bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative Inflammation After Anterior Segment Surgery
Authors: Schulgit Matthew , Mammo Danny A. , Srivastava Sunil K.
Published: April 2024

A 71-year-old woman had 2 months of worsening vision and pain in her right eye. Examination revealed retrocorneal plaque, peaking of the pupil, and temporal prominent scleral vessels with inferotemporal scleral thinning. What would you do next?
Preoperative Circulating Tumor HPV DNA and Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Disease
Authors: Lam Doreen , Sangal Neel R. , Aggarwal Ashna , Rajasekaran Karthik , Cannady Steven B. , Basu Devraj , Chalian Ara , Weinstein Gregory , Brody Robert M.
Published: April 2024

Importance

The utility of preoperative circulating tumor tissue-modified viral human papillomavirus DNA (TTMV-HPV DNA) levels in predicting human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC) disease burden is unknown.

Objective

To determine if preoperative circulating tumor HPV DNA (ctHPVDNA) is associated with disease burden in patients with HPV+ OPSCC who have undergone transoral robotic surgery (TORS).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study comprised patients with HPV+ OPSCC who underwent primary TORS between September 2021 and April 2023 at one tertiary academic institution. Patients with treatment-naive HPV+ OPSCC (p16-positive) and preoperative ctHPVDNA levels were included, and those who underwent neck mass excision before ctHPVDNA collection were excluded.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the association of increasing preoperative ctHPVDNA levels with tumor size and lymph node involvement in surgical pathology. The secondary outcome was the association between preoperative ctHPVDNA levels and adverse pathology, which included lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, or extranodal extension.

Results

A total of 70 patients were included in the study (65 men [93%]; mean [SD] age, 61 [8] years). Baseline ctHPVDNA levels ranged from 0 fragments/milliliter of plasma (frag/mL) to 49 452 frag/mL (median [IQR], 272 [30-811] frag/mL). Overall, 58 patients (83%) had positive results for ctHPVDNA, 1 (1.4%) had indeterminate results, and 11 (15.6%) had negative results. The sensitivity of detectable ctHPVDNA for identifying patients with pathology-confirmed HPV+ OPSCC was 84%. Twenty-seven patients (39%) had pathologic tumor (pT) staging of pT0 or pT1, 34 (49%) had pT2 staging, and 9 patients (13%) had pT3 or pT4 staging. No clinically meaningful difference between detectable and undetectable preoperative ctHPVDNA cohorts was found for tumor size or adverse pathology. Although the median preoperative ctHPVDNA appeared to be higher in pT2 through pT4 stages and pN1 or pN2 stages, effect sizes were small (pT stage: η2, 0.002 [95% CI, −1.188 to 0.827]; pN stage: η2, 0.043 [95% CI, −0.188 to 2.600]). Median preoperative log(TTMV-HPV DNA) was higher in active smokers (8.79 [95% CI, 3.55-5.76]), compared with never smokers (5.92 [95% CI, −0.97 to 1.81]) and former smokers (4.99 [95% CI, 0.92-6.23]). Regression analysis did not show an association between tumor dimension or metastatic lymph node deposit size and preoperative log(TTMV-HPV DNA). After univariate analysis, no association was found between higher log(TTMV-HPV DNA) levels and adverse pathology.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, preoperative ctHPVDNA levels were not associated with disease burden in patients with HPV+ OPSCC who underwent TORS.
Single‐Atom Nanozyme‐Like Lanthanum Moieties for High‐Performance Electromagnetic Energy Absorption
Authors: Shi Yanan , Ma Ziqian , Zhang Xiao , Ma Zheng , Yan Feng , Zhu Chunling , Chen Yujin
Published: April 2024

Single‐atom (SA) nanozymes have unprecedented physicochemical performance due to their integrated merits of both atomically dispersed metal atoms and bio‐enzymes. However, the structure‐function relationship between the SA nanozyme‐like structure and its dielectric performance is still unclear. Furthermore, controllable synthesis of SA nanozyme‐like structures remains challenging due to their unique five‐coordinated configurations. Here, a dicyandiamide‐mediated pyrolysis strategy is proposed to anchor five nitrogen‐coordinated lanthanum (La)–N5 moieties on interconnected N‐doped graphene nanocages (La‐N5/ING). Theoretical predictions indicate that the spatially coordinated La–N5 moieties exhibit significantly enhanced conduction loss and polarization loss compared to La–N4 moieties, as evidenced by the experimental results. Moreover, the polydimethylsiloxane‐coated chemically cross‐linked film constructed by the La‐N5/ING and aramid nanofibers has outstanding electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB10) of 6.24 GHz at a thickness of merely 2.0 mm, outperforming those of most reported carbon‐based films. Importantly, the film also has excellent flexibility, hydrophobicity, mechanical strength, and structural stability, ensuring its application potential in practical environments. These findings provide crucial insights into the microscopic environment of SA on the dielectric properties of their host materials, and a critical method for the preparation of multifunctional films with spatial coordinated SA.
All‐Polarized Elastic Wave Attenuation and Harvesting via Chiral Mechanical Metamaterials
Authors: Park Jeonghoon , Lee Geon , Kwon Hyunhee , Kim Miso , Rho Junsuk
Published: April 2024

