bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomical variant of anteriorly extending mental foramen: A case report
Authors: Habash Ghassan , Beshtawi Khaled R. , Jayash Soher Nagi
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

By sharing this case, we aim to enhance the understanding of the mental foramen's intricate morphology, ultimately promoting safer and more successful surgical practices in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

In surgical procedures near the mental foramen, preserving this vital structure and its contents is crucial. Surgical treatments, including procedures like implants, orthognathic surgery, and tooth extractions, can potentially lead to injuries of the mental nerve, resulting in sensory disturbances such as numbness or tingling in the lower lip and chin. This case report highlights an uncommon anterior extension of the mental foramen, posing a risk to the patient if unnoticed. Variations in this structure are possible, emphasizing the need for comprehensive three‐dimensional radiographic analysis before surgery to ensure patient safety. This report sheds light on the significance of identifying and understanding such variations to enhance the safety and precision of oral and maxillofacial interventions.
Subacute‐onset cataract in a 29‐year‐old man with mitochondrial encephalomyopathy: A case report
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhong Yueyang , Xu Jingjie , Fu Qiuli , Yao Ke
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case report aims to emphasize that subacute occurrence of nuclear cataract might be one of the underestimated manifestations of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, thus periodical ophthalmologic examinations are recommended.
Regulating Ru−O Bonding Interactions by Ir Doping Boosts the Acid Oxygen Evolution Performance
Authors: Zeng Ji‐Shuang , Qian Zheng‐Xin , Zheng Qing‐Na , Tian Jing‐Hua , Zhang Hua , Li Jian‐Feng
Published: January 2024

Highly active and stable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are crucial for the large‐scale application of proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers. However, the dynamic reconfiguration of the catalyst surface structure and active centers is still undefined, which greatly hinders the development and application of efficient OER catalysts. Herein, we report an Ir0.3Ru0.7Ox/C catalyst with a facile low‐temperature synthesis route, which can reach 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of 217 mV with a Tafel slope as low as 39.4 mV dec−1, and yields a mass activity 61 times that of commercial IrO2/C at an overpotential of 300 mV. The lattice oxygen structure of RuOx is stabilized by the introduction of Ir species, thus greatly promoting the OER activity and durability. Further in situ Raman reveals that RuOx emerges as the active species at high potentials, and Ru−O bonding interactions are enhanced with Ir regulation, stabilizing the solvation of Ru at high potentials and accelerating the nucleophilic attack of water molecules, leading to the improved OER performance. This work deepens the fundamental understanding of OER and offers an effective way to advance the utilization of Ru‐based OER catalysts.
Enhanced CO2 Photoreduction with Noble Metal‐Modified CeO2‐Synthesis, Mechanisms, and Catalytic Insights: A Minireview
Authors: Zhao Hexiang , Yang Xiaowen , Duan Yingnan , Shen Zhurui
Published: January 2024

Composite materials integrating precious metals (Au, Ag, Pd, Pt, Ru, Rh, Ir) with CeO2, a rare earth metal oxide, are increasingly utilized in photocatalytic CO2 reduction. CeO2, notable for its redox characteristics, oxygen storage capacity (OSC), and abundant oxygen vacancies (Ov), emerges as a key player in semiconductor catalyst research. The selection of precious metals and their application techniques are crucial in modifying CeO2′s wide bandgap and enhancing light absorption, thereby influencing the photocatalytic efficiency. Approaches for incorporating precious metals onto CeO2 include single atoms, metal clusters, and nanoparticles. This review provides an in‐depth analysis of the progress in composite photocatalysts comprising precious metals and CeO2 for CO2 reduction. It examines diverse modification strategies, such as particle size adjustment and heterojunction formation. The review concisely elucidates the principles behind converting CO2 into high‐value products (hydrocarbons, C1, C2, and C2+). Lastly, it addresses the challenges and future directions for precious metal‐CeO2 catalysts in photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Heterolytic H2 Activation in Heterogeneous Hydrogenation/Hydroprocessing Catalysis
Authors: Wan Kim Tae , Kim Dongun , Hyun Kim Soo , Suh Young‐Woong
Published: January 2024

In heterogeneous catalysis, heterolytic H2 activation for (selective) hydrogenation and hydroprocessing reactions involves the dissociation of adsorbed H2 molecules into proton (Hδ+) and hydride (Hδ−) on the catalyst surface. This approach offers several advantages, including high selectivity for polar bond (s), a low energy barrier for H2 dissociation, a high capacity for reaction‐favorable H2 adsorption, and reduced catalyst poisoning. This requires the construction of frustrated Lewis pairs on the catalyst surface, satisfying specific criteria, such as having an abundant quantity of Lewis pairs with steric hindrance and maintaining a certain distance of 3–5 Å between the pairs. This review highlights intrinsic catalyst properties for heterolytic H2 activation based on state‐of‐the‐art reports. The main components necessary for this activation include supports with strong basic sites and/or oxygen vacancies, and/or metals of single atom. For this purpose, designed catalytic materials aim to strengthen the Lewis acidity and basicity, improve the polarization of Lewis pairs, enrich oxygen vacancies, maximize the interfacial area between metal species and Lewis base, and enhance metal–support interaction. Therefore, heterogeneous catalysts retaining such heterolytic H2 activation characteristics will be significantly effective in various hydrogenation and hydroprocessing reactions.
Selective Electrosynthesis of Urea via C−N Coupling: Current Status, Challenges and Future Prospects
Authors: Gu Yaping , Wu Yurou , Chen Shanhu , Zhou Yangyang , Chen Chen
Published: January 2024

