bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re‐emergence of polio in Pakistan: Can the nation achieve the WPV1 eradication goal?
Authors: Faizan Aqib , Rehman Tooba , Mughal Sanila
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Poliomyelitis is an acute neurologic condition that causes muscle weakness, permanent flaccid paralysis, and even death. The world has seen a drastic fall in the number of poliovirus cases owing to effective immunization programs and preventive measures. Pakistan and Afghanistan still remain the two endemic countries for poliovirus, particularly, the WPV1 strain. Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has set a target to eradicate all WPV1 cases by the end of 2023. However, the re‐emergence of WPV1 cases has posed a serious setback for the achievement of this target. This article aims to discuss the public health challenges that contribute to resurgence of poliovirus cases.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various databases including Cochrane, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, MEDLINE. Only articles written in English were considered. All the articles reporting the incidence of poliovirus and WPV1 cases in Pakistan, surveillance data and global context of poliovirus outbreak were evaluated to write this correspondence. In addition, references from the selected articles were also examined to ensure a comprehensive review of the literature.

Results

This article highlights the factors contributing to the re‐emergence of WPV1 cases in Pakistan. Low vaccine coverage, attacks on frontline polio health workers, misinformation, and reluctance to vaccine acceptance pose a daunting challenge for polio eradication. Further, gaps in AFP surveillance and sensitivity may underestimate the true extent of the emerging genetic clusters. The Covid‐19 pandemic and subsequent flooding in the affected area have further worsened the underdeveloped public health infrastructure.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges, the country has observed a significant decline in the number of cases in the past 2 years. It is high time to capitalize on the decrease in WPV1 cases by intensifying the efforts to mitigate and limit the spread of the disease.
Modeling heat transfer and air circulation by convection in bottom‐heated agricultural greenhouses
Authors: Hssain Mustapha Ait , Armou Sara , Nouari Soufiane , Mir Rachid
Published: February 2024

In agricultural greenhouses, effective heating systems are essential for maintaining proper temperature control and air circulation during the winter. This study delves into the analysis of heat exchange through natural convection within heated greenhouses, with a particular emphasis on the impact of bottom heating. Two distinct types: mono‐chapel and bi‐chapel, each featuring triangular or spherical roofs are examined. To capture the variable roof shapes, we employ a change‐of‐variable method, and the numerical solutions are obtained using the finite volume method. The results show that heat transfer is enhanced by increasing the Rayleigh number. This improvement differs according to the shape of the roof. Heat transfer decreases by about 5% for the spherical mono‐chapel case compared to the triangular case for Ra = 103. For Ra = 105, the monospherical case favors heat transfer, with an increase of 0.35% compared to the triangular case. In the case of bi‐chapel roof, heat transfer is greater with a triangular roof for Ra = 103, showing an increase of 6.4% compared to the spherical case. This study not only sheds light on the fundamental aspects of heat transfer in greenhouses but also provides valuable insights for optimizing greenhouse design based on specific roof configurations and heating conditions.
Impact of climate change on the future distribution of three Ferulago species in Iran using the MaxEnt model
Authors: Hosseini Naser , Mostafavi Hossein , Sadeghi Seyed Mohammad Moein
Published: February 2024

The decline of habitats supporting medicinal plants is a consequence of climate change and human activities. In the Middle East, Ferulago angulata, Ferulago carduchorum, and Ferulago phialocarpa are widely recognized for their culinary, medicinal, and economic value. Therefore, this study models these Ferulago species in Iran using the MaxEnt model under two representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) for 2050 and 2070. The objective was to identify the most important bioclimatic (n = 6), edaphic (n = 4), and topographic (n = 3) variables influencing their distribution and predict changes under various climate scenarios. Findings reveal slope percentage as the most significant variable for F. angulata and F. carduchorum, while solar radiation was the primary variable for F. phialocarpa. MaxEnt modeling demonstrated good to excellent performance, as indicated by all the area under the curve values exceeding 0.85. Projections suggest negative area changes for F. angulata and F. carduchorum (i.e., predictions under RCP4.5 for 2050 and 2070 indicate −34.0% and −37.8% for F. phialocarpa, and −0.3% and −6.2% for F. carduchorum; additionally, predictions under RCP 8.5 for 2050 and 2070 show −39.0% and −52.2% for F. phialocarpa, and −1.33% and −9.8% for F. carduchorum), while for F. phialocarpa, a potential habitat increase (i.e., predictions under RCP4.5 for 2050 and 2070 are 23.4% and 11.2%, and under RCP 8.5 for 2050 and 2070 are 64.4% and 42.1%) is anticipated. These insights guide adaptive management strategies, emphasizing conservation and sustainable use amid global climate change. Special attention should be paid to F. angulata and F. carduchorum due to anticipated habitat loss. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1046–1059. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

This national study on Ferulago species reveals a substantial decline in medicinal plant habitats triggered by climate change. For Ferulago angulata and Ferulago carduchorum, slope percentage emerges as the pivotal variable, while solar radiation takes precedence for Ferulago phialocarpa. MaxEnt modeling demonstrated robust performance, with all area under the curve values exceeding 0.85, ensuring reliable predictions. Projections suggest negative area changes for F. angulata and F. carduchorum, emphasizing potential habitat loss, while for F. phialocarpa a habitat increase is anticipated, providing valuable insights for adaptive management strategies amid global climate change.
Changes in mortality associated with different hematologic malignancies during the pandemic in the United States
Authors: Fedeli Ugo , Barbiellini Amidei Claudio , Han Xuesong , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: February 2024

