bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Computational Investigations of Ruthenium(II) Complexes Containing Hydrazine Schiff Base Ligands
Authors: Kamalesu S. , Swarnalatha K. , Subramanian R.
Published: March 2017

Three new heteroleptic ruthenium(II) complexes containing hydrazine schiff base as ligands were synthesized and characterized by using elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H, 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopic techniques. FT-IR study showed that the substituted phenylhydrazine ligands behave as a monoanionic bidentate O and N donors (L) coordinate to ruthenium via the deprotonated phenolic oxygen and the azomethine nitrogen. They possess excellent thermal stabilities, evident from the thermal decomposition temperatures. Absorption, emission and electrochemical measurements were carried out and the structures of the synthesized complex were optimized using density functional theory (DFT). The molecular geometry, the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energies, Mulliken atomic charges and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) of the molecules are determined using B3LYP method and standard 6-311++G (d, p) basis set.
P2X7 antagonism using Brilliant Blue G reduces body weight loss and prolongs survival in female SOD1G93Aamyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice
Authors: Bartlett Rachael , Sluyter Vanessa , Watson Debbie , Sluyter Ronald , Yerbury Justin J.
Published: March 2017

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease characterised by the accumulation of aggregated proteins, microglia activation and motor neuron loss. The mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and disease progression in ALS are unknown, but the ATP-gated P2X7 receptor channel is implicated in this disease. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine P2X7 in the context of neurodegeneration, and investigate whether the P2X7 antagonist, Brilliant Blue G (BBG), could alter disease progression in a murine model of ALS.

Methods

Human SOD1G93Atransgenic mice, which normally develop ALS, were injected with BBG or saline, three times per week, from pre-onset of clinical disease (62–64 days of age) until end-stage. During the course of treatment mice were assessed for weight, clinical score and survival, and motor coordination, which was assessed by rotarod performance. Various parameters from end-stage mice were assessed as follows. Motor neuron loss and microgliosis were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Relative amounts of lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 were quantified by immunoblotting. Serum monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 was measured by ELISA. Splenic leukocyte populations were assessed by flow cytometry. Relative expression of splenic and hepatic P2X7 mRNA was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 were also quantified by immunoblotting in untreated female SOD1G93Amice during the course of disease.

Results

BBG treatment reduced body weight loss in SOD1G93Amice of combined sex, but had no effect on clinical score, survival or motor coordination. BBG treatment reduced body weight loss in female, but not male, SOD1G93Amice. BBG treatment also prolonged survival in female, but not male, SOD1G93Amice, extending the mean survival time by 4.3% in female mice compared to female mice treated with saline. BBG treatment had no effect on clinical score or motor coordination in either sex. BBG treatment had no major effect on any end-stage parameters. Total amounts of lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 in untreated female SOD1G93Amice did not change over time.

Discussion

Collectively, this data suggests P2X7 may have a partial role in ALS progression in mice, but additional research is required to fully elucidate the contribution of this receptor in this disease.
Entropy‐Engineered Aluminum‐Based Superalloys with Superior High‐Temperature Mechanical Properties
Authors: Mundhra Gourav , Chao Hsin‐Chieh , Lee Ya‐Jing , Pradeep Konda Gokuldoss , Yeh Jien‐Wei , Murty Budaraju Srinivasa
Published: October 2024

In the quest for lightweight high‐performance metallic materials in transportation, the limitations of high‐strength Al‐based alloys in high‐temperature (HT) applications have posed a significant challenge. To overcome this long‐standing bottleneck, an innovative design strategy, combining entropy‐driven compositional design and rapid solidification processing, to develop “Al‐based superalloys” with a γ/γ′ duplex microstructure reminiscent of Ni‐based superalloys is presented. By incorporating multirefractory elements (Ti, Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta) into the alloy design, a high‐volume fraction of thermally stable coherent γ′ phase for strengthening the Al‐rich face‐centered cubic matrix from room temperature (RT) to temperatures close to the melting point is achieved. The developed Al‐based superalloys exhibit exceptional specific yield strength and specific Young's modulus, surpassing aerospace aluminum, cobalt, nickel, and titanium alloys from RT to HT. Moreover, our ultra‐strong alloys demonstrate deformability and exhibit fine‐dimpled fracture behavior. The versatility of our fundamental research on Al‐based superalloys demonstrates their potential and can inspire further research in this field. This work opens new possibilities for the development of next‐generation lightweight alloys with novel microstructures and outstanding mechanical properties.
Synergistic Engineering of Dopant and Support of Ru Oxide Catalyst Enables Ultrahigh Performance for Acidic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Boakye Felix Ofori , Harrath Karim , Zhang Dantong , You Ya , Zhang Wenbin , Wang Zheng , Zhang Haining , Zhu Jiexin , Long Juncai , Zhu Jianqiu , Yasin Ghulam , Owusu Kwadwo Asare , Tabish Mohammad , Zhang Linjuan , Wang Dingsheng , Shi Xiaofeng , Jiang Zhongyi , Wu Bin , Mai Liqiang , Zhao Wei
Published: October 2024