Selective electrosynthesis of urea from carbon source (CO2) and nitrogen (N2, NO3−, NO2−) source provides a sustainable strategy for production of essential nitrogen‐based fertilizers. The traditional technology of urea synthesis employs two consecutive processes, synthesis of NH3 from N2+H2 and urea from NH3+CO2, which always involves high energy consumption and environmental concerns. By contrast, urea electrosynthesis avoids the above harsh steps and meanwhile has higher atomic economy. Herein, we present a comprehensive review on the progress and prospect of urea electrosynthesis from abundant carbon and nitrogen sources via coupling of C−N under ambient conditions, and also discuss the mechanism researches, strategies of substrates activation, current challenges and future opportunities of urea electrosynthesis. The urea electrosynthesis via C−N coupling realizes abundant and low‐cost inorganic carbon and nitrogen sources for efficient resource utilization and provides guidance and reference for C−C, C−S or other coupling reactions.
Sodium Tetrakis(hexafluoroisopropyloxy)aluminates: Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterisation of a Room‐Temperature Solvated Ionic Liquid.
Authors: Ould Darren M. C. , Menkin Svetlana , Smith Holly E. , Riesgo‐González Víctor , Smith Thomas H. , Chinn Melissa N. B. , Jónsson Erlendur , Bond Andrew D. , Grey Clare P. , Wright Dominic S.
Published: January 2024

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the groups of Grey and Wright. The cover picture shows the chemical structure of sodium tetrakis(hexafluoroisopropyloxy)aluminate, with the sodium ion in the beach ball and the aluminate anion floating in a pool. The cover art uses a pool theme as the sodium aluminate salt synthesised in this work is a room‐temperature ionic liquid, thus the sodium salt in the pool represents this. The application of the salt in a sodium‐ion battery is shown in the cover design with the diving board acting as a battery, which can be seen by the positive and negative signs. Cover design by Demelza Lee. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300381.
Thermochromic Afterglow from Benzene‐1,4‐Diboronic Acid‐Doped Co‐crystals
Authors: Kawaguchi Kaede , Sugawara Natsumi , Ito Masato , Kubo Yuji
Published: January 2024

The accurate thermosensing requires a minimum impact of autofluorescence and light scattering from the samples. In this study, we discovered that commercially available benzene‐1,4‐diboronic acid (BDBA) doped co‐crystals with trimethylolpropane (TMP) exhibit excellent thermochromic dual phosphorescence properties over a wide temperature range from −132 to 40 °C, despite its simple structure that does not have any donor‐acceptor linkage. The dual phosphorescence was consisted of monomeric benzene‐1,4‐diboronate (BDBA ester) and aggregation‐stabilized species. With an increase in temperature, the emission intensity from the monomeric state significantly decreased, whereas that originating from the aggregated state remained almost constant owing to the difference in their thermal stabilities. Further investigation revealed that molecular distortions in singlet excited states enable efficient intersystem crossing, causing efficient phosphorescence from the monomeric state of BDBA ester.
Metal Clusters Based Multifunctional Materials for Solar Cells
Authors: Mai Sibei , Sun Jia , Fang Zihan , Xiao Guo‐Bin , Cao Jing
Published: January 2024

As a multifunctional material, metal clusters have recently received some attention for their application in solar cells.This review delves into the multifaceted role of metal clusters in advancing solar cell technologies, covering diverse aspects from electron transport and interface modification to serving as molecular precursors for inorganic materials and acting as photosensitizers in metal‐cluster sensitized solar cells (MCSSCs). The studies conducted by various researchers illustrate the crucial impact of metal clusters, such as gold nanoclusters (Au NCs), on enhancing solar cell efficiency through size‐dependent effects, distinct interface behaviors, and tailored interface engineering. From optimizing charge transfer rates to improving light absorption and reducing carrier recombination, metal clusters prove instrumental in shaping the landscape of solar energy conversion.The promising performance of metal‐cluster sensitized solar cells, coupled with their scalability and flexibility, positions them as a exciting avenue for future clean energy applications. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for continued interdisciplinary research and technological innovation to unlock the full potential of metal clusters in contributing to sustainable and high‐performance solar cells.
Effect of particle dispersion on electrochemical performance of Prussian blue analogues electrode materials for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Chen Wen Chao , Li Shi Jia , Xu Hai Yan , Xu Shao Hui , Fei Guang Tao
Published: January 2024

