridinium salts for producing 4‐alkyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines is described. The reaction harnesses N‐alkyl pyridinium salts both as the alkyl radical precursors to initiate the reaction and as the 1,4‐dihydropyridin‐4‐yl‐based alkylating reagents to terminate the reaction. In contrast to the reported electroreductive procedure via the key dihydropyridine radical intermediates, mechanistic studies demonstrate that this photoreductive dearomatizative alkylation proceeds via directly alkyl radical addition across the pyridinium ring followed by single electron oxidant (SEO) and dearomatization.
Analysis of full and empty ratio of EV71 virus by using capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Wang Jie‐Ru , Chen Hong‐Xu , Liu Hua‐Qing , Yu Run , Jia Zeng , Zhang Ying , Li Jing
Published: November 2023

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a serious public health problem, and the main pathogen is enterovirus 71 (EV71). Its capsid assembly mechanism including capsid protein processing has been widely studied. Full and empty capsids have different immunological efficacy. Therefore, tracking full/empty capsid ratio throughout the EV71 production process is important to ensure consistent product quality and proper dosing response. The analysis of full/empty capsid ratio of intact virus has been widely reported as well. A variety of techniques have been employed to evaluate the full/empty capsid ratios. However, there has not been a rapid, reproducible, and robust assay to determine the full/empty capsid ratios of final and in‐process products. In this study, a novel assay based on capillary zone electrophoresis was established. The separation of full and empty species could be achieved within 10 min and the ratio of peak areas was used to calculate the full/empty capsid ratio directly. The results showed good reproducibility and linearity for the determination of full/empty capsid ratios.
The DC–T cell axis is an effective target for the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Shuangcui , Zhang Guan , Cui Qian , Yang Yanjie , Wang Dong , Liu Aqing , Xia Ying , Li Wentao , Liu Yunhe , Yu Jianchun
Published: November 2023

The dendritic cell (DC)‐T cell axis is a bridge that connects innate and adaptive immunities. The initial immune response against tumors is mainly induced by mature antigen‐presenting DCs. Enhancing the crosstalk between DCs and T cells may be an effective approach to improve the immune response to non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this article, a review was made of the interaction between DCs and T cells in the treatment of NSCLC and how this interaction affects the treatment outcome.
Exploring factors influencing patient activation in Saudi rheumatoid arthritis patients: A Nationwide Cross‐Sectional Survey—Results from the COPARA study
Authors: Almalag Haya M. , Alshehri Maha M. , Altokhais Nouf A. , Aljanobi Ghada A. , Dessougi Maha I. El , AlHarthi Amal , Omair Maha A. , Attar Suzan M. , Bahlas Sami M. , Alfurayj Abdullah S. , Alazmi Mansour S. , Asiri Alhussain M. , AlOmair Mohammed M. , Al Juffali Lobna I. , Omair Mohammed A.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To evaluate patient activation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using patient activation measure 13 (PAM‐13) on a national level in Saudi Arabia.

Method

A national survey was administered across multiple centers in Saudi Arabia. Patient activation was assessed using the PAM‐13. The Compliance Questionnaire for Rheumatology (CQR) and the RA Impact of Disease (RAID) tool were also administered. The data from the survey were analyzed, and the results were stratified based on activation level. All factors affecting patient activation were explored and reported.

Results

A total of 1241 participants were included. Most of the patients were females (85%), the mean age was 47 (±14), and most patients lived in the central region (47%). The mean (±standard deviation) patient activation score was 578.7 (±13.0). Patient activation was affected by multiple factors: demographic characteristics, such as education, with a beta value of 1.11 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64 ̶1.58, p < .001). Higher CQR scores were associated with higher activation levels, with a beta value of 2.61 (95% CI 0.80 ̶4.44, p = .005), and higher RAID scores were associated with lower activation levels, with a beta value of 3.13 (95% CI 1.36 ̶4.91, p = .001).

Conclusions

Patient activation was affected by several demographic characteristics and the impact of RA. A higher activation may improve compliance. Future longitudinal studies are required to confirm these findings and should explore the underlying mechanism of these effects.
FinTech innovation, stability and efficiency: Evidence from Malaysian bank industry
Authors: Ahmad Rubi , Xie Changqian , Wang Panpan , Liu Biao , Zainir Fauzi , Mohsin Magda Ismail Abdel
Published: November 2023

The rapid development of digital finance is reshaping the business model of the traditional bank industry and bringing challenges to it as well. Based on an unbalanced panel of data constructed by 36 banks in Malaysia from 2006 to 2020, this study examines the impact of financial technology on banks' stability and efficiency. We find that, compared with Islamic banks, FinTech innovation significantly improves the stability of commercial banks. Additionally, it improves the entire sample banks' efficiency calculated by the data envelopment analysis‐Malmquist method, which can capture the efficiency changes from a dynamic perspective. These baseline results are affirmed by the generalized method of moment approach to mitigate potential endogeneity issues. Furthermore, the impacts of FinTech innovation on banks are heterogeneous. The high‐profit banks enjoy the benefits of improving their stability level from FinTech development. However, for the small‐sized and low‐profit banks, FinTech innovation contributes more to improving their efficiency. Our analysis provides empirical evidence for Malaysia and similar developing countries that are receptive to FinTech development but have relatively less advanced technology infrastructure. It can also shed light on the FinTech investment decisions of bank management.
Functional TET2 gene polymorphisms increase the risk of neuroblastoma in Chinese children
Authors: Lin Lei , Wang Bo , Zhang Xinxin , Deng Changmi , Zhou Chunlei , Zhu Jinhong , Wu Haiyan , He Jing
Published: November 2023

