bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemometrics‐based Chemical Analysis of Myrrh and Its Vinegar‐processed Products by UPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Wang Yuan , Li Na , Rao Jinqiu , Wang Tianwang , Li Wei , Ren Xiaoliang , Wang Kai , Qiu Feng
Published: January 2024

Myrrh is widely used in clinical practice but accompanied by obvious toxicity. According to traditional Chinese medicines theory, processing with vinegar can effectively reduce its toxicity. However, the detoxification processing technology of Myrrh and the corresponding mechanism have been unclear. The objective of this study is to systematically analyze the variation in chemical composition of raw Myrrh and its processed products using UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS coupled with chemometrics. A total of 75 compounds including 56 sesquiterpenoids, 2 diterpenoids, 15 triterpenoids and 2 other types were identified. Raw Myrrh and its processed products were divided into two major groups, and 14 chemical markers were selected out by principal component analysis and partial least square discriminant analysis. Additionally, the exact content of 5 representative chemical markers was determined to be significantly reduced after vinegar‐processing by UPLC‐QQQ‐MS/MS. Moreover, multivariate statistical analysis and the quantitative results comprehensively indicated that the optimized processing method was processing at a ratio of 200 : 5 (Myrrh:vinegar). This research provides not only a reliable foundation for the study of Myrrh, but also a scientific reference for clinical use of this herb.
Development of Novel Indazolyl‐Acyl Hydrazones as Antioxidant and Anticancer Agents that Target VEGFR‐2 in Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Parameshwaraiah Sindhu M. , Shivakumar Rashmi , Xi Zhang , Siddappa Tejaswini P. , Ravish Akshay , Mohan Arunkumar , Poonacha Lisha K. , Uppar Pradeep M. , Basappa Shreeja , Dukanya Dukanya , Gaonkar Santhosh L. , Kemparaju Kempaiah , Lobie Peter E. , Pandey Vijay , Basappa Basappa
Published: January 2024

The increased expression of VEGFR‐2 in a variety of cancer cells promotes a cascade of cellular responses that improve cell survival, growth, and proliferation. Heterocycles are common structural elements in medicinal chemistry and commercially available medications that target several biological pathways and induce cell death in cancer cells. Herein, the evaluation of indazolyl‐acyl hydrazones as antioxidant and anticancer agents is reported. Compounds 4e and 4j showed inhibitory activity in free radical scavenging assays (DPPH and FRPA). The titled compounds were employed in cell viability studies using MCF‐7 cells, and it was observed that compounds 4f and 4j exhibited IC50 values 15.83 μM and 5.72 μM, respectively. In silico docking revealed the favorable binding energies of ‐7.30 kcal/mol and ‐8.04 kcal/mol for these compounds towards Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2), respectively. In conclusion, compounds with antioxidant activity and that target VEGFR‐2 in breast cancer cells are reported.
What makes SARS‐CoV‐2 unique? Focusing on the spike protein
Authors: Qian Jingbo , Zhang Shichang , Wang Fang , Li Jinming , Zhang Jiexin
Published: January 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome‐related coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) seriously threatens public health and safety. Genetic variants determine the expression of SARS‐CoV‐2 structural proteins, which are associated with enhanced transmissibility, enhanced virulence, and immune escape. Vaccination is encouraged as a public health intervention, and different types of vaccines are used worldwide. However, new variants continue to emerge, especially the Omicron complex, and the neutralizing antibody responses are diminished significantly. In this review, we outlined the uniqueness of SARS‐CoV‐2 from three perspectives. First, we described the detailed structure of the spike (S) protein, which is highly susceptible to mutations and contributes to the distinct infection cycle of the virus. Second, we systematically summarized the immunoglobulin G epitopes of SARS‐CoV‐2 and highlighted the central role of the nonconserved regions of the S protein in adaptive immune escape. Third, we provided an overview of the vaccines targeting the S protein and discussed the impact of the nonconserved regions on vaccine effectiveness. The characterization and identification of the structure and genomic organization of SARS‐CoV‐2 will help elucidate its mechanisms of viral mutation and infection and provide a basis for the selection of optimal treatments. The leaps in advancements regarding improved diagnosis, targeted vaccines and therapeutic remedies provide sound evidence showing that scientific understanding, research, and technology evolved at the pace of the pandemic.
Overexpression of Fut 2, 4, and 8, and nuclear localization of Fut 4 in ovarian cancer cell lines induced by ascitic fluids from epithelial ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Alvear‐Hernandez Nayely Paulina , Hernández‐Ramírez Verónica Ivonne , Villegas‐Pineda Julio César , Osorio‐Trujillo Juan Carlos , Guzmán‐Mendoza José Jesús , Gallardo‐Rincón Dolores , Toledo‐Leyva Alfredo , Talamás‐Rohana Patricia
Published: January 2024

