bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Complex Relationship Between Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease With Cardiovascular Disease and Their Interactions With COVID‐19 Vaccination: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Muneeb , Sikandar Sheikh Muhammad , Jamal Farrukh , Ameeq Muhammad , Kargbo Alpha
Published: November 2024

Background

Previously, most researchers explored the association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study investigates the distinct influence of COVID‐19 vaccination status on patients with both conditions.

Objective

We investigate the relationship between COPD and CVD in a cohort of 838 individuals who presented with both conditions. Our aim is to understand how these conditions interact and how COVID‐19 vaccination status affects patient outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 838 patients with COPD and CVD treated at DHQ Hospital in Muzaffargarh, Punjab, Pakistan, from November 2022 to April 2023. We employed multiple logistic regression and the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test to assess the odds ratio and relative risk of COPD in patients with‐CVD under various conditions. Additionally, we analyzed time‐to‐death and survival using Kaplan–Meier methods.

Results

Findings reveal a 7.95 times higher risk of death in patients without COVID‐19 vaccination compared with those who were vaccinated (95% CI, 6.12–10.33). Conversely, COVID‐19‐vaccinated patients exhibited a 0.221 times lower risk of recovery than their nonvaccinated counterparts (95% CI, 0.08–0.60). We also observed significant differences in time‐to‐death and recovery based on the presence of COPD and CVD, with vaccinated patients generally experiencing milder disease.

Conclusion

Our study assessed the impact of COVID‐19 vaccination status on patient outcomes in patients with overlapping COPD and CVD. Individuals diagnosed with COPD and CVD display significant differences in terms of their probability of survival, with those who have received vaccinations.
Senescence in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on Bioinformatic Strategies
Authors: Zhao Zijun , Wang Yining , Wang Zairan , Zhang Fan , Ding Ze , Fan Tao
Published: November 2024

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major cause for low back pain. Studies showed the association between senescence and degenerative diseases. Cell senescence can promote the occurrence and development of degenerative diseases through multiple mechanisms including inflammatory stress, oxidative stress and nutritional deprivation. The roles of senescence and senescence‐associated genes (SAGs) remains unknown in IDD.

Methods

Four differently expressed SAGs were identified as hub SAGs using “limma“ package in R. We then calculated the immune infiltration of IDD patients, and investigated the relation between hub SAGs and immune infiltration. Enrichment analysis was performed to explore the functions of hub SAGs in IDD. Nomogram and LASSO model based on hub SAGs was constructed to predict the risk of severe degeneration (SD) for IDD patients. Subsequently, single cell analysis was conducted to describe the expression pattern of hub SAGs in intervertebral disc tissue.

Results

We identified ASPH, CCND1, IGFBP3 and SGK1 as hub SAGs. Further analysis demonstrated that the hub SAGs might mediate the development of IDD by regulating immune infiltration and multiple pathways. The LASSO model based on the four hub SAGs showed good performance in predicting the risk of SD. Single cell analysis revealed that ASPH, CCND1 and SGK1 mainly expressed in nucleus pulposus cells, while IGFBP3 mainly expressed in epithelial cells. Eleven candidate drugs targeting hub SAGS were predicted for IDD patients through Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CDT). PCR and immunohistochemical analysis showed that the levels of four hub SAGs were higher in SD than MD (mild degeneration) patients.

Conclusions

We performed a comprehensive analysis of SAGs in IDD, which revealed their functions and expression pattern in intervertebral disc tissue. Based on hub SAGs, we established a predictive model and explored the potential drugs. These findings provide new understandings of SAG mechanism and promising therapeutic strategies for IDD.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients with postpartum hemorrhage undergoing transcatheter arterial embolization: A nationwide observational study
Authors: Kamijo Kyosuke , Nakajima Mikio , Shigemi Daisuke , Kaszynski Richard H. , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Goto Tadahiro , Sasabuchi Yusuke , Fushimi Kiyohide , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: November 2024

Objective

To elucidate the demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of patients with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) who underwent transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination inpatient database, which covers roughly 90% of all tertiary emergency hospitals in Japan, between April 2012 to March 2020. We identified patients with PPH who underwent TAE using the Japanese medical procedure status and code, and the device or drug code. We examined the patient characteristics, interventions administered, and clinical outcomes.

Results

Among 64 893 patients diagnosed with PPH, we identified 2705 (4.2%) patients with PPH who underwent TAE. The most common cause of PPH was uterine atony (68.7%), followed by disseminated intravascular coagulation after labor (30.0%) and placenta accreta spectrum disorders (23.4%). The proportion of patients who underwent repeat TAE and a hysterectomy was 64 (2.4%) and 188 (7.0%), respectively. Among hysterectomies (n = 188), 26 (13.8%) had the procedure performed before TAE, 73 (38.8%) underwent hysterectomy on the same day as TAE, and 89 (47.4%) had the procedure conducted after TAE. Of those who underwent a hysterectomy after TAE (n = 89), 33 (37%) were performed more than 1‐week after initial TAE. Overall in‐hospital mortality was 14/2705 (0.5%).

