bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Curto uma pegação no sigilo”
Authors: Paranhos Will , Inácio Costa Claudia Maria
Published: January 2023

Este artigo propõe reflexões e provocações acerca do aplicativo de relacionamentos Grindr, a fim de pensá-lo como um território possibilitador das mais diversas configurações assumidas por identidades dissidentes à cisheteronorma, permitindo um aprofundamento nas discussões em torno dos reflexos causados pelos processos de subjetivação que partem de uma perspectiva dicotômica e cisheterocentrada. Assim, partimos de um referencial teórico convergente com o objeto de análise e, posteriormente, seu desenvolvimento é orientado pela análise de conteúdo, em que foram coletados os dados de 25 perfis passíveis de análise. Ao final, percebe-se que o aplicativo se apresenta como um território pornotópico, haja vista a justaposição de distintos espaços – identidades, normas – que são incompatíveis. Tal divergência culmina no surgimento de três principais categorias: pornotopia e manutenção da cisheteronorma; pornotopia e invisibilização das violências; e pornotopia e sigilo.
Analysis of Rates of Completion, Delays, and Participant Recruitment in Randomized Clinical Trials in Surgery
Authors: Shadbolt Cade , Naufal Elise , Bunzli Samantha , Price Veronique , Rele Siddharth , Schilling Chris , Thuraisingam Sharmala , Lohmander L. Stefan , Balogh Zsolt J. , Clarke Philip , Choong Peter , Dowsey Michelle
Published: January 2023

Importance

Discontinuation and nonpublication are established sources of avoidable waste among surgical trials, but rates of delayed completion and recruiting shortfalls remain unclear.

Objectives

To examine the rate of delayed completion, incomplete enrollment, and discontinuation among randomized clinical trials in surgical populations and the duration of delays and extent of recruiting shortfalls among these trials.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study examined randomized clinical trials in surgical populations registered on ClinicalTrials.gov between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2014. Analysis was conducted between October 27, 2021, and June 30, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes were the percentages of trials completed on time or with full enrollment. Delays and recruiting shortfalls were identified by comparing projected enrollment and study timeframes prespecified at the time of registration with the actual study duration and enrollment reported on completion or discontinuation. Absolute and relative differences between planned and actual trial conduct were presented for discontinued trials and those completed with delays or recruiting shortfalls.

Results

In total, 2542 randomized clinical trials in surgical populations were included in the study sample, of which 370 (14.6%; 95% CI, 13.2%-15.9%) were completed both on time and with full enrollment. Approximately 1 in 5 trials (20.4%; 95% CI, 18.9%-22.0%) were completed within their planned timeframe, and 1166 trials (45.9%; 95% CI, 43.9%-47.8%) met their prespecified enrollment target. The median delay among completed trials was 12.2 months (IQR, 5.1-24.3 months) or 66.7% (IQR, 30.1%-135.8%) longer than planned. Among completed trials that did not meet their prespecified enrollment target, the median recruiting shortfall was equivalent to 31.0% (IQR, 12.7%-55.5%) of the planned study sample. A total of 546 trials (21.5%; 95% CI, 19.9%-23.1%) were discontinued. The median time to discontinuation was 26.4 months (IQR, 15.2-45.7 months), and the median recruiting shortfall among discontinued trials was equivalent to 92.7% (IQR, 65.0%-100.0%) of the trial’s prespecified enrollment target.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found that delayed completion, recruiting shortfalls, and untimely discontinuation were common among surgical trials. These findings highlight the importance of ensuring that investigators and funders do not overestimate the feasibility of planned trials.
The Development of Drug Delivery Systems for Efficient Intracranial Hemorrhage Therapy
Authors: Yu Wenyan , Liu Bingbing , Zhou Lei , Gong Enpeng , Che Chengyuan , Zhou Jianchao , Zhang Zhenzhong , Liu Junjie , Shi Jinjin
Published: January 2023

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating form of stroke, which accounts for 10–15% of cases and causes high morbidity and mortality. With the continuous exploration of the pathological mechanism of ICH, extensive research focusing on ICH therapy has been conducted. However, the traditional treatment methods, such as surgery for removing the hematoma and pharmacotherapy for improving the clearance of the hematoma and neuroprotection, are greatly limited due to their poor practicality and treatment efficiency. The rapid development of drug delivery systems offers an important prospect for treating ICH as they exhibit great versatility, which can improve the pharmacokinetic behavior of drugs in vivo, increase the drug accumulation in specific cell types or tissues, and enhance the therapeutic effect with diminished toxic effect. In this review, the main molecular pathological mechanisms of ICH are comprehensively described and the limitation of traditional pharmacotherapy are also discussed. Then the development based on drug delivery systems for treating ICH is highlighted. Finally, based on these discussions the challenges of drug delivery systems with a view to providing a new feasible path for the treatment of ICH are summarized.
Stabilization of the Alkylammonium Cations in Halide Perovskite Thin Films by Water‐Mediated Proton Transfer
Authors: Park Byung‐wook , Kim Jincheol , Shin Tae Joo , Kim Yung Sam , Kim Min Gyu , Seok Sang Il
Published: January 2023