Fucosyltransferases (Fut) regulate the fucosylation process associated with tumorogenesis in different cancer types. Ascitic fluid (AF) from patients diagnosed with advanced stage of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is considered as a dynamic tumor microenvironment associated with poor prognosis. Previous studies from our laboratory showed increased fucosylation in SKOV‐3 and OVCAR‐3, cancer‐derived cell lines, when these cells were incubated with AFs derived from patients diagnosed with EOC. In the present work we studied three fucosyltransferases (Fut 2, Fut 4, and Fut 8) in SKOV‐3, OVCAR‐3 and CAOV‐3 cell lines in combination with five different AFs from patients diagnosed with this disease, confirming that all tested AFs increased fucosylation. Then, we demonstrate that mRNAs of these three enzymes were overexpressed in the three cell lines under treatment with AFs. SKOV‐3 showed the higher overexpression of Fut 2, Fut 4, and Fut 8 in comparison with the control condition. We further confirmed, in the SKOV‐3 cell line, by endpoint PCR, WB, and confocal microscopy, that the three enzymes were overexpressed, being Fut 4 the most overexpressed enzyme compared to Fut 2 and Fut 8. These enzymes were concentrated in vesicular structures with a homogeneous distribution pattern throughout the cytoplasm. Moreover, we found that among the three enzymes, only Fut 4 was located inside the nuclei. The nuclear location of Fut 4 was confirmed for the three cell lines. These results allow to propose Fut 2, Fut 4, and Fut 8 as potential targets for EOC treatment or as diagnostic tools for this disease.
Awareness of the impact of sex and gender in the disease risk and outcomes in hematology and medical oncology—a survey of Swiss clinicians
Authors: Darphin Xenia , Moor Jeanne , da Silva Cristina Espinosa , Richters Anke , Özdemir Berna C.
Published: January 2024

Background

Although male and female cancer patients are distinct in many ways, there is a limited understanding in the differences between male and female biology and differing pharmacokinetic responses to cancer drugs. In fact, sex and gender are currently not considered in most treatment decisions in the fields of oncology and hematology. The lack of knowledge about potential sex differences in both disciplines may lead to differences in treatment efficacy, toxicity, and the overall survival (OS) of patients.

Aim

To evaluate their awareness about sex and gender in clinical practice we surveyed Swiss hematologists and oncologists from September to November 2022.

Methods

We collected data about the clinical knowledge, experimental research, palliative care, quality of life, as well as the participant perception of the importance of sex and gender. We identified 767 eligible clinicians, of whom 150 completed the survey (20% response rate).

Results

While most participants agreed that sex and gender were relevant when treating patients, it became clear that fewer participants knew about sex and gender differences in treatment toxicity and survival, which in turn would affect the treatment of their patients. Most participants agreed that this topic should be integrated into continuing education and research.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate the need for more awareness and training on sex and gender in cancer research and clinical care among oncologists and hematologists. Ideally, by better educating medical students and health professionals, a demand is created for improving research policies, publications and therefore patient care.
DDoS attack detection in SDN: Enhancing entropy‐based detection with machine learning
Authors: Santos‐Neto Marcos J. , Bordim Jacir L. , Alchieri Eduardo A. P. , Ishikawa Edison
Published: January 2024

Software defined network (SDN) has emerged as a new paradigm in terms of network architecture, providing flexibility, agility, and programmability to network management. These benefits boosted the SDN adoption, bringing new challenges mainly related to security, in particular, those related to Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. The detection, prevention, and mitigation of these attacks are important since they can affect the entire network. Many current security measures use statistical techniques, as entropy, or machine learning (ML) algorithms to detect DoS and DDoS attacks. While the definition of a threshold to determine whether a traffic is an attack is not trivial in statistical techniques, ML solutions may provide better accuracy but require considerable computational resources and time to converge to a model able to detect these attacks. Trying to circumvent these limitations, current hybrid approaches either use the results from entropy as input in ML algorithms (EntropyML) or use entropy as a filter and ML algorithms to identify attacks. This work goes one step ahead and combines these techniques in a three‐step approach (EntropyMLEntropy), called ML‐Entropy, which inherits the intelligence of ML algorithms to adjust the threshold used by entropy. The proposed solution was implemented and evaluated in two datasets, the well‐known synthetic DARPA dataset and a dataset composed by traffic collected from a real‐corporate environment. Experimental results show that, in general, ML‐Entropy presents an accuracy above 99%, similar to support vector machine (SVC) and random forest (RF) algorithms, being able to converge to a detection model up to and faster than RF and SVC, respectively.
Electron interaction with DNA constituents in aqueous phase
Authors: Parikh Smruti , Limbachiya Chetan
Published: January 2024

Electron driven chemistry of biomolecules in aqueous phase presents the realistic picture to study molecular processes. In this study we have investigated the interactions of electrons with the DNA constituents in their aqueous phase in order to obtain the quantities useful for DNA damage assessment. We have computed the inelastic mean free path (IMFP), mass stopping power (MSP) and absorbed dose (D) for the DNA constituents (Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine, Thymine and Uracil) in the aqueous medium from ionisation threshold to 5000 eV. We have modified complex optical potential formalism to include band gap of the systems to calculate inelastic cross sections which are used to estimate these entities. This is the maiden attempt to report these important quantities for the aqueous DNA constituents. We have compared our results with available data in gas and other phase and have observed explicable accord for IMFP and MSP. Since these are the first results of absorbed dose (D) for these compounds, we have explored present results vis‐a‐vis dose absorption in water.
Take steps to become a trauma‐informed campus, using Missouri Model as a map
Authors: Costa Karen
Published: January 2024