Conclusion

Even if hemostasis is achieved through TAE, one must be mindful that a hysterectomy may become necessary more than 1 week after the procedure. These results could be helpful in clinical decision making and providing patients with additional treatment options for PPH that preserve patient fertility.
In Vitro and Vivo Experiments Revealing Astragalin Inhibited Lung Adenocarcinoma Development via LINC00582/miR‐140‐3P/PDPK1
Authors: Bai Juncheng , Chen Yuxin , Zhao Geyu , Gui Rong
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to explore the mechanism of the development of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) treated by astragalin. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to obtain the gene profile of LUAD treated by astragalin. Combining with bioinformatics analysis including differential gene screening, function enrichment analysis (gene ontology and KEGG), and ceRNA construction, we obtained the novel mechanism of lncRNA mediated miRNA/mRNA axis. Then, the cell experiments were performed to examine the role of lncRNA in cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and apoptosis for LUAD treated with astragalin. Moreover, the tumor formation in nude mice was carried out to detect the ceRNA mechanism in LUAD treated by astragalin in vivo. The lncRNA mediated ceRNA network was obtained, that is, LINC00852 LINC00582/miR‐140‐3p/PDPK1 played an important role in LUAD treated by astragalin. Function experiments indicated that si‐LINC00852 inhibited LUAD cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and promoted cell apoptosis via miR‐140‐3p/PDPK1 (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). The animal experiments further confirmed that si‐LINC00852 inhibited tumor growth through miR‐140‐3p/PDPK1 in vivo. Conversely, this study provides comprehensive insights into the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of LINC00582 in LUAD, LINC00582 mediated miR‐140‐3p/PDPK1 axis was the novel drug target of astragalin for treating LUAD.
Tic‐Tac‐Toe on Designs
Authors: Danziger Peter , Huggan Melissa A. , Malik Rehan , Marbach Trent G.
Published: November 2024

We consider playing the game of Tic‐Tac‐Toe on block designs BIBD and transversal designs TD. Players take turns choosing points and the first player to complete a block wins the game. We show that triple systems, BIBD, are a first‐player win if and only if . Further, we show that for , TD is a first‐player win if and only if . We also consider a weak version of the game, called Maker–Breaker, in which the second player wins if they can stop the first player from winning. In this case, we adapt known bounds for when either the first or second player can win on BIBD and TD, and show that for Maker–Breaker, BIBD is a first‐player win if and only if . We show that TD is a second‐player win, and so the second player can force a draw in the regular game by playing the same strategy.
Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) in postgraduate periodontics programs in Saudi Arabia: A modified Delphi study
Authors: Aldahlawi Salwa A. , Zaini Rania G. , Almoallim Hani M.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to obtain a validated consensus among expert periodontists in Saudi Arabia regarding end‐of‐periodontics‐residency‐training entrustable professional activities (EPAs) using a modified Delphi method.

Methods

The study consisted of two phases. A preliminary phase in which experts met and proposed an initial list of EPAs following an extensive literature review. The second phase consisted of two rounds of the modified Delphi method in which expert periodontists in Saudi Arabia determined the content validity of each EPA. This was determined with a 5‐point scale ranging from 1 (not important/relevant) to 5 (very important/relevant), and the mean score for each EPA was calculated. EPAs with a mean value of ≤ 4 or agreement rate among experts of less than 80% were excluded.

Results

An initial list of 40 EPAs was proposed. A total of 30 expert periodontists participated in the first round, and 24 participated in the second round of the modified Delphi method ratings. Most of the participants were program directors and represented different programs and cities in Saudi Arabia. Five EPAs were removed, and a final list of EPAs was produced based on the defined criteria. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.920, indicating high reliability.

Conclusions

A final list of 35 end‐of‐periodontics‐training EPAs was produced. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for curriculum development, assessments, and evaluation of periodontics training programs in Saudi Arabia.
Current trends in types of pancreatoduodenectomy: Focus on the advancement of robot‐assisted pancreatoduodenectomy with 630 consecutive cases
Authors: Lee Mirang , Chae Yoon Soo , Park Seulah , Yun Won‐Gun , Jung Hye‐Sol , Han Youngmin , Kwon Wooil , Park Joon Seong , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: November 2024

Background

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is a complex abdominal surgery, and the adoption of robotic PD has been on the rise because of its numerous benefits. This study aimed to investigate the current PD trends, focusing on advancements in robotic surgery.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2023, 1231 patients underwent open PD, whereas 630 underwent robot‐assisted PD (RAPD). Demographics and surgical outcomes were analyzed according to the time period. Moreover, a propensity score‐matched (PSM) analysis was performed to evaluate the clinical outcomes.

Results

The proportion of RAPD cases gradually increased from 6.3% in 2015 to 50.9% in 2020, reaching a plateau of >50% thereafter. The proportion of patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy increased during the late period (11.4% vs. 17.6%), with many of these patients undergoing open PD. Additionally, RAPD was performed in patients with a high probability of postoperative pancreatic fistula. However, the two groups demonstrated no significant difference in the occurrence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (10.6% vs. 9.5%, p = .532). Among periampullary cancer cases, RAPD demonstrated comparable survival outcomes to open PD after PSM (5‐year survival rate: 61.8% vs. 49.8%, p = .189).

