bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of dual‐lumen microcatheter pullback injection in complex percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Le Quang , Hirai Taishi , Lombardi William L. , Azzalini Lorenzo
Published: August 2024

Dual‐lumen microcatheters (DLMC) are utilized in challenging wiring scenarios as well as for contrast and medication injections. Nonetheless, lesion characterization remains extremely challenging in many cases. We describe a DLMC‐facilitated technique which can assist in locating the distal anastomosis while navigating an occluded bypass graft during retrograde chronic total occlusion recanalization, as well as in the differential diagnosis of abrupt vessel closure. This “DLMC Pullback Injection” technique is performed by injecting contrast through the over‐the‐wire port of the DLMC, while the latter is quickly pulled back across the region of interest in a dynamic fashion. We believe this technique has the potential to solve challenging scenarios and to enrich the complex percutaneous coronary intervention operator's armamentarium.
Right pulmonary artery originating from the ascending aorta with tetralogy of fallot and pulmonary atresia
Authors: Rorris Filippos‐Paschalis , Kanakis Meletios , Samanidis George , Tsoutsinos Alexandros , Lioulias Achilleas , Bobos Dimitrios
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Anomalous origin of right pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta is a rare congenital heart malformation that results in early infant mortality. These patients are at risk for the early development of significant pulmonary hypertension. The surgical management during the early period of life is imperative.

Anomalous pulmonary artery originating from the ascending aorta (often called hemitruncus) is a rare congenital cardiac defect requiring immediate management in the neonatal period. We report a case of a rare variant of anomalous right pulmonary artery originating from the ascending aorta in combination with pulmonary atresia and tetralogy of Fallot. The above‐mentioned combination makes the surgical management of such cardiac defect exceedingly demanding.
Surgical management of huge paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma in a 20‐year‐old male: Case report and literature review
Authors: Nhungo Charles John , Mtafu Naomi Herbert , Mhaya Joachim Kulwa , Mushi Fransia Arda , Mtaturu Gabriel , Ngaiza Advera Isaac , Mwanga Ally Hamis , Mkony Charles A.
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment of testicular rhabdomyosarcomas including surgery and chemotherapy significantly reduce local recurrence and improve survival rates in young adults with metastases. Adjuvant chemotherapy is highly recommended to enhances prognosis and survival outcomes.
Successful immunosuppressive drug‐free immune tolerance induction in hemophilia B with inhibitor and anaphylaxis to factor IX: A case report
Authors: Palomo Bravo Ángeles , Prieto Bonilla Rosario , Bardan Rebollar Daniel , López‐Jaime Francisco José , Fernández‐Bello Ihosvany
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Recommendations advise factor IX desensitization before immune tolerance induction in severe hemophilia B, supported by immunosuppression. A child with inhibitor and anaphylaxis to factor IX showed successful immunosuppression‐free immune tolerance induction using very low and slowly increasing doses of a factor IX extended‐half‐life product. Immune tolerance to factor IX based on this protocol merits further study.
Micellar (Photo−)Catalysis Driven by IR‐Active Semiconductor Surfactants
Authors: Polarz Sebastian , Jaschke Marian , Siroky Stephan , Kalies Stefan , Weber Nils , Heisterkamp Alexander
Published: August 2024

In micellar catalysis, one uses aggregates formed by surfactants as nanoreactors for performing chemical reactions. A special class of tailor‐made surfactants containing catalytically active sites opens new perspectives in micellar catalysis. Little is known about the combination of such surfactants with photocatalysis. Molecular semiconductors are presented, which simultaneously have amphiphilic properties and are made of a hydrophilic fullerenol head group attached to dye molecules as the hydrophobic entity. The first generation of those surfactants produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to light in the UV/Vis range. The concept of the current paper is that one can drive the photocatalytic process also using low‐energy photons in the near‐infrared region. For this purpose, NIR‐active dye molecules were selected and attached to the fullerenol head. It is shown that a fullerenol ‐ aminostilbene compound representing the second generation of semiconductor surfactants fulfills all requirements. It forms aggregates in water that are catalytically active. Moreover, two‐photon experiments with λ=780 nm were performed, indicating successful ROS production and, thus, photocatalytic activity.
Improved Catalytic Partial Oxidation of Methane via Lattice Oxygen Modification on Supported Copper Oxide Catalyst System
Authors: Ohyama Junya , Iwai Hiroki , Takahashi Daichi , Tsushida Masayuki , Machida Masato , Nishimura Shun , Takahashi Keisuke
Published: August 2024

Thirteen kinds of supported copper oxide catalysts (Cu/MOx, MOx: La2O3, Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, CeO2, ZrO2, SnO2, SrCO3, BaCO3, Ta2O5, Nb2O5, WO3, and MoO3), which form Cu−O−M sites at the interface between CuOx and MOx or within the complex oxides (CuMOx), were tested for CH4 partial oxidation to find out catalytically active Cu−O−M combinations for production of CH3OH and HCHO. Among the thirteen Cu/MOx tested, Cu/WO3 exhibited the highest total yield of CH3OH and HCHO in a CH4‐O2‐H2O flow reaction at 400 °C. The structural and property analysis of Cu/WO3 revealed the formation of CuWO4, of which the lattice oxygen is active for the partial oxidation of CH4.
An Electron Bridge of Shared Atoms Mediated Cs3Bi2Br9/Bi2WO6 Z‐Scheme Heterojunction for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Liu Haolan , Sun Jingjing , Lin Qianying , Wang Ying , Wang Shuo , Wang Shuowen , Lv Yujing , Wen Na , Yuan Rusheng , Ding Zhengxin , Long Jinlin
Published: August 2024