During the past few years, I’ve witnessed explosive growth in the amount of interest in trauma awareness among higher educators.
Do parents have rights to a dually enrolled student's education records?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: January 2024

Almost 90% of U.S. high schools offer dual enrollment (https://bit.ly/3G0m2go). Students are increasingly taking advantage of opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school. However, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act applies differently to students in secondary schools versus students in postsecondary institutions.
Impacts, Barriers, and Future Prospective of Metal Hydride‐Based Thermochemical Energy Storage System for High‐Temperature Applications: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Dubey Sumeet Kumar , Ravi Kumar K. , Tiwari Vinay , Srivastva Umish
Published: January 2024

This article summarizes various thermochemical energy storage (TCES) systems based on their thermochemical properties, operating temperature, and storage density. Metal hydride (MH)‐based TCES is a potential energy storage system due to its higher energy storage density (>100 kWh m−3), higher operating temperature (>500 °C), relatively better reaction kinetics, and minimal or no energy losses (theoretically). MHs operate at various temperature ranges, and based on temperature, they are classified as low‐temperature MH and high‐temperature MH. This article highlights potential metal alloys operating above 300 °C, with an energy storage density of more than 100 kWh m−3, suitable for concentrated solar thermal power generation and industrial process heating applications. Magnesium (Mg) alloy‐based hydrides have shown good cyclic stability (up to 1500 cycles) at a temperature above 400 °C. The lower cost of material, higher energy storage capacity, better reversibility, and higher thermal stability of Mg‐based alloys have been explored in several small‐scale experimental investigations. The thermal energy storage (TES) efficiency of MH‐based TCES systems is reported ≈ 90%, which is significantly higher than sensible and latent TES systems. Challenges associated with MH‐based TES systems, such as heat transfer enhancement, cost reduction, and chemical and thermal stability, have been discussed in detail.
Evaluation of Lifetime Predictions for Future Hydrogen Pipelines by Different Fracture Mechanics‐Based Design Codes
Authors: Oesterlin Heiner , Fischer Carl , Michler Thorsten
Published: January 2024

The realization of a hydrogen transport network requires the requalification of existing high‐pressure natural gas pipelines and the design and construction of new hydrogen pipelines. Therefore, appropriate design codes are needed, which consider the detrimental effects of gaseous hydrogen on the mechanical properties and ensure a robust, but not too conservative, lifetime concept. For the assessment of hydrogen pipelines, the ASME B31.12 is understood as a benchmark standard. Recently, the technical rule DVGW G 464 (2023) was published in Germany. Both standards consider a fracture mechanics‐based concept, where the pipeline design lifetime is assessed by the hydrogen‐assisted fatigue crack growth of a pre‐existing defect until a defined lifetime criterion is reached. This article compares both concepts within a use case study, where influencing factors on the lifetime predictions are identified and discussed. Relatively similar results are obtained for typical loading scenarios, whereby the ASME B31.12 predicts more allowable cycles compared to the DVGW G 464 mostly arising from a different assumed crack length. To reduce the conservatism, the focus in the design and assessment of hydrogen pipelines should be placed on a detectable small initial crack size and the measurement of material‐specific crack growth curves resulting in pronounced lifetime enhancements.
Affect trajectories surrounding binge eating episodes and heavy drinking episodes in adults with binge‐spectrum eating disorders
Authors: Wilkinson Megan L. , Manasse Stephanie M. , Juarascio Adrienne S.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The comorbidity of binge eating and heavy drinking (BE + HD) is concerning due to high prevalence and associated consequences. Affective pathways may maintain BE + HD, yet more micro‐level research is needed. This study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine between‐person and day‐level relationships between positive and negative affect and binge eating or heavy drinking episodes in BE + HD.

Methods

Participants (N = 53) were adults with binge‐spectrum eating disorders who completed between 7 and 14 days of EMA prior to a treatment for binge eating.

Results

Anxiety was highest on days with both binge eating and heavy drinking, while excitement and confidence were highest on days with only heavy drinking episodes for BE + HD. Global negative affect was relatively stable surrounding binge eating episodes. Guilt significantly increased prior to binge eating, and sadness significantly decreased following binge eating. Global positive affect significantly decreased prior to and stopped decreasing following heavy drinking episodes.

Discussion

Results support binge eating being negatively reinforced by specific aspects of negative affect, while heavy drinking may be positively reinforced by global positive affect for individuals with BE + HD. Clinicians should incorporate interventions that focus on specific negative affect dimensions and that promote alternative rewarding activities besides heavy drinking.
Telemedicine‐medical “snack community”‐PHS ecosystem: Insights into the double‐edged sword role of telemedicine in clinical practice and medical education during the COVID‐19 pandemic and beyond
Authors: Feng Dechao , Shi Xu , Wang Jie , Zhang Liying , Xiao Yuhan , Li Dengxiong , Wu Ruicheng , Wei Wuran , Miyamoto Akira , Yoo Koo Han , Ye Xing , Zhang Chi , Han Ping
Published: January 2024