Active and robust electrocatalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are of crucial importance for efficient proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEM‐WE). Ruthenium (Ru) oxide has attracted considerable attention due to its high activity. However, the unsatisfying stability of Ru oxide in acidic OER environments hinders the application. Here, Ce‐doped RuO2 nanoparticles are designed and supported on Co─N─C material (Ce@RuO2/CoNC) for acidic OER. It is demonstrated that Ce@RuO2/CoNC delivers a super low overpotential of 150 mV and an excellent stability of 1000 h at 10 mA cm−2, outperforming most previously reported Ru‐based catalysts. The mass activity is estimated as 2365.5 AgRu−1 at 1.5 V (vs RHE), representing ≈2× advance compared to the best prior study. Furthermore, applied in a single‐cell PEM‐WE device, it can steadily operate for 1000 h at 200 mA cm−2. The studies show that Ce‐doping and Co─N─C support synergistically enhance the activity and stability of Ru oxide by optimizing the free energies of OER intermediates and suppressing the dissolution of Ru.
Cerebral small vessel injury in mice with damage to ACE2‐expressing cerebral vascular endothelial cells and post COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Lu Jieping , Zuo Xin , Cai Aoling , Xiao Fang , Xu Zhenyu , Wang Rui , Miao Chenjian , Yang Chen , Zheng Xingxing , Wang Jie , Ding Xiaoling , Xiong Wei
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

The angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is expressed in cerebral vascular endothelial cells (CVECs), has been currently identified as a functional receptor for SARS‐CoV‐2.

METHODS

We specifically induced injury to ACE2‐expressing CVECs in mice and evaluated the effects of such targeted damage through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cognitive behavioral tests. In parallel, we recruited a single‐center cohort of COVID‐19 survivors and further assessed their brain microvascular injury based on cognition and emotional scales, cranial MRI scans, and blood proteomic measurements.

RESULTS

Here, we show an array of pathological and behavioral alterations characteristic of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) in mice that targeted damage to ACE2‐expressing CVECs, and COVID‐19 survivors. These CSVD‐like manifestations persist for at least 7 months post‐recovery from COVID‐19.

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that SARS‐CoV‐2 may induce cerebral small vessel damage with persistent sequelae, underscoring the imperative for heightened clinical vigilance in mitigating or treating SARS‐CoV‐2‐mediated cerebral endothelial injury throughout infection and convalescence.

Highlights

Cerebral small vessel disease–associated changes were observed after targeted damage to angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2–expressing cerebral vascular endothelial cells.

SARS‐CoV‐2 may induce cerebral small vessel damage with persistent sequelae.

Clinical vigilance is needed in preventing SARS‐CoV‐2–induced cerebral endothelial damage during infection and recovery.
Light‐Driven Site‐Selective Glycosylation of Native Carbohydrates
Authors: Pacheco João A. , Candeias Nuno R.
Published: October 2024

Carbohydrates constitute the largest source of biomass on Earth, but their synthetic modification is challenging due to their high content in oxygen functionalities. The site‐ and stereoselective modification of native sugars is a definite goal of glycochemistry research. Recent efforts to bypass the need for protecting groups, leveraging selective activation through photochemical mechanisms for site‐selective C−C bond formation from native sugars, are likely to largely impact all glycochemistry‐related areas. Davis, Koh, and co‐workers have recently presented their use of photocatalysis to develop a “cap and glycosylate” approach for the site‐ and stereoselective C‐glycosylation of native sugars. A modernized direct radical functionalization of in situ formed thioglycoside using photocatalysis was used in the synthetic manipulation of unprotected carbohydrates. This allowed reaching complex saccharides, and post‐translational modification of proteins.
Front Cover, Volume 141, Issue 42
Authors: Ge Jin , Cheng Xiang , Rong Lihan , Cao Peng‐Fei , Caldona Eugene B. , Advincula Rigoberto
Published: October 2024

The cover image is based on the Article A magnetic‐directed micro‐particle with near‐IR light triggered guest‐release property by Jin Ge et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/app.56110.

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The pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of curcumin following inhalation administration in rats—A comparative analysis with oral and intravenous routes
Authors: Hu Yue , Sheng Yunhua , Liu Ping , Sun Jie , Tang Liming
Published: October 2024

A sensitive and simple method using ultra‐liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) was developed and validated to determine the concentration of curcumin in rat plasma and tissue samples. Emodin was selected as the internal standard (IS), and biological samples were pretreated with simple one‐step acetonitrile precipitation. The calibration curves exhibited linearity within the range of 1–1000 ng/ml for both rat plasma and tissue samples. The accuracy and precision of intra‐day as well as inter‐day determinations ranged from 99.3% to 117.3% and from 98.2% to 105.1%, respectively. This method demonstrated excellent recovery rates ranging from 76.4% to 96.4% along with minimal matrix effect ranging from 86.5% to 99.6%. The effectiveness of this method was successfully demonstrated through its application in an in vivo pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study after single administration via inhalation (100 mg/kg), oral gavage (100 mg/kg) and intravenous injection (2.5 mg/kg) of curcumin in rats. The results revealed that inhalation significantly improved the bioavailability of curcumin, with most of the drug being deposited in the lung. These findings highlight inhalation as an effective route for targeted delivery of drugs directly into lung tissues, thus suggesting potential future applications for treating pulmonary diseases utilizing inhaled curcumin.
Evaluation of various polysaccharide‐based stationary phases for enantioseparation of chloro‐containing derivatives in normal phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Ghinet Alina , Furman Christophe , Zubaş Andreea , Apostol Georgiana , Nica Adrian Sorin , Lipka Emmanuelle
Published: October 2024