Patients with hematologic malignancies are at increased risk of adverse COVID‐19 outcomes; nonetheless, only sparse population‐based data are available on mortality related to hematologic cancers during the pandemic. Number of deaths and age‐standardized mortality rates for specific hematologic malignancies selected either as the underlying cause of death (UCOD), or mentioned in death certificates (multiple causes of death‐MCOD) were extracted from the US National Center for Health Statistics, CDC WONDER Online Database. Joinpoint analysis was applied to identify changes in mortality trends from 1999 to 2021, and to estimate the annual percent change with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) across time segments. Among the most common malignancies, chronic lymphocytic leukemia showed marked peaks in the monthly number of deaths attributed to COVID‐19 during epidemic waves; acute myeloid leukemia showed the least variation, and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and multiple myeloma were characterized by an intermediate pattern. Age‐standardized death rates relying solely on the UCOD did not show significant variations during pandemic years. By contrast, rates based on MCOD increased by 14.0% (CI, 10.2–17.9%) per year for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, by 5.1% (CI, 3.1–7.2%) for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and by 3.2% (CI, 0.3–6.1%) per year for multiple myeloma. Surveillance of mortality based on MCOD is warranted to accurately measure the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic and of other epidemics, including seasonal flu, on patients with hematologic malignancies, and to assess the effects of vaccination campaigns and other preventive measures.
Use of therapeutic plasma exchange to remove lipoprotein X in a patient with vanishing bile duct syndrome presenting with cholestasis, pseudohyponatremia, and hypercholesterolemia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Jung Yujung , Nelson Heather A. , Lin David Ming‐Hung
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Lipoprotein X (Lp‐X) is an abnormal lipoprotein found in multiple disease conditions, including liver dysfunction and cholestasis. High Lp‐X concentrations can interfere with some laboratory testing that may result in spurious results. The detection of Lp‐X can be challenging, and there is currently a lack of consensus regarding the management of Lp‐X other than treating the underlying disease.

Case Presentation

A 42‐year‐old female with Hodgkin's lymphoma treated with dexamethasone, high dose cytarabine and cisplatin and vanishing bile duct syndrome confirmed by liver biopsy presented with cholestasis, pseudohyponatremia (sodium, 113 mmol/L; reference range 136–146 mmL/L; serum osmolality, 303 mOsm/kg), and hypercholesterolemia (> 2800 mg/dL, reference range < 200 mg/dL). Lp‐X was confirmed by lipoprotein electrophoresis (EP). Although she did not manifest any specific signs or symptoms, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was initiated based on laboratory findings of extreme hypercholesterolemia, spuriously abnormal serum sodium, and HDL values, and the potential for short‐ and long‐term sequelae such as hyperviscosity syndrome, xanthoma, and neuropathy. During the hospitalization, she was treated with four 1.0 plasma volume TPE over 6 days using 5% albumin for replacement fluid. After the first TPE, total cholesterol (TC) decreased to 383 mg/dL and sodium was measured at 131 mmol/L. The patient was transitioned into outpatient maintenance TPE to eliminate the potential of Lp‐X reappearance while the underlying disease was treated. Serial follow‐up laboratory testing with lipoprotein EP showed the disappearance of Lp‐X after nine TPEs over a 10‐week period.

Literature Review

There are seven and four case reports of Lp‐X treated with TPE and lipoprotein apheresis (LA), respectively. While all previous case reports showed a reduction in TC levels, none had monitored the disappearance of Lp‐X after completing a course of therapeutic apheresis.

Conclusion

Clinicians should have a heightened suspicion for the presence of abnormal Lp‐X in patients with cholestasis, hypercholesterolemia, and pseudohyponatremia. Once Lp‐X is confirmed by lipoprotein EP, TPE should be initiated to reduce TC level and remove abnormal Lp‐X. Most LA techniques are not expected to be beneficial since Lp‐X lacks apolipoprotein B. Therefore, we suggest that inpatient course of TPE be performed every other day until serum sodium, TC and HDL levels become normalized. Outpatient maintenance TPE may also be considered to keep Lp‐X levels low while the underlying disease is treated. Serum sodium, TC, and HDL levels should be monitored while on maintenance TPE.
Evaluation of a scoring system for vein suitability in platelet apheresis donors
Authors: Noushad Shahida , Basavarajegowda Abhishekh , Toora Esha , Sahoo Dibyajyoti , Hari Priya K M
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Donor vein assessment for the selection of good quality veins is crucial for a successful apheresis procedure. This study intends to find out the effectiveness of a vein assessment scoring tool (VST) used and found to be effective in selecting whole blood donors to reduce the difficulty in identifying good quality veins for the plateletpheresis procedure.