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) have advantages such as high voltage and low cost, making them one kind of the promising positive electrode materials for sodium‐ion batteries. Particle dispersion is a key physical parameter of electrode materials, and understanding its impact on electrochemical performance is a prerequisite for obtaining high‐performance PBAs. In this article, two PBAs samples with different particle dispersion were synthesized through sodium citrate‐assisted co‐precipitation method by means of staying and stirring. The influence of particle dispersion on electrochemical performance was investigated through polarization curve and AC impedance tests. It was found that PBAs with well‐dispersed particles exhibited excellent rate performance, with a capacity of ~120 mAh g−1 at 1 C rate and a capacity retention of 75 % after 100 cycles. The capacity retention rate could reach 63 % at 5 C rate, far higher than that of PBAs samples with poor particle dispersion. From the perspective of electrochemical kinetics analysis, it has been shown that PBAs with well‐dispersed particles exhibit smaller electrochemical polarization and faster Na+ diffusion reaction kinetics, which are key factors in achieving excellent rate performance.
UEDGE modeling of plasma detachment of CFETR with ITER‐like divertor geometry by external impurity seeding
Authors: Zhang M. Z. , Sang C. F. , Zhao M. L. , Rognlien T. D. , Zhang C. , Wang Y. L. , Bian Y. , Wang Y.
Published: January 2024

Efficient handling of high heat flux on the plasma‐facing components, particularly the divertor targets, poses a significant challenge for the Chinese Fusion Engineering Testing Reactor (CFETR) with fusion power of Gigawatt. This work investigates the divertor plasma detachment of CFETR with a standard ITER‐like divertor geometry by neon (Ne) or argon (Ar) impurity seeding using UEDGE code. The cross‐field drifts terms are switched off, and fluid neutral models and a “fixed‐fraction” impurity model are applied to enable efficient simulations for the study of CFETR detachment. In order to reduce the heat load on the divertor targets below the acceptable level (<10 MW/m2), the impurity fraction (f), pumping speed (S), and upstream density are varied to identify the suitable operations window during Ne seeding. The effects of Ne and Ar impurities on the plasma detachment are compared. It is found that with the power across the core‐edge interface PSOL = 200 MW and separatrix density of 2.8  1019 , Ne impurity fraction ≥1.7%, and Ar impurity fraction ≥0.24% can achieve the partial detachment. Achieving similar total radiation power (˜148 MW), the Ne fraction is 2.3% and the Ar fraction is 0.24%. Moreover, the simulation results indicate that Ar exhibits better power radiation efficiency and core compatibility compared with Ne.
Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with brain metastasis: A retrospective, single‐center study
Authors: Huang Nan , He Qian , Yang Yadi , Wang Xiaohui , Han Fei
Published: January 2024

Background

Brain metastasis is rare in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), with only anecdotal cases reported. Conducting a systematic study is crucial for improving the management of these patients.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐one patients with brain metastasis were retrospectively included between February 2000 and February 2023. The clinical characteristics and treatment information of patients were analyzed. Overall survival (OS) was estimated by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to explore prognostic factors.

Results

The median OS for patients was 11.2 months, with a 3‐year OS rate of 16.3%. The number of extracranial metastatic organs (HR = 5.533, P = 0.041) and the response of extracranial tumors to treatment (HR = 0.079, P = 0.003) were independent prognostic factors in the cohort.

Conclusions

Brain metastasis in NPC is a devastating condition that commonly occurs through hematogenous dissemination. Systemic therapy remains fundamental treatment, while local therapy for brain metastases may further improve survival in selected patients.
Diagnosis of chronic B‐cell lymphoproliferative disease in peripheral blood = how machine learning may help to the interpretation of flow cytometry data
Authors: Gross Zofia , Veyrat‐Masson Richard , Grange Béatrice , Huet Sarah , Verney Aurélie , Traverse‐Glehen Alexandra , Ruminy Philippe , Baseggio Lucile
Published: January 2024

Flow cytometry (FCM) has become a method of choice for immunologic characterization of chronic lymphoproliferative disease (CLPD). To reduce the potential subjectivities of FCM data interpretation, we developed a machine learning random forest algorithm (RF) allowing unsupervised analysis. This assay relies on 16 parameters obtained from our FCM screening panel, routinely used in the exploration of peripheral blood (PB) samples (mean fluorescence intensity values (MFI) of CD19, CD45, CD5, CD20, CD200, CD23, HLA‐DR, CD10 in CD19‐gated B cells, ratio of kappa/Lambda, and different ratios of MFI B‐cells/T‐cells [CD20, CD200, CD23]). The RF algorithm was trained and validated on a large cohort of more than 300 annotated different CLPD cases (chronic B‐cell leukemia, mantle cell lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, splenic red pulp lymphoma, hairy cell leukemia) and non‐tumoral selected from PB samples. The RF algorithm was able to differentiate tumoral from non‐tumoral B‐cells in all cases and to propose a correct CLPD classification in more than 90% of cases. In conclusion the RF algorithm could be proposed as an interesting help to FCM data interpretation allowing a first B‐cells CLPD diagnostic hypothesis and/or to guide the management of complementary analysis (additional immunologic markers and genetic).
Prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of acute kidney injury in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Esmaeili Zahra , Asgarian Fahimeh , Aghaei Moghadam Ehsan , Khosravi Amirali , Gharib Behdad
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). This study aims to identify the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of AKI in pediatrics admitted to a CICU unit of a tertiary hospital.

