bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Dysfunction and Recovery After Anabolic-androgenic Steroid Abuse: Is Reversibility Possible?
Authors: Câmara Lucas Caseri , Viana Diogo Pinto
Published: January 2025

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “Cardiac Dysfunction and Recovery After Anabolic-androgenic Steroid Abuse: Is Reversibility Possible?”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.
Advancements in Nanotechnology for Enhancing Post-Harvest Handling and Storage of Horticultural Crops
Authors: Satheeshkumar N. , Kumar K. Ravi , Bhuvaneswari Perumalu , Kumar Lav , Alagendran S. , Sridharan S. , Kumar Suresh
Published: January 2025

Nanotechnology offers groundbreaking solutions to longstanding challenges in post-harvest management of horticultural produce, addressing issues such as spoilage, microbial contamination, and environmental sustainability. By leveraging unique nanoscale properties, it provides advanced tools such as antimicrobial nanocoatings, smart packaging, and nano-enabled sensors to enhance the preservation and quality of fruits and vegetables. These innovations prolong shelf life, maintain nutritional value, and reduce post-harvest losses, which account for up to 40% of global horticultural produce. Nano-based coatings effectively minimize microbial spoilage and oxidative damage, while smart packaging systems with embedded Nano sensors enable real-time monitoring of freshness and environmental conditions. Biodegradable nanomaterials such as chitosan and polylactic acid nanocomposites provide eco-friendly alternatives to conventional packaging, reducing the environmental footprint of food systems. The application of Nano sensors and ethylene scavengers further optimizes storage conditions by delaying ripening and senescence in climacteric fruits, ensuring produce reaches consumers in prime condition. Despite these advancements, the widespread adoption of nanotechnology faces challenges, including high production costs, regulatory uncertainties, and environmental concerns related to nanoparticle toxicity and biodegradability. Cost-benefit analyses indicate that while initial investments are high, the reduction in food waste and extended marketability of produce provide significant economic returns over time. Regulations are essential to address safety concerns and foster consumer trust, ensuring the responsible use of nanomaterials in food systems. Future directions in post-harvest nanotechnology include the development of safer, eco-friendly nanomaterials, integration with artificial intelligence for smart supply chains, and interdisciplinary collaborations to enhance scalability and affordability. With its potential to revolutionize post-harvest practices, nanotechnology offers a sustainable, efficient pathway to improve food security and reduce environmental impact, paving the way for innovative, data-driven solutions in global agriculture.
Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Kalani Karan , Ahmed A. Shaheer , Katta Enosh
Published: October 2023

This case report presents the ECG findings of a patient in their 40s with post-tubercular bronchiectasis who presented with acute exacerbation of dyspnea and no chest pain.
Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir and COVID-19 Mortality and Hospitalization Among Patients With Vulnerability to COVID-19 Complications
Authors: Dormuth Colin R. , Kim Jason D. , Fisher Anat , Piszczek Jolanta , Kuo I Fan
Published: October 2023

Importance

Postmarket analysis of individuals who receive nirmatrelvir and ritonavir (Paxlovid [Pfizer]) is essential because they differ substantially from individuals included in published clinical trials.

Objective

To examine the association of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir with prevention of death or admission to hospital in individuals with different risks of complications from COVID-19 infection.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This is a cohort study of adult patients in British Columbia, Canada, between February 1, 2022, and February 3, 2023. Patients were eligible if they belonged to 1 of 4 higher-risk groups of individuals who received priority for COVID-19 vaccination. Two groups included clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) people who were severely (CEV1) or moderately immunocompromised (CEV2). CEV3 individuals were not immunocompromised but had medical conditions associated with a high risk for complications from COVID-19. A fourth expanded eligibility (EXEL) group was added to allow wider access to nirmatrelvir and ritonavir for certain other higher-risk individuals who were not in a CEV group, such as those older than 70 years who were unvaccinated.

Exposures

Patients with COVID-19 who received nirmatrelvir and ritonavir were matched to patients in the same vulnerability group; who were of the same sex, age, and propensity score for nirmatrelvir and ritonavir treatment; and who were also infected within 1 month of the individual treated with nirmatrelvir and ritonavir.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was death from any cause or emergency hospitalization with COVID-19 within 28 days.

Results

There were 6866 individuals included in the study, of whom 3888 (56.6%) were female and whose median (IQR) age was 70 (57-80) years. Compared with unexposed controls, treatment with nirmatrelvir and ritonavir was associated with statistically significant relative reductions in the primary outcome in the CEV1 group (560 patients; risk difference [RD], −2.5%, 95% CI, −4.8% to −0.2%) and the CEV2 group (2628 patients; RD, −1.7%; 95% CI, −2.9% to −0.5%). In the CEV3 group, the RD was −1.3%, but the findings were not statistically significant (2100 patients; 95% CI, −2.8% to 0.1%). In the EXEL group, treatment was associated with higher risk of the outcome (RD, 1.0%), but the findings were not statistically significant (1578 patients; 95% CI, −0.9% to 2.9%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 6866 individuals in British Columbia, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir treatment was associated with reduced risk of COVID-19 hospitalization or death in CEV individuals, with the greatest benefit observed in severely immunocompromised individuals. No reduction in the primary outcome was observed in lower-risk individuals, including those aged 70 years or older without serious comorbidities.
Loneliness and Risk of Parkinson Disease
Authors: Terracciano Antonio , Luchetti Martina , Karakose Selin , Stephan Yannick , Sutin Angelina R.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Loneliness is associated with morbidity and mortality, including higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases. To our knowledge, no study has examined whether the association between loneliness and detrimental outcomes extends to Parkinson disease (PD).