Manipulating elastic waves of all polarizations is highly challenging due to the complex behavior of elastic waves. To achieve simultaneous broadband vibration attenuation and energy harvesting across all polarizations of elastic waves at low‐frequency ranges, a chiral mechanical metamaterial‐based energy harvester is proposed in this study. The systematic development of a complete bandgap and defect structure is achieved through theoretical eigenfrequency analysis and numerical simulations. The defect structure is incorporated to induce defect modes for all wave polarizations within the complete bandgap region, ensuring their compatibility with the overall shape of the structure. The proposed chiral mechanical metamaterial with defect (CMMD) demonstrated significant performance improvements, achieving electrical output power enhancements that are 20.5 times for flexural waves and 511.4 times for longitudinal‐torsional waves compared to the defectless chiral mechanical metamaterial. This study accentuates the thoughtful design and multifaceted utility of chiral mechanical metamaterials, paving the way for their application not only in energy harvesting but also in wave attenuation for various polarizations.
Exploring the Regulatory Mechanism of ZnS Materials under Stress and Re Doping: Insights from Density Functional Theory
Authors: Dou Benle , Li Yi , Fang Shuangqiang , Zhao Qiangqiang , Cheng Haoliang , Liang Pei , Wang Le
Published: April 2024

The application prospects of ZnS stress luminescent materials cover many fields such as high‐precision structural monitoring, smart materials, biomedical imaging, and new sensor technologies, which bring broad application prospects and significance to them in the fields of engineering, medicine, and scientific research. In this article, the electronic structure and optical properties of ZnS materials are successfully regulated by applying pressure and doping rare earth metals (Re), and it is found that the regulation of the luminescence properties of ZnS is the result of stress and doping interactions. Specifically, when pressure is applied or Re metal doping, the lattice structure is deformed and the atomic spacing is adjusted, which affects the electronic energy level distribution and optical properties of ZnS materials. Computational analysis of density functional theory (DFT) reveals the microscopic mechanisms behind these changes, including changes in lattice parameters, adjustment of bond length, and changes in band structure. This study provides theoretical guidance for the design and synthesis of high‐performance and high‐stability ZnS light‐emitting materials, and is of great significance for expanding the application of ZnS in the field of lasers and sensors.
Recent Advances in Radical Transformations of Propargylic Alcohols
Authors: Liang Meng , Ma Haojie , Song Xian‐Rong , Xiao Qiang
Published: April 2024

Propargylic alcohols are regarded as a class of readily available and versatile synthons in organic synthesis. Due to their unique bifunctional character, the transformation of propargylic alcohols has been widely utilized as a powerful strategy for the construction of various functionalized frameworks over the past few decades. Recently, the radical transformation of propargylic alcohols has attracted considerable attention in synthetic chemistry. This review summarizes recent progress in the radical transformation of propargylic alcohols. Based on the different mechanisms of radical formation underlying these transformations, this review has been divided into four parts: (1) transition‐metal catalyzed radical transformation; (2) photo‐induced radical transformation; (3) electro‐induced radical transformation; and (4) metal‐free or oxidant‐mediated radical transformation of propargylic alcohols.
Silicon Vacancies Diamond/Silk/PVA Hierarchical Physical Unclonable Functions for Multi‐Level Encryption
Authors: Jiao Fuhang , Lin Chaonan , Dong Lin , Mao Xin , Wu Yi , Dong Fuying , Zhang Zhenfeng , Sun Junlu , Li Shunfang , Yang Xun , Liu Kaikai , Wang Lijun , Shan Chong‐Xin
Published: April 2024

Physical unclonable functions (PUFs) have emerged as a promising encryption technology, utilizing intrinsic physical identifiers that offer enhanced security and tamper resistance. Multi‐level PUFs boost system complexity, thereby improving system reliability and fault tolerance. However, crosstalk‐free multi‐level PUFs remain a persistent challenge. In this study, a hierarchical PUF system that harnesses the spontaneous phase separation of silk fibroin /PVA blend and the random distribution of silicon‐vacancy diamonds within the blend is presented. The thermodynamic instability of phase separation and inherent unpredictability of diamond dispersion gives rise to intricate random patterns at two distinct scales, enabling time‐efficient hierarchical authentication for cryptographic keys. These patterns are complementary yet independent, inherently resistant to replication and damage thus affording robust security and reliability to the proposed system. Furthermore, customized authentication algorithms are constructed: visual PUFs authentication utilizes neural network combined structural similarity index measure, while spectral PUFs authentication employs Hamming distance and cross‐correlation bit operation. This hierarchical PUF system attains a high recognition rate without interscale crosstalk. Additionally, the coding capacity is exponentially enhanced using M‐ary encoding to reinforce multi‐level encryption. Hierarchical PUFs hold significant potential for immediate application, offering unprecedented data protection and cryptographic key authentication capabilities.
Tailoring the Chemical/Electrochemical Response in a Quasi−Solid Polymer Electrolyte Enables the Simultaneous In Situ Construction of Superior Cathodic and Anodic Interfaces
Authors: Zhao Chenying , Lu Yun , Yan Kang , Guan Yibiao , Jiang Shixiong , Wang Jiayang , Guo Shiyuan , Cao Mingxuan , Li Ning , Su Yuefeng , Wu Feng , Chen Lai
Published: April 2024