The development of alkylammonium lead trihalide perovskite (ALHP) photovoltaics has grown rapidly over the past decade. However, there are remaining critical challenges, such as proton defects, which can lead to the material instability of ALHPs. Although specific strategies, including the use of halide additives, have significantly reduced the defects, a fundamental understanding of the defect passivation mechanism remains elusive. Herein, an approach and mechanism for minimizing proton defects in ALHP crystals by adding ionized halides to the perovskite precursor solution are reported. This work clarifies that the ionized halides induced proton transfer from H2O to the alkylammonium cation in the precursor solution, stabilizing the ALHP crystals. The fundamental characteristics of ALHP and its precursors are examined by X‐ray diffraction, transmittance electron microscopy, in situ extended X‐ray absorption fine structure, Fourier transform NMR spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The findings from this work will guide the development of highly stable ALHP crystals, enabling efficient and stable optoelectronic ALHP devices.
The Progress in the Electrolytes for Solid State Sodium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhao Xiaohan , Yang Qiang , Hou Lijuan , Mu Daobin , Tan Guoqiang , Li Li , Chen Renjie , Wu Feng
Published: January 2023

Sodium as the closest analogue of lithium in periodic table is attracting intense interest as a potential replacement, in the hope that Na+ offers similar intercalation chemistries in electrode hosts at much lower cost. Sodium‐ion battery is an alternative choice to meet the large‐scale electrical energy storage and also able to be used to store the electricity generated by solar cells and wind turbines as a green, renewable energy source. The use of solid electrolytes to replace the organic electrolyte is an alternative to improve the safety and avoid liquid leakage. The detailed and comprehensive research progress for sodium‐ion battery solid electrolyte is summarized. The recent research reveals that the chemical composition and crystal structure of electrolytes profoundly affects the cell performance in many aspects. The room temperature ionic conductivity for solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) is generally lower than ≈10−5 S cm−1. Gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) yields acceptable ionic conductivity as the transition between liquid electrolyte and all‐solid electrolyte. There also has groundbreaking progress of inorganic solid electrolyte chemistries exhibiting superionic Na+ conductivities. However, their interphasial chemistries are the emphasis to break through. In the future, exciting breakthroughs in solid electrolytes and interphasial chemistries should be made in those fields.
Isolated Metalloid Tellurium Atomic Cluster on Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanosheet for High‐Capacity Rechargeable Lithium‐CO2 Battery
Authors: Wang Ke , Liu Dongyu , Liu Limin , Li Xinyang , Wu Hu , Sun Zongjie , Li Mingtao , Vasenko Andrey S. , Ding Shujiang , Wang Fengmei , Xiao Chunhui
Published: January 2023

Rechargeable Li‐CO2 battery represents a sustainable technology by virtue of CO2 recyclability and energy storage capability. Unfortunately, the sluggish mass transport and electron transfer in bulky high‐crystalline discharge product of Li2CO3, severely hinder its practical capacity and rechargeability. Herein, a heterostructure of isolated metalloid Te atomic cluster anchored on N‐doped carbon nanosheets is designed (TeAC@NCNS) as a metal‐free cathode for Li‐CO2 battery. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy analysis demonstrates that the abundant and dispersed Te active centers can be stabilized by C atoms in form of the covalent bond. The fabricated battery shows an unprecedented full‐discharge capacity of 28.35 mAh cm−2 at 0.05 mA cm−2 and long‐term cycle life of up to 1000 h even at a high cut‐off capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. A series of ex situ characterizations combined with theoretical calculations demonstrate that the abundant Te atomic clusters acting as active centers can drive the electron redistribution of carbonate via forming TeO bonds, giving rise to poor‐crystalline Li2CO3 film during the discharge process. Moreover, the efficient electron transfer between the Te centers and intermediate species is energetically beneficial for nucleation and accelerates the decomposition of Li2CO3 on the TeAC@NCNS during the discharge/charge process.
Single Atom‐Doped Nanosonosensitizers for Mutually Optimized Sono/Chemo‐Nanodynamic Therapy of Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Chen Qiqing , Zhang Min , Huang Hui , Dong Caihong , Dai Xinyue , Feng Guiying , Lin Ling , Sun Dandan , Yang Dayan , Xie Lin , Chen Yu , Guo Jia , Jing Xiangxiang
Published: January 2023

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) represents a promising therapeutic modality for treating breast cancer, which relies on the generation of abundant reactive oxygen species (ROS) to induce oxidative stress damage. However, mutant breast cancers, especially triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), have evolved to acquire specific antioxidant defense functions, significantly limiting the killing efficiency of SDT. Herein, the authors have engineered a distinct single copper atom‐doped titanium dioxide (Cu/TiO2) nanosonosensitizer with highly catalytic and sonosensitive activities for synergistic chemodynamic and sonodynamic treatment of TNBC. The single‐atom Cu is anchored on the most stable Ti vacancies of hollow TiO2 sonosensitizers, which not only substantially improved the catalytic activity of Cu‐mediated Fenton‐like reaction, but also considerably augmented the sonodynamic efficiency of TiO2 by facilitating the separation of electrons (e−) and holes (h+). Both the in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that the engineered single atom‐doped nanosonosensitizers effectively achieved the significantly inhibitory effect of TNBC, providing a therapeutic paradigm for non‐invasive and safe tumor elimination through the mutual process of sono/chemo‐nanodynamic therapy based on multifunctional single‐atom nanosonosensitizers.
A Liquid Crystal Ionomer‐Type Electrolyte toward Ordering‐Induced Regulation for Highly Reversible Zinc Ion Battery
Authors: Yuan Du , Li Xin , Yao Hong , Li Yuhang , Zhu Xiaobo , Zhao Jin , Zhang Haitao , Zhang Yizhou , Jie Ernest Tang Jun , Cai Yi , Srinivasan Madhavi
Published: January 2023