Materials and methods

This was a prospective observational study on platelet apheresis donors with the application of a VST consisting of three vein descriptor parameters (vein visibility, vein palpability, and vein size) with 5 Likert‐type responses constituting a score of 0–12 for each arm. Two vein assessors independently evaluated the vein in both arms and marked their responses blinded from each other as well from the principal investigator. The scores were then calculated and analyzed at the end of the study for their association with phlebotomy and procedural outcomes.

Results

A total of 190 donors were recruited. The mean scores for the arms with successful and failed phlebotomy were 9.1 and 9.4 (SD 2.3), respectively. The intra‐class correlation Alpha Cronbach value was 0.834 and 0.837 for total scoring in the left arm and right arm, respectively, between the two assessors. Scores neither showed a correlation with other outcomes like low flow alarms, hematoma formation, number of phlebotomy attempts, and procedure completion.

Conclusion

The study showed that the vein score tool did not truly predict the phlebotomy outcome in apheresis donors, though there was a good degree of inter‐assessor reliability.
Theoretical prediction of closed‐shell paramagnetism for scandium and yttrium hydride
Authors: Grazioli Laura , Schleicher Luca T. , Stopkowicz Stella , Gauss Jürgen
Published: February 2024

Following chemical intuition, one would expect that all closed‐shell molecules are diamagnetic. However, it is known that this is not the case for some second‐row hydrides with low‐lying unoccupied orbitals due to an unquenching of the total angular momentum in the presence of an external magnetic field. In this article, the transition‐metal hydrides ScH and YH are investigated, assuming a similar unquenching effect involving low‐lying unoccupied and orbitals formed from the metal orbitals rather than the orbitals. We are comparing results obtained with various quantum‐chemical methods (HF, CCSD, CCSD(T), CCSDT) and basis sets. The obtained positive values for the magnetizabilities clearly indicate paramagnetic behavior. Vibrational effects on the magnetizability tensor are also considered, but these effects are small and do not change the overall conclusion that both ScH and YH are further examples for closed‐shell paramagnetism.
Prognostic value of initial and longitudinal changes in body composition in metastatic pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lee Min Woo , Jeon Sun Kyung , Paik Woo Hyun , Yoon Jeong Hee , Joo Ijin , Lee Jeong Min , Lee Sang Hyub
Published: February 2024

Background

Sarcopenia or visceral adipose tissue has been reported to be related to pancreatic cancer prognosis. However, clinical relevance of the comprehensive analysis of body compositions and their longitudinal changes is lacking. This study analysed the association between body composition changes after chemotherapy and survival in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively included 456 patients (mean age ± standard deviation, 61.2 ± 10.0 years; 272 males and 184 females) with metastatic pancreatic cancer who received palliative chemotherapy from May 2011 to December 2019. Using deep learning‐based, fully automated segmentation of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) at the time of diagnosis, cross‐sectional areas of muscle, subcutaneous adipose tissue and visceral adipose tissue were extracted from a single axial image of the portal venous phase at L3 level. Skeletal muscle index (SMI), visceral adipose tissue index (VATI), subcutaneous adipose tissue index (SATI) and mean skeletal muscle attenuation (MA) were calculated, and their effect on overall survival (OS) was analysed. Longitudinal changes in body composition and prognostic values were also analysed in a subgroup of patients with 2‐ and 6‐month follow‐up CT (n = 349).

Results

A total of 452 deaths occurred during follow‐up in the entire cohort. The survival rate was 49.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 44.9–54.2) at 1 year and 3.7% (95% CI, 2.0–6.8) at 5 years. In multivariable analysis, higher MA (≥44.4 HU in males and ≥34.8 HU in females) at initial CT was significantly associated with better OS in both males and females (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.706; 95% CI, 0.538–0.925; P = 0.012 for males, and HR, 0.656; 95% CI, 0.475–0.906; P = 0.010 for females), whereas higher SATI (≥42.8 cm2/m2 in males and ≥65.8 cm2/m2 in females) was significantly associated with better OS in female patients only (adjusted HR, 0.568; 95% CI, 0.388–0.830; P = 0.003). In longitudinal analysis, SMI, VATI and SATI significantly decreased between initial and 2‐month follow‐up CT, whereas mean MA significantly decreased between 2‐ and 6‐month follow‐up CT. In multivariable Cox regression analysis of longitudinal changes, which was stratified by disease control state, SATI change was significantly associated with OS in male patients (adjusted HR, 0.513; 95% CI, 0.354–0.745; P < 0.001), while other body composition parameters were not.

Conclusions

In patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, body composition mostly changed during the first 2 months after starting chemotherapy, and the prognostic factors associated with OS differed between males and females. Initial and longitudinal changes of body composition are associated with OS of metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Patellar tendon angle is not elevated in ACL‐injured subjects, suggesting methods to correct should focus on prehabilitation and rehabilitation rather than surgery
Authors: Cance Nicolas , Dan Michael J. , Pineda Tomas , Romandini Iacopo , Demey Guillaume , Dejour David H.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of the study was to explore if the patellar tendon angles (PTAs) is an intrinsic risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. We hypothesised that the PTAs will be increased in ACL rupture patients compared to matched controls.