Although the flexibility of the quasi−solid polymer electrolyte favors its surface conformal to the electrode, interfacial damage originating from side reactions between the electrolyte and the electrode remains dominant for battery failure. The design of quasi−solid electrolytes compatible with both aggressive nickel−rich cathode and lithium metal anode persists critical to the application of quasi−solid high−voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, a chemical/electrochemical response strategy is proposed to construct simultaneously stable cathodic and anodic interfaces relying on the synergistic effect of 1,4,7,10,13,16−hexaoxacyclooctadecane (18C6) and LiNO3. The distinctive [18C6Li]+NO3− cluster modifies electric double layer structure by specific adsorption on the electrode, thereby regulating the interfacial layer composition and construction. The NO3− on electrode preferentially decomposes to improve the interfacial performances, leaving the [18C6Li]+ to cut off the side reaction. Furthermore, the 18C6 coordinates with detrimental transition metal ions from NMC811 cathode and converts into useful clusters alleviating the knock−on effect. Thus, the quasi−solid electrolyte with 18C6 and LiNO3 enables Li||NMC811 coin cell to cycle stably over wide operation temperature (0−55 °C), especially, achieving high capacity retention of 79.2% after 300 cycles at 30 °C. This chemical/electrochemical response strategy projects new insights into the design of smart reactive electrolytes for high−voltage LMBs.
Full‐Dimensional Analysis of Gaseous Products Within Li‐Ion Batteries by On‐Line GC‐BID/MS
Authors: Zhang Haitang , Wu Xiaohong , Li Zhengang , Zou Yeguo , Wang Junhao , Yu Xiaoyu , Chen Jianken , Xue Jiyuan , Zhang Baodan , Tian Jing‐Hua , Hong Yu‐hao , Qiao Yu , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: April 2024

The gas release within Li‐ion batteries, particularly during cycling and storage, can result in rapid performance degradation and potential safety hazards. However, this area has not garnered sufficient attention until now, primarily because the gassing information collected by typical OEMS/DEMS is quite limited and even inaccurate. Herein, for the first time, a state‐of‐the‐art on‐line GC‐BID/MS to full‐dimensionally analyze the gassing behavior within both lab‐scale coin‐type cell (in situ mode) and industry‐scale pouch‐type cell (operando mode) is originally designed/constructed. Not limited to common permanent gases (e.g. H2, CO, etc.) detected by online GC‐BID, but also complicated/various (semi‐)volatile products are identified/quantified by online GC‐MS. Based on the real‐time evolution information of water, alcohols, aldehydes, ethers, esters, and hydrocarbons, the decomposition mechanisms of electrolyte on both graphite anode and/or LCO cathode sides is further supplemented/perfected. Moreover, at the level of the device, series derivative/crosstalk reactions induced by trapped/accumulated gaseous species are unveiled in practical pouch‐cell.
Distinct spatial contributions of amyloid pathology and cerebral small vessel disease to hippocampal morphology
Authors: Xhima Kristiana , Ottoy Julie , Gibson Erin , Zukotynski Katherine , Scott Christopher , Feliciano Ginelle J. , Adamo Sabrina , Kuo Phillip H. , Borrie Michael J. , Chertkow Howard , Frayne Richard , Laforce Robert , Noseworthy Michael D. , Prato Frank S. , Sahlas Demetrios J. , Smith Eric E. , Sossi Vesna , Thiel Alexander , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Tardif Jean‐Claude , Goubran Maged , Black Sandra E. , Ramirez Joel ,   for the Medical Imaging Trials Network of Canada (MITNEC)
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) and amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology frequently co‐exist. The impact of concurrent pathology on the pattern of hippocampal atrophy, a key substrate of memory impacted early and extensively in dementia, remains poorly understood.

METHODS

In a unique cohort of mixed Alzheimer's disease and moderate–severe SVD, we examined whether total and regional neuroimaging measures of SVD, white matter hyperintensities (WMH), and Aβ, as assessed by 18F‐AV45 positron emission tomography, exert additive or synergistic effects on hippocampal volume and shape.

RESULTS

Frontal WMH, occipital WMH, and Aβ were independently associated with smaller hippocampal volume. Frontal WMH had a spatially distinct impact on hippocampal shape relative to Aβ. In contrast, hippocampal shape alterations associated with occipital WMH spatially overlapped with Aβ‐vulnerable subregions.

DISCUSSION

Hippocampal degeneration is differentially sensitive to SVD and Aβ pathology. The pattern of hippocampal atrophy could serve as a disease‐specific biomarker, and thus guide clinical diagnosis and individualized treatment strategies for mixed dementia.
Integration and characterization of a zeolite material in a microcomponent for measurements of environmental carbon dioxide
Authors: Åkerfeldt Erika , Thornell Greger , Persson Anders
Published: April 2024

This study demonstrates integration of a zeolite material in a ceramic microcomponent intended for use in sampling and analysis of environmental carbon dioxide (CO2). The zeolite material was integrated in bulk form, allowing for adsorption of large quantities of CO2 compared to previous integration attempts as thin films. To obtain a porous bulk material, an injectable slurry was developed, where expandable polymeric microspheres were added as a sacrificial template. By varying water and sphere contents of the slurry, it was possible to tune the porosity of the zeolite material between 55% and 72%. This in turn affected the flow resistance of the microcomponents, where an increase in the porosity of the filling from 62% to 72% reduced the flow resistance from 84 to 28 kPa min cm−3. In addition, the spheres facilitated complete fillings free from cracks. The zeolite material was seen to retain its ability to adsorb CO2 after processing, but it was not possible to quantify the level of retention compared to unprocessed zeolite.
Geophysical Methods Reveal Aviation Impacturbation and Inform Forensic Archaeological Recovery of Historic Aircraft Crash Sites
Authors: Chadwick William , Palmiotto Andrea
Published: April 2024