Novel electrolyte is being pursued toward exploring Zn chemistry in zinc ion batteries. Here, a fluorine‐free liquid crystal (LC) ionomer‐type zinc electrolyte is presented, achieving simultaneous regulated water activity and long‐range ordering of conduction channels and SEI. Distinct from water network or local ordering in current advances, long‐range ordering of layered water channels is realized. Via manipulating water activity, conductivities range from ≈0.34 to 15 mS cm−1, and electrochemical window can be tuned from ≈2.3–4.3 V. The Zn|Zn symmetric cell with LC gel exhibits highly reversible Zn stripping/plating at 5 mA cm−2 and 5 mAh cm−2 for 800 h, with retained ordering of water channels. The capability of gel for inducing in situ formation of long‐range ordered layer SEI associated with alkylbenzene sulfonate anion is uncovered. V2O5/Zn cell with the gel shows much improved cycling stability comparing to conventional zinc electrolytes, where the preserved structure of V2O5 is associated with the efficiently stabilized Zn anode by the gel. Via long‐range ordering‐induced regulation on ion transport, electrochemical stability, and interfacial reaction, the development of LC electrolyte provides a pathway toward advancing aqueous rechargeable batteries.
Cellulose‐Based Radiative Cooling and Solar Heating Powers Ionic Thermoelectrics
Authors: Liao Mingna , Banerjee Debashree , Hallberg Tomas , Åkerlind Christina , Alam Md Mehebub , Zhang Qilun , Kariis Hans , Zhao Dan , Jonsson Magnus P.
Published: January 2023

Cellulose opens for sustainable materials suitable for radiative cooling thanks to inherent high thermal emissivity combined with low solar absorptance. When desired, solar absorptance can be introduced by additives such as carbon black. However, such materials still shows high thermal emissivity and therefore performs radiative cooling that counteracts the heating process if exposed to the sky. Here, this is addressed by a cellulose‐carbon black composite with low mid‐infrared (MIR) emissivity and corresponding suppressed radiative cooling thanks to a transparent IR‐reflecting indium tin oxide coating. The resulting solar heater provides opposite optical properties in both the solar and thermal ranges compared to the cooler material in the form of solar‐reflecting electrospun cellulose. Owing to these differences, exposing the two materials to the sky generated spontaneous temperature differences, as used to power an ionic thermoelectric device in both daytime and nighttime. The study characterizes these effects in detail using solar and sky simulators and through outdoor measurements. Using the concept to power ionic thermoelectric devices shows thermovoltages of >60 mV and 10 °C temperature differences already at moderate solar irradiance of ≈400 W m−2.
Dual Strategies of Metal Preintercalation and In Situ Electrochemical Oxidization Operating on MXene for Enhancement of Ion/Electron Transfer and Zinc‐Ion Storage Capacity in Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Zhonglin , Wei Yifan , Liu Yongyao , Yan Shuai , Wu Mingyan
Published: January 2023

As an emerging two‐dimensional material, MXenes exhibit enormous potentials in the fields of energy storage and conversion, due to their superior conductivity, effective surface chemistry, accordion‐like layered structure, and numerous ordered nanochannels. However, interlayer accumulation and chemical sluggishness of structural elements have hampered the demonstration of the superiorities of MXenes. By metal preintercalation and in situ electrochemical oxidization strategies on V2CTx, MXene has enlarged its interplanar spacing and excited the outermost vanadium atoms to achieve frequent transfer and high storage capacity of Zn ions in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs). Benefiting from the synergistic effects of these strategies, the resulting VOx/Mn–V2C electrode exhibits the high capacity of 530 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, together with a remarkable energy density of 415 W h kg−1 and a power density of 5500 W kg−1. Impressively, the electrode delivers excellent cycling stability with Coulombic efficiency of nearly 100% in 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. The satisfactory electrochemical performances bear comparison with those in reported vanadium‐based and MXene‐based aqueous ZIBs. This work provides a new methodology for safe preparation of outstanding vanadium‐based electrodes and extends the applications of MXenes in the energy storage field.
Thermal effect optimization endows a selective and stable PdCu single atom alloy catalyst for acetylene hydrogenation
Authors: Xu Xingjun , Wang Qian , Xie Lulu , Liu Yanan , Li Dianqing , Feng Junting , Duan Xue
Published: January 2023

Here, we proposed a universal approach to solve a seesaw relationship between thermal effect control and conversion efficiency in strong exothermic acetylene hydrogenation by constructing Pd‐based single atom alloy (SAA), in which Cu was chosen as host atom and heat transfer agent. Lower desorption energy of *C2H4 intermediate on isolated Pd atoms greatly improved ethylene selectivity. Notably, this excellent performance was well maintained, even at extremely low space velocity, implying the thermal effect was effectively controlled. On one hand, the heat generation rate over single active site was largely decreased. On another hand, host Cu atoms with proper continuity degree endowed the SAA with attractive lattice heat capacity and phonon scattering rate, which ensured the instant heat transfer from Pd atoms to the surroundings. The optimized performance (conversion 90.7% and selectivity 95.8%) was stably operated for 270 h under GHSV = 2400 h−1.
Efficient one‐pot tandem conversion of saccharides to 2,5‐dimethylfuran by adjusting the wettability of 2DMOF catalysts
Authors: Hou Xuemeng , Zhong Yao , Xiao Jingjing , Wang Jun , Cai Jianxin , Zeng Zheling , Deng Shuguang , Deng Qiang
Published: January 2023

