bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative AI‐assisted early prediction of parathyroid and ischemia alert in endoscopic thyroid surgery
Authors: Wang Bo , Yu Jia‐Fan , Lin Si‐Ying , Li Yi‐Jian , Huang Wen‐Yu , Yan Shou‐Yi , Wang Si‐Si , Zhang Li‐Yong , Cai Shao‐Jun , Wu Si‐Bin , Li Meng‐Yao , Wang Ting‐Yi , Abdelhamid Ahmed Amr H. , Randolph Gregory W. , Chen Fei , Zhao Wen‐Xin
Published: February 2024

Background

The preservation of parathyroid glands is crucial in endoscopic thyroid surgery to prevent hypocalcemia and related complications. However, current methods for identifying and protecting these glands have limitations. We propose a novel technique that has the potential to improve the safety and efficacy of endoscopic thyroid surgery.

Purpose

Our study aims to develop a deep learning model called PTAIR 2.0 (Parathyroid gland Artificial Intelligence Recognition) to enhance parathyroid gland recognition during endoscopic thyroidectomy. We compare its performance against traditional surgeon‐based identification methods.

Materials and methods

Parathyroid tissues were annotated in 32 428 images extracted from 838 endoscopic thyroidectomy videos, forming the internal training cohort. An external validation cohort comprised 54 full‐length videos. Six candidate algorithms were evaluated to select the optimal one. We assessed the model's performance in terms of initial recognition time, identification duration, and recognition rate and compared it with the performance of surgeons.

Results

Utilizing the YOLOX algorithm, we developed PTAIR 2.0, which demonstrated superior performance with an AP50 score of 92.1%. The YOLOX algorithm achieved a frame rate of 25.14 Hz, meeting real‐time requirements. In the internal training cohort, PTAIR 2.0 achieved AP50 values of 94.1%, 98.9%, and 92.1% for parathyroid gland early prediction, identification, and ischemia alert, respectively. Additionally, in the external validation cohort, PTAIR outperformed both junior and senior surgeons in identifying and tracking parathyroid glands (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The AI‐driven PTAIR 2.0 model significantly outperforms both senior and junior surgeons in parathyroid gland identification and ischemia alert during endoscopic thyroid surgery, offering potential for enhanced surgical precision and patient outcomes.
N‐Methyl‐N‐Alkylaminocyclopentanes: Powerful and Selective β‐d‐Glucocerebrosidase Inhibitors
Authors: Weber Patrick , Fischer Roland , Nasseri Seyed A. , Pabst Bettina M. , Prasch Herwig , Stütz Arnold E. , Thonhofer Martin , Withers Stephen G. , Windischhofer Werner , Wrodnigg Tanja M.
Published: February 2024

Building upon a previously established (2+3)‐cycloaddition strategy, a series of N,N‐dialkylated aminocyclopentanes was synthesized using a partially protected eno‐furanose as the starting point. The resulting N‐methylisoxazolidine was subsequently transformed into the corresponding aminocyclopentane, which was further N‐alkylated, yielding a collection of compounds with potential as inhibitors and pharmacological chaperones of β‐d‐glucocerebrosidase. A comprehensive screening involving a range of biologically relevant glycosidases unveiled that these compounds exhibit remarkable potency and selectivity as inhibitors of human lysosomal β‐d‐glucocerebrosidase. However, none of these compounds exhibit significant activity enhancement of Morbus Gaucher related p.N409S/p.L483P mutant β‐d‐glucocerebrosidase.
Student and clinical supervisor perceptions of community‐based dental educational experiences: A scoping review
Authors: Taylor Millicent R. , Carr Sandra E. , Baynes Lida , Kujan Omar
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This scoping review was conducted to map the breadth of experiences in community‐based dental education (CBDE), as reported by students and clinical supervisors.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted following the structured framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and adhering to PRISMA‐SCR guidelines for scoping reviews. Applying specified eligibility criteria, a systematic search of four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science) was followed by data extraction and data synthesis of full‐text articles. Research was conducted between June 2022 and September 2022.

Results

Sixteen articles were identified for the final full‐text review. Utilizing a narrative thematic review, the following five domains emerged: preparation for autonomous practice, understanding of primary care dentistry, understanding of health disparities and patient needs, clinical confidence, clinical diversity, and skill development, and perspectives on quality of teaching and assessment.

Conclusion

Community/outreach dental education effectively supplements traditional dental school‐based education from the perspectives of students and community‐based clinical supervisors.
Perceived stress among dental students and the role of parental influence in career decision‐making
Authors: AlJameel AlBandary H. , Talakey Arwa A. , AlFarhan Ghalya , Qadoumi Majd , AlNowaiser Norah , AlShibani Yara , AlMalki Sultan
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The current study aimed to assess perceived stress levels among dental students at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and to explore the influence of parental roles in their decision to pursue dentistry as a potential source of social stress.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study employed the validated Dental Environmental Stress (DES) Scale to evaluate perceived stress, and incorporated additional questions to fulfill the research aim. We approached all undergraduate dental students at King Saud University, both male and female, across all academic years, using online channels (such as emails, WhatsApp, Twitter, etc.) and hard copy distribution. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 20, utilizing descriptive and correlation statistics.