Methods

We performed a retrospective radiographic cohort study. A cohort of ACL‐injured patients between 2019 and 2022 was utilised. The control population, from the same time period, was a consecutive series of 100 patients without ligament or meniscal injuries which were prospectively added to our institutional registry. Posterior tibial slope (PTS), static anterior tibial translation (SATT), patellar tendon to tibial plateau angle (PT‐TPA), patellar tendon‐tibial shaft angle (PT‐TSA) were measured.

Results

A total of 100 patients were included in the control cohort and 110 in the ACL cohort. The PT‐TPA was significantly less in the ACL cohort compared to the control cohort, mean and SD of 15.33 (±5.74) versus 13.91 (±5.68), respectively (p = 0.01). PT‐TSA was also less in the ACL cohort, mean and SD of 116.15 (±5.89) versus 114.27 (±4.81), however, this failed to reach statistical significance (p = 0.08). The PT‐TPA was not correlated with PTS (p = 0.65) and the PT‐TSA was inversely correlated with PTS; Pearson correlation coefficient of −0.28 (p < 0.01). The PT‐TSA had a greater correlation −0.4 (p < 0.01) with SATT than PTS 0.37 (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

PTAs are not elevated in ACL‐injured subjects. While anteriorisation of the tibial tubercle is utilised in dogs to decrease the anterior thrust resulting from the anteriorly directed vector of the quadriceps, this treatment in the humans is not warranted and methods to reduce the PTAs should focus on prehabilitation and rehabilitation.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Real‐world experience of maralixibat in Alagille syndrome: Novel findings outside of clinical trials
Authors: Himes Ryan , Rosenthal Philip , Dilwali Natasha , Smith Kathryn , Venick Robert , Gonzalez‐Peralta Regino P.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Maralixibat, an ileal bile acid transporter inhibitor, is the first drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus in patients aged ≥3 months with Alagille syndrome (ALGS). Approval was based on reductions in pruritus from the pivotal ICONIC trial, information from two additional trials (ITCH and IMAGO), and long‐term extension studies. Although participants in these trials met strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, patients have received maralixibat under broader circumstances as part of an expanded access program or commercially. The expanded access and postapproval settings inform a real‐world understanding of effectiveness and safety. The objective was to report on the use of maralixibat in the real‐world setting in eight patients who otherwise would not have met entrance criteria for the clinical trials, providing unique insights into its effectiveness in the management of ALGS.

Methods

We reviewed records of patients with ALGS who received maralixibat but would have been excluded from trials due to surgical biliary diversion, reduction of antipruritic/cholestatic concomitant medications, administration of medication through a gastrostomy or nasogastric tube, or use in patients under consideration for transplantation.

Results

Maralixibat appeared to be effective with reductions in pruritus compared to baseline. Consistent with clinical trials, maralixibat was well tolerated without appreciable gastrointestinal complications. Liver enzyme elevations were observed but were interpreted as consistent with normal fluctuations observed in ALGS, with no increases in bilirubin.

Conclusion

Maralixibat may be effective and well tolerated in patients with ALGS in broader clinical contexts than previously reported.
Liver resection is superior to tumor ablation in patients with multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kakish Hanna , Suraju Mohammed O. , Davis Erik S. , Seth Abhinav , Kwon Yong K. , Aziz Hassan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The management of T2 multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma (MHCC) is controversial, and the comparative impact of liver resection (LR) versus tumor ablation (TA) on survival continues to be debated. The aim of our study was to examine short‐ and long‐term survival for LR and TA in a nationally representative cohort. We hypothesized that patients who underwent LR would have improved survival.

Methods

We utilized the National Cancer Database (2004–2015) to identify patients diagnosed with non‐metastatic T2 MHCC. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were generated to compare 10‐year overall survival (OS) between LR and TA patients. Kaplan–Meier analysis with stratification was also performed based on lymphovascular invasion, resection margin status, and Charlson–Deyo score. Cox proportional hazard models were used in multivariable analyses.

Results

A total of 1225 patients met the inclusion criteria. 991 patients received LR, and 234 received TA. The majority of patients were male, White, and older than ≥60 years old. Clinicodemographic characteristics were generally similar between LR and TA patients. Among patients who underwent LR, 84% had negative margins, and 17% had lymphovascular invasion. Mortality at 30 days was significantly higher among LR patients compared to TA patients (5.4% vs 0.0%, p < 0.001), with those having a Charlson–Deyo score ≥2 facing the highest risk at 7.3%. Nevertheless, 10‐year OS for the LR cohort was 27.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 24.4%–30.8%) versus 14.7% (95% CI: 9.8%–20.7%, p < 0.001) for TA patients. In stratified analysis, survival benefit was statistically significant only among those with negative resection margin, no lymphovascular invasion, and Charlson–Deyo score ≤1. In multivariable Cox analysis, LR was independently associated with improved survival compared to TA (hazard ratio: 0.80; 95% CI = 0.67–0.95).