Converting clean solar energy into chemical energy through artificial photosynthesis is an effective solution to solve the energy and environmental issues. Here, we report a Cs3Bi2Br9/Bi2WO6 (CBB/BWO) Z‐scheme heterojunction constructed via electrostatic self‐assembly, which facilitates efficient separation of photogenerated carriers and ensures the corresponding redox capacity of both components. By sharing Bi atoms, a Br−Bi−O bond is established between CBB and BWO, serving as an “electron bridge”. The electrons generated by BWO are efficiently channeled to CBB through the heterojunction‐formed “electron bridge”, thereby achieving effective photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Under simulated sunlight conditions, it exhibits the highest CO yield of 72.52 μmol g−1 (without the addition of any precious metal, photosensitizers or sacrifices), which is approximately 7‐fold and 18‐fold greater than that of pure CBB and BWO, respectively. This work provides a more profound comprehension of the regulation of electron transfer through interfacial chemical bonds, thereby proposing a promising strategy for the development of efficient heterojunction photocatalysts for CO2 photoreduction.
Synthesis of High Value‐Added Chemicals Via Electrocatalytic C−N Coupling Involving CO2 and Nitrogen‐Containing Small Molecules
Authors: Wang Xihua , Wang Yong , Li Pengsong , Zhang Xiangda , Liu Jiyuan , Hou Yuqing , Zhang Yichao , Zhu Qinggong , Han Buxing
Published: August 2024

With the depletion of fossil energy sources, the growing problem of environmental pollution and the increasing emission of CO2, the research direction of converting the emitted CO2 into valuable chemicals using chemical approaches has attracted strong interest. In recent years, a great deal of research has been conducted to select appropriate strategies to realize the conversion and utilization of CO2. Among them, electrosynthesis is one of the commonly used strategy for the preparation of high value‐added chemicals, which has obvious advantages such as simple equipment and environmental friendliness. In this review, we focus on the progress of research on the electrocatalytic C−N coupling involving CO2 and nitrogen‐containing small molecules to various nitrogen‐containing compounds. We start the review with a discussion of the fundamentals of C−N coupling reactions. Next, we discuss research advances in the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing chemicals (e. g., urea, amines, amides, amino acids, oximes, etc.) by C−N coupling reaction, using CO2 and nitrogen‐containing small molecules (e. g., NH3, N2, NO2−, and NO3−, etc.) as feedstocks. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities in the field are presented. The goal of this review is to provide a state‐of‐the‐art overview of electrochemical C−N coupled systems in order to advance their progress in practical applications.
Confining Pt Nanoparticles in Layered Double Hydroxide Derived Hollow Mesoporous MgAl‐Oxide Nanospheres for Boosting Selective Transfer Hydrogenation
Authors: Pan Zhengyi , Zhang Qian , Wang Wenquan , Li Yuanzheng , Wang Guang‐Hui
Published: August 2024

Catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) is a safe and effective strategy for producing unsaturated alcohols (UOLs) from biomass‐derived α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes/ketones. Accordingly, the design of CTH catalysts that possess both extreme activity and superior selectivity is highly desirable. Herein, we develop a highly efficient Pt@hMgAl catalyst with Pt nanoparticles (NPs) confined in the layered double hydroxide derived hollow MgAl‐oxide nanospheres (hMgAl), which shows an enhanced catalytic performance in CTH of furfural (FFR) to furfuryl alcohol (FOL) compared to the hMgAl catalyst without Pt NPs inside. It is found that the reaction rate over the Pt@hMgAl (12.8 mmol gcat−1 h−1) is ~26 times higher than that over the hMgAl (0.5 mmol gcat−1 h−1). The excellent catalytic performance of Pt@hMgAl originates from the synergy between Pt‐(Mg−O−Al) interfacial sites, where the acid‐base site of Mg−O−Al activates the C=O bond of FFR, while the nearby Pt site facilitates the dehydrogenation of 2‐propanol. Moreover, the reaction rate over the Pt@hMgAl can further increase to 21.8 mmol gcat−1 h−1 after introducing H2 into the reaction system, where the FOL selectivity is still higher than 99 % due to the synergy of Pt‐(Mg−O−Al) interfacial sites. This work provides a straightforward approach to construct a hollow‐structured catalyst with abundant metal/oxide interfaces, which could significantly enhance the CTH efficiency for α,β‐unsaturated alcohols production.
Performance of Non‐Precious Metal Electrocatalysts in Proton‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: A Review
Authors: Rukmani Krishnan Srivarshini , Verstraete Dries , Aguey‐Zinsou Francois
Published: August 2024

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are an important enabler of the nascent hydrogen economy. However, due to the reliance on precious metal catalysts like platinum, reducing the cost and broad penetration of PEMFCs beyond vehicle application remains a challenge. In this respect, alternative non‐precious metal catalysts and other carbon‐based catalysts remain the holy grail toward advanced low‐cost PEMFC. This review summarizes recent progress along the development of non‐precious catalysts and their performance under PEMFC operation. Critical factors such as the activity, stability, and durability of non‐precious metal catalysts and their associated mechanisms including the paths leading to degradation are discussed. Ultimately, the review concludes by highlighting the impressive activity and potential of NPM catalysts and the areas of focus to enable the translation of non‐precious catalysts to commercially viable PEMFC systems.
THz‐EPR‐based Magneto‐Structural Correlations for Cobalt(II) Single‐Ion Magnets With Bis‐Chelate Coordination
Authors: Pohle Maximilian H. , Lohmiller Thomas , Böhme Michael , Rams Michał , Ziegenbalg Sven , Görls Helmar , Schnegg Alexander , Plass Winfried
Published: August 2024