Objective

To assess whether loneliness is associated with risk of incident PD and whether the association is independent of other risk factors or modified by age, sex, and genetic vulnerability.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study included a population-based sample of UK Biobank participants aged 38 to 73 years with loneliness data and without a diagnosis of PD at baseline who were first assessed from March 13, 2006, to October 1, 2010, and followed up to October 9, 2021.

Exposure

Feeling lonely and covariates that are known risk factors for or prodromal features of PD.

Main Outcome and Measure

Incident PD was ascertained through UK National Health Service health records.

Results

Of 491 603 participants (mean [SD] age, 56.54 [8.09] years; 54.4% female), 2822 developed PD during the 15-year follow-up. Individuals who reported being lonely had a higher risk of PD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.37; 95% CI, 1.25-1.51), an association that remained after accounting for demographic factors, socioeconomic status, social isolation, PD polygenetic risk score, smoking, physical activity, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, depression, and ever seeing a psychiatrist (fully adjusted model: HR 1.25; 95% CI, 1.12-1.39). The association between loneliness and incident PD was not moderated by sex (HR for interaction, 0.98; 95% CI, 95% CI, 0.81-1.18), age (HR for interaction, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-1.01), or polygenic risk score (HR for interaction, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.85-1.02). Contrary to expectations for a prodromal syndrome, when stratified by time, loneliness was not associated with risk for incident PD during the first 5 years (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.91-1.45) but was associated with PD risk during the subsequent 10 years (HR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.19-1.46).

Conclusions and Relevance

This large cohort study found that loneliness was associated with risk of incident PD across demographic groups and independent of depression and other prominent risk factors and genetic risk. The findings add to the evidence that loneliness is a substantial psychosocial determinant of health.
Spontaneous AICA Dissection Presenting With Isolated Audiovestibular Loss
Authors: Han Sun Ku , Kim Byung-Su , Hwang Gyojun
Published: October 2023

This case report describes a man in his 40s with spontaneous anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) dissection after presenting with right-sided sensorineural hearing loss.
Dynamic causal modeling of reorganization of memory and language networks in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Fallahi Alireza , Hoseini‐Tabatabaei Narges , Eivazi Fatemeh , Mohammadi Mobarakeh Neda , Dehghani‐Siahaki Hamed , Alibiglou Laila , Rostami Reza , Mehvari Habibabadi Jafar , Hashemi‐Fesharaki Seyed‐Sohrab , Joghataei Mohammad Taghi , Nazem‐Zadeh Mohammad‐Reza
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the alterations of language and memory functions using dynamic causal modeling, in order to identify the epileptogenic hemisphere in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methods

Twenty‐two patients with left TLE and 13 patients with right TLE underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during four memory and four language mapping tasks. Dynamic causal modeling (DCM) was employed on fMRI data to examine effective directional connectivity in memory and language networks and the alterations in people with TLE compared to healthy individuals.

Results

DCM analysis suggested that TLE can influence the memory network more widely compared to the language network. For memory mapping, it demonstrated overall hyperconnectivity from the left hemisphere to the other cranial regions in the picture encoding, and from the right hemisphere to the other cranial regions in the word encoding tasks. On the contrary, overall hypoconnectivity was seen from the brain hemisphere contralateral to the seizure onset in the retrieval tasks. DCM analysis further manifested hypoconnectivity between the brain's hemispheres in the language network in patients with TLE compared to controls. The CANTAB® neuropsychological test revealed a negative correlation for the left TLE and a positive correlation for the right TLE cohorts for the connections extracted by DCM that were significantly different between the left and right TLE cohorts.

Interpretation

In this study, dynamic causal modeling evidenced the reorganization of language and memory networks in TLE that can be used for a better understanding of the effects of TLE on the brain's cognitive functions.
Humidity‐Resistant Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on a Swelling‐Resistant and Antiwear PAN/PVA‐CaCl2 Composite Film for Seawater Desalination
Authors: Yang Di , Zhang Liqiang , Wang Nannan , Yu Tongtong , Sun Weixiang , Luo Ning , Feng Yange , Liu Weimin , Wang Daoai
Published: September 2023

