bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weakened Crystalline SnNb2O6 for Enhanced Performance in Photocatalytic H2 Production and CO2 Reduction
Authors: Li Hui , Tong Haojie , Gao Hongyu , Wang Yinshu , He Jinwei , Wang Zelin , Wang Xiaojing , Chai Zhanli
Published: March 2023

Low crystalline photocatalysts with unsaturated active sites, such as oxygen vacancy (Ov), is reported to exhibit enhanced adsorption and activation of oxygen‐containing small molecules, such as H2O and CO2, thus boosting the activity in photocatalytic H2 evolution and CO2 reduction. However, numerous low‐crystalline photocatalysts show unsatisfactory stability due to the easily repaired surface Ov. Herein, three SnNb2O6 with different crystallinity were prepared by hydrothermal approach with similar precursors. Compared with bulk SnNb2O6 and ultra‐thin layered SnNb2O6, low‐crystalline SnNb2O6 (SNA) exhibits optimal visible‐light‐driven evolution rates of H2 (86.04 μmol g−1 h−1) and CO from CO2 (71.97 μmol g−1 h−1), which is mainly ascribed to the fast separation of the photogenerated carriers and enhanced photoreduction power caused by the surface Ov. More importantly, the sharp decrease of photocatalytic activity of SNA after seven cycles is well restored by the hydrothermal treatment of recycled SNA, ascribed to the reactivated surface Ov with the recovered low‐crystalline structure. These works thus offer a promising strategy for developing low‐crystalline and amorphous photocatalysts with high activity and stability.
Heritability of human “directed” functional connectome
Authors: Bianco Maria Giovanna , Duggento Andrea , Nigro Salvatore , Conti Allegra , Toschi Nicola , Passamonti Luca
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The functional connectivity patterns in the brain are highly heritable; however, it is unclear how genetic factors influence the directionality of such “information flows.” Studying the “directionality” of the brain functional connectivity and assessing how heritability modulates it can improve our understanding of the human connectome.

Methods

Here, we investigated the heritability of “directed” functional connections using a state‐space formulation of Granger causality (GC), in conjunction with blind deconvolution methods accounting for local variability in the hemodynamic response function. Such GC implementation is ideal to explore the directionality of functional interactions across a large number of networks. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were drawn from the Human Connectome Project (total n = 898 participants). To add robustness to our findings, the dataset was randomly split into a “discovery” and a “replication” sample (each with n = 449 participants). The two cohorts were carefully matched in terms of demographic variables and other confounding factors (e.g., education). The effect of shared environment was also modeled.

Results

The parieto‐ and prefronto‐cerebellar, parieto‐prefrontal, and posterior‐cingulate to hippocampus connections showed the highest and most replicable heritability effects with little influence by shared environment. In contrast, shared environmental factors significantly affected the visuo‐parietal and sensory‐motor directed connectivity.

Conclusion

We suggest a robust role of heritability in influencing the directed connectivity of some cortico‐subcortical circuits implicated in cognition. Further studies, for example using task‐based fMRI and GC, are warranted to confirm the asymmetric effects of genetic factors on the functional connectivity within cognitive networks and their role in supporting executive functions and learning.
Negative Homotropic Cooperativity in Guest Binding of a Trisporphyrin Double Cleft
Authors: Hisano Naoyuki , Kodama Tomoki , Haino Takeharu
Published: March 2023

The negative homotropic allostery of a triple‐layered trisporphyrin cleft with two guest binding sites is confirmed. The X‐ray crystal structures of the 1 : 2 host‐guest complexes showed that the trisporphyrin accommodated two guest molecules within the cleft through π–π stacking and donor‐acceptor interactions. In solution, 1H NMR and Job plots showed 1 : 2 host‐guest complexes. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and UV/vis absorption spectroscopy were employed to evaluate the binding constants and cooperativities. The guest binding of the trisporphyrin showed negative cooperativity and non‐cooperativity depending on the structures of the guest molecules. The correlations between the interaction parameters (α) and Hill constants were determined. ITC experiments showed that the host‐guest complexation of trisporphyrin with electron‐deficient guests incurred an enthalpy penalty in the successive guest binding process. DFT calculations revealed that binding of the first guest reduced the electron density of the central porphyrin plane, which led to an energetic penalty that weakened the successive binding process.
Precisely Designed Difunctionalized Cyclodextrin Produces a Solid‐State Organic Porous Hierarchical Supramolecular Assembly
Authors: Colesnic Dmitri , Hernando Pedro J. , Chamoreau Lise‐Marie , Bouteiller Laurent , Ménand Mickaël , Sollogoub Matthieu
Published: March 2023

Regioselective di‐functionalization of a cyclodextrin allows hydrophobic domains to be directed in a geometrically controlled manner. This controlled orientation ultimately gives access to an original hierarchical assembly in the solid state. This assembly spans over three levels of hierarchy which are governed by synergistic host‐guest inclusions, directed hydrophobic effect and hydrogen bonding. This combination of interactions precisely positioned in space through regioselective functionalization of a cyclodextrin creates a porous organic architecture.
(3+2)‐Cyclization Reactions of Unsaturated Phosphonites with Aldehydes and Thioketones
Authors: Munasinghe Don S. , Kasper Marc‐André , Jasiński Radomir , Kula Karolina , Palusiak Marcin , Celeda Małgorzata , Mlostoń Grzegorz , Hackenberger Christian P. R.
Published: March 2023