Telemedicine has gained tremendous development during the COVID‐19 pandemic. With deblocking and opening, telemedicine accelerates the evolvution of the medical “snack community” and undermines the perception of medical students and staff, which promotes the incidence of psychosocial‐related disorders. Moreover, the inconsistent telemedicine adaptability between medical workers and patients aggravates the doctor–patient conflict due to the aging population and COVID‐19 squeal. Telemedicine is colliding with the national healthcare system, whose synchronization with conventional medical service is crucial to coordinate the relationship among medical payment, patient privacy and qualifications of clinicians. This study puts more emphasis on the double‐edged sword role of telemedicine in clinical practice and medical education during the COVID‐19 pandemic and beyond. Overall, while telemedicine has demonstrated its utility in health care throughout the COVID pandemic, it is pretty critical to continue evaluating the efficacy and limitations of telemedicine in order to maintain equal access to medical service and high‐quality medical education. A new concept as telemedicine‐medical “snack community”‐PHS ecosystem, where the psychological health education system and partners healthcare system with enough bandwidth, especially 5G technology, could optimize the effect of telemedicine on medical practice and education, is proposed.
Lactobacillus plantarum AR495 improves bone health of ovariectomized mice by improving gut microbiota
Authors: Zhang Hongyun , Xia Yongjun , Yu Jing , Wang Guangqiang , Xiong Zhiqiang , Zhang Hui , Song Xin , Yang Yijin , Wei Guoliang , Ai Lianzhong
Published: January 2024

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease, especially for the bone health of menopausal women. It is reported that the changes of intestinal environment could affect the occurrence and development of osteoporosis. This study aims to explore the effects of different gut microbiota by antibiotics and bone health in ovariectomized (OVX) C57BL/6 mice and to research the anti‐osteoporosis effect of Lactobacillus plantarum AR495. The results showed that the gut microbiota could alleviate the bone mass loss after treatment of metronidazole, but the bone loss was aggravated after neomycin disturbing the microbiota. Gut microbiota significantly affected bone resorption in OVX mice by regulating intestinal barrier permeability. Through intestinal microbiological analysis, it was found that the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Eubacterium xylanophilum was positively correlated with bone health. In addition, L. plantarum AR495 could restore gut microbiota to normal level in OVX mice, increase the abundance of E. xylanophilum, reduce the expression of osteoclast promoting factors IL‐1, IL‐6, IL‐17, and TNF‐α in tibia, subsequently inhibit receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand/receptor activator of NF‐κB/osteoprotegerin (RANKL/RANK/OPG) pathway. Overall, this finding showed that L. plantarum AR495 reduces bone resorption and effectively improving osteoporosis through gut microbiota.
An interdisciplinary approach to the collapse of the port and degradation of freshwater resources at Panama Viejo (Panama), 1519–1671
Authors: Martos Miriam , Aram Bethany , Malvarez Gonzalo
Published: January 2024

The Archaeological Site of Panama Viejo (Panama) comprises a protected area of 28 km2within present‐day Panama City, on America's Pacific coast. In 1519, the Spaniards founded the city of Panama Viejo to secure a natural port in an area inhabited by indigenous peoples since at least the eighth century CE. The site, along the coastline and between two rivers, became a principal gateway for goods and people travelling between Europe and Pacific settlements to the east (Realejo) and the west (Trujillo, Lima, Arica). Within one century, however, Panama Viejo's natural port and freshwater infrastructure collapsed, leading to the city's relocation after corsairs attacked it in 1671. This study combines archaeological, geographical and historical analyses to explain how and why human interactions with the local environment made the settlement increasingly untenable.
Curcumin inhibits prostate cancer by upregulating miR‐483‐3p and inhibiting UBE2C
Authors: Li Wenji , Wang Fujun , Wang Xiaoxiang , Xu Wei , Liu Fangmin , Hu Rong , Li Shanyi
Published: January 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is an extremely common genitourinary malignancy among elderly men. Many evidence have shown the efficacy of curcumin (CUR) in inhibiting the progression of PCa. However, the pharmacological function of CUR in PCa is still not quite clear. In this research, CUR was found to suppress the proliferation and enhance the apoptotic rate in in vitro PCa cell models in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. In a xenograft animal model, the administration of CUR contributed to a significant decrease in the growth of the xenograft tumor induced by the transplanted PC‐3 cells. Ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme E2 C is implicated in the modulation of multiple types of cancers. In humans, the expression levels of UBE2C are significantly higher in PCa versus benign prostatic hyperplasia. Treatment with CUR decreased the expression of UBE2C, whereas it increased miR‐483‐3p expression. In contrast with the control mice, the CUR‐treated mice showed a significant reduction in UBE2C and Ki‐67 in PCa cells. The capability of proliferation, migration, and invasion of PCa cells was inhibited by the knockdown of UBE2C mediated by siRNA. Furthermore, dual luciferase reporter gene assay indicated the binding of miR‐483‐3p to UBE2C. In summary, CUR exerts its antitumor effects through regulation of the miR‐483‐3p/UBE2C axis by decreasing UBE2C and increasing miR‐483‐3p. The findings may also provide new molecular markers for PCa diagnosis and treatment.
18β‐Glycyrrhetinic acid exerts cardioprotective effects against BPA‐induced cardiotoxicity through antiapoptotic and antioxidant mechanisms
Authors: Bayav Ibrahim , Darendelioğlu Ekrem , Caglayan Cuneyt
Published: January 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic environmental pollutant widely used in industry, as well as is an endocrine disrupting chemicals and has a toxic effects on heart tissue. The aim of this study is to reveal the cardioprotective effects of 18β‐glycyrretinic acid (GA) against BPA‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats. In this study, 40 male rats were used and five different groups (each group includes eight rats) were formed. The rats were applied BPA (250 mg/kg b.w.) alone or with GA (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) for 14 days. Rats were killed on Day 15 and heart tissues were taken for analysis. GA treatment decreased serum lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase MB levels, reducing BPA‐induced heart damage. GA treatment showed ameliorative effects against lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress caused by BPA by increasing the antioxidant enzyme activities (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and GSH level of the heart tissue and decreasing the MDA level. In addition, GA showed antiapoptotic effect by increasing Bcl‐2, procaspase‐3, and ‐9 protein expression levels and decreasing Bax, cytochrome c, and P53 protein levels in heart tissue. As a result, it was found that GA has cardioprotective effects on heart tissue by exhibiting antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects against heart damage caused by BPA, an environmental pollutant. Thus, it was supported that GA could be a potential cardioprotective agent.
Prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with chronic kidney disease: a global systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Duarte Marvery P. , Almeida Lucas S. , Neri Silvia G.R. , Oliveira Juliana S. , Wilkinson Thomas J. , Ribeiro Heitor S. , Lima Ricardo M.
Published: January 2024