This paper demonstrates the utility of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) to inform forensic archaeology recovery efforts of missing service members from historic conflict‐related aircraft crash sites. This approach is becoming more common and improving recovery strategies by pinpointing potential subsurface anomalies prior to excavation. Two examples of recovery efforts at WWII aircraft crash sites are presented, revealing the diversity of landscape upheaval signatures that result from aircraft impacts. In both situations, the GPR successfully located feature boundaries and identified aviation impacturbation. The landscape signature varied in both cases due to factors including the trajectory and velocity of the aircraft crash and the topography of the impacted landscape. Notably, a ‘halo’ effect was identified in association with one crash site, revealing the force of the impact on sandy soils. Recognition of these anthropogenic signals is important to promote effective recovery strategies, thus saving time, labour and funds, particularly in historic sites where postincident taphonomic conditions have severely altered the morphology of the landscape.
Effect of preoperative alpha‐blockers on ureteroscopy outcomes: A meta‐analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Bhojani Naeem , Chew Ben H. , Bhattacharyya Samir , Krambeck Amy E. , Ghani Khurshid R. , Miller Larry E.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This work aims to determine the efficacy and safety of preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy on ureteroscopy (URS) outcomes.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised trials of URS with or without preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy, outcomes included the need for ureteral dilatation, stone access failure, procedure time, residual stone rate, hospital stay, and complications. Residual stone rates were reported with and without adjustments for spontaneous stone passage, medication noncompliance, or adverse events leading to patient withdrawal. Data were analysed using random‐effects meta‐analysis and meta‐regression. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE criteria.

Results

Among 15 randomised trials with 1653 patients, URS was effective and safe with a stone‐free rate of 81.2% and rare (2.3%) serious complications. The addition of preoperative alpha‐blockers reduced the need for ureteral dilatation (risk ratio [RR] = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.30 to 0.75; p = 0.002), access failure rate (RR = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.23 to 0.57; p < 0.001), procedure time (mean difference [MD] = −6 min; 95% CI = −8 to −3; p < 0.001), risk of residual stone in the primary (RR = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.33 to 0.66; p < 0.001) and adjusted (RR = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.40 to 0.68; p < 0.001) analyses, hospital stay (MD = −0.3 days; 95% CI = −0.4 to −0.1; p < 0.001), and complication rate (RR = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.35 to 0.59; p < 0.001). Alpha‐blockers increased ejaculatory dysfunction risk and were less effective for renal/proximal ureter stones. The certainty of evidence was high or moderate for all outcomes. The main limitation of the review was inconsistency in residual stone assessment methods.

Conclusion

While URS is an effective and safe treatment for stone disease, preoperative alpha‐blocker therapy is well tolerated and can further improve patient outcomes.
Learn the ins and outs of mergers, and other alternatives
Authors: Van Meter Heather , Robertson Eric
Published: April 2024

Today's colleges and universities face numerous challenges, including declining enrollment, increased expenses and operational costs, reduced funding, and social media and political pressures. Revenue difficulties rank as the most common reason for an institution to consider closure, but other possible paths exist. Although institutional leaders should always consider growth and strategic partnerships, they can also consider merging with institutions that have similar missions and goals because such mergers could lead to expanded educational offerings and opportunities without substantially increasing costs.
The value of intratumoral microbiota in the diagnosis and prognosis of tumors
Authors: Zhou Lujia , Zhang Wenjie , Fan Shiying , Wang Daorong , Tang Dong
Published: April 2024

Intratumoral microbiota (ITM) are microorganisms present in tumor cells. ITM participate in tumor development by affecting tumor cells directly and the tumor microenvironment (TME), indirectly. Alterations in ITM instigate changes in tumor DNA, activate oncogenic pathways, induce tumor inflammatory responses, disrupt normal immune activity, and facilitate the secretion of effectors leading to tumor progression, metastasis, or diminished therapeutic effects. ITM varies significantly in different types of cancer cells and disease states. The presence of certain ITM serves as a predictor of various disease states. Thus, ITM predicts tumorigenesis, tumor grade, treatment efficacy, and prognosis, making it a potential tumor biomarker. The present study aimed to determine the mechanisms by which ITM affects tumor development, especially through the TME; highlight the significant potential of ITM in enhancing tumor diagnosis and prognosis; and outline future directions for ITM research, with a focus on the development of innovative tumor markers.
Mass Transfer Behavior and Energy Utilization Efficiency of a Fixed Bed Suspended in a Stirred Tank Reactor
Authors: Soliman Mohamed S. , Nosier Shaaban A. , Hussein Mohamed , Abdel‐Aziz Mohamed H. , Sedahmed Gomaa H. , El‐Naggar Mohamed A.
Published: April 2024

