bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enantioselektive Dearomatisierung von Pyridiniumsalzen durch kupferkatalysierte C4‐selektive Addition von Siliciumnukleophilen
Authors: Xiao Yao , Zhao Zhi‐Yuan , Kemper Sebastian , Irran Elisabeth , Oestreich Martin
Published: May 2024

Es wird über eine kupferkatalysierte C4‐selektive Addition von Siliciumnukleophilen (ausgehend von einem Si−B‐Reagenz) an prochirale Pyridiniumtriflate berichtet. Die Dearomatisierung verläuft unter Verwendung von Cu(CH3CN)4PF6 als Präkatalysator und (R,R)‐Ph‐BPE (1,2‐Bis[(2R,5R)‐2,5‐diphenylphospholan‐1‐yl]ethan) als chiraler Ligand mit hervorragender Enantioselektivität. Eine Carbonylgruppe an C3 ist dafür erforderlich, vermutlich in der Rolle einer schwachen Donorgruppe, die den nukleophilen Angriff präorganisiert und in Richtung C4 lenkt. Die sich ergebenden 4‐silylierten 1,4‐Dihydropyridine können anschließend in funktionalisierte Piperidinderivate überführt werden.
Indium Tin Oxide Induced Internal Positive Feedback and Indium Ion Transport in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhan Changling , Luo Chao , Gao Feng , Wang Xianjin , Li Yang , Zhao Qing
Published: May 2024

Stability is the most pressing challenge hindering the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), and previous efforts focused more on enhancing the resistance of PSCs to external stimulus. Here, we found that the indium tin oxide (ITO) will deteriorate the photovoltaic performance of PSCs through positive feedback cycles. Specifically, the perovskite degradation products will cross the electron transport layer to chemically etch the electrode ITO to generate In3+, which will migrate upwards into the perovskite film. Then, the reaction that corrodes ITO consumes the decomposition products of perovskite and shifts the balance of the perovskite decomposition reaction, further promoting the degradation and thus falling into a positive feedback cycle. Moreover, the In3+ in the perovskite film was found to accumulate at the upper surface, which would lead to n‐type doping of perovskite film to form the energy barrier for interface carrier extraction. Subsequently, the chelating molecule ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA‐2Na) was introduced onto ITO to firmly chelate the In3+ and prevent it from migrating upward, thus breaking this internal positive feedback cycle and significantly enhancing the efficiency and stability of PSCs. This work provides new perspectives for understanding the mechanism of photovoltaic performance loss and ionic transport in PSCs.
Sea turtle strandings in the temperate Southwest Atlantic: Analysis of drivers and potential causes
Authors: Vassallo Martina , Álvarez Cecilia K. , Rodríguez‐Heredia Sergio , Rosenthal Alan F. , Albareda Diego A. , Uhart Marcela M. , González Carman Victoria , Alemany Daniela
Published: May 2024

Marine megafauna are subject to several threats due to the increasing exploitation of marine ecosystems. Mortality is frequently evidenced by the occurrence of stranded individuals in coastal zones; however, conclusive identification of its drivers and causes is challenging.

In this study, we explore the hypothesis that bycatch in trawling is one of the anthropic drivers of sea turtle strandings in the temperate Southwest (SW) Atlantic, where green (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) turtles forage seasonally.

Beach survey data during March, April and May from 2014 to 2018 were used to characterize strandings and relate their spatio‐temporal distribution to physical and anthropic variables.

Loggerhead (47.4%) and leatherback turtles (49.3%) were the most common stranded species, whereas green turtles were recorded only occasionally (3.3%). Based on the size distribution, strandings reflected both juvenile and adult mortality, with variations between species. Generalized linear models showed that sea turtle strandings were influenced by winds and sea surface temperature, while there was no evidence of a relationship with fishing effort. Further studies should assess drowning due to bycatch as a cause of turtle death, since interaction with fisheries is commonly reported in the area and drowned animals may or may not wash ashore.

This study raises awareness and assesses, for the first time, the mortality of threatened sea turtle species in a poorly known region of its distribution.
Recent shortening of the mature tropical cyclone stage over the western North Pacific
Authors: Song Jinjie , Klotzbach Philip J. , Jiang Sulin , Duan Yihong
Published: May 2024

This study investigates long‐term trends related to the mature stage duration of tropical cyclones (TCs) over the western North Pacific (WNP) during June–November between 1982 and 2021. There is a significant shortening in the mean duration of the WNP mature TC stage, which is defined as the period when a TC is within 5 kt of its lifetime maximum intensity. This shortening is induced by a significant (weak) poleward migration in the starting (ending) location of the WNP mature TC stage, which can be further explained by changes in environmental conditions. From 1982 to 2021, there have been significant increases in maximum potential intensity and 700–500‐hPa relative humidity over most of the WNP, which has broadly expanded the TC‐favorable area poleward. Consequently, WNP TCs can start their mature stages and reach their lifetime maximum intensities at higher latitudes. By contrast, there are only weak changes in 850‐hPa relative vorticity and 850–200‐hPa vertical wind shear (VWS). Given the dominant role of VWS in modulating the TC weakening rate, the TC‐suppressive area over the subtropical WNP has shown lesser changes, thus leading to insignificant changes in the ending location of the mature TC stage.
Using a brief experimental analysis for writing speed intervention identification
Authors: Schmidt Jonathan , Krantz Joelle , King Hunter , Vetter Jennifer , Maruska Catherine
Published: May 2024