New cobalt(II)‐based complexes with [N2O2] coordination formed by two bis‐chelate ligands were synthesized and characterized by a multi‐technique approach. The complexes possess an easy‐axis anisotropy (D<0) and magnetic measurements show a field‐induced slow relaxation of magnetization. The spin‐reversal barriers, i. e., the splitting of the two lowest Kramers doublets (UZFS), have been measured by THz‐EPR spectroscopy, which allows to distinguish the two crystallographically independent species present in one of the complexes. Based on these experimental UZFS energies together with those for related complexes reported in literature, it was possible to establish magneto‐structural correlations. UZFS linearly depends on the elongation parameter ϵT of the (pseudo‐)tetrahedral coordination, which is given by the ratio between the average obtuse and acute angles at the cobalt(II) ion, while UZFS was found to be virtually independent of the twist angle of the chelate planes. With increasing deviation from the orthogonality of the latter, the rhombicity (|E/D|) increases.
The Key to MOF Membrane Fabrication and Application: the Trade‐off between Crystallization and Film Formation
Authors: Bi Wendie , Han Linxuan , Liu Yutao , Li Libo
Published: August 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), owing the merits of ordered and tailored channel structures in the burgeoning crystalline porous materials, have demonstrated significant promise in construction of high‐performance separation membranes. However, precisely because this crystal structure with strong molecular interaction in their lattice provides robust structural integrity and resistance to chemical and thermal degradation, crystalline MOFs typically exhibit insolubility, infusibility, stiffness and brittleness, and therefore their membrane‐processing properties are far inferior to the flexible amorphous polymers and hinder their subsequent storage, transportation, and utilization. Hence, focusing on film‐formation and crystallization is the foundation for exploring the fabrication and application of MOF membranes. In this review, the film‐forming properties of crystalline MOFs are fundamentally analyzed from their inherent characteristics and compared with those of amorphous polymers, influencing factors of polycrystalline MOF membrane formation are summarized, the trade‐off relationship between crystallization and membrane formation is discussed, and the strategy solving the film formation of crystalline MOFs in recent years are systematically reviewed, in anticipation of realizing the goal of preparing crystalline membranes with optimized processability and excellent performance.
Conjugated Coordination Nanosheets with Molecular Rotors for Pseudocapacitors: Nanoarchitectonics and Enhanced Performance
Authors: Ravikumar Ramlal Vishwakarma , Patel Kinjal B. , Raj Savan K. , Srivastava Divesh N. , Kumar Mandal Amal
Published: August 2024

High‐level pseudocapacitive materials require incorporations of significant redox regions into conductive and penetrable skeletons to enable the creation of devices capable of delivering high power for extended periods. Coordination nanosheets (CNs) are appealing materials for their high natural electrical conductivities, huge explicit surface regions, and semi‐one‐layered adjusted pore clusters. Thus, rational design of ligands and topological networks with desired electronic structure is required for the advancement in this field. Herein, we report three novel conjugated CNs (RV‐10‐M, M=Zn, Ni, and Co), by utilizing the full conjugation of the terpyridine‐attached flexible tetraphenylethylene (TPE) units as the molecular rotors at the center. We prepare binder‐free transparent nanosheets supported on Ni‐foam with outstanding pseudocapacitive properties via a hydrothermal route followed by facile exfoliation. Among three CNs, the high surface area of RV‐10‐Co facilitates fast transport of ions and electrons and could achieve a high specific capacity of 670.8 C/g (1677 F/g) at 1 A/g current density. Besides, the corresponding flexible RV‐10‐Co possesses a maximum energy density of 37.26 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 171 W kg−1 and 70 % capacitance retention even after 1000 cycles.
Emerging Roles of Gossypol in Therapy: Innovations in Prodrug Design and Nanoformulation Frontiers
Authors: Banerjee Arka , Biswas Megha , Shukla Prakash , Pathak Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

Stimuli activatable systems have the potential to deliver drugs to targeted areas by releasing therapeutic agents in response to diseased specific microenvironments such as the acidic environment commonly found in diseased tissues. This review article focuses on gossypol, a bioactive compound with inherent toxicity attributed to various factors, including the presence of its formyl groups. It highlights the potential of imine‐linked gossypol‐based prodrugs and nanoparticle formulations for targeted delivery and controlled release. The unique presence of polyphenolic cores on gossypol can be utilized to prepare nanoparticles. This review offers valuable insights into designing safer and more effective drug delivery systems by elucidating the masking effect and stimuli‐responsive release mechanisms. Numerous examples demonstrate the conversion of formyl groups to imines, creating prodrugs that mask reactive functionalities and offer pH‐responsive release. This insight can guide the design of combination therapeutics, where a second drug with an amine terminal group can form imine‐linked prodrugs. Additionally, the second part discusses the use of polyphenolic moieties to create stable nanoparticles from infinite polymeric networks. Through a comprehensive examination of gossypol‘s properties and applications, this review emphasizes the broader implications of such a masking strategy for optimizing the therapeutic benefits of many similar bioactive compounds while minimizing adverse effects.
Anti‐Amyloid Aggregation and Anti‐Hyperglycemic Activities of Novel Ruthenium Uracil Schiff Base Compounds
Authors: Makanyane Daniel M. , Mabuza Lindokuhle P. , Ngubane Phikelelani , Khathi Andile , Mambanda Allen , Booysen Irvin N.
Published: August 2024