Sarcopenia is a risk factor for adverse clinical outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, including mortality. Diagnosis depends on adopted consensus definition and cutoff values; thus, prevalence rates are generally heterogeneous. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to investigate the global prevalence of sarcopenia and its traits across the wide spectrum of CKD. A systematic search was conducted using databases, including MEDLINE and EMBASE, for observational studies reporting the prevalence of sarcopenia. We considered sarcopenia according to the consensus definition of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP), the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia, the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Sarcopenia Project, and the International Working Group on Sarcopenia (IWGS). Subgroup analyses by CKD stages, consensus, and gender were performed. Pooled prevalence was obtained from random‐effect models. A total of 140 studies (42 041 patients) across 25 countries were included in this systematic review and meta‐analyses. Global prevalence of sarcopenia was 24.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 20.9–28.3) and did not differ among stages (P = 0.33). Prevalence varied according to the consensus definition from 11% to 30%, with no significant difference (P = 0.42). Prevalence of severe sarcopenia was 21.0% (95% CI: 11.7–32.0), with higher rates for patients on dialysis (26.2%, 95% CI: 16.6–37.1) compared to non‐dialysis (3.0%, 95% CI: 0–11.1; P < 0.01). Sarcopenic obesity was observed in 10.8% (95% CI: 3.5–21.2). Regarding sarcopenia traits, low muscle strength was found in 43.4% (95%CI: 35.0–51.9), low muscle mass in 29.1% (95% CI: 23.9–34.5), and low physical performance in 38.6 (95% CI: 30.9–46.6) for overall CKD. Prevalence was only higher in patients on dialysis (50.0%, 95% CI: 41.7–57.4) compared to non‐dialysis (19.6%, 95% CI: 12.8–27.3; P < 0.01) for low muscle strength. We found a high global prevalence of sarcopenia in the wide spectrum of CKD. Low muscle strength, the primary sarcopenia trait, was found in almost half of the overall population with CKD. Patients on dialysis were more prevalent to low muscle strength and severe sarcopenia. Nephrology professionals should be aware of regularly assessing sarcopenia and its traits in patients with CKD, especially those on dialysis.
On two cycles of consecutive even lengths
Authors: Gao Jun , Li Binlong , Ma Jie , Xie Tianying
Published: January 2024

Bondy and Vince showed that every graph with minimum degree at least three contains two cycles of lengths differing by one or two. We prove the following average degree counterpart that every ‐vertex graph with at least edges, unless and every block of is a clique , contains two cycles of consecutive even lengths. Our proof is mainly based on structural analysis, and a crucial step which may be of independent interest shows that the same conclusion holds for every 3‐connected graph with at least six vertices. This solves a special case of a conjecture of Verstraëte. The quantitative bound is tight and also provides the optimal extremal number for cycles of length two modulo four.
The transition to Pediatric Hospital Medicine fellowship: A national survey‐based needs assessment
Authors: Elster Martha J. , Cohen Adam , Herchline Daniel , Chieco Deanna , Hoefert Jennifer , Denniston Sarah
Published: January 2024

Background

Each year, the number of fellows entering Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM) fellowship is increasing. Residency curricula do not always prepare trainees for all aspects of PHM as a specialty and gaps often exist in the transition to fellowship.

Objective

To explore the preparedness of PHM fellows for clinical, teaching, and scholarship tasks at the start of fellowship and to identify opportunities for residency and fellowship program development.

Design

Quantitative survey.

Setting and Participants

Current and recently graduated PHM fellows (matriculation years 2019–2022).

Methods

We conducted a national cross‐sectional survey from July 2022 to February 2023. We designed survey questions based on PHM fellowship core competencies.

Main Outcome and Measures

We asked participants to rate preparedness for tasks on a 5‐point Likert scale (1 = very unprepared, 5 = very prepared). We analyzed numerical data using descriptive and comparative statistics and free‐response data using inductive content analysis.