Methods

We retrospectively gathered the data of 253 randomly selected patients admitted to the CICU unit from March 2018 to March 2022. Data were collected from EHRs. We used the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria for identifying AKI in patients.

Results

Overall, AKI prevalence was 22.9% in our population. In the multivariable analysis, vancomycin intake (odds ratio [OR]: 2.109, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–3.84), angiography (OR: 4.38, 95% CI: 1.28–14.93), and mechanical ventilation (OR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.02–4.23) were independent risk factors of AKI development and patients with AKI had a higher in‐hospital mortality rate (OR: 5.81, 95% CI: 2.55–13.19), higher need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (OR: 3.08, 95% CI: 1.17–8.09), and longer ICU length of stay (OR: 6.49, 95% CI: 3.31–9.67). Furthermore, furosemide administration was associated with lower risk of developing AKI (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.27–0.97).

Conclusion

AKI is common and is associated with worse outcomes in patients with congenital heart disease. Our results emphasize the importance of early identification and monitoring of AKI in the pediatric CICU setting.
Impacts of the advancement in artificial intelligence on laboratory medicine in low‐ and middle‐income countries: Challenges and recommendations—A literature review
Authors: Oduoye Malik Olatunde , Fatima Eeshal , Muzammil Muhammad Ali , Dave Tirth , Irfan Hamza , Fariha F. N. U. , Marbell Andrew , Ubechu Samuel Chinonso , Scott Godfred Yawson , Elebesunu Emmanuel Ebuka
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in laboratory medicine, promising significant advancements in healthcare delivery. This study explores the potential impact of AI on diagnostics and patient management within the context of laboratory medicine, with a particular focus on low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs).

Methods

In writing this article, we conducted a thorough search of databases such as PubMed, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar within 20 years. The study examines AI's capabilities, including learning, reasoning, and decision‐making, mirroring human cognitive processes. It highlights AI's adeptness at processing vast data sets, identifying patterns, and expediting the extraction of actionable insights, particularly in medical imaging interpretation and laboratory test data analysis. The research emphasizes the potential benefits of AI in early disease detection, therapeutic interventions, and personalized treatment strategies.

Results

In the realm of laboratory medicine, AI demonstrates remarkable precision in interpreting medical images such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Its predictive analytical capabilities extend to forecasting patient trajectories and informing personalized treatment strategies using comprehensive data sets comprising clinical outcomes, patient records, and laboratory results. The study underscores the significance of AI in addressing healthcare challenges, especially in resource‐constrained LMICs.

Conclusion

While acknowledging the profound impact of AI on laboratory medicine in LMICs, the study recognizes challenges such as inadequate data availability, digital infrastructure deficiencies, and ethical considerations. Successful implementation necessitates substantial investments in digital infrastructure, the establishment of data‐sharing networks, and the formulation of regulatory frameworks. The study concludes that collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including international organizations, governments, and nongovernmental entities, are crucial for overcoming obstacles and responsibly integrating AI into laboratory medicine in LMICs. A comprehensive, coordinated approach is essential for realizing AI's transformative potential and advancing health care in LMICs.
Beyond genotype‐4: Direct‐acting antiviral agents in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ismail Mona H.
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have revolutionized the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, resulting in a high sustained virologic response (SVR) rate. However, the published data from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia are limited to small patient groups and specific DAAs used for patients with genotype‐4.(GT‐4). This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of DAAs for treating HCV infection in Saudi Arabia in a real‐life setting.

Methods

This retrospective study from January 2015 to December 2019 included all HCV‐infected patients who received DAAs at a tertiary university hospital in Saudi Arabia. Baseline characteristics and laboratory data were collected from health records, including HCV RNA level, genotype, and presence of liver cirrhosis or steatosis. The primary outcome was undetectable HCV RNA at 12 weeks posttreatment (SVR12). Results were stratified based on different DAAs and HCV genotypes. Treatment‐related adverse events were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results

Of the 117 patients included, 43.2% had advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, and the majority (90.6%) were treatment‐naïve. The mean age was 50.1 ± 15.5 years, with 57.3% females. The most common genotype was GT‐4 (44.4%), followed by GT‐1 (40.2%). Most patients (64.3%) received sofosbuvir and daclatasvir ± ribavirin, while the remaining patients received various DAAs. Overall, 98.3% of the patients achieved SVR12. The therapy was well tolerated, with fatigue and headache being the most common side effects.

Conclusions

Treatment with DAAs is highly effective across different genotypes and various DDA regimens in the real world for treating HCV infection in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, contributing to improved patient outcomes and the overall goal of HCV elimination.
Dilated cardiomyopathy in patients with hypoparathyroidism: A narrative review
Authors: Abdolmaleki Maryam , Ohadi Laya , Maleki Saba
Published: January 2024

Background

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by low blood calcium levels, elevated phosphorus levels, and insufficient parathyroid hormone production. It can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a cardiac condition characterized by enlarged ventricles and reduced heart function. This review aims to explore the relationship between hypoparathyroidism and DCM, the impact of calcium on cardiac function, and the potential for DCM reversal with calcium supplementation.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and relevant keywords and Mesh terms. Case reports evaluating dilated cardiomyopathy in patients with Hypoparathyroidism were included in the study. Additionally, references cited in each study were carefully examined to identify relevant reports. The cases included in the review were analyzed, and common cardiac manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management were identified.