Six polysaccharide‐based chiral stationary phases were screened to separate the enantiomers of six chloro‐containing derivatives and one derivative bearing electron donating mesomeric substituents, chosen for comparison. These compounds are expected to be P2X7 receptor antagonists with potential anti‐inflammatory activity. The study was carried out with four different mobile phases composed of n‐heptane and ethanol or isopropanol. Thus, a total of 168 experiments were implemented to find the best conditions aimed at scaling‐up the separation of these anti‐inflammatory compounds. Chiralpak AD‐H separated half of them, i.e., 1, 2, and 6; Chiralpak AS separated also three out of the six compounds, i.e., 1, 2, and 3; Lux Cellulose‐5 separated 2, 4, and 6; Lux Cellulose‐2 separated 1, 2, and 4; Chiralcel OD‐H separated compounds 2 and 5; and finally Chiralcel OJ separated only 3, thus having the lowest rate of success. Additionally, the influence of (i) the stationary and mobile phases and (ii) the chemical structure of the analytes on retention and resolution was investigated.
Carob Seeds as a Source of Bioactive Flavonoid Derivatives: Isolation, Network Pharmacology‐Guided Anti‐Cancer Activity, and HPLC Standardization
Authors: Khalil Asmaa M. , Fayek Nesrin M. , Sabry Omar M. , El Zalabani Soheir M. , Mohamed Ahmed F. , El‐Askary Hesham I.
Published: October 2024

Carob, Ceratonia siliqua L. (CS), is a legume well‐known for its edible pod pulp. Its seeds are used almost exclusively as a source of the food additive E410. Although a variety of metabolites have been identified by HPLC and LC–MS analysis in CS, reports concerned with their isolation are scarce. In this study, two flavonoid derivatives were isolated from the methanolic extract of CS seeds, namely, quercetin‐3‐O‐rhamnoside and 4′‐p‐hydroxybenzoylisorhamnetin‐3,7‐di‐O‐rhamnoside. Network pharmacology was unusually used as a guide for estimation of the biological potential of the isolated compounds. Finally, the methanolic extract of CS seeds and its ethyl acetate fraction were standardized for their 4′‐p‐hydroxybenzoylisorhamnetin‐3,7‐di‐O‐rhamnoside content by HPLC. The identified isolates displayed the ability to interfere with the activity of several target proteins associated with renal and colon cancers. Their cytotoxic effect on renal and colorectal cancer cell lines was investigated in comparison to Doxorubicin. The selectivity of the isolated compounds was evaluated on normal human fetal fibroblast cell lines. The isolated 4′‐p‐hydroxybenzoylisorhamnetin‐3,7‐di‐O‐rhamnoside showed very potent cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines with the highest selectivity. CS seeds can be used as a source of bioactive flavonoid derivatives that can be incorporated in pharmaceutical industries.
Discovery of New Pyrazole‐Tosylamide Derivatives as Apoptosis Inducers Through BCL‐2 Inhibition and Caspase‐3 Activation
Authors: Kuzu Burak , Arzuk Ege
Published: October 2024

In this presented study, a series of new carbonitrile‐substituted pyrazole‐tosyl amide derivatives were designed and synthesized according to previous studies. The antiproliferative effects of the synthesized compounds on MDA‐MB‐231, MCF‐7, HepG2, PC‐3, and A549 cancer cell lines were assessed by MTT assay compared with non‐cancerous cells. The results demonstrate that compounds 9d, 9e, and 9f had a higher antiproliferative effect (IC50 <10 μM) against both breast cancer cells. To investigate the ability of these compounds (9d‐f) to induce apoptosis against breast cancer cells, BCL‐2 levels and Caspase‐3 activities of compound‐treated breast cancer cell lines were measured by ELISA. The results revealed that these compounds significantly inhibited the levels of anti‐apoptotic protein BCL‐2 and increased the activity of apoptotic protein Caspase‐3 in MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 cells. Molecular docking studies confirmed that the selected compounds have high binding affinity towards the active site in the crystal structures of BCL‐2 and Caspase‐3. Moreover, drug‐likeness and pre‐ADMET evaluation showed that the compounds had suitable drug properties. This study may be a new milestone in terms of the promising importance of carbonitrile‐substituted pyrazole‐tosyl amide scaffolds as apoptosis‐inducing agents for cancer therapy in the future.
Solvent‐ or Base‐Controlled Diastereoselectivity and Chemoselectivity for the Reaction of Ketenimine Zwitterionic Salts
Authors: Yang Weiguang , Li Guanrong , Huang Zixin , Luo Qiaoli , Luo Hui
Published: October 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Ketenimine zwitterionic salt (KZS), a novel and stable ketenimine precursor, is still underexplored in the realm of chemical synthesis. In this study, we demonstrate the transformation of pyrrole derivatives through the cyclization of KZS with α‐aminoketones. The diastereoselectivity of this reaction is influenced by the solvent, enabling the isolation of 3‐hydroxypyrrolidine diastereomers with the highest reported dr value of 21 : 1. Furthermore, the chemoselectivity is modulated by the choice of base, yielding 2‐aminopyrrole derivatives as the major products. This research offers a sustainable approach to harnessing the potential of KZS in organic synthesis, contributing to a greener chemical process.
Attraction versus Repulsion between Methyl and Related Groups: (CH3NHCH3)2 and (CH3SeBr2CH3)2
Authors: Michalczyk Mariusz , Scheiner Steve , Zierkiewicz Wiktor
Published: October 2024