Conclusion

LR poses a higher long‐term survival benefit than TA. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings. Although our study patients are a highly selected group of multifocal T2 patients, it gives us a good insight into the fact that LR provides better outcomes if a transplant option is unavailable.
Hyperpigmentation in skin of colour: Therapeutical benefits of isobutylamido‐thiazolyl‐resorcinol (Thiamidol®), an effective tyrosinase inhibitor, in phototypes IV–VI
Authors: Schuster Barbara , Sammain Adel
Published: February 2024

Skin of colour, defined as Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI, is especially susceptible to hyperpigmentation concerns such as melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Treating hyperpigmentation in skin of colour is challenging due to increased risk of PIH, which can be induced by the treatments. Isobutylamido‐Thiazolyl‐Resorcinol (ITR), a tyrosinase inhibitor, has previously been identified as an effective and safe solution for hyperpigmentation, inhibiting melanin production without common side effects. This review evaluates available evidence on ITR's efficacy and safety for the management of hyperpigmentation in skin types IV–VI. Three publications reporting four studies were reviewed. Two randomised controlled trials assessed the efficacy and tolerability of ITR for the management of melasma in patients with skin of colour, whereas one randomised clinical trial and one observational real‐world study explored therapeutic benefits for patients with acne‐related PIH. A total of 234 participants completed the four reviewed studies, of which 232 were skin of colour. In a randomised vehicle‐controlled trial, ITR significantly improved Melasma Area and Severity Index scores and quality of life over 24 weeks of application compared to baseline and vehicle. A comparative clinical trial showed ITR, alone or with hyaluronic acid, effectively reduced melasma. A randomised vehicle‐controlled study in patients with acne‐related PIH showed ITR significantly reduced PIH visibility as compared to baseline and vehicle. An observational real‐world study confirmed effective PIH reduction by ITR in a real‐life setting. All studies showed good tolerability of the examined ITR‐containing formulations. The results collectively support ITR as a safe and effective cosmetic solution in skin of colour. ITR emerges as a reliable hyperpigmentation management option for this patients groups, backed by robust methodologies. Future research should include more patients with Fitzpatrick skin type VI and explore potential benefits of combining ITR and laser treatments in skin of colour to reduce PIH risk.
Is marginalised cultivated land on the Tibetan Plateau suitable for production or ecology? An example from the northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Zhou Wei , Ma Rongrong , Wang Juan , Zhang Huizhong
Published: February 2024

In the ecologically fragile alpine area of the Tibetan Plateau, some marginalised cultivated lands have more serious conflicts related to agricultural production and ecological protection than others; thus, it is of practical significance to explore the rational use of marginalised cultivated lands. In this study, Xining City and Haidong City in the northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau were taken as the study area. Marginalised cultivated land was identified, and the vegetation photosynthesis model was used to evaluate its production function. Ecological function was evaluated in terms of soil retention, landscape connectivity and habitat maintenance. The rational use pathways of marginalised cultivated land were derived through statistical analysis and aggregation model analysis. The results showed that there were 183,489.19 ha of marginalised cultivated land in the study area; the average value of production function of marginalised cultivated land was approximately 70% of that of nonmarginalised cultivated land, and its various ecological functions reached 93.64%–117.98% of that of nonmarginalised cultivated land. In general, the distribution of production functions decreases from northwest to southeast, and the ecological functions are high in the middle and low in the surroundings. A comprehensive analysis of the production and ecological functions of marginalised cultivated land can provide a reference basis for the rational formulation of cultivated land protection policies and ecological protection policies.
Single‐Photon Time‐Stretch Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Sun Ben , Huang Kun , Ma Huijie , Fang Jianan , Zheng Tingting , Chu Yongyuan , Guo Hairun , Liang Yan , Wu E , Yan Ming , Zeng Heping
Published: February 2024

Sensitive mid‐infrared (MIR) spectroscopy is highly demanded in various fields ranging from industrial inspection, biomedical diagnosis to astronomical observation. However, the detection sensitivity of conventional MIR spectrometers is severely limited by excessive noises for existing infrared sensors, which hinders widespread use in photon‐scarce scenarios. Here, a broadband MIR single‐photon time‐stretch spectrometer is devised and implemented based on high‐fidelity spectral upconversion and time‐correlated coincidence counting. Specifically, a nanophotonic supercontinuum illumination covering 2.4–4.2 µm is nonlinearly converted to the near‐infrared band, where low‐loss single‐mode fiber and high‐performance silicon detector can be leveraged to facilitate dispersive operation and sensitive detection, respectively. The arrival time for the dispersed upconversion photons is precisely registered with a low‐timing‐jitter photon counter, which enables us to obtain a high spectral resolution about 0.5 cm−1 under a low‐light‐level illumination down to 0.14 photons/nm/pulse. In comparison to previous MIR upconversion spectrometers, the presented time‐stretch architecture favors single‐pixel simplicity and high‐throughput acquisition for the single‐photon spectral measurement. The achieved MIR spectroscopic features of broadband spectral coverage, sub‐wavenumber resolution, single‐photon sensitivity, and room‐temperature operation would stimulate immediate applications in material and life sciences.
Dependence of protective effect of Ti1–xAlxN coatings in 3 wt.% NaCl solution on dissolution mechanism of their phases c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N, c‐AlN, and c‐TiN
Authors: Kameneva Anna , Bublik Natalia , Kameneva Darya
Published: February 2024