By exploiting the unique reactivity of ethynyl‐phosphonites we obtain novel P(V)‐containing five‐membered heterocycles via (3+2)‐cyclization reactions with aldehydes or cycloaliphatic thioketones in satisfactory to excellent yields. Whereas reactions with thioketones to yield 1,3‐thiaphospholes‐3‐oxides occur smoothly at room temperature with equimolar amounts of the starting materials in absence of any catalyst, the analogous conversions with aldehydes to generate 3‐oxides of 1,3‐oxaphospholes require addition of triethylamine as a base. We postulate a step‐wise (3+2)‐cyclization mechanism for the formation of the 1,3‐thiaphosphole ring based on DFT quantum chemical calculations. With this study, we introduce new cyclization reactions originating from unsaturated phosphonites as central synthetic building blocks to yield previously inaccessible stable phosphorus‐containing heterocycles with unexplored potential for the molecular sciences.
An Intelligent Laser‐Free Photodynamic Therapy Based on Endogenous miRNA‐Amplified CRET Nanoplatform**
Authors: Weng Benrui , Wang Yifei , Wang Siyuan , Liu Yaqi , Kang Nana , Liu Sijia , Ran Jiabing , Deng Zhangshuang , Yang Changying , Wang Decheng , Wang Huimin , Wang Fuan
Published: March 2023

Laser‐free photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising noninvasive therapeutic modality for deep‐seated tumor, yet is constrained by low efficiency due to the limited stimulation strategies. Herein, a novel miRNA‐responsive laser‐free PDT was developed through metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs)‐mediated chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (CRET) nanoplatform. The photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6)‐loaded MOFs were functionalized with hairpin nucleic acids for sensitive responsiveness of tumor biomarker miRNA through catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA), which enabled the amplified assembly of horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐mimicking hemin/G‐quadruplex DNAzyme on MOFs. Simultaneously, the on‐MOF assembled DNAzymes efficiently catalyzed chemiluminescence reaction to stimulate adjacent Ce6 in the presence of luminol and H2O2, thus allowing the CRET‐mediated Ce6 luminescence and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation for self‐illuminating PDT. The CRET nanoplatform achieved significant malignant cell apoptosis and tumor inhibition effects without external laser irradiation. It is envisioned that the miRNA‐amplified CRET nanoplatform might be a selective and highly efficient antitumor nanomedicine for precise theranostic.
The photoreceptor protective cGMP‐analog Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS interacts with cGMP‐interactors PKGI, PDE1, PDE6, and PKAI in the degenerating mouse retina
Authors: Rasmussen Michel , Tolone Arianna , Paquet‐Durand Francois , Welinder Charlotte , Schwede Frank , Ekström Per
Published: March 2023

The inherited eye disease retinitis pigmentosa (RP) causes the loss of photoreceptors by a still unknown cell death mechanism. During this degeneration, cyclic guanosine‐3′,5′‐monophosphate (cGMP) levels become elevated, leading to over‐activation of the cGMP‐binding protein cGMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKG). cGMP analogs selectively modified to have inhibitory actions on PKG have aided in impeding photoreceptor death, and one such cGMP analog is Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS. However, cGMP analogs have previously been shown to interact with numerous targets, so to better understand the therapeutic action of Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS, it is necessary to elucidate its target‐selectivity and hence what potential cellular mechanism(s) it may affect within the photoreceptors. Here, we, therefore, applied affinity chromatography together with mass spectrometry to isolate and identify Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS interactors from retinas derived from three different murine RP models (i.e., rd1, rd2, and rd10 mice). Our findings revealed that Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS bound seven known cGMP‐binding proteins, including PKG1β, PDE1β, PDE1c, PDE6α, and PKA1α. Furthermore, an additional 28 proteins were found to be associated with Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS. This latter group included MAPK1/3, which is known to connect with cGMP/PKG in other systems. However, in organotypic retinal cultures, Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS had no effect on photoreceptor MAPK1/3 expression or activity. To summarize, Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS is more target specific compared to regular cGMP.
Transitions of Collective Motions Driven by Phase Resetting
Authors: Teng Rui , Li Yang , Ren Lin , Ma Juan , Epstein Irving R. , Gao Qingyu
Published: March 2023

Abrupt (i. e. step) environmental changes, such as natural disasters or the intervention of predators, can alter the internal dynamics of groups with active units, leading to the rapid destruction and/or restructuring of the group, with the emergence of new collective structures that endow the system with adaptability. Few studies, to date, have considered the influence of abrupt environmental changes on emergent behavior. Here, we use a model of active matter, the Belousov‐Zhabotinsky (BZ) self‐oscillating gel, to study the mechanism of formation and transition between modes of collective locomotion caused by changes of illumination intensity in arrays of interacting photosensitive active units. New forms of collective motion can be generated by step changes of illumination intensity. These transformations arise from the phase resetting and wave‐signal regeneration induced by the abrupt parameter variation, while gradual change results in different evolution of collective motion. Our results not only suggest a novel mechanism for emergence, but also imply that new collective behaviors could be accessible via discontinuous parameter changes.
Crushing It: Can Ground‐Up Rock Help Save the Earth?
Authors: Coyne Kristen
Published: March 2023