Conclusions

RAPD has become a stable approach, accounting for over 50% of all PD cases in high‐volume centers, and it can be safely performed. However, open PD remains important owing to the development of neoadjuvant therapy and the aging population. Therefore, establishing appropriate indications to maximize the benefits of both RAPD and open PD is necessary.
Fresh as a daisy: Within‐person associations between sleep, vitality, and self‐ and other‐rated job performance
Authors: Abrahams Loes , Hofmans Joeri , De Fruyt Filip
Published: November 2024

From a resource perspective, employees' sleep quality, sleep duration, and feelings of vitality are believed to predict important work‐related outcomes. However, many studies ignore the dynamic nature of the constructs or rely primarily on self‐reported data. Including both self‐ and other‐ratings of daily job performance, we examined the extent to which daily sleep quality and duration predict daily job performance, and whether these relationships are mediated by vitality. Student teachers (N = 165), internship supervisors (N = 97), and students (i.e., targets; N = 69 classes) participated in an experience sampling study with morning assessments of sleep duration and quality (n = 1,762 and n = 869), and two daily assessments of vitality (n = 2,207) and performance (self‐, supervisor‐, and target‐rated; n = 2,160, n = 1,113, and n = 1,087). Multilevel path analyses suggested that 1) sleep quality but not duration predicted individuals' vitality and self‐ and target‐rated job performance, 2) vitality was positively associated with performance according to each rating source, and 3) midday vitality did not predict afternoon performance, nor did it mediate the relationship between sleep and afternoon performance. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Quantitative Ultrasound Parameters as Predictors of Chemotherapy Toxicity in Lymphoma
Authors: Sun Yang , Huang Jianqiu , Shao Jinhua , Luo Jianwen , He Qiong , Cui Ligang
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to use quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters to assess the muscle mass and quality in patients with lymphoma. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the relationship between these QUS parameters and post‐chemotherapy myelosuppression.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 202 patients diagnosed with lymphoma (105 males, 97 females; mean age 57.0 ± 14.9 years). The skeletal muscle index (SMI) and mean skeletal muscle density (SMD) were measured on CT and used as the gold standards to evaluate low skeletal muscle mass and quality. The muscle thickness (MT) of the forearm flexor and extensor muscles was measured in both the relaxed and contracted states, while the normalized non‐linear parameter B/A (MusQBOX.NLP) and normalized mean intensity (MusQBOX.NMI) were extracted from retained ultrasound radiofrequency signals. The correlations between the QUS parameters and grip strength were assessed. Models were constructed using these QUS parameters to predict low SMI and SMD, and to evaluate whether these factors were independently associated with post‐chemotherapy myelosuppression.

Results

The MT in both the relaxed and contracted states exhibited the strongest correlations with grip strength, while the MusQBOX.NLP and MusQBOX.NMI were only weakly correlated with grip strength. Models incorporating QUS parameters to predict low SMI and SMD achieved high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values. The MT, MusQBOX.NLP, and MusQBOX.NMI were independent factors associated with post‐chemotherapy myelosuppression.

Conclusions

QUS parameters show promise in characterizing muscle strength, mass, and quality. They are also independent factors influencing post‐chemotherapy myelosuppression.
Model Based on Ultrasound Radiomics and Machine Learning to Preoperative Differentiation of Follicular Thyroid Neoplasm
Authors: Deng Yiwen , Zeng Qiao , Zhao Yu , Hu Zhen , Zhan Changmiao , Guo Liangyun , Lai Binghuang , Huang Zhiping , Fu Zhiyong , Zhang Chunquan
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the value of radiomics based on ultrasonography in differentiating follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) and construct a tool for preoperative noninvasive predicting FTC and FTA.

Methods

The clinical data and ultrasound images of 389 patients diagnosed with FTC or FTA postoperatively were retrospectively analyzed at 3 institutions from January 2017 to December 2023. Patients in our hospital were randomly assigned in a 7:3 ratio to training cohort and validation cohort. External test cohort consisted of data collected from other 2 hospitals. Radiomics features were used to develop models based on different machine learning classifiers. A combined model was developed combining radiomics features with clinical characteristics and a nomogram was depicted. The performance of the models was assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curve and decision curve.

Results

Radiomics model based on random forest showed best performance in discriminating FTC and FTA, with AUCs 0.880 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8290–0.9308), 0.871 (95% CI: 0.7690–0.9734), and 0.821 (95% CI: 0.7036–0.9389) in training, validation, and test cohort, respectively. The combined model presented better efficacy comparing with clinical model and radiomics model, with AUCs 0.883 (95% CI: 0.8359–0.9295), 0.874 (95% CI: 0.7873–0.9615), and 0.876 (0.7809–0.9714) in training, validation, and test cohort, respectively. The calibration curves suggested good consistency and decision curves showed the highest overall clinical benefit for the combined model.