The Brief Experimental Analysis (BEA) is an effective method for identifying interventions to improve academic skills but rarely been applied to individuals with writing deficits and individuals with intellectual disabilities. This study extends the BEA literature by identifying effective writing interventions to increase writing speed for a 16‐year‐old female with an intellectual disability. A BEA was used to evaluate four interventions (i.e., tracing, oral instruction, fixed ratio reinforcement, and response dependent reinforcer magnitude) for writing speed. Results identified fixed ratio reinforcement and response dependent reinforcer magnitude as most effective in increasing writing speed; results maintained over an extended treatment evaluation.
A Framework for High‐Functioning Boards: Necessary Elements to Ensure Organizational Success
Authors: Wong Chris
Published: May 2024

Chris Wong is the founder and owner of Leadership Potential. In this article, he explores the elements of high‐performing boards and the importance of a strong board in supporting nonprofits in executing their strategic plans.
Navigating Conflict between BOGs and C‐suite: Lessons for Dynamic Companies
Authors: Lentini Steve
Published: May 2024

Steve Lentini is founder and CEO of Positive Intelligence, an executive coaching service that helps CEOs and other C‐suite executives get the best out of their teams. In this article, he discusses how to navigate potential conflicts between boards of directors and executive management teams, who can often have opposing goals.
Pilot PET study of vaginally administered bioadhesive nanoparticles in cynomolgus monkeys: Kinetics and safety evaluation
Authors: Grun Molly K. , Honhar Praveen , Wang Yazhe , Rossano Samantha , Khang Minsoo , Suh Hee Won , Fowles Krista , Kliman Harvey J. , Cavaliere Alessandra , Carson Richard E. , Marquez‐Nostra Bernadette , Saltzman W. Mark
Published: May 2024

Long‐lasting vaginal dosage forms could improve the therapeutic efficacy of vaginal microbicides, but achieving long‐term delivery to the vaginal canal has been a significant challenge. To advance understanding of vaginal dosage retention and biodistribution, we describe a method of noninvasive imaging with 89Zr‐labeled bioadhesive nanoparticles (BNPs) in non‐human primates. We additionally examined the safety of repeated BNP application. BNPs administered vaginally to cynomolgus monkeys were still detected after 24 h (1.7% retention) and 120 h (0.1% retention). BNPs did not translocate to the uterus or into systemic circulation. Analysis of inflammatory biomarkers in the vaginal fluid and plasma suggest that BNPs are safe and biocompatible, even after multiple doses. BNPs are a promising delivery vehicle for vaginally administered therapeutics. Further studies using the non‐human primate imaging materials and methods developed here could help advance clinical translation of BNPs and other long‐lasting vaginal dosage forms.
Polycyclic Pyrazolidines by Tandem Diazomalonate Dipolar Cycloadditions and CpRu‐Catalyzed Carbene Additions
Authors: Montagnon Claire , Bultel Joël R. , Besnard Céline , Guénée Laure , Lacour Jérôme
Published: May 2024

Thanks to the ability of diazo derivatives to react either as 1,3‐dipoles and as carbenes after dinitrogen extrusion, combinations of oxa or aza benzonorbornadienes and diazomalonates afford polycyclic pyrazolidines via a three‐step sequence of (i) a highly diastereoselective [3+2]‐cycloaddition, (ii) a CpRu‐catalyzed carbene addition, and (iii) a second dipolar cycloaddition. Of importance, step (II) represents a unique access to novel bench‐stable N,N‐cyclic azomethine imines, which behave as effective 1,3‐dipoles in combination with electron‐poor dipolarophiles. Each step proceeds efficiently and the 3‐step process can be performed in one‐pot to yield a polycyclic pyrazolidine in excellent overall yield (90 %).
Emergence of Quantum Dots as Innovative Tools for Early Diagnosis and Advanced Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Díaz‐García Diana , Díaz‐Sánchez Miguel , Álvarez‐Conde Javier , Gómez‐Ruiz Santiago
Published: May 2024

Quantum dots (QDs) semiconducting nanomaterials, have garnered attention due to their distinctive properties, including small size, high luminescence, and biocompatibility. In the context of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), notorious for its resistance to conventional treatments, QDs exhibit promising potential for enhancing diagnostic imaging and providing targeted therapies. This review underscores recent advancements in the utilization of QDs in imaging techniques, such as fluorescence tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, aiming at the early and precise detection of tumors. Emphasis is placed on the significance of QD design, synthesis and functionalization processes as well as their use in innovative strategies for targeted drug delivery, capitalizing on their ability to selectively deliver therapeutic agents to cancer cells. As the research in this field advances rapidly, this review covers a classification of QDs according to their composition, the characterization techniques than can be used to determine their properties and, subsequently, emphasizes recent findings in the field of TNBC‐targeting, highlighting the imperative need to address challenges, like potential toxicity or methodologies standardization. Collectively, the findings explored thus far suggest that QDs could pave the way for early diagnosis and effective therapy of TNBC, representing a significant stride toward precise and personalized strategies in treating TNBC.
Catalysts with Trimetallic Sites on Graphene‐like C2N for Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction Reaction: A Theoretical Investigation
Authors: He Han‐Bin , Ding Xun‐Lei , Wang Ya‐Ya , Chen Yan , Wang Meng‐Meng , Chen Jiao‐Jiao , Li Wei
Published: May 2024

Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a green and highly efficient way to replace the industrial Haber‐Bosch process. Herein, clusters consisting of three transition metal atoms loaded on C2N as NRR electrocatalysts are investigated using density functional theory (DFT). Meanwhile, Ca was introduced as a promoter and the role of Ca in NRR was investigated. It was found that Ca anchored to the catalyst can act as an electron donor and effectively promote the activation of N2 on M3. In both M3@C2N and M3Ca@C2N (M=Fe, Co, Ni), the limiting potential (UL) is less negative than that of the Ru(0001) surface and has the ability to suppress the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Among them, Fe3@C2N is suggested to be the most promising candidate for NRR with high thermal stability, strong N2 adsorption ability, low limiting potential, and good NRR selectivity. The concepts of trimetallic sites and alkaline earth metal promoters in this work provide theoretical guidance for the rational design of atomically active sites in electrocatalytic NRR.
Reversible Capture Mechanism of CO2 as a Zn(II)‐Methylcarbonate
Authors: Murillo Fernando , Zarate Ximena , Fernández‐Herrera María A. , Merino Gabriel
Published: May 2024

In this study, we elucidate the reaction mechanism for capturing CO2 with the ZnL1(MeOH) complex (L1=diacetyl‐2‐(4‐methyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone)‐3‐(2‐hydrazinatopyridine)) in a methanol solution, using density functional theory calculations. One pathway involves the protonation of ZnL1(MeOH) by methylcarbonic acid, followed by ligand exchange of MeOH with MeOCO2−. An alternative mechanism suggests a tautomerization between ZnL1(MeOH) and Zn(HL1)(OMe), followed by CO2 insertion. The latter pathway is energetically more favorable than the former and more complex than initially proposed. In fact, we unveiled that the solvent catalyzes tautomerization, as one explicit methanol molecule acts as a proton transfer agent. Then, Zn(HL1)(OMe) captures CO2, yielding a methylcarbonate bound to the metal center. The final step involves a rearrangement that leads to the cleavage of the Zn−O(Me)(COO) bond and the formation of a new Zn−O(COOMe) bond, along with the rotation of the methylcarbonate group. We consider an additional mechanism that combines tautomerization and ligand exchange but is endergonic and requires a high activation barrier for the ligand exchange. Furthermore, we evaluate the ligand basicity through the pKa calculated values of the Zn(II) complexes, the effects of varying the ligand from 4‐methyl‐thiosemicarbazone to 4‐ethyl (L2), 4‐phenethyl (L3), and 4‐benzyl (L4) derivatives, and reversibility of the reaction in an argon environment.
Field‐Induced Slow Magnetization Relaxation of a Tetrahedral S=2 FeIIS4‐Containing Complex
Authors: Pissas Michael , Ferentinos Eleftherios , Kyritsis Panayotis , Sanakis Yiannis
Published: May 2024

In the work described herein, the spin relaxation properties of the mononuclear tetrahedral S=2 [Fe{(SPiPr2)2N}2] complex (1) were studied by employing static and dynamic magnetic measurements at liquid helium temperatures. In the absence of an external direct current (DC) magnetic field, 1 exhibits fast magnetization relaxation. However, in the presence of external magnetic fields of a few kOe, slow relaxation is induced as monitored by alternating current (AC) magnetic susceptibility measurements up to 10 kHz, in the temperature range 2–5 K. Analysis of the temperature dependence of the corresponding relaxation time reveals contributions by Quantum Tunnelling of Magnetization, and the Direct and Orbach processes in the magnetization relaxation mechanism of 1. The energy barrier, Ueff, of the Orbach process, as determined by this analysis, is compared with that related to the zero‐field splitting parameters of 1 which were previously determined by high‐ frequency and ‐field electron paramagnetic resonance and Mössbauer spectroscopies.
988 and crisis, suicide prevention, and substance use
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2024

Called the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, this three‐digit number was launched more than a year ago by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to great fanfare. It appeared to everyone to be mainly for suicide prevention. But it is in fact for every crisis, and substance use is included.
FDA sends warning letter about e cigarettes
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2024

In April, the Center for Tobacco Products of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently reviewed our inspection records and determined that Ram Goods LLC sells and/or distributes electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products to customers in the United States.
Recyclable Organic Radical Electrodes for Metal‐Free Batteries
Authors: Mitra Thakur Ratul , Ma Ting , Shamblin Grant , Oka Suyash S. , Lalwani Suvesh M. , Easley Alexandra D. , Lutkenhaus Jodie L.
Published: May 2024