The formation and characterization of new diamagnetic ruthenium uracil mono‐imine compounds: [(η6‐p‐cymene)RuII(L)Cl][BF4] (L=H2urpda=5‐((pyridin‐2‐yl)methyleneamino)‐6‐aminouracil) for 1, urdpy=6‐amino‐1,3‐dimethyl‐5‐((pyridin‐2‐ylmethylene)amino)uracil) for 2 or urqda=5‐((quinolin‐2‐yl)methyleneamino)‐6‐aminouracil) for 3); cis‐[Ru(bipy)2(urpy)](BF4)2 (4) (urpy=5‐((pyridin‐2‐yl)methyleneamino)uracil) and cis‐[Ru(bipy)2(dapd)] (5) (H2dadp=5,6‐diaminouracil) are described. A ruthenium(IV) uracil Schiff base compound, trans‐[Ru(urpda)(PPh3)Cl2] (6) was also formed. Various physicochemical techniques were utilized to characterize the novel ruthenium compounds. Similarly, the stabilities of 1–3 and 6 monitored in chloro‐containing and the non‐coordinating solvent, dichloromethane show that they are kinetically inert, whereas, in a high nucleophilic environment, the chloride co‐ligands of these ruthenium complexes were rapidly substituted by DMSO. In contrast, the substitution of the labile co‐ligands for these ruthenium complexes by DMSO molecules in a high chloride content was suppressed. Solution chemical reactivities of the different ruthenium complexes were rationalized by density functional theory computations. Furthermore, the binding affinities and strengths between BSA and the respective ruthenium complexes were monitored using fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, the in vitro anti‐diabetic activities of the novel metal complexes were assessed in selected skeletal muscle and liver cell lines.
Delineation of features, responses, outcomes, and prognostic factors in pediatric PDGFRB‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Yaqin , Tian Xin , Sun Lirong , Jiang Hua , Chu Jinhua , Zhou Fen , Shen Shuhong , Hu Shaoyan , Fang Yongjun , Lai Changcheng , Ju Xiuli , Xu Xiaoxiao , Zhai Xiaowen , Jiang Hui , Yang Minghua , Leung Alex W. K. , Xue Ning , Zhang Yingchi , Yang Jun , Pui Ching‐Hon , Yu Jie , Gao Ju , Hu Qun , Zhu Xiaofan
Published: August 2024

Background

PDGFRB fusions in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is rare. The authors identified 28 pediatric PDGFRB‐positive ALL. They analyzed the features, outcomes, and prognostic factors of this disease.

Methods

This multicenter, retrospective study included 6457 pediatric patients with newly diagnosed PDGFRB fusion ALL according to the CCCG‐ALL‐2015 and CCCG‐ALL‐2020 protocols from April 2015 to April 2022 in 20 hospitals in China. Of these patients, 3451 were screened for PDGFRB fusions.

Results

Pediatric PDGFRB‐positive ALL accounted for only 0.8% of the 3451 cases tested for PDGFRB. These patients included 21 males and seven females and 24 B‐ALL and 4 T‐ALL; the median age was 10 years; and the median leukocyte count was 29.8 × 109/L at baseline. Only one patient had eosinophilia. Three patients had an IKZF1 deletion, three had chromosome 5q31‐33 abnormalities, and one suffered from a complex karyotype. The 3‐year event‐free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) were 33.1%, 65.5%, and 32.1%, respectively, with a median follow‐up of 25.5 months. Twenty patients were treated with chemotherapy plus tyrosine‐kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and eight were treated without TKI. Complete remission (CR) rates of them were 90.0% and 63.6%, respectively, but no differences in EFS, OS, or CIR. Univariate analyses showed patients with IKZF1 deletion or measurable residual disease (MRD) ≥0.01% after induction had inferior outcomes (p < .05).

Conclusions

Pediatric PDGFRB‐positive ALL has a poor outcome associated with high‐risk features. Chemotherapy plus TKIs can improve the CR rate, providing an opportunity for lower MRD levels and transplantation. MRD ≥0.01% was a powerful adverse prognostic factor, and stratified treatment based on MRD may improve survival for these patients.

Plain Language Summary

Pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients with PDGFRB fusions are associated with high‐risk clinical features such as older age, high white blood cell count at diagnosis, high measurable residual disease after induction therapy, and increased risk of leukemia relapse.

Chemotherapy plus tyrosine‐kinase inhibitors can improve the complete remission rate and provide an opportunity for lower measurable residual disease (MRD) levels and transplantation for pediatric PDGFRB‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients.