Conclusions

Ultrasound radiomics model based on random forest is feasible to differentiate FTC and FTA, and the combined model is an intuitively noninvasive tool for FTC and FTA preoperative identification.
Thermal Treatment Induced Crystal Development and Crystal Orientation Change in Electrospun Coaxial Fibers Comprising Dual Crystalline Polymers
Authors: Hu Yu‐Rong , Lin Hsin‐Yu , Lo Chieh‐Tsung
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the crystallization behavior of electrospun coaxial fibers composed of crystalline poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) in the core and crystalline poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) in the sheath. The influence of cold crystallization temperature and premelting temperature on the crystallization of PEO and PLLA is investigated. At a cold crystallization temperature of ≤60 °C, PLLA remained immobile. PEO crystallization is hard‐confined, leading to a low degree of crystallinity. At a cold crystallization temperature of >60 °C, PEO melted, whereas PLLA crystallized. An increase in cold crystallization temperature results in an increase in the crystallite size and crystallinity of PLLA. Furthermore, the melt crystallization behavior of PEO in the coaxial fibers is strongly influenced by its premelting temperature and crystallization temperature. A higher premelting temperature leads to enhanced interdiffusion between PEO and PLLA. This increased confinement results in a decrease in PEO's crystallizability. Additionally, premelting relaxes the PEO chains, causing a shift in crystal orientation from parallel to the fiber axis (observed in as‐electrospun fibers) to perpendicular to the fiber axis (observed in melt‐crystallized fibers). Moreover, at a low melt crystallization temperature, demixing between PEO and PLLA is observed. This, coupled with a higher degree of supercooling, leads to an increase in PEO's crystallizability.
Monitoring the Persistence of Pseudomonas sivasensis Strain CF10PS3 in Cereal Fields
Authors: Delitte Mathieu , Dubois Benjamin , Mahillon Jacques , Debode Frédéric , Bragard Claude
Published: November 2024

The persistence and efficacy of biocontrol agents in agricultural fields are crucial for sustainable crop production. In this study, we investigated the persistence of the introduced bacterial strain Pseudomonas sivasensis CF10PS3 in the wheat phyllosphere using a novel qPCR probe protocol. The CF10PS3 strain, known for its in vitro biocontrol properties against wheat pathogens, was applied through foliar spray, and its persistence was monitored over 7 weeks. Our qPCR assays, designed to specifically detect CF10PS3, distinguished it from naturally occurring P. sivasensis strains, providing precise insights into its dynamics in the field. The experimental results indicated that CF10PS3 was already present on the wheat leaves before its application, suggesting its natural adaptation to the foliar environment. Following initial application, a significant increase in CF10PS3 was observed, though subsequent environmental factors such as rain and wind might have caused notable fluctuations in its population. Despite these variations, the introduced strain showed considerable persistence, with population levels significantly higher than those in untreated plots by the end of the study period. This research underscores the importance of understanding bacteria dynamics in the field, highlighting the influence of environmental conditions on their efficacy. The use of specific qPCR probes proved effective in monitoring introduced strains, offering valuable insights for optimizing biocontrol agent application strategies. Our findings contribute to the development of robust biocontrol methods, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing crop protection.
MMD‐Net: Image domain multi‐material decomposition network for dual‐energy CT imaging
Authors: Zhu Jiongtao , Zhang Xin , Su Ting , Cui Han , Tan Yuhang , Huang Hao , Guo Jinchuan , Zheng Hairong , Liang Dong , Wu Guangyao , Ge Yongshuai
Published: November 2024

Background

Multi‐material decomposition is an interesting topic in dual‐energy CT (DECT) imaging; however, the accuracy and performance may be limited using the conventional algorithms.

Purpose

In this work, a novel multi‐material decomposition network (MMD‐Net) is proposed to improve the multi‐material decomposition performance of DECT imaging.

Methods

To achieve dual‐energy multi‐material decomposition, a deep neural network, named as MMD‐Net, is proposed in this work. In MMD‐Net, two specific convolutional neural network modules, Net‐I and Net‐II, are developed. Specifically, Net‐I is used to distinguish the material triangles, while Net‐II predicts the effective attenuation coefficients corresponding to the vertices of the material triangles. Subsequently, the material‐specific density maps are calculated analytically through matrix inversion. The new method is validated using in‐house benchtop DECT imaging experiments with a solution phantom and a pig leg specimen, as well as commercial medical DECT imaging experiments with a human patient. The decomposition accuracy, edge spreading function, and noise power spectrum are quantitatively evaluated.

Results

Compared to the conventional multiple material decomposition (MMD) algorithm, the proposed MMD‐Net method is more effective at suppressing image noise. Additionally, MMD‐Net outperforms the iterative MMD approach in maintaining decomposition accuracy, image sharpness, and high‐frequency content. Consequently, MMD‐Net is capable of generating high‐quality material decomposition images.

Conclusion

A high performance multi‐material decomposition network is developed for dual‐energy CT imaging.
Microstructure‐Informed Myelin Mapping (MIMM) from routine multi‐echo gradient echo data using multiscale physics modeling of iron and myelin effects and QSM
Authors: Şişman Mert , Nguyen Thanh D. , Roberts Alexandra G. , Romano Dominick J. , Dimov Alexey V. , Kovanlikaya Ilhami , Spincemaille Pascal , Wang Yi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Myelin quantification is used in the study of demyelination in neurodegenerative diseases. A novel noninvasive MRI method, Microstructure‐Informed Myelin Mapping (MIMM), is proposed to quantify the myelin volume fraction (MVF) from a routine multi‐gradient echo sequence (mGRE) using a multiscale biophysical signal model of the effects of microstructural myelin and iron.