The starting point for this work was a set of crystal structures containing the motif of interaction between methyl groups in homodimers. Two structures were selected for which QTAIM, NCI and NBO analyses suggested an attractive interaction. However, the calculated interaction energy was negative for only one of these systems. The ability of methyl groups to interact with one another is then examined by DFT calculations. A series of (CH3PnHCH3)2 homodimers were allowed to interact with each other for a range of Pn atoms N, P, As, and Sb. Interaction energies of these C⋅⋅⋅C tetrel‐bonded species were below 1 kcal/mol, but could be raised to nearly 3 kcal/mol if the C atom was changed to a heavier tetrel. A strengthening of the C⋅⋅⋅C intermethyl bonds can also be achieved by introducing an asymmetry via an electron‐withdrawing substituent on one unit and a donor on the other. The attractions between the methyl and related groups occur in spite of a coulombic repulsion between σ‐holes on the two groups. NBO, AIM, and NCI tools must be interpreted with caution as they can falsely suggest bonding when the potentials are repulsive.
Adipose tissue‐derived extracellular vesicles aggravate temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis associated with obesity
Authors: Li Baochao , Jin Yuqin , Zhang Bingqing , Lu Tong , Li Jialing , Zhang Jingzi , Zhou Yiwen , Wang Yanyi , Zhang Caixia , Zhao Yue , Li Huang
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) is a major disease that affects maxillofacial health and is characterised by cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone remodelling. Obesity is associated with the exacerbation of pathological manifestations of TMJ OA. However, the underlying mechanism between adipose tissue and the TMJ axis remains limited.

Objectives

To evaluate the effects of obesity and the adipose tissue on the development of TMJ OA.

Methods

The obesity‐related metabolic changes in TMJ OA patients were detected by physical signs and plasma metabolites. The effects of adipose tissue‐derived EVs (Ad‐EVs) on TMJ OA was investigated through histological and cytological experiments as well as gene editing technology. Alterations of Ad‐EVs in obese state were identified by microRNA‐seq analysis and the mechanism by which EVs affect TMJ OA was explored in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Obesity and the related metabolic changes were important influencing factors for TMJ OA. Ad‐EVs from obese mice induced marked chondrocyte apoptosis, cartilage matrix degradation and subchondral bone remodelling, which exacerbated the development of TMJ OA. Depletion of Ad‐EVs secretion by knocking out the geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (Ggpps) gene in adipose tissue significantly inhibited the obesity‐induced aggravation of TMJ OA. MiR‐3074‐5p played an important role in this process .

Conclusions

Our work unveils an unknown link between obese adipose tissue and TMJ OA. Targeting the Ad‐EVs and the miR‐3074‐5p may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for obesity‐related TMJ OA.

Key points

High‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity aggravate the progression of TMJ OA in mice.

Obese adipose tissue participates in cartilage damage through the altered miRNA in extracellular vesicles.

Inhibition of miR‐3074‐5p/SMAD4 pathway in chondrocyte alleviated the effect of HFD‐EVs on TMJ OA.
Superficial CD34 Positive Fibroblastic Tumor: A Rare Entity With Cytological and Histopathological Correlation
Authors: Sharma Abhiruchi , Khuraijam Bembem , Khurana Nita , Pandey Neha , Singh Chandra Bhushan
Published: October 2024

Superficial CD34‐positive fibroblastic tumor (SPFT) is an extremely rare neoplasm of borderline (intermediate) category. To the best of our knowledge, less than 40 cases have been reported in the English literature. It is imperative to understand and emphasize its cytological features as fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is still considered a first line of investigation in such cases in many countries including India. We present a case of a young male aged 27 years who presented to the General Surgery OPD with a history of slow‐growing mass over right thigh for 7 years. FNAC and subsequent histopathological examination revealed a diagnosis of SPFT.
Analysis of Meis2 knockout mice reveals Sonic hedgehog‐mediated patterning of the cochlear duct
Authors: Koo Hei Yeun , Oh Jae Hwan , Durán Alonso María Beatriz , Hernández Iris López , González‐Vallinas Margarita , Alonso María Teresa , Tena Juan J. , Gil‐Gálvez Alejandro , Giraldez Fernando , Bok Jinwoong , Schimmang Thomas
Published: October 2024

Background

The mechanisms underlying the formation of complex structures such as during the outgrowth of the cochlear duct are still poorly understood.