Atmospheric moisture accelerates the triboelectric charge transport and dissipation in the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). However, the output of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based humidity‐resistant TENG is still limited under high humidity and suffers from the swelling problem in practical application. In this paper, a swelling‐ and humidity‐resistant high‐performance TENG using a polyacrylonitrile/polyvinyl alcohol‐calcium chloride (PAN/PVA‐CaCl2) composite film (PPCa‐TENG) is designed for seawater desalination. The PAN/PVA‐CaCl2 composite films exhibit superior water uptake speed, swelling resistance, and mechanical and tribological properties compared with other prepared membranes at high relative humidity (RH). The maximum short‐circuit current (Isc) and output voltage (Vo) of the PPCa‐TENG can reach 52.04 µA and 941 V at 75% RH, respectively, with increasing the power of PVA‐based TENG by about 17.39 times. The Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) results suggest that the PAN/PVA‐CaCl2 composite film demonstrates a higher tribopositivity. Furthermore, the PPCa‐TENG is applied as an effective, economical power source for seawater desalination, with an energy consumption of only 0.19 kWh m−3. This number is remarkably lower than that of desalination powered by conventional direct‐current power supplies reported in previous work. This paper provides a feasible, effective method for the design of the TENG with high performance under high‐humidity conditions.
Interface‐Stabilized Fiber Sensor for Real‐Time Monitoring of Amniotic Fluid During Pregnancy
Authors: Li Qianming , Li Dan , Lu Jiang , Zou Kuangyi , Wang Lie , Jiao Yiding , Wang Maosen , Gao Rui , Song Jie , Li Yiran , Li Fangyan , Ji Jianjian , Wang Jiacheng , Li Luhe , Ye Tingting , He Er , Chen Hao , Wang Yuanzhen , Ren Junye , Bai Chenyu , Yang Shuo , Zhang Ye
Published: September 2023

Diseases in pregnancy endanger millions of fetuses worldwide every year. The onset of these diseases can be early warned by the dynamic abnormalities of biochemicals in amniotic fluid, thus requiring real‐time monitoring. However, when continuously penetrated by detection devices, the amnion is prone to loss of robustness and rupture, which is difficult to regenerate. Here, an interface‐stabilized fiber sensor is presented for real‐time monitoring of biochemical dynamics in amniotic fluid during pregnancy. The sensor is seamlessly integrated into the amnion through tissue adhesion, amniotic regeneration, and uniform stress distribution, posing no risk to the amniotic fluid environment. The sensor demonstrates a response performance of less than 0.3% fluctuation under complex dynamic conditions and an accuracy of more than 98% from the second to the third trimester. By applying it to early warning of diseases such as intrauterine hypoxia, intrauterine infection, and fetal growth restriction, fetal survival increases to 95% with timely intervention.
Atomic Distance Engineering in Metal Catalysts to Regulate Catalytic Performance
Authors: Li Runze , Zhao Jie , Liu Baozhong , Wang Dingsheng
Published: October 2023

It is very important to understand the structure–performance relationship of metal catalysts by adjusting the microstructure of catalysts at the atomic scale. The atomic distance has an essential influence on the composition of the environment of active metal atom, which is a key factor for the design of targeted catalysts with desired function. In this review, we discuss and summarize strategies for changing the atomic distance from three aspects and relate their effects on the reactivity of catalysts. First, the effects of regulating bond length between metal and coordination atom at one single‐atom site on the catalytic performance are introduced. The bond lengths are affected by the strain effect of the support and high‐shell doping and can evolve during the reaction. Next, the influence of the distance between single‐atom sites on the catalytic performance is discussed. Due to the space matching of adsorption and electron transport, the catalytic performance can be adjusted with the shortening of site distance. In addition, the effect of the arrangement spacing of the surface metal active atoms on the catalytic performance of metal nanocatalysts is studied. Finally, a comprehensive summary and outlook of the relationship between atomic distance and catalytic performance is given.
Geometric Angles and Gene Expression in Cells for Structural Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Juan , Yang Qianhao , Saiding Qimanguli , Chen Liang , Liu Mingyue , Wang Zhen , Xiang Lei , Deng Lianfu , Chen Yixuan , Cui Wenguo
Published: September 2023

Geometry and angles play crucial roles in cellular processes; however, its mechanisms of regulation remain unclear. In this study, a series of three dimensional (3D)‐printed microfibers with different geometries is constructed using a near‐field electrostatic printing technique to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of geometry on stem cell function and bone regeneration. The scaffolds precisely mimicked cell dimensions with high porosity and interoperability. Compared with other spatial topography angles, microfibers with a 90° topology can significantly promote the expression of osteogenic gene proteins in bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The effects of different spatial structures on the expression profiles of BMSCs differentiation genes are correlated and validated using microRNA sequencing. Enrichment analysis shows that the 90° microfibers promoted osteogenesis in BMSCs by significantly upregulating miR‐222‐5p/cbfb/Runx2 expression. The ability of the geometric architecture to promote bone regeneration, as assessed using the cranial defect model, demonstrates that the 90° fiber scaffolds significantly promote new bone regeneration and neovascular neural network formation. This study is the first to elucidate the relationship between angular geometry and cellular gene expression, contributing significantly to the understanding of how geometric architecture can promote stem cell differentiation, proliferation, and function for structural bone regeneration.
Fully Printed Flexible Zinc Oxide Patch for Wearable UV Light Sensing
Authors: Dong Hao , Liu Wenxin , Li Yi , Chen Xing , Wang Di
Published: September 2023