Theory and Methods

In MIMM, the effects of myelin are modeled based on the Hollow Cylinder Fiber Model accounting for anisotropy, while iron is considered as an isotropic paramagnetic point source. This model is used to create a dictionary of mGRE magnitude signal evolution and total voxel susceptibility using finite elements of size 0.2 μm. Next, voxel‐by‐voxel stochastic matching pursuit between acquired mGRE data (magnitude+QSM) and the pre‐computed dictionary generates quantitative MVF and iron susceptibility maps. Dictionary matching was evaluated under three conditions: (1) without fiber orientation (basic), (2) with fiber orientation obtained using DTI, and (3) with fiber orientation obtained using an atlas (atlas). MIMM was compared with the three‐pool complex fitting (3PCF) using T2‐relaxometry myelin water fraction (MWF) map as reference.

Results

The DTI MIMM and atlas MIMM approaches were equally effective in reducing the overestimation of MVF in certain white matter tracts observed in the basic MIMM approach, and they both showed good agreement with T2‐relaxometry MWF. MIMM MVF reduced myelin overestimation of globus pallidus observed in 3PCF MWF.

Conclusion

MIMM processing of mGRE data can provide MVF maps from routine clinical scans without requiring special sequences.
A Machine Learning‐Based Approach for the Prediction of Anticoagulant Activity of Hypericum perforatum L. and Evaluation of Compound Activity
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Nie Wennan , Zhang Yijing , He Mulan , Li Cunhao , Zhang Shule , Li Wenlong
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hypericum perforatum L. (HPL) is extensively researched domestically and internationally as a medicinal plant. However, no reports of studies related to the anticoagulant activity of HPL have been retrieved. The specific bioactive components are unknown.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a machine learning (ML) method for rapid prediction of anticoagulant activity in HPL and evaluation of compound activity. Materials and methods.

First, an in vitro anticoagulant activity assay was developed for the determination of the bioactivity of various medicinal parts of HPL. Then, the peak areas of compounds in HPL were integrated using UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS analysis. Subsequently, nine independent ML methods and two ensemble learning methods have been established to predict the anticoagulant activity of HPL and to evaluate the contribution of compounds. Feature importance scores were used for models visualization.

Results

A total of 24 compounds were shown to exhibited superior anticoagulant activity. Molecular docking experiments likewise confirmed this result. The results show that the branches of HPL have excellent anticoagulant activity, which has been previously overlooked. The established ML model demonstrated good performance in the prediction of the activity of HPL.

Conclusion

The results were accurate and reliable, which significantly improved the efficiency of active compounds screening, and further exploration in this area is warranted.
Determination of the Major Bioactive Component of Silybum marianum in Nutricosmetics by a HPLC Method With Amperometric Detection and UAE Pretreatment
Authors: Abad‐Gil Lucía , Gismera M. Jesús , Sevilla M. Teresa , Procopio Jesús R.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Nutricosmetics derived from Silybum marianum, known for their anti‐inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties, necessitate accurate quantification of silybin, a key bioactive component.

Objectives

This study aims to develop a novel high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with amperometric detection (HPLC‐ECD) for the precise determination of silybin. An ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) procedure is also established for solid sample preparation prior to chromatographic analysis.

Materials and Methods

Chromatographic separation of silybin was performed on a C18 column and using methanol–0.035 M potassium phosphate (pH 4.0) at 1.0 mL min−1 flow rate as mobile phase in gradient mode. The electrochemical detection (ECD) of silybin was carried out on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) at +1.10 V versus Ag/AgCl. The UAE procedure for silybin extraction from solid samples was performed by 15 min sonication in an ultrasonic bath (80 kHz and 100% power) at room temperature.

Results

Under the optimal chromatographic conditions, silybin diastereoisomers (silybin A and silybin B) can be separated from other S. marianum flavonolignans in less than 20 min, with a detection limit (LOD) of 0.060 mg L−1 and a reproducibility (RSD) of 5%. This method was successfully applied to analyze silymarin‐containing products with recoveries close to 100%.

Conclusions

This work presents the first HPLC method for silybin determination using an amperometric detector with a GCE. The LOD is competitive in comparison with previously published HPLC‐DAD methods. This HPLC‐ECD method allows silybin diastereoisomers identification without interferences of other flavonolignans present in silymarin extracts.
Pediatric endocardial temporary pacemaker implantation: Clinical characteristics and outcomes from a Chinese National Regional Health Center
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Zhang Kaijun , Ren Jun , Yang Penghui , Li Mi , Xiang Ping
Published: November 2024