The 5‐methylcytosine (m5C) is the key chemical modification in RNAs. As one of the demethylases in m5C, TET2 has been shown as a tumor suppressor. However, the impact of TET2 gene polymorphisms on neuroblastoma has not been elucidated. 402 neuroblastoma patients and 473 controls were genotyped for TET2 gene polymorphisms using the TaqMan method. The impact of TET2 gene polymorphisms on neuroblastoma susceptibility was determined using multivariate logistic regression analysis. We also adopted genotype‐tissue expression database to explore the impact of TET2 gene polymorphisms on the expression of host and nearby genes. We used the R2 platform and Sangerbox tool to analyze the relationship between gene expression and neuroblastoma risk and prognosis through non‐parametric testing and Kaplan–Meier analysis, respectively. We found the TET2 gene polymorphisms (rs10007915 G > C and rs7670522 A > C) and the combined 2–5 risk genotypes can significantly increase neuroblastoma risk. Stratification analysis showed that these significant associations were more prominent in certain subgroups. TET2 rs10007915 G > C and rs7670522 A > C are significantly associated with reduced expression of TET2 mRNA. Moreover, lower expression of TET2 gene is associated with high risk, MYCN amplification, and poor prognosis of neuroblastoma. The rs10007915 G > C and rs7670522 A > C are significantly related to the increased expression of inorganic pyrophosphatase 2 mRNA, and higher expression of PPA2 gene is associated with high risk, MYCN amplification, and poor prognosis of neuroblastomas. In summary, TET2 rs10007915 G > C and rs7670522 A > C significantly confer neuroblastoma susceptibility, and further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms.
Evaluation of antipsychotic monitoring in a community health center during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: LeMere Kaylie , Madore Jesse , Silvia Richard
Published: November 2023

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic complicated providers' ability to appropriately monitor patients on antipsychotic medications, as visits moved to telehealth. Adverse metabolic and movement effects can be difficult to assess virtually, reducing adherence to national antipsychotic guidelines. This review was conducted to evaluate provider adherence to antipsychotic medication monitoring during the COVID‐19 pandemic, educate providers on the proper antipsychotic monitoring methods, and then reassess adherence to guidelines.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review of patients receiving antipsychotics from mental health (MH) and primary care (PC) providers consisting of three phases. Providers prescribing antipsychotics between June 1, 2021, and June 1, 2022, were included in phase one. Patients were reviewed for relevant data including demographics, antipsychotic(s) prescribed, glucose, hemoglobin A1c, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, weight/ body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), and other movement disorder assessments. Providers were then given an educational flyer outlining proper antipsychotic monitoring in October 2022 as phase two. During phase three, providers prescribing antipsychotics between October 1, 2022, and February 23, 2023, were included for review. Monitoring rates were compared to national antipsychotic guidelines, and adherence rates were calculated for each monitoring parameter. Comparisons between phase one and phase three were performed using Chi‐squares to determine statistically significant differences (p < 0.05).

Results

Unfortunately, most monitoring rates decreased from baseline to follow‐up. All metabolic parameters were statistically significantly lower in the follow‐up sample compared to the baseline sample. These differences were seen when comparing the overall sample as well as the MH and PC provider groups across time points. Movement disorder monitoring showed no statistically significant differences between timepoints, with one exception. Among PC providers, the rate of AIMS monitoring was significantly increased from baseline (0%) to follow‐up (11.1%, p = 0.000).

Conclusion

Pharmacist passive education of clinicians alone did not provide a significant change in provider's adherence to antipsychotic monitoring.
Accelerated model‐based iterative reconstruction strategy for sparse‐view photoacoustic tomography aided by multi‐channel autoencoder priors
Authors: Song Xianlin , Zhong Wenhua , Li Zilong , Peng Shuchong , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Guijun , Dong Jiaqing , Liu Xuan , Xu Xiaoling , Liu Qiegen
Published: November 2023

Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) commonly works in sparse view due to data acquisition limitations. However, reconstruction suffers from serious deterioration (e.g., severe artifacts) using traditional algorithms under sparse view. Here, a novel accelerated model‐based iterative reconstruction strategy for sparse‐view PAT aided by multi‐channel autoencoder priors was proposed. A multi‐channel denoising autoencoder network was designed to learn prior information, which provides constraints for model‐based iterative reconstruction. This integration accelerates the iteration process, leading to optimal reconstruction outcomes. The performance of the proposed method was evaluated using blood vessel simulation data and experimental data. The results show that the proposed method can achieve superior sparse‐view reconstruction with a significant acceleration of iteration. Notably, the proposed method exhibits excellent performance under extremely sparse condition (e.g., 32 projections) compared with the U‐Net method, with an improvement of 48% in PSNR and 12% in SSIM for in vivo experimental data.
Cervical pre‐cancer classification using entropic features and CNN: In vivo validation with a handheld fluorescence probe
Authors: Deo Bhaswati Singha , Sah Amar Nath , Shukla Shivam , Pandey Kiran , Singh Sweta , Pal Mayukha , Panigrahi Prasanta K. , Pradhan Asima
Published: November 2023

Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer, with a lengthy latent period and a gradual onset phase. Conventional techniques are found to be severely lacking in real time detection of disease progression which can greatly enhance the cure rate. Due to their high sensitivity and specificity, optical techniques are emerging as reliable tools, particularly in case of cancer. It has been seen that biochemical changes are better highlighted through intrinsic fluorescence devoid of interference from absorption and scattering. Its effectiveness in in‐vivo conditions is affected by the fact that the intrinsic spectral signatures vary from patient to patient, as well as in different population groups. Here, we overcome this limitation by collectively enumerating the subtle changes in the spectral profiles and correlations through an information theory based entropic approach, which significantly amplifies the minute spectral variations. In conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) tools, it yields high specificity and sensitivity with a small dataset from patients in clinical conditions, without artificial augmentation. We have used an in‐house developed handheld probe (i‐HHP) for extracting intrinsic fluorescence spectra of human cervix from 110 different subjects drawn from diverse population groups. The average classification accuracy of the proposed methodology using 10‐fold cross validation is 93.17%. A combination of polarised fluorescence spectra from i‐HHP and the proposed classifier is proven to be minimally invasive with the ability to diagnose patients in real time. This paves the way for effective use of relatively smaller sized sensitive fluorescence data with advanced AI/ML tools for early cervical cancer detection in clinics.
Reduction for flag‐transitive point‐primitive 2‐(v, k, λ) designs with λ prime
Authors: Zhang Yongli , Chen Jianfu
Published: November 2023

It is shown that the flag‐transitive, point‐primitive automorphism groups of 2‐ designs with prime must be of affine type or almost simple type.
Reusing ceramic waste in fired brick and as cement additive
Authors: Zoqi Mohamad Javad , Doosti Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Although there has been considerable research on the utilization of ceramic and tile waste (CTW) in concrete production, there has been a noticeable lack of studies examining its application in fired brick manufacturing and the use of ceramic glaze powder as an additive in cement. The aim of this study is to assess the potential of reusing CTW as concrete aggregate and as part of fired brick composition. Furthermore, this research investigates the potential application of glaze powder as a novel cement additive, which has not been previously explored.

RESULTS

The results indicate that bricks made from waste materials had a moisture absorption of 12.2% and flexural strengths ranging from 15.39 to 24.2 MPa. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that quartz and kaolinite were the dominant crystalline phases in bricks made from raw glazed ceramic. The concentration of heavy metals in the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure leachate of the waste materials decreased after the firing process during the manufacturing of bricks due to oxidation, immobilization and encapsulation processes, with levels below standard limits. In concrete, the use of 20% ceramic glaze powder as a partial cement replacement resulted in a 55% increase in compressive strength. Additionally, the leaching of barium decreased by 70% and that of strontium decreased by 17%.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the promising utilization of CTW in fired brick production and the effective incorporation of ceramic glaze powder as a cement additive. The findings suggest enhanced mechanical properties and decreased heavy metal leaching, indicating the viability of CTW reuse in sustainable construction practices. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Advanced cerebrospinal fluid flow MRI findings of aqueductal stenosis caused by web
Authors: Yilmaz Temel Fatih , Sari Lutfullah , Toprak Huseyin
Published: November 2023

Background

The aqueductal web (AW) is one of the causes of aqueductus stenosis (AS). Recent advances in Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging have enabled us to better reveal the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics and aqueductal anatomy.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the CSF flow dynamics of patients with AW with phase contrast Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and compare them with the imaging findings.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated 23 patients under 65‐year‐old age. On constructive interference in steady‐state (T2 CISS) images, the width of prepontine cistern (PPC) and the width of Sylvian aqueduct (SA) were measured. Localization and number of webs were evaluated. The existence of flow at the aqueduct and the presence of spontaneous third ventriculostomy (STV) were evaluated on sagittal Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrast (SPACE) sequences.

Results

Of the 23 patients included in the study, 11 were male and 12 were female. The mean age was 34.02 (0.5–64). A total of 31 AWs were detected in 23 patients.

Six of 23 patients (26.1%) had STV and 17 of those not. Four of 23 patients (17.4%) had aqueductal flow on SPACE sequences. The PPC distance was significantly wider in patients with STV (median: 6.7–4.5, interquartile range (IQR): 1.35, p = 0.004). In the cases where artifact secondary to flow is observed in SPACE sequences in aqueduct, the Evan index (EI) was significantly lower (median: 0.2955–0.3900, IQR: 0.03–0.14, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients with a low EI, there may be flow in the SA even if there is a web. In patients with a wide PPC distance, it is necessary to consider the presence of STV and evaluate the presence of flow with the SPACE sequences.