bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
McIndoe Vaginoplasty in MRKHS: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Shah Newton Ashish , Yadav Manish , Verma Suman , Yadav Digraj , Yadav Aalok Kumar , Ghimire Asmita , Rijal Hima , Koirala Poonam
Published: December 2024

Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome (MRKHS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by agenesis of the uterus and upper two‐thirds of the vagina. It affects around 1 in 4000–5000 females and is of two types: type 1, also known as isolated Müllerian aplasia or Rokitansky, which involves only uterovaginal agenesis, and type 2, presents as uterovaginal agenesis along with renal, cardiac, and other organ anomalies. Despite the absence of vaginal and uterine structures, individuals with MRKHS typically present with normal secondary sexual characteristics and ovarian functions. A 26‐year‐old female presented with primary amenorrhea. Despite this, she had typical secondary sexual characteristics. Physical examination revealed normal pubic hair distribution and external genitalia, consistent with Tanner's stage 5 development. Further evaluation via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed diagnosis of MRKHS type II, revealing the absence of the uterus and upper two‐thirds of the vagina, with normal ovaries and absent left kidney. A multidisciplinary team performed McIndoe vaginoplasty creating a successful neovagina, measuring 7 cm in length, using split‐thickness skin graft. MRKHS, a rare congenital anomaly involving Müllerian duct abnormalities, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The etiology remains unknown, but it likely stems from defective Müllerian fusion during embryologic development. Differential diagnosis from conditions like androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is crucial. MRI is important in diagnosis, revealing associated anomalies. Treatment aims to restore sexual function. This case presents that MRKHS can occur with normal hormonal function and typical secondary sexual characteristics. Neovagina creation is an effective surgical intervention for young females seeking to restore sexual function.
Congenital Aortic Arch Malformation Presenting as Bilateral Pulsatile Neck Mass: A Unique Case Report
Authors: Feleke Tesfahunegn , Gedeno Gelebo , Solomon Daniel Zewdneh , Hailu Samuel Sisay
Published: December 2024

Vascular malformations of the aortic arch and its main branches such as cervical aortic arch and high‐riding brachiocephalic artery can present as pulsatile neck swelling. Although this entity is rare, an initial Doppler ultrasound is suggested before intervention to avoid complications from unidentified aberrant vessels.
Pediatric Ovarian Yolk Sac Tumor Mimicking Appendicitis: A Case Report From a Low‐Resource Setting
Authors: Nkenguye William , Mremi Alex , Minja Peter , Lodhia Jay
Published: December 2024

Ovarian yolk sac tumors (OYSTs), also known as endodermal sinus tumors, are rare and highly malignant germ cell tumors, accounting for approximately 1% of all ovarian cancers. They predominantly affect children and young adults, with a rapid growth rate and early metastasis, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial. This report presents the case of a 6‐year‐old female from a low‐resource setting who initially presented with symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis, including abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. This was supported by a CT scan; however, intraoperative findings revealed a large right ovarian mass, which was surgically excised via cystectomy and histologically confirmed as an OYST. The patient recovered well postoperatively and was referred for oncological management. This case underscores the importance of considering OYSTs in the differential diagnosis of pediatric abdominal masses and highlights the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach for optimal patient outcomes. Enhanced awareness and improved diagnostic strategies are essential for better management of this rare tumor, particularly in resource‐limited settings.
Functional Class II Treatment Simultaneous With Selective Reduction of Talon Cusps: A Case Report
Authors: Yaghoutiazar Sahar , Yadegari Atiye , Esmaeili Saharnaz , Hajizadeh Alireza , Shahbazi Soheil
Published: December 2024

Selective reduction of bilateral nonsyndromic talon cusps in an 11‐year‐old class II patient enabled successful mandibular repositioning with a twin block appliance. This approach achieved desired orthodontic outcomes without causing pain or sensitivity following reduction, highlighting a novel strategy for managing talon cusps in orthodontic treatment.
Exploring DES‐Water Mixtures for Improved ADH‐CHMO Fusion Enzyme Performance in Linear Cascades
Authors: Ma Yu , Vernet Guillem , Zhang Ningning , Kara Selin
Published: December 2024

The application of multienzyme cascade reactions in nonaqueous media has garnered attention due to their potential in Green Chemistry. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have emerged as a novel alternative with high tunability. This study investigated the use of fusion enzymes, combining an alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and a cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO), for a linear cascade stepwise oxidation of cyclohexanol to ɛ‐caprolactone with in situ cofactor regeneration in DES‐water mixtures. The stability of fusion enzymes was determined in the two DESs comprising glycerol and betaine or choline acetate at the same molar ratio (Bet–Gly, ChAc–Gly, 1:2) with various water contents (20–80 vol.%), as well as in pure buffer for comparison. Bet–Gly significantly improved enzyme thermostability at ≥40 vol.% water and doubled the half‐life time of CHMO, whereas ChAc–Gly showed a deleterious effect. The improved thermostability promoted the further optimization of the cascade reaction while addressing the high viscosity of DESs through increasing water ratios and temperatures. The reaction efficiency in DES‐buffer mixtures was comparable to the pure buffer system (97.0% yield in 24 h), while product hydrolysis was completely avoided. High substrate loadings (8 g/L cyclohexanol) and extended substrate ranges were accomplished. These findings highlight the potential of DES‐enriched media to improve catalytic efficiency and further advance sustainable biocatalytic processes.
Porous Copper‐PTFE Hybrid Electrocatalyst for CO2 Reduction with High C2+ Selectivity
Authors: Seki Yoshitomo , Nakabayashi Mamiko , Sugiyama Masakazu , Minegishi Tsutomu
Published: December 2024