The MRD level was also a powerful prognostic factor for pediatric PDGFRB‐positive ALL patients.
A smart surveillance system utilizing modified federated machine learning: Gossip‐verifiable and quantum‐safe approach
Authors: Dharani Dharmaraj , Anitha Kumari Kumarasamy
Published: August 2024

Edge computing has the capability to process data closer to its point of origin, leading to the development of critical autonomous infrastructures with frequently communicating peers. The proposed work aims to evaluate the effectiveness of security and privacy mechanisms tailored for distributed systems, particularly focusing on scenarios where the nodes are closed‐circuit television (CCTV) systems. Ensuring public safety, object tracking in surveillance systems is a vital responsibility. The workflow has been specifically crafted and simulated for the purpose of weapon detection within public CCTV systems, utilizing sample edge devices. The system's primary objective is to detect any unauthorized use of weapons in public spaces while concurrently ensuring the integrity of video footage for use in criminal investigations. The outcomes of prior research on distributed machine learning (DML) techniques are compared with modified federated machine learning (FML) techniques, specifically designed for being Gossip verifiable and Quantum Safe. The conventional federated averaging algorithm is modified by incorporating the secret sharing principle, coupled with code‐based McEliece cryptosystem. This adaptation is designed to fortify the system against quantum threats. The Gossip data dissemination protocol, executed via custom blockchain atop the distributed network, serves to authenticate and validate the learning model propagated among the peers in the network. It provides additional layer of integrity to the system. Potential threats to the proposed model are analyzed and the efficiency of the work is assessed using formal proofs. The outcomes of the proposed work demonstrate that the trustworthiness and consistency are meticulously preserved for both the model and data within the DML framework on the Edge computing platform.
Adam‐Ladybug Beetle Optimization enabled multi‐objective service placement strategy in fog computing
Authors: Sharma Oshin , Sharma Deepak
Published: August 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed every aspect of our lives and has become universal in multiple fields from personnel to government and military applications. However, IoT suffers from the inherent limitation of latency and high computational costs, which can be effectively overcome by using a fog computing framework. However, the key challenge in fog computing is to address the problem of service placement among the nodes, thereby providing optimal utilization of resources and minimizing service time. This research work presents a novel service placement technique, by considering the service placement issue as a multi‐objective optimization problem. Here, a two‐level fog computing network comprising a fog master node and fog cells is considered. The master node is responsible for the service placement of the fog nodes, and the service placement is carried out using the Adam‐Ladybug Beetle Optimization (ALBO) algorithm. Further, multiple objectives, like resource utilization, makespan, response time, service time, cost, and energy consumption are considered to enhance service placement. Moreover, the efficiency of the ALBO for service placement (ALBO_SP) is examined considering service cost, energy consumption, and service time and is found to attain values of 19.009, 73.581 J, and 4.854 s, respectively.
Reaction Kinetics of the Benzylation of Adenine in DMSO: Regio‐Selectivity Guided by Entropy
Authors: Buyens Dominique M. S. , Pilcher Lynne A. , Roduner Emil
Published: August 2024

The factors governing the regio‐selectivity of the alkylation of adenine have been of interest for many years due to the biological importance of adenine derivatives, however, no reaction kinetic studies have been conducted. Herein, we report the rate constants and activation parameters of the benzylation of adenine under basic conditions in DMSO in the absence and presence of 15‐crown‐5 ether using real‐time 1H NMR spectroscopy. The reaction is second‐order for the formation of the N9‐ and N3‐benzyladenine products, with a regio‐selectivity factor 2.3 in favour of the N9‐adduct. The Gibbs free energy of activation amounts to 87±2 kJ mol−1 for both reactions. The formation of the N9‐adduct is more activated by 7 kJ mol−1, but its effect is offset by a less negative activation entropy, demonstrating that the long‐contested reason for the regioselectivity in the benzylation of adenine is dominated by compensation of entropy and enthalpy in the transition state. The kinetic parameters obtained in the presence of the 15‐crown‐5 ether indicate that the crown ether forms a complex with an adenine‐sodium ion‐pair, increasing the activation barrier. However, the Gibbs free energy in the absence and presence of the crown ether remains constant.
PharmVar GeneFocus: CYP4F2
Authors: Zubiaur Pablo , Rodríguez‐Antona Cristina , Boone Erin C. , Daly Ann K. , Tsermpini Evangelia Eirini , Khasawneh Lubna Q. , Sangkuhl Katrin , Duconge Jorge , Botton Mariana R. , Savieo Jessica , Nofziger Charity , Whirl‐Carrillo Michelle , Klein Teri E. , Gaedigk Andrea
Published: August 2024

The Pharmacogene Variation Consortium (PharmVar) serves as a global repository providing star (*) allele nomenclature for the polymorphic human CYP4F2 gene. CYP4F2 genetic variation impacts the metabolism of vitamin K, which is associated with warfarin dose requirements, and the metabolism of drugs, such as imatinib or fingolimod, and certain endogenous compounds including vitamin E and eicosanoids. This GeneFocus provides a comprehensive overview and summary of CYP4F2 genetic variation including the characterization of 14 novel star alleles, CYP4F2*4 through *17. A description of how haplotype information cataloged by PharmVar is utilized by the Pharmacogenomics Knowledgebase (PharmGKB) and the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) is also provided.
HSP47 in human diseases: Navigating pathophysiology, diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Khan Essak. S. , Däinghaus Tobias
Published: August 2024

Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47) is a chaperone protein responsible for regulating collagen maturation and transport, directly impacting collagen synthesis levels. Aberrant HSP47 expression or malfunction has been associated with collagen‐related disorders, most notably fibrosis. Recent reports have uncovered new functions of HSP47 in various cellular processes. Hsp47 dysregulation in these alternative roles has been linked to various diseases, such as cancer, autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders, thereby highlighting its potential as both a diagnostic biomarker and a therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiological roles of HSP47 in human diseases, its potential as a diagnostic tool, clinical screening techniques and its role as a target for therapeutic interventions.
Diversity in Irish and British avifauna assemblages: What can variation in diversity profiles reveal about the forces that drive assemblage composition and structure?
Authors: Groh Camille , Siriwardena Gavin M. , McMahon Barry J.
Published: August 2024