Results

We have analyzed the morphological and molecular changes associated with cochlear development in mouse mutants for the transcription factor Meis2, which show defective coiling of the cochlea. These morphological abnormalities were accompanied by the formation of ectopic and extra rows of sensory hair cells. Gene profiling of otic vesicles from Meis2 mutants revealed a dysregulation of genes that are potentially involved in Sonic hedgehog (Shh)‐mediated patterning of the cochlear duct. Like in Shh mutants, Meis2 defective mice showed a loss of genes that are expressed in the apical part of the cochlear duct.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data reveal that the loss of Meis2 leads to a phenotype that resembles Shh mutants, suggesting that Meis2 is instrumental for cochlear Shh signaling. The modulation of the same subset of genes provides an interesting insight into which Shh responsive genes are essential for outgrowth and patterning of the cochlear duct.
Relationships between social determinants of health and healthy body composition among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the Next Generation: Youth Well‐being study
Authors: McKay Christopher D. , Gubhaju Lina , Gibberd Alison J. , McNamara Bridgette J. , Macniven Rona , Joshy Grace , Yashadhana Aryati , Fields Ted , Williams Robyn , Roseby Robert , Azzopardi Peter , Banks Emily , Eades Sandra J.
Published: October 2024

Issue Addressed

Little is currently known about the relationships between body composition and the social determinants of health among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Australia, which could help inform policy responses to address health inequities.

Methods

This study aimed to explore the relationship between various social factors and healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist/height ratio (WHtR) among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth aged 16–24 years. Baseline survey data from 531 participants of the ‘Next Generation: Youth Well‐being study’ were used. Robust Poisson regression quantified associations between healthy body composition and self‐reported individual social factors (education, employment and income, government income support, food insecurity, home environment, relationship status, racism), family factors (caregiver education and employment) and area‐level factors (remoteness, socioeconomic status).

Results

Healthy body composition was less common among those living in a crowded home (healthy WHtR aPR 0.67 [0.47–0.96]) and those receiving government income support (healthy BMI aPR 0.74 [0.57–0.95]). It was more common among those with tertiary educated caregivers (healthy BMI aPR 1.84 [1.30–2.61]; healthy WHtR aPR 1.41 [1.05–1.91]) and those in a serious relationship (healthy BMI aPR 1.33 [1.02–1.75]).

Conclusions

Social factors at the individual and family level are associated with healthy body composition among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.

So What?

The findings of this study highlight the potential for health benefits for youth from policies and programs that address social inequities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia.
Experiences of genetic counselors practicing in multiple languages: Progress and places for improvement
Authors: Mitchell Bailey , Bélanger Brigitte , Berninger Taylor , Fernandez Sara , Vanneste Rachel
Published: October 2024

As awareness of the value of genetic counseling services increases, there has been greater recognition of the need to diversify service delivery into different languages. Studies within genetic counseling and related fields have identified complications that can arise from language nonconcordance between provider and patient. A strategy to mitigate language barriers is prioritizing the development of a multilingual workforce of genetic counselors (GCs) who can communicate with patients in their preferred language. This exploratory study assessed the experiences of multilingual GCs who have practiced in a clinical role with the aim to identify relevant challenges and differences when counseling in their nondominant language. Statistical analysis was performed to identify differences in session tasks and emotions experienced when counseling in one's nondominant language versus their dominant language. Data analysis identified an increase in reported difficulty level for most clinical tasks while using a nondominant language, most notably for difficulty with psychosocial counseling, disclosing results, and administrative tasks. Participants were also surveyed on employer support and resources provided. Overall, results suggest that multilingual GCs may benefit from greater support in certain areas within clinical roles to enhance their ability to provide patient care in their nondominant language.
Unveiling Resmetirom: A systematic review and meta‐analysis on its impact on liver function and safety in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis treatment
Authors: Hashim Hashim Talib , Alhatemi Ahmed Qasim Mohammed , Riaz Sania , Al‐Ghuraibawi Mohammedbaqer Ali , Alabide Arwa S. , Saeed Humza , Sulaiman Fatimah Abdullah , Alhussain Mustafa Ali Abd , Shallan Maythum Ali , Al‐Obaidi Ahmed Dheyaa , Saab Omar , Al‐Obaidi Hasan , Hashim Ali Talib , Merza Nooraldin
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim

The role of Resmetirom in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents a promising therapeutic approach in addressing the growing global burden of liver disease. With NASH emerging as a leading cause of liver‐related morbidity and mortality worldwide, there is an urgent need for effective treatments. Resmetirom, a selective thyroid hormone receptor‐β agonist, offers potential benefits in improving liver histology and metabolic parameters in patients with NASH. This review examines the current evidence surrounding Resmetirom's role in NASH management.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was done by searching in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, MEDLINE (including MEDLINE InProcess) (OvidSP), Web of Science, Embase (OvidSP), and Scopus databases. ROB2 Cochrane tool was used for assessing risk of bias in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In the analysis, we used RevMan Cochrane software.

Results

The study showed that patients who were treated with Resmetirom had significantly lower low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels (mean difference [MD] −10.45; 95% confidence interval [CI] −15.86 to −5.83; P < 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (MD −7.18; 95% CI −12.67 to −1.68; P = 0.01) as compared with those in the placebo group. The risk of adverse events including diarrhea [risk ratio (RR) 1.81; 95% CI 1.40 to 2.35; P < 0.001] and nausea (RR 1.72; 95% CI 1.31 to 2.27; P < 0.001) was significantly increased for the Resmetirom group as compared with the placebo group.