Results

A total of 326 students participated in the study, with an even distribution of male and female students. Female students reported higher levels of stress compared to their male counterparts across most DES domains. A notable correlation emerged between mean DES scores in certain domains and influence of parents in the decision to pursue dentistry.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that female dental students experience higher stress levels than males in all examined areas, barring social stressors. Furthermore, the study underscores the significant impact of parental involvement in choosing dentistry as a career on students’ stress level.
Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the gallbladder: A single institute analysis of outcomes and prognostic factors
Authors: Nandy Kunal , Patkar Shraddha , Yadav Subhash , Ostwal Vikas , Ramaswamy Anant , Bhargav Prabhat , Goel Mahesh
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are classified as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs), and mixed neuroendocrine and nonneuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) according to World Health Organization classification. We present our experience of NENs of the gallbladder (GB) from a high‐volume cancer hospital.

Materials and Methods

The present study is a retrospective analysis of all patients with GB NENs who presented between January 2015 and June 2023. The patient details and treatment received with follow‐up were noted. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 147 patients were included in the study. The median age was 52 (27–81) years. There was a female predominance (70.7%). NEC was the most common subtype (84.4%) followed by MiNEN (12.9%) and NET (2.7%). The most common stage at presentation was metastatic (70.7%) followed by locally advanced (21.8%), and early disease (7.5%). The median follow‐up was 9.92 (1.77–76.06) months. Median OS was 6.14 (3.93–8.35) months. Median OS in patients who received multimodality treatment was 20.20 (17.99–22.41) months versus 4.00 (2.91–5.10) months in those who did not receive it.

Conclusion

GB NENs are rare, but aggressive tumors with NEC being the most common type. Multimodality treatment yields favorable outcomes. However, the development of better systemic therapy is needed to help improve survival further.
WhatsApp — what’s that?
Authors: Clark David , Nicholas David , Herman Eti , Abrizah Abdullah , Watkinson Anthony , Rodríguez‐Bravo Blanca , Boukacem‐Zeghmouri Cherifa , Świgoń Marzena , Xu Jie , Jamali Hamid R. , Sims David , Serbina Galina
Published: February 2024

In this, the second iteration of our continuing ‘Harbingers of Change’ project, over 160 early career researchers (ECRs) from eight countries were questioned about their scholarly communications. Three repeat in‐depth interviews were conducted over 2 years of the pandemic to chart changes in attitude and behaviour. This paper provides interview findings (and an extensive literature review) regarding the role played by social media platforms. It was prompted by an initial review of the data that highlighted significant changes in the attitudes and behaviour of Malaysian ECRs, especially in respect to WhatsApp. Data were provided from several open‐ended interview questions about social media, a few interviewer prompts for individual platform names, and, indirectly, from ‘mentions’ of individual platforms in answers to a range of questions about scholarly communications. Findings were: (1) 15 platforms were mentioned in respect to a range of scholarly activities, most notably visibility and reach; (2) Twitter (now X) was the most mentioned, by half the ECRs; (3) ‘churn’ is a notable observation, with large gains and losses in mentions occurring between interviews; (4) large differences between countries, with Malaysian ECRs very much leading on the adoption of social media and largely responsible for the rise of WhatsApp, French ECRs showing little interest, and China a different space where WeChat reigns supreme and foreign platforms are blocked.
Synthesis and characterization of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate loaded nanoparticles for HIV‐1 treatment
Authors: Obisesan Oluwafemi Samuel , Tshweu Lesego L. , Chauke Sipho , Malatji Kanyane Bridgett , Ramalapa Bathabile , Alexandre Kabamba B. , Mufhandu Hazel Tumelo
Published: February 2024

The remarkable ability of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to evade the host's immune system and conventional antiretroviral therapy, has posed significant challenges in achieving complete eradication of the virus in people living with HIV (PLWHIV). However, nanotechnology has emerged as promising avenue for addressing some of the obstacles associated with the use of antiretroviral drugs by modifying drug molecules in nanoscale dimensions. Hence, the present study explores the utilization of poly(epsilon‐caprolactone) (PCL) as a carrier for encapsulating tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), offering an alternative treatment approach for HIV infection. TDF‐loaded polymeric nanoparticles were successfully prepared using double emulsion solvent evaporation technique and characterized. The characterization of TDF‐loaded polymeric nanoparticles at varied drug to polymer ratios showed that TDF was loaded in PCL with an encapsulation efficiency and drug loading capacity in the range of 23–46% and 4.8–19.9%, respectively. Of note, the neutralization efficacy of TDF‐loaded polymeric nanoparticles was more improved compared to free TDF. Encapsulation of TDF with PCL did not hinder the antiviral activity of TDF against HIV‐1 infection but rather enhanced its potency.
A rate randomized geometric process with applications
Authors: Asadi Majid , Wu Shaomin
Published: February 2024