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to ethylene (C2H4) is one of the most promising approaches to obtaining value‐added C2+ hydrocarbons without net CO2 emission. However, issues still to be solved for practical use include the improvement of Faradaic efficiency (FE) towards C2H4, electrode durability, and suppression of competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In this work, hydrophobic polymer, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), added porous Cu electrocatalysts were firstly and successfully prepared on gas diffusion layer, and the significant enhancement of FEs toward C2+ products, especially C2H4, and durability were found. CO2RR test in flow cell as a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) revealed that the GDE with porous Cu electrocatalysts showed higher FE(C2H4) to FE(CO) while significant HER and instability issues remained. Further modification by PTFE to form porous Cu‐PTFE hybrid structure significantly decreased FE(H2) to 11.6 % in minimum, enhanced FE(C2H4) to 51.1 % in maximum and raised durable CO2RR for over 24 hours under current density of −300 mA cm−2. PTFE addition should form a secured pathway for gas species, including both reactant and product which was beneficial for durable and selective C2H4 production. This work highlights chemical engineering aspects of CO2RR including the transportation of reactants and products.
Dynamic Combinatorial Chemistry Unveils Nsp10 Inhibitors with Antiviral Potential Against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Jumde Ravindra P. , Jézéquel Gwenaëlle , Saramago Margarida , Frank Nicolas , Adam Sebastian , Cunha Marta V. , Bader Chantal D. , Gunesch Antonia P. , Köhler Natalie M. , Johannsen Sandra , Bousis Spyridon , Pietschmann Thomas , Matos Rute G. , Müller Rolf , Arraiano Cecília M. , Hirsch Anna K. H.
Published: December 2024

The development of antiviral drugs against the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) responsible for the recent Covid‐19 pandemic is crucial, as treatment options remain limited and vaccination does not prevent (re)infection. Two relatively underexplored targets of this virus are the 3′‐5′ exoribonuclease (ExoN) and the 2’‐O‐methyltransferase (2′‐O‐MTase), both essential for viral viability. The non‐structural proteins Nsp14 and Nsp16 exhibit enzymatic activities for ExoN and 2′‐O‐MTase, respectively, especially when in complex with their co‐factor protein Nsp10. The study focuses on the use of target‐directed dynamic combinatorial chemistry (tdDCC) to identify binders of Nsp10, aiming to disturb the protein‐protein interactions (PPI) involving Nsp10‐Nsp14, as well as Nsp10‐Nsp16. We synthesised the hits and evaluated them to assess Nsp10 affinity, ExoN and 2′‐O‐MTase activities inhibition, and antiviral activity in hCoV‐229E and SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected whole‐cell settings. This study reports a novel class of ExoN and/or 2′‐O‐MTase inhibitors exhibiting antiviral activity against coronaviruses.
Heterogeneous Catalytic Oxidations with In Situ‐Generated Hypervalent Iodine‐Based Porous Organic Polymers
Authors: Tamuly Parag , Parida Keshaba Nanda , Quideau Stéphane , Narasimha Moorthy Jarugu
Published: December 2024

Porous organic polymers (POPs) are novel emergent materials for heterogeneous organocatalysis owing to their remarkable physicochemical stabilities. Through a bottom‐up approach entailing diligent design of twisted biaryl building blocks with in‐built o‐iodobenzoic acid (IA) moieties, a series of POP precatalysts, p‐OMeIA‐POP, DiMeIA‐POP, and m‐OMeIA‐POP, were synthesized by employing Friedel‐Crafts alkylation. These IA‐POP precatalysts can undergo in situ oxidation in the presence of Oxone® to generate hypervalent iodine(V) species (λ5‐iodanes), in particular, modified o‐iodoxybenzoic acid, popularly termed IBX, which mediates diverse oxidative transformations. The applications of m‐OMeIA‐POP as a heterogeneous precatalyst in the presence of Oxone® are demonstrated for facile oxidation of i) primary and secondary alcohols to carbonyl compounds, ii) cleavage of olefins, vicinal diols, and acyloins into carboxylic acids and iii) oxidation of diols to lactones; the in situ formation of the λ5‐iodane species in catalytic amounts precludes potential explosive attributes of IBX. It is shown that the IA‐precatalyst (m‐OMeIA‐POP) can be easily recycled without any loss of catalytic activity. The results constitute the first demonstration of the development of IA‐bearing POP precatalysts for in situ generation of hypervalent iodine(V) species and various heterogeneous oxidations mediated therefrom.
Insight into Stabilization of G‐Quadruplex in c‐MYC Region with Phenanthroimidazoisoindol‐Acrylates and their Binding Behaviour towards Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Thakur Rekha , Luxami Vijay , Paul Kamaldeep
Published: December 2024