Conclusion

Resmetirom presents a promising therapeutic option for NASH, offering potential benefits in reducing liver fat content and improving histological outcomes. The encouraging results from clinical trials suggest that Resmetirom may address an unmet need in NASH management, providing hope for patients with this progressive liver disease. Further research and long‐term studies are warranted to validate its efficacy and safety profile in larger patient populations.
Practical Copper‐Catalyzed Double N‐Arylation of Cyclic Diaryliodoniums: Synthesis of 5H‐Dibenzo[d, f][1,3]Diazepine, and Benzo[c]Cinnoline Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Lianji , Wu Yujuan , Zhao Yuhui , Wang Cuiping , Wei Wanguo , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: October 2024

An efficient access to novel families of 7‐membered dibenzodiazepines and 6‐membered benzo[c]cinnoline derivatives has been elaborated. The synthetic strategy is based on a copper‐catalyzed double N‐arylation of cyclic diaryliodoniums with imidamides and 4‐substituted 1, 2, 4‐triazoline‐3, 5‐diones (TADs) respectively under ambient reaction conditions. A mechanistic rationale for the double N‐arylation is discussed.
Predictive Value of Diaphragm Muscle Ultrasound for Ventilator Weaning Outcomes After Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Bhatia Natasha S. , Kunzweiler Stephany , Conley Christopher , Kim Ki H. , Adewuyi Adenike A. , Mondriguez‐Gonzalez Antonio , Wolfe Lisa F. , Kwasny Mary , Franz Colin K.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Neuromuscular respiratory failure after cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI) can lead to dependence on an invasive mechanical ventilator. Ventilator‐free breathing after cSCI is associated with improved morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. We investigated the use of diaphragm muscle ultrasound to predict ventilator weaning outcomes after cSCI.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series conducted at a university‐affiliated freestanding inpatient rehabilitation facility. We identified patients with cSCI who had a tracheostomy and were dependent on an invasive mechanical ventilator at the time of admission to inpatient rehabilitation. A diaphragm muscle ultrasound was performed, which included measurements of the thickness of the diaphragm and a calculation of the thickening ratio (TR), which reflects diaphragm muscle contraction. The primary outcome measure was the need for mechanical ventilation at time of discharge from the inpatient rehabilitation facility. Successful ventilator weaning was defined as either daytime or full 24‐hour ventilator‐free breathing.

Results

Of the 21 patients enrolled, 11 (52%) were able to wean successfully (partially or fully) from the ventilator. Of the ultrasound measurements that were taken, the TR was the optimal predictor for ventilator weaning outcomes. A threshold of TR ≥ 1.2 as the maximum hemidiaphragm measurement had a sensitivity of 1.0 and specificity of 0.90 for predicting ventilator weaning.

Conclusion

Normal diaphragm contractility (TR ≥ 1.2) as determined by diaphragm muscle ultrasound is a strong positive predictor for successful ventilator weaning in patients with cSCI.

Utilizing diaphragm ultrasound, rehabilitation physicians can set precision rehabilitation goals regarding ventilator weaning for inpatients with respiratory failure after cSCI, potentially improving both outcomes and quality of life.
Effectiveness of Changing Drug Classes in Patients With Refractory Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease
Authors: Herman Emilie , Saussez Sven , Lechien Jérôme R.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of drug class changes in patients with refractory laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD).

Study Design

Retrospective case series with prospective data.

Setting

Multicenter study.

Methods

The data of patients treated for a refractory LPRD from September 2017 to December 2023 were collected. The effectiveness of drug class changes was assessed through the reflux symptom score (RSS) change. Signs were evaluated with the Reflux Sign Assessment. The RSS reduction was used to categorize the therapeutic responses as mild (20%‐40% RSS reduction), moderate (40.1%‐60% RSS reduction), high (60.1%‐80%), and complete (>80%).

Results

Among the 334 medical records, 74 (22.2%) patients had refractory LPRD defined as no RSS change in the pre‐ to 3‐month posttreatment. The mean age was 52.6 ± 15.5 years. Changing drug class was associated with significant 3‐ to 6‐month posttreatment reductions of RSS and RSA. Thirty patients (39%) did not experience symptom reduction after changing drugs. Changing alginate to magaldrate and magaldrate to alginate was associated with the highest responder rate (76.9%). Changing PPI and alginate/magaldrate molecules led to a response rate of 62.5%. In patients initially treated with a combination of PPI and alginate or magaldrate, changing PPI without changing alginate/magaldrate led to a 37.5% response rate. The baseline RSS was predictive of the 3‐ and 6‐month RSS (therapeutic response).

Conclusion

Changing drug class, especially alginate‐to‐magaldrate, may be an effective therapeutic approach for patients with a refractory LPRD.
Redundancy of Pharmacologic Ingredients in Over‐the‐Counter Nasal Sprays
Authors: Trinh Lily N. , Smith Diandra K. , McCoul Edward D.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate and determine the prevalence of ingredients in over‐the‐counter (OTC) nasal sprays.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Retail pharmacies.

Methods

An inventory of brand‐name and generic OTC nasal sprays was recorded at five national pharmacy outlets in August 2023. Data regarding the active ingredients were collected on commercial websites, MedlinePlus and drugs.com, and frequency statistics were calculated.