The geometric process has been widely studied in various disciplines and applied in reliability, maintenance and warranty cost analysis, among others. In its applications in maintenance policy optimisation, the geometric process assumes constant repair effectiveness by its process rate. Nevertheless, in practice, maintenance effectiveness may differ from time to time and can therefore be better depicted by a random variable. Motivated by this argument, this paper proposes a new variant of the geometric process, which is referred to as the rate randomized geometric process (RRGP). The probabilistic properties of the RRGP are then investigated. The maximum likelihood method is utilised to estimate the parameters of the RRGP. Numerical examples are given to show its applicability in both maintenance policy optimization and fitting real‐world failure datasets.
Excellent response to treatment with hydroxychloroquine in pediatric patients with SLE‐related immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Brik‐Simon Dafna , Efros Orly , Levinsky Yoel , Amarilyo Gil , Tirosh Irit , Levy‐Mendelovich Sarina , Steinberg‐Shemer Orna , Izraeli Shai , Yacobovich Joanne , Gilad Oded
Published: February 2024

Background

Pediatric immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) may precede systemic autoimmune disorders. In adolescent patients with ITP, routine screening for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may be performed by testing for antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a safe and effective immunomodulatory drug in patients with SLE but rarely used in ITP. We analyzed the platelet count response and safety of HCQ in treating pediatric patients with SLE‐related ITP.

Methods

A retrospective study including pediatric patients with ITP and definite or incomplete SLE, who were treated with HCQ during 2010‐2021. SLE was defined by ANA titer ≥ 1:160 as measured by immunofluorescence and ≥10 points according to the 2019 EULAR/ACR 2019 classification criteria, while patients with incomplete SLE achieved a score < 10. Complete response (CR) of the platelet count was defined as platelet count > 100 × 109/L; partial response (PR) as platelet count 30‐100 × 109/L and exceeding ≥ twice baseline counts.

Results

Of the 17 patients included (median age 15.5 years; IQR 3.6), 15 (88.2%) were female, 13 had definite SLE, and four had incomplete SLE. HCQ was initiated at a median of 17 months after ITP diagnosis with a median platelet count of 38 × 109/L (IQR 28). At 8 weeks, 8 (47.1%) patients responded, including 6 (35.3%) achieving CR. After one year, the overall response was 82.4%, with the remaining patients having stable platelet counts requiring no additional ITP therapy. The response was maintained at a median follow‐up of 42 months. No adverse effects to HCQ were noted.

Conclusion

Pediatric patients with SLE‐related ITP may benefit from treatment with HCQ.
Pain screening in youth with sickle cell disease: A quality improvement study
Authors: Vroom Dennis C. , Rodgers‐Melnick Samuel N. , Brown Tracie , Owusu‐Ansah Amma , Dusek Jeffery A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Youth with sickle cell disease (SCD) face several challenges as they age, including increased pain frequency, duration, and interference. The purpose of this study was to (i) determine the feasibility of routine pain screening; (ii) identify and describe various clinical pain presentations; and (iii) understand preferences/resources related to engaging in integrative health and medicine (IHM) modalities within an outpatient pediatric SCD clinic.

Methods

During routine outpatient visits, patients aged 8–18 completed measures of pain frequency, duration, and chronic pain risk (Pediatric Pain Screening Tool [PPST]). Participants screening positive for (i) persistent or chronic pain or (ii) medium or high risk for persistent symptoms and disability on the PPST were asked to complete measures of pain interference, pain catastrophizing, and interest in/resources for engaging in IHM modalities.

Results

Between March 2022 and May 2023, 104/141 (73.8%) patients who attended at least one outpatient visit were screened. Of these 104 (mean age 12.46, 53.8% female, 63.5% HbSS), 34 (32.7%) reported persistent or chronic pain, and 48 (46.2%) reported medium or high risk for persistent symptoms and disability. Patients completing subsequent pain screening measures reported a mean pain interference T‐score of 53.2 ± 8.8 and a mean pain catastrophizing total score of 24.3 ± 10.2. Patients expressed highest interest in music (55.6%) and art therapy (51.9%) and preferred in‐person (81.5%) over virtual programming (22.2%).

Conclusions

Comprehensive pain screening is feasible within pediatric SCD care. Classifying patients by PPST risk may provide a means of triaging patients to appropriate services to address pain‐related psychosocial factors.
Micro‐mesoscopic analysis of 3D void formation and evolution in CFRP composite using high‐resolution x‐ray microtomography
Authors: Peng Yunfei , Li Maojun , Yang Xujing
Published: February 2024

Void defect is prevalent during the composite manufacturing process and may reduce the mechanical properties of composite structures, while limited information about three‐dimensional void distribution and evolution can be found due to the difficulties in void observation. In this work, void defects at different positions were detected and analyzed using x‐ray microtomography (XRM), and the random forest algorithm was implemented for segmenting components of CFRP samples. Results showed a trend of gradual rising porosity in the axial direction, with an increase of ~250% of porosity at the outlet of resin injection compared to the one at the inlet during the composite manufacturing process. The voids mainly featured with microscale between carbon fibers, with less distribution between fiber bundles and resin‐rich zones. Void defects achieved aggregation at the middle position of manufactured laminate, which is probably related to pressure interception. In the axial direction, the proportion of large‐diameter voids gradually increased, and a large volume of connected voids appeared near the outlet. Due to the shear deformation of resin and fiber and the pressure gradient effect, most of the voids showed stripe shape. The spatial orientation of voids was predominantly along the direction of resin flow and fluctuated due to fiber curl.