Organic batteries are one of the possible routes for transitioning to sustainable energy storage solutions. However, the recycling of organic batteries, which is a key step toward circularity, is not easily achieved. This work shows the direct recycling of poly(2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinyloxy‐4‐yl) (PTMA) and poly(2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinyloxy‐4‐yl acrylamide) (PTAm) based composite electrodes. After charge‐discharge cycling, the electrodes are deconstructed using a solubilizing‐solvent and then reconstructed using a casting‐solvent. The electrochemical properties of the original and recycled electrodes are compared using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD) cycling, from which it is discovered using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) that recycling can be challenged by the formation of a cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI). In turn, an additive is proposed to modify the CEI layer and improve the properties after recycling. Last, an anionic rocking chair battery consisting of PTAm electrodes as both positive and negative electrodes is demonstrated, in which the electrodes are recycled to form a new battery. This work demonstrates the recycling of composite electrodes for organic batteries and provides insights into the challenges and possible solutions for recycling the next‐generation electrochemical energy storage devices.
Design and development of an LC compensated WPT system with multiple constant voltage outputs function
Authors: Sang Qingsong , Wang Yilin , Yang Lin , Zhou Xuebin
Published: May 2024

With the increasing demand for the constant voltage (CV) charging of multiple loads, this article proposes an LC compensated wireless power transfer (WPT) system with multiple load‐independent CV outputs function. Each transmission channel consists of a compensation capacitor and a compensation inductor forming a resonant loop. By configuring different combinations of compensation inductor and capacitor for each transmission channel, different CV outputs can be achieved without affecting the output voltages of other transmission channels. In addition, the proposed system can achieve near zero phase angle (ZPA) and zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) operations, thereby improving system efficiency. Firstly, a detailed theoretical derivation of the proposed system with multiple load‐independent CV outputs and ZPA operation is performed, and the detailed parameter design process is provided. Secondly, the implementation method of ZVS operation is introduced and verified through simulation. Finally, an experimental prototype of two transmission channels is taken as an example to verify the correctness and rationality of the proposed system.
Strong tracking adaptive window multi‐innovation cubature Kalman filter algorithm for lithium‐ion battery state of energy estimation
Authors: Lin Lin , Wang Shunli , Yang Xiao
Published: May 2024

Accurate estimation of lithium‐ion battery state of energy (SOE) is an important prerequisite for prolonging battery life and ensuring battery safety. To achieve a high‐precision estimation of the SOE, while a ternary lithium‐ion battery being the specifically targeted in this study, a novel method for SOE estimation is proposed, which combines limited‐memory recursive least squares (LM‐RLS) with strong tracking adaptive window Multi‐innovation cubature Kalman filtering (STW‐MCKF). In the LM‐RLS algorithm, the model parameters at the current time are updated with a limited dataset to solve the data saturation problem and improve the recognition accuracy of the RLS algorithm. The CKF algorithm is optimized by the STW algorithm in the STW‐CKF algorithm to enhance its robustness under strong disturbances. Additionally, a self‐adaptive window multiple innovation strategy is proposed to improve the accuracy of SOE estimation and the stability of the CKF algorithm, while maintaining a balance between computational complexity and SOE estimation accuracy. To validate the effectiveness of the algorithm, experiments are conducted under DST and BBDST conditions. The results show that the STW‐MCKF algorithm has a maximum convergence time of 4 s and an SOE estimation error within 1.04% under DST conditions. Under BBDST conditions, the maximum convergence time is 3 s, and the SOE estimation error is within 2.34%. Furthermore, the STW‐MCKF algorithm demonstrates good stability under the two conditions, indicating the effectiveness of the proposed method for lithium‐ion battery SOE estimation.
An enhanced bio‐inspired energy‐efficient localization routing for mobile wireless sensor network
Authors: Tumula Sridevi , Rama Devi N , Ramadevi Y , Padmalatha E , Uyyala Ravi , Abualigah Laith , Chithaluru Premkumar , Kumar Manoj
Published: May 2024

Environmental disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, and landslides disrupt natural resources, human casualties, and so on. Early warning and alert of such events will help for preparedness to avoid human and economic causalities. Managing a disaster or emergency scenario is a difficult endeavor. These episodes of mass devastation, whether caused by natural disasters or man‐made disasters, result in massive losses of money, property, and lives as a result of inadequate response by the government and management authorities. As a result, actions must be taken to avoid these circumstances from occurring by discovering the causes of these catastrophes in advance and providing swift rescue procedures once the crisis happens. In a disaster situation, communication plays a vital role, and a lot of people turn towards it as a source of information conveyance/delivery for controlling the situation. Even these communication networks are damaged and incur tremendous losses during disasters. All the communication networks, including mobile wireless sensor networks (WSNs) deployed for communication, also suffer huge damage and face many challenges during disasters. Nature appears to deal with these issues well. WSN is inspired by several biological systems and processes that have intrinsically attractive properties such as adaptation, self‐organization, and self‐healing. In this paper, we proposed an enhanced bio‐inspired energy‐efficient localization (EBEEL) routing for Mobile WSN. The main focus of the proposed EBEEL algorithm is to overcome the challenges faced by peer‐existing routing protocols such as data aggregation, limited bandwidth, scalability, data redundancy, energy consumption, packet drops, load balancing, and Quality of Service (QoS).
Stress granule related‐genes during blastogenetic cycle of two colonial ascidians: Botryllus schlosseri compared to Botryllus primigenus
Authors: Drago Laura , Sasada Takumi , Sunanaga Takeshi , Ballarin Loriano
Published: May 2024

Background

Colonial ascidians are chordates known to reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the present study, we used the Mediterranean species Botryllus schlosseri and the Japanese Botryllus primigenus to investigate the possible role of tiar, ttp, and g3bp in the periodical renewal of the colonies, defined by generation changes or takeovers. In this scenario, the above genes, which codify key components for the formation of stress granules, storing specific mRNAs, can play a pivotal role, allowing the regulation of processes such as stress responses, cell proliferation, and stem cell development.