Metal oxide materials are widely adopted in UV sensing due to their advantages of reliability, stability, and high sensitivity. However, the fabrication of metal oxide films on flexible substrates using micro/nano printing techniques still poses challenges. Notably, inks containing oxide nanoparticles often lead to nozzle clogging during the printing process. In addition, methods relying on precursor solutions typically require high post‐processing temperatures that conventional flexible substrates cannot withstand. In this study, a novel precursor ink based on zinc amine hydroxide complexes is proposed, enabling post‐processing at a low temperature of 250 °C. Through a fully printed approach, a wearable UV sensor based on a zinc oxide nanofilm on a flexible substrate is successfully fabricated. The sensor exhibits outstanding sensitivity and rapid response characteristics. By incorporating silver nanoparticles into the ink, the baseline resistance of the sensitive material is adjusted. Furthermore, a smart patch utilizing the NFC communication protocol is developed, allowing for wireless, passive, and wearable UV detection. In this study, a process paradigm for fabricating metal oxide films on flexible substrates using micro/nano printing techniques is introduced, showcasing significant potential in the field of micro/nano sensor fabrication.
Making decisions “in the dark”: Learning through uncertainty in clinical practice during Covid‐19
Authors: Vaid Urvashi , Lundgren Henriette , Watkins Karen E. , Ziring Deborah , Alcid Grace A. , Marsick Victoria J. , Papanagnou Dimitrios
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore how decision making and informal and incidental learning (IIL) emerged in the clinical learning environment (CLE) during the height of the Covid‐19 pandemic. The authors’ specific interest was to better understand the IIL that took place among frontline physicians who had to navigate a CLE replete with uncertainty and complexity with the future goal of creating experiences for medical students that would simulate IIL and use uncertainty as a catalyst for learning.

Method

Using a modified constructivist, grounded theory approach, we describe physicians’ IIL while working during times of heightened uncertainty. Using the critical incident technique, we conducted 45‐min virtual interviews with seven emergency department (ED) and five intensive care unit (ICU) physicians, who worked during the height of the pandemic. The authors transcribed and restoried each interview before applying inductive, comparative analysis to identify patterns, assertions, and organizing themes.

Results

Findings showed that the burden of decision making for physicians was influenced by the physical, emotional, relational, and situational context of the CLE. The themes that emerged for decision making and IIL were interdependent. Prominent among the patterns for decision making were ways to simplify the problem by applying prior knowledge, using pattern recognition, and cross‐checking with team members. Patterns for IIL emerged through trial and error, which included thoughtful experimentation, consulting alternative sources of information, accumulating knowledge, and “poking at the periphery” of clinical practice.

Conclusions

Complexity and uncertainty are rife in clinical practice and this study made visible decision‐making patterns and IIL approaches that can be built into formal curricula. Making implicit uncertainty explicit by recognizing it, naming it, and practicing navigating it may better prepare learners for the uncertainty posed by the clinical practice environment.
Intensified synthetic approach for GdYAG:Ce phosphors with ultrahigh color rendering toward healthy lighting
Authors: Wang Fen , Wang Mengling , Liu Yinglu , Pu Yuan , Wang Jie‐Xin , Wang Dan , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: September 2023

Process intensified synthetic approach for synthesizing gadolinium and cerium co‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (GdYAG:Ce) phosphors in white light‐emitting diodes (wLED) is developed. By using a high‐gravity rotating packed bed (RPB) reactor for preparation of sol–gel precursors, the significantly enhanced molecular mixing allows precise control and tuning of dry gel with designed structure to obtain nanosized particles of GdYAG:Ce precursors, which are prone to low temperature quick sintering process and therefore reduce the energy consumption of the electric furnace 76% compared to solid phase method. By analyzing the effect of cycling times and high gravity levels of RPB reactor on sintering and crystallization, sintering condition for emission spectrum adjustable GdYAG:Ce phosphors is optimized. Prototype devices based on blue chips and GdYAG:Ce phosphors exhibit high color rendering index of 83.8 and low correlation color temperature of 5357 K that are beneficial for creating a healthy and comfortable lighting environment.
The experiences of reporting sexism toward female paramedics in Australian ambulance services: A scoping review
Authors: Cassidy Alexandra , Hunt Brooke , McFarlane Alisha , Beovich Bronwyn
Published: October 2023

Paramedicine in Australia was historically male‐dominated, and despite the development within the profession, sexism against women remains a major hurdle for a safe workplace. The aim of this scoping review was to identify experiences of reporting sexism toward female paramedics in Australian ambulance services and identify barriers impacting the decision to submit a report. Literature searches were conducted using eight electronic databases, with grey literature found through Google Scholar, media outlets and hand‐searching. Articles included were those with mention of sexism or associated behaviours reported to a senior authority within the field of paramedicine in Australia. Reporting of sexism within paramedicine was not a primary outcome for any included literature. Behaviours such as sexual assault and harassment are rarely defined, and sexism is often not reported independently. Experiences of women with reporting are primarily negative, and decisions to report sexism are made difficult by various barriers of which victimisation was most prominent. Following a report being lodged, all reported outcomes were inadequate as perceived by the victim. Further research into the reporting of sexism in Australian ambulance services is required to develop resolutions to the identified barriers and provide a safer reporting environment to encourage reporting.
Counting d‐Orbital Vacancies of Transition‐Metal Catalysts for the Sulfur Reduction Reaction
Authors: Sun Yafei , Wang Jingyi , Shang Tongxin , Li Zejian , Li Kanghui , Wang Xianwei , Luo Huarui , Lv Wei , Jiang Lilong , Wan Ying
Published: October 2023