Highlights

3D void characteristics in CFRP were studied using the XRM technique.

Void formation and the effects of fibers on void morphology were analyzed.

Dynamic void transport mechanisms during CFRP manufacturing were studied.

Location and morphology of voids are helpful for CFRP damage modeling.

The effective partitioning of CFRP was achieved using a random forest algorithm.
Optimizing mechanical properties and corrosion resistance in core‐shell nanofiber epoxy self‐healing coatings: Impact of shell material variation
Authors: Xu Yangbo , Shen Rulin , Tang Juntao , Zou Xiangfu , Wan Wenhu , Guo Haibo
Published: February 2024

Shell materials play significant impact on corrosion resistance and mechanical properties on self‐healing coating of composite with core‐shell nanofiber. In this paper, three promising shell materials were investigated to optimize the performance of self‐healing coating. Self‐healing core‐shell nanofibers with different shell materials were prepared with coaxial electrospinning. The resulting nanofibers were used to prepare self‐healing corrosion resistance coating. The tensile test revealed a notable enhancement in the tensile strength of PA6 core‐shell nanofiber epoxy composite coatings compared with the epoxy coating, demonstrating increase of 26.92%. Friction and wear test indicated reductions in the friction coefficients of PAN, PVDF, and PA6 core‐shell nanofibers by 13.82%, 12.44%, and 26.27%, respectively. The self‐healing and anti‐corrosion abilities were evaluated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) test. All three coatings exhibited exceptional self‐healing efficiencies exceeding 90%, highlighting the substantial potential of the chosen shell materials as nanocontainers for self‐healing agent. Results indicate that the nanofibers with PA6 as shell material can achieve the best enhancement performance, which has a greater potential for the corrosion protection and long‐lasting use of offshore wind turbine tower coatings.

Highlights

Optimizing coating performance by screening coaxial nanofibers for shell materials

Shell material can improve the tensile strength of coating up to 26.92%

Friction coefficient of PA6 nanofiber coating was about 15% lower than PAN and PVDF

All three coatings exhibited exceptional self‐healing efficiencies exceeding 90%
Exploring the biases of the perception of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity of students from parents, teachers, self‐reports, and a VR measure
Authors: Cho Yeon‐Ji , Son Ha Min , Chung Tai‐Myoung , Kim Jaehyoun
Published: February 2024

Symptoms of inattention (IA), hyperactivity, and impulsivity present in school‐aged children are important indications of developmental problems. The assessment of these symptoms largely relies on questionnaires completed by parents, teachers, and the children themselves. However, inherent perceptual biases may lead to inaccuracies in these evaluations. This study investigates the biases among different respondents for 41 elementary‐aged students (19 male and 22 female) by analyzing their responses on the attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder‐rating scale (ADHD‐RS) through a novel virtual reality‐based objective measure (AttnKare‐D). Correlation analysis reveals higher agreement between parents and students compared to other informant pairs. Nevertheless, when compared with the objective measure, parents and students do not exhibit distinct separation between high and low‐scoring samples, whereas teachers demonstrate significant separation on various objective measure factors. This discrepancy suggests that teachers may possess a more accurate baseline for peer‐related measurements, leading to a more objective evaluation of ADHD symptoms. However, it is essential to acknowledge that teachers are not entirely exempt from biases. Gender‐specific comparisons reveal notable differences, with male children showing the largest separation in distractibility and female children in movement. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the significance of recognizing and addressing potential biases when interpreting questionnaires assessing symptoms of IA, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in children.
Human versus artificial intelligence‐generated arthroplasty literature: A single‐blinded analysis of perceived communication, quality, and authorship source
Authors: Lawrence Kyle W. , Habibi Akram A. , Ward Spencer A. , Lajam Claudette M. , Schwarzkopf Ran , Rozell Joshua C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Large language models (LLM) have unknown implications for medical research. This study assessed whether LLM‐generated abstracts are distinguishable from human‐written abstracts and to compare their perceived quality.

Methods

The LLM ChatGPT was used to generate 20 arthroplasty abstracts (AI‐generated) based on full‐text manuscripts, which were compared to originally published abstracts (human‐written). Six blinded orthopaedic surgeons rated abstracts on overall quality, communication, and confidence in the authorship source. Authorship‐confidence scores were compared to a test value representing complete inability to discern authorship.

Results

Modestly increased confidence in human authorship was observed for human‐written abstracts compared with AI‐generated abstracts (p = 0.028), though AI‐generated abstract authorship‐confidence scores were statistically consistent with inability to discern authorship (p = 0.999). Overall abstract quality was higher for human‐written abstracts (p = 0.019).