The interaction of G‐quadruplex (non‐canonical DNA) with suitable compounds for their stabilization at the promoter region of oncogenes has become a potential anticancer approach. We have studied the interaction of phenanthroimidazoisoindol‐acrylates derivatives with c‐MYC G‐quadruplex. A series of 20 compounds were evaluated for their anticancer activity against human cancer cell lines, where compounds 3 fa, 3 ha, and 3 ae have shown the broad‐spectrum anticancer activities against most of the cancer cell lines and inactive towards normal cell lines. Various spectroscopic techniques have been used to study the interaction of these compounds. The studies reveal the strong binding of all three compounds with c‐MYC G‐quadruplex with significant selectivity over dsDNA, with binding constant of the order of 106 M−1. All three compounds bind effectively with HSA, which is a carrier protein, with binding constant of the order of 105 M−1. These results show that phenanthroimidazoisoindol‐acrylate derivatives exhibit specificity towards G4 DNA, highlighting their potential as effective anticancer agents targeting the c‐MYC G‐quadruplex.
A US‐Based Consensus on Diagnostic Overlap and Distinction for Pediatric Feeding Disorder and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Authors: Estrem Hayley H. , Pederson Jaclyn L. , Dodrill Pamela , Romeo Cuyler , Thompson Kelsey , Thomas Jennifer J. , Zucker Nancy , Noel Richard , Zickgraf Hana , Menzel Jessie , Lukens Colleen T. , Goday Praveen S. , MacLaughlin Sarah , Sharp William G.
Published: December 2024

Objective

As diagnoses covering dysfunctional feeding and eating in pediatrics, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) and pediatric feeding disorder (PFD) contain inherent areas of overlap in their diagnostic criteria. Areas of overlap include criteria regarding nutritional consequences associated with feeding/eating dysfunction and shared emphasis on possible psychosocial impairment associated with restricted food intake. Complicating the differential diagnosis process is a lack of guidance regarding when the two conditions occur independently, co‐qualify, and/or transition into the other. Feeding Matters' Research Initiatives Task Force planned and hosted a PFD‐ARFID consensus meeting, with the aim of reaching a consensus regarding diagnostic clarity on PFD and ARFID.

Method

Criteria for participation focused on US residents who either: (a) served as an author on the ARFID workgroup or PFD consensus papers, or (b) provided community representation via board or committee roles. The consensus process followed three stages: prework, the meeting, and post‐work/writing. Twelve participants were present for the meeting, with 14 involved in pre‐ and post‐work/writing.

Results

The final panel included four psychologists representing the ARFID community and seven multidisciplinary members representing PFD's four domains (medical, nutrition, skill, and psychosocial) plus a Zero‐to‐Three community representative and two representatives from Feeding Matters. Results yielded 10 consensus statements and visuals to support the consensus statements.

Discussion

The consensus process and results underscore an ongoing need to improve diagnostic systems and reinforce calls for strengthening healthcare expertise for both PFD and ARFID. Community‐based participatory research is recommended to advance both diagnoses and reduce ambiguity in practice settings.
Virulence Evolution via Pleiotropy in Vector‐Borne Plant Pathogens
Authors: Woodruff Elise , Hardy Nate B.
Published: December 2024

The dynamics of virulence evolution in vector‐borne plant pathogens can be complex. Here, we use individual‐based, quantitative‐genetic simulations to investigate how virulence evolution depends on genetic trade‐offs and population structure. Although quite generic, the model is inspired by the ecology of the plant‐pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, and we use it to gain insights into possible modes of virulence evolution in that group. In particular, we aim to sharpen our intuition about how virulence may evolve over short time scales via antagonistically pleiotropic alleles affecting pathogen performance within hosts and vectors. We find that even when pathogens find themselves much more often in hosts than vectors, selection in the vector environment can cause correlational and potentially non‐adaptive changes in virulence in the host. The extent of such correlational virulence evolution depends on many system parameters, including the pathogen transmission rate, the proportion of the pathogen population occurring in hosts, the strengths of selection in host and vector environments, and the functional relationship between pathogen load and virulence. But there is a statistical interaction between the strength of selection in vectors and the proportion of the pathogen population in hosts, such that if within‐vector selection is strong enough, over the short term, it can dominate virulence evolution, even when the host environment predominates.
How, What, and Where You Sample Environmental DNA Affects Diversity Estimates and Species Detection
Authors: Kirtane Anish , Howard Leif , Beaver Caitlin E. , Hunter Margaret E. , Luikart Gordon , Deiner Kristy
Published: December 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a complex mixture of DNA, varying in particle sizes and distributed heterogeneously in aquatic systems. Optimizing eDNA sampling is crucial for maximizing species detection, particularly in high‐risk scenarios like invasive species management. In this study, we compare two eDNA sampling methods ‐ namely tow net and grab sample, where the tow nets process large volumes of water (3500–7000 L) through a 64 μm pore size and the grab samples process 1 L sample at a single point through 0.45–1.2 μm pore size membranes. We compared these methods to ascertain what most influences (1) the detection of invasive species (Dreissena mussels and Burmese pythons) using qPCR or ddPCR and (2) total diversity monitoring of metazoan, protist, and fungi community using a COI marker and plant communities using the ITS marker. Sampling was conducted across a wide geography and diverse aquatic environments in Minnesota and Florida, USA, and Switzerland. The tow net samples had significantly higher eDNA yield compared to grab samples; however, they exhibited equal or lower alpha diversity of OTUs (Operational Taxonomic Units). The two sampling methods measured different beta diversity of communities detected with the COI marker across all three regions, highlighting the impact of the sampling method on the diversity of eDNA captured. In comparison, the beta diversity of plant eDNA was less impacted by the sampling method. We found no clear difference in detection for the invasive species targets based on the eDNA sampling method. These results underscore the need for pilot studies before conducting biodiversity inventory and monitoring, and a need for a greater understanding of not just how much, but also what, eDNA is captured depending on method choice, considering both spatial and particle size heterogeneity.
Effect of sacubitril/valsartan in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction across the age spectrum in PARAGON‐HF
Authors: Wang Xiaowen , Vardeny Orly , Claggett Brian , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Hegde Sheila M. , Skali Hicham , Pabon Maria A. , Foà Alberto , Chatur Safia , Kosztin Annamaria , O'Meara Eileen , Rouleau Jean , Redfield Margaret , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Zile Michael , Packer Milton , Shah Amil M. , Cikes Maja , Gori Mauro , Merkely Bela , Pfeffer Marc A. , McMurray John J.V. , Solomon Scott D.
Published: December 2024