The electrocatalytic sulfur reduction reaction (SRR) would allow the production of renewable high‐capacity rechargeable lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries using sustainable and nontoxic elemental sulfur as a cathode material, but its slow reaction rate causes a serious shuttle effect and dramatically reduces the capacity. We found that a catalyst composed of Pd nanoparticles supported by ordered mesoporous carbon (Pd/OMC) had a high reaction rate in the SRR, and a Li‐S battery assembled with this catalyst had a low shuttle constant of 0.031 h−1 and a high‐rate performance with a specific capacity of 1527 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C which is close to the theoretical value. The high activity of Pd/OMC with a d‐orbital vacancy of 0.87 e was predicted from a volcano relationship between the d charge for the metal and the adsorption activation entropy and reaction rate for the SRR by examining Pd, Au, Pt, Rh, and Ru transition‐metal nanocatalysts. The strategy of using a single electronic structure descriptor to design high‐efficiency SRR catalysts has suggested a way to produce practical Li‐S batteries.
Bioactive Luminescent Silver Clusters Confined in Zeolites Enable Quick and Wash‐Free Biosensing
Authors: García‐Guzmán Cecilia , Morales‐Narváez Eden , Coutino‐Gonzalez Eduardo
Published: October 2023

The simultaneous capture and detection of biomolecules is crucial for revolutionizing bioanalytical platforms in terms of portability, response time and cost‐efficiency. Herein, we demonstrate how the sensitivity to external stimuli and changes in the local electronic environment of silver clusters lead to an advantageous biosensing platform based on the fluorometric response of bioactive luminescent silver clusters (BioLuSiC) confined in faujasite X zeolites functionalized with antibodies. The photoluminescence response of BioLuSiC was enhanced upon immunocomplex formation, empowering a wash‐free and quick biodetection system offering optimal results from 5 min. Proteins and pathogens (immunoglobulin G and Escherichia coli) were targeted to demonstrate the biosensing performance of BioLuSiC, and a human serum titration assay was also established. BioLuSiC will pave the way for innovative bioanalytical platforms, including real‐time monitoring systems, point‐of‐care devices and bioimaging techniques.
Single‐Crystal Transformation Engineering the Spin Change of Metal–Organic Frameworks via Cluster Deconstruction
Authors: Yang Guang , Wu Si‐Guo , Ruan Ze‐Yu , Chen Yan‐Cong , Xie Kai‐Ping , Ni Zhao‐Ping , Tong Ming‐Liang
Published: October 2023

Spin crossover (SCO) materials with new architectures will expand and enrich the research in the SCO field. Here, we report two metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) containing tetradentate organic ligands and hexatopic linkers [Ag8X8(CN)6]6− (X=Br and I), which represents the first SCO MOF with clusters as building blocks. The silver halide cluster can be further removed after reacting with lithium tetracyanoquinodimethan (LiTCNQ). Such post‐synthetic modification (PSM) is realized via single‐crystal to single‐crystal (SCSC) transformation from urk to nbo topology. Accordingly, the spin state and fluorescence properties are greatly modified by cluster deconstruction. Therefore, these achievements will provide new ideas for the design of new SCO systems and the development of PSM methods.
Unlocking the Chain‐Walking Process in Gold Catalysis**
Authors: Bhoyare Vivek W. , Tathe Akash G. , Gandon Vincent , Patil Nitin T.
Published: October 2023

The successful realization of gold‐catalyzed chain‐walking reactions, facilitated by ligand‐enabled Au(I)/Au(III) redox catalysis, has been reported for the first time. This breakthrough has led to the development of gold‐catalyzed annulation reaction of alkenes with iodoarenes by leveraging the interplay of chain‐walking and π‐activation reactivity mode. The reaction mechanism has been elucidated through comprehensive experimental and computational studies.
The use of low‐density polyethylene‐molybdenum oxide polymer composites as radiation shielding laminates in dental radiology physical structures
Authors: Alyousef Haifa A. , Tijani S. A. , Alsuhybani Mohammed S. , Alotaibi Waad M. , Alotaibi B. M. , Alotiby Mohammed F.
Published: September 2023

Radiation protection is crucial in the protection of humans from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. One of the most reliable ways of reducing the risk of occupationally exposed workers and the public in dental radiology is the installation of an effective radiation shielding barrier at the facility. Concrete barriers are predominantly used for dental shielding, however there is need to consider the use of lighter, ready‐made, and lower half value layer (HVL) materials as shielding materials in dental radiology facilities. In this work, low‐density polyethylene‐molybdenum oxide polymer composites were prepared (85C2H4‐15MoO3, 90C2H4‐10MoO3, and 95C2H4‐5MoO3), and the radiation attenuation measurements were carried out experimentally. The composites displayed acceptable x‐ray absorbing capabilities. 85C2H4‐15MoO3 polymer composite (DT1) showed optimal shielding in comparison with concrete. DT1 has an approximate HVL like concrete while it is 54.3% lighter than concrete. 85C2H4‐15MoO3 polymer composite is 1.5%, 0.8%, and 6.3% higher in linear attenuation coefficient than concrete at 60, 70, and 80 kVps, respectively. This implies that DT1 can effectively replace concrete at dental diagnostic energies.
Dual Role of TiO(acac)2 as a Reagent and an Activator/Catalyst: A Study on the Solvent Dependent Product Formation
Authors: Kumar Chouhan Kishor , Nad Pinaki , Mukherjee Arup
Published: October 2023