The present study contributes to overcoming the serious drawback of the traditional stirred slurry catalytic reactor, namely, the costly and time‐consuming separation of the catalyst particles from the final product using a stationary fixed bed of Raschig rings placed above a rotating impeller. The rate of diffusion‐controlled reactions was measured in terms of the mass transfer coefficient under different conditions of impeller rotation speed, Raschig ring diameter, and bed height. The rate of mass transfer was determined by a technique which involves measuring the rate of diffusion‐controlled dissolution of copper in acidified dichromate. The data were correlated by a dimensionless correlation which can be used to scale up and design the reactor. The reactor performance was measured in terms of the mass transfer coefficient and the energy utilization efficiency. Possible applications of the reactor in conducting diffusion‐controlled reactions were highlighted.
Recent Progress in Antisolvent Crystallization of Pharmaceuticals with a Focus on the Membrane‐Based Technologies
Authors: Haghighizadeh Atoosa , Mahdavi Hossein , Rajabi Omid
Published: April 2024

Continuous crystallization of pharmaceuticals has been in the center of attention during the past two decades, with a more focus on the large‐scale production of active pharmaceutical ingredients. The increasing demand for pharmaceuticals requires high‐throughput production of drug crystals with different solubilities, stabilities, shapes, habits, polymorphs, and size distributions. With numerous advantages including low cost, ease of scale‐up, and superior control over polymorph and size distribution of drug crystals, antisolvent crystallization is one of the most promising crystallization methods recently attempted. However, it fails to deliver the required characteristic where the crystal systems tend to grow and for the preparation of metastable polymorphs. This review focuses on the most recent efforts to tackle these drawbacks by coupling antisolvent crystallization with cooling, supercritical‐assisted, microfluidics‐assisted, and membrane‐assisted crystallization. This systematic review aims to provide a concise summary of each coupled antisolvent technique and their positive and negative aspects. This review can be used as a guideline for pharmacist, biologists, and chemists, who are interested in the crystal engineering of pharmaceuticals to pave the way for further developments in this field.
How do roll timing and seeding rate affect lentil yields?
Authors: Bourgault Maryse , Miller Perry R. , Fordyce Simon , Lamb Peggy F. , Holmes Jeff , Koeshall Samuel T. , Carr Patrick M.
Published: April 2024

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) production has increased exponentially in Montana in the last two decades. However, there are important gaps in knowledge on best management practices for lentil. Agronomic recommendations are based on performance of old cultivars outside of the area for seeding rate, and on anecdotal evidence for proper roll timing, particularly since the widespread adoption of no‐till farming. Replicated field experiments were conducted at three sites during the 2019, 2020, and 2021 growing seasons in Montana to determine the impacts of roll timing and seeding rate on lentil yield and identify best practices. Overall, rolling at emergence and at the 10‐leaf stage decreased yields by 5% and 8%, respectively, but rolling just after planting or at the early vegetative stage (two‐ to four‐leaf stage) did not decrease yields. Higher yields were achieved at higher seeding rates, with yields increasing between 6 and 52 lb ac−1 for each additional plant established per square foot, but emergence rates were variable and relatively low, so a higher seeding rate may be necessary to achieve plant densities above 12 plants ft−2 in this region. In five out of nine site years, the largest partial economic returns were achieved with 22.5 or 30 live seeds ft−2 seeding rate, corresponding to achieved plant densities of 12 to 16 plants ft−2. It was generally economical to increase seeding rate from 15 to 22.5 live seeds ft−2, thus increasing average achieved plant density from 8 to 13 plants ft−2, except when seed costs were high (>$0.45 lb−1) combined with low market prices (< $0.20 lb−1).
Dinuclear Rhenium(I) Tricarbonyl Complexes as Anticancer Drug Candidates
Authors: Montesdeoca Nicolás , Borkar Reema L. , Sathiyendiran Malaichamy , Karges Johannes
Published: April 2024

Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases worldwide. Chemotherapy remains one of the most dominant forms for anticancer treatment. Despite their clinical success, the used chemotherapeutic agents are associated with severe side effect and pharmacological limitations. To overcome these drawbacks there is a need for the development of new types of chemotherapeutic agents. Herein, the chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of dinuclear rhenium(I) complexes as potential chemotherapeutic drug candidates are proposed. The metal complexes were found to be internalized by an energy dependent endocytosis pathway, primary accumulating in the mitochondria. The rhenium(I) complexes demonstrated to induce cell death against a variety of cancer cells in the micromolar range through apoptosis. The lead compound showed to eradicate a pancreatic carcinoma multicellular tumor spheroid at micromolar concentrations.
Structural and Electronic Chirality in Inorganic Crystals: from Construction to Application
Authors: Zhang Yudi , Ma Yuzhe , Sun Wen , Li Wei , Li Guowei
Published: April 2024

Chirality represents a fundamental characteristic inherent in nature, playing a pivotal role in the emergence of homochirality and the origin of life. While the principles of chirality in organic chemistry are well‐documented, the exploration of chirality within inorganic crystal structures continues to evolve. This ongoing development is primarily due to the diverse nature of crystal/amorphous structures in inorganic materials, along with the intricate symmetrical and asymmetrical relationships in the geometry of their constituent atoms. In this review, we commence with a summary of the foundational concept of chirality in molecules and solid states matters. This is followed by an introduction of structural chirality and electronic chirality in three‐dimensional and two‐dimensional inorganic materials. The construction of chirality in inorganic materials is classified into physical photolithography, wet‐chemistry method, self‐assembly, and chiral imprinting. Highlighting the significance of this field, we also summarize the research progress of chiral inorganic materials for applications in optical activity, enantiomeric recognition and chiral sensing, selective adsorption and enantioselective separation, asymmetric synthesis and catalysis, and chirality‐induced spin polarization. This review aims to provide a reference for ongoing research in chiral inorganic materials and potentially stimulate innovative strategies and novel applications in the realm of chirality.
Polymorphism of Two‐Dimensional Semiconducting Coordination Polymers: Impact of a Lead–Sulfur Network on Photoconductivity
Authors: Akiyoshi Ryohei , Shibahara Hiroki , Saeki Akinori , Mori Yuki , Kawaguchi Shogo , Yoshikawa Hirofumi , Ogasawara Kazuyoshi , Tanaka Daisuke
Published: April 2024