Results

DCM in hypoparathyroidism presents with symptoms of heart failure, reduced ejection fraction, and impaired left ventricular function. Laboratory tests show low serum calcium levels and elevated phosphate levels. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with calcium and vitamin D supplementation can lead to improvements in cardiac function.

Conclusion

Hypoparathyroidism‐induced DCM is reversible with timely calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Patient compliance with prescribed medications and supplements is crucial to prevent and manage cardiac complications. Regular follow‐up check‐ups and monitoring of calcium levels can aid in early detection and improve patient outcomes. Educating patients about the importance of treatment adherence can significantly reduce the risk of developing DCM and other cardiac symptoms associated with hypoparathyroidism. Routine follow‐up of DCM among patients with endocrine disorders is recommended.
Prenatal care utilization and perinatal outcomes among pregnant adolescents in Mexico, 2008–2019
Authors: Hayer Sarena , Fuentes‐Rivera Evelyn , Schiavon Raffaela , Darney Blair G.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To describe utilization of prenatal care and outcomes of low birth weight and preterm birth among adolescent births in Mexico.

Methods

We used birth certificate data and included live births to individuals 10–24 years, 2008–2019. Our outcomes were binary measures of adequate prenatal care, low birth weight, and preterm birth. We compared adolescents (10–14 years, 15–16, and 17–19) to those 20–24 years. We included individual‐, clinical‐, and municipality‐level variables, used multivariable logistic regression, and calculated adjusted predicted probabilities. We also tested whether receipt of prenatal care moderated the relationship of age with preterm birth and low birth weight.

Results

We included a total of 12 106 710 births to women 10–24 years. The adjusted predicted probability of adequate prenatal care increased with age: 56.07% (95% CI 55.82–56.31%) adjusted probability among adolescents 10–14 years compared with 65.51% (95% CI 65.48%–65.55%) among individuals 20–24 years. Receipt of adequate prenatal care in part mitigated disparities in preterm birth and low birthweight across all age groups: 7.30% (95% CI 7.17%–7.43%) adjusted probability of delivering a preterm infant among those 10–14 years who received adequate prenatal care compared with 9.37% (95% CI 9.20%–9.53%) among those 10–14 years without adequate prenatal care.

Conclusion

In Mexico, adolescent pregnancies are associated with inadequate prenatal care as well as higher odds of preterm delivery and low birth weight. Youngest adolescents (10–14 years) have the highest probability of adverse outcomes. Adequate prenatal care may help partially mitigate disparities in poor perinatal outcomes.
Brain tumor segmentation and survival time prediction using graph momentum fully convolutional network with modified Elman spike neural network
Authors: Ramkumar M. , Kumar R. Sarath , Padmapriya R. , Karthick S.
Published: January 2024

Brain tumor segmentation (BTS) from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans is crucial for the diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of therapeutic results. Thus, this research work proposes a novel graph momentum fully convolutional network with a modified Elman spike neural network (MESNN) for BTS and overall survival prediction (OSP). Initially, the introduced graph momentum fully convolutional network segments the brain tumor as enhanced tumor, the tumor core, and the whole tumor from the pre‐processed MRI scans. Second, the texture, intensity, shape, and wavelet features were extracted from the segmented tumors. Then, the horse herd optimization algorithm is utilized to minimize the feature's dimensionality. Finally, the OSP is performed by the MESNN which classifies the survival prediction of a patient as long‐term, mid‐term, and short‐term. The achieved segmentation accuracy of proposed method is 97% and the survival prediction's average RMSE is 215.5.
Assessing the water use efficiency of irrigated fruit crops in semi‐arid regions of Brazil using remote sensing and meteorological data
Authors: Costa Jéfferson de Oliveira , Coelho Rubens Duarte , Guimarães Edna Alves , Quiloango‐Chimarro Carlos Alberto , Fernandes André Luís Teixeira
Published: January 2024

The irrigated perimeter of Jaíba‐MG is located in a semi‐arid region of Brazil, which makes irrigation practices necessary in order to guarantee agricultural production. This need occurs in the context of limited water resources and, therefore, it is necessary to study ways to optimize water use efficiency (WUE). For this, it is necessary to obtain local and precise estimates of the crop coefficient (Kc) and the reference evapotranspiration (ET0). The objective of this study was to evaluate the water requirements and WUE of banana, lemon and mango crops in the irrigated perimeter region of Jaíba using satellite images and meteorological data. Landsat 8 satellite images from 2020 and 2021 were used to estimate the local Kc of these crops. Three methodologies for estimating local Kc were adopted: METRIC, NDVI and NDVI 2. The Kc NDVI method stood out when compared with the standard method (FAO Bulletin 56), with RMSEs of 0.11, 0.16 and 0.20 for banana, lemon and mango, respectively, showing the potential of this methodology. The overall average WUE values for banana, lemon and mango crops were 2.19, 1.58 and 1.58 kg m−3, respectively. The results could allow important advances in water management for fruit crops under semi‐arid conditions.
Filling the form: Expressive Therapies Continuum‐guided treatment of narcissistic personality disorder
Authors: Hinz Lisa D.
Published: January 2024