Results

Five pharmacies were visited, at which 12 different brand names of nasal sprays were identified at multiple pharmacies. Nine brand names were associated with multiple formulations, accounting for 49 different products. The active ingredients included in our analysis were oxymetazoline, phenylephrine, fluticasone, triamcinolone, budesonide, azelastine, cromolyn sodium, and mometasone. Nasal decongestants had the greatest number of brand name formulations compared to intranasal steroids and antihistamine sprays which had limited choices. Products that included oxymetazoline were the most widely marketed drug (51 unique products) followed sodium chloride (40 unique products).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that there are widespread redundancies in the OTC nasal spray market. Clinician should be aware of the redundancy in OTC formulations and encourage patients to read the labels in order to make informed decisions regarding their use of OTC medications.
The Social Reality of Meaning Making: The Dichotomy in the Illness Narratives of Women With Breast Cancer and Biomedical Practitioners in Nigeria
Authors: Adaranijo Aisha Abimbola , Amzat Jimoh , Abdulrahman Dejo , Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the increasing burden of breast cancer in the developing world, there is a misunderstanding of the complex and multifaceted relationship between culture and cancer, particularly breast cancer. Hence, a dichotomy of illness narratives exists due to differential meaning making concerning breast cancer. While clinicians always recommend biomedical treatment, women with breast cancer often seek alternative treatment pathways.

Aims

To explore the experiences of women with breast cancer and clinicians in Nigeria on the dichotomy in the illness narratives.

Methods

This qualitative study used in‐depth interviews and focus group discussion to explore the experiences of 22 women with breast cancer and 7 clinicians in Nigeria on the dichotomy in the illness narratives using grounded theory method analysis.

Results

This study revealed that many women living with breast cancer (WLBC) hold health beliefs that are contradictory to the biomedical norm. They mostly sought treatment based on the perceived aetiology of breast cancer. The treatment pathway follows faith and traditional healing as alternatives or sometimes in combination with biomedicine. WLBC reported a constant fear of biomedical treatment, perceived to be harmful to women's sexuality, fertility and body image. Hence, after perceived treatment failure from alternative care, biomedical care becomes the last resort, usually at an advanced stage of breast cancer, often responsible for poor prognosis.

Conclusion

There is a dichotomy of illness construction between sufferers and health practitioners. To guide women with breast cancer on the path of care, modern care practitioners should consider some cultural norms and practices without compromising professional ethos.
Effects of Vacancies and Nitrogen Dopants on Interfacial Bonding and Electronic Structure of Graphene/Metal Composites
Authors: Jia Qian , Zhong Boan , Wang Sijie , Yue Zhenming , Liu Yue , Wang Xi
Published: October 2024

The vacancies and nitrogen dopants significantly alter the interfacial bonding and electrical properties at the graphene/metal interface. The graphene/copper system, characterized by coherent and immiscible interfaces, serves as a suitable benchmark to elucidate the intrinsic interactions between carbon and metal atoms. Herein, the individual effects of vacancies and nitrogen dopants, as well as their combined effects, are systematically investigated. The bonding energies show that the interfacial bonding is the strongest at the monovacancy (MV) graphene/copper interface, indicating that the introduction of nitrogen in defective graphene/copper interfaces weakens the interfacial bonding. Furthermore, the band structures indicate that both vacancies and nitrogen dopants contribute to the formation of a bandgap. Among them, both MV and graphitic nitrogen doping significantly enhance interfacial bonding while maintaining relatively intact interfacial and band structures.
Enhancing global support to address complex sustainable development policy challenges: Learning from success in cross‐sectoral nutrition policy
Authors: Thow Anne Marie
Published: October 2024

Malnutrition is hampering achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs), and requires policy approaches that address food system drivers. However, this will require the adoption of cross‐sectoral policy measures for nutrition, which has proved challenging in practice. This qualitative co‐designed study drew on theories of policy learning to examine the roles of global organisations in fostering and supporting effective cross‐sectoral policy action to improve nutrition. Forty‐three in‐depth interviews were conducted with government actors at global, regional and national level. Key roles of global institutions to support scaling up of effective cross‐sectoral policy for nutrition included the development of best‐practice guidance, provision of operational and other forms of support, convening to enable political awareness and commitment and coordination to create shared vision. Opportunities to improve global support included improving global coordination, developing incentives to use global guidance and rethinking processes and strategies to support contextual adaptation of global guidance.
Optimization of Eugenol Extraction From Piper betle Leaves Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents and Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction
Authors: Monton Chaowalit , Wunnakup Thaniya , Sueree Lukman , Suksaeree Jirapornchai , Charoenchai Laksana , Jongcharoenkamol Jira
Published: October 2024