Nature perfected the carbon cycle a long time ago, and rock weathering plays a key role by helping capture atmospheric carbon dioxide through a chemical reaction that occurs when silicate rocks are exposed to air and water. Crushing up the right kind of rocks and spreading them on land could help humans ratchet up nature’s process significantly, capturing some of the excess carbon dioxide we’ve released into the atmosphere. The promising idea has attracted not only a growing number of scientists, but also environmental entrepreneurs who are turning the research into action, albeit at a pace not everyone is comfortable with. While the scientific and business approaches operate under different rules, there’s room for cooperation, data sharing, and innovation as they target the common enemy of climate change.
Clinical application of pancreatic juice‐derived small extracellular vesicles of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tsutsumi Koichiro , Otsuka Motoyuki
Published: March 2023

Background

Recent imaging modalities have helped inthe early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), resulting inimproved survival rates for patients with early‐stage PDAC. However, preoperative pathological diagnosis of early‐stage PDAC remains a challenge, particularly for small PDAC that is difficult to diagnose through standardendoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy. In this context, pancreaticjuice cytology has been re‐evaluated as an important tool for the preoperativediagnosis of early‐stage PDAC.

Main

Pancreatic juice (PJ) comes in directcontact with PDAC lesions in the pancreatic duct and thus may contain a fewHG‐PanIN/PDAC cells and specific molecules. Additionally, the PJ may containconcentrated small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) that are released from cancerlesions. sEVs are double‐layered lipid‐bound particles that contain cargoassociated with the cell‐of‐origin, including proteins, microRNA, and RNA. sEVsreleased from cancer lesions found in body fluids, such as blood, urine, andsaliva, have already been studied as potential sources of diagnostic biomarkersfor cancer. PJ‐derived sEVs could serve as a “liquid biopsy” for theearly diagnosis of PDAC. However, little is known about the existence,physiological status, and function of PJ‐derived sEVs and their potentialutility as biomarkers for diagnostic, surveillance, and monitoring purposes oras therapeutic targets.

Conclusion

PJ‐derived sEVs represent a promisingavenue for the early diagnosis of PDAC. The utility of these particles as biomarkersfor diagnostic, surveillance, and monitoring purposes, or as therapeutictargets, warrants further research. Understanding the existence, physiologicalstatus, and function of PJ‐derived sEVs is crucial to unlocking their potentialas a valuable tool for overcoming PDAC.
Cinepazide maleate promotes recovery from spinal cord injury by inhibiting inflammation and prolonging neuronal survival
Authors: Li Dadi , Zhao Shuxian , Zhu Bin , Zhao Wanmin , Ding Ya , Li Xuejun , Fu Donglin , Yu Haiyang , Wang Baogui , Pan Tan
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of cinepazide maleate (CM) on spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats, thereby providing an experimental basis for the use of CM as a preventative and therapeutic strategy for SCI. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining and western blot analysis were used to assess neural cell apoptosis. enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to analyze the expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in spinal cord tissues and cerebrospinal fluid. CD68 staining and western blot analysis were used to investigate the effect of CM on microglia activation. The effects of CM on motor function and histological damage in rats after SCI were investigated using the Basso‐Beattie‐Bresnahan (BBB) score, footprint assay, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and NeuN staining. In vitro models of neuronal cell injury and microglial inflammation were developed to investigate the effects of CM on apoptosis and inflammation. Functional tests (BBB score and footprint test) revealed that CM‐treated rats had significantly improved motor function. In vivo CM treatment reduced the number of apoptotic cells at the site of injury. Similarly, in vitro CM treatment reduced H2O2‐induced neuronal apoptosis. In vivo CM treatment reduced the number of CD68‐positive microglia and the expression levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6. Similarly, in vitro CM treatment reduced LPS‐induced pro‐inflammatory cytokines in microglia. CM promotes the recovery of motor function by inhibiting SCI‐induced apoptosis and inflammatory responses and reducing the area of the post‐SCI cavity in rats. These findings indicate that CM is a potential drug worthy of translational studies for SCI treatment.
The promise of single session interventions for eating disorders: Lessons to be learned from research on digital mental health. Commentary on Schleider et al. (2023)
Authors: Linardon Jake , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew
Published: March 2023

Schleider et al. propose that single session interventions (SSIs) could be a promising path toward catalyzing innovation in the development of accessible interventions for eating disorders (EDs). In this commentary, we contend that the arguments made by Schleider et al. raise many unresolved questions that continue to arise in the broader field. Drawing from our experiences with—and lessons learned from—developing, evaluating, and disseminating digital health interventions, we discuss four key empirical questions that should be addressed in order to realize the full potential of SSIs and other innovations in intervention delivery. These include: (i) for whom do we deliver an SSI; (ii) what are the optimal treatment mechanisms to target; (iii) what constitutes a “good” outcome; and (iv) where and how might we embed innovations like these. The SSI approach is a fruitful area of research enquiry, and we hope that this commentary generates further discussion and high‐quality, collaborative work related to improving treatment accessibility and clinical outcomes among people with EDs.
A review on QST–FST comparisons of seed plants: Insights for conservation
Authors: Chung Mi Yoon , Merilä Juha , Kim Yuseob , Mao Kangshan , López‐Pujol Jordi , Chung Myong Gi
Published: March 2023