Results

We received 223 responses to our survey (response rate 74%). Of the respondents, 25% reported no PHM‐specific orientation at their program (n = 55). Respondents reported lower median preparedness for research (3, interquartile range [IQR] [2,4]) and teaching tasks (4, IQR [4,4]) compared to clinical tasks (4, IQR [4,5]) at the start of fellowship (p < 0.01, p < 0.01). Content analysis revealed most fellows wished they had received more training around scholarship at the start of fellowship.

Conclusions

Many PHM fellows enter fellowship feeling inadequately prepared, particularly in scholarship and teaching. Our findings suggest that residency and fellowship programs need to develop more robust curricula to better prepare trainees for successful PHM fellowship. This national survey‐based needs assessment should serve as a guide for further program development.
Radial basis function‐based Pareto optimization of an outer rotor brushless DC motor
Authors: Rahmani Omid , Sadrossadat Sayed Alireza , Noohi Mostafa , Mirvakili Ali , Shams Maitham
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the development of an optimization and modeling method for the objective functions of output power, efficiency and weight of an outer rotor permanent magnet brushless DC (BLDC) motor based on radial basis function (RBF) approximation technique. The proposed RBF‐based Pareto optimization method requires less knowledge about electric/magnetic formulas and can replace conventional optimizations based on these equations with higher accuracy. To apply the proposed optimization method, the initial design should be developed using such equations. Therefore, RBFs are used to model and predict engine behavior. To optimize the objective functions, we used a genetic algorithm optimization technique with nonlinear electric and magnetic constraints to find the Pareto front set. The design obtained by the proposed radial basis function Pareto optimization (RBFPO) method was finally verified by Ansoft Maxwell. The results of optimal design using the RBFPO method have higher output power and efficiency. Also, in addition to the advantage of a favorable accuracy, RBF‐based models are significantly faster than models available in simulation tools.
Adult‐onset BRAF V600E‐related multisystem Langerhans cell histiocytosis treated with vemurafenib
Authors: Encarnacion‐Mangubat Lisa Denise A. , Encarnacion Lonabel A.
Published: January 2024

We report a case of a 65‐year‐old female with 1‐year history of dental pain and oral ulcers. A diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) was made by oral biopsy and CD207 (Langerin) stain, and BRAF V600E mutation was identified. PET/CT revealed an enhancing lesion in the hard palate with extension into the maxillary sinus. Chemotherapy with cytarabine failed, and LCH progressed to affect additional organ systems. Treatment with vemurafenib was started, resulting in a dramatic improvement of painful mucocutaneous ulcers since the first month of treatment. Vemurafenib is effective in children with refractory BRAF V600E‐mutated LCH, and recent data support the use of vemurafenib in adults with refractory multisystem LCH harbouring the same mutation.
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in skeletally immature patients is effective: A systematic review
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Cocconi Federico , Schäfer Luise , Memminger Michael Kurt , Giorgino Riccardo , Maffulli Nicola
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The present study evaluated the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in children with open physes. The outcomes of interest were to compare the increase in joint laxity and PROMs from baseline to the last follow‐up, the rate and features of the return to sport and the rate of complications.

Methods

This study was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. In October 2023, the following databases were accessed: PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Embase. All the clinical studies investigating ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients were accessed. Only articles which clearly stated that surgeries were conducted in children with open physis were eligible.

Results

Data from 53 studies (1691 procedures) were collected. 35% (597 out of 1691 patients) were women. The mean length of the follow‐up was 44.7 ± 31.3 months. The mean age of the patients was 12.7 ± 1.1 years old. All PROMs significantly improved from the baseline values to those at the last follow‐up. The mean time to return to sport was 8.3 ± 1.9 months. 89% (690 out of 771 patients) returned to sports, 15% (109 out of 721 patients) reduced their level of sports activity or league, and 84% (651 out of 771 patients) returned to their previous level of sport. 9% (112 out of 1213) of patients experienced re‐tear of the reconstructed ACL, and 11% (75 out of 660) of patients underwent a further ACL reoperation. No patients (0 out of 83) demonstrated increased laxity at the last follow‐up, and persistent sensation of instability was reported by 5% (11 out of 235) of patients.

Conclusion

ACL reconstruction in skeletally immature patients is effective and safe, and is associated with fast recovery and a high rate of return to sport.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
GADD45A: With or without you
Authors: Palomer Xavier , Salvador Jesús M. , Griñán‐Ferré Christian , Barroso Emma , Pallàs Mercè , Vázquez‐Carrera Manuel
Published: January 2024