Ireland and Britain are two islands located at Europe's westernmost edge, both of which act as the final breeding outposts for many bird species within their European ranges. Despite their similar geographic locations and geological histories, Ireland and Britain host different breeding avifauna assemblages. Diversity profiles, which can serve as more robust alternatives to classic diversity indices, were employed in this study to explore disparities in the two islands' breeding avifauna assemblages. Variations in assemblages were explored, along with their potential drivers, through analyses at three levels: island‐scale breeding bird assemblage compositions, island‐scale diversity profiles considering 49 common breeding species, and habitat‐specific diversity profiles considering assemblages in east/central Irish farmland and East Anglian farmland. Analysis of the two islands' breeding avifauna assemblages revealed that the Irish assemblage is a complete subset of the British assemblage. Analyses of Irish and British assemblages at both an island scale and a habitat scale revealed patterns linking land use to trends within the two islands' avifauna assemblages. Irish assemblages contained greater proportions of insectivorous farmland species by abundance, while British assemblages contained greater proportions of seed‐eating farmland species; both trends appeared to be related to structural differences in agricultural land use on the two islands. The British and East Anglian assemblages exhibited higher diversity across all analyses, which appeared to be driven by the assemblages' higher relative abundances of species that were most genetically distinct. This study highlights the ability of diversity profiles to impart more information than classic diversity indices by incorporating species similarity data.
Different phytoplankton stoichiometry and nutrient status in the reservoirs of Fujian Province, China
Authors: Ayub Gohar , Zhou Yuanyuan , Su Yuping , Zheng Luwei , Weng Yuxin , ur Rahman Sami , Zahir Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Reservoirs have experienced varied degrees of eutrophication in recent years as the effects of climate change and human activities on reservoir ecosystems have intensified. This study looked at the patterns of integrated nutrient status and total phosphorus (TP) concentration in 30 reservoirs in major reservoirs across Fujian Province. Significant connections were identified between TP concentration, trophic status, and total phytoplankton density. 88.9% of the reservoirs were at the middle trophic level by the nutritional status (EI). The average EI of the 25 reservoirs with water supply functions is 39.2, eight reservoirs in coastal areas having EI values more than 45.0. The EI of the Baisha Reservoir in Jiulong River Basin reached 50.3, indicating modest eutrophication. TP concentration levels in the 30 reservoirs of Fujian Province range from 0.01 to 0.08 mg·L−1, representing different functional categories. Algal bloom is more likely to occur in a reservoir with a high nutrient status value. The N/P mass ratios of the 30 reservoirs were all significantly greater than 7.0, with the minimum is 11.0 and the maximum is 136.0, which indicating that these reservoirs were typically phosphorus‐limited.
Resource availability and heterogeneity affect space use and resource selection of a feral ungulate
Authors: Esmaeili Saeideh , Schoenecker Kathryn A. , King Sarah R. B.
Published: August 2024

Animals adjust their habitat use patterns in response to changes in their physiological needs and environmental conditions. Understanding the mechanisms underlying resource selection and space use across time and space reveals effects of the environment on animals' decisions. We explored the effects of habitat availability and heterogeneity on the seasonal and annual space use and resource selection of two free‐roaming feral burro (Equus asinus) populations in the United States within distinct climate and habitat conditions: the Sonoran Desert and the Colorado Plateau. As an introduced yet protected species in the United States, understanding burros' interactions with habitat elements is important for their conservation and management, as well as the conservation of sympatric wildlife. We used GPS locations of female burros (72 animals across both study areas) to delineate annual and seasonal ranges and resource selection patterns. We evaluated effects of mean and CV of habitat covariates, including forage, distance to water, and topography, representing availability and heterogeneity of resources, on seasonal and annual range size of burros. Moreover, we explored how burro seasonal and annual resource selection patterns were affected by availability and heterogeneity of resources. In the Sonoran Desert study area, burros had smaller seasonal and annual ranges and constant resource selection patterns across a year, likely due to a freshwater lake in the area, making water a nonlimiting resource. Human presence was the greatest factor affecting range size and resource selection in the Sonoran Desert, where burros selected for areas near roads and human recreation. In the Colorado Plateau study area, where resources were more seasonal, we found larger range sizes and fluctuating resource selection patterns compared to the Sonoran Desert population. Spatial variation in forage, water, and topography significantly affected range size of burros inhabiting the Colorado Plateau study area. Productive habitats with available water support smaller ranges and a more consistent pattern of resource selection. Our results highlight the positive effect of habitat heterogeneity and the negative effect of habitat productivity on range size of animals. Our findings contribute to an improved understanding of habitat requirements for free‐roaming burros that currently live under various climate and habitat conditions globally.
Integrating pigment and fatty acid profiles for enhanced estimation of seston community composition
Authors: Litmanen Jaakko J. , Perälä Tommi , Vuorio Kristiina , Asikainen Harri , Taipale Sami J.
Published: August 2024