Increased access to genome‐wide data provides new opportunities for plant conservation. However, information on neutral genetic diversity in a small number of marker loci can still be valuable because genomic data are not available to most rare plant species. In the hope of bridging the gap between conservation science and practice, we outline how conservation practitioners can more efficiently employ population genetic information in plant conservation. We first review the current knowledge about neutral genetic variation (NGV) and adaptive genetic variation (AGV) in seed plants, regarding both within‐population and among‐population components. We then introduce the estimates of among‐population genetic differentiation in quantitative traits (QST) and neutral markers (FST) to plant biology and summarize conservation applications derived from QST–FST comparisons, particularly on how to capture most AGV and NGV on both in‐situ and ex‐situ programs. Based on a review of published studies, we found that, on average, two and four populations would be needed for woody perennials (n = 18) to capture 99% of NGV and AGV, respectively, whereas four populations would be needed in case of herbaceous perennials (n = 14). On average, QST is about 3.6, 1.5, and 1.1 times greater than FST in woody plants, annuals, and herbaceous perennials, respectively. Hence, conservation and management policies or suggestions based solely on inference on FST could be misleading, particularly in woody species. To maximize the preservation of the maximum levels of both AGV and NGV, we suggest using maximum QST rather than average QST. We recommend conservation managers and practitioners consider this when formulating further conservation and restoration plans for plant species, particularly woody species.
Chemistry and Applications of Functionalized 2,4‐Thiazolidinediones
Authors: Ibrahim Ayman M. , Shoman Mai E. , Mohamed Mamdouh F. A. , Hayallah Alaa M. , El‐Din A. Abuo‐Rahma Gamal
Published: March 2023

Thiazolidinedione (TZD) is one of the privileged heterocyclic rings and has shown many biological applications in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. This review covers the synthetic approaches of TZD and its derivatives, different synthetic techniques for affording the desired regioselectivity and stereoselectivity, and the techniques that would enhance reaction conditions such as microwave, one‐pot, or ultrasound synthesis. It focuses on synthetic challenges of glitazones and the transformation of other heterocycles to TZD. Moreover, the chemical and biological behavior of TZD through the substitution in the N3 position, modification of the C5 position, annealing in complex heterocyclic systems, and hybridization with other pharmacologically attractive moieties are discussed. All reactions mentioned are provided as possible with different reaction conditions, mechanisms, derivatives scope, yield and clarified by applications of such reactions in the construction of potential medicinal agents. The review also answers questions about rapid racemization of glitazones, their toxicity, considering TZD as pan‐assay interference compounds (PAINS) or not, and the influence of saturation of 5‐position of TZD in their biological activities. This review is a comprehensive guide to make informed decisions for construction of TZD derivatives with biological potentials.
Artificial intelligence and response surface methodology to predict CO2 capture using piperazine‐modified activated alumina
Authors: Noroozian Mohadeseh , Shahhosseini Shahrokh , Ghaemi Ahad
Published: March 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a major greenhouse gas that causes global warming. In this study, piperazine‐modified activated alumina was used for CO2 capture process. The number of 626 experimental data were obtained at different operating conditions to develop the artificial neural networks (ANNs) and response surface methodology (RSM), employed to identify the behavior and performance of the CO2 capture process. Three independent factors, including time (t: 0–1800 s), temperature (T: 20–80°C), and pressure (P: 2.067–10.088 bar), were used as the input variables and CO2 adsorption capacity was used as the response. Among 243 different structures, the multilayer perceptron (MLP) model was optimized with Bayesian regularization backpropagation algorithm and two hidden layers with 17 and 16 neurons. The radial basis function (RBF) model was used with 367 different structures. The optimized structure of the RBF model was obtained with 100 neurons and the spread of 0.5. For optimal networks of MLP and RBF, the best mean square error (MSE) was observed at 1.72e‐04 and 8.28e‐05, and the best coefficient of determination (R2) was obtained 0.998 and 0.999, respectively. Moreover, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to model the process. The best MSE and R2 values were obtained 0.00454 and 0.9462, respectively. The results showed that ANNs produced more accurate predictions than RSM.
General dimensions of human brain morphometry inferred from genome‐wide association data
Authors: Fürtjes Anna E. , Arathimos Ryan , Coleman Jonathan R. I. , Cole James H. , Cox Simon R. , Deary Ian J. , de la Fuente Javier , Madole James W. , Tucker‐Drob Elliot M. , Ritchie Stuart J.
Published: March 2023