Conclusions

AI‐generated abstracts' absolute authorship‐confidence ratings demonstrated difficulty in discerning authorship but did not achieve the perceived quality of human‐written abstracts. Caution is warranted in implementing LLMs into scientific writing.
Breakthrough infection and reinfection in patients with mpox
Authors: Jiang Wenyi , Hu Yibo , Yang Xiu , Hou Lingli , Zhang Jingjing , Niu Hong , Hu Congxia , Lin Jihui
Published: February 2024

Recently, patients with Mpox breakthrough infection or reinfection were constantly reported. However, the induction, risk factors, and important clinical symptoms of breakthrough infection and reinfection of Mpox virus (MPXV), as well as the factors affecting the effectiveness of Mpox vaccine are not characterized. Herein, a literature review was preformed to summarize the risk factors and important clinical symptoms of patients with Mpox breakthrough infection or reinfection, as well as the factors affecting the effectiveness of smallpox vaccine against Mpox. Results showed that MSM sexual behavior, condomless sexual behavior, multiple sexual partners, close contact, HIV infection, and the presence of comorbidity are important risk factors for Mpox breakthrough infection and reinfection. Genital ulcers, proctitis, and lymphadenopathy are the important clinical symptoms of Mpox breakthrough infection and reinfection. The effectiveness of emergent vaccination of smallpox vaccine for post‐exposure of MPXV is associated with smallpox vaccination history, interval between exposure and vaccination, and history of HIV infection. This review provides a better understanding for the risk factors and important clinical symptoms of Mpox breakthrough infection and reinfection, as well as the formulation of Mpox vaccine vaccination strategies.
Remote tele‐operation using model reference discrete‐time sliding mode control
Authors: Adhikary Nabanita , Bartoszewicz Andrzej , Dey Rajeeb
Published: February 2024

In this article, a dissipativity based discrete time sliding mode controller is proposed for bilateral tele‐operation in presence of communication delays and packet losses. The controllers for both master and slave arm are designed to follow a predefined impedance dynamics with dissipative characteristics. The slave arm controller is designed as a two layered structure. The first layer uses the tracking error between master and slave to create a target velocity profile based on the user defined impedance dynamics. The second layer uses this target velocity profile, slave motion and the contact forces to design a reaching law based discrete time sliding mode controller. A model following reaching law approach is used to design the sliding mode control which alleviates the chattering in the input by removing the impact of the accumulated effects of the past disturbance from the system. Moreover, an adaptive tuning method is used for the switching gain of the sliding mode control so that the controller can be designed even when exact information on the uncertainty bounds are unknown. Numerical simulations are presented for Phantom Omni arm to show the efficacy of the proposed method.
Injectable Nanocomposite Immune Hydrogel Dressings: Prevention of Tumor Recurrence and Anti‐Infection after Melanoma Resection
Authors: Zhu Wenxiang , Zhou Zheng , Yang Mengni , Chen Xin , Zhu Shuai , Yu Mengyi , Yu Zhiqiang , Wu Wenze , Liu Hairong
Published: February 2024

Complex wound repair due to tumor recurrence and infection following tumor resection presents significant clinical challenges. In this study, a bifunctional nanocomposite immune hydrogel dressing, SerMA‐LJC, is developed to address the issues associated with repairing infected damaged tissues and preventing tumor recurrence. Specifically, the immune dressing is composed of methacrylic anhydride‐modified sericin (SerMA) and self‐assembled nanoparticles (LJC) containing lonidamine (Lon), JQ1, and chlorine e6 (Ce6). In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the nanocomposite hydrogel dressing can trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD) and has a potent anti‐tumor effect. Moreover, this dressing can mitigate the acidic microenvironment of tumor cells and suppress the overexpression of PD‐L1 on the tumor cell surface, thereby altering the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and augmenting the anti‐tumor immune response. Further, the RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the hydrogel dressing significantly impacts pathways associated with positive regulation of immune response, apoptotic process, and other relevant pathways, thus triggering a potent anti‐tumor immune response. More importantly, the dressing generates a substantial amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can effectively kill Staphylococcus aureus and promote infectious wound healing. In conclusion, this dual‐function nanocomposite immune hydrogel dressing exhibits promise in preventing tumor recurrence and promoting infectious wound healing.
Simultaneous Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution and Degradation of Dye Wastewater without Cocatalysts and Sacrificial Agents Based on g‐C3N5 and Hybridized Ni‐MOF Derivative‐CdS‐DETA
Authors: Yu Yongzhuo , Li Wei , Huang Yuxin , Yang Huixing , Lv Chaoyu , Yan Hui xiang , Lin Di , Jiao Shichao , Hou Linlin , Wu Zhiliang
Published: February 2024