Results

We characterized tiarx1, ttp, and g3bp2 sequences in B. schlosseri and B. primigenus. Then, we analyzed gene transcription by in situ hybridization in hemolymph cells and colony tissues, and we proceeded with quantification of the gene transcription by quantitative real‐time PCR, during the phases of the colonial blastogenetic cycle.

Conclusions

Our results allowed us to assign a role in the development of the new colonial generations to the studied genes.
Inhibition of circDGKZ ameliorates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by targeting miR‐345‐5p/TLR4
Authors: Li Shiliang , Zhou Yan , Li KunSheng , Liu Lu , Fang Ming , Gao Hongfeng
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aims to explore the molecular mechanism of circular RNAs' (circRNAs) potential involvement in myocardial ischaemia–reperfusion injury (MIRI).

Methods and results

Differently expressed genes in myocardial infarction (MI) were identified by screening the GEO database. Serum was collected from MI patients and healthy volunteers (n = 5 for each group). AC16 cells were cultured and exposed to hypoxia/reperfusion (H/R) treatment for the cell experiments. Then candidate genes were validated in human serum and the H/R model. Quantitative real‐time PCR and western blot were used to detect expression of key molecules such as circDGKZ, miR‐345‐5p, and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), as well as pyroptosis markers such as NOD‐like receptor thermal protein domain‐associated protein 3 (NLRP3), ASC, C‐caspase1, interleukin (IL)‐1β, and IL‐18. CircDGKZ was positively correlated in human serum (P < 0.05) and in AC16 cells (P < 0.01). Knockdown of circDGKZ inhibited cardiomyocyte pyroptosis and the TLR4/nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling pathway (all P < 0.05). A luciferase assay was used to detect the molecule interaction. MiR‐345‐5p was regulated by circDGKZ and regulated TLR4 in cardiomyocytes both through direct interaction (P < 0.01). The stability and distribution of circRNA or linear RNA were examined by subcellular localization and RNA decay assays. CircDGKZ was stably expressed in cardiomyocytes and mainly distributed in the cytoplasm (P < 0.01). Knockdown of circDGKZ also promoted the degradation of NLRP3 by inducing autophagy (P < 0.05). MIRI rat models were constructed (n = 5 for each group), and the cellular results were further confirmed in rat models (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Knockdown of circDGKZ interrupted pyroptosis and induced autophagy of cardiomyocytes via regulating miR‐345‐5p/TLR4/NF‐κB.
Hospital‐acquired infections as a risk factor for post‐traumatic epilepsy: A registry‐based cohort study
Authors: Chen Zhibin , Laing Joshua , Li Jian , O'Brien Terence J. , Gabbe Belinda J. , Semple Bridgette D.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Hospital‐acquired infections are a common complication for patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), contributing to morbidity and mortality. As infection‐mediated immune responses can predispose towards epilepsy, we hypothesized that post‐injury hospital‐acquired infections increase the risk of post‐traumatic epilepsy (PTE).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of adults with moderate to severe TBI was conducted using data from the Victorian State Trauma Registry in Australia. Infections were identified from the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision–Australian Modification (ICD‐10‐AM) codes, and diagnosis of PTE was determined by the Glasgow Outcome Scale – Extended questionnaire regarding epileptic fits at 24 months follow‐up.

Results

Of all TBI patients (n = 15 152), 24% had evidence of having had any type of infection, with the most common being pneumonia, urinary tract, and respiratory infections. Of those who responded to the PTE question at 24 months (n = 1361), 11% had developed PTE. Univariable analysis found that the incidence of PTE was higher in patients who had any type of infection compared to patients without an infection (p < 0.001). After adjustment for covariates associated with both development of PTE and risk of infection, multivariable analysis found a solid association between infection and PTE (adjusted RR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.11–2.28; p = 0.011). Having any type of complicating infection acquired during admission was also associated with poor GOSE outcomes at subsequent follow‐ups (adjusted OR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.11–0.35, p < 0.001).

Significance

These findings suggest that hospital‐acquired infections contribute to PTE development after TBI. Future investigation into infections as a modifiable target to reduce poor outcomes after TBI is warranted.