The dissolution mechanism of phases c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N, c‐aluminium nitride (AlN), c‐TiN, and Al2Ti, and elements of the Ti1–xAlxN coatings (for x < 0.6) in 3 wt.% NaCl solution is described based on the results of X‐ray diffraction analysis, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope and previous electrochemical tests. Researchers studied the protective effectiveness of Ti1–xAlxN coatings in 3 wt.% NaCl solution by analyzing the factors: composition, thickness, porosity, total energy of ground state, stresses, structure, and texture. It was first established that the additional c‐TiN phase with Rpmax and Ecormax, and secondary phase Ti0.70–0.82N formed after Al's dissolution in the main phase c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N increases the N content and prevents the Ti dissolution in the Ti1–xAlxN coatings. The phase c‐AlN with icormin reduces the dissolution rate of Al in the c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N phase. The stoichiometric c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N is the most thermodynamically stable phase. The described phase transformations in Ti1–xAlxN coatings during phases dissolution in 3 wt.% NaCl can predict the coating protective effect. A multilayer coating with layers of c‐AlN, c‐TiN, and c‐Ti0.5Al0.5N is recommended for industrial use.
Drug development advances in human genetics‐based targets
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxia , Yu Wenjun , Li Yan , Wang Aiping , Cao Haiqiang , Fu Yuanlei
Published: February 2024

Drug development is a long and costly process, with a high degree of uncertainty from the identification of a drug target to its market launch. Targeted drugs supported by human genetic evidence are expected to enter phase II/III clinical trials or be approved for marketing more quickly, speeding up the drug development process. Currently, genetic data and technologies such as genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), whole‐exome sequencing (WES), and whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) have identified and validated many potential molecular targets associated with diseases. This review describes the structure, molecular biology, and drug development of human genetics‐based validated beneficial loss‐of‐function (LOF) mutation targets (target mutations that reduce disease incidence) over the past decade. The feasibility of eight beneficial LOF mutation targets (PCSK9, ANGPTL3, ASGR1, HSD17B13, KHK, CIDEB, GPR75, and INHBE) as targets for drug discovery is mainly emphasized, and their research prospects and challenges are discussed. In conclusion, we expect that this review will inspire more researchers to use human genetics and genomics to support the discovery of novel therapeutic drugs and the direction of clinical development, which will contribute to the development of new drug discovery and drug repurposing.
New movement commits to closing cultural gap in MH care
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2024

Acknowledging how essential it is to close the cultural gap in mental health care by focusing on building mental health equity for communities of color, a philanthropic foundation has announced a new movement dedicated to fulfilling this need. The movement aims to create a lasting legacy for mental health equity, officials stated.
Patient and physician decision‐making dynamics in overactive bladder care: A mixed methods study
Authors: Sitto Hannah M. , Brodsky Casey N. , Wittmann Daniela , Wallner Lauren P. , Streur Courtney , DeJonckheere Melissa , Stoffel John S. , Cameron Anne P. , Sarma Aruna , Quentin Clemens James , Ippolito Giulia M.
Published: February 2024

Aims

Overactive bladder management includes multiple therapeutic options with comparable efficacy but a range of administration modalities and side effects, creating an ideal setting for shared decision‐making. This study investigates patient and physician health beliefs surrounding decision‐making and expectations for overactive bladder with the aim of better understanding and ultimately improving decision‐making in overactive bladder care.

Methods

Patient and physician participants completed a questionnaire followed by a semi‐structured interview to assess health beliefs surrounding decision making and expectations for overactive bladder treatment. The semi‐structured interview guide, developed in an iterative fashion by the authors, probed qualities of overactive bladder therapies patients and physicians valued, their process of treatment selection, and their experiences with therapies.

Results

Patients (n = 20) frequently cited treatment invasiveness, efficacy, and safety as the most important qualities that influenced their decision when selecting overactive bladder therapy. Physicians (n = 12) frequently cited safety/contraindications, convenience, cost/insurance, and patient preference as the most important qualities. In our integration analysis, we identified four key themes associated with decision making in overactive bladder care: frustration with inaccessibility of overactive bladder treatments, discordant perception of patient education, diverging acceptability of expected outcomes, and lack of insight into other parties' decisional priorities and control preferences.

Conclusions

While both patients and physicians desire to engage in a shared decision‐making process when selecting therapies for overactive bladder, this process is challenged by significant divergence between patient and physician viewpoint across key domains.
Asynchronous ADMM for nonlinear continuous‐time systems
Authors: Pierer von Esch Maximilian , Völz Andreas , Graichen Knut
Published: February 2024

This paper presents synchronous as well as asynchronous formulations of the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) for solving continuous‐time nonlinear distributed model predictive control (DMPC) problems. It is shown that the optimal control problems of certain system classes can be transformed to fit the consensus‐based ADMM variant problem formulation. The arising subproblems are solved locally on the agent level while the consensus step is solved centrally by a coordinator. Furthermore, the convergence of the synchronous and asynchronous ADMM algorithms to their respective first‐order optimality conditions is presented in a continuous‐time setting. The algorithm is applied to different example systems for which the convergence behavior and influence of the individual algorithmic parameters are investigated. The computation time of the agents remains unaffected by the system size and thus demonstrates the applicability to high‐scaled systems. Moreover, results show that the asynchronous algorithm performs better in terms of execution time when compared to its synchronous counterpart.
Assessing the degradation profiles of a thermoresponsive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based hydrogel for biomedical applications
Authors: Abbondandolo Antonio G. , Brewer Erik C.
Published: February 2024