The growth arrest and DNA damage inducible (GADD)45 family includes three small and ubiquitously distributed proteins (GADD45A, GADD45B, and GADD45G) that regulate numerous cellular processes associated with stress signaling and injury response. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the current literature investigating GADD45A, the first discovered member of the family. We first depict how its levels are regulated by a myriad of genotoxic and non‐genotoxic stressors, and through the combined action of intricate transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and even, posttranslational mechanisms. GADD45A is a recognized tumor suppressor and, for this reason, we next summarize its role in cancer, as well as the different mechanisms by which it regulates cell cycle, DNA repair, and apoptosis. Beyond these most well‐known actions, GADD45A may also influence catabolic and anabolic pathways in the liver, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, among others. Not surprisingly, GADD45A may trigger AMP‐activated protein kinase activity, a master regulator of metabolism, and is known to act as a transcriptional coregulator of numerous nuclear receptors. GADD45A has also been reported to display a cytoprotective role by regulating inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress in several organs and tissues, and is regarded an important contributor for the development of heart failure. Overall data point to that GADD45A may play an important role in metabolic, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, and also autoimmune‐related disorders. Thus, the potential mechanisms by which dysregulation of GADD45A activity may contribute to the progression of these diseases are also reviewed below.
Transmembrane pH gradient imaging in rodent glioma models
Authors: Mishra Sandeep Kumar , Santana Jessica Gois , Mihailovic Jelena , Hyder Fahmeed , Coman Daniel
Published: January 2024

A unique feature of the tumor microenvironment is extracellular acidosis in relation to intracellular milieu. Metabolic reprogramming in tumors results in overproduction of H+ ions (and lactate), which are extruded from the cells to support tumor survival and progression. As a result, the transmembrane pH gradient (ΔpH), representing the difference between intracellular pH (pHi) and extracellular pH (pHe), is posited to be larger in tumors compared with normal tissue. Controlling the transmembrane pH difference has promise as a potential therapeutic target in cancer as it plays an important role in regulating drug delivery into cells. The current study shows successful development of an MRI/MRSI‐based technique that provides ΔpH imaging at submillimeter resolution. We applied this technique to image ΔpH in rat brains with RG2 and U87 gliomas, as well as in mouse brains with GL261 gliomas. pHi was measured with Amine and Amide Concentration‐Independent Detection (AACID), while pHe was measured with Biosensor Imaging of Redundant Deviation in Shifts (BIRDS). The results indicate that pHi was slightly higher in tumors (7.40–7.43 in rats, 7.39–7.47 in mice) compared with normal brain (7.30–7.38 in rats, 7.32–7.36 in mice), while pHe was significantly lower in tumors (6.62–6.76 in rats, 6.74–6.84 in mice) compared with normal tissue (7.17–7.22 in rats, 7.20–7.21 in mice). As a result, ΔpH was higher in tumors (0.64–0.81 in rats, 0.62–0.65 in mice) compared with normal brain (0.13–0.16 in rats, 0.13–0.16 in mice). This work establishes an MRI/MRSI‐based platform for ΔpH imaging at submillimeter resolution in gliomas.
Comparison of triple quantum (TQ) TPPI and inversion recovery TQ TPPI pulse sequences at 9.4 and 21.1 T
Authors: Reichert Simon , Schepkin Victor , Kleimaier Dennis , Zöllner Frank G. , Schad Lothar R.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Both sodium T1 triple quantum (TQ) signal and T1 relaxation pathways have a unique sensitivity to the sodium molecular environment. In this study an inversion recovery time proportional phase increment (IRTQTPPI) pulse sequence was investigated for simultaneous and reliable quantification of sodium TQ signal and bi‐exponential T1 relaxation times.

Methods

The IRTQTPPI sequence combines inversion recovery TQ filtering and time proportional phase increment. The reliable and reproducible results were achieved by the pulse sequence optimized in three ways: (1) optimization of the nonlinear fit for the determination of both T1‐TQ signal and T1 relaxation times; (2) suppression of unwanted signals by assessment of four different phase cycles; (3) nonlinear sampling during evolution time for optimal scan time without any compromises in fit accuracy. The relaxation times T1 and T2 and the TQ signals from IRTQTPPI and TQTPPI were compared between 9.4 and 21.1 T. The motional environment of the sodium nuclei was evaluated by calculation of correlation times and nuclear quadrupole interaction strengths.

Results

Reliable measurements of the T1‐TQ signals and T1 bi‐exponential relaxation times were demonstrated. The fit parameters for all four phase cycles were in good agreement with one another, with a negligible influence of unwanted signals. The agar samples yielded normalized T1‐TQ signals from 3% to 16% relative to single quantum (SQ) signals at magnetic fields of both 9.4 and 21.1 T. In comparison, the normalized T2‐TQ signal was in the range 15%–35%. The TQ/SQ signal ratio was decreased at 21.1 T as compared with 9.4 T for both T1 and T2 relaxation pathways. The bi‐exponential T1 relaxation time separation ranged from 15 to 18 ms at 9.4 T and 15 to 21 ms at 21.1 T. The T2 relaxation time separation was larger, ranging from 28 to 35 ms at 9.4 T and 37 to 40 ms at 21.1 T.