One‐pot multiple tandem synthesis of DMF from biomass saccharides including monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides is of great importance for biomass fuels and chemicals. Due to the complexity of reactions, current catalytic systems often suffer from inferior activity, low yield, and harsh reaction conditions. Here, a Pd‐supported hydrophobic acidic 2DMOF (Pd/NUS‐PhSO3H‐Ph) was first prepared by continuous grafting of benzenesulfonic acid and tert‐butylbenzene groups followed by Pd impregnation methods. It shows catalytic efficiency for the DMF synthesis from saccharides under the reduction of polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS), which are previously unattainable in all reported catalysts. Controlled experiments and detailed characterizations show that hydrophobic 2D nanosheet structure promotes the wettability of feedstocks and intermediates for the active sites. This work proposes a new door toward an efficient and facile synthesis of DMF via designing a powerful 2DMOF‐based catalyst with cooperative acid‐hydrogenation catalysis.
Allosteric Regulation of Aptamer Affinity through Mechano‐Chemical Coupling**
Authors: Qu Hao , Zheng Manyi , Ma Qihui , Wang Lu , Mao Yu , Eisenstein Michael , Tom Soh Hyongsok , Zheng Lei
Published: January 2023

The capacity to precisely modulate aptamer affinity is important for a wide variety of applications. However, most such engineering strategies entail laborious trial‐and‐error testing or require prior knowledge of an aptamer's structure and ligand‐binding domain. We describe here a simple and generalizable strategy for allosteric modulation of aptamer affinity by employing a double‐stranded molecular clamp that destabilizes aptamer secondary structure through mechanical tension. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach with a thrombin‐binding aptamer and show that we can alter its affinity by as much as 65‐fold. We also show that this modulation can be rendered reversible by introducing a restriction enzyme cleavage site into the molecular clamp domain and describe a design strategy for achieving even more finely‐tuned affinity modulation. This strategy requires no prior knowledge of the aptamer's structure and binding mechanism and should thus be generalizable across aptamers.
Serum Urate–Lowering Efficacy and Safety of Tigulixostat in Gout Patients With Hyperuricemia: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Dose‐Finding Trial
Authors: Terkeltaub Robert , Lee Jisoo , Min Jiyoung , Shin Seonghye , Saag Kenneth G.
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the nonpurine xanthine oxidase inhibitor tigulixostat for lowering serum urate level in gout patients with hyperuricemia.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, phase II, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, dose‐finding trial. After screening, gout patients with hyperuricemia were randomly assigned, after appropriate washout, to receive daily oral administration of 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg of tigulixostat, or placebo for 12 weeks. Colchicine gout flare prophylaxis was administered to all patients. The primary end point was the proportion of patients with a serum urate level <5.0 mg/dl at week 12.

Results

A total of 143 patients were randomized to receive tigulixostat 50 mg (n = 34), 100 mg (n = 38), or 200 mg (n = 37), or placebo (n = 34). A significantly greater proportion of patients in the tigulixostat groups achieved the target serum urate level <5.0 mg/dl at week 12 (47.1% in the 50 mg group, 44.7% in the 100 mg group, and 62.2% in the 200 mg group) compared to the placebo group (2.9%) (P < 0.0001). The mean percentage change in serum urate level from baseline was also significantly greater in the tigulixostat groups (−38.8% to −61.8%) than in the placebo group at all time points (P < 0.0001). The rate of gout flares requiring rescue treatment ranged from 9.4% to 13.2% in the tigulixostat and placebo groups. The incidence of adverse events was 50.0% to 56.8% across all groups, and their severity was mild or moderate.

Conclusion

Tigulixostat significantly lowered serum urate compared to placebo at all doses studied with an acceptable safety profile.
A new method of learning the function of the extraocular muscles
Authors: Zhuang Ruinan , Sun Heng , Bian Hui
Published: January 2023

Understanding and memorizing the primary, secondary, and tertiary functions of the vertical recti and oblique extraocular muscles play a decisive role in correctly diagnosing various types of strabismus, determining the location of nervous system lesions, and formulating correct treatment plans. However, for beginners, rapid learning, memorization, and application of these extraocular muscle functions are challenging. To improve the teaching of strabismus in ophthalmology and help students overcome the core learning difficulties, our team developed a gesture method based on a functional diagram of the extraocular muscles and a corresponding rhyme to teach clinical medicine students. The effects of the gesture method were determined by using in‐class quizzes and self‐confidence levels. Students’ evaluations of the gesture method were assessed using a questionnaire survey. The gesture method significantly improved the mean scores on the tests (4.85 ± 1.65 vs. 6.31 ± 1.87 vs. 6.80 ± 1.45, all p < 0.001) and self‐confidence scores (20.83 ± 4.06 vs. 27.38 ± 4.88 vs. 28.69 ± 3.53, all p < 0.001) of the students. The evaluations showed that the students were satisfied with the auxiliary memorization learning method. This new method could help students better understand and remember the function of the extraocular muscles, and is a valuable auxiliary teaching strategy.
Risk of diabetes mellitus among users of immune checkpoint inhibitors: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Chan Jeffrey Shi Kai , Lee Sharen , Kong Dicken , Lakhani Ishan , Ng Kenrick , Dee Edward Christopher , Tang Pias , Lee Yan Hiu Athena , Satti Danish Iltaf , Wong Wing Tak , Liu Tong , Tse Gary
Published: January 2023