Inspired by energy conversion and waste reuse, hybridized Ni‐MOF derivative‐CdS‐DETA/g‐C3N5, a type‐II heterojunction photocatalyst, is synthesized by a hydrothermal method for simultaneous and highly efficient photocatalytic degradation and hydrogen evolution in dye wastewater. Without the addition of cocatalysts and sacrificial agents, the optimal MOF‐CD(2)/CN5 (i.e. Ni‐MOF derivative‐CdS‐DETA (20 wt.%)/g‐C3N5) exhibit good bifunctional catalytic activity, with a H2 evolution rate of 2974.4 µmol g−1 h−1 during the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB), and a removal rate of 99.97% for RhB. In the process of H2‐evolution‐only, triethanolamine is used as a sacrificial agent, exhibiting a high H2 evolution rate (19663.1 µmol g−1 h−1) in the absence of a cocatalyst, and outperforming most similar related materials (such as MOF/g‐C3N5, MOF‐CdS, CdS/g‐C3N5). With the help of type‐II heterojunction, holes are scavenged for the oxidative degradation of RhB, and electrons are used in the decomposition of water for H2 evolution during illumination. This work opens a new path for photocatalysts with dual functions of simultaneous efficient degradation and hydrogen evolution.
Starch‐Based Materials as a Natural Compound's Application in Water and Wastewater Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Asadi‐Ghalhari Mahdi , Usefi Saideh , Mahmoodi Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Currently, the application of natural materials is a good alternative to prevent secondary damage to humans and the environment. Therefore, in recent years, much attention has been paid to the use of these degradable and environmentally friendly materials to reduce toxicity and treatment costs. As a natural material, starch offers advantages of low cost, flexible modification, abundant presence of hydroxyl functional groups, and eco‐friendly. These configurations make it to a suitable material for remediation purposes, as it has received a great attention for removal of pollutants from water and wastewater, including but not limited to the heavy metals, pharmaceutical, dyes, and even inorganic contaminants. This work, therefore, aims to systematically evaluate starch‐based materials applications in remediation of water and wastewater media using the appropriate search terms from international databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar, and through PRISMA checklist. For this, the publications from 1973 to 2021 are searched. In the initial search, 980 articles are found of which 49 articles are included in the study. Then, the performance of the starch‐based materials for every single study as the pollutant(s) involved is summarized and discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of such application are extracted and a perspective is presented accordingly. This comprehensive review shows that the starch‐based derivatives’ can be potential options in water and wastewater treatment purposes, especially those modified. However, some limitations should be overcoming before scaling of the results.
Genome‐wide identification, gene expression and haplotype analysis of the rhomboid‐like gene family in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Huang Xiaoya , Zhang Long , Gao Weidong , Ma Jingfu , Chen Tao , Yang Delong
Published: February 2024

The rhomboid‐like (RBL) gene encodes serine protease, which plays an important role in the response to cell development and diverse stresses. However, genome‐wide identification, expression profiles, and haplotype analysis of the RBL family genes have not been performed in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study investigated the phylogeny and diversity of the RBL family genes in the wheat genome through various approaches, including gene structure analysis, evolutionary relationship analysis, promoter cis‐acting element analysis, expression pattern analysis, and haplotype analysis. The 41 TaRBL genes were identified and divided into five subfamilies in the wheat genome. RBL family genes were expanded through segmented duplication and purification selection. The cis‐element analysis revealed their involvement in various stress responses and plant development. The results of RNA‐seq and quantitative real‐time‐PCR showed that TaRBL genes displayed higher expression levels in developing spike/grain and were differentially regulated under polyethylene glycol, NaCl, and abscisic acid treatments, indicating their roles in grain development and abiotic stress response. A kompetitive allele‐specific PCR molecular marker was developed to confirm the
single nucleotide polymorphism of TaRBL14a gene in 263 wheat accessions. We found that the elite haplotype TaRBL14a‐Hap2 showed a significantly higher 1000‐grain weight than TaRBL14a‐Hap11 in at least three environments, and the TaRBL14a‐Hap2 was positively selected in wheat breeding. The findings will provide a good insight into the evolutionary and functional characteristics of the TaRBL genes family in wheat and lay the foundation for future exploration of the regulatory mechanisms of TaRBL genes in plant growth and development, as well as their response to abiotic stresses.
A Healthy Diet for Beginning Readers: Decodable Texts as Part of a Comprehensive Literacy Program
Authors: Pennell Ashley E. , Jordan Rebecca Lee Payne , Nash Kindel Turner , Elson Kerry , Trathen Woodrow
Published: February 2024

We suggest that a healthy literacy diet for beginning readers consists of literacy experiences along a number of dimensions, including experiences with decodable text. As such, this article explores the role of decodable texts in a comprehensive early literacy curriculum that recognizes literacy as a complex, culturally mediated, and multifaceted set of skills. We provide five guidelines for practitioners to use when evaluating decodable texts to be used with beginning readers. As an example of the type of analysis we recommend for selecting quality decodable text, we examine one decodable text for its merit in fulfilling the guidelines described in this article.
Image‐based detection and classification of plant diseases using deep learning: State‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Bagga Manju , Goyal Sonali
Published: February 2024