The dual operation of a chemical species in synthetic chemistry is an intriguing and relatively unexplored phenomenon. The application of such a species is expected to reduce the use of multiple reaction partners and catalysts/activators. Herein, we report a simple and easy‐to‐use protocol for the twin application of TiO(acac)2, as a reagent and an activator to synthesize β‐enamino ketones with amines in acetonitrile. The same early transition metal precursor when employed in N,N‐dimethylformamide with the amines, resulted in the formation of the substituted amides. Both reactions were explored with various substrates to check the viability of the present protocol. Moreover, experimental studies were conducted to understand the mechanism of both reactions.
Decreasing incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma among most racial groups: SEER‐22, 2000–2019
Authors: O'Brien Thomas R. , Devesa Susan S. , Koshiol Jill , Marrero Jorge A. , Shiels Meredith S.
Published: September 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence was rising in the United States. Previously, using data collected by the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program through 2017, we found that overall incidence had begun to decline, although not in Black and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. Utilizing expanded SEER data encompassing ~50% of the population, we examined secular trends and demographic differences in HCC incidence through 2019.

Methods

We included cases of HCC diagnosed in adults aged ≥20 years residing in SEER‐22 registry areas. We examined case counts, incidence rates (per 100,000 person‐years), annual percent changes (APCs), and calendar years when APCs changed significantly.

Results

HCC incidence increased from 5.56 in 2000 to 8.89 in 2009 (APC, 5.17%), then rose more slowly during 2009–2015 (APC, 2.28%). After peaking at 10.03 in 2015, incidence fell to 9.20 in 2019 (APC, −2.26%). In Asian/Pacific Islanders (A/PI), the decline began in 2007 and accelerated in 2015 (APCs: 2007–2015, −1.84%; 2015–2019, −5.80%). In 2014, incidence began to fall in the White (APC: 2014–2019, −1.11%) and Hispanic populations (APC: 2014–2019, −1.72%). In 2016, rates began to fall in Black individuals (APC: 2016–2019, −6.05%). In the AI/AN population, incidence was highest in 2017, although the subsequent decline was not statistically significant. In 2019, population‐specific rates were: White, 6.94; Black, 10.74; A/PI, 12.11; AI/AN, 14.56; Hispanic, 15.48.

Conclusion

HCC incidence is now decreasing in most US racial/ethnic populations, including among Black individuals. The onset of decline differed among racial/ethnic groups and wide disparities in HCC rates remain.
Minority arguments on integration: Arabs in the Southern European state of Malta
Authors: Buhagiar Luke J. , Sammut Gordon
Published: October 2023

Intercultural relations benefit from the social psychological study of arguments made by different groups about joint projects of mutual concern. This focus allows researchers to map representations of the project in question, among communities in different cultural milieus. This paper presents a study looking at Arabs' views on the project of integration. Arabs' perspectives revolved around six argumentative themes: cultural, economic, psychological, religio‐cultural, socio‐political or stigma‐related. After comparing all claims on integration across the communities involved (the Arab minority and the Maltese majority), we describe Arabs' positive, negative and mixed/ambivalent socio‐political claims in detail, complementing a previous study on majority views. This enables a discussion of Arabs' perspectives in view of the semiotic resources relevant to localised intercultural relations. Arabs' argumentative themes clearly reflect three key patterns: (a) social representation of integration as difficult but necessary, (b) minority representation of the majority group as being resistant to integration and (c) de‐essentialism of ingroup and outgroup. These patterns contrast with the majority members' arguments in significant ways. Findings are discussed theoretically in view of how minority arguments re‐present social processes to advance or resist intercultural projects, and substantively in terms of the application of these findings for ameliorating intercultural relations in local communities.
Overcoming Biochemical Limitations of Galactose Oxidase through the Design of a Solid‐Supported Self‐Sufficient Biocatalyst
Authors: Lorente‐Arevalo Alvaro , Orellana Guillermo , Ladero Miguel , Bolivar Juan M.
Published: October 2023