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly established cancer therapeutics, but they are associated with new‐onset diabetes mellitus (DM). Such risks have not been adequately quantified, and between‐class and ‐sex differences remain unexplored.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of cancer patients receiving any ICI in Hong Kong between 2013 and 2021. Patients with known DM were excluded. Due to few patients using other ICIs, only programmed cell death 1 inhibitors (PD‐1i) and programmed death ligand 1 inhibitors (PD‐L1i) were compared, alongside between‐sex comparison. When comparing PD‐1i against PD‐L1i, patients with the use of other ICIs or both PD‐1i and PD‐L1 were further excluded. Inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to minimize between‐group covariate imbalances.

Results

Altogether, 3375 patients were analyzed (65.2% males, median age 62.2 [interquartile range 53.8–69.5] years old). Over a median follow‐up of 1.0 [0.4–2.4] years, new‐onset DM occurred in 457 patients (13.5%), with a 3‐year risk of 14.5% [95% confidence interval 13.3%, 15.8%]. IPTW achieve acceptable covariate balance between sexes, and between PD‐1i (N = 622) and PD‐L1i (N = 2426) users. Males had significantly higher risk of new‐onset DM (hazard ratio 1.35 [1.09, 1.67], p = 0.006), while PD‐1i and PD‐L1i users did not have significantly different risks (hazard ratio vs PD‐L1i 0.81 [0.59, 1.11], p = 0.182). These were consistent in those with at least 1 year of follow‐up, and on competing risk regression.

Conclusion

Users of ICI may have a substantial risk of new‐onset DM, which may be higher in males but did not differ between PD‐1i and PD‐L1i.
Elimination of refractory ventricular tachycardia storm and fibrillation using stereotactic radiotherapy
Authors: Wutzler Alexander , Tiedke Borris , Osman Mohamed , Mahrous Noha , Wurm Reinhard
Published: January 2023

Ventricular tachycardia storm is a potentially lethal condition with limited treatment options. Failed ablation is associated with a fourfold mortality increase in this population. Stereotactic body radiotherapy was proposed in these cases. We report a case where radiotherapy was safely performed, leading to the elimination of adequate shocks.
The value of dynamic elastomeric fabric orthoses in the management of a complex hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome patient: A case report
Authors: Higo Anna , Pearce Gemma , Palmer Shea , Grant Louise
Published: January 2023

The use of dynamic elastomeric fabric orthoses is examined in a young woman with hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome (hEDS) referred for physiotherapy with hip dysplasia, prior to a right periacetabular osteotomy. Dynamic elastomeric fabric orthoses plus rigorous subjective examination, therapists' listening skills, and patient‐centered goals were useful for this hEDS patient.
A case report of sacral neuromodulation tined lead migration into the rectum
Authors: Sharifiaghdas Farzaneh , Ahmadzade Mohadese , Rouientan Hamidreza
Published: January 2023

This report describes a 26‐year‐old woman who underwent sacral neuromodulation explant following lead migration and rectal wall penetration. Her device was implanted due to persistent urinary retention. The tined lead wire was dissected to the fascia and cut. The rectal part of the lead was removed with gentle traction.
Recurrent stroke in an African female with idiopathic thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: A case report
Authors: Agyapong Kwabena Oteng , Folson Aba , Wonkyi Roland , Amenyedor Kelvin , Boateng Jeffrey J. , Fiador Kate
Published: January 2023

We report on a young Ghanaian female who was diagnosed with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) but had an ischemic stroke as the initial presentation. She was successfully treated with therapeutic plasma exchange. This case illustrates how TTP can masquerade as ischemic stroke and the application of PLASMIC score without ADAMTS‐13 assay in risk prediction.
Foreign body reaction granuloma mimicking an aggressive tumor of the mandible
Authors: Kammoun Rym , Chaabani Imen , Jaziri Rawia , Sriha Badreddine , Ben Alaya Touhami
Published: January 2023

Inflammatory granuloma caused by a vegetable foreign body is a lesion that can develop in the oral cavity. It results from the implantation of vegetable matter, leading to an inflammatory reaction and the development of bone resorption. This case highlights the importance of clinicians' awareness regarding this uncommon disorder.
Interatrial septum dissection, severe aortic stenosis, and paravalvular mitral regurgitation: A rare combination and their hemodynamic interrelationship
Authors: M Di Silvestre , R Muñoz‐Rodríguez , A Tindaya‐Herraiz , F Bosa‐Ojeda , A Barragan‐Acea , A Bonilla , J Lacalzada‐Almeida
Published: January 2023

Left atrial wall dissection is a rare entity with controversial management approaches. We report the case of an 85‐year‐old woman with a mitral bioprosthetic admitted for heart failure. Diagnosis of atrial septum dissection, severe aortic stenosis, and paravalvular mitral regurgitation was established. A percutaneous approach provided clinical improvements.
Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the gallbladder: A rare and aggressive form of gallbladder cancer
Authors: Limaiem Faten , Bayar Rached , Omrani Sahir
Published: January 2023