Plant diseases are assumed to be one of the primary causes regulating food manufacturing and reducing deficits in crop yield, and it is crucial that plant diseases have rapid spotting and identification. Since the demand for food is rising quickly due to population growth, the main issue for any country is plant disease mechanization in agricultural science. Recent developments in deep learning techniques have found use in plant disease recognition, offering a robust tool with exceedingly precise results. Our main goal is to employ deep learning mechanisms to better understand diseases and how to identify them quickly. In this regard, we analyzed 94 publications chosen from the last 7 years (2016–2023) that show how CNN's philosophy has evolved over this period with various approaches to treating plant diseases. Furthermore, a full description of numerous crops, diseases connected to them, various datasets relating to plant diseases, existing CNN models, and customized CNN architectures is provided. The results of this state‐of‐the‐art review can be implemented to comprehend the cutting‐edge trends in the application of deep learning (CNNs) to detect plant diseases as well as pinpoint any research gaps that require the scientific community's attention.
Parallel Normal Fields
Authors: Pinkall Ulrich , Gross Oliver
Published: February 2024

For curves $$\gamma \colon [a,b] \to \mathbb {R}^n$$
γ
:
[
a
,
b
]
→

ℝ

n

there is an analog $$\kappa \colon [a,b] \to \mathbb {R}^{n-1}$$
κ
:
[
a
,
b
]
→

ℝ

n
−
1

of the curvature function of a plane curve. In the context of unit speed curves, this function $$\kappa $$
κ
determines $$\gamma $$
γ
up to an orientation-preserving rigid motion of $$\mathbb {R}^n$$

ℝ

n

. Before we can define $$\kappa $$
κ
, we have to study parallel normal vector fields along a curve in $$\mathbb {R}^n$$

ℝ

n

.
Curves in $$\mathbb {R}^3$$
Authors: Pinkall Ulrich , Gross Oliver
Published: February 2024

For a closed curve $$\gamma \colon [a,b]\to \mathbb {R}^3$$
γ
:
[
a
,
b
]
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with unit tangent field T, we can use a parallel normal vector field to transport a normal vector $$W_a\in T(a)^\perp $$

W

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(
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at the starting point of $$\gamma $$
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to a normal vector $$W_b\in T(b)^\perp $$

W

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(
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at the end point.
Curve shortening flow on Riemann surfaces with conical singularities
Authors: Roidos Nikolaos , Savas-Halilaj Andreas
Published: February 2024

We study the curve shortening flow on Riemann surfaces with finitely many conformal conical singularities. If the initial curve is passing through the singular points, then the evolution is governed by a degenerate quasilinear parabolic equation. In this case, we establish short time existence, uniqueness, and regularity of the flow. We also show that the evolving curves stay fixed at the singular points of the surface and obtain some contracting and convergence results.
IgG glycopeptide enrichment using hydrophilic interaction chromatography-based solid-phase extraction on an aminopropyl column
Authors: Molnarova Katarina , Chobotova Michaela , Kozlik Petr
Published: February 2024

The sample preparation step is pivotal in glycoproteomic analysis. An effective approach in glycoprotein sample preparation involves enriching glycopeptides by solid-phase extraction (SPE) using polar stationary phases in hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) mode. The aim of this work is to show how different experimental conditions influence the enrichment efficiency of glycopeptides from human immunoglobulin G (IgG) on an aminopropyl-modified SPE column. Different compositions of the elution solvent (acetonitrile, methanol, and isopropanol), along with varying concentrations of elution solvent acidifiers (formic and acetic acid), and different concentrations of acetonitrile for the conditioning and washing solvents (65%, 75%, and 85% acetonitrile) were tested to observe their effects on the glycopeptide enrichment process. Isopropanol proved less effective in enriching glycopeptides, while acetonitrile was the most efficient, with methanol in between. Higher formic acid concentrations in the elution solvent weakened the ionic interactions, particularly with sialylated glycopeptides. Substituting formic acid with acetic acid led to earlier elution of more glycopeptides. The acetonitrile concentration in conditioning and washing solutions played a key role; at 65% acetonitrile, glycopeptides were not retained on the SPE column and were detected in the flow-through fraction. Ultimately, it was proven that the enrichment method was applicable to human plasma samples, resulting in a significant decrease in the abundances of non-glycosylated peptides. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first systematic investigation into the impact of the mobile phase on glycopeptide enrichment using an aminopropyl-modified SPE column in HILIC mode. This study demonstrates the substantial impact of even minor variations in experimental conditions, which have not yet been considered in the literature, on SPE-HILIC glycopeptide enrichment. Consequently, meticulous optimization of these conditions is imperative to enhance the specificity and selectivity of glycoproteomic analysis, ensuring accurate and reliable quantification.
Identification macrophage signatures in prostate cancer by single-cell sequencing and machine learning
Authors: Kang Zhen , Zhao Yu-Xuan , Qiu Ren Shun Qian , Chen Dong-Ning , Zheng Qing-Shui , Xue Xue-Yi , Xu Ning , Wei Yong
Published: February 2024

Background

The tumor microenvironment (TME) encompasses a variety of cells that influence immune responses and tumor growth, with tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) being a crucial component of the TME. TAM can guide prostate cancer in different directions in response to various external stimuli.