Understanding the neurodegenerative mechanisms underlying cognitive decline in the general population may facilitate early detection of adverse health outcomes in late life. This study investigates genetic links between brain morphometry, ageing and cognitive ability. We develop Genomic Principal Components Analysis (Genomic PCA) to model general dimensions of brain‐wide morphometry at the level of their underlying genetic architecture. Genomic PCA is applied to genome‐wide association data for 83 brain‐wide volumes (36,778 UK Biobank participants) and we extract genomic principal components (PCs) to capture global dimensions of genetic covariance across brain regions (unlike ancestral PCs that index genetic similarity between participants). Using linkage disequilibrium score regression, we estimate genetic overlap between those general brain dimensions and cognitive ageing. The first genetic PCs underlying the morphometric organisation of 83 brain‐wide regions accounted for substantial genetic variance (R2 = 40%) with the pattern of component loadings corresponding closely to those obtained from phenotypic analyses. Genetically more central regions to overall brain structure ‐ specifically frontal and parietal volumes thought to be part of the central executive network ‐ tended to be somewhat more susceptible towards age (r = −0.27). We demonstrate the moderate genetic overlap between the first PC underlying each of several structural brain networks and general cognitive ability (rg = 0.17–0.21), which was not specific to a particular subset of the canonical networks examined. We provide a multivariate framework integrating covariance across multiple brain regions and the genome, revealing moderate shared genetic etiology between brain‐wide morphometry and cognitive ageing.
Mapping and decoding cortical engagement during motor imagery, mental arithmetic, and silent word generation using MEG
Authors: Youssofzadeh Vahab , Roy Sujit , Chowdhury Anirban , Izadysadr Aqil , Parkkonen Lauri , Raghavan Manoj , Prasad Girijesh
Published: March 2023

Accurate quantification of cortical engagement during mental imagery tasks remains a challenging brain‐imaging problem with immediate relevance to developing brain–computer interfaces. We analyzed magnetoencephalography (MEG) data from 18 individuals completing cued motor imagery, mental arithmetic, and silent word generation tasks. Participants imagined movements of both hands (HANDS) and both feet (FEET), subtracted two numbers (SUB), and silently generated words (WORD). The task‐related cortical engagement was inferred from beta band (17–25 Hz) power decrements estimated using a frequency‐resolved beamforming method. In the hands and feet motor imagery tasks, beta power consistently decreased in premotor and motor areas. In the word and subtraction tasks, beta‐power decrements showed engagements in language and arithmetic processing within the temporal, parietal, and inferior frontal regions. A support vector machine classification of beta power decrements yielded high accuracy rates of 74 and 68% for classifying motor‐imagery (HANDS vs. FEET) and cognitive (WORD vs. SUB) tasks, respectively. From the motor‐versus‐nonmotor contrasts, excellent accuracy rates of 85 and 80% were observed for hands‐versus‐word and hands‐versus‐sub, respectively. A multivariate Gaussian‐process classifier provided an accuracy rate of 60% for the four‐way (HANDS‐FEET‐WORD‐SUB) classification problem. Individual task performance was revealed by within‐subject correlations of beta‐decrements. Beta‐power decrements are helpful metrics for mapping and decoding cortical engagement during mental processes in the absence of sensory stimuli or overt behavioral outputs. Markers derived based on beta decrements may be suitable for rehabilitation purposes, to characterize motor or cognitive impairments, or to treat patients recovering from a cerebral stroke.
Women's fertility knowledge and their number of children ever born: A cross‐sectional study in Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Mahmoudiani Serajeddin
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

Remarkable changes in the demographic behaviors of Iranian women have led to declining fertility since the 1980s. Therefore, the study of fertility has become very important. Iranian policy makers are developing new population policies. Because fertility knowledge influences women's childbearing, the purpose of this study was to look into the relationship between women's fertility knowledge and the total number of children born.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design and a survey were used in this investigation. In 2022, 1065 married women of reproductive age in Shiraz were surveyed. The data was collected using a standard questionnaire and multistage clustering sampling. The interviewers were first given the necessary training. At the time of the survey, the interviewers first gave information about the research to the surveyed women to gain their trust. To analyze the data, the characteristics of women were described first, and then the relationships between the variables were examined using correlation tests.

Results

Increasing women's fertility knowledge reduced the number of children. Women's actual fertility had increased in tandem with their ideal fertility. The number of children increased as women's ages and the ages of their husbands grew older. Increased women's education resulted in a decrease in the number of children. Women with employed husbands had more children than their other counterparts. Women with middle class identity had lower fertility than women who belonged to the lower class.

Conclusion

In confirmation of the findings of previous studies, the low level of fertility knowledge, especially in the issue of factors affecting infertility, was the most important finding of this research. This study, in continuation of previous studies, showed the decreasing effect of fertility knowledge of the number of children. Regarding the low fertility knowledge of women, population and health policies should consider improving women's knowledge of fertility.
Readmission rate and complications following biopsy of the ampulla of Vater—A retrospective data analysis
Authors: Rosella Sam , Zorron Cheng Tao Pu Leonardo , Ng Jonathan , Be Kim Hay , Vaughan Rhys , Chandran Sujievvan , Efthymiou Marios
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim

Obtaining endoscopic biopsies from the ampulla of Vater is important for the diagnosis of lesions that are suspicious for neoplasia. The clinical safety profile is not well defined in the literature. Our aim was to evaluate the procedure‐related readmission rate and complications from ampullary biopsy in patients undergoing duodenoscopy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Methods

A retrospective data analysis was performed on adult patients at Austin Hospital who underwent ampullary biopsies between 1 January 2010 and 1 March 12022. Medical records were identified using pathology databases. The electronic health record was reviewed for baseline characteristics including demographics, date, indication for ampullary biopsy, procedure type (duodenoscopy or ERCP), and procedural associated interventions during ERCP. Readmissions to the Austin Emergency Department within 30 days following the biopsy were identified, and complications were noted.