Galactose Oxidase (GalOx) has gained significant interest in biocatalysis due to its ability for selective oxidation beyond the natural oxidation of galactose, enabling the production of valuable derivatives. However, the practical application of GalOx has been hindered by the limited availability of active and stable biocatalysts, as well as the inherent biochemical limitations such as oxygen (O2) dependency and the need for activation. In this study, we addressed these challenges by immobilizing GalOx into agarose‐based and Purolite supports to enhance its activity and stability. Additionally, we identified and quantified the oxygen supply limitation into solid catalysts by intraparticle oxygen sensing showing a trade‐off between the amount of protein loaded onto the solid support and the catalytic effectiveness of the immobilized enzyme. Furthermore, we coimmobilized a heme‐containing protein along with the enzyme to function as an activator. To evaluate the practical application of the immobilized GalOx, we conducted the oxidation of galactose in an instrumented aerated reactor. The results showcased the efficient performance of the immobilized enzyme in the 8 h reaction cycle. Notably, the GalOx immobilized into dextran sulfate‐activated agarose exhibited improved stability, overcoming the need for a soluble activator supply, and demonstrated exceptional performance in galactose oxidation. These findings offer promising prospects for the utilization of GalOx in technical biocatalytic applications.
Decreased CXCL14 expression in psoriasis recovered by narrow‐band ultraviolet B therapy
Authors: Nakajima Kaori , Miyagaki Tomomitsu , Tanaka Miho , Komaki Reo , Okano Tatsuro , Takeuchi Sora , Watabe Hidenori , Kadono Takafumi
Published: September 2023

Background

CXCL14 is a member of CXC chemokine family, constitutively expressed in various normal tissues unlike many other chemokines. Other than the capacity to recruit natural killer cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells, CXCL14 suppresses CXCL12‐CXCR4 interactions by inducing CXCR4 internalization. Thus, CXCL14 can both promote and hinder immune responses. Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammatory disorder in which various chemokines play an important role.

Methods

To investigate possible roles of CXCL14 in psoriasis, we examined CXCL14 expression in lesional skin by immunohistochemistry and measured serum CXCL14 levels in psoriasis. We also assessed the effect of ultraviolet irradiation, one of the main therapies for psoriasis, on CXCL14 expression by HaCaT cells.

Results

CXCL14 expression was decreased in epidermal keratinocytes in lesional skin and serum CXCL14 levels were negatively correlated with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scores in psoriasis patients. Serum CXCL14 levels were increased in nbUVB‐treated psoriasis patients and UVB irradiation induced CXCL14 mRNA expression from HaCaT cells.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that decreased CXCL14 expression may contribute to the exacerbation of psoriasis and that the amplification of CXCL14 can be a therapeutic option for psoriasis. One of the mechanisms of the efficacy of nbUVB therapy in psoriasis may be the upregulation of CXCL14.
Back acupoint location method based on prior information and deep learning
Authors: Liu Ying‐Bin , Qin Jian‐Hua , Zeng Gui‐Fen
Published: September 2023

Acupuncture points have a positive effect on the auxiliary prevention and treatment of diseases, so medical devices such as acupuncture robots often need to combine acupuncture points to improve the treatment effect when working, however, intelligent acupoint selection technology is not yet mature, the automatic rapid and accurate positioning of acupoints is still challenging. Therefore, this paper proposes a method of back acupoint location and an evaluation index of acupoint location. First, we propose an improved Keypoint RCNN network for the preliminary location of back acupoints and introduce a channel and spatial attention mechanism module (CBAM) to improve the performance of the model. Then, we set up a posterior median line positioning method to improve the accuracy of acupoint positioning. Finally, expand and locate other acupoints according to the prior information of acupoints. According to the experimental results, the accuracy of acupoint positioning was 87.32%. After the correction of acupoint positioning, the accuracy was increased by 2.8%, which was 90.12%. In this paper, the application of depth learning in automatic location of back acupoints is realized for the first time. Only one image can be used to locate the back acupoints, with an accuracy of 90.12%.
Catalytic Reaction Mechanism of Bacterial GH92 α‐1,2‐Mannosidase: A QM/MM Metadynamics Study
Authors: Sagiroglugil Mert , Yasar Fatih
Published: October 2023

The catalytic mechanism of a
‐dependent family 92
‐mannosidase, which is abundantly present in human gut flora and malfunctions leading to the lysosomal storage disease α‐mannosidosis, has been investigated using quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics and metadynamics methods. Computational efforts show that the enzyme follows a conformational itinerary of
and the
ion serves a dual purpose, as it not only distorts the sugar ring but also plays a crucial role in orchestrating the arrangement of catalytic residues. This orchestration, in turn, contributes to the facilitation of
conformers for the ensuing reaction. This mechanistic insight is well‐aligned with the experimental predictions of the catalytic pathway, and the computed energies are of the same order of magnitude as the experimental estimations. Hence, our results extend the mechanistic understanding of glycosidases.
Determination and Confirmation of Recommended Ph2 Dose of Amivantamab in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Exon 20 Insertion Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Haddish‐Berhane Nahor , Su Yaming , Russu Alberto , Thayu Meena , Knoblauch Roland E. , Mehta Jaydeep , Xie John , Gibbs Eric , Sun Yu‐Nien , Zhou Honghui
Published: September 2023