Sara was a 65‐year‐old Caucasian woman who requested art therapy after the death of her partner. She had experienced incest by her father and verbal abuse by her mother until she left home at 21. Her life was characterized by broken relationships due to alienating anger outbursts and an interrupted work history; she met three criteria for narcissistic personality disorder. Sara initially was socially isolated and intellectualizing. She desired recognition but was fearful of exposure. The Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) theoretical framework, which consisted of a gradual progression from cognitively‐dominated sessions to more emotionally focused processing, guided the therapeutic work. The ETC theory encourages transparency and collaboration between therapist and client regarding therapeutic tasks and goals, and provides a framework for addressing and repairing ruptures in the therapeutic alliance. Art therapy began with the cognitive tasks which Sara completed relatively comfortably, then encouraged integration of emotion via expressive writing, diagrams, and body mapping. Through careful attention to repair of ruptures by directly discussing and adapting the direction and tasks of therapy, Sara slowly was able to experience emotions other than anger. She integrated cognitive and emotional insights about her life and developed empathy for her childhood self. At termination Sara had cultivated two friendships and met only one criterion of NPD. Limitations of this case study include a lack of research evidence for ETC‐guided art therapy with NPD clients and by the retrospective approach. Future research efforts could provide this support by encouraging clinicians to conduct prospective case study research.
Epitranscriptomics m6A analyses reveal distinct m6A marks under tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α)‐induced apoptotic conditions in HeLa cells
Authors: Akçaöz‐Alasar Azime , Tüncel Özge , Sağlam Buket , Gazaloğlu Yasemin , Atbinek Melis , Cagiral Umut , Iscan Evin , Ozhan Gunes , Akgül Bünyamin
Published: January 2024

Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) is a ligand that induces both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways in HeLa cells by modulating complex gene regulatory mechanisms. However, the full spectrum of TNF‐α‐modulated epitranscriptomic m6A marks is unknown. We employed a genomewide approach to examine the extent of m6A RNA modifications under TNF‐α‐modulated apoptotic conditions in HeLa cells. miCLIP‐seq analyses revealed a plethora of m6A marks on 632 target mRNAs with an enrichment on 99 mRNAs associated with apoptosis. Interestingly, the m6A RNA modification patterns were quite different under cisplatin‐ and TNF‐α‐mediated apoptotic conditions. We then examined the abundance and translational efficiencies of several mRNAs under METTL3 knockdown and/or TNF‐α treatment conditions. Our analyses showed changes in the translational efficiency of TP53INP1 mRNA based on the polysome profile analyses. Additionally, TP53INP1 protein amount was modulated by METTL3 knockdown upon TNF‐α treatment but not CP treatment, suggesting the existence of a pathway‐specific METTL3‐TP53INP1 axis. Congruently, METLL3 knockdown sensitized HeLa cells to TNF‐α‐mediated apoptosis, which was also validated in a zebrafish larval xenograft model. These results suggest that apoptotic pathway‐specific m6A methylation marks exist in cells and TNF‐α‐METTL3‐TP53INP1 axis modulates TNF‐α‐mediated apoptosis in HeLa cells.
Artificial Intelligence in battling infectious diseases: A transformative role
Authors: Li Chunhui , Ye Guoguo , Jiang Yinghan , Wang Zhiming , Yu Haiyang , Yang Minghui
Published: January 2024

It is widely acknowledged that infectious diseases have wrought immense havoc on human society, being regarded as adversaries from which humanity cannot elude. In recent years, the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has ushered in a revolutionary era in the realm of infectious disease prevention and control. This evolution encompasses early warning of outbreaks, contact tracing, infection diagnosis, drug discovery, and the facilitation of drug design, alongside other facets of epidemic management. This article presents an overview of the utilization of AI systems in the field of infectious diseases, with a specific focus on their role during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The article also highlights the contemporary challenges that AI confronts within this domain and posits strategies for their mitigation. There exists an imperative to further harness the potential applications of AI across multiple domains to augment its capacity in effectively addressing future disease outbreaks.
Emergence and high prevalence of unusual rotavirus G8P[8] strains in outpatients with acute gastroenteritis in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhong Huaqing , Jia Ran , Xu Menghua , Liu Pengcheng , Su Liyun , Cao Lingfeng , Zhu Xunhua , Lu Lijuan , Xu Jin
Published: January 2024