Sulfur‐coordinated coordination polymers (S−CPs) have unique optoelectrical properties that originate from infinite M−S bond networks. In this study, we synthesized and characterized two polymorphs of a two–dimensional (2D) Pb(II) S−CP with a formula of [Pb(tzdt)(OAc)] (Htzdt=1,3‐thiazolidine‐2‐thione, OAc=acetate). Our findings revealed that the thermodynamic product (KGF‐26) possesses quasi‐2D (−Pb−S−)n layers with weak nonbonded Pb−S bonds, whereas the kinetic product (KGF‐27) has intrinsic 2D (−Pb−S−)n layers with Pb−S bonds. The results of time‐resolved microwave conductivity measurements and first–principles calculations confirmed that KGF‐27 exhibits higher photoconductivity than KGF‐26, which establishes that the inorganic (−Pb−S−)n networks with Pb−S bonds are crucial for achieving high photoconductivity. This is the first experimental demonstration of the impact of the (−M−S−)n networks in S−CPs on photoconductivity through the comparison of crystal polymorphisms.
Identification of potential drug targets for allergic diseases from a genetic perspective: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Hui , Pang Jianyu , Zhou Yuguan , Qi Qi , Tang Yuheng , Gul Samina , Sheng Miaomiao , Dan Juhua , Tang Wenru
Published: April 2024

Background

Allergic diseases typically refer to a heterogeneous group of conditions primarily caused by the activation of mast cells or eosinophils, including atopic dermatitis (AD), allergic rhinitis (AR), and asthma. Asthma, AR, and AD collectively affect approximately one‐fifth of the global population, imposing a significant economic burden on society. Despite the availability of drugs to treat allergic diseases, they have been shown to be insufficient in controlling relapses and halting disease progression. Therefore, new drug targets are needed to prevent the onset of allergic diseases.

Method

We employed a Mendelian randomization approach to identify potential drug targets for the treatment of allergic diseases. Leveraging 1798 genetic instruments for 1537 plasma proteins from the latest reported Genome‐Wide Association Studies (GWAS), we analyzed the GWAS summary statistics of Ferreira MA et al. (nCase = 180,129, nControl = 180,709) using the Mendelian randomization method. Furthermore, we validated our findings in the GWAS data from the FinnGen and UK Biobank cohorts. Subsequently, we conducted sensitivity tests through reverse causal analysis, Bayesian colocalization analysis, and phenotype scanning. Additionally, we performed protein‐protein interaction analysis to determine the interaction between causal proteins. Finally, based on the potential protein targets, we conducted molecular docking to identify potential drugs for the treatment of allergic diseases.

Results

At Bonferroni significance (p < 3.25 × 10−5), the Mendelian randomization analysis revealed 11 significantly associated protein‐allergic disease pairs. Among these, the increased levels of TNFAIP3, ERBB3, TLR1, and IL1RL2 proteins were associated with a reduced risk of allergic diseases, with corresponding odds ratios of 0.82 (0.76–0.88), 0.74 (0.66–0.82), 0.49 (0.45–0.55), and 0.81 (0.75–0.87), respectively. Conversely, increased levels of IL6R, IL1R1, ITPKA, IL1RL1, KYNU, LAYN, and LRP11 proteins were linked to an elevated risk of allergic diseases, with corresponding odds ratios of 1.04 (1.03–1.05), 1.25 (1.18–1.34), 1.48 (1.25–1.75), 1.14 (1.11–1.18), 1.09 (1.05–1.12), 1.96 (1.56–2.47), and 1.05 (1.03–1.07), respectively. Bayesian colocalization analysis suggested that LAYN (coloc.abf‐PPH4 = 0.819) and TNFAIP3 (coloc.abf‐PPH4 = 0.930) share the same variant associated with allergic diseases.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates a causal association between the expression levels of TNFAIP3 and LAYN and the risk of allergic diseases, suggesting them as potential drug targets for these conditions, warranting further clinical investigation.
Photophysics of Benzoxazole and Dicyano Functionalised Diketopyrrolopyrrole Derivatives: Insights into Ultrafast Processes and the Triplet State
Authors: Panthi Yadu Ram , Thottappali Muhammed Arshad , Horáková Petra , Kubáč Lubomír , Pfleger Jiří , Menšík Miroslav , Khan Tuhin
Published: April 2024

Diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) functionalised with an electron donating unit acts as a donor‐acceptor molecules that have shown potential for application in dyes and photovoltaics. These molecules offer broad absorption/emission properties and structure‐dependent dynamics. In this study, we used femtosecond pump‐probe spectroscopy to investigate the photo‐initiated dynamics of thiophene linked DPP derivatives. The thio‐DPPs are further functionalised by different electrons withdrawing terminal groups, namely benzoxazole and thiophene dicyanide. The benzoxazole derivative is strongly emissive and directly relaxes directly to the ground state chloroform solution. Thiophene dicyanide derivative exhibits distinct spectral evolution in the first 10 ps, associated with structural and vibronic process. Later, it crosses over to the triplet state with a yield of 20 %. In the solid‐state (thin film), we observed a signal that resembles singlet fission. However, upon careful analysis of temperature‐dependent steady state absorbance spectra, we conclude that these features are due to laser‐induced thermal artifacts. We describe a simplified excited state evolution in the thin film that does not include any additional excited states. These findings have significant implications for the analysis of triplet formation, which plays a major role in the photophysics of many organic materials.
Do Patient's Interpersonal Problems Improve Following Metacognitive Therapy? A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Strand Eivind R. , Nordahl Henrik
Published: April 2024

Metacognitive therapy (MCT) aims to modify dysfunctional metacognitions that are thought to be universal determinants of emotional distress and psychological dysfunction more generally. MCT is an effective treatment for emotional distress symptoms, but less is known about its effect for other types of psychological problems. Interpersonal problems are common in psychological disorders and should be improved following psychotherapy. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of trials on the effects associated with MCT for interpersonal problems among adults with mental health disorders published until 15 November 2023 using PubMed, Cochrane Library and PsycNet. Trials with a minimum of 10 participants were included. A total of six studies based on five trials reported on the effectiveness of MCT for interpersonal problems and met our inclusion criteria. Two trials evaluated MCT for patients with major depressive disorders, two for patients with anxiety disorders and one for borderline personality disorder. Three of the trials were randomized controlled trials. Four of the trials reported follow‐up data but varied in their time‐points. The within‐group effect size estimate from pretreatment to posttreatment across five trials was large (g = 0.865, 95% CI [0.512–1.218]). Our results indicate that MCT is an effective treatment for improving interpersonal problems in individuals with common mental disorders, even though the treatment is short and primarily concern improving mental regulation through modifying metacognitions. While this finding is in line with metacognitive theory, more trials evaluating personality and interpersonal functioning are needed to draw firm conclusions.
Advancing Genetic Alphabet Expansion: Synthesis of 7‐(2‐Thienyl)‐Imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (Ds) and 4‐(4‐Pentyne‐1,2‐diol)‐1‐Propynyl‐2‐Nitropyrrole (Diol‐Px) for Use in Replicable Unnatural Base Pairs for PCR Applications
Authors: Tan Hui Pen , Kimoto Michiko , Hirao Ichiro
Published: April 2024

Expanding the genetic alphabet enhances DNA recombinant technologies by introducing unnatural base pairs (UBPs) beyond the standard A–T and G–C pairs, leading to biomaterials with novel and increased functionalities. Recent developments include UBPs that effectively function as a third base pair in replication, transcription, and/or translation processes. One such UBP, Ds–Px, demonstrates extremely high specificity in replication. Chemically synthesized DNA fragments containing Ds bases are amplified by PCR with the 5′‐triphosphates of Ds and Px deoxyribonucleosides (dDsTP and dPxTP). The Ds–Px pair system has applications in enhanced DNA data storage, generation of high‐affinity DNA aptamers, and incorporation of functional elements into RNA through transcription. This protocol describes the synthesis of the amidite derivative of Ds (dDs amidite), the triphosphate dDsTP, and the diol‐modified dPxTP (Diol‐dPxTP) for PCR amplifications involving the Ds–Px pair. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of Ds deoxyribonucleoside (dDs)

Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of dDs amidite

Basic Protocol 3: Synthesis of dDs triphosphate (dDsTP)

Basic Protocol 4: Synthesis of Pn deoxyribonucleoside (4‐iodo‐dPn)

Basic Protocol 5: Synthesis of acetyl‐protected diol‐modified Px deoxyribonucleoside (Diol‐dPx)

Basic Protocol 6: Synthesis of Diol‐dPx triphosphate (Diol‐dPxTP)

Basic Protocol 7: Purification of triphosphates

Support Protocol 1: Synthesis of Hoffer's chlorosugar

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of 0.5 M pyrophosphate in DMF

Support Protocol 3: Preparation of 2 M TEAB buffer
Identification of distinct immune signatures in inclusion body myositis by peripheral blood immunophenotyping using machine learning models
Authors: McLeish Emily , Sooda Anuradha , Slater Nataliya , Beer Kelly , Cooper Ian , Mastaglia Frank L , Needham Merrilee , Coudert Jerome D
Published: April 2024

Objective

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is a progressive late‐onset muscle disease characterised by preferential weakness of quadriceps femoris and finger flexors, with elusive causes involving immune, degenerative, genetic and age‐related factors. Overlapping with normal muscle ageing makes diagnosis and prognosis problematic.

Methods

We characterised peripheral blood leucocytes in 81 IBM patients and 45 healthy controls using flow cytometry. Using a random forest classifier, we identified immune changes in IBM compared to HC. K‐means clustering and the random forest one‐versus‐rest model classified patients into three immunophenotypic clusters. Functional outcome measures including mTUG, 2MWT, IBM‐FRS, EAT‐10, knee extension and grip strength were assessed across clusters.