Endocardial temporary pacemakers (TP) are widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases in adults, but their application and clinical experience in the treatment of pediatric cardiovascular cases are relatively limited. This study aims to share the experience of using endocardial TP at a pediatric medical center in China. The study included patients who received their first endocardial TP implantation in the Department of Cardiology at Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, China, from 2016 to 2022. A retrospective analysis of their clinical data was conducted. Our study involved 45 children who underwent endocardial TP implantation. Among these, 25 children (55.56%) converted to sinus rhythm after pacemaker parameter adjustment and the pacemaker was successfully removed; 13 children (28.89%) did not recover sinus rhythm and ultimately required a permanent pacemaker; in 4 cases, the family refused permanent pacemaker implantation; in 1 case, the treatment was abandoned by the family; and 2 children died during hospitalization. Notably, among the 20 children with fulminant myocarditis (FM), 16 children (80.00%) converted to sinus rhythm after pacemaker parameter adjustment and the pacemaker was successfully removed; 3 children (15.00%) ultimately received a permanent pacemaker; and 1 child died during hospitalization. Endocardial TP have shown remarkable efficacy in the treatment of critical heart disease, especially FM.
Insight Into the Role of Fiber Diameter on Electrospun Polysulfone Mats
Authors: Khezri Zahra , Pirsalami Sedigheh , Avaji Sina , Mousavi Seyed Hamed , Riazi Masoud
Published: November 2024

Fiber electrospun mats created using cylindrical collectors have been extensively studied as effective membranes for water treatment. However, the relationships between the properties of electrospun mats and the characteristics and performance of membranes are not well‐established. This research examined two samples with average fiber diameters of 1.8 ± 0.49 μm and 0.47 ± 0.26 μm, which were evaluated as supporting substrates for the separation of MgSO4 ions. The variation in fiber diameter resulted from consistent conditions of voltage, distance, and collector rotation speed, while the injection rates were different, set at 2 mL/h and 0.8 mL/h, respectively. The resulting thin‐film composite (TFC) membrane consists of three layers: the first layer is a mesh polyester that underlies a middle hydrophobic electrospun support layer made from a 20 wt.% polysulfone solution. The third layer is a polyamide layer created through interfacial polymerization, involving a reaction between piperazine (PIP) monomers at a concentration of 2% by weight and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) monomers at a concentration of 0.2% by weight. Due to its hydrophobic nature, PSU repels water monomers from its surface during polymerization. Consequently, surface modification using plasma treatment alters the surface characteristics from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, resulting in the formation of a superior polyamide layer. The results indicate that membranes with larger fiber diameters exhibit a rougher texture. Additionally, the increased void space between the fibers in these membranes leads to an increase in pure water flux that is 92% higher compared to membrane samples with smaller fiber diameters; this higher flux is due to larger pore size. Furthermore, membranes with smaller fiber diameters possess a finer pore structure, resulting in a polyamide layer with fewer defects than membranes with larger fibers. This improved structure achieved a separation efficiency of 68% ± 1.02% for MgSO4, while the membrane with an average fiber diameter of 1.80 ± 0.49 μm demonstrated a separation rate of 20% ± 2.26%. These findings provide a step forward in the development of a theoretical framework for engineering TFC membranes with electrospun mats as supports.
A Model‐Based Trial Design With a Randomization Scheme Considering Pharmacokinetics Exposure for Dose Optimization in Oncology
Authors: Zhang Jun , Takeda Kentaro , Takeuchi Masato , Komatsu Kanji , Zhu Jing , Yamaguchi Yusuke
Published: November 2024

The primary purpose of an oncology dose‐finding trial for novel anticancer agents has been shifting from determining the maximum tolerated dose to identifying an optimal dose (OD) that is tolerable and therapeutically beneficial for subjects in subsequent clinical trials. In 2022, the FDA Oncology Center of Excellence initiated Project Optimus to reform the paradigm of dose optimization and dose selection in oncology drug development and issued a draft guidance. The guidance suggests that dose‐finding trials include randomized dose–response cohorts of multiple doses and incorporate information on pharmacokinetics (PK) in addition to safety and efficacy data to select the OD. Furthermore, PK information could be a quick alternative to efficacy data to predict the minimum efficacious dose and decide the dose assignment. This article proposes a model‐based trial design for dose optimization with a randomization scheme based on PK outcomes in oncology. A simulation study shows that the proposed design has advantages compared to the other designs in the percentage of correct OD selection and the average number of patients assigned to OD in various realistic settings.
Subgroup Identification Based on Quantitative Objectives
Authors: Sun Yan , Hedayat A. S.
Published: November 2024

Precision medicine is the future of drug development, and subgroup identification plays a critical role in achieving the goal. In this paper, we propose a powerful end‐to‐end solution squant (available on CRAN) that explores a sequence of quantitative objectives. The method converts the original study to an artificial 1:1 randomized trial, and features a flexible objective function, a stable signature with good interpretability, and an embedded false discovery rate (FDR) control. We demonstrate its performance through simulation and provide a real data example.
Data Asset Quality Evaluation Framework Based on a Hybrid Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making Method
Authors: Xu Tao , You Xiaoyue , Yang Miying , Shi Yongjiang , Mao Renjie
Published: November 2024