Plain Language Summary

Hospital‐acquired infections are common in patients with traumatic brain injuries. A database study of adults with moderate or severe brain injuries in Australia examined whether these infections are associated with the development of epilepsy after a brain injury. 24% of patients had infections, with pneumonia and urinary tract infections being the most common. Of those surveyed 2 years after the injury, 11% developed post‐traumatic epilepsy. Patients with infections had a significantly higher risk of epilepsy, even when accounting for other known risk factors, and infections were also linked to poor outcomes more broadly. The study suggests that preventing hospital‐acquired infections could be a crucial target for improving outcomes after traumatic brain injuries.
Diffusion‐tensor‐imaging 1‐year‐old and 2‐year‐old infant brain atlases with comprehensive gray and white matter labels
Authors: Song Limei , Peng Yun , Ouyang Minhui , Peng Qinmu , Feng Lei , Sotardi Susan , Yu Qinlin , Kang Huiying , Sindabizera Kay L. , Liu Shuwei , Huang Hao
Published: May 2024

Human infancy is marked by fastest postnatal brain structural changes. It also coincides with the onset of many neurodevelopmental disorders. Atlas‐based automated structure labeling has been widely used for analyzing various neuroimaging data. However, the relatively large and nonlinear neuroanatomical differences between infant and adult brains can lead to significant offsets of the labeled structures in infant brains when adult brain atlas is used. Age‐specific 1‐ and 2‐year‐old brain atlases covering all major gray and white matter (GM and WM) structures with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and structural MRI are critical for precision medicine for infant population yet have not been established. In this study, high‐quality DTI and structural MRI data were obtained from 50 healthy children to build up three‐dimensional age‐specific 1‐ and 2‐year‐old brain templates and atlases. Age‐specific templates include a single‐subject template as well as two population‐averaged templates from linear and nonlinear transformation, respectively. Each age‐specific atlas consists of 124 comprehensively labeled major GM and WM structures, including 52 cerebral cortical, 10 deep GM, 40 WM, and 22 brainstem and cerebellar structures. When combined with appropriate registration methods, the established atlases can be used for highly accurate automatic labeling of any given infant brain MRI. We demonstrated that one can automatically and effectively delineate deep WM microstructural development from 3 to 38 months by using these age‐specific atlases. These established 1‐ and 2‐year‐old infant brain DTI atlases can advance our understanding of typical brain development and serve as clinical anatomical references for brain disorders during infancy.
Structural and functional brain alterations in subthreshold depression: A multimodal coordinate‐based meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Jingyu , Kuang Shunrong , Liu Yang , Wu Yuedong , Li Haijiang
Published: May 2024

Imaging studies of subthreshold depression (StD) have reported structural and functional abnormalities in a variety of spatially diverse brain regions. However, there is no consensus among different studies. In the present study, we applied a multimodal meta‐analytic approach, the Activation Likelihood Estimation (ALE), to test the hypothesis that StD exhibits spatially convergent structural and functional brain abnormalities compared to healthy controls. A total of 31 articles with 25 experiments were included, collectively representing 1001 subjects with StD. We found consistent differences between StD and healthy controls mainly in the left insula across studies with various neuroimaging methods. Further exploratory analyses found structural atrophy and decreased functional activities in the right pallidum and thalamus in StD, and abnormal spontaneous activity converged to the middle frontal gyrus. Coordinate‐based meta‐analysis found spatially convergent structural and functional impairments in StD. These findings provide novel insights for understanding the neural underpinnings of subthreshold depression and enlighten the potential targets for its early screening and therapeutic interventions in the future.
Risk compensation after COVID‐19 vaccination: Evidence from vaccine rollout by exact birth date in South Korea
Authors: Hwang Jisoo , Hwang Seung‐sik , Kim Hyuncheol Bryant , Lee Jungmin , Lee Junseok
Published: May 2024

We utilize the phased rollout of COVID‐19 vaccines by exact birth date in South Korea as a natural experiment for testing risk compensation. People may resume face‐to‐face social activities following vaccination because they perceive lower risk of infection. Applying a regression discontinuity design based on birth date cutoffs for vaccine eligibility, we find no evidence of risk‐compensating behaviors, as measured by large, high‐frequency data from credit card and airline companies as well as survey data. We find some evidence of self‐selection into vaccine take‐up based on perception toward vaccine effectiveness and side effects, but the treatment effects do not differ between compliers and never‐takers.
Determining factors for dexmedetomidine sedation in endoscopic submucosal dissection for early‐stage gastric cancer
Authors: Yoshida Erika , Yamamoto Yorimasa , Tohata Misako , Gomi Kuniyo , Okayasu Tadashi , Nagahama Masatsugu
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

Although no specific sedation recommendations exist in early‐stage gastric cancer (ESGC) for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), dexmedetomidine (DEX) is useful along with benzodiazepines and analgesics. Furthermore, DEX is used for endoscopic treatment requiring lengthy sedation. However, it is unclear which patients should be administered DEX. We examined the factors that determine when DEX should be added for sedation during ESD for ESGC.

Methods

Of 316 patients undergoing ESD for ESGC at our hospital between January 2017 and December 2020, we examined 310 receiving intravenous anesthesia. Preoperative patient factors and treatment outcomes were retrospectively examined according to the sedation method.

Results

Among patients with ESGC undergoing ESD at our hospital, DEX was more frequently used alongside sedation in men, those undergoing gastrectomy, those with a lesion diameter ≥20 mm, and those with preoperative ulcers. In the standard group, patients whose treatment duration exceeded 120 min typically had a lesion diameter ≥20 mm, preoperative ulcers, lesions located outside the L region, and were treated by junior physicians.