Results

The random forest model achieved a 94% AUC ROC with 82.76% specificity and 100% sensitivity. Significant differences were found in IBM patients, including increased CD8+ T‐bet+ cells, CD4+ T cells skewed towards a Th1 phenotype and altered γδ T cell repertoire with a reduced proportion of Vγ9+Vδ2+ cells. IBM patients formed three clusters: (i) activated and inflammatory CD8+ and CD4+ T‐cell profile and the highest proportion of anti‐cN1A‐positive patients in cluster 1; (ii) limited inflammation in cluster 2; (iii) highly differentiated, pro‐inflammatory T‐cell profile in cluster 3. Additionally, no significant differences in patients' age and gender were detected between immunophenotype clusters; however, worsening trends were detected with several functional outcomes.

Conclusion

These findings unveil distinct immune profiles in IBM, shedding light on underlying pathological mechanisms for potential immunoregulatory therapeutic development.
A systematic literature review of vehicular connectivity and V2X communications: Technical aspects and new challenges
Authors: Souri Alireza , Zarei Mani , Hemmati Atefeh , Gao Mingliang
Published: April 2024

Vehicular connectivity is a significant key contribution in vehicular ad‐hoc networks (VANETs). The inherent high dynamicity of vehicles is a serious challenge that affects automotive connectivity and disrupts inter‐vehicle communications stability. Vehicle‐to‐everything (V2X) communication enables vehicles to connect to any other networks and facilitates the evolutionary trend of automotive innovations toward autonomous internet‐enabled intelligent vehicles. In this article, we provide a systematic literature review (SLR) for vehicular connectivity and V2X communications by investigating 58 research articles from 2018 to 2023 in VANETs. We propose six fundamental research questions (RQs) and a taxonomy to systematize the study of the baseline articles and answer the crucial RQs. This SLR can be helpful for researchers as a complete study focusing on V2X analysis, making it possible to achieve Technical Aspects and New challenges.
Multiple marginalization, discrimination, and disordered eating among youth aged 10–11
Authors: Boswell Rebecca G. , Launius Kellsey N. , Lydecker Janet A.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Although rates of weight discrimination are on‐par with racial, ethnic, and gender discrimination, comparatively less work has examined impacts of weight‐based discrimination in youth, including on disordered eating. Knowing whether experiences of weight‐based discrimination, including in youth with multiply‐marginalized identities, are associated with disordered eating could identify vulnerable youth and inform intervention efforts.

Method

Youth (N = 11,875) ages 10–11 were recruited through the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Logistic regressions using cross‐sectional data examined discrimination experiences (weight, perceived sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, national origin) and disordered eating (binge‐eating, vomiting, weight‐gain fear, weight self‐worth). Models included race/ethnicity, age, sex, parental income, and degree of elevated weight. Raked poststratification weights were used.

Results

Rates of weight‐based discrimination (6.2%) were similar to rates of race/ethnicity (4.4%) and sexual orientation discrimination (4.5%). Weight‐based discrimination was associated with more disordered eating. Youth reporting multiple experiences of discrimination had significantly increased disordered eating compared to youth who did not report discrimination.

Discussion

Weight‐based discrimination is common in youth and associated with disordered eating. Youth with elevated weight are more likely to be multiply marginalized and experience disordered eating. These findings suggest discrimination, including weight‐based discrimination, is a critical intervention target to prevent and treat eating disorders.

Public Significance

Experiences of discrimination contribute to poorer health; however, weight‐based discrimination is relatively understudied. Data from a large sample of youth ages 10–11 showed that youth with elevated weight reported experiencing multiple types of discrimination, and multiply‐marginalized youth had increased odds of disordered eating with each additional type of discrimination. Together, this suggests that weight‐based discrimination is a critical target to prevent and treat eating disorders, especially in multiply‐marginalized youth.
Opening a can of worms: Archived canned fish fillets reveal 40 years of change in parasite burden for four Alaskan salmon species
Authors: Mastick Natalie , Welicky Rachel , Katla Aspen , Odegaard Bruce , Ng Virginia , Wood Chelsea L.
Published: April 2024

How has parasitism changed for Alaskan salmon over the past several decades? Parasitological assessments of salmon are inconsistent across time, and though parasite data are sometimes noted when processing fillets for the market, those data are not retained for more than a few years. The landscape of parasite risk is changing for salmon, and long‐term data are needed to quantify this change. Parasitic nematodes of the family Anisakidae (anisakids) use salmonid fishes as intermediate or paratenic hosts in life cycles that terminate in marine mammal definitive hosts. Alaskan marine mammals have been protected since the 1970s, and as populations recover, the density of definitive hosts in this region has increased. To assess whether the anisakid burden has changed in salmonids over time, we used a novel data source: salmon that were caught, canned, and thermally processed for human consumption in Alaska, USA. We examined canned fillets of chum (Oncorhynchus keta, n = 42), coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch, n = 22), pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, n = 62), and sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka, n = 52) processed between 1979 and 2019. We dissected each fillet and quantified the number of worms per gram of salmon tissue. Anisakid burden increased over time in chum and pink salmon, but there was no change in sockeye or coho salmon. This difference may be due to differences in the prey preferences of each species, or to differences in the parasite species detected across hosts. Canned fish serve as a window into the past, providing information that would otherwise be lost, including information on changes over time in the parasite burden of commercially, culturally, and ecologically important fish species.