Piper betle L. (Piperaceae) is a herbal plant used in Thai traditional medicine for its antifungal and antiallergic properties, particularly through topical application. This study aimed to optimize the extraction of Piper betle leaves using natural deep eutectic solvents to enhance the extraction efficiency of eugenol, the active compound in Piper betle leaves. Various types of hydrogen bond donors—including glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, and citric acid—were combined with a hydrogen bond acceptor, choline chloride, to prepare natural deep eutectic solvents. The results indicated that lactic acid was the most effective hydrogen bond donor for eugenol extraction. Subsequently, the choline chloride:lactic acid molar ratios, the natural deep eutectic solvent:water mass ratios, and ultrasonication times were varied. Results showed that the optimal conditions based on one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach were a choline chloride:lactic acid molar ratio of 1:5, a natural deep eutectic solvent:water mass ratio of 2:1, and an ultrasonication time of 30 min. Under these conditions, the eugenol concentration reached 457.22 ± 21.68 µg/mL, compared to 224.76 ± 6.99 µg/mL when ethanol was used. In conclusion, this study successfully optimized the extraction of eugenol from Piper betle leaves using natural deep eutectic solvents. These findings suggest that natural deep eutectic solvents could be a more effective solvent for the extraction of eugenol.
Association of fetal growth restriction and stillbirth in twin compared with singleton pregnancies
Authors: Syngelaki A. , Wright D. , Wright A. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: October 2024

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Martínez‐Varea et al. Click here to view the article.
Exploring the relationship between trimester‐specific exercise intensity and fetal growth patterns
Authors: Tang W.‐Z. , Liu T.‐H. , Lan X.
Published: October 2024

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Hu et al. Click here to view the article.
Optical Elements and Keywords, Complements
Authors: Méot François
Published: October 2024

This chapter is not a review of the $$60+$$

60
+

optical elements of ’s library. They are described in the Users’ Guide. One aim here is, regarding some of them, to briefly recall some aspects which may not be found in the Users’ Guide and yet addressed, or referred to, in the theoretical reminder sections and in the exercises. This chapter is not a review of the $$40+$$

40
+

monitoring and command keywords available in , either. However it reviews some of the methods used, by keywords such as MATRIX (computation of transport coefficients from sets of rays), FAISCEAU (which produces beam emittance parameters), and others. This chapter in addition recalls the basics of transport and beam matrix methods, in particular it provides the first order transport matrix of several of the optical elements used in the exercises, in view essentially of comparisons with transport coefficients drawn from raytracing, in simulation exercises.
Classical Cyclotron
Authors: Méot François
Published: October 2024

This chapter introduces the classical cyclotron, and the theoretical material needed for the simulation exercises. It begins with a brief reminder of the historical context, and continues with beam optics and with the principles and methods which the classical cyclotron leans on, including

ion orbit in a cyclic accelerator,

weak focusing and periodic transverse motion,

revolution period and isochronism,

voltage gap and resonant acceleration,

the cyclotron equation.

The simulation of a cyclotron dipole will either resort to an analytical model of the field: the optical element DIPOLE, or will resort to using a field map together with the keyword TOSCA to handle it and raytrace through. An additional accelerator device needed in the exercises, CAVITE, simulates a local oscillating voltage. Running a simulation generates a variety of output files, including the execution listing zgoubi.res, always, and other zgoubi.plt, zgoubi.CAVITE.out, zgoubi.MATRIX.out, etc., aimed at looking up program execution, storing data for post-treatment, producing graphs, etc. Additional keywords are introduced as needed, such as the matching procedure FIT[2]; FAISCEAU and FAISTORE which log local particle data in zgoubi.res or in a user defined ancillary file; MARKER; the “system call” command SYSTEM; REBELOTE, a ‘do loop’; and some more. This chapter introduces in addition to spin motion in accelerator magnets; dedicated simulation exercises include a variety of keywords: SPNTRK, a request for spin tracking, SPNPRT or FAISTORE, to log spin vector components in respectively zgoubi.res or some ancillary file, and the “IL = 2” flag to log stepwise particle data, including spin vector, in zgoubi.plt file. Simulations include deriving transport matrices, beam matrix, optical functions and their transport, from rays, using MATRIX and TWISS keywords.
Weak Focusing Synchrotron
Authors: Méot François
Published: October 2024

This chapter introduces the weak focusing synchrotron, and the theoretical material needed for the simulation exercises. It begins with a brief reminder of the historical context, and continues with the beam optics and acceleration techniques that the weak focusing synchrotron principle and methods lean on, relying on basic charged particle optics and acceleration concepts introduced in the previous chapters. It further addresses the following aspects: – fixed closed orbit, – periodic structure, – periodic motion stability, – optical functions, – synchrotron motion, – depolarizing resonances. The simulation of a weak focusing synchrotron lattice only requires two optical elements: DIPOLE or BEND to simulate combined function dipoles, and DRIFT to simulate straight sections. A third element, CAVITE, is required for acceleration. Computation of synchrotron radiation (SR) Poynting and spectral brightness uses . Particle monitoring requires keywords introduced in the previous chapters, including FAISCEAU, FAISTORE, PICKUPS, and some others. Spin motion computation and monitoring resort to SPNTRK, SPNPRT and FAISTORE. Optics matching and optimization use FIT[2]. INCLUDE is used, mostly here in order to shorten the input data files. SYSTEM is used to, mostly, resort to gnuplot so as to end simulations with some specific graphs (orbits, fields, or else) obtained by reading data from output files such as zgoubi.fai (resulting from the use of FAISTORE), zgoubi.plt (resulting from IL $$=$$
=
2), or other zgoubi.*.out files resulting from a PRINT command.