Climate change, nutrition pollution, and land use alterations influence the primary production of lakes. While light‐microscopy counting remains the standard for estimating phytoplankton community composition, its expense and time‐consuming nature necessitate cost‐effective alternatives for seston analysis. Furthermore, estimating the contribution of seston constituents other than primary producers, or non‐algal particles, is not possible with light‐microscopy counting. Biotracer approach using computational methods and chemotaxonomic biomarkers such as carotenoid pigments and fatty acids have been used as an alternative in seston analysis when species‐level taxonomy is not required. However, a comprehensive testing of how well carotenoid and fatty acids can be used in estimating a wide range of seston phytoplankton communities using different estimation methods is lacking. To assess the accuracy of a suite of state‐of‐the‐art biotracer‐based computational methods, namely CHEMTAX, FASTAR (Fatty Acid Source‐Tracking Algorithm in R), MixSIAR, and QFASA (Quantitative Fatty Acid Signature Analysis), lake water samples were collected in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 for seston composition analysis in a boreal eutrophic lake with light‐microscopy counting serving as the reference for seston composition. Absolute errors between the biotracer‐based estimates were calculated to evaluate method performance. A small laboratory experiment to assess the reliability of estimating the contribution of non‐algal particles using the computational methods with fatty acids was also conducted. The closest alignment to light‐microscopy counting in terms of absolute error was achieved when both carotenoids and fatty acids were used together in the QFASA method. For CHEMTAX, FASTAR, and MixSIAR, using carotenoids alone produced the closest results. Additionally, the estimation methods accurately assessed the proportion of non‐algal particles in the seston when using fatty acid profiles, a capability not possible with light‐microscopy counting. Our findings demonstrate that the biotracer approach provides a viable and cost‐effective alternative to light‐microscopy counting when group‐level information of phytoplankton community composition suffices. Furthermore, we show that non‐algal particles can be effectively estimated together with phytoplankton when using fatty acids.
Functional traits and habitat use: Investigating community assembly in a montane community (Carabidae: Nebria)
Authors: Schat Jillian K. , Kavanaugh David H. , Whisenant Jacki , Anderegg Genevieve , Xiao Huijun , Schoville Sean D.
Published: August 2024

The processes that influence community assembly, such as competition for resources and environmental filtering, are often scale dependent and vary across ecotones. Trait‐based ecology provides a useful framework for testing which ecological processes most strongly influence local community composition, especially across environmental gradients where species diversity varies. Where environmental filtering dominates, species distributions are expected to be defined by strong turnover along environmental gradients, with more similar species occupying more similar habitats. Where interspecific competition dominates, species are expected to diverge in relative abundance and resource utilization at sites, so species can co‐occur. Here, we integrate measurements of functional traits, microhabitat usage, isotopic composition (δ15N and δ13C), and abundance to test the importance of environmental filtering and resource/habitat partitioning in shaping a montane ground beetle species assemblage (Carabidae: Nebriini: Nebria) in the isolated, volcanic peaks of the northern Cascades Range, USA. Across species of Nebria, body size, pronotal shape, temperature preference, and isotopic enrichment varied across habitats ([gravel, rocks 10 cm–50 cm in diameter], large rocks [>50 cm in diameter], vegetation‐covered rocks, and alpine [snowfields and talus]), and habitat/microhabitat features were reliable predictors of species presence. Resource consumption among mid‐elevation species on Mt. Rainier—the peak with the greatest species diversity—is highly overlapping. Species turnover and nestedness varied significantly across habitat gradients and peaks throughout this region and varied nearly significantly across sites. Across habitat types and sites, more similar species are more likely to coexist. These results suggest that environmental filtering is the primary process structuring this species assemblage, although we find detailed evidence for microhabitat niche partitioning among species of Nebria at the site scale.
Ultrafast Laser Irradiation Induced Oxidation of Dopant‐Free Spiro‐OMeTAD for Improving the Perovskite Solar Cells Performance
Authors: Meng Jiaqi , Chen Xiangyu , Li Weihan , Chai Nianyao , Zeng Zhongle , Yue Yunfan , Zhao Fengyi , Wang Xuewen
Published: August 2024

The exceptional photoelectric performance and high compatibility of perovskite materials render perovskite solar cells highly promising for extensive development, thus garnering significant attention. In perovskite solar cells, the hole transport layer plays a crucial role. For the commonly employed organic small molecule hole transport material Spiro‐OMeTAD, a certain period of oxidation treatment is required to achieve complete transport performance. However, this posttreatment oxidation processes typically rely on ambient oxidation, which poses challenges in terms of precise control and leads to degradation of the perovskite light absorption layer. This approach fails to meet the demands for high efficiency and stability in practical application. Herein, the mechanism of ultrafast laser on Spiro‐OMeTAD and the reaction process for laser‐induced oxidation of it are investigated. PbI2 at Perovskite/Spiro‐OMeTAD interface breaks down to produce I2 upon ultrafast laser irradiation and I2 promote the oxidation process. Through the laser irradiation oxidation processing, a higher stability of perovskite solar cells is achieved. This work establishes a new approach toward oxidation treatment of Spiro‐OMeTAD.
Nutritional profile, bioactive properties and potential health benefits of buckwheat: A review
Authors: Sonawane Sangram , Shams Rafeeya , Dash Kshirod K. , Patil Vaishnavi , Pandey Vinay K. , Dar Aamir H.
Published: August 2024