Conclusion

It is important to evaluate specific preoperative factors (lesion diameter ≥20 mm, preoperative ulcers, lesion located outside the L region, and having a junior physician as the treating physician) in patients undergoing ESD for ESGC to determine whether the combined use of DEX in sedation is necessary.
Cutting a tree with subgraph complementation is hard, except for some small trees
Authors: Antony Dhanyamol , Pal Sagartanu , Sandeep R. B. , Subashini R.
Published: May 2024

For a graph property , Subgraph Complementation to is the problem to find whether there is a subset of vertices of the input graph such that modifying by complementing the subgraph induced by results in a graph satisfying the property . We prove that the problem of Subgraph Complementation to ‐free graphs is NP‐Complete, for being a tree, except for 41 trees of at most 13 vertices (a graph is ‐free if it does not contain any induced copies of ). This result, along with the four known polynomial‐time solvable cases (when is a path on at most four vertices), leaves behind 37 open cases. Further, we prove that these hard problems do not admit any subexponential‐time algorithms, assuming the Exponential‐Time Hypothesis. As an additional result, we obtain that Subgraph Complementation to paw‐free graphs can be solved in polynomial‐time.
Turán number of the odd‐ballooning of complete bipartite graphs
Authors: Peng Xing , Xia Mengjie
Published: May 2024

Given a graph , the Turán number is the maximum possible number of edges in an ‐vertex ‐free graph. The study of Turán number of graphs is a central topic in extremal graph theory. Although the celebrated Erdős‐Stone‐Simonovits theorem gives the asymptotic value of for nonbipartite , it is challenging in general to determine the exact value of for . The odd‐ballooning of is a graph such that each edge of is replaced by an odd cycle and all new vertices of odd cycles are distinct. Here the length of odd cycles is not necessarily equal. The exact value of Turán number of the odd‐ballooning of is previously known for being a cycle, a path, a tree with assumptions, and . In this paper, we manage to obtain the exact value of Turán number of the odd‐ballooning of with , where and each odd cycle has length at least five.
Exercise MR of Skeletal Muscles, the Heart, and the Brain
Authors: Hooijmans Melissa T. , Jeneson Jeroen A.L. , Jørstad Harald T. , Bakermans Adrianus J.
Published: May 2024

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (MRI) is routinely used to evaluate organ morphology and pathology in the human body at rest or in combination with pharmacological stress as an exercise surrogate. With MR during actual physical exercise, we can assess functional characteristics of tissues and organs under real‐life stress conditions. This is particularly relevant in patients with limited exercise capacity or exercise intolerance, and where complaints typically present only during physical activity, such as in neuromuscular disorders, inherited metabolic diseases, and heart failure. This review describes practical and physiological aspects of exercise MR of skeletal muscles, the heart, and the brain. The acute effects of physical exercise on these organs are addressed in the light of various dynamic quantitative MR readouts, including phosphorus‐31 MR spectroscopy (31P‐MRS) of tissue energy metabolism, phase‐contrast MRI of blood flow and muscle contraction, real‐time cine MRI of cardiac performance, and arterial spin labeling MRI of muscle and brain perfusion. Exercise MR will help advancing our understanding of underlying mechanisms that contribute to exercise intolerance, which often proceed structural and anatomical changes in disease. Its potential to detect disease‐driven alterations in organ function, perfusion, and metabolism under physiological stress renders exercise MR stress testing a powerful noninvasive imaging modality to aid in disease diagnosis and risk stratification. Although not yet integrated in most clinical workflows, and while some applications still require thorough validation, exercise MR has established itself as a comprehensive and versatile modality for characterizing physiology in health and disease in a noninvasive and quantitative way.

Evidence Level

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Codetermination of antimicrobial agents in rabbit tear fluid using LC–MS/MS assay: Insights into ocular pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Bisen Amol Chhatrapati , Mishra Anjali , Agrawal Sristi , Sanap Sachin Nashik , Biswas Arpon , Verma Sarvesh Kumar , Bhatta Rabi Sankar
Published: May 2024

Managing ocular microbial infections typically requires pharmacotherapy using antibiotic eye drops, such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride (MFX), combined with an antifungal agent like amphotericin B (AB). We carried out and validated an LC–MS/MS assay to quantify these compounds in rabbit tear fluid in order to look into the pharmacokinetics of these two drugs. We employed a protein precipitation technique for the extraction of drugs under examination. A Waters Symmetry C18 column was used to separate the analytes and internal standard. The composition of the mobile phase was like (A) 0.1% v/v formic acid in water and (B) methanol. The detection of MFX and AB was accomplished through the utilization of positive ion electrospray ionization under multiple reaction monitoring mode. The linearity curves for both analytes exhibited an acceptable trendline across a concentration range of 2.34–300 ng/mL for MFX and 7.81–1000 ng/mL for AB in surrogate rabbit tear fluid. The lower limit of quantitation for MFX was 2.34 ng/mL, while for AB, it was 7.81 ng/mL. The approach was strictly validated, encompassing tests of selectivity, linearity (with r2 > 0.99), precision, accuracy, matrix effects, and stability. Consequently, we employed this method to evaluate the pharmacokinetics profiles of MFX and AB in rabbit tear fluid following single topical doses.
Intercropping with maize and sorghum‐induced saikosaponin accumulation in Bupleurum chinense DC. by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics
Authors: Zhang Rui , Li Xiangchuan , Qu Jixu , Zhang Doudou , Cao Linxu , Qin Xuemei , Li Zhenyu
Published: May 2024