This study presents a new framework for evaluating data asset quality using a hybrid multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) approach that integrates the decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), best–worst method (BWM), and fuzzy‐technique for order of preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) techniques. First, the framework considers data as both a product and an asset, leading to the development of quality indicators beyond the traditional dimensions. Subsequently, the interrelationships among indicators are addressed using the DEMATEL method, allowing for the identification of key indicators that significantly influence data asset quality in a given scenario. The BWM method is then employed to determine the weights of these key indicators, enabling a more precise assessment of their importance. After that, the TOPSIS method, incorporating triangular fuzzy numbers, is utilized to rank the data asset quality of different companies. Finally, the effectiveness of the framework is demonstrated by applying it to a group of companies, and the results of the company's evaluation are discussed, along with the corresponding data asset quality improvement initiatives.
Geomorphic Signature of Urbanization: An Analysis of Four Streams in Southeastern Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Jerez Lesmes A. M. , Smith Virginia B. , Welker Andrea L. , Kemp Stanley J.
Published: November 2024

The effects of urbanization on streams, including higher discharges and changes in the sediment budget, have been well‐documented. However, the distinct geomorphic response of streams under varying degrees of development has not been studied sufficiently. Based on Lane's stream equilibrium model, this research projected stream bed elevation changes over the next 50 years in four streams with different degrees of watershed development in Southeastern Pennsylvania using the 1D aggradation–degradation model. This study also explored the role of geomorphic drivers on stream response by performing a sensitivity analysis. The input parameters to run this numerical model were determined: stream bankfull discharge (Qf), intermittency (If), bankfull width (B), as well as stream channel slope (S), median grain size (Ds50), and total annual average sediment input from upstream (Gtf). Results suggest that the stream geomorphic signature of urbanization is influenced by the magnitude and spatial arrangement of land cover types within the watershed. Chrome Run‐upstream, the most developed site of this study, has the potential of 4.21 m of total stream bed incision, with no armoring of the bed. The least developed site, Dismal Run, will remain in equilibrium over the next 50 years. This study also found Ds50, S, Qf, and B are the parameters most sensitive to stream bed changes regardless of the degree of watershed development. However, the negative or positive response depends on the current condition of the stream channel.
A promise is a promise: A love letter from the ACH to the world of 2050†
Authors: Maurer Bill
Published: November 2024

Experiments in money often recapitulate long‐standing human concerns over finality and fixity, despite money's reference points in political authority, trust, and the memorialization of relationships of credit and debt. From the point of view of the primary set of infrastructures facilitating the movement of money in 2050, those concerns are misplaced. Recounting the history of those infrastructures, this love letter from a future intelligence is addressed to those humans who would reimagine money so that they will recognize the human and technical infrastructures on which it has always depended.
Molecular Imprinting Strategy Enables Circularly Polarized Luminescence Enhancement of Recyclable Chiral Polymer Films
Authors: Wang Nianwei , Hong Ran , Zhang Gong , Pan Menghan , Bao Yinglong , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2024

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) plays a crucial role in the fields of optical display and information technology. The pursuit of high dissymmetry factors (glum) and fluorescence quantum yields in CPL materials remains challenging due to inherent trade‐offs. In this work, molecular imprinting technology is employed to develop novel CPL‐active polymer films based entirely on achiral fluorene‐based polymers, achieving an enhanced glum value exceeding 4.2 × 10−2 alongside high quantum yields. These chiral molecularly imprinted polymer films (MIPF) are synthesized via a systematic three‐step process: co‐assembly with limonene and a porphyrin derivative (TBPP), interchain crosslinking, and subsequent removal of small molecules. During this process, limonene acts as the chiral inducer, while TBPP serves dual roles as both the chiral enhancer and imprinted molecule. The elimination of TBPP creates chiral sites for various fluorescent molecules, facilitating full‐color CPL emission. The chiral MIPF exhibits stable CPL performance even after multiple cycles of post‐assembly and removal. Furthermore, these films can function as interfacial microreactors, enabling in situ chemical reactions that dynamically regulate CPL signals. Additionally, chiral self‐organization within achiral azobenzene polymer films can also be achieved using MIPF, serving as intense chiral light sources.
Unravelling Species‐Specific Loading Effects on Oxygen Reduction Activity of Heteronuclear Single Atom Catalysts
Authors: Yang Tong , Ding Keda , Zhou Jun , Ma Xiaoyang , Tan Kay Chen , Wang Ge , Huang Haitao , Yang Ming
Published: November 2024

Toward high‐density single atom catalysts (SACs), the interaction between neighboring SACs and the induced non‐linear loading effect become crucial for their intrinsic catalytic performance. Despite recent investigations on homonuclear SACs, understanding such effect in heteronuclear SACs remains limited. Using Fe and Co SACs co‐supported on the nitrogen‐doped graphene as a model system, the loading effect on the site‐specific activity of heteronuclear SACs toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is here reported by density functional theory calculations. The Fe site exhibits an oscillatory decrease in activity with the loading. In contrast, the Co site has a volcano‐like activity with the optimum performance achieved at ≈16.8 wt.% (average inter‐site distance: ≈7 Å). At the ultra‐high loading of 38.4 wt.% (inter‐site distance: ≈4 Å), the Co site is the only ORR active site, whereas Fe sites turn into spectators. This distinct loading‐dependent activity between the Fe and Co sites can be ascribed to their difference in the binding capability with the substrate and the dxz and dyz orbitals’ occupation. These findings highlight the importance of the loading effect in heteronuclear SACs, which could be useful for the development of high‐performance heteronuclear and high‐entropy SACs toward various catalytic reactions in the high‐loading regime.
Residual textile reinforced mortar‐to‐concrete bond after exposure to harsh environments
Authors: Karakasis Ioannis Ch. , Papanicolaou Catherine G. , Triantafillou Thanasis C.
Published: November 2024