Results

A total of 506 records were reviewed and 246 episodes of ampullary biopsy met the inclusion criteria. The procedure‐related readmission rate for all episodes was 6.1%, which included pain (3.3%), pancreatitis (2.0%), cholangitis (1.6%), and bleeding (0.8%). Ampullary biopsies with ERCP had a procedure‐related readmission rate of 8.4%, whereas ampullary biopsies without ERCP had a rate of 2.2%. Increased readmissions and complications were associated with male sex (P = 0.01 and P = 0.05, respectively). There was no association between the number of biopsies taken and complications.

Conclusion

Performing an ampullary biopsy without an associated ERCP carries a low rate of clinical complications and procedure‐related readmissions. The combination of ERCP and ampullary biopsy increases the risk four‐fold.
Identification and synthesis of new process impurities of amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker
Authors: Venkateswara Rao Gollapalli , Pindi Santhosh Reddy , Bollikolla Hari Babu , Chavakula Ramadas , Karumanchi Kishore
Published: March 2023

Amlodipine belongs to the class of calcium channel blocker that is used to reduce high blood pressure (hypertension). Two related substances of amlodipine namely 3‐(2‐[1.3‐dioxo‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐isoindol‐2‐yl]ethyl)‐5‐methyl‐(4RS)‐4(2‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐([2‐(1,3‐dioxo‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐isoin‐dol‐2‐yl)ethoxy]methyl)‐6‐methyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridine‐3,5‐dicarboxylate (11) and 3‐([2‐aminoethyl]‐5‐aminoethoxy)‐4‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1,4‐dihydro‐6‐methylpyridine‐3,5‐dicarboxylate (12) were identified. The present work describes the origin, synthesis, and characterization of these related substances.
A practical guide to planning, implementing, and evaluating the mindfulness‐based well‐being group for international students
Authors: Prasath Priscilla Rose , Xiong Yiying , Zhang Qiyang
Published: March 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic and associated societal upheavals further aggravated pre‐existing vulnerabilities of the international student population. In this article, an online mindfulness‐based group intervention—mindfulness‐based well‐being group for international students is described. A practical guide to planning, implementing, and evaluating the MBWIS group is outlined.
Are There Ultrasound Features to Distinguish Small (<3 cm) Peripheral Renal Angiomyolipomas From Renal Cell Carcinomas?
Authors: Chen Anthony F. , McGahan John P. , Wilson Machelle D. , Larson Michael C. , Vij Arjun , Kwong Austin
Published: March 2023

Background

Small echogenic renal masses are usually angiomyolipomas (AMLs), but some renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) can be echogenic and confused with an AML.

Objectives

This is a study to evaluate any distinguishing demographic and sonographic features of small (<3 cm) peripheral AMLs versus peripheral RCCs.

Methods

This is a HIPAA‐compliant retrospective review of the demographics and ultrasound features of peripheral renal AMLs compared with a group of peripheral RCCs. All AMLs had confirmation of macroscopic fat as noted on thin‐cut CT or fat‐saturation MRI sequence images. All RCCs were pathologically proven. Statistical analysis was used to compare findings in the two groups.

Results

There were a total of 52 patients with 56 AMLs, compared with 42 patients with 42 RCCs. There were 42 females in the AML group versus 10 females in the RCC group (P < .0001). The AML diameters (15.7 mm × 12.0 mm) were statistically significantly smaller (Plargest = .0085, Psmallest < .001) than the diameters of the RCCs (19.9 mm × 18.5 mm). Ultrasound features found to be statistically different between the two groups were the ratio of the largest dimension to the smallest dimension (P < .001), a lobulated versus smooth margin of the AML (26 vs 30) compared with the RCC group (3 vs 39) (P = .0012), and an “unusual” versus a round shape (P < .001) of the AML group (45 vs 11) compared with the RCC group (9 vs 33). In the multivariable model, the patient sex, margin, and mass shape were predictive of AML, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.92.

Conclusion

For a small (<3 cm) peripheral echogenic mass in a female patient, a lobulated lesion with an unusual shape is highly predictive of being an AML.
Modern and future forestry based on biotechnology
Authors: Niu Shihui , Ding Jihua , Xu Changzheng , Wang Jing
Published: March 2023

Forest is the most important terrestrial component of the Earth's biosphere, containing nearly 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. However, climate change and population growth are exacerbating deforestation and forest degradation. Reforestation efforts aim to restore ecosystems, but the effectiveness of traditional tree plantations in repairing the ecological function of native forests is controversial. The ideal scenario for forestry in the future is to meet the growing demand for forest products while keeping forest sustainable development. One possible way forward is to greatly improve the productivity and adaptability of forests through molecular breeding to use fewer Short Rotation Intensive Culture (SRIC) plantations to produce sufficient forest products. In the last 2 decades, advances in biotechnologies such as high‐throughput sequencing and genome editing are transforming tree breeding and forestry. Here, we propose possible future directions for modern forestry, including molecular design tree breeding, agroforestry and mixed farming, sustainable and biosphere friendly forestry.
Deep learning prediction of post‐SBRT liver function changes and NTCP modeling in hepatocellular carcinoma based on DGAE‐MRI
Authors: Wei Lise , Aryal Madhava P. , Cuneo Kyle , Matuszak Martha , Lawrence Theodore S. , Ten Haken Randall K. , Cao Yue , Naqa Issam El
Published: March 2023

Background

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) produces excellent local control for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the risk of toxicity for normal liver tissue is still a limiting factor. Normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) models have been proposed to estimate the toxicity with the assumption of uniform liver function distribution, which is not optimal. With more accurate regional liver functional imaging available for individual patient, we can improve the estimation and be more patient‐specific.