Primary challenges associated with the design and success of polymeric biomedical devices are generally related to the control of the biomaterial in terms of degradability characteristics, sufficient processability characteristics, and required mechanical strength that may be altered during sterilization or manufacturing procedures. Polyvinyl alcohol‐based thermoresponsive biomaterials provide a distinct advantage for biomedical applications as their physiochemical properties can be easily modified according to their desired use. In this work, we evaluated the thermal degradation characteristics of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyethylene glycol (PEG)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) hydrogel that undergoes a steam sterilization autoclave cycle at 121°C to induce fluid‐like behavior. FTIR was used to characterize the evolution of the area of the carbonyl region between 1800 and 1525 cm−1. The carbonyl area increased at temperatures beyond 121°C which were used to accelerate the onset of degradation during both thermal oxidation and pyrolysis. The change in the carbonyl region was shown to correlate with respect to both temperature and time of exposure. The carbonyl region increased significantly in the presence of oxygen at temperatures above 150°C. Despite showing signs of thermal degradation at temperatures exceeding 150°C, our biomaterial was shown to be stable at 121°C during thermal degradation testing. Furthermore, bulk property analysis showed the hydrogel's mechanical and swelling properties were preserved even after being subject to multiple autoclave cycles beyond what would be experienced during a sterilization or clinical procedure.
Impact of polymeric films and hydrogels: Physical characteristics on bacterial growth
Authors: Techakasikornpanich Mongkol , Jangpatarapongsa Kulachart , Polpanich Duangporn , Elaissari Abdelhamid
Published: February 2024

Hydrogels find diverse applications in manipulating bacteria, and serving purposes like elevation, maintenance, and elimination. Several factors of hydrogel have been studied in the benefits of antibacterial activity. Factors such as hydrogel stiffness and roughness gain significance in surface coating, influencing bacterial behavior. However, the intricate interplay of hydrogel stiffness, roughness, polymer types, and bacterial species necessitates further exploration. The choice of polymer is dictated by the specific objectives, particularly in antibacterial scenarios where polymers with positive charge, hydrophilicity, and acidity prove effective. These properties induce robust electrostatic and hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions, along with pH‐induced cell membrane damage, collectively contributing to hindered bacterial adhesion and growth. Additionally, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) emerge as pivotal influencers in bacterial adhesion and proliferation. EPS production alters bacterial surfaces, fostering connections between bacteria and facilitating biofilm formation. The hydrophobic nature of EPS further complicates bacterial interactions with surface materials, emphasizing the nuanced interplay of hydrophilic and hydrophobic forces in bacterial adhesion. Herein, this work article has reviewed the related study of each physical property related to antibacterial property on the surface of the hydrogel. Moreover, this work also illustrates applications of the antibacterial properties of hydrogel for medical and surface treatment, including wound healing, food packaging, and surface coating. Additionally, the bacteria growing on hydrogel for engineered living materials, have been updated in various applications.
Comprehensive clinicopathological, molecular, and methylation analysis of mesenchymal tumors with NTRK and other kinase gene aberrations
Authors: Klubíčková Natálie , Dermawan Josephine K , Mosaieby Elaheh , Martínek Petr , Vaněček Tomáš , Hájková Veronika , Ptáková Nikola , Grossmann Petr , Šteiner Petr , Švajdler Marián , Kinkor Zdeněk , Michalová Květoslava , Szepe Peter , Plank Lukáš , Hederová Stanislava , Kolenová Alexandra , Spasov Neofit Juriev , Kosemehmetoglu Kemal , Pažanin Leo , Špůrková Zuzana , Baník Martin , Baumruk Luděk , Meyer Anders , Kalmykova Antonina , Koshyk Olena , Michal Michal , Michal Michael
Published: February 2024

Alterations in kinase genes such as NTRK1/2/3, RET, and BRAF underlie infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS), the emerging entity ‘NTRK‐rearranged spindle cell neoplasms’ included in the latest WHO classification, and a growing set of tumors with overlapping clinical and pathological features. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive clinicopathological and molecular analysis of 22 cases of IFS and other kinase gene‐altered spindle cell neoplasms affecting both pediatric and adult patients. Follow‐up periods for 16 patients ranged in length from 10 to 130 months (mean 38 months). Six patients were treated with targeted therapy, achieving a partial or complete response in five cases. Overall, three cases recurred and one metastasized. Eight patients were free of disease, five were alive with disease, and two patients died. All cases showed previously reported morphological patterns. Based on the cellularity and level of atypia, cases were divided into three morphological grade groups. S100 protein and CD34 were at least focally positive in 12/22 and 14/22 cases, respectively. Novel PWWP2A::RET, NUMA1::RET, ITSN1::RAF1, and CAPZA2::MET fusions, which we report herein in mesenchymal tumors for the first time, were detected by RNA sequencing. Additionally, the first uterine case with BRAF and EGFR mutations and CD34 and S100 co‐expression is described. DNA sequencing performed in 13 cases uncovered very rare additional genetic aberrations. The CNV profiles showed that high‐grade tumors demonstrate a significantly higher percentage of copy number gains and losses across the genome compared with low‐ and intermediate‐grade tumors. Unsupervised clustering of the tumors’ methylation profiles revealed that in 8/9 cases, the methylation profiles clustered with the IFS methylation class, irrespective of their clinicopathological or molecular features. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
The confined helium atom: An information–theoretic approach
Authors: Estañón C. R. , Montgomery H. E. , Angulo J. C. , Aquino N.
Published: February 2024