Conclusion

The IRTQTPPI sequence, while providing a less intensive TQ signal than TQTPPI, allows a simultaneous and reliable quantification of both the T1‐TQ signal and T1 relaxation times. The unique sensitivities of the T1 and T2 relaxation pathways to different types of molecular motion provide a deeper understanding of the sodium MR environment.
PANI/Zn‐Cu ferrite polymer composites as free‐standing high dielectric materials
Authors: Kumar Tamilarasi , Paul Raj Aji Udhaya , Muthukrishnan Meena , Thiagamani Senthil Muthu Kumar , Hashem Mohamed , Mukarram Shaikh Ayaz
Published: January 2024

In a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to cutting‐edge industrial and scientific equipment, high dielectric permittivity (ε′) polymers are crucial for maximizing the performance and efficiency of electrical and electronic systems. Researchers strive to create and perfect these materials to meet the changing demands of modern technology. It is generally known that freestanding bare polymers cannot achieve high dielectric values; however, the mixing of multiple materials that are distinct is an effective technique for developing high dielectric hybrids. Polymer‐based nanoarchitectures are particularly beneficial for use in the storage of energy due to characteristics such as excellent mechanical strength, noncorrosive nature, lightweight, affordability, versatility, thermal and electrical shielding. The primary aim of this investigation is to prepare copper ferrite, zinc ferrite, and copper0.5 zinc0.5 ferrite (CuFe2O4, ZnFe2O4, and Cu0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4) nanoparticle (NP) via combustion technique using egg albumen as a fuel and these NPs were separately dispersed in polyaniline (PANI) matrix by the method of ex situ polymerization of aniline with an objective to enhance the electrical properties for energy storage and electromagnetic wave applications. Flexible freestanding films were casted via solution casting technique. X‐ray diffractogram of 5 wt.% NP dispersed PANI films confirmed the presence of NPs in the PANI matrix. Scanning electron micrograph images show the homogeneous dispersion of NPs into PANI matrix. Rather than the pure ferrite NPs, mixed ferrite highly enhance the permittivity of PANI films without much increasing its loss factor, the obtained values of ε′ of all the three ferrite added films are higher than polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/(Mn0.2Zr0.2Cu0.2Ca0.2Ni0.2)Fe2O4 nanofiller. In this work notably for 5 wt.% Cu0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 dispersed film shows the highest value of ε′ (7291) for 100 Hz at 150°C with ultralow loss factor (0.08) which is the key characteristic of an energy storage material. Thus, this present study leads the formation of a cost effective, flexible, high dielectric material, which can be a potential alternate to replace PVDF/(Mn0.2Zr0.2Cu0.2Ca0.2Ni0.2)Fe2O4 and polyvinyl alcohol/Ni0.65Cu0.35Fe2O4 polymer blends for energy storage applications.
Exchangeable disulfide bond containing highly flexible epoxy vitrimers with shape‐memory, self‐healing, and UV shielding attributes
Authors: Dutta Kalyan , Karak Niranjan
Published: January 2024

With the rise in momentous resource wastage and severe environmental pollution, a viable path for sustainability is through the use of reprocessable and recyclable materials like vitrimers. Herein, we demonstrated the synthesis of dynamic disulfide‐containing epoxy resin by condensing an amide derivative of 2,2′‐dithiodibenzoic acid with epichlorohydrin. The aforementioned epoxy resin was cured utilizing the two bio‐based curing agents poly(amido amine) and cystamine to produce three distinct epoxy vitrimers. The use of reactive diluent reduced the generation of volatile organic compounds during the curing process. The existence of disulfide bond and aliphatic moiety in the epoxy vitrimers established high elongation at break with good tensile strength. Owing to the dynamic bond, the vitrimers exhibited self‐healing properties with a healing efficiency of 71.48% along with good shape memory abilities. Additionally, the disulfide bond dynamic exchange reaction allowed the polymer chain architecture to topologically reorganize, making them reprocessable and degradable. Moreover, these epoxy vitrimers have the ability to shield ultraviolet radiation as well as inhibits oxidation, and have good chemical resistance properties. The investigated epoxy thermoset thus provides a lot of potential for application as a durable thin film material.
Incidence and survival for childhood cancer by endorsed non‐stage prognostic indicators in Australia
Authors: Youlden Danny R. , Gupta Sumit , Frazier A. Lindsay , Moore Andrew S. , Gottardo Nicholas G. , Aitken Joanne F.
Published: January 2024

Background

An international expert panel recently recommended 15 ‘non‐stage prognostic indicators’ (NSPIs) across eight childhood cancers, classified as essential or additional, for collection in population‐based cancer registries. We aimed to describe the incidence distribution and survival of each of these NSPIs.

Procedures

Cases were extracted from the Australian Childhood Cancer Registry. The study cohort (n = 4187) comprised all children aged under 15 years diagnosed with an eligible cancer between 2010 and 2018, with follow‐up until 31 December 2020. NSPI data were collected directly from each patient's medical records. Differences in 5‐year relative survival were assessed using multivariable flexible parametric models, adjusted for sex and age group at diagnosis.

Results

The availability of data varied, exceeding 85% for all essential NSPIs apart from histologic subtype for Wilms tumours (69%) and lineage for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (78%). Information on additional NSPIs tended to be recorded less often, particularly cytogenetic subtype for non‐alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (28%) and astrocytoma (4%). Eight NSPIs exhibited a significant difference in survival, with the largest disparity occurring among children with astrocytoma according to tumour grade (5‐year relative survival of 18% for grade IV disease compared with 99% for grade I disease; p < .001).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that most of the recommended NSPIs can be retrieved from medical records in Australia in recent years, allowing the capability of assessing survival within patient subgroups of clinical interest. Reporting of NSPI data has the capability to inform local and global understanding of population‐level disparities in childhood cancer survival.