Sarcomatoid carcinoma is a rare type of gallbladder cancer with less than 100 cases reported in the literature. Preoperative diagnosis is difficult due to nonspecific clinical and radiological findings. Its prognosis is poor due to rapid progression and a high short‐term recurrence rate. The definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological examination.
Laparoscopic resection of a uterine lipoleiomyoma
Authors: Limaiem Faten , Halouani Ahmed , Ben Aissia Nizar
Published: January 2023

Uterine lipoleiomyomas are rare variants of leiomyomas that usually occur in postmenopausal women. Their incidence ranges from 0.03% to 0.2%. Few cases of laparoscopically resected lipoleiomyomas have been reported in the literature. Further accumulation of lipoleiomyomas could help establish an accurate preoperative diagnosis of this uncommon and benign mesenchymal tumor.
Synthesis of Open‐Cage Fullerene Derivatives Containing Multiple Hydroxyl and Amino Groups on the Rim of the Orifice†
Authors: Liu Xueli , Gao Rui , Liu Zhen , Ming Jialin , Qiu Yi , Su Jie , Gan Liangbing
Published: January 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Most of the known open‐cage fullerene derivatives contain carbonyl and other relatively inert groups on the rim of the orifice. It is difficult to rationally design further reactions and attach other functional groups on to these open‐cage derivatives. In the present work, two molecules of difunctional 1,4‐benzenediamine have been incorporated into the rim of an open‐cage C60 derivative through one amino group leaving the other amino group free for further functionalization. The difunctional 4‐aminophenol reacted analogously to form an open‐cage derivative with a free OH group each on the two phenyl rings. The amino and hydroxyl groups on the phenyl ring above the rim of the orifice showed similar reactivity as aniline and phenol. One of the carbonyl groups on the rim of the orifice could be selectively reduced by NaBH4 and P(OEt)3. The reduction reactions were reversible and the reduced products could be readily converted back to the carbonyl precursor. Thus, this redox process acts as a tool to fine tune the size of the orifice for host‐guest studies.
Testing for Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy with Optical Genome Mapping
Authors: Koppikar Pratik , Shenoy Suresh , Guruju Naga , Hegde Madhuri
Published: January 2023

The introduction of optical genome mapping has improved time constraints and a lack of specificity from previous methodologies when performing genome‐wide analyses of samples. Optical genome mapping allows for the detection of structural variations, aberrations, and functionality traits from a single stained molecule of DNA. Though the preparation time is increased compared to previously utilized visualization techniques, optical genome mapping significantly reduces the time needed for analysis. Specifically, individual disease pipelines have been developed to rapidly analyze prepared samples. One of these diseases, Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), is detected through quantification of the D4Z4 repeat array on chromosome 4q35. Optical genome mapping, with the ability to enumerate the repeats of the D4Z4 array, has demonstrated the capability to precisely diagnose FSHD. In this protocol, the preparation of samples and subsequent loading and analysis in an optical genome mapping system is discussed for the detection and analysis of FSHD. These methods should prove highly useful in FSHD analyses and beyond with the development of further disease analysis pipelines within the instrument. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Genomic DNA isolation, labeling, and staining

Basic Protocol 2: Mapping and analysis with the Bionano Saphyr® system
Basal cell adhesion molecule promotes metastasis‐associated processes in ovarian cancer
Authors: Sivakumar Suresh , Lieber Sonja , Librizzi Damiano , Keber Corinna , Sommerfeld Leah , Finkernagel Florian , Roth Katrin , Reinartz Silke , Bartsch Jörg W. , Graumann Johannes , Müller‐Brüsselbach Sabine , Müller Rolf
Published: January 2023

Background

Basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) is a laminin α5 (LAMA5) binding membrane‐bound protein with a putative role in cancer. Besides full‐length BCAM1, an isoform lacking most of the cytoplasmic domain (BCAM2), and a soluble form (sBCAM) of unknown function are known. In ovarian carcinoma (OC), all BCAM forms are abundant and associated with poor survival, yet BCAM's contribution to peritoneal metastatic spread remains enigmatic.

Methods

Biochemical, omics‐based and real‐time cell assays were employed to identify the source of sBCAM and metastasis‐related functions of different BCAM forms. OC cells, explanted omentum and a mouse model of peritoneal colonisation were used in loss‐ and gain‐of‐function experiments.

Results

We identified ADAM10 as a major BCAM sheddase produced by OC cells and identified proteolytic cleavage sites proximal to the transmembrane domain. Recombinant soluble BCAM inhibited single‐cell adhesion and migration identically to membrane‐bound isoforms, confirming its biological activity in OC. Intriguingly, this seemingly anti‐tumorigenic potential of BCAM contrasts with a novel pro‐metastatic function discovered in the present study. Thus, all queried BCAM forms decreased the compactness of tumour cell spheroids by inhibiting LAMA5 – integrin β1 interactions, promoted spheroid dispersion in a three‐dimensional collagen matrix, induced clearance of mesothelial cells at spheroid attachment sites in vitro and enhanced invasion of spheroids into omental tissue both ex vivo and in vivo.