Methods

First, we downloaded prostate cancer single-cell sequencing data and second-generation sequencing data from multiple public databases. From these data, we identified characteristic genes associated with TAM clusters. We then employed machine learning techniques to select the most accurate TAM gene set and developed a TAM-related risk label for prostate cancer. We analyzed the tumor-relatedness of the TAM-related risk label and different risk groups within the population. Finally, we validated the accuracy of the prognostic label using single-cell sequencing data, qPCR, and WB assays, among other methods.

Results

In this study, the TAM_2 cell cluster has been identified as promoting the progression of prostate cancer, possibly representing M2 macrophages. The 9 TAM feature genes selected through ten machine learning methods and demonstrated their effectiveness in predicting the progression of prostate cancer patients. Additionally, we have linked these TAM feature genes to clinical pathological characteristics, allowing us to construct a nomogram. This nomogram provides clinical practitioners with a quantitative tool for assessing the prognosis of prostate cancer patients.

Conclusion

This study has analyzed the potential relationship between TAM and PCa and established a TAM-related prognostic model. It holds promise as a valuable tool for the management and treatment of PCa patients.
Sidedness is not a prognostic factor in an unselected cohort of patients with colon cancer but prognosis for caecal carcinoma is worse – A multivariate analysis of a large single institution database
Authors: Stelzner Sigmar , Mehdorn Matthias , Puffer Erik , Bleyl Dorothea , Kittner Thomas , Rhode Philipp , Gockel Ines , Mees Soeren T.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Sidedness has emerged as a prognostic factor for metastatic colorectal cancer treated with modern systemic therapies. This study investigates whether it is also relevant for an unselected patient cohort including all stages.

Methods

All consecutive patients admitted with colon cancer between 1995 and 2018 were retrieved from an institution-held database. Patients were divided into two cohorts. The first cohort included patients without distant metastases who were able to undergo curative resection. The second cohort presented with distant metastases (stage IV). Potentially prognostic factors were subjected to multivariate Cox Regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 1,606 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. An R0-resection was achieved in 1,222 patients without distant metastases. Five-year cause-specific survival rate was 89.3% for this group. There was no difference between right- and left-sided cancers (88.2% vs. 90.1%, p = 0.220). However, prognosis of caecal carcinoma was significantly worse than that of all other sites combined (83.5% vs. 90.2%, p = 0.007). In multivariate analysis, pT-category, pN-category, grading, vascular invasion, emergency operation, adjuvant chemotherapy, and caecal carcinoma remained as independent prognostic factors. In the 384 patients with stage IV-disease, 3-year overall survival for right- vs. left-sided cancers differed only in univariate analysis (17.7% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.013).

Conclusion

In non-metastatic colon cancer, location in the caecum is an independent prognostic factor. In unselected patients with stage IV colon cancer, sidedness was not found to be a prognostic factor. Differentiation into right- and left-sided tumors may be simplistic, and further studies on the biological behavior of different colonic sites are warranted.
Interplay of the Mediterranean diet and genetic hypertension risk on blood pressure in European adolescents: Findings from the HELENA study
Authors: Pérez-Gimeno Gloria , Seral-Cortes Miguel , Sabroso-Lasa Sergio , Esteban Luis Mariano , Widhalm Kurt , Gottrand Frederic , Stehle Peter , Meirhaeghe Aline , Muntaner Manon , Kafatos Anthony , Gutierrez Angel , Manios Yannis , Anastasiou Costas A. , Gonzalez-Gross Marcela , Breidenassel Christina , Censi Laura , de Henauw Stefaan , Labayen Idoia , Bueno-Lozano Gloria , Rupérez Azahara I. , Moreno Luis A.
Published: February 2024

Early-life onset of high blood pressure is associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. In adolescents, limited evidence exists regarding the association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) and normal blood pressure (BP) levels, as well as its potential to modulate genetic predisposition to HTN. This study investigated the interaction between a MedDiet score and a recently developed HTN-genetic risk score (HTN-GRS) on blood pressure levels in a European adolescent cohort. The MedDiet score was derived from two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls and ranged from 0 (indicating low adherence) to 9 (indicating high adherence). Multiple linear regression models, adjusted for covariates, were employed to examine the relationship between the MedDiet score and BP z-scores and to assess the interaction effects between the MedDiet score and HTN-GRS on BP z-scores. MedDiet score showed a negative association with z-systolic BP (SBP) (ß = −0.40, p < 0.001) and z-diastolic BP (DBP) (ß = −0.29, p = 0.001). Additionally, a significant interaction effect was identified between the MedDiet score and HTN-GRS on z-SBP (ß = 0.02, p < 0.001) and z-DBP (ß = 0.02, p < 0.001). The modulatory effect of the MedDiet was more pronounced in females than in males, and HTN-GRS exhibited a stronger influence on DBP than on SBP. 

  Conclusion: The study suggests that higher adherence to the MedDiet is associated with reduced BP levels in adolescents and provides evidence of a genetic-diet interaction influencing BP in adolescents.

What is Known:• Adherence to the Mediterranean diet may reduce BP levels.

What is New:• It is the first study to assess the connection between adherence to a Mediterranean diet, a hypertension genetic risk score, and how they interact in influencing blood pressure.• It is conducted within a multicenter cohort of European adolescents.