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is considered an important cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in all age groups, especially in children. We investigated the epidemiology of RVA in outpatients aged ≤ 16 years at the Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China. In this study, 16.6% (246/1482) were infected with RVA. The detection rate of RVA was significantly higher in the year of 2021 (20.3%, 147/725) compared to the year of 2020 (14.5%, 77/531) and 2022 (9.7%, 22/226) (p = 0.000). RVA infection was prevalent in all seasons from 2020 to 2022, with a different monthly distribution observed in different years. Among 246 RVA‐positive samples, 14 different RVA genotypes were detected with different frequencies. Overall, G9P[8] (45.5%, 112/246) was the most common RVA genotype, followed by G8P[8] (37.4%, 92/246) and G3P[8] (4.1%, 10/246). The prevalence of G/P combinations varied from 2020 to 2022. G9P[8] was the most prevalent circulating genotype in 2020 (68.2%, 15/22) and 2021 (57.8%, 85/147). However, G8P[8] (68.8%, 53/77) suddenly became the most prevalent genotype in 2022 after being first identified in 2020 and prevalent in 2021. The G8 strains detected in the study were all clustered to DS‐1‐like G8 strains with the closest genetic distance to strains circulating in Southeast Asia. Our study demonstrated the diversity of circulating RVA genotypes in Shanghai. The sudden emergence and high prevalence of unusual G8P[8] strains deserve more concern and indicate the need for continuous surveillance of RVA in children with AGE in the future to refine future vaccine strategy.
Top 10 research priorities for digital technology for adolescents and young persons with inflammatory bowel disease: Results of a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership
Authors: Narula Priya , Gasparetto Marco , Wong Charlotte , Branchflower Jacob , Sebastian Shaji , McLaughlin John , Rao Arati , Wakeman Ruth , Ainley Rachel , Smith Philip J. , Kammermeier Jochen , Younge Lisa , Randall Sophie , Bukhari Seema , Manson Jess , Ellis Patricia , Arebi Naila ,   the James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership for Digital Technology for Adolescents and YP with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Priority Setting Partnerships (PSP's) using the James Lind Alliance (JLA) methodology, bring together health professionals, patients and parents/carers to identify and prioritise unanswered questions that can be addressed by future research projects. To identify and prioritise the top 10 unanswered research priorities in digital technology for adolescents and young people (AYP) with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

A steering group (SG) consisting of AYP with IBD, their parents/carers, representatives from two charities (Crohn's & Colitis UK, Crohn's in Childhood Research Association), patient information forum and paediatric and adult and primary care healthcare professionals was established in 2021. The SG agreed the protocol, and scope of the PSP and oversaw all aspects. SG meetings were chaired by a JLA advisor and followed the established JLA methodology.

Results

The initial survey generated 414 in‐scope questions from 156 respondents, thematically categorised into 10 themes and consolidated into 92 summary questions by the SG. A comprehensive literature review followed by SG deliberation narrowed the unanswered summary questions to 45, for the interim prioritising survey. One hundred and two respondents ranked their top 10 research questions. Outputs generated top 18 research priorities presented at a final virtual prioritisation workshop, facilitated by JLA advisors and attended by key stakeholders, ranked into top 10 research priorities.

Discussion

The top 10 research priorities will encourage researchers to undertake research that addresses these areas of unmet need for AYP living with IBD, their parents/carers and their healthcare professionals, thereby facilitating improved patient care.
Advancing clinical cancer care: Unveiling the power of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Li Xue , Yang Guang , Zhang Shuwen , Ren He
Published: January 2024

Tumors are characterized by abnormal cell growth, which leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation, invasion of surrounding tissues, and potential metastasis to other parts of the body. Current treatments for tumors include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and biological therapy. However, many tumors are detected at advanced stages, limiting the effectiveness of these treatments. Therefore, there is a need to develop more sensitive and efficient techniques to improve patient survival rates. Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology is a highly sensitive molecular detection and characterization technique. It can be combined with histomorphology, immunolabeling assays, and molecular hybridization to achieve quantitative diagnosis at morphological, molecular, and genetic levels. SERS offers advantages such as objectivity, reproducibility, and comparability. However, there are challenges to address, including complex substrate or probe preparation, cumbersome data analysis, and signal reproducibility and reliability. To fully utilize the potential of SERS in the biomedical field and for clinical translation, it is important to optimize the technology and develop more sensitive, accurate, and reliable substrate or probe preparation and analysis methods. This review aims to comprehensively explain the mechanism and unique advantages of SERS technology and discuss its current status, challenges, and prospects in tumor‐related research.
Medial meniscal lesions increase antero‐posterior laxity in knees with anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Franceschini Marco , Reale Davide , Boffa Angelo , Andriolo Luca , Tortorella Fabio , Grassi Alberto , Filardo Giuseppe , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to quantify the impact of concomitant meniscal lesions on knee laxity using a triaxial accelerometer in a large population of patients affected by anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Methods

A total of 326 consecutive patients (261 men and 65 women, mean age 31.3 ± 11.3) undergoing primary ACL reconstruction, were preoperatively evaluated through Lachman and pivot shift tests using a triaxial accelerometer to quantify knee laxity. An analysis based on the presence of meniscal tears assessed during surgery was performed to evaluate the impact of meniscal lesions on knee laxity.