Aims

To evaluate clinical outcomes, echocardiographic features, and the efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan compared to valsartan across age groups in the PARAGON‐HF trial.

Methods and results

A total of 4796 participants ≥50 years of age with chronic heart failure (HF) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥45% were divided into three age groups: <65 years (n = 825), 65–74 years (n = 1772), and ≥75 years (n = 2199). Echocardiograms of 1097 patients were analysed in a standardized fashion at a core imaging laboratory. The primary composite outcome was total HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular (CV) death. Older patients were more likely to experience primary composite outcomes (compared to patients <65 years, adjusted rate ratio [aRR] for ≥75 years: 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21–1.61), total HF hospitalization (aRR 1.27, 95% CI 1.09–1.49), and CV death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.04, 95% CI 1.44–2.87). Age did not modify the effect of sacubitril/valsartan compared to valsartan on primary composite endpoint (pinteraction = 0.79) in the overall population or in those with LVEF ≤57%. Older adults randomized to sacubitril/valsartan were more likely to develop hypotension compared to those receiving valsartan (pinteraction = 0.026). Older patients had smaller left ventricular chamber sizes, higher LVEF, and were more likely to have abnormal measures of diastolic function.

Conclusion

Older patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction had higher event rates than younger patients, more adverse events overall, and more hypotension when treated with sacubitril/valsartan; however, the treatment benefits of sacubitril/valsartan were retained in older patients.
Diiridium(III) Complexes with Fluorenylpyridyl Cyclometalating and μ2‐Oxamidato Bridging Ligands and their High Efficiency Phosphorescent Solution‐Processed OLEDs
Authors: M'hamedi Ahmed , Fox Mark , Batsanov Andrei , Al Attar Hameed , Bryce Martin Robert
Published: December 2024

Three neutral diiridium(III) complexes with 2‐fluorenylpyridyl (flpy) or 5‐fluoro‐2‐fluorenylpyridyl (flpyF) as C^N cyclometalating ligands and a μ2‐oxamidato bridge have been synthesized. NMR spectroscopy shows that the complexes are inseparable mixtures of diastereomers (rac, DD/LL and meso, DL) with bridges in anti and syn configurations. Each isomer was determined using 19F NMR data on the flpyF complex. Single crystal diffraction studies of two complexes revealed meso diastereomers with anti configuration of the bis‐(t‐butylphenyl)oxamidato bridge but an uncertain configuration of the unsubstituted μ2‐oxamidato bridge. The complexes are highly emissive (ΦPL 57‐82% in solution) with excited state lifetimes of tp ca. 40 ms. The vibronic emissions with maxima at 553‐561 nm and at 587‐595 nm in solution are attributed to mixed metal‐ligand to ligand charge transfer (3MLLCT). Density functional theory (DFT) and time dependent‐DFT (TD‐DFT) calculations establish the involvement of the fluorenyl groups and the vibronic structures in the emissions. The bridge mediates intramolecular interactions between iridium centers based on electrochemical measurements Phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PhOLEDs) using these complexes as the emissive dopants with a solution‐processed active layer have bright greenish‐yellow emission with lmaxEL ca. 560 nm, luminous efficiency up to 26 cd/A and high external quantum efficiency (maximum hext ca. 20%).
Review, part 2: Lifting the Veil on Enrollment Management
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: December 2024

In last month's article I wrote about the assessment of enrollment management raised by several enrollment management experts in the book, Lifting the Veil on Enrollment Management and how the current system of enrollment management has not served colleges, universities, and students well.
Disclosures 19: Diving deeper into internal requests
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: December 2024

Last month's column concluded by suggesting that you might want to consider providing examples of what a valid legitimate educational interest is as part of a written policy on internal FERPA disclosures to your school officials.
Enhancing Vehicle Trajectory Quality: A Two‐Step Data Reconstruction Method Using Wavelet Transform and Normal Acceleration Value
Authors: Zhang Xia , Gao Yacong , Zhou Chenjing
Published: December 2024