Conclusions

Membrane‐bound BCAM as well as sBCAM shed by ADAM10 act as decoys rather than signalling receptors to modulate metastasis‐related functions. While BCAM appears to have tumour‐suppressive effects on single cells, it promotes the dispersion of OC cell spheroids by regulating LAMA5‐integrin‐β1‐dependent compaction and thereby facilitating invasion of metastatic target sites. As peritoneal dissemination is majorly mediated by spheroids, these findings offer an explanation for the association of BCAM with a poor clinical outcome of OC, suggesting novel therapeutic options.
Rapid screening of 2‐benzylbenzimidazole nitazene analogs in suspect counterfeit tablets using Raman, SERS, DART‐TD‐MS, and FT‐IR
Authors: Kimani Martin M. , Kern Sara , Lanzarotta Adam , Thatcher Michael , Lorenz Lisa M. , Smith Skyler W. , Collins Melissa , Howe Gregory W. , Wetherby Anthony E.
Published: January 2023

Developing methods to rapidly screen for novel synthetic 2‐benzylbenzimidazole opioids, also known as nitazenes, has become increasingly important due to their high potency. These compounds have potency comparable or exceeding that of fentanyl by up to 10 times and have been implicated in approximately 5% of all drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2021. This paper details the authenticity determination of suspect tablets and the identification of three nitazene analogs (N‐pyrrolidino etonitazene, isotonitazene, and etodesnitazene) in suspect tablets seized at a mail facility using Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) with handheld devices, portable Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT‐IR), and a direct analysis in real‐time ambient ionization coupled to a thermal desorption unit and a mass spectrometer (DART‐TD‐MS). These methods are rapid and excellent for screening opioids in suspect tablets but could not fully determine the exact structure of some of the nitazene analogs present due to spectral similarities or similar fragmentation patterns. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) confirmed the presence of these nitazene compounds in addition to other opioids/drugs that were in trace quantities. The quantitative high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) detection experiments determined that the suspect tablets contained an average of 0.817 mg of N‐pyrrolidino etonitazene per tablet. The results obtained reveal that the simultaneous deployment of these complementary and orthogonal portable analytical techniques as part of a workflow allows suspect tablets to be screened and nitazene‐type drugs to be identified in suspect counterfeit tablets at remote sampling sites.
Identification of runs of homozygosity in Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) using whole‐genome sequencing data
Authors: Gmel Annik Imogen , Guichard Matthieu , Dainat Benjamin , Williams Geoffrey Rhys , Eynard Sonia , Vignal Alain , Servin Bertrand ,   the Beestrong Consortium, Neuditschko Markus
Published: January 2023

Runs of homozygosity (ROH) are continuous homozygous segments that arise through the transmission of haplotypes that are identical by descent. The length and distribution of ROH segments provide insights into the genetic diversity of populations and can be associated with selection signatures. Here, we analyzed reconstructed whole‐genome queen genotypes, from a pool‐seq data experiment including 265 Western honeybee colonies fromApis mellifera melliferaandApis mellifera carnica. Integrating individual ROH patterns and admixture levels in a dynamic population network visualization allowed us to ascertain major differences between the two subspecies. WithinA. m. mellifera, we identified well‐defined substructures according to the genetic origin of the queens. Despite the current applied conservation efforts, we pinpointed 79 admixed queens. Genomic inbreeding (FROH) strongly varied within and between the identified subpopulations. ConservedA. m. melliferafrom Switzerland had the highest meanFROH(3.39%), while queens originating from a conservation area in France, which were also highly admixed, showed significantly lowerFROH(0.45%). The majority ofA. m. carnicaqueens were also highly admixed, except 12 purebred queens with a meanFROHof 2.33%. Within the breed‐specific ROH islands, we identified 14 coding genes forA. m. melliferaand five forA. m. carnica, respectively. Local adaption ofA. m. melliferacould be suggested by the identification of genes involved in the response to ultraviolet light (Crh‐BP,Uvop) and body size (Hex70a,Hex70b), while theA. m. carnicaspecific genesCpr3andCpr4are most likely associated with the lighter striping pattern, a morphological phenotype expected in this subspecies. We demonstrated that queen genotypes derived from pooled workers are useful tool to unravel the population dynamics inA. melliferaand provide fundamental information to conserve native honey bees.
Nested singletons in molecular trees: Utility of adding morphological and geographical data from digitized herbarium specimens to test taxon concepts at species level in the case of Casearia (Salicaceae)
Authors: de Mestier Astrid , Lücking Robert , Gutierrez Jorge , Brokamp Grischa , Celis Marcela , Borsch Thomas
Published: January 2023

Using the genus Casearia, we assessed the status of nested singletons: individual specimens corresponding to accepted species but in molecular trees appearing nested within clades of closely related species. Normally, such cases would be left undecided, while on the other hand, timely taxonomic decisions are required. We argue that morphological, chorological, and ecological data can be informative to illuminate patterns of speciation. Their use can provide a first step in testing taxon concepts at species level. We focused on five cases of nested singletons in trees of the genus Casearia. We employed PCA and cluster analysis to assess phenotypic differentiation. Using geocoordinates, we calculated niche space differentiation based on 19 bioclim variables, by means of PCA and niche equivalency and similarity tests and generated dot maps. We found that the singletons were morphologically distinctive in two of the five cases (Casearia selloana and C. manausensis), relatively distinctive in two other cases (C. zizyphoides and C. mariquitensis), and partially overlapping in the last case (C. grandiflora). For two cases (C. mariquitensis and C. selloana), ecological niche space was broadly overlapping, in two cases it was found broadly nested (C. grandiflora and C. zizyphoides), and in one case narrowly nested (C. manausensis), but in no case niche differentiation was observed. Niche overlap, similarity and equivalency showed corresponding patterns. Given these data, one would interpret C. selloana and C. manausensis as presumably well‐distinguished taxa, their narrow distribution ranges suggesting recently emerging lineages. The other three cases are not clearcut. Morphological data would suggest particularly C. grandiflora conspecific with C. arborea, but differences in the distribution are intriguing. Our approach would reject the notion of potential synonymy based on nested phylogenetic placement for at least two of the five cases. The other case also shows no complete lack of differentiation which would support synonymy.
Iron therapy and severe arrhythmias in HFrEF: rationale, study design, and baseline results of the RESAFE‐HF trial
Authors: Bakogiannis Constantinos , Mouselimis Dimitrios , Tsarouchas Anastasios , Papadopoulos Christodoulos E. , Theofillogiannakos Efstratios K. , Lechat Elmira , Antoniadis Antonios P. , Pagourelias Efstathios D. , Kelemanis Ioannis , Tzikas Stergios , Fragakis Nikolaos , Efthimiadis Georgios K. , Karamitsos Theodoros D. , Doumas Michael , Vassilikos Vassilios P.
Published: January 2023