Results

The anterior tibial translation (Lachman test) presented significantly higher values in patients with medial meniscal lesions (7.3 ± 1.7 mm, p = 0.049) and both medial and lateral meniscal lesions (7.7 ± 1.6 mm, p = 0.001) compared to patients without concomitant meniscal lesions (6.7 ± 1.3 mm). Moreover, patients with both medial and lateral meniscal lesions presented significantly higher values of anterior tibial translation compared to patients with lateral meniscal lesions (p = 0.049). No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in terms of tibial acceleration (pivot shift test).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the contribution of concomitant meniscal lesions to knee laxity can be objectively quantified using a triaxial accelerometer in ACL‐injured knees. In particular, medial meniscus lesions, alone or in association with lateral meniscus lesions, determine a significant increase of the anterior tibial translation compared to knees without meniscus tears.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Effects of plant productivity and species on soil carbon and nitrogen sequestration under seasonal grazing in a semi‐arid grassland of North China
Authors: Chen Lingling , Haobitai  , Baoyin Taogetao
Published: January 2024

Seasonal grazing is a common alternative to the rest‐rotation grazing management regime. Although that research has been extensive on the impacts of grazing on soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) sequestration, there is limited understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of plant productivity and species on SOC and N sequestration under seasonal grazing. To address this problem, the response of plant properties was quantified in five different seasonal grazing regimes (no grazing control, continuous grazing, early summer and late summer grazing, mid summer and early autumn grazing, late summer and mid autumn grazing) in a semi‐arid grassland of North China between 2012 and 2018. The results indicated that early summer and late summer grazing had little damage to the plant communities but reduced the SOC and N sequestration in the 10–20 cm layer, while mid summer and early autumn grazing maintained a relatively high plant productivity but resulted in the losses of SOC and N sequestration in the 0–20 cm layer. The late summer and mid autumn grazing regime enhanced SOC and N sequestration in the 0–20 cm layer by producing higher yields of Stipa krylovii and root biomass. The improved biomass of S. krylovii and roots is an indicator of soil quality evolution in the context of grazing management. It is therefore proposed that the late summer and mid autumn grazing regime, including a two‐month rest period, is likely to be a beneficial strategy to conserve both plant communities and soil nutrients for sustainable management of the studied grassland.
A mathematical model for velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling
Authors: Liu Thomas T. , Wong Eric C. , Bolar Divya S. , Chen Conan , Barnes Ryan S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To present a theoretical framework that rigorously defines and analyzes key concepts and quantities for velocity selective arterial spin labeling (VSASL).

Theory and Methods

An expression for the VSASL arterial delivery function is derived based on (1) labeling and saturation profiles as a function of velocity and (2) physiologically plausible approximations of changes in acceleration and velocity across the vascular system. The dependence of labeling efficiency on the amplitude and effective bolus width of the arterial delivery function is defined. Factors that affect the effective bolus width are examined, and timing requirements to minimize quantitation errors are derived.

Results

The model predicts that a flow‐dependent negative bias in the effective bolus width can occur when velocity selective inversion (VSI) is used for the labeling module and velocity selective saturation (VSS) is used for the vascular crushing module. The bias can be minimized by choosing a nominal labeling cutoff velocity that is lower than the nominal cutoff velocity of the vascular crushing module.

Conclusion

The elements of the model are specified in a general fashion such that future advances can be readily integrated. The model can facilitate further efforts to understand and characterize the performance of VSASL and provide critical theoretical insights that can be used to design future experiments and develop novel VSASL approaches.
Joint MAPLE: Accelerated joint T1 and T2*$$ {{\mathrm{T}}_2}^{\ast } $$ mapping with scan‐specific self‐supervised networks
Authors: Heydari Amir , Ahmadi Abbas , Kim Tae Hyung , Bilgic Berkin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Quantitative MRI finds important applications in clinical and research studies. However, it is encoding intensive and may suffer from prohibitively long scan times. Accelerated MR parameter mapping techniques have been developed to help address these challenges. Here, an accelerated joint T1, , frequency and proton density mapping technique with scan‐specific self‐supervised network reconstruction is proposed to synergistically combine parallel imaging, model‐based, and deep learning approaches to speed up parameter mapping.

Methods

Proposed framework, Joint MAPLE, includes parallel imaging, signal modeling, and data consistency blocks which are optimized jointly in a combined loss function. A scan‐specific self‐supervised reconstruction is embedded into the framework, which takes advantage of multi‐contrast data from a multi‐echo, multi‐flip angle, gradient echo acquisition.

Results

In comparison with parallel reconstruction techniques powered by low‐rank methods, emerging scan specific networks, and model‐based estimation approaches, the proposed framework reduces the reconstruction error in parameter maps by approximately two‐fold on average at acceleration rates as high as R = 16 with uniform sampling. It can outperform evaluated parallel reconstruction techniques up to four‐fold on average in the presence of challenging sub‐sampling masks. It is observed that Joint MAPLE performs well at extreme acceleration rates of R = 25 and R = 36 with error values less than 20%.

Conclusion

Joint MAPLE enables higher fidelity parameter estimation at high acceleration rates by synergistically combining parallel imaging and model‐based parameter mapping and exploiting multi‐echo, multi‐flip angle datasets. Utilizing a scan‐specific self‐supervised reconstruction obviates the need for large data sets for training while improving the parameter estimation ability.