Data reconstruction is essential in enhancing the quality of vehicle trajectory data. Previous studies have identified the location of abnormal data inaccurately, resulting in poor trajectory reconstruction results. This study proposed a two‐step reconstruction method. The first step detected the locations of obviously abnormal speed data using wavelet transform. Then, the abnormal data were repaired by the cubic spline curve interpolation algorithm. The second stage identified the locations of abnormal acceleration data based on the general acceleration value. And the vehicle trajectory data were reconstructed using Lagrange interpolation and Kalman filter algorithms. The approach was utilized on NGSIM trajectory data. The results show that the acceleration values of the proposed method range from −6.69 m/s2 to 4.96 m/s2, with a standard deviation of 0.87. The reconstructed results are more closely matching drivers' physiological capabilities compared to other methods. These findings verify the reliability of the proposed approach and notably improve the quality of the trajectory data. It provides critical foundational data support for traffic planning, design, and management.
Effect of substituting water source on the methane production from lignocellulosic biowaste during anaerobic digestion
Authors: Chen Da , Song Chao , Jin Yan , Chen Chang , Liu Guangqing
Published: December 2024

The escalating global volume of sewage discharge presents a formidable challenge for sewage treatment facilities, necessitating the efficient utilization of sewage. Given the substantial demand on water resource during anaerobic digestion (AD), this study investigated the feasibility of substituting pure water with sewage as the main water source for AD using six diverse lignocellulosic wastes (rice straw, vinegar residue, cattle manure, sheep manure, napkin, and office wastepaper) as feedstocks. The results showed that the methane production of lignocellulosic waste + raw wastewater (WW) during AD increased by at least 5% compared with the control groups. Specially, the cumulative methane yield of napkin mixed with the WW reached to 218.3 mL/gVS with the increase of 47.8% compared with the control group (147.7 mL/gVS). The results indicated that the relative abundance of characteristic bacteria and methanogenic archaea during AD was closely related to the kinds of feedstocks and water source. The addition of WW increased the relative abundance of bacteria and archaea in the digester, which might be the main reason for the higher methane production with the addition of WW. Treated wastewater and reclaimed water had a relatively neglectable impact on the microbial community structure in AD. This study not only saved water resources in AD but also provided a strong reference for resource utilization of sewage and organic solid waste.
Home video review in a pediatric clinical neurophysiology led multidisciplinary team meeting
Authors: Rhys‐Potter Aneirin , Cunha Maria , Sparkes Matthew , Agirre‐Arrizubieta Zaloa , Goyal Sushma , Winston Joel S.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Assessment of the value of review of home videos by a pediatric multidisciplinary team (MDT) in a pediatric neurophysiology department.

Methods

We describe and evaluate the review of home videos alongside clinical history and previous investigations from patients referred to the Evelina pediatric EEG department at a twice‐monthly MDT meeting between 01/2021 and 09/2022. We retrospectively analyzed measures of video quality, quantity and duration, time taken from referral to MDT meeting, pre‐MDT and post‐MDT meeting proposed diagnosis and clinical outcomes. Feedback from referring doctors was obtained by a survey.

Results

There were 36 referrals for 34 patients totalling 123 videos. There was a median delay of 10 days between video upload and final report. After the MDT meeting the number of referrals classified as uncertain fell from 15 to 2. The number of referrals classified as non‐epileptic events increased from seven to 18. The number classified as infantile spasms fell from six to two. Overall, 26 of 36 referrals had a change in diagnosis and 26 of 36 referrals were triaged away from the video‐EEG telemetry (VT) waiting list. Nine out of ten referring doctors reported that MDT discussion improved their understanding of the events.

Significance

HVR is a useful tool that has been successfully incorporated into our neurophysiology department's workflow. These early results suggest benefits from adopting an MDT meeting may include an early diagnosis and management approach based upon consensus. Using HVR in a pediatric population may help triage urgent cases, conserve specialized neurophysiological investigations and streamline workflows to improve the efficiency of pediatric referrals.
Harnessing trait–environment interactions to predict ecosystem functions
Authors: Blouin Manuel , Dubs Florence , Ponge Jean‐François
Published: December 2024

In a changing world, predicting ecosystem functions is essential to ensuring human well‐being and survival. However, commonly used trait‐based predictive approaches frequently lack predictive power. Statistical and conceptual attempts to better incorporate environmental factors into trait‐based predictions have done so by integrating indirect, trait‐mediated effects therein. Here, we define ecosystem functions as changes in the state, position, or nature of energy or matter within an ecosystem, and then illustrate how environmental factors can directly affect ecosystem functions. Given that the effects of organismal traits and environmental factors are not necessarily additive, we also propose that interactions between organismal traits and environmental factors (hereafter, trait–environment interactions) have explanatory power. We propose a conceptual framework in which organismal traits, environmental factors, and trait–environment interactions, together with the environment's effects on traits (plasticity) and traits’ effects on the environment (ecosystem engineering), can explain ecosystem functions. We conclude by discussing the importance of considering trait–environment interactions and identifying future avenues of exploration.
Edge cases: fragmentation and ecosystem processes in temperate forest landscapes
Authors: Morreale Luca L , Thompson Jonathan R , Pasquarella Valerie J , Hutyra Lucy R
Published: December 2024