The present review focuses on the physico‐chemical properties of buckwheat (BW) and shows that its incorporation makes food more nutritious. The bioactive substances included in BW, including vitamins, proteins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, dietary fibre, and fagopyrins are effective in treating chronic illnesses. It is also a rich source of protein of excellent quality as it contains balanced amino acids. Various bioactive compounds like phenolics, flavonoids including orientin, quercetin, rutin, vitexin, isovitexin and isoorientin, tannins and steroids help in providing therapeutic benefits. It has a number of beneficial impacts on health, including anti‐inflammatory, anti‐hemorrhagic, cardiovascular, antioxidant, and blood vessel protective properties. The food sector has experienced an increased interest in producing items based on BW, which boasts advantageous flavor profiles and technical attributes while offering health benefits and accommodating those with gluten sensitivity. BW is a beneficial ingredient for bread, rice, soup, cakes, noodles, cookies, and gluten‐free beer due to its functional properties. This review also emphasizes on the BW as a functional food in numerous industries including agriculture, food, pharmaceutical and as animal fodder. It provides researchers knowledge that could be useful for developing future plans, such as selecting BW as promising bioactive ingredients for functional foods.
External validation of the natriuretic response prediction equation to discriminate diuretic response in heart failure
Authors: Ramírez‐Sánchez Patricia , Falcón‐Aguirre Alberto , Tepayotl‐Aponte Antonio , Mendoza‐Zavala Genaro H. , Olmos‐Dominguez Luis , Chavez‐Mendoza Adolfo , Magaña‐Serrano José A. , Cigarroa‐López José A. , Aceves‐Garcia Moises , Rayo‐Chavez Jorge , Olalde‐Roman Marcos J. , Revilla‐Monsalve Cristina , Almeida‐Gutierrez Eduardo , Chavez‐Iñiguez Jonathan S. , Posada‐Martinez Edith L. , Ivey‐Miranda Juan B.
Published: August 2024

Aims

Incomplete decongestion due to lack of titration of diuretics to effective doses is a common reason for readmission in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). The natriuretic response prediction equation (NRPE) is a novel tool that proved to be rapid and accurate to predict natriuretic response and does not need urine collection. However, the NRPE has not been externally validated. The goal of this study was to externally validate the discrimination capacity of the NRPE in patients with ADHF and fluid overload.

Methods and results

Patients admitted with ADHF who required intravenous loop diuretics were included. A spot urine sample was obtained ~2 h following diuretic administration, and a timed 6‐h urine collection by study staff was carried out. Urine sodium and urine creatinine from the spot urine sample were used to predict the 6‐h natriuretic response using the NRPE. The primary goal was to validate the NRPE to discriminate poor loop diuretic natriuretic response (sodium output <50 mmol in the 6 h following diuretic administration). The NRPE was compared with urine sodium and measured urine output which are the methods currently recommended by international guidelines to assess diuretic response. Eighty‐seven diuretic administrations from 49 patients were analysed. Mean age of patients was 57 ± 17 years and 67% were male. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 65 ± 28 mL/min/1.73 m2, and ejection fraction was 35 ± 15%. Median dose of intravenous furosemide equivalents administered the day of the study was 80 mg (IQR 40 ‐ 160). Poor natriuretic response occurred in 39% of the visits. The AUC of the NRPE to predict poor natriuretic response during the 6‐h urine collection was 0.91 (95% CI 0.85‐0.98). Compared with the NRPE, spot urine sodium concentration (AUC 0.75) and urine output during the corresponding nursing shift (AUC 0.74) showed lower discrimination capacity.

Conclusions

In this cohort of patients with ADHF, the NRPE outperformed spot urine sodium concentration and all other metrics related to diuretic response to predict poor natriuretic response. Our findings support the use of this equation at other settings to allow rapid and accurate prediction of natriuretic response.
Mavacamten in real‐life practice: Initial experience at a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy centre
Authors: Abood Zaid , Jan Muhammad Fuad , Ashraf Muddasir , Kroboth Stacie , Sanders Heather , Schweitzer McKenzie , Misicka Amanda , Ollerman Emily , Jahangir Arshad , Galazka Patrycja , Tajik Abdul Jamil
Published: August 2024

Aims

In clinical trials, mavacamten reduced left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) and improved symptoms in patients with symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM). We aimed to share our real‐world experience with the efficacy and safety of mavacamten in this patient population.

Methods and results

This retrospective, single‐centre study included patients with symptomatic oHCM from March 2023 to November 2023. Inclusion criteria were oHCM, age >18 years, significant LVOTO (gradient >50 mmHg at rest or with Valsalva), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥II despite maximally tolerated medical therapy, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) >55%. Patients were evaluated by echocardiography, NYHA class, electrocardiography and Holter monitor on each monthly visit for 3 months. A total of 31 patients were included in this study. The mean (SD) age was 58 (16.5) years, and 14 (45%) were female. Mean provoked left ventricular outflow tract gradient (LVOTG) reduced by −49.4 mmHg (P < 0.001) at 4 weeks, −59.2 mmHg (P < 0.001) at 8 weeks, and −60.8 mmHg (P < 0.001) at 12 weeks. Twenty‐six of the 31 patients (83.8%) achieved an LVOTG ≤30 mmHg at Week 12. No major side effects were reported. Sixty‐seven percent experienced ≥2 NYHA class improvements, LVEF remained above 55% and no dose titration was made.

Conclusions

Our real‐world experience aligns with established mavacamten trial outcomes. Continuous vigilance and longitudinal investigations are needed to further assess potential long‐term impacts.