Amivantamab has demonstrated durable responses with a tolerable safety profile in non‐small cell lung cancer with EGFR exon 20 insertions (Ex20ins) who progressed after prior platinum chemotherapy. Data supporting the amivantamab recommended phase II dose (RP2D) in this patient population are presented. Pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis and population PK (PopPK) modeling were conducted using serum concentration data obtained following amivantamab intravenous administration (140–1,750 mg). Pharmacodynamics (PDs) were evaluated using depletion of soluble EGFR and MET. Exposure‐response (E‐R) analyses were performed using the primary efficacy end point of objective response rate in patients with EGFR Ex20ins. The E‐R relationship for safety was explored for adverse events of clinical interest. Amivantamab exhibited linear PKs at 350–1,750 mg dose levels following administration, with no maximum tolerated dose identified. A two‐compartment PopPK model with linear clearance adequately described the observed PKs. Body weight was a covariate of clearance and volume of distribution in the central compartment. PopPK modeling showed that a weight‐based, 2‐tier (< 80 and ≥ 80 kg) dosing strategy reduces PK variability and provides comparable exposure across 2 weight groups, with 87% of patients achieving exposures above the target threshold. The final confirmed RP2D of amivantamab was 1,050 mg for < 80 kg (1,400 mg for ≥ 80 kg) weekly in cycle 1 (28 days) and every 2 weeks thereafter. No significant exposure‐efficacy or safety correlation was observed. In conclusion, the amivantamab RP2D is supported by PK, PD, safety, and efficacy analyses. E‐R analyses confirmed that the current regimen provides durable efficacy with tolerable safety.
Wavelet transform‐based real‐time energy management strategy of hybrid energy storage system for electric vehicle
Authors: Jiang Jie , Wang Chun , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Yongzhi , Yu Quanqing
Published: September 2023

The peak and transient components of demand power caused by the complex and variable traffic environment could induce the accelerated degradation of the battery lifespan for electric vehicle (EV). This paper proposes a wavelet transform‐based real‐time energy management strategy (EMS) to fully exploit the advantages of the hybrid energy storage system (HESS). First, to adapt the characteristics of battery and ultracapacitor, wavelet transform is employed to decompose driving cycle into high frequency power and low frequency power. Second, since the wavelet transform is difficult to be directly implemented in real‐time control, a power prediction model including four neural network predictors is established, which are trained by the data obtained from wavelet transform to online predict the power of different frequencies. Third, the high frequency power and the low frequency power are distributed to the battery and ultracapacitor by fuzzy logic control (FLC) algorithm, which can significantly reduce the damage caused by current rapid changes into the battery. Accordingly, the battery lifespan is effectively extended because it significantly avoids the impact of rapidly changing and peak current. Finally, simulation results verify the effectiveness of wavelet transform‐based real‐time EMS, and the proposed EMS robustness against temperature is verified at different temperatures. Compared with the wavelet transform strategy (WTS), the peak currents of wavelet transform‐fuzzy logic control strategy (WTFLCS) are decreased by 26.07%, 25.66%, and 25.85% at 10°C, 25°C, and 40°C, respectively.
FCM marker importance for MRD assessment in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: An AIEOP‐BFM‐ALL‐FLOW study group report
Authors: Kowarsch Florian , Maurer‐Granofszky Margarita , Weijler Lisa , Wödlinger Matthias , Reiter Michael , Schumich Angela , Feuerstein Tamar , Sala Simona , Nováková Michaela , Faggin Giovanni , Gaipa Giuseppe , Hrusak Ondrej , Buldini Barbara , Dworzak Michael N.
Published: September 2023

T‐lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) accounts for about 15% of pediatric and about 25% of adult ALL cases. Minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD) assessed by flow cytometry (FCM) is an important prognostic indicator for risk stratification. In order to assess the MRD a limited number of antibodies directed against the most discriminative antigens must be selected. We propose a pipeline for evaluating the influence of different markers for cell population classification in FCM data. We use linear support vector machine, fitted to each sample individually to avoid issues with patient and laboratory variations. The best separating hyperplane direction as well as the influence of omitting specific markers is considered. Ninety‐one bone marrow samples of 43 pediatric T‐ALL patients from five reference laboratories were analyzed by FCM regarding marker importance for blast cell identification using combinations of eight different markers. For all laboratories, CD48 and CD99 were among the top three markers with strongest contribution to the optimal hyperplane, measured by median separating hyperplane coefficient size for all samples per center and time point (diagnosis, Day 15, Day 33). Based on the available limited set tested (CD3, CD4, CD5, CD7, CD8, CD45, CD48, CD99), our findings prove that CD48 and CD99 are useful markers for MRD monitoring in T‐ALL. The proposed pipeline can be applied for evaluation of other marker combinations in the future.
An intelligent resource allocation strategy for machine type communication environment
Authors: Sharmila Muthirevula , Satyanarayana Ravinutala Venkata Subbu
Published: October 2023

Mobile communication has multiplied in many digital intelligent applications. The machine‐type communication (MTC) services have afforded flexible communication facilities considering those facilities. However, high energy consumption and poor data rate have made the MTC a complex system. So, the resource allocation strategy has been introduced by different procedures such as neural models, optimization, and mathematical models. But, in some cases, these algorithms have recorded high complexity and high resource requirement. Hence, the present research article has planned to develop a novel Chimp‐based Extreme Neural Model (CbENM) for allocating the desired optimal resource for each machine user. Moreover, the resources were assigned based on the task completion deadline. Before the resource allocation process, the active state users were predicted by analyzing their data rate and deadlines. Finally, the desired resources were allocated to each user, and the performance was validated. The presented model has a lower delay bond rate and a high data aggregate rate.