Purpose

To develop normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) models using pre‐/during‐treatment (RT) dynamic Gadoxetic Acid‐enhanced (DGAE) MRI for adaptation of RT in a patient‐specific manner in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) patients who receive SBRT.

Methods

24 of 146 HCC patients who received SBRT underwent DGAE MRI. Physical doses were converted into EQD2 for analysis. Voxel‐by‐voxel quantification of the contrast uptake rate (k1) from DGAE‐MRI was used to quantify liver function. A logistic dose‐response model was used to estimate the fraction of liver functional loss, and NTCP was estimated using the cumulative functional reserve model for changes in Child‐Pugh (C‐P) scores. Model parameters were calculated using maximum‐likelihood estimations. During‐RT liver functional maps were predicted from dose distributions and pre‐RT k1 maps with a conditional Wasserstein generative adversarial network (cWGAN). Imaging prediction quality was assessed using root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) and structural similarity (SSIM) metrics. The dose‐response and NTCP were fit on both original and cWGAN predicted images and compared using a Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

Logistic dose response models for changes in k1 yielded D50 of 35.2 (95% CI: 26.7–47.5) Gy and k of 0.62 (0.49–0.75) for the whole population. The high baseline ALBI (poor liver function) subgroup showed a significantly smaller D50 of 11.7 (CI: 9.06–15.4) Gy and larger k of 0.96 (CI: 0.74–1.22) compared to a low baseline ALBI (good liver function) subgroup of 54.8 (CI: 38.3–79.1) Gy and 0.59 (CI: 0.48–0.74), with p‐values of < 0.001 and = 0.008, respectively, which indicates higher radiosensitivity for the worse baseline liver function cohort. Subset analyses were also performed for high/low baseline CP subgroups. The corresponding NTCP models showed good agreement for the fit parameters between cWGAN predicted and the ground‐truth during‐RT images with no statistical differences for low ALBI subgroup.

Conclusions

NTCP models which incorporate voxel‐wise functional information from DGAE‐MRI k1 maps were successfully developed and feasibility was demonstrated in a small patient cohort. cWGAN predicted functional maps show promise for estimating localized patient‐specific response to RT and warrant further validation in a larger patient cohort.
Optimising management of complex regional pain syndrome to improve clinical outcomes throughout the therapy care pathway in England: Protocol for a qualitative interview and observational study with patients and clinicians
Authors: Coggins Jessica , McCabe Candida , Walsh Nicola , Pearson Jennifer , Rolls Catherine , Collins Catherine , Llewellyn Alison
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a disabling and distressing chronic pain condition characterised by a range of sensory, motor, autonomic and trophic symptoms. Guidelines recommend early referral for therapies that promote movement of the painful limb. However, evidence suggests a lack of defined therapy pathways for CRPS.

Aims

The current study aims to explore CRPS therapy management in centres of excellence in England, and outside of these settings, to understand what facilitates and hinders best practice. The overall aim is to develop a draft stratified package of care to expedite patient access to optimal CRPS therapy across the management pathway.

Methods and Analysis

Semi‐structured interviews will be conducted with therapists working in CRPS centres of excellence and with therapists in other settings. Observations of therapy interventions in CRPS centres of excellence and interviews with patients who have received this care, will also help to identify potential key care package components. Interview data will be analysed using thematic analysis, mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), and Intervention Mapping Adapt (IMA) framework. Observations will be described and documented using the TDF headings.

Conclusion

A triangulation protocol for qualitative health research will be used to integrate all data. Online stakeholder events will be held using consensus methods to agree a draft package of care for future implementation following further refinement, testing and evaluation.

Clinical Trial Registration

The trial was registered with ISRCTN registry on 24 February 2022 (ISRCTN16917807).
Seasonal and interannual variation of equatorial waves in ERA5 and GloSea5
Authors: Yang Gui‐Ying , Feng Xiangbo , Hodges Kevin
Published: March 2023