Aims

The Iron Intravenous Therapy in Reducing the burden of Severe Arrhythmias in HFrEF (RESAFE‐HF) registry study aims to provide real‐word evidence on the impact of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) on the arrhythmic burden of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), iron deficiency (ID), and implanted cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs).

Methods and results

The RESAFE‐HF (NCT04974021) study was designed as a prospective, single‐centre, and open‐label registry study with baseline, 3, 6, and 12 month visits. Adult patients with HFrEF and CIEDs scheduled to receive IV FCM as treatment for ID as part of clinical practice were eligible to participate. The primary endpoint is the composite iron‐related endpoint of haemoglobin ≥ 12 g/dL, ferritin ≥ 50 ng/L, and transferrin saturation > 20%. Secondary endpoints include unplanned HF‐related hospitalizations, ventricular tachyarrhythmias detected by CIEDs and Holter monitors, echocardiographic markers, functional status (VO2 max and 6 min walk test), blood biomarkers, and quality of life. In total, 106 patients with a median age of 72 years (14.4) were included. The majority were male (84.9%), whereas 92.5% of patients were categorized to New York Heart Association II/III. Patients' arrhythmic burden prior to FCM administration was significant—19 patients (17.9%) received appropriate CIED therapy for termination of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in the preceding 12 months, and 75.5% of patients have frequent, repetitive multiform premature ventricular contractions.

Conclusions

The RESAFE‐HF trial is expected to provide evidence on the effect of treating ID with FCM in HFrEF based on real‐world data. Special focus will be given on the arrhythmic burden post‐FCM administration.
Recent Advances in Surface Coatings of Layered Cathode Materials for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Yan , Li Laishi , Wu Yusheng , Xie Hongwei
Published: January 2023

Layered transition metal oxides (layered materials) have the advantages of simple synthesis methods, high average operating voltages, and good specific capacity, and are therefore promising cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, the capacity retention of these materials is poor due to the dissolution of transition metals caused by the detrimental reactions of the electrode with the electrolyte and the rupture of the electrode due to volume expansion during cycling. Studies have discovered that surface modification can effectively improve the aforementioned problems. This paper reviews the effects of different coating materials (e. g., carbon coatings, metal oxide coatings, phosphate coatings, etc.) on the performances of layered cathode materials and analyzes the reasons for the improved performance. In addition, the limitations of different coating materials and coating methods are presented, and future developments are proposed.
Cardiac structural and functional abnormalities in epilepsy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Zining , Thergarajan Peravina , Antonic‐Baker Ana , Chen Zhibin , Sparks Paul B. , Lannin Natasha A. , Kwan Patrick , Jones Nigel C. , Casillas‐Espinosa Pablo M. , Perucca Piero , O'Brien Terence J. , Sivathamboo Shobi
Published: January 2023

Objective

Epilepsy is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Whether cardiac structure and function are altered in epilepsy remains unclear. To address this, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies evaluating cardiac structure and function in patients with epilepsy.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases MEDLINE, PubMed, COCHRANE, and Web of Science from inception to 31 December 2021. Primary outcomes of interest included left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) for studies reporting echocardiogram findings and cardiac weight and fibrosis for postmortem investigations. Study quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) assessment tools.

Results

Among the 10 case‐control studies with epilepsy patients (n = 515) and healthy controls (n = 445), LVEF was significantly decreased in epilepsy group compared with controls (MD: −1.80; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.56 to −0.04; P = 0.045), whereas A‐wave velocity (MD: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.87‐7.60; P = 0.001), E/e' ratio (MD: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.06‐0.71; P = 0.019), and isovolumic relaxation time (MD: 10.18; 95% CI: 2.05‐18.32; P = 0.014) were increased in epilepsy, compared with controls. A pooled analysis was performed in sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) cases with autopsy data (n = 714). Among SUDEP cases, the prevalence of cardiac hypertrophy was 16% (95% CI: 9%–23%); cardiac fibrosis was 20% (95% CI: 15%–26%). We found no marked differences in cardiac hypertrophy, heart weight, or cardiac fibrosis between SUDEP cases and epilepsy controls.

Significance

Our findings suggest that epilepsy is associated with altered diastolic and systolic echocardiogram parameters compared with healthy controls. Notably, SUDEP does not appear to be associated with a higher incidence of structural cardiac abnormalities, compared with non‐SUDEP epilepsy controls. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand the prognostic significance of such changes. Echocardiography may be a useful noninvasive diagnostic test in epilepsy population.