Bupleuri Radix is an important medicinal plant, which has been used in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. Cultivated Bupleurum chinense DC. (B. chinense) is the main commodity of Bupleuri Radix. The benefits of intercropping with various crops for B. chinense have been recognized; however, the influence of intercropping on the chemical composition of B. chinense is still unclear yet. In this study, intercropping with sorghum and maize exhibited little effect on the root length, root diameter, and single root mass of B. chinense. Only the intercropping with sorghum increased the root length of B. chinense slightly compared to the monocropping. In addition, 200 compounds were identified by UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS, and metabolomic combined with the Venn diagram and heatmap analysis showed apparent separation between the intercropped and monocropped B. chinense samples. Intercropping with sorghum and maize could both increase the saikosaponins, fatty acyls, and organic acids in B. chinense while decreasing the phospholipids. The influence of intercropping on the saikosaponin biosynthesis was probably related with the light intensity and hormone levels in B. chinense. Moreover, we found intercropping increased the anti‐inflammatory activity of B. chinense. This study provides a scientific reference for the beneficial effect of intercropping mode of B. chinense.
Major changes in prevalence and genotypes of rotavirus diarrhea in Beijing, China after RV5 rotavirus vaccine introduction
Authors: Tian Yi , Shen Lingyu , Li Weihong , Yan Hanqiu , Fu Jiamei , Liu Baiwei , Wang Yu , Jia Lei , Li Gang , Suo Luodan , Zhang Daitao , Gao Zhiyong , Wang Quanyi
Published: May 2024

To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of group A rotavirus (RVA) diarrhea in Beijing between 2019 and 2022 and evaluate the effectiveness of the RV5 vaccine. Stool specimens were collected from patients with acute diarrhea, and RVA was detected and genotyped. The whole genome of RVA was sequenced by fragment amplification and Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using Bayesian and maximum likelihood methods. Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the characteristics of RVA diarrhea. Test‐negative design was used to evaluate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of the RV5. Compared with 2011–2018, RVA‐positive rates in patients with acute diarrhea under 5 years of age and adults decreased significantly between 2019 and 2022, to 9.45% (249/634) and 3.66% (220/6016), respectively. The predominant genotype of RVA had changed from G9‐VIP[8]‐III between 2019 and 2021 to G8‐VP[8]‐III in 2022, and P[8] sequences from G8‐VP[8]‐III strains formed a new branch called P[8]‐IIIb. The complete genotype of G8‐VP[8]‐III was G8‐P[8]‐I2‐R2‐C2‐M2‐A2‐N2‐T2‐E2‐H2. The VE of 3 doses of RV5 was 90.4% (95% CI: 28.8%–98.7%) against RVA diarrhea. The prevalence of RVA decreased in Beijing between 2019 and 2022, and the predominant genotype changed to G8P[8], which may be related to RV5 vaccination. Continuous surveillance is necessary to evaluate vaccine effectiveness and improve vaccine design.
Characterizing the antigenic evolution of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 from 2009 to 2023
Authors: Cheng Peiwen , Zhai Ke , Han Wenjie , Zeng Jinfeng , Qiu Zekai , Chen Yilin , Tang Kang , Tang Jing , Long Haoyu , Jiang Taijiao , Du Xiangjun
Published: May 2024

The H1N1pdm09 virus has been a persistent threat to public health since the 2009 pandemic. Particularly, since the relaxation of COVID‐19 pandemic mitigation measures, the influenza virus and SARS‐CoV‐2 have been concurrently prevalent worldwide. To determine the antigenic evolution pattern of H1N1pdm09 and develop preventive countermeasures, we collected influenza sequence data and immunological data to establish a new antigenic evolution analysis framework. A machine learning model (XGBoost, accuracy = 0.86, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.89) was constructed using epitopes, physicochemical properties, receptor binding sites, and glycosylation sites as features to predict the antigenic similarity relationships between influenza strains. An antigenic correlation network was constructed, and the Markov clustering algorithm was used to identify antigenic clusters. Subsequently, the antigenic evolution pattern of H1N1pdm09 was analyzed at the global and regional scales across three continents. We found that H1N1pdm09 evolved into around five antigenic clusters between 2009 and 2023 and that their antigenic evolution trajectories were characterized by cocirculation of multiple clusters, low‐level persistence of former dominant clusters, and local heterogeneity of cluster circulations. Furthermore, compared with the seasonal H1N1 virus, the potential cluster‐transition determining sites of H1N1pdm09 were restricted to epitopes Sa and Sb. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of machine learning methods for characterizing antigenic evolution of viruses, developed a specific model to rapidly identify H1N1pdm09 antigenic variants, and elucidated their evolutionary patterns. Our findings may provide valuable support for the implementation of effective surveillance strategies and targeted prevention efforts to mitigate the impact of H1N1pdm09.