This study presents an analysis of the equatorial waves in the ERA5 reanalysis and forecasts of the Met Office Global Seasonal Forecast System version 5 (GloSea5), by projecting dynamical fields onto theoretical equatorial wave modes. The seasonal and interannual variation of equatorial wave activity in GloSea5 is evaluated against ERA5 waves. We find that in ERA5 the seasonal and spatial variations of eastward‐moving Kelvin wave activity are mainly determined by the ambient zonal flow, with wave activity being stronger in easterlies than westerlies. For the westward‐moving mixed Rossby–gravity waves and equatorial Rossby waves, the seasonal and spatial variations of the upper‐tropospheric wave activity are determined by both the ambient flow and extratropical forcing with stronger wave activity generally in the westerlies, whilst the lower‐tropospheric wave activity is related to the ambient flow and tropical convection. In GloSea5, the Kelvin wave activity is not well simulated in the upper troposphere, and in general the wave activity and wave‐related convective signal are too weak. In contrast, GloSea5 performs better for the westward‐moving equatorial waves, including their Doppler‐shifted eastward‐moving components, despite a significant overestimation in the Atlantic and African region. The phase of ENSO has a substantial impact on equatorial waves in both ERA5 and GloSea5. The mechanism of the impact is through changes in the ENSO‐related ambient flow, upper‐tropospheric extratropical forcing, and tropical convection. GloSea5 can capture the low‐level Kelvin wave–ENSO relationship reasonably well, with stronger wave activity over the eastern Pacific in El Niño, although the ENSO‐driven variation is too weak. The wave–ENSO relationship for westward‐moving waves is well represented in GloSea5, especially in the upper‐level eastern‐Pacific westerly duct region in the extended boreal winter and the low‐level Indo‐Pacific in all seasons. We conclude that in GloSea5 the representation of the wave–ENSO teleconnection is the key driver for the performance of interannual variability in the wave activity.
At‐Home COVID‐19 Rapid Antigen Test Down to 0.03 pg mL−1 of Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Lian Zewei , Wu Tingqing , Wang Huadong , Chi Jimei , Cheng Lijun , Xie Daixi , Pan Xiangyu , Hu Yuming , Tan Zhiyu , Chen Sisi , Yang Xu , Yun Yang , Wu Wei , Li Chunbao , Su Meng , Song Yanlin
Published: March 2023

Rapid and ultra‐sensitive detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is critical for early screening and management of COVID‐19. Currently, the real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT‐PCR) is the primary laboratory method for diagnosing SARS‐CoV‐2. It is not suitable for at‐home COVID‐19 diagnostic test due to the long operating time, specific equipment, and professional procedures. Here an all‐printed photonic crystal (PC) microarray with portable device for at‐home COVID‐19 rapid antigen test is reported. The fluorescence‐enhanced effect of PC amplifies the fluorescence intensity of the labeled probe, achieving detection of nucleocapsid (N‐) protein down to 0.03 pg mL−1. A portable fluorescence intensity measurement instrument gives the result (negative or positive) by the color of the indicator within 5 s after inserting the reacted PC microarray test card. The N protein in inactivated virus samples (with cycle threshold values of 26.6–40.0) can be detected. The PC microarray provides a general and easy‐to‐use method for the timely monitoring and eventual control of the global coronavirus pandemic.
Co‐Solvent Engineering Contributing to Achieve High‐Performance Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules Based on Anti‐Solvent Free Technology
Authors: Li Gu , Wang Zhen , Wang Yuqi , Yang Zhengchi , Dong Pengyu , Feng Yancong , Jiang Yue , Feng Shien‐Ping , Zhou Guofu , Liu Jun‐Ming , Gao Jinwei
Published: March 2023

The pinhole‐free and defect‐less perovskite film is crucial for achieving high efficiency and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which can be prepared by widely used anti‐solvent crystallization strategies. However, the involvement of anti‐solvent requires precise control and inevitably brings toxicity in fabrication procedures, which limits its large‐scale industrial application. In this work, a facile and effective co‐solvent engineering strategy is introduced to obtain high‐ quality perovskite film while avoiding the usage of anti‐solvent. The uniform and compact perovskite polycrystalline films have been fabricated through the addition of co‐solvent that owns strong coordination capacity with perovskite components , meanwhile possessing the weaker interaction with main solvent . With those strategies, a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22% has been achieved with the optimal co‐solvent, N‐methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and without usage of anti‐solvent. Subsequently, PSCs based on NMP show high repeatability and good shelf stability (80% PCE remains after storing in ambient condition for 30 days). Finally, the perovskite solar module (5 × 5 cm) with 7 subcells connects in series yielding champion PCE of 16.54%. This strategy provides a general guidance of co‐solvent selection for PSCs based on anti‐solvent free technology and promotes commercial application of PSCs.
Silurian freshwater arthropod from northwest China
Authors: Zong Ruiwen , Edgecombe Gregory D. , Liu Bingcai , Wang Yi , Yin Jiayi , Ma Juan , Xu Honghe
Published: March 2023

Animals breaking away from the sea was a revolutionary event in the evolution of life. Arthropods were the earliest metazoans to move onto land, and although a few Silurian freshwater and/or terrestrial arthropods have been found so far, these records are all from Laurussia. Here, we describe a new freshwater arthropod, Maldybulakia saierensis sp. nov., from the western Junggar, northwest China. Evidence from co‐occurring spores and body fossils of plants is presented in support of a Silurian (Pridoli) age for this new Maldybulakia species, alongside palaeosalinity data in support of our interpretation of it having lived in a freshwater environment. The discovery of this species brings forward the earliest appearance of the Maldybulakia, previously known from the Devonian of Kazakhstan and eastern Australia, to the late Silurian. It is the oldest body fossil record of a putatively freshwater arthropod outside Laurussia, and greatly expands their palaeogeographical distribution. In the middle and late Silurian, the discovery of freshwater arthropods on multiple plates/terranes, as well as their morphological diversity during this period, suggests that arthropods had left the marine environment by the early Silurian or even earlier.