In this article, we study the helium atom confined in a spherical impenetrable cavity by using informational measures. We use the Ritz variational method to obtain the energies and wave functions of the confined helium atom as a function of the cavity radius . As trial wave functions we use one uncorrelated function and five explicitly correlated basis sets in Hylleraas coordinates with different degrees of electronic correlation. We computed the Shannon entropy, Fisher information, Kullback–Leibler entropy, Tsallis entropy, disequilibrium and Fisher–Shannon complexity, as a function of . We found that these entropic measures are sensitive to electronic correlation and can be used to measure it. As expected these entropic measures are less sensitive to electron correlation in the strong confinement regime ( a.u.).
Leaching characteristics of electrochemically precipitated struvite compared to other common phosphorus fertilizers in differing soils
Authors: Simms Tatum , Brye Kristofor R. , Roberts Trenton L. , Greenlee Lauren F.
Published: February 2024

Phosphate‐rich struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) can be reclaimed from wastewater as a fertilizer material to help provide clean water and sustainable food production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the leaching characteristics of wastewater‐recovered electrochemically precipitated struvite (ECST) compared to other common fertilizer‐P sources in soils from Arkansas (AR loam and silt loam), Missouri (MO silt loam 1 and 2), and Nebraska (NE sandy loam and silt loam). A bench‐scale, soil‐column experiment was conducted using five fertilizer‐P sources (i.e., ECST, chemically precipitated struvite [CPST], monoammonium phosphate [MAP], triple superphosphate [TSP], and an unamended control [UC]) and leached six times over 15 weeks after fertilizer application. Leachate‐P concentration changes from the UC differed among soil–fertilizer combinations over time (p < 0.05) but only in the AR‐loam, where TSP (2.0–6.6 mg L−1) consistently had a larger leachate‐P change from the UC than ECST (−0.04 to 3.1 mg L−1) in weeks 1–3. Leachate‐NO3‐N concentration changes from the UC among soils occurred only in week 1, where three of the six soils had NO3‐N concentration increases >10.7 mg L−1 from their respective UC. Though inconsistent across the various soils evaluated, P‐leaching losses relative to respective UC treatments were often larger from MAP and TSP than ECST and CPST. Results showed that P, NH4‐N, NO3‐N, Ca, Mg, and Fe leaching potentials differed among soils depending on initial soil pH and texture and fertilizer‐P source; thus, soil characteristics and fertilizer‐P source should be considered to minimize potential nutrient leaching losses.
Personal freedom and societal expectations towards LGBTQ+: Audience insights into Vietnamese cinema's “Goodbye Mother”
Authors: Thinh Mai Phuc
Published: February 2024

This study examines the cinematic masterpiece “Thưa mẹ con đi” (Goodbye Mother) by Trinh Dinh Le Minh, with a specific focus on its representation of LGBTQ+ themes, love, and identity. Utilizing a multifaceted research approach, which includes an in‐depth plot overview analysis, a substantial survey involving over 300 participants, and enlightening semi‐structured interviews, the study offers profound insights into the perspectives of its audience. The findings uncover intricate perceptions regarding family expectations, acceptance, and personal freedom, illuminating the film's capacity to challenge and reshape societal norms. Ultimately, this research highlights the influential role of cinema in cultivating greater comprehension and acceptance of diverse expressions of love and identity within the context of contemporary Vietnamese society, presenting significant contributions to both LGBTQ+ and media studies.
Investigation of the Effects of 1,2,4‐Triazole and Thiazole Ring‐Containing Hybrid Molecules on Carbonic Anhydrase I and II
Authors: Camadan Yasemin , Akkemik Ebru , Güller Pınar , Ceylan Şule , Özdemir Hasan
Published: February 2024

Carbonic anhydrase (CA, EC 4.2.1.1) is an enzyme that catalyzes the reversible reaction of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate and a proton under physiological conditions. Pharmaceutical research has gained importance since the design of novel compounds that inhibit CA I–II isoenzymes has a promising approach for pharmacological intervention in many diseases. Triazole derivatives have attracted attention due to their chemotherapeutic, antifungal, antiviral, antibiotic, analgesic, and antifungal activities. Therefore, in this study, the effect of 1,2,4‐triazole and thiazole ring‐containing compounds on human carbonic anhydrase I (hCA I) and II (hCA II) isoenzymes were investigated in vitro. For this purpose, hCA I and hCA II isoenzymes were purified by Sepharose‐4B affinity column chromatography. Estimation of inhibition mechanism and drug‐likeness characteristics of compounds were also determined using molecular docking simulation. The inhibitory effects of ten compounds were investigated. Activity vs. concentration graphs were prepared for each compound and IC50 values or AC50 were calculated from these graphs. It was revealed that some of the compounds exhibited selective inhibition on carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes. The studied compounds are considered to be drug candidates.