Textile reinforced mortars (TRM) are materials whose mechanical behavior has been extensively investigated during the last few years. However, studies on the behavior of these materials after exposure to various aggressive environments are still limited and, hence, their performance during their entire service life remains to be determined. The present study contributes to the knowledge pool regarding the behavior of concrete specimens furnished with TRM overlays post their exposure to various harsh environments, specifically through the analysis of shear bond tests. More specifically, 120 concrete substrates were reinforced with one and two layers of carbon textile which were embedded into a high and a low strength cementitious mortar and exposed to various harsh environments (carbonation, chlorides, carbonation and chlorides, different number of freeze–thaw cycles). It was concluded that: (i) a reduction of more than 25% is possible regarding failure stress; (ii) the number of textile layers plays an important role in TRM‐concrete bond behavior; and (iii) the influence of mortar strength is limited.
Stressing state analysis of unbonded prestressed concrete simply supported slabs in fire
Authors: Yang Chuan , Dong Yuli , Qi Jianquan , Duan Jintao , Zhang Dashan
Published: November 2024

This paper reveals the essential stressing state characteristics of unbonded prestressed concrete (UPC) simply supported slabs in fire by exploring the experimental data based on structural stressing state theory. First, the experimental deflections are transformed into the generalized work of force values to represent the structural characteristic parameter. Then, the Mann–Kendall criterion detects the mutation points where the characteristic parameter curve shows a trend change with the rising temperature. Next, the mutation characteristics are verified by studying the stressing state modes and coordinative working behavior of simply supported slabs under characteristic temperatures. Consequently, the elastoplastic branch points and failure starting point of the simply supported slabs in fire are revealed, complying with the natural law from quantitative change to qualitative change. Finally, the formula is fitted to calculate the failure loads with a verification, and the existing failure loads were redefined to provide a new and valuable reference for analyzing the working behavior of UPC simply supported slabs in fire.
Anaesthesia during surgery of a unilateral external vein aneurysm in a young dog
Authors: Wiklund Maja , Larsson Jenny , Rapp Martin
Published: November 2024

A female Swedish Elkhound was presented by the breeder at a referring clinic due to a swelling in the left mandibular area. The mass continued to grow, and at the age of 2 months the dog was referred to the hospital. Computed tomography was used for diagnostics of a unilateral external aneurysm of the left vena facialis and vena lingualis with a suspected centrally mineralised thrombus was made. One month later, the dog underwent surgery for removal of the aneurysm. This case describes the diagnostics, the perioperative anaesthetic considerations and anaesthetic management for surgery to remove the aneurysm where concerns regarding the young age and the risk of intraoperative haemorrhage were addressed. Premedication consisted of methadone and dexmedetomidine, general anaesthesia was induced using propofol and ketamine as co‐induction agents and maintained using isoflurane. There were no intraoperative anaesthetic complications; however, a postoperative surgical complication in the form of a seroma developed.
Percutaneous sacroiliac screw fixation with a 3D robot-assisted image-guided navigation system
Authors: Link Björn-Christian , Haveman R. A. , Van de Wall B. J. M. , Baumgärtner R. , Babst R. , Beeres F. J. P. , Haefeli P. C.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Presentation and description of percutaneous sacroiliac (SI) screw fixation with the use of a 3D robot-assisted image-guided navigation system and the clinical outcome of this technique.

Indications

Pelvic fractures involving the posterior pelvis.

Contraindications

Patients not suited for surgery.

Surgical technique

Planning the screws on the diagnostic computer tomogram (CT). Matching with a low-dose CT in the operating room. Lateral incision. Verify the guidewire position with the personalized inlet and outlet views. After correct positioning, place a cannulated screw over the guidewire. For fragility fractures, augmentation is recommended. Finish the surgery with a final 3D scan to confirm correct placement of the screws and cement.

Postoperative management

Direct postoperative mobilization with pain-adapted full weight-bearing.

Results

Data of 141 patients between January 2018 and August 2022 were analyzed (average age 82 ± 10 years, 89% female). Most of the fractures were type II fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP; 75%). The median hospital stay was 12 ± 7 days and the median surgery duration for a unilateral SI screw was 26 min. In total 221 S1 screws and 17 S2 screws were applied. No screws showed signs of loosening or migration. Of the five suboptimally placed screws, one screw was removed due to sensory impairment. All patients with cement leakage remained without symptoms.

Conclusion

The surgical technique with the use of a 3D robot-assisted image-guided navigation system is a technique for safe fixation of dorsal fragility fractures of the pelvis and is associated with fewer complications.