Temperate forests are the most fragmented forest biome, yet current understanding of fragmentation effects on ecosystem processes, such as carbon (C) cycling, is rooted in tropical forest research. We review the effects of persistent fragmentation on temperate forest ecosystem processes and quantify the extent to which the US national forest inventory and land‐cover maps represent forest edge area. We found systematic underrepresentation of forest edges across all methods. As compared with very high resolution (1 m) maps, conventional 30‐m resolution forest cover maps underestimated forest edge area by 16.4%, on average. Accounting for all forest edge area and edge effects on forest structure and growth resulted in a 14.8% median increase in aboveground forest C estimates, with 23.8% and 74.2% increases in agriculturally and urban dominated counties, respectively. We conclude by proposing improvements to forest inventories, maps, and models to better represent the fragmented temperate forest landscape.
Measuring Indigenous food security—A case for Indigenous designed tools
Authors: Deen Caroline , Sherriff Simone , Shelling Madeline , Gall Alana , Cubillo Beau , Te Morenga Lisa , Brimblecombe Julie , Matthews Veronica
Published: December 2024

Food insecurity disproportionately impacts Indigenous peoples, leading to significant health disparities. Indigenous peoples globally share a deep and interconnected relationship to their lands, waterways and seas that ensures optimum health, and cultural, spiritual, social and emotional wellbeing. However, food security definitions and assessment frameworks in research and policy predominantly stem from capitalist and colonial food system values. These frameworks often fail to recognise the Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices that support food security. Experiences of food security are culturally bound. Therefore, any instrument to measure the food security experiences of Indigenous peoples should be culturally grounded, appropriate and safe, plus include relevant dimensions such as access to traditional foods, community sharing practices and spiritual connections to the land.
The Immunosuppressive Functions of Eosinophils Are Compromised in Patients With Allergic Rhinitis, Particularly Concerning Rab27a Expression
Authors: Liao Yun , Li Minyao , Song Shuo , Xu Xuejie , Xiao Xiaojun , Liu Yu , Yang Gui , Yang Pingchang
Published: December 2024

Background

Eosinophils have been acknowledged to be involved in the induction of numerous inflammatory disorders. There is still a lack of knowledge about whether eosinophils play a role in immune regulation. The aim of this study is to uncover the immune regulatory functions of eosinophils.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) and healthy control subjects. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from blood samples. Eosinophils were purified from PBMCs using flow cytometry cell sorting and analyzed using immunological approaches.

Results

The results showed that eosinophils from healthy subjects had immune regulatory functions on T cell proliferation and cytokine release. Impairment of eosinophil immune regulatory functions was found in AR patients, which was associated with AR responses. Elevated Rab27a expression in eosinophils was associated with their impaired immune regulatory functions and the increased AR responses. Rab27a controlled the release of mediators from eosinophils. Low concentrations of Eosinophil mediators could trigger immune regulatory responses, while high concentrations could trigger inflammatory responses. Regulating Rab27a restored the immune regulatory functions of eosinophils of AR patients.

Conclusions

Eosinophils have immune regulatory functions, which are controlled by the expression of Rab27a. Regulation of Rab27a can improve the immune regulatory functions of eosinophils. The data suggest that inhibition of Rab27a can be a drug candidate for the treatment of eosinophil‐related disorders.
Dyadic Resistance in Parent‐Adolescent Interactions During the Transition to High School
Authors: Ji Daniel , Marshall Sheila K. , Charles Grant
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Although prior research has examined adolescents' resistance to parental control, the dyadic level of analysis has been overlooked. This study attended to how a Canadian sample of parents and adolescents engaged in resisting one another by observing moment‐to‐moment actions as they discussed the upcoming transition to high school.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data collected from 2010 to 2012 using the Action‐Project Method was conducted. The sample of 27 parent‐adolescent dyads (23 mothers; 4 fathers); 13 boys, 14 girls (Mean youth age = 13.3) was recruited from two urban centers. Videorecorded self‐directed conversations were immediately followed by open‐ended video recall interviews. A novel way of analyzing data at the dyadic level of analysis was developed based on critical reflexive thematic analysis guided by social constructionist theory.

Results

Resistance was observed at least once in 23 of the 27 conversations (total = 97, range = 0−9, Mean = 3.63, SD = 2.69). Four distinct themes were developed: Reminding of and then defending the “constant battle” lines, Cautious avoidance, the Nudging match, and No point anymore and minimal responses. Dyads varied in frequency and number of themes in their conversations with 78.56% engaging in more than one theme. Most differences came to a trickling of resistance wherein members did not agree but continued to interact without extending the resistance further.

Conclusions

A dyad‐centric approach to analysis was useful for observing how parents and adolescents engaged in resistance together. Our findings suggest that resistance can be seen as a dyadic concept that reflects a personalized relationship history that has implications for parent and youth identity development.
What's in a Name: Your PLEX or PEX Is Our TPE
Authors: Sahin Ziver , Christensen Aaron , Guarente Juliana , Vivero Angelica , Karp Julie Katz
Published: December 2024

In the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) guidelines, the abbreviation for therapeutic plasma exchange is standardized as TPE. However, the term PLEX (derived from PLasma EXchange), among others, is not infrequently encountered in clinical practice and in publications. Search queries were performed in PubMed using therapeutic plasma exchange, plasma exchange, “therapeutic plasma exchange,” “plasma exchange,” TPE plasma, PLEX plasma, PEX plasma, TPE, PLEX, and PEX. As compared to TPE, the term PLEX was more commonly used in articles related to neurology, nephrology, and rheumatology, while the term PEX was used in some hematology, apheresis, and medicine journals to a lesser extent. Unsurprisingly, the terms PLEX and PEX were rarely used in articles published in apheresis and transfusion medicine journals. The use of these differing terms may lead to confusion among patients and healthcare providers across medical specialties. Apheresis providers should advocate for the use of standard terminology.
Lactate‐Dependent HIF1A Transcriptional Activation Exacerbates Severe Acute Pancreatitis Through the ACSL4/LPCAT3/ALOX15 Pathway Induced Ferroptosis
Authors: Zhang Tingyuan , Huang Xiaopei , Feng Shengnan , Shao Huanzhang
Published: December 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common emergency in the digestive system, and in severe cases, it can progress to severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), with a mortality rate of up to 30%, representing a dire situation. SAP in mice was induced by l‐arginine (l‐Arg). HE, IHC, WB and ELISA were used to study the role and regulation of HIF1A in SAP. At the same time, QPCR, WB, CHIP‐QPCR and luciferase report were used to explore the specific mechanism of HIF1A regulation of SAP in vitro. The research results indicate that following SAP induction, the pancreatic tissue of mice exhibited significant glycolytic abnormalities, accompanied by a marked upregulation of HIF1A expression. This led to apparent damage in the pancreatic tissue, lungs, and kidneys. However, in sh‐HIF1A mice, the degree of these injuries was significantly alleviated, along with a reduction in the production of inflammatory factors, oxidative products, and lipid peroxidation markers. This suggests that HIF1A plays a crucial role in the inflammatory and oxidative stress processes during SAP. Further exploration revealed that the absence or overexpression of HIF1A affects SAP by inducing ferroptosis through the ACSL4/LPCAT3/ALOX15 pathway. Notably, the elevated lactate level resulting from glycolytic abnormalities further enhances the histone lactylation in the HIF1A promoter region, thereby aggravating the expression of HIF1A. Lactate‐dependent HIF1A transcriptional activation exacerbates severe acute pancreatitis through the ACSL4/LPCAT3/ALOX15 pathway induced ferroptosis.
Groupy: An Open‐Source Toolkit for Molecular Simulation and Property Calculation
Authors: Liu Ruichen , Wang Li , Zhang Xiangwen , Li Guozhu
Published: December 2024

In this work, an open‐source, versatile, and flexible code named Groupy is present for calculating various molecular properties and preparing input files of molecular simulation software such as Gaussian. This code requires only SMILES as input, but can output many new useful data and files in multiple formats. The output information is clear and easy to read. The tips to the users are very detailed and easy to follow when using. Message passing interface (MPI) parallelization is supported to reduce computing time when the properties of a large number of molecules are calculated. Groupy not only supports the calculation of molecular properties using the traditional group contribution method, but also directly outputs the group‐contribution‐style molecular fingerprints for machine learning. The code has strong extensibility, which can be used as an external library to build other programs. We hope that Groupy brings great convenience to both computational and experimental chemists in their daily research. The code of Groupy can be freely obtained at https://github.com/47‐5/Groupy
CoTCNQ as a Catalyst for CO2 Electroreduction: A First Principles r2SCAN Meta‐GGA Investigation
Authors: Conquest Oliver J. , Jiang Yijiao , Stampfl Catherine
Published: December 2024

Using first principles calculations we investigate cobalt‐coordinated tetracyanoquinodimethane (R‐CoTCNQ) as a potential catalyst for the CO2 electroreduction reaction (CO2ERR). We determine that exchange–correlation functionals beyond the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) are required to accurately describe the spin properties of R‐CoTCNQ, therefore, the meta‐GGA r2SCAN functional is used in this study. The free energy CO2ERR reaction pathways are calculated for the reduced catalyst ([R‐CoTCNQ]−1e) with reaction products HCOOH and HCHO predicted depending on our choice of electrode potential. Calculations are also performed for [R‐CoTCNQ]−1e supported on a H‐terminated diamond (1 1 0) surface with reaction pathways being qualitatively similar to the [R‐CoTCNQ]−1e monolayer. The inclusion of boron‐doping in the diamond support shows a slightly improved CO2ERR reaction pathway. Furthermore, structurally, supported R‐CoTCNQ provide a high specific area of active Co active sites and could be promising catalysts for future experimental consideration.
Production of hydroxyectoine from biogas by an engineered strain of Methylomicrobium alcaliphilum using a novel Taylor‐flow bioreactor
Authors: Herrero‐Lobo Raquel , Fernández‐González Nuria , Marcos Eva , Martínez María Alejandra , García‐Encina Pedro , Rodero María del Rosario , Muñoz Raúl , Bordel Sergio
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

The production of compatible solutes, such as ectoine and hydroxyectoine, is of great interest due to their industrial and biotechnological applications. Methylomicrobium alcaliphilum was genetically engineered to replace a native gene with a heterologous one, aiming to enhance ectoine production. This study focuses on the optimization of bioreactor conditions to maximize the microbial production of these metabolites from methane.

RESULTS

The engineered strain (M. alcaliphilum PstEctD) was cultured in a Taylor flow bioreactor under varying gas recirculation flow rates. Increased flow rates enhanced methane consumption, biomass concentration, and ectoine production. The highest production of ectoine (32 mg/g‐VSS) and hydroxyectoine (272 mg/g‐VSS) was observed at a flow rate of 0.7 L min−1, while methane removal efficiency improved from 30% to over 60% as flow rates increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimizing bioreactor conditions, particularly gas recirculation flow rates, significantly improved both the efficiency of methane consumption and the production of ectoine derivatives. This work provides a scalable approach for the sustainable production of compatible solutes from methane, offering potential applications in biotechnological processes utilizing renewable carbon sources. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Effect of Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles Added in Epoxy for Anticorrosion Coatings
Authors: Santos Ana L. , de Paula Ygor M. , Freire Maria P. , Costa Maria
Published: December 2024

Corrosion is a natural phenomenon that affects many sectors that use metallic materials in their industrial plants, including the oil industry. In this sector, corrosion phenomena occur frequently in metal pipes, generating economic losses, environmental damage, and safety risks in general. The aim of this study is to evaluate the addition of laboratory‐synthesized reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to an epoxy resin on the corrosion resistance of coatings for use in the oil sector. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses are carried out on the synthesized nanoparticles and on the nanocomposite coatings, which are prepared with 0.1–0.5 wt% of rGO. SEM analysis shows that there is a decrease in the number of defects on the surface of the samples as the concentration of rGO increases up to 0.3 wt%. The corrosion resistance of the coatings is evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which shows that the addition of rGO to the epoxy matrix improves corrosion protection compared to the pure coating, as it increases the diffusive path of the corrosive agents. The nanocomposite coating with 0.3 wt% rGO shows better anti‐corrosion performance. This material can be applied both as an external and internal anti‐corrosion coating in any industrial sector, as well as in the oil and gas industry.
Evaluation of Phenolic Foam's Toxicity Used in Floral Arrangements
Authors: de Sousa Bianca S. , de Brito Laís M. , Ramsdorf Wanessa A. , de Freitas Adriane M. , Kloss Juliana R.
Published: December 2024

The study investigates the characterization and toxicity of two types of phenolic foams: Floral (FF) and Hydroponic (HF), used in floral arrangements and hydroponic structures. These foams contain a resin with a free phenol content ranging between 5.0% and 8.0%, a substance harmful to plant development and ecosystem contamination. Methods such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), and gas chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐MS/MS) are used for characterization. Acute exposure ecotoxicological tests are conducted with Daphnia magna for the FF sample and lettuce seeds (Lactuca sativa) for both FF and HF samples. Results reveal structural similarities between the foams and phenolic resin, including the presence of residual free phenol at concentrations of 180 ppm in FF and 73 ppm in HF, and possibly different additive treatments between samples. The FF sample had a half maximal effective concentration (EC50, 48 h) = 15.4 ± 2.7 g L−1 for D. magna. Surprisingly, the HF sample proves more toxic to L. sativa than FF, suggesting a potential influence of additives released from the sample's composition beyond the free phenol. This study shows that improper phenolic foam disposal can harm both aquatic and land ecosystems.
Study of Thermo‐Oxidative Aging of Fluorinated Gaskets (FKM) Used in Plate Heat Exchangers
Authors: Ribeiro Rafael S. , de Souza Elias L. , Zanzi Mateus S. , Dutra Gabriel B.
Published: December 2024

Gaskets are sealing elements used in plate heat exchangers, which are subjected to aggressive conditions during service. In particular, the compression state, together alongside temperatures, can cause a premature deterioration of properties. To monitor and prevent such a situation, this study uses the TTS (time‐temperature superposition) method and Arrhenius to predict the lifetime of FKM gaskets. For this purpose, thermo‐oxidative aging is conducted at different temperatures for up to 6 months, monitoring compression set (CS) and Shore A hardness. The results indicate that the gasket can withstand periods of up to almost 300 days in service for an operating temperature of 140 °C.
Electrospun Mats of Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Carbon Nanotubes with Piezoresistive Behavior
Authors: de Sousa Bruna Caldas , Barra Guilherme Mariz de Oliveira , Martins Johnny de Nardi , Merlini Claudia , Hemkemaier Matheus Campos
Published: December 2024

Electromechanical sensors obtained by electrospun mats have a high surface area and porosity, allowing superior flexibility and sensitivity of response to the sensor. Based on this context, in this work, electrospun mats based on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are produced by electrospinning. The electrical resistivity under different compressive stress levels is evaluated in recurring loading and unloading cycles. Incorporating MWCNT increases the elastic modulus and thermal stability but does not significantly increase the electrical conductivity. However, the electrospun mats with different concentrations of MWCNT show variation in electrical resistivity under compressive stress. The response is stable with a compressive stress of 0.25 MPa and five cycles of compression and decompression, with a variation in the relative resistivity of approximately −0.8 for all MWCNT concentrations. A similar response is observed with the increasing of the compressive